Patent Grant
10787800
This invention relates generally to accumulators. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to accumulators for control and supply circuits for hydraulic devices used for controlling the discharging and/or refilling of toilet cisterns and/or for clearing drains.
Toilet cisterns generally include a flushing device for discharging the contents of the cistern and a filling device for refilling the cistern following a flushing cycle. The flushing device is normally mounted to obstruct an outlet of the cistern that feeds a toilet pan and configured to selectively allow fluid flow therethrough to flush waste out of the pan. The filling device is normally connected to a mains water supply or header tank for introducing replacement water into the cistern.
The flushing device can be operated manually, for example using a mechanical actuator in the form of a lever or push button, or automatically, for example using an electromechanical actuation system. Manually operated flushing devices require a predetermined amount of force to unseat a valve member, or to initiate a syphonic action in the case of syphon flushing devices. Recent developments aimed at reducing the force required to operate flushing device actuators have utilised mains water pressure to complement or replace the initiation force required with purely mechanical solutions. The use of mains water pressure also precludes the need for an electrical power supply.
WO2015036767, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes a flushing syphon that incorporates an actuator piston secured to the piston rod of a syphon-initiating piston. The actuator piston is reciprocable within a cylinder having an inlet into which mains water pressure is selectively introduced to move the piston in order to initiate syphonic action, thereby emptying the contents of the cistern. Mains water is supplied to the actuator cylinder and is controlled by an in-line operating valve that is operated by a pilot valve incorporated in an operator actuated push button.
It would be desirable to provide a solution that is simpler and more adaptable to domestic installations. The characteristics of water supply systems, including pipes, plumbing system design and cistern characteristics can vary widely between installations. It is therefore a non-exclusive aim of the invention to provide a cistern flushing apparatus and associated control circuit that improves the adaptability and simplicity of known installations.
It is a further, more general non-exclusive aim of the invention to provide an improved cistern flushing apparatus and associated control circuit.
Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern and a control circuit for operating the flushing device, the control circuit comprising an inlet for connecting the control circuit to a source and an accumulator fluidly connected to the inlet and configured to supplement, in use, a flow supplied by the source to or through the control circuit.
Thus, variations in pressure and/or flow caused by restrictions within the installation or any fluctuations in supply, whether from the source or from usage in other parts of the installation, can be mitigated. This is due to the fact that pressurised fluid introduced into the accumulator from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water.
The apparatus or control circuit may comprise a power-driven, e.g. fluid-power-driven, control circuit. Preferably, the control circuit comprises a hydraulically-driven control circuit. The inlet may be for connecting to a source of power, e.g. for fluidly connecting the control circuit to a source of pressurised fluid such as air but preferably water. The accumulator may be fluidly connected to the inlet and configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source to the control circuit.
Another aspect of the invention provides a fluid supply control circuit comprising a fluid inlet, e.g. for fluid connection with a source of pressurised fluid, a fluid outlet, e.g. for supplying pressurised fluid to a fluidic device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, e.g. for selectively opening fluid communication therebetween, and an accumulator fluidly connected between the operating valve and the fluid inlet, wherein the accumulator is configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised fluid supplied by the source to the fluid outlet.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides an accumulator. The accumulator may comprise an inlet, e.g. a fluid inlet, which may be for fluid connection with a source of pressurised fluid, e.g. water. The inlet of the accumulator may correspond to or be for fluid connection with the fluid inlet of the control circuit. The accumulator may comprise an outlet, e.g. a fluid outlet, which may correspond to or be for fluid connection with the fluid outlet of the control circuit. The fluid outlet may be for fluid connection with a fluidic device or the operating valve of the control circuit.
The control circuit and/or accumulator may comprise a second outlet, which may be a fluid outlet. The second outlet may be for fluid connection with a fluidic device, e.g. a further fluidic device. The second outlet may bypass or be configured, in use, to bypass the operating valve.
The fluid may comprise a hydraulic fluid, e.g. water. The or at least one or each fluidic device may comprise a hydraulic device. The hydraulic device may comprise a flushing device, e.g. for emptying a cistern. The further hydraulic device may comprise a filling device, e.g. for filling a cistern. At least one of the hydraulic devices may comprise a jetting device, e.g. for clearing drains.
The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an air inlet and/or venturi means, e.g. for introducing, in use, air into the accumulator. The venturi means may comprise a venturi and/or may be downstream of the inlet or fluid inlet of the apparatus, control circuit and/or upstream of the inlet or fluid inlet of the accumulator. The venturi means may be in fluid communication with the air inlet, e.g. for entraining air from the air inlet into the accumulator.
The applicants have observed that, over time, air in the accumulator may become depleted. Whilst not wishing to be bound by any theory, this is believed to be caused by one or both of the air dissolving into the water within the accumulator and/or permeating through the wall of the accumulator. By regularly reintroducing air into the accumulator, this phenomenon is mitigated.
As used herein, the terms upstream and downstream refer to locations within the apparatus, circuit or accumulator relative to the direction of flow, in use, therethrough.
The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an air inlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe, which may extend from the air inlet and/or to or toward the venturi means. The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an inlet tube, e.g. a fluid or water inlet tube, which may be in fluid communication with the inlet or fluid or water inlet. The inlet tube may comprise a restriction, constriction or reduction in internal diameter, which may provide, at least in part, the venturi means. The inlet tube may extend into a base of the accumulator.
At least one of the outlet(s) of the apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may be in fluid communication with the or a base of the accumulator, e.g. a sump therein. In embodiments, a water outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe is provided, which may be in fluid communication with the sump of base of the accumulator. The base of the accumulator may comprise an upper portion or intended upper portion of the accumulator. Preferably, the base of the accumulator comprises a lower portion or intended lower portion of the accumulator.
In embodiments, the outlet(s) or the outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe is or are located at and/or extend from an upper portion or intended upper portion of the accumulator. The accumulator outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe may extend into a lower portion of the accumulator, for example such that pressurised air within the accumulator and/or water introduced, in use, through the inlet or inlet pipe into the accumulator forces water out of the outlet(s) or outlet pipe, e.g. and to or toward the actuator of a cistern flushing device and/or to or toward a cistern filling device.
The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise a non-return or one-way means, e.g. valve means. The non-return or one-way means may be associated with the air inlet, e.g. for allowing air to enter, in use, into the control circuit and/or inhibiting water egress from the control circuit.
The control circuit or accumulator may be for a drain clearing device. Indeed, the control circuit or accumulator may be for any device requiring the flow from a fluid source to be supplemented.
The apparatus or control circuit may comprise an actuator. The actuator may comprise a hydraulically-driven actuator, which may be operatively connected to or comprised or incorporated in, e.g. integral with, the flushing device. The actuator may be for operating, or configured to operate, the flushing device. The control circuit may comprise an operating valve, which may be between the actuator and the inlet and/or the accumulator, e.g. for selectively opening fluid communication therebetween.
The accumulator may comprise a container and/or a mouth. In embodiments, the mouth may provide the inlet and at least one outlet. The mouth may be in an upper or lower portion of the accumulator or container. The accumulator or container may describe or define a space for storing a pressurised fluid, e.g. water and/or air. The inlet or mouth may be fluidly connected between the inlet of the control circuit and the operating valve, e.g. such that pressurised fluid introduced therein from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water.
The flushing device may, but need not, comprise a syphon or any other suitable flushing device, such as a flush valve with a pivotable or retractable valve member or plug for selectively closing the outlet of a cistern. For example, the flushing device may comprise a flushing valve that is operable or configured to operate by hydraulic fluid pressure, such as the flush valve described in GB2488382.
Where the flushing device comprises a syphon, the syphon may have an inverted generally U shaped duct with an upleg and a downleg. The syphon may comprise an open-ended chamber, which may be fluidly connected to the upleg. The syphon may comprise a piston movable in the chamber. The actuator, e.g. of the control circuit, may be operatively connected to the piston, e.g. for moving the piston in the chamber to initiate a syphonic flushing action.
The syphon may comprise two, three or more parts that may be adjustable relative to one another. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a first part, having an evacuation tube with a lower end adapted to be mounted to the base of a cistern. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a second part, having a suction tube and an open-ended chamber, which may have a piston movable therein, e.g. by the actuator. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a third part, having an inverted generally U-shaped duct with an upleg portion and a downleg portion. The upleg portion and downleg portion of the U-shaped duct may each be mounted in telescopic relation with the suction tube and evacuation tube respectively.
The apparatus may comprise a manifold, for example an inlet manifold, which will be referred to hereinafter as an inlet manifold but this term may be replaced by the term manifold. The inlet manifold may include the inlet and/or an accumulator port, e.g. to which the accumulator is operatively and/or fluidly connected or coupled. The inlet manifold may include an outlet, e.g. a first outlet, to which the operating valve may be operatively and/or fluidly connected or coupled. The inlet manifold may comprise a second outlet, for example to which is fluidly connected or connectable a filling device, e.g. for refilling the cistern following a flushing event.
The inlet manifold may comprise a part, e.g. a first part, which may include the first outlet. The inlet manifold may comprise a part, e.g. a second part, which may include the second outlet. The second part may be movable relative to the first part, for example to enable the position of the fill device to be adjusted relative to the operating valve. The first part of the inlet manifold may mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the open-ended chamber or second part of the syphon, e.g. for movement therewith.
At least part of the filing device may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the second part for movement therewith. One or both of the operating valve and/or the accumulator may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the first part.
The first and second parts may be telescopically adjustable relative to one another. The second part may be step-wise adjustable relative to the first part.
One of the parts, e.g. the first part, may comprise a rack, which may be mounted relative thereto or incorporated therein or otherwise associated therewith. The other part, e.g. the second part, may comprise a latch, which may be mounted relative thereto or incorporated therein or associated therewith. The latch may be for releasably engaging the rack, for example at one of a plurality of positions, e.g. to provide the step-wise adjustment. The teeth of the rack may lie at an angle relative, e.g. to the horizontal, such as for inhibiting inadvertent disengagement between the latch and the rack.
In embodiments, the rack is comprised in or mounted to another part of the flushing apparatus, for example one of the parts of the syphon or the actuator. The actuator may comprise an actuator piston, which may be movable within an actuator chamber. The actuator chamber may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the open-ended chamber or second part of the syphon, e.g. for movement therewith. The rack may be mounted to or formed on an outer surface of the actuator chamber. Thus, in embodiments where both the actuator chamber and the first part of the inlet manifold are mounted to the open-ended syphon chamber or the second part of the syphon, the rack may be fixed in position relative to both.
The accumulator may comprise a mouth, which may be mounted, coupled or secured and/or in fluid communication with the accumulator port. The mouth may be mounted, coupled or secured to the accumulator port by a bayonet fitting. The latch may be configured to inhibit disengagement of the mouth or bayonet fitting, for example when it is engaged with the rack.
The apparatus or control circuit may comprise a filling device, e.g. a cistern filling device. The filling device may comprise a float operated valve assembly. The filling device may comprise one or more of a valve, an arm, which may be pivotally mounted relative to the valve, and a float, which may be attached to the arm, e.g. at or adjacent a first end of the arm. The filling device may be configured such that when the float is in a raised position, a portion of the arm closes the valve, and/or when the float is in a lowered position, the valve is open.
The filling device may comprise a float chamber or reservoir, e.g. a delayed fill float chamber or reservoir, hereinafter float chamber. The float may be received or receivable within the float chamber. The float chamber may comprise an open top and/or a draining port in its base. The float may be movable within the float chamber and/or may extend through the open top thereof. In embodiments, the float chamber may comprise a deflector, lid or cover, for example to prevent or inhibit water from valve of the filling device from entering, in use, the float chamber. In such embodiments, the float chamber may comprise a side opening, which may be of variable size and/or configuration, for allowing water from within the cistern to enter the float chamber, e.g. as the water level rises to such opening.
The valve of the filling device may comprise an equilibrium valve, for example a diaphragm-type equilibrium valve, which may include a bleed port. The bleed port may be closed by the arm, e.g. the or a portion of the arm, e.g. when the float is in the raised position. The bleed port may be unobstructed by the arm when the float is in the lowered position.
The apparatus may comprise a coupling, e.g. for releasably coupling, in use, the inlet to the source. The coupling may include two or more parts, e.g. first and second parts, which may be releasably coupled together. The coupling may be upstream of the accumulator, for example to enable the control circuit to be releasably coupled to the source. The coupling may be operable or couplable manually or automatically, e.g. via a spring loaded mechanism.
The first part of the coupling may comprise a locking ring, which may include a series of inwardly extending radial teeth. The second part of the coupling may comprise a series of outwardly extending radial teeth. The locking ring may be movable between an uncoupled or unlocked position, e.g. in which the second part is insertable into the inlet, and/or a coupled or locked position, e.g. in which removal of the second part is prevented.
At least one of the first and second parts of the coupling may comprise a recess for receiving a filter, e.g. such that it is captivated between the first and second parts when they are coupled together. The first part may comprise a stepped recess, e.g. wherein the filter is configured to abut the step when the first and second parts are coupled together. The second part may comprise an annular recess within which an end or periphery of the filter is received. The apparatus may comprise a filter, e.g. received between the first and second parts of the coupling. The filter may comprise a conical filter, which may include a frame with a circular inlet corresponding to the mouth of the filter. The filter may comprise a seal, e.g. an O-ring seal, which may be received within a radial groove in the frame or between the circular inlet of the frame and a facing surface of the first and/or second parts.
The apparatus may comprise a push button actuator, which may be operatively connected to the control circuit, e.g. for operating the flushing device. The push button actuator may comprise push button mounted to a body, e.g. movably or actuatably mounted to the body. The push button actuator may comprise a surround with a recess, within which recess the body and/or the push button may be received. The surround, e.g. the recess of the surround, and the body may comprise cooperating radial features. The radial features may cooperate such that the push button is in a first position when the body and the surround are in a first relative radial orientation and/or is in a second position when the body and the surround are in a second relative radial orientation. The push button may be flush or stand proud of the surround in the first position. In the second position, the push button may be retracted relative to the first position.
The radial features of one of the surround or the recess of the surround and the body may comprise castellations. The radial features of the other may comprise spokes. The spokes may rest on or against the castellations, e.g. in the first relative orientation and/or between the castellations, e.g. in the second relative orientation. Preferably, the surround or recess of the surround comprises the castellations and the body comprises the spokes.
At least one or each castellation may comprise a recess, e.g. within which a respective one of the spokes is received in the first relative orientation. The recess may be formed by a pair of spaced projections.
The apparatus or control circuit or accumulator, for example the inlet manifold, may comprise one or more non-return means, e.g. one or more non-return valves, for preventing water from flowing back through the inlet toward the source. The non-return means may be associated with the inlet or fluid inlet, e.g. water inlet, and/or may be upstream of the accumulator. The non-return means may be configured or operable such that the pressure within the accumulator corresponds substantially to a peak pressure to which the control circuit is exposed. For example, by allowing pressurised fluid from the source to enter the accumulator, whilst inhibiting such fluid from flowing from the accumulator back toward the source, the non-return means enables the accumulator to store the pressurised fluid when fluid pressure from the source drops.
In embodiments, the non-return means may comprise an anti back-syphonage valve. In embodiments, the non-return means may comprise a valve member, which may be biased or resiliently biased to seat against a valve seat. The biasing force may be configured such that a back flow of pressure toward the inlet, for example from the inlet manifold or accumulator, causes the valve member to unseat and/or allow air to be introduced into the inlet or inlet manifold, e.g. thereby preventing a flow of water toward the source through the inlet.
Another aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern, a hydraulically-driven control circuit for operating the flushing device, a filling device mounted to the flushing device for refilling the cistern following a flushing event and an inlet manifold with an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, wherein the inlet manifold comprises first and second outlets coupled respectively to the filling device and the control circuit.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern, a hydraulically-driven control circuit for operating the flushing device and a coupling for coupling an inlet of the control circuit to a pressurised water supply line, wherein the coupling comprises first and second parts releasably coupled together and a filter that is accessible and/or removable when the first and second parts are uncoupled.
A further aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus. The control circuit may comprise any one or more features described above in relation to any of the aforementioned aspect.
A yet further aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, an outlet for fluid connection with the actuator of a flushing device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet and an accumulator fluidly connected between the operating valve and the inlet, wherein the accumulator is configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source to the outlet.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an operating valve for selectively controlling the supply of pressurised water to the actuator of a flushing device, a filling device for refilling the cistern following a flushing event and an inlet manifold with an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, wherein the inlet manifold comprises first and second outlets coupled respectively to the filling device and the control circuit.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, an outlet for fluid connection with the actuator of a flushing device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet and a coupling for coupling an inlet to a pressurised water supply line, wherein the coupling comprises first and second parts releasably coupled together and a filter that is accessible and/or removable when the first and second parts are uncoupled.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a push button actuator for operating the flushing device, the actuator comprising a surround with a recess, a body received within the recess of the surround and a push button mounted to the body, wherein the recess of the surround and the body comprise cooperating radial features such that the push button is in a first position in which it is flush or stands proud of the surround when the body and the surround are in a first relative radial orientation and is in a second position in which it is retracted relative to the first position when the body and the surround are in a second relative radial orientation.
Other aspects of the invention provide a cistern comprising a flushing apparatus as described above, a toilet comprising such a cistern and a water closet installation comprising such a toilet.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of installing a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above.
Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of operating a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above.
For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. For example, the flushing apparatus may comprise any one or more features of the control circuit relevant thereto and vice versa. Similarly, the method may comprise any one or more features or steps relevant to one or more features of the flushing apparatus or the control circuit.
Another aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising and/or describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design for use with a simulation means or a three-dimensional additive or subtractive manufacturing means or device, e.g. a three-dimensional printer or CNC machine, the three-dimensional design comprising an embodiment of the aforementioned flushing apparatus or control circuit or any component thereof.
Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “may”, “and/or”, “e.g.”, “for example” and any similar term as used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, whether or not these are expressly claimed. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Referring now to
In this embodiment, the flushing device 2 is in the form of an adjustable syphon 2 similar to that which is disclosed in GB2486776, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. More specifically, the syphon 2 includes first, second and third parts 20, 21, 22 mounted in telescopic relation with one another to enable adjustment of the flush volume characteristics thereof. The first part 20 includes an evacuation tube 20a having a radial flange 20c and threaded portion 20b extending from the flange 20c for insertion through an outlet in the base of a cistern (not shown) to be secured thereto by a nut (not shown) in the normal way. The second part 21 includes a suction tube 21a and an open-ended chamber 21b. The third part 22 is in the form of an inverted generally U-shaped duct with an upleg portion 22a and a downleg portion 22b. The upleg portion 22a and downleg portion 22b of the U-shaped duct 22 are each mounted in telescopic relation with the suction tube 21a and evacuation tube 20a respectively.
The first part 20 also includes a pair of lugs 20d projecting laterally from its upper end each with a hole 20e therethrough. The second part 21 includes a flat bracket 21d projecting laterally from the upper end of the suction tube 21a and having a plurality of spaced holes 21e through its thickness. The third part 22 includes a chain of lugs 22d extending downwardly from the front of the bight of the U between the downleg and upleg portions 22a, 22b and having a plurality of vertically spaced holes 22e through its thickness. A releasable fastener 23 (shown in
The first part 20 includes a longitudinally extending rib 20f and the second part 21 includes a bracket 21f with a keyway that receives the rib 20f of the first part. These features 20f, 21f together with the telescopic connection between the parts 20, 21, 22 enables guided adjustment in their relative positions, as is known from GB2486776.
Within the open-ended chamber 21b is a priming means in the form of a piston 23 including a frame 24 formed by a peripheral rim 24a with a series of ribs 24b extending between the sides of the rim 24a to provide a series of openings therebetween. The piston 23 also includes a flexible diaphragm 25 secured at the centre of piston 23 by a cylindrical rod mount 26 which receives and secures a piston rod 27. The piston rod 27 extends upwardly from the piston 23, through the top wall of the chamber 21b and is formed of a material having sufficient mass to urge, in use, the piston 23 back down toward its home position, as shown in
The integrated hydraulic circuit 3 includes a manifold 4, a filling device 5, an accumulator 6, an operating valve 7, a hydraulic actuator 8 and a telescopic lock 9. The manifold 4 includes an inlet part 40, which defines a horizontal inlet passage 41 and a vertical outlet chamber 42, and an extension part 43 received telescopically within the outlet chamber 42 of the inlet part 40, which defines an adjustable extension of the vertical outlet chamber 42. The extension part 43 of the manifold 4 includes a pair of radial grooves 44 at its upper end that receive respective O-ring seals for sealingly engaging the outlet chamber 42. The extension part 43 also includes an accumulator port 45 extending laterally from a lower end thereof and having a pair of flanges 46 forming opposed facing locking channels on either side of the accumulator port 45. The inlet part 40 includes a coupling 10 at the inlet end of the inlet passage 41, more of which later.
The filling device 5 includes a float-operated diaphragm-type equilibrium valve 50 in this embodiment. The valve 50 includes a two-part housing 51, a diaphragm 52 with a peripheral flange captivated between the two parts of the housing 51 and a flow restrictor pin extending through a hole through a central, enlarged valve member portion of the diaphragm 52. On a first side of the diaphragm 52, the housing 51 includes an inlet 53, a plurality of radial outlets 54 and a valve seat between the inlet 53 and outlets 54 against which the central portion of the diaphragm 52 seats when the valve 50 is in a closed condition. On a second side of the diaphragm 52, there is a control chamber defined between the diaphragm 52 and a facing portion of the housing 51 with a bleed port 55 extending from the control chamber through the housing 51. The valve 50 is mounted to the inlet part 40 of the manifold 4 such that the inlet 53 is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet chamber 42.
The filling device 5 also includes a float chamber or reservoir 56, a float 57 and a float arm 58, all of which are mounted to the inlet part 40 of the manifold 4. The float chamber 56 is in the form of an open top container with a draining port (not shown) in its base and a mounting bracket 56a which surrounds the lower end of the inlet part 40 that defines the outlet chamber 42. The float 57 in this embodiment is an open bottom container with an upstand 57a extending upwardly from the top of the container and having a series of holes through its thickness adjacent its upper end. The float arm 58 includes a resilient stop 58a at a first of its ends and a hole at a second of its ends for receiving a fastener that extends therethrough and into one of the holes of the upstand 57a of the float 57. The float arm 58 is pivotally mounted relative to the inlet part 40 intermediate its ends such that when the float 57 is in a raised position the stop 58a of the arm 58 closes the bleed port 55 of the valve 50 and when the float 57 is in a lowered position the bleed port 55 is open.
The accumulator 6 includes an inverted bottle 60 having a kidney shaped horizontal cross-section and a mouth 61 at its lower end that is threadedly engaged with a coupling adapter 62. The mouth 61 of the bottle 60 includes a radial recess about its outer surface within which is received an O-ring for providing a sealed connection between the bottle 60 and the coupling adapter 62. The coupling adaptor 62 defines a 90 degree elbow to provide a horizontal inlet to the accumulator 6 and includes a pair of flanges 63 on either side of the horizontal inlet to provide a bayonet fitting for receipt within the locking channels defined by the flanges 46 of the accumulator port 45.
Referring to
The operating valve 7 is similar to the valve 50 of the filling device 5, but rather than being float-operated it is operated by a separate push button actuator 10 (shown in
The hydraulic actuator 8, shown more clearly in
The telescopic lock 9 includes a rack 90 (shown more clearly in
As depicted in
Thus, in order to increase the flush volume of the cistern, the third part 22 of the syphon 2 may be raised relative to the first and second parts 20, 21 and the inlet part 40 of the manifold may then be raised by a similar distance together with the filling device 5.
Accordingly, the invention provides an integrated flushing and filling apparatus 1 that is adjustable to alter the flushing characteristics with minimal effort. In a conventional arrangement, such adjustment would require both an adjustable flushing device 2 and an adjustable filling device 5, which are not always present and, in any event, their independent adjustment would be more cumbersome.
As shown more clearly in
Referring now to
The push fit fitting 18 includes an O-ring seal 18a for sealing against a supply pipe P received by the push fit fitting 18, a collapsible collar 18b and a retaining ring 18c surrounding the collapsible collar 18b. The collapsible collar 18b and retaining ring 18c have cooperating tapered surfaces such that the collapsible collar 18b is compressed on attempted removal, thereby retaining the supply pipe P within the push fit fitting 18.
The coupling 10 also includes a conical filter 17a having a frame 17b with a circular inlet portion 17c corresponding to the mouth of the filter 17a and an O-ring seal 17d received within a radial groove in the circular inlet portion 17c which seals against a facing surface of the filter recess 17 of the second part 15 of the coupling 10. In the uncoupled orientation of the locking ring 12, the second part 15 is insertable into the first part 11 with its teeth 16 passing through the gaps between the teeth 13 of the first part 11. In the coupled orientation of the locking ring, the teeth 13, 16 of the first and second parts 11, 15 are aligned and removal of the second part 15 from the first part 11 is prevented.
Referring now to
The body 102 is in the form of a hollow cylinder with a central, threaded section 121, a tail section 122 of reduced diameter, also externally threaded, and a mounting flange 123 at the opposite end of the body 102 to the tail section 122. The tail section 122 includes radial inlet passageways 122a and radial outlet passageways 122b axially spaced from the inlet passageways 122a. The mounting flange 123 includes a series of radial spokes 123a separated by axial holes 123b about the mounting flange 123.
The surround 103 is in the form of a hollow cylinder 130 with an outwardly extending radial flange 131 at one end and an inwardly extending radial flange 132 at the other end to form a base ring 132 of the surround. The base ring 132 includes a series of castellations 133 extending about its innermost edge. Each castellation 133 includes a pair of projections 134 at its outermost corners, which together define a recess 135.
The push button 104 includes a dome-shaped head 140 and a stem 141 movably received within the body 102. The push button 104 is movable within the body 102 between a deployed position shown in
In an assembled condition, the body 102 is received within the surround 103 such that the mounting flange 123 of the body 102 engages the base ring 132 of the surround 103 and the securing nut 105 is threadedly engaged with the central section 121 of the body 102. In addition, the tail section 122 of the body 102 is received within and threadedly engaged with the cylinder 110 of the manifold 101 such that the inlet passageways 122a are aligned with the radial inlet port 111 and the outlet passageways 122b are aligned with the radial outlet port 102.
As illustrated in
Thus, the push button actuator 100 may be adapted to suit the requirements of multiple different installations. For example, the arrangement of
In use and as shown in
In order to initiate a flush, the head 140 of the push button actuator 100 is depressed, which opens fluid communication between the inlet 111 and the outlet 112, thereby allowing flow from the bleed port 75 of the operating valve 7 through the bleed pipe BP and through the push button actuator 100 into the cistern (not shown). This flow releases the pressure within the control chamber of the operating valve 7 and the pressure within the manifold 4 unseats the diaphragm 72. Water then flows as illustrated in
Thus, in situations where the pressure from the water supply is reduced or fluctuates, the accumulator 6 provides additional pressurised flow to ensure that the syphonic action is initiated effectively.
If the head 140 of the push button actuator 100 continues to be depressed, water continues to flow through the actuator cylinder 80 and retains the piston in a raised position. As outlined above, this also keeps the sealing element 29 in a raised condition exposing the series of openings 28 such that when the water level within the cistern (not shown) drops to this point the syphonic action is broken, thereby resulting in a partial flush. If, however, the head 140 of the push button actuator 100 is released immediately or shortly after it is depressed initially, a full flush is effected.
As the water level within the cistern (not shown) drops, the float chamber 56 empties through the draining port (not shown) and the float 57 drops within the float chamber 56. At this point, the arm 58 pivots and the resilient stop 58a unseats from the bleed port 55, thereby releases the pressure within the control chamber of the float valve 50 and unseating the diaphragm 52. Fluid flow is then opened between the inlet 53 and the outlets 54 and water drains out of the float valve 50 as illustrated in
Turning now to
The accumulator 306 is in the form of a bottle 360 with which the inlet and outlet manifolds 331, 332 are both formed integrally at its mouth. The accumulator 306 includes a water inlet tube 361 fluidly connected to and extending orthogonally from the supply pipe P and push fit fitting 331a into the accumulator 306 toward its base 362. The water inlet tube 361 includes a necked portion 363, which accelerates, or throttles, the flow of water therethrough. The accumulator 306 also includes a water outlet tube 364 fluidly connected to and extending from the outlet manifold 332 into the accumulator 306 toward its base 362.
The inlet manifold 331 includes a third branch 333 receiving the air introduction assembly 310. The third branch 333 includes a flange at its upper end and receives an insert 311. The insert 311 includes a part-spherical shoulder for redirecting the inlet water flowing from the supply pipe P into the water inlet tube 361 and an air inlet tube 312 open at its upper end and extending into the necked portion 363 of the water inlet tube 361 to provide fluid communication between the third branch 333 and the necked portion 363.
The air introduction assembly 310 also includes a non-return valve 313, which includes an air inlet 313a, a valve member 314 reciprocable within a retainer 315. The valve member 314 includes a piston with an O-ring seal about its periphery and a longitudinal guide pin received within a guide ring in the base of the retainer 315 to ensure smooth reciprocating motion therein. The valve member 314 is retained within the retainer 315 by a shoulder at its upper end against which the piston seals when forced in its uppermost position. The retainer 315 is retained within the third branch 333 by a cap ring 316 which engages the flange of the third branch 333. The insert 311 is captivated between the retainer 315 and a shoulder of the inlet manifold 331.
The outlet manifold 332 includes a second outlet fitting 332b, which is in the form of a threaded tail in this embodiment. The apparatus 301 includes a filling device 305 having a threaded collar 350 for threadedly engaging the second outlet fitting 332b to provide a fluid connection therebetween. The filling device 305 is in the form of a substantially conventional fill valve 351 operated by a float 352, similar to that which is disclosed in EP0961892 and offered commercially by the present applicants, but for the means by which it connects to the outlet manifold 332 of the present invention.
In use and when the operating valve 7 and the fill valve 351 are both closed, the pressure within the accumulator 306 urges the valve member 314 against the shoulder of the retainer 315, thereby sealing off the non-return valve 313. When a user initiates a flushing action as described above in relation to the first embodiment, the operating valve 7 opens and pressurised water flows from the accumulator 306 through the outlet pipe O and through the operating valve 7 to initiate the symphonic action. This occurs even in the absence of fluid pressure from the source. Following operation, the operating valve 7 closes.
As the water level drops, the float 352 of the filing device 305 lowers and opens the fill valve 351 and water flows from the accumulator, out of the second outlet fitting 332b and out through the filling device 305. The flow of water from the supply pipe P through the water inlet tube 361 creates a venturi effect within the necked portion 363, thereby reducing the pressure within the third branch 333 of the inlet manifold 331. This reduction in pressure causes the valve member 314 to unseat from the shoulder of the retainer 315 and air is entrained from the air inlet 313a and into the accumulator 306. As outlined above, the applicants have observed that air in the accumulator may become depleted over time, but the air introduction assembly 310 regularly reintroduces air into the accumulator, thereby mitigating this phenomenon. The provision of an air inlet which introduces air through a venturi means enables this reintroduction of air to occur automatically.
As the water level rises, the float 352 rises and closes the fill valve 351. As a result, the circuit 303 pressurises and the accumulator refills, ready for the next flushing action.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although the invention has been illustrated with reference to a cistern flushing apparatus, it will be appreciated that it may be incorporated into any suitable fluid supply system, such as a drain cleaning apparatus, for example one which uses a jetting device. Whilst the accumulator in the specific embodiments is in the form of a bottle 60, 360, it will be appreciated that the accumulator may be provided by any enclosed volume, provided by, for example, multiple components assembled together to form a reservoir that is configured to function as described. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1602014.1 | Feb 2016 | GB | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/GB2017/050267 | 2/3/2017 | WO | 00 |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2017/134448 | 8/10/2017 | WO | A |
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| 6029287 | Ge et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
| 20050150038 | Li | Jul 2005 | A1 |
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| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 2277750 | Nov 1994 | GB |
| 0050700 | Aug 2000 | WO |
| 0242670 | May 2002 | WO |
| 2015036767 | Mar 2015 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20190032316 A1 | Jan 2019 | US |
