TOILET MODULE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING LAVATORY TECHNOLOGY OF AUTOMATIC TOILET

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The object of the invention is a toilet module, an automatic toilet and a method for controlling lavatory technology of an automatic toilet according to the preambles of the independent claims presented below. The invention relates especially to a new way of installing and using lavatory technology of an automatic toilet in public premises.

PRIOR ART

[0002] Public lavatory, that is a toilet in public premises, is typically expected to be easy to maintain, to withstand vandalism and to have automation which guides the user and performs functions on behalf of the user. Role of the automation and technology has increased remarkably, devices are more complex and more expensive. Due to this, a separate service room, wherein all automation technology is installed, and through which the lavatory is maintained, is built into a typical public automatic toilet. The purpose of a separate service room is, for example to facilitate maintaining toilet actuators and preventing vandalism.

[0003] For the above mentioned reasons, among others, installation of an automatic toilet into a public lavatory is usually multi-stage, complex and expensive. It is expensive to build a separate service room, typically the lavatory has to have, among others, another door for the service room in addition to the entrance door.

[0004] Examples of prior art solutions can be found in documents WO9502736A1, EP0274588A2, EP0509503A1 and DE29811337U1.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The object of the present invention is to reduce or even eliminate the above-mentioned problems appearing in prior art.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a toilet module and a lavatory which is more inexpensive, simpler and faster to construct than before, and which is more reliable than before.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an automatic toilet which withstands vandalism more efficiently than before.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a toilet module which is easy to install into existing premises.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a toilet module by means of which an existing lavatory is easily modified into an automatic toilet.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide a toilet module by means of which using, maintaining and heating of an automatic toilet is easier than before.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In order to achieve the objects mentioned above, among others, the toilet module, automatic toilet, and method according to the invention, as well as the other objects of the invention, are characterised by what is presented in the characterising parts of the enclosed independent claims.

[0012] The embodiment examples and advantages mentioned in this text are in suitable parts applicable to all objects of the invention, that is to the toilet module, automatic toilet and lavatory, as well as to the method according to the invention, even if this is not always specifically mentioned.

[0013] The invention can be used in the lavatories of public premises. Public premises means for example parks, metro, service and train stations or the like, usually places with no surveillance.

[0014] It is possible to realize the invention to withstand vandalism well. This means that strong and slow-burning material, such as stainless steel, concrete, tempered thick glass, aluminium or composite, is used as manufacturing material for the structures.

[0015] It is possible to realize the invention as an automatic toilet. An automatic toilet means that the toilet can be provided with for example an automatic rising and/or lowering of toilet seat, automatic toilet bowl flush, automatically rising and/or lowering support handles, hand dryer integrated into the structure, electric bowl flush tank integrated into the structure, cleaning hose, and electric automation unit controlling the functions. The automation unit may also control functions outside the toilet, such as lavatory heating, opening and/or closing of the lavatory entrance door, inside and outside lightening of the lavatory, electric door locking, occupied/vacant light, and automatic floor flush.

[0016] Automatic toilets and many of their features are known as such, and not all of their features are covered in this text.

[0017] A toilet module according to the invention can be transferred and installed into a lavatory having readily a sewer connection, a lavatory water supply connection, and a lavatory electric connection for toilet functions. A toilet module comprises at least the following

• a toilet bowl,
• a backrest element having an outer surface and an inside,
• one or more movable mechanic auxiliaries,
• a toilet module sewer connection, a toilet module water supply connection and a toilet module electric connection which can be connected to the above mentioned corresponding lavatory connections.

[0018] Lavatory technology required by an automatic toilet, such as power transfer means required by movable mechanic auxiliaries, is installed inside the backrest element. It is possible to install even all lavatory technology required by an automatic toilet inside the backrest element.

[0019] The lavatory technology inside the backrest element comprises an electric resistance or other heating device which is arranged to heat a heating area on the outer surface of the backrest element. This way the lavatory can be heated, if wanted, for example during cold season. Function of the resistance or other heating device can be controlled for example by a thermostat, controlling can be performed by a control unit controlling also other lavatory technology. The same or other heating resistance or other heating device may be arranged to heat hand drying air. Control technology of the heating, such as a possible thermostat, may be placed even entirely inside the backrest element.

[0020] A toilet module according to the invention is installed into an automatic toilet according to the invention. In that case, the sewer connection, water supply connection and electric connection of the toilet module are connected to the corresponding lavatory connections.

[0021] In a method according to the invention, there is a lavatory having a lavatory sewer connection, a lavatory water supply connection, and a lavatory electric connection for toilet functions. For controlling lavatory technology of the automatic toilet, a toilet module delivered at the site in one piece has been installed into the lavatory. The toilet sewer connection, water supply connection and electric connection of the toilet module are connected to the corresponding lavatory connections. In the method, lavatory technology functions required by the automatic toilet are performed inside the backrest element. Such functions can be, for example moving the power transfer means required by the mechanical auxiliary. Even all lavatory technology functions required by the automatic toilet can be performed inside the backrest element.

[0022] One great advantage of the invention is that it enables implementation of an automatic lavatory which is service room free. Being service room free means that along with the toilet bowl, and possibly as an inseparable part of it, there is a backrest element, to which necessary lavatory technology is integrated, and which can be maintained from the lavatory.

[0023] One great advantage of the invention is that it enables implementation of a heated automatic lavatory also into not previously heated premises.

[0024] One advantage of the invention is that it enables moving and installing of the toilet bowl as well as all necessary lavatory technology, that is the toilet module, into the lavatory in one piece. Installation and service are thus efficient.

[0025] One advantage of the invention is that it enables installation of the toilet bowl as well as all necessary lavatory technology, that is the toilet module, as independent from the lavatory building structures, at least from the floor and/or wall structures. It is not necessary to construct the toilet module according to the invention at any parts as part of lavatory structures. The toilet module can be attached to the floor surface and/or wall surface of the lavatory, but it is not necessary to pull down lavatory structures for installation. The toilet module can be installed as self-supporting, for example. The toilet module can be installed so that the customer or maintenance person can go around the toilet module. This facilitates its usage and service. The toilet module can be realized as a unit to be installed onto the lavatory wall surface. It is not necessary, unless wanted, for the toilet module to be built like current automatic toilets, that is at least partly built-in inside the wall.

[0026] One way to describe the invention, some of its applications and their advantages is that nowadays automatic toilet functions, such as lavatory heating control, toilet seat controls, support handle controls, flush controls, hand dryer and its controls, as well as equipment necessary for cleaning the lavatory, can be integrated into the toilet backrest. Due to this integration, maintenance work can be performed from inside the lavatory and no separate service room is needed. By means of the invention, it is possible to significantly influence lavatory construction expenses because the lavatory requires less construction area. By means of the invention, an automatic toilet unit withstanding vandalism can be installed at the site to already existing buildings with low construction expenses.

[0027] According to the invention, the movable toilet seat is arranged to be movable mainly between a horizontal sitting position and a free position.

[0028] In some embodiments of the invention, the movable mechanic auxiliary can be for example one or more of the following:

• a toilet bowl flush mechanism which is arranged to be movable between an open position and a closed position,
• one or more toilet user support handles which are arranged to be movable for example between a mainly horizontal lower position and a free position.

[0029] The functions and the structure of these devices can be arranged to excellently suit the concept of the toilet module according to the invention.

[0030] In some embodiments of the invention, lavatory technology required by the automatic toilet has been installed inside the backrest element. In some embodiments of the method, this lavatory technology is used inside the backrest element. This lavatory technology may comprise for example one or more of the following:

• power transfer means for transferring the toilet seat between the sitting position and the free position,
• a control valve of a toilet bowl flush mechanism which control valve is arranged to be movable between the open position and the closed position,
• power transfer means for transferring the support handle between the lower position and the free position.

[0031] These lavatory technologies suit very well inside the backrest element of the toilet module according to the invention.

[0032] Other possible auxiliaries placed inside the backrest element are a hand dryer and a cleaning water hose, for example. Even all lavatory technology needed by them, such as a warm air heating resistor, a drying air blower, and a valve for leading cleaning water to the cleaning hose, can be placed inside the backrest element.

[0033] The heating area on the outer surface of the backrest element may be a technically and/or visually separated part of the backrest element. If needed, the heating area can be detachable from the rest of the backrest element. The heating area can be made of for example material which conducts heat better than the rest of the backrest element. A separated heating area may thus enhance the heating and facilitate maintaining the heating area and/or the lavatory technology.

[0034] A part of the backrest element that does not differ at all, or from the outside does not seem to differ from the rest of the backrest element, can function as the heating area on the outer surface of the backrest element. A backrest element that is of one and the same surface is simple and reliable, and easy to keep clean.

[0035] The heating area on the outer surface of the backrest element is always measured and placed suitable according to each situation and need. The heating area may correspond in its surface area, for example approximately to the size of the toilet seat that can be turned against it. The heating area may have for example a rectangular form, or approximately the form of the toilet seat or the seat ring, such as oval or arch-like, or annular. The heating area may consist of several smaller heating areas. The heating area may be placed only on the part of the backrest element that is on the toilet seat side. The heating area may be at least mainly on the vertical part of the heating element. For example, the heating area which is placed mainly on the part of the backrest element that is vertical and towards the toilet seat, may be in its height and width less than 500 mm, or 300-600 mm.

[0036] The toilet seat is maintained in its free position close to the heating area on the outer surface of the backrest element. Thus, at least main part of the toilet seat sitting surface provided for sitting is close to the heating area, for example at the distance of 0-20 mm or 5-15 mm. This way the toilet seat and at least its sitting surface provided for sitting can be heated ready for the next user. According to the invention, heating of the toilet seat is mainly performed by heat radiation from the heating area.

[0037] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more service hatches have been arranged on the outer surface of the backrest element for maintenance of the lavatory technology contained in the backrest element. According to need, service hatches can be at any point on the outer surface of the backrest element. Service hatches are easily installed so that the technology contained in the backrest element can be easily maintained through them.

[0038] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more, for example all service hatches of the backrest element are less than 1000 mm, or less than 500 mm at their greatest length. In one embodiment of the invention, the inner part of the backrest element is less than 1000 mm, preferably less than 500 mm, at its greatest length. Small service hatches and backrest elements are easy to use and easily constructed as functional. Solutions according to the invention enable small sized lavatory technology, and thus, also maintaining lavatory technology even through small service hatches.

[0039] In one embodiment of the invention, operational energy for several different functions and/or devices can be taken from the pressure energy of pressurised water used in the lavatory or toilet module, or led thereto. It is easy to arrange low water consumption for this kind of arrangement, only a few decilitres per function, for example. However, all water can be utilized, for example by leading water used as operational energy source into the toilet bowl flush tank.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, operational energy needed to move the mechanical auxiliary is arranged to be taken from the pressure energy of pressurised water led to the water supply connection of the toilet module. Municipal tap water pressure, for example, is usually enough for using hydraulic motors or the like power transfer means. Water hydraulics utilizing pressure energy of pressure water allows small physical size of the devices and makes them more reliable.

[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, toilet flush may function so that a magnetic valve allows the pressure water into the flush mechanism, thereby producing necessary movement in the flush mechanics for achieving flushing. Thus, flushing functions by the pressure energy of pressurised water.

[0042] In one embodiment of the invention, the movement of the toilet seat between the sitting position and the free position is achieved by a power transfer means powered by the pressure energy of pressurised water. A hydraulic cylinder arranged for example between the backrest element or another supporting point and the toilet seat can function as a power transfer means.

[0043] In one embodiment of the invention, the lavatory or the automatic toilet has an entrance door for the toilet user, the operational energy needed for moving the opening mechanism of the entrance door being arranged to be taken from the pressure energy of pressurised water led to the lavatory. For example, a hydraulic cylinder which is arranged for example between the lavatory wall and the entrance door and is powered by pressurised water energy, can function as an opening mechanism. Thus, functioning of the entrance door opening mechanism is controlled by the lavatory technology inside the backrest element, for example from an electric controlling unit.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, the lavatory technology inside the backrest element comprises an electric controlling unit by means of which functioning of the lavatory technology required by the toilet module and the automatic toilet, or the lavatory, is controlled. The electric control unit placed into the backrest element may comprise a computer having a memory and a software saved into the memory, and program code elements of the software for producing control functions. The control unit may comprise a user interface, or it can be used by remote use, for example via a mobile station screen. The control unit may comprise necessary telecommunication means for receiving measurement information from possible sensors, such as motion detectors and limit switches of the moving actuators. The control unit may comprise necessary telecommunication means for delivering control commands to the lavatory technology actuators, such as power transfer means which generate movements and functions of the toilet seat, support handles, toilet bowl flush, hand dryer and entrance door. Control technology and the function and structure of the control unit, computers and telecommunication are known prior art as such, and not specifically objects of this invention, so they will not be described here in more detail.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, rising and lowering of the automatic toilet seat is automatically performed as controlled by the control unit, for example by utilizing water hydraulics. Automation may control the seat to rise back up when the customer leaves the lavatory.

[0046] In one embodiment of the invention, the movement of the support handles may be automatically performed as controlled by the electric control unit. In case the customer, for example a physically disabled user, manually turns down the support handles, they remain in the lower position. The user may manually lift them up. Upon opening the door after use, the handles may automatically rise to an upper position.

[0047] In one embodiment of the invention, a hand dryer, which is automatically controlled by the electric control unit, is integrated into the backrest element. The dryer may be set on for example by means of an electric switch placed into the backrest element, or by means of movement sensor data.

[0048] In one embodiment of the invention, the electric control unit recognises a special need user by means of a special code or key. For example, in case the customer enters with a special key, for example with one given to physically disabled, with a so called EURO-key, for example, it may be assumed that the customer always needs the toilet seat and/or the handle, whereby the automation already lowers down the seat and/or the handle when the customer enters.

[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, toilet bowl flush is automatically controlled by the electric control unit. In case the customer has not performed flushing when leaving the lavatory, automation may perform automatic flushing, for example in connection with opening of the door.

[0050] In case the customer enters the lavatory and does not lower the seat cover, automatic control unit may control flushing so that the toilet bowl is flushed by a water saving low flush. This may lower the flush water volume by half compared to a high flush, for example.

[0051] In one embodiment of the invention, the lavatory technology inside the backrest element comprises a weight or weights arranged in connection with a support handle, and a magnet. The weight or the weights tend to move the support handle from the lower position towards the free position. The magnet is arranged so that by means of it the support handle can be detachably locked into the lower position. This way, when the magnet is released, the support handle arises automatically into the free position. The support handle movement to the lower position can be achieved automatically by means of a motor, for example. Movement of the support handle and function of the magnet may be performed as controlled by the electric control unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0052] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the enclosed schematic drawing, in which

Figure 1 shows a toilet module according to the invention as seen from the front,

Figure 2 shows a section A-A of Figure 1,

Figure 3 shows the toilet module of Figure 1 as a perspective view,

Figure 4 shows the toilet module of Figure 1 as a second perspective view,

Figure 5 shows a detail H of Figure 2,

Figure 6 shows another toilet module according to the invention as seen from the front,

Figure 7 shows the section B-B of Figure 6, and

Figure 8 shows a detail J of Figure 2, that is a support handle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLES OF THE FIGURES

[0053] For parts corresponding to each other, same reference numerals are used in different figures and embodiments for the sake of clarity.

[0054] Figures 1-4 show one and Figures 6 and 7 show another toilet module 1, which is transferrable and installable in one piece into a lavatory (not shown). The toilet module has a toilet bowl 2 and a backrest element 3 having an outer surface 4 and an inside 5. Auxiliaries, such as a toilet seat 11, a toilet bowl flush mechanism 12, and two support handles 13, a washing water hose stand and a hose 15 shown in the Figures behind an open service hatch 43, a hand dryer showing a blow nozzle 16, are attached to the backrest element.

[0055] In the examples of the Figures, a toilet module sewer connection 21, a water supply connection 22, and an electric connection 23 for connecting the toilet module to the corresponding lavatory connections, have been placed at the lower edge on the side of the toilet module backrest element.

[0056] Lavatory technology required by the automatic toilet, for example by the said auxiliaries, has been placed inside 5 the backrest element 3. The lavatory technology includes, among others, motors, valves and other power transfer means (all of these are not shown), by means of which the toilet seat 11 and the support handles 13 are moved, and by means of which a control valve 32 of the toilet bowl flush mechanism and the flush water tank 36, as well as functions of the washing water hose 15 and the hand dryer 16 are controlled. In the examples of the Figures, operational energy needed for moving the auxiliaries is taken at least partly from the pressure energy of the lavatory pressurised water. Thus, the said motors, valves and other power transfer means may be hydraulic motors, hydraulic cylinders, or other actuators powered by pressurised water.

[0057] The toilet seat 11, for example, can be moved, supported by an axis 31, between the mainly horizontal sitting position seen in Figures 4, 6 and 7, and the vertical position, i.e. the free position, seen in Figures 1-3. The support handles 13 can be moved, supported by the axis 33, between the horizontal lower position seen in Figures 4, 6 and 7, and the vertical position, i.e. the free position, seen in Figures 1-3 and 8. The support handles are balanced so that moving of them between the lower position and the free position requires only small force. The control valve 32 of the toilet bowl flush mechanism 12, the washing water hose 15 valve and the hand dryer are controlled for example between an open position and a closed position. The control valve 32 of the flush mechanism is controlled by a switch 17, which can be for example a press button or a movement sensor.

[0058] Figure 5 shows more closely a detail marked with a marking H in Figure 2, that is function of an electric resistance 34 arranged inside the backrest element. By means of the electric resistance 34, the heating area 41 on the outer surface of the backrest element can be heated. By means of the heating area 41, the entire lavatory can be heated, and especially the toilet seat 11 in the free position. The toilet seat is arranged on most part of its sitting surface 42 at the distance of 10 mm from the heating area 41. This way thermal energy transfers from the heating area 41 to the toilet seat 11 mainly by radiating. Due to the fact, that in the example of the Figure, the heating area 41 and the toilet seat 11 are substantially parallel in the free position, the sitting surface 42 of the toilet seat warms up rather evenly. The energy transferring from the heating area to the toilet seat is described by small arrows in Figure 5.

[0059] The lavatory technology inside the backrest element 5 comprises an electric control unit 35, which is arranged to control all lavatory technology of an automatic toilet.

[0060] Several openable and closable service hatches 43 and 44 are arranged on the outer surface 4 of the backrest element. Through them, it is easy to perform maintenance of the lavatory technology inside the backrest element. All service hatches 43, 44 of the backrest element are typically less than 1000 mm, or less than 500 mm at their greatest length.

[0061] Figures 6 and 7 show a toilet module embodiment having no electric resistance that would heat the heating area on the outer surface of the backrest element. Otherwise, the toilet module of Figures 6 and 7 corresponds the toilet module of Figures 1-4 in its structure. A possible heating area and its heating may be realised also in other ways than by an electric resistance.

[0062] In the following, function of one armrest according to the invention is described by means of the free position of the armrest shown in Figures 1-3 and 8, and by the lower position shown in Figures 4, 6 and 7. The area shown in Figure 8 is marked as a detail J in Figure 2.

[0063] The support handles 13 can be moved, supported by the axis 33, between the horizontal lower position seen in Figures 4, 6 and 7, and the vertical position, i.e. the free position, seen in Figures 1-3 and 8. The axis 33 is closer to the back end 51 on the backrest side of the support handle than to the front end 52 of the support handle. This way the centre of mass of the support handle is on the front end side of the axis 33, thus tending to rotate the support handle around the axis 33 towards the lower position. In order to balance the support handle, a first additional weight 53, and a second additional weight 54, have been placed at the back end 51 of the support handle. Consequently, both additional weights tend to rotate the support handle in the lower position towards the free position.

[0064] When the support handle 13 is in the free position, the first additional weight 53 is (as shown in Figure 8), as seen from the direction of the axis 33, mainly at the same vertical with the axis 33, for example inside the armrest pipe. Thus, the turning force applied to the support handle 13 by the mass of the first additional weight 53 is at its most when the support handle is in the lower position and weakens the more upwards the support handle turns around the axis 33.

[0065] The second additional weight 54 is, as seen from the direction of the axis 33, deviated from the same vertical as the axis 33 so that the turning force applied to the support handle by the second additional weight 54 is at its most when the support handle is at about 45 degrees to the horizontal plane, that is approximately at the middle of its movement path between the lower position and the free position. Upwards or downwards from thereon, the effect diminishes. In the examples of the Figures, the second additional weight 54 is supported to the axis 33 by means of a shaft 55, at a distance from the support handle 13 and the axis 33 as seen from the direction of the axis 33. In the example of the Figures, direct lines that are drawn from the centres of mass of the first and the second additional weights to the axis 33 are at an angle of about 45 degrees or 40-50 degrees with respect to each other.

[0066] Typically, the support handle remains in the free position due to the gravity, and can be lowered to the lower position by small force. In the lower position, being attached to the shaft 55, a support element 56, which is magnetic or composed of magnetising material, settles against a holding magnet 57 which is inside the backrest element and keeps the support handle in the lower position when activated. When the holding magnet 57 is released from the support element 56, the support handle turns up into the free position. The holding magnet can be released from the support element 56, for example manually or electrically for example by a press button, or automatically for example by a switch that is activated by opening of the lavatory door. Thus, the support handle can be raised into the free position when the lavatory becomes vacant, or the door is opened. Being inside the backrest element 3, the second additional weight 54, shaft 55, support element 56 and holding magnet 57 are protected from vandalism. Outside the backrest element 3, stoppers 58 are placed to prevent the support handle 13 from turning past the vertical free position. A toilet paper holder 59 is arranged in the support handle.

[0067] It is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the examples mentioned in the application, but the scope is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims present some preferred embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. Toilet module (1) that can be transferred and installed into a lavatory having a sewer connection, a water supply connection, and an electric connection for automatic toilet functions, the toilet module comprising at least the following:

- a toilet bowl (2),

- a backrest element (3) having an outer surface (4) and an inside (5),

- one or more movable mechanic auxiliaries (11, 12, 13) comprising a movable toilet seat (11), which is arranged to be movable mainly between a horizontal sitting position and a free position,

- a toilet module sewer connection (21), a water supply connection (22), and an electric connection (23) for connecting the toilet module to the corresponding lavatory connections,

whereby lavatory technology (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) required by an automatic toilet has been placed inside the backrest element and comprises an electric resistance (34) or other heating device which is arranged to heat a heating area (41) on the outer surface of the backrest element, characterised in that in the free position the toilet seat (11) is arranged so that at least most part of its sitting surface (42) is close to the heating area (41) on the outer surface of the backrest element, and thereby the toilet seat (11) is arranged to be heated mainly by heat radiation from the heating area.

2. Toilet module according to claim 1, characterised in that the heating area (41) is placed on a part of the backrest element (3) that is at least mainly vertical and on the toilet seat (11) side of the backrest element (3).

3. Toilet module according to claim 2, characterised in that the heating area (41) is in its height and width less than 500 mm, or 300-600 mm.

4. Toilet module according to any of the claims 1 to 3, characterised in that in the free position, at least main part of the toilet seat sitting surface is at a distance of 5-15 mm from the heating area (41).

5. Toilet module according to any previous claim 1 to 4, characterised in that the toilet module (1) is transferrable and installable in one piece into a lavatory.

6. Toilet module according to any previous claim 1 to 5, characterised in that the movable mechanic auxiliary comprises further one or more of the following:

- a toilet bowl flush mechanism (12) which is arranged to be movable between an open position and a closed position,

- one or more support handles (13) which are arranged to be movable between a lower position and a free position.

7. Toilet module according to claim 6, characterised in that the lavatory technology which is required by the automatic toilet and installed inside the backrest element, comprises one or more of the following:

- power transfer means (31) for transferring the toilet seat between the sitting position and the free position,

- a control valve (32) of a toilet bowl flush mechanism which control valve is arranged to be movable between the open position and the closed position,

- power transfer means (33) for transferring the support handle between the lower position and the free position.

8. Toilet module according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operational energy needed for moving the mechanical auxiliary is arranged to be taken from the pressure energy of pressurised water led to the water supply connection of the toilet module.

9. Toilet module according to any of the preceding claims 6 to 7, characterised in that the lavatory technology inside the backrest element comprises, as arranged in connection with one of the support handles

- a weight (53, 54) which tends to move the support handle from the lower position towards the free position, and

- a magnet (57), by means of which the support handle (13) can be locked in a detachable manner to the lower position.

10. Automatic toilet, characterised in that it comprises the toilet module (1) according to any of the preceding claims 1-9, whereby the sewer connection (21), water supply connection (22) and electric connection (23) of the toilet module have been connected to the sewer connection, water supply connection and electric connection of the lavatory.

11. Automatic toilet according to claim 10, characterised in that it has an entrance door having an opening mechanism, for example a hydraulic cylinder arranged between a lavatory wall and the entrance door, operational energy needed for moving the opening mechanism is arranged to be taken from the pressure energy of pressurised water led to the lavatory, whereby an electric control unit (35) inside the backrest element is arranged to control functioning of the opening mechanism of the entrance door.

12. Method for controlling lavatory technology of an automatic toilet, in which method a toilet module (1) according to any of the preceding claims 1-9, which has been delivered to the site in one piece, is installed into the lavatory having a sewer connection, a water supply connection and an electric connection for toilet functions, whereby a sewer connection (21), a water supply connection (22) and an electric connection (23) of the toilet module have been connected to the corresponding lavatory connections, whereby the method comprises at least the following step:

- performing functions of lavatory technology required by the automatic toilet, such as moving of a power transfer means required by a mechanic auxiliary (11, 12, 13), inside a backrest element having an outer surface (4) and an inside (5),

- heating a heating area (41) on the outer surface of the backrest element, and thus also heating the lavatory, by means of an electric resistance (34) or other heating device arranged inside the backrest element,

characterised in

- arranging a toilet seat (11) so that in a free position at least most part of its sitting surface (42) is close to the heating area (41) on the outer surface of the backrest element, thereby

- heating the toilet seat (11) mainly with thermal energy transferring from the heating area (41) by heat radiation from the heating area.

13. Method according to claim 12, characterised in

- heating hand drying air with the electric resistance (34) or other heating device arranged inside the backrest element.

14. Method according to any of the preceding claims 12 to 13, characterised in

- taking operational energy needed to move the mechanical auxiliary from the pressure energy of pressurised water led to the water supply (22) connection of the toilet module.

15. Method according to any of the claims 12 to 14, characterised in

- keeping, in the free position, at least main part of the toilet seat sitting surface at a distance of 5-15 mm from the heating area (41).

Ansprüche

1. Toilettenmodul (1), das in einen Waschraum mit einem Abwasseranschluss, einem Wasserversorgungsanschluss und einem Stromanschluss für automatische Toilettenfunktionen verlegt und installiert werden kann, wobei das Toilettenmodul zumindest das Folgende umfasst:

- eine Toilettenschüssel (2),

- ein Rückenlehnenelement (3) mit einer Außenoberfläche (4) und einer Innenseite (5),

- ein oder mehrere bewegliche mechanische Hilfsmittel (11, 12, 13), umfassend einen beweglichen Toilettensitz (11), der angeordnet ist, um hauptsächlich zwischen einer horizontalen Sitzposition und einer freien Position beweglich zu sein,

- einen Toilettenmodul-Abwasseranschluss (21), einen Wasserversorgungsanschluss (22) und einen Stromanschluss (23) zum Anschließen des Toilettenmoduls an den entsprechenden Waschraumanschlüssen,

wobei die von einer automatischen Toilette benötigte Waschraumtechnik (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) im Inneren des Rückenlehnenelements untergebracht ist und einen elektrischen Widerstand (34) oder eine andere Heizvorrichtung umfasst, die angeordnet ist, um einen Heizbereich (41) an der äußeren Oberfläche des Rückenlehnenelements zu beheizen, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Toilettensitz (11) in der freien Position derart angeordnet ist, dass zumindest der größte Teil seiner Sitzfläche (42) nahe dem Heizbereich (41) auf der äußeren Oberfläche des Rückenlehnenelements ist, und dadurch der Toilettensitz (11) angeordnet ist, um hauptsächlich durch Wärmestrahlung vom Heizbereich beheizt zu werden.

2. Toilettenmodul nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sich der Heizbereich (41) an einem Teil des Rückenlehnenelements (3) befindet, der zumindest hauptsächlich vertikal und auf der Seite des Toilettensitzes (11) zum Rückenlehnenelement (3) ist.

3. Toilettenmodul nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Höhe und Breite des Heizbereichs (41) weniger als 500 mm oder 300 - 600 mm beträgt.

4. Toilettenmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sich zumindest der größte Teil der Sitzfläche des Toilettensitzes in der freien Position 5 - 15 mm vom Heizbereich (41) entfernt befindet.

5. Toilettenmodul nach einem der vorherigen Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Toilettenmodul (1) in einem Stück in einen Waschraum verlegt und installiert werden kann.

6. Toilettenmodul nach einem der vorherigen Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das bewegliche mechanische Hilfsmittel ferner eines oder mehrere des Folgenden umfasst:

- einen Toilettenschüssel-Spülmechanismus (12), der angeordnet ist, um zwischen einer offenen Position und einer geschlossenen Position beweglich zu sein,

- einen oder mehrere Stützgriffe (13), die angeordnet sind, um zwischen einer unteren Position und einer freien Position beweglich zu sein.

7. Toilettenmodul nach Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Waschraumtechnik, die von der automatischen Toilette benötigt wird und im Inneren des Rückenlehnenelements installiert ist, eines oder mehrere des Folgenden umfasst:

- ein Stromübertragungsmittel (31) zum Verschieben des Toilettensitzes zwischen der Sitzposition und der freien Position,

- ein Steuerventil (32) eines Toilettenschüssel-Spülmechanismus, das angeordnet ist, um zwischen der offenen Position und der geschlossenen Position beweglich zu sein,

- ein Stromübertragungsmittel (33) zum Verschieben des Stützgriffs zwischen der unteren Position und der freien Position.

8. Toilettenmodul nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die zum Bewegen des mechanischen Hilfsmittels benötigte Betriebsenergie so angeordnet ist, dass sie von der Druckenergie des unter Druck stehenden Wassers, das zum Wasserversorgungsanschluss des Toilettenmoduls geleitet wird, genommen wird.

9. Toilettenmodul nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 6 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Waschraumtechnik im Inneren des Rückenlehnenelements

- ein Gewicht (53, 54), welches den Stützgriff von der unteren Position zur freien Position hin bewegt, und

- einen Magneten (57), durch welchen der Stützgriff (13) lösbar in die untere Position arretiert werden kann,

wie in Verbindung mit einem der Stützgriffe angeordnet, umfasst.

10. Automatische Toilette, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie das Toilettenmodul (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 1 bis 9 umfasst, wobei der Abwasseranschluss (21), der Wasserversorgungsanschluss (22) und der Stromanschluss (23) des Toilettenmoduls mit dem Abwasseranschluss, Wasserversorgungsanschluss und Stromanschluss des Waschraums angeschlossen worden sind.

11. Automatische Toilette nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie eine Eintrittstür mit einem Öffnungsmechanismus, zum Beispiel einen hydraulischen Zylinder, der zwischen einer Waschraumwand und der Eintrittstür angeordnet ist, aufweist, die zum Bewegen des Öffnungsmechanismus benötigte Betriebsenergie so angeordnet ist, dass sie von der Druckenergie des unter Druck stehenden Wassers, das zum Waschraum geleitet wird, genommen wird, wobei eine elektrische Steuereinheit (35) im Inneren des Rückenlehnenelements angeordnet ist, um die Arbeitsweise des Öffnungsmechanismus der Eintrittstür zu steuern.

12. Verfahren zum Steuern der Waschraumtechnik einer automatischen Toilette, bei welchem ein Toilettenmodul (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 1 bis 9, das in einem Stück zu dem Standort geliefert worden ist, in den Waschraum mit einem Abwasseranschluss, einem Wasserversorgungsanschluss und einem Stromanschluss für Toilettenfunktionen installiert ist, wobei ein Abwasseranschluss (21), ein Wasserversorgungsanschluss (22) und ein Stromanschluss (23) des Toilettenmoduls an die entsprechenden Waschraumanschlüssen angeschlossen worden sind, wobei das Verfahren mindestens die folgenden Schritte umfasst:

- Durchführen von Funktionen der von der automatischen Toilette benötigten Waschraumtechnik, wie das Bewegen eines Stromübertragungsmittels, das von einem mechanischen Hilfsmittel (11, 12, 13) benötigt wird, im Inneren eines Rückenlehnenelements mit einer äußeren Oberfläche (4) und einer Innenseite (5),

- Beheizen eines Heizbereichs (41) an der äußeren Oberfläche des Rückenlehnenelements und somit ebenfalls Beheizen des Waschraums mittels eines elektrischen Widerstands (34) oder einer anderen Heizvorrichtung, der bzw. die im Inneren des Rückenlehnenelements angeordnet ist,

gekennzeichnet durch

- Anordnen eines Toilettensitzes (11), so dass zumindest der größte Teil seiner Sitzfläche (42) in einer freien Position nahe dem Heizbereich (41) an der äußeren Oberfläche des Rückenlehnenelements ist, wodurch

- der Toilettensitz (11) hauptsächlich mit Wärmeenergie beheizt wird, die vom Heizbereich (41) durch Wärmestrahlung vom Heizbereich übertragen wird.

13. Verfahren nach Anspruch 12, gekennzeichnet durch

- Beheizen von Handtrocknungsluft mit dem elektrischen Widerstand (34) oder einer anderen Heizvorrichtung, die im Inneren des Rückenlehnenelements angeordnet ist.

14. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 12 bis 13, gekennzeichnet durch

- Hernehmen der zum Bewegen des mechanischen Hilfsmittels benötigten Betriebsenergie von der Druckenergie des unter Druck stehenden Wassers, das zum Wasserversorgungsanschluss (22) des Toilettenmoduls geleitet wird.

15. Verfahren nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche 12 bis 14, gekennzeichnet durch

- Halten zumindest des größten Teils der Sitzfläche des Toilettensitzes in der freien Position mit einer Distanz von 5 - 15 mm zum Heizbereich (41).

Revendications

1. Module de toilettes (1) susceptible d'être transféré et installé dans un sanitaire comportant un raccordement à l'égout, un raccordement d'alimentation en eau, et un raccordement électrique pour des fonctions de toilettes automatiques, le module de toilettes comprenant l'un au moins des éléments suivants :

- une cuvette (2),

- un élément de dossier (3) comportant une surface extérieure (4) et un intérieur (5),

- un ou plusieurs accessoires mécaniques mobiles (11, 12, 13) comprenant un siège de toilettes mobile (11) conçu pour être déplaçable principalement entre une position d'assise horizontale et une position libre,

- un raccordement à l'égout (21) de module de toilettes, un raccordement d'alimentation en eau (22), et un raccordement électrique (23) pour le raccordement du module de toilettes aux raccords sanitaires correspondants,

dans lequel une technologie de sanitaire (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) nécessaire à des toilettes automatiques a été placé à l'intérieur de l'élément de dossier et comprend une résistance électrique (34) ou un autre dispositif de chauffage conçu pour chauffer une zone de chauffage (41) sur la surface extérieure de l'élément de dossier, caractérisé en ce que dans la position libre, le siège de toilettes (11) est disposé de telle façon qu'au moins la majeure partie de sa surface d'assise (42) se trouve à proximité de la zone de chauffage (41) sur la surface extérieure de l'élément de dossier, le siège de toilettes (11) étant ainsi conçu pour être chauffé principalement par un rayonnement de chaleur venant de la zone de chauffage.

2. Module de toilettes selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la zone de chauffage (41) est placée sur une partie de l'élément de dossier (3) au moins essentiellement verticale et du côté du siège de toilettes (11) de l'élément de dossier (3).

3. Module de toilettes selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que la zone de chauffage (41) présente une hauteur et une largeur inférieures à 500 mm ou de 300 - 600 mm.

4. Module de toilettes selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que dans la position libre, au moins une partie principale de la surface d'assise du siège de toilettes se trouve à une distance de 5 - 15 mm de la zone de chauffage (41).

5. Module de toilettes selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que le module de toilettes (1) peut être transféré et installé en une pièce dans un sanitaire.

6. Module de toilettes selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que l'accessoire mécanique mobile comprend en outre l'un ou plusieurs des éléments suivants :

- un mécanisme de chasse de cuvette (12) conçu pour être déplaçable entre une position ouverte et une position fermée,

- une ou plusieurs poignées de support (13) conçues pour être déplaçables entre une position basse et une position libre.

7. Module de toilettes selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que la technologie de sanitaire nécessaire aux toilettes automatiques et installée à l'intérieur de l'élément de dossier comprend l'un ou plusieurs des éléments suivants :

- un moyen de transfert de puissance (31) destiné à transférer le siège de toilettes entre la position d'assise et la position libre,

- une soupape de commande (32) d'un mécanisme de chasse de cuvette, la soupape de commande étant conçue pour être déplaçable entre la position ouverte et la position fermée,

- un moyen de transfert de puissance (33) destiné à transférer la poignée de support entre la position basse et la position libre.

8. Module de toilettes selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'énergie opérationnelle nécessaire pour déplacer l'accessoire mécanique est conçue pour être prélevée à partir de l'énergie de pression de l'eau sous pression acheminée vers le raccordement d'alimentation en eau du module de toilettes.

9. Module de toilettes selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 6 à 7, caractérisé en ce que la technologie de sanitaire à l'intérieur de l'élément de dossier comprend, en association avec l'une des poignées de support :

- un poids (53, 54) tendant à déplacer la poignée de support de la position basse vers la position libre, et

- un aimant (57) à l'aide duquel la poignée de support (13) pour être bloquée de façon détachable dans la position basse.

10. Toilettes automatiques caractérisées en ce qu'elles comprennent le module de toilettes (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 1 à 9, dans lesquelles le raccordement à l'égout (21), le raccordement d'alimentation en eau (22) et le raccordement électrique (23) du module de toilettes ont été raccordés au raccordement à l'égout, au raccordement d'alimentation en eau et au raccordement électrique du sanitaire.

11. Toilettes automatiques selon la revendication 10, caractérisées en ce qu'elles comportent une porte d'entrée avec un mécanisme d'ouverture, par exemple un cylindre hydraulique disposé entre une paroi de sanitaire et la porte d'entrée, de l'énergie opérationnelle nécessaire au déplacement du mécanisme d'ouverture est conçue pour être prélevée à partir de l'énergie de pression de l'eau sous pression acheminée vers le sanitaire, une unité de commande électrique (35) située à l'intérieur de l'élément de dossier étant conçue pour commander le fonctionnement du mécanisme d'ouverture de la porte d'entrée.

12. Procédé de commande d'une technologie de sanitaire de toilettes automatiques, dans lequel un module de toilettes (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 1 à 9, lequel a été livré sur place en une pièce, est installé dans le sanitaire comportant un raccordement à l'égout, une raccordement d'alimentation en eau et un raccordement électrique pour des fonctions de toilettes, un raccordement à l'égout (21), un raccordement d'alimentation en eau (22) et un raccordement électrique (23) du module de toilettes ayant été raccordés aux raccords de sanitaire correspondants, le procédé comprenant au moins l'étape suivante :

- exécution de fonctions de la toilettes automatiques nécessaires aux toilettes automatiques, telles que le déplacement d'un moyen de transfert de puissance nécessaire à un accessoire mécaniques (11, 12, 13), à l'intérieur d'un élément de dossier comportant une surface extérieure (4) et un intérieur (5),

- chauffage d'une zone de chauffage (41) de la surface extérieure de l'élément de dossier et par conséquent chauffage également du sanitaire, à l'aide d'une résistance électrique (34) ou d'un autre dispositif de chauffage disposé à l'intérieur de l'élément de dossier,

caractérisé par

- la mise en place d'un siège de toilettes (11) de telle façon que dans une position libre, au moins une partie majeure de sa surface d'assise (42) se trouve à proximité de la zone de chauffage (41) sur la surface extérieure de l'élément de dossier, et ainsi

- par le chauffage du siège de toilettes (11) principalement avec de l'énergie thermique transmise par la zone de chauffage (41) par un rayonnement de chaleur venant de la zone de chauffage.

13. Procédé selon la revendication 12, caractérisé par

- le chauffage d'air de séchage des mains à l'aide d'une résistance électrique (34) ou d'un autre dispositif de chauffage disposé dans l'élément de dossier.

14. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 12 à 13, caractérisé par

- le prélèvement d'énergie opérationnelle nécessaire au déplacement de l'accessoire mécanique à partir de l'énergie de pression de l'eau sous pression acheminée vers le raccordement d'alimentation en eau (22) du module de toilettes.

15. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes 12 à 14, caractérisé par

- le maintien, dans la position libre, au moins d'une partie principale de la surface d'assise du siège de toilettes à une distance de 5 - 15 mm par rapport à la zone de chauffage (41).

Drawing