EP2369227B1 - Steam generation unit for a domestic appliance and method for operating same - Google Patents

Steam generation unit for a domestic appliance and method for operating same Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2369227B1
EP2369227B1 EP10194438.7A EP10194438A EP2369227B1 EP 2369227 B1 EP2369227 B1 EP 2369227B1 EP 10194438 A EP10194438 A EP 10194438A EP 2369227 B1 EP2369227 B1 EP 2369227B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
steam
generation unit
fill level
channel
steam generation
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP10194438.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2369227A2 (en
EP2369227A3 (en
Inventor
Reinhard Wiedenmann
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BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
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BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
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Publication of EP2369227A2 publication Critical patent/EP2369227A2/en
Publication of EP2369227A3 publication Critical patent/EP2369227A3/en
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B37/00—Component parts or details of steam boilers
    • F22B37/02—Component parts or details of steam boilers applicable to more than one kind or type of steam boiler
    • F22B37/42—Applications, arrangements, or dispositions of alarm or automatic safety devices
    • F22B37/46—Applications, arrangements, or dispositions of alarm or automatic safety devices responsive to low or high water level, e.g. for checking, suppressing, extinguishing combustion in boilers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
    • F22B1/28—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B35/00—Control systems for steam boilers
    • F22B35/06—Control systems for steam boilers for steam boilers of forced-flow type
    • F22B35/10—Control systems for steam boilers for steam boilers of forced-flow type of once-through type
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGESĀ ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F24C15/00—Details
    • F24C15/32—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens
    • F24C15/322—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens with forced circulation
    • F24C15/327—Arrangements of ducts for hot gases, e.g. in or around baking ovens with forced circulation with air moisturising

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a steam generating unit for a household appliance, having at least one evaporator, in particular a flow heater, a fill level detection unit which is fluidly connected in parallel to the flow heater, and a condensate return channel.
  • the invention also relates to a method for generating water vapor.
  • DE 68901773 T2 discloses a water vapor generator for cooking utensils, comprising a lower cross line which is provided with a water inlet opening, an upper cross line which is provided with a steam outlet opening which is arranged above the lower line, at least one ascending heating pipe with an axially arranged cavity, the first end of which is tight is connected to a corresponding first opening of the lower conduit, and the second end of which is tightly connected to a corresponding first opening of the upper conduit to allow the passage of the fluid between the lower conduit and the upper conduit, the heating tube having one on its outer surface helically rolled up and welded on the heating pipe electrical resistor, which can be connected to an electrical energy source to heat the pipe, a return pipe, whose first end tightly with a corresponding second opening of the lower line and whose second end tightly with a corresponding second opening of the upper line is connected, wherein the return pipe ensures the return of non-evaporated water from the upper line in the direction of the lower line, means for detecting the water level
  • DE 10 2006 050 367 A1 relates to a method for carrying out a cooking process with a cooking device, in particular a steam cooking device, in which a cooking program is selected on the cooking device, before starting the cooking program, an automatic check is carried out to determine whether there is a sufficient amount of water in a water container of the cooking device to carry out the selected cooking program for steam generation is available, and the refilling of water in the water tank is indicated on a display by at least one hint word if an insufficient amount of water is determined.
  • the amount of water can be determined from the water levels in the water tank by using permanently positioned switches, in particular reed switches, to identify the respective water levels and metallic and / or magnetic floats in the water trigger the switches when the water levels have dropped to the level of the switches .
  • switches in particular reed switches
  • a relatively simple and inexpensive and yet very reliable possibility can be created of being able to check the respective water levels and thus also the respective amounts of water.
  • a relatively low-wear and also low-defect design can be guaranteed by these designs. The reliable determination of the amount of water required for the individual cooking programs can thus be determined very quickly and precisely.
  • EP 0 685 682 A1 shows a boiler for steam generation, in particular for sauna installations, comprising a vessel for holding water that is to be brought to the boiling point, with a first pipe connection for the inflowing water in the liquid state and a second pipe connection for the exiting steam and a Heating element to bring the water to the boiling point, the vessel being divided by a partition into a first sector containing the heating element and a second sector containing the inlet and outlet pipe connections, the sectors by a first and a second Opening in the partition are connected to each other, which are each arranged below and above the free water surface.
  • a steam generation unit for a household appliance which has at least one flow heater, a level detection unit which is connected fluidically in parallel to the flow heater and has a condensate return.
  • water supplied to it is converted into water vapor by means of the evaporator.
  • the water vapor can then be introduced into a treatment space of the household appliance, e.g. into a cooking space of a cooking appliance.
  • a flow heater In the case of a flow heater, water standing in a heating pipe is typically heated by a heater surrounding the heating pipe, while in a boiler a container filled with water is heated by a heating plate usually placed in the bottom of the container.
  • a flow heater has the advantage that the water is heated particularly quickly and steam regulation responds comparatively quickly.
  • a fill level detection unit is provided, which can detect at least when a predetermined fill level has been reached.
  • the level detection unit can be used for a precise determination of the filling level in the steam generating unit according to the principle of communicating tubes with that of the steam generating unit.
  • condensate formed between the evaporator and the cooking chamber should not flow back into the evaporator, but into a condensate return.
  • the condensate return is integrated into the level detection unit in such a way that condensate flows back into the level detection unit.
  • the level detection unit also serves as the condensate return, into which the condensate flows back.
  • the condensate return can also be viewed as a condensate return tank or as a condensate collection unit.
  • the functional combination of the level detection unit with the condensate return results in a particularly compact and inexpensive design, as a separate condensate return can be dispensed with. In this case, the accuracy of the level determination is not or not significantly impaired.
  • a steam outlet channel is connected to an outlet end of the instantaneous water heater, which in the further course merges into a steam channel, a flow cross-section of the steam channel being at least partially larger than a flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel, that an upper end of the level detection unit fluidly with a condenser return channel is connected to the steam channel and that the water heater, the steam channel and the steam outlet channel are inclined and the level detection unit is vertical. Due to the initially small flow cross-section behind the flow heater, a high flow velocity of the water vapor is generated there. This in turn prevents the condensate from flowing back into the flow heater, as it is blown out by the water vapor.
  • a ratio of the flow cross section of the steam channel to the flow cross section of the steam outlet channel is at least in sections at least 1.5. This enables a particularly compact design to be achieved.
  • the ratio is in particular in a range between 2.5 and 3.5. This achieves very good prevention of condensate entry into the evaporator while at the same time providing sufficient condensate separation.
  • the flow speed of the steam to the steam inlet remains sufficiently high for effective steam introduction even in the larger flow cross-section.
  • the design is still compact.
  • the ratio can therefore also be greater than 3.5, particularly when considering the steam channel and steam outlet channel in sections.
  • a ratio greater than 3.5 (in sections) can be achieved, for example, in that the steam channel has a condensate precipitation space, e.g. an intermediate housing, with a large flow cross-section.
  • the condensate precipitation chamber can in turn have an outlet opening leading to the cooking chamber with a comparatively small cross section.
  • the steam channel has a flow cross section in a range between 175 mm 2 and 325 mm 2 and / or the steam outlet channel has a flow cross section in a range between 25 mm 2 and 50 mm 2 .
  • the flow cross-section of the steam channel if it is designed essentially circular, can have a diameter in a range between 15 mm and 20 mm and / or the flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel, if it is essentially circular, can have a diameter in a Have a range between 6 mm and 8 mm.
  • the steam channel is connected to a steam inlet leading into a cooking space, the steam inlet having a flow cross-section that is reduced with respect to the steam channel, in particular a flow cross-section that is reduced by a factor of 0.25 to 0.4. This reduction of the The cross-section of the flow ensures that condensate and water droplets are retained and do not penetrate into the treatment room.
  • the fill level detection unit is fluidically connected on the steam side to an underside of the steam channel. In this way, the condensate flowing back can be directed into the condensate return / fill level detection unit without hindrance and essentially completely.
  • the level detection unit has at least one float, which switches at least one reed contact or reed switch when approached.
  • the float has at least one magnetic or electrically conductive volume.
  • the steam generation unit is arranged on a rear wall of the household appliance.
  • the rear wall can in particular be an intermediate rear wall which is in particular separated from a rear wall of a treatment room, in particular a cooking chamber, by thermal insulation and is covered by an outer rear wall of the household appliance.
  • the steam generation unit can thus be easily installed, e.g. preassembled on a mounting bracket and then attached to the rear wall (rear wall of the cooking space, intermediate rear wall or outer rear wall, etc.) with the mounting bracket.
  • the steam generation unit is connected on the steam side to a steam inlet leading into a cooking chamber, the steam inlet being arranged on an upper edge of a rear wall of the treatment room, in particular the cooking chamber, or on a ceiling of the treatment room. This position of the steam inlet means that the treatment room can easily be filled with the steam in a sufficiently homogeneous concentration.
  • the steam generation unit is hydraulically connected to a water reservoir on the inlet side, the water reservoir being arranged above a treatment space, in particular a cooking space.
  • the water reservoir can be thermally decoupled from the treatment room, and a valve can be used to control the filling of the steam generating unit, which valve is inserted in an inflow channel or inlet channel between the water reservoir and the steam generating unit.
  • the object is also achieved by a method for generating steam for a cooking appliance, in particular a steam cooker, the steam being generated by means of a steam generating unit according to the invention, the steam generated first flowing through a steam outlet channel with a smaller flow cross-section and then through a steam channel with a larger flow cross-section and condensate forming behind the steam outlet channel essentially flows into a level detection unit.
  • a fill level in the steam generation unit is regulated by a float in the fill level detection unit switching a lower reed contact when a lower fill level is reached, whereupon water is supplied to the steam generation unit until the float an upper one when an upper fill level is reached Reed contact switches.
  • a fill level in the steam generation unit is regulated by a float in the fill level detection unit switching a reed contact when a predetermined fill level is reached, whereupon the steam generation unit is filled with water for a predetermined period of time. In this way, a reed contact or reed switch can be saved.
  • a level in the steam generating unit is regulated by filling the steam generating unit with water until a float in the level detection unit switches a reed contact when a predetermined level is reached, whereupon the filling is interrupted, the filling being resumed when a predetermined amount of water has been evaporated.
  • a reed contact or reed switch can also be saved.
  • Fig. 1 shows a steam generation unit 1 for a household appliance in the form of a steam cooker D.
  • the steam generation unit 1 has an inflow channel 2, which leads to an input side ED of a flow heater 3.
  • the water heater 3 On its output side AD, the water heater 3 is connected to a steam outlet channel 4.
  • the steam outlet channel 4 widens from a predetermined distance behind the water heater 3 (downstream) to a steam channel 18.
  • the direction of flow of the water vapor V is indicated by the associated arrow.
  • the water can be conveyed through the inlet channel 2 by means of a pump (not shown).
  • a fill level (or water level or level) in a water reservoir is above a desired fill level N in the water heater 3, the water can be supplied by optionally opening and closing a valve which controls a flow cross-section to the water reservoir.
  • the water heater 3 and the level detection unit 7 are thus connected fluidically in parallel according to the principle of communicating tubes and hydraulically form a unit.
  • the (geodetic) fill level N in the water heater 3 thus essentially corresponds to the fill level in the fill level detection unit 7.
  • the level detection unit 7 has a housing 9 with a float (not shown) located therein, which floats on the water. The position of the float is thus also a measure of the level in the water heater 3.
  • the float is equipped with at least one magnetic element.
  • the level detection unit 7 also has two reed contacts or reed switches arranged at a distance from one another on the housing 9, namely a lower reed contact 10 and an upper reed contact 11. The reed contacts 10 and 11 respond to an approach of the float.
  • the fill level N in the water heater 3 should be kept between a lower fill level Nu and an upper fill level No (optimal fill level range) in order to ensure a highly uniform steam generation and good steam quality (largely free from water droplets). Maintaining the optimum fill level range also ensures that the instantaneous water heater 3 can easily be regulated within a certain temperature range or to a predetermined temperature. If the upper level No is exceeded and / or if the level falls below the lower level Nu, the water heater 3 can also be damaged, for example by drying out when the level falls below the lower level Nu.
  • the maintenance of the optimal fill level range by a corresponding regulation of the fill level as a control variable can be achieved by detecting the fill level by means of the fill level detection unit 7.
  • the fill level detection unit 7 is equipped with the two reed contacts 10 and 11, as shown.
  • the reed contacts 10 and 11 are switched via the magnetic float, which moves within the level detection unit 7 according to the level. If the fill level in the fill level detection unit 7 rises to the upper fill level No, the upper reed contact 11 switches and a water supply via the inflow channel 2 is interrupted, for example by stopping the pump or closing the valve. As a result, filling of the flow heater 3 is stopped. If, on the other hand, the fill level in the fill level detection unit 7 drops as a result of the evaporation down to the lower fill level Nu, the lower reed contact 10 switches and a water supply via the inlet channel 2 is resumed or activated.
  • the fill level can rise to the upper fill level No, whereupon an (upper) reed contact 11 switches and the water supply or the filling is stopped.
  • the drop in the level for example to the lower level Nu (or above), results from the amount of water that has evaporated.
  • the amount of water that has evaporated can in turn be estimated from the output of the flow heater 3 (here approx. 1100 watts) and the switched-on duration of the flow heater 3.
  • the switching point for refilling is consequently not effected by switching a (lower) reed contact 10, but after a certain period of time with a known evaporation capacity and following the amount of steam from the water heater 3.
  • a second alternative embodiment is shown in FIG Fig. 3 shown.
  • Fig. 2 shows a front view of a rear side R of the steam cooker D with the steam generating unit 1 attached to it.
  • the contour of an intermediate rear wall RW of the steam cooker D at the level of the cooking space G is indicated here by dashed lines.
  • the steam inlet 14 can be equipped with a nozzle.
  • the steam generating unit 1 is connected on the inlet side via the inflow channel 2 to a pump 15 or valve 16, which in turn is connected to a water reservoir 17.
  • An outlet 20 of the water reservoir 17 is geodetically higher than the pump 15 or the valve 16, the steam generating unit 1 and the steam inlet 14 at a height hR a geodetic height hD, which is lower than the height hR, but higher than the steam generating unit 1 and its level N.
  • the water reservoir 17 is arranged in particular above the cooking space G so that it is only exposed to a low thermal load.
  • the water reservoir 17 is also arranged adjacent to or in the vicinity of a side wall S of the steamer D, for example a right-hand area (as shown here when viewed from the rear) or a left-hand area.
  • the inflow channel 2 first leads vertically downwards to a lower edge area of the intermediate rear wall RW and then turns horizontally, along the lower edge of the intermediate rear wall RW, to the other side (here the left side).
  • On the other side, on the intermediate rear wall RW there is the steam generation unit 1, which again extends essentially upwards in the direction of the steam inlet 14.
  • the steam inlet 14 is located on an upper edge of the intermediate rear wall RW. Alternatively, the steam inlet 14 can be located in a ceiling of the cooking space G.
  • the steam generation system extending from the water reservoir 17 to the steam inlet 14 essentially has a U-shape, which leaves space in its center for the assembly of further components, for example a fan.
  • the heights of the water reservoir 17, the steam generation unit 1 and the steam inlet 14 show a sequence of ā€œhigh-low-mediumā€.
  • the steam generation system can have a substantially V-shape.
  • An alternative position for the pump 15 or the valve 16 is located directly on the water reservoir 17.
  • water droplets can form from condensate.
  • the comparatively short steam outlet channel 4 is followed by the steam channel 18 with its larger flow cross-section, which in turn is connected to the connecting hose 13.
  • the connecting hose 13 also has a comparatively large flow cross section. Due to the large flow cross-section of the steam channel 18 and the connecting hose 13, the water vapor V flows therein at a relatively low speed, so that the water droplets from condensate K are not entrained in the direction of the steam inlet 14. Rather, the water droplets run back due to gravity in the connecting hose 13 and in the steam channel 18 against the direction of flow of the water vapor V and further through the condensate return channel 8 into the level detection unit 7 Design is made possible.
  • Fig. 3 shows in a view obliquely from the side a steam generating unit 21 for a household appliance according to a second embodiment.
  • the steam generating unit 21 now only has one reed contact 10.
  • the reed contact 10 switches when the lower level Nu is reached.
  • the filling, for example, up to the upper level No (or below) takes place within a certain time interval or a certain activation period of the pump or the solenoid valve or generally through a time-limited generation of a volume flow through the inflow channel 2.
  • connection hose 13 is connected on the inlet side to the steam channel 18 and on the outlet side to the steam inlet 14, which is designed in the form of a nozzle.
  • the steam outlet channel 4 directly adjoining the outlet end or the outlet side AD of the flow heater 3 has a diameter of approximately 6 mm to 8 mm, in particular approximately 6 mm. This comparatively small flow cross-section ensures a high flow speed of the water vapor V. This in turn prevents the condensate from flowing back into the flow heater 3, since any water droplets that may be present are "blown away" by the water vapor V.
  • the steam channel 18 and the connecting hose 13 both have a widening of the flow cross-section in comparison to the steam outlet channel 4. As a result, the flow velocity of the water vapor V decreases, so that condensate or water droplets can now settle, which run back under the force of gravity. It is preferred that an expanded flow cross-section (here of the steam channel 18 and the connecting hose 13) following the small flow cross-section directly behind the flow heater 3 is realized by a diameter of at least 10 mm. In particular, a diameter between 15 mm and 20 mm is preferred.
  • a diameter of the steam outlet to 8 mm or less, in particular to approx. 6 mm, is preferred.
  • the condensate return channel 8 has a diameter of at least 8 mm, in particular at least 10 mm, so that the condensate can flow back unhindered and essentially completely into the level detection unit 7.
  • Both the steam generating unit 1 according to the first embodiment and the steam generating unit 21 according to the second embodiment are characterized by a very good steam quality in which the generated or released steam has no or only a small amount of water droplets.
  • a uniform operation of the steam generation is possible, since the filling level can be maintained uniformly (essentially constant or within a predetermined range). Due to the even filling level, temperature control of the Water heater 3 easily possible.
  • the water heater 3 can be filled in a simple and robust manner. The filling of the water heater 3 can be regulated. The risk of the water heater 3 overflowing or being filled with too little water (going dry) is excluded.
  • the steam cooker D can in particular be understood to mean a dedicated steam cooker or an oven / steam cooker combination, e.g. an oven with a steam cooker function.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
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  • Control Of Steam Boilers And Waste-Gas Boilers (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Dampferzeugungseinheit fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt, aufweisend mindestens einen Verdampfer, insbesondere Durchlauferhitzer, eine FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit, welche zu dem Durchlauferhitzer fluidisch parallel geschaltet ist und einen KondensatrĆ¼cklaufkanal. Die Erfindung betrifft ferner ein Verfahren zum Erzeugen von Wasserdampf.The invention relates to a steam generating unit for a household appliance, having at least one evaporator, in particular a flow heater, a fill level detection unit which is fluidly connected in parallel to the flow heater, and a condensate return channel. The invention also relates to a method for generating water vapor.

DE 68901773 T2 offenbart einen Wasserdampferzeuger fĆ¼r KochgerƤte, umfassend eine untere Querleitung, die mit einer Wassereinlassƶffnung versehen ist, eine obere Querleitung, die mit einer Dampfaustrittsƶffnung versehen ist, welche oberhalb der unteren Leitung angeordnet ist, mindestens ein aufsteigendes Heizrohr mit axial angeordnetem Hohlraum, dessen erstes Ende dicht mit einer entsprechenden ersten Ɩffnung der unteren Leitung verbunden ist, und dessen zweites Ende dicht mit einer entsprechenden ersten Ɩffnung der oberen Leitung verbunden ist, um den Durchtritt des Fluids zwischen der unteren Leitung und der oberen Leitung zu gewƤhrleisten, wobei das Heizrohr an seiner AuƟenflƤche einen schraubenfƶrmig aufgerollten und auf dem Heizrohr aufgeschweiƟten elektrischen Widerstand trƤgt, der mit einer elektrischen Energiequelle verbindbar ist, um das Rohr aufzuheizen, ein RĆ¼cklaufrohr, dessen erstes Ende dicht mit einer entsprechenden zweiten Ɩffnung der unteren Leitung und dessen zweites Ende dicht mit einer entsprechenden zweiten Ɩffnung der oberen Leitung verbunden ist, wobei das RĆ¼cklaufrohr den RĆ¼cklauf von nicht verdampftem Wasser aus der oberen Leitung in Richtung der unteren Leitung gewƤhrleistet, Mittel zum Erfassen des in dem Heizrohr vorhandenen Wasserstandes und Mittel zum Einstellen dieses Standes, um ihn zwischen einem vorherbestimmten oberen Stand und einem vorherbestimmten unteren Stand zu halten, ein in der FlieƟrichtung des eingelassenen Wassers zustrƶmseitig zu der Einlassƶffnung der unteren Leitung angeordnetes Elektroventil, das ein SchlieƟen und Ɩffnen der Zuleitung fĆ¼r das von einer Wasserspeisungsquelle stammende Wasser ermƶglicht, wobei das Elektroventil Ć¼ber eine mit dem Mittel zum Erfassen des Wasserstandes verbundene Steuereinheit gesteuert wird, sowie die Mittel zum Erfassen und Einstellen des Wasserstandes derart angepasst sind, dass sie den oberen Wasserstand und den unteren Wasserstand in dem Heizrohr auf mittleren Standen halten und die Mittel zum Erfassen und Einstellen des Wasserstandes ein drittes zwischen der oberen Leitung und der unteren Leitung oder zwischen zwei Punkten des RĆ¼cklaufrohres, die jeweils ober- und unterhalb des oberen Wasserstandes gelegen sind, als Abzweigung angeschlossenes Rohr umfassen, wobei dieses dritte Rohr eine axial angeordnete Sonde zum Messen des Wasserstandes in dem dritten Rohr enthƤlt. Die Austrittsƶffnung fĆ¼r den Dampf kann im VerhƤltnis zu der ersten Ɩffnung seitlich versetzt sein, um eine Ablenkwirkung zu erzeugen, welche den Austritt von flĆ¼ssigem Wasser aus der Austrittsƶffnung verhindert. DE 68901773 T2 discloses a water vapor generator for cooking utensils, comprising a lower cross line which is provided with a water inlet opening, an upper cross line which is provided with a steam outlet opening which is arranged above the lower line, at least one ascending heating pipe with an axially arranged cavity, the first end of which is tight is connected to a corresponding first opening of the lower conduit, and the second end of which is tightly connected to a corresponding first opening of the upper conduit to allow the passage of the fluid between the lower conduit and the upper conduit, the heating tube having one on its outer surface helically rolled up and welded on the heating pipe electrical resistor, which can be connected to an electrical energy source to heat the pipe, a return pipe, whose first end tightly with a corresponding second opening of the lower line and whose second end tightly with a corresponding second opening of the upper line is connected, wherein the return pipe ensures the return of non-evaporated water from the upper line in the direction of the lower line, means for detecting the water level present in the heating pipe and means for adjusting this level to it between a to maintain a predetermined upper level and a predetermined lower level, an electric valve arranged in the direction of flow of the admitted water upstream of the inlet opening of the lower line, which allows closing and opening of the supply line for the water coming from a water supply source, the electric valve via a with the control unit connected to the means for detecting the water level is controlled, and the means for detecting and adjusting the water level are adapted in such a way that they are the upper Keep the water level and the lower water level in the heating pipe at medium levels and the means for detecting and adjusting the water level a third between the upper line and the lower line or between two points of the return pipe, which are respectively located above and below the upper water level, comprise pipe connected as a branch, this third pipe containing an axially arranged probe for measuring the water level in the third pipe. The outlet opening for the steam can be offset laterally in relation to the first opening in order to generate a deflecting effect which prevents liquid water from escaping from the outlet opening.

DE 10 2006 050 367 A1 betrifft ein Verfahren zum DurchfĆ¼hren eines Garprozesses mit einem KochgerƤt, insbesondere einem DampfgargerƤt, bei dem ein Garprogramm an dem GargerƤt ausgewƤhlt wird, vor dem Starten des Garprogramms ein automatisches ƜberprĆ¼fen dahingehend erfolgt, ob in einem WasserbehƤlter des KochgerƤts eine zum DurchfĆ¼hren des ausgewƤhlten Garprogramms ausreichende Wassermenge zur Dampferzeugung vorhanden ist, und das NachfĆ¼llen von Wasser in den WasserbehƤlter auf einem Display durch zumindest ein Hinweiswort angezeigt wird, falls eine nichtausreichende Wassermenge festgestellt wird. Die Wassermenge kann Ć¼ber WasserstƤnde im WasserbehƤlter ermittelt werden, indem mittels fest positionierten Schaltern, insbesondere Reed-Schaltern, die jeweiligen WasserstƤnde gekennzeichnet werden und im Wasser befindliche metallische und/oder magnetische Schwimmer die Schalter auslƶsen, wenn die WasserstƤnde auf das Niveau der Schalter abgesunken sind. Durch diese Ausgestaltung kann eine relativ einfache und aufwandsarme und dennoch sehr zuverlƤssige Mƶglichkeit geschaffen werden, die jeweiligen WasserstƤnde und somit auch die jeweiligen Wassermengen Ć¼berprĆ¼fen zu kƶnnen. DarĆ¼ber hinaus kann durch diese Ausgestaltungen eine relativ verschleiƟarme und auch fehlerarme Ausgestaltung gewƤhrleistet werden. Die zuverlƤssige Ermittlung der Wassermengen, welche fĆ¼r die einzelnen Garprogramme erforderlich sind, kann dadurch sehr schnell und genau bestimmt werden. DE 10 2006 050 367 A1 relates to a method for carrying out a cooking process with a cooking device, in particular a steam cooking device, in which a cooking program is selected on the cooking device, before starting the cooking program, an automatic check is carried out to determine whether there is a sufficient amount of water in a water container of the cooking device to carry out the selected cooking program for steam generation is available, and the refilling of water in the water tank is indicated on a display by at least one hint word if an insufficient amount of water is determined. The amount of water can be determined from the water levels in the water tank by using permanently positioned switches, in particular reed switches, to identify the respective water levels and metallic and / or magnetic floats in the water trigger the switches when the water levels have dropped to the level of the switches . With this configuration, a relatively simple and inexpensive and yet very reliable possibility can be created of being able to check the respective water levels and thus also the respective amounts of water. In addition, a relatively low-wear and also low-defect design can be guaranteed by these designs. The reliable determination of the amount of water required for the individual cooking programs can thus be determined very quickly and precisely.

EP 0 685 682 A1 zeigt einen Kessel zur Dampferzeugung, insbesondere fĆ¼r Saunainstallationen, umfassend ein GefƤƟ zur Aufnahme von Wasser, das zum Siedepunkt gebracht werden soll, mit einem ersten Rohranschluss fĆ¼r das einstrƶmende Wasser im flĆ¼ssigen Zustand und einem zweiten Rohranschluss fĆ¼r den austretenden Dampf und einem Heizelement, um das Wasser zum Siedepunkt zu bringen, wobei das GefƤƟ durch eine Trennwand in einen ersten Sektor unterteilt ist, der das Heizelement enthƤlt, und einen zweiten Sektor, der die Einlass- und Auslassrohrverbindungen enthƤlt, wobei die Sektoren durch eine erste und eine zweite Ɩffnung in der Trennwand miteinander verbunden sind, die jeweils unter und Ć¼ber der freien WasseroberflƤche angeordnet sind. EP 0 685 682 A1 shows a boiler for steam generation, in particular for sauna installations, comprising a vessel for holding water that is to be brought to the boiling point, with a first pipe connection for the inflowing water in the liquid state and a second pipe connection for the exiting steam and a Heating element to bring the water to the boiling point, the vessel being divided by a partition into a first sector containing the heating element and a second sector containing the inlet and outlet pipe connections, the sectors by a first and a second Opening in the partition are connected to each other, which are each arranged below and above the free water surface.

Es ist die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, die Nachteile des Standes der Technik zumindest teilweise zu beseitigen und insbesondere eine besonders kompakte Dampferzeugungseinheit bereitzustellen.It is the object of the present invention to at least partially eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide a particularly compact steam generating unit.

Diese Aufgabe wird gemƤƟ den Merkmalen der unabhƤngigen AnsprĆ¼che gelƶst. Bevorzugte AusfĆ¼hrungsformen sind insbesondere den abhƤngigen AnsprĆ¼chen entnehmbar.This object is achieved according to the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments can be inferred in particular from the dependent claims.

Die Aufgabe wird gelƶst durch eine Dampferzeugungseinheit fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt, welche mindestens einen Durchlauferhitzer, eine FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit, welche zu dem Durchlauferhitzer fluidisch parallel geschaltet ist und einen KondensatrĆ¼cklauf aufweist.The object is achieved by a steam generation unit for a household appliance which has at least one flow heater, a level detection unit which is connected fluidically in parallel to the flow heater and has a condensate return.

Mittels des Verdampfers wird typischerweise ihm zugefĆ¼hrtes Wasser in Wasserdampf umgewandelt. Der Wasserdampf kann dann in einen Behandlungsraum des HaushaltsgerƤts, z.B. in einen Garraum eines GargerƤts, eingebracht werden.Typically, water supplied to it is converted into water vapor by means of the evaporator. The water vapor can then be introduced into a treatment space of the household appliance, e.g. into a cooking space of a cooking appliance.

Bei einem Durchlauferhitzer wird typischerweise ein in einem Heizrohr stehendes Wasser durch eine das Heizrohr umgebende Heizung erhitzt, wƤhrend in einem Boiler ein mit Wasser gefĆ¼llter BehƤlter durch eine meist in einem Boden des BehƤlters eingebrachte Heizplatte aufgeheizt wird. Ein Durchlauferhitzer weist den Vorteil auf, dass die ErwƤrmung des Wassers besonders schnell geschieht und eine Dampfregelung vergleichsweise schnell anspricht.In the case of a flow heater, water standing in a heating pipe is typically heated by a heater surrounding the heating pipe, while in a boiler a container filled with water is heated by a heating plate usually placed in the bottom of the container. A flow heater has the advantage that the water is heated particularly quickly and steam regulation responds comparatively quickly.

FĆ¼r einen effizienten und sicheren Betrieb des Durchlauferhitzers sollte dessen FĆ¼llstand zumindest innerhalb eines vorbestimmten Bereichs gehalten werden. Dazu ist eine FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit vorgesehen, welche zumindest ein Erreichen eines vorbestimmten FĆ¼llstands erkennen kann. Die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit kann fĆ¼r eine prƤzise Bestimmung des FĆ¼llstands in der Dampferzeugungseinheit nach dem Prinzip der kommunizierenden Rƶhren mit der der Dampferzeugungseinheit verbunden sein. AuƟerdem sollte fĆ¼r eine gute DampfqualitƤt sich zwischen dem Verdampfer und dem Garraum gebildetes Kondensat nicht in den Verdampfer zurĆ¼ckflieƟen, sondern in einen KondensatrĆ¼cklauf.For efficient and safe operation of the instantaneous water heater, its fill level should be kept at least within a predetermined range. For this purpose, a fill level detection unit is provided, which can detect at least when a predetermined fill level has been reached. The level detection unit can be used for a precise determination of the filling level in the steam generating unit according to the principle of communicating tubes with that of the steam generating unit. In addition, for good steam quality, condensate formed between the evaporator and the cooking chamber should not flow back into the evaporator, but into a condensate return.

Ferner ist der KondensatrĆ¼cklauf so in die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit integriert, dass Kondensat in die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit zurĆ¼ckflieƟt. In anderen Worten dient die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit auch als der KondensatrĆ¼cklauf, in welchen das Kondensat zurĆ¼ckflieƟt. Der KondensatrĆ¼cklauf kann auch als ein KondensatrĆ¼cklaufbehƤlter oder als eine Kondensatauffangeinheit angesehen werden.Furthermore, the condensate return is integrated into the level detection unit in such a way that condensate flows back into the level detection unit. In other words, the level detection unit also serves as the condensate return, into which the condensate flows back. The condensate return can also be viewed as a condensate return tank or as a condensate collection unit.

Die funktionale Kombination der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit mit dem KondensatrĆ¼cklauf bewirkt eine besonders kompakte und preiswerte Bauform, da auf einen separaten KondensatrĆ¼cklauf verzichtet werden kann. Dabei wird eine Genauigkeit der FĆ¼llstandsbestimmung nicht oder nicht wesentlich beeintrƤchtigt.The functional combination of the level detection unit with the condensate return results in a particularly compact and inexpensive design, as a separate condensate return can be dispensed with. In this case, the accuracy of the level determination is not or not significantly impaired.

ErfindungsgemƤƟ ist vorgesehen, dass an einem Auslassende des Durchlauferhitzers ein Dampfauslasskanal angeschlossen ist, welcher im weiteren Verlauf in einen Dampfkanal Ć¼bergeht, wobei ein Strƶmungsquerschnitt des Dampfkanals zumindest abschnittsweise grĆ¶ĆŸer ist als ein Strƶmungsquerschnitt des Dampfauslasskanals, dass ein oberes Ende der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit Ć¼ber einen KondensatorrĆ¼cklaufkanal fluidisch mit dem Dampfkanal verbunden ist und dass der Durchlauferhitzer, der Dampfkanal und der Dampfauslasskanal schrƤg stehen und die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit senkrecht steht. Durch den hinter dem Durchlauferhitzer zunƤchst geringen Strƶmungsquerschnitt wird dort eine hohe Strƶmungsgeschwindigkeit des Wasserdampfs erzeugt. Dies wiederum verhindert ein RĆ¼ckflieƟen des Kondensats in den Durchlauferhitzer, da dieses durch den Wasserdampf ausgeblasen wird. Durch die folgende Erweiterung des Strƶmungsquerschnitts sinkt die Strƶmungsgeschwindigkeit des Wasserdampfs, so dass sich nun Kondensat bzw. Wassertropfen absetzen kƶnnen, welche mit der Schwerkraft zurĆ¼cklaufen. Dadurch werden ein MitreiƟen von Kondensat und/oder eine Bildung von Kondensattrƶpfchen an einem Dampfeinlass zu einem Behandlungsraum des HaushaltsgerƤts unterdrĆ¼ckt.According to the invention, it is provided that a steam outlet channel is connected to an outlet end of the instantaneous water heater, which in the further course merges into a steam channel, a flow cross-section of the steam channel being at least partially larger than a flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel, that an upper end of the level detection unit fluidly with a condenser return channel is connected to the steam channel and that the water heater, the steam channel and the steam outlet channel are inclined and the level detection unit is vertical. Due to the initially small flow cross-section behind the flow heater, a high flow velocity of the water vapor is generated there. This in turn prevents the condensate from flowing back into the flow heater, as it is blown out by the water vapor. As a result of the subsequent expansion of the flow cross-section, the flow speed of the water vapor decreases, so that condensate or water droplets can now settle, which run back under the force of gravity. This suppresses the entrainment of condensate and / or the formation of condensate droplets at a steam inlet to a treatment room of the domestic appliance.

Es ist noch eine Ausgestaltung, dass ein VerhƤltnis des Strƶmungsquerschnitts des Dampfkanals zu dem Strƶmungsquerschnitt des Dampfauslasskanals zumindest abschnittsweise mindestens 1,5 betrƤgt. Dadurch kann eine besonders kompakte Bauform erreicht werden.Another embodiment is that a ratio of the flow cross section of the steam channel to the flow cross section of the steam outlet channel is at least in sections at least 1.5. This enables a particularly compact design to be achieved.

Es ist eine besondere Ausgestaltung, dass das VerhƤltnis insbesondere in einem Bereich zwischen 2,5 und 3,5 liegt. Dadurch wird eine sehr gute Verhinderung eines Kondensateintritts in den Verdampfer bei gleichzeitig ausreichender Kondensatabscheidung erreicht. Zudem bleibt hierbei die Strƶmungsgeschwindigkeit des Dampfs zu dem Dampfeinlass auch in dem grĆ¶ĆŸeren Strƶmungsquerschnitt fĆ¼r eine effektive Dampfeinleitung ausreichend hoch. Zudem ist die Bauform immer noch kompakt.It is a special embodiment that the ratio is in particular in a range between 2.5 and 3.5. This achieves very good prevention of condensate entry into the evaporator while at the same time providing sufficient condensate separation. In addition, the flow speed of the steam to the steam inlet remains sufficiently high for effective steam introduction even in the larger flow cross-section. In addition, the design is still compact.

Jedoch ist die Erfindung nicht auf die genannten VerhƤltnisse beschrƤnkt. So kann das VerhƤltnis insbesondere bei abschnittsweiser Betrachtung von Dampfkanal und Dampfauslasskanal auch grĆ¶ĆŸer als 3,5 sein. Ein (abschnittsweise) grĆ¶ĆŸeres VerhƤltnis als 3,5 kann beispielsweise dadurch erreicht werden, dass der Dampfkanal einen Kondensatniederschlagsraum, z.B. ein ZwischengehƤuse, mit einem groƟen Strƶmungsquerschnitt aufweist. Der Kondensatniederschlagsraum kann wiederum eine zum Garraum fĆ¼hrende Auslassƶffnung mit einem vergleichsweise kleinen Querschnitt aufweisen.However, the invention is not limited to the above proportions. The ratio can therefore also be greater than 3.5, particularly when considering the steam channel and steam outlet channel in sections. A ratio greater than 3.5 (in sections) can be achieved, for example, in that the steam channel has a condensate precipitation space, e.g. an intermediate housing, with a large flow cross-section. The condensate precipitation chamber can in turn have an outlet opening leading to the cooking chamber with a comparatively small cross section.

Es ist noch eine Ausgestaltung, dass der Dampfkanal einen Strƶmungsquerschnitt in einem Bereich zwischen 175 mm2 und 325 mm2 aufweist und/oder der Dampfauslasskanal einen Strƶmungsquerschnitt in einem Bereich zwischen 25 mm2 und 50 mm2 aufweist. Insbesondere kann der Strƶmungsquerschnitt des Dampfkanals dann, wenn er im Wesentlichen kreisfƶrmig ausgestaltet ist, einen Durchmesser in einem Bereich zwischen 15 mm und 20 mm aufweisen und/oder der Strƶmungsquerschnitt des Dampfauslasskanals kann dann, wenn er im Wesentlichen kreisfƶrmig ausgestaltet ist, einen Durchmesser in einem Bereich zwischen 6 mm und 8 mm aufweisen.Another embodiment is that the steam channel has a flow cross section in a range between 175 mm 2 and 325 mm 2 and / or the steam outlet channel has a flow cross section in a range between 25 mm 2 and 50 mm 2 . In particular, the flow cross-section of the steam channel, if it is designed essentially circular, can have a diameter in a range between 15 mm and 20 mm and / or the flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel, if it is essentially circular, can have a diameter in a Have a range between 6 mm and 8 mm.

Es ist ferner eine Ausgestaltung, dass der Dampfkanal mit einem in einen Garraum fĆ¼hrenden Dampfeinlass verbunden ist, wobei der Dampfeinlass einen bezĆ¼glich des Dampfkanals verringerten Strƶmungsquerschnitt aufweist, insbesondere einen um einen Faktor 0,25 bis 0,4 verringerten Strƶmungsquerschnitt. Diese Reduktion des Strƶmungsquerschnitts bewirkt, dass Kondensat und Wassertropfen zurĆ¼ckgehalten werden und nicht in den Behandlungsraum eindringen.Another embodiment is that the steam channel is connected to a steam inlet leading into a cooking space, the steam inlet having a flow cross-section that is reduced with respect to the steam channel, in particular a flow cross-section that is reduced by a factor of 0.25 to 0.4. This reduction of the The cross-section of the flow ensures that condensate and water droplets are retained and do not penetrate into the treatment room.

Es ist zudem eine Ausgestaltung, dass die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit dampfseitig mit einer Unterseite des Dampfkanals fluidisch verbunden ist. So kann zurĆ¼ckflieƟendes Kondensat ohne Behinderung und im Wesentlichen vollstƤndig in den KondensatrĆ¼cklauf / die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit geleitet werden.It is also an embodiment that the fill level detection unit is fluidically connected on the steam side to an underside of the steam channel. In this way, the condensate flowing back can be directed into the condensate return / fill level detection unit without hindrance and essentially completely.

Es ist auch eine Ausgestaltung, dass die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit mindestens einen Schwimmer aufweist, welcher mindestens einen Reedkontakt oder Reedschalter bei AnnƤherung schaltet. Der Schwimmer weist dazu mindestens ein magnetisches oder elektrisch leitendes Volumen auf. Durch diese Ausgestaltung kann eine relativ einfache und aufwandsarme und dennoch sehr zuverlƤssige Mƶglichkeit geschaffen werden, die jeweiligen FĆ¼llstƤnde zu Ć¼berprĆ¼fen. DarĆ¼ber hinaus kann eine relativ verschleiƟarme und auch fehlerarme Ausgestaltung gewƤhrleistet werden.It is also an embodiment that the level detection unit has at least one float, which switches at least one reed contact or reed switch when approached. For this purpose, the float has at least one magnetic or electrically conductive volume. With this configuration, a relatively simple and inexpensive and yet very reliable possibility can be created to check the respective fill levels. In addition, a relatively low-wear and low-defect design can be guaranteed.

Es ist noch eine Ausgestaltung, dass die Dampferzeugungseinheit an einer RĆ¼ckwand des HaushaltsgerƤts angeordnet ist. Die RĆ¼ckwand kann insbesondere eine ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand sein, welche insbesondere von einer RĆ¼ckwand eines Behandlungsraums, insbesondere Garraums, durch eine WƤrmeisolierung getrennt ist und von einer ƤuƟeren RĆ¼ckwand des HauhaltsgerƤts abgedeckt ist. Die Dampferzeugungseinheit lƤsst sich dadurch einfach montieren, z.B. auf einem MontagetrƤger vormontieren und dann mit dem MontagetrƤger an der RĆ¼ckwand (RĆ¼ckwand des Garraums, ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand oder ƤuƟeren RĆ¼ckwand o.Ƥ.) befestigen.Another embodiment is that the steam generation unit is arranged on a rear wall of the household appliance. The rear wall can in particular be an intermediate rear wall which is in particular separated from a rear wall of a treatment room, in particular a cooking chamber, by thermal insulation and is covered by an outer rear wall of the household appliance. The steam generation unit can thus be easily installed, e.g. preassembled on a mounting bracket and then attached to the rear wall (rear wall of the cooking space, intermediate rear wall or outer rear wall, etc.) with the mounting bracket.

Es ist noch eine weitere Ausgestaltung, dass die Dampferzeugungseinheit dampfseitig mit einem in einen Garraum fĆ¼hrenden Dampfeinlass verbunden ist, wobei der Dampfeinlass an einem oberen Rand einer RĆ¼ckwand des Behandlungsraums, insbesondere Garraums, oder an einer Decke des Behandlungsraums angeordnet ist. Durch diese Position des Dampfeinlasses kann der Behandlungsraum einfach mit dem Wasserdampf in einer ausreichend homogenen Konzentration ausgefĆ¼llt werden.It is yet another embodiment that the steam generation unit is connected on the steam side to a steam inlet leading into a cooking chamber, the steam inlet being arranged on an upper edge of a rear wall of the treatment room, in particular the cooking chamber, or on a ceiling of the treatment room. This position of the steam inlet means that the treatment room can easily be filled with the steam in a sufficiently homogeneous concentration.

Es ist noch eine weitere Ausgestaltung, dass die Dampferzeugungseinheit einlassseitig mit einem Wasserreservoir hydraulisch verbunden ist, wobei das Wasserreservoir oberhalb eines Behandlungsraums, insbesondere Garraums, angeordnet ist. So kann das Wasserreservoir thermisch von dem Behandlungsraum entkoppelt werden, und es kann zum Steuern der BefĆ¼llung der Dampferzeugungseinheit ein Ventil verwendet werden, das in einem Zuflusskanal oder Zulaufkanal zwischen dem Wasserreservoir und der Dampferzeugungseinheit eingesetzt ist.In yet another embodiment, the steam generation unit is hydraulically connected to a water reservoir on the inlet side, the water reservoir being arranged above a treatment space, in particular a cooking space. Thus, the water reservoir can be thermally decoupled from the treatment room, and a valve can be used to control the filling of the steam generating unit, which valve is inserted in an inflow channel or inlet channel between the water reservoir and the steam generating unit.

Die Aufgabe wird auch gelƶst durch ein Verfahren zum Erzeugen von Wasserdampf fĆ¼r ein GargerƤt, insbesondere Dampfgarer, wobei mittels einer erfindungsgemƤƟen Dampferzeugungseinheit der Wasserdampf erzeugt wird, der erzeugte Wasserdampf zunƤchst durch einen Dampfauslasskanal mit einem geringeren Strƶmungsquerschnitt und dann durch einen Dampfkanal mit einem grĆ¶ĆŸeren Strƶmungsquerschnitt strƶmt und sich hinter dem Dampfauslasskanal bildendes Kondensat im Wesentlichen in eine FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit flieƟt.The object is also achieved by a method for generating steam for a cooking appliance, in particular a steam cooker, the steam being generated by means of a steam generating unit according to the invention, the steam generated first flowing through a steam outlet channel with a smaller flow cross-section and then through a steam channel with a larger flow cross-section and condensate forming behind the steam outlet channel essentially flows into a level detection unit.

Es ist eine Weiterbildung, dass ein FĆ¼llstand in der Dampferzeugungseinheit dadurch reguliert wird, dass in der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit ein Schwimmer bei einem Erreichen eines unteren FĆ¼llstandsniveaus einen unteren Reedkontakt schaltet, worauf der Dampferzeugungseinheit Wasser zugefĆ¼hrt wird, bis der Schwimmer bei einem Erreichen eines oberen FĆ¼llstandsniveaus einen oberen Reedkontakt schaltet. Dadurch kann ein zwischen dem unteren FĆ¼llstandsniveau und dem oberen FĆ¼llstandsniveau befindlicher FĆ¼llstandsbereich mit hoher Genauigkeit eingehalten werden.It is a further development that a fill level in the steam generation unit is regulated by a float in the fill level detection unit switching a lower reed contact when a lower fill level is reached, whereupon water is supplied to the steam generation unit until the float an upper one when an upper fill level is reached Reed contact switches. As a result, a fill level range located between the lower fill level and the upper fill level can be maintained with a high degree of accuracy.

Es ist eine alternative Weiterbildung, dass ein FĆ¼llstand in der Dampferzeugungseinheit dadurch reguliert wird, dass in der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit ein Schwimmer bei einem Erreichen eines vorbestimmten FĆ¼llstandsniveaus einen Reedkontakt schaltet, worauf die Dampferzeugungseinheit fĆ¼r eine vorbestimmte Zeitdauer mit Wasser befĆ¼llt wird. So kann ein Reedkontakt oder Reedschalter eingespart werden.An alternative development is that a fill level in the steam generation unit is regulated by a float in the fill level detection unit switching a reed contact when a predetermined fill level is reached, whereupon the steam generation unit is filled with water for a predetermined period of time. In this way, a reed contact or reed switch can be saved.

Es ist noch eine alternative Weiterbildung, dass ein FĆ¼llstand in der Dampferzeugungseinheit dadurch reguliert wird, dass die Dampferzeugungseinheit mit Wasser befĆ¼llt wird, bis ein in der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit befindlicher Schwimmer bei einem Erreichen eines vorbestimmten FĆ¼llstandsniveaus einen Reedkontakt schaltet, worauf das BefĆ¼llen unterbrochen wird, wobei das BefĆ¼llen wieder aufgenommen wird, wenn eine vorbestimmte Wassermenge verdampft worden ist. So kann ebenfalls ein Reedkontakt oder Reedschalter eingespart werden.Another alternative development is that a level in the steam generating unit is regulated by filling the steam generating unit with water until a float in the level detection unit switches a reed contact when a predetermined level is reached, whereupon the filling is interrupted, the filling being resumed when a predetermined amount of water has been evaporated. In this way, a reed contact or reed switch can also be saved.

In den folgenden Figuren wird die Erfindung anhand eines AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiels schematisch genauer beschrieben. Dabei kƶnnen zur Ɯbersichtlichkeit gleiche oder gleichwirkende Elemente mit gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen sein.

Fig.1
zeigt in Seitenansicht eine Dampferzeugungseinheit fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt gemƤƟ einer ersten AusfĆ¼hrungsform; und
Fig.2
zeigt in Frontalansicht eine RĆ¼ckwand eines HaushaltsgerƤts mit der daran angebrachten Dampferzeugungseinheit gemƤƟ der ersten AusfĆ¼hrungsform;
Fig.3
zeigt in einer Ansicht schrƤg von der Seite eine Dampferzeugungseinheit fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt gemƤƟ einer zweiten AusfĆ¼hrungsform.
In the following figures, the invention is described schematically in more detail using an exemplary embodiment. For the sake of clarity, elements that are the same or have the same effect can be provided with the same reference symbols.
Fig. 1
shows a side view of a steam generating unit for a household appliance according to a first embodiment; and
Fig. 2
shows a front view of a rear wall of a household appliance with the steam generating unit according to the first embodiment attached thereto;
Fig. 3
shows, in a view obliquely from the side, a steam generating unit for a household appliance according to a second embodiment.

Fig.1 zeigt eine Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt in Form eines DampfgargerƤts D. Die Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 weist einen Zuflusskanal 2 auf, welcher zu einer Eingangsseite ED eines Durchlauferhitzers 3 fĆ¼hrt. An seiner Ausgangsseite AD ist der Durchlauferhitzer 3 mit einem Dampfauslasskanal 4 verbunden. Der Dampfauslasskanal 4 erweitert sich ab einer vorbestimmten Strecke hinter dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 (dampfabwƤrts) zu einem Dampfkanal 18. Durch den Zuflusskanal 2 in den Durchlauferhitzer 3 gelangendes Wasser wird in dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 unter Bildung von Wasserdampf V erhitzt und durch den Dampfauslasskanal 4 ausgegeben. Die Strƶmungsrichtung des Wasserdampfs V ist durch den zugehƶrigen Pfeil angedeutet. Das Wasser kann mittels einer Pumpe (o.Abb.) durch den Zuflusskanal 2 gefƶrdert werden. Alternativ kann, falls ein FĆ¼llstand (oder Wasserstand oder Pegel) in einem Wasserreservoir oberhalb eines gewĆ¼nschten FĆ¼llstands N in dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 liegt, das Wasser durch ein wahlweises Ɩffnen und SchlieƟen eines Ventils, welches einen Strƶmungsquerschnitt zu dem Wasserreservoir steuert, herangefĆ¼hrt werden. Fig. 1 shows a steam generation unit 1 for a household appliance in the form of a steam cooker D. The steam generation unit 1 has an inflow channel 2, which leads to an input side ED of a flow heater 3. On its output side AD, the water heater 3 is connected to a steam outlet channel 4. The steam outlet channel 4 widens from a predetermined distance behind the water heater 3 (downstream) to a steam channel 18. The direction of flow of the water vapor V is indicated by the associated arrow. The water can be conveyed through the inlet channel 2 by means of a pump (not shown). Alternatively, if a fill level (or water level or level) in a water reservoir is above a desired fill level N in the water heater 3, the water can be supplied by optionally opening and closing a valve which controls a flow cross-section to the water reservoir.

Vor der Eingangsseite ED des Durchlauferhitzers 3 befindet sich in dem Zuflusskanal 2 ein VerteilerstĆ¼ck 6, das an ein unteres Ende UE einer FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 hydraulisch angeschlossen ist. Ein oberes Ende OE der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 ist Ć¼ber einen KondensatrĆ¼cklaufkanal 8 fluidisch mit dem Dampfkanal 18 verbunden, genauer gesagt ƶffnet sich der KondensatrĆ¼cklaufkanal 8 in eine Unterseite des Dampfkanals 18.In front of the inlet side ED of the instantaneous water heater 3, there is a distributor piece 6 in the inflow channel 2, which is hydraulically connected to a lower end UE of a level detection unit 7. An upper end OE of the level detection unit 7 is Fluidically connected to the steam channel 18 via a condensate return channel 8, more precisely, the condensate return channel 8 opens into an underside of the steam channel 18.

Der Durchlauferhitzer 3 und die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 sind somit nach dem Prinzip kommunizierender Rƶhren fluidisch parallel geschaltet und bilden hydraulisch eine Einheit. Der (geodƤtische) FĆ¼llstand N in dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 entspricht somit im Wesentlichen dem FĆ¼llstand in der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7. WƤhrend der Durchlauferhitzer 3 fĆ¼r eine kompakte Bauweise leicht schrƤg in Richtung der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 ausgerichtet ist, steht die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 senkrecht.The water heater 3 and the level detection unit 7 are thus connected fluidically in parallel according to the principle of communicating tubes and hydraulically form a unit. The (geodetic) fill level N in the water heater 3 thus essentially corresponds to the fill level in the fill level detection unit 7.

Die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 weist ein GehƤuse 9 mit einem darin befindlichen Schwimmer (o.Abb.) auf, der auf dem Wasser schwimmt. Die Position des Schwimmers ist somit auch ein MaƟ fĆ¼r das FĆ¼llstandsniveau in dem Durchlauferhitzer 3. Der Schwimmer ist mit mindestens einem magnetischen Element ausgestattet. Die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 weist ferner hier zwei an dem GehƤuse 9 zueinander beabstandet angeordnete Reedkontakte oder Reedschalter auf, nƤmlich einen unteren Reedkontakt 10 und einen oberen Reedkontakt 11. Die Reedkontakte 10 und 11 reagieren auf eine AnnƤherung des Schwimmers.The level detection unit 7 has a housing 9 with a float (not shown) located therein, which floats on the water. The position of the float is thus also a measure of the level in the water heater 3. The float is equipped with at least one magnetic element. The level detection unit 7 also has two reed contacts or reed switches arranged at a distance from one another on the housing 9, namely a lower reed contact 10 and an upper reed contact 11. The reed contacts 10 and 11 respond to an approach of the float.

WƤhrend eines Betriebs sollte der FĆ¼llstand N in dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 zwischen einem unteren FĆ¼llstandsniveau Nu und einem oberen FĆ¼llstandsniveau No (optimaler FĆ¼llstandsbereich) gehalten werden, um eine hochgradig gleichmƤƟige Dampferzeugung und gute DampfqualitƤt (weitgehende Freiheit von Wassertrƶpfchen) zu gewƤhrleisten. Das Einhalten des optimalen FĆ¼llstandsbereichs gewƤhrleistet auch, dass der Durchlauferhitzer 3 einfach innerhalb eines bestimmten Temperaturbereiches bzw. auf eine vorbestimmte Temperatur geregelt werden kann. Bei einem Ɯberschreiten des oberen FĆ¼llstandsniveaus No und/oder bei einem Unterschreiten des unteren FĆ¼llstandsniveaus Nu kann der Durchlauferhitzer 3 zudem beschƤdigt werden, z.B. durch ein Trockengehen bei dem Unterschreiten des unteren FĆ¼llstandsniveaus Nu. Das Einhalten des optimalen FĆ¼llstandsbereichs durch eine entsprechende Regelung der FĆ¼llstandshƶhe als einer RegelgrĆ¶ĆŸe kann durch eine Erkennung der FĆ¼llstandshƶhe mittels der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 erreicht werden.During operation, the fill level N in the water heater 3 should be kept between a lower fill level Nu and an upper fill level No (optimal fill level range) in order to ensure a highly uniform steam generation and good steam quality (largely free from water droplets). Maintaining the optimum fill level range also ensures that the instantaneous water heater 3 can easily be regulated within a certain temperature range or to a predetermined temperature. If the upper level No is exceeded and / or if the level falls below the lower level Nu, the water heater 3 can also be damaged, for example by drying out when the level falls below the lower level Nu. The maintenance of the optimal fill level range by a corresponding regulation of the fill level as a control variable can be achieved by detecting the fill level by means of the fill level detection unit 7.

Das Einhalten des optimalen FĆ¼llstandsbereichs kann auf mehrere Arten geschehen:
In einer Ausgestaltung ist die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 wie gezeigt mit den beiden Reedkontakten 10 und 11 ausgestattet. Die Reedkontakte 10 und 11 werden Ć¼ber den magnetischen Schwimmer, der sich entsprechend dem FĆ¼llstand innerhalb der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 bewegt, geschaltet. Steigt der FĆ¼llstand in der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 bis zu dem oberen FĆ¼llstandsniveau No, schaltet der obere Reedkontakt 11, und eine Wasserzufuhr Ć¼ber den Zuflusskanal 2 wird unterbrochen, z.B. durch ein Stoppen der Pumpe oder ein SchlieƟen des Ventils. Dadurch wird eine BefĆ¼llung des Durchlauferhitzers 3 gestoppt. Sinkt andererseits der FĆ¼llstand in der FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 durch das Verdampfen bis auf das untere FĆ¼llstandsniveau Nu ab, schaltet der untere Reedkontakt 10, und eine Wasserzufuhr Ć¼ber den Zuflusskanal 2 wird wieder aufgenommen bzw. aktiviert.Maintaining the optimal level range can be done in several ways:
In one embodiment, the fill level detection unit 7 is equipped with the two reed contacts 10 and 11, as shown. The reed contacts 10 and 11 are switched via the magnetic float, which moves within the level detection unit 7 according to the level. If the fill level in the fill level detection unit 7 rises to the upper fill level No, the upper reed contact 11 switches and a water supply via the inflow channel 2 is interrupted, for example by stopping the pump or closing the valve. As a result, filling of the flow heater 3 is stopped. If, on the other hand, the fill level in the fill level detection unit 7 drops as a result of the evaporation down to the lower fill level Nu, the lower reed contact 10 switches and a water supply via the inlet channel 2 is resumed or activated.

In einer alternativen Ausgestaltung ist es mƶglich, auch nur eine einzige Position des Schwimmers bzgl. nur ein Schalten eines der Reedkontakte 10 und 11 zu detektieren und den zweiten Schaltpunkt der Pumpe oder des Ventils Ć¼ber empirisch ermittelte Werte abzuleiten. So kann in einer ersten alternativen Ausgestaltung der FĆ¼llstand auf das obere FĆ¼llstandsniveau No steigen, worauf ein (oberer) Reedkontakt 11 schaltet und so die Wasserzufuhr bzw. die BefĆ¼llung gestoppt wird. Das Fallen des FĆ¼llstandes z.B. bis auf das untere FĆ¼llstandsniveau Nu (oder darĆ¼ber) ergibt sich aus der verdampften Wassermenge. Die verdampfte Wassermenge wiederum lƤsst sich aus der Leistung des Durchlauferhitzers 3 (hier ca. 1100 Watt) und der eingeschalteten Zeitdauer des Durchlauferhitzers 3 abschƤtzen. Der Schaltpunkt fĆ¼r das WiederbefĆ¼llen erfolgt folglich nicht durch ein Schalten eines (unteren) Reedkontakts 10, sondern nach einer gewissen Zeitdauer bei bekannter Verdampfungsleistung und folgend der Dampfmenge des Durchlauferhitzers 3. Eine zweite alternative Ausgestaltung ist in Fig.3 gezeigt.In an alternative embodiment, it is also possible to detect only a single position of the float with respect to only switching of one of the reed contacts 10 and 11 and to derive the second switching point of the pump or the valve via empirically determined values. In a first alternative embodiment, the fill level can rise to the upper fill level No, whereupon an (upper) reed contact 11 switches and the water supply or the filling is stopped. The drop in the level, for example to the lower level Nu (or above), results from the amount of water that has evaporated. The amount of water that has evaporated can in turn be estimated from the output of the flow heater 3 (here approx. 1100 watts) and the switched-on duration of the flow heater 3. The switching point for refilling is consequently not effected by switching a (lower) reed contact 10, but after a certain period of time with a known evaporation capacity and following the amount of steam from the water heater 3. A second alternative embodiment is shown in FIG Fig. 3 shown.

Fig.2 zeigt in Frontalansicht eine RĆ¼ckseite R des DampfgargerƤts D mit der daran angebrachten Dampferzeugungseinheit 1. Die Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 ist ausgangsseitig bzw. dampfseitig durch einen Verbindungsschlauch 13 mit einem in einen Garraum G fĆ¼hrenden Dampfeinlass 14 verbunden. Die Kontur einer ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand RW des DampfgargerƤts D auf Hƶhe des Garraums G ist hier gestrichpunktet angedeutet. Der Dampfeinlass 14 kann mit einer DĆ¼se ausgerĆ¼stet sein. Die Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 ist eingangsseitig Ć¼ber den Zuflusskanal 2 mit einer Pumpe 15 oder Ventil 16 verbunden, welche bzw. welches wiederum mit einem Wasserreservoir 17 verbunden ist. Fig. 2 shows a front view of a rear side R of the steam cooker D with the steam generating unit 1 attached to it. The contour of an intermediate rear wall RW of the steam cooker D at the level of the cooking space G is indicated here by dashed lines. The steam inlet 14 can be equipped with a nozzle. The steam generating unit 1 is connected on the inlet side via the inflow channel 2 to a pump 15 or valve 16, which in turn is connected to a water reservoir 17.

Ein Auslass 20 des Wasserreservoirs 17 liegt auf einer Hƶhe hR geodƤtisch hƶher als die Pumpe 15 oder das Ventil 16, die Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 und der Dampfeinlass 14. Die Dampferzeugungseinheit und damit ein mittlerer FĆ¼llstand N der Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 liegen demgegenĆ¼ber tiefer, wƤhrend der Dampfeinlass 14 auf einer geodƤtischen Hƶhe hD liegt, welche tiefer liegt als die Hƶhe hR, aber hƶher als die Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 und deren FĆ¼llstand N.An outlet 20 of the water reservoir 17 is geodetically higher than the pump 15 or the valve 16, the steam generating unit 1 and the steam inlet 14 at a height hR a geodetic height hD, which is lower than the height hR, but higher than the steam generating unit 1 and its level N.

Das Wasserreservoir 17 ist insbesondere oberhalb des Garraums G angeordnet, so dass es einer nur geringen thermischen Belastung ausgesetzt ist. Das Wasserreservoir 17 ist ferner benachbart zu oder in der NƤhe einer Seitenwand S des DampfgargerƤts D angeordnet, z.B. einem rechtsseitigen Bereich (wie hier bei rĆ¼ckwƤrtiger Betrachtung gezeigt) oder einem linksseitigen Bereich. Von dem Wasserreservoir 17 fĆ¼hrt der Zuflusskanal 2 zunƤchst senkrecht nach unten bis zu einem unteren Randbereich der ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand RW und biegt dann waagerecht, entlang des unteren Rands der ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand RW, zu der anderen Seite ab (hier der linken Seite) ab. Auf der anderen Seite befindet sich an der ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand RW die Dampferzeugungseinheit 1, welche sich wieder im Wesentlichen nach oben in Richtung des Dampfeinlasses 14 erstreckt. Der Dampfeinlass 14 befindet sich an einem oberen Rand der ZwischenrĆ¼ckwand RW. Alternativ kann der Dampfeinlass 14 sich in einer Decke des Garraums G befinden.The water reservoir 17 is arranged in particular above the cooking space G so that it is only exposed to a low thermal load. The water reservoir 17 is also arranged adjacent to or in the vicinity of a side wall S of the steamer D, for example a right-hand area (as shown here when viewed from the rear) or a left-hand area. From the water reservoir 17, the inflow channel 2 first leads vertically downwards to a lower edge area of the intermediate rear wall RW and then turns horizontally, along the lower edge of the intermediate rear wall RW, to the other side (here the left side). On the other side, on the intermediate rear wall RW, there is the steam generation unit 1, which again extends essentially upwards in the direction of the steam inlet 14. The steam inlet 14 is located on an upper edge of the intermediate rear wall RW. Alternatively, the steam inlet 14 can be located in a ceiling of the cooking space G.

Insgesamt weist das von dem Wasserreservoir 17 bis zu dem Dampfeinlass 14 reichende Dampferzeugungssystem im Wesentlichen eine U-Form auf, welche in ihrer Mitte Platz fĆ¼r eine Montage weiterer Bauteile, z.B. eines LĆ¼fters, lƤsst. Die Hƶhen des Wasserreservoirs 17, der Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 und des Dampfeinlasses 14 zeigen eine Abfolge 'hoch-tief-mittel'. Alternativ kann das Dampferzeugungssystem im Wesentlichen eine V-Form aufweisen. Eine alternative Position der Pumpe 15 oder des Ventils 16 befindet sich direkt an dem Wasserreservoir 17.Overall, the steam generation system extending from the water reservoir 17 to the steam inlet 14 essentially has a U-shape, which leaves space in its center for the assembly of further components, for example a fan. The heights of the water reservoir 17, the steam generation unit 1 and the steam inlet 14 show a sequence of ā€œhigh-low-mediumā€. Alternatively, the steam generation system can have a substantially V-shape. An alternative position for the pump 15 or the valve 16 is located directly on the water reservoir 17.

In einem Bereich zwischen dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 und dem Dampfeinlass 14 kƶnnen sich aus Kondensat Wassertrƶpfchen bilden. Um zu vermeiden, dass diese Wassertrƶpfchen mit dem Wasserdampf V in Richtung des Dampfeinlasses 14 getrieben werden, schlieƟt sich an den vergleichsweise kurzen Dampfauslasskanal 4 der Dampfkanal 18 mit seinem grĆ¶ĆŸeren Strƶmungsquerschnitt an, welcher wiederum an den Verbindungsschlauch 13 angeschlossen ist. Der Verbindungsschlauch 13 weist ebenfalls einen vergleichsweise groƟen Strƶmungsquerschnitt auf. Aufgrund des groƟen Strƶmungsquerschnitts des Dampfkanals 18 und des Verbindungsschlauchs 13 strƶmt der Wasserdampf V darin mit einer relativ geringen Geschwindigkeit, so dass die Wassertrƶpfchen aus Kondensat K nicht in Richtung des Dampfeinlasses 14 mitgerissen werden. Vielmehr laufen die Wassertrƶpfchen aufgrund der Schwerkraft in dem Verbindungsschlauch 13 und in dem Dampfkanal 18 gegen die Strƶmungsrichtung des Wasserdampfs V zurĆ¼ck und weiter durch den KondensatrĆ¼cklaufkanal 8 in die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7. Die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 dient somit gleichzeitig als ein KondensatrĆ¼cklauf oder Kondensatauffangeinheit, wodurch eine besonders kompakte Bauform ermƶglicht wird.In an area between the flow heater 3 and the steam inlet 14, water droplets can form from condensate. To avoid this Water droplets are driven with the water vapor V in the direction of the steam inlet 14, the comparatively short steam outlet channel 4 is followed by the steam channel 18 with its larger flow cross-section, which in turn is connected to the connecting hose 13. The connecting hose 13 also has a comparatively large flow cross section. Due to the large flow cross-section of the steam channel 18 and the connecting hose 13, the water vapor V flows therein at a relatively low speed, so that the water droplets from condensate K are not entrained in the direction of the steam inlet 14. Rather, the water droplets run back due to gravity in the connecting hose 13 and in the steam channel 18 against the direction of flow of the water vapor V and further through the condensate return channel 8 into the level detection unit 7 Design is made possible.

Durch den vergleichsweise kleinen Strƶmungsquerschnitt des Dampfauslasskanals 4 wird in dessen Bereich eine hohe Strƶmungsgeschwindigkeit des Wasserdampfs V erreicht, was verhindert, dass kondensierte Wassertrƶpfchen zurĆ¼ck in den Durchlauferhitzer 3 gelangen. Dadurch wird verhindert, dass sich der aus dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 austretende Dampf V mit den Wassertrƶpfchen, die dann mitgerissen werden, vermischt und es so zu einer verschlechterten DampfqualitƤt kommt.Due to the comparatively small flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel 4, a high flow velocity of the water vapor V is achieved in its area, which prevents condensed water droplets from getting back into the flow heater 3. This prevents the steam V emerging from the flow heater 3 from mixing with the water droplets, which are then entrained, and so the steam quality deteriorates.

Fig.3 zeigt in einer Ansicht schrƤg von der Seite eine Dampferzeugungseinheit 21 fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt gemƤƟ einer zweiten AusfĆ¼hrungsform. Im Gegensatz zu der Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 gemƤƟ der ersten AusfĆ¼hrungsform weist die Dampferzeugungseinheit 21 nun nur noch einen Reedkontakt 10 auf. Dabei schaltet der Reedkontakt 10 bei einem Erreichen des unteren FĆ¼llstandsniveaus Nu. Die BefĆ¼llung z.B. bis auf das obere FĆ¼llstandsniveau No (oder darunter) geschieht innerhalb eines bestimmten Zeitintervalls bzw. einer bestimmten Aktivierungszeitdauer der Pumpe oder des Magnetventils bzw. allgemein durch ein zeitlich begrenztes Erzeugen eines Volumenflusses durch den Zuflusskanal 2. Fig. 3 shows in a view obliquely from the side a steam generating unit 21 for a household appliance according to a second embodiment. In contrast to the steam generating unit 1 according to the first embodiment, the steam generating unit 21 now only has one reed contact 10. The reed contact 10 switches when the lower level Nu is reached. The filling, for example, up to the upper level No (or below) takes place within a certain time interval or a certain activation period of the pump or the solenoid valve or generally through a time-limited generation of a volume flow through the inflow channel 2.

Der Verbindungsschlauch 13 ist eingangsseitig mit dem Dampfkanal 18 verbunden und ausgangsseitig mit dem Dampfeinlass 14, welcher in Form einer DĆ¼se ausgestaltet ist. Der sich direkt an das Auslassende oder die Ausgangsseite AD des Durchlauferhitzers 3 anschlieƟende Dampfauslasskanal 4 weist einen Durchmesser von ca. 6 mm bis 8 mm auf, insbesondere von ca. 6 mm. Dieser vergleichsweise geringe Strƶmungsquerschnitt sorgt fĆ¼r eine hohe Strƶmungsgeschwindigkeit des Wasserdampfs V. Dies wiederum verhindert ein RĆ¼ckflieƟen des Kondensats in den Durchlauferhitzer 3, da eventuell vorhandene Wassertropfen durch den Wasserdampf V "weggeblasen" werden.The connection hose 13 is connected on the inlet side to the steam channel 18 and on the outlet side to the steam inlet 14, which is designed in the form of a nozzle. The steam outlet channel 4 directly adjoining the outlet end or the outlet side AD of the flow heater 3 has a diameter of approximately 6 mm to 8 mm, in particular approximately 6 mm. This comparatively small flow cross-section ensures a high flow speed of the water vapor V. This in turn prevents the condensate from flowing back into the flow heater 3, since any water droplets that may be present are "blown away" by the water vapor V.

Der Dampfkanal 18 und der Verbindungsschlauch 13 weisen beide eine Erweiterung des Strƶmungsquerschnittes im Vergleich zu dem Dampfauslasskanal 4 auf. Dadurch sinkt die Strƶmungsgeschwindigkeit des Wasserdampfs V, so dass sich nun Kondensat bzw. Wassertropfen absetzen kƶnnen, welche mit der Schwerkraft zurĆ¼cklaufen. Es wird bevorzugt, dass sich ein an den geringen Strƶmungsquerschnitt direkt hinter dem Durchlauferhitzer 3 anschlieƟender erweiterter Strƶmungsquerschnitt (hier des Dampfkanals 18 und des Verbindungsschlauchs 13) durch einen Durchmesser von mindestens 10 mm realisiert wird. Insbesondere ist ein Durchmesser zwischen 15 mm und 20 mm bevorzugt.The steam channel 18 and the connecting hose 13 both have a widening of the flow cross-section in comparison to the steam outlet channel 4. As a result, the flow velocity of the water vapor V decreases, so that condensate or water droplets can now settle, which run back under the force of gravity. It is preferred that an expanded flow cross-section (here of the steam channel 18 and the connecting hose 13) following the small flow cross-section directly behind the flow heater 3 is realized by a diameter of at least 10 mm. In particular, a diameter between 15 mm and 20 mm is preferred.

An dem Dampfeinlass 14 zum Garraum G findet wieder eine Reduktion des Strƶmungsquerschnitts statt, wodurch Kondensat und Wassertropfen zurĆ¼ckgehalten werden und nicht in den Garraum G eindringen. Bevorzugt wird ein Durchmesser des Dampfauslasses auf 8 mm oder weniger, insbesondere auf ca. 6 mm.At the steam inlet 14 to the cooking space G, there is again a reduction in the flow cross-section, as a result of which condensate and water droplets are retained and do not penetrate into the cooking space G. A diameter of the steam outlet to 8 mm or less, in particular to approx. 6 mm, is preferred.

Der KondensatrĆ¼cklaufkanal 8 weist einen Durchmesser von mindestens 8 mm, insbesondere mindestens 10 mm auf, damit das Kondensat ungehindert und im Wesentlichen vollstƤndig in die FĆ¼llstandsdetektionseinheit 7 zurĆ¼ckflieƟen kann.The condensate return channel 8 has a diameter of at least 8 mm, in particular at least 10 mm, so that the condensate can flow back unhindered and essentially completely into the level detection unit 7.

Sowohl bei der Dampferzeugungseinheit 1 gemƤƟ der ersten AusfĆ¼hrungsform als auch bei der Dampferzeugungseinheit 21 gemƤƟ der zweiten AusfĆ¼hrungsform zeichnen sich durch eine sehr gute DampfqualitƤt aus, bei welcher der erzeugte bzw. ausgelassene Dampf keine oder eine nur geringe Menge an Wassertropfen aufweist. Zudem ist ein gleichmƤƟiger Betrieb der Dampferzeugung mƶglich, da der FĆ¼llstand gleichmƤƟig (im Wesentlichen konstant oder innerhalb eines vorbestimmten Bereichs) eingehalten werden kann. Aufgrund des gleichmƤƟigen FĆ¼llstands ist auch eine Temperaturregelung des Durchlauferhitzers 3 leicht mƶglich. Ferner wird die BefĆ¼llung des Durchlauferhitzers 3 auf eine einfache und robuste Weise ermƶglicht. Die BefĆ¼llung des Durchlauferhitzers 3 ist regelbar. Die Gefahr, dass der Durchlauferhitzers 3 Ć¼berlƤuft oder mit zu wenig Wasser beschickt wird (trockengeht), wird ausgeschlossen.Both the steam generating unit 1 according to the first embodiment and the steam generating unit 21 according to the second embodiment are characterized by a very good steam quality in which the generated or released steam has no or only a small amount of water droplets. In addition, a uniform operation of the steam generation is possible, since the filling level can be maintained uniformly (essentially constant or within a predetermined range). Due to the even filling level, temperature control of the Water heater 3 easily possible. Furthermore, the water heater 3 can be filled in a simple and robust manner. The filling of the water heater 3 can be regulated. The risk of the water heater 3 overflowing or being filled with too little water (going dry) is excluded.

Unter dem DampfgargerƤt D kann insbesondere ein dedizierter Dampfgarer oder eine Ofen/Dampfgar-Kombination, z.B. ein Backofen mit einer Dampfgarfunktion, verstanden werden.The steam cooker D can in particular be understood to mean a dedicated steam cooker or an oven / steam cooker combination, e.g. an oven with a steam cooker function.

SelbstverstƤndlich ist die vorliegende Erfindung nicht auf das gezeigte AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel beschrƤnkt.Of course, the present invention is not restricted to the exemplary embodiment shown.

Claims (13)

  1. Steam generation unit (1) for a household appliance (D), having
    - at least one continuous-flow heater (3),
    - a fill level detection unit (7) which is fluidically connected in parallel with the continuous-flow heater (3) and
    - a condensate return flow (8),
    wherein
    - the condensate return flow (8) is integrated into the fill level detection unit (7) so that condensate flows back into the fill level detection unit (7),
    wherein
    - a steam outlet channel (4) is connected to an outlet end (AE) of the continuous-flow heater (3), which, during the subsequent process, passes into a steam channel (18), wherein a flow cross-section of the steam channel (18) is larger at least in sections than a flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel (4), and wherein
    - an upper end (OE) of the fill level detection unit (7) is connected fluidically with the steam channel (18) by way of a condensate return channel (8),
    characterised in that
    - the continuous-flow heater (3), the steam channel (18) and the steam outlet channel (4) are at an incline and the fill level detection unit (7) is at a right angle.
  2. Steam generation unit (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that a ratio of the flow cross-section of the steam channel (18) in relation to the flow cross-section of the steam outlet channel (4) amounts at least in sections to at least 1.5, in particular lies in a range between 2.5 and 3.5.
  3. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that the steam channel (18) has a flow cross-section in a range between 175 mm2 and 325 mm2 and/or the steam outlet channel (4) has a flow cross-section in a range between 25 mm2 and 50 mm2.
  4. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the steam channel (18) is connected to a steam inlet (14) leading into a cooking chamber (G), wherein the steam inlet (14) has a cross-section which is reduced in respect of the steam channel (18), in particular a flow cross-section which is reduced by a factor 0.25 to 0.4.
  5. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fill level detection unit (7) is fluidically connected on the steam side with a lower side of the steam channel (18).
  6. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fill level detection unit (7) has at least one floater, which switches at least one reed switch (10, 11) when approached.
  7. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the steam generation unit (1) can be arranged on a rear wall, in particular intermediate rear wall (RW) of the household appliance (D).
  8. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the steam generation unit (1) can be connected on the steam side with a steam inlet (14) leading into a cooking chamber (G), wherein the steam inlet (14) can be arranged on an upper edge of a rear wall of the cooking chamber (G) or on a ceiling of the cooking chamber.
  9. Steam generation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the steam generation unit (1) can be hydraulically connected on the inlet side with a water reservoir (17), wherein the water reservoir (17) can be arranged above a cooking chamber (G).
  10. Method for generating steam (V) for a cooking appliance, in particular steamer (D), by means of a steam generation unit (1), characterised in that
    - the steam generation unit (1) is a steam generation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims,
    - the generated steam (V) firstly flows through a steam outlet channel (4) with a smaller flow cross-section and then through a steam channel (18) with a larger flow cross-section and
    - condensate (K) forming behind the steam outlet channel (4) essentially flows into a fill level detection unit (7).
  11. Method according to claim 10, characterised in that a fill level in the steam generation unit (1) is regulated in that in the fill level detection unit (7) a floater switches a lower reed switch (10) when a lower fill level (Nu) is reached, whereupon the steam generation unit (1) is supplied with water until the floater switches an upper reed switch (11) when an upper fill level (No) is reached.
  12. Method according to claim 10, characterised in that a fill level in the steam generation unit (1) is regulated in that in the fill level detection unit (7) a floater switches a reed switch (10) when a predetermined fill level (Nu) is reached, whereupon the steam generation unit (1) is filled with water for a predetermined period of time.
  13. Method according to claim 10, characterised in that a fill level in the steam generation unit (1) is regulated in that the steam generation unit (1) is filled with water until a floater located in the fill level detection unit (7) switches a reed switch (11) if a predetermined fill level (No) is reached, whereupon the filling is interrupted, wherein the filling is resumed again if a predetermined quantity of water has been evaporated.
EP10194438.7A 2009-12-22 2010-12-10 Steam generation unit for a domestic appliance and method for operating same Active EP2369227B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102009055144A DE102009055144A1 (en) 2009-12-22 2009-12-22 Steam generating unit for a household appliance and method for generating water vapor

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2369227A2 EP2369227A2 (en) 2011-09-28
EP2369227A3 EP2369227A3 (en) 2018-01-24
EP2369227B1 true EP2369227B1 (en) 2021-11-03

Family

ID=44021980

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP10194438.7A Active EP2369227B1 (en) 2009-12-22 2010-12-10 Steam generation unit for a domestic appliance and method for operating same

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EP (1) EP2369227B1 (en)
DE (1) DE102009055144A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2898504T3 (en)

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DE102014110963A1 (en) * 2014-08-01 2016-02-04 Rational Ag Steam generator, in particular for a cooking appliance
DE102014112521A1 (en) * 2014-09-01 2016-03-03 Miele & Cie. Kg Cooking appliance
KR102226003B1 (en) 2014-09-02 2021-03-10 ģ‚¼ģ„±ģ „ģžģ£¼ģ‹ķšŒģ‚¬ Cooking appliance
KR102467281B1 (en) 2015-01-23 2022-11-14 ė°œė®¤ė‹¤ ź°€ė¶€ģ‹œķ‚¤ź°€ģ“ģƒ¤ Heating and cooking device
US9788679B2 (en) 2015-06-29 2017-10-17 Whirlpool Corporation Steam generation system for use in cooking appliance
TR201619866A2 (en) * 2016-12-28 2018-07-23 Arcelik As AN OVEN WITH STEAM GENERATOR
DE102017114523A1 (en) * 2017-06-29 2019-01-03 Rational Aktiengesellschaft Steam generator for a cooking appliance
KR102060356B1 (en) * 2018-04-12 2019-12-30 ģ—˜ģ§€ģ „ģž ģ£¼ģ‹ķšŒģ‚¬ Cooking appliance
EP4050267A1 (en) 2021-02-25 2022-08-31 Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag Cooking oven
DE102021201861A1 (en) 2021-02-26 2022-09-01 BSH HausgerƤte GmbH Evaporator for a steamer, which has an overflow device, and steamer

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DE3532261A1 (en) * 1985-09-10 1987-03-19 Riba Guenther Steam generator
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US20030016952A1 (en) * 2001-07-10 2003-01-23 Elphee David Andrew Low-maintenance humidifier
EP1479970A1 (en) * 2003-05-22 2004-11-24 Commital-Sami S.p.A. Boiler to generate steam in domestic appliances and professional machines, such as ironing or cleaning apparatuses or suchlike
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2898504T3 (en) 2022-03-07
EP2369227A2 (en) 2011-09-28
DE102009055144A1 (en) 2011-06-30
EP2369227A3 (en) 2018-01-24

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