DE29620414U1 - Device for repeatable dosing of fluids - Google Patents

Description

BEETZ & PARTNER .·' .·* · ßcrteptanwie *:

Steinsdorfstraße IO ■ D-8O538 Munich '" -Barctffean PttfeÄtt Attorneys

Telephone (O 89) 29 59IO · Fax (O 89) 29 39 63 founded 1920 by

Telex522&Ogr;48 Dipl.-lng. R. BEETZsen. (1897-1991)

Dr.-Ing. R. BEETZ jun. 644-50.90 3G Dr.-Ing. W. TIMPE

Dipl.-lng. J. SIEGFRIED

Prof. Dr.rer.nat. W, SCHMnT-FUMIAN

Dipl.-Phys. Dr.rer.nat. C-M. MAYR

Dipl.-lng. A. PFEIFFER

Dlp!.-Ing. B. MATIAS

22 November 1996

Kludi fittings Paul Seheffer KG, Landstraße 2, D-58730 Fröndenberg

Device for repeatable dosing of fluids

The invention relates to a device for the repeatable dosing of fluids, in particular liquids, in a selectable and reproducible quantity.

The dosing, i.e. the quantity measurement, of fluids from fluid sources and in particular the dosing of liquids from reservoirs, containers, pipe systems and other liquid sources with the aid of a shut-off device has long been a common state of the art. Examples of this are the filling of containers with certain quantities of gases or liquids, the feeding of measured quantities of fluid into pipe systems or the free discharge of fluids from a fluid outlet, e.g. the outflow of liquids such as water for rinsing or washing purposes from an outlet fitting.

Typical examples of conventional dosing systems, in which usually specified amounts of fluid are measured or dosed, can be found in washing machines and dishwashers, which are automatically filled with a certain amount of liquid, washing and rinsing systems, such as for toilets and urinals, quantity-limiting systems for showers and washbasins, which are used in particular in railways, ships and aircraft, bottle and container filling systems, irrigation systems and beverage dosing machines, as well as in many other applications in the field of building services, sanitary technology, food and beverage technology, chemical process engineering (e.g. for measuring certain amounts of reactants or solvents for carrying out chemical reactions, for carrying out mixing and dosing processes) and many more.

According to the state of the art, the reproduction of a fluid quantity is achieved in the simplest case by operating a shut-off device, such as a water tap, by an operator, i.e. by opening and subsequently closing it after a certain desired quantity has flowed out or been dispensed, which can be determined via the mass, weight, volume, fill level and analog variables.

Filling a cooking pot or a bathtub with water are typical, common examples of such measurements carried out directly by humans themselves, whereby the quantity is specified individually and the quantity is reproduced individually in each case.

Automatic dosing systems, such as those mentioned above, are based in the simplest designs on an assignment of outflow quantity and time: The amount of fluid to be reproduced

corresponds to an assigned opening time of a time-controlled shut-off device. Examples of this are drinks machines, which dispense a selectable, predefined and reproducible amount of liquid when an actuating device is activated.

However, the accuracy of time-controlled dosing systems depends on how constant and reproducible the fluid flow rate from the fluid source through the shut-off device is.

Due to the influence of pressure changes, temperature changes and thus density changes, cross-sectional reductions due to deposits such as calcification, etc., changes in the opening and closing time of the shut-off device due to drift effects in the electrical or electronic control as well as due to mechanical play, a change in pressure loss at the outlet and similar effects, time-controlled dosing systems are not particularly precise and, above all, are not constant over time with regard to the dosed quantities. In addition, the selection of the quantities to be dosed by setting the appropriate time is not easy for an operator. For this reason, drinks machines usually only have a few preset liquid dispensing quantities provided by the manufacturer, which can be selected but not changed.

The closing process of the shut-off device (which was opened, for example, by an operator or automatically) can be controlled by a level sensor in the container to be filled, which can be done mechanically via floats, via hydrostatic pressure, acoustically with sound or ultrasonic detectors or optically.

The accuracy of volumetric dosing is mainly limited by the temperature dependence of the fluid density.

In addition, the mass or weight corresponding to a certain fill level or volume can also be determined.

More complex and more precise dosing systems are based on the direct measurement of a fluid quantity flowing through a flow meter and the closing of the shut-off device when a predetermined fluid quantity is reached. Apart from mechanical flow meters, magnetic-inductive flow meters, vortex (Karman) flow meters, ultrasonic flow meters and mass (Coriolis) flow meters are mainly used in technology.

From DE 3 5 18 645 and the patent application DE 35 46 550 separated from it by division, a method and a circuit arrangement for controlling sanitary mixer taps for cold and hot water are known, with which the temperature of the mixed water is regulated in a closed control circuit while keeping the flow rate of the mixed water constant.

For this purpose, at least two control values are derived from the deviation between the target and actual temperature, which are used to electromechanically adjust the cold and hot water supply, so that the resulting flow rate remains constant.

From the partial flow quantities, which are proportional to the corresponding control values, a current cumulative filling quantity can be determined by integration, which can be calculated with a

previously selected, predefined cumulative filling quantity; dosing is terminated when the current cumulative filling quantity corresponds to the previously selected cumulative filling quantity.

In this known liquid dosing system, a selected cumulative filling quantity, i.e. the total quantity of the liquid mixture to be dosed, can be entered into the system and stored there for retrieval.

According to this known technology, the information about the cumulative filling quantity that may be stored is entered directly as quantity information by an operator via an input device. Preferably, standard values are stored for the cumulative filling quantity.

With regard to the storage of information about the total amount to be dosed, this previously known dosing system differs from the known drinks machines, which dispense fixed, predefined amounts of liquid in a reproducible manner, in principle only in that the total amount of liquid to be dosed in a reproducible manner can be freely entered by an operator.

However, there are currently no dosing systems that allow a free, easy-to-enter or adjust and easy-to-change specification of a fluid quantity to be dosed repeatedly and its repeatable, reproducible dispensing without this quantity having to be entered quantitatively in the sense of a corresponding absolute value input (e.g. in liters, kilograms, etc.).

Furthermore, there are no systems in the state of the art that, beyond the ability to store and recall constant dispensing quantities of fluid as explained above, would be able to learn the storage information from any one-time "pre-dosed" quantity of fluid and then reproducibly dispense the fluid in any repeatable manner in an amount corresponding to the stored information.

The present invention is based on the prior art described above according to DE 35 18 645 or DE 35 46 550.

The invention is based on the object of specifying a device for the repeatable dosing of fluids in selectable and reproducible quantities, in which the amount of fluid to be dosed is not entered as such in any quantified form by an operator, but can be learned and stored in a retrievable manner based on a dosing process that has been carried out manually once.

This task is already new in view of the state of the art.

The object is achieved according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments and further developments of the inventive concept.

The device according to the invention comprises:

- a fluid line with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet,

- a shut-off device provided between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet in the fluid line, with which the flow of a fluid coming from the fluid inlet and flowing through it can be switched on and off,

- an electronic control unit that controls the shut-off device,

- an actuating device which is connected to the control unit and, when actuated by an operator, sends signals to the control unit, on the basis of which the control unit opens or closes the shut-off device, and

- an input device connected to the control unit for the input of input information regarding the amount of fluid to be dosed by an operator^

it is characterized by the fact that ' ■ -.··■

- the input device is a memory input device which, when actuated, sends memory signals to the control unit,

- the control unit is designed in such a way that it

(A) due to an actuation by an operator

- the operating device and/or

- the memory input device in a predetermined sequence, the one-time manual dosing of a fluid quantity in a learning mode initiated thereby, the time between the opening initiated via the actuating device or the memory input device and the subsequent

- the operating device
and or

- the storage input device determines the amount of fluid flowing out of the fluid outlet when the shut-off device is closed as quantity information corresponding to this quantity and stores it as learned quantity information in a memory assigned to the storage input device, the learning mode ending when the quantity information has been stored,

and

(B) when the memory input device is actuated, if necessary in combination with an actuation of the 'actuating device, it goes into a dosing mode during which the learning mode is locked and the memory cannot be overwritten, and the shut-off device opens and closes in a controlled manner so that the amount of fluid flowing out of the fluid outlet between the opening and the subsequent closing of the shut-off device corresponds to the learned quantity information previously stored in the memory in the learning mode, wherein the dosing mode ends with the automatic closing of the shut-off device.

The invention accordingly relates to a learning dosing system.

In the simplest embodiment of the device according to the invention, the quantity information corresponds to the recorded period of time between the opening and closing of the shut-off device, namely at a constant or approximately constant flow rate or pressure of the fluid.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the quantity information corresponds to the flow rate of fluid through the fluid line between the opening and closing of the shut-off device, as recorded by a flow rate measurement.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the quantity information is generated by correcting the signals corresponding to the time period or the flow rate, or the data relating to the temperature and/or the density and/or the viscosity and/or the pressure of the fluid.

The quantity information can advantageously be determined by the electronic control unit in the form of a relative quantity or an absolute quantity and can be printed out via a display unit and/or visually displayed and/or output via voice output.

When using an absolute flow sensor to determine the flow rate of fluid, it is possible for the electronic control unit to check and, if necessary, correct the stored control data based on the signal from the flow sensor during a new dosing process after a specified number of dosing processes and to update the stored values accordingly.

According to a preferred embodiment, the memory input device has a memory command element and one or more storage space elements which are connected to the control unit, wherein the memory command element, when actuated, emits a signal to the control unit with which a memory command is generated in the learning mode and, if necessary, the start of learning is initiated and, if necessary, the end of learning is defined, and the storage space elements, when actuated in the learning mode

Send signals to the control unit with which an assignment of quantity information learned or to be learned in the learning mode to the relevant storage location element is carried out and/or in dosing mode ₍ if necessary in combination with an actuation of the actuating device) the start of dosing is initiated.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the memory input device consists of memory response elements which, when actuated, emit signals to the control unit with which a memory command is generated* and, if necessary, the start of learning is initiated, as well as an assignment of quantity information learned in the learning mode or to be learned to the relevant memory location element takes place and, if necessary, the learning is defined and/or in dosing mode, if necessary in combination with an actuation of the actuating device, . .: the start of dosing is initiated.

An advantageous embodiment of the device is characterized in that the control unit is designed such that it

(A) when actuated

- the actuating device
and or

- the memory input device goes into learning mode and the time between the opening initiated by the actuating device or the memory input device and the subsequent opening initiated by

- the operating device
and or

- the storage input device causes the closing of the shut-off device to be the amount of fluid flowing out of the fluid outlet as an amount corresponding to this amount

Quantity information is determined and, based on an actuation of a storage location element of the memory input device or a memory response element of the memory input device, is stored as learned quantity information in a memory which is assigned to the relevant storage location element or the relevant memory response element, and

(B) upon - if necessary, repeated - actuation

- the storage space element of the memory input device

or.

- the memory response element of the memory input device j, if necessary in combination with an actuation of the actuating device, goes into the dosing mode and opens the shut-off device and closes it in a controlled manner so that the amount of fluid flowing out of the fluid outlet between the opening and the subsequent closing of the shut-off device corresponds to the learned quantity information previously stored in the memory in the learning mode.

-12-

According to a preferred embodiment, the shut-off device is a flow switch which can only assume the fully open state or the fully closed state and in particular a solenoid valve.

Another advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention is characterized in that the shut-off device is a flow switch register consisting of two or more parallel-connected flow switches, in particular solenoid valves, with a common fluid outlet and

possibly also a common or partially common fluid inlet, whereby the individual flow switches of the flow switch register can be controlled by the electronic control unit.

This allows a quasi-continuous or gradual opening and closing of the shut-off device to be achieved. Furthermore, different fluid sources can also be switched on and off using such flow switch registers, which is particularly advantageous for mixing processes, for example when mixing different media or similar media at different temperatures.

Alternatively, the shut-off device can also be a control device that can be adjusted continuously or stepwise between the fully open and the fully closed state via an actuator that can be controlled by the electronic control unit, in particular a flap, a slide or a valve.

The shut-off device can advantageously consist of at least two shut-off devices which have actuators that are controlled by the electronic control unit and which are each connected on the inlet side to one of at least two fluid inlets for at least two different fluids and on the outlet side to the fluid outlet. This design is suitable for mixing two or more fluids. Such mixing processes can alternatively also be carried out with any mixing device that is connected to the shut-off device

is connected upstream, e.g. a three-way mixer, which is connected on the inlet side to two fluid inlets and on the outlet side to the fluid outlet.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a safety shut-off device is provided between the shut-off device and the fluid outlet, which represents a flow switch or a control device that can be continuously or step-by-step adjusted between the fully open and fully closed state via an actuator and can be controlled by the electronic control unit, in particular a solenoid valve. It is preferably opened before the shut-off device at the start of a dosing process in the learning mode as well as in the dosing mode, and closed after the shut-off device closes at the end of the dosing process.

The device according to the invention - in variants in which the quantity information is generated via a flow rate measurement, in which the flow rate of fluid that flows through the fluid line between the opening and the subsequent closing of the shut-off device, has a flow rate sensor, which is preferably provided downstream of the shut-off device and is connected to the control unit. In this case, the control unit is designed in such a way that, using the output signal of the flow rate sensor, which corresponds to the actual flow rate of the fluid, it controls the shut-off device in such a way that the actual flow rate corresponds exactly or approximately to the target flow rate.

Commercially available flow meters, as mentioned above, are generally designed to measure both the mass flow rate (M) (mass/time) or the volume flow rate (V) (volume/time) as well as the corresponding time-integrated

Her

»»-Jo

·

Allow total masses or total volumes to be determined. Depending on the type of flow meter used or its output signal, the control unit is designed, preferably in software, so that it either takes over the total mass or total volume determination itself or receives this data from the flow sensor.

The flow rate sensors listed above as state of the art are therefore familiar to the person skilled in the art. In addition to mechanical flow meters, magnetic-inductive flow meters, vortex flow meters based on the Karman principle, ultrasonic flow meters and mass flow meters based on the Coriolis principle are particularly suitable for the purposes of the invention.

A dosing system according to the invention with flow rate detection is preferably designed as a closed control loop, in particular if the flow rate signal is a throughput signal (V, M), whereby the control unit evaluates the signal of the flow rate sensor, if necessary by integrating the throughput over time, and closes the shut-off device when the amount of fluid flowing out of the fluid outlet corresponds to the target amount of fluid (mass, volume), which is stored as quantity information in a memory and can be called up by operating the memory input device and is dosed reproducibly.

According to the invention, the control unit is any electronic unit that receives input information, processes it and controls corresponding actuators, which in particular includes the shut-off device.

The control unit is preferably a known microcomputer system or microprocessor system, which has a central processing unit (CPU), a read-only memory

-••16 · ·

(ROM), a read/write memory (RAM) and an interface (I/O unit), which are preferably connected to one another via one or more bus systems, which can also be used for data transfer with peripheral devices and peripheral equipment.

Such microprocessor systems, including their application-specific structure and application-specific software and peripheral devices, are per se familiar to the person skilled in the art and are commercially available and therefore do not require any more detailed explanation.

The operating system and any existing programs and subprograms stored in the ROM are designed in a manner known to those skilled in the art in such a way that the system functions defined above are implemented in association with the intended operating functions or operating sequences.

Within the scope of the present invention, an extremely large number of combinations are possible with regard to the type of input information, the order in which the input information is entered and the duration of the input information at the beginning and end of the learning mode in order to achieve a learning mode with learning and storing of fluid quantities and to achieve a dosing mode for reproducing stored fluid quantities. The person skilled in the art can, without having to be inventive in this regard, create the appropriate software for each combination of input information or operating operations and each desired sequence of operations and functions in both operating modes and program and configure the system accordingly.

The method and the device according to the invention can be implemented in many different input and functional variants,

which nevertheless always have the basic concept in common that it is a learning dosing system that is able to learn the amount of fluid dosed during a single manual "pre-dosing" and then reproduce it in a dosing mode as often as required.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the microprocessor-controlled device contains at least one characteristic map in the read-only memory (ROM) and/or in the read/write memory (RAM), in which control values for controlling the shut-off device and, if applicable, a safety shut-off device are stored in association with temperatures, flow rates and/or times, as well as correction data if applicable, in order to be able to correct measured values and control values if necessary. The characteristic map structure has the advantage that calculation results or external data, e.g. empirically obtained data, can already be stored in it depending on one or more parameters, in order to save computing time and enable the control or regulating system to respond quickly. Characteristic map controls are also familiar to the expert per se.

For many applications it is advantageous, e.g. for hygienic or occupational health reasons, to make operation easier for disabled people or to prevent vandalism, to design the actuating device as a known device for contactless presence-oriented control or proximity control, which is based on the principle of the light barrier with visible light or infrared light, passive infrared detection, ultrasound detection, the radar principle or the use of microwaves and is controlled by the control unit.

An advantageous embodiment of the device has

an output unit controlled by the control unit, which is designed as a visual display and/or acoustic output device and in particular as a voice output device and/or as a printer. It can also have an interface or bus function, which makes it particularly easy to integrate the device into systems, for example in process engineering, in which dosing processes are to be carried out under hierarchical or decentralized control, e.g. in pipe systems.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the actuating device and/or the memory input device are designed for interactive operation with a user via the control unit and are preferably voice-controlled. A device that can be used particularly advantageously in the disabled area is characterized in that the output device is designed as a voice output device and also has a microphone for voice or sound recording and the control unit is designed in such a way that it evaluates the signals supplied by the microphone for voice or sound recognition and, upon receipt of certain voice or sound signals, controls the actuating device and/or the memory input device in a learning mode or in a dosing mode.

Particularly preferred are devices according to the invention which have a temperature input element for entering temperature setpoints, which is connected to the control unit, which, based on signals from the temperature input element, controls the actuators of mixing devices, which are connected on the inlet side to fluid sources for fluids of different temperatures, in the sense of a control or a closed control loop, so that a mixed fluid of the set temperature results at the fluid outlet, since the mixing temperature is the mixing criterion that occurs most frequently in practice.

The inventive concept includes, as a preferred embodiment, that the control unit is designed in such a way that the shut-off device can be opened and closed again manually via the actuating device in the sense of a conventional flow switch, in particular a water tap, or a control device, without actuating a storage element or a storage response element of the storage input element (ON/OFF function). In addition to the learning function, such a device according to the invention also has the function of a conventional water tap, a mixer tap and comparable devices.

The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. The combinations of features contained in the devices shown are not to be interpreted as limiting.- - ...... ..

Show it:

Fig. 1 and 3 to 7 Fig. a(a), 2(b):

Fig. 8 and 9:

Fig. 10 to 13:

devices according to the invention;

flow switch registers usable according to the invention;

schematic signal diagrams to explain the learning mode and the dosing mode as well as the associated actuation of the shut-off device and a safety shut-off device ;

Examples of control panels for devices according to the invention

Fig. 14 and 15: and

Flow charts to explain the learning mode or the dosing mode.

The present invention concept is generally suitable for dosing all types of fluids, i.e. generally for gases and liquids, which include not only pure liquids but also corresponding solutions, in particular water or aqueous solutions and especially service water, non-aqueous solvents or solutions, dispersions and emulsions. The gases that can be dosed according to the invention also include aerosols, the disperse component of which can be both liquid and solid. Drinking water or service water is particularly preferred as fluids, which can preferably be fed into the shut-off device at a selectable temperature, for example when it comes to bath-filling, shower, washbasin or sink fittings. The pre-tempered water comes in particular from a thermostatted reservoir or a mixing device.

For the sake of simplicity and in view of the fact that the present invention is particularly applicable in the sanitary fittings sector, reference is made below to water as a typical fluid example.

The device according to the invention shown in Fig. 1 corresponds to the simplest embodiment. It comprises a pipe system with a fluid line 2 with a fluid inlet 3 for a fluid 1 and a fluid outlet 4 from which the fluid 1 emerges. The source for the fluid 1 is preferably a water pipe.

The device of Fig. 1 further comprises a shut-off device 7, which is provided downstream of the fluid inlet 3, and an electronic control unit 8, which is provided with an actuation

supply device 5 and a memory input device 9.

The shut-off device, which is particularly advantageously a solenoid valve, is controlled by the electronic control unit 8.

In the simplest case, the actuating device 5 consists of two buttons (ON and OFF), by pressing which the shut-off device 7 can be actuated via the control unit 8.

If only the actuating device 5, which is used to control the shut-off device 7, is actuated, the device only works as an electromechanical flow switch, i.e. it has a simple water tap function. When the ON button of the actuating device 5 is pressed, the shut-off device 7 is opened via the control unit 8 and closed again when the OFF button is pressed. The two ON/OFF functions of the actuating device 5 can advantageously be assigned to a single operating element, e.g. a button, whereby the ON function results when it is first actuated and the OFF function when it is subsequently actuated.

The memory input device 9 comprises a memory command element M and at least one storage location element SP and preferably several storage location elements SP1, SP2, SP3, ... .

These actuating elements preferably also consist of buttons (M, SP1, SP2, SP3, . . .); they are connected to the control device 8.

The storage command element' M serves to cause the control unit 8 to store a learned or to-be-learned quantity information in the learning mode and

if necessary, to also initiate the learning mode. The storage space elements are used in the learning mode to assign a learned or to-be-learned quantity information to a specific storage space or storage area and in the dosing mode to initiate the reading of the corresponding stored quantity information in the control unit 8, which is used to control the opening and closing of the shut-off device 7.

The operating elements 5 and 9 are preferably arranged in an operating panel 12, which can be provided separately from the control unit 8 and is provided at a convenient location on the corresponding fitting or in the vicinity of it. The control unit 8 is preferably arranged near the fitting so that it is not in the field of vision, preferably e.g. under a washbasin or sink or in a wall under plaster. The control unit requires a conventional power supply, e.g. through a mains connection, and is connected to the operating elements, e.g. the operating panel 12, and the actuators, in particular the shut-off device 7, by a data connection. The various types of such data connections are familiar to the person skilled in the art. A particularly advantageous data transmission by radio is between the actuating elements 5, 9 of the control panel 12 and the control unit 8. The control unit 8 is also preferably combined in a modular design with the hydraulic system, which consists of the fluid line 2 with fluid inlet 3 and fluid outlet 4 and the shut-off device 7 as well as other peripheral components, sensors, flow regulators, fluid filters, etc.

Through the manual one-time "pre-dosing" in the learning mode, the control unit 8 receives quantity information that is assigned to the pre-dosed fluid quantity. It is stored in

Assignment to a storage location element SP (SPl, SP2, SP3, ...) or a memory response element MSP (MSPl, MSP2, MSP3, ...) is stored in a retrievable manner and can be overwritten in a new learning mode.

In the simplest embodiment, this quantity information is time information (open time of the shut-off device I) ₁ since, in the case of sufficiently constant flow conditions in the learning and dosing mode, ie, for example, with a fluid throughput kept constant using a flow controller, the open time of the shut-off device 7 in this dosing system is approximately proportional to the quantity of fluid flowing through.

However, the quantity information can also be any other information, for example from a flow meter, a pressure sensor, a level sensor, etc.

Typical fluid flow rates for sanitary fittings are in the range of about 1 to about 22 l/min and advantageously in the range of about 2 to about 14 l/min.

Conventional flow regulators, which are advantageously arranged downstream of the shut-off device 7, keep the flow (throughput, volume/time, V) constant with an accuracy of about ± 5% in a pressure range of about 1 to 10 bar primary pressure. They therefore allow the open time of the shut-off device 7 to be recorded as quantity information in a particularly advantageous manner.

A typical operating sequence for a learning process in learning mode and a dosing process in dosing mode is as follows:

1. First, the memory command element M is activated.

The storage unit 8 is thereby put into the learning mode, and the acquisition and learning of quantity information (e.g. the open time of the shut-off device 7) is initiated (start of learning, hereinafter also abbreviated as L ₃ ).

2. The actuating device 5 is actuated; the control unit 8 then opens the shut-off device 7 (ON) and records the quantity information during the open time of the shut-off device 7.

3. Re-activation of the actuating device 5 causes the shut-off device 7 to close (OFF) by the control unit 8. The quantity information is then available.

4. When a storage location element SP (SPl, SP2, SP3, ...) is activated, the quantity information is stored in association with the activated storage location element SP (SPl, SP2, SP3, ...) and the learning mode is thus terminated (learning end, hereinafter also abbreviated as L ₅ ).

The liquid quantity learned in this way can be reproduced as desired in a dosing mode, for example by the following alternative operating operations:

Simply actuate the storage location element SP (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) that is assigned to the desired learned liquid quantity. The control unit 8 then opens the shut-off device 7 and closes it automatically after the liquid quantity corresponding to the stored quantity information has passed through.

This type of dosing is particularly advantageous because an operator only needs to perform a single operation

must be carried out.

Alternatively, the storage location element SP (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) can be activated first, whereby the dosing mode is initiated in the control unit 8, in association with the respective desired learned liquid quantity. The shut-off device 7 is then opened by subsequently activating the actuating device 5. The shut-off device is again closed automatically after the liquid quantity corresponding to the stored quantity information has passed through.

The device according to the invention, which represents a learning dosing system, therefore stores the amount pre-dosed by an operator in a suitable, retrievable form without the operator or the device having to enter any numerical information (volume, mass, time, etc.).

It is therefore not necessary for the operator to know which volume or mass of liquid was stored in the learning mode and can be reproduced again in the dosing mode, since no such information needs to be entered. The learning mode or the start of learning can be initiated not only by actuating the memory input device 9, i.e. the memory command element M or a storage location element SP (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...), but also by actuating the actuating device 5 (ON).

This and various possible sequences of operating these control elements (5, M, SP) at the beginning of learning and at the end of learning result in

The present invention concept allows numerous functional combinations of operations that can be implemented by appropriate software design of the control unit 8 - and if necessary also of an "intelligent" control panel 12.

A large part of these possible combinations are listed in Table 1. This list contains particularly typical combinations of actuations and is therefore not an exhaustive list. Table 1 represents a digital function table in which "0" means no actuation and "1" means the actuation of the corresponding actuating element.

Table 1

Activity {s)" (5) (M) (SP) to learners (5) (M) (SP) at the beginning of learning 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 • 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 T_ 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 1

Since Table 1 is a function table, two "1" or three "1" in a row at the start of learning and/or the end of learning do not contain any sequence information. For example, the combination "1 10" in row 8 of Table 1 {start of learning) contains the two operating sequences

and

and the combination "1 11" from line 12 (start of learning) the operating sequences

(SP) -* (M) -► (5)

The arrows indicate the direction of the sequence:

"(5) -> (M)" means accordingly: First press

(5) , then from (M).

Table 2 shows the operating sequences that result from Table 1. Table 2 therefore does not represent an exhaustive list of the possible operating sequences.

TABLE 2 * ■

Operating operation(s) j to learners (M)* at the beginning of learning (SP)* L _E t (M)* L _E OUT OF _L3 OUT OF (M)-MSP) A (5)->(SP) _L2 2 (M)* _FROM L .. - ... OUT OF _L3 (SP)-> (M) * A (SP)^{5) loose. L ₃ 3 (M)* L _E OUT OF L _B OUT OF (5)-MM) A _FROM L 4 (SP)*long L _B (M) ->(5) A L _E 5 (SP)'long OUT OF L _B A (M)-MS)-^SP 6 (SP)*hold Lb A 7 (SP)*long _L3 A 8th (SP)*long _L3 A 9 (SP)*long _L3 A

TABLE 2

(Continuation)

(SP) *long (M)-XSP)-X5) ■ I 10 _L3 L _E A OUT OF (SP)*long (S)-XM)-XSP) 11 _{L8 FROM} L A (SP)*long (S)-XSP) -XM) 12 _{L3 FROM} L A (SP)"hold (SP)-XM)-XS) 13 _L5 loose. L _E A OUT OF (SP)'hold (SP)-XS)-XM) 14 L _B loose. AUS L _E A (M)-XSP)* (5)* 15 L ₃ ON L _E OUT OF 16 (SP)-XM)*
_L3 (5)*
_L3 A OUT OF (5)-XM) (SP)* 17 L _B L _E A OUT OF (M)-XS) (SP)* 18 L ₃ ON L _E OUT OF (5)-XM) (5)^{SP) 19 ■ _{L3 FROM} L A

TABLE 2

(Continuation)

20 (5)-^ (M)
Lb
A (SP)-XS)
L _E
OUT OF 21 (M)-^{5)
L ₃ ON (S)-XSP)
OFF L _s 22 (M)-XS).
L _B ON (SP)-XS)
_L3
OUT OF 23 (S)-XSP)
_L3 '
A (M)*
The
OUT OF 24 (SP)-XS)
L ₃ ON (M)*
L _E .
OUT OF 25 (S)-XSP)"
_L3
A ■ (5)-XM)
_FROM L 26 (S)-XSP)
_L3
A (M)-X5)
L _E
OUT OF 27 (SP)-XS)
L ₃ ON (S)-XM)
OFF L ₁ , 28 (SP)-XS)
L ₃ ON (M)-XS)
L _E
OUT OF 29 (M)-XSP)-XS)
L _B ON (5)*
_L2
OUT OF I I

TABLE 2

(Continuation)

- 36 (5) -> (SP)-XM) (5)* 30 _L3 L _E A OUT OF 37 (5)->(M)-»(SP) (5)* 31 ^L3 _L2 A OUT OF 38 (SP)-MM)-»(5) 32 L _B ON L _E OUT OF 39 (5)* (M) *->(SP) 33 _L3 OFF L ₂ A 40 (5)* (SP)-MM)* 34 _L3 - ■ L _E A OUT OF (5)* (5)-MM)-»(SP) 35 L _B OFF L ₂ A (5)* (5)-> (SP)-MM) _L3 OFF L ₂ SIN (S)* (M)-X5)->(SP) _L3 OFF L ₂ A (5)* (M)-»(SP)-M5) _{L3 L3} A OUT OF (5)* (SP) -> (M) -> (5) _L3 Ls A OUT OF (5)* (SP) -» (5) -J- (M) _L3 OFF L ₂ A

In Table 2 (and the following explanations):

L ₃ the start of the learning mode, L _g the end of the learning mode, ON the opening of the shut-off device (7), OFF the closing of the shut-off device (7), _$. the sequence of operating operations and

a double function of the input element in question, i.e. the function directly assigned to it (1st punctuation) - as well as another function {2nd function).

The typical combinations of operations listed in Table 2 are immediately understandable since they represent sequences of the specified operating operations.

For further explanation, some examples of the operating sequences contained in Table 2 and the corresponding functions are given below.

Example according to Table 2, line 19:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

By pressing (5) the shut-off device 7 is opened (ON). The control unit 8 is designed so that when (5) is pressed the quantity information is recorded and temporarily stored. The subsequent pressing of (M) confirms the storage or initiates the final storage.

Learner (L.) :

The actuation of (5) causes the control unit 8 to close the shut-off device 7 (OFF). The actuation of (SP) leads to the storage of the current quantity information.

information in association with the selected storage space element (SP) {e.g. SP2).

Example according to Table 2, line 20:

Start of learning (L ₅ ):

The same applies here as in the example in Table 2, line 19.

Learner (L.) :

The actuation of (SP) causes the control unit 8 to assign the quantity information (which is not yet available at this point in time) to a specific, selected storage location element (SP) (e.g. SP2). The subsequent actuation of (5) causes the control unit 8 to close the shut-off device 7 (OFF). This provides the quantity information to be stored, after which the learning mode is ended.

Example according to Table 2, line 21:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

The actuation of (M) signals to the control unit 8 that the amount of fluid flowing through between the subsequent opening (ON) and the subsequent closing (OFF) of the shut-off device 7 should be stored as quantity information.

The actuation of (5) causes the opening of the shut-off device 7 (ON) .

Learner (L.) :

By pressing (5) the shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF). Pressing (SP) results in the storage of the available quantity information in association with a selected storage location element (SP) (e.g. SP2).

This operating sequence, and thus the associated functional design of the device and in particular the software design of the control unit 8, is particularly advantageous according to the invention, as will be explained further later with reference to Figs. 13 and 14.

Example according to Table 2, line 22:.

Start of learning (year :

The same applies here as in the example in Table 2, line 21.

Learners (L _E ) :

The same applies here as in the example in Table 2, line 20.

This variant is also advantageous according to the invention. Example according to Table 2, line 25:

Start of learning (L _s ):

By pressing (5), the shut-off device 7 is opened (ON) and the learning mode begins. By then pressing (SP), the quantity information to be learned is assigned to one of the storage location elements (SP) (e.g. SP2).

Learner (L.) :

By pressing (5) the shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF). By subsequently pressing the save command elements (M), the quantity information is saved in assignment to the selected storage location element (SP) (e.g. SP2) and the learning mode is ended.

Example according to Table 2, line 26:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

The same applies here as in the previous example according to Table 2, line 25.

Learners (Lj :

Pressing (M) signals to the control unit 8 that the quantity information (not yet available at this time) should be stored in association with the selected (SP) (e.g. SP2).

The subsequent actuation of (5) leads to the closing of the shut-off device 7 (OFF), to the storage of the quantity information in association with the selected (SP) (e.g. SP2) and to the termination of the learning mode.

Example according to Table 2, line 27:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

Pressing (SP) initiates the learning mode and causes the control unit 8 to assign the quantity information to be learned to the selected (SP) (e.g. SP2). The subsequent pressing of (5) leads to the opening of the shut-off device 7 (ON).

Learner (L.) :

Pressing (5) closes the shut-off device 7 (OFF). This provides the quantity information, which is saved in association with the selected (SP) (e.g. SP2) when (M) is subsequently pressed. The learning mode ends after the data has been saved.

Example according to Table 2, line 28:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

The same applies here as in the previous example according to line 27.

Learners (Lj :

The same applies here as in the example in Table 2, line 26.

The symbol "*" only appears, as shown in Table 2, if only a single operating operation is planned at the beginning of the learning process or at the end of the learning process, or if (5) does not occur.

Since at the start of learning in the learning mode both the acquisition and storage of the quantity information must be initiated and the shut-off device 7 must be opened, and at the end of learning the determined quantity information must be saved and the shut-off device 7 must be closed again, these two functions must be triggered by the single operating operation to be carried out in such a design of the system according to the invention.

Example according to Table 2, line 1:

Start of learning (L.):

Only press (M): The system goes into learning mode (start of learning LB) (immediately assigned 1st function), and the shut-off device 7 is opened (ON) (2nd function).

Learners (L_) :

Only press (SP): The shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF) (2nd function) and the quantity information is saved (1st function), whereby the learning mode is terminated at the same time.

Example according to Table 2, line 33: Start of learning (L ₃ ):

Only actuation of the actuating device (5). In this case, the control unit 8 is designed so that every time the actuating device {55} is actuated, which leads to the opening of the shut-off device 7 (1st function), the quantity information is also recorded and temporarily stored (2nd function).

Learners (L _E ) :

By pressing (M), the shut-off device 7 is closed (2nd function). Furthermore, the storage of the available quantity information is initiated (1st function), which takes place when the storage location element (SP) is activated in association with the selected storage location element (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...). The learning device L _E follows the activation of (SP) accordingly.

The other individual operations in Table 2 marked with the asterisk symbol "*" are to be understood in the same way.

Where no additional information is provided, the operations "[S)", "(M)" and "(SP)" mean a short operation of the actuating element/ e.g. a short press of the associated key.

For certain combinations, especially for '^" functions, i.e. double or multiple functions of the relevant actuating element, it can be advantageous to provide for a longer actuation for a specified period of time (e.g. over a second or more) that goes beyond the period of a short actuation, a continuous hold for a specified time and later release, or a multiple actuation (e.g. pressing the relevant key twice). This means that the relevant input element not only triggers the directly assigned function, but also the 2nd function (and possibly other functions) due to the additional information provided by a longer actuation, holding or multiple actuation.

An example of this can be seen in Table 2, line 4:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

A short press of the button (SP) leads to the dosing mode and to the start of dosing of the stored liquid quantity by opening the shut-off device 7 and to its automatic closing after dosing of the selected stored quantity.

A longer press of (SP) (or holding or multiple presses) initiates the learning mode, including the assignment of the quantity information to be stored to a specific storage location element (SP) (SPl, SP2, SP3, ...) (1st function), and leads to the opening of the shut-off device 7 (ON) (2nd function).

Learners (L _E ) :

Actuating the storage command element (M) leads to the closing of the shut-off device 7 (2nd function) and to the storage of the quantity information (1st function).

Another example of using the time parameter as additional information is shown in Table 2, line 6:

In this case, the control unit 8 is designed so that at the start of learning, holding the storage location element (SP) leads to the initiation of the learning mode, including the storage location allocation (1st function) and to the opening of the shut-off device 7 (ON) (2nd function), which remains open until the operation of the storage location element (SP) is terminated, for example a button (SP) is released again. The operation of (M) {*-double function) then leads to the closing of the shut-off device 7 (1st function) and the storage of the quantity information (2nd function). The dosing mode can also be initiated by pressing or holding the actuating device 5 for a longer period. In addition to the

In addition to the two alternatives for initiating the dosing mode mentioned above, there is a third possibility, for example, in the following actuation sequence:

(5) -» (SP)
long

While briefly pressing (5) results in the normal "tap function" of the device, the control unit 8 recognizes that the dosing mode should be initiated if (5) is pressed or held for a longer period. When (SP) (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) is then pressed, the shut-off device 7 opens, which is automatically closed again after the amount of liquid assigned to (SP) has flowed out.

In view of the above explanation, the person skilled in the art is easily able to design the control unit 8 or the associated software in such a way that the process steps or device functions belonging to the specified operating operations are implemented.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, in the learning mode as well as in the dosing mode, the flow rate of fluid (volume/time, V; mass/time, M) can be selected within predefined limits. This additional function corresponds to "turning on" a water tap more or less or opening a single-lever outlet fitting more or less strongly to achieve a stronger or weaker outlet jet.

Fig. 2(a) and (b) show two advantageous embodiments of the shut-off device 7 using solenoid valves, which are very favorable due to the simple electrical control and operational reliability.

The arrangement of Fig. 2 (a) represents a flow switch register made up of 3 shut-off devices 7', 7", 7'", which are solenoid valves and are connected in parallel and can be controlled independently by the control unit 8.

The solenoid valves T, 1'.', l' ¹ ' have a common fluid line 2 on the inlet side, which is connected to a common fluid inlet 3 into which the fluid 1 is fed. The individual solenoid valves open into a common fluid outlet 4. Such flow switch registers are known to those skilled in the art. By controlling the three solenoid valves differently, the combinations and thus the fluid throughputs shown in Table 3 below are obtained when the individual solenoid valves are not operated at different times:

Table 3

CONDITION T 7'' 0 OUT OF 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 A 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 1

It is particularly advantageous if the solenoid valves 7', 1', 1''' have different flow cross-sections and thus throughputs in the open position in order to be able to fully exploit the combinations listed in the above functions table to achieve staggered throughputs. Flow controllers 13 are connected downstream of the individual solenoid valves 7', 1'', ¹¹¹ , which keep the throughput in the respective outlet lines of the solenoid valves constant, thereby increasing the accuracy of the reproduction of the various total throughputs of the shut-off device 7.

In the lower part of Fig. 2 (a), according to an optional measure, two further solenoid valves 7*, 7** are shown, which have a fluid inlet 3' or 3' ¹ for a fluid 1 ^l or 1 '' on the inlet side and are connected on the outlet side to a common fluid outlet which, as shown in dashed lines, can form the fluid inlet 3 of the previously described arrangement for the fluid 1. The solenoid valves 7*, 7** are also controlled by the control unit 8.

The overall arrangement of Fig. 2 (a) thus represents a parallel-series connection of solenoid valves.

The fluids 1 ', 1 '' can represent two fluids of different types or identical fluids with different properties, in particular two fluids of different temperatures (e.g. fluid V: cold; fluid 1 ¹¹ : hot).

By appropriately controlling the solenoid valves 7*, 7**, a simple mixer function can be achieved, whereby the resulting mixed fluid 1 (which in the arrangement shown can be cold, warm or hot, for example) is fed into the shut-off device 7. Especially with constant

* 41 a -

Supply with the fluids 1', 1'' "(pressure constant, flow constant, temperature constant) this arrangement is advantageous due to its simple structure and easy control.

Of course, several such arrangements of solenoid valves 7*, 7** can also be provided, even in the arrangement of Fig. 2 (b) explained below.

The flow switch register shown in Fig. 2(b) corresponds to that of Fig. 2(a) with the difference that two of the solenoid valves (T , T') are connected on the inlet side to a common fluid line 2' and thus a common fluid inlet 3' for a fluid 1', while the third solenoid valve 7''' is connected via a fluid line 2'' to an independent fluid inlet 3'' for a second fluid 1''.

Flow switch registers of this type, which can also have a larger number of solenoid valves than shown, are suitable for the controlled switching and simultaneous mixing of two fluids 1', 1'', which can be, for example, one and the same liquid with different temperatures. This arrangement enables the device according to the invention not only to switch different flow rates of fluid, but also to have a mixer function at the same time.

The shut-off device 7 can also be combined with a flow control device or flow regulating device in order to achieve selectable fluid throughputs. Such devices can be provided upstream or downstream of the shut-off device 7. Piston-controlled devices are preferably used for this purpose.

The memory input device 9 shown in Fig. 1

consists of a memory command element M and one and preferably several memory storage elements SP (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...).

Within the scope of the inventive concept, the two input functions "(M)" (memory command) and "(SP)" (memory location assignment/memory location address) of the memory input device 9 can also be combined into an overall function, which results in a simplification in terms of both equipment and operation.

The following diagram illustrates these two alternatives, with alternative 1 being implemented in the device of Fig. 1.

Memory input device 9 :

OPTION 1

OPTION 2

M SPI S?2 SP3

,etc., MSPl

MSP2 JMSP3

, Etc.

Storage space elements (SP)

Storage command
element
(M)

(MSP) Storage response elements

The memory response elements (MSP) each assign

the function of the memory command element (M) and a storage location element (SP) is the same. In alternative 2, only one actuation element {Enter key) needs to be activated at a time.

A device according to the invention, which corresponds to alternative 2, is shown in Fig. 3. The same reference numerals designate the same elements as in Figs. 1 and 2. A flow regulator 13 is arranged in the fluid line 2 downstream of the shut-off device 7, which keeps the flow rate of the fluid constant when the shut-off device 7 is open.

Due to the combination of the two functions "(M) ^/y and "(SP)", alternative 2 of Fig. 3 for the learning mode results in the typical functional combinations of actuations of the actuating device 5 and the memory input device 9 (MSP) summarized in Table 4 below.

Table 4

Activity(s) (MS P J to learners (ms?) at the beginning of the year 0 fs) 1 (5 years 0 0 1 &khgr; 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 T_ 0 1 0 0 1 _T- 1 1 1 1

As in the case of Table 1, in Table 4 the rows containing two "1"s do not contain any order information,

Table 5 shows the operating sequences resulting from Table 4. This list is also not exhaustive.

TABLE 5

Operating operation(s) to learners (MSP) * at the beginning of learning (MSP)* L _E (5)* _L3 • OFF 1 L
B OUT OF (5)* A (S)-MMSP) L _E (5)* OFF L ₃ OUT OF 2 L _B (S)-MMSP) A- (MSP)-J-(S) _FROM L (5)* _L3 3 _L2 OUT OF (MSP)-M5) A L _E (MSP)*long OUT OF 4 L _B (MSP)* A L _s (MSP)* OUT OF 5 _L3 (MSP)*losl. A L _E (MSP) * OUT OF 6 _L3 (5)* A _L2 (MSP)* OUT OF 7 _L3 A (5)-»-(MSP) 8th _L3 A (MSP) hold-» (5) 9 L ₃ ON (5)-MMSP) 10 _L3 A

-"46 -

TABLE 5

(Continuation)

(MSP) -^ (5) (5)* (MSP) * 11 L _B ON _L2 The OUT OF OUT OF (5)-»(MSP) (5)-»(MSP) 12 Lb _FROM L A (5)-»(MSP) (MSP)-»(5) 13 _L3 L _s A OUT OF i Λ (MSP)-»(5) (5)-»(MSP) J4 L _B ON AUS L _B (MSP)-»(5) (MSP)->{5) 15 L _B ON . .... L _s . OUT OF (5)* Long 16 L
B A

The abbreviations L ₃ , L _E , EIN, AUS, ->· and * are defined as in Table 2.

The typical combinations of operating operations listed in Table 5 according to Alternative 2 shown in Fig. 3 are immediately understandable. For further explanation, some examples of operating sequences and the associated functions are given below.

Example according to Table 5, line 1:

Start of learning (L.):

Only actuation of (5). In this case, the control unit 8 is designed so that every time the actuation device (5) is actuated, which leads to the opening of the shut-off device (ON) (1st function), the quantity information is also recorded and temporarily stored (2nd function).

Learner (L.) :

By pressing (MSP), in the case of several memory activation elements (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) by pressing a selected memory location element (eg MSP2), the shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF) (2nd function). Furthermore, the storage of the available quantity information is initiated (1st function). The learning L _E occurs when (MSP) is pressed with the storage of the quantity information.

Example according to Table 5, line 2: Start of learning (L ₃ ):

For the start of learning, what was said about the previous example according to Table 5, line 1, applies.

Learners (LJ :

By actuating the actuating device (5), the shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF). By subsequently actuating the storage response element (MSP), the storage of the available quantity information is initiated, whereupon the learning element (L _E ) is activated.

Example according to Table 5, line 8:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

By pressing (5), the shut-off device 7 is opened (ON) and the learning mode begins. By then pressing (MSP), the quantity information to be learned is assigned to one of the memory response elements (MSP) (MSPl, MSP2, MSP3, ...) (e.g. MSP2).

Learners (L _E ) :

Pressing (MSP) again first closes the shut-off device 7 (OFF) (2nd function) and then saves the current quantity information in association with the selected storage response element (MSP) (e.g. MSP2).

Example according to Table 5, line 10:

Start of learning (L ₃ ):

For the start of learning, what was said about the previous example according to Table 5, line 8, applies.

Learner (L.) :

When (5) is actuated, the shut-off device 7 is initially closed (OFF) (1st function) and the storage of the quantity information is initiated in association with the selected storage response element (MSP) (e.g. MSP2).

Example according to Table 5, line 11: Start of learning (L.):

By pressing {MSP), the learning mode is started, whereby the assignment to a memory response element (MSP) {e.g. MSP2) is present. By subsequently pressing (5), the shut-off device 7 is opened by the control unit 8 {ON).

Learners {L _E ) :

When (5) is actuated, the shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF) {1st function); the quantity information now available is then stored in association with the selected storage response element (MSP) (e.g. MSP2) (2nd function), which ends the learning mode.

Example according to Table 5, line 14:

Start of learning (L.):

The same applies here as in the previous example according to Table 5, line 11.

Learners (L _E ) :

By pressing (5) the shut-off device 7 is closed (OFF). The subsequent repeated pressing of the selected storage response element (MSP) (e.g. MSP2) leads to the storage of the quantity information in association with the selected storage response element (MSP) (e.g. MS P2). ___-^^~"\

Example according to table *5 N-line 15:

Start of learning (L ₃ ) : ^-.'

The same applies here as in the example in line 11.

Learners (Lj :

Pressing (MSP) again results in the allocation of the quantity information (not yet available at this point) to a selected storage response element (MSP). Pressing (5) results in the closure of the

bu ■·, , _f &igr;

blocking element 7 (OFF) and for storing the now available quantity information in association with the selected storage response element (MSP) (e.g. MSP2).

Example according to Table 5, line 16:

Start of learning (L.):

Only actuation of (5). The control unit 8 is designed in such a way that each time (5) is actuated during a predetermined period of time, which leads to the opening of the shut-off device 7 (ON) (1st function), the quantity information is also recorded and temporarily stored (2nd function).

Learners (L,) :

For the learner, what has been said about the example in Table 5, line 1, applies.

In the second alternative of the design of the memory input device 9 explained above and shown in Fig. 3, the dosing mode, i.e. the retrieval of stored quantity information, is initiated in particular by the following operating operations and associated functions, depending on the design of the control unit 8:

1. (MSP)
or

2. (MSP) long/hold
or

3. (MSP -> (5)
or

4. (5) -> (MSP)

It is self-evident within the scope of the invention concept that, for example, the software in the control unit 8

the actuation of actuating elements or operating operations intended for the learning mode must be adapted to the actuation of actuating elements or operating operations intended for the dosing mode as well as the "normal faucet function". The operating operations listed in Tables 2 and 5 for the learning mode require a suitable selection of an operating sequence in the dosing mode. This correlation between operating operation(s) in the learning mode and operating operation(s) in the dosing mode or for the normal valve function of the device can be easily carried out by a specialist. For each specifically intended learning mode operating operation or operating operation sequence, one or more associated and thus compatible operating operations can be selected for the dosing mode and the normal valve function.

Typical examples of this correlation are given in Tables 6 and 7 below. ■-·-■- ■

Table 6

Option 1

Learning mode
at the beginning of learning to learners

Dosing mode

L ₃ ON

OUT OF

L _E

(SP)

A

A

OUT OF

(SP)

A

·

• ■ ···

Table 7 Alternative 2

Learning mode

at the beginning of learning

to learners

Dosing mode

(MSP) -> (5)

L ₃ SIN

The AUS

(MSP) ON

(5)*long
_L3

(MSP) *

The AUS

(MSP)

A

Fig. 4 shows a device according to the invention, the shut-off element 7 of which is a control element that can be adjusted between the completely closed state and the completely open state continuously or step by step via an actuator 11 that is controlled by the control unit 8.

The control element is in particular a flap, a slide, or a valve. Such control elements are familiar to the person skilled in the art. Downstream of the shut-off element 7, a safety shut-off device 15 is provided, which is also controlled by the control unit 8. In the device of Fig. 4, the safety shut-off device 15 is a flow switch and in particular a solenoid valve.

The control unit 8 in the device of Fig. 4 is designed such that in the learning mode as well as in the dosing mode and also in the normal valve function, at the start of a dosing process the safety shut-off device 15 and then the shut-off element 7 are opened first and at the end of a dosing process the shut-off element 7 and then the safety shut-off device 15 are closed first.

The remaining elements of the device are the same as in Fig. 1, 2 and 3 and have the same reference numerals

φφ &phgr; &phgr;» &phgr; &phgr; &phgr; φφ φ* &phgr; * ϕ ϕ φφφφ

φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ

&phgr;&phgr;&phgr;» φφφφφ φφφφ ··· ·· *·

designated.

The operating elements arranged in the control panel 12 (operating device 5 and memory input device 9) correspond to the arrangement in Fig. 3 and thus to the second alternative explained above. In addition, however, a flow input element 6 is provided, which serves to enter a desired fluid flow (fluid throughput, V) and, when actuated, emits signals to the control unit 8, on the basis of which the shut-off element 7 (e.g. in the case of a flow switch register as in Fig. 2 (a) and (b)) and/or a control or regulating element (flow switch register, control valve) connected upstream or downstream of the shut-off element 7, which is controlled by the control unit 8, specifies the selected throughput. The flow input element 6 can, for example, in the simplest case consist of several buttons to which various specified fluid throughputs are functionally assigned. The flow input element 6 can also consist of a single key or button combined with a display, e.g. several LEDs, which in turn are assigned to different fluid flow rates and are controlled by the control unit 8, whereby each time the key is pressed the display jumps sequentially from one LED to the next in a closed cyclic sequence. Another advantageous possibility is to design the flow input element 6 in conjunction with the control unit 8 in such a way that by holding this actuating element for a longer or shorter time the fluid flow rate can be adjusted and set continuously or in increments, whereby the direction of adjustment (increase/decrease) and/or the current state (e.g. "high", "medium", "low" or corresponding symbols (l/min)) can be displayed in the control panel 12.

The control unit 8 can interact with the flow input element 6 in various ways. In the simplest case, the actuation of the flow input element 6 is independent of the actuations required for the learning and dosing mode as well as the normal valve function and is carried out before the actuation of the actuating device 5 and/or the memory input device 9 (independent preselection of the fluid flow).

It can also be provided to include the flow input element 6 in the actuation sequences of the actuation elements 5 and 9. This results in numerous operating sequences for the actuation of the flow input element 6, some typical ones of which are shown in Tables 8 and 9.

Table 8

Option 1

to Start learning Learning mode S
to learners Dosing mode (6) L ₃ ON (5)-XSP)
FROM Le (5)or(6)—>(SP)
A
or
(SP)-H5) or (6)
A (6) -XM)-X5)
L ₈ ON or
(SP5-X5) (SP)
A (M) A _L3
OUT OF (5)or(β)-»(SP)
A
or
(SP)->(5)or{6)
A (M)
Lb A (SP)
A

Table 9
Option 2

Learning mode at the beginning of learning to learners Dosing mode (6)-»(MSP)-»(5) (5)* L ₃ ON L _B (5)or(6)-*(MSP) OUT OF A or (MSP) ->{5) or (6) {6)->{MSP)->{5) (5)* A L ₃ ON L _E (MSP) OUT OF A (MSP)-»(6)-»(5) (5)* L ₃ ON L _E (5)or(6)-»(MSP) OUT OF A or (MSP)-)· (5) or (6) (MSP)->{6)-»(5) (5)* A L ₃ ON _L3 (MSP) OUT OF A (6)-*(5)*long (MSP)* _{L8 L3} (5)or(6)-» (MSP) A OUT OF A or (MSP)-»(5)or{6) (6)->{5)*long (MSP)* A _L8 L _E ' (MSP) - A OUT OF A

Tables 8 and 9 above show examples of how the actuation of the flow input element 6 and the associated functions can be integrated into the operating sequence.

It is very advantageous to also store the flow information corresponding to the selected flow rate (throughput) in the learning mode according to the actuation of the flow input element 6 in association with the quantity information, so that in the dosing mode no additional input of a flow rate by actuating (6) is required. This can be seen from Table 8, lines 2 and 4, and Table 9, lines 2, 4 and 6.

According to the definition given above, the abbreviation "L _B " refers to the start of the learning process related to the quantity information. In the operating sequences of Tables 8 and 9, in which (6) is the first actuating element to be actuated in the learning mode at the start of learning (Table 8, lines 1 and 2, Table 9, lines 1, 2, 5 and 6), the start of learning, which relates to the selected flow, takes place with the actuation of (6).

According to an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention, the flow input element 6 is assigned not only the input of flow information but also the ON function and, if necessary, the OFF function of the actuating device 5. This simplifies operation.

The following tables 10 and 11 show some typical operating sequences for the two alternatives 1 and 2.

Table 10 Option 1

Learning mode to learners Dosing mode at the beginning of learning (5) -» (SP) (M) -» (6) OFF L _H (6) -» (SP) L _B ON or A (SP) -» (5) or L _E (SP) -* (6) OUT OF A or (6) -» (SP) or _FROM L (SP) or A (SP -^ 16) OUT OF

Table 11 Alternative 2

Learning mode to learners Dosing mode or at the beginning of learning (5)* (MSP) (MSP) -^- (6) (6) -> (MSP) A L _B ON OUT OF A or or - (6)* (MSP) -» (6) OUT OF A

In "normal faucet operation", in which only the shut-off device 7 is switched on and off, it is preferable to also include an existing flow input element 6.

Typically, such operating sequences, without initiating or executing a learning mode, can look like this:

(6) -» (5) -> (5) A OUT OF or (5) -> (6) -> (5) A OUT OF or (6) -» (5) -> (6) A OUT OF or (5) -> (6) -> (6) A OUT OF or (6) hold (6) A OUT OF or (6) hold (5) A OUT OF

It can also be provided that, during the normal valve function of the device according to the invention, when only the actuating device 5, but not the flow input element 6, is actuated to open the shut-off device 7, a flow rate predetermined by the device, e.g. an average flow rate, is realized.

-The design of the control unit 8, in particular in terms of software, for the implementation of the functions explained in connection with the flow input element 6 and other related functions can be carried out without further ado by a person skilled in the art on the basis of the above explanations.

The device shown in Fig. 5 has two shut-off devices 7', 7'', which are connected on the inlet side with two

Fluid inlets 3', 3" are connected into which two different fluids 1', 1'' can be fed. Preferably, this is service water of different temperatures (T', T''). The shut-off devices T, 1'' are control devices with actuators 11', 11", which are controlled by the control unit 8. They are connected on the outlet side to the fluid line 2, in which a temperature sensor 14 and a safety shut-off device 15 designed as a control device with actuator 24 and controlled by the control unit S are provided. The temperature sensor 14 is also connected to the control unit 8. The actuating elements (5), (6) and (9) of the control panel 12 correspond in their conception to those of the arrangement in Fig. 4 explained in detail above.

In this case, the safety shut-off device 15 is designed as a control element that can be adjusted continuously or step by step via the actuator 24 between the completely closed and the completely open state.

A temperature input element 10 is provided in the control panel 12 as a further input element, which, analogous to the flow input element 6, serves to enter a target temperature in the fluid line 2 and at the fluid outlet 4.

With the help of the temperature sensor 14, which detects the actual temperature, and the shut-off devices 7', 7", a closed temperature control circuit can be implemented via the control unit 8.

The temperature input element 10 can be designed in the same way as the flow input element 6 described above. The setpoint temperature specified thereby (Tl, T2, T3, ...) is controlled by appropriate control of the actuators 11', 11" in the sense of a mixer function depending on the selected control characteristic more or less

ϕ W * I 9 9 ·

less accurately realized.

In this arrangement, the flow rate of fluid specified by the flow input element 6 can be generated simultaneously by the control unit 8 and the shut-off device 7', 7'', since the ratio of the flow rates of the fluids 1', 1'' approximately corresponds to the resulting mixing temperature and the sum of the two flow rates corresponds to the desired total flow rate.

The actuation of the temperature input element 10 can, just as is possible with the flow input element 6, be carried out independently of the actual actuation sequence of the actuation elements (5) and (9), whereby the actuation of the temperature input element 10 preferably precedes that of the other actuation elements (5) and (9), namely before or after a preceding actuation of the flow input element 6. _ ' '

Examples of typical operating sequences involving the flow input element 6 and the temperature input element 10 are listed for alternatives 1 and 2 in the following tables 12 and 13, which refer to operating sequences in which the operating elements (6) and (10) do not have a dual function (no additional ON and/or OFF function of (5)).

Table 12

Option 1

to Start learning -X10J-M6) Learning mode &Xgr;
TO Learners Dosing mode {10 )-MS)-MM)
_L3 -M10)-M6) -M5)
A (5)-MSP)
_FROM L (10)-M5)or(6)-MSP)
A
or
(10)-MSP)-M5)or(6)
A (M)-MlO)-MS)
_L3 -M5)
A or
(SPJ-M5) (SP)
A (M)
_L3 -M5)
A The
OUT OF (10)-M5)or(6)-MSP)
A
or
(10)-MSP)-M5)or(6)
A (M) -M5)
A (SP)
A

Table 13 Alternative 2

Learning mode at the beginning of learning to learners Dosing mode or (MSP) or (MSP) or (MSP) (10)->(6)->{MSP)->(5) (5)* (10)-»(MSP)-»(5)or(6) A (10)-»{MSP)-»(5)or(6) A (10)-»(MSP)-»(5) or (6) A L ₃ ON (10)-»(5) or (6) -> (MSP) A A A OUT OF A (10)-»(5) or (6) -> (MSP) (10) -> (5)or (6)-»(MSP) A A (10)-»(6)-»(MSP)->(5) (5)* L ₃ ON _L3 OUT OF (MSP)-»(10)->(6)-»<5) (5)* L ₃ ON _L3 OUT OF (MSP)-»(10)-M6)->{5) (5)* L ₃ BIN _L3 OUT OF (10)->(6)->(5)*long (MSP)* _L3 The . _A . . .. . OUT OF (10)->i6)->(5)*long (MSP)* _{L3 L3} A OUT OF

Within the scope of the present invention, it is particularly preferred to store the information corresponding to the inputs of (10) and (6) in the learning mode in association with the quantity information, since in the dosing mode these inputs on the flow and temperature of the fluid to be dosed are then no longer required and dosing in the dosing mode is possible by actuating a single actuating element {Table 12, lines 2 and 4: (SP); Table 13, lines 2, 4 and 6: (MSP) ).

The design of the dosing system of the invention in such a way that the flow input element 6 also has the ON function of (5) and, if necessary, also the OFF

function {see Tables 10 and 11),
also advantageous if the temperature input element 10 is additionally provided.

The ON function of (5) and, if applicable, the OFF function can alternatively be assigned to the temperature input element
10 should be assigned.

The following tables 14 and 15 show some typical operating sequences for the two alternatives
1 and 2.

Table 14

Option 1

Learning mode at the beginning of learning to learners Dosing mode or or (10)-> (M)-* (6) (5)-*{SP) (10)-*(SP)-*(5)or(6) (SP)-*(5) L ₃ ON Lb U0)-*(5)or(6)-HSP) A A &bull; or or A or (6)-* (M)-* (10) (SP)-*{5) L ₃ ON _L3 (SP) or OUT OF A (M)->(6)-»{10)-M5) or L _B ON (6)-*(SP) or AUS L _B (M)-> (10)-* (6) or L ₃ ON (SP)- > (6) or L _E (M)-*(SP)&mdash;»(10)-*(6) OUT OF L ₃ ■ ON or (SP)* _L3 OUT OF or (5)* _L3 OUT OF

Table Alternative

Learning mode at the beginning of learning <6)-*(10)->(5) _L3 to learners Dosing mode (10)-><MSP)->(6) A (5)* L ₃ ON L _E (5) or (6)-MMSP) or OUT OF A (6)-MMSP)-»{10) or or L ₃ ON (6)* (MSP)-*(5) or(6) or L _E A (MSP)-HlO)-)-(6) OUT OF or L _B ON or (MSP) (10)* A L _B OUT OF (10)^-(6)-»(MSP) hold (MSP)* lOSl. _L3 Lb ■ A OUT OF (MSP) (MSP) longer A L ₃ make OUT OF (MSP) A

For the normal valve function {"faucet function") of the device, in the presence of a flow input element 6 and a temperature input element 10, numerous operating sequences also arise, some of which typical sequences are listed below:

ON OFF

ON OFF

ON OFF

ON OFF

Tables 12 to 15 and the above operating sequences only show a part of the possible combinations of actuation processes and corresponding functions within the scope of the invention. Depending on the specific application, the person skilled in the art can implement suitable actuation sequences based on the inventive concept.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the function of the memory input device 9 (M, SP; MSP) is integrated with that of the actuating device 5; accordingly, only a single actuating element (5) is provided for these functions.

This design of the device according to the invention accordingly results in the normal flow switch function {faucet function) being replaced by the dosing function.

Functions and operating operations for this very easy-to-use device, which in the simplest case is a "one-button" or "one-lever" device, are explained below using an example.

Learning mode:

{5) long > (5) long or short

^L B ^L E

ON OFF

or

(5) hold ^- (5) release

^L B ^L E

ON OFF

The asterisk symbol * again means the multiple function, as explained above, with the additional function of (9) (M, SP; MSP).

- 66a -

Dosing mode:

(5) short > (5) long or short

ON OFF

The amount of fluid that was learned and saved in the last learning mode (which is initiated by long pressing/operating (5)) is dosed.

The device is advantageously designed in such a way that a basic fluid quantity is stored by the manufacturer, which is used as the basis for the dosing mode when the dosing mode is carried out without a fluid quantity being stored beforehand by learning, until it is overwritten with a learned fluid quantity. This device is very easy to use and is suitable for numerous applications for such simple dosing, for example in the sanitary area for washbasin and shower fittings, urinal flushing systems, etc. In these systems, the flow input element 6 and/or the temperature input element 10 can be provided independently, so that the flow rate and temperature of the fluid can be selected by appropriate operating operations.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the actuating device 5 is not an input element such as a key, a button or a light barrier, etc., but is functionally combined with the mechanically actuated element of a conventional outlet fitting, e.g. the lever of a single-lever mixer tap. It is thus possible to combine the mixed fluid temperature (function of the temperature input element 10) by turning the lever and, by raising and lowering, both the flow (function of the flow input element 6) and the ON/OFF function (function of the actuating device 5).

^. 66b

A further advantageous embodiment of the inventive concept consists in that in connection with a conventional fitting, in particular a single-lever mixer tap or similar drain fittings, only one memory input device 9, advantageously in the form of one or more memory response elements MSP, is provided and

the control unit 8 is designed in such a way that when the water tap is operated (ON/OFF, function of (5) ), the amount of water flowing out between the opening and the subsequent closing is temporarily stored and when the storage response element MSP (or the storage command element M ■ and a storage location element SP) is operated, this amount of water is stored and can be called up again by operating MSP (or M, SP) in a dosing mode.

Fig. 6 shows a device according to the invention, in which the shut-off device 7, which is a control device with actuator 11, is preceded by a three-way mixer 16 with actuator 17, which is connected on the inlet side to fluid inlets 3', 3'' for two different fluids 1', 1''. The two fluids 1', 1'' are preferably, as in Fig. 5, water of different temperatures (T', T''). Together with the temperature sensor 18 and the control unit 8, a closed control circuit is present, so that a fluid is fed to the shut-off device 7, the temperature of which can be regulated to the temperature setpoint entered via the temperature input element 10.

66c

As can be seen from Fig. 6, the temperature sensor 18 can be provided in the flow direction after the three-way mixer 16 either before or after the shut-off device 7.

The actuating elements (5), (6), (9) and (10) and their function are as in Fig. 5.

Fig. 6 also shows that a flow rate sensor 25 can be provided downstream of the shut-off device 7, which is connected to the control unit 8. In the sense of a second closed control loop, the shut-off device 7 can be operated via the control unit 8 in such a way that the target flow rate entered via the flow input element 6 is regulated. In this example, the shut-off device 7, designed as a control or regulating device, not only has the shut-off function and thus the dosing function, but also controls or regulates the flow rate.

This arrangement with the flow rate sensor 25 also allows automatic control or recalibration of stored dosing quantities that are dispensed in dosing mode. If, e.g. due to calcification, the pipe cross-section in the fluid line 2 or at the fluid outlet 4 is reduced over time after a learning process and thus the throughput achieved per unit of time at a given primary pressure becomes smaller, an automatic correction of the stored data, e.g. the open time of the shut-off device 7, can be carried out, preferably with an absolutely operating flow rate sensor 25, which in this case is extended by correction so that the dosing quantity originally learned by one-time pre-dosing is dispensed correctly regardless of the line condition.

The software can provide that this self-check and any necessary recalibration or updating of memory contents is carried out at specified intervals.

Furthermore, the design of the shut-off device 7 as a control device with actuator 11 in conjunction with the flow sensor 25 also allows the realization of any desired characteristic curves for the opening and closing process in order to avoid, for example, pressure surges in the pipe system that occur when flow switches such as solenoid valves are opened abruptly.

The device shown in Fig. 6 finally has an output unit 21 which is connected to the control unit 8. The output unit 21, which can also be provided within the control panel 12, is in particular a display with which, in association with control elements or with properties of the dosed fluid 1, in particular temperatures (T, ⁰ C),

Rates (l/min; kg/min), storage space allocations (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...), masses (kg), volumes (1) and/or times (s, min), related to the learning mode and/or the dosing mode, can be displayed. The output unit 21 is advantageously also a printer and/or has an interface function in order to enable integration of the device according to the invention into control or regulating systems, e.g. PLC. According to a further advantageous embodiment, the output unit 21 is "intelligent", i.e., preferably equipped with a microcomputer system, and, according to a further preferred embodiment, designed for interactive operation by users with optical and/or acoustic communication, in particular through voice recognition and voice output.

As a result, the device and the method according to the invention can also be used extremely advantageously in the areas of life of disabled people and senior citizens, whereby the actuation of the actuating elements does not necessarily have to be carried out mechanically, but can also be carried out acoustically, for example. The design of the actuating device 5 with the control unit 8 in particular as a proximity-controlled or presence-controlled switching device is of great importance for such applications.

Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of a device according to the invention, wherein the actuating elements or the control panel 12 are omitted. The shut-off device here consists, as in the case of Fig. 2(a), of a flow switch register of 3 parallel-connected solenoid valves 7', 7'', λ' ¹ ', which are controlled by the control unit 8. Flow controllers 13 are connected upstream of the solenoid valves T, T' , λ'' on the input side, which keep the flow rates of fluid in the relevant line branches of the fluid line 2 constant.

- 69 -

The flow switch register is connected on the input side to a three-way mixer 16 with actuator 17, which is controlled by the control unit 8. In the two fluid inlets 3', 3'' for the fluids 1', 1', backflow preventers with a sieve are provided, which are designated with the reference number 20. This structure is also present in the device in Fig. 6. The two fluids 1', 1'' are preferably cold and warm water with the temperatures T', T''. The common outputs of the solenoid valves T, T', T' ¹ of the flow switch register open into the fluid outlet 4.

The shut-off device 7', T', 7''' and the three-way mixer 16 are controlled in particular in one of the ways described above.

The partial device of Fig. 7, which comprises the hydraulic part '. as well as the sensors and the control unit 8 of the device according to the invention, is preferably compact and modular and is housed in a housing 19. This part of the device according to the invention is arranged in a location that is suitable for installation and, if possible, not visible. The connection of the control panel 12 to the module according to Fig. 7 or the control unit 8 is normally made using standard electrical cables for power supply and for data exchange. However, the data transfer can also advantageously be carried out wirelessly by radio, whereby in this embodiment the control panel 12 has its own power supply to supply the electronics including the radio transmitter provided therein. The radio receiver is then preferably located in the control unit 8.

The device of Fig. 7 does not have a temperature sensor with which the mixing temperature is regulated in a closed control loop via the three-way mixer 16, since this is not absolutely necessary and the

Three-way mixer 16 can be designed or controlled by control unit 8 in such a way that, for example, a mixer characteristic curve is stored for each possible throughput, which allows the desired mixing temperature to be maintained practically independently of changing throughputs. In this way, the device is constructed in a simpler manner and is less prone to failure.

Fig. 8 shows schematically, using signal diagrams, the time sequence of the learning mode (A) and the dosing mode (B) in devices according to the invention, e.g. of the type of device in Figs. 1, 3 and 7, specifically for an actuation sequence in which the shut-off device 7 is opened via the control unit 8 with {5). Briefly actuating the actuating device 5 initiates the opening of the shut-off device 7, which is then closed again with a subsequent pulse from (5). The various actuations required to store the learned quantity information are not shown here for the sake of simplicity.

In dosing mode, the shut-off device 7 is opened due to an actuation of (5); after the fluid quantity corresponding to the stored learned quantity information has passed through the device, the shut-off device 7 is closed again at time X, without actuation of the actuating device (5) or any other actuating element.

Fig. 9 shows analog signal diagrams for a device according to the invention, in which a safety shut-off device 15 is provided and the shut-off device 7 is a control device controlled by the control unit 8 via an actuator, as shown in Figs. 4 and 5.

In learning mode (A), the ON signal from the

Actuating device 5 first opens the safety shut-off device 15 (1st step) and then the shut-off element 7 (2nd step)/ which reaches its open position (100%) after a given time. When the actuating device 5 is actuated for the second time, the shut-off element 7 is initially controlled back into the closed position (0%) due to the OFF signal (1st step), after which the safety shut-off device 15 is closed (2nd step).

In dosing mode (B), based on the ON signal from the actuating device 5, first the safety shut-off device 15 and then the shut-off element 7 are opened in the same way as in learning mode. The shut-off element 7 is closed automatically after the stored dosing quantity has been dispensed without external actuation of any actuating element at time X.

Fig. 10 to 12 show schematically control panels 12. Fig. 10 is based on the previously explained in detail alternative 1 of the memory input device 9 according to the invention (see e.g. Fig. 1).

The control panel 12 comprises 6 buttons (1 to 6) as storage location elements SP1, SP2, SP3, SP4, SP5, SP6. The M button corresponds to the storage command element. The actuating device 5 comprises an ON button and an OFF button.

The control panel 12 of Fig. 11 corresponds to alternative 2 of the memory input device 9 according to the invention. It comprises six memory response elements MSP (1 to 6), which represent memory response elements MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, MSP4, MSP5, MSP6. Here too, the actuating device 5 is designed in the form of two buttons (ON/OFF). The control panel 12 also has a temperature input element 10 and an output unit 21 in the form of a display (e.g. an LCD). The temperature input element 10 is designed as an up/down button, with the

The value of the target temperature is displayed in the output unit 21. The number of the currently activated storage activation element (No. 1) is also displayed.

The control panel 12 of Fig. 12 corresponds, except for the different spatial arrangement, with regard to the memory input device 9 of alternative 1 and Fig. 10; here too, a memory command element M and six memory location elements SP (1 to 6) SP1, SP2, SP3, SP4, SP5, SP6 as well as an ON/OFF switch or button as actuating device 5 are provided.

In addition, this control panel 12 also has a flow input element 6, which consists of 3 buttons ("high", "medium", "low"), as well as a temperature input element 10, which also comprises 3 buttons ("warm", "medium", "cold").

The functions and operating sequences of these actuating elements have already been explained in detail above.

Fig. 13 shows two specific embodiments of control panels 12, which are designed as disk-like bodies and have an opening 23, with which they can be removably attached to a corresponding nose, e.g. on a discharge fitting. These control panels 12 are intelligent devices that are self-sufficient in terms of power supply through solar cells 22 and which are preferably connected to the control unit 8 independently of cables, in particular by radio. This can also be done by optical data transmission, e.g. in the IR range.

Fig. 13(a) corresponds to alternative 1 of the memory input device 9 according to the invention, Fig. 13(b) to alternative 2,

Fig. 13(a) comprises, analogously to Fig. 12/, in addition to the actuating device 5, which is designed as an ON/OFF button, a storage command element M, five storage location elements SP (SP1, SP2, SP3, SP4, SP5), a light-emitting diode 26 which lights up when the storage command element M is activated, a flow input element 6 which comprises three buttons provided with symbols for different flow rates, and a temperature input element 10 which also comprises three buttons provided with symbols for different temperatures.

Fig. 13(b) corresponds to Fig. 13(a) with the difference that Alternative 2 of the memory input device 9 is implemented, which accordingly consists of five memory response elements MSP (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, MSP4, MSP5).

These control panels have the advantage that they can be completely separated from the rest of the device and can be arranged or attached anywhere within the radio range or carried by operators or put in their pockets. The self-sufficient power supply in conjunction with conventional electrical power storage devices ensures maintenance-free operation with absolute operational reliability over periods of many years. The actuating elements of the control panels 12 of Fig. 13 are also preferably encapsulated in a watertight manner and made of impact-resistant materials, so that a long service life is also guaranteed in this respect. The actuating elements 9 (M, SP; MSP), 5, 6, 10 here also include keys, preferably piezo keys or keys integrated in a membrane keyboard , but the signals from the actuating elements to be transmitted to the control unit 8 are generated by converting them into suitable radio code pulses, which are stored in a memory provided in the control panel 12.

electronic circuit. Such signal codings are common in the field of radio remote control, so that a more detailed explanation is not necessary.

Figures 14 and 15 show flow charts for the learning mode (Fig. 14) and the dosing mode (Fig. 15) of a device according to the invention of the type shown in Figs. 1, 7, 13 (alternative 1 of the memory input device 9).

The underlying operating sequence for the learning mode of Fig. 14 is contained in Table 8, line 4, as

(M) -> (6) -> (5) -> (5) -> (SP) L, ON OFF L,

The operating sequence for the dosing mode on which Fig. 15 is based is also included in Table 8, line 4:

(SP) -» (5) (OFF automatically). ON

The flow charts in Fig. 14 and 15 implement these operating sequences.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the control unit 8 is designed such that after detecting a continuous discharge of fluid 1 over a predetermined period of time after the opening of the shut-off device 7 initiated by the actuating device 5 and/or the memory input device 9 and/or after exceeding a predetermined maximum dosing volume or a predetermined maximum dosing mass of fluid 1, the control unit 8 closes the shut-off device 7 and/or the safety shut-off device.

device 15 closes and preferably in this case emits an optical and/or acoustic fault signal via the output unit 21.

According to a further advantageous variant of the device according to the invention, the control unit 8 is designed in such a way that in the memories or memory areas, which are assigned to the memory space elements (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) or the memory space elements (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) of the memory input device 9, dosing quantities specified by the manufacturer are stored in advance, which can be overwritten in the learning mode and can be reactivated in the event of a power supply failure or buffer battery failure and/or when a reset or clear device is activated.

From the above description it is clear that the present invention relates to a completely novel, very broadly applicable concept of a learning dosing device for the repeatable dosing of fluids in selectable and learnable quantities.

List of reference symbols

1 fluid (I', 1")

2 fluid lines (2 ', 2")

3 Fluid inlet (3', 3")

4 Fluid outlet

5 Actuating device

6 Flow input element

7 Shut-off device (7\ 7", 7 ¹ "/? ,7·

8 Control unit, electronic

9 Memory input device {M, SP; MSP)

10 Temperature input element

11 Actuator (H ¹ , 11")

12 Control panel

13 Flow regulator

14 temperature sensors

15 Safety shut-off device

16 three-way mixer

17 Actuator three-way mixer

18 temperature sensors

19 Housing

20 Backflow preventer, sieve

21 Output unit

22 solar cells

23 Opening {shaped to outlet fitting)

24 Actuator (for safety shut-off device 15)

25 Flow sensor

M Memory command element SP Storage location element MSP Memory response element

Claims (1)

Patent attorneys · :* &iacgr;"· \ Beetz & Partners .:!..:*..' .:· ·: Steinsdorfstr. 10, D-80538 Munich 22.Nov.fi Expectations 1. Device for the repeatable dosing of a fluid (!) in a selectable and reproducible quantity, which has: - a fluid line (2) with a fluid inlet (3) and a fluid outlet (4), - a shut-off device [I] provided between the fluid inlet (3) and the fluid outlet (4) in the fluid line (2), with which the flow of a fluid (1) coming from the fluid inlet (3) and flowing through can be switched on and off, - ..... · - an electronic control unit (8) which controls the shut-off device (7), - an actuating device (5) which is connected to the control unit {8) and, when actuated by an operator, sends signals to the control unit {8) on the basis of which the control unit (8) opens or closes the shut-off device (7), and - an input device connected to the control unit (8) for input of input information regarding the amount of fluid (1) to be dosed by an operator, characterized in that" - the input device is a memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) which, when actuated, outputs memory signals to the control unit (8), and - the control unit (8) is designed such that it 644-{x2720)-Bk/mx » t ··■· (A) due to an actuation by an operator - the actuating device (5) and/or - the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) in a predetermined sequence, one-time manual dosing of a fluid quantity in a learning mode initiated thereby, the time between the opening (ON) initiated via the actuating device (5) or the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) and the subsequent, via - the actuating device (5) and/or - the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) causes the closing (OFF) of the shut-off device (7) to determine the amount of fluid (1) flowing out of the fluid outlet (4) as quantity information corresponding to this quantity and stores it as learned quantity information in a memory assigned to the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP), the learning mode ending when the quantity information has been saved, and
(B) upon actuation of the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP), optionally in combination with an actuation of the actuating device (5) , enters a dosing mode during which the learning mode is blocked and the memory cannot be overwritten, and the shut-off device (7) opens (ON) and closes (OFF) so that the the quantity of fluid (1) flowing out of the fluid outlet (4) between the opening (ON) and the subsequent closing of the shut-off device (7) (OFF) corresponds to the learned quantity information previously stored in the memory in the learning mode, &bull;&diams; · · The dosing mode ends with the automatic closing of the shut-off device (7) (Fig. 1, 3, 8, 9). 2. Device according to claim 1 and/or 2, characterized in that the memory input device (9) has a memory command element (M) and one or more memory location elements (SP; SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) which are connected to the control unit (8), the memory command element (M) when actuated emitting a signal to the control unit (8) with which a memory command is generated in the learning mode and, if necessary, the start of learning (L _B ) is initiated and, if necessary, the end of learning (L _E ), and the memory location elements (SP; SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) when actuated in the learning mode emit signals to the control unit (8) with which an assignment of quantity information learned or to be learned in the learning mode to the relevant memory location element takes place and/or the start of dosing is initiated in the dosing mode (Fig. 1). 3. Device according to claim 1 and/or 2, characterized in that the memory input device (9) consists of memory response elements (MSP; MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) which, when actuated, emit signals to the control unit (8) with which both a memory command is generated and, if necessary, the start of learning (L _B ) is initiated and an assignment of quantity information learned in the learning mode or to be learned to the relevant memory location element takes place and, if necessary, the end of learning (L _E ) is defined and/or the start of dosing is initiated in the dosing mode (Fig. 3). 4. Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed so that it (A) when actuated - the actuating device (5) and/or - the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) goes into the learning mode and the time between the opening (ON) initiated by the actuating device (5) or the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) and the subsequent opening (ON) initiated by the actuating device (5) or the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) - the actuating device (5) and/or - the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) causes the closing (OFF) of the shut-off device (7) the amount of fluid (1) flowing out of the fluid outlet (4) is determined as quantity information corresponding to this amount and, based on an actuation of a storage location element (SPl, SP2, SP3," ..'.) of the memory input device (9) (M, SP) or a storage response element (MSPl, MSP2, MSP3, ...) of the memory input device (9) (MSP), stores it as learned quantity information in a memory which is assigned to the relevant storage location element (SPl, SP2, SP3, ...) or the relevant storage response element (MSPl, MSP2, MSP3, ...), and
(B) upon - if necessary, repeated - actuation - the storage location element (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) of the memory input device (9) (M, SP) or. - the storage activation element (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) of the storage input device (9) (MSP)j, if necessary in combination with an actuation of the actuating device (5)j, goes into the dosing mode and the shut-off device (7) opens (ON) and closes (OFF) in a controlled manner so that the quantity of fluid (1) flowing out of the fluid outlet (4) between the opening and the subsequent closing of the shut-off device (7) corresponds to the learned quantity information previously stored in the memory in the learning mode (Fig. 1, 3, 8, 9). 5. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the shut-off device (7) is a flow switch which can only assume the completely open state or the completely closed state, in particular a solenoid valve (Fig. 1, 3). 6. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the shut-off device (7) is a flow switch register which consists of two or more parallel-connected and/or independent flow switches (7', 7", 1'"), in particular solenoid valves', with a common fluid outlet (4) and optionally also a common or partially common fluid inlet (3; 3', 3"), the individual flow switches (7 ^! , 7", 7'") of the flow switch register being controllable by the control unit (8) (Fig. 2(a), 2(b), 7). 7. .Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the shut-off device (7) is a control device which can be adjusted between the fully open and the fully closed state continuously or step by step via an actuator (11) which can be controlled by the control unit (8), in particular a flap, a slide or a valve (Fig. 4 to 6). 8. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a flow input element (6) is provided which, when actuated, emits signals to the control unit {8}, which controls the shut-off element (7) depending on the input so that a fluid throughput corresponding to the entered target flow (V) is achieved (Fig. 4, 6, 12, 13). 9. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed such that the flow input element (6) simultaneously has the ON function of the actuating device (5) with which the shut-off device (7) is opened. 10. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed such that the storage space elements (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) of the memory input device (9) (M, SP) or the memory response elements (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) of the memory input device (9) (MSP) simultaneously have the OFF function of the actuating device (5), with which the shut-off device (7) is closed. 11. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the shut-off device (7) consists of at least two shut-off devices (7 ¹ , 7 ") which have actuators (H', 11") which are controlled by the control unit (8) and which are each connected on the inlet side to one of at least two fluid inlets (3', 3") for at least two different fluids (I ¹ , 1 ") and on the outlet side to the fluid outlet (4) (Fig. 5). 12. Device according to one or more of claims 7 to 11/ characterized in that upstream of the shut-off device (7) a three-way mixer or a four-way mixer (16) is provided in the fluid line (2), which is connected on the inlet side to two or three fluid inlets (3'. 3") and on the outlet side to the shut-off device (7) (Fig. 6, 7). 13. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it has a safety shut-off device (15) arranged between the shut-off device (7) and the fluid outlet (4), which represents a flow switch or a control device that can be adjusted continuously or stepwise between the fully open and the fully closed state via an actuator (24) and can be controlled by the control unit (8), in particular a solenoid valve (Fig. 4, 5). 14. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it comprises a backflow preventer downstream of each fluid inlet (3; 3', 3") and preferably downstream of the shut-off device (7) and preferably directly adjacent to the shut-off device (7). ■ (20), preferably a check valve or a check flap, (Fig. 2(a), 2(b), 7). 15. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed in such a way that the shut-off device (7) can be manually operated via the actuating device (5) in the sense of a conventional flow switch (in particular a water tap) or a control device, without actuating a storage element (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) or a storage response element (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) of the memory input element (9), to be opened (ON) and closed again (OFF). 16. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that it has a flow rate sensor (25) which is provided downstream of the shut-off device (7) and is connected to the control unit (8), and the control unit (8) is designed such that it uses the output signal of the flow rate sensor (25) as a signal corresponding to the actual flow rate of the fluid (1) fed into the fluid outlet (4) and compares it with a signal entered via a flow input element (6) and associated with the target flow rate to shut off the shut-off device. (7) , preferably in the sense of a closed control loop, so that the flow rate resulting at the outlet of the shut-off device (7) corresponds exactly or approximately to the target flow rate (Fig. 6) . 17. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the control unit (8) is a microprocessor system known per se, which has a central processing unit (CPU), a read-only memory (ROM), a read/write memory (RAM) and an interface (I/O unit). 18. Device according to claim 17, characterized in that the read-only memory (ROM) and/or the write/read memory (RAM) contains at least one characteristic field in which control values for controlling the shut-off device (7) and, if applicable, the safety shut-off device (15) are stored in association with the temperature (Tl, T2) and/or the flow rate and/or the time. 19. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the actuating device (5) is a device known per se for contactless presence-oriented control or for proximity control, which is based on the principle of the light barrier with visible light or infrared light, passive infrared detection, ultrasound detection, the radar principle or the use of microwaves and is controlled by the control unit (8). 20. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that it has an output unit (21) controlled by the control unit (8), which is designed as an optical display and/or acoustic output device and in particular as a voice output device and/or as a printer (Fig. 6). 21. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) are designed for interactive operation with a user via the control unit (8) and are preferably voice-controlled. 22. Device according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the output device (21) is designed as a voice output device and further comprises a microphone for voice or sound recording and the control unit (8) is designed such that it evaluates the signals supplied by the microphone for voice or sound recognition and, upon receipt of certain voice or sound signals, controls the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) in a learning mode or in a dosing mode. &iacgr;&ogr; 23. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that it is designed for water or aqueous solutions, in particular process water, non-aqueous solvents or solutions, dispersions or emulsions or for gases or aerosols as fluids (1). 24. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that it has a temperature input element (10) for entering temperature setpoints, which is connected to the control unit (8) which, on the basis of signals from the temperature input element (10), controls the actuators (H', 11"; 17) of mixing devices (7 ¹ , -7"; 16), which are connected on the inlet side to fluid sources for fluids (I ¹ , 2") of different temperatures, in the sense of a control or a closed control loop so that a mixed fluid of the set temperature results at the fluid outlet (4) {Fig. 5,6,7). 25. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that it has a control panel (12) in which the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) (M, SP; MSP) and/or the flow input element (6)" and/or the temperature input element (10) are provided and which optionally also contains the output unit (21) (Fig. 10 to 13). 26. Device according to claim 25, characterized in that the actuating device (5), the flow input element (6), the memory input device (9) and/or the temperature input element (10) of the control panel (12) as operating elements are buttons, in particular Membrane keys or piezo keys (Fig. 10 to 13). 27. Device according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the operating elements of the control panel (12) are designated in Braille, in particular in Braille. 28. Device according to one or more of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that the control panel (12) is arranged on an outlet fitting, in particular a sanitary outlet fitting, or in close proximity to an outlet fitting, in particular on a wall or in a wall under plaster, or can be attached to furnishings or furniture or is designed to be carried or held in the hand, wherein the power supply of the control panel (12) preferably takes place via solar cells (22) integrated therein (Fig. 13). 29. Device according to claim 28, characterized in that the control panel (12) is provided on the outlet of a sanitary outlet fitting so as to be detachable or removable, the data transmission between the control panel (12) and the control unit (8) being independent of the cable, in particular by optical data transmission in the visible spectral range or in the IR range or by data transmission by radio (Fig. 13). 30. Device according to one or more of claims 13 to 29, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed in such a way that in the learning mode as well as in the dosing mode, at the start of a dosing process due to an actuation of the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9), first the safety shut-off device (15) and then the shut-off element (7) are opened and at the end of a dosing process, first the shut-off element (7) and then Finally, the safety shut-off device (15) must be closed (Fig. 4, 5, 8, 9). 31. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 30, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed such that it can control the learning mode and/or ;jäen dosing mode is signalled optically and/or acoustically by a suitable device of the output unit (21), 32. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed such that after detecting a continuous discharge of fluid (1) over a predetermined period of time after the opening of the shut-off device (7) initiated by the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) and/or after exceeding a predetermined maximum dosing volume or a predetermined maximum dosing mass of fluid (1), it closes the shut-off device (7) and/or the safety shut-off device (15) and preferably in this case emits an optical and/or acoustic fault signal via the output unit (21). 33. Device according to one or more of claims 20 to 32, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed such that the dosage amount stored in the learning mode is displayed in the dosage mode or permanently by the output unit (21), and preferably in the control panel (12), as a physical quantity, in particular in a volume measure (liters, milliliters) or a mass measure (kilograms, grams). 34. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 33, characterized in that the control unit (8) is designed so that in the memories or memory areas which correspond to the memory location elements (SP1, SP2, SP3, ...) or the memory response elements (MSP1, MSP2, MSP3, ...) of the memory input device (9) are assigned, dosing quantities specified by the manufacturer are stored in advance, which can be overwritten in the learning mode and can be reactivated in the event of a power failure or buffer battery failure and/or when a reset or clear device is activated. 35. Device according to one or more of claims 16 to 34, characterized in that the flow rate sensor (25) is an absolutely operating flow rate sensor and the electronic control unit (8) is designed in such a way that after a predetermined number of dosing processes, during a new dosing process, it checks and, if necessary, corrects stored control data, preferably stored in one or more characteristic maps, based on the signal from the flow rate sensor (25) and updates the stored values accordingly. 36. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 35, characterized in that it is designed as a sanitary outlet fitting, in particular as a kitchen fitting, washbasin fitting, bath filling fitting or shower fitting, or is integrated into a fluid line system. 37. Device according to one or more of claims 1 to 36, characterized in that the fluid outlet (4) is a free-jet outlet fitting or the outlet part of a free-jet outlet fitting. 38. Device according to one or more of claims 1, 2 and 4 to 37, characterized in that the control unit (8), the actuating device (5) and the memory input device (9) (M, SP) are designed in such a way that for the learning mode one of the functional combinations listed in the following function table of actuations of the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) (M, SP) is present at the start and end of learning: Activity(s) (5) (M) (SP) to learners (5) (M) (SP) at the beginning of learning 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 - 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 39. Device according to one or more of claims 1, 2 and 4 to 38, characterized in that the control unit (8), the actuating device (5) and the memory input device (9) (M, SP) are selected so that for the learning mode one of the combinations of actuation listed in the following operating table is used. &diams; · 15 operations or sequences of operations of the operating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) (M, SP) at the start of learning and learner: Operating operation(s) to learners (M)* at the beginning of learning (SP)* L _E (M)* L _E OUT OF L _B OUT OF (M) -> (SP) A (5)->(SP) L _E (M)* OFF L ₂ OUT OF L _B (SP)H>-(M) * A (SP)->(5) loose. L _E (M)* L _s OUT OF L _B OUT OF (5)->(M) A _FROM L (SP)*long L _B (M) ->(5) A L _E (SP)*long OUT OF L _B A (M)-M5)-»SP (SP)*hold L _B A (SP)*long L _B A (SP)*long L _B A (SP)*long L _B A &bull; * (Continuation) (SP)*long (M)-XSP)-XB) _L5 L _E A OUT OF (SP)*long (5) -»(M) -XSP) L _{B FROM} L A (SP)*long (5)-XSP) -XM) Lb _FROM L A (SP)*hold (SP)-XM)-»(5) _L5 loose. L _E A OUT OF (SP)*hold (SP)-X5)-XM) Lb loose. AUS L _E A (M)-XSP)* (5)* L _B ON L _E OUT OF (SP)-XM) * (5)* A OUT OF (5)-XM) (SP)* Lb L _E A OUT OF (M)-X5) (SP)* L _B ON L _E OUT OF (5)-XM) &bull; (5)-XSP) _L3 AUS L _K A (Continuation) (5)-» (M) (SP)-K5) A OUT OF (M)-» (5) .(5)-KSP) L _B A _FROM L (M)-> (5) (SP)-K5) Lb A L _E OUT OF {5)^{ SP) (M)* L _B L _E A OUT OF (SP)-» (5) (M)* L _B A L _E OUT OF (5)-K SP) (5)-KM) L _{B FROM} L A (5)-K SP) (M)-»(5) _L3 L _E A OUT OF (SP)-► (5) (5)-KM) L _B A _FROM L (SP)-> (5) (M)-K5) L _B A L _E OUT OF (M)-KSP) -X5) (5)* L _B A L _E OUT OF (Continuation) (5)-> (SP)-MM)
A (5)*
_L2 '
OUT OF (5) -» (M) -» (SP)
Lb
A (5)*
L _E
OUT OF (SP)-»(μ)-»(5)
L _B ON (5)*
L _E
OUT OF (5)*
Lb
A (M)*->(SP)
_FROM L (5)*
L _B
A (SP)-XM)*
_L2
OUT OF (5)*
L _B
A (5)-XM)-XSP)
FROM ' L _E (5)*
_L3
A (5)-XSP)-XM)
_FROM L (5)*
_L5
A (M)-^(5)^{SP)
_FROM L (5)*
_L3
A (M)-XSP)-X5)
L _E
OUT OF (5)*
L _B
A (SP)->(M)-X5)
L _E
OUT OF (Continuation) (5)*
A (SP)-»(5)-MM)
_FROM L where: L _B the start of the learning mode, L _E the end of the learning mode, ON the opening of the shut-off device (7), OFF the closing of the shut-off device (7), &mdash;> the sequence of operating operations and * a double function of the input element in question, i.e. the function directly assigned to it and a second function. 40. Device according to one or more of claims 3 to 37> characterized in that the control unit (8), the actuating device (5) and the memory input device (9) (MSP) are designed such that for the learning mode one of the functional combinations of actuations of the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) (MSP) listed in the following function table is present at the start of learning and at the end of learning: Activity(s) (MSP)- to learners (MSP) at the beginning of learning 0 (5) 1 (5) 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 41. Device according to one or more of claims 1, to 3 7 and 40, characterized in that the control unit (8), the actuating device (5) and the memory input device (9) (MSP) are designed such that for the learning mode one of the combinations of actuations or sequences of actuations of the actuating device (5) and/or the memory input device (9) (MSP) listed in the following operating table is present at the start and end of learning: Operating operation(s) to learners at the beginning of learning (MSP) * (5)* The L _B OUT OF A (5)-> (MSP) (5)* _FROM L L _B A (MSP)->(5) ■ (5)* L _E L _B OUT OF A (Continuation) (MSP)*long (MSP) * A OUT OF (MSP) * (5)* L _B L _E A OUT OF (MSP) * (5)-»(MSP) Lb _FROM L A (MSP) * (MSP)-» (5) L _B L _E A OUT OF (5)-»(MSP) (MSP) * L _B L _E A OUT OF (MSP) hold-» (5) (MSP)*losl. L _B ON L _E OUT OF (5) -^ (MSP) (5)* L _B L _E A OUT OF (MSP)-»(5) (5)* L _B ON L _E OUT OF (5)-»(MSP) (5)-»(MSP) L _{B FROM} L A <5)-»<MSP> (MSP)->(5) A OUT OF (MSP)-»(5) (5)-»(MSP) L ₈ ON FROM L ₃₃ 22 (Continuation) (MSP) ->(5) (MSP)-^ (5) Lb A L _E OUT OF (5)* long (MSP) Lb A L _E OUT OF where: L _B the start of the learning mode, L _E the end of the learning mode, ON the opening of the shut-off device (7), OFF the closing of the shut-off device (7), -> the sequence of operating operations and * a double function of the input element in question, i.e. the function directly assigned to it and a second function.