DE102021210203A1 - Operating device for a household appliance with an arrangement of display segments close to the edge of the contour on a second circuit board, and household appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to an operating device (12) for a household appliance (1), with a first circuit board (15) on which electronic components are arranged, and with a display unit (21) with which information can be displayed optically, the operating device ( 12) has a second circuit board (16), separate from the first one, which is arranged on the first circuit board (15), the display unit (21) having separate display segments (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27) which directly are arranged adjacent to a lateral contour edge (28) of the second board (16) and are arranged around the second board (16).

Description

One aspect of the invention relates to an operating device for a household appliance. The operating device has a first circuit board. Electronic components are arranged on this circuit board. The operating device also has a display unit with which information can be displayed visually. A further aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance with an operating device.

Household appliances with operating devices are widely known. In this context, household appliances for preparing food, such as cooking appliances, in particular in the form of hobs or ovens, are also known. Operating functions of the household appliance can be set with such operating devices. It is also known in this context that, in addition to an operating element, there is also a visual display unit. This can be used to display dynamic information optically. In this case, the electronic display unit can display a wide range of information.

In the case of operating devices that have a non-destructively detachable, detachable operating element, the situation arises in which the possibility of relative movement of the operating element, which is also arranged on an operating element mount of the operating device, in particular is placed on it, means that visual displays of the display unit can be covered up or cannot be recognized adequately. The assignment of the visual display to the position of the operating element may not be clearly recognizable or not clearly understandable by a user.

From the EP 2 455 671 A1 a cooking appliance is known in which display areas are formed in a control element receptacle around a removable, disk-like control element.

From the DE 10 2009 042 929 A1 a baking oven is known in which specific operating states are represented by different light colors from light sources of a display unit.

It is the object of the present invention to create an operating device for a household appliance and such a household appliance in which the visual display can take place in a more needs-based and situation-adapted manner.

This object is achieved by an operating device and a household appliance which have the features of the independent claims.

One aspect of the invention relates to an operating device for a household appliance. The operating device has at least one first circuit board. Electronic components are arranged on the circuit board. Furthermore, the operating device has an electronic display unit with which information can be displayed visually. The operating device has a second circuit board. This second circuit board is a separate circuit board from the first circuit board. The second circuit board is arranged on the first circuit board. The display unit has separate display segments which are arranged immediately adjacent to a lateral contour edge of the second circuit board and are arranged around the second circuit board. A multi-board arrangement is therefore provided in this operating device. With such a multi-board arrangement, on the one hand, electronic components can be divided and installed more individually on the individual boards. This allows them to be better grouped positionally and functionally. On the other hand, such a concept makes it possible to detect the position and movement of the operating element more reliably and precisely, especially in the case of specific operating devices, in particular with an operating element that can be detached and removed non-destructively. The fact that this control element is placed on or removed from a control element receptacle of the control device can also be detected more precisely as a result. Because it is possible in this context that in particular at least some electronic components, which are arranged on the second circuit board, are used for position detection and/or for detecting the state of the control element placed on the control element receptacle. Other electronic components that are arranged on the first circuit board can then be used in this context for other types of detection and/or analysis. Since the individual separate display segments of the display unit are then arranged directly adjacent and thus in close proximity to a specific edge contour of the second circuit board, it is also possible to enable an individual visual display in the area of the operating element precisely there. These ads can thus be in the immediate radial vicinity. A locally assigned display and nevertheless a completely displayable and viewable display is thereby made possible, even when the control element is in different positions. This arrangement is also particularly advantageous in that, in particular with regard to the segmentation of the display segments, mechanical connecting parts and/or electrical connecting parts, such as lines and the like, can be laid between the two circuit boards without any problems. The space required for this is unlimited, particularly in the area of the interruptions between the individual display segments of the display unit. This can also in this respect a more compact and space-saving Structure between the circuit boards on the one hand and their mechanical and / or electrical connecting parts are created, on the other hand, a site-assigned positioning of the visual display are made possible. It is precisely the design of the two specific circuit boards and the location-specific arrangement of the display segments in this regard and, in principle, the segmentation of this display unit that enables a visual display close to the control element, without the control element obscuring optical displays even during relative movements to the control element holder when it is arranged on it would or would only partially release, on the other hand, very short distances for the electrical and / or mechanical connecting parts between the two boards are made possible.

The segmentation of the display unit also makes it possible to enable a wide variety of visual displays, although air spaces or interruptions are provided in the rows of display segments in relation to one another, in which the electrical and/or mechanical connecting parts extend, in particular radially.

In one embodiment, the display segments are formed as arc segments. In particular, they are designed as ring sections. With such an embodiment, a shape adapted thereto can be realized precisely when the second plate is a circular disk. An inner side of the display segments can thus be designed correspondingly adapted to the respective curved contour edge. This enables the display segments to be positioned particularly close to such a curved contour edge. In addition, such an exemplary embodiment can also form a quasi-ring row, along which the curved display segments are arranged, in particular are arranged at a distance from one another.

In one exemplary embodiment, the display segments are arranged at a respective spacing in the direction of rotation around an axis which is perpendicular to the circuit boards. In particular, they are arranged equidistantly from one another in the direction of rotation about this axis. An advantageous embodiment is achieved in particular when the two boards are oriented in parallel planes with their surface extensions in an advantageous embodiment. Because then it is also possible for the display segments to be arranged in particular on the upper side of the first circuit board and nevertheless to be arranged circumferentially in the second circuit board, which is higher when viewed in the height direction or in the direction of the axis. The second circuit board is thus bordered, as it were, by the display segments arranged azimuthally around the axis. In one exemplary embodiment, these display segments can then also provide a certain guidance for this second circuit board. This can be advantageous in particular when this second board is a floating board and a certain possibility of relative movement relative to the first board is provided in a defined manner. Such a second circuit board arranged in a floating manner is advantageous when it is arranged, for example, on the underside of a hob plate of a household appliance designed as a hob. Provision can thus be made for this second circuit board to be arranged such that it rests against, in particular is pressed against, the underside of the hob plate. In particular, this enables the possibility of detection and wireless communication with the control element, which is arranged on an outside or top side of the hob plate. In this regard, that area of the hob plate on which the operating element can be attached in a non-destructive, detachable manner can be referred to as the operating element receptacle.

Precisely in such an exemplary embodiment, it is then also advantageously possible to set this specific position of the second circuit board in a defined manner and nevertheless then also to enable the visual displays by the display segments very close to this second circuit board in the radial direction. Nevertheless, in a state in which the control element is placed on the control element receptacle, the visual display can be perceived without restriction by an observer. This is also the case when the operating element is intended not only to be moved to rotate about an axis of rotation relative to the operating element receptacle, but can then also be tilted relative to this axis of rotation. In this regard, defined tilting movements can be provided, as a result of which operating functions and/or functional units of the household appliance can also be selected and/or adjusted. Precisely in the case of such tilting movements and the tilting positions that can then be reached, the proposed operating device also makes it possible for an observer to see the visual displays completely and unrestrictedly. Nevertheless, they are displayed in the immediate vicinity of the edge of the control element and can be perceived accordingly. The assignment and the intuitive understanding for the observer are also particularly advantageously made possible as a result.

In one embodiment, a radial distance between a display segment and the Contour edge of the second circuit board less than or equal to 5 mm. In particular, this distance is less than or equal to 3 mm. In one embodiment, this distance is between 0.05mm and 5mm. In this regard, the distance is dimensioned perpendicularly to the axis that is perpendicular to the two circuit boards.

In one embodiment, the display segments each have multiple light sources. In one embodiment, the light sources, in particular all light sources, are arranged at an equal radial distance from an axis that is perpendicular to the two circuit boards. A light source circuit is thus formed by the light sources of the display unit or the light sources that are installed in these display segments. In this way, an exact optical display with a defined emission pattern can be achieved in a very advantageous manner. It is particularly advantageous if these light sources of the display segments are only arranged in such a circle that the optical display can take place directly adjacent to the contour edge of the operating element and would then not be undesirably covered by the operating element even in its possible operating positions.

In one embodiment, each display segment preferably has at least three light sources. In this way, the advantages mentioned above can be achieved to a particular extent. It is then also possible for the individual display segments to enable a wide variety of optical display patterns. In addition, the diversity and flexibility of display patterns can then also be significantly increased in interaction with other display segments. It is also possible in this connection that the light sources of a display segment are all activated at the same time. In addition, it is also possible that other operating scenarios are provided. One of the light sources can also light up for optical signaling of a specific operating function or a specific operating state. It is also possible that several of the light sources of a display segment, but not all, light up in order to optically signal an individual operating situation or a specific operating state. It is also possible for a dynamic display to take place. This can be done in such a way that one or more light sources of a display segment flash at the same time. However, a running light display is also possible.

In one exemplary embodiment it is provided that a light source of a display segment emits light of one light color and a second light source of this display segment emits light of a different light color than the other. A display segment can thus also generate different light patterns with regard to the light color. In this context, it is particularly advantageous for individual operating states to be signaled optically in a very easy-to-perceive manner by means of the light colors. In this context, it is possible for the first light color to be white, for example. In one exemplary embodiment, the second light color can be red. This means that, for example, active operating states of a functional unit of a household appliance can be optically signaled with the red light color. For example, the active and selected operating status of a cooking zone of a hob can be symbolized in this context. In addition, however, it is also possible for the white light color to symbolize a different operating state of a functional unit. For example, a parameter value of an operating parameter of a functional unit can be represented in this context. In addition to or instead of this, however, the deactivated state of a functional unit can also be represented with the white light color, for example. In addition, it is also possible for an activated operating state of a functional unit to be signaled with the white light color, with this functional unit then, however, currently not being selected in order to change its operating state. This then means that in such an embodiment the white light color optically signals the activated state of this functional unit, but also signals that this functional unit is not currently selected, for example with the control element, to the effect that an operating parameter is to be changed. For example, it can be the case with a hob that a cooking zone is active and a specific cooking level is set, for example, but this cooking zone is not currently selected by the control element in order to change the cooking level.

In a further exemplary embodiment, it is possible for the light sources to be able to set defined different brightnesses of the light color emitted. In particular, at least one light source of a display segment can be dimmed. This also makes it possible for further specific operating states to be optically signaled in a simple and easily understandable manner by the defined differences in brightness. In one exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that a light source that is designed to emit a light color emits this light with a first brightness in a first operating state and emits the light with a different second brightness for optical signaling of a second operating state that differs therefrom emitted. Although in this context the different operating states are then optically signaled with the same light color, the difference in brightness can cause the difference Operating states are recognized. It can also be possible in this context that, for example, different cooking levels of a cooking zone of a hob are signaled by different brightnesses, for example the red color of a corresponding light source. If cooking level 1 is set, for example, this red light is emitted with a first brightness by at least one light source of the associated display segment. Accordingly, the brightness can then be successively increased in discrete stages with higher cooking level values, so that the individual cooking levels can then also be perceived through the respective brightness of the light color, in particular red.

In addition to or instead of this, it is also possible in one exemplary embodiment for the active state of a hob, in particular its associated heating element, to be optically signaled by the emission of light of a light color, for example red. Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that all cooking levels are emitted with the same brightness with regard to the red light. In contrast, in this exemplary embodiment it can be provided that the deactivated state of the heating element of a cooking zone, which follows an activated state, and in which deactivated state the cooking zone, in particular the associated heating element, is hot, this switched off but still hot operating state is also signaled by at least one activated light source of the associated display segment. In this context, for example, this optical signaling can be such that the red light in particular is then emitted with a lower brightness. In contrast to the active operating state of this cooking zone, a user can then immediately recognize that the cooking zone has meanwhile been deactivated, but is still hot during its run-on time.

In one embodiment it is provided that in a first operating mode, in particular all light sources of a first light color are activated in a display segment, so that a coherent light band is generated as a visual display on the display segment. In this context, for example, a red light color can be generated in a hob if the cooking zone, in particular the associated heating element, is switched on. In this context, it is also possible that the length of the light band, in particular in the direction of rotation around the axis mentioned, which is perpendicular to the plates, varies depending on the cooking level set. This means that the continuous light band is shorter at a low cooking level than at a cooking level that is set higher in this regard. This can be provided in addition to and instead of the above-mentioned embodiment with regard to the brightness variation. Due to the specific number of light sources provided per display unit, the optical display options are very varied in this respect. In addition to the light bands that can then be generated, which in particular can also appear connected and appear in one light color, it is also possible for only local light spots to be generated in a display segment. This can be done, for example, by activating only one light source of the display segment. Spots of light can then also be generated along a line, for example a circular line.

It is also possible in one embodiment that in a second operating mode at least one light source of a second light color is activated in a display segment, so that at least one local light spot is present as a visual display on the display segment. This also makes it possible for an individual visual display to be generated. In this context, it is not possible to generate a coherent band of light, but rather a scale of values through the light spots. In this context, each individual light spot that is spaced apart from the other light spot can then signal a parameter value. If, for example, it is provided that the cooking levels are to be optically signaled by such local light spots, only one light spot of a display segment can light up for cooking level 1, for example. For example, if cooking level 5 is set, five individual and local light spots can light up. These can then be displayed one after the other in a corresponding section of the ring. In this context, they can also be light sources of several display segments. A timer function can also be optically signaled by such an embodiment. In this context, for example, a minute display or an hour display can be optically signaled. Here, too, for example, individual local light spots can be activated in a corresponding number.

In one embodiment, it is possible for each display segment to also have more than three light sources. In this context, for example, four or more light sources can also be provided. In principle, the light sources in all exemplary embodiments can be light-emitting diodes.

In one exemplary embodiment, it is possible for a light source of a first light color to alternately follow a light source of a second light color in the direction of rotation about the axis. possibly However, it is also clear that this strict arrangement pattern is generated differently. For example, a cluster of three light sources can be formed in a display segment, with a light source having a first light color, then a light source having a second light color and then a light source having the first light color, viewed in the direction of rotation around the axis.

A further light source cluster can then be arranged at a certain distance in this display segment, for example. This can have two or more light sources, for example. For example, the second light source cluster immediately following the first light source cluster can then also be designed here to emit the first light color and/or to emit the second light color. The at least one further light source of this second light source cluster can be designed to emit light of the second light color or to emit light of the first light color. It is also possible that several such light source clusters with two or more light sources, as explained above, are arranged. It is also possible for a light source cluster of a display segment to have four directly adjacent light sources. Here, too, a strictly alternating arrangement can be provided such that two light sources of the first light color are arranged alternately with one light source of the second light color in between. Whether the first light color is, for example, the white light color or the red light color can vary in the most varied of exemplary embodiments.

It is also possible in one exemplary embodiment for at least one display segment to have two light source clusters, each with at least three light sources. In a relevant exemplary embodiment, each light source cluster preferably has at least one light source of a first light color and at least one light source of a second light color. In these exemplary embodiments, the distance between light sources of a light source cluster is smaller than the distance between two light source clusters of a display segment that are adjacent in the row.

In one exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the operating device has a display field that is separate from a display segment. This electronic display panel is preferably not part of the electronic display unit that has the display segments or that is in particular only formed by the display segments. In one exemplary embodiment, such a separate display field is arranged offset in the radial direction outwards relative to a display segment. This means that, in particular in the exemplary embodiment with the axis that is perpendicular to the two circuit boards, this display field is radially further away from the axis than the display segment. A display field is functionally associated with an adjacent display segment in this context. In this regard, the display panel is arranged radially adjacent to the associated display segment. The display panel can have at least a 7-segment display. In particular, this display panel is a 7-segment display. It is thus possible in this connection for a first visual display to be represented by the display segment and for second visual information to be represented by the associated display field. The two pieces of optical information can be linked to one another. For example, a numerical value can be optically signaled by this display field. In one exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the light color of the at least one light source that is associated with the display panel is different from a light color of a light source of the display segment. Provision can be made in this context for optical information to be displayed when the display segment and the associated display field are in active operation at the same time, but this is displayed in different light colors. For example, a parameter value that is optically signaled by an activated display field can be displayed in white light color, and optical information can be optically signaled in a different light color, for example red, when the associated display segment is activated at the same time.

In one exemplary embodiment, the display field can symbolize a value scale, for example. This means that at least one value can be displayed by the display panel. It is also possible for this scale of values to have at least two separate values. It is possible that the value scale only extends over an associated display segment. In another exemplary embodiment, however, it is also possible for this value scale to extend over at least two separate display segments of the display unit. In this respect, the value scale can be arranged radially further outwards than the display segments. The value scale can represent cooking level values, for example. However, it is also possible for the value scale to be a minute display or an hour display, for example.

In one exemplary embodiment, the operating device can have an operating element. In particular, it has only one operating element. The operating element can be disc-like or flat-cylindrical. In particular, it can be detached non-destructively on a control element mount the operating device can be positioned. For example, this non-destructively releasable connection can be a magnetic holder. In this context, the operating element can have a first holding magnet and the operating element receptacle can have a second holding magnet, which interact magnetically. The control element can be rotated about an axis that is oriented perpendicularly to the control element receptacle, in particular also perpendicularly to the circuit boards. This allows operating states to be set. For this purpose, operating functions can be selected and/or operating parameters can be set. It is also possible that, in one exemplary embodiment, the operating element can be tilted with respect to this axis. Defined tipping states correspond in the context to specific functional units, which can thereby be selected by this tipping state. For example, a cooking zone of the hob can be selected by a tilting state. For example, a cooking level can be set by turning the control element.

In one exemplary embodiment, the display unit has at least two, in particular at least three, in particular at least four, separate display segments. In the exemplary embodiment, however, there can also be five or six separate display segments.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance with an operating device according to the aspect mentioned above or an advantageous exemplary embodiment thereof. The household appliance can in particular be a cooking appliance. For example, it can be an oven or a hob.

The information “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “depth direction”, “width direction”, “height direction” indicates the intended use and intended positioning of the operating device or the Household appliance given positions and orientations indicated.

Further features of the invention result from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and feature combinations mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and feature combinations mentioned below in the description of the figures and/or shown alone in the figures, can be used not only in the combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without the frame to abandon the invention. The invention is therefore also to be considered to include and disclose embodiments that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but that result from the explained embodiments and can be generated by separate combinations of features. Versions 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 schematische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltsgeräts;
• 2 eine perspektivische Darstellung von Teilkomponenten eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Bedienvorrichtung;
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung von einer Lichtquellenanordnung von Anzeigesegmenten einer Anzeigeeinheit der Bedienvorrichtung gemäß 2;
• 4 eine Darstellung eines Anzeigesegments gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel; und
• 5 eine beispielhafte Darstellung einer Anzeigesituation der Bedienvorrichtung gemäß 2 und 3.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with the aid of schematic drawings. Show it:

• 1 a schematic representation of an embodiment of a household appliance according to the invention;
• 2 a perspective view of subcomponents of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention;
• 3 a schematic representation of a light source arrangement of display segments of a display unit according to the operating device 2 ;
• 4 a representation of a display segment according to an embodiment; and
• 5 an exemplary representation of a display situation of the operating device according to FIG 2 and 3 .

Elements that are the same or have the same function are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.

In 1 is shown in a schematic representation of an embodiment of a household appliance. The household appliance is a cooking appliance here. In particular, it is a hob 1 in the exemplary embodiment. However, it can also be an oven, for example. The hob 1 shown here has a hob plate 2 . The hob plate 2 has a top 3 and a bottom 4 . The hob plate 2 can be made of glass or glass ceramic, for example. In the exemplary embodiment, the hob 1 has a number of cooking zones. For example, five cooking zones 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are provided here. The areas of the cooking zones 5 to 9 are symbolized on the hob plate 2 by corresponding contour edges. In the exemplary embodiment, each cooking zone 5 to 9 is assigned a heating element, with 1 for the sake of clarity, only one radiator 10 is shown. The heating element 10 is arranged under the hob plate 2 and assigned to the cooking zone 5 . This means that when the heating element 10 is in active operation, the surface area of the cooking zone 5 on the hob plate 2 is heated. The heater 10 can be a radiant heater. However, it can also be an inductor, for example.

In addition, the hob 1 has a control unit 11 that is represented symbolically. means This can be used to control the heating system, in particular the multiple radiators 10 . In particular, control and/or regulation is possible here. In addition, an operating device 12 of the hob 1 can also be operated with the control unit 11 . The operating device 12 can be external to the control unit 11 . However, it is also possible for the control unit 11 to be part of the operating device 12 . The operating device 12 has an operating element receptacle 13 . In addition, the operating device 12 has an operating element 14 . In particular, it has only this single operating element 14 . In the exemplary embodiment, the operating element 14 can be detached from the operating element receptacle 13 and reattached in a non-destructive manner. Operating conditions of the hob 1 can only be carried out by actuating the operating element 14 when it is attached. In one exemplary embodiment, such an operating state can be selected and/or set by rotating the operating element 14 about the axis A relative to the operating element receptacle 13 . In one embodiment, in addition to this possibility of rotary movement, tilting relative to this axis A can also be carried out. As a result, a functional unit, in particular a cooking zone 5 to 9 in this case, can be selected in the exemplary embodiment. The rotary movements and/or the tilting movements of the operating element 14 relative to the operating element receptacle 13 can be recognized by appropriate sensory detection and the associated settings can then be implemented, in particular evaluated and initiated by the control unit 11 .

The operating device 12 has according to the representation in 2 a first board 15 on. In the exemplary embodiment, this is a main circuit board. As can be seen and shown symbolically, several electronic components are arranged on this. The operating device 12 also has a second circuit board 16 . This is a circuit board separate from the first circuit board 15 . This second board 16 is designed here as a circular disk. In a vertical direction (y-direction) of the hob 1, the second circuit board 16 is arranged lying higher than the first circuit board 15. The second circuit board 16 is positioned to be movable relative to the first circuit board 15, in particular in this vertical direction. In the arranged state, the second circuit board 16 in one exemplary embodiment is arranged lying against the underside 4 of the hob plate 2, in particular pressed against it. The second board 16 is connected to the first board 15 by mechanical and/or electrical connecting parts 17 , 18 , 19 and 20 . As in 2 As can be seen, these electrical and/or mechanical connecting parts 17 to 20 protrude radially and thus perpendicularly to the axis A beyond the dimensions of the second circuit board 16 in order to be able to be guided to the first circuit board 15 in this way. Due to this arrangement in particular, an uninterrupted laying of components around the second circuit board 16 is not possible here, in particular in the immediate radially adjacent position.

The operating device 12 has a display unit 21 . In the exemplary embodiment, this display unit 21 has a plurality of separate display segments 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27. In particular, the electronic display unit 21 has at least two, in particular at least four, preferably six such separate display segments 22 to 27. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the display segments 22 to 27 are positioned immediately adjacent to an outer contour edge 28 of the second circuit board 16 in the radial direction. In particular, a relevant radial distance between the contour edge 28 and an inner side of a display segment 22 to 27 assigned to the contour edge 28 is less than 5 mm, in particular less than or equal to 3 mm. In particular, however, this distance is greater than 0 mm, in particular greater than or equal to 0.05 mm.

In the direction of rotation around the axis A, these display segments 22 to 27 are preferably arranged equidistant from one another. As in the example in 2 As can be seen, an electrical and/or mechanical connecting part 17 to 20 is arranged in this direction of rotation in such a spaced area or air space in some of these spaced areas.

In one exemplary embodiment, operating device 12 also has at least one additional display field 29, 30, 31, 32, 33. Several display fields, in particular five display fields, are provided in the exemplary embodiment. These display fields 29 to 33 are separate from the display unit 21 .

In particular, they do not belong to the display unit 21 . As can be seen, in the exemplary embodiment, the display fields 29 to 33 are local, block-type display fields. You are here in particular 7 segment displays. They are arranged further away from the axis A in the radial direction than the display segments 22 to 27. In the exemplary embodiment, some of these display segments, here the display segments 22, 24, 25, 26 and 27, each have a local and functional display field 32, 33, 29 , 30 and 31 assigned. In one exemplary embodiment it is provided that the display fields 29 to 33 each have at least one light source which is designed to emit light of one light color. In particular, the visual display, which is displayed by a display panel 29 to 33, is respectively through Light of a single light color generated. For example, this light color can be white.

It is provided that at least some, in particular all, of the display segments 22 to 27 each have at least three light sources. In one exemplary embodiment, it is provided that at least in some, in particular in all, display segments 22 to 27, these light sources each have at least one light source that is designed to emit light of a first light color, and each have at least one further light source that is designed to emit light Light of a different second light color is formed. Each display segment 22 to 27 preferably has at least three light sources. For example, two light sources can each be provided here, which emit light of a specific light color. For example, this light color can be red. In one exemplary embodiment, one light source that emits light of a different light color is present in these at least three light sources that are provided in each case. This other light color can be white, for example.

In one exemplary embodiment, the light sources of the display segments 22 to 27, in particular of all display segments 22 to 27, are arranged at the same distance from the axis A. This means that the light sources of the display segments 22 to 27 are all arranged in a circle around the A axis.

In this regard, in 3 a top view of the light source arrangement 34 of the light sources of the display unit 21 is shown. As can be seen in this exemplary embodiment, each display segment 22 to 27 has six separate light sources. The display segment 23 is shown here as a representative and exemplary for the other display segments. This has a first light source cluster 35 , a second light source cluster 36 and a third light source cluster 37 . In this exemplary embodiment, all three light source clusters 35 to 37 each have two light sources. In this exemplary embodiment, each light source cluster 35 to 37 has a light source which is designed to emit a light color, for example the red light color. Each light source cluster 35 to 37 also has a light source that is designed to emit a different light color, for example white. The light sources of a light source cluster 35 to 37 are directly adjacent, in particular arranged directly adjacent to one another. In contrast, a relevant distance is formed between each of the light source clusters 35 to 37, in particular a distance that is greater in the direction of rotation about the axis A than a distance between two light sources of a single light source cluster 35 to 37. The relevant explanation in this exemplary embodiment for the display segment 23 applies in particular to all other display segments 22, 24, 25, 26 and 27.

In addition, in 3 A light source arrangement of the display panels 29 to 33 is also shown as an example. more, in 3 light sources represented by the corresponding points are associated with other display areas of the operating device 12 . In this regard, further 7-segment displays 38 can be used here, as is the case, for example, in 2 is shown, be provided.

In 4 a further exemplary embodiment of a display segment is shown in a simplified plan view. The display segment 25 is shown here, for example. In this embodiment, the display segment 25 also has more than three light sources. In the exemplary embodiment, three light source clusters 39, 40 and 41 are also provided here. In this exemplary embodiment, the light source clusters 39 and 40 at the ends in the direction of rotation about the axis A each have two light sources. In this exemplary embodiment, the central light source cluster 40 has a different number of light sources, for example three light sources. In another exemplary embodiment, it is also possible for all light source clusters of a display segment to each have more than two light sources. For example, all light source clusters can have three light sources or four light sources.

In the embodiment in 3 It is provided that, viewed in the direction of rotation about the axis A, each light source cluster 35 to 37 has a light source at the first place, which is designed to emit light of a light color, for example red light color. In this direction of rotation, a light source is then arranged at the respective second position in the sequence of the light sources of a respective light source cluster 35 to 37, which light source is designed to emit light of a different light color, in particular white light color.

In the embodiment in 4 it is envisaged that a different sequence arrangement is formed in this regard. For example, in 4 provided that light sources 39a, 40a, 40b and 41b are light sources that emit light of a light color, for example the red light color. In addition, it is provided that further light sources 39b, 40c and 41a are light sources which emit light of a different light color, in particular the white light color. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, no strictly symmetrically alternating arrangement between white and red light sources is provided in the circumferential direction, but rather here a different arrangement concept in this respect. The light sources 39b and 41a of the light source clusters 39 and 41 which are respectively closer to the central light source cluster 40 have the same light color of the emitted light here. In contrast, the two outer light sources 40a and 40b of the middle light source cluster 40 are provided for emitting a different light color, here the red light color.

In an exemplary embodiment in which each light source cluster 39 to 41 has three light sources, an arrangement of the three light sources in each case can be provided in accordance with the configuration of the light source cluster 40 . This means that the two outer light sources 40a and 40b emit light of a first light color and the middle light source 40c emit light of the other light color.

A more uniform and more homogeneous-appearing generation of a light band is made possible by configurations in which, as in 4 multiple light sources are arranged in these respective clusters. The same is also possible if several light source clusters of a display segment have more than three light sources. For example, all light source clusters of a display segment can then also have exactly four light sources each. By means of exemplary embodiments with a plurality of light sources in this regard, optical deflection effects at the edge regions can also be avoided in an improved manner.

In 5 a partial area of an exemplary embodiment of an operating device 12 is shown in a plan view.

The structure of this operating device 12 can be configured in accordance with the configuration in 2 until 3 be. This is provided if the hob 1 has, for example, five cooking zones 5 to 9, as is shown in 1 is shown. In contrast, if a hob 1 only has four cooking zones, for example the cooking zones 5, 6, 8 and 9, fewer display segments can be provided in this respect. For example, the display segments 24, 25, 27 and 22 can be provided. It should be noted that the number of display segments 22 to 27 does not correlate with the number of cooking zones 5 to 9 of a hob 1 . In this regard, the number of display segments can also deviate from this, in particular the number of display segments can be higher than the number of cooking zones.

In the representation in 5 shows that cooking zone 6 is active. In this context, the display field 29 is activated and a cooking setting of 8.5 is set here, for example. Therefore, the seven-segment display provided here lights up in a specific light color, here for example white, and signals this parameter value. In addition, in this exemplary embodiment it is then also provided that those light sources of the display segment 25 light up which optically signal the active state of the cooking zone 6, in particular of the associated heating element. For example, this is signaled here by an essentially continuous band of light with a light color that differs from white. This light band 42 that can be seen here can be seen and lights up red.

In one exemplary embodiment, the cooking zone 9 is also activated and the display field 32 lights up in white and shows the parameter value 4 as the cooking level. This is represented by the visual display 43 . The associated visual display 44 arranged adjacent thereto is implemented by the display segment 22 . Here, too, the light sources that emit light with a red light color are activated. In this exemplary embodiment, a substantially continuous band of light is also optically signaled here.

The other two cooking zones 5 and 8 are deactivated here. In this context it is possible that the display fields 33 and 31 do not represent any optical display. However, it is also possible for parameter values to be displayed optically on these display fields 33 and 31 in the exemplary embodiment shown here. In this exemplary embodiment, provision is made for the parameter value zero to be displayed optically. This takes place in the color of the light, as well as the optical displays of the parameter values of the display fields 29 and 32 are displayed. In one exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that these deactivated states of the display fields 33 and 31 and thus the parameter values zero are displayed with a brightness of the corresponding light color that is reduced in comparison to the display fields 29 and 32 . However, this brightness is not zero, but is reduced compared to the brightness of the display fields 29 and 32.

In addition to or instead of this, it can also be provided that the optical displays of the display fields 29 to 33 vary in their brightness depending on the value to be displayed. This means that the higher the value to be displayed, the higher the brightness. In addition to or instead of this, this can also be the case with the visual display of the display segments 22 to 27 . For example, the brightness of the light color emitted in each case can be dependent on a specific state of the associated functional unit, in particular the associated heating element. For example, it can be provided here that when the Radiator is activated, the light emission occurs with the greatest brightness. If the heater is switched off after such active operation, but still has a relevant residual heat, this state can be signaled by the associated display segment 22 to 27 actively lighting up, but with reduced brightness of the emitted light color compared to an active state. In this context, it is also possible that in this operating state, with decreasing residual heat and thus with corresponding cooling of the heating element, the visual display of the associated display segment 22 to 27 is also successively, in particular continuously, reduced. Here, too, the dimming of the light sources of these respective display segments 22 to 27 is possible in one exemplary embodiment.

In addition, it is also possible that in a further exemplary embodiment for the optical display of the display segments 22 to 27 not only continuous or essentially continuous bands of light can be generated, but also only local light spots can be generated in each case. Associated values or values to be displayed on a value scale can thus be characterized locally. It is also possible that an associated parameter value is optically signaled depending on the number of these light spots. A combination of several display segments 22 to 27 can also be provided here in order to signal such a parameter value. For example, a cooking level value of a cooking zone can also be represented here by the number of light spots. It is also possible in this regard to optically signal a minute display or an hour display of a timer circuit of the hob 1 .

In a further exemplary embodiment, it is also possible for the brightness of the light color of the associated light sources of this associated display segment 22 to 27 to shine in a first brightness, in particular in a maximum brightness, for a cooking zone that is currently selected in order to set the cooking level. In one exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that an activated cooking zone, the cooking level of which has already been set and the cooking zone in this regard is not currently also selected in order to adjust the cooking level, also lights up with regard to the associated display segment. The corresponding light sources can then be activated here, but in this state emit light with a brightness that is reduced in comparison to the state in which a cooking zone is activated and currently also selected in order to adjust the cooking zone.

With the proposed concept, it is therefore also possible to optically and very individually signal a wide variety of operating states with regard to their selection and/or setting. Depending on requirements, this can be done by displaying it in different light colors and/or by using different light patterns. Precisely the display segments in the immediate radially adjacent arrangement to the second circuit board 16 enable the advantageous concepts already mentioned above.

In 5 that surface area 45 is also shown, which represents the zone of the operating element receptacle, on which the operating element 14 can be attached and detached in a non-destructive manner. In this regard, this area is delimited by the edge 46 . This is a symbolic representation to make it easier for a user to see where the actual surface area 45 of this operating element receptacle 14 is.

In general, it can be provided that at least one diffuser element, in particular a diffuser layer, is arranged on the underside 4 of the hob plate 2 , in particular locally in the area of the display segments 22 to 27 . This can be made of silicone. The light from the light sources is scattered by a diffuser element. As a result, a more homogeneous light distribution can be achieved.

Reference List

1

hob

2

hob plate

3

top

4

bottom

5

cooking zone

6

cooking zone

7

cooking zone

8th

cooking zone

9

cooking zone

10

radiator

11

control unit

12

operating device

13

Control panel mount

14

control element

15

first board

16

second board

17

connection part

18

connection part

19

connection part

20

connection part

21

display unit

22

display segment

23

display segment

24

display segment

25

display segment

26

display segment

27

display segment

28

contour edge

29

display panel

30

display panel

31

display panel

32

display panel

33

display panel

34

light source arrangement

35

light source cluster

36

light source cluster

37

light source cluster

38

light source cluster

39

light source cluster

39a

light source

39b

light source

40

light source cluster

40a

light source

40b

light source

40c

light source

41

light source cluster

41 a

light source

41 b

light source

42

light band

43

optical display

44

optical display

45

surface area

46

edge

x

latitude direction

y

height direction

e.g

depth direction

A

axis

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• EP 2455671 A1 [0004]
• DE 102009042929 A1 [0005]

Claims (15)

Operating device (12) for a household appliance (1), with a first circuit board (15) on which electronic components are arranged, and with a display unit (21) with which information can be displayed optically, characterized in that the operating device (12) has a second board (16) separate from the first board (16) arranged on the first board (15), wherein the display unit (21) has separate display segments (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27) immediately adjacent to a lateral contour edge (28) of the second board (16) are arranged and around the second board (16) are arranged around. Operating device (12) after claim 1 , characterized in that the display segments (22 to 27) arc segments, in particular ring sections are. Operating device (12) after claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the display segments (22 to 27) are arranged in the direction of rotation around an axis (A) perpendicular to the circuit boards (15, 16) at a respective distance, in particular are arranged equidistantly from one another. Operating device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second board (16) can be moved relative to the first board (15), in particular in a direction of an axis (A) which is perpendicular to the two boards (15, 16) stands, is arranged on the first circuit board (16). Operating device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a radial distance between a display segment (22 to 27) and the contour edge (28) is less than or equal to 5 mm, in particular less than or equal to 3 mm, in particular between 0.05 mm and 5 mm. Operating device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display segments (22 to 27) each have a plurality of light sources (39a, 39b, 40a, 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b), all light sources (39a, 39b, 40a , 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b) are arranged at an equal distance from an axis (A) which is perpendicular to the two boards (15, 16). Operating device (12) after claim 6 , characterized in that each display segment (22 to 27) has at least three light sources (39a, 39b, 40a, 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b). Operating device (12) after claim 6 or 7 , characterized in that a light source (39a, 39b, 40a, 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b) of a display segment (22 to 27) emits light of a light color and a second light source (39a, 39b, 40a, 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b) of the display segment (22 to 27) emits light of a color different from the other light color. Operating device (12) after claim 8 , characterized in that with a light color a first operating mode of a functional unit of a household appliance (1) is optically signaled and with the other light color a second operating mode of a functional unit of the household appliance (1) is optically signaled. Operating device (12) according to one of the preceding Claims 6 until 9 , characterized in that in a first operating mode, in particular all light sources (39a, 39b, 40a, 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b) of a light color in a display segment (22 to 27) are activated, so that a coherent light band as a visual display is generated on the display segment (22 to 27). Operating device (12) according to one of the preceding Claims 6 until 10 , characterized in that in a second operating mode at least one light source (39a, 39b, 40a, 40ob, 40c, 42a, 41b) of a different light color is activated in a display segment (22 to 27), so that at least one only local light spot is displayed as an optical Display is generated on the display segment (22 to 27). Operating device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one display segment (22 to 27), in particular offset to the outside and adjacent to another display field (29, 30, 31, 32) separate from the display unit (21). , 33) of the operating device (12). Operating device (12) after claim 12 , characterized in that the display panel (29 to 33) is at least a 7-segment display. Operating device (12) after claim 12 or 13 , characterized in that the display field (29 to 33) is a value scale which extends over at least two display segments (22 to 27). Household appliance (1), in particular cooking appliance, with an operating device (12) according to one of the preceding claims.

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