DE102020202044B3 - Food receptacle with specific coupling of a lid with a ventilation device, as well as a method - Google Patents

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a food receptacle (8) for a household refrigerator (1), with a bowl (10) for holding the food, with a separate lid (9) that closes the bowl (10) on the bowl (10) can be put on, and with a ventilation device (12) with which an exchange of air between the environment and the interior (13) of the food receptacle (8) can be carried out, the ventilation device (12) being a cover (9) and to the shell (10) is a separate module (38) which is detachably arranged with a coupling device (40) on the front of the cover (9), the coupling device (40) having a first coupling element (39, 43) which is attached to the module (38) is arranged and has a second coupling element (33 to 37, 45) which is arranged on the cover (9), the coupling device (40) with the coupling elements (39, 43, 33 to 37, 45) so designed is that when coupling a merging of the module (38) with the lid (9) in the depth direction (z) of the food receptacle (8) is specified and subsequently a displacement of the module (38) and the lid (9) relative to each other in the width direction (x) of the food receptacle (8) is specified is to reach the coupled end position. One aspect also relates to a household refrigerator (1) and one aspect relates to a method.

Description

One aspect of the invention relates to a food receptacle for a household refrigerator. The food receptacle has a tray for receiving the food. The food receptacle also has a lid which is separate from the shell and which can be placed on the shell to close the shell. The food receptacle has a ventilation device with which an exchange of air between the surroundings and the interior of the food receptacle can be carried out. Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for mounting a ventilation device of a food receptacle on a lid of the food receptacle.

A food receptacle is for example from the WO 2004/038312 A1 famous. There recesses are formed in a lid of the food receptacle, in which plate-like and flat flaps are pivotably mounted. It is therefore necessary that the cover itself is formed with such rimmed recesses in order to be able to insert these flaps therein. The pivot axis, about which a flap is pivotable, is arranged within the cover, viewed in the height direction, and thus within the height of the cover. As a result, when the flat flap is opened, constellations occur in which the upwardly projecting portion of the flap is relatively far up. Due to the planar design of the flap, a steeply upwardly projecting, freely cantilevered part of the flap is oriented in a pivoted manner. In the open state of the flap, this also results in a relatively high upward position of the flap, so that in this regard there are also circumferentially free edges. On the one hand, when the flap is open, a corresponding upward space requirement is required, on the other hand, other components and the like can come into contact with it. In particular, a corresponding space requirement in the upward direction is then also required in order to open the flap completely.

It is the object of the present invention to create a food receptacle for a household refrigeration appliance and such a household refrigeration appliance in which a simple and yet stable positioning of the ventilation device on a lid of the food receptacle is achieved. In particular, a method for assembling a ventilation device is to be created which is improved in this regard.

This object is achieved by a food receptacle, a household refrigerator and a method according to the independent claims.

One aspect of the invention relates to a food receptacle for a household refrigerator. The food receptacle has a tray for receiving food. The food receptacle has a lid which is separate from the shell and which can be placed on the shell to close the shell. In addition, the food receptacle has a ventilation device with which an exchange of air between the surroundings and the interior of the food receptacle can be carried out.

The ventilation device is a separate module from the lid and shell of the food receptacle. This module is arranged with a coupling device of the food receptacle on the front of the lid. In particular, a non-destructive detachable connection is created here by the coupling device. The coupling device has a first coupling element which is arranged on the module. The coupling device has a second coupling element which is arranged on the cover. The coupling device is designed with its coupling elements in such a way that when coupling between the lid and the module, the module is brought together with the lid in the depth direction of the food receptacle. The coupling is further specified by this coupling device to the effect that following this merging, the module and the lid are displaced relative to one another in the width direction of the food receptacle in order to reach the coupled end position between the module and the lid. The coupling device is therefore designed in such a way that it specifies a very specific assembly scenario for assembling the module with the cover. Two very specifically directed relative movements must therefore be carried out between the module and the cover. In particular, these are two relative movements predetermined in different spatial directions. These defined relative movements are oriented perpendicular to one another. They are specified in the plane in which the cover extends flat. In addition, the sequence of these directions of movement is also specified. First of all, a linear direction is specified for the merging, which is defined by the depth direction. Following this, a linear coupling movement is specified in the spatial direction perpendicular to it, namely the width direction. Such a configuration of a coupling device makes it possible, on the one hand, to achieve a very simple coupling principle between the module and the cover. This is very easy to assemble in this regard, since simple movements can be carried out. By doing just at least two different linear movements have to be carried out one after the other in different spatial directions in order to reach the coupled end position, a mechanically stable end position between the module and the cover is also made possible. An undesired slipping and thus a tolerance-afflicted coupled end state is avoided. It is precisely these two directions of movement that can be carried out easily and safely by a user himself, without the need for a fitter. A docking with one another in this regard and subsequent shifting is also a very ergonomic principle of the mechanical coupling.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the first coupling element has a receiving shaft. This receiving shaft is formed on a rear side of the module. The back is facing the lid when assembling. The second coupling element can be introduced, in particular inserted, into this receiving shaft when the module is brought together with the cover. This creates a certain pre-coupling between the module and the cover for this first assembly step. The subsequent displacement in the width direction is thus already held to a certain extent by this configuration, since the module and this cover no longer have to be prepositioned. Shifting in the width direction is thereby made possible in a particularly advantageous manner, without the module and the cover tilting towards one another in an undesirable manner and without jamming or spreading this linear displacement movement in the width direction.

It is preferably provided that the first coupling element has a snap element. This snap element is designed to be snapped onto a counter snap element. The counter snap element is part of the second coupling element. A simple snap connection can be implemented by means of such a configuration. As a result, the coupled end state or the coupled end position is held securely. Such a snap connection also has further advantages. It is mechanically simple, yet highly functional. In addition, it can be reversibly detached and reassembled. The mechanical holding connection of the snap connection is stable even when it is loosened and reassembled several times. Undesired wear and tear or tolerances can thus be avoided, as it were. Furthermore, such a snap connection is also advantageous in order to be able to reliably identify the coupled end state. This can be perceived haptically and / or acoustically for a user. This means that the coupled final state is also reliably recognized.

Last but not least, such a snap connection can also be released quickly and easily.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the snap element forms a holder of the module for the cover in the width direction. In this way, holding between the module and the cover in the coupled end position is also achieved in a specific spatial direction, namely in this displacement direction.

In particular, it is provided that a holder is provided between the cover and the module in two spatial directions by the receiving shaft. In particular, this is the height direction and the depth direction. Thus, in an advantageous embodiment, the receiving shaft can also be used to form a guide shaft that guides the sliding movement between the module and the cover in the width direction. This enables a particularly linear displacement movement.

It is preferably provided that, adjacent to the snap element, a release opening is formed in a wall which delimits the receiving shaft. An engagement with a release tool is made possible from outside the receiving shaft in order to be able to release the snap connection between the snap element and the counter snap element. As a result, a very simple and yet functional concept can be made possible in order to be able to easily release a snapped state between the snap element and the counter snap element.

It is preferably provided that the snap element is arranged in the receiving shaft itself. As a result of this configuration, the snap element is on the one hand arranged in a space-saving manner. On the other hand, it is also arranged in a protected manner. An undesired bump into it with other components and any damage or breakage resulting therefrom can thereby be avoided. Last but not least, this arrangement in the receiving shaft also enables a very targeted coupling with the counter-snap element. In addition, this positioning achieves the snapped-in state between the snap element and the counter-snap element in the receiving slot itself and thus enables the snap connection to be arranged in a protected manner.

It is preferably provided that the second coupling element is arranged on a front edge of the cover. It can be provided that the cover has a bar. This can be a separate strip to an additional smooth part of the lid. The plate part can for example be a glass plate or a plastic plate, which at least is partially transparent. The bar can be arranged on the front of this plate part. It can also be provided that not only a bar, which is arranged on the front edge, is provided, but that an at least regionally encircling frame and in particular a completely encircling frame is part of the cover. This can then encircle the plate part at the edge. In particular, this second coupling element is designed to be integrated on this bar or the frame. It is thus formed in one piece therewith. By means of such a configuration, a mechanically loadable structure can thus be created separately from a plate part, which structure reliably enables coupling to the module. Assembly forces that occur can be better absorbed by such a construction. In addition, it is not necessary to form such a coupling element on the plate part itself.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the second coupling element has a coupling web. In particular, guide elements are arranged on this coupling web. These are oriented in the height direction of the food receptacle. They are thus upwards and / or downwards from the coupling web, viewed in the vertical direction. In particular, such guide elements can be designed as guide ribs. The horizontal position between the module and the cover is held in an improved manner when it is brought together and when it is subsequently moved by means of guide elements designed and oriented in this way. This avoids undesirable tilting of the two components with respect to one another. In particular, this is avoided because the guide elements have a height that is at least 95 percent, in particular at least 99 percent, but less than 100 percent of the clear width of the receiving shaft measured in the height direction. As a result, a relatively accurately fitting picking up and nevertheless preferred continuous relative movement between the receiving shaft and a guide element can be made possible.

A plurality of such guide elements can be provided, which are formed on the coupling web at a distance from one another. In particular, these guide elements extend in the depth direction.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the receiving shaft is dimensioned in the depth direction of the food receiving container so that a guide element is arranged securely in position at least in the coupled end position between the module and the lid in the depth direction and in the height direction of the food receiving container. For this purpose, it can be provided that stops are formed in the receiving shaft which enable this positioning of the guide elements in the receiving shaft.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the second coupling element has a coupling web. In particular, a counter-snap element is arranged on this coupling web. This counter snap element is designed to be snapped onto a snap element which is part of the first coupling element. In particular, it can be provided that the counter-snap element is resiliently arranged on the coupling web. In particular, it is designed in one piece with the coupling web. The above-mentioned guide elements can also be designed in one piece with the coupling web.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the counter-snap element is oriented in the width direction of the food receptacle. When snapping between the module and the cover, this counter-snap element snaps into the width direction of the food receptacle with the snap element.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the counter-snap element in an uncoupled basic state between the module and the cover protrudes with a snap nose downwards or upwards relative to the guide elements. This is a beneficial concept. On the one hand, a tilt-free positioning between the module and the cover can be established. This is because, in an advantageous embodiment, the guide elements are inserted into the receiving shaft with a relatively precise fit in the vertical direction. On the other hand, a corresponding spring effect can advantageously be achieved by the downward protrusion of this snap nose. As a result, a more secure snap connection, acted upon by a corresponding mechanical force, can be set between the snap element and the counter snap element.

It can be provided that the receiving shaft, viewed in the vertical direction of the food receptacle, is higher in the area in which the counter-snap element is inserted when the module is brought together with the lid than in the area in which the guide elements are inserted. This advantageously makes it possible for the individual components, in particular the counter-snap element, not to have to be bent when they are brought together, but rather to be inserted into the receiving slot in their unbent basic state. Undesired damage to the counter snap element and / or undesirably large forces that occur in this first step of mounting, namely during Merging in the depth direction, which would have to be applied by a user, can thereby be avoided. This also supports a very continuous and user-friendly assembly concept.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the coupling web on the cover has at least one flexibilization opening. As a result, a certain elasticity of deformation can be achieved. Manufacturing tolerances and / or position tolerances can thereby be compensated for in an improved manner. This also supports a very continuous and thus clamping-free and spread-free mounting between the cover and the module.

• - Bereitstellen des Moduls des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters;
• - Bereitstellen des zum Modul separaten Deckels des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters;
• - Zusammenführen des Moduls mit dem Deckel in Tiefenrichtung, wobei dazu Koppelelemente einer Koppeleinheit des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters in Tiefenrichtung zusammengeführt werden;
• - ein auf das Zusammenführen nachfolgendes Verschieben des Moduls und des Deckels relativ zueinander in Breitenrichtung des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters, bis die gekoppelte Endposition zwischen dem Modul und dem Deckel erreicht wird.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for coupling a lid of a food receptacle, in which the following steps are carried out:

• - providing the module of the food receptacle;
• - Provision of the cover of the food receptacle, which is separate from the module;
• - Merging the module with the cover in the depth direction, coupling elements of a coupling unit of the food receptacle being brought together in the depth direction for this purpose;
• a subsequent displacement of the module and the lid relative to one another in the width direction of the food receptacle following the merging until the coupled end position between the module and the lid is reached.

In particular, this coupled end position is also a snapped position between at least one snap element and at least one counter snap element of a coupling device of the food receptacle. The food receptacle is designed in particular according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof.

Advantageous embodiments of the method are given by the advantageous embodiments of the food receptacle. In this context, the objective components of the food receptacle are designed and / or arranged alone or in operative connection to enable and / or carry out the method steps during assembly.

The ventilation device has a pivotable flap which, in an open position, releases a ventilation opening and, in a closed position, closes the ventilation opening. The flap has a longitudinal axis. The ventilation device has a carrier body on which a separate subassembly of the ventilation device is mounted. In particular, a releasable connection is provided. The assembly has the flap, a separate carrier rail for the flap and a separate actuating element for actuating the flap. These several, in particular three, separate components of the assembly enable improved assembly and improved positioning of these functional components. These three components form a separate, individually manageable and manufacturable module of the ventilation device. This is because, on the one hand, these components are separated in such a way that their individual functions have an improved effect and, on the other hand, made in such a way that they can be easily connected to one another. In particular, it is achieved in that a pre-assembly subassembly can be formed by these three components, which can then be subsequently mounted on the carrier body as a whole. This improves and simplifies the assembly of the entire ventilation device. This is because it is easier, in particular, to fasten the flap in a pivotable manner beforehand on a simply constructed support rail. As a result, this flap no longer has to be laboriously mounted on the larger support body, which is very difficult with conventional designs, since access to fastening areas is difficult. This can also reduce damage to the flap during assembly. In particular, it is thereby advantageously achieved that when the flap is no longer fastened directly to the carrier body in a pivotable manner, but only to the carrier rail. Pivoting is then also improved as a result. In addition, variants of the ventilation device can also be created quickly and easily by means of this assembly.

This allows you to create your own module variants both functionally and in terms of design. For example, individual support rails can be installed. These can also be different in color or structure. This can also be provided for the flap or the actuating element.

The assembly is preferably fastened to the carrier body by at least one snap connection. This makes it easy to assemble, but also to simply remove it as a whole. A simple dismantling, also of the assembly itself, also enables the individual parts to be cleaned or exchanged. A non-destructive detachable connection can be formed between the assembly and the carrier body.

The carrier rail preferably has an integrated and thus one-piece formed snap element of the snap connection, with which the assembly is snapped by means of the support rail on the separate support body. As a result, the connection between the assembly and the carrier body is provided, in particular, only by these snap connections. This also enables stable fastening of the entire assembly. In particular, a direct, self-retaining connection is formed between the carrier rail and the carrier body. On the other hand, it is not necessary for another retaining connection to be formed between another component of the assembly and the carrier body.

The actuating element is preferably mounted displaceably on the support rail, in particular on an upper side of the support rail. As a result, the actuating element can be easily installed, since only the carrier rail is initially required here as well. This makes handling and accessibility during assembly easy. In particular, the actuating element is arranged non-destructively detachable on the carrier rail but is nevertheless arranged to be displaceable for this purpose in the state arranged thereon. In particular, a snap connection can be provided for the holding attachment of the actuating element. In particular, the actuating element is only fastened in a self-retaining manner to the carrier rail.

The actuating element is in particular a slide. This preferably has an upwardly protruding handle.

The flap is preferably mounted pivotably on the support rail. In particular, the flap is only fastened in a self-retaining manner to the support rail and is only pivotably mounted there.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that a free space formed in the depth direction between a front edge of the cover and a rear edge of a front wall of the shell is covered by the ventilation device. This ventilation device thus also serves as a supplementary module to cover an upper opening or a loading opening of the bowl together with the lid. This creates another advantageous concept. The cover is shortened in this context and supplemented in depth by this ventilation device in order to cover this opening in the shell from above.

In particular, this mechanical connection between the cover and the carrier body can be released without being destroyed. As a result, the carrier body can be reversibly removed and reattached. This configuration is advantageous for cleaning purposes, for example. In particular, the ventilation device is only connected to the support body directly with the cover.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the flap is arranged in the closed position in the vertical direction of the food receptacle at the most at the level of an upper side of the carrier body. In such an embodiment, the flap is arranged completely sunk in the carrier body in the closed position. In this closed position, it does not protrude upwards. With such a configuration, a space-saving concept is realized. In addition, it is made possible that the flap is not damaged undesirably. This can be the case if it protrudes if it is hit with other objects. In addition, it can be provided that in this closed position the top of the carrier body is arranged flush with the top of the flap. A total surface without unevenness is thereby formed.

In the closed position, the flap is oriented in particular horizontally.

In the open position, which differs from this, the flap is, on the other hand, folded down when viewed in the vertical direction. In particular, only that end region of the flap which has the axis of rotation is at the same height both in the closed and in the open position. The carrier body makes it possible for the flap to be arranged completely within the carrier body even in the open position. In any position of the flap that is possible, the flap is thus arranged completely within the carrier body in an advantageous embodiment. This enables a particularly protected concept. In particular, the more precise and improved movement control of the flap already mentioned above is thereby also achieved. This concept also makes it possible for no part of the flap to protrude further upwards in the height direction in the open position than in the closed position of the flap.

It is preferably provided that the carrier body has a swivel space. In this pivoting space, the flap can be pivoted between the closed position and the open position. The flap is arranged completely within the support body in both positions. The carrier body thus has, as it were, a cavity in which the movement of the flap is made possible. This further improves the advantages mentioned above.

In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the ventilation device on a is arranged front edge of the lid and is arranged opposite the front edge protruding forward. Viewed in the depth direction of the food receptacle, the ventilation device is arranged in a free space between the front edge of the lid and an upper shell flange of the shell. The shell flange is in particular part of a front wall of the shell. In particular, viewed in the depth direction of the food receptacle, the flap is arranged completely in front of a front edge of the lid. This concerns the arrangement of the flap in any possible position. The flap is also arranged without contact to the front edge of this cover. In such a configuration, this ventilation device is advantageously applied, for example, pushed onto the cover as an overall module, quasi from the front.

In an advantageous embodiment it can be provided that the ventilation device is designed as a separate module, which can then also be a retrofit module. This means that an embodiment of a food receptacle, which is initially only designed with the shell and a specific lid, can also be retrofitted with such a ventilation device. This is particularly advantageous in this embodiment, in which a flap does not have to be inserted in a recess formed in the cover, but in which the cover, viewed in isolation, is designed as a flat, uninterrupted plate. Retrofitting is then also relatively easy due to the relatively simple front-side attachment of this module to the cover.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigerator with at least one food receptacle according to the above aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The household refrigerator can be a refrigerator or a freezer or a combined refrigerator-freezer. The household refrigerator has a housing in which at least one receiving space for food is formed. The food receiving container can be arranged in the receiving space and, in particular when the lid is closed on the tray, forms its own closed storage area. The food receiving container can in particular be a fresh food container in which an individual storage condition, in particular an individual temperature and / or air humidity, can be set.

This makes it possible to set a storage condition that is different from the rest of the area of the receiving space. This is particularly advantageous for storing specific foods such as fruit or vegetables or meat such as fish.

It can be provided that the household refrigerator has a humidifying device with which the individual air humidity in the food receptacle can be adjusted.

Preferably, the food receptacle can be removed from the receptacle and reinserted, and thus also a portable or mobile container.

Advantageous designs of the food receptacle are to be regarded as advantageous designs of the method. In particular, the components with their configurations and / or positions with respect to one another enable the advantageous method steps to be carried out for assembly, including the entire food receptacle.

The information "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "horizontal", "vertical", "depth direction", "width direction", "height direction" means that the container or device is used and arranged as intended given positions and orientations.

Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures, can be used not only in the specified combination, but also in other combinations or on their own, without the frame to leave the invention. There are thus also embodiments of the invention to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed, which are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but emerge and can be generated from the explained embodiments by means of separate combinations of features. Designs and combinations of features are also to be regarded as disclosed, which therefore do not have all the features of an originally formulated independent claim.

• 1 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltskältegeräts;
• 2 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Teilbereichs des Haushaltskältegeräts gemäß 1, in welchem ein Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälter dargestellt ist und eine Klappe einer Lüftungsvorrichtung geschlossen ist;
• 3 eine Darstellung gemäß 2, bei welcher die Klappe in der geöffneten Stellung gezeigt ist;
• 4 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer Lüftungsvorrichtung des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters;
• 5 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Deckels des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters;
• 6 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines ersten Ausführungsbeispiels einer Lüftungsvorrichtung;
• 7 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels einer Lüftungsvorrichtung;
• 8 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels einer Lüftungsvorrichtung;
• 9 eine perspektivische Darstellung des Deckels gemäß 5 und der Lüftungsvorrichtung gemäß 6 im entkoppelten Zustand;
• 10 eine Draufsicht auf die Komponenten gemäß 9 in einem vorderen Bereich zu Beginn eines Montageszenarios;
• 11 eine perspektivische Horizontalschnittdarstellung der Komponenten gemäß 1 in einem Montagezwischenzustand, in dem ein Zusammenführen des Deckels und der Lüftungsvorrichtung in Tiefenrichtung des Lebensmittel-Aufnahmebehälters bereits erfolgt ist;
• 12 eine perspektivische Darstellung der gekoppelten Endposition zwischen dem Deckel und der Lüftungsvorrichtung;
• 13 eine perspektivische Darstellung der Lüftungsvorrichtung gemäß 6 in einer zu 6 unterschiedlichen Perspektive;
• 14 eine vergrößerte Darstellung eines Teilbereichs in 16;
• 15 eine vergrößerte Darstellung eines weiteren Teilbereichs in 16;
• 16 eine Vertikalschnittdarstellung durch die Anordnung der Lüftungsvorrichtung und des Deckels in der montierten Endposition gemäß 12;
• 17 eine weitere Vertikalschnittdarstellung durch die Anordnung gemäß 12; und
• 18 eine perspektivische Teildarstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Deckels mit einem Ausführungsbeispiel von Komponenten einer Koppeleinheit, die an dem Deckel angeordnet sind.

Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. Show it:

• 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of a household refrigerator according to the invention;
• 2 a perspective view of a portion of the household refrigerator according to 1 , in which a food receptacle is shown and a flap of a ventilation device is closed;
• 3 a representation according to 2 in which the flap is shown in the open position;
• 4th a perspective view of an embodiment of a ventilation device of the food receptacle;
• 5 a perspective view of an embodiment of a lid of the food receptacle;
• 6th a perspective view of a first embodiment of a ventilation device;
• 7th a perspective view of a second embodiment of a ventilation device;
• 8th a perspective view of a third embodiment of a ventilation device;
• 9 a perspective view of the cover according to 5 and the ventilation device according to 6th in the decoupled state;
• 10 a plan view of the components according to 9 in a front area at the beginning of an assembly scenario;
• 11 a perspective horizontal sectional view of the components according to FIG 1 in an intermediate assembly state in which the lid and the ventilation device have already been brought together in the depth direction of the food receptacle;
• 12th a perspective view of the coupled end position between the cover and the ventilation device;
• 13th a perspective view of the ventilation device according to 6th in one too 6th different perspective;
• 14th an enlarged illustration of a sub-area in 16 ;
• 15th an enlarged illustration of a further sub-area in 16 ;
• 16 a vertical sectional view through the arrangement of the ventilation device and the cover in the assembled end position according to 12th ;
• 17th a further vertical sectional view through the arrangement according to 12th ; and
• 18th a perspective partial representation of an embodiment of a cover with an embodiment of components of a coupling unit, which are arranged on the cover.

Identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.

In 1 is an exemplary representation of a household refrigerator 1 shown, which is designed as a combined fridge-freezer. The household refrigerator 1 has a body 2 with an inner container 3 on. The inner container 3 delimits a first interior space or receiving space with its walls 4th , which is a cooling space, and a second interior space or receiving space which is arranged underneath it and is separated therefrom 5 which is a freezer compartment. The recording room 4th is generally used for frost-free cooling of chilled goods, preferably at temperatures between +4 ° C and +8 ° C. The recording room 4th however, it can also be designed as a zero-degree compartment, in particular for keeping fruit or vegetables fresh. The recording room 4th is with the door open 6th , the front of the recording room 4th locked, accessible.

The further recording room 5 is generally used for deep-freezing frozen food, for example at -18 ° C. The recording room 5 is with the freezer door open 7th accessible.

In the upper recording room 4th a refrigerated goods or fresh food container is mounted so that it can be pulled out and has a lid 9 and a drawer or bowl 10 having. Above the lid 9 can, as shown, have an additional, separate cover 11 be arranged for example in the form of a partition, for example a glass shelf. The fresh food container represents a food receptacle 8th represent.

The inner container 3 has, among other things, two opposite vertical side walls 3a and 3b on.

At least through the cover 11 is the food receptacle 8th of the remaining partial volume of the receiving space 4th separated.

The food receptacle 8th can be detached from the receiving space without destruction 4th can be removed. Even when brought in in the recording room 4th is provided that the shell 10 in the depth direction and thus in the z-direction in the still in the recording space 4th stored state can be pushed back and forth to get inside the shell 10 to be able to reach.

In 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the household refrigerator 1 shown in which the food receptacle 8th is arranged. The completely out of the recording room 4th removable food receptacle 8th has a ventilation device 12th on. With this ventilation device 12th is an exchange of air between the environment and a volume space or an interior 13th ( 3 ) of the food receptacle 8th enables. The ventilation device 12th is in particular a separate module. It can be attached to the lid 9 to be ordered.

The ventilation device 12th has a flap 14th which is pivotable about a pivot axis A oriented in the width direction (x-direction). The flap 14th extends, as in 2 is shown, over substantially the entire width of the food receptacle 8th .

This hinged flap 14th releases a ventilation opening in an open position and closes this ventilation opening in the closed position. This allows air to come from inside 13th of the food receptacle 8th escape.

The ventilation device 12th has a support body 15th on. The carrier body 15th extends in the width direction (x direction) over the entire width of the cover 9 . It is designed as a bar-like element. In particular, the carrier body 15th in one piece, in particular made of plastic.

The plate-like flap 14th is in 2 shown in the closed position. The carrier body 15th is one to the lid 9 separate unit. The carrier body 15th is on the front of the cover when viewed in depth 9 arranged, in particular arranged directly. Through the lid 9 and the ventilation device 12th is thus a cover module 16 educated. Through this cover module 16 is the loading opening from the bowl 10 can be covered from above.

In addition, the ventilation device 12th an actuator 17th on. This actuator 17th is in the present embodiment a mechanical slide. It can be moved linearly in the width direction. The actuator 17th is on a pad 18th the ventilation device 12th arranged displaceably mounted. The edition 18th is a flat surface. In particular, it is a sub-area of an upper side 19th the ventilation device 12th . The edition 18th is in particular an upper side 44 a separate support rail 40 the ventilation device 12th . The edition 18th delimits a top opening towards the front, viewed in the depth direction 20th of the carrier body 15th . This top opening 20th is completely outlined all around. The top opening 20th provides a ventilation opening 21 a ventilation duct 22nd ( 2 ) the ventilation device 12th This top opening 20th is therefore also an upper ventilation opening 21 ( 3 ), as mentioned above.

The in 2 and 3 The embodiment shown is a pivot axis A around which the flap 14th can be pivoted, oriented in the width direction.

The in 2 and 3 The embodiment shown is the ventilation opening 12th with a closed edge all the way round 24 limited

In 3 is the representation according to 2 shown, but with the flap 14th in the open position. The flap 14th is pivoted down about the pivot axis A for this purpose.

The shell 10 has a front wall 25th on. This has a shell flange or an upper front flange 26th on. As can be seen, the carrier body is 15th on a front edge 27 of the lid 9 arranged. In particular, plugging is provided here. To this end, the carrier body 15th a groove at its rear end 28 on. In this groove 28 is the front edge 27 of the lid 9 plugged in. In particular, a front edge of a cover plate of the lid 9 . The cover plate can be made of glass. In 4th is the ventilation device 12th shown in a perspective view.

In 5 is a perspective view of the lid 9 shown in one embodiment. The lid 9 has, in an advantageous embodiment, a plate part 29 on. This can be made of glass. However, it can also be made of a transparent plastic. In addition, the lid 9 in an advantageous embodiment at least one for the plate part 9 separate front strip 30th on. The front bar 30th is on a front edge of the plate part 29 arranged. It can be provided that the front strip 30th Part of a frame 31 of the lid 9 is. The frame 31 can use the separate plate part 29 at the extent 32 mounting. The bar 30th can be made of plastic. In particular, it is on the groin 30th at least one coupling bridge 33 educated. There are preferably several coupling webs 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 and 37 educated. The coupling bridges 34 until 37 are for coupling with the ventilation device 12th intended. The ventilation device 12th has the carrier body 15th and the flap 14th as basic components. The ventilation device 12th is like this in 6th is shown as a module 38 educated. In the 6th shown groove 28 on the back of the module 38 is a receiving slot 39 . The separate coupling bridges 34 until 37 are to be inserted into the receiving slot 39 educated. They are from a front of the ledge 30th protruding to the front. They are strip-like coupling bridges 34 until 37 . The receiving slot 39 and the coupling bars 34 until 37 are components of a coupling device 40 . With the coupling device 40 is the lid 9 with the module 38 non-destructive detachable connectable.

In 7th and 8th are perspective views of further exemplary embodiments of modules 38 shown. These can also be used to create variants instead of the module 38 in 6th with the lid 9 be coupled.

The coupling device 40 is designed with coupling elements. For this purpose, there is at least one coupling element on the module 38 educated. In particular, there is a first coupling element on the cover 9 educated. The coupling device 40 is designed so that when coupling from the module 38 with the lid 9 first a linear merging of the module 38 with the lid 9 in the depth direction (z-direction) of the food receptacle 8th is given. This depth direction is also the depth direction of the arrangement that makes up the lid 9 and the module 38 having. The coupling device 40 This means that the module is merged when it is coupled 38 with the lid 9 in front. This is a linear merging movement in that depth direction. The coupling device 40 is also designed so that following this merging, the module is moved 38 and the lid 9 relative to each other in the width direction (x-direction) of the food receptacle 8th is specified in order to reach the end position coupled to one another. This width direction is also the width direction for the cover having the arrangement 9 and the module 38 .

The first coupling element has the aforementioned receiving shaft 39 on. In this slot 39 the second coupling element can be inserted when merging. The first coupling element also has a snap element which is designed to be snapped onto a counter-snap element which is part of the second coupling element.

In 10 FIG. 13 is a plan view showing part of the illustration of the components of FIG 9 shown. The lid 9 is partially shown. As can be seen, is in this still decoupled state between the cover 9 and the module 38 an offset d formed in the width direction. This offset d is predefined. In particular, it is provided here that a distance 48 between two adjacent coupling bars 33 until 37 is given. In particular, it interacts with ribs in this regard 49 ( 11 ) attached to the module 38 are formed, one of the offset d given. Because the position of the distances 48 in the width direction of the lid 9 and the position of the ribs 49 in the width direction of the module 38 is coordinated so that the ribs 49 only then in the intervals 48 can be introduced in the depth direction if this offset d is present.

Starting from this above-mentioned basic position of the components with respect to one another, the assembly is then carried out according to the arrow P1 carried out. Ribs 49 dive into the gaps 48 a relatively precise fit. Ribs 49 immerse completely in the depth direction through the distances 48 formed cutouts. This is a linear movement towards one another and one inside the other 38 and the lid 9 in this depth direction. Once this first assembly step has been completed, this cover is linearly displaced in accordance with a subsequent second assembly step 9 and the module 38 along the arrow P2 done relative to each other. This continues until the coupled end state or the coupled end position is reached. In this are the lid 9 and the module 38 in the exemplary embodiment by this offset d shifted to the left, so that no such offset in this coupled end position d occurs more.

In the first step of bringing together the coupling webs 33 until 37 viewed in the depth direction completely into the receiving shaft 39 introduced. In 11 the coupled intermediate state is shown in this context, in which the step according to the merging has already been completely ended. The offset d however, it is still present. In this 11 the arrangement is according to 9 as 10 shown in this intermediate assembly state and shown a horizontal sectional view on a plane that the upper boundary wall of the receiving shaft 39 shows removed. It can thus quasi in the receiving slot 39 be looked at. It can be seen that the coupling webs 33 until 37 with regard to their extension in the depth direction completely in this receiving shaft 39 are included. For the sake of clarity, in 11 the representation of the components is not shown in cut surfaces, but for the sake of simplicity only with the edge contours.

In 12th is then based on the representation in 11 the coupled end position shown. There is also a relative displacement between the module 38 and the lid 9 starting from 11 in the direction of the arrow P2 carried out. This direction of displacement is also controlled by the coupling device 40 given.

In 13th is the embodiment of the module 38 according to 6th in one too 6th shown from different perspectives. The receiving slot 39 can be seen.

In 14th is an enlarged view of the sub-area I. in 13th shown enlarged. It's the attacks 41 and 42 to recognize. Through this is the clear width I. of the receiving slot 39 reduced in height direction. It is thereby achieved that a slipping out of guide elements on at least one coupling web 33 until 37 are formed, is prevented. It can also be seen that this clear width I. is smaller than a clear width formed adjacent to it 11 in which these stops 41 and 42 are no longer provided.

In 15th FIG. 11 is an enlarged illustration of a further sub-area II in FIG 13th shown. It can be seen here that in the receiving slot 39 a snap element 43 is trained. This snap element 43 is in on a bottom wall, which is the receiving slot 39 limited downwards, formed in one piece. The snap element 43 is in the slot 39 arranged. Adjacent to the snap element 43 is a release hole 44 educated. Through this release opening 44 can be from outside the receiving slot 39 be engaged with a release tool and a snapped state between the snap element 43 and a counter-snap element that is attached to a coupling web 34 until 37 is designed to be solved.

In 16 FIG. 13 is a vertical sectional view of the portion of the arrangement according to FIG 12th shown. In particular, a section along the section line XVI-XVI can be provided here. The coupling web is in this coupled end position 33 , which is shown here as an example, completely into the receiving shaft 39 immersed. The coupling bridge 33 has guide elements in this context 47 on, which are in the vertical direction on both sides of the coupling bridge 33 extend up and down. In particular, the extent of these guide elements 47 such that they essentially fit with little play or relatively precisely in the receiving slot 39 are arranged. The same applies to the depth direction. In particular, in this coupled end position, the guide elements are in contact with one another 47 and the attacks 41 and 42 educated. This allows the coupling bar 33 in the direction of the depth not out of the receiving slot 39 slide out or be pulled out. Such an overlapping of the guide elements 47 and the attacks 41 and 42 in the width direction is in particular only set when the sliding movement in the direction of the arrow P2 he follows. In the intermediate position, with only the joining in the depth direction according to the arrow P1 is completed, there is such an overlap in the width direction between the guide elements 47 and the attacks 41 and 42 not yet trained.

In 17th FIG. 13 is a perspective sectional illustration of a partial area of the arrangement according to FIG 12th shown.

It is also the snapped state between the snap element here 43 and a counter snap element 45 to recognize. The counter snap element 45 is arranged on the coupling web. For example, this can be the coupling web 34 being. There are also the exemplary guide elements here 44 to recognize.

As in 17th shown are these snap elements 43 and the counter snap element 45 shown in the snapped position. In particular, holding in the width direction is achieved as a result.

In 18th is a perspective partial representation of an embodiment of a lid 9 shown. It's here compared to 17th shown turned-in state, so that here on the underside of the lid 9 is looked at. A snap 46 as they are already in 17th can be seen is shown. In a basic state in which the counter snap element 45 is not yet pivoted, this snap nose is viewed in the vertical direction 46 protruding further down than the guide elements 47 .

The receiving slot is preferred 39 designed in such a way that, viewed in the width direction, it has different clear widths than height dimensions. As a result, in the first assembly step, namely the merging in the direction of the arrow P1 , both the counter snap element 45 be inserted without a bend already taking place and also the guide elements 47 be inserted into the slot. During the subsequent shifting in the width direction, there is then a snapping between the snap element 43 and the counter snap element 45 and thus a more secure snap connection.

The snap element 43 in particular forms a holder for the module 38 to the lid 9 in this width direction. The second coupling element, which has at least one coupling web 33 until 37 has and in particular the counter snap element 45 and / or guide elements 47 has, is on a front edge of the lid 9 , especially on a front edge of the bar 30th , integrated trained.

It can generally be provided that the coupling webs 33 until 37 each have material recesses, so that a strut structure 50 at the top 51 and / or at the bottom 52 is formed. The guiding elements 47 can be part of the strut structure 50 being. Through the strut structure 50 are also recesses 53 generated. The depression 53 can be designed as a trough or as a complete breakthrough and thus a hole. With a training as a breakthrough, the deformation of the coupling web 33 until 37 be increased at this point. This allows the coupled state between the cover 9 and the module 38 can also be braced better. The breakthrough can then also be referred to as a breakthrough in flexibility. The breakthrough can be an elongated hole.

A guide element 47 can also be used as a stop for the module 38 be trained. As a result, the movement in the width direction to reach the end position is limited. The end position can therefore also be reached exactly.

List of reference symbols

1

Household refrigerator

2

Body

3

Inner container

3a

vertical side wall

3b

vertical side wall

4th

Recording room

5

Recording room

6th

door

7th

Freezer door

8th

Food receptacle

9

lid

10

shell

11

cover

12th

Ventilation device

13th

Interior

14th

flap

15th

Carrier body

16

Cover module

17th

Actuator

18th

Edition

19th

Top

20th

Top opening

21

Ventilation opening

22nd

Ventilation duct

23

free space

24

edge

25th

Front wall

26th

Front flange

27

edge

28

Groove

29

Plate part

30th

Front strip

31

frame

32

scope

33

Coupling bridge

34

Coupling bridge

35

Coupling bridge

36

Coupling bridge

37

Coupling bridge

38

module

39

Receiving slot

40

Coupling device

41

attack

42

attack

43

Snap element

44

Release opening

45

Counter snap element

46

Snap nose

47

Guide element

48

distance

49

rib

50

Strut structure

51

Top

52

bottom

53

deepening

d

Offset

I, I1

clear width

x

Width direction

y

Height direction

z

Depth direction

P, P1, P2

arrow

Claims (15)

Food receptacle (8) for a household refrigerator (1), with a bowl (10) for receiving the food, with a separate lid (9) which can be placed on the bowl (10) to close the bowl (10), and with one Ventilation device (12) with which an exchange of air between the environment and the interior (13) of the food receptacle (8) can be carried out, characterized in that the ventilation device (12) is separate from the lid (9) and the bowl (10) Module (38) which is detachably arranged with a coupling device (40) on the front of the cover (9), the coupling device (40) having a first coupling element (39, 43) which is arranged on the module (38) and a second coupling element (33 to 37, 45) which is arranged on the cover (9), wherein the coupling device (40) with the coupling elements (39, 43, 33 to 37, 45) is designed so that a Merging the module (38) with the lid (9) in the depth direction (z) of the food receptacle (8) is specified and then moving the module (38) and the lid (9) relative to one another in the width direction (x) of the food -Receiving container (8) specified i st to reach the coupled end position. Food receptacle (8) Claim 1 , characterized in that the first coupling element has a receiving shaft (39) on a rear side of the module (38), into which the second coupling element (33 to 37, 45) can be inserted when being brought together. Food receptacle (8) Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the first coupling element has a snap element (43) which is designed to snap with a counter snap element (45) which is part of the second coupling element (33 to 37, 45). Food receptacle (8) Claim 3 , characterized in that the snap element (43) forms a holder of the module (38) for the cover (9) in the width direction (x). Food receptacle (8) Claim 3 or 4th , characterized in that adjacent to the snap element (43) a release opening (44) is formed in a wall which delimits the receiving shaft (39), so that an engagement with a release tool is made possible from outside the receiving shaft (39) to remove the To be able to release the snap connection between the snap element (43) and the counter snap element (45). Food receptacle (8) Claim 2 and after one of the preceding Claims 3 until 5 , characterized in that the snap element (43) is arranged in the receiving shaft (39). Food receptacle (8) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second coupling element (33 to 37, 45) is arranged on a front edge of the lid (9), in particular in a strip (30) or a frame of the lid ( 9) is integrated. Food receptacle (8) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second coupling element (33 to 37, 45) has a coupling web (33 to 37) which is oriented in the height direction (y) of the food receptacle (8) Guide elements (47) are arranged. Food receptacle (8) Claim 8 , characterized in that the receiving shaft (39) is dimensioned in the depth direction (z) so that a guide element (47) at least in the coupled end position between the module (38) and the cover (9) in the depth direction (z) and in the height direction (Y) of the food receptacle (8) is arranged securely in position. Food receptacle (8) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second coupling element (33 to 37, 45) has a coupling web (33 to 37) on which a counter-snap element (45) is arranged, which is for snapping with a Snap element (43), which is part of the first coupling element (39, 43), is formed. Food receptacle (8) according to one of the Claims 3 until 6th and after Claim 10 , characterized in that the counter snap element (45) is oriented in the width direction (x) and can be snapped into place with the snap element (43) when moving between the module (38) and the cover (9) in the width direction (x). Food receptacle (8) Claim 8 or 9 and Claim 10 or 11 , characterized in that the counter-snap element (45) protrudes at least in an uncoupled basic state between the module (38) and the cover (9) with a snap nose (46) downwards or upwards relative to the guide elements (47). Food receptacle (8) Claim 12 , characterized in that the receiving shaft (39) viewed in the height direction (y) of the food receiving container (8) in the area in which the counter-snap element (45) is inserted when the module (38) is brought together with the lid (9), is higher than in the area in which the guide elements (47) are inserted. Food receptacle (8) according to one of the preceding Claims 8 until 13th , characterized in that the coupling web (33 to 37) has at least one breakthrough in flexibility. Method for coupling a lid (9) of a food receptacle (8) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the following steps are carried out: - providing the module (38); - Providing the cover (9); - Merging the module (38) with the cover (9) in the depth direction (z), for this purpose coupling elements (39, 43; 33 to 37, 45) of a coupling device (40) of the food receptacle (8) in the depth direction (z) be merged; - Subsequent to the merging of the module (38) and the cover (9) relative to one another in the width direction (x) until the coupled end position is reached.

Images