EP2497854B1 - Locking assembly for locking a door of a domestic appliance and domestic appliance - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a locking arrangement for locking a door of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, wherein the locking arrangement on the door or on a door-carrying body of the household appliance can be fastened, wherein the locking arrangement comprises a locking element which between an open position and a locking position, in it is movable with a holding element on the body or on the door is engageable, and wherein the locking arrangement comprises a force accumulator, which acts on the locking element with a closing force by means of which it is movable from the open position to the locking position. In addition, a household appliance is described with a body and a door which is movable between an open position and a closed position in which the body is closed by means of the door, wherein the household appliance has a locking arrangement, with the help of the door in the closed position is locked.

In the prior art it is e.g. It is known to provide the door or the body of a dishwasher with a locking arrangement which ensures a locking of the door in its closed position, so that leakage of rinsing liquid and / or steam during operation of the dishwasher can be prevented. Furthermore, systems are known, with the help of which the door of a dishwasher can be unlocked automatically. However, such solutions are usually designed quite expensive and thus error-prone.

The WO 2006/111502 A1 discloses a closure for a movable closing element, in particular for a door, a lid, a flap o. The like. On a domestic appliance, such as a dishwasher, a washing machine, a refrigerator o. The like., With a closing hook, which when closing in and / or can be brought out of engagement with the closing element during opening. The locking hook can be brought into engagement with a depression in the closing element.

The object of the invention is to propose an improved locking arrangement for a door of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher.

The problem is solved by means of a locking arrangement with the features according to independent claim 1.

The proposed locking arrangement according to the invention is characterized in that it next to the said energy storage, which acts on the locking element with a closing force, by means of which it is movable from the open position to the locking position, a drive unit, with the aid of the locking element of the locking position against the closing force is movable into the open position.

The locking arrangement according to the invention has numerous advantages over the devices known from the prior art. First, the door is held securely in its closed position by the force of the force accumulator as soon as the locking element has been moved to its locking position. The energy storage, which is preferably designed as a mechanical energy storage, thus ensuring a reliable locking of the door even with a momentary failure of the power supply. Furthermore, a manual opening of the door can still be made possible. Namely, the door moves under effort of a corresponding counterforce in the direction of its open position, the locking element can be moved with the same configuration against the closing force of the energy storage in its open position, in which it is the corresponding holding element on the body or on the door, for example is formed as a recess releases. The door can finally be fully opened. Furthermore, it is also possible with the help of the drive unit to automatically move the locking element in its open position. This finally allows the use of the locking arrangement in household appliances, such as dishwashers, which are provided with a so-called handle-less front panel. This is particularly useful in so-called built-in appliances, such as built-in dishwashers, expedient, which are intended for installation in a fitted kitchen. An opening request for the door of the Domestic appliance can be detected by means of suitable sensors, for example in the form of touch sensors, proximity sensors, knock sensors, magnets, other optical or acoustic sensors or inductive or capacitive sensors. Upon detection of a desire opening an opening signal can then be transmitted to a door control, which then controls the drive unit such that the locking element moves from the locking position against the closing force in the open position and thus brings the locking element out of engagement with the corresponding holding element. It is also possible to connect a program sequence control of the household appliance with the door control. Depending on the program flow and / or one or more operating parameters of the household appliance, an opening signal can then also be transmitted to the door control by the program sequence control. In this way, a program-controlled opening of the locking arrangement is possible, for. B. at the end of a drying phase in which a washed in a dishwasher ware is dried.

After the locking arrangement has been activated and correspondingly disengaged from the holding element, the actual, at least gap-wise, opening of the door can be achieved by means of an opening device, for example in the form of spring elements and / or with the help of further actuators, such as e.g. an impact element in the form of a plunger, which acts on the door can be realized. The other actuators can advantageously be driven by the drive unit of the locking arrangement.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the energy storage is at least one spring, in particular at least one substantially longitudinally extending coil spring. The spring may in this case be designed as a tension spring, which acts on the locking element with a force that pulls it into its locking position. Likewise, compression springs can be used, which can be supported on corresponding support surfaces of the locking element and the support member or frame member and press the locking element in the locking position.

A constructionally particularly simple realization of the locking arrangement results when the locking arrangement comprises a carrier element or frame element, by means of which the locking arrangement can be fastened to the door or to the body, and the locking element is movable relative to the carrier element between the open position and the locking position.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the carrier element or frame element has a stop surface against which the locking element can be supported in the open position to prevent unwanted return movement into the locking position, and that the locking element is associated with a release element Help the locking element in a contact of the release member with the door out of engagement with the stop surface can be brought and moved from the energy storage in the locking position. In this case, the locking element is moved by the drive unit starting from its locking position until it finally reaches the area of the abutment surface and is held by the drive unit - biased by the force accumulator. At this stage, the door can be opened and z. B. be loaded with items. If the door is closed again, it comes from a certain position with the release element in contact. By further moving the door, a force is finally transmitted from the door to the release element, which forwards this force to the locking element, wherein the release element, the locking element and the stop surface are in particular designed and arranged to each other that the locking unit undergoes a movement that it disengages with the stop surface brings. As a result, the locking element, which is already in operative connection with the retaining element of the door at this time, is released. By the closing force of the energy storage, there is finally a further movement of the locking element in its locking position, wherein the door is further used on the body and this completely closes.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the locking arrangement comprises an intermediate member which is in operative connection with both the drive unit and the locking element, and with the aid of a force from the drive unit to the locking element is transferable, the one Movement of the locking element causes from the locking position to the open position. The intermediate member may in this case z. B. be designed as a plunger, which can be moved linearly by the drive unit against the locking element, to move this into the open position. Likewise, a variety of racks or wheels can be used, which take over the function of one or more intermediate links and ultimately ensure a power transmission from the drive unit to the locking element. Finally, gear can be used to transfer the power either as quickly and / or as evenly as possible to the locking element.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the locking element has a front area which can be brought into engagement with the retaining element of the door and a rear area opposite the front area, wherein the locking element and the intermediate element are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the drive unit generated force is transferable to the rear area. The front portion, however, may have a shape that allows engagement with the retaining element. For example, the locking element can open into a nose portion which can engage in a corresponding recess of the door. In contrast, the rear region preferably has a contact surface on which the intermediate member or directly the drive unit can act. While the front portion is expediently adapted to be accessible from outside so that it can come into contact with the retaining element of the door, the rear portion can be concealed between a wall of the body and a corresponding panel or worktop, so that this area and if necessary also the drive unit is protected against damage.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the intermediate member is designed as a rocker arm which is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation, wherein the rocker arm has a first leg, which is in operative connection with the drive unit or can be brought, and wherein the rocker arm a second leg, which is in contact with or can be brought into contact with a contact surface of the locking element, wherein the rocker arm is set into a rotational movement by means of the drive unit, during which the rocker arm transmits a force to the contact surface, the movement of the locking element in the open position causes. A particular advantage of using a corresponding rocker arm lies in the fact that it can be constructed extremely robust and thus has a high load capacity. On the other hand, by choosing the individual leg lengths an accurate Adaptation of the power transmission between the drive unit and locking element done. Thus, for example, by increasing the length ratio between the first and the second leg, that is to say for example by lengthening the first leg, it is possible that due to the improved lever ratio a faster and / or lower-power and / or less expensive and / or with regard to their design smaller drive unit can be used. In addition, the use of said rocker arm results in the possibility of arranging the drive unit in addition to space, in particular laterally next to, the carrier element or frame element, so that the entire latching arrangement can preferably be arranged side by side in the front region of the body of a dishwasher.

The rocker arm, at least in a partial area, in particular in the region of the first leg, can also be made so elastically deformable that it yields or deflects from a predefinable force, with the result that none or at least none for disengaging the locking element with the Retaining element of the door sufficient force is transmitted to the locking element. By such a configuration of the tilt lever, a force limitation is automatically realized, which serves as protection against overload for the locking arrangement. An overload, which without force limitation could also lead to damage of components of the locking arrangement, further components involved in the automatic opening process of the door or the door itself, can occur, for example, if a high counterforce, e.g. by a user or an obstacle on the door is exercised.

Such an elastic rocker arm is also advantageous in connection with a so-called child safety, which prevents unintentional opening of the door, especially by children. For example, a child safety device could be realized in such a way that the locking element is blocked when the child safety device is activated by means of a blocking element. In this case, the counterforce exerted by the blocking element would also lead to the rocker arm yielding or evading due to its elastic properties.

Alternatively, however, a child safety device could also be realized by the drive unit being deactivated when the child safety device is activated. For example, the power supply to an electric drive unit, e.g. with the help of a microswitch, be interrupted.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the drive unit has a rotatable cam or an eccentric or the like, which is in contact with the first leg or can be brought, wherein with the aid of the cam or eccentric a force of the drive unit on the first leg is transferable, which causes a rotation of the rocker arm. In this way, a rotational movement of the drive unit, which may be formed, for example, as an electric motor, be converted in a simple manner in a tilting movement of the rocker arm. It may also be sufficient if the drive unit is always driven in one direction only, while the cam allows a rocking and tilting of the rocker arm. A reversal of direction of the drive unit is therefore not necessary.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the drive unit comprises a Verbindungselelement, e.g. in the form of a rotary arm, a turntable or the like, on. At the connecting element spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the connecting element, a driver is arranged, in which the first leg of the rocker arm is guided. In this case, a rotation of the rocker arm can be effected by a rotational movement of the connecting element. This embodiment is characterized by a particularly space-saving design. In addition, no separate return element for returning the rocker arm is required.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the intermediate member is in contact with a return element, in particular in the form of a spiral or torsion spring, which acts on the rocker arm with a force component which acts counter to the transferable force from the drive unit to the intermediate member. In this case, the intermediate member only has to be moved by the drive unit from a starting position to the extent that it causes the locking element to move from the locking position into the open position. On the other hand, the intermediate member is subsequently returned to the starting position by the return element without any further action by the drive unit. The Drive unit must not be positively or non-positively connected in this case with the intermediate member in order to bring this back to the starting position can. Rather, it is sufficient if the drive unit, for example by means of a cam, only causes a movement of the intermediate member in a direction which moves the locking element into its open position, while the return movement of the intermediate member, by the finally also a return movement of the locking element when closing the door in its locking position is possible, done by the return element.

After the locking element has been moved into its open position with the aid of the locking arrangement according to the invention, the actual opening of the door at least in the manner of a gap can be effected by means of an opening device, e.g. in the form of spring elements, which can be arranged, for example, in the region of a door hinge. Alternatively, however, at least one impact element, e.g. in the form of a plunger, be provided, which acts on the door and thereby pushes. Advantageously, the or the impact elements are also driven by the drive unit of the locking arrangement. In this case, the drive unit can be directly or via an intermediate member, e.g. the described rocker arm, act on the impact element.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention it is provided that the locking element, for example relative to the support member or frame member, is mounted such that it is movable during movement between the open position and the locking position along a longitudinal axis and is additionally rotatable about a rotation axis, the extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis extends in particular in the depth direction of the body of the household appliance, and is additionally rotatable about an axis of rotation which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, in particular in a plane defined by the width and depth direction of the body of the household appliance position plane and substantially parallel to the width direction of the body of the household appliance extends. The locking element can thereby cause a simple way of engagement with the holding element and additionally pulling the door to the body. For example, the locking can take place as follows: First, an approaching of the door, for example by means of the already described release element, causes a movement of the locking element about its Rotary axis during which it is moved away from a corresponding support surface. In addition, the rotational movement causes the locking element, for. B. by means of a nose arranged in the front area, engages in engagement with the locking element corresponding to the holding element. Following this, finally, the energy storage causes a movement of the locking element in its locking position during which it also pulls the door to the body. In turn, during the opening of the locking arrangement, first a movement of the locking element along its longitudinal axis and simultaneously or subsequently a rotation about its axis of rotation, which is preferably arranged in the rear area, so that at the end of the movement opening of the door is possible.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the intermediate member has an engagement surface and the locking element a contact surface which are at least partially in contact or can be brought, wherein the engagement surface and the contact surface are inclined to each other such that from the intermediate member to a force component the locking element is transferable, which additionally causes a rotational movement of the locking element about its axis of rotation during the movement of the locking element from the locking position into the open position along the longitudinal axis. The locking element no longer needs to be active in this case, e.g. be guided by appropriate guides of the support member or frame member, in its final locking position or in the region of a corresponding support surface. Rather, the rotational movement takes place at the end of the movement from the locking position to the open position by targeted force from the intermediate member to the locking element. In this case, either the engagement surface of the intermediate member, the contact surface or both surfaces with respect to the longitudinal axis of the locking element may be inclined to allow a corresponding force entry having a force component which is not parallel to, in particular axial, longitudinal movement direction of the locking element.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the drive unit and / or the intermediate member have means by means of which they can be fastened to the body of a dishwasher, independently of the attachment of the carrier element or frame element. In this way, the drive unit and / or the intermediate member independently of the carrier element or frame element and the locking element guided therein, serviced, replaced or retrofitted.

According to a further advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that a force accumulator, in particular a spring element, e.g. in the form of a helical compression spring exists. Such a drive unit is able to apply the required force within a short time even with limited space. In this case, a controllable locking device may be provided, which holds the force accumulator in the locked position of the locking element in a prestressed state and releases it to move the locking element in the open position.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that the drive unit is an electromagnet which has a coil and an armature. Such an embodiment of the drive unit has the particular advantage that the drive unit can be used simultaneously for detecting an opening request for the door. In particular, an opening request can be detected as a function of a displacement of the armature relative to the coil. Alternatively, an opening request could also be detected by means of a Hall sensor, which senses the displacement of the armature.

The household appliance according to the invention, e.g. in the form of a dishwasher, finally characterized by the fact that it comprises a locking arrangement, which is formed according to one or more of the described aspects, wherein the locking arrangement always has the said power storage and the drive unit, so preferably also a manual locking and unlocking the locking arrangement is possible in addition to the possibility of automatic unlocking.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention it is provided that the locking element and the drive unit are arranged side by side in a front view and / or top view of the household appliance. As a result, the space-saving accommodation, in particular in an edge region of the body, possible, as a rule more stable and thus more durable, as the surrounded by the respective edge and corner areas side or ceiling surfaces.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the door or the body has a holding element, in particular in the form of a depression, with which the locking element engages in the locking position. As a rule, the retaining element does not have to have any (actively) movable elements, so that a space-saving installation is possible. The retaining element can be used as a separate insert piece in the frame of the door or in the body, or be formed integrally with the frame of the door or with the body, for example in the form of an indentation or groove or trough, in which finally the locking element can engage.

According to an advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the household appliance comprises a program sequence control, which is connected via a door control with the drive unit and which is formed, depending on the program flow and / or one or more operating parameters of the household appliance, in the case of a dishwasher in particular after the specification of a wash program, preferably after completion of a drying phase, in which dish ware arranged inside the dishwasher is dried, to transmit an opening signal to the door control. Upon receipt of an opening signal then controls the door control the drive unit such that the locking element moves from the locking position to the open position and thus the door is unlocked. The unlocking can thus be targeted and at the same time corresponding states of the household appliance, for example, signal the end of a washing program of a dishwasher.

Alternatively or in addition to a program- and / or state-controlled generation of an opening signal, an opening signal which causes the door control to unlock the door can also be generated with the aid of a sensor which detects an opening request of a user of the household appliance. In this case, basically any type of sensing can be used, which is suitable for detecting a corresponding opening request.

As a result, a locking arrangement is proposed which makes it possible to lock the door of a dishwashing machine with the aid of an energy store, wherein the unlocking takes place, preferably automatically, by means of a drive unit. By appropriate design of the locking arrangement can further be ensured that the door unlocked even in the event of a possible defect of the drive unit and thus the household appliance can continue to operate.

The above-explained and / or reproduced in the subclaims advantageous embodiments and refinements of the invention can - in addition to z. B. in cases of clear dependencies or incompatible alternatives - individually or in any combination with each other.

Figur 1

eine Seitenansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltsgeräts am Beispiel einer Geschirrspülmaschine,

Figur 2

eine Schnittdarstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Verriegelungsanordnung in ihrer Offenstellung,

Figur 3

eine Schnittdarstellung der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 2 in ihrer Verriegelungsstellung,

Figur 4

eine Draufsicht der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 2,

Figur 5

eine Draufsicht der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 3,

Figur 6

eine Schnittdarstellung eines weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Verriegelungsanordnung in ihrer Verriegelungsstellung,

Figur 7

eine Schnittdarstellung der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 6 in ihrer Offenstellung,

Figur 8

eine Schnittdarstellung eines weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Verriegelungsanordnung in ihrer Verriegelungsstellung,

Figur 9

eine Schnittdarstellung der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 8 in ihrer Offenstellung,

Figur 10

eine Draufsicht der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 8,

Figur 11

eine Draufsicht der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 9,

Figur 12

eine Draufsicht eines weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Verriegelungsanordnung in ihrer Verriegelungsstellung,

Figur 13

eine Draufsicht der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 12 in ihrer Offenstellung,

Figur 14

eine Schnittdarstellung eines weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Verriegelungsanordnung in ihrer Verriegelungsstellung,

Figur 15

eine Draufsicht der Verriegelungsanordnung gemäß Figur 12,

Figur 16

eine Schnittdarstellung eines weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Verriegelungsanordnung in ihrer Verriegelungsstellung und

Figur 17

ein schematisches Blockschaltbild eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltsgeräts am Beispiel einer Geschirrspülmaschine.

The invention and its advantageous embodiments and further developments and advantages thereof are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings. They show, in each case in a schematic outline sketch:

FIG. 1

a side view of a household appliance according to the invention using the example of a dishwasher,

FIG. 2

a sectional view of a locking arrangement according to the invention in its open position,

FIG. 3

a sectional view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 2 in their locked position,

FIG. 4

a plan view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5

a plan view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 3 .

FIG. 6

a sectional view of another advantageous embodiment of a locking arrangement according to the invention in its locking position,

FIG. 7

a sectional view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 6 in their open position,

FIG. 8

a sectional view of another advantageous embodiment of a locking arrangement according to the invention in its locking position,

FIG. 9

a sectional view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 8 in their open position,

FIG. 10

a plan view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 8 .

FIG. 11

a plan view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 9 .

FIG. 12

a top view of another advantageous embodiment of a locking arrangement according to the invention in its locking position,

FIG. 13

a plan view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 12 in their open position,

FIG. 14

a sectional view of another advantageous embodiment of a locking arrangement according to the invention in its locking position,

FIG. 15

a plan view of the locking arrangement according to FIG. 12 .

FIG. 16

a sectional view of another advantageous embodiment of a locking arrangement according to the invention in its locking position and

FIG. 17

a schematic block diagram of a household appliance according to the invention using the example of a dishwasher.

In the following figures, corresponding parts are provided with the same reference numerals. Only those components are provided with reference numerals and explained, which are necessary for the understanding of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows a side view of a household appliance according to the invention using the example of a dishwasher GS. This has an interior space for receiving to be cleaned items to be washed body 18 which is closable in the direction of a front side by means of a door 19. The door 19 is in FIG. 1 shown by solid lines in its closed position, in which it closes the interior. In addition, the open position of the door 19 is indicated by dashed lines, in which the dishwasher GS can be loaded with items to be washed.

In order now to lock the door 19 in the closed position and thus to prevent the escape of flushing liquid, the dishwasher GS has a locking arrangement according to the invention in a locking region 24 which can be arranged, for example, in the upper region of the front side, as exemplified below is described.

In the context of explaining the basic operation of the locking arrangement is initially on the FIGS. 2 to 5 referenced, which show a possible structure of the same.

First, the show Figures 2 (Side view) and 4 (top view) a support element or frame element 1, in which the actual locking element 2 is guided. With the help of this frame member 1, which may be made of a plastic, for example, the entire assembly, as shown in the mentioned figures, on the body 18, in particular between a ceiling area bounding the interior and attached to the outside of the body 18 Ceiling panel of the dishwasher GS, are fixed, so that as a result, a movement of the locking element 2 relative to the body 18 of the dishwasher GS is possible.

Furthermore, the locking arrangement comprises a force accumulator 5, which acts on the locking element 2 with a closing force, with the aid of which it from the open position OS (shown in the Figures 2 and 4 ) in a locking position VS (please refer Figures 3 and 5 ) is movable. The open position OS is defined as the position in which an approach of the door 19 in the front region 9 of the locking arrangement is possible, the locking element 2 thus not yet with a corresponding holding element 3 (see, for. FIG. 11 , which shows a corresponding retaining element 3 in the form of a recess projecting into the door 19,) of the door 19 is engaged. By contrast, the locking position VS is defined as the position in which the locking element 2, for example via the nose 23 shown in the figures, is engaged with the retaining element 3 and thereby locks the door 19 with respect to the body 18.

The operation of the locking arrangement is now the following: First, the locking element 2 is in the open position, wherein it is preferably in contact with a stop surface 6, which prevents premature movement into the locking position. If now the door 19 is closed by an operator, then it is necessary for the locking element 2 to come out of engagement with the stop surface 6. For this purpose, the locking element 2 preferably has a release element 7, which in the FIGS. 2 to 5 is exemplified as a laterally projecting bolt. In this case, the door 19 should expediently have a corresponding, for example, wedge-shaped counter element which, upon contact with the release element 7, causes the front region 9 of the locking element 2 to move downward, so that it can slide over the stop surface 6. As a release element 7, of course, another construction can be used, which causes the said movement of the locking element 2. It is conceivable, for example, a rotary latch, which undergoes a rotation upon contact with the door 19, wherein this rotation finally results in a movement of the locking element 2, so that it is moved away from the stop surface 6.

Finally, if the locking element 2 is below the abutment surface 6, the already mentioned force accumulator 5 ensures that the locking element 2 is moved in the direction of its locking position. The energy accumulator 5 may be formed, for example, as shown here as a spiral spring, which is supported on the one hand in the region of a rear portion 10 of the locking element 2 and the other on a support surface 21 of the frame member 1, as shown in the FIGS. 2 to 14 is shown. As a result, a force is exerted on the locking element 2, which pulls it in the direction of the rear area 10. Since the locking element 2 is in its locking position VS with the retaining element 3 of the door 19 is engaged, the door 19 is also drawn to the body 18 and a arranged between the body 18 and door 19 seal, so that leakage of rinsing liquid and / or steam can be excluded.

In order to prevent the manual triggering (ie with the door 19 open) of the described locking mechanism from resulting in excessive displacement of the locking element 2 in the direction of the rear area 10, the frame element 1 can, as shown, have an additional limiting element 22 to which the Front region 9 of the locking element 2 rests in the locking position.

As a result, a locking arrangement such as 25 (see FIG. 11 ), with the help of which in principle a locking of a door 19 of a dishwasher such as GS is possible without requiring a current-carrying element for this purpose.

Likewise, the door 19 could be unlocked without such an element. Thus, a tightening on the door 19 in its closed position would cause the nose 23 and thus also the locking element 2 is pulled against the force of the force accumulator 5 in the direction of its front portion 9. Finally, as soon as the locking element 2 has been moved far enough, a movement of the front region 9 upwards is finally possible, so that it comes out of engagement with the corresponding retaining element 3 of the door 19. To the said upward movement in the in the Figures 2 and 4 shown position favor, the frame member 1 can be equipped with corresponding guide surfaces which cooperate with corresponding mating surfaces of the locking element 2. Likewise, for example, the nose 23 or the holding member 3 have a corresponding shape, which causes said upward movement in contact with the door.

However, in addition to the basically possible manual movement of the locking element 2 into the open position OS, an automatic movement, For example, at the end of a drying phase of a controlled by a control unit wash program in which the items to be dried, is now provided according to the invention that the locking assembly additionally comprises a drive unit 4, with the help of the locking element 2 of the locking position VS against the closing force of the Force accumulator 5 is movable in the open position OS.

As drive unit 4 is for this purpose any drive in question, which allows a corresponding movement of the locking element 2 from the locking position VS in the open position OS. Conceivable, for example, linear drives, electric drives, bimetals or similar responsive to temperature fluctuations components, etc.

As an example, in the FIGS. 6 and 7 indicated a solution that allows movement of the locking element 2 by means of a linear drive. The drive unit 4, not shown, has for this purpose an intermediate member 8, via which the correspondingly generated force can be transmitted to the rear region 10 of the locking element 2. The intermediate member 8 may be formed, for example, as a plunger, of a in FIG. 6 shown position in the in FIG. 7 shown position is movable and in this case causes a movement of the locking element 2 in its open position.

Another way to realize the basic idea of the present invention is in the FIGS. 8 to 11 shown.

As can be seen from the cited figures, the drive unit 4 is formed by an electric motor, which is preferably connected to the body 18 of the dishwasher GS independently of the carrier element or frame element 1, so that a corresponding retrofitting is possible at any time. The drive unit 4 is further connected to a cam 15. The operative connection between drive unit 4 and locking element 2 is in turn realized by means of an intermediate member 8, which is formed in the example shown as a rocker arm, which in turn is rotatably supported via a rotation axis 11. The axis of rotation 11 is preferably perpendicular in the plane defined by the width direction and depth direction of the body 18, so that the rocker arm sweeps over a pivoting range in this positional plane.

Now, if the drive unit 4 is activated, the cam 15 exerts a force on the first leg 12 of the rocker arm from a certain position, resulting in a rotation of the rocker arm about its axis of rotation 11 of the in FIG. 10 position shown in the position as shown in FIG. 11 is shown. In this case, a corresponding engagement surface 17 of the second leg 13 of the rocker arm comes into contact with a contact surface 14 in the rear region 10 of the locking element 2 and thus causes a power transmission from the drive unit 4 via the intermediate member 8 on the locking element 2, which in consequence a movement in the direction the open position learns.

Finally, in addition to the movement taking place in this case, ie in the direction of the front region 9, also the upward movement, in particular of the nose 23, which is ultimately necessary in order to completely disengage the locking element 2 from the corresponding retaining element 3 of the door 19, again different solutions are conceivable. For example, it would be possible to provide the frame element 1 with corresponding guide surfaces, as already described. Alternatively, however, it is also advantageous if the engagement surface 17 of the intermediate member 8 and the contact surface 14 of the locking element 2 are inclined to each other such that from the intermediate member 8, a force component is transferable to the locking element 2, during the axial movement of the locking element 2 along a Longitudinal axis of the open position in the locking position additionally causes a rotational movement of the locking element 2 about a rotational axis DA, which is perpendicular to the axial or longitudinal longitudinal direction of movement of the locking element. If the locking arrangement is arranged, for example, in the ceiling region of the body, preferably in the front middle region of the top wall of the body, the longitudinal axis extends in particular in the depth direction of the body of the dishwasher. The locking element is thus preferably mounted in this mounting case relative to the carrier element such that it is movable during the movement between the open position and the locking position along a longitudinal axis such as LA, which extends in particular in the depth direction of the body of the dishwasher, and in addition to an axis of rotation such as DA is rotatable, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA, in particular in a plane defined by the width and depth direction of the body of the dishwasher layer and substantially parallel to the width direction of the body of the dishwasher, extends. In the sectional side views of the FIGS. 8 . 9 the axis of rotation DA in each case runs perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. This rotational movement and, consequently, an upward movement of the front region 9 of the locking element 2 from a locking position to an open position can be realized, for example, by the engagement surface 17 of the intermediate element, in particular rocker arm, as shown in FIGS FIGS. 8 and 9 seen, bevelled. As a result, a force component is transmitted to the locking element upon contact with the vertically extending contact surfaces 14 of the locking element 2, which causes the said rotational movement of the locking element 2. As soon as this has therefore been moved so far in the direction of the front region 9, it will rotate due to the said force component to an imaginary axis of rotation DA positioned in the rear region 10 and thus the in the Figures 9 and 11 shown position.

Alternatively, it would of course also possible to align the attack surface 17 vertically and in turn to skew the contact surfaces 14 of the locking element accordingly. Likewise, finally, both surfaces can be provided accordingly with an inclination.

Finally, reference is made to FIG. 11 , This shows next to the locking arrangement 25 according to the invention also a possible positioning of the same. Thus, it is conceivable to arrange the frame element 1 on the upper side of the already mentioned body 18 of a dishwasher GS, wherein this can have an opening 20 in its region facing the door 19 through which a part of the locking element 2, for. B. the nose 23, at least in the locking position can protrude to engage with a corresponding holding element 3, for example, arranged in the door 19 recess in engagement. In this connection it should be noted that the door 19 in FIG. 11 still a gap is opened. To activate the closing mechanism, it would therefore have to be moved further in the direction of the body 18 until the holding element 3 is located under the nose 23 of the locking element 2.

In addition, the intermediate member 8 with a return element 16, for example in the form of a spiral or annular spring, are in operative connection, which always ensures that the engagement surface 17 of the intermediate member 8 only with the locking element 2 in Contact is when the drive unit 4 transmits a force to the intermediate member 8. If this is not the case, the intermediate member 8 is moved back to its starting position, as exemplified in FIG. 10 is shown.

It would also be conceivable to merely linearly move the locking element 2, while the final engagement with the retaining element 3 is accomplished by an upward movement of the door 19. Finally, in order to bring the locking element 2 out of engagement with the retaining element 3, the door 19 would be lowered in this case and then the locking element moved in the direction of its front area 9 in order to be able to re-lock when the door 19 approaches.

The use of a cam for actuating the intermediate member has, in particular, the advantage of a shorter unlocking time relative to an eccentric, i. already after a 90 ° rotation of the cam, the intermediate member can be actuated and the locking element can be brought into its open position. After a further 90 ° rotation of the cam, the intermediate member is already released again, i. no longer in contact with the rear area of the locking element, so that it can be brought into its locking position, if necessary, e.g. the user wants to close the door. An uncomfortable, too long waiting time between the time of unlocking the door and the time from which a door lock is possible again, is thus avoided. In contrast, the eccentric requires in comparison to the cam of the drive unit from a lower torque due to its flatter attack surface slope when contacting the intermediate member. Also, the envelope of the rotational movement of the eccentric is more space-saving than that of the cam.

The Figures 12 and 13 show a further embodiment of the invention, in which the drive unit 4 is also formed by an electric motor, which is preferably connected independently of the support member or frame member 1 with the body 18 of the dishwasher GS. A connecting element in the form of a rotary arm 45 is rotatably connected to a rotatable shaft 46 of the electric motor. On the rotary arm 45 is spaced from the shaft 46, a driver 47 rotatably mounted. The axis of rotation of the driver 47 is preferably perpendicular to the plane defined by the width direction and depth direction of the body 18 level.

As an alternative to rotating arm 45, the connecting element may also be otherwise, e.g. as a hub, be executed.

The operative connection between drive unit 4 and locking element 2 is in turn realized by means of an intermediate member 8, which in the example shown is in turn designed as a rocker arm, which is rotatably mounted via a rotation axis 11. Also, the axis of rotation 11 of the rocker arm is preferably perpendicular to the plane defined by the width direction and depth direction of the body 18 level, so that the rocker arm sweeps over a pivoting range in this positional plane. In order to be able to effect a tilting movement of the rocker arm, the first leg 12 of the rocker arm is guided in the driver 47, that is, movably mounted in the driver 47 in the longitudinal direction of the first leg 12.

If now the drive unit 4 is activated, the rotary arm 45 executes a rotational movement which, due to the bearing of the first leg 12 of the rocker arm in the driver 47, results in a rotation of the rocker arm about the axis of rotation 11. The rocker arm of the in FIG. 12 position shown in a position as shown in FIG. 13 is shown turned. In this case, a corresponding engagement surface 17 of the second leg 13 of the rocker arm with the contact surface 14 in the rear portion 10 of the locking member 2 in contact and thus causes a power transmission from the drive unit 4 via the intermediate member 8 on the locking element 2, as a result, a movement in the direction the open position learns.

Finally, in addition to the movement taking place in this case, ie in the direction of the front region 9, also the upward movement, in particular of the nose 23, which is ultimately necessary in order to completely disengage the locking element 2 from the corresponding retaining element 3 of the door 19, are analogous to the embodiment according to the FIGS. 8 to 11 again different solutions conceivable. To avoid repetition is therefore in this regard to the corresponding statements to the embodiment according to the FIGS. 8 to 11 directed.

Analogous to FIG. 11 also shows FIG. 13 in addition to the locking arrangement 25 according to the invention a possible positioning thereof. Again, be around To avoid repetition on the appropriate remarks too FIG. 11 directed.

Due to the storage and guidance of the first leg 12 of the rocker arm in the driver 47 and the resulting continuous mobility of the rocker arm no return element for the rocker arm is required. In addition, the embodiment is characterized according to the Figures 12 and 13 by a particularly space-saving arrangement, which in particular results from the fact that the circle spanned by the movement of the rotary arm 45 is fully utilized.

Also in the embodiment according to the Figures 12 and 13 it would be conceivable to move the locking element 2 only linearly, while the final engagement with the holding element 3 is accomplished by an upward movement of the door 19. Finally, to bring the locking element 2 out of engagement with the retaining element 3 again, the door 19 would first be lowered and then the locking element is moved in the direction of its front area 9 in order to effect a new locking when the door 19 approaches.

In the in the Figures 14 and 15 shown embodiment, the drive unit 4 is a force storage 26. This can be designed in principle arbitrary, but is preferably designed as a spring element, for example as a helical compression spring 27. By an example by means of a Bowden cable 28 controllable locking device 29 of the energy storage in the in the Figures 12 and 13 shown locking position of the locking element 2 held in a prestressed, energy-storing state. If required, so if the door of the dishwasher GS is to be opened automatically, the locking device 29 releases the energy storage device 26, so that it can move the locking element 2 in the open position OS. The energy storage device 26 further comprises a guide rod 30, at whose end facing the locking element 2 arranged approximately as a pressure plate 31, serving to initiate the compressive force of the helical compression spring 27 in the locking element 2 organ. The helical compression spring 27 is supported at one end to the pressure plate 31 and at its other end to a transverse to the direction of movement of the locking element 2 extending support wall 32, wherein it engages around the guide rod 30. The guide rod 30 passes through axially movable an opening 33 in the support wall 32. At the side facing away from the locking element 2 side projecting the guide rod 30 carries a radially beyond its peripheral surface standing out, for example, designed as a flange stop element 34. This element is part of the locking device 29, which continues with a the stop element 34 cooperating blocking element 35 comprises. The blocking element 35 is movable on a direction transverse to the movement path of the guide rod 30 extending direction, which is indicated by the double arrow 36. In the locking position VS of the locking element 2, the blocking element 35 is arranged between the stop element 34 and the support wall 32, wherein it is clamped due to the in a compressed state, so biased, helical compression spring 27 between the stopper member 34 and support wall 32.

The locking device 29 is, as I said, controllable, and when the appliance door is to be opened, moved to the release position in which it is outside of the movement path described by the stop element 34. In the example shown, the blocking element 35 by means of the Bowden cable 28, the inner cable 37 is connected to the blocking element 35, in the direction of the arrow 39 of the guide rod 30 against the action of the inner cable 37 encompassing helical compression spring 40 moves away. Due to the action of the relaxing helical compression spring 27 then the locking element 2 is moved to its open position OS. At the end of this movement, the stop element 34 abuts against the support wall 32. The measured in the axial direction of the guide rod 30 length of the blocking element 35 substantially corresponds to the distance which the locking element 2 travels viewed in the axial direction of the guide rod 30 when it moves from its locking position VS in its open position OS.

In order to bring about in addition to the movement occurring forward, ie in the direction of the front portion 9, the upward movement in particular of the nose 23, which is ultimately necessary to bring the locking element 2 completely out of engagement with the corresponding retaining element 3 of the door 19, are analogous to that with reference to the FIGS. 8 to 11 explained embodiment, again different solutions conceivable. For example, it would also be possible here, the frame element 1, as already described, with corresponding guide surfaces equip. Alternatively, however, it is also advantageous in this embodiment, when the engagement surface of the pressure plate 31 and the contact surface 14 of the locking element 2 are inclined to each other such that from the pressure plate 31, a force component is transferable to the locking element 2, during the axial movement of the locking element 2 additionally causes a rotational movement of the locking element 2 about a rotation axis along a longitudinal axis from the open position into the locking position, which is perpendicular to the axial or longitudinal longitudinal movement direction of the locking element. In order to avoid repetition in this regard, the corresponding statements to the embodiment according to the FIGS. 8 to 11 directed.

After an automatic door opening, the helical compression spring 27 can be tensioned again with the aid of an actuator 41, which is indicated only schematically.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown schematically in FIG FIG. 16 shown. In this case, the drive unit 4 is designed as an electromagnet 42, which comprises a coil 43 and a coil 43 at least partially surrounded and movable in the axial direction of the coil 43 core or armature 44 made of ferromagnetic material. After detecting an opening request for the door 19, current is passed through the coil 43. This current flow causes the construction of a magnetic field, which drives the armature 44 in the direction of the locking element 2. The pressure exerted on the locking element 2 by the armature 44 in this way leads to a displacement of the locking element 2 into its open position.

Also in this embodiment, it is expedient to cause in addition to the movement forward, ie in the direction of the front portion 9, also an upward movement in particular of the nose 23, which is ultimately necessary to the locking element 2 completely out of engagement with the corresponding holding element 3 of To bring 19 door. This can analogously to the embodiments according to the FIGS. 8 to 11 and 12 and 13 are achieved either by guide surfaces on the frame member 1 or, as shown, by mutually inclined engagement and contact surfaces on the armature 44 and the locking element 2. To avoid repetition is also at this point to the corresponding statements to the embodiment according to the FIGS. 8 to 11 directed. After an automatic door opening, the armature 44 can be driven by a reverse current flow through the coil 43 back to its original position.

The embodiment according to FIG. 14 has the particular advantage that the drive unit 4 embodied as an electromagnet 42 can at the same time be used as a sensor for detecting an opening request for the door 19. Thus, for example, by a slight depression of the door 19 in the door seal causes a movement of the spring-biased locking element 2 in the direction of the armature 44 to. This also causes a movement of the armature 44, which induces a voltage in the coil 43, which can be detected and used as a trigger signal for an automatic door opening.

FIG. 17 finally shows a schematic block diagram of a household appliance according to the invention using the example of the dishwasher GS. This includes a door control TS, which upon receipt of an opening signal drives the drive unit 4 of the locking arrangement 25 such that the locking element 2 moves from the locking position VS against the closing force into the open position OS. An opening signal can on the one hand be transmitted to the door control by a program sequence control PS which controls the program sequences of the dishwasher. The program sequence control PS and the door control TS can be realized in a common control unit or separately from each other. The opening signal can be generated and transmitted by the program sequence control PS as a function of the program sequence and / or of one or more operating parameters of the dishwasher. In this way, a program-controlled opening of the door 19 is made possible. Thus, the drive unit 4 can be activated by the door control TS, for example, following the specification of a wash program, preferably after completion of a drying phase in which items to be washed are arranged inside the dishwasher.

On the other hand, however, an opening signal can also be generated and transmitted by a sensor system S, which is designed to detect an opening request of a user of the dishwasher. The sensors can be, for example, touch sensors and / or proximity sensors and / or knock sensors (Structure-borne sound sensors) and / or magnets and / or other optical and / or acoustic sensors and / or inductive and / or capacitive sensors.

After unlocking the locking arrangement, so the movement of the locking element 2 of the locking position VS in the open position OS, the door 19 by means of an opening device OV at least a gap wide open so that it can then be opened completely in case of need by the user. The opening device OV can be used in a variety of ways, e.g. with the help of spring elements or other actuators, such. a plunger to belch the door 19, be realized.

Incidentally, the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. The following claims define the invention.

The invention has been explained by way of example for a dishwasher but is basically also applicable to other household appliances with locking arrangements for locking a door of the household appliance. In the illustrated and described embodiments of the invention, the locking arrangement is respectively attached to the body 18 of the domestic appliance and cooperates with a arranged on the door 19 corresponding holding element 3. Alternatively, however, the locking arrangement can also be fastened to the door 19 and accordingly cooperate with a holding element 3, which is arranged on the body 18.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

frame element

2

locking element

3

retaining element

4

drive unit

5

power storage

6

stop surface

7

release element

8th

intermediary

9

front area

10

rear area

11

axis of rotation

12

first leg

13

second leg

14

contact area

15

cam

16

Return element

17

attack surface

18

corpus

19

door

20

perforation

21

supporting

22

limiting element

23

nose

24

locking area

25

lock assembly

26

power storage

27

Helical compression spring

28

Bowden

29

locking

30

guide rod

31

printing plate

32

retaining wall

33

opening

34

stop element

35

blocking element

36

double arrow

37

Innenzug

38

coat

39

arrow

40

Helical compression spring

41

actuator

42

electromagnet

43

Kitchen sink

44

anchor

45

rotating arm

46

wave

47

takeaway

GS

dishwasher

THERE

axis of rotation

LA

longitudinal axis

OS

open position

OV

opening device

PS

Program Flow

S

sensors

TS

door control

VS

locking position

Claims (24)

1. Locking assembly (25) for locking a door (19) of a household appliance, in particular of a dishwasher, wherein

   - the locking assembly (25) can be fastened to the door (19) or to a carcass (18) of the household appliance which supports the door (19),

   - the locking assembly (25) comprises a locking element (2), which can move between an open position (OS), in which it is not engaged with a holding element (3) on the carcass (18) or on the door (19), and a locking position (VS), in which it is engaged with the holding element (3), and is supported such that during the movement between the open position (OS) and the locking position (VS) it can be moved along a longitudinal axis (LA) and in addition can be rotated about an axis of rotation (DA) which extends at right angles to the longitudinal axis (LA), and

   - the locking assembly (25) has a force accumulator (5), which applies a closing force to the locking element (2), with the aid of which the locking element can move from the open position (OS) into the locking position (VS),

   characterised in that
   the locking assembly (25) has a drive unit (4), with the aid of which the locking element (2) can move from the locking position (VS) against the closing force into the open position (OS).
2. Locking assembly according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the force accumulator (5) is formed by at least one spring, in particular at least one helical spring extending at least substantially longitudinally.
3. Locking assembly according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that

   - the locking assembly (25) comprises a support element (1), with the aid of which the locking assembly (25) can be fastened to the door (19) or to the carcass (18), and

   - the locking element (2) can move relative to the support element (2) between the open position (OS) and the locking position (VS).
4. Locking assembly according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the support element (1) has a stop surface (6), against which the locking element (2) can brace in the open position (OS) in order to prevent a backward movement into the locking position (VS), and that a release element (7) is assigned to the locking element (2), with the aid of which the locking element (2) can be disengaged from the stop surface (6) when the release element (7) makes contact with the door (19) and can be moved into the locking position (VS) by the force accumulator (5).
5. Locking assembly according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that the locking assembly comprises an interlink (8), which is or can be functionally connected both with the drive unit (4) and also with the locking element (2), and with the aid of which a force can be transmitted by the drive unit (4) to the locking element (2), which brings about a movement of the locking element (2) from the locking position (VS) into the open position (OS).
6. Locking assembly according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the locking element (2) has a front area (9), which can engage with the holding element (3) of the door (19), and a rear area (10) facing the front area (9), wherein the locking element (2) and the interlink (8) are arranged relative to one another such that the force generated by the drive unit (4) can be transmitted to the rear area (10).
7. Locking assembly according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterised in that the interlink (8) is embodied as a rocker, which is rotatably supported about an axis of rotation (11), wherein the rocker has a first limb (12), which is or can be functionally connected to the drive unit (4), and wherein the rocker has a second limb (13), which is in contact with or can be brought into contact with a contact surface (14) of the locking element (2), wherein the rocker can be made to rotate with the aid of the drive unit (4), during which rotation the rocker transmits a force onto the contact surface (14), which causes the locking element (2) to move into the open position (OS).
8. Locking assembly according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the drive unit (4) has a rotatable cam (15), a tappet or suchlike, which is in contact with or can be brought into contact with the first limb (12), wherein a force of the drive unit (4) can be transferred to the first limb (12) with the aid of the cam (15) or the tappet, said force causing the rocker to rotate.
9. Locking assembly according to claim 7, characterised in that the drive unit (4) has a rotatable connecting element, in particular a rotating arm (45), a rotating disk or suchlike, on which, at a distance from the axis of rotation of the connecting element, a follower (47) is arranged, in which the first limb (12) is guided, wherein a rotational movement of the connecting element can cause the rocker to rotate.
10. Locking assembly according to one or more of claims 5 to 8, characterised in that the interlink (8) is in contact with a reset element (16), in particular in the form of a helical or torsion spring, which applies a force component to the rocker, which acts against the force which can be transmitted by the drive unit (4) to the interlink (8).
11. Locking assembly according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that the longitudinal axis (LA) extends in the depth direction of the carcass of the household appliance and the axis of rotation (DA) extends in a plane spanned by the width and depth direction of the carcass of the household appliance and substantially parallel to the width direction of the carcass of the household appliance.
12. Locking assembly according to one or more of claims 5 to 11, characterised in that the interlink (8) has an access surface (17) and the locking element (2) has a contact surface (14), which are in contact or can be brought into contact with one another at least partially, wherein the access surface (17) and the contact surface (14) are inclined toward one another such that a force component can be transmitted by the interlink (8) to the locking element (2), which, during the movement of the locking element (2) from the locking position (VS) into the open position (OS) along the longitudinal axis (LA), also causes the locking element (2) to rotate about its axis of rotation (DA).
13. Locking assembly according to one or more of claims 3 to 12, characterised in that the drive unit (4) and/or the interlink (8) have means, with the aid of which they can be fastened to the door (19) or the carcass (18) of the household appliance irrespective of the fastening of the support element (1).
14. Locking assembly according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that a force accumulator (26), in particular a spring element, is present as the drive unit (4).
15. Locking assembly according to the preceding claim, characterised by a controllable arresting device (27), which holds the force accumulator (26) in the locking position (VS) of the locking element (2) in a pretensioned state and releases the same in order to move the locking element (2) into the open position (OS).
16. Locking assembly according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that an electromagnet (42), having a coil (43) and an armature (44), is present as the drive unit (4).
17. Locking assembly according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the electromagnet (42) is used to detect an opening request for the door (19), in particular an opening request is detected as a function of a movement of the armature (44) relative to the coil (43).
18. Household appliance, in particular dishwasher (GS), having a carcass (18) and a door (19), which can move between an open position and a closed position, in which the carcass (18) is closed with the aid of the door (19), and having a locking assembly, with the aid of which the door (19) can be locked in the closed position, characterised in that the locking assembly (25) is embodied according to one or more of the preceding claims.
19. Household appliance according to the preceding claim, characterised by a door control (TS), which activates the drive unit (4) upon receipt of an opening signal such that the locking element (2) moves from the locking position (VS) against the closing force into the open position (OS).
20. Household appliance according to the preceding claim, characterised by a program sequence control (PS) for controlling a program sequence of the household appliance, which, as a function of the program sequence and/or of one or more operating parameters of the household appliance, transmits an opening signal to the door control (TS).
21. Household appliance according to one or more of claims 19 or 20, characterised by a sensor system (S) for detecting an opening request for the door (19), which transmits an opening signal to the door control (TS) upon the detection of an opening request.
22. Household appliance according to one or more of claims 19 to 21, characterised by an opening apparatus (OV), which after a movement of the locking element (2) from the locking position (VS) into the open position (OS) opens the door (19) at least slightly.
23. Household appliance according to one of more of claims 18 to 22, characterised in that in a front view and/or top view of the household appliance the locking element (2) and the drive unit (4) are arranged adjacent to one another.
24. Household appliance according to one or more of claims 18 to 23, characterised in that the door (19) or the carcass (18) has a holding element (3), in particular in the form of a depression, with which the locking element (2) engages in the locking position.

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