Patent Publication Number: US-10787800-B2

Title: Apparatus for flushing a toilet, comprising an accumulator

Description:
This invention relates generally to accumulators. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to accumulators for control and supply circuits for hydraulic devices used for controlling the discharging and/or refilling of toilet cisterns and/or for clearing drains. 
     Toilet cisterns generally include a flushing device for discharging the contents of the cistern and a filling device for refilling the cistern following a flushing cycle. The flushing device is normally mounted to obstruct an outlet of the cistern that feeds a toilet pan and configured to selectively allow fluid flow therethrough to flush waste out of the pan. The filling device is normally connected to a mains water supply or header tank for introducing replacement water into the cistern. 
     The flushing device can be operated manually, for example using a mechanical actuator in the form of a lever or push button, or automatically, for example using an electromechanical actuation system. Manually operated flushing devices require a predetermined amount of force to unseat a valve member, or to initiate a syphonic action in the case of syphon flushing devices. Recent developments aimed at reducing the force required to operate flushing device actuators have utilised mains water pressure to complement or replace the initiation force required with purely mechanical solutions. The use of mains water pressure also precludes the need for an electrical power supply. 
     WO2015036767, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes a flushing syphon that incorporates an actuator piston secured to the piston rod of a syphon-initiating piston. The actuator piston is reciprocable within a cylinder having an inlet into which mains water pressure is selectively introduced to move the piston in order to initiate syphonic action, thereby emptying the contents of the cistern. Mains water is supplied to the actuator cylinder and is controlled by an in-line operating valve that is operated by a pilot valve incorporated in an operator actuated push button. 
     It would be desirable to provide a solution that is simpler and more adaptable to domestic installations. The characteristics of water supply systems, including pipes, plumbing system design and cistern characteristics can vary widely between installations. It is therefore a non-exclusive aim of the invention to provide a cistern flushing apparatus and associated control circuit that improves the adaptability and simplicity of known installations. 
     It is a further, more general non-exclusive aim of the invention to provide an improved cistern flushing apparatus and associated control circuit. 
     Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern and a control circuit for operating the flushing device, the control circuit comprising an inlet for connecting the control circuit to a source and an accumulator fluidly connected to the inlet and configured to supplement, in use, a flow supplied by the source to or through the control circuit. 
     Thus, variations in pressure and/or flow caused by restrictions within the installation or any fluctuations in supply, whether from the source or from usage in other parts of the installation, can be mitigated. This is due to the fact that pressurised fluid introduced into the accumulator from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water. 
     The apparatus or control circuit may comprise a power-driven, e.g. fluid-power-driven, control circuit. Preferably, the control circuit comprises a hydraulically-driven control circuit. The inlet may be for connecting to a source of power, e.g. for fluidly connecting the control circuit to a source of pressurised fluid such as air but preferably water. The accumulator may be fluidly connected to the inlet and configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source to the control circuit. 
     Another aspect of the invention provides a fluid supply control circuit comprising a fluid inlet, e.g. for fluid connection with a source of pressurised fluid, a fluid outlet, e.g. for supplying pressurised fluid to a fluidic device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet, e.g. for selectively opening fluid communication therebetween, and an accumulator fluidly connected between the operating valve and the fluid inlet, wherein the accumulator is configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised fluid supplied by the source to the fluid outlet. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides an accumulator. The accumulator may comprise an inlet, e.g. a fluid inlet, which may be for fluid connection with a source of pressurised fluid, e.g. water. The inlet of the accumulator may correspond to or be for fluid connection with the fluid inlet of the control circuit. The accumulator may comprise an outlet, e.g. a fluid outlet, which may correspond to or be for fluid connection with the fluid outlet of the control circuit. The fluid outlet may be for fluid connection with a fluidic device or the operating valve of the control circuit. 
     The control circuit and/or accumulator may comprise a second outlet, which may be a fluid outlet. The second outlet may be for fluid connection with a fluidic device, e.g. a further fluidic device. The second outlet may bypass or be configured, in use, to bypass the operating valve. 
     The fluid may comprise a hydraulic fluid, e.g. water. The or at least one or each fluidic device may comprise a hydraulic device. The hydraulic device may comprise a flushing device, e.g. for emptying a cistern. The further hydraulic device may comprise a filling device, e.g. for filling a cistern. At least one of the hydraulic devices may comprise a jetting device, e.g. for clearing drains. 
     The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an air inlet and/or venturi means, e.g. for introducing, in use, air into the accumulator. The venturi means may comprise a venturi and/or may be downstream of the inlet or fluid inlet of the apparatus, control circuit and/or upstream of the inlet or fluid inlet of the accumulator. The venturi means may be in fluid communication with the air inlet, e.g. for entraining air from the air inlet into the accumulator. 
     The applicants have observed that, over time, air in the accumulator may become depleted. Whilst not wishing to be bound by any theory, this is believed to be caused by one or both of the air dissolving into the water within the accumulator and/or permeating through the wall of the accumulator. By regularly reintroducing air into the accumulator, this phenomenon is mitigated. 
     As used herein, the terms upstream and downstream refer to locations within the apparatus, circuit or accumulator relative to the direction of flow, in use, therethrough. 
     The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an air inlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe, which may extend from the air inlet and/or to or toward the venturi means. The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise an inlet tube, e.g. a fluid or water inlet tube, which may be in fluid communication with the inlet or fluid or water inlet. The inlet tube may comprise a restriction, constriction or reduction in internal diameter, which may provide, at least in part, the venturi means. The inlet tube may extend into a base of the accumulator. 
     At least one of the outlet(s) of the apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may be in fluid communication with the or a base of the accumulator, e.g. a sump therein. In embodiments, a water outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe is provided, which may be in fluid communication with the sump of base of the accumulator. The base of the accumulator may comprise an upper portion or intended upper portion of the accumulator. Preferably, the base of the accumulator comprises a lower portion or intended lower portion of the accumulator. 
     In embodiments, the outlet(s) or the outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe is or are located at and/or extend from an upper portion or intended upper portion of the accumulator. The accumulator outlet passageway, passage, tube or pipe may extend into a lower portion of the accumulator, for example such that pressurised air within the accumulator and/or water introduced, in use, through the inlet or inlet pipe into the accumulator forces water out of the outlet(s) or outlet pipe, e.g. and to or toward the actuator of a cistern flushing device and/or to or toward a cistern filling device. 
     The apparatus, control circuit or accumulator may comprise a non-return or one-way means, e.g. valve means. The non-return or one-way means may be associated with the air inlet, e.g. for allowing air to enter, in use, into the control circuit and/or inhibiting water egress from the control circuit. 
     The control circuit or accumulator may be for a drain clearing device. Indeed, the control circuit or accumulator may be for any device requiring the flow from a fluid source to be supplemented. 
     The apparatus or control circuit may comprise an actuator. The actuator may comprise a hydraulically-driven actuator, which may be operatively connected to or comprised or incorporated in, e.g. integral with, the flushing device. The actuator may be for operating, or configured to operate, the flushing device. The control circuit may comprise an operating valve, which may be between the actuator and the inlet and/or the accumulator, e.g. for selectively opening fluid communication therebetween. 
     The accumulator may comprise a container and/or a mouth. In embodiments, the mouth may provide the inlet and at least one outlet. The mouth may be in an upper or lower portion of the accumulator or container. The accumulator or container may describe or define a space for storing a pressurised fluid, e.g. water and/or air. The inlet or mouth may be fluidly connected between the inlet of the control circuit and the operating valve, e.g. such that pressurised fluid introduced therein from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water. 
     The flushing device may, but need not, comprise a syphon or any other suitable flushing device, such as a flush valve with a pivotable or retractable valve member or plug for selectively closing the outlet of a cistern. For example, the flushing device may comprise a flushing valve that is operable or configured to operate by hydraulic fluid pressure, such as the flush valve described in GB2488382. 
     Where the flushing device comprises a syphon, the syphon may have an inverted generally U shaped duct with an upleg and a downleg. The syphon may comprise an open-ended chamber, which may be fluidly connected to the upleg. The syphon may comprise a piston movable in the chamber. The actuator, e.g. of the control circuit, may be operatively connected to the piston, e.g. for moving the piston in the chamber to initiate a syphonic flushing action. 
     The syphon may comprise two, three or more parts that may be adjustable relative to one another. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a first part, having an evacuation tube with a lower end adapted to be mounted to the base of a cistern. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a second part, having a suction tube and an open-ended chamber, which may have a piston movable therein, e.g. by the actuator. The syphon may comprise a part, e.g. a third part, having an inverted generally U-shaped duct with an upleg portion and a downleg portion. The upleg portion and downleg portion of the U-shaped duct may each be mounted in telescopic relation with the suction tube and evacuation tube respectively. 
     The apparatus may comprise a manifold, for example an inlet manifold, which will be referred to hereinafter as an inlet manifold but this term may be replaced by the term manifold. The inlet manifold may include the inlet and/or an accumulator port, e.g. to which the accumulator is operatively and/or fluidly connected or coupled. The inlet manifold may include an outlet, e.g. a first outlet, to which the operating valve may be operatively and/or fluidly connected or coupled. The inlet manifold may comprise a second outlet, for example to which is fluidly connected or connectable a filling device, e.g. for refilling the cistern following a flushing event. 
     The inlet manifold may comprise a part, e.g. a first part, which may include the first outlet. The inlet manifold may comprise a part, e.g. a second part, which may include the second outlet. The second part may be movable relative to the first part, for example to enable the position of the fill device to be adjusted relative to the operating valve. The first part of the inlet manifold may mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the open-ended chamber or second part of the syphon, e.g. for movement therewith. 
     At least part of the filing device may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the second part for movement therewith. One or both of the operating valve and/or the accumulator may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the first part. 
     The first and second parts may be telescopically adjustable relative to one another. The second part may be step-wise adjustable relative to the first part. 
     One of the parts, e.g. the first part, may comprise a rack, which may be mounted relative thereto or incorporated therein or otherwise associated therewith. The other part, e.g. the second part, may comprise a latch, which may be mounted relative thereto or incorporated therein or associated therewith. The latch may be for releasably engaging the rack, for example at one of a plurality of positions, e.g. to provide the step-wise adjustment. The teeth of the rack may lie at an angle relative, e.g. to the horizontal, such as for inhibiting inadvertent disengagement between the latch and the rack. 
     In embodiments, the rack is comprised in or mounted to another part of the flushing apparatus, for example one of the parts of the syphon or the actuator. The actuator may comprise an actuator piston, which may be movable within an actuator chamber. The actuator chamber may be mounted to, e.g. directly or indirectly, the open-ended chamber or second part of the syphon, e.g. for movement therewith. The rack may be mounted to or formed on an outer surface of the actuator chamber. Thus, in embodiments where both the actuator chamber and the first part of the inlet manifold are mounted to the open-ended syphon chamber or the second part of the syphon, the rack may be fixed in position relative to both. 
     The accumulator may comprise a mouth, which may be mounted, coupled or secured and/or in fluid communication with the accumulator port. The mouth may be mounted, coupled or secured to the accumulator port by a bayonet fitting. The latch may be configured to inhibit disengagement of the mouth or bayonet fitting, for example when it is engaged with the rack. 
     The apparatus or control circuit may comprise a filling device, e.g. a cistern filling device. The filling device may comprise a float operated valve assembly. The filling device may comprise one or more of a valve, an arm, which may be pivotally mounted relative to the valve, and a float, which may be attached to the arm, e.g. at or adjacent a first end of the arm. The filling device may be configured such that when the float is in a raised position, a portion of the arm closes the valve, and/or when the float is in a lowered position, the valve is open. 
     The filling device may comprise a float chamber or reservoir, e.g. a delayed fill float chamber or reservoir, hereinafter float chamber. The float may be received or receivable within the float chamber. The float chamber may comprise an open top and/or a draining port in its base. The float may be movable within the float chamber and/or may extend through the open top thereof. In embodiments, the float chamber may comprise a deflector, lid or cover, for example to prevent or inhibit water from valve of the filling device from entering, in use, the float chamber. In such embodiments, the float chamber may comprise a side opening, which may be of variable size and/or configuration, for allowing water from within the cistern to enter the float chamber, e.g. as the water level rises to such opening. 
     The valve of the filling device may comprise an equilibrium valve, for example a diaphragm-type equilibrium valve, which may include a bleed port. The bleed port may be closed by the arm, e.g. the or a portion of the arm, e.g. when the float is in the raised position. The bleed port may be unobstructed by the arm when the float is in the lowered position. 
     The apparatus may comprise a coupling, e.g. for releasably coupling, in use, the inlet to the source. The coupling may include two or more parts, e.g. first and second parts, which may be releasably coupled together. The coupling may be upstream of the accumulator, for example to enable the control circuit to be releasably coupled to the source. The coupling may be operable or couplable manually or automatically, e.g. via a spring loaded mechanism. 
     The first part of the coupling may comprise a locking ring, which may include a series of inwardly extending radial teeth. The second part of the coupling may comprise a series of outwardly extending radial teeth. The locking ring may be movable between an uncoupled or unlocked position, e.g. in which the second part is insertable into the inlet, and/or a coupled or locked position, e.g. in which removal of the second part is prevented. 
     At least one of the first and second parts of the coupling may comprise a recess for receiving a filter, e.g. such that it is captivated between the first and second parts when they are coupled together. The first part may comprise a stepped recess, e.g. wherein the filter is configured to abut the step when the first and second parts are coupled together. The second part may comprise an annular recess within which an end or periphery of the filter is received. The apparatus may comprise a filter, e.g. received between the first and second parts of the coupling. The filter may comprise a conical filter, which may include a frame with a circular inlet corresponding to the mouth of the filter. The filter may comprise a seal, e.g. an O-ring seal, which may be received within a radial groove in the frame or between the circular inlet of the frame and a facing surface of the first and/or second parts. 
     The apparatus may comprise a push button actuator, which may be operatively connected to the control circuit, e.g. for operating the flushing device. The push button actuator may comprise push button mounted to a body, e.g. movably or actuatably mounted to the body. The push button actuator may comprise a surround with a recess, within which recess the body and/or the push button may be received. The surround, e.g. the recess of the surround, and the body may comprise cooperating radial features. The radial features may cooperate such that the push button is in a first position when the body and the surround are in a first relative radial orientation and/or is in a second position when the body and the surround are in a second relative radial orientation. The push button may be flush or stand proud of the surround in the first position. In the second position, the push button may be retracted relative to the first position. 
     The radial features of one of the surround or the recess of the surround and the body may comprise castellations. The radial features of the other may comprise spokes. The spokes may rest on or against the castellations, e.g. in the first relative orientation and/or between the castellations, e.g. in the second relative orientation. Preferably, the surround or recess of the surround comprises the castellations and the body comprises the spokes. 
     At least one or each castellation may comprise a recess, e.g. within which a respective one of the spokes is received in the first relative orientation. The recess may be formed by a pair of spaced projections. 
     The apparatus or control circuit or accumulator, for example the inlet manifold, may comprise one or more non-return means, e.g. one or more non-return valves, for preventing water from flowing back through the inlet toward the source. The non-return means may be associated with the inlet or fluid inlet, e.g. water inlet, and/or may be upstream of the accumulator. The non-return means may be configured or operable such that the pressure within the accumulator corresponds substantially to a peak pressure to which the control circuit is exposed. For example, by allowing pressurised fluid from the source to enter the accumulator, whilst inhibiting such fluid from flowing from the accumulator back toward the source, the non-return means enables the accumulator to store the pressurised fluid when fluid pressure from the source drops. 
     In embodiments, the non-return means may comprise an anti back-syphonage valve. In embodiments, the non-return means may comprise a valve member, which may be biased or resiliently biased to seat against a valve seat. The biasing force may be configured such that a back flow of pressure toward the inlet, for example from the inlet manifold or accumulator, causes the valve member to unseat and/or allow air to be introduced into the inlet or inlet manifold, e.g. thereby preventing a flow of water toward the source through the inlet. 
     Another aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern, a hydraulically-driven control circuit for operating the flushing device, a filling device mounted to the flushing device for refilling the cistern following a flushing event and an inlet manifold with an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, wherein the inlet manifold comprises first and second outlets coupled respectively to the filling device and the control circuit. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a cistern flushing apparatus comprising a flushing device for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern, a hydraulically-driven control circuit for operating the flushing device and a coupling for coupling an inlet of the control circuit to a pressurised water supply line, wherein the coupling comprises first and second parts releasably coupled together and a filter that is accessible and/or removable when the first and second parts are uncoupled. 
     A further aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus. The control circuit may comprise any one or more features described above in relation to any of the aforementioned aspect. 
     A yet further aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, an outlet for fluid connection with the actuator of a flushing device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet and an accumulator fluidly connected between the operating valve and the inlet, wherein the accumulator is configured to supplement, in use, the flow of pressurised water supplied by the source to the outlet. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an operating valve for selectively controlling the supply of pressurised water to the actuator of a flushing device, a filling device for refilling the cistern following a flushing event and an inlet manifold with an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, wherein the inlet manifold comprises first and second outlets coupled respectively to the filling device and the control circuit. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a control circuit for a cistern flushing apparatus, the control circuit comprising an inlet for fluid connection with a source of pressurised water, an outlet for fluid connection with the actuator of a flushing device, an operating valve fluidly connected between the inlet and the outlet and a coupling for coupling an inlet to a pressurised water supply line, wherein the coupling comprises first and second parts releasably coupled together and a filter that is accessible and/or removable when the first and second parts are uncoupled. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a push button actuator for operating the flushing device, the actuator comprising a surround with a recess, a body received within the recess of the surround and a push button mounted to the body, wherein the recess of the surround and the body comprise cooperating radial features such that the push button is in a first position in which it is flush or stands proud of the surround when the body and the surround are in a first relative radial orientation and is in a second position in which it is retracted relative to the first position when the body and the surround are in a second relative radial orientation. 
     Other aspects of the invention provide a cistern comprising a flushing apparatus as described above, a toilet comprising such a cistern and a water closet installation comprising such a toilet. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of installing a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above. 
     Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method of operating a flushing apparatus, e.g. as described above. 
     For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. For example, the flushing apparatus may comprise any one or more features of the control circuit relevant thereto and vice versa. Similarly, the method may comprise any one or more features or steps relevant to one or more features of the flushing apparatus or the control circuit. 
     Another aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising and/or describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design for use with a simulation means or a three-dimensional additive or subtractive manufacturing means or device, e.g. a three-dimensional printer or CNC machine, the three-dimensional design comprising an embodiment of the aforementioned flushing apparatus or control circuit or any component thereof. 
     Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “may”, “and/or”, “e.g.”, “for example” and any similar term as used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, whether or not these are expressly claimed. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. 
    
    
     
       Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a flushing apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a partial section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the flow of pressurised water through the manifold; 
         FIG. 3  is a partial section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the flow of pressurised water into and out of the accumulator; 
         FIG. 4  is a partial section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the operating valve; 
         FIG. 5  is a partial section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the flow of pressurised water into the actuator of the flushing device; 
         FIG. 6  is a partial section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the operation of the fill device; 
         FIG. 7  is a partial section view of apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the air valve for the prevention of backflow; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  with the accumulator removed; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  with part of the integrated hydraulic circuit removed; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded view of the inlet coupling of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a partially assembled view of the inlet coupling of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is an assembled view of the inlet coupling of  FIGS. 10 and 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a section view of the assembled inlet coupling of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a push button actuator for connection with the operating valve of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 15  is an exploded perspective view of the body and surround of the push button actuator of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a partial section view of the push button actuator of  FIG. 14  with the push button shown in a flush position; 
         FIG. 17  is a partial section view similar to that of  FIG. 16  in which the push button is shown in a proud position; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective section view of a flushing apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective section view of the accumulator of the flushing apparatus of  FIG. 18 . 
     
    
    
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 to 9 , there is shown a cistern flushing apparatus  1  including a flushing device  2  for fluid connection with an outlet of a cistern (not shown) and an integrated hydraulic circuit  3  for operating the flushing device  2  and for filling a cistern (not shown) following a flushing event. 
     In this embodiment, the flushing device  2  is in the form of an adjustable syphon  2  similar to that which is disclosed in GB2486776, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. More specifically, the syphon  2  includes first, second and third parts  20 ,  21 ,  22  mounted in telescopic relation with one another to enable adjustment of the flush volume characteristics thereof. The first part  20  includes an evacuation tube  20   a  having a radial flange  20   c  and threaded portion  20   b  extending from the flange  20   c  for insertion through an outlet in the base of a cistern (not shown) to be secured thereto by a nut (not shown) in the normal way. The second part  21  includes a suction tube  21   a  and an open-ended chamber  21   b . The third part  22  is in the form of an inverted generally U-shaped duct with an upleg portion  22   a  and a downleg portion  22   b . The upleg portion  22   a  and downleg portion  22   b  of the U-shaped duct  22  are each mounted in telescopic relation with the suction tube  21   a  and evacuation tube  20   a  respectively. 
     The first part  20  also includes a pair of lugs  20   d  projecting laterally from its upper end each with a hole  20   e  therethrough. The second part  21  includes a flat bracket  21   d  projecting laterally from the upper end of the suction tube  21   a  and having a plurality of spaced holes  21   e  through its thickness. The third part  22  includes a chain of lugs  22   d  extending downwardly from the front of the bight of the U between the downleg and upleg portions  22   a ,  22   b  and having a plurality of vertically spaced holes  22   e  through its thickness. A releasable fastener  23  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) including a pair of spaced pins extends through a pair of adjacent holes  20   e ,  21   e ,  22   e  in each of the first, second and third parts  20 ,  21 ,  22  to secure simultaneously the parts  20 ,  21 ,  22  together. 
     The first part  20  includes a longitudinally extending rib  20   f  and the second part  21  includes a bracket  21   f  with a keyway that receives the rib  20   f  of the first part. These features  20   f ,  21   f  together with the telescopic connection between the parts  20 ,  21 ,  22  enables guided adjustment in their relative positions, as is known from GB2486776. 
     Within the open-ended chamber  21   b  is a priming means in the form of a piston  23  including a frame  24  formed by a peripheral rim  24   a  with a series of ribs  24   b  extending between the sides of the rim  24   a  to provide a series of openings therebetween. The piston  23  also includes a flexible diaphragm  25  secured at the centre of piston  23  by a cylindrical rod mount  26  which receives and secures a piston rod  27 . The piston rod  27  extends upwardly from the piston  23 , through the top wall of the chamber  21   b  and is formed of a material having sufficient mass to urge, in use, the piston  23  back down toward its home position, as shown in  FIG. 5 . The top wall of the open ended chamber  21   b  also includes a series of openings  28  about the piston rod  27  and an inverted top-hat shaped sealing element  29  that surrounds the piston rod and is biased by a spring  29   a  against the top wall to cover and seal the openings  28 . When the piston  23  is in a raised position, the rod mount  26  abuts the sealing element  29  and urges it against the spring bias to reveal the openings  28 . Thus, a partial flush can be achieved by keeping the piston  23  in a raised condition, since the syphonic action is broken when the water level reaches the openings  28 . 
     The integrated hydraulic circuit  3  includes a manifold  4 , a filling device  5 , an accumulator  6 , an operating valve  7 , a hydraulic actuator  8  and a telescopic lock  9 . The manifold  4  includes an inlet part  40 , which defines a horizontal inlet passage  41  and a vertical outlet chamber  42 , and an extension part  43  received telescopically within the outlet chamber  42  of the inlet part  40 , which defines an adjustable extension of the vertical outlet chamber  42 . The extension part  43  of the manifold  4  includes a pair of radial grooves  44  at its upper end that receive respective O-ring seals for sealingly engaging the outlet chamber  42 . The extension part  43  also includes an accumulator port  45  extending laterally from a lower end thereof and having a pair of flanges  46  forming opposed facing locking channels on either side of the accumulator port  45 . The inlet part  40  includes a coupling  10  at the inlet end of the inlet passage  41 , more of which later. 
     The filling device  5  includes a float-operated diaphragm-type equilibrium valve  50  in this embodiment. The valve  50  includes a two-part housing  51 , a diaphragm  52  with a peripheral flange captivated between the two parts of the housing  51  and a flow restrictor pin extending through a hole through a central, enlarged valve member portion of the diaphragm  52 . On a first side of the diaphragm  52 , the housing  51  includes an inlet  53 , a plurality of radial outlets  54  and a valve seat between the inlet  53  and outlets  54  against which the central portion of the diaphragm  52  seats when the valve  50  is in a closed condition. On a second side of the diaphragm  52 , there is a control chamber defined between the diaphragm  52  and a facing portion of the housing  51  with a bleed port  55  extending from the control chamber through the housing  51 . The valve  50  is mounted to the inlet part  40  of the manifold  4  such that the inlet  53  is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet chamber  42 . 
     The filling device  5  also includes a float chamber or reservoir  56 , a float  57  and a float arm  58 , all of which are mounted to the inlet part  40  of the manifold  4 . The float chamber  56  is in the form of an open top container with a draining port (not shown) in its base and a mounting bracket  56   a  which surrounds the lower end of the inlet part  40  that defines the outlet chamber  42 . The float  57  in this embodiment is an open bottom container with an upstand  57   a  extending upwardly from the top of the container and having a series of holes through its thickness adjacent its upper end. The float arm  58  includes a resilient stop  58   a  at a first of its ends and a hole at a second of its ends for receiving a fastener that extends therethrough and into one of the holes of the upstand  57   a  of the float  57 . The float arm  58  is pivotally mounted relative to the inlet part  40  intermediate its ends such that when the float  57  is in a raised position the stop  58   a  of the arm  58  closes the bleed port  55  of the valve  50  and when the float  57  is in a lowered position the bleed port  55  is open. 
     The accumulator  6  includes an inverted bottle  60  having a kidney shaped horizontal cross-section and a mouth  61  at its lower end that is threadedly engaged with a coupling adapter  62 . The mouth  61  of the bottle  60  includes a radial recess about its outer surface within which is received an O-ring for providing a sealed connection between the bottle  60  and the coupling adapter  62 . The coupling adaptor  62  defines a 90 degree elbow to provide a horizontal inlet to the accumulator  6  and includes a pair of flanges  63  on either side of the horizontal inlet to provide a bayonet fitting for receipt within the locking channels defined by the flanges  46  of the accumulator port  45 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , the accumulator  6  is mounted to the accumulator port  45  by offering up the coupling adapter  62  with the bottle  60  oriented horizontally away from the syphon  2  such that the flanges  63  are oriented vertically, between the flanges  46  of the accumulator port  45 . The accumulator  6  is then rotated upwardly to the orientation shown in  FIG. 9  such that the flanges  63  are received within the locking channels defined by the flanges  46  of the accumulator port  45 . In this orientation, the inlet of the accumulator  6  is lowermost such that pressurised fluid introduced therein from the source compresses air within the container to provide a pressurised store of water. 
     The operating valve  7  is similar to the valve  50  of the filling device  5 , but rather than being float-operated it is operated by a separate push button actuator  10  (shown in  FIGS. 14 to 18 ). The valve  7  includes a two-part housing  71 , a diaphragm  72  with a peripheral flange captivated between the two parts of the housing  71  and a flow restrictor pin extending through a hole through a central, enlarged valve member portion of the diaphragm  72 . On a first side of the diaphragm  72 , the housing  71  includes an inlet  73 , a plurality of radial outlets  74  and a valve seat between the inlet  73  and outlets  74  against which the central portion of the diaphragm  72  seats when the valve  7  is in a closed condition. On a second side of the diaphragm  72 , there is a control chamber defined between the diaphragm  72  and a facing portion of the housing  71  with a bleed port  75  extending from the control chamber through to a push fit fitting  76  in the housing  71 . Attached to the push fit fitting  76  is a bleed pipe BP operatively connected to the push button actuator  10 . The operating valve  7  is mounted to the extension part  43  of the manifold  4  such that the inlet  73  is coupled to and in fluid communication with the outlet chamber  42 . 
     The hydraulic actuator  8 , shown more clearly in  FIG. 5 , includes an actuator cylinder  80  formed integrally with the extension part  43  of the manifold  4  and an actuator piston  81  reciprocable within the cylinder  80 . The actuator piston  81  includes a hole within which the upper end of the piston rod  27  is received and secured by a screw  82 . The bottom end of the actuator cylinder  80  is fed by the outlets  74  of the operating valve  7  and the top end of the actuator cylinder  80  is open. In this embodiment, the actuator piston  81  is sized and dimensioned such that a fluid flow entering the actuator cylinder  80  from below forces the actuator piston  81  upwardly within the actuator cylinder  80 . The actuator piston  81  is also sized and dimensioned such that the clearance between the actuator piston  81  and the cylinder  80  permits some fluid to flow therebetween. Thus, in the absence of fluid flow entering the actuator cylinder  80  from the operating valve  7  the mass of the piston rod  27  urges fluid flow around the actuator piston  81  and lowering the syphon piston  23  back to its home position. In this embodiment, the actuator piston  81  is formed of a plastics material having a relatively low weight. 
     The telescopic lock  9  includes a rack  90  (shown more clearly in  FIGS. 5 and 9 ) and a cooperating latch  91 . The rack  90  is secured to the outside of the actuator cylinder  80  and includes a series of teeth  92  that extend substantially horizontally to define gaps therebetween. The latch  91  surrounds the inlet part  40  that defines the vertical outlet chamber  42  of the manifold and is rotatably captivated between the horizontal inlet passage  41  and the mounting bracket  56   a  of the float chamber  56 . The latch  91  also includes a flat handle  93  to enable its manipulation and a series of teeth  94  that extend parallel to the teeth  92  of the rack  90  for engagement with the gaps between them. In this embodiment, the teeth  62 ,  63  lie at an angle relative to the horizontal so as to inhibit inadvertent disengagement between the latch  91  and the rack  90 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 1 , the handle  93  of the latch  91  holds the accumulator  6  in place by inhibiting its rotation in the reverse direction to that described above. The handle  93  may be rotated in direction A to release the teeth  94  of the latch  91  from those of the rack  90 , thereby enabling the inlet part  40  of the manifold  4  to be moved up or down with respect to the extension part  43 . It will be appreciated that the entire filling device  5  is mounted to and moves with the inlet part  40 , thereby enabling adjustment of the position of the filling device  5  relative to the bight of the U of the third part  22  of the syphon  2 . It will also be appreciated that this position alters the fill volume of the cistern, since the float chamber  56  and float  57  are also moved. 
     Thus, in order to increase the flush volume of the cistern, the third part  22  of the syphon  2  may be raised relative to the first and second parts  20 ,  21  and the inlet part  40  of the manifold may then be raised by a similar distance together with the filling device  5 . 
     Accordingly, the invention provides an integrated flushing and filling apparatus  1  that is adjustable to alter the flushing characteristics with minimal effort. In a conventional arrangement, such adjustment would require both an adjustable flushing device  2  and an adjustable filling device  5 , which are not always present and, in any event, their independent adjustment would be more cumbersome. 
     As shown more clearly in  FIG. 7 , the inlet part  40  of the manifold  4  also includes an anti back-syphonage valve  47  in the form of a non-return air valve  47 . The non-return valve  47  includes a valve member  48  with a dome-shaped head carrying an O-ring that is biased by a spring  49  to seat against a valve seat. The force of the spring  49  is configured such that a back flow of pressure toward the supply pipe P from the manifold  4  causes the valve member  48  to unseat and allow air to be introduced into the manifold, thereby preventing a flow of water from the outlet chamber  42  and extension part  43  back into the supply pipe P. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10 to 13 , the inlet coupling  10  is shown in greater detail. The inlet coupling  10  includes a first part  11  with a locking ring  12  having a series of inwardly extending radial teeth  13  and a triangular handle  14  for rotating the locking ring  12  between coupled and uncoupled orientations. The coupling  10  also includes a second part  15  with a series of outwardly extending radial teeth  16  each having a lead-in to facilitate insertion into the first part  11 . The first part  11  includes a stepped recess  11   a  downstream of the locking ring  12 . The second part  15  includes a filter recess  17  at its leading end, a push fit fitting  18  at its trailing end and an O-ring seal  19  received in a radial groove intermediate its ends which seals the second part  15  within the first part  11 . 
     The push fit fitting  18  includes an O-ring seal  18   a  for sealing against a supply pipe P received by the push fit fitting  18 , a collapsible collar  18   b  and a retaining ring  18   c  surrounding the collapsible collar  18   b . The collapsible collar  18   b  and retaining ring  18   c  have cooperating tapered surfaces such that the collapsible collar  18   b  is compressed on attempted removal, thereby retaining the supply pipe P within the push fit fitting  18 . 
     The coupling  10  also includes a conical filter  17   a  having a frame  17   b  with a circular inlet portion  17   c  corresponding to the mouth of the filter  17   a  and an O-ring seal  17   d  received within a radial groove in the circular inlet portion  17   c  which seals against a facing surface of the filter recess  17  of the second part  15  of the coupling  10 . In the uncoupled orientation of the locking ring  12 , the second part  15  is insertable into the first part  11  with its teeth  16  passing through the gaps between the teeth  13  of the first part  11 . In the coupled orientation of the locking ring, the teeth  13 ,  16  of the first and second parts  11 ,  15  are aligned and removal of the second part  15  from the first part  11  is prevented. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 14 to 17 , there is shown a push button actuator  100  for operating the syphon  2 . The push button actuator  100  in this embodiment includes a manifold  101 , a body  102 , a surround  103 , a push button  104  and a hexagonal securing nut  105  with an internal thread. The manifold  101  includes an internally threaded hollow cylinder  110  with an open end and a closed end, a radial inlet port  111  and a radial outlet port  112 . Each of the inlet and outlet ports  111 ,  112  includes 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 port  75  of the operating valve  7  is configured to be connected to the inlet port  111  and a further pipe (not shown) is configured to connect to the outlet port  112  at one end and feed into the cistern (not shown) at the other end. 
     The body  102  is in the form of a hollow cylinder with a central, threaded section  121 , a tail section  122  of reduced diameter, also externally threaded, and a mounting flange  123  at the opposite end of the body  102  to the tail section  122 . The tail section  122  includes radial inlet passageways  122   a  and radial outlet passageways  122   b  axially spaced from the inlet passageways  122   a . The mounting flange  123  includes a series of radial spokes  123   a  separated by axial holes  123   b  about the mounting flange  123 . 
     The surround  103  is in the form of a hollow cylinder  130  with an outwardly extending radial flange  131  at one end and an inwardly extending radial flange  132  at the other end to form a base ring  132  of the surround. The base ring  132  includes a series of castellations  133  extending about its innermost edge. Each castellation  133  includes a pair of projections  134  at its outermost corners, which together define a recess  135 . 
     The push button  104  includes a dome-shaped head  140  and a stem  141  movably received within the body  102 . The push button  104  is movable within the body  102  between a deployed position shown in  FIGS. 14, 16 and 17  and an actuated or depressed position in which the stem  141  is pushed further into the body  102 . In this embodiment, fluid communication between the inlet passageways  122   a  and the outlet passageways  122   b  is closed in the deployed position and open in the actuated or depressed position. The push button  104  is also biased by a spring  142  to the deployed position. Thus, water is prevented from flowing from the inlet passageways  122   a  to the outlet passageways  122   b  until the push button  104  is operated. On operation of the push button  104 , water is able to bleed from the bleed port  75  through the push button actuator  100  and back into the cistern (not shown) through the aforementioned pipes. 
     In an assembled condition, the body  102  is received within the surround  103  such that the mounting flange  123  of the body  102  engages the base ring  132  of the surround  103  and the securing nut  105  is threadedly engaged with the central section  121  of the body  102 . In addition, the tail section  122  of the body  102  is received within and threadedly engaged with the cylinder  110  of the manifold  101  such that the inlet passageways  122   a  are aligned with the radial inlet port  111  and the outlet passageways  122   b  are aligned with the radial outlet port  102 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 16 , when the body  102  is in a first orientation the castellations  133  of the surround  103  are received within axial holes  123   b  between the radial spokes  123   a  of the body  102  and the push button  104  is substantially flush with the outwardly extending radial flange  131  of the surround  103 . As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , when the body is in a second orientation, the radial spokes  123   a  of the body  102  rest on the castellations  133  within the recesses  135  between the projections  134  and the push button  104  stands proud with respect to the outwardly extending radial flange  131  of the surround  103 . 
     Thus, the push button actuator  100  may be adapted to suit the requirements of multiple different installations. For example, the arrangement of  FIG. 16  may be desirable for aesthetic purposes, whilst the arrangement of  FIG. 17  enables users with less dexterity to operate the push button actuator  100  with ease. 
     In use and as shown in  FIGS. 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 filter  17   a , into the manifold  4 , into the inlet  53  of the fill valve  50 , into the inlet  73  of the operating valve  7  and into the accumulator  6 . When the cistern (not shown) is full, the arm  58  of the filling device  5  is raised, thereby blocking the bleed port  55  of the fill valve  50 , pressurising the control chamber defined between the diaphragm  52  and a facing portion of the housing  51  and forcing the diaphragm  52  against the valve seat to close the fill valve  50 . With the push button actuator  100  in the deployed position, the bleed port  75  of the operating valve is also blocked, thereby pressurising the control chamber defined between the diaphragm  72  and a facing portion of the housing  71  and forcing the diaphragm  72  against the valve seat to close the operating valve  7 . Pressurised water then charges the accumulator  6  ready for operation. 
     In order to initiate a flush, the head  140  of the push button actuator  100  is depressed, which opens fluid communication between the inlet  111  and the outlet  112 , thereby allowing flow from the bleed port  75  of the operating valve  7  through the bleed pipe BP and through the push button actuator  100  into the cistern (not shown). This flow releases the pressure within the control chamber of the operating valve  7  and the pressure within the manifold  4  unseats the diaphragm  72 . Water then flows as illustrated in  FIG. 5  from both the supply pipe P and from the accumulator  6  through the outlets  74  of the operating valve  7  and into the actuator cylinder  80 , thereby forcing the actuator piston  81  upwardly and forcing the syphon piston  23  upwardly within the syphon chamber  21   b . This forces the diaphragm  25  against the frame  24  of the piston  23  and raises the volume of water within the chamber  21   b  up and over the bight of the U of the third part  22  of the syphon  2  and initiating a syphonic flushing action. Water then flows through the openings in the frame  24  of the piston  23 , urging the diaphragm  25  upwardly, and continues to flow through the syphon  2 . 
     Thus, in situations where the pressure from the water supply is reduced or fluctuates, the accumulator  6  provides additional pressurised flow to ensure that the syphonic action is initiated effectively. 
     If the head  140  of the push button actuator  100  continues to be depressed, water continues to flow through the actuator cylinder  80  and retains the piston in a raised position. As outlined above, this also keeps the sealing element  29  in a raised condition exposing the series of openings  28  such that when the water level within the cistern (not shown) drops to this point the syphonic action is broken, thereby resulting in a partial flush. If, however, the head  140  of the push button actuator  100  is released immediately or shortly after it is depressed initially, a full flush is effected. 
     As the water level within the cistern (not shown) drops, the float chamber  56  empties through the draining port (not shown) and the float  57  drops within the float chamber  56 . At this point, the arm  58  pivots and the resilient stop  58   a  unseats from the bleed port  55 , thereby releases the pressure within the control chamber of the float valve  50  and unseating the diaphragm  52 . Fluid flow is then opened between the inlet  53  and the outlets  54  and water drains out of the float valve  50  as illustrated in  FIG. 6  to refill the cistern (not shown). As the water level rises above the top of the float chamber  56 , it is refilled and the float  57  is once again raised to cause the resilient stop  58   a  to block the bleed port  55 , thereby pressurising the control chamber of the float valve  50  and forcing the diaphragm  52  against the valve seat and closing the float valve  50 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 18 and 19 , there is shown a flushing apparatus  301  according to another embodiment of the invention. The flushing apparatus  301  according to this embodiment is similar to the flushing apparatus  1  described above, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further herein. The flushing apparatus  301  according to this embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that the hydraulic circuit  303  for operating the flushing device  2  is not integral with the flushing device  2  and it incorporates an air introduction assembly  310 . In this embodiment, the hydraulic circuit  303  includes a supply pipe P incorporating a non-return valve  330 , which feeds into an inlet manifold  331  via a push fit inlet fitting  331   a . The hydraulic circuit  303  also includes an accumulator  306 , an outlet manifold  332  and an outlet pipe O connecting an outlet push fit fitting  332   a  of the outlet manifold  332  to a push fit fitting  307  which feeds into the operating valve  7 . 
     The accumulator  306  is in the form of a bottle  360  with which the inlet and outlet manifolds  331 ,  332  are both formed integrally at its mouth. The accumulator  306  includes a water inlet tube  361  fluidly connected to and extending orthogonally from the supply pipe P and push fit fitting  331   a  into the accumulator  306  toward its base  362 . The water inlet tube  361  includes a necked portion  363 , which accelerates, or throttles, the flow of water therethrough. The accumulator  306  also includes a water outlet tube  364  fluidly connected to and extending from the outlet manifold  332  into the accumulator  306  toward its base  362 . 
     The inlet manifold  331  includes a third branch  333  receiving the air introduction assembly  310 . The third branch  333  includes a flange at its upper end and receives an insert  311 . The insert  311  includes a part-spherical shoulder for redirecting the inlet water flowing from the supply pipe P into the water inlet tube  361  and an air inlet tube  312  open at its upper end and extending into the necked portion  363  of the water inlet tube  361  to provide fluid communication between the third branch  333  and the necked portion  363 . 
     The air introduction assembly  310  also includes a non-return valve  313 , which includes an air inlet  313   a , a valve member  314  reciprocable within a retainer  315 . The valve member  314  includes a piston with an O-ring seal about its periphery and a longitudinal guide pin received within a guide ring in the base of the retainer  315  to ensure smooth reciprocating motion therein. The valve member  314  is retained within the retainer  315  by a shoulder at its upper end against which the piston seals when forced in its uppermost position. The retainer  315  is retained within the third branch  333  by a cap ring  316  which engages the flange of the third branch  333 . The insert  311  is captivated between the retainer  315  and a shoulder of the inlet manifold  331 . 
     The outlet manifold  332  includes a second outlet fitting  332   b , which is in the form of a threaded tail in this embodiment. The apparatus  301  includes a filling device  305  having a threaded collar  350  for threadedly engaging the second outlet fitting  332   b  to provide a fluid connection therebetween. The filling device  305  is in the form of a substantially conventional fill valve  351  operated by a float  352 , similar to that which is disclosed in EP0961892 and offered commercially by the present applicants, but for the means by which it connects to the outlet manifold  332  of the present invention. 
     In use and when the operating valve  7  and the fill valve  351  are both closed, the pressure within the accumulator  306  urges the valve member  314  against the shoulder of the retainer  315 , thereby sealing off the non-return valve  313 . When a user initiates a flushing action as described above in relation to the first embodiment, the operating valve  7  opens and pressurised water flows from the accumulator  306  through the outlet pipe O and through the operating valve  7  to initiate the symphonic action. This occurs even in the absence of fluid pressure from the source. Following operation, the operating valve  7  closes. 
     As the water level drops, the float  352  of the filing device  305  lowers and opens the fill valve  351  and water flows from the accumulator, out of the second outlet fitting  332   b  and out through the filling device  305 . The flow of water from the supply pipe P through the water inlet tube  361  creates a venturi effect within the necked portion  363 , thereby reducing the pressure within the third branch  333  of the inlet manifold  331 . This reduction in pressure causes the valve member  314  to unseat from the shoulder of the retainer  315  and air is entrained from the air inlet  313   a  and into the accumulator  306 . As outlined above, the applicants have observed that air in the accumulator may become depleted over time, but the air introduction assembly  310  regularly reintroduces air into the accumulator, thereby mitigating this phenomenon. The provision of an air inlet which introduces air through a venturi means enables this reintroduction of air to occur automatically. 
     As the water level rises, the float  352  rises and closes the fill valve  351 . As a result, the circuit  303  pressurises and the accumulator refills, ready for the next flushing action. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although the invention has been illustrated with reference to a cistern flushing apparatus, it will be appreciated that it may be incorporated into any suitable fluid supply system, such as a drain cleaning apparatus, for example one which uses a jetting device. Whilst the accumulator in the specific embodiments is in the form of a bottle  60 ,  360 , it will be appreciated that the accumulator may be provided by any enclosed volume, provided by, for example, multiple components assembled together to form a reservoir that is configured to function as described. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.