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(11) | EP 4 056 769 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | A LEAK-SAFE WATER TAP SYSTEM |
| (57) The present invention relates to a leak-safe water tap system to be arranged through
a wall of a building, comprising a connection box being configured to connect a water
supply with a first pipe, the first pipe having a first end being configured to be
fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box and a second end being
configured to be connected with a tap, the first pipe having an extension extending
between the first end and the second end, a part of the extension of the first pipe
is arranged within the wall, the first pipe having an outer diameter, wherein the
leak-safe water tap system comprises a second pipe, the second pipe has an inner diameter
being larger than the outer diameter of the first pipe, the second pipe has a first
pipe end being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box, the second
pipe having a pipe extension extending from the first pipe end towards a second pipe
end, wherein the second pipe circumferences the first pipe at least along the part
of the extension arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will
not leak into the wall.
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[0001] The present invention relates to a leak-safe water tap system to be arranged through a wall of a building, comprising a connection box being configured to connect a water supply with a first pipe, the first pipe having a first end being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply in the connection box and a second end being configured to be connected with a tap, the first pipe having an extension extending between the first end and the second end, a part of the extension of the first pipe is arranged within the wall, the first pipe having an outer diameter.
[0002] Water tap systems to be arranged extending through a wall is well known. However, when leakage occurs in these known systems it may have severe consequences in that the water may leak into the wall and thereby damage the wall and other building constructions.
[0003] When the water tap is arranged outside it is furthermore exposed to the environments. In very cold climate the water in the pipes may freeze to ice and thereby damage connections and sealings in the tap system. When the temperatures rise again the ice in the pipes will melt having the consequence that the pipes may start to leak and thereby a water damage of the wall may occur.
[0004] It is an object of the present invention to wholly or partly overcome the above disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. More specifically, it is an object to provide an improved a leak-safe water tap system to be arranged through a wall of a building.
[0005] The above objects, together with numerous other objects, advantages and features, which will become evident from the below description, are accomplished by a solution in accordance with the present invention by a leak-safe water tap system to be arranged through a wall of a building, comprising:
a connection box being configured to connect a water supply with a first pipe,
the first pipe having a first end being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box and a second end being configured to be connected with a tap, the first pipe having an extension extending between the first end and the second end, a part of the extension of the first pipe is arranged within the wall, the first pipe having an outer diameter,
wherein the leak-safe water tap system comprises a second pipe, the second pipe has an inner diameter being larger than the outer diameter of the first pipe, the second pipe has a first pipe end being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box, the second pipe having a pipe extension extending from the first pipe end towards a second pipe end, wherein the second pipe circumferences the first pipe at least along the part of the extension arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall.
[0006] In addition, the first end of the first pipe may be sealingly connected with the water supply via the connection box itself or a connection part arranged within the connection box or an interface part.
[0007] Also, the water supply may comprise a first tubing having a first tube end connected with the connection box and a second tube end connected with the water supply.
[0008] Furthermore, the connection part may have a first connection having a first tread configured to be connected with a pipe tread arranged at the first end of the first pipe and a second connection configured to be connected with the first tube end of the first tubing.
[0011] The leak-safe water tap system may further comprise a second tubing, the second tubing has an inner tube diameter being larger than an outer tube diameter of the first tubing, the second tubing has a first tubing end being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box, the second tubing having a tubing extension extending from the first tubing end towards a second tubing end, wherein the second tubing circumferences the first tubing at least along a tubing part of the first tubing arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall.
[0012] Also, the first tube end of the first tubing may be sealingly connected with the first pipe via the connection box itself or a connection part arranged within the connection box or an interface part.
[0013] Furthermore, the connection box may comprise a hatch, the hatch being releasable connected with the connection box.
[0016] Moreover, a releasable positioning lid may be arranged between the hatch and the connection part within the connection box for positioning the connection part and to function as an isolation element in relation to the outside for minimizing a thermal bridge through the system.
[0017] In addition, the second pipe and/or the second tubing may be configured to function as a guide channel for the first pipe or the first tubing, respectively.
[0020] A sealing, such as an O-ring, may be arranged between a member of the connection box and an inner face of the second pipe or a surface of the second pipe.
[0021] Moreover, the first pipe, the second pipe, the first tubing or the second tubing may be made of a rigid material such as metal or composite.
[0022] Also, the first pipe, the second pipe, the first tubing or the second tubing may be made of a polymeric material.
[0024] Furthermore, the first pipe may be configured to be inserted into the second pipe from the second pipe end and connected with the connection box.
[0025] In addition, the connection box may be square-shaped having a height of between 60 mm to 100 mm and a width of between 40 mm to 70 mm.
[0028] Moreover, a plate member may be arranged on an exterior face of the wall opposite the second pipe end of the second pipe, the plate member has an aperture in which the first pipe extends through, and the plate member has a leaking groove extending from the aperture and downwards so that leaked water in the second pipe may flow out of the second pipe and into the leaking groove defined by the plate member and the exterior wall.
[0029] The invention also relates to a building having a wall wherein a leak-safe water tap system according to any of the preceding claims is arranged.
[0030] The invention and its many advantages will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, which for the purpose of illustration show some non-limiting embodiments and in which
Figs. 1 to 5 show a first embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system according to the present invention,
Figs. 6a to 6e show a sequence of mounting the first embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system,
Figs. 7a to 7b show a second embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system according to the present invention,
Figs. 8 to 11 show the second embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system,
Figs. 12a to 12e show a sequence of mounting the second embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system,
Figs. 13a to 13c show a sequence of dismounting the second embodiment,
Figs. 14 to 19 show a third embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system according to the present invention,
Figs. 20a to 20f show a sequence of mounting the third embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system, and
Figs. 21a to 21b show a sequence of dismounting the third embodiment.
[0031] All the figures are highly schematic and not necessarily to scale, and they show only those parts which are necessary in order to elucidate the invention, other parts being omitted or merely suggested.
[0032] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system 100 to be arranged through a wall 1 of a building. The leak-safe water tap system 100 comprises a connection box 2 being configured to connect a water supply with a first pipe 3. The leak-safe water tap system 100 is in Fig. 1 shown from the outside arranged through the wall 1. The embodiment of Fig. 1 shows a part of the leak-safe water tap system 100 arranged outside the wall 1, namely the tap 4. The rest of the system 100 is in this embodiment arranged inside the wall 1.
[0033] In Fig. 2, the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The first pipe 3 having a first end 5 being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box 2 and a second end 6 being configured to be connected with a tap 4, the first pipe 3 having an extension 7 extending between the first end 5 and the second end 6. A part 8 of the extension 7 of the first pipe 3 is arranged within the wall (not shown in Fig. 2), and the first pipe 3 having an outer diameter Do.
[0034] According to the inventive idea, the leak-safe water tap system 100 comprises a second pipe 9, the second pipe 9 has an inner diameter Di being larger than the outer diameter Do of the first pipe 3 as seen in Fig. 2a. The second pipe 9 has a first pipe end 10 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2, the second pipe 9 having a pipe extension 12 extending from the first pipe end 10 towards a second pipe end 11, wherein the second pipe 9 circumferences the first pipe 3 at least along the part 8 of the extension 7 arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall. If for instance a leak occurs between the first pipe 3 and the connection box 2 the leaked water will flow into the second pipe 9 and therefrom flow out of the second pipe 9 at the second pipe end 11 whereby it is avoided that the water will leak into the wall and thereby it is also avoided that an interior of the wall is not damaged by water. Furthermore, since the leaked water is flowing out of the second pipe at the second pipe end 11 it may easily be detected that a leak occurs and thereby the leak may be stopped. In prior system the leak may not be detected since the leak may be within a wall having the consequence that the leak may provide a larger damage to the wall before it is being detected.
[0035] In Fig. 3, an exploded view of the first embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown. The first embodiment comprises the first pipe 3 having the tap 4 at the second end 6. The first end 5 of the first pipe 3 has a thread section 13 being configured to be screwed into a corresponding thread arranged in connection with the connection box 2. The system 100 also comprises the second pipe 9 which at the first pipe end 10 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2. At the first pipe end 10 of the second pipe 9 a connection element 14 is arranged, the connection element 14 assist the second pipe 9 to be leak-tight connected with the connection box 2. In the present embodiment the connection box 2 has a connection member 15 which corresponds to the connection element 14 whereby they interact. In addition, an O-ring 16 may be arranged between the connection element 14 and the connection member 15. The connection element 14 and the connection member 15 may be welded together, or they may be glued together, or they may both comprise corresponding threads so that they may be screwed together.
[0036] At the second pipe end 11 a plate member 17 is arranged. The plate member 17 is screwed by means of screws 19 or bolts onto the exterior of the wall and the second end 6 of the first pipe is extending through an aperture 18 in the plate member 17. A locking screw 20 may be screwed through an opening in a flange surrounding the aperture 18 so that it abuts the outside of the first pipe 3 and thereby maintain the first pipe 3 in position after it has been connected with the connection box 2. Preferably the plate member 17 is made of metal, however, it may also be made of a polymeric material, a composite or any combinations thereof.
[0037] The second pipe 9 is in the present embodiment a corrugated pipe made of a polymeric material. In other embodiments the second pipe may be made of metal, a composite or any combinations thereof. The second pipe 9 may also be a plain pipe.
[0038] As mentioned above, the first pipe 3 is configured to be inserted into the second pipe 9 and connected with the connection box 2 inside the second pipe 9. The present embodiment comprises a connection part 21 which may be securely fasten to the inside of the connection box, for instance by means of screws or bolts 22. Also, the connection part is removable arranged in the connection box 2. The connection part 21 has an internal thread being arranged so the first end 5 of the first pipe 3 may be screwed into engagement of the internal first thread so that the first pipe 3 is fluidly connected with the connection part 21. The connection part 21 also has a second connection 23 configured to be connected with a water supply (not shown). In the present embodiment, the connection part 21 fluidly connect the water supply with the first pipe. In addition, the second connection 23 may be a threaded connection or it may be snap-click connection 24 as shown in Fig. 3.
[0039] The connection box 2 is configured to be incorporated into a wall so that the pipes and tubes are hidden by the wall. It is important that the connection box 2 is positioned correctly wherefore in the present embodiment it is screwed into the wall by means of four screws 25. The connection box 2 may be made of a polymeric material, metal, a composite or any combination thereof.
[0040] In Fig. 4, the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown from the outside and in Fig. 5 the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown in a cross-section view. In the following referral is made to both Fig. 4 and 5. As mentioned above, the connection box 2 ensures that the first pipe 3 is sealingly connected with the water supply 26. This may be provided via the connection box itself, via a connection part arranged in connection with the connection box or via an interface part also being in connection with the connection box 2.
[0041] The water supply 26 may comprise a first tubing 27 having a first tube end 28 connected with the connection box 2 and a second tube end 29 connected with the water supply 26.
[0042] Furthermore, the system 100 also comprises a second tubing 30, the second tubing 30 has an inner tube diameter being larger than an outer tube diameter of the first tubing 27 like in same manner as shown in Fig. 2a in relation to the first pipe and second pipe. The second tubing 30 has a first tubing end 31 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2, the second tubing 30 having a tubing extension extending from the first tubing end towards a second tubing end 32, wherein the second tubing 30 circumferences the first tubing 27 at least along a tubing part of the first tubing 27 arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall.
[0043] The second pipe 9 and/or the second tubing 30 is/are configured to function as a guide channel for the first pipe 3 or the first tubing 27, respectively.
[0044] Figs. 6a to 6e show a sequence of how to mount the first embodiment of the system 100. In Fig. 6a, the connection box 2 and the second pipe 9 is provided in the wall (not shown). The connection box 2 is positioned and is fasten to the wall by means of the screws 25. A passage through the wall may be provided in various ways, for instance by drilling the passage so that the second pipe may be placed in the passage. Obviously, the lengths of the first pipe and the second pipe depend on the thickness of the wall in which it shall be mounted.
[0045] In Fig. 6b, the first tubing 27 is being fluidly connected with the connection box 2. Hereinafter in Fig. 6c, the plate member 17 is arranged opposite the second pipe end 11 and is fasten to the exterior of the wall by means of screws 19. In Fig. 6d, the first pipe 3 with the tap 4 is ready to be inserted into the second pipe 9.
[0046] In Fig. 6e, the first pipe 3 has been screwed into engagement with the connection part 21 so that the first tubing 27 is fluidly connected with the first pipe 3 via the connection box 2. The first tubing is connected with a water supply and the first pipe 3 is connected with the tap 4 so that water may flow out of the tap 4 when it is being opened.
[0047] In Figs. 7a and 7b, a second embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system 100 to be arranged through a wall of a building. The system 100 is shown in perspective views in Figs. 7a and 7b. The design of the system 100 of the second embodiment corresponds substantially to the first embodiment, however some differences are present which will be further described below.
[0048] One of the differences of the second embodiment of the system 100 compared to the first embodiment is the connection box 2 in that the connection box 2 comprises a hatch 33, which will be further described below.
[0049] Fig. 8 shows the second embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system 100 to be arranged through a wall 1 of a building. The leak-safe water tap system 100 comprises a connection box 2 being configured to connect a water supply with a first pipe 3. The leak-safe water tap system 100 is in Fig. 8 shown from the outside arranged through the wall 1. The embodiment of Fig. 8 shows a part of the leak-safe water tap system 100 arranged outside the wall 1, namely the tap 4. The rest of the system 100 is in this embodiment arranged inside the wall 1 except the hatch 33, which will be further described below.
[0050] In Fig. 9, the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The first pipe 3 having a first end 5 being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box 2 and a second end 6 being configured to be connected with a tap 4, the first pipe 3 having an extension 7 extending between the first end 5 and the second end 6. A part 8 of the extension 7 of the first pipe 3 is arranged within the wall (not shown in Fig. 9).
[0051] As described in connection with the first embodiment, the first pipe 3 having an outer diameter Do. Also, the leak-safe water tap system 100 comprises a second pipe 9, the second pipe 9 has an inner diameter Di being larger than the outer diameter Do of the first pipe 3 as seen in Fig. 2a. The second pipe 9 has a first pipe end 10 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2, the second pipe 9 having a pipe extension 12 extending from the first pipe end 10 towards a second pipe end 11, wherein the second pipe 9 circumferences the first pipe 3 at least along the part 8 of the extension 7 arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall. If for instance a leak occurs between the first pipe 3 and the connection box 2 the leaked water will flow into the second pipe 9 and therefrom flow out of the second pipe 9 at the second pipe end whereby it is avoided that the water will leak into the wall and thereby it is also avoided that an interior of the wall is not damaged by water. Furthermore, since the leaked water is flowing out of the second pipe at the second pipe end it may easily be detected that a leak occurs and thereby the leak may be stopped. In prior system the leak may not be detected since the leak may be within a wall having the consequence that the leak may provide a larger damage to the wall before it is being detected.
[0052] In Fig. 10, an exploded view of the second embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown. Like the first embodiment the second embodiment comprises the first pipe 3 having the tap 4 at the second end 6. The first end 5 of the first pipe 3 has a thread section 13 being configured to be screwed into a corresponding thread arranged in connection with the connection box 2. The system 100 also comprises the second pipe 9 which at the first pipe end 10 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2.
[0053] At the second pipe end 11, a plate member 17 is arranged. The plate member 17 is screwed by means of screws 19 or bolts onto the exterior of the wall and the second end 6 of the first pipe is extending through an aperture 18 in the plate member 17. A locking screw 20 may be screwed through an opening in a flange surrounding the aperture 18 so that it abuts the outside of the first pipe 3 and thereby maintain the first pipe 3 in position after is has been connected with the connection box 2. Preferably, the plate member 17 is made of metal, however, it may also be made of a polymeric material, a composite or any combinations thereof. Furthermore, a ring element 34 is arranged at the second pipe end 11 of the second pipe 9.
[0054] The second pipe 9 is in the present embodiment a corrugated pipe made of a polymeric material. In other embodiments the second pipe 9 may be made of metal, a composite or any combinations thereof. The second pipe 9 may also be a plain pipe.
[0055] The second pipe 9 is in the present embodiment sealingly connected with the connection box 2 by means of a pipe snap-click connection 35. However, in other embodiments the second pipe may be welded to the connection box 2 or it may be connected as described in connection with the first embodiment.
[0056] As mentioned above, the first pipe 3 is configured to be inserted into the second pipe 9 and connected with the connection box 2 inside the second pipe 9. The present embodiment comprises a connection part 21 which may be maintained inside of the connection box 2. Also, the connection part 21 is removable arranged in the connection box 2 as will be further described below. The connection part 21 has an internal thread being arranged so the first end 5 of the first pipe 3 may be screwed into engagement of the internal first thread so that the first pipe 3 is fluidly connected with the connection part 21. The connection part 21 also has a second connection 23 configured to the connected with a water supply (not shown). In the present embodiment, the connection part 21 fluidly connects the water supply with the first pipe. In addition, the second connection 23 may be a threaded connection or it may be a snap-click connection 24 as shown in Fig. 10. Preferably, the connection part is made of a rigid material such as metal.
[0057] The connection box 2 is configured to be incorporated into a wall so that the pipes and tubes are hidden by the wall. It is important that the connection box 2 is positioned correctly wherefore in the present embodiment it is screwed into the wall by means of four screws 25. The connection box 2 may be made of a polymeric material, metal, a composite or any combination thereof.
[0058] The connection box also comprises a protruding part 36 arranged opposite where the second pipe is connected with the connection box 2. The connection part 21 may be arranged inside the connection box 2 via the protruding part 36. A positioning lid 37 may subsequently be inserted into the protruding part 36 and be securely fasten to the connection box 2 by means of the screws 38. The positioning lid 37 may comprise a projecting pin 39 which function as a positioning element for the connection part 21. The positioning lid 37 further function as an isolation element in relation to the outside for minimizing a thermal bridge through the system 100.
[0059] In addition, a collar 40 is connected with the protruding part 36 and is arranged on the wall. The collar 40 is configured to receive the removable hatch 33 so that the interior of the connection box 2 is shielded off. On the other hand, the present embodiment enables that the interior of the connection box 2 may be accessed through the collar 40 when the hatch 33 has been removed. Hereby is obtained that the components of the system 100 may be replaced through the collar 40.
[0060] The collar 40 and hatch 33 may have a design similar to other installations arranged on a wall, such as wall sockets for power or similar. In another embodiment the collar and hatch may be arranged inside the wall.
[0061] In Fig. 11, the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown in a cross-section view. As mentioned above, the connection box 2 ensures that the first pipe 3 is sealingly connected with the water supply 26. This may be provided via the connection box 2 itself, via a connection part 21 arranged in connection with the connection box or via an interface part also being in connection with the connection box 2.
[0062] The water supply 26 may comprise a first tubing 27 having a first tube end 28 connected with the connection box 2 and a second tube end 29 connected with the water supply 26.
[0063] Furthermore, the system 100 also comprises a second tubing 30, the second tubing 30 has an inner tube diameter being larger than an outer tube diameter of the first tubing 27 like in same manner as shown in Fig. 2a in relation to the first pipe and second pipe. The second tubing 30 has a first tubing end 31 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2, the second tubing 30 having a tubing extension extending from the first tubing end 31 towards a second tubing end 32, wherein the second tubing 30 circumferences the first tubing 27 at least along a tubing part of the first tubing 27 arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall.
[0064] The second pipe 9 and/or the second tubing 30 is/are configured to function as a guide channel for the first pipe 3 or the first tubing 27, respectively. Especially in the present embodiment, the second tubing 30 may be used as a guide channel for the first tubing by removing the hatch whereby the connection part 21 may be removed together with the first tubing.
[0065] Figs. 12a to 12e show a sequence of how to mount the second embodiment of the system 100. In Fig. 12a, the connection box 2 and the second pipe 9 is provided in the wall (not shown). The connection box 2 is positioned and is fasten within the wall by means of the screws 25. A passage through the wall may be provided in various ways, for instance by drilling the passage so that the second pipe may be placed in the passage. Obviously, the lengths of the first pipe and the second pipe depend on the thickness of the wall in which it shall be mounted. Also, the connection box 2 is arranged at a predetermined distance from the wall so that protruding part 36 is aligned with the interior of the wall.
[0066] In Fig. 12b, the first tubing 27 is being fluidly connected with the connection box 2. Furthermore, the collar 40 and the hatch 33 is arranged in connection with the protruding part 36. In addition, the ring element 34 has been arranged at the second pipe end 11 of the second pipe 9.
[0067] Hereinafter, the plate member 17 is arranged opposite the second pipe end 11 and is fasten to the exterior of the wall by means of screws 19, as seen in Figs. 12c and 12d. In Fig. 12d, the first pipe 3 with the tap 4 is ready to be inserted into the second pipe 9.
[0068] In Fig. 12e, the first pipe 3 has been screwed into engagement with the connection part 21 so that the first tubing 27 is fluidly connected with the first pipe 3 via the connection box 2. The first tubing is connected with a water supply and the first pipe 3 is connected with the tap 4 so that water may flow out of the tap 4 when it is being opened.
[0069] Figs. 13a to 13c show a sequence of how to dismount the second embodiment of the system 100. If the first tubing is leaking of some reason it may be relevant to replace this first tubing. The present invention according to the second embodiment ensures this possibility. This may be performed by unscrewing the first pipe 3 and remove it from the second pipe 9 as seen in Fig. 13a. In addition, the hatch 33 is removed so that the interior of the connection box 2 is accessible. Then the screws 38 are unscrewed so that the positioning lid 37 may be removed and whereby the connection part 21 is removable from the connection box 2.
[0070] As seen in Fig. 13b, the connection part 21 is connected with the first tubing 27 whereby the first tubing may be pulled out of the second tubing 30. Obviously, the first tubing 27 has been released from the water supply in the opposite end in relation to the connection part 21. Also, the first tubing is made of a flexible material, such as a polymeric material.
[0071] In Fig. 13c, the first tubing is being pulled further out of the second tubing via the collar 40. When the first tubing 27 has been completely removed a new first tubing may be guided in the second tubing 30 and be connected with the water supply and subsequently arranged in fluidly connection with the connection part 21 which then is arranged in the connection box 2 as described above.
[0072] This second embodiment is a flexible system which both provide the possibility of changing a first tubing while providing a leak-safe water tap system.
[0073] In Fig. 14 a third embodiment of a leak-safe water tap system 100 to be arranged through a wall of a building. The system 100 is shown in a perspective view. The design of the system 100 of the third embodiment corresponds substantially to the above-mentioned embodiments, however some differences are present which will be further described below.
[0074] One of the differences of the third embodiment of the system 100 compared to the other embodiments is the connection box 2 in that the connection box 2 has another design and function.
[0075] Fig. 15 shows the third embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system 100 to be arranged through a wall 1 of a building. The leak-safe water tap system 100 comprises a connection box 2 being configured to connect a water supply with a first pipe 3. The leak-safe water tap system 100 is in Fig. 15 shown from the outside arranged through the wall 1. The embodiment of Fig. 15 shows a part of the leak-safe water tap system 100 arranged outside the wall 1, namely the tap 4. The rest of the system 100 is in this embodiment arranged inside the wall 1.
[0076] In Fig. 16, the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The first pipe 3 having a first end 5 being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box 2 and a second end 6 being configured to be connected with a tap 4, the first pipe 3 having an extension 7 extending between the first end 5 and the second end 6. A part 8 of the extension 7 of the first pipe 3 is arranged within the wall (not shown in Fig. 16).
[0077] As described in connection with the other embodiments, the first pipe 3 having an outer diameter Do. Also, the leak-safe water tap system 100 comprises a second pipe 9, the second pipe 9 has an inner diameter Di being larger than the outer diameter Do of the first pipe 3 as seen in Fig. 2a. The second pipe 9 has a first pipe end 10 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2, the second pipe 9 having a pipe extension 12 extending from the first pipe end 10 towards a second pipe end 11, wherein the second pipe 9 circumferences the first pipe 3 at least along the part 8 of the extension 7 arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall. If for instance a leak occurs between the first pipe 3 and the connection box 2 the leaked water will flow into the second pipe 9 and therefrom flow out of the second pipe 9 at the second pipe end 11 whereby it is avoided that the water will leak into the wall and thereby it is also avoided that an interior of the wall is not damaged by water. Furthermore, since the leaked water is flowing out of the second pipe at the second pipe end 11 it may easily be detected that a leak occurs and thereby the leak may be stopped. In prior system the leak may not be detected since the leak may be within a wall having the consequence that the leak may provide a larger damage to the wall before it is being detected.
[0078] In Fig. 17, an exploded view of the third embodiment of the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown. Like the other embodiments the third embodiment comprises the first pipe 3 having the tap 4 at the second end 6. The first end 5 of the first pipe 3 has a thread section 13 being configured to be screwed into a corresponding thread arranged in connection with the connection box 2. The system 100 also comprises the second pipe 9 which at the first pipe end 10 being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2.
[0079] At the second pipe end 11 a plate member 17 is arranged. The plate member 17 is screwed by means of screws 19 or bolts onto the exterior of the wall and the second end 6 of the first pipe is extending through an aperture 18 in the plate member 17. A locking screw 20 may be screwed through an opening in a flange surrounding the aperture 18 so that it abuts the outside of the first pipe 3 and thereby maintain the first pipe 3 in position after is has been connected with the connection box 2. Preferably, the plate member 17 is made of metal, however, it may also be made of a polymeric material, a composite or any combinations thereof.
[0080] The second pipe 9 is in the present embodiment a corrugated pipe made of a polymeric material. In other embodiments the second pipe may be made of metal, a composite or any combinations thereof. The second pipe 9 may also be a plain pipe.
[0081] The second pipe 9 is in the present embodiment sealingly connected with the connection box 2 by means of a pipe snap-click connection 35. However, in other embodiments the second pipe may be welded to the connection box 2 or it may be connected as described in connection with the first embodiment.
[0082] As mentioned above, the first pipe 3 is configured to be inserted into the second pipe 9 and connected with the connection box 2 inside the second pipe 9. The present embodiment comprises a connection part 21 which may be securely maintained inside of the connection box 2 or a projecting part thereof. Also, the connection part 21 is removable arranged in the connection box 2. The connection part 21 has an internal thread being arranged so the first end 5 of the first pipe 3 may be screwed into engagement of the internal first thread so that the first pipe 3 is fluidly connected with the connection part 21. The connection part 21 also has a second connection 23 configured to the connected with a water supply (not shown). In the present embodiment the connection part 21 fluidly connect the water supply with the first pipe. In addition, the second connection 23 may be a threaded connection or it may be a snap-click connection 24 as shown in Fig. 17. Preferably, the connection part is made of a rigid material such as metal.
[0083] The connection box 2 is configured to be incorporated into a wall so that the pipes and tubes are hidden by the wall. It is important that the connection box 2 is positioned correctly wherefore in the present embodiment it is screwed into the wall by means of four screws 25. The connection box 2 may be made of a polymeric material, metal, a composite or any combination thereof.
[0084] This embodiment may for instance be built in a light wall during the construction of the wall.
[0085] The connection box 2 comprises a first groove 41 being configured to guide first tubing (not shown) and a second groove 42 being curved compared to the first groove 41 as also seen in Fig. 17. The second groove is configured to hold the first tubing and a locking part 43 may be arranged across the second groove 42 for maintaining the first tubing when it is being arranged therein.
[0086] In Fig. 18, the leak-safe water tap system 100 is shown in a perspective view. The first tubing 27 is arranged inside the second tubing 30 is maintained in the second groove 42 and locked by the locking part 43. This is also shown in the side view of the leak-safe water tap system 100 shown in Fig. 19.
[0087] As mentioned above, the connection box 2 ensures that the first pipe 3 is sealingly connected with the water supply 26. This may be provided via the connection box 2 itself, via a connection part 21 arranged in connection with the connection box 2 or via an interface part also being in connection with the connection box 2.
[0088] The water supply 26 may comprise a first tubing 27 having a first tube end connected with the connection box 2 via the connection part 21 and a second tube end connected with the water supply 26.
[0089] Furthermore, the system 100 also comprises a second tubing 30, the second tubing 30 has an inner tube diameter being larger than an outer tube diameter of the first tubing 27 like in same manner as shown in Fig. 2a in relation to the first pipe and second pipe. The second tubing 30 has a first tubing end being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box 2, the second tubing 30 having a tubing extension extending from the first tubing end 31 towards a second tubing end, wherein the second tubing 30 circumferences the first tubing 27 at least along a tubing part of the first tubing 27 arranged within the wall for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall.
[0090] The second pipe 9 and/or the second tubing 30 is/are configured to function as a guide channel for the first pipe 3 or the first tubing 27, respectively.
[0091] Figs. 20a to 20f show a sequence of how to mount the third embodiment of the system 100. In Fig. 20a, the connection box 2 and the second pipe 9 is provided in the wall (not shown). The connection box 2 is positioned and is fasten to the wall by means of the screws. Obviously, the lengths of the first pipe and the second pipe depend on the thickness of the wall in which it shall be mounted. Furthermore, the first tubing 27 extending inside the second tubing 30 having a first tubing end 31 and a second tubing end 32 is arranged in relation to the connection box 2 so that the first tube end 28 may be introduced into the first groove 41 in a straight line in relation to a longitudinal extension 44 of the second pipe 9.
[0092] In Fig. 20b the first tubing 27 and the second tubing 30 are moved into fluidly connection with the connection part 21 and the connection box 2. Hereinafter, the first tubing 27 and the second tubing 30 are together moved into the second groove 42 in the connection box 2 so that is guided to a substantially perpendicular direction compared to the longitudinal extension 44 of the second pipe 9 as seen in Fig. 20c.
[0093] Hereinafter, the plate member 17 is arranged opposite the second pipe end 11 and is fasten to the exterior of the wall by means of screws 19, as seen in Figs. 20d and 20e. In Fig. 20e, the first pipe 3 with the tap 4 is ready to be inserted into the second pipe 9.
[0094] In Fig. 20f, the first pipe 3 has been screwed into engagement with the connection part 21 so that the first tubing 27 is fluidly connected with the first pipe 3 via the connection box 2. The first tubing 27 is connected with a water supply and the first pipe 3 is connected with the tap 4 so that water may flow out of the tap 4 when it is being opened.
[0095] Figs. 21a to 21b show a sequence of how to dismount the third embodiment of the system 100. If the first tubing 27 is leaking of some reason it may be relevant to replace this first tubing 27. The present invention according to the third embodiment ensures this possibility. This may be performed by unscrewing the locking screw 20 so that the first pipe 3 is freely movable. By pulling the tap 4 with a force higher than the force for maintaining the snap-click connection 24 in position it is possible to pull the first pipe 3, the connection part 21 and the first tubing 27 out through the second pipe 9 as shown in Fig. 21b. Obviously, the first tubing 27 has been released from the water supply in the opposite end in relation to the connection part 21. Also, the first tubing 27 is made of a flexible material, such as a polymeric material.
[0096] When the first tubing 27 has been completely removed a new first tubing may be guided in through the opposite direction meaning that the first tubing may be introduced via the second pipe 9 and therefrom into the second tubing 30. The first tubing 27 is connected with the connection part 21 which is arranged in the snap-click connection in the connection box 2. Again, the first pipe 3 is connected with the connection part 21.
[0097] This third embodiment is a flexible system which both provide the possibility of changing a first tubing 27 while providing a leak-safe water tap system 100.
[0098] Common for all embodiments are that the first pipe, the second pipe, the first tubing or the second tubing may be made of a rigid material such as metal or composite, or the first pipe, the second pipe, the first tubing or the second tubing may be made of a polymeric material. Advantageously, at least the first tubing is made of a flexible material such as a polymeric material.
[0099] Preferably, the connection part is made of a rigid material such as metal especially when it has an internal thread.
[0100] As shown in the drawings, the connection box may be substantially square-shaped and may have a height of between 60 mm to 100 mm and a width of between 40 mm to 70 mm.
[0103] In addition, the second pipe may have an aperture near the second pipe end 11 and outside the wall for allowing potential leaked water to escape out of the second pipe without entering into the wall.
[0104] Also, the plate member may have a leaking groove extending from the aperture and downwards so that leaked water in the second pipe may flow out of the second pipe and into the leaking groove defined by the plate member and the exterior wall.
[0105] In addition, the second pipe is sealed off at the first pipe end 10 in relation to the connection box 2 so that any leaked water from the first pipe only will leak into the second pipe and therefrom flow towards the second pipe end 11.
1. A leak-safe water tap system (100) to be arranged through a wall (1) of a building,
comprising
a connection box (2) being configured to connect a water supply (26) with a first pipe (3),
the first pipe (3) having a first end (5) being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box (2) and a second end (6) being configured to be connected with a tap (4), the first pipe having an extension (7) extending between the first end (5) and the second end (6), a part (8) of the extension of the first pipe is arranged within the wall (1), the first pipe having an outer diameter Do,
wherein the leak-safe water tap system (100) comprises a second pipe (9), the second pipe (9) has an inner diameter Di being larger than the outer diameter Do of the first pipe (3), the second pipe (9) has a first pipe end (10) being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box (2), the second pipe having a pipe extension (12) extending from the first pipe end towards a second pipe end (11), wherein the second pipe (9) circumferences the first pipe (3) at least along the part of the extension arranged within the wall (1) for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall (1).
a connection box (2) being configured to connect a water supply (26) with a first pipe (3),
the first pipe (3) having a first end (5) being configured to be fluidly connected with the water supply via the connection box (2) and a second end (6) being configured to be connected with a tap (4), the first pipe having an extension (7) extending between the first end (5) and the second end (6), a part (8) of the extension of the first pipe is arranged within the wall (1), the first pipe having an outer diameter Do,
wherein the leak-safe water tap system (100) comprises a second pipe (9), the second pipe (9) has an inner diameter Di being larger than the outer diameter Do of the first pipe (3), the second pipe (9) has a first pipe end (10) being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box (2), the second pipe having a pipe extension (12) extending from the first pipe end towards a second pipe end (11), wherein the second pipe (9) circumferences the first pipe (3) at least along the part of the extension arranged within the wall (1) for ensuring that any leak of water will not leak into the wall (1).
2. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first end (5)
of the first pipe (3) is sealingly connected with the water supply (26) via the connection
box (2) itself or a connection part (21) arranged within the connection box or an
interface part.
3. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein
the water supply (26) comprises a first tubing (27) having a first tube end (28) connected
with the connection box (2) and a second tube end (29) connected with the water supply.
4. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the connection part
(21) has a first connection having a first tread configured to be connected with a
pipe tread arranged at the first end (5) of the first pipe (3) and a second connection
(23) configured to be connected with the first tube end (28) of the first tubing (27).
5. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 2 and/or 4, wherein the connection
part (21) is removable arranged in the connection box (2).
6. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 3, further comprising a second
tubing (30), the second tubing has an inner tube diameter being larger than an outer
tube diameter of the first tubing (27), the second tubing has a first tubing end (31)
being in a leak-tight manner connected with the connection box (2), the second tubing
having a tubing extension extending from the first tubing end (31) towards a second
tubing end (32), wherein the second tubing (30) circumferences the first tubing (27)
at least along a tubing part of the first tubing arranged within the wall for ensuring
that any leak of water will not leak into the wall.
7. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 6, wherein the first tube end
(28) of the first tubing (27) is sealingly connected with the first pipe (3) via the
connection box (2) itself, or a connection part (21) arranged within the connection
box or an interface part.
8. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein
the connection box (2) comprises a hatch (33), the hatch (33) being releasable connected
with the connection box (2).
9. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 8, wherein the hatch (33) is
accessible and openable from outside or inside the wall.
10. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to claim 8, wherein a releasable positioning
lid (37) is arranged between the hatch (33) and the connection part (21) within the
connection box (2) for positioning the connection part (21) and to function as an
isolation element in relation to the outside for minimizing a thermal bridge through
the system.
11. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein
the second pipe (9) and/or the second tubing (30) is/are configured to function as
a guide channel for the first pipe (3) or the first tubing (27), respectively.
12. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein
the first pipe (3), the second pipe (9), the first tubing (27) and/or the second tubing
(30) is made of a polymeric material.
13. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein
the first pipe (3) is configured to be inserted into the second pipe (9) from the
second pipe end (11) and connected with the connection box (2).
14. A leak-safe water tap system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein
a plate member (17) is arranged on an exterior face of the wall (1) opposite the second
pipe end (11) of the second pipe (9), the plate member (17) has an aperture (18) in
which the first pipe extends through, and the plate member has a leaking groove extending
from the aperture and downwards so that leaked water in the second pipe (9) may flow
out of the second pipe (9) and into the leaking groove defined by the plate member
and the exterior wall.
15. A building having a wall (1) wherein a leak-safe water tap system (100) according
to any of the preceding claims is arranged.