EP2234001B1 - Operating device for a domestic appliance - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an operating device for a domestic appliance with at least one retractable control knob, which is automatically guided by a motor between a retracted position and an extended position.

Such an operating device is for example from the DE 10 2007 008 893 A1 known.

Furthermore, from the generic DE 10 2005 018380 A1 an operating device known in which a rotary knob is associated with a driven by an electric motor actuator, by means of which it is axially adjustable between a projecting from a user interface position and a recessed position in the user interface.

The EP 1 505 612 A2 describes an operating device having a base, an operating unit for performing a rotational movement, and a movable unit provided between the base and the operating unit for slidably moving the operating unit, and an input rotary shaft for operating the operating unit along the axial direction of the operating unit with respect to the base.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved motion control of the retractable control knob.

This object is achieved by an operating device having the features of claim 1.

An operating device according to the invention for a domestic appliance comprises at least one retractable control knob. The operating device also has a motor, which is automatically movable by this motor drive the control knob between a retracted position and an extended position. The sinking position and the extended position thereby represent the respective end positions of a maximum movement path of the control knob. The operating device also has a coupling device, which is coupled to the motor and the control knob. This coupling between the mentioned components or assemblies serves to guide the movement of the control knob. The coupling device has a guide element on which at least one non-straight but curved and in particular an at least partially helical guide track is formed. It is thus envisaged that the operating knob during extension or retraction is at least partially guided by a non-rectilinear guide track, which is represented by the helically wound, in particular helical guide track. With this configuration, the motion control of the control knob can be done very wear. For example, this can be an undesirable impact on the end positions are avoided and the motion control can be done much more accurately. The motor of the operating device is coupled to a first gear of the coupling device. For this purpose, a shaft is provided, which is connected on the one hand with the motor and on the other hand with the gear. By the movement of the first gear of the coupling device, a rotational movement of the control knob about its longitudinal axis can be generated. Due to the helical guideway of the coupling device, this rotational movement can be converted or changed into a translational and a rotational movement of the control knob. Thus, if a rotational movement is transmitted to the control knob via the motor, the shaft and the first gear of the coupling device, then this performs due to the helical guideway both a partial rotational movement about its longitudinal axis and a linear translational movement along the longitudinal axis. The control knob is thus guided in such a manner that it extends from the retracted position, as it were, along the helical path, or moves into the countersunk position. This movement principle or this movement pattern allows a quasi-relatively gentle execution in comparison to a purely translational movement in the longitudinal direction, so that no further damping devices with regard to an undesirable stop at the end positions required _. are. Of course, however, such a damping device may be additionally provided. Furthermore, the first gear of the coupling device is arranged so that its axis of rotation is parallel to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the axis of rotation of the control knob. And the guide member has a recess in an outer wall through which the arranged outside the guide element first gear of the coupling device with a disposed within the guide element first gear of the control knob meshes. Again, this is a very space-minimizing design, which also allows power transmission from the engine to the control knob with a minimum number of components. It can thus be ensured a relatively direct power transmission of the motion control.

The movement of the control knob between the retracted position and the extended position can be done continuously or at least partially discrete. In particular, it can also be provided that intermediate positions can also be assumed on the movement path between these two end positions, namely the sinking position and the extended position. The control knob can thus also be provided, for example, in an at least partially extended position.

It is preferably provided that the guide track is formed as a guide elevation on the guide element. Thus, for example, a raised web or a bead may be formed, which represents this guideway. With this configuration, even with relatively large force effects, a dimensionally stable guideway can be provided which, moreover, can be designed to be relatively free from tolerances. A movement with unwanted play can thus be avoided.

It can also be provided that the guideway is formed as a recess and thus as a groove, in which then engages formed as a survey corresponding structure on a support member.

Preferably, the guide element is at least partially formed as a hollow cylinder. On the one hand, this embodiment can provide a relatively weight-saving component which, moreover, is also designed to accommodate further components. As a result, a very compact and space-saving as well as a component protective conception can be made possible.

In particular, the guideway is formed on an inner side of the guide element. This also allows the aspect to be taken into account in terms of compact design, since the components contained in the guide element can thus engage directly in the guideway. By attaching the guideway to the inside of the guide member and the guideway can be protected from unwanted wear by arranged outside the guide member components. An impact or rubbing against the guideway can be avoided by this specific position.

Preferably, components of the control knob extend at least partially in the guide element. On the one hand, the space-saving attachment of the control knob can be created in the entire facility here. On the other hand, a system with relatively short distances can thus be created with regard to the mechanical design for power transmission between the engine, the control knob and the coupling device. Undesirable wide and large transmission elements are therefore no longer necessary, so that in this respect the wear can be kept low.

Preferably, the control knob on at least one support element, which is coupled to the movement guide of the control knob with the guideway. The support element is thus a relatively stable part, which is designed for holding or attaching it to other parts of the control knob. By this specific part, namely the carrier element, is coupled to the guideway, a very precise transmission of power to the motion control of the control knob can be achieved without unwanted wear on sub-components would occur here as well. Due to the high mechanical stability of the support element thus an undesirable force in the motion control of the control knob to other components can be avoided.

Preferably, the carrier element has a guide groove in which engages the guide track formed as a guide elevation. This is thus a particularly stabilized coupling, whereby the motion control in terms of accuracy and power transmission is particularly favored.

Preferably, the carrier element is arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the control knob. As a result, a central position and about the longitudinal axis symmetrical configuration of the support element can be created. Just by the at least partially helical guide track and thus caused about the axis of rotation of the control knob rotational movement and force can thus be made possible in a particularly appropriate manner to the support element and thus to the motion control of the overall control knob. Preferably, the carrier element is arranged in the at least partially formed as a hollow cylinder guide member. On the one hand, therefore, the carrier element can also be positioned in a protected manner and, in particular, a holder of the carrier element can thus also be created by the guide element. In particular, the carrier element is cylindrical or at least rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis. In particular, the radial dimensions of the carrier element, viewed at least in a partial section, viewed over the longitudinal axis of the control knob, a radial extent which is smaller than the radial inner dimension of the guide element in such a way that the carrier element bears against the inside of the guide element and yet relatively can move relative to the guide element. Thus, the guide element thus also serves as a support element for the carrier element and prevents unwanted movement of the carrier element in the radial direction and thus out of the coaxial position to the longitudinal axis. Imbalance movements can be avoided so that even unwanted wear can be avoided in this regard.

Preferably, the carrier element is coupled for movement with a coaxially arranged first gear of the control knob. In particular, the support member is directly connected to this first gear of the control knob, said first gear of the control knob is preferably also arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the control knob.

In particular, the recess of the guide element is formed in a circumferential wall of the cylindrical guide element. Preferably, the recess is designed slit-like, so that only the first gear of the coupling device engages. Preferably, therefore, the penetration of dirt or other contaminants can be avoided by the recess in the interior of the guide element.

In addition, the stability of the guide element is not affected by such a recess.

Preferably, the control knob on at least one handle, which is rotatably mounted for setting operating conditions and with the guide element is coupled. Preferably, the handle is positioned so that it is only that part of the control knob, which is seen from the front of a user. The handle thus also represents a front end cap of the control knob. Preferably, the handle is coaxial with the support member and arranged coaxially with the first gear of the control knob. In particular, the handle is thus arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the control knob. The handle is preferably movable relative to the carrier element of the control knob, in particular rotatable. This flexibility of the handle can thus be achieved that only this part must be rotated in the extended state to set or change operating conditions. This allows a special ease of movement are possible without additional components must be moved with. The handle is thus freely rotatably mounted on the incoming and outgoing further components of the control knob. To set the operating conditions, the handle is thus quasi decoupled from the carrier element with respect to freedom of movement.

Preferably, the handle is at least partially hollow. In particular, this cavity is formed on the end facing the carrier element, so that the carrier element preferably extends at least partially into this hollow region of the grip piece. This also allows a compact design can be achieved in the longitudinal direction of the control knob.

In particular, the handle is arranged relatively movable to the guide element. In particular, in the extended position of the control knob, this relative mobility is given to the guide element, in particular, a rotatable mounting is provided. This embodiment also provides a highly flexible operating option which, on the other hand, ensures that the entire system is mechanically extremely stable and that undesirable components do not have to be moved during a rotational movement of the grip piece. Thereby, the occurrence of large torques and power transmission can be avoided, so that in this respect the wear can be avoided.

Preferably, the grip piece is formed with an engagement element, which engages in an engagement groove on the support element. The engagement groove is formed on the outside of the support member and preferably formed completely encircling.

Characterized the handle and the support member are held to each other during a movement along the axis of the control knob and upon rotation of the handle about this axis, the handle can be moved relative to the support member.

Preferably, the handle is coupled to an information transmitter, which is coupled to the movement of the handle in the setting of an operating condition with the control knob. Such an information transmitter may be an element designed in many ways, which works, for example, in an electrical, electromagnetic or purely mechanical manner. In particular, both a non-contact and a contact-related information transmitter can be provided here, information being generated by the information transmitter, from which information can be deduced on the desired setting depending on the rotational movement of the control knob, in particular of the handle. Thus, in particular, the information is transmitted from the information transmitter to a control unit, which also acts as an evaluation, which is detected by this, which setting is desired by pressing the control knob.

Preferably, the coupling device has a support module for the control knob and the motor. By such a concept, it is thus ensured that the essential components of the operating device are arranged on this support module. The support module preferably has the guide element and at least one holding element for the motor. The guide element and the at least one retaining element for the motor are thus part of the support module, which in turn allows a high and multi-functional design. One part, namely the support module, thus has several functions without the need for additional components.

Preferably, the support module is integrally formed, whereby in addition to a component reduction and a special mechanical stability can be achieved.

Preferably, the connecting shaft between the motor and the first gear of the coupling device is held by this holding element. The retaining element is preferably formed on the guide element. In particular, a wing-like extension of the retaining element is formed to the outside. Is this Guiding element at least partially configured as a hollow cylinder, so the holding element extends in particular as in the radial direction of the outer wall of the guide member projecting wings. Due to this configuration of the support module, the components of the motor, gears of the coupling device and components of the control knob can be arranged particularly close to each other.

The support module is preferably arranged on a rear side of a control panel. The plate-like control panel takes on the back of the support module. In this case, a detachable connection but also a permanent connection can be provided. As a non-destructive releasable connection, for example, a plug connection or a latching connection or the like may be provided. As a permanent connection, for example, a gluing or the like may be provided.

The support module preferably has, in addition to the hollow-cylindrical guide element, an adjoining hollow, angular, in particular cube-like, section. In particular, the control knob also extends through this cube-shaped section, which has recesses on the wall sides. The cube-shaped part can thus also be regarded as a cage-like configuration. By this conception, in which the cube-shaped part is virtually built up a strut framework, high stability requirements can be taken into account and thereby an extremely weight-reduced component can be created.

Preferably, this cube-shaped portion has continuous recesses for the passage for further gears for combing arranged in the cube-shaped portion of other gears of the control knob.

The control knob preferably has a first subunit for setting first operating conditions of the domestic appliance and at least one second subunit for setting second operating conditions of the domestic appliance. At least the subunits are designed such that at least one component of the first subunit is arranged to be relatively movable relative to a first component of the second subunit. By means of such a conception of the control knob, two separate grips can thus be gripped by a user, in particular when the control knob is viewed from the front, which can be moved relative to one another. So For example, the first handle of the first subunit can be moved independently of the first handle of the second subunit. This allows a multifunctional adjustment of operating conditions can be created with a single control knob. Preferably, the two subunits are arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the control knob and in particular guided into each other. This also makes it possible to create a highly compact system. Preferably, both partial units extend in regions within the guide element, so that a stable arrangement and wear-protected positioning can also be achieved here.

The coupling device preferably has a guide tube, in which the second subunit, which represents the inner subunit, can be accommodated at least in some areas. In particular, a support element of the second subunit is positioned inside this guide tube and, in this respect, can also be moved relative to this guide tube, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the control knob.

Preferably, the support member of the second subunit is also coupled to the guideway, so that it is possible that both subunits of the control knob can be automatically guided at least partially simultaneously between the retracted position and the extended position. However, it can also be provided that the coupling of the first subunit with a guideway and the coupling of the second subunit with a guideway is designed so that the subunits can be automatically guided independently of each other between the retracted position and the extended position.

In addition to a highly variable motion control of the subunits can thus be ensured in a highly individual and situation-specific manner, the respectively required provision of a subunit of the control knob for a user.

Preferably, the carrier element of the second subunit is coupled to a handle of the second subunit and to an information transmitter of the second subunit. Both subunits thus each comprise a carrier element, a handle and an information transmitter.

It is preferably provided that the carrier element of the first subunit is at least partially formed as a hollow cylinder, are arranged in the components of the second subunit.

Preferably, the handle of the first subunit on the outside a gear, which meshes with an outside second gear of the coupling device.

In particular, the arrangement of the subunits is provided so that the first subunit is arranged with respect to radial viewing about the longitudinal axis of the control knob outside the second subunit and in particular the carrier element of the second subunit is at least partially disposed within the carrier element of the first subunit. Also, the handle of the first subunit is designed so that it surrounds the handle of the second subunit quasi ring-like, so that the handle of the second subunit extends quasi-pin-like or in the form of a cylinder through the handle of the first subunit.

The engine may be an electric motor or a hydraulically-formed motor. Preferably, the engine is controllable by a control unit. The control unit can be configured to receive and process a multiplicity of different signals, specific operating states of the domestic appliance or subsystems thereof being recognized as a function of these signals. Depending on this, the control unit can automatically move to extend or lower the operating element. Thus, for example, be provided when switching on the home appliance that the at least one control knob is automatically extended. When switching off the domestic appliance can then be provided in the reverse manner that the extended control knob is automatically moved to its retracted position. In addition, it can also be provided that, depending on a food to be cooked and / or selected types of preparation by a user, the control knobs required for further adjustment are automatically extended and preferably other, not required control knobs are retracted. Thus, the user is always automatically the control knob available, which he sensibly needed or can use for further operating condition setting. As a result, unwanted incorrect settings or the operation of incorrect controls or control knob can be avoided.

Thus, for example, switching on cooking zones on which no preparation container is positioned can be avoided, since, for example, the operating element or operating knob present therefor is not even extended.

With regard to the two subunits of a control knob, it can be provided that, starting from a completely submerged arrangement of both subunits, the first subunit and the second subunit are automatically extendable one after another in time. It can also be provided that the two subunits are at least temporarily extendable at the same time. Likewise, it can be provided that the two subunits can be extended with different lengths. In addition, it is also possible that the second subunit, which is preferably an internally arranged part with regard to the radial viewing to the longitudinal axis of the control knob, is further extendable than the first subunit, which preferably surrounds the second subunit at least in some areas.

With regard to the setting of operating conditions by means of the two subunits, it can be provided that a functional unit or function selection of the domestic appliance takes place with one subunit, and the other subunit is used to set an operating parameter assigned to a function. This means, for example, that at least one first function is provided whose setting or change is possible only by operating the one subunit. Accordingly, setting and changing an operating parameter of a function selected with this subunit is possible only by operating the other subunit.

Thus it can be made possible by such a configuration that, for example, starting from a retracted state of both subunits of the control knob these are both fully extended depending on an operating state of the domestic appliance and a function selection by pressing, for example, the first subunit is feasible. After this function selection, the movement of the first subunit of the control knob is automatically controlled by the control unit so that the first subunit is at least partially, in particular completely retractable. The second subunit is further in the extended state and another setting, for example, a temperature setting or the like can by pressing the second subunit. In the depressed state of the first subunit is further preferably provided that this is backlit by one or more light sources. Especially in dark rooms or the like can then be signaled that the control is virtually active. It can be provided that then the second subunit is automatically retractable depending on further operating states or operating parameter values of the operating parameters which can be set with the second subunit. For this purpose, it can be provided that the domestic appliance has a plurality of sensors or other detectors with which values of these operating parameters are detected and can be transmitted to the control unit. For example, functions may be provided by a top heat, a bottom heat, a hot air and a circulating air and the like in a home appliance designed as an oven, and the required heating elements in the oven can be activated. Furthermore, specific performance levels may be defined as functions. As operating parameters, for example, the temperature or the time, how long such a heating element is activated, can be considered.

Preferably, the domestic appliance comprises a central operating unit, which may likewise be, for example, a central operating element, with which basic operating states "on" and "off" of the domestic appliance or subsystems thereof can be set. It can be provided that, by actuating this central operating element for switching on the domestic appliance, a plurality of such retractable operating elements, in particular all such control knobs, are automatically convertible from the lowered state into the extended state. Analogously, this can be provided for the transfer from the extended position to the lowered position. In addition, it can be provided that in an embodiment of the domestic appliance as a hob or oven sensors are provided with which is detectable whether the preparation container, such as a pot or a pan or the like, on a cooking zone of the hob or on a baking sheet or grid placed in the oven. For example, a weight sensor may be a photodetector or the like. Depending on such a detection, one or more operating elements or control knobs associated with this subsystem, which are provided for setting operating parameters of these subsystems, can then be activated and automatically transferred from the lowered to the extended state.

In addition to the specific household appliances mentioned, which are all provided for the production or preparation of food, all other household appliances, which may have such retractable control knob, may be configured according to the invention. Thus, a domestic appliance can also be designed as a washing machine, tumble dryer, freezer or refrigerator or the like. Even small kitchen appliances such as a mixer, a whisk, a microwave oven, an electric bread machine or the like may be configured according to the invention.

Preferably, the support module of the coupling device also has a symmetrical configuration, so that in each case a holding element extends on both sides of the guide element, with each of which a connecting shaft is held. Preferably, the motor is arranged directly behind the control panel at the level of the cage-like or cube-shaped section of the support module laterally adjacent thereto. In particular, it is provided that the guide tube, which receives the support member of the second subunit and is disposed within the first support member of the first subunit is positioned coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the control knob and spoke-like holding webs which are arranged on the outside of this guide tube, on the inside of the guide element is held. The coaxially centered layer can thus be kept stable, with a very weight-saving holding device is created by the spoke-like webs.

Fig. 1

eine Draufsicht auf eine Bedieneinrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel mit einem Bedienknebel in der Versenkposition;

Fig. 2

eine Draufsicht auf die Ausführung der Bedieneinrichtung gemäß Fig. 1 mit einem Bedienknebel in der Ausfahrposition;

Fig. 3

eine perspektivische Seitendraufsicht auf die Bedieneinrichtung gemäß Fig. 1;

Fig. 4

eine perspektivische Seitendraufsicht auf die Bedieneinrichtung gemäß Fig. 2;

Fig. 5

eine weitere perspektivische Seitendraufsicht auf die Bedieneinrichtung gemäß Fig. 1 und 3; und

Fig. 6

eine Schnittdarstellung in Teilperspektive der Bedieneinrichtung gemäß Fig. 5.

An embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to schematic drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

a plan view of an operating device according to an embodiment with a control knob in the retracted position;

Fig. 2

a plan view of the execution of the operating device according to Fig. 1 with a control knob in the extended position;

Fig. 3

a perspective side elevational view of the operating device according to Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 4

a perspective side elevational view of the operating device according to Fig. 2 ;

Fig. 5

another perspective side elevational view of the operating device according to Fig. 1 and 3 ; and

Fig. 6

a sectional view in partial perspective of the operating device according to Fig. 5 ,

In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

In Fig. 1 an operating device 1 is shown in a plan view, which can be arranged for example on the front of a household appliance. The operating device 1 can be arranged, for example, stationary on the household appliance via a door for closing a cooking chamber. This is the case with home appliances for preparing food, such as an oven or a steam cooker. However, a household appliance with such an operating device 1 can also be designed for cleaning dishes, for example a dishwasher, or for the care of laundry items, such as a washing machine or a tumble dryer. However, a domestic appliance can also be designed for storage or preservation of food by means of cold, such as a refrigerator or a freezer or a corresponding combi appliance. In principle, a domestic appliance with an operating device 1 can also be designed otherwise.

The operating device 1, in addition to the above-mentioned attachment to a base body on which the door is struck, also be formed directly on the door or a door handle.

The operating device 1 comprises at least one control knob 2, which is movable in the direction of its longitudinal axis A. The control knob 2 is designed as a retractable control knob and can thus be moved back and forth between a retracted position and an extended position. In the illustration according to Fig. 1 the control knob 2 is shown in a fully retracted position and thus in a sinking position defined as the end position. He is almost completely retracted into the operating device 1 and does not protrude over a plate-like control panel 3 of the operating device 1 or only minimally over the front 4 over. The operating device 1 is designed so that the control knob 2 can be sunk or extended automatically. For this purpose, the operating device 1 comprises a motor drive unit or a motor 5, which is arranged behind the control panel 3. The motor 5 is connected to a control unit, not shown, and is controlled by this.

The operating device 1 further comprises a coupling device 6, which has a first gear 7. The first gear 7 is connected via a connecting shaft 8 to the motor 5. The first gear 7 of the coupling device 6 is arranged so that its axis of rotation B is parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the control knob 2. In a corresponding manner, the connecting shaft 8 is arranged.

To guide the movement of the control knob 2, the motor 5 is coupled to the control knob 2 with the coupling device 6. The coupling device 6 also has a guide element 9, which is designed in the embodiment as a hollow cylinder. On the guide element 9 a plurality of mutually parallel helical guideways are formed, in which respect only the guideway 10 and the guideway 11 are marked in detail. The guideways 10 and 11 are formed on an inner wall or on an inner side of the guide element 9, wherein they are designed so that they are quasi-raised structures which extend over this inner side 12 (FIG. Fig. 5 and 6 ) as elongated bulges or guide surveys raise. The guideways 10 and 11 thus represent webs wound around the longitudinal axis A. Each guideway 10 and 11 extends as a continuous strand over the entire length of the guide element 9.

It can also be provided that the guideways 10 or 11 are formed as recesses and thus as a groove on the inside of the guide element 9.

The guide element 9 has on its cylindrical peripheral wall on a slot-like continuous recess 12. Through this recess 12, the first gear 7 of the coupling device 6 extends through and meshes through this recess 12 through with a first gear 13 of the control knob second

The guide element 9 is formed coaxially with the longitudinal axis A and components of the control knob 2 extend within the guide element 9.

In particular, in this case extend the first gear 13, which is also arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis A, and a first support member 14 within the guide member 9. The first support member 14 is also disposed coaxially to the longitudinal axis 1 and also positioned coaxially with the first gear 13. The first gear 13 and the carrier element 14 are positioned directly adjacent to one another.

In addition, the control knob 2 comprises a first handle 15. The first handle 15 is arranged coaxially to the longitudinal axis A and has at its end facing the carrier element 14 on the outside and on the circumference of a gear 16. The handle 15 is hollow at its end facing the carrier element 14, so that the carrier element 14 extends into the grip 15, as can be seen, for example, in FIG Fig. 6 is shown in the sectional view. The first gear 13 and the carrier element 14 are dimensioned in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis A so that they can move in the direction of rotation about the longitudinal axis A relative to the guide member 9 in the guide member 9, however, are held relatively stable in position, so that no unwanted displacement is given from the coaxial position in the radial direction.

The first outer handle 15, the first support member 14 and the first gear 13 of the control knob 2 are associated with a first sub-unit 17. With the first subunit 17 first operating conditions of the domestic appliance can be adjusted. In addition, the control knob 2 according to the embodiment in Fig. 1 a second subunit 18, which includes a second handle 19. The second handle 19 is cylindrical in shape and extends through a continuous axial opening in the first handle 15, so that the first handle 15 surrounds the second handle 19 like a ring. With the second subunit 18 and in particular the second handle 19 second operating conditions of the domestic appliance can be adjusted. With regard to the mobility between the lowered position and the extended position, the two partial units 17 and 18 can be moved together at least partially simultaneously and / or partially via the extension or lowering movement. However, it can also be provided by the coupling device 6 that the two subunits 17 and 18 can be extended or lowered independently of one another.

The second subunit 18 also comprises, in addition to the front-side grip piece 19, a carrier element 32 (FIG. Fig. 6 ), which in Fig. 1 not shown.

In addition, the second subunit 18 also includes an information transmitter 20 which extends coaxially with the longitudinal axis A and is held by the carrier element 32 of the second subunit 18. The information transmitter 20 is preferably coupled to the handle 19 of the second subunit 18, so that upon rotation of the handle 18 about the longitudinal axis A a corresponding rotation of the information transmitter 20 can be generated. The information transmitter 20 then transmits information about the path of movement of the handle 19 to the control unit, not shown, which is designed to evaluate this information. Depending on this operation of the handle 19 can then be closed to the associated desired operating condition setting by the control unit and the corresponding setting of this operating condition can be controlled.

The first subunit 17 also has an information transmitter 21 in addition to the handle 15 and the carrier element 14. This is positioned outside of the carrier element 14 and in particular laterally thereto, wherein it is also arranged outside of the guide element 9. The information transmitter 21 of the first subunit 17 is connected via a connecting shaft 22 with a further gear 23 of the coupling device 6, wherein this further gear 23 meshes with the gear 16 of the handle 15.

The guide element 9 is part of a support module 24 of the operating device 1, wherein adjacent to the hollow cylindrical guide member 9 is a forward cube-shaped sub-portion 25 of the support module 24 is formed. This cage-like portion 25 is disposed directly on the back 26 of the control panel 3, wherein in particular the handle 15 of the first subunit 17 and the handle 19 of the second Teiliheit 18 extend within this cube-shaped portion 25. The support module 24 is an integrally formed element, which in addition to the guide element 9 and the cube-shaped portion 25 has two in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis A on opposite sides of the guide member 9 and / or the cube-shaped portion 25 wing-like outwardly extending retaining elements 27 and 28 , These two holding elements 27 and 28 carry the two connecting shafts 8 and 22.

To guide the movement of the operating knob 2 from the lowered position into the extended position, the first carrier element 14 has on its outer side a guide groove 29 into which the guide track 11 engages. In a corresponding manner, further guide grooves are formed on this shell side of the carrier element 14, in each of which engage the other guideways, wherein, as shown in FIG Fig. 1 only the guide groove 30 is still shown on the carrier element 14, in which engages the guideway 10.

If the guideway 10 is formed as a recess in an alternative embodiment, then the corresponding element on the carrier element 14 is then formed as a survey, which engages in the guideway 10.

In the embodiment shown, it is provided that the first subunit 17 and the second subunit 18 are each extended and retracted together.

For automatic extension of the in Fig. 1 shown sinking position in the extended position of the motor 5 is controlled by the control unit, not shown. About the motor 5, the connecting shaft 8 and the gear 7 is set in rotation about the axis B. This rotational movement is transmitted to the first gear 13 of the first subunit 17 of the control knob 2. This also makes it a generated rotational movement, wherein due to the coupling of the first gear 13 with the support member 14, a movement of the control knob 2 is generated both in the translational direction along the longitudinal axis A and due to the helical guideways 10 and 11 at the same time in a rotational movement about the longitudinal axis A. By the helical guideways 10 and 11 thus takes place an extension movement of the control knob 2, which performs exactly this helical or helical path.

Starting from the in Fig. 1 shown lowering position of the control knob 2 is in Fig. 2 in a corresponding plan view, the extended position of the control knob 2 shown. Due to the translational rectilinear movement of the control knob 2 from the control panel 3 to the front wandering quasi also the gear 13 of the first subunit 17 forward and thus it shifts relative to the first gear 7 of the coupling device 6 still forward. Analogous takes place with the gear 16 relative to the gear 23rd

In the extended position as shown in Fig. 2 It can be seen that the handle 15 of the first subunit 17 surrounds the handle 19 of the second subunit 18 in an annular manner. In addition, it can be seen that in the extended position, the second handle 19 extends further forward than the first handle 15. As a result, both the first handle 15 and the second handle 19 are gripped at its peripheral surfaces by a user and each independently the other handle 15 and 19, they can be rotated individually about the axis A to adjust appropriate operating conditions can. With regard to this setting of operating conditions, this can be described in Fig. 2 shown extended state, for example, the first handle 15 are rotated about the axis A. Thus, the gear 16 is rotated, whereby a corresponding rotational movement is transmitted to the gear 23 coupled directly to the gear 16, wherein this rotational movement is then transmitted via the connecting shaft 22 to the information transmitter 21. For example, a function selection can be made via this rotary movement. Depending on this function selection, an operating parameter to be set in this specific function can subsequently be effected by turning the second grip 19 about the axis A. In this context, this rotational movement of the handle 19 is then transmitted to the information transmitter 20 via gears or a telescopic shaft and the information is evaluated by the control unit. For example, the temperature or a power of a radiator can be set as such an operating parameter.

In Fig. 3 is a perspective oblique top view from the front of the operating device according to the state in Fig. 1 shown.

In Fig. 4 is an analogue perspective oblique top view from the front of the operating device 1 according to the state in Fig. 2 shown.

A perspective oblique top view from the rear of the operating device according to the illustrations in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 is in Fig. 5 shown. In this illustration, it can be seen that the information transmitter 20 extends in the hollow guide element 9. In addition, a guide tube 31 is arranged in this guide element 9, which also extends coaxially to the longitudinal axis A. Within this guide tube 31 extends partially the information transmitter 20 and the support member 32 (FIG. Fig. 6 The guide tube 31 extends at least partially within the ring-like gear 13 and the carrier element 14 of the first subunit 17. Preferably, these arrangements are chosen so that the components can move relative to each other, but abut each other so that none Displacement from the coaxial layers relative to each other in an undesirable manner. In addition to maximum flexibility of movement of the parts to each other yet the mechanical stability can be ensured with extremely low tolerance clearance.

As in Fig. 5 is shown, the guide tube 31 is held in the guide member 9, wherein this holding webs in the form of spokes 33, 34 and 35 are provided. These extend from the outside of the guide tube 31 to the inner side 38 of the guide element 9 and preferably engage within the guide element 9 on the guideways 10, 11. Due to the configuration of the control knob 2, a plurality of sub-units 17 and 18 can thus simultaneously be retracted and extended. This is realized by means of several components mounted one inside the other, which are mounted to one another via screw profiles.

In Fig. 6 is a sectional view along the section line VI-VI in Fig. 5 shown. As already to the Fig. 1 to 5 explains, in this sectional view, the arrangement of the various components and components to each other and the nested positioning of components of the first subunit 17 and the second subunit 18 is shown. Furthermore, it can be seen that the handle 15 is hollow on the back and the carrier element 14 hineinerstreckt into this handle 15. In a corresponding manner, the support member 32 extends into a cavity of the handle 19. The grips 15 and 19 are freely rotatably mounted, in particular on these support members 14 and 32. For this purpose, the handle 15 on the inside an engagement member 36, which engages in a radially circumferential recess 37 in the form of an annular groove. Thereby, the free rotation of the handle 15 is given relative to the support member 14 about the axis A, and further ensures the holding of these components together in a movement along the axis A.

It can be seen that the gear 13, the support member 14 and the handle 15 in the in Fig. 6 one another or in one another state result in a total structure, which over its entire length in the direction of the longitudinal axis A viewed substantially the same radius. In a corresponding manner, this applies to the second subunit 18 with regard to the arrangement of the components corresponding to the guide tube 31 and the handle 19.

As in Fig. 1 to 6 can be seen, the cube-shaped portion 15 of the support module 24 on the sides of relatively large area recesses, so that the gear 23 can reach through this recess and meshes with the gear 16 of a handle 15.

With regard to the physical design of the control knob both plastic materials and metallic materials can be provided. It can also be provided that components are made of plastic and coated with a metallic layer. Likewise, it can be provided that components, for example at least one grip 15 or 19, are illuminated or backlit.

As in the Fig. 1 to 6 Also shown, the motor 5 is laterally adjacent to the handle 15 and the handle 19 and arranged laterally and adjacent to the cube-shaped portion 25 of the support module 24. On the opposite side to the gear 23, the connecting shaft 22 and the information transmitter 21 is arranged. The holding elements 27 and 28 extend at the same height in the viewing direction of the longitudinal axis A in the radial direction thereto.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

operating device

2

control knobs

3

control panel

4

front

5

engine

6

coupling device

7

gear

8th

connecting shaft

9

guide element

10, 11

guideways

12

recess

13

gear

14

support element

15

grip

16

gear

17

first subunit

18

second subunit

19

grip

20, 21

Information exchangers

22

connecting shaft

23

gear

24

support module

25

part Of

26

back

27, 28

retaining elements

29, 30

guide

31

guide tube

32

support element

33, 34, 35

spoke

36

engaging member

37

recess

38

inside

A

longitudinal axis

B

axis of rotation

Claims (14)

1. Operating device for a domestic appliance having at least one concealed operating button (2) which can be automatically moved between a concealed position and an extended position by means of a motor (5), wherein the motor (5) is coupled to the operating button (2) with a coupling facility (6) in order to guide the movement of the operating button (2), said coupling facility having a guide element (9) on which at least one at least partially helical guideway (10, 11) is embodied, characterized in that the motor (5) is coupled to a first toothed wheel (7) of the coupling facility (6) and at least one rotational movement of the operating button (2) can be generated about its longitudinal axis (A) by moving the first toothed wheel (7) and the guide element (9) has a recess (12) in an outer wall, through which the first toothed wheel (7) of the coupling facility (6) arranged outside of the guide element (9) engages with a first toothed wheel (13) of the operating button (2) arranged within the guide element (9).
2. Operating device according to claim 1, characterised in that the guideway (10, 11) is embodied as a guide elevation on the guide element (9).
3. Operating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the guide element (9) is embodied at least partially as a hollow cylinder.
4. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the guideway (10, 11) is embodied on an interior (38) of the guide element (9).
5. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that components (13, 14, 20, 31, 32) of the operating button (2) extend at least area by area in the guide element (9).
6. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operating button (2) has a support element (14, 32) which is coupled to the guideway (10, 11) in order to guide the movement of the operating button (2).
7. Operating device according to claim 6, characterised in that the support element (14, 32) has a guide groove (29, 30) into which the guideway (10, 11) embodied as a guide elevation engages.
8. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the motor (5) is coupled to the first toothed wheel (7) of the coupling facility (6) and a rotational and straight translational movement of the operating button (2) about its longitudinal axis (A) can be generated by the movement of the first toothed wheel (7).
9. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operating button (2) comprises at least one handle (15, 19) which is rotatably mounted in order to adjust operating conditions and is coupled to the guide element (9).
10. Operating device according to claim 10, characterised in that the handle (15, 19) is arranged so as to be moveable relative to the guide element (9).
11. Operating device according to claim 10 or 11, characterised in that the handle (15, 19) is coupled to an information transmitter (20, 21) which is coupled to the movement of the handle (15, 19) when an operating condition is set with the operating button (2).
12. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the coupling device (6) has a support module (24), in particular a one-piece support module, for the operating button (2) and the motor (5).
13. Operating device according to claim 13, characterised in that the support module (24) includes the guide element (9) and at least one holding element (27, 28) for the motor (5).
14. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operating button (2) has a first partial unit (17) for adjusting first operating conditions of the domestic appliance and at least a second partial unit (18) for adjusting second operating conditions of the domestic appliance, wherein at least one component (13, 14, 15) of the first partial unit can be moved relative to at least one component (19, 31, 32) of the second partial unit (18).

Images