DE102020214665A1 - Household appliance device, modular system and method for assembling a household appliance device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention is based on a household appliance device (12), in particular a household refrigeration appliance device, with at least one backing unit (16) for fixing at least on a first side (22) of a household appliance wall (20) and with at least one functional unit (18) for fixing at least on one second side (24) of the household appliance wall (20), the functional unit (18) being connected to the storage unit (16) in an assembled state.
In order to provide a generic device with improved properties in terms of efficiency, it is proposed that the household appliance device (12) have a latching unit (26) which, in the assembled state, connects the functional unit (18) along a joining direction (28) of the functional unit (18) to the Backing unit (16) connects latching.

Description

State of the art

The invention relates to a household appliance device according to the preamble of claim 1, a modular system for assembling a household appliance device according to the preamble of claim 14 and a method for assembling a household appliance device according to the preamble of claim 15.

A household appliance device with at least one storage unit and one functional unit is already known from the prior art, which are each fixed to at least one side of a household appliance wall. It has already been proposed that the fixing unit, in a mounted state, be connected to the backing unit in a non-positive and positive manner, specifically screwed.

The object of the invention is in particular to provide a generic device with improved properties in terms of efficiency. The object is achieved according to the invention by the features of claims 1, 14 and 15, while advantageous configurations and developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

Advantages of the Invention

The invention is based on a household appliance device, in particular a household refrigeration appliance device, with at least one storage unit for fixing at least on a first side of a household appliance wall and with at least one functional unit for fixing at least on a second side of the household appliance wall, the functional unit being in an assembled state with the storage unit connected is.

It is proposed that the domestic appliance device has a latching unit, which connects the functional unit to the storage unit in a latching manner in the assembled state along a joining direction.

Such a configuration can increase efficiency in terms of work and/or cost and/or product efficiency. By means of the latching unit, the functional unit can be connected to the backing unit in a form-fitting manner and in particular possibly additionally in a force-fitting manner, with additional components, in particular screws, being able to be dispensed with. A production effort, in particular a production time and/or production costs, can advantageously be reduced as a result. Thus, assembly can be simplified. Furthermore, security with regard to the fixation can be further optimized since the latching unit can be used to compensate for tolerances, in particular deviations in the material thickness of the household appliance wall and/or the functional unit and/or the backing unit, and thus uncontrolled release of the functional unit and unstable fixation can be avoided be able. Consequently, high manufacturing accuracy can be achieved.

The household appliance device could be, for example, a cooking device device, in particular an oven device and/or a microwave device and/or a grill device device, a household cleaning device device, for example a dishwasher device or a washing machine device, and preferably a household refrigeration device device. In an assembled state, the household appliance device preferably forms a subassembly of a household appliance, in particular a household refrigeration appliance. However, it would also be conceivable for the household appliance device to include the entire household appliance, in particular the entire household refrigeration appliance. The household appliance could be a large household appliance, in particular a household refrigeration appliance, for example a chest freezer and advantageously a refrigerator and/or freezer, and/or a cooking appliance, for example an oven and/or a microwave and/or a grill, and/or a household cleaning appliance, for example a dishwasher or washing machine.

The household appliance could have at least one inner housing and/or one outer housing. The inner housing could have at least the household appliance wall. The wall of the household appliance is preferably part of the household appliance device. However, it would also be conceivable for the household appliance wall to be part of the household appliance having the household appliance device.

In particular, the inner housing is surrounded by the outer housing at least on one side, in particular at least the first side of the wall of the household appliance. The inner housing and the outer housing could define an at least partially closed, preferably completely closed, cavity of the household appliance. The second side of the wall of the household appliance could be a side of the inner housing that faces the cavity, in particular the outer housing. In at least one method step, in particular a foaming process, during manufacture of the household appliance, the cavity could be at least partially foamed with at least one insulating material. The insulating material advantageously surrounds the backing unit the backing unit is at least partially and/or fixed at least on the first side of the wall of the household appliance.

The second side of the wall of the household appliance could be a side of the inner housing facing away from the cavity, in particular the outer housing. The inner housing could define an at least partially closed interior of the household appliance, which is delimited, for example, on at least five sides, preferably on six sides. In particular, the second side of the wall of the household appliance is a side of the inner housing that faces the interior.

The backing unit is preferably fixed both on the first side of the wall of the household appliance and on the second side of the wall of the household appliance. In particular, the wall of the household appliance has an opening. A method for assembling the household appliance device could comprise a number of partial method steps. In particular, in a first sub-step of the method, the storage unit could be guided at least partially through the opening along an assembly direction from the first side of the wall of the household appliance. In addition, the backing unit could be rotated in the first step of the method after being passed through the opening. In a preassembled state of the household appliance device and in particular in the assembled state, the storage unit could reach through at least the opening and be fixed on the first and the second side of the household appliance wall.

The backing unit could have at least one first fixing element and preferably at least one second fixing element. The opening could be at least partially adapted to a shape and configuration of the first and/or second fixing element, so that the first and/or second fixing element could be guided through the opening in the first sub-step of the method along the assembly direction, starting from the first side of the household appliance wall. The backing unit could be rotated in the first sub-step of the method such that after being passed through the opening, the first and/or second fixing element rests at least partially, preferably completely, flush against the second side of the household appliance device. In the installed state, the first and/or second fixing element could fix the storage unit on the second side of the wall of the household appliance. In particular, the first and/or second fixing element defines a bayonet lock of the storage unit.

The backing unit and/or the functional unit could consist, for example, at least partially and/or to a large extent of a mineral and/or a metal and/or a plastic and/or a composite material. The expression “for the most part” should be understood to mean, for example, at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85% and particularly advantageously at most 95% of a volume and/or mass fraction. In this case, the backing unit could consist at least partially and preferably at least to a large extent of the same material as the functional unit. In particular, the backing unit is designed in one piece. The functional unit could also be designed in one piece. “In one piece” is to be understood as being at least cohesively connected, for example by an adhesive process, a welding process, an injection molding process and/or another process that a person skilled in the art considers sensible, and/or formed in one piece, for example by being manufactured in a single or multi-component injection molding process and/or by production from a single cast and/or from a stamping process from a single blank. Advantageously, one-piece should also be understood to mean one-piece. “In one piece” is to be understood in particular as being formed in one piece. This one piece is preferably produced from a single blank, a mass and/or a cast, particularly preferably in an injection molding process, in particular a single-component and/or multi-component injection molding process. The backing unit and/or the functional unit could be produced at least partially and/or for the most part by means of a 3D printing process, by means of a sheet metal bending process or preferably by means of an injection molding process.

The functional unit could provide a stop function, in particular a stop function, and/or a holding function, for example for a shelf of the household appliance. In particular, the functional unit has at least one at least essentially elongate plug-in element. The plug-in element is advantageously at least substantially round. In the installed state, the insertion element could be inserted into the backing unit and at least partially connect the functional unit to the backing unit. In particular, the plug-in element is positioned at least partially and/or to a large extent on the first side of the wall of the household appliance in the assembled state. The functional unit advantageously has at least one functional element. The functional element could be arranged on a side of the functional unit facing away from the plug-in element, in particular on the interior. In particular, the functional element is positioned on the second side of the wall of the household appliance in the assembled state. The functional element could be at least partially and preferably completely in protrude into the interior and be provided, for example, to stop and/or hold the shelf.

In a second sub-step of the method, the functional unit could be guided at least partially through the opening and/or connected to the storage unit along an assembly direction, in particular the joining direction, from the second side of the wall of the household appliance. In particular, the joining direction of the functional unit defines a direction pointing perpendicularly to the second side of the wall of the household appliance, which direction points from the interior to the second side of the wall of the household appliance, in particular the opening. The functional unit, in particular the insertion element, is preferably inserted in the second sub-step of the method along the joining direction through the opening into the backing unit. In the mounted state, the functional unit could be at least partially connected, in particular locked, to the storage unit on the first and/or the second side of the wall of the household appliance. The backing unit advantageously accommodates the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, at least partially in the assembled state, in particular on the first side of the household appliance wall. Particularly preferably, the latching unit latches the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, in the installed state at least on the first side of the household appliance wall with the backing unit. In addition, other non-positive and/or positive connections for fixing the functional unit to the backing unit could also be used, such as plug-in connections and/or rotary connections and/or screw connections.

The assembled state is a state in which, in contrast to an unassembled state of the household appliance device and/or the preassembled state, the functional unit is connected to the storage unit, specifically at least latched in a form-fitting manner. In the unassembled state, the storage unit and the functional unit are arranged separately from one another. In particular, in the unassembled state, the wall of the household appliance is free of the functional unit and the storage unit. In the preassembled state, the backing unit could be fixed to the first side of the household appliance wall in a materially bonded manner, in particular the backing unit is foamed in on the first side, and/or to the second side of the household appliance wall in a non-positive and/or positive manner, in particular by means of the bayonet lock. The preassembled state lies after the unassembled state and before the assembled state with regard to a time course, in particular with regard to at least one method step during assembly of the household appliance device.

In the present application, numerals such as "first" and "second" preceding certain terms are used only to distinguish objects and/or to associate objects with one another and do not imply a total number present and/or ranking of objects. In particular, a "second object" does not necessarily imply the existence of a "first object".

“Provided” here and in the following is to be understood to mean specially programmed, designed and/or equipped. The fact that an object is provided for a specific function should be understood to mean that the object fulfills and/or executes this specific function in at least one application and/or operating state.

It is also proposed that the latching unit defines a first latching position and at least one second latching position which is behind the first latching position with respect to the joining direction. As a result, efficiency with regard to fixing and/or flexibility can be further increased, since a connection of the functional unit to the storage unit can be flexibly adapted to tolerances, in particular deviations in material thickness, of the household appliance wall and/or the functional unit and/or the storage unit. By means of the at least two consecutive locking positions, a compensation of tolerances with regard to deviations in the material thickness of the household appliance wall and/or the functional unit and/or the storage unit can be improved when fixing the functional ladder with the storage unit. This enables the functional unit to be installed securely and without a gap with the backing unit on the wall of the household appliance. The latching unit could have a large number of latching positions, which are preferably arranged at least one behind the other, in particular along the joining direction. The first detent position and at least the second detent position could in particular be spaced apart from one another by at least 0.01 mm, advantageously at least 0.05 mm and particularly advantageously at least 0.1 mm.

The first latching position and at least the second latching position are preferably arranged one behind the other at a distance of at most 1 mm, in particular at most 0.5 mm and preferably at most 0.1 mm with respect to the joining direction. A particularly precise and small gradation in a connection, in particular a latching, of the functional unit with the backing unit can thus be provided. This can the functional unit can be connected to the deposit unit even more efficiently, which in turn makes it possible to further optimize the security of the household appliance device. Furthermore, particularly small tolerances of the household appliance wall and/or the functional unit and/or the backing unit can be compensated for when the functional unit is fixed to the backing unit. The locking unit could possibly have at least one pawl. As an alternative and/or in addition, the latching unit could have at least one bolt lock and/or a clamping lock.

For example, the first latching position could be defined by a first latching element of the storage unit and at least one first counter-latching element of the functional unit that corresponds to the first latching element. The latching unit preferably has at least one first latching element of the functional unit and at least one first counter-latching element of the backing unit, which corresponds to the first latching element and which define the first latching position. As a result, an improved fixation, in terms of security and/or flexibility, of the functional unit with the backing unit can be provided.

It would be conceivable for the depositing unit to have at least one second counter-locking element, in addition to the first counter-locking element, which defines the second locking position. In the installed state, the first latching element could be latched into the first counter-latching element or the second counter-latching element. Furthermore, in a further embodiment of the invention, the second latching position could be defined by a second latching element of the backing unit and at least one second counter-latching element of the functional unit corresponding to the second latching element. So that efficiency with regard to fixing can be optimized even further, the latching unit preferably has at least one second latching element of the functional unit and at least one second counter-latching element of the backing unit, which corresponds to the second latching element and which define the second latching position.

Advantageously, the latching unit is formed at least partially in one piece with the functional unit and/or at least partially in one piece with the backing unit. In particular, the locking unit and the functional unit share at least one component. Alternatively and/or additionally, the latching unit and the backing unit could share at least one component.

It would be conceivable for the first latching element and the second latching element to be arranged offset one behind the other along the joining direction. Alternatively and/or additionally, the first counter-locking element and the second counter-locking element could be arranged one behind the other in an offset manner along the joining direction. The first counter-locking element and the second counter-locking element are preferably arranged one behind the other along the joining direction such that the first locking element and the second locking element define the first locking position and at least the second locking position described above. For example, in addition to the first counter-locking element and the second counter-locking element, the depositing unit could have at least one further counter-locking element, which defines at least one further locking position of the locking unit with the first locking element or the second locking element or at least one further locking element of the functional unit. The first counter-locking element and at least the second counter-locking element could have a spiral arrangement. It would also be conceivable for the first counter-locking element and the second counter-locking element to be arranged directly one behind the other along the joining direction and, in particular, not offset—along a direction perpendicular to the joining direction. The locking unit could be arranged at least partially on the first side of the household appliance wall. In particular, the first counter-locking element and at least the second counter-locking element, which define the first locking position and at least the second locking position with the first locking element and at least the second locking element, are together on the first side of the household appliance wall, in particular the cavity, and/or the second side of the Household appliance wall, especially the interior arranged. Alternatively, the first counter-locking element or at least the second counter-locking element could also be positioned on the first side of the household appliance wall, in particular the cavity, and/or the second side of the household appliance wall, in particular the interior. The first counter-locking element and at least the second counter-locking element are preferably arranged on the storage unit on the first side of the wall of the household appliance in the installed state.

In the assembled state, the first latching element could be latched into the first counter-latching element. Alternatively or additionally, the second latching element could be latched into the second counter-latching element in the installed state. In the installed state, the first latching element and the first counter-latching element and/or the second latching element and the second counter-latching element could be arranged on the first side of the household appliance wall. In particular, the insertion element has at least the first latching element and/or at least the second latching element. For example, the first latching element and the second latching element could be opposite one another Be arranged sides of the plug-in unit. In addition, the first counter-locking element and the second counter-locking element could be arranged on opposite sides of the storage unit such that the first counter-locking element corresponds to the first locking element and the second counter-locking element to the second locking element. In the assembled state, the first latching unit could connect the functional unit to the depositing unit in a latching manner by means of the first counter-latching unit in the first latching position. Alternatively, in the assembled state, the second latching unit could connect the functional unit to the backing unit in a latching manner by means of the second counter-latching unit in the second latching position. It would also be conceivable for the household appliance device in the installed state to have at least one further force-locking and/or form-locking connection, for example a screw connection, which, in addition to the latching unit, connects the functional unit to the backing unit at least partially or for the most part in a force-locking and/or form-locking manner connects.

It would be conceivable that the first latching element is arranged on the plug-in element. The first latching element could be at least partially movable and/or flexible and/or elastic. In particular, the first latching element can be pressed into at least one hollow inner area of the insertion element when the insertion unit is inserted into the depositing unit. For example, the first latching element is non-destructive by at least 2%, advantageously by at least 5%, preferably by at least 10% and particularly preferably by at least 20% along its extension in one direction in another direction which is perpendicular to the direction reversibly bendable and/or deflectable. An elastic first latching element should at least be understood to mean that the first latching element can be deformed at least partially repeatedly, without the first latching element being mechanically damaged and/or destroyed as a result, and the first latching element, in particular after deformation, automatically strives towards a basic shape of the first latching element again .

The first counter-locking element and/or the second counter-locking element could be designed, for example, as a projection of the backing unit. Alternatively, the first counter-locking element and/or the second counter-locking element could be at least one bulge of the backing unit. It is proposed that the first latching element is designed as a first latching lug and the first counter-latching element is designed as a corresponding first latching edge. As a result, efficiency, in terms of cost efficiency and/or fixation, can be further increased, since simple and/or inexpensive latching can be provided. Thus, assembly of the functional unit with the storage unit can be advantageously simplified for a fitter.

In particular, a first bulge of the backing unit has the first latching edge, which defines the first counter-latching element. In at least the second sub-step of the method, the functional unit could be pushed along the joining direction into the backing unit until the latching unit connects the functional unit to the backing unit, in particular the first counter-latching element, by means of the first latching element, preferably by means of the latching lug, and/or the second latching element. preferably the first latching edge, and/or the second counter-latching element, preferably the second latching edge, connects in a latching manner. In the assembled state, in particular in the first latching position, the first latching lug is at least partially flush with the first latching edge. Alternatively, the first latching lug could be pressed at least partially into the interior of the plug-in element in the assembled state. In this case, the first latching lug could rest at least partially below the first latching edge, in particular at least partially on an inner wall of the backing unit.

It would be conceivable for the first latching element and/or the second counter-latching element to have an at least substantially different shape and/or size and/or design from the first latching element and/or the first counter-latching element. However, in order to provide an even more efficient and/or simpler fixation, in particular latching, of the functional unit with the backing unit, it is proposed that the second latching element be designed as a second latching lug and the second counter-latching element as a corresponding second latching edge. In addition, production costs can be reduced since the first and the second locking element are designed as two identically shaped locking lugs of the functional unit and the first and the second counter-locking element are each designed as locking edges of the backing unit. In particular, a second bulge of the backing unit could have the second latching edge, which defines the second counter-latching element.

In the installed state, in particular in the second latching position, the second latching lug is at least partially flush with the second latching edge. Alternatively, the second latching lug could be arranged at a distance from the second latching edge along the joining direction in the installed state, in particular in the first latching position.

In general, it can be provided in the assembled state that the first latching lug is at least partially flush with the surface in the first latching position rests against the first latching edge and at the same time the second latching lug can be arranged at a distance from the second latching edge along the joining direction. Simultaneously or alternatively it can be provided in the assembled state that in the second latching position the second latching lug rests at least partially flush against the second latching edge and at the same time the first latching lug is spaced along the joining direction from the first latching edge. In this way, in the installed state, only one of the two latching lugs is operatively connected (or in contact) with the respective latching edge. This makes fixing the backing unit to the wall of the household appliance and/or to the functional unit less susceptible to manufacturing tolerances (eg wall thickness or thickness of the wall of the household appliance). In particular, in the mounted state, depending on the existing tolerances, in particular depending on the wall thickness of the household appliance wall, either only the first latching lug can be at least partially flush with the first latching edge or only the second latching lug can be at least partially flush with the second latching edge.

If the backing unit has at least one receiving area in which the functional unit is at least partially inserted in the assembled state, the efficiency with regard to a non-positive and/or form-fitting fixation of the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, can be further optimized with the backing unit.

In the first sub-step of the method, the backing unit could be guided through the opening along the assembly direction from the first side of the household appliance wall in such a way that the receiving area defines an area of the backing unit at least partially and preferably to a large extent on the first side of the household appliance wall. In the preassembled state, in particular in the state in which the storage unit is fixed to the first and/or the second side of the household appliance wall, the receiving area could define at least the area of the storage unit on the first side of the household appliance wall. In the installed state, the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, could be connected in a latching manner in the receiving area by means of the latching unit.

In order to maximize efficiency in terms of fixing the backing unit to the wall of the household appliance and/or connecting the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, to the backing unit and effectively avoiding an escape of insulating foam during a foaming process, it is proposed that the backing unit have at least one pot-like Has receiving element, which defines the receiving area. In addition, the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, can be protected from insulating foam in the assembled state. Furthermore, assembly of the storage unit can be simplified for a fitter by means of a wing element of the receiving element.

The pot-like receiving element could be open on a side facing the joining direction, in particular a side facing the second household appliance wall, and at least partially or preferably completely closed on a side facing away from the joining direction, in particular a side facing the cavity. In particular, the receiving element is at least partially foamed in at least the preassembled state on the first side of the household appliance wall. In particular, the receiving element could be surrounded by the insulating material in the mounted state, advantageously foamed in. In particular, the insulating material fixes the receiving element at least partially on the first side of the wall of the household appliance. A shape of the pot-like receiving element is advantageously adapted to a shape of the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element. In the second sub-step of the method, the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, could be inserted into the receiving element along the joining direction. The plug-in element is preferably plugged into the receiving element in the assembled state. The receiving element could have at least the bulge on in particular at least one side of the receiving element facing the cavity and/or the insulating material. In particular, the receiving element has the first counter-locking element, in particular the first locking edge, and the second counter-locking element, in particular the second locking edge. In the installed state, the locking unit, in particular the first locking element and/or the second locking element, could connect the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, to the receiving element in a locking manner.

The receiving element could have at least one wing element. The wing element is arranged on a side of the receiving element which faces the cavity. The receiving element preferably has at least a first and a second wing element which are arranged at opposite positions on the side of the pot-like receiving element which faces the cavity. The first and/or second wing element is provided for more efficient and/or simpler assembly of the backing unit, so that a fitter could hold the backing unit on the first and/or second wing element in at least the first sub-step of the method and guide it through the opening. In particular, could the installer rotates the backing unit by means of the first and/or second wing element until the first and/or second fixing element fixes the backing unit on the second side of the household appliance wall. The first and/or second wing element can be arranged at least on the bulge of the receiving element.

The backing unit has at least one protective element to cover the opening. In particular, when the backing unit is foamed in, the protective element could cover and/or protect the opening and/or the functional unit. The protective element could be arranged on the receiving element and designed as an at least partially curved round shield. The protective element could protrude from the receiving element and be bent towards the first and/or second fixing element. In particular, in the installed state, an edge of the protective element bears against the first side of the wall of the household appliance. The edge is advantageously flush with the first side of the household appliance wall.

If the domestic appliance device has a positioning unit, which positions the functional unit in at least one direction perpendicular to the joining direction relative to the backing unit, efficiency can be further optimized in terms of work efficiency. With the aid of the positioning unit, a fitter can clearly see how the functional unit can be connected to the backing unit to correctly fix it to one another. In addition, incorrect assembly, in particular incorrect latching, of the functional unit with the backing unit can be avoided.

The positioning unit could have at least one groove on the functional unit and/or a guide element on the backing unit. Alternatively and preferably, the positioning unit could have at least one groove on the backing unit and/or a guide element on the functional unit. In particular, a shape and/or extent of the groove is adapted to a shape and/or extent of the guide element. The guide element could be web-like and arranged on a side of the plug-in element facing the receiving element. In particular, the receiving element has the groove. In the second sub-step of the method, in particular when the functional unit is inserted into the backing unit, the guide element could be inserted into the groove and guided along the groove. In particular in the installed state, the guide element is positioned in the groove and the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, is connected to the backing unit, in particular the receiving element, along the direction perpendicular to the joining direction. In the mounted state, the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, is advantageously connected to the backing unit, in particular the receiving element, in a rotationally and/or positively locking manner by means of the groove and the guide element.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the positioning unit has a ramp surface, in particular a ramp surface, of the functional unit, which in the installed state bears against a counter-ramping surface of the storage unit. An improved non-positive and/or positive fixation along the direction perpendicular to the joining direction, in particular with regard to a diameter of the functional unit, can thus be provided.

In particular, the ramp is arranged on the plug-in element. The ramp could be positioned at least partially and preferably completely circumferentially on the at least substantially round plug-in element. The counter ramp of the backing unit could be part of the receiving element. In the mounted state, the ramp could at least partially and preferably completely lie flush against the counter ramp and fix the functional unit, in particular the plug-in element, along the direction perpendicular to the joining direction with the backing unit, in particular the receiving element. In particular, the ramp has a clamping effect with the counter ramp. In the mounted state, the ramp could clamp the functional unit with the backing unit.

In a further aspect, which could also be considered independently of other aspects, it is proposed that the functional unit has at least one cover element for covering a fixing area of the functional unit and/or the storage unit with the household appliance wall. As a result, the fixing area of the functional unit and/or the backing unit can advantageously be protected from external influences. This advantageously improves security when the functional unit is fixed to the backing unit.

The cover element could be arranged on the functional unit in such a way that in the installed state the cover element rests at least partially flush with at least the second side of the wall of the household appliance. In particular, the cover element covers the opening. The cover element could be a shield-like element which is bent on a side of the cover element which faces away from the plug-in element. In particular, the side of the cover element facing away from the plug-in element is the interior space facing the inner case. Alternatively and/or additionally, the cover element could have at least one recess on a side of the cover element that faces the plug-in element. In particular, a shape and/or size and/or extension of the recess is adapted to the first and/or second fixing element. In the assembled state, the recess accommodates the first and/or second fixing element at least partially, preferably completely, on in particular the second side of the wall of the household appliance. Alternatively, the side of the cover element facing the plug-in element could be completely hollowed out. In particular, in the assembled state at least one edge of the cover element rests against the second side of the wall of the household appliance.

Furthermore, the invention is based on a modular system for assembling a household appliance device, in particular a household appliance, with at least one set of household appliance walls of different thicknesses, with a backing unit for fixing at least on a first side of one of the household appliance walls and with a functional unit for fixing at least on a second Side of a household appliance wall.

It is proposed that the modular system has a latching unit which connects the functional unit to the backing unit in a latching manner in a mounted state along a joining direction. As a result, a high degree of flexibility can advantageously be achieved and/or efficiency, in terms of work efficiency and/or cost efficiency, can be advantageously improved. In particular, inner housings with different material thicknesses and thus also household appliance walls with different thicknesses can be used without the function and design of the household appliance device, in particular the functional unit and/or the storage unit, having to be adapted. As a result, material and/or manufacturing costs can advantageously be reduced.

A “set” of objects is to be understood in particular as a plurality of objects of the same type which have different characteristic features, for example different sizes, different thicknesses, different materials, different shapes, different colors or the like. The objects in one set can advantageously be combined with one another in a number of different ways and/or combined with objects in a further set in a number of different ways, thereby forming a plurality of different but similarly combined objects, in particular domestic appliance devices.

In addition, the invention is based on a method for assembling a household appliance device, in particular a household refrigeration appliance device, with at least one backing unit, which is fixed at least on a first side of a household appliance wall, and with at least one functional unit, which is fixed at least on a second side of the household appliance wall , wherein the functional unit is connected to the deposit unit.

It is proposed that the functional unit is latched to the backing unit along a joining direction. Such an assembly method can advantageously increase particularly high product efficiency and/or work efficiency and/or cost efficiency, in particular by being able to dispense with separate assembly steps, for example screwing the functional unit to the backing unit. A production effort, in particular a production time and/or production costs, can advantageously be reduced further as a result.

The domestic appliance device should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the domestic appliance device can have a number of individual elements, components and units that differs from a number specified here in order to fulfill a function described herein.

character list

Further advantages result from the following description of the drawing. In the drawings an embodiment of the invention is shown. The drawings, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations.

• 1 ein als Haushaltskältegerät ausgebildetes Haushaltsgerät mit einer Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
• 2 ein Innengehäuse des Haushaltsgeräts mit der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in einem montierten Zustand,
• 3 eine Hinterlegeinheit der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in einer Seitenansicht,
• 4 die Hinterlegeinheit in einer Rückansicht,
• 5 die Hinterlegeinheit in einer Draufsicht,
• 6 eine Funktionseinheit der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in einer Seitenansicht,
• 7 die Funktionseinheit in einer weiteren Seitenansicht,
• 8 die Funktionseinheit in einer Rückansicht,
• 9 die Hinterlegeinheit und die Funktionseinheit mit einer Fügerichtung der Funktionseinheit,
• 10 die Hinterlegeinheit und die Funktionseinheit mit der Fügerichtung der Funktionseinheit in einer geschnittenen Ansicht,
• 11 eine Haushaltsgerätewandung der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung mit einer Öffnung,
• 12 die Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in dem montierten Zustand mit einer Rasteinheit,
• 13 die Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in dem montierten Zustand geschnitten,
• 14 Ansicht A der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in dem montierten Zustand,
• 15 die geschnittene Ansicht A mit einer ersten Rastposition der Rasteinheit,
• 16 die geschnittene Ansicht A mit einer zweiten Rastposition der Rasteinheit,
• 17 die Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung in dem montierten Zustand in einer geschnittenen Draufsicht,
• 18 ein schematisch dargestelltes Baukastensystem zur Montage der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung und
• 19 ein schematisch dargestelltes Verfahren zur Montage der Haushaltsgerätevorrichtung.

Show it:

• 1 a household appliance designed as a household refrigeration appliance with a household appliance device in a perspective view,
• 2 an inner housing of the household appliance with the household appliance device in an assembled state,
• 3 a deposit unit of the household appliance device in a side view,
• 4 the backing unit in a rear view,
• 5 the backing unit in a plan view,
• 6 a functional unit of the household appliance device in a side view,
• 7 the functional unit in another side view,
• 8th the functional unit in a rear view,
• 9 the backing unit and the functional unit with a joining direction of the functional unit,
• 10 the backing unit and the functional unit with the joining direction of the functional unit in a sectional view,
• 11 a household appliance wall of the household appliance device with an opening,
• 12 the household appliance device in the assembled state with a locking unit,
• 13 cut the household appliance device in the assembled state,
• 14 View A of the household appliance device in the assembled state,
• 15 the sectional view A with a first locking position of the locking unit,
• 16 the sectional view A with a second locking position of the locking unit,
• 17 the household appliance device in the assembled state in a sectional plan view,
• 18 a schematically illustrated modular system for mounting the household appliance device and
• 19 a schematically illustrated method for assembling the household appliance device.

Description of the embodiment

1 1 shows a household appliance 10 embodied as a household refrigeration appliance with a household appliance device 12 embodied as a household refrigeration appliance device. In this case, the outer housing 70 surrounds an inner housing 68 of the household appliance 10.

In the 2 a section of the inner housing 68 is shown. The inner housing 68 at least partially delimits an interior space 72 of the household appliance 10. In this exemplary embodiment, the inner housing 68 has a household appliance wall 20 of the household appliance device 12. The household appliance wall 20 has a first side 22 and a second side 24 . The first side 22 is a side of the household appliance wall 20 that faces away from the interior 72. The second side 24 is a side of the household appliance wall 20 that faces the interior 72. The 2 shows an assembled state of the household appliance device 12.

The household appliance device 12 has a storage unit 16 which is fixed to at least the first side 22 of the household appliance wall 20 . In addition, the household appliance device 12 has a functional unit 18 which is fixed to at least the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 . In the installed state, the functional unit 18 is connected to the storage unit 16 . By means of a latching unit 26 having the household appliance device 12, the functional unit 18 is latched to the storage unit 16 in the assembled state along a joining direction 28 of the functional unit 18 to the storage unit 16 (cf. 9 and 14 ).

while the 3 until 5 Detailed views of the deposit unit 16 show are the 6 until 8th Detailed views of the functional unit 18 can be found. In addition, in the 9 and 10 further detailed views and an alignment of the backing unit 16 to the functional unit 18 and the joining direction 28 of the functional unit are shown. Furthermore, the 12 until 17 different views and sections of the household appliance device 12 in the assembled state, wherein the 11 a detailed view of an opening 74 of the household appliance wall 20 for mounting the storage unit 16 and the functional unit 18 can be seen.

In the 3 The detailed view of the backing unit 16 shown shows that the backing unit 16 has at least one pot-like receiving element 56 . The receiving element 56 defines a receiving area 54 of the backing unit 16. Only in the 3 and 12 the recording area 56 is drawn in as an example. In the mounted state, the functional unit 18 is at least partially inserted in the receiving area 54 (cf. 12 ). The receiving element 56 is intended to at least partially receive the functional unit 18 in the assembled state.

In this exemplary embodiment, the latching unit 26 has two counter-latching elements 38 , 48 arranged on the backing unit 16 . The storage unit 16 has a bulge on each of the opposite sides of the cup-shaped receiving element 56 , which bulge defines a first counter-locking element 38 and a second counter-locking element 48 . The first counter-locking element 38 and the second counter-locking element 48 are positioned on opposite sides of the pot-like receiving element 56 and are provided for locking the functional unit 18 with the storage unit 16 . Here, the first counter-locking element 38 is designed as a first locking edge 42 and the second counter-locking element 48 is designed as a second locking edge 52 .

The backing unit 16 has a first and a second wing element 76 . The first and second wing element 76 are designed identically to one another and are each arranged on one of the bulges having the counter-locking elements 38 , 48 and on the receiving element 56 . The storage unit 16 is held by means of the first and second wing element 76 when the household appliance device 12 is installed and guided through the opening 74 in the household appliance wall 20 .

The household appliance device 12 has a positioning unit 58 . The positioning unit 58 is provided for positioning the functional unit 18 in at least one direction 44 perpendicular to the joining direction 28 of the functional unit 18 relative to the backing unit 16 (cf. 9 and 10 ). In this exemplary embodiment, the positioning unit 58 has a first and second groove 78 of the backing unit 16 . The first and second grooves 78 are configured identically to one another and are arranged at opposite positions of the pot-like receiving element 56 . The first and second groove 78 extend completely along a main extension plane of the receiving element 56 and are provided for a correct and/or simple positioning of the functional unit 18 in the storage unit 16 (cf. 9 and 17 ). For easy insertion of functional unit 18 into backing unit 16, first and second grooves 78 have a funnel shape at one end.

The storage unit 16 has an edge 82 in an upper partial area 86 of the pot-like receiving element 56 . In this exemplary embodiment, a first and a second fixing element 80 of the backing unit 16 are arranged on the edge 82 . The first and second fixing element 80 are identical to one another and are therefore provided with the same reference numbers. The first and second fixing elements 80 are located on opposite sides of the rim 82 . An edge 92 of the first and second fixing element 80 is beveled in each case. The first and second fixing element 80 form a bayonet lock of the backing unit 16 and fix the backing unit 16 in the assembled state to the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 (cf. 13 ).

The storage unit 16 has a protective element 84 in the upper partial area 86 of the pot-like receiving element 56 . The protective element 84 is an at least partially curved circular shield which protrudes from the receiving element 56 and opens towards the first and second fixing elements 80 . The protective element 84 is arranged between the edge 82 and the first and the second counter-locking element 38, 48 along the main plane of extension of the receiving element 56. In the installed state, an edge 90 of the protective element 84 is in contact with the first side 22 of the wall of the household appliance 20 (cf. 12 and 13 ).

The positioning unit 58 has a counter-abutment surface 62 of the backing unit 16 . The counter-abutment surface 62 is located in the upper partial area 86 of the pot-like receiving element 56. In the assembled state, the functional unit 18 lies flush against the counter-abutment surface 62 (cf. 13 and 15 ).

the 4 Figure 12 shows a rear view of the back-up unit 16 with a back side 88 of the back-up unit 16 fully closed. Here, the exact positions of the first and second groove 78, the first counter-locking unit 38, the second counter-locking unit 48 and the first and second wing element 76 can be seen. The plan view of the backing unit 16 in 5 also clarifies the arrangements of the first and second fixing element 80 in relation to the first and second wing element 76 and the first and second groove 78.

The in the 6 until 8th The detailed views of the functional unit 18 shown show that the functional unit 18 has at least one elongated plug-in element 94 . In the assembled state, the male element 94 is inserted into the receiving element 56, the male element 94 being at least essentially adapted to a shape and size of the receiving element 56 and being at least essentially round (cf. 13 , 15 and 16 ). For example, the 7 and 8th it can be seen that the male element 94 is hollow in an inner region 95 .

The positioning unit 58 has a first and second guide element 96 of the functional unit 18 corresponding to the first and second groove 78 . The first and second guide element 96 are arranged on the plug-in element 94 and extend along a main extension plane of the plug-in element 94. The first and second guide element 96 are each provided for correct positioning and/or insertion of the functional unit 18 in the storage unit 16. In this exemplary embodiment, the functional unit 18 has two guide elements 96 which are identical to one another and which are arranged on opposite sides of the plug-in unit 94 in a manner corresponding to the first and second groove 78 . Of the 17 it can be seen that in the assembled state the first and second guide element 96 are inserted into the first and second groove 78 .

The view of the functional unit 18 in 7 illustrates that the positioning unit 58 at at least one run-on surface 60, namely a run-on slope, of the functional unit 18. The ramp surface 60 is arranged circumferentially on the at least essentially round insertion element 94 . In the mounted state, the ramp surface 60 rests against the counter ramp surface 62 and clamps the functional unit 18 with the backing unit 16 (cf. 13 ).

To a cover of a fixing area 66 of the functional unit 18 and / or the backing unit 16, which example in the 13 and 15 is drawn in, the functional unit 18 has at least one cover element 64 . The cover element 64 completely covers the opening 74 in the household appliance wall 20 and is at least partially flush with a side 98 of the cover element 64 facing the plug-in element 94 on the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 (cf. 13 ). On the first side 22 of the wall 20 of the household appliance, the protective element 84 covers the fixing area 66 and/or the opening 74 . A side 99 of the cover element 64 facing away from the plug-in element 94 is at least partially rounded. On the side 98 of the cover element 64 facing the insertion element 94 , the cover element 64 has two recesses 100 corresponding to the first and second fixing element 80 . The recesses 100 are of identical design and are positioned on opposite sides of the cover element 64 on the side 98 of the cover element 64 facing the plug-in element 94 . In the installed state, the recess 100 at least partially accommodates the first and the second fixing element 80 (cf. 13 ).

The functional unit 18 has a functional element 102 . The functional element 102 is arranged on the side 99 of the cover element 64 facing away from the plug-in element 94 . For stabilization, the functional element 102 has at least one—in this exemplary embodiment—three supporting elements 106 on an inner wall 104 of the functional element 102 . The support elements 106 are designed identically to one another, so that only one of the support elements 106 is provided with a reference number.

The latching unit 26 has a first latching element 36 of the functional unit 18 . The first latching element 36 corresponds to the first counter-latching element 38 and together with the first counter-latching element 38 defines a first latching position 30 of the latching unit 26 (cf. 15 ). The first latching element 36 is designed as a first latching lug 40 . In the assembled state in the first latching position 30, the first latching lug 40 is in contact with the first latching edge 42 (cf. 15 ).

The locking unit 26 has a second locking element 46 of the functional unit 18 . The second latching element 46 corresponds to the second counter-latching element 48 and defines a second latching position 32 of the latching unit 26 with the second counter-latching element 48 (cf. 15 ). The second latching element 46 is designed as a second latching lug 50 . In the assembled state in the second latching position 32, the second latching lug 50 rests against the second latching edge 52 (cf. 16 ).

The first latching element 36 and the second latching element 46 are at least partially movable along the direction 44 perpendicular to the joining direction 28 and can be pressed at least partially into the hollow inner region 95 of the insertion element 94 .

the 9 and 10 illustrate an arrangement of the functional unit 18 and the storage unit 16 in relation to one another and show the joining direction 28 of the functional unit 18.

The functional unit 18 is inserted into the storage unit 16 along the joining direction 28 in a method for assembling the household appliance device 12 . The functional unit 18 is positioned relative to the backing unit 16 in such a way that the first and second guide element 96 can each be inserted into the corresponding first and second groove 78 along the joining direction 28 . The sectional view of the deposit unit 16 and the functional unit 18 in FIG 10 illustrate that when the functional unit 18 is inserted into the storage unit 16 by means of the latching unit 26, the functional unit 18 can be latched to the storage unit 16.

the 11 shows the opening 74 of the household appliance wall 20, which is provided for connecting the functional unit 18 to the storage unit 16. The opening 74 is shown in a view of the second side 24 of the wall 20 of the household appliance. It can be clearly seen that the shape and size of the opening 74 is adapted to the shape and size of the backing unit 16 . In this case, the opening 74 has a shape and size adapted to the first and second fixing element 80 .

In at least a first partial method step 108 when assembling the household appliance device 12 , the storage unit 16 is guided through the opening 74 and fixed on the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 by means of the first and second fixing element 80 . Here, the backing unit 16 is held by a fitter on the first and second wing element 76 and rotated through the opening until the first and second fixing element 80 is at least partially flush on the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 is present. In at least one preassembled state, the storage unit 16 is fixed at least on the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 by means of the first and second fixing element 80 . To fix the backing unit 16 on the first side 22 of the wall 20 of the household appliance, the receiving element 56 is foamed in in the first sub-step 108 of the method in a foaming process. The protective element 84 protects the functional unit 18 and/or the interior 72 of the inner housing 68 from being foamed in during the foaming process.

In at least a second sub-step 110 of the method, the functional unit 18 is inserted and latched into the backing unit 16 along the joining direction 28 with the insertion element 94 . In the installed state, the functional unit 18 is connected to the storage unit 16 .

the 12 until 17 illustrate the assembled state of the household appliance device 12. The 13 is a sectional view of the 12 refer to. Here shows the 13 that the first and second fixing element 80 fix the backing unit 16 on the second side 24 of the wall 20 of the household appliance. The cover element 64 covers the opening 74 and/or the fixing area 66 in such a way that the first and second fixing element 80 are arranged in the recesses 100 in the assembled state.

In the 14 until 16 is the view A - closed and cut - of the assembled state of the household appliance device 12 from 12 shown. the 15 and 16 each show the first latching position 30 and the second latching position 32. The first latching position 30 is in front of the second latching position 32 with respect to the joining direction 28. In this exemplary embodiment, the first latching position 30 and the second latching position 32 are at a distance 34 from arranged at most 1 mm in a row.

the 17 shows the household appliance device 12 in the assembled state in a sectional plan view, namely from the back 88 of the deposit unit 16, and illustrates the connection of the functional unit 18 to the deposit unit 16. In the assembled state, the functional unit 18 is at least partially flush with the deposit unit 16 tied together.

In addition, the 18 a schematic modular system 14 for assembling the household appliance device 12. The modular system 14 has a set of household appliance walls 20 with different thicknesses. In addition, the modular system 14 has at least the functional unit 18 and storage unit 16 described above, which are provided for fixing to at least one of the sides 22, 24 of the wall 20 of the household appliance. The modular system 14 has the latching unit 26, by means of which the functional unit 18 can be latched to the backing unit 16 and can thus be adapted to a connection of the functional unit 18 to the backing unit 16 on any household appliance wall 20 of the set of household appliance walls 20 (cf. 2 ).

a in 19 The illustrated schematic flowchart of a method for assembling the household appliance device 12 has the first partial method step 108 and the second partial method step 110 . In this exemplary embodiment, the second partial method step 110 is carried out after the first partial method step 108 with regard to a time course.

Reference List

10

household appliance

12

household appliance device

14

modular system

16

deposit unit

18

functional unit

20

household appliance wall

22

First page - first page of appliance wall Rear wall

24

Second side - second side of the appliance wall Front inner wall

26

locking unit

28

joining direction

30

First rest position

32

Second detent position

34

Distance

36

First locking element

38

First counter-locking element

40

First detent

42

First resting edge

44

Direction

46

Second locking element

48

Second counter-locking element

50

Second detent

52

Second locking edge

54

recording area

56

receiving element

58

positioning unit

60

ramp surface

62

counter ramp

64

cover element

66

fusing area

68

inner case

70

outer case

72

inner space

74

opening

76

wing element

78

groove

80

fixing element

82

edge

84

protective element

86

upper section

88

back

90

edge

92

edge

94

male element

95

interior

96

guide element

98

side

99

side

100

recess

102

functional element

104

inner wall

106

support element

108

First step of the process

110

Second step of the process

Claims (15)

Household appliance device (12), in particular household refrigerating appliance device, with at least one backing unit (16) for fixing at least on a first side (22) of a household appliance wall (20) and with at least one functional unit (18) for fixing at least on a second side (24) of the household appliance wall (20), the functional unit (18) being connected to the backing unit (16) in an assembled state, characterized by a latching unit (26) which, in the assembled state, connects the functional unit (18) to the backing unit along a joining direction (28). (16) latchingly connects. Household appliance device (12) after claim 1 , characterized in that the latching unit (26) defines a first latching position (30) and at least one second latching position (32) lying behind the first latching position (30) with respect to the joining direction (28). Household appliance device (12) after claim 2 , characterized in that the first latching position (30) and the second latching position (32) are arranged one behind the other at a distance (34) of at most 1 mm with respect to the joining direction (28). Household appliance device (12) after claim 2 or 3 , characterized in that the latching unit (26) has at least one first latching element (36) of the functional unit (18) and at least one with the first latching element (36) corresponding first counter-latching element (38) of the backing unit (16) which has the first latching position ( 30) define. Household appliance device (12) after claim 4 , characterized in that the first latching element (36) is designed as a first latching lug (40) and the first counter-latching element (38) is designed as a corresponding first latching edge (42). Household appliance device (12) according to one of claims 2 until 5 , characterized in that the latching unit (26) has at least one second latching element (46) of the functional unit (18) and at least one with the second latching element (46) corresponding second counter-latching element (48) of the backing unit (16) which has the second latching position ( 32) define. Household appliance device (12) after claim 6 , characterized in that the second latching element (46) is designed as a second latching lug (50) and the second counter-latching element (48) is designed as a corresponding second latching edge (52). Domestic appliance device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage unit (16) has at least one receiving area (54) in which the functional unit (18) is at least partially inserted in the assembled state. Household appliance device (12) after claim 8 , characterized in that the storage unit (16) has at least one pot-like receiving element (56) which defines the receiving area (54). Domestic appliance device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by a positioning unit (58) which the radio tion unit (18) in at least one direction (44) perpendicular to the joining direction (28) relative to the backing unit (16). Household appliance device (12) after claim 10 , characterized in that the positioning unit (58) has a run-up surface (60), in particular a run-up slope, of the functional unit (18), which in the assembled state bears against a counter-run-on surface (62) of the backing unit (16). Household appliance device (12) at least according to the preamble of claim 1 and in particular according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional unit (18) has at least one cover element (64) for covering a fixing region (66) of the functional unit (18) and/or the storage unit (16) with the household appliance wall (20). . Household appliance (10), in particular household refrigeration appliance, with a household appliance device (12) according to one of the preceding claims. Modular system (14) for mounting a household appliance device (12) according to one of Claims 1 until 12 , In particular a household appliance (10). Claim 13 , with at least one set of household appliance walls (20) of different thicknesses, with a backing unit (16) for fixing at least on a first side (22) of one of the household appliance walls (20) and with a functional unit (18) for fixing at least on a second side ( 24) of one household appliance wall (20), characterized by a latching unit (26) which latchingly connects the functional unit (18) in a mounted state along a joining direction (28) to the backing unit (16). Method for assembling a household appliance device (12), in particular a household refrigerating appliance device, in particular according to one of Claims 1 until 12 , with at least one storage unit (18) which is fixed at least on a first side (22) of a household appliance wall (20), and with at least one functional unit (18) which is fixed at least on a second side (24) of the household appliance wall (20). the functional unit (18) being connected to the backing unit (16), characterized in that the functional unit (18) is latched to the backing unit (16) along a joining direction (28).

Images