EP1816899B1 - Snap flange - Google Patents

Snap flange Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1816899B1
EP1816899B1 EP07002318A EP07002318A EP1816899B1 EP 1816899 B1 EP1816899 B1 EP 1816899B1 EP 07002318 A EP07002318 A EP 07002318A EP 07002318 A EP07002318 A EP 07002318A EP 1816899 B1 EP1816899 B1 EP 1816899B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
flange
fluid container
unit according
flange body
flange unit
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP07002318A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1816899A3 (en
EP1816899A2 (en
Inventor
Andreas Pleschinger
René Hendler
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Bleckmann GmbH and Co KG
Original Assignee
Bleckmann GmbH and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Bleckmann GmbH and Co KG filed Critical Bleckmann GmbH and Co KG
Priority to PL07002318T priority Critical patent/PL1816899T3/en
Publication of EP1816899A2 publication Critical patent/EP1816899A2/en
Publication of EP1816899A3 publication Critical patent/EP1816899A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1816899B1 publication Critical patent/EP1816899B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/78—Heating arrangements specially adapted for immersion heating
    • H05B3/82—Fixedly-mounted immersion heaters
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/02—Details
    • H05B3/04—Waterproof or air-tight seals for heaters
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B3/00—Ohmic-resistance heating
    • H05B3/02—Details
    • H05B3/06—Heater elements structurally combined with coupling elements or holders

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a flange assembly for holding a heating device on a fluid container of a fluid to be heated receiving device, in particular a household appliance, according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a heating system, which at least one heating device for heating a fluid, in particular in a Household appliance, a flange assembly for holding the heater and a fluid container for receiving the fluid to be heated by the heater, according to the preamble of claim 23.
  • the currently used in practice flange assemblies consist essentially of five individual components, namely the actual flange body, which is usually made of steel, a seal, a clamping piece with press-in bolts, a nut and a grounding flat plug.
  • the mother is tightened.
  • the clamping piece undergoes a relative movement and compresses the seal arranged between the flange body and the clamping piece.
  • the sealing cross-section is increased and thus seals the entire system to the fluid container at the same time the flange assembly is fixed to the mounting hole.
  • This prior art flange assembly has the disadvantage of the high number of individual, consisting of different materials and each separately manufactured components.
  • it is necessary to apply a relatively high force in the assembly of the flange assembly to ensure a secure seal of the assembly to the fluid container.
  • the sealing element is made relatively massive, which in turn affects the cost in a negative way.
  • a flange assembly which has a base body made of plastic, a sealing element and a fastening device in the form of a wedge.
  • a base body made of plastic
  • a sealing element and a fastening device in the form of a wedge.
  • the mounting wedge is inserted in the center of the body in a slot provided for this purpose.
  • the interlocking connection is provided at least approximately around the flange body, when mounting the flange assembly to the mounting hole of the fluid container, a holding force acting toward the center of the mounting hole is generated since it extends at least approximately on all sides from the entire circumference of the flange assembly in the direction the center of the mounting hole acts, holding the flange assembly safely and possibly close to the mounting hole.
  • part contours of the at least one fastening element with at least one provided on the fluid container counter-fastening element, for example by a latching engagement between the fastening elements.
  • contours of the fasteners a variety of shapes and designs can be selected.
  • a particularly favorable solution consists in a snap hook-shaped embodiment of the fastener on the flange body and the counter-fastening element on the fluid container, wherein for the counter-fastening element also another suitable contour, such as a curved web can be provided.
  • the form-fitting engagement of the fastening element on the flange body with the corresponding counter-fastening element on the fluid container can take place irreversibly.
  • the at least one fastening element is reversibly engageable with the fluid container.
  • any part contours can be selected for the at least one fastening element for producing the positive engagement with the fluid container.
  • the at least one fastening element is formed by a snap-in or latching element, which can be brought into engagement with a counter-latching device provided on the fluid container.
  • the wall of the fluid container has only one recess with an undercut into which the snap-in or latching element of the at least one fastening element of the flange assembly engages.
  • the at least one fastening element is designed resiliently.
  • the spring elasticity of the fastening element can be formed by a material property of the element or by a structural design of the fastening element on the flange body. This can be done, for example, by providing slit-shaped incisions on the flange body which, with the flange assembly installed, extend substantially perpendicular to the wall of the fluid container or at least approximately parallel to the axis of the assembly opening on the fluid container.
  • a constructive Design also possible by weakening the flange at the transition from the at least one fastener to the flange.
  • the spring elasticity of the at least one fastening element can also be achieved by a combination of the elastic material property and a structural design of the fastening element.
  • the fastening device is provided at least approximately completely encircling the flange body. For example, this can take place in that on the side facing the fluid container in the installed state of the flange body a circumferential latching lug, which is optionally resiliently deflected from its initial position reversibly, is provided.
  • the flange is provided with at least one sealing means for fluid-tight sealing in the installed state relative to the fluid container.
  • the at least one sealing means may be formed by a material property of the flange body or by at least one sealing element provided on the flange body, which preferably consists of EPDM or TPE.
  • the at least one sealing element integral with the flange body preferably connected by molding.
  • the sealing means at least approximately completely rotates the flange.
  • the flange assembly serves for receiving and holding at least one heating device.
  • the heating device may be formed by a heating cartridge or by an example U-shaped or W-shaped bent tubular heater.
  • the flange assembly may be provided with one or more through-openings.
  • the at least one passage opening for receiving and holding at least one heating device can be provided with at least one sealing means.
  • the at least one sealing means may be formed by a material property of the flange body or by at least one sealing element, which is preferably made of EPDM or TPE.
  • a combination of a sealant from a material property of the flange and a sealing element is also possible here.
  • the at least one sealing element is integrally connected to the at least one passage opening, preferably by molding. If the at least one sealing means rotates at least approximately completely on the at least one passage opening, a complete sealing is reliably ensured.
  • the flange body of the flange assembly at least a holding device for receiving and holding at least one control or regulating device.
  • the holding device for receiving and holding at least one control or regulating device may be formed by a provided on the flange body, preferably integrally formed on this pocket. In this case, the opening of the pocket can be closed in a fluid-tight manner in the direction of the side facing the fluid container in the installed state of the flange body.
  • control device is a temperature detection device
  • the bottom of the pocket which is surrounded by the fluid, can be configured in such a way that the temperature of the fluid can be reliably detected. It is also possible to determine the response of the control or regulating device according to the design of the bottom of the bag.
  • the bag may be tightly closed against the direction of the side facing in the installed state of the flange to the fluid container side.
  • the control device is inserted in a fluid-tight encapsulated housing in the pocket and fixed there accordingly.
  • the flange body is molded onto the heater.
  • the flange of the flange assembly and the heater form a one-piece component, which can be attached to the fluid container in a simple manner.
  • any non-metallic material in particular any plastic, can be used for the material of the flange assembly. It has proven particularly advantageous if the flange body is made of polypropylene.
  • Fig. 1 shows a heating system according to the invention with its essential components: an embodiment of the flange assembly 10 according to the invention, an electrical resistance heater 40 in the form of a tubular heater, a control or regulating device 60 for controlling the heating process of the heating device 40 to be heated by the resistance Fluid and a fluid container 70 for receiving the fluid to be heated by the heating system.
  • an electrical resistance heater 40 in the form of a tubular heater
  • a control or regulating device 60 for controlling the heating process of the heating device 40 to be heated by the resistance Fluid
  • a fluid container 70 for receiving the fluid to be heated by the heating system.
  • the flange assembly 10 includes a flange 12, which has in plan view substantially the shape of an elongated oval, the longitudinal sides are substantially parallel to each other and whose shorter end faces are provided with the oval curves.
  • the flange body 12 has a first flange or longitudinal side 12a, which faces away from the fluid container 70 in the installed state of the flange assembly 10.
  • the flange body 12 has a second flange or longitudinal side 12b, which runs parallel to the first longitudinal side 12a and which points in the installed state of the flange assembly 10 in the direction of the fluid container 70 or projects into the interior of the fluid container 70, as for example from the Fig. 1 and 2 is removable.
  • the two longitudinal sides 12a, 12b are interconnected by a peripheral side 12c extending substantially perpendicularly to these two longitudinal sides 12a, 12b.
  • the peripheral side 12c merges into the first longitudinal side 12a via a circular arc 12d, whereas the peripheral side 12c at an angle of 90 ° perpendicular to the second longitudinal side 12b abuts.
  • the flange 12 has in the embodiment of Fig. 1 to 6 a total of three through openings 14, 16, 18, whose unspecified center longitudinal lines are perpendicular to the flange or longitudinal sides 12a, 12b and parallel to each other, as is apparent from Fig. 2 and 3 is apparent.
  • the through-holes 14, 18 serve to mount the electric resistance heater 40 and the through-hole 16 to mount the controller 60 for controlling the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater 40.
  • Fig. 2 and 3 how out Fig. 2 and 3 can be removed, the through openings 14, 16, 18 and their central longitudinal lines at equal distance from each other, as viewed in the plane of the first or second flange or longitudinal side 12a, 12b, respectively. All three passage openings 14, 16, 18 are the same in terms of their geometric configuration with the difference that the diameter of the central passage opening 16 is greater than the diameter of the two left and right of the central passage opening 16 arranged through holes 14, 18.
  • the diameter of the two Openings 14, 18 is identical. Therefore, it suffices to explain only the structure and the design of the through-hole 16 in more detail below. As far as there are other minor differences between the three passage openings 14, 16, 18, these will be explained in more detail during the description of the structure of the passage opening 16.
  • the passage opening 16 has an at least approximately circular cylindrical cross-section. Furthermore, it has two different inner wall sections 16a, 16b (or 14a, 14b, 18a, 18b), which adjoin one another in succession from the first flange or longitudinal side 12a in the axial direction of the passage opening 16 and extend as far as the second flange or Extend longitudinal side 12b.
  • the first inner wall section 16a is formed by a cylindrical inner wall design. In the case of the two passage openings 14, 18, this cylindrical section 14a, 14b still has a chamfer opening in the direction of the outside.
  • the second inner wall section 16b immediately adjoining the first inner wall section 16a has an inner wall contour which is corrugated in the longitudinal cross section.
  • the inner diameter of both the wave peaks and the wave troughs is smaller than the inner diameter of the first inner wall section 16a.
  • the second inner wall section 16b is used for sealing at the components of the heating system according to the invention passed through the passage openings 14, 16, 18 in relation to leakage of the fluid to be heated by the heating system.
  • the inner diameter of the second inner wall portion 16b is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the respectively passed component of the heating system according to the invention, so that by inserting the respective component in the associated passage opening 14, 16, 18 of the inner wall portion is compressed.
  • the second inner wall portion 16b is made of a material different from the material of the flange body 12 to further enhance the sealing effect.
  • the flange body 12 may be made of polypropylene (PP) and the inner wall portion 16b or 14b, 18b may be made of an ethylene / propylene / diene polymer (terpolymer) rubber (EPDM) or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), to produce such a flange body 12 a two-component injection molding or 2K spray method can be used.
  • the Fig. 4a and 4 b show the two parts made of different materials of the flange 12 in greater detail. It shows Fig. 4a the flange body without the inner wall portions 16b and 14b, 18b made of another material, respectively Fig. 4b this "released" shows.
  • Fig. 5 shows an advantageous development of the flange 12 of a flange assembly 10a of the first embodiment of the Fig. 3 to 4b , wherein the inner wall portion 16b and 14b, 18b is designed to be attracted to the cone of the container wall 70.
  • the manufacture of the flange assembly designed easier as well as an even better sealing effect is achieved by a favorable pressure distribution.
  • a second embodiment of the invention wherein the flange 12 of a flange assembly 10b - as a "one-piece" variant - be made continuously from a suitable material for the sealing material, such as an EPDM or TPE.
  • the flange 12 is made of a material that covers both the snap and the required sealing property.
  • a thermoplastic having elastomer components such as PP filled with an EPDM has proven suitable as a material.
  • the flange 12 can then be used as a molded part or with a suitable elastomer, for.
  • an EPDM be prepared as a vulcanizate.
  • the flange body 12 of the flange or longitudinal side 12b furthermore has a groove 19 running along its peripheral side 12c.
  • the in the direction of the passage opening 14, 16, 18 facing first groove wall 19a is as straight at an acute angle to the central longitudinal lines of the passage openings 14, 16, 18, viewed in the longitudinal sectional view of Fig. 2 ,
  • this groove wall 19a merges at an angle of 90 ° into an arc, to which the second groove wall 19c adjoins.
  • a fastening device 20 integrally formed on the flange body 12.
  • the fastening device 20, which runs completely along the groove 19, is formed by a fastening element 22 in the form of a latching cam 26 whose cam tip 26a in the direction of the passage openings 14, 16, 18 points.
  • the locking cam 26 is provided on its side facing away from the fluid container 70 side 26 b with a straight inclined surface, whereas it is provided on the side facing the fluid container 70 side with a rounding 26 c.
  • the latter supports the mounting of the flange 12 on the fluid container 70, as will be explained below.
  • the locking cam 26 comes in the assembly of the flange assembly 10 and the heating system in engagement with a counter-locking cam 76 on the fluid container 70, as will also be explained in more detail below.
  • the through holes 14, 16, 18 serve to receive and hold the electric resistance heater 40 and the controller 60 to control the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater 40.
  • the unspecified terminal ends of the resistance heater 40 are respectively inserted into the through openings 14, 18, as shown in FIGS Fig. 1 and 2 is removable.
  • the inner diameter of the two passage openings 14, 18 is the diameters of the in the assembled state of the heater 40 in the interior of the passage openings 14, 16, 18 located portions 42 a, 42 b of the jacket tube 42 of the heater 40 adjusted and dimensioned so that a stiff mating fit between in particular the inner wall portions 14a, 14b; 18a, 18b of the passage openings 14, 18 and the outside of the jacket tube sections 42a, 42b of the heater 40 sets.
  • the jacket tube sections 42a, 42b may be fixed in the passage openings 14, 18 by means of an adhesive, which preferably simultaneously performs the sealing of the passage openings 14, 18.
  • the flange body 12 can also be molded around the jacket pipe sections 42a, 42b of the heating device 40 overall.
  • the control or regulating device 60 is used to control the heating process of the heating by the resistance heater 40 to be heated fluid, which in the illustrated embodiment by a NTC element is formed.
  • the NTC element is arranged in a steel sleeve 62, which is closed in the direction of the container inside end.
  • an adhesive may again be provided which preferably simultaneously undertakes the sealing of the passage opening 16.
  • flange body 12 is injection-molded onto the heating device 40, injection-molding of the flange body 12 on the control or regulating device 60 can likewise take place.
  • the flange body 12 is molded onto the heater 40 and the control or regulating device 60 is inserted into the central passage opening 16 and fixed there in a suitable manner.
  • FIG. 12 shows a flange assembly 10c as an alternative embodiment of the flange assembly 10 in which the controller 60b is inserted to control the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater in a pocket 13 integrated with the flange 12.
  • the controller 60b is inserted to control the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater in a pocket 13 integrated with the flange 12.
  • a corresponding sensor for example an NTC element 14, together with the plug assembly 15 in the production of the flange 12 can be encapsulated by the flange material or potted in a pot-shaped pocket 13 in the flange.
  • the otherwise required - in use with the fluid to be heated in contact - stainless steel pot (61 in Fig. 2 ) omitted for the sensor.
  • the fluid container 70 has a mounting opening 72.
  • This mounting hole 72 has a shape complementary to the flange 12.
  • a collar 74 is provided, which also has a complementary to the flange 12 shape in plan view.
  • the mounting opening 72 and the collar 74 are formed in the form of an elongate oval.
  • a counter-locking cam 76 is arranged, which forms a positive locking connection during assembly of the flange 12 at the mounting opening 72 of the fluid container 60 together with the locking cam 26 of the flange 12.
  • the counter-detent cam 76 a has a cam tip 76 a, which in Direction to the interior of the mounting hole 72 points. How out Fig. 2 is visible, the counter-locking cam 76 is provided on its side facing the container inside I side 76b and on its side facing the container A side A 76c with a straight oblique surface.
  • the heating device 40 and the control or regulating device 60 can be inserted into the respective passage opening 14, 16, 18.
  • the heating device 40 or the control or regulating device 60 in the respective passage opening 14, 16, 18 are glued.
  • the flange body 12 can be injection-molded onto the jacket pipe sections 42a, 42b of the heating device 40, optionally together with the control or regulating device 60. The pre-assembled assembly is then inserted into the mounting opening 72 of the fluid container 70.
  • the locking cam 26 of the flange 12 slides with its in the direction of the container inside I facing rounding 26b on the corresponding mating surface 76c of the counter-locking cam 76 and is thereby deflected in the direction parallel to the two flange or longitudinal sides 12a, 12b elastically outward.
  • the locking cam 26 pivots back into its initial position in the direction of the passage openings 14, 16, 18.
  • the locking surface 26b of the locking cam 26 comes into positive engagement with the locking surface 76b of the counter-locking cam 76. Diving the collar 74 partially in the groove 19 of the flange 12 a.
  • the flange assembly 10 is held firmly on the fluid container 70.
  • the material of the flange 12 is made of a sealing permitting plastic, such as EPDM or TPE, the positive engagement of the fastening device 20 and the locking cam 26 with the counter-locking cam 76 seals the mounting hole 72 down.
  • a sealing permitting plastic such as EPDM or TPE

Abstract

An assembly has a flange body (12), which is formed from a non-metallic material and is fixed to a fluid container using a fastening mechanism (20). The mechanism has a fastening unit (22), which is formed by a snapping or stopper unit (26). The snapping or stopper unit is brought into engagement with an anti-snapping unit, which is provided at a fluid container. The fastening unit is spring-elastic, and is formed completely rotating around the flange body. An independent claim is also included for a heating system comprising a fluid container.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Flanschbaugruppe zum Halten einer Heizeinrichtung an einem Fluidbehälter eines ein zu erwärmendes Fluid aufnehmenden Geräts, insbesondere eines Haushaltsgeräts, gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1. Weiterhin betrifft die Erfindung ein Heizsystem, welches wenigstens eine Heizeinrichtung zum Erwärmen eines Fluids, insbesondere bei einem Haushaltsgerät, eine Flanschbaugruppe zum Halten der Heizeinrichtung und einen Fluidbehälter zur Aufnahme des durch die Heizeinrichtung zu erwärmenden Fluids enthält, gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruches 23.The invention relates to a flange assembly for holding a heating device on a fluid container of a fluid to be heated receiving device, in particular a household appliance, according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a heating system, which at least one heating device for heating a fluid, in particular in a Household appliance, a flange assembly for holding the heater and a fluid container for receiving the fluid to be heated by the heater, according to the preamble of claim 23.

Die in der Praxis derzeit verwendeten Flanschbaugruppen bestehen im Wesentlichen aus fünf Einzelbauteilen, nämlich dem eigentlichen Flanschkörper, der meist aus Stahl gefertigt ist, einer Dichtung, einem Spannstück mit Einpressbolzen, einer Mutter sowie einen Erdungsflachstecker. Bei der Montage der vormontierten Flanschbaugruppe in der Montage- bzw. Einbauöffnung eines Fluidbehälters eines Haushaltsgerätes, wie Beispiel einer Wäschemaschine oder einer Geschirrspülmaschine, wird die Mutter angezogen. Dadurch erfährt das Spannstück eine Relativbewegung und komprimiert die zwischen dem Flanschkörper und dem Spannstück angeordnete Dichtung. Hierdurch wird der Dichtungsquerschnitt vergrößert und dichtet somit das gesamte System an dem Fluidbehälter ab, wobei gleichzeitig die Flanschbaugruppe an der Montageöffnung festgelegt wird.The currently used in practice flange assemblies consist essentially of five individual components, namely the actual flange body, which is usually made of steel, a seal, a clamping piece with press-in bolts, a nut and a grounding flat plug. When mounting the preassembled flange assembly in the mounting or installation opening of a fluid container of a household appliance, such as a laundry machine or a dishwasher, the mother is tightened. As a result, the clamping piece undergoes a relative movement and compresses the seal arranged between the flange body and the clamping piece. As a result, the sealing cross-section is increased and thus seals the entire system to the fluid container at the same time the flange assembly is fixed to the mounting hole.

Diese vorbekannte Flanschbaugruppe weist den Nachteil der hohen Zahl an einzelnen, aus unterschiedlichen Materialien bestehenden und jeweils getrennt herzustellenden Bauteilen auf. Darüber hinaus ist es notwendig, eine relativ hohe Kraft bei der Montage der Flanschbaugruppe anzuwenden, um eine sichere Abdichtung der Baugruppe an dem Fluidbehälter zu gewährleisten. Infolgedessen ist das Dichtungselement verhältnismäßig massiv ausgeführt, was wiederum die Kosten in negativer Weise beeinflusst.This prior art flange assembly has the disadvantage of the high number of individual, consisting of different materials and each separately manufactured components. In addition, it is necessary to apply a relatively high force in the assembly of the flange assembly to ensure a secure seal of the assembly to the fluid container. As a result, the sealing element is made relatively massive, which in turn affects the cost in a negative way.

Aus der europäischen Patentanmeldung 1 111 962 ist des Weiteren eine Flanschbaugruppe bekannt, die einen Grundkörper aus Kunststoff, ein Dichtungselement sowie eine Befestigungseinrichtung in Form eines Keils aufweist. Zum Fixieren der vormontierten Flanschbaugruppe in der Montageöffnung an dem Fluidbehälter wird diese in die Montageöffnung eingeführt. Anschließend wird der Befestigungskeil im Zentrum des Grundkörpers in eine dafür vorgesehene Schlitzöffnung eingeschoben. Durch dieses Einschieben wird der Grundkörper verbreitert und so in der Montageöffnung befestigt. Diese an sich schon brauchbare Lösung enthält aber wiederum mindestens drei Bauteile, die während der Montage der Flanschbaugruppe von dem Monteur zu handhaben sind.From the European patent application 1 111 962 Furthermore, a flange assembly is known, which has a base body made of plastic, a sealing element and a fastening device in the form of a wedge. To fix the preassembled flange assembly in the mounting hole on the fluid container, it is inserted into the mounting hole. Subsequently, the mounting wedge is inserted in the center of the body in a slot provided for this purpose. By inserting the base body is widened and secured in the mounting hole. However, this solution, which is in itself useful, again contains at least three components which are to be handled by the installer during assembly of the flange assembly.

Da generell derartige Flanschbaugruppen bzw. Heizsysteme einem hohen Kostendruck unterliegen, haben die Zahl der Bauteile, die Materialwahl und die Zahl der Handhabungsschritte bei der Vormontage der Flanschbaugruppe und deren Endmontage an dem Fluidbehälter einen hohen Einfluss auf die wirtschaftliche Brauchbarkeit einer Flanschbaugruppe bzw. eines Heizsystems. Daher sind die vorstehend beschriebenen bekannten Flanschbaugruppen bzw. Heizsysteme nachteilig, da sie eine Vielzahl von Bauteilen umfassen und eine große Zahl an Montageschritten erfordern.Since generally such flange assemblies or heating systems are subject to high cost pressure, the number of components, the choice of material and the number of handling steps in the pre-assembly of the flange assembly and its final assembly to the fluid container have a high impact on the economic usefulness of a flange assembly or a heating system. Therefore, the above-described known flange assemblies or heating systems are disadvantageous because they comprise a plurality of components and require a large number of assembly steps.

Es ist eine Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, eine Flanschbaugruppe sowie ein Heizsystem der eingangs genannten Art zu schaffen, die bei gleicher oder besserer Leistung und Sicherheit gegenüber den vorbekannten Flanschbaugruppen bzw. Heizsystemen eine deutliche Verringerung der Herstellkosten erlauben.It is an object of the present invention to provide a flange assembly and a heating system of the type mentioned, in the same or better performance and safety over the prior art flange assemblies or heating systems allow a significant reduction in manufacturing costs.

Die vorstehende Aufgabe wird hinsichtlich der Flanschbaugruppe durch die Merkmale des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst. In den sich daran anschließenden Ansprüchen 2 bis 22 finden sich vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen hierzu.The above object is achieved with respect to the flange assembly by the features of claim 1. In the subsequent claims 2 to 22 are advantageous embodiments of this.

Durch das Vorsehen einer Befestigungseinrichtung an einer Flanschbaugruppe gemäß dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruches 1 derart, dass diese durch mindestens ein Befestigungselement gebildet ist, welches in formschlüssigen Eingriff mit dem Fluidbehälter bringbar ist, besteht die Möglichkeit, eine sehr einfache sowie nur wenige Bauteile umfassende und damit kostengünstige Lösung für die Anbringung der Flanschbaugruppe an dem Fluidbehälter und damit der Anbringung der Heizeinrichtung zum Beheizen des in dem Fluidbehälter befindlichen Fluids vorzusehen. Wie nachstehend noch dargelegt werden wird, bieten sich durch den formschlüssigen Eingriff des Befestigungselements mit dem Fluidbehälter eine Vielzahl von Vorteilen, die insbesondere auf eine Reduktion der Kosten einen erheblichen Einfluss haben. Da die formschlüssige Verbindung zumindest annähernd vollständig um den Flanschkörper herumlaufend vorgesehen ist, wird beim Montieren der Flanschbaugruppe an der Montageöffnung des Fluidbehälters ein in Richtung des Mittelpunkts der Montageöffnung wirkende Haltekraft erzeugt, die, da sie zumindest annähernd allseitig von dem gesamten Umfang der Flanschbaugruppe in Richtung des Zentrums der Montageöffnung wirkt, die Flanschbaugruppe sicher und ggf. dicht an der Montageöffnung hält.By providing a fastening device on a flange assembly according to the preamble of claim 1 such that it is formed by at least one fastener which can be brought into positive engagement with the fluid container, there is the possibility of a very simple and only a few components comprehensive and therefore cost-effective Solution for the attachment of the flange assembly to the fluid container and thus the attachment of the heater for heating the fluid in the fluid container to provide. As will be explained below, the positive engagement of the fastening element with the fluid container offers a large number of advantages, which have a significant influence, in particular, on a reduction in costs. Since the interlocking connection is provided at least approximately around the flange body, when mounting the flange assembly to the mounting hole of the fluid container, a holding force acting toward the center of the mounting hole is generated since it extends at least approximately on all sides from the entire circumference of the flange assembly in the direction the center of the mounting hole acts, holding the flange assembly safely and possibly close to the mounting hole.

Unter formschlüssiger Verbindung ist hierbei insbesondere das Ineinandergreifen von Teilekonturen des mindestens einen Befestigungselements mit wenigstens einem an dem Fluidbehälter vorgesehenen Gegenbefestigungselement, beispielsweise durch einen Rasteingriff zwischen den Befestigungselementen zu verstehen. Für die Konturen der Befestigungselemente können dabei die unterschiedlichsten Formen und Gestaltungen gewählt werden. Eine besonders günstige Lösung besteht in einer rasthakenförmigen Ausgestaltung des Befestigungselements am Flanschkörper und des Gegenbefestigungselements an dem Fluidbehälter, wobei für das Gegenbefestigungselement auch eine andere geeignete Kontur, wie beispielsweise ein bogenförmiger Steg vorgesehen sein kann.Under positive connection in this case is to be understood in particular the engagement of part contours of the at least one fastening element with at least one provided on the fluid container counter-fastening element, for example by a latching engagement between the fastening elements. For the contours of the fasteners a variety of shapes and designs can be selected. A particularly favorable solution consists in a snap hook-shaped embodiment of the fastener on the flange body and the counter-fastening element on the fluid container, wherein for the counter-fastening element also another suitable contour, such as a curved web can be provided.

Grundsätzlich kann das formschlüssige Ineinandergreifen des Befestigungselements an dem Flanschkörper mit dem entsprechenden Gegenbefestigungselement an dem Fluidbehälter irreversibel erfolgen. Um jedoch eine Demontage der Heizeinrichtung bzw. des gesamten Heizsystems zu ermöglichen, ist es weiterhin von Vorteil, wenn das wenigstens eine Befestigungselement reversibel in Eingriff mit dem Fluidbehälter bringbar ist.In principle, the form-fitting engagement of the fastening element on the flange body with the corresponding counter-fastening element on the fluid container can take place irreversibly. However, in order to enable disassembly of the heater or the entire heating system, it is also advantageous if the at least one fastening element is reversibly engageable with the fluid container.

Wie bereits vorstehend erwähnt, kann für das mindestens eine Befestigungselement zur Herstellung des formschlüssigen Eingriffs mit dem Fluidbehälter beliebige Teilekonturen gewählt werden. Wie ebenfalls bereits vorstehend erwähnt wurde, ist es von Vorteil, wenn das wenigstens eine Befestigungselement durch ein Schnapp- bzw. Rastelement gebildet ist, welches in Eingriff mit einer an dem Fluidbehälter vorgesehenen Gegenschnapp- bzw. Gegenrasteinrichtung bringbar ist. Ebenso ist aber auch denkbar, dass bei einer entsprechenden Ausgestaltung hinsichtlich Dichtigkeit die Wand des Fluidbehälters lediglich eine Ausnehmung mit einer Hinterschneidung aufweist, in die das Schnapp- oder Rastelement des wenigstens einen Befestigungselements der Flanschbaugruppe eingreift.As already mentioned above, any part contours can be selected for the at least one fastening element for producing the positive engagement with the fluid container. As has already been mentioned above, it is advantageous if the at least one fastening element is formed by a snap-in or latching element, which can be brought into engagement with a counter-latching device provided on the fluid container. Likewise, however, it is also conceivable that in the case of a corresponding design with respect to tightness, the wall of the fluid container has only one recess with an undercut into which the snap-in or latching element of the at least one fastening element of the flange assembly engages.

Um eine gewisse Vorspannung gegen ein Lösen der formschlüssigen Verbindung zwischen dem wenigstens einen Befestigungselement und dem Fluidbehälter bereitzustellen, ist es vorteilhaft, dass das mindestens eine Befestigungselement federelastisch ausgestaltet ist. Hierbei kann die Federelastizität des Befestigungselements durch eine Materialeigenschaft des Elements oder durch eine konstruktive Ausgestaltung des Befestigungselements an dem Flanschkörper gebildet sein. Dies kann beispielsweise dadurch geschehen, dass an dem Flanschkörper schlitzförmige Einschnitte vorgesehen sind, welche sich bei eingebauter Flanschbaugruppe im Wesentlichen senkrecht zur Wand des Fluidbehälters bzw. zumindest annähernd parallel zu der Achse der Montageöffnung an dem Fluidbehälter erstrecken. Selbstverständlich ist aber eine konstruktive Ausgestaltung auch durch eine Schwächung des Flanschkörpers an dem Übergang von dem wenigstens einem Befestigungselement zu dem Flanschkörper möglich. Anzumerken ist, dass die Federelastizität des mindestens einen Befestigungselements auch durch eine Kombination der elastischen Materialeigenschaft und einer konstruktiven Ausgestaltung des Befestigungselementes erzielt werden kann.In order to provide a certain bias against loosening of the positive connection between the at least one fastening element and the fluid container, it is advantageous that the at least one fastening element is designed resiliently. In this case, the spring elasticity of the fastening element can be formed by a material property of the element or by a structural design of the fastening element on the flange body. This can be done, for example, by providing slit-shaped incisions on the flange body which, with the flange assembly installed, extend substantially perpendicular to the wall of the fluid container or at least approximately parallel to the axis of the assembly opening on the fluid container. Of course, but a constructive Design also possible by weakening the flange at the transition from the at least one fastener to the flange. It should be noted that the spring elasticity of the at least one fastening element can also be achieved by a combination of the elastic material property and a structural design of the fastening element.

Um eine sichere Anbringung der Flanschbaugruppe an dem Fluidbehälter bereitstellen zu können, ist es weiterhin vorteilhaft, wenn die Befestigungseinrichtung zumindest annähernd vollständig um den Flanschkörper umlaufend vorgesehen ist. Beispielsweise kann dies dadurch erfolgen, dass an der im Einbauzustand zu dem Fluidbehälter weisenden Seite des Flanschkörpers eine umlaufende Rastnase, die gegebenenfalls federelastisch aus ihrer Ausgangsstellung reversibel auslenkbar ist, vorgesehen ist.In order to be able to provide a secure attachment of the flange assembly to the fluid container, it is also advantageous if the fastening device is provided at least approximately completely encircling the flange body. For example, this can take place in that on the side facing the fluid container in the installed state of the flange body a circumferential latching lug, which is optionally resiliently deflected from its initial position reversibly, is provided.

Um im eingebauten Zustand den Austritt des in dem Fluidbehälter befindlichen Fluids an die Umgebung zu verhindern, kann weiterhin vorgesehen sein, dass der Flanschkörper mit wenigstens einem Dichtmittel zum fluiddichten Abdichten im eingebauten Zustand gegenüber dem Fluidbehälter versehen ist. Hierbei kann das wenigstens eine Dichtmittel durch eine Materialeigenschaft des Flanschkörpers oder durch wenigstens ein an dem Flanschkörper vorgesehenes Dichtelement gebildet sein, welches vorzugsweise aus EPDM oder TPE besteht. Selbstverständlich ist auch eine Kombination dieser beiden Lösungen möglich.In order to prevent the outlet of the fluid in the fluid container in the installed state to the environment, can further be provided that the flange is provided with at least one sealing means for fluid-tight sealing in the installed state relative to the fluid container. In this case, the at least one sealing means may be formed by a material property of the flange body or by at least one sealing element provided on the flange body, which preferably consists of EPDM or TPE. Of course, a combination of these two solutions is possible.

Um den Aufbau der Flanschbaugruppe weiter zu vereinfachen, insbesondere um die Handhabung bei der Vormontage der Flanschbaugruppe mit der Heizeinrichtung bzw. bei der Endmontage der Flanschbaugruppe an dem Fluidbehälter durch wenige Handhabungsschritte vollziehen zu können, ist es weiterhin vorteilhaft, wenn das wenigstens eine Dichtelement einstückig mit dem Flanschkörper, vorzugsweise durch Umspritzen verbunden ist.In order to further simplify the construction of the flange assembly, in particular in order to perform the handling during the pre-assembly of the flange assembly with the heater or in the final assembly of the flange assembly to the fluid container by a few handling steps, it is also advantageous if the at least one sealing element integral with the flange body, preferably connected by molding.

Damit eine sichere Abdichtung gewährleistet werden kann, ist weiterhin vorgesehen, dass das Dichtmittel zumindest annähernd vollständig den Flansch umläuft.So that a secure seal can be ensured, it is further provided that the sealing means at least approximately completely rotates the flange.

Wie bereits vorstehend erwähnt, dient die Flanschbaugruppe zur Aufnahme und Halterung zumindest einer Heizeinrichtung. Hierbei kann die Heizeinrichtung durch eine Heizpatrone oder durch einen beispielsweise U-förmig oder W-förmig gebogenen Rohrheizkörper gebildet sein. Je nach Zahl der zur Außenseite des Fluidbehälters zu führenden Anschlussenden der Heizeinrichtung kann die Flanschbaugruppe mit einer oder mehreren Durchgangsdurchbrechungen versehen sein. Um auch hier eine Abdichtung gegenüber dem Austritt des in dem Fluidbehälter befindlichen Fluids an die Umgebung zu verhindern, kann die wenigstens eine Durchgangsdurchbrechung zur Aufnahme und Halterung wenigstens einer Heizeinrichtung mit mindestens einem Dichtmittel versehen sein. Hierbei kann wiederum das mindestens eine Dichtmittel durch eine Materialeigenschaft des Flanschkörpers oder durch wenigstens ein Dichtelement, welches vorzugsweise aus EPDM oder TPE hergestellt ist, gebildet sein. Selbstverständlich ist auch hier eine Kombination eines Dichtmittels aus einer Materialeigenschaft des Flanschkörpers und einem Dichtelement möglich.As already mentioned above, the flange assembly serves for receiving and holding at least one heating device. In this case, the heating device may be formed by a heating cartridge or by an example U-shaped or W-shaped bent tubular heater. Depending on the number of leading to the outside of the fluid container connection ends of the heater, the flange assembly may be provided with one or more through-openings. In order to prevent a seal against the outlet of the fluid in the fluid container to the environment, the at least one passage opening for receiving and holding at least one heating device can be provided with at least one sealing means. Here again, the at least one sealing means may be formed by a material property of the flange body or by at least one sealing element, which is preferably made of EPDM or TPE. Of course, a combination of a sealant from a material property of the flange and a sealing element is also possible here.

Damit auch bei der Vormontage der Heizeinrichtung an der Flanschbaugruppe die Zahl der Handhabungsschritte gering ist, ist es weiterhin von Vorteil, wenn das wenigstens eine Dichtelement einstückig mit der wenigstens einen Durchgangsdurchbrechung, vorzugsweise durch Umspritzen verbunden ist. Läuft das mindestens eine Dichtmittel zumindest annähernd vollständig an der wenigstens einen Durchgangsdurchbrechung um, so ist eine vollständige Abdichtung sicher gewährleistet.Thus, even when the pre-assembly of the heater to the flange assembly, the number of handling steps is low, it is also advantageous if the at least one sealing element is integrally connected to the at least one passage opening, preferably by molding. If the at least one sealing means rotates at least approximately completely on the at least one passage opening, a complete sealing is reliably ensured.

Neben der Heizeinrichtung können durch den Flanschkörper der Flanschbaugruppe auch weitere zur Steuerung bzw. Regelung der Heizeinrichtung und damit zur Steuerung bzw. Regelung der Erwärmung des Fluids notwendige Bauteile angeordnet sein. Damit diese durch den Flanschkörper sicher gehalten werden können, kann weiterhin vorgesehen sein, dass der Flanschkörper wenigstens eine Halteeinrichtung zur Aufnahme und Halterung zumindest einer Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung aufweist. Hierbei kann die Halteeinrichtung zur Aufnahme und Halterung zumindest einer Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung durch eine an dem Flanschkörper vorgesehene, vorzugsweise einstückig an diesem angeformte Tasche gebildet sein. Hierbei kann die Öffnung der Tasche zum einen in Richtung der im eingebauten Zustand des Flanschkörpers zu dem Fluidbehälter weisenden Seite fluiddicht abgeschlossen sein. Handelt es sich bei der Steuereinrichtung um eine Temperaturerfassungseinrichtung, so kann der Boden der Tasche, welcher von dem Fluid umspült ist, in einer solchen Weise ausgestaltet sein, dass die Temperatur des Fluids sicher erfasst werden kann. Ebenfalls besteht die Möglichkeit, das Ansprechverhalten der Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung entsprechend der Ausgestaltung des Bodens der Tasche festzulegen.In addition to the heating device, further components necessary for controlling or regulating the heating device and thus for controlling or regulating the heating of the fluid can be arranged by the flange body of the flange assembly. So that they can be held securely by the flange, it can further be provided that the flange body at least a holding device for receiving and holding at least one control or regulating device. Here, the holding device for receiving and holding at least one control or regulating device may be formed by a provided on the flange body, preferably integrally formed on this pocket. In this case, the opening of the pocket can be closed in a fluid-tight manner in the direction of the side facing the fluid container in the installed state of the flange body. If the control device is a temperature detection device, then the bottom of the pocket, which is surrounded by the fluid, can be configured in such a way that the temperature of the fluid can be reliably detected. It is also possible to determine the response of the control or regulating device according to the design of the bottom of the bag.

Alternativ kann die Tasche entgegen der Richtung der im eingebauten Zustand des Flanschkörpers zu dem Fluidbehälter weisenden Seite dicht abgeschlossen sein. In einem solchen Fall wird die Steuereinrichtung in einem fluiddicht gekapselten Gehäuse in die Tasche eingesetzt und dort entsprechend fixiert.Alternatively, the bag may be tightly closed against the direction of the side facing in the installed state of the flange to the fluid container side. In such a case, the control device is inserted in a fluid-tight encapsulated housing in the pocket and fixed there accordingly.

Um die Endmontage des Flanschkörpers und der Heizeinrichtung an dem Fluidbehälter zu vereinfachen, kann auch vorgesehen sein, dass der Flanschkörper an der Heizeinrichtung angespritzt ist. Hierdurch bilden der Flanschkörper der Flanschbaugruppe und die Heizeinrichtung ein einstückiges Bauteil, welches auf einfache Art und Weise an dem Fluidbehälter befestigt werden kann.In order to simplify the final assembly of the flange body and the heater to the fluid container, it can also be provided that the flange body is molded onto the heater. As a result, the flange of the flange assembly and the heater form a one-piece component, which can be attached to the fluid container in a simple manner.

Für das Material der Flanschbaugruppe kann jeder beliebige nicht-metallische Werkstoff, insbesondere jeder Kunststoff herangezogen werden. Besonders vorteilhaft hat es sich erwiesen, wenn der Flanschkörper aus Polypropylen hergestellt ist.Any non-metallic material, in particular any plastic, can be used for the material of the flange assembly. It has proven particularly advantageous if the flange body is made of polypropylene.

Hinsichtlich des Heizsystems wird die vorstehende Aufgabe durch die Merkmale des Patentanspruches 23 gelöst. In den sich daran anschließenden Ansprüchen 24 bis 29 finden sich vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen hierzu.With regard to the heating system, the above object is achieved by the features of claim 23. In the subsequent claims 24 to 29 are advantageous embodiments of this.

Hinsichtlich der Vorteile des Heizsystems, welches die erfindungsgemäße Flanschbaugruppe verwendet, ist auf die vorstehenden Ausführungen zu verweisen.With regard to the advantages of the heating system, which uses the flange assembly according to the invention, reference is made to the above statements.

Weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sowie mehrere Ausführungsbeispiele hierzu werden nachstehend in Verbindung mit den beigefügten Zeichnungsfiguren näher erläutert. Die innerhalb der Beschreibung der Ausführungsbeispiele verwendeten Begriffe "links", "rechts", "oben" und "unten" beziehen sich auf die Zeichnungsfiguren in einer Ausrichtung mit normal lesbaren Figurenbezeichnungen und Bezugszeichen. Hierbei ist:

Fig. 1
eine teilweise geschnittene, perspektivische Darstellung des erfin- dungsgemäßen Heizsystems mit der Flanschbaugruppe gemäß der Erfindung und daran gehaltener Heizeinrichtung im eingebauten Zu- stand an einem Fluidbehälter;
Fig. 2
eine zweidimensionale Draufsicht auf die geschnittene Flanschbau- gruppe gemäß Fig. 1;
Fig. 3
eine geschnittene Ansicht in vergrößertem Maßstab eines Flansch- körpers der erfindungsgemäßen Flanschbaugruppe gemäß einer ers- ten Ausführungsform;
Fig. 4a
eine geschnittene Ansicht des Flanschkörpers der ersten Ausfüh- rungsform der Fig. 3 ohne den Innenwandabschnitt;
Fig. 4b
eine geschnittene Ansicht des Innenwandabschnitts des Flanschkör- pers der ersten Ausführungsform der Fig. 3 ohne den Flanschkörper;
Fig. 5
eine Weiterbildung des Flanschkörpers der ersten Ausführungsform der Fig. 3;
Fig. 6
eine geschnittene Ansicht in vergrößertem Maßstab des Flanschkör- pers der erfindungsgemäßen Flanschbaugruppe gemäß einem zwei- ten Ausführungsbeispiel; und
Fig. 7
eine weitere Weiterbildung des Flanschkörpers der ersten Ausfüh- rungsform der Fig. 3.
Further advantageous embodiments of the invention and several embodiments thereof are explained in more detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures. The terms "left,""right,""top" and "bottom" used within the description of the embodiments refer to the drawing figures in alignment with normally readable figure names and reference numerals. Here is:
Fig. 1
a partially cut, perspective view of the heating system according to the invention with the flange assembly according to the invention and held thereon heater in the installed state on a fluid container;
Fig. 2
a two-dimensional plan view of the cut Flanschbau- group according to Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 3
a sectional view on an enlarged scale of a flange of the flange assembly according to the invention according to a first embodiment;
Fig. 4a
a sectional view of the flange of the first embodiment of the Fig. 3 without the inner wall portion;
Fig. 4b
4 is a sectional view of the inner wall portion of the flange body of the first embodiment of FIG Fig. 3 without the flange body;
Fig. 5
a development of the flange of the first embodiment of the Fig. 3 ;
Fig. 6
a sectional view on an enlarged scale of the Flanschkör- pers the flange assembly according to the invention according to a second embodiment; and
Fig. 7
a further development of the flange of the first embodiment of the Fig. 3 ,

Fig 1 zeigt ein erfindungsgemäßes Heizsystem mit seinen wesentlichen Bestandteilen: eine Ausführung der ebenfalls erfindungsgemäßen Flanschbaugruppe 10, eine elektrische Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 in Form eines Rohrheizkörpers, eine Steuer- oder Regelungseinrichtung 60 zum Steuern bzw. Regeln des Erwärmungsvorgangs des durch die Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 zu erhitzende Fluid und einen Fluidbehälter 70 zur Aufnahme des durch das Heizsystem zu erwärmenden Fluids. Nachstehend werden die einzelnen Baugruppen bzw. Bauteile des erfindungsgemäßen Heizsystems erläutert. Fig. 1 shows a heating system according to the invention with its essential components: an embodiment of the flange assembly 10 according to the invention, an electrical resistance heater 40 in the form of a tubular heater, a control or regulating device 60 for controlling the heating process of the heating device 40 to be heated by the resistance Fluid and a fluid container 70 for receiving the fluid to be heated by the heating system. The individual components or components of the heating system according to the invention will be explained below.

Wie aus den Fig. 1 bis 4b entnehmbar ist, enthält die erfindungsgemäße Flanschbaugruppe 10 einen Flanschkörper 12, der in der Draufsicht im Wesentlichen die Form eines langgestreckten Ovals aufweist, dessen Längsseiten im Wesentlichen parallel zueinander verlaufen und dessen kürzere Stirnseiten mit den ovalen Rundungen versehen sind. Der Flanschkörper 12 weist eine erste Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12a auf, die im eingebauten Zustand der Flanschbaugruppe 10 von dem Fluidbehälter 70 wegweist. Darüber hinaus besitzt der Flanschkörper 12 eine zweite Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12b, die parallel zu der ersten Längsseite 12a verläuft und die im eingebauten Zustand der Flanschbaugruppe 10 in Richtung des Fluidbehälters 70 weist bzw. in das Innere des Fluidbehälters 70 hineinragt, wie dies beispielsweise aus den Fig. 1 und 2 entnehmbar ist. Die beiden Längsseiten 12a, 12b sind durch eine im Wesentlichen senkrecht zu diesen beiden Längsseiten 12a, 12b verlaufende Umfangsseite 12c miteinander verbunden. Wie aus den Fig. 1, 3 und 4a entnehmbar ist, geht die Umfangsseite 12c in die erste Längsseite 12a über einen Kreisbogen 12d über, wogegen die Umfangsseite 12c in einem Winkel von 90° senkrecht an die zweite Längsseite 12b anstößt.Like from the Fig. 1 to 4b can be removed, the flange assembly 10 according to the invention includes a flange 12, which has in plan view substantially the shape of an elongated oval, the longitudinal sides are substantially parallel to each other and whose shorter end faces are provided with the oval curves. The flange body 12 has a first flange or longitudinal side 12a, which faces away from the fluid container 70 in the installed state of the flange assembly 10. In addition, the flange body 12 has a second flange or longitudinal side 12b, which runs parallel to the first longitudinal side 12a and which points in the installed state of the flange assembly 10 in the direction of the fluid container 70 or projects into the interior of the fluid container 70, as for example from the Fig. 1 and 2 is removable. The two longitudinal sides 12a, 12b are interconnected by a peripheral side 12c extending substantially perpendicularly to these two longitudinal sides 12a, 12b. Like from the Fig. 1 . 3 and 4a is removable, the peripheral side 12c merges into the first longitudinal side 12a via a circular arc 12d, whereas the peripheral side 12c at an angle of 90 ° perpendicular to the second longitudinal side 12b abuts.

Der Flanschkörper 12 besitzt im Ausführungsbeispiel der Fig. 1 bis 6 insgesamt drei Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18, deren nicht näher bezeichneten Mittellängslinien senkrecht zu den Flansch- bzw. Längsseiten 12a, 12b und parallel zueinander verlaufen, wie dies aus Fig. 2 und 3 ersichtlich ist. Die Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 dienen zur Anbringung bzw. Halterung der elektrischen Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 und die Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 zur Anbringung bzw. Halterung der Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60 zum Steuern bzw. Regeln des Erwärmungsvorgangs des durch die Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 zu erhitzenden Fluid.The flange 12 has in the embodiment of Fig. 1 to 6 a total of three through openings 14, 16, 18, whose unspecified center longitudinal lines are perpendicular to the flange or longitudinal sides 12a, 12b and parallel to each other, as is apparent from Fig. 2 and 3 is apparent. The through-holes 14, 18 serve to mount the electric resistance heater 40 and the through-hole 16 to mount the controller 60 for controlling the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater 40.

Wie aus Fig. 2 und 3 entnehmbar ist, sind die Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 bzw. deren Mittellängslinien in gleichem Abstand zueinander, betrachtet in der Ebene der ersten oder zweiten Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12a, 12b, angeordnet. Alle drei Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 sind hinsichtlich ihrer geometrischen Gestaltung gleich mit dem Unterschied, dass der Durchmesser der mittleren Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 größer ist als der Durchmesser der beiden links und rechts von der mittleren Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 angeordneten Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18. Der Durchmesser dieser beiden Durchbrechungen 14, 18 ist identisch. Daher genügt es, nachstehend nur den Aufbau und die Gestaltung der Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 näher zu erläutern. Soweit noch weitere geringfügige Unterschiede zwischen den drei Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 bestehen, werden diese während der Beschreibung des Aufbaus der Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 näher erläutert.How out Fig. 2 and 3 can be removed, the through openings 14, 16, 18 and their central longitudinal lines at equal distance from each other, as viewed in the plane of the first or second flange or longitudinal side 12a, 12b, respectively. All three passage openings 14, 16, 18 are the same in terms of their geometric configuration with the difference that the diameter of the central passage opening 16 is greater than the diameter of the two left and right of the central passage opening 16 arranged through holes 14, 18. The diameter of the two Openings 14, 18 is identical. Therefore, it suffices to explain only the structure and the design of the through-hole 16 in more detail below. As far as there are other minor differences between the three passage openings 14, 16, 18, these will be explained in more detail during the description of the structure of the passage opening 16.

Wie weiter aus Fig. 3 hervorgeht, besitzt die Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 einen zumindest annähernd kreiszylindrischen Querschnitt. Weiterhin weist sie zwei unterschiedliche Innenwandabschnitte 16a, 16b (bzw. 14a, 14b; 18a, 18b) auf, die sich von der ersten Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12a aus in axialer Richtung der Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 hintereinander anschließen und sich bis zur zweiten Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12b erstrecken. Der erste Innenwandabschnitt 16a wird durch eine zylindrische Innenwandgestaltung gebildet. Bei den beiden Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 besitzt dieser zylindrische Abschnitt 14a, 14b noch eine sich in Richtung der Außenseite öffnende Anfasung. Der sich an den ersten Innenwandabschnitt 16a unmittelbar anschließende zweite Innenwandabschnitt 16b besitzt eine im Längsquerschnitt wellenförmige Innenwandkontur. Der Innendurchmesser sowohl der Wellengipfel als auch der Wellentäler ist dabei kleiner als der Innendurchmesser des ersten Innenwandabschnitts 16a. Der zweite Innenwandabschnitt 16b dient zur Abdichtung an den durch die Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 hindurchgeführten Bauteile des erfindungsgemäßen Heizsystems gegenüber einem Austreten des durch das Heizsystem zu erhitzenden Fluids. Der Innendurchmesser des zweiten Innenwandabschnitts 16b ist dabei geringfügig kleiner als der Außendurchmesser des jeweils hindurchgeführten Bauteils des erfindungsgemäßen Heizsystems, sodass durch das Einführen des jeweiligen Bauteils in die zugehörige Durchgangsdurchbrechung 14, 16, 18 der Innenwandabschnitt komprimiert wird.How farther Fig. 3 shows, the passage opening 16 has an at least approximately circular cylindrical cross-section. Furthermore, it has two different inner wall sections 16a, 16b (or 14a, 14b, 18a, 18b), which adjoin one another in succession from the first flange or longitudinal side 12a in the axial direction of the passage opening 16 and extend as far as the second flange or Extend longitudinal side 12b. The first inner wall section 16a is formed by a cylindrical inner wall design. In the case of the two passage openings 14, 18, this cylindrical section 14a, 14b still has a chamfer opening in the direction of the outside. The second inner wall section 16b immediately adjoining the first inner wall section 16a has an inner wall contour which is corrugated in the longitudinal cross section. The inner diameter of both the wave peaks and the wave troughs is smaller than the inner diameter of the first inner wall section 16a. The second inner wall section 16b is used for sealing at the components of the heating system according to the invention passed through the passage openings 14, 16, 18 in relation to leakage of the fluid to be heated by the heating system. The inner diameter of the second inner wall portion 16b is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the respectively passed component of the heating system according to the invention, so that by inserting the respective component in the associated passage opening 14, 16, 18 of the inner wall portion is compressed.

In der Ausführung der Fig. 1 bis 5 und 7 ist der zweite Innenwandabschnitt 16b aus einem zu dem Material des Flanschkörpers 12 verschiedenen Material hergestellt, um die Abdichtungswirkung weiter zu verbessern. Beispielsweise kann der Flanschkörper 12 aus Polypropylen (PP) und der Innenwandabschnitt 16b bzw. 14b, 18b aus einem Ethylen/Propylen/Dienpolymerisate-(Terpolymer) Kautschuk (EPDM) oder einem thermoplastischen Elastomer (TPE) hergestellt sein, wobei zur Herstellung eines solchen Flanschkörpers 12 ein Zwei-Komponenten-Spritzverfahren bzw. 2K-Spritzverfahren eingesetzt werden kann. Die Fig. 4a und 4 b zeigen die beiden aus unterschiedlichen Materialien hergestellten Teile des Flanschkörpers 12 in größerem Detail. Dabei zeigt Fig. 4a den Flanschkörper ohne die aus einem anderen Material gefertigten Innenwandabschnitte 16b bzw. 14b, 18b, während Fig. 4b diese "freigestellt" zeigt.In the execution of Fig. 1 to 5 and 7 For example, the second inner wall portion 16b is made of a material different from the material of the flange body 12 to further enhance the sealing effect. For example, the flange body 12 may be made of polypropylene (PP) and the inner wall portion 16b or 14b, 18b may be made of an ethylene / propylene / diene polymer (terpolymer) rubber (EPDM) or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), to produce such a flange body 12 a two-component injection molding or 2K spray method can be used. The Fig. 4a and 4 b show the two parts made of different materials of the flange 12 in greater detail. It shows Fig. 4a the flange body without the inner wall portions 16b and 14b, 18b made of another material, respectively Fig. 4b this "released" shows.

Fig. 5 zeigt eine vorteilhafte Weiterbildung des Flanschkörpers 12 einer Flanschbaugruppe 10a der ersten Ausführungsform der Fig. 3 bis 4b, wobei der Innenwandabschnitt 16b bzw. 14b, 18b zum Konus der Behälterwandung 70 hingezogen ausgeführt ist. Hierdurch gestaltet sich die Herstellung der Flanschbaugruppe einfacher sowie wird durch eine günstiger Druckverteilung eine noch besser Dichtwirkung erzielt. Fig. 5 shows an advantageous development of the flange 12 of a flange assembly 10a of the first embodiment of the Fig. 3 to 4b , wherein the inner wall portion 16b and 14b, 18b is designed to be attracted to the cone of the container wall 70. As a result, the manufacture of the flange assembly designed easier as well as an even better sealing effect is achieved by a favorable pressure distribution.

Alternativ dazu zeigt Fig. 6 eine zweite Ausführungsform der Erfindung, wobei der Flanschkörper 12 einer Flanschbaugruppe 10b - als "einstückige" Variante - durchgehend aus einem für die Abdichtung geeigneten Werkstoff, wie beispielsweise einem EPDM oder einem TPE hergestellt sein. Bevorzugt wird der Flanschkörper 12 aus einem Werkstoff gefertigt, der sowohl die Schnapp- als auch die benötigte Dichteigenschaft abdeckt. Hier hat sich als Werkstoff beispielsweise ein Thermoplast mit Elastomeranteilen wie PP gefüllt mit einem EPDM als geeignet erwiesen. Der Flanschteil 12 kann dann als Spritzteil bzw. mit geeignetem Elastomer, z. B. einem EPDM, als Vulkanisat hergestellt werden.Alternatively to this shows Fig. 6 a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the flange 12 of a flange assembly 10b - as a "one-piece" variant - be made continuously from a suitable material for the sealing material, such as an EPDM or TPE. Preferably, the flange 12 is made of a material that covers both the snap and the required sealing property. Here, for example, a thermoplastic having elastomer components such as PP filled with an EPDM has proven suitable as a material. The flange 12 can then be used as a molded part or with a suitable elastomer, for. As an EPDM, be prepared as a vulcanizate.

Gemäß den Fig. 1 bis 7 weist der Flanschkörper 12 der Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12b weiterhin eine entlang seiner Umfangsseite 12c umlaufende Nut 19 auf. Die in Richtung der Durchgangsdurchbrechung 14, 16, 18 weisende erste Nutwand 19a ist dabei als gerade in einem spitzen Winkel zu den Mittellängslinien der Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18, betrachtet in der Längsschnittansicht der Fig. 2. Im Nutgrund 19b geht diese Nutwand 19a in einem Winkel von 90° in einen Bogen über, an den sich die zweite Nutwand 19c anschließt.According to the Fig. 1 to 7 the flange body 12 of the flange or longitudinal side 12b furthermore has a groove 19 running along its peripheral side 12c. The in the direction of the passage opening 14, 16, 18 facing first groove wall 19a is as straight at an acute angle to the central longitudinal lines of the passage openings 14, 16, 18, viewed in the longitudinal sectional view of Fig. 2 , In the groove base 19b, this groove wall 19a merges at an angle of 90 ° into an arc, to which the second groove wall 19c adjoins.

Im Bereich des zu der Flansch- bzw. Längsseite 12b weisenden Ende der Nutwand 19c eine einstückig an dem Flanschkörper 12 angeformte Befestigungseinrichtung 20. Die vollständig entlang der Nut 19 umlaufende Befestigungseinrichtung 20 wird durch ein Befestigungselement 22 in Form eines Rastnockens 26 gebildet, dessen Nockenspitze 26a in Richtung zu den Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 weist. Wie aus den Fig. 3, 4a, 5 und 6 ersichtlich ist, ist der Rastnocken 26 an seiner von dem Fluidbehälter 70 wegweisenden Seite 26b mit einer geraden Schrägfläche versehen, wogegen er an der zu dem Fluidbehälter 70 weisenden Seite mit einer Abrundung 26c versehen ist. Letztere unterstützt die Montage des Flanschkörpers 12 an dem Fluidbehälter 70, wie dies nachstehend noch erläutert wird. Der Rastnocken 26 gelangt bei der Montage der Flanschbaugruppe 10 bzw. des Heizsystems in Eingriff mit einem Gegenrastnocken 76 an dem Fluidbehälter 70, wie dies ebenfalls nachstehend noch näher erläutert wird.In the region of the end of the groove wall 19c facing the flange or longitudinal side 12b, a fastening device 20 integrally formed on the flange body 12. The fastening device 20, which runs completely along the groove 19, is formed by a fastening element 22 in the form of a latching cam 26 whose cam tip 26a in the direction of the passage openings 14, 16, 18 points. Like from the Fig. 3 . 4a . 5 and 6 it can be seen, the locking cam 26 is provided on its side facing away from the fluid container 70 side 26 b with a straight inclined surface, whereas it is provided on the side facing the fluid container 70 side with a rounding 26 c. The latter supports the mounting of the flange 12 on the fluid container 70, as will be explained below. The locking cam 26 comes in the assembly of the flange assembly 10 and the heating system in engagement with a counter-locking cam 76 on the fluid container 70, as will also be explained in more detail below.

Wie bereits vorstehend erwähnt, dienen die Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 zur Aufnahme und Halterung der elektrischen Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 und der Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60 zum Steuern bzw. Regeln des Erwärmungsvorgangs des durch die Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 zu erwärmenden Fluids. Insbesondere sind in die Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 jeweils die nicht näher bezeichneten Anschlussenden der Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 eingeschoben, wie dies aus den Fig. 1 und 2 entnehmbar ist. Der Innendurchmesser der beiden Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 ist den Durchmessern der im montierten Zustand der Heizeinrichtung 40 im Inneren der Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18 befindlichen Abschnitte 42a, 42b des Mantelrohrs 42 der Heizeinrichtung 40 angepasst und so bemessen, dass sich eine schwergängige Fügepassung zwischen insbesondere den Innenwandabschnitten 14a, 14b; 18a, 18b der Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 und der Außenseite der Mantelrohrabschnitte 42a, 42b der Heizeinrichtung 40 einstellt. Alternativ oder ergänzend hierzu können die Mantelrohrabschnitte 42a, 42b in den Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 mittels eines Klebers fixiert sein, der vorzugsweise gleichzeitig die Abdichtung der Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 übernimmt. Gegebenenfalls kann aber auch der Flanschkörper 12 insgesamt um die Mantelrohrabschnitte 42a, 42b der Heizeinrichtung 40 herumgespritzt sein.As already mentioned above, the through holes 14, 16, 18 serve to receive and hold the electric resistance heater 40 and the controller 60 to control the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater 40. In particular, the unspecified terminal ends of the resistance heater 40 are respectively inserted into the through openings 14, 18, as shown in FIGS Fig. 1 and 2 is removable. The inner diameter of the two passage openings 14, 18 is the diameters of the in the assembled state of the heater 40 in the interior of the passage openings 14, 16, 18 located portions 42 a, 42 b of the jacket tube 42 of the heater 40 adjusted and dimensioned so that a stiff mating fit between in particular the inner wall portions 14a, 14b; 18a, 18b of the passage openings 14, 18 and the outside of the jacket tube sections 42a, 42b of the heater 40 sets. Alternatively or additionally, the jacket tube sections 42a, 42b may be fixed in the passage openings 14, 18 by means of an adhesive, which preferably simultaneously performs the sealing of the passage openings 14, 18. If appropriate, however, the flange body 12 can also be molded around the jacket pipe sections 42a, 42b of the heating device 40 overall.

In der in den Fig. 1 bis 6 gezeigten Ausführungsform ist zwischen den beiden Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 18 weiteren Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 vorgesehenen, in der die Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60 zum Steuern bzw. Regeln des Erwärmungsvorgangs des durch die Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung 40 zu erwärmenden Fluids eingesetzt ist, welche in dem dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel durch ein NTC-Element gebildet ist. Das NTC-Element ist in einer Stahlhülse 62 angeordnet, dessen in Richtung der Behälterinnenseite weisenden Ende abgeschlossen ist. Auch hier ist der Innendurchmesser der Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 der Außenkontur der Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung 60 angepasst und die Abmessungen so bestimmt, dass sich ebenfalls eine schwergängige Fügepassung ergibt. Alternativ oder ergänzend hierzu kann wiederum ein Kleber vorgesehen sein, der vorzugsweise gleichzeitig die Abdichtung der Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 übernimmt. Ist der Flanschkörper 12 an der Heizeinrichtung 40 angespritzt, so kann ebenfalls ein Anspritzen des Flanschkörpers 12 an der Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung 60 erfolgen. Ebenso ist es aber auch möglich, dass der Flanschkörper 12 an der Heizeinrichtung 40 angespritzt ist und die Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung 60 in die mittlere Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 eingeschoben und in geeigneter Weise dort fixiert wird.In the in the Fig. 1 to 6 Shown embodiment, between the two through openings 14, 18 further Durchgangsdurchbrechung 16 is provided, in which the control or regulating device 60 is used to control the heating process of the heating by the resistance heater 40 to be heated fluid, which in the illustrated embodiment by a NTC element is formed. The NTC element is arranged in a steel sleeve 62, which is closed in the direction of the container inside end. Again, the inner diameter of the passage opening 16 of the outer contour of the control device 60 is adjusted and the dimensions determined so that also a stiff Mating fit results. As an alternative or in addition to this, an adhesive may again be provided which preferably simultaneously undertakes the sealing of the passage opening 16. If the flange body 12 is injection-molded onto the heating device 40, injection-molding of the flange body 12 on the control or regulating device 60 can likewise take place. However, it is also possible that the flange body 12 is molded onto the heater 40 and the control or regulating device 60 is inserted into the central passage opening 16 and fixed there in a suitable manner.

Fig. 7 zeigt eine Flanschbaugruppe 10c als eine alternative Ausführung der Flanschbaugruppe 10, bei der die Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60b zum Steuern bzw. Regeln des Erwärmungsvorgangs des durch die Widerstands-Heizeinrichtung zu erwärmenden Fluids in einer in den Flansch 12 integrierten Tasche 13 eingefügt ist. Damit ist es möglich, die Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60b direkt ohne Abdichtung in den Flansch 12 zu integrieren. Hierzu kann ein entsprechender Sensor, beispielsweise ein NTC-Element 14, zusammen mit der Steckerbaugruppe 15 bei der Herstellung des Flansches 12 von dem Flanschwerkstoff umspritzt werden bzw. in einer topfförmigen Tasche 13 in dem Flansch vergossen werden. Damit kann der sonst benötigte - im Einsatz mit dem zu erwärmenden Fluid in Kontakt stehende - Edelstahltopf (61 in Fig. 2) für den Sensor entfallen. Fig. 7 FIG. 12 shows a flange assembly 10c as an alternative embodiment of the flange assembly 10 in which the controller 60b is inserted to control the heating operation of the fluid to be heated by the resistance heater in a pocket 13 integrated with the flange 12. This makes it possible to integrate the control or regulating device 60b directly into the flange 12 without sealing. For this purpose, a corresponding sensor, for example an NTC element 14, together with the plug assembly 15 in the production of the flange 12 can be encapsulated by the flange material or potted in a pot-shaped pocket 13 in the flange. Thus, the otherwise required - in use with the fluid to be heated in contact - stainless steel pot (61 in Fig. 2 ) omitted for the sensor.

Wie aus den Fig. 1 und 2 zu ersehen ist, weist der Fluidbehälter 70 eine Montageöffnung 72 auf. Diese Montageöffnung 72 besitzt eine zu dem Flanschkörper 12 komplementäre Form. An dem von der Behälterinnenseite I wegweisenden Rand der Montageöffnung 72 ist ein Kragen 74 vorgesehen, welcher ebenfalls eine zu dem Flanschkörper 12 komplementäre Form in der Draufsicht aufweist. Insbesondere sind die Montageöffnung 72 und der Kragen 74 in Form eines langgestreckten Ovals ausgebildet. An dem freien Ende des Kragens 74 ist ein Gegenrastnocken 76 angeordnet, welcher zusammen mit dem Rastnocken 26 des Flanschkörpers 12 eine formschlüssige Rastverbindung bei der Montage des Flanschkörpers 12 an der Montageöffnung 72 des Fluidbehälters 60 eingeht. Insbesondere besitzt der Gegenrastnocken 76a eine Nockenspitze 76a, die in Richtung zu dem Inneren der Montageöffnung 72 weist. Wie aus Fig. 2 ersichtlich ist, ist der Gegenrastnocken 76 an seiner in Richtung der Behälterinnenseite I weisenden Seite 76b und an seiner zu der Behälteraußenseite A weisenden Seite 76c mit einer geraden Schrägfläche versehen.Like from the Fig. 1 and 2 can be seen, the fluid container 70 has a mounting opening 72. This mounting hole 72 has a shape complementary to the flange 12. At the side facing away from the container inside I edge of the mounting hole 72, a collar 74 is provided, which also has a complementary to the flange 12 shape in plan view. In particular, the mounting opening 72 and the collar 74 are formed in the form of an elongate oval. At the free end of the collar 74, a counter-locking cam 76 is arranged, which forms a positive locking connection during assembly of the flange 12 at the mounting opening 72 of the fluid container 60 together with the locking cam 26 of the flange 12. In particular, the counter-detent cam 76 a has a cam tip 76 a, which in Direction to the interior of the mounting hole 72 points. How out Fig. 2 is visible, the counter-locking cam 76 is provided on its side facing the container inside I side 76b and on its side facing the container A side A 76c with a straight oblique surface.

Zur Montage des erfindungsgemäßen Heizsystems wird zunächst der Flanschkörper 12 der Flanschbaugruppe 10, beispielsweise durch einen Spritzvorgang hergestellt. Anschließend kann die Heizeinrichtung 40 und die Steuer- bzw. Regeleinrichtung 60 in die jeweilige Durchgangsdurchbrechung 14, 16, 18 eingeschoben werden. Gegebenenfalls kann die Heizeinrichtung 40 bzw. die Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60 in der jeweiligen Durchgangsdurchbrechung 14, 16, 18 verklebt werden. Alternativ kann, wie dies vorstehend bereits beschrieben wurde, der Flanschkörper 12 an den Mantelrohrabschnitten 42a, 42b der Heizeinrichtung 40, gegebenenfalls zusammen mit der Steuer- oder Regeleinrichtung 60 angespritzt werden. Die so vormontierte Baugruppe wird anschließend in die Montageöffnung 72 des Fluidbehälters 70 eingeschoben.For mounting the heating system according to the invention, first of all the flange body 12 of the flange assembly 10 is produced, for example by an injection process. Subsequently, the heating device 40 and the control or regulating device 60 can be inserted into the respective passage opening 14, 16, 18. Optionally, the heating device 40 or the control or regulating device 60 in the respective passage opening 14, 16, 18 are glued. Alternatively, as has already been described above, the flange body 12 can be injection-molded onto the jacket pipe sections 42a, 42b of the heating device 40, optionally together with the control or regulating device 60. The pre-assembled assembly is then inserted into the mounting opening 72 of the fluid container 70.

Dabei gleitet der Rastnocken 26 des Flanschkörpers 12 mit seiner in Richtung der Behälterinnenseite I weisenden Abrundung 26b an der entsprechenden Gegenfläche 76c des Gegenrastnockens 76 und wird dabei in Richtung parallel zu den beiden Flansch- bzw. Längsseiten 12a, 12b elastisch nach Außen ausgelenkt. Nach dem Vorbeigleiten der beiden Rastnockenspitzen 26a, 76a schwenkt der Rastnocken 26 wieder zurück in seine Ausgangslage in Richtung zu den Durchgangsdurchbrechungen 14, 16, 18. Hierbei gelangt die Rastfläche 26b des Rastnockens 26 in formschlüssigen Eingriff mit der Rastfläche 76b der Gegenrastnocke 76. Dabei taucht der Kragen 74 teilweise in die Nut 19 des Flanschkörpers 12 ein. Hierdurch, insbesondere durch das Umgreifen der vollständig um den Flanschkörper 12 umlaufenden Befestigungseinrichtung 20 bzw. des Rastnockens 26 mit der Gegenrastnocke 76 wird die Flanschbaugruppe 10 fest an dem Fluidbehälter 70 gehalten. Sofern das Material des Flanschkörpers 12 aus einem eine Abdichtung erlaubenden Kunststoff, wie beispielsweise EPDM oder TPE hergestellt ist, dichtet der formschlüssige Eingriff der Befestigungseinrichtung 20 bzw. des Rastnockens 26 mit dem Gegenrastnocken 76 die Montageöffnung 72 ab. Gegebenenfalls kann aber zusätzlich ein an dem Rastnocken 26 und/oder dem Gegenrastnocken 76 vorgesehenes Dichtelement verwendet werden.In this case, the locking cam 26 of the flange 12 slides with its in the direction of the container inside I facing rounding 26b on the corresponding mating surface 76c of the counter-locking cam 76 and is thereby deflected in the direction parallel to the two flange or longitudinal sides 12a, 12b elastically outward. After the passing of the two locking cam tips 26a, 76a, the locking cam 26 pivots back into its initial position in the direction of the passage openings 14, 16, 18. Here, the locking surface 26b of the locking cam 26 comes into positive engagement with the locking surface 76b of the counter-locking cam 76. Diving the collar 74 partially in the groove 19 of the flange 12 a. As a result, in particular by the encompassing of the fastening device 20, which rotates completely around the flange body 12, and of the latching cam 26 with the counter-latching cam 76, the flange assembly 10 is held firmly on the fluid container 70. If the material of the flange 12 is made of a sealing permitting plastic, such as EPDM or TPE, the positive engagement of the fastening device 20 and the locking cam 26 with the counter-locking cam 76 seals the mounting hole 72 down. Optionally, however, additionally provided on the locking cam 26 and / or the counter-locking cam 76 sealing element can be used.

Claims (29)

  1. A flange unit for holding a heating device to a fluid container of an appliance accommodating a fluid to be heated, in particular a domestic appliance, comprising a flange body (12) which is made from a non-metallic material and which can be mounted to a fluid container (70) by at least one fixing device (20),
    characterized in that said fixing device (20) is formed by at least one fixing element (22) which can be brought into positively locking engagement with the fluid container (70), wherein the positively locking engagement of the at least one fixing element (22) at the fluid container (70) is formed by a latching engagement, wherein the at least one fixing element (22) is formed by a snap-action or latching element (26) which can be brought into engagement with a counterpart snap-action device (76) provided at the fluid container (70), wherein the at least one fixing element (22) is resilient, and wherein the fixing device (20) is provided to peripherally extend at least approximately completely around the flange body (12).
  2. The flange unit according to claim 1,
    characterized in that the at least one fixing element (22) can be brought reversibly into engagement with the fluid container (70).
  3. The flange unit according to claim 1,
    characterized in that the resiliency of the at least one fixing element (22) is formed by a material property of the fixing element (22).
  4. The flange unit according to claim 1 or 3,
    characterized in that wherein the resiliency of the at least one fixing element (22) is formed by a structural configuration of the fixing element (22) on the flange body (12).
  5. The flange unit according to one of the claims 1 to 4,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) is provided with at least one seal for fluid-tight sealing in the installed condition in relation to the fluid container (70).
  6. The flange unit according to claim 5,
    the at least one seal is formed by a material property of the flange body (12).
  7. The flange unit according to claim 5 or 6,
    characterized in that the seal is formed by at least one sealing element provided on the flange body (12), preferably comprising EPDM or TPE.
  8. The flange unit according to claim 7,
    characterized in that the at least one sealing element is integrally connected to the flange body (12), in particular by injection molding therearound.
  9. The flange unit according to one of the claims 5 to 8,
    characterized in that the seal peripherally extends at least approximately completely around the flange body (12).
  10. The flange unit according to one of the claims 1 to 9,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) has at least one through opening (14, 18) for receiving and holding at least one heating device (40).
  11. The flange unit according to claim 10,
    characterized in that the at least one through opening (14, 18) for receiving and holding at least one heating device (40) is provided with at least one seal (14b, 18b).
  12. The flange unit according to claim 11,
    characterized in that the at least one seal is formed by a material property of the flange body (12).
  13. The flange unit according to claim 10 or 11,
    characterized in that the at least one seal is formed by at least one sealing element (14b, 18b), preferably comprising EPDM or TPE.
  14. The flange unit according to claim 13,
    characterized in that the at least one sealing element (14b, 18b) is integrally connected to the at least one through opening (14, 18), preferably by injection molding therearound.
  15. The flange unit according to one of the claims 11 to 14,
    characterized in that the at least one seal (14b, 18b) peripherally extends at least approximately completely around the at least one through opening (14, 18).
  16. The flange unit according to,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) has at least one holding device (16) for receiving and holding at least one control device (60).
  17. The flange unit according to claim 16,
    characterized in that the holding device (16) for receiving and holding at least one control device (60) is formed by a pocket provided on the flange body (12).
  18. The flange unit according to claim 17,
    characterized in that the pocket is fluid-tightly closed off in the direction of the side which in the installed condition of the flange body (12) faces towards the fluid container (70).
  19. The flange unit according to claim 17,
    characterized in that the pocket is sealingly closed off in opposite relationship to the direction of the side which in the installed condition of the flange body (12) faces towards the fluid container.
  20. The flange unit according to one of the claims 17 to 19,
    characterized in that the pocket is integrally formed on the flange body (12).
  21. The flange unit according to one of the claims 1 to 20,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) can be injection molded on the heating device (40).
  22. The flange unit according to claim 1,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) is made from polypropylene.
  23. A heating system including at least one heating device (40) for heating a fluid, in particular in a domestic appliance, a flange unit (10) for holding the heating device (40) and a fluid container (70) for accommodating the fluid to be heated by the heating device (40), wherein the fluid container has at least one through opening (14, 18) for passing the heating device (40) therethrough and for mounting the flange unit (10),
    characterized in that the flange unit (10) is designed according to one of the claims 1 to 22, and that the fluid container (70) has at least one through opening (72) for passing the heating device (40) therethrough and for mounting the flange unit, which through opening has at least one counterpart fixing device (76) protruding in outside direction and being arranged for a positively locking connection of the flange unit to the fluid container (70), wherein the latching element (76) peripherally extends at least approximately completely around the through opening (72) in the wall of the fluid container (70).
  24. The heating system according to claim 23,
    characterized in that the counterpart fixing device is formed by at least one latching element (76) which comes into preferably resilient and/or reversible engagement with the fixing element (22) on the flange body (12).
  25. The heating system according to claim 23 or 24,
    characterized in that the through opening (72) in the wall of the fluid container (70) is at least approximately of an oval shape and the flange body (12) is of a shape which is complementary thereto.
  26. The heating system according to one of the claims 23 to 25,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) is injection molded to the heating device (40).
  27. The heating system according to one of the claims 23 to 25,
    characterized in that the flange body (12) is pushed on to the heating device (40).
  28. The heating system according to claim 27,
    characterized in that a joining fit is provided between the at least one through opening (14, 18) provided on the flange body (12) for the heating device (40), and the heating device (40).
  29. The heating system according to claim 23 or 24,
    characterized in that the heating device (40) is glued in the at least one through opening (14, 18) of the flange body (12).
EP07002318A 2006-02-06 2007-02-02 Snap flange Active EP1816899B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL07002318T PL1816899T3 (en) 2006-02-06 2007-02-02 Snap flange

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102006005321A DE102006005321B3 (en) 2006-02-06 2006-02-06 Schnappflansch

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1816899A2 EP1816899A2 (en) 2007-08-08
EP1816899A3 EP1816899A3 (en) 2009-12-02
EP1816899B1 true EP1816899B1 (en) 2011-11-23

Family

ID=38006207

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP07002318A Active EP1816899B1 (en) 2006-02-06 2007-02-02 Snap flange

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US20070210107A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1816899B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE535129T1 (en)
DE (1) DE102006005321B3 (en)
PL (1) PL1816899T3 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT1391862B1 (en) 2008-09-23 2012-01-27 Indesit Co Spa WASHING MACHINE, IN PARTICULAR A WASHING MACHINE, A WASHING MACHINE OR A DISHWASHER PROVIDED WITH A TEMPERATURE DETECTION DEVICE FOR THE ELECTRIC HEATING WARMING RESISTANCE OF THE WASHING LIQUID.
ITTO20120598A1 (en) * 2012-07-06 2014-01-07 Illinois Tool Works HEATING DEVICE FOR HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES WITH OPTICAL LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR
DE102012014746A1 (en) * 2012-07-26 2014-02-13 Mann + Hummel Gmbh Heating device for a fluid line
DE102014114941A1 (en) * 2014-10-15 2016-04-21 Endress + Hauser Gmbh + Co. Kg Hybrid flange
CN106642659A (en) * 2016-11-03 2017-05-10 江阴市国豪电热电器制造有限公司 Sleeve type electric heater convenient to detach

Family Cites Families (15)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2040369A (en) * 1935-06-12 1936-05-12 Knapp Monarch Co Electrical appliance
US2690875A (en) * 1951-06-20 1954-10-05 Honeywell Regulator Co Thermostatically operated valve
DE1112792B (en) * 1960-02-02 1961-08-17 Czepek & Co Immersion heater consisting of electric tubular heaters
DE6607317U (en) * 1963-07-25 1971-02-18 Siemens Elektrogeraete Gmbh LIQUID RESERVOIRS, IN PARTICULAR LIQUID RESERVOIRS FOR WASHING MACHINES
US3777777A (en) * 1967-06-02 1973-12-11 Robertshaw Controls Co Flow control device
DE6812026U (en) * 1967-12-28 1969-10-02 Elpag Ag Chur ELECTRIC HEATING INSERT
DE1952282A1 (en) * 1969-10-17 1971-04-29 Ego Elektro Blanc & Fischer Fastening device for a tubular heating element to be inserted into an opening in a container wall
US3997760A (en) * 1974-12-06 1976-12-14 Electro-Therm, Inc. Electric heating element with bulkhead mounting means
ZA829178B (en) * 1981-12-16 1983-10-26 Strix Ltd Thermally-sensitive controls for electric immersion heaters
US4707590A (en) * 1986-02-24 1987-11-17 Lefebvre Fredrick L Immersion heater device
US5033647A (en) * 1990-03-09 1991-07-23 Allergan, Inc. Value controlled squeezable fluid dispenser
CH686300A5 (en) * 1992-08-06 1996-02-29 Createchnic Ag Plastic closure with tamper-evident element.
US5892888A (en) * 1996-05-28 1999-04-06 Piscine Service Anjou Sa Means for electrically heating a circulating fluid in a basin or pool
DE19960585A1 (en) * 1999-12-15 2001-06-21 Bleckmann Gmbh Lamprechtshause Heater with split jacket tube
KR100499023B1 (en) * 2003-01-09 2005-07-01 삼성전자주식회사 Wall-mounted type microwave oven

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE102006005321B3 (en) 2007-09-20
PL1816899T3 (en) 2012-07-31
EP1816899A3 (en) 2009-12-02
EP1816899A2 (en) 2007-08-08
US20070210107A1 (en) 2007-09-13
ATE535129T1 (en) 2011-12-15

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