Apparatus for flushing a toilet, comprising an accumulator

A flushing apparatus (1, 301) for being installed in the cistern of a toilet including a flushing device (2) for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern and a hydraulically-driven control circuit (3, 303) for operating the flushing device. The control circuit (3, 303) includes a water inlet (P) for fluidly connecting the control circuit (3, 303) to a source of pressurised water and an accumulator (6) fluidly connected to the water inlet (P) and configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source trough the control circuit (3, 303) to activate the flushing device (2).

This invention relates generally to accumulators. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to accumulators for control and supply circuits for hydraulic devices used for controlling the discharging and/or refilling of toilet cisterns and/or for clearing drains.

Toilet cisterns generally include a flushing device for discharging the contents of the cistern and a filling device for refilling the cistern following a flushing cycle. The flushing device is normally mounted to obstruct an outlet of the cistern that feeds a toilet pan and configured to selectively allow fluid flow therethrough to flush waste out of the pan. The filling device is normally connected to a mains water supply or header tank for introducing replacement water into the cistern.

The flushing device can be operated manually, for example using a mechanical actuator in the form of a lever or push button, or automatically, for example using an electromechanical actuation system. Manually operated flushing devices require a predetermined amount of force to unseat a valve member, or to initiate a syphonic action in the case of syphon flushing devices. Recent developments aimed at reducing the force required to operate flushing device actuators have utilised mains water pressure to complement or replace the initiation force required with purely mechanical solutions. The use of mains water pressure also precludes the need for an electrical power supply.

WO2015036767, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes a flushing syphon that incorporates an actuator piston secured to the piston rod of a syphon-initiating piston. The actuator piston is reciprocable within a cylinder having an inlet into which mains water pressure is selectively introduced to move the piston in order to initiate syphonic action, thereby emptying the contents of the cistern. Mains water is supplied to the actuator cylinder and is controlled by an in-line operating valve that is operated by a pilot valve incorporated in an operator actuated push button.

It would be desirable to provide a solution that is simpler and more adaptable to domestic installations. The characteristics of water supply systems, including pipes, plumbing system design and cistern characteristics can vary widely between installations. It is therefore a non-exclusive aim of the invention to provide a cistern flushing apparatus and associated control circuit that improves the adaptability and simplicity of known installations.

It is a further, more general non-exclusive aim of the invention to provide an improved cistern flushing apparatus and associated control circuit.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern and a control circuit for operating the flushing device, the control circuit comprising an inlet for connecting the control circuit to a source and an accumulator fluidly connected to the inlet and configured to supplement, in use, a flow supplied by the source to or through the control circuit.

Thus, variations in pressure and/or flow caused by restrictions within the installation or any fluctuations in supply, whether from the source or from usage in other parts of the installation, can be mitigated. This is due to the fact that pressurised fluid introduced into the accumulator from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water.

The apparatus or control circuit may comprise a power-driven, e.g. fluid-power-driven, control circuit. Preferably, the control circuit comprises a hydraulically-driven control circuit. The inlet may be for connecting to a source of power, e.g. for fluidly connecting the control circuit to a source of pressurised fluid such as air but preferably water. The accumulator may be fluidly connected to the inlet and configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source to the control circuit.

Another aspect of the invention provides a fluid supply control circuit comprising a fluid inlet, e.g. for fluid connection with a source of pressurised fluid, a fluid outlet, e.g. for supplying pressurised fluid to a fluidic device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, e.g. for selectively opening fluid communication therebetween, and an accumulator fluidly connected between the operating valve and the fluid inlet, wherein the accumulator is configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised fluid supplied by the source to the fluid outlet.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides an accumulator. The accumulator may comprise an inlet, e.g. a fluid inlet, which may be for fluid connection with a source of pressurised fluid, e.g. water. The inlet of the accumulator may correspond to or be for fluid connection with the fluid inlet of the control circuit. The accumulator may comprise an outlet, e.g. a fluid outlet, which may correspond to or be for fluid connection with the fluid outlet of the control circuit. The fluid outlet may be for fluid connection with a fluidic device or the operating valve of the control circuit.

The control circuit and/or accumulator may comprise a second outlet, which may be a fluid outlet. The second outlet may be for fluid connection with a fluidic device, e.g. a further fluidic device. The second outlet may bypass or be configured, in use, to bypass the operating valve.

The fluid may comprise a hydraulic fluid, e.g. water. The or at least one or each fluidic device may comprise a hydraulic device. The hydraulic device may comprise a flushing device, e.g. for emptying a cistern. The further hydraulic device may comprise a filling device, e.g. for filling a cistern. At least one of the hydraulic devices may comprise a jetting device, e.g. for clearing drains.

The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an air inlet and/or venturi means, e.g. for introducing, in use, air into the accumulator. The venturi means may comprise a venturi and/or may be downstream of the inlet or fluid inlet of the apparatus, control circuit and/or upstream of the inlet or fluid inlet of the accumulator. The venturi means may be in fluid communication with the air inlet, e.g. for entraining air from the air inlet into the accumulator.

The applicants have observed that, over time, air in the accumulator may become depleted. Whilst not wishing to be bound by any theory, this is believed to be caused by one or both of the air dissolving into the water within the accumulator and/or permeating through the wall of the accumulator. By regularly reintroducing air into the accumulator, this phenomenon is mitigated.

As used herein, the terms upstream and downstream refer to locations within the apparatus, circuit or accumulator relative to the direction of flow, in use, therethrough.

The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an air inlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe, which may extend from the air inlet and/or to or toward the venturi means. The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an inlet tube, e.g. a fluid or water inlet tube, which may be in fluid communication with the inlet or fluid or water inlet. The inlet tube may comprise a restriction, constriction or reduction in internal diameter, which may provide, at least in part, the venturi means. The inlet tube may extend into a base of the accumulator.

At least one of the outlet(s) of the apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may be in fluid communication with the or a base of the accumulator, e.g. a sump therein. In embodiments, a water outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe is provided, which may be in fluid communication with the sump of base of the accumulator. The base of the accumulator may comprise an upper portion or intended upper portion of the accumulator. Preferably, the base of the accumulator comprises a lower portion or intended lower portion of the accumulator.

In embodiments, the outlet(s) or the outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe is or are located at and/or extend from an upper portion or intended upper portion of the accumulator. The accumulator outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe may extend into a lower portion of the accumulator, for example such that pressurised air within the accumulator and/or water introduced, in use, through the inlet or inlet pipe into the accumulator forces water out of the outlet(s) or outlet pipe, e.g. and to or toward the actuator of a cistern flushing device and/or to or toward a cistern filling device.

The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise a non-return or one-way means, e.g. valve means. The non-return or one-way means may be associated with the air inlet, e.g. for allowing air to enter, in use, into the control circuit and/or inhibiting water egress from the control circuit.

The control circuit or accumulator may be for a drain clearing device. Indeed, the control circuit or accumulator may be for any device requiring the flow from a fluid source to be supplemented.

The apparatus or control circuit may comprise an actuator. The actuator may comprise a hydraulically-driven actuator, which may be operatively connected to or comprised or incorporated in, e.g. integral with, the flushing device. The actuator may be for operating, or configured to operate, the flushing device. The control circuit may comprise an operating valve, which may be between the actuator and the inlet and/or the accumulator, e.g. for selectively opening fluid communication therebetween.

The accumulator may comprise a container and/or a mouth. In embodiments, the mouth may provide the inlet and at least one outlet. The mouth may be in an upper or lower portion of the accumulator or container. The accumulator or container may describe or define a space for storing a pressurised fluid, e.g. water and/or air. The inlet or mouth may be fluidly connected between the inlet of the control circuit and the operating valve, e.g. such that pressurised fluid introduced therein from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water.

The flushing device may, but need not, comprise a syphon or any other suitable flushing device, such as a flush valve with a pivotable or retractable valve member or plug for selectively closing the outlet of a cistern. For example, the flushing device may comprise a flushing valve that is operable or configured to operate by hydraulic fluid pressure, such as the flush valve described in GB2488382.

Where the flushing device comprises a syphon, the syphon may have an inverted generally U shaped duct with an upleg and a downleg. The syphon may comprise an open-ended chamber, which may be fluidly connected to the upleg. The syphon may comprise a piston movable in the chamber. The actuator, e.g. of the control circuit, may be operatively connected to the piston, e.g. for moving the piston in the chamber to initiate a syphonic flushing action.

The syphon may comprise two, three or more parts that may be adjustable relative to one another. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a first part, having an evacuation tube with a lower end adapted to be mounted to the base of a cistern. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a second part, having a suction tube and an open-ended chamber, which may have a piston movable therein, e.g. by the actuator. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a third part, having an inverted generally U-shaped duct with an upleg portion and a downleg portion. The upleg portion and downleg portion of the U-shaped duct may each be mounted in telescopic relation with the suction tube and evacuation tube respectively.

The apparatus may comprise a manifold, for example an inlet manifold, which will be referred to hereinafter as an inlet manifold but this term may be replaced by the term manifold. The inlet manifold may include the inlet and/or an accumulator port, e.g. to which the accumulator is operatively and/or fluidly connected or coupled. The inlet manifold may include an outlet, e.g. a first outlet, to which the operating valve may be operatively and/or fluidly connected or coupled. The inlet manifold may comprise a second outlet, for example to which is fluidly connected or connectable a filling device, e.g. for refilling the cistern following a flushing event.

The inlet manifold may comprise a part, e.g. a first part, which may include the first outlet. The inlet manifold may comprise a part, e.g. a second part, which may include the second outlet. The second part may be movable relative to the first part, for example to enable the position of the fill device to be adjusted relative to the operating valve. The first part of the inlet manifold may mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the open-ended chamber or second part of the syphon, e.g. for movement therewith.

At least part of the filing device may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the second part for movement therewith. One or both of the operating valve and/or the accumulator may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the first part.

The first and second parts may be telescopically adjustable relative to one another. The second part may be step-wise adjustable relative to the first part.

One of the parts, e.g. the first part, may comprise a rack, which may be mounted relative thereto or incorporated therein or otherwise associated therewith. The other part, e.g. the second part, may comprise a latch, which may be mounted relative thereto or incorporated therein or associated therewith. The latch may be for releasably engaging the rack, for example at one of a plurality of positions, e.g. to provide the step-wise adjustment. The teeth of the rack may lie at an angle relative, e.g. to the horizontal, such as for inhibiting inadvertent disengagement between the latch and the rack.

In embodiments, the rack is comprised in or mounted to another part of the flushing apparatus, for example one of the parts of the syphon or the actuator. The actuator may comprise an actuator piston, which may be movable within an actuator chamber. The actuator chamber may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the open-ended chamber or second part of the syphon, e.g. for movement therewith. The rack may be mounted to or formed on an outer surface of the actuator chamber. Thus, in embodiments where both the actuator chamber and the first part of the inlet manifold are mounted to the open-ended syphon chamber or the second part of the syphon, the rack may be fixed in position relative to both.

The accumulator may comprise a mouth, which may be mounted, coupled or secured and/or in fluid communication with the accumulator port. The mouth may be mounted, coupled or secured to the accumulator port by a bayonet fitting. The latch may be configured to inhibit disengagement of the mouth or bayonet fitting, for example when it is engaged with the rack.

The apparatus or control circuit may comprise a filling device, e.g. a cistern filling device. The filling device may comprise a float operated valve assembly. The filling device may comprise one or more of a valve, an arm, which may be pivotally mounted relative to the valve, and a float, which may be attached to the arm, e.g. at or adjacent a first end of the arm. The filling device may be configured such that when the float is in a raised position, a portion of the arm closes the valve, and/or when the float is in a lowered position, the valve is open.

The filling device may comprise a float chamber or reservoir, e.g. a delayed fill float chamber or reservoir, hereinafter float chamber. The float may be received or receivable within the float chamber. The float chamber may comprise an open top and/or a draining port in its base. The float may be movable within the float chamber and/or may extend through the open top thereof. In embodiments, the float chamber may comprise a deflector, lid or cover, for example to prevent or inhibit water from valve of the filling device from entering, in use, the float chamber. In such embodiments, the float chamber may comprise a side opening, which may be of variable size and/or configuration, for allowing water from within the cistern to enter the float chamber, e.g. as the water level rises to such opening.

The valve of the filling device may comprise an equilibrium valve, for example a diaphragm-type equilibrium valve, which may include a bleed port. The bleed port may be closed by the arm, e.g. the or a portion of the arm, e.g. when the float is in the raised position. The bleed port may be unobstructed by the arm when the float is in the lowered position.

The apparatus may comprise a coupling, e.g. for releasably coupling, in use, the inlet to the source. The coupling may include two or more parts, e.g. first and second parts, which may be releasably coupled together. The coupling may be upstream of the accumulator, for example to enable the control circuit to be releasably coupled to the source. The coupling may be operable or couplable manually or automatically, e.g. via a spring loaded mechanism.

The first part of the coupling may comprise a locking ring, which may include a series of inwardly extending radial teeth. The second part of the coupling may comprise a series of outwardly extending radial teeth. The locking ring may be movable between an uncoupled or unlocked position, e.g. in which the second part is insertable into the inlet, and/or a coupled or locked position, e.g. in which removal of the second part is prevented.

At least one of the first and second parts of the coupling may comprise a recess for receiving a filter, e.g. such that it is captivated between the first and second parts when they are coupled together. The first part may comprise a stepped recess, e.g. wherein the filter is configured to abut the step when the first and second parts are coupled together. The second part may comprise an annular recess within which an end or periphery of the filter is received. The apparatus may comprise a filter, e.g. received between the first and second parts of the coupling. The filter may comprise a conical filter, which may include a frame with a circular inlet corresponding to the mouth of the filter. The filter may comprise a seal, e.g. an O-ring seal, which may be received within a radial groove in the frame or between the circular inlet of the frame and a facing surface of the first and/or second parts.

The apparatus may comprise a push button actuator, which may be operatively connected to the control circuit, e.g. for operating the flushing device. The push button actuator may comprise push button mounted to a body, e.g. movably or actuatably mounted to the body. The push button actuator may comprise a surround with a recess, within which recess the body and/or the push button may be received. The surround, e.g. the recess of the surround, and the body may comprise cooperating radial features. The radial features may cooperate such that the push button is in a first position when the body and the surround are in a first relative radial orientation and/or is in a second position when the body and the surround are in a second relative radial orientation. The push button may be flush or stand proud of the surround in the first position. In the second position, the push button may be retracted relative to the first position.

The radial features of one of the surround or the recess of the surround and the body may comprise castellations. The radial features of the other may comprise spokes. The spokes may rest on or against the castellations, e.g. in the first relative orientation and/or between the castellations, e.g. in the second relative orientation. Preferably, the surround or recess of the surround comprises the castellations and the body comprises the spokes.

At least one or each castellation may comprise a recess, e.g. within which a respective one of the spokes is received in the first relative orientation. The recess may be formed by a pair of spaced projections.

The apparatus or control circuit or accumulator, for example the inlet manifold, may comprise one or more non-return means, e.g. one or more non-return valves, for preventing water from flowing back through the inlet toward the source. The non-return means may be associated with the inlet or fluid inlet, e.g. water inlet, and/or may be upstream of the accumulator. The non-return means may be configured or operable such that the pressure within the accumulator corresponds substantially to a peak pressure to which the control circuit is exposed. For example, by allowing pressurised fluid from the source to enter the accumulator, whilst inhibiting such fluid from flowing from the accumulator back toward the source, the non-return means enables the accumulator to store the pressurised fluid when fluid pressure from the source drops.

In embodiments, the non-return means may comprise an anti back-syphonage valve. In embodiments, the non-return means may comprise a valve member, which may be biased or resiliently biased to seat against a valve seat. The biasing force may be configured such that a back flow of pressure toward the inlet, for example from the inlet manifold or accumulator, causes the valve member to unseat and/or allow air to be introduced into the inlet or inlet manifold, e.g. thereby preventing a flow of water toward the source through the inlet.

Another aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern, a hydraulically-driven control circuit for operating the flushing device, a filling device mounted to the flushing device for refilling the cistern following a flushing event and an inlet manifold with an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, wherein the inlet manifold comprises first and second outlets coupled respectively to the filling device and the control circuit.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern, a hydraulically-driven control circuit for operating the flushing device and a coupling for coupling an inlet of the control circuit to a pressurised water supply line, wherein the coupling comprises first and second parts releasably coupled together and a filter that is accessible and/or removable when the first and second parts are uncoupled.

A further aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus. The control circuit may comprise any one or more features described above in relation to any of the aforementioned aspect.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, an outlet for fluid connection with the actuator of a flushing device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet and an accumulator fluidly connected between the operating valve and the inlet, wherein the accumulator is configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source to the outlet.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an operating valve for selectively controlling the supply of pressurised water to the actuator of a flushing device, a filling device for refilling the cistern following a flushing event and an inlet manifold with an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, wherein the inlet manifold comprises first and second outlets coupled respectively to the filling device and the control circuit.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, an outlet for fluid connection with the actuator of a flushing device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet and a coupling for coupling an inlet to a pressurised water supply line, wherein the coupling comprises first and second parts releasably coupled together and a filter that is accessible and/or removable when the first and second parts are uncoupled.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a push button actuator for operating the flushing device, the actuator comprising a surround with a recess, a body received within the recess of the surround and a push button mounted to the body, wherein the recess of the surround and the body comprise cooperating radial features such that the push button is in a first position in which it is flush or stands proud of the surround when the body and the surround are in a first relative radial orientation and is in a second position in which it is retracted relative to the first position when the body and the surround are in a second relative radial orientation.

Other aspects of the invention provide a cistern comprising a flushing apparatus as described above, a toilet comprising such a cistern and a water closet installation comprising such a toilet.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of installing a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of operating a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. For example, the flushing apparatus may comprise any one or more features of the control circuit relevant thereto and vice versa. Similarly, the method may comprise any one or more features or steps relevant to one or more features of the flushing apparatus or the control circuit.

Another aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising and/or describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design for use with a simulation means or a three-dimensional additive or subtractive manufacturing means or device, e.g. a three-dimensional printer or CNC machine, the three-dimensional design comprising an embodiment of the aforementioned flushing apparatus or control circuit or any component thereof.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “may”, “and/or”, “e.g.”, “for example” and any similar term as used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, whether or not these are expressly claimed. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

Referring now toFIGS. 1 to 9, there is shown a cistern flushing apparatus1including a flushing device2for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern (not shown) and an integrated hydraulic circuit3for operating the flushing device2and for filling a cistern (not shown) following a flushing event.

In this embodiment, the flushing device2is in the form of an adjustable syphon2similar to that which is disclosed in GB2486776, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. More specifically, the syphon2includes first, second and third parts20,21,22mounted in telescopic relation with one another to enable adjustment of the flush volume characteristics thereof. The first part20includes an evacuation tube20ahaving a radial flange20cand threaded portion20bextending from the flange20cfor insertion through an outlet in the base of a cistern (not shown) to be secured thereto by a nut (not shown) in the normal way. The second part21includes a suction tube21aand an open-ended chamber21b. The third part22is in the form of an inverted generally U-shaped duct with an upleg portion22aand a downleg portion22b. The upleg portion22aand downleg portion22bof the U-shaped duct22are each mounted in telescopic relation with the suction tube21aand evacuation tube20arespectively.

The first part20also includes a pair of lugs20dprojecting laterally from its upper end each with a hole20etherethrough. The second part21includes a flat bracket21dprojecting laterally from the upper end of the suction tube21aand having a plurality of spaced holes21ethrough its thickness. The third part22includes a chain of lugs22dextending downwardly from the front of the bight of the U between the downleg and upleg portions22a,22band having a plurality of vertically spaced holes22ethrough its thickness. A releasable fastener23(shown inFIG. 4) including a pair of spaced pins extends through a pair of adjacent holes20e,21e,22ein each of the first, second and third parts20,21,22to secure simultaneously the parts20,21,22together.

The first part20includes a longitudinally extending rib20fand the second part21includes a bracket21fwith a keyway that receives the rib20fof the first part. These features20f,21ftogether with the telescopic connection between the parts20,21,22enables guided adjustment in their relative positions, as is known from GB2486776.

Within the open-ended chamber21bis a priming means in the form of a piston23including a frame24formed by a peripheral rim24awith a series of ribs24bextending between the sides of the rim24ato provide a series of openings therebetween. The piston23also includes a flexible diaphragm25secured at the centre of piston23by a cylindrical rod mount26which receives and secures a piston rod27. The piston rod27extends upwardly from the piston23, through the top wall of the chamber21band is formed of a material having sufficient mass to urge, in use, the piston23back down toward its home position, as shown inFIG. 5. The top wall of the open ended chamber21balso includes a series of openings28about the piston rod27and an inverted top-hat shaped sealing element29that surrounds the piston rod and is biased by a spring29aagainst the top wall to cover and seal the openings28. When the piston23is in a raised position, the rod mount26abuts the sealing element29and urges it against the spring bias to reveal the openings28. Thus, a partial flush can be achieved by keeping the piston23in a raised condition, since the syphonic action is broken when the water level reaches the openings28.

The integrated hydraulic circuit3includes a manifold4, a filling device5, an accumulator6, an operating valve7, a hydraulic actuator8and a telescopic lock9. The manifold4includes an inlet part40, which defines a horizontal inlet passage41and a vertical outlet chamber42, and an extension part43received telescopically within the outlet chamber42of the inlet part40, which defines an adjustable extension of the vertical outlet chamber42. The extension part43of the manifold4includes a pair of radial grooves44at its upper end that receive respective O-ring seals for sealingly engaging the outlet chamber42. The extension part43also includes an accumulator port45extending laterally from a lower end thereof and having a pair of flanges46forming opposed facing locking channels on either side of the accumulator port45. The inlet part40includes a coupling10at the inlet end of the inlet passage41, more of which later.

The filling device5includes a float-operated diaphragm-type equilibrium valve50in this embodiment. The valve50includes a two-part housing51, a diaphragm52with a peripheral flange captivated between the two parts of the housing51and a flow restrictor pin extending through a hole through a central, enlarged valve member portion of the diaphragm52. On a first side of the diaphragm52, the housing51includes an inlet53, a plurality of radial outlets54and a valve seat between the inlet53and outlets54against which the central portion of the diaphragm52seats when the valve50is in a closed condition. On a second side of the diaphragm52, there is a control chamber defined between the diaphragm52and a facing portion of the housing51with a bleed port55extending from the control chamber through the housing51. The valve50is mounted to the inlet part40of the manifold4such that the inlet53is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet chamber42.

The filling device5also includes a float chamber or reservoir56, a float57and a float arm58, all of which are mounted to the inlet part40of the manifold4. The float chamber56is in the form of an open top container with a draining port (not shown) in its base and a mounting bracket56awhich surrounds the lower end of the inlet part40that defines the outlet chamber42. The float57in this embodiment is an open bottom container with an upstand57aextending upwardly from the top of the container and having a series of holes through its thickness adjacent its upper end. The float arm58includes a resilient stop58aat a first of its ends and a hole at a second of its ends for receiving a fastener that extends therethrough and into one of the holes of the upstand57aof the float57. The float arm58is pivotally mounted relative to the inlet part40intermediate its ends such that when the float57is in a raised position the stop58aof the arm58closes the bleed port55of the valve50and when the float57is in a lowered position the bleed port55is open.

The accumulator6includes an inverted bottle60having a kidney shaped horizontal cross-section and a mouth61at its lower end that is threadedly engaged with a coupling adapter62. The mouth61of the bottle60includes a radial recess about its outer surface within which is received an O-ring for providing a sealed connection between the bottle60and the coupling adapter62. The coupling adaptor62defines a 90 degree elbow to provide a horizontal inlet to the accumulator6and includes a pair of flanges63on either side of the horizontal inlet to provide a bayonet fitting for receipt within the locking channels defined by the flanges46of the accumulator port45.

Referring toFIG. 9, the accumulator6is mounted to the accumulator port45by offering up the coupling adapter62with the bottle60oriented horizontally away from the syphon2such that the flanges63are oriented vertically, between the flanges46of the accumulator port45. The accumulator6is then rotated upwardly to the orientation shown inFIG. 9such that the flanges63are received within the locking channels defined by the flanges46of the accumulator port45. In this orientation, the inlet of the accumulator6is lowermost such that pressurised fluid introduced therein from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water.

The operating valve7is similar to the valve50of the filling device5, but rather than being float-operated it is operated by a separate push button actuator10(shown inFIGS. 14 to 18). The valve7includes a two-part housing71, a diaphragm72with a peripheral flange captivated between the two parts of the housing71and a flow restrictor pin extending through a hole through a central, enlarged valve member portion of the diaphragm72. On a first side of the diaphragm72, the housing71includes an inlet73, a plurality of radial outlets74and a valve seat between the inlet73and outlets74against which the central portion of the diaphragm72seats when the valve7is in a closed condition. On a second side of the diaphragm72, there is a control chamber defined between the diaphragm72and a facing portion of the housing71with a bleed port75extending from the control chamber through to a push fit fitting76in the housing71. Attached to the push fit fitting76is a bleed pipe BP operatively connected to the push button actuator10. The operating valve7is mounted to the extension part43of the manifold4such that the inlet73is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet chamber42.

The hydraulic actuator8, shown more clearly inFIG. 5, includes an actuator cylinder80formed integrally with the extension part43of the manifold4and an actuator piston81reciprocable within the cylinder80. The actuator piston81includes a hole within which the upper end of the piston rod27is received and secured by a screw82. The bottom end of the actuator cylinder80is fed by the outlets74of the operating valve7and the top end of the actuator cylinder80is open. In this embodiment, the actuator piston81is sized and dimensioned such that a fluid flow entering the actuator cylinder80from below forces the actuator piston81upwardly within the actuator cylinder80. The actuator piston81is also sized and dimensioned such that the clearance between the actuator piston81and the cylinder80permits some fluid to flow therebetween. Thus, in the absence of fluid flow entering the actuator cylinder80from the operating valve7the mass of the piston rod27urges fluid flow around the actuator piston81and lowering the syphon piston23back to its home position. In this embodiment, the actuator piston81is formed of a plastics material having a relatively low weight.

The telescopic lock9includes a rack90(shown more clearly inFIGS. 5 and 9) and a cooperating latch91. The rack90is secured to the outside of the actuator cylinder80and includes a series of teeth92that extend substantially horizontally to define gaps therebetween. The latch91surrounds the inlet part40that defines the vertical outlet chamber42of the manifold and is rotatably captivated between the horizontal inlet passage41and the mounting bracket56aof the float chamber56. The latch91also includes a flat handle93to enable its manipulation and a series of teeth94that extend parallel to the teeth92of the rack90for engagement with the gaps between them. In this embodiment, the teeth62,63lie at an angle relative to the horizontal so as to inhibit inadvertent disengagement between the latch91and the rack90.

As depicted inFIG. 1, the handle93of the latch91holds the accumulator6in place by inhibiting its rotation in the reverse direction to that described above. The handle93may be rotated in direction A to release the teeth94of the latch91from those of the rack90, thereby enabling the inlet part40of the manifold4to be moved up or down with respect to the extension part43. It will be appreciated that the entire filling device5is mounted to and moves with the inlet part40, thereby enabling adjustment of the position of the filling device5relative to the bight of the U of the third part22of the syphon2. It will also be appreciated that this position alters the fill volume of the cistern, since the float chamber56and float57are also moved.

Thus, in order to increase the flush volume of the cistern, the third part22of the syphon2may be raised relative to the first and second parts20,21and the inlet part40of the manifold may then be raised by a similar distance together with the filling device5.

Accordingly, the invention provides an integrated flushing and filling apparatus1that is adjustable to alter the flushing characteristics with minimal effort. In a conventional arrangement, such adjustment would require both an adjustable flushing device2and an adjustable filling device5, which are not always present and, in any event, their independent adjustment would be more cumbersome.

As shown more clearly inFIG. 7, the inlet part40of the manifold4also includes an anti back-syphonage valve47in the form of a non-return air valve47. The non-return valve47includes a valve member48with a dome-shaped head carrying an O-ring that is biased by a spring49to seat against a valve seat. The force of the spring49is configured such that a back flow of pressure toward the supply pipe P from the manifold4causes the valve member48to unseat and allow air to be introduced into the manifold, thereby preventing a flow of water from the outlet chamber42and extension part43back into the supply pipe P.

Referring now toFIGS. 10 to 13, the inlet coupling10is shown in greater detail. The inlet coupling10includes a first part11with a locking ring12having a series of inwardly extending radial teeth13and a triangular handle14for rotating the locking ring12between coupled and uncoupled orientations. The coupling10also includes a second part15with a series of outwardly extending radial teeth16each having a lead-in to facilitate insertion into the first part11. The first part11includes a stepped recess11adownstream of the locking ring12. The second part15includes a filter recess17at its leading end, a push fit fitting18at its trailing end and an O-ring seal19received in a radial groove intermediate its ends which seals the second part15within the first part11.

The push fit fitting18includes an O-ring seal18afor sealing against a supply pipe P received by the push fit fitting18, a collapsible collar18band a retaining ring18csurrounding the collapsible collar18b. The collapsible collar18band retaining ring18chave cooperating tapered surfaces such that the collapsible collar18bis compressed on attempted removal, thereby retaining the supply pipe P within the push fit fitting18.

The coupling10also includes a conical filter17ahaving a frame17bwith a circular inlet portion17ccorresponding to the mouth of the filter17aand an O-ring seal17dreceived within a radial groove in the circular inlet portion17cwhich seals against a facing surface of the filter recess17of the second part15of the coupling10. In the uncoupled orientation of the locking ring12, the second part15is insertable into the first part11with its teeth16passing through the gaps between the teeth13of the first part11. In the coupled orientation of the locking ring, the teeth13,16of the first and second parts11,15are aligned and removal of the second part15from the first part11is prevented.

Referring now toFIGS. 14 to 17, there is shown a push button actuator100for operating the syphon2. The push button actuator100in this embodiment includes a manifold101, a body102, a surround103, a push button104and a hexagonal securing nut105with an internal thread. The manifold101includes an internally threaded hollow cylinder110with an open end and a closed end, a radial inlet port111and a radial outlet port112. Each of the inlet and outlet ports111,112includes a push fit fitting for releasably securing and sealingly receiving a flexible tube (not shown). In this embodiment, the bleed pipe BP connected to the bleed port75of the operating valve7is configured to be connected to the inlet port111and a further pipe (not shown) is configured to connect to the outlet port112at one end and feed into the cistern (not shown) at the other end.

The body102is in the form of a hollow cylinder with a central, threaded section121, a tail section122of reduced diameter, also externally threaded, and a mounting flange123at the opposite end of the body102to the tail section122. The tail section122includes radial inlet passageways122aand radial outlet passageways122baxially spaced from the inlet passageways122a. The mounting flange123includes a series of radial spokes123aseparated by axial holes123babout the mounting flange123.

The surround103is in the form of a hollow cylinder130with an outwardly extending radial flange131at one end and an inwardly extending radial flange132at the other end to form a base ring132of the surround. The base ring132includes a series of castellations133extending about its innermost edge. Each castellation133includes a pair of projections134at its outermost corners, which together define a recess135.

The push button104includes a dome-shaped head140and a stem141movably received within the body102. The push button104is movable within the body102between a deployed position shown inFIGS. 14, 16 and 17and an actuated or depressed position in which the stem141is pushed further into the body102. In this embodiment, fluid communication between the inlet passageways122aand the outlet passageways122bis closed in the deployed position and open in the actuated or depressed position. The push button104is also biased by a spring142to the deployed position. Thus, water is prevented from flowing from the inlet passageways122ato the outlet passageways122buntil the push button104is operated. On operation of the push button104, water is able to bleed from the bleed port75through the push button actuator100and back into the cistern (not shown) through the aforementioned pipes.

In an assembled condition, the body102is received within the surround103such that the mounting flange123of the body102engages the base ring132of the surround103and the securing nut105is threadedly engaged with the central section121of the body102. In addition, the tail section122of the body102is received within and threadedly engaged with the cylinder110of the manifold101such that the inlet passageways122aare aligned with the radial inlet port111and the outlet passageways122bare aligned with the radial outlet port102.

As illustrated inFIG. 16, when the body102is in a first orientation the castellations133of the surround103are received within axial holes123bbetween the radial spokes123aof the body102and the push button104is substantially flush with the outwardly extending radial flange131of the surround103. As illustrated inFIG. 17, when the body is in a second orientation, the radial spokes123aof the body102rest on the castellations133within the recesses135between the projections134and the push button104stands proud with respect to the outwardly extending radial flange131of the surround103.

Thus, the push button actuator100may be adapted to suit the requirements of multiple different installations. For example, the arrangement ofFIG. 16may be desirable for aesthetic purposes, whilst the arrangement ofFIG. 17enables users with less dexterity to operate the push button actuator100with ease.

In use and as shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, when the supply pipe P is connected to a source of pressurised water, such pressurised water flows through the supply pipe P, through the filter17a, into the manifold4, into the inlet53of the fill valve50, into the inlet73of the operating valve7and into the accumulator6. When the cistern (not shown) is full, the arm58of the filling device5is raised, thereby blocking the bleed port55of the fill valve50, pressurising the control chamber defined between the diaphragm52and a facing portion of the housing51and forcing the diaphragm52against the valve seat to close the fill valve50. With the push button actuator100in the deployed position, the bleed port75of the operating valve is also blocked, thereby pressurising the control chamber defined between the diaphragm72and a facing portion of the housing71and forcing the diaphragm72against the valve seat to close the operating valve7. Pressurised water then charges the accumulator6ready for operation.

In order to initiate a flush, the head140of the push button actuator100is depressed, which opens fluid communication between the inlet111and the outlet112, thereby allowing flow from the bleed port75of the operating valve7through the bleed pipe BP and through the push button actuator100into the cistern (not shown). This flow releases the pressure within the control chamber of the operating valve7and the pressure within the manifold4unseats the diaphragm72. Water then flows as illustrated inFIG. 5from both the supply pipe P and from the accumulator6through the outlets74of the operating valve7and into the actuator cylinder80, thereby forcing the actuator piston81upwardly and forcing the syphon piston23upwardly within the syphon chamber21b. This forces the diaphragm25against the frame24of the piston23and raises the volume of water within the chamber21bup and over the bight of the U of the third part22of the syphon2and initiating a syphonic flushing action. Water then flows through the openings in the frame24of the piston23, urging the diaphragm25upwardly, and continues to flow through the syphon2.

Thus, in situations where the pressure from the water supply is reduced or fluctuates, the accumulator6provides additional pressurised flow to ensure that the syphonic action is initiated effectively.

If the head140of the push button actuator100continues to be depressed, water continues to flow through the actuator cylinder80and retains the piston in a raised position. As outlined above, this also keeps the sealing element29in a raised condition exposing the series of openings28such that when the water level within the cistern (not shown) drops to this point the syphonic action is broken, thereby resulting in a partial flush. If, however, the head140of the push button actuator100is released immediately or shortly after it is depressed initially, a full flush is effected.

As the water level within the cistern (not shown) drops, the float chamber56empties through the draining port (not shown) and the float57drops within the float chamber56. At this point, the arm58pivots and the resilient stop58aunseats from the bleed port55, thereby releases the pressure within the control chamber of the float valve50and unseating the diaphragm52. Fluid flow is then opened between the inlet53and the outlets54and water drains out of the float valve50as illustrated inFIG. 6to refill the cistern (not shown). As the water level rises above the top of the float chamber56, it is refilled and the float57is once again raised to cause the resilient stop58ato block the bleed port55, thereby pressurising the control chamber of the float valve50and forcing the diaphragm52against the valve seat and closing the float valve50.

Turning now toFIGS. 18 and 19, there is shown a flushing apparatus301according to another embodiment of the invention. The flushing apparatus301according to this embodiment is similar to the flushing apparatus1described above, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further herein. The flushing apparatus301according to this embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that the hydraulic circuit303for operating the flushing device2is not integral with the flushing device2and it incorporates an air introduction assembly310. In this embodiment, the hydraulic circuit303includes a supply pipe P incorporating a non-return valve330, which feeds into an inlet manifold331via a push fit inlet fitting331a. The hydraulic circuit303also includes an accumulator306, an outlet manifold332and an outlet pipe O connecting an outlet push fit fitting332aof the outlet manifold332to a push fit fitting307which feeds into the operating valve7.

The accumulator306is in the form of a bottle360with which the inlet and outlet manifolds331,332are both formed integrally at its mouth. The accumulator306includes a water inlet tube361fluidly connected to and extending orthogonally from the supply pipe P and push fit fitting331ainto the accumulator306toward its base362. The water inlet tube361includes a necked portion363, which accelerates, or throttles, the flow of water therethrough. The accumulator306also includes a water outlet tube364fluidly connected to and extending from the outlet manifold332into the accumulator306toward its base362.

The inlet manifold331includes a third branch333receiving the air introduction assembly310. The third branch333includes a flange at its upper end and receives an insert311. The insert311includes a part-spherical shoulder for redirecting the inlet water flowing from the supply pipe P into the water inlet tube361and an air inlet tube312open at its upper end and extending into the necked portion363of the water inlet tube361to provide fluid communication between the third branch333and the necked portion363.

The air introduction assembly310also includes a non-return valve313, which includes an air inlet313a, a valve member314reciprocable within a retainer315. The valve member314includes a piston with an O-ring seal about its periphery and a longitudinal guide pin received within a guide ring in the base of the retainer315to ensure smooth reciprocating motion therein. The valve member314is retained within the retainer315by a shoulder at its upper end against which the piston seals when forced in its uppermost position. The retainer315is retained within the third branch333by a cap ring316which engages the flange of the third branch333. The insert311is captivated between the retainer315and a shoulder of the inlet manifold331.

The outlet manifold332includes a second outlet fitting332b, which is in the form of a threaded tail in this embodiment. The apparatus301includes a filling device305having a threaded collar350for threadedly engaging the second outlet fitting332bto provide a fluid connection therebetween. The filling device305is in the form of a substantially conventional fill valve351operated by a float352, similar to that which is disclosed in EP0961892 and offered commercially by the present applicants, but for the means by which it connects to the outlet manifold332of the present invention.

In use and when the operating valve7and the fill valve351are both closed, the pressure within the accumulator306urges the valve member314against the shoulder of the retainer315, thereby sealing off the non-return valve313. When a user initiates a flushing action as described above in relation to the first embodiment, the operating valve7opens and pressurised water flows from the accumulator306through the outlet pipe O and through the operating valve7to initiate the symphonic action. This occurs even in the absence of fluid pressure from the source. Following operation, the operating valve7closes.

As the water level drops, the float352of the filing device305lowers and opens the fill valve351and water flows from the accumulator, out of the second outlet fitting332band out through the filling device305. The flow of water from the supply pipe P through the water inlet tube361creates a venturi effect within the necked portion363, thereby reducing the pressure within the third branch333of the inlet manifold331. This reduction in pressure causes the valve member314to unseat from the shoulder of the retainer315and air is entrained from the air inlet313aand into the accumulator306. As outlined above, the applicants have observed that air in the accumulator may become depleted over time, but the air introduction assembly310regularly reintroduces air into the accumulator, thereby mitigating this phenomenon. The provision of an air inlet which introduces air through a venturi means enables this reintroduction of air to occur automatically.

As the water level rises, the float352rises and closes the fill valve351. As a result, the circuit303pressurises and the accumulator refills, ready for the next flushing action.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although the invention has been illustrated with reference to a cistern flushing apparatus, it will be appreciated that it may be incorporated into any suitable fluid supply system, such as a drain cleaning apparatus, for example one which uses a jetting device. Whilst the accumulator in the specific embodiments is in the form of a bottle60,360, it will be appreciated that the accumulator may be provided by any enclosed volume, provided by, for example, multiple components assembled together to form a reservoir that is configured to function as described. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.