EP3338027B1 - Operation device for a household appliance comprising a spacer element and household appliance comprising an operating device - Google Patents

Operation device for a household appliance comprising a spacer element and household appliance comprising an operating device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3338027B1
EP3338027B1 EP16751187.2A EP16751187A EP3338027B1 EP 3338027 B1 EP3338027 B1 EP 3338027B1 EP 16751187 A EP16751187 A EP 16751187A EP 3338027 B1 EP3338027 B1 EP 3338027B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
operator control
spacer element
opening
control apparatus
control panel
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP16751187.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3338027A1 (en
Inventor
Reinhard Fleissner
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
Original Assignee
BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by BSH Hausgeraete GmbH filed Critical BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
Priority to PL16751187T priority Critical patent/PL3338027T3/en
Publication of EP3338027A1 publication Critical patent/EP3338027A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3338027B1 publication Critical patent/EP3338027B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • 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
    • F24C7/00—Stoves or ranges heated by electric energy
    • F24C7/08—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
    • F24C7/082—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices on ranges, e.g. control panels, illumination

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an operating device for a household appliance with an operating panel and an operating knob which is arranged on the operating panel and which is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation for setting operating conditions of the household appliance.
  • the control knob has a front cap which is arranged in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the control knob protruding towards the front opposite a front side of the control panel and ends with a rear end in front of a front side of the control panel.
  • the front cap is connected to a coupling rod, the coupling rod extending through an opening in the control panel.
  • the invention also relates to a household appliance with such an operating device.
  • Household appliances are known, for example, for the preparation of food and can be an oven, a microwave or a steam cooker.
  • a household appliance can, however, also be designed, for example, to care for items of laundry and, in this context, be a tumble dryer or a washing machine or a washer-dryer.
  • a household appliance can be designed, for example, to clean dishes and, in this context, be a dishwasher. It is also possible that the household appliance is designed for storing and preserving food and is, for example, a refrigerator or a freezer or a combined refrigerator-freezer.
  • An operating device with such an operating knob is, for example, from DE 10 2005 023 159 A1 and from the U.S. 3,534,706 A known.
  • a front side of an operating panel can be implemented to a very limited extent with regard to the material configuration.
  • the rotatability of the front cap of such a control knob is therefore usually only restricted to a limited extent.
  • the object of the present invention is to create an operating device and a household appliance with such an operating device, in which or in which the front-side configuration of an operating panel is more variable and the rotatability of the operating knob is not restricted as a result.
  • the control knob has as a component a front cap which is arranged in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the control knob, which is parallel or coaxial to the axis of rotation, opposite a front side of the control panel protruding forward and ends with a rear end in front of the front side of the control panel.
  • the front cap is connected to a coupling rod which extends through an opening in the control panel.
  • a decorative panel is arranged on the front side of the control panel, which is arranged adjacent to the opening of the control panel.
  • the decorative panel is arranged only partially surrounding the opening of the control panel.
  • a separate part of the operating device spacer element is arranged, through which the rear end of the front cap, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, is arranged at a distance from the decorative panel.
  • the decorative panel partially covers the control panel, which leads to a high degree of flexibility and variability in terms of color and / or material.
  • this additional component in the form of the decorative panel can also be used to individually design this visual appearance of the front of the control panel, depending on its size.
  • front sides of an operating panel that are designed differently in terms of zones can also be implemented, so that, for example, if the operating panel is of a transparent design, the decorative panel can be used to form an opaque cover.
  • a certain material jump or step is formed in the area of the opening and, in this regard, also in the axial direction . If, in this context, the front cap were to extend up to the control panel, the rear end of the front cap would then touch this decorative panel during a rotary movement, or rub against it, so that the decorative panel could also be impaired as a result.
  • the additional separate component is provided in the form of the spacer element, so that such direct contact with the decorative panel is prevented by the front cap.
  • the spacer element is formed in one piece and is a ring section.
  • the spacer element is therefore not a completely closed ring, but rather it represents only a partial arc.
  • this spacer element is designed to extend at most as a semicircle.
  • Such a design of the spacer element as a ring section saves material, since the spacer element is not required completely circumferentially with regard to its functionality and design, since a thickening occurs only in the area in which the decorative panel is formed around the opening and thus only in the Area of the control panel around the opening in which the decorative panel is not arranged, a greater axial spacing is required.
  • the spacer element rests against an inner wall delimiting the opening. This enables a mechanically stabilizing fastening.
  • the spacer element is held radially pretensioned in the opening. This is provided so that the holding and fastening of the spacer element in the opening is also improved as a result.
  • the spacer element in the basic state is designed with a larger radius than the opening has, which is designed in particular without corners, preferably circular.
  • the spacer element and the decorative panel are arranged without overlapping. This means that, viewed circumferentially around the longitudinal axis, there is no area in which the spacer element would extend over the decorative panel or would cover it. On the one hand, this increases the advantages already mentioned above. On the other hand, it is then also avoided that the decorative panel would be damaged by the spacer element or, for example, would be scratched.
  • the spacer element viewed from the front side of the control panel, is designed to extend further forward than the decorative panel.
  • the functionality of the axial spacing between the decorative panel and the rear end of the front cap is achieved to a particular degree.
  • the spacer element has a rear axial web, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, which is arranged so as to dip into the opening. This further improves the stable and secure mounting.
  • the spacer element has a front axial web which, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, thus extends forward from the control panel, this front axial web extending axially further forward than the decorative panel.
  • this front axial web thus also forms a main element which promotes the axial spacing of the rear end of the front cap from the decorative panel.
  • the front axial web has an azimuthally oriented run-on bevel for the rotary movement of the front cap, which is thus oriented circumferentially around the longitudinal axis.
  • This run-up bevel extends in particular only over a partial length, at most by half the azimuthal length of the front axial web, preferably at most over a third of the azimuthal length of the front axial web.
  • the front axial web has a drainage channel on an outside.
  • liquids that run off or drip off the control panel or its front side and reach the spacer element can be drained away in a targeted manner without being able to get behind the front cap and from there to electronic components of the control device.
  • the spacer element preferably has a radial web which rests on the front side. This radial web is thus oriented in the radial direction and in this connection preferably forms a stop or a contact on the front of the control panel.
  • the arcuate spacer element is also internally stiffened by the radial web, so that in particular one axial web or several axial webs are supported.
  • the radial web is preferably designed in a sickle-shaped manner in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that here also a particularly corner-free opening into the spacer element at the ends of the radial web.
  • the spacer element has holding elements which are provided for fastening the spacer element to the control panel, in particular to the opening.
  • These holding elements can preferably be snap elements or, for example, resilient hooks or the like. This improves the fastening of the spacer element in the area of the opening.
  • the spacer element is formed from an opaque material, in particular from a black plastic.
  • An opaque design of the spacer element is special It is also advantageous if the front cap is backlit.
  • the spacer element is then designed to be multifunctional, since it is also designed as a visual cover and thus as a light-scattering element. Furthermore, the coupling rod and the like cannot be seen from outside.
  • the spacer element is advantageously arranged in an upper region and is thus positioned in an upper half of the length of the contour of the opening viewed in the circumferential direction.
  • the spacer element is made from POM (polyoxymethylene) or an elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • POM polyoxymethylene
  • elastomer in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • This configuration provides a very lightweight component which can also be produced in a simple manner.
  • it is not electrically conductive, temperature-resistant and insensitive to liquids and other dirt.
  • the advantage of a very high sliding property is achieved in this way, so that the front cap resting against it and rotating relative to it experiences a very low frictional resistance and can thus be rotated very smoothly and without jerks.
  • the spacer element has an integrated light guide coupling for mechanical connection to a light guide.
  • a certain pre-equipment is created in an integrated manner in order to establish a mechanical connection with such a light guide.
  • control element or the control knob has a light guide which extends through an opening in the control panel.
  • the then fixedly arranged light guide which is then preferably held securely in position in the control panel and preferably extends on both sides of the plate-shaped control panel, then also serves in particular as a carrier or holder for the spacer element. This is then achieved by the coupling between the light guide coupling of the spacer element and the light guide.
  • the control panel can be made of glass, for example. However, it can also be made of metal or plastic.
  • the decorative panel is preferably designed as a thin-walled, flat element, for example as a plate. In this context, it can be made of metal or it can be a film that represents a corresponding metal application.
  • the front cap is preferably designed as a cylinder which has a front wall and a jacket wall adjoining it. With regard to its cylindrical configuration, the front cap is designed to be open and hollow towards the control panel.
  • the coupling rod is connected to electronics of the operating device, by means of which the rotational position and the associated position are then determined
  • the coupling rod is non-rotatably connected to the front cap.
  • the directions ā€œin the width directionā€, ā€œin the height directionā€, ā€œin the depth directionā€, ā€œaboveā€, ā€œbelowā€, ā€œfrontā€, ā€œrearā€, ā€œfrontā€, ā€œrearā€ etc. relate to the condition of a properly used Control device and a household appliance set up for conventional use, the door of which is arranged at the front for a viewer and the rear at the rear.
  • a front view of a household appliance 1 is shown, which is designed for preparing food and is, for example, an oven.
  • the household appliance 1 comprises a housing 2 in which a muffle 3 is arranged which delimits a cooking space 4 by walls. A front opening of the muffle 3 and thus also of a cooking chamber 4 can be closed by a door 5.
  • the household appliance 1 also has an operating device 6, which is only to be understood as an example with regard to the design and local position.
  • the operating device 6 comprises with respect to the number of operating elements 7 and a display unit 8 are to be understood as being only exemplary.
  • At least one operating element 7 is a rotary knob 9, and the operating elements 7 are preferably all rotary knobs.
  • the control knob 9 is about an axis of rotation A ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ) rotatable, which also represents the longitudinal axis of the control knob 9, with various operating conditions of the household appliance 1 being set or selected depending on the rotary position.
  • the manually rotatable control knob 9 comprises, as shown in FIG Fig. 2 , in which some components of the operating device 6 are shown in perspective, a front cap 10.
  • the front cap 10 is cylindrical and has a front wall 10a and an adjoining jacket wall 10b.
  • the operating device 6 also comprises an operating panel 11, which is designed as a plate and the housing 2 is designed to close on the front.
  • the control panel 11 can be made of glass, for example.
  • the control panel 11 has an opening 12 for the control knob 9 in the form of a corner-free, in particular round hole through which a coupling rod coupled to the front cap 10 extends, the coupling rod being coupled to electronics (not shown) of the operating device 6 to the effect that a Rotational position of the front cap 10 and thus also the coupling rod is recognized.
  • FIG. 2 a situation is shown in which the front caps of the control knobs are removed on the left and right and the coupling rods are also not visible, but the openings 12 in the support plate or the control panel 11 are shown. In the middle control knob 9, however, the front cap 10 is shown in its end position.
  • the front cap 10 ends with a rear end 13 viewed in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis A and thus a rear edge of the jacket wall 10b viewed in the axial direction in front of a front side 11a of the control panel 11.
  • the front cap 10 thus extends not into the opening 12.
  • a decorative panel 14 is applied to the front side 11a, in particular connected directly to the front side 11a.
  • the decorative panel 14 is flat and plate-like and can, for example, be glued to the front side 11a. However, a different fastening can also be provided.
  • the decorative panel 14 can, however, also be a film, for example, and in particular represents a metal application.
  • the decorative panel 14 is thus formed with a metallic appearance on its front side 14a. As in Fig. 2 As can be seen, the decorative panel 14 extends around an opening 12 only in some areas with regard to the size of the hole in the opening 12.
  • this decorative panel 14 extends viewed in the vertical direction and thus in the y-direction only partially over the height of the opening 12, in particular coming from below at most up to half the diameter of the opening 12.
  • the decorative panel 14 thus directly adjoins an opening 12 or the openings 12. Viewed in the area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, the decorative panel 14 therefore only surrounds an opening 12 in some areas.
  • the decorative panel 14 is designed, as it were, as a separate component from the control panel 11 and is arranged thereon.
  • a spacer element 15, which is separate from the front cap 10 and the decorative panel 14, is also assigned to an operating element or an operating toggle.
  • a one-piece spacer element 15 is arcuate and represents only a ring section.
  • a spacer element 15 is at most designed as a semicircle.
  • the spacer element 15 is in the opening 12 arranged and permanently positioned. The cap 10 can therefore rotate relative to the spacer element 15.
  • the size of a spacer element 15 is dependent on the extent of the decorative panel 14, so that the size of the spacer element 15 is preferably adapted to the area that is not covered by the decorative panel 14.
  • a spacer element 15 is formed so that it does not overlap with respect to the decorative panel 14.
  • a spacer element 15, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A extends further forward starting from the front side 11a of the control panel 11 and thus extends further away from the front side 11a than the decorative panel 14
  • the end 13 of the front cap 10 in the assembled final state is arranged at a distance from the front side 14a of the decorative panel 14. During rotational movements, the front cap 10 and in particular the rear end 13 therefore do not touch the front side 14 a of the decorative panel 14.
  • a spacer element 15 rests against a delimiting wall 16 delimiting the opening 12.
  • the spacer element 15 extends into the opening 12 in regions and rests flat against the delimiting wall 16 with a partial region, in particular a rear axial web.
  • a spacer element 15 in the basic state and thus in the unmounted state has a larger radius than an opening 12.
  • a radially pretensioned state of the spacer element 15 can then be achieved in the inserted state, so that the spacer element 15 then quasi presses against the boundary wall 16 and is held therein by this bias.
  • the operating device 6 has at least one operating toggle 9 which is illuminated.
  • the front cap 10 is backlit.
  • a light guide 17 extends in the direction of the front cap 10, coming from the rear, and decouples light from the rear into the front cap 10.
  • Fig. 2 two different geometries of light guides 17 are shown, whereby different lighting scenarios one Front cap 10 are enabled.
  • the front cap 10 can then have different translucent areas, so that different illuminations of these areas are made possible.
  • a light guide is preferably arranged in a fixed position on the control panel 11 and extends through an opening through the control panel 11 and extends on both sides of the control panel 11.
  • a spacer element 15 can also be held on a light guide 17 in addition to or instead of the pretensioned holder in the opening 12.
  • a spacer element 15 can have an integrated holder or a light guide coupling 18, by means of which a mechanical connection with a light guide 17 is made possible and thus holding by the light guide 17 is achieved.
  • a spacer element 15 is arranged in an orientation viewed in the direction of rotation about the axis A in an upper azimuthal length half of the opening 12.
  • a spacer element 15 with the relevant position then also serves as a stray light protection element. Light decoupled from the light guide can then not penetrate to the outside between gaps between the rear end 13 and the front side 11a.
  • a spacer element 15 is therefore preferably at least partially, in particular completely, made of an opaque material. This can be a black plastic, for example.
  • the spacer element 15 is preferably made of POM or an elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a front cap 10 shown from the rear.
  • the hollow geometry can be seen.
  • On an inside of the front wall 10a is a Coupling piece 19 formed in an integrated manner, with which the coupling rod already explained is coupled.
  • a radially inwardly offset structure 20 is formed on an inner side of the jacket wall 10b, which, viewed in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, is offset inwardly compared to the rear end 13 or is formed closer to the front wall 10a is than the rear end 13.
  • a mechanical coupling or contact with the spacer element 20 is achieved through this structure 20, so that in this regard an axial stop of the front cap 10 on the spacer element 15 is also achieved.
  • the configuration of the structure 20 in the axial direction is also designed in particular in such a way that the rear end 13 is spaced apart from the front side 14a in the assembled final state.
  • the operating toggle 9 By designing the operating toggle 9 with such a spacer element 15, in addition to avoiding scratching of the decorative panel 14, the occurrence of grinding noises can also be avoided. In particular, slight inclinations of the front cap 10 can thereby also be avoided or gaps between the front cap 10 and the control panel 11 can be minimized.
  • a first embodiment of a spacer element 15 is shown in a perspective view, which is formed in one piece.
  • This arcuate part comprises a front axial web 21 oriented in the axial direction (in the direction of the longitudinal axis A).
  • a rear axial web 22 ( Fig. 5 ) educated.
  • a radial web 23 is formed, which thus extends in a surface perpendicular to the axis A.
  • a holding element 24 and 25, respectively, are formed on opposite ends 15a and 15b of the rear axial web 22.
  • the holding elements 24 and 25 are, for example, snap elements, such as snap hooks or resilient hook elements. They are directed radially outwards, so that in the inserted state, as shown in Fig. 2 shown in the left-hand and right-hand configurations Snapping behind the opening 12 is enabled. This means that the delimitation wall 16 of an opening 12 is engaged from behind by these holding elements 24 and 25 and lies against a rear side opposite the front side 11a.
  • a front edge of the front axial web 21 rests on the structure 20.
  • a further embodiment of a spacer element 15 is shown in a first perspective illustration.
  • the light guide coupling 18 is designed differently. This is designed in such a way that it is designed for light guides 17, as shown in FIG Fig. 2 are shown in the implementation on the left.
  • the execution of the optical fiber coupling 18, as it is in the case of the spacer element 15 according to FIGS. 4 and 5 is for light guides 17 as shown in FIG Fig. 2 are realized in the left-hand configuration.
  • There the outer contour of the light guide 17 is angular, in particular square, preferably trapezoidal, at least in the coupling area which is provided with the spacer element 15.
  • the light guide 17 is designed like a pin in the area of the intended coupling with the spacer element 15, preferably cylindrical.
  • a run-on bevel 26 of a radial outer side of the front axial web 21 is formed, which extends only partially over the azimuthal length of the front axial web 21, preferably over a quarter of the azimuthal length of this front axial web 21.
  • This run-up bevel 26 prevents the front cap 10 from jamming or spreading during a rotary movement about the axis A on the spacer element 15.
  • radial guidance during the rotational movement of the front cap 10 relative to the spacer element 15 is also achieved, so that an extremely positionally accurate arrangement is maintained here as well.
  • FIG. 7 Another embodiment of a spacer element 15 is shown. This is particularly different from Fig. 6 Another different shape of the light guide coupling 18 is shown. In contrast to the statements according to FIGS. 4 to 6 a downwardly closed light guide coupling 18 is formed here, so that a coupling bottom 18a is also formed. This also prevents stray light radiation downwards in an improved manner.
  • a spacer element 15 also has a drainage channel which is formed on the front axial web 21.
  • a drainage channel 27 is for example in the embodiment in Fig. 6 shown.
  • the front axial web 21 is formed undercut, so that such a drainage channel 27 is formed in particular between the front side of the radial web 23 and a front free edge of the front axial web 21.
  • liquid reaching the spacer element 15 from the front side 11a can reach the drainage channel 27 via the radial web 23 and can then be drained off laterally via this drainage channel 27 due to the shape of the spacer element 15. Penetration of this liquid into the opening 12 and from there possibly to electronic components of the operating device 6 is prevented.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Rotary Switch, Piano Key Switch, And Lever Switch (AREA)
  • Food-Manufacturing Devices (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Bedienvorrichtung fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt mit einer Bedienblende und einem an der Bedienblende angeordneten Bedienknebel, der zur Einstellung von Betriebsbedingungen des HaushaltsgerƤts um eine Drehachse drehbar gelagert ist. Der Bedienknebel weist eine Frontkappe auf, die in Richtung einer LƤngsachse des Bedienknebels gegenĆ¼ber einer Frontseite der Bedienblende nach vorne Ć¼berstehend angeordnet ist und mit einem hinteren Ende vor einer Frontseite der Bedienblende endet. Die Frontkappe ist mit einer Koppelstange verbunden, wobei sich die Koppelstange durch eine Ɩffnung der Bedienblende erstreckt. Des Weiteren betrifft die Erfindung auch ein HaushaltsgerƤt mit einer derartigen Bedienvorrichtung.The invention relates to an operating device for a household appliance with an operating panel and an operating knob which is arranged on the operating panel and which is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation for setting operating conditions of the household appliance. The control knob has a front cap which is arranged in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the control knob protruding towards the front opposite a front side of the control panel and ends with a rear end in front of a front side of the control panel. The front cap is connected to a coupling rod, the coupling rod extending through an opening in the control panel. The invention also relates to a household appliance with such an operating device.

HaushaltsgerƤte sind beispielsweise zum Zubereiten von Lebensmitteln bekannt und kƶnnen ein Backofen ein MikrowellengerƤt oder ein DampfgargerƤt sein. Ein HaushaltsgerƤt kann jedoch auch beispielsweise zur Pflege von WƤschestĆ¼cken ausgebildet sein und in dem Zusammenhang ein WƤschetrockner oder eine Waschmaschine oder ein Waschtrockner sein. Ebenso kann ein HaushaltsgerƤt beispielsweise zum Reinigen von Geschirr ausgebildet sein und in dem Zusammenhang ein GeschirrspĆ¼ler sein. Ebenso ist es mƶglich, dass das HaushaltsgerƤt zum Lagern und Konservieren von Lebensmitteln ausgebildet ist und beispielsweise ein KĆ¼hlgerƤt oder ein GefriergerƤt oder ein KĆ¼hl-Gefrier-KombigerƤt ist.Household appliances are known, for example, for the preparation of food and can be an oven, a microwave or a steam cooker. A household appliance can, however, also be designed, for example, to care for items of laundry and, in this context, be a tumble dryer or a washing machine or a washer-dryer. Likewise, a household appliance can be designed, for example, to clean dishes and, in this context, be a dishwasher. It is also possible that the household appliance is designed for storing and preserving food and is, for example, a refrigerator or a freezer or a combined refrigerator-freezer.

Eine Bedienvorrichtung mit einem derartigen Bedienknebel ist beispielsweise aus der DE 10 2005 023 159 A1 und aus der US 3 534 706 A bekannt.An operating device with such an operating knob is, for example, from DE 10 2005 023 159 A1 and from the U.S. 3,534,706 A known.

Bei bekannten Ausgestaltungen ist eine Frontseite einer Bedienblende im Hinblick auf die materielle Ausgestaltung sehr eingeschrƤnkt realisierbar. Die Drehbarkeit der Frontkappe eines derartigen Bedienknebels ist daher Ć¼blicherweise auch nur bedingt eingeschrƤnkt. Es ist Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, eine Bedienvorrichtung sowie ein HaushaltsgerƤt mit einer derartigen Bedienvorrichtung zu schaffen, bei welcher beziehungsweise bei welchem die frontseitige Ausgestaltung einer Bedienblende variabler ist und die Drehbarkeit des Bedienknebels dadurch nicht eingeschrƤnkt ist.In known configurations, a front side of an operating panel can be implemented to a very limited extent with regard to the material configuration. The rotatability of the front cap of such a control knob is therefore usually only restricted to a limited extent. The object of the present invention is to create an operating device and a household appliance with such an operating device, in which or in which the front-side configuration of an operating panel is more variable and the rotatability of the operating knob is not restricted as a result.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Bedienvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1 gelƶst.This object is achieved by an operating device according to claim 1.

Eine erfindungsgemƤƟe Bedienvorrichtung fĆ¼r ein HaushaltsgerƤt umfasst eine Bedienblende. Des Weiteren umfasst die Bedienvorrichtung einen Bedienknebel, der zur Einstellung von Betriebsbedingungen des HaushaltsgerƤts ausgebildet ist und der an der Bedienblende um eine Drehachse drehbar gelagert ist. Der Bedienknebel weist als Bauteil eine Frontkappe auf, die in Richtung einer LƤngsachse des Bedienknebels, die parallel oder koaxial zur Drehachse ist, gegenĆ¼ber einer Frontseite der Bedienblende nach vorne Ć¼berstehend angeordnet ist und mit einem hinteren Ende vor der Frontseite der Bedienblende endet. Die Frontkappe ist mit einer Koppelstange verbunden, welche sich durch eine Ɩffnung in der Bedienblende erstreckt. Ein wesentlicher Gedanke der Erfindung ist darin zu sehen, dass an der Frontseite der Bedienblende eine Dekorblende angeordnet ist, die an die Ɩffnung der Bedienblende angrenzend angeordnet ist. DarĆ¼ber hinaus ist die Dekorblende die Ɩffnung der Bedienblende nur teilweise umgebend angeordnet. Im Bereich der Ɩffnung ist ein als separates Teil ausgebildetes Distanzelement der Bedienvorrichtung angeordnet, durch welches das hintere Ende der Frontkappe in Richtung der LƤngsachse betrachtet zu der Dekorblende beabstandet angeordnet ist. Durch eine derartige Ausgestaltung einer Bedienvorrichtung kann die Frontseite der BedienflƤche nicht nur einheitlich gestaltet werden, sondern in vielfƤltiger Weise variabilisiert werden. Dies kann im Hinblick auf die Dekordarstellung zu optisch vielfƤltigen Ausgestaltungen fĆ¼hren. Durch die Dekorblende erfolgt eine teilweise Bedeckung der Bedienblende, was farblich und/oder materiell zu hoher FlexibilitƤt und VariabilitƤt fĆ¼hrt. DarĆ¼ber hinaus kann durch dieses zusƤtzliche Bauteil in Form der Dekorblende auch abhƤngig von deren GrĆ¶ĆŸe dieses optische Erscheinungsbild der Frontseite der Bedienblende individuell gestaltet werden. Dadurch lassen sich auch zonal unterschiedlich gestaltete Frontseiten einer Bedienblende realisieren, so dass beispielsweise bei transparenter AusfĆ¼hrung der Bedienblende durch die Dekorblende eine blickdichte Abdeckung ausgebildet werden kann.An operating device according to the invention for a household appliance comprises an operating panel. Furthermore, the operating device comprises an operating toggle which is designed to set operating conditions of the domestic appliance and which is mounted on the operating panel so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation. The control knob has as a component a front cap which is arranged in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the control knob, which is parallel or coaxial to the axis of rotation, opposite a front side of the control panel protruding forward and ends with a rear end in front of the front side of the control panel. The front cap is connected to a coupling rod which extends through an opening in the control panel. An essential idea of the invention is to be seen in the fact that a decorative panel is arranged on the front side of the control panel, which is arranged adjacent to the opening of the control panel. In addition, the decorative panel is arranged only partially surrounding the opening of the control panel. In the area of the opening, a separate part of the operating device spacer element is arranged, through which the rear end of the front cap, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, is arranged at a distance from the decorative panel. With such a configuration of an operating device, the front of the operating surface can not only be designed uniformly, but can also be varied in many ways. This can lead to optically diverse configurations with regard to the display of the decor. The decorative panel partially covers the control panel, which leads to a high degree of flexibility and variability in terms of color and / or material. In addition, this additional component in the form of the decorative panel can also be used to individually design this visual appearance of the front of the control panel, depending on its size. As a result, front sides of an operating panel that are designed differently in terms of zones can also be implemented, so that, for example, if the operating panel is of a transparent design, the decorative panel can be used to form an opaque cover.

Da eine derartige Dekorblende als separates Zusatzteil zur Bedienblende dann in axialer Richtung und somit in Richtung der LƤngsachse des Bedienelements auch quasi eine gewisse frontseitige Verdickung darstellt, ist in dem Bereich der Ɩffnung und diesbezĆ¼glich somit auch in axialer Richtung ein gewisser materieller Sprung beziehungsweise eine Stufe ausgebildet. WĆ¼rde sich daher in dem Zusammenhang dann die Frontkappe bis zur Bedienblende erstrecken, wĆ¼rde das hintere Ende der Frontkappe bei einer Drehbewegung dann diese Dekorblende berĆ¼hren beziehungsweise daran schleifen und reiben, sodass die Dekorblende dadurch auch beeintrƤchtigt werden kƶnnte. Dazu ist das zusƤtzliche separate Bauteil in Form des Distanzelements vorgesehen, sodass auch ein derartiges unmittelbares BerĆ¼hren der Dekorblende durch die Frontkappe verhindert ist.Since such a decorative panel, as a separate additional part to the control panel, then also virtually represents a certain front thickening in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the control element, a certain material jump or step is formed in the area of the opening and, in this regard, also in the axial direction . If, in this context, the front cap were to extend up to the control panel, the rear end of the front cap would then touch this decorative panel during a rotary movement, or rub against it, so that the decorative panel could also be impaired as a result. For this purpose, the additional separate component is provided in the form of the spacer element, so that such direct contact with the decorative panel is prevented by the front cap.

Es ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement einstĆ¼ckig ausgebildet ist und ein Ringabschnitt ist. Das Distanzelement ist somit kein vollstƤndig geschlossener Ring, sondern es stellt nur einen Teilbogen dar. Insbesondere ist dieses Distanzelement sich maximal als Halbkreis erstreckend ausgebildet. Durch eine derartige Ausgestaltung des Distanzelements als Ringabschnitt wird Material eingespart, da das Distanzelement bezĆ¼glich seiner FunktionalitƤt und Ausgestaltung nicht vollumfƤnglich umlaufend benƶtigt wird, da nur in dem Bereich, in dem die Dekorblende um die Ɩffnung ausgebildet ist, eine Verdickung auftritt und somit nur in dem Bereich der Bedienblende um die Ɩffnung herum, in dem die Dekorblende nicht angeordnet ist, eine axiale grĆ¶ĆŸere Distanzierung erforderlich ist.It is provided that the spacer element is formed in one piece and is a ring section. The spacer element is therefore not a completely closed ring, but rather it represents only a partial arc. In particular, this spacer element is designed to extend at most as a semicircle. Such a design of the spacer element as a ring section saves material, since the spacer element is not required completely circumferentially with regard to its functionality and design, since a thickening occurs only in the area in which the decorative panel is formed around the opening and thus only in the Area of the control panel around the opening in which the decorative panel is not arranged, a greater axial spacing is required.

Des Weiteren ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement an einer die Ɩffnung begrenzenden Innenwand anliegt. Dadurch kann eine mechanisch stabilisierende Befestigung ermƶglicht werden.Furthermore, it is provided that the spacer element rests against an inner wall delimiting the opening. This enables a mechanically stabilizing fastening.

Des Weiteren ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement radial vorgespannt in der Ɩffnung gehalten ist. Dies ist vorgesehen, sodass auch dadurch die Halterung und Befestigung des Distanzelements in der Ɩffnung verbessert ist. Durch eine derartige Ausgestaltung ist das Distanzelement im Grundzustand mit einem grĆ¶ĆŸeren Radius ausgebildet, als dies die Ɩffnung aufweist, die insbesondere eckenfrei, vorzugsweise kreisrund ausgebildet ist. Indem dann das Distanzelement bei der Montage zusammengedrĆ¼ckt und in die Ɩffnung eingefĆ¼hrt wird und dann wieder losgelassen wird, verspreizt sich dieses Distanzelement radial an der Ɩffnung und liegt in dem Zusammenhang vorgespannt an einer Innenseite beziehungsweise Begrenzungswand, die die Ɩffnung begrenzt, an.Furthermore, it is provided that the spacer element is held radially pretensioned in the opening. This is provided so that the holding and fastening of the spacer element in the opening is also improved as a result. With such a configuration, the spacer element in the basic state is designed with a larger radius than the opening has, which is designed in particular without corners, preferably circular. By then compressing the spacer element during assembly and inserting it into the opening and then releasing it again, this spacer element expands radially on the opening and in this connection is pretensioned against an inner side or delimitation wall which delimits the opening.

In besonders vorteilhafter Weise ist vorgesehen, dass in einer FlƤche senkrecht zur LƤngsachse betrachtet das Distanzelement und die Dekorblende Ć¼berlappungsfrei angeordnet sind. Dies bedeutet, dass umlaufend um die LƤngsachse betrachtet kein Bereich vorliegt, bei dem sich das Distanzelement Ć¼ber die Dekorblende erstrecken wĆ¼rde beziehungsweise diese Ć¼berdecken wĆ¼rde. Zum einen werden dadurch die bereits oben genannten Vorteile verstƤrkt. Zum anderen ist es dadurch dann auch vermieden, dass die Dekorblende durch das Distanzelement beschƤdigt werden wĆ¼rde oder beispielsweise verkratzt werden wĆ¼rde.In a particularly advantageous manner, it is provided that, viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the spacer element and the decorative panel are arranged without overlapping. This means that, viewed circumferentially around the longitudinal axis, there is no area in which the spacer element would extend over the decorative panel or would cover it. On the one hand, this increases the advantages already mentioned above. On the other hand, it is then also avoided that the decorative panel would be damaged by the spacer element or, for example, would be scratched.

Insbesondere ist in Richtung der LƤngsachse betrachtet das Distanzelement ausgehend von der Frontseite der Bedienblende betrachtet sich weiter nach vorne erstreckend ausgebildet, als die Dekorblende. Die FunktionalitƤt der axialen Beabstandung zwischen der Dekorblende und dem hinteren Ende der Frontkappe ist dadurch im besonderen MaƟe erreicht.In particular, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, the spacer element, viewed from the front side of the control panel, is designed to extend further forward than the decorative panel. The functionality of the axial spacing between the decorative panel and the rear end of the front cap is achieved to a particular degree.

In vorteilhafter Weise ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement einen in Richtung der LƤngsachse betrachtet hinteren Axialsteg aufweist, der in die Ɩffnung eintauchend angeordnet ist. Die stabile und sichere Halterung ist dadurch nochmals verbessert.It is advantageously provided that the spacer element has a rear axial web, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, which is arranged so as to dip into the opening. This further improves the stable and secure mounting.

Insbesondere ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement einen vorderen Axialsteg aufweist, der sich in Richtung der LƤngsachse betrachtet somit von der Bedienblende nach vorne hin erstreckt, wobei sich dieser vordere Axialsteg axial weiter nach vorne erstreckt als die Dekorblende. Insbesondere bildet somit dieser vordere Axialsteg auch ein Hauptelement, welches die axiale Distanzierung des hinteren Endes der Frontkappe zur Dekorblende begĆ¼nstigt.In particular, it is provided that the spacer element has a front axial web which, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, thus extends forward from the control panel, this front axial web extending axially further forward than the decorative panel. In particular, this front axial web thus also forms a main element which promotes the axial spacing of the rear end of the front cap from the decorative panel.

Vorzugsweise ist vorgesehen, dass der vordere Axialsteg eine azimutal und somit um die LƤngsachse umlaufend orientierte AnlaufschrƤge fĆ¼r die Drehbewegung der Frontkappe aufweist. Diese AnlaufschrƤge erstreckt sich insbesondere nur Ć¼ber eine TeillƤnge, maximal um die HƤlfte der azimutalen LƤnge des vorderen Axialstegs, vorzugsweise maximal Ć¼ber ein Drittel der azimutalen LƤnge des vorderen Axialstegs. Zum Verklemmen oder Verspreizen der Frontkappe bei einer Drehbewegung relativ zu diesem vorderen Axialsteg und somit relativ zu dem ortsfest an der Bedienblende angeordneten Distanzelement ist dadurch verhindert. Eine ƤuƟerst ruckfreie und kontinuierliche Relativbewegung und somit Drehbewegung der Frontkappe zum Distanzelement ist dadurch ermƶglicht.It is preferably provided that the front axial web has an azimuthally oriented run-on bevel for the rotary movement of the front cap, which is thus oriented circumferentially around the longitudinal axis. This run-up bevel extends in particular only over a partial length, at most by half the azimuthal length of the front axial web, preferably at most over a third of the azimuthal length of the front axial web. To jam or spreading of the front cap in the event of a rotary movement relative to this front axial web and thus relative to the spacer element arranged in a stationary manner on the control panel is prevented. This enables an extremely jolt-free and continuous relative movement and thus a rotary movement of the front cap to the spacer element.

Vorzugsweise ist vorgesehen, dass der vordere Axialsteg an einer AuƟenseite eine Ablaufrinne aufweist. Dadurch kƶnnen FlĆ¼ssigkeiten, die an der Bedienblende beziehungsweise an deren Frontseite ablaufen oder abtropfen und zum Distanzelement gelangen, zielgerichtet abgeleitet werden, ohne dass sie hinter die Frontkappe und von dort gegebenenfalls zu elektronischen Bauteilen der Bedienvorrichtung gelangen kƶnnten.It is preferably provided that the front axial web has a drainage channel on an outside. As a result, liquids that run off or drip off the control panel or its front side and reach the spacer element can be drained away in a targeted manner without being able to get behind the front cap and from there to electronic components of the control device.

Vorzugsweise weist das Distanzelement einen Radialsteg auf, der an der Frontseite anliegt. Dieser Radialsteg ist somit in radialer Richtung orientiert und bildet in dem Zusammenhang vorzugsweise einen Anschlag beziehungsweise eine Anlage an der Frontseite der Bedienblende. Durch den Radialsteg ist darĆ¼ber hinaus das bogenfƶrmige Distanzelement auch in sich versteift, sodass insbesondere ein Axialsteg oder mehrere Axialstege gestĆ¼tzt sind.The spacer element preferably has a radial web which rests on the front side. This radial web is thus oriented in the radial direction and in this connection preferably forms a stop or a contact on the front of the control panel. In addition, the arcuate spacer element is also internally stiffened by the radial web, so that in particular one axial web or several axial webs are supported.

Vorzugsweise ist der Radialsteg in einer Ebene senkrecht zur LƤngsachse sichelfƶrmig ausgebildet, sodass hier auch ein insbesondere eckenfreies EinmĆ¼nden an den Enden des Radialstegs in das Distanzelement erfolgt.The radial web is preferably designed in a sickle-shaped manner in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, so that here also a particularly corner-free opening into the spacer element at the ends of the radial web.

Vorzugsweise ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement Halteelemente aufweist, die zum Befestigen des Distanzelements an der Bedienblende, insbesondere an der Ɩffnung, vorgesehen sind. Vorzugsweise kƶnnen diese Halteelemente Schnappelemente oder beispielsweise federnde Haken oder dergleichen sein. Dadurch wird die Befestigung des Distanzelements im Bereich der Ɩffnung verbessert.It is preferably provided that the spacer element has holding elements which are provided for fastening the spacer element to the control panel, in particular to the opening. These holding elements can preferably be snap elements or, for example, resilient hooks or the like. This improves the fastening of the spacer element in the area of the opening.

Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass das Distanzelement aus einem lichtundurchlƤssigen Material ausgebildet ist, insbesondere aus einem schwarzen Kunststoff ist. Eine lichtundurchlƤssige Ausgestaltung des Distanzelements ist von besonderer Vorteilhaftigkeit auch dann, wenn die Frontkappe hinterleuchtet ist. In dem Zusammenhang ist dann das Distanzelement multifunktionell ausgebildet, da es auch als Sichtabdeckung und somit als Streulichtschutzelement gestaltet ist. Des Weiteren kann von auƟen nicht auf die Koppelstange und dergleichen geblickt werden.It can be provided that the spacer element is formed from an opaque material, in particular from a black plastic. An opaque design of the spacer element is special It is also advantageous if the front cap is backlit. In this context, the spacer element is then designed to be multifunctional, since it is also designed as a visual cover and thus as a light-scattering element. Furthermore, the coupling rod and the like cannot be seen from outside.

In vorteilhafter Weise ist das Distanzelement bei einer eckenfreien Ausgestaltung der Ɩffnung in einem oberen Bereich angeordnet und somit in einer oberen LƤngenhƤlfte der in Umlaufrichtung betrachteten Kontur der Ɩffnung positioniert. Dadurch wird gerade dann, wenn auch die Ausgestaltung der Bedienvorrichtung in einer hinterleuchtbaren Frontkappe gegeben ist, ein besonders effizienter Streulichtschutz nach oben und zur Seite hin ermƶglicht, sodass auch ein Beobachter diesbezĆ¼glich nicht geblendet wird.In the case of a corner-free configuration of the opening, the spacer element is advantageously arranged in an upper region and is thus positioned in an upper half of the length of the contour of the opening viewed in the circumferential direction. As a result, especially when the design of the operating device is given in a backlit front cap, particularly efficient protection against scattered light upwards and to the side is made possible, so that an observer is not blinded in this regard either.

Vorzugsweise ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement aus POM (Polyoxymethylen) oder einem Elastomer, insbesondere einem thermoplastischen Elastomer, ausgebildet ist. Durch diese Ausgestaltung ist ein sehr leichtgewichtiges Bauteil bereitgestellt, welches auch einfach hergestellt werden kann. DarĆ¼ber hinaus ist es auch nicht elektrisch leitend, temperaturbestƤndig und gegenĆ¼ber FlĆ¼ssigkeiten und sonstigem Schmutz unempfindlich. Insbesondere ist dadurch der Vorteil einer sehr hohen Gleiteigenschaft erreicht, so dass die daran anliegende und sich relativ dazu drehende Frontkappe einen sehr geringen Reibwiderstand erfƤhrt und sich somit sehr leichtgƤngig und ruckfrei drehen lƤsst.It is preferably provided that the spacer element is made from POM (polyoxymethylene) or an elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer. This configuration provides a very lightweight component which can also be produced in a simple manner. In addition, it is not electrically conductive, temperature-resistant and insensitive to liquids and other dirt. In particular, the advantage of a very high sliding property is achieved in this way, so that the front cap resting against it and rotating relative to it experiences a very low frictional resistance and can thus be rotated very smoothly and without jerks.

In vorteilhafter Weise ist vorgesehen, dass das Distanzelement integriert eine Lichtleiterkopplung zum mechanischen Verbinden mit einem Lichtleiter aufweist. Dadurch ist auch einstĆ¼ckig integriert eine gewisse VorrĆ¼stung geschaffen, um eine mechanische Verbindung mit einem derartigen Lichtleiter herzustellen.It is advantageously provided that the spacer element has an integrated light guide coupling for mechanical connection to a light guide. As a result, a certain pre-equipment is created in an integrated manner in order to establish a mechanical connection with such a light guide.

Bei einer vorteilhaften AusfĆ¼hrung ist vorgesehen, dass das Bedienelement beziehungsweise der Bedienknebel einen Lichtleiter aufweist, der sich durch eine Ɩffnung in der Bedienblende erstreckt. Der dann ortsfest angeordnete Lichtleiter, der dann vorzugsweise positionssicher in der Bedienblende gehalten ist und sich vorzugsweise beidseits der plattenfƶrmigen Bedienblende erstreckt, dient dann auch insbesondere als TrƤger beziehungsweise Halter fĆ¼r das Distanzelement. Dies ist dann durch die Kopplung zwischen der Lichtleiterkopplung des Distanzelements und dem Lichtleiter erreicht.In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the control element or the control knob has a light guide which extends through an opening in the control panel. The then fixedly arranged light guide, which is then preferably held securely in position in the control panel and preferably extends on both sides of the plate-shaped control panel, then also serves in particular as a carrier or holder for the spacer element. This is then achieved by the coupling between the light guide coupling of the spacer element and the light guide.

Die Bedienblende kann beispielsweise aus Glas ausgebildet sein. Sie kann jedoch auch aus Metall oder Kunststoff ausgebildet sein. Die Dekorblende ist vorzugsweise als dĆ¼nnwandiges flƤchiges Element, beispielsweise als Platte, gestaltet. Sie kann in dem Zusammenhang aus Metall sein oder kann eine Folie sein, die eine entsprechende Metallapplikation darstellt. Die Frontkappe ist vorzugsweise als Zylinder ausgebildet, der eine Frontwand und eine daran angrenzende Mantelwand aufweist. Die Frontkappe ist bezĆ¼glich ihrer zylinderfƶrmigen Ausgestaltung zur Bedienblende hin offen und hohl ausgebildet.The control panel can be made of glass, for example. However, it can also be made of metal or plastic. The decorative panel is preferably designed as a thin-walled, flat element, for example as a plate. In this context, it can be made of metal or it can be a film that represents a corresponding metal application. The front cap is preferably designed as a cylinder which has a front wall and a jacket wall adjoining it. With regard to its cylindrical configuration, the front cap is designed to be open and hollow towards the control panel.

Die Koppelstange ist mit einer Elektronik der Bedienvorrichtung verbunden, mittels welcher dann die Drehstellung und die damit einhergehendeThe coupling rod is connected to electronics of the operating device, by means of which the rotational position and the associated position are then determined

Betriebsbedingungseinstellung erkannt wird. Die Koppelstange ist in dem Zusammenhang drehfest mit der Frontkappe verbunden.Operating condition setting is recognized. In this context, the coupling rod is non-rotatably connected to the front cap.

Die Richtungsangaben "in Breitenrichtung", "in Hƶhenrichtung", "in Tiefenrichtung", "oben", "unten", "vorne", "hinten", "Front", "RĆ¼ck" etc. beziehen sich auf den Zustand einer bestimmungsgemƤƟ verwendeten Bedienvorrichtung und eines zu einer herkƶmmlichen Nutzung aufgestellten HaushaltsgerƤts, dessen TĆ¼r fĆ¼r einen Betrachter vorne angeordnet ist und die RĆ¼ckseite hinten.The directions "in the width direction", "in the height direction", "in the depth direction", "above", "below", "front", "rear", "front", "rear" etc. relate to the condition of a properly used Control device and a household appliance set up for conventional use, the door of which is arranged at the front for a viewer and the rear at the rear.

AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiele der Erfindung werden nachfolgend anhand schematischer Zeichnungen nƤher erlƤutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine Frontansicht eines AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemƤƟen HaushaltsgerƤts;
Fig. 2
eine perspektivische Darstellung von Teilkomponenten eines AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemƤƟen Bedienvorrichtung;
Fig. 3
eine perspektivische RĆ¼ckansicht auf eine Frontkappe eines Bedienknebels der Bedienvorrichtung gemƤƟ Fig. 2;
Fig. 4
eine perspektivische Darstellung eines AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiels eines Distanzelements der Bedienvorrichtung gemƤƟ Fig. 2;
Fig. 5
eine zu Fig. 4 unterschiedliche perspektivische Darstellung des Distanzelements gemƤƟ Fig. 4;
Fig. 6
eine perspektivische Darstellung eines weiteren AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiels eines Distanzelements der Bedienvorrichtung gemƤƟ Fig. 2; und
Fig. 7
eine zu Fig. 6 unterschiedliche perspektivische Darstellung des Distanzelements gemƤƟ Fig. 6.
Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. Show it:
Fig. 1
a front view of an embodiment of a household appliance according to the invention;
Fig. 2
a perspective view of partial components of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention;
Fig. 3
a perspective rear view of a front cap of an operating knob of the operating device according to FIG Fig. 2 ;
Fig. 4
a perspective illustration of an embodiment of a spacer element of the operating device according to FIG Fig. 2 ;
Fig. 5
one to Fig. 4 different perspective illustration of the spacer element according to FIG Fig. 4 ;
Fig. 6
a perspective illustration of a further embodiment of a spacer element of the operating device according to FIG Fig. 2 ; and
Fig. 7
one to Fig. 6 different perspective illustration of the spacer element according to FIG Fig. 6 .

In den Figuren werden gleiche oder funktionsgleiche Elemente mit den gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen.Identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures.

In Fig. 1 ist eine Frontansicht eines HaushaltsgerƤts 1 gezeigt, welches zum Zubereiten von Lebensmitteln ausgebildet ist und beispielsweise ein Backofen ist. Das HaushaltsgerƤt 1 umfasst ein GehƤuse 2, in dem eine Muffel 3 angeordnet ist, die durch WƤnde einen Garraum 4 begrenzt. Eine frontseitige Ɩffnung der Muffel 3 und somit auch eines Garraums 4 ist durch eine TĆ¼r 5 verschlieƟbar. Das HaushaltsgerƤt 1 weist darĆ¼ber hinaus auch eine Bedienvorrichtung 6 auf, die bezĆ¼glich der Ausgestaltung und ƶrtlichen Position lediglich beispielhaft zu verstehen ist. Die Bedienvorrichtung 6 umfasst bezĆ¼glich der Anzahl lediglich beispielhaft zu verstehen Bedienelemente 7 und eine Anzeigeeinheit 8. Zumindest ein Bedienelement 7 ist ein Drehknebel 9, vorzugsweise sind die Bedienelemente 7 allesamt Drehknebel.In Fig. 1 a front view of a household appliance 1 is shown, which is designed for preparing food and is, for example, an oven. The household appliance 1 comprises a housing 2 in which a muffle 3 is arranged which delimits a cooking space 4 by walls. A front opening of the muffle 3 and thus also of a cooking chamber 4 can be closed by a door 5. The household appliance 1 also has an operating device 6, which is only to be understood as an example with regard to the design and local position. The operating device 6 comprises with respect to the number of operating elements 7 and a display unit 8 are to be understood as being only exemplary. At least one operating element 7 is a rotary knob 9, and the operating elements 7 are preferably all rotary knobs.

Der Bedienknebel 9 ist um eine senkrecht zur Figurenebene stehende Drehachse A (Fig. 2 und Fig. 3) drehbar, die auch die LƤngsachse des Bedienknebels 9 darstellt, wobei abhƤngig von der Drehstellung verschiedene Betriebsbedingungen des HaushaltsgerƤts 1 eingestellt sind beziehungsweise ausgewƤhlt sind.The control knob 9 is about an axis of rotation A ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ) rotatable, which also represents the longitudinal axis of the control knob 9, with various operating conditions of the household appliance 1 being set or selected depending on the rotary position.

Der manuell drehbare Bedienknebel 9 umfasst gemƤƟ der Darstellung in Fig. 2, in welcher perspektivisch einige Komponenten der Bedienvorrichtung 6 gezeigt sind, eine Frontkappe 10. Die Frontkappe 10 ist zylinderfƶrmig ausgebildet und weist eine Frontwand 10a und eine daran anschlieƟende Mantelwand 10b auf. Die Bedienvorrichtung 6 umfasst darĆ¼ber hinaus eine Bedienblende 11, die als Platte ausgebildet ist und frontseitig das GehƤuse 2 abschlieƟend ausgebildet ist. Die Bedienblende 11 kann beispielsweise alus Glas ausgebildet sein.The manually rotatable control knob 9 comprises, as shown in FIG Fig. 2 , in which some components of the operating device 6 are shown in perspective, a front cap 10. The front cap 10 is cylindrical and has a front wall 10a and an adjoining jacket wall 10b. The operating device 6 also comprises an operating panel 11, which is designed as a plate and the housing 2 is designed to close on the front. The control panel 11 can be made of glass, for example.

Die Bedienblende 11 weist fĆ¼r den Bedienknebel 9 eine Ɩffnung 12 in Form eines eckenfreien, insbesondere runden Lochs auf, durch die sich eine mit der Frontkappe 10 gekoppelte Koppelstange erstreckt, wobei die Koppelstange mit einer nicht gezeigten Elektronik der Bedienvorrichtung 6 dahingehend gekoppelt ist, dass eine Drehstellung der Frontkappe 10 und somit auch der Koppelstange erkannt wird.The control panel 11 has an opening 12 for the control knob 9 in the form of a corner-free, in particular round hole through which a coupling rod coupled to the front cap 10 extends, the coupling rod being coupled to electronics (not shown) of the operating device 6 to the effect that a Rotational position of the front cap 10 and thus also the coupling rod is recognized.

Zur Verdeutlichung der jeweiligen Ausgestaltungen ist in Fig. 2 eine Situation gezeigt, bei welcher die Frontkappen der Bedienknebel linksseitig und rechtsseitig abgenommen sind und auch die Koppelstangen nicht zu erkennen sind, jedoch die Ɩffnungen 12 in der TrƤgerplatte beziehungsweise der Bedienblende 11 gezeigt sind. Beim mittleren Bedienknebel 9 hingegen ist die Frontkappe 10 in ihrer Endposition dargestellt.To clarify the respective configurations is in Fig. 2 a situation is shown in which the front caps of the control knobs are removed on the left and right and the coupling rods are also not visible, but the openings 12 in the support plate or the control panel 11 are shown. In the middle control knob 9, however, the front cap 10 is shown in its end position.

Die bezĆ¼glich der Ɩffnungen und der Distanzelemente nachfolgenden ErlƤuterungen zu der linksseitigen und rechtsseitigen Darstellung in Fig. 2 bezĆ¼glich der Ɩffnungen 12 gilt auch fĆ¼r die Ɩffnung 12 des mittleren Bedienelements und somit des mittleren Bedienknebels 9. Ebenso gelten dann AusfĆ¼hrungen zu dem Bedienknebel 9 in der Mitte fĆ¼r Bedienknebel, die in der linksseitigen Ɩffnung oder der rechtsseitigen Ɩffnung 12 angeordnet sind beziehungsweise diesbezĆ¼glich davor endend sich erstrecken.The following explanations with regard to the openings and the spacer elements for the illustration on the left and right in FIG Fig. 2 With regard to the openings 12, the same applies to the opening 12 of the central control element and thus of the central control knob 9. The statements on the control knob 9 in the middle then also apply for control toggles that are arranged in the left-hand opening or the right-hand opening 12 or, in this regard, extend in front of it.

Wie in Fig. 2 zu erkennen ist, endet die Frontkappe 10 mit einem in axialer Richtung und somit in Richtung der LƤngsachse A betrachteten hinteren Ende 13 und somit einem hinteren Rand der Mantelwand 10b in axialer Richtung betrachtet vor einer Frontseite 11a der Bedienblende 11. Die Frontkappe 10 erstreckt sich somit nicht in die Ɩffnung 12 hinein.As in Fig. 2 As can be seen, the front cap 10 ends with a rear end 13 viewed in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis A and thus a rear edge of the jacket wall 10b viewed in the axial direction in front of a front side 11a of the control panel 11. The front cap 10 thus extends not into the opening 12.

An der Frontseite 11a ist darĆ¼ber hinaus eine Dekorblende 14 aufgebracht, insbesondere direkt mit der Frontseite 11a verbunden. Die Dekorblende 14 ist flƤchig und plattenartig ausgebildet und kann beispielsweise an der Frontseite 11a angeklebt sein. Es kann jedoch auch eine andere Befestigung vorgesehen sein. Die Dekorblende 14 kann beispielsweise jedoch auch eine Folie sein und stellt insbesondere eine Metallapplikation dar. Somit ist die Dekorblende 14 an ihrer Frontseite 14a metallisch anmutend ausgebildet. Wie in Fig. 2 zu erkennen ist, erstreckt sich die Dekorblende 14 bezĆ¼glich der LochgrĆ¶ĆŸe der Ɩffnung 12 jedoch nur bereichsweise eine Ɩffnung 12 umgreifend. Im gezeigten AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel erstreckt sich diese Dekorblende 14 in Hƶhenrichtung betrachtet und somit in y-Richtung nur bereichsweise Ć¼ber die Hƶhe der Ɩffnung 12, insbesondere maximal von unten her kommend bis zur HƤlfte des Durchmessers der Ɩffnung 12. Die Dekorblende 14 schlieƟt jedoch vorzugsweise direkt an die Begrenzungskontur einer Ɩffnung 12 an. Die Dekorblende 14 grenzt somit unmittelbar an eine Ɩffnung 12 beziehungsweise an die Ɩffnungen 12 an. In der FlƤche senkrecht zur LƤngsachse A betrachtet, umgibt die Dekorblende 14 daher eine Ɩffnung 12 nur bereichsweise.In addition, a decorative panel 14 is applied to the front side 11a, in particular connected directly to the front side 11a. The decorative panel 14 is flat and plate-like and can, for example, be glued to the front side 11a. However, a different fastening can also be provided. The decorative panel 14 can, however, also be a film, for example, and in particular represents a metal application. The decorative panel 14 is thus formed with a metallic appearance on its front side 14a. As in Fig. 2 As can be seen, the decorative panel 14 extends around an opening 12 only in some areas with regard to the size of the hole in the opening 12. In the embodiment shown, this decorative panel 14 extends viewed in the vertical direction and thus in the y-direction only partially over the height of the opening 12, in particular coming from below at most up to half the diameter of the opening 12. The decorative panel 14, however, preferably closes directly on the Boundary contour of an opening 12. The decorative panel 14 thus directly adjoins an opening 12 or the openings 12. Viewed in the area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, the decorative panel 14 therefore only surrounds an opening 12 in some areas.

DarĆ¼ber hinaus ist die Dekorblende 14 quasi als separates Bauteil zur Bedienblende 11 ausgebildet und daran angeordnet.In addition, the decorative panel 14 is designed, as it were, as a separate component from the control panel 11 and is arranged thereon.

Einem Bedienelement beziehungsweise einem Bedienknebel zugeordnet ist darĆ¼ber hinaus auch ein zur Frontkappe 10 und zur Dekorblende 14 separates Distanzelement 15 vorgesehen. Ein einstĆ¼ckiges Distanzelement 15 ist bogenfƶrmig ausgebildet und stellt lediglich einen Ringabschnitt dar. Im AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel ist ein Distanzelement 15 maximal als Halbkreis ausgebildet. Das Distanzelement 15 ist in der Ɩffnung 12 angeordnet und ortsfest positioniert. Die Kappe 10 kann sich daher relativ zum Distanzelement 15 drehen. Wie zu erkennen ist, ist die GrĆ¶ĆŸe eines Distanzelements 15 abhƤngig von der Erstreckung der Dekorblende 14, sodass die GrĆ¶ĆŸe des Distanzelements 15 vorzugsweise angepasst an den Bereich ist, der von der Dekorblende 14 nicht bedeckt ist. Es ist insbesondere vorgesehen, dass in einer Ebene senkrecht zur LƤngsachse A betrachtet ein Distanzelement 15 Ć¼berlappungsfrei zur Dekorblende 14 ausgebildet ist. Insbesondere ist vorgesehen, dass ein Distanzelement 15 in Richtung der LƤngsachse A betrachtet sich ausgehend von der Frontseite 11a der Bedienblende 11 weiter vorne erstreckt und somit weiter sich der Frontseite 11a abgewandt erstreckt, als die Dekorblende 14. Durch diese Ausgestaltung wird erreicht, dass das hintere Ende 13 der Frontkappe 10 im montierten Endzustand beabstandet zu der Frontseite 14a der Dekorblende 14 angeordnet ist. Bei Drehbewegungen berĆ¼hren daher die Frontkappe 10 und insbesondere das hintere Ende 13 die Frontseite 14a der Dekorblende 14 nicht.A spacer element 15, which is separate from the front cap 10 and the decorative panel 14, is also assigned to an operating element or an operating toggle. A one-piece spacer element 15 is arcuate and represents only a ring section. In the exemplary embodiment, a spacer element 15 is at most designed as a semicircle. The spacer element 15 is in the opening 12 arranged and permanently positioned. The cap 10 can therefore rotate relative to the spacer element 15. As can be seen, the size of a spacer element 15 is dependent on the extent of the decorative panel 14, so that the size of the spacer element 15 is preferably adapted to the area that is not covered by the decorative panel 14. In particular, it is provided that, viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, a spacer element 15 is formed so that it does not overlap with respect to the decorative panel 14. In particular, it is provided that a spacer element 15, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, extends further forward starting from the front side 11a of the control panel 11 and thus extends further away from the front side 11a than the decorative panel 14 The end 13 of the front cap 10 in the assembled final state is arranged at a distance from the front side 14a of the decorative panel 14. During rotational movements, the front cap 10 and in particular the rear end 13 therefore do not touch the front side 14 a of the decorative panel 14.

Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass ein Distanzelement 15 an einer die Ɩffnung 12 begrenzenden Begrenzungswand 16 anliegt.It can be provided that a spacer element 15 rests against a delimiting wall 16 delimiting the opening 12.

Es kann in dem Zusammenhang vorgesehen sein, dass das Distanzelement 15 sich somit bereichsweise in die Ɩffnung 12 hinein erstreckt und mit einem Teilbereich, insbesondere einem hinteren Axialsteg, an der Begrenzungswand 16 flƤchig anliegt.In this context, it can be provided that the spacer element 15 extends into the opening 12 in regions and rests flat against the delimiting wall 16 with a partial region, in particular a rear axial web.

Es kann vorgesehen sein, dass ein Distanzelement 15 im Grundzustand und somit im nicht montierten Zustand einen grĆ¶ĆŸeren Radius aufweist als eine Ɩffnung 12. Dadurch kann dann im eingesetzten Zustand ein radial vorgespannter Zustand des Distanzelements 15 erreicht werden, sodass durch diese Ausgestaltung das Distanzelement 15 dann sich quasi an die Begrenzungswand 16 anpresst und durch diese Vorspannung darin gehalten ist.It can be provided that a spacer element 15 in the basic state and thus in the unmounted state has a larger radius than an opening 12. As a result, a radially pretensioned state of the spacer element 15 can then be achieved in the inserted state, so that the spacer element 15 then quasi presses against the boundary wall 16 and is held therein by this bias.

Bei einer vorteilhaften AusfĆ¼hrung ist vorgesehen, dass die Bedienvorrichtung 6 zumindest einen Bedienknebel 9 aufweist, der beleuchtet ist. Dies bedeutet, dass die Frontkappe 10 hinterleuchtet ist. Dazu ist vorzugsweise vorgesehen, dass sich ein Lichtleiter 17 in Richtung der Frontkappe 10 von hinten her kommend erstreckt und Licht von hinten in die Frontkappe 10 auskoppelt. In Fig. 2 sind zwei verschiedene Geometrien von Lichtleitern 17 gezeigt, wodurch unterschiedliche Beleuchtungsszenarien einer Frontkappe 10 ermƶglicht sind. Die Frontkappe 10 kann dann unterschiedliche lichtdurchlƤssige Bereiche aufweisen, sodass unterschiedliche Beleuchtungen dieser Bereiche ermƶglicht sind.In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the operating device 6 has at least one operating toggle 9 which is illuminated. This means that the front cap 10 is backlit. For this purpose, it is preferably provided that a light guide 17 extends in the direction of the front cap 10, coming from the rear, and decouples light from the rear into the front cap 10. In Fig. 2 two different geometries of light guides 17 are shown, whereby different lighting scenarios one Front cap 10 are enabled. The front cap 10 can then have different translucent areas, so that different illuminations of these areas are made possible.

Vorzugsweise ist ein Lichtleiter an der Bedienblende 11 positionsfixiert angeordnet und erstreckt sich durch eine Ɩffnung durch die Bedienblende 11 hindurch und erstreckt sich beidseits der Bedienblende 11.A light guide is preferably arranged in a fixed position on the control panel 11 and extends through an opening through the control panel 11 and extends on both sides of the control panel 11.

Wie in dem AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel in Fig. 2 zu erkennen ist, kann ein Distanzelement 15 zusƤtzlich oder anstatt der vorgespannten Halterung in der Ɩffnung 12 auch an einem Lichtleiter 17 gehalten sein. Dazu kann ein Distanzelement 15 integriert eine Halterung beziehungsweise eine Lichtleiterkopplung 18 aufweisen, durch welche eine mechanische Verbindung mit einem Lichtleiter 17 ermƶglicht ist und dadurch ein Halten durch den Lichtleiter 17 erreicht ist.As in the embodiment in Fig. 2 As can be seen, a spacer element 15 can also be held on a light guide 17 in addition to or instead of the pretensioned holder in the opening 12. For this purpose, a spacer element 15 can have an integrated holder or a light guide coupling 18, by means of which a mechanical connection with a light guide 17 is made possible and thus holding by the light guide 17 is achieved.

In den gezeigten AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispielen ist ein Distanzelement 15 in einer in Umlaufrichtung um die Achse A betrachteten Orientierung in einer oberen azimutalen LƤngenhƤlfte der Ɩffnung 12 angeordnet.In the exemplary embodiments shown, a spacer element 15 is arranged in an orientation viewed in the direction of rotation about the axis A in an upper azimuthal length half of the opening 12.

Gerade dann, wenn eine Beleuchtung der Frontkappe 10 vorgesehen ist, dient ein derartiges Distanzelement 15 mit der diesbezĆ¼glichen Position dann auch als Streulichtschutzelement. Vom Lichtleiter ausgekoppeltes Licht kann dann nicht zwischen Spalten zwischen dem hinteren Ende 13 und der Frontseite 11a nach auƟen dringen.Precisely when the front cap 10 is to be illuminated, such a spacer element 15 with the relevant position then also serves as a stray light protection element. Light decoupled from the light guide can then not penetrate to the outside between gaps between the rear end 13 and the front side 11a.

Vorzugsweise ist ein Distanzelement 15 daher zumindest bereichsweise, insbesondere vollstƤndig, aus einem lichtundurchlƤssigen Material. Dies kann beispielsweise ein schwarzer Kunststoff sein.A spacer element 15 is therefore preferably at least partially, in particular completely, made of an opaque material. This can be a black plastic, for example.

Das Distanzelement 15 ist vorzugsweise aus POM oder einem Elastomer, insbesondere einem thermoplastischen Elastomer.The spacer element 15 is preferably made of POM or an elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.

In Fig. 3 ist eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Frontkappe 10 von hinten gezeigt. Die hohle Geometrie ist zu erkennen. An einer Innenseite der Frontwand 10a ist ein KoppelstĆ¼ck 19 integriert ausgebildet, mit welchem die bereits erlƤuterte Koppelstange gekoppelt ist.In Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a front cap 10 shown from the rear. The hollow geometry can be seen. On an inside of the front wall 10a is a Coupling piece 19 formed in an integrated manner, with which the coupling rod already explained is coupled.

Wie darĆ¼ber hinaus zu erkennen ist, ist an einer inneren Seite der Mantelwand 10b eine radial nach innen abgesetzte Struktur 20 ausgebildet, die in axialer Richtung und somit in Richtung der LƤngsachse A betrachtet gegenĆ¼ber dem hinteren Ende 13 nach innen versetzt beziehungsweise der Frontwand 10a nƤherliegend ausgebildet ist, als das hintere Ende 13.As can also be seen, a radially inwardly offset structure 20 is formed on an inner side of the jacket wall 10b, which, viewed in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, is offset inwardly compared to the rear end 13 or is formed closer to the front wall 10a is than the rear end 13.

Insbesondere durch diese Struktur 20 wird eine mechanische Kopplung beziehungsweise ein Kontaktieren mit dem Distanzelement 20 erreicht, sodass diesbezĆ¼glich auch ein axialer Anschlag der Frontkappe 10 an dem Distanzelement 15 erreicht ist. Die Ausgestaltung der Struktur 20 in axialer Richtung ist darĆ¼ber hinaus insbesondere auch derart ausgebildet, dass im montierten Endzustand die Beabstandung des hinteren Endes 13 zu der Frontseite 14a erreicht ist.In particular, a mechanical coupling or contact with the spacer element 20 is achieved through this structure 20, so that in this regard an axial stop of the front cap 10 on the spacer element 15 is also achieved. The configuration of the structure 20 in the axial direction is also designed in particular in such a way that the rear end 13 is spaced apart from the front side 14a in the assembled final state.

Durch eine Ausgestaltung des Bedienknebels 9 mit einem derartigen Distanzelement 15 kann neben dem Vermeiden des Verkratzens der Dekorblende 14 auch das Auftreten von SchleifgerƤuschen vermieden werden. Insbesondere kƶnnen dadurch auch des Weiteren geringfĆ¼gige SchrƤgstellungen der Frontkappe 10 vermieden werden beziehungsweise Spalten der Frontkappe 10 zur Bedienblende 11 minimiert werden.By designing the operating toggle 9 with such a spacer element 15, in addition to avoiding scratching of the decorative panel 14, the occurrence of grinding noises can also be avoided. In particular, slight inclinations of the front cap 10 can thereby also be avoided or gaps between the front cap 10 and the control panel 11 can be minimized.

In Fig. 4 ist in einer perspektivischen Darstellung ein erstes AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel eines Distanzelements 15 gezeigt, welches einstĆ¼ckig ausgebildet ist. Dieses bogenfƶrmige Teil umfasst einen in axialer Richtung (in Richtung der LƤngsachse A) orientierten vorderen Axialsteg 21. DarĆ¼ber hinaus ist ein in axialer Richtung orientierter hinterer Axialsteg 22 (Fig. 5) ausgebildet. In axialer Richtung zwischen dem ersten Axialsteg beziehungsweise vorderen Axialsteg 21 und dem hinteren Axialsteg 22 ist ein Radialsteg 23 ausgebildet, der sich somit in einer FlƤche senkrecht zur Achse A erstreckt. An dem hinteren Axialsteg 22 sind im gezeigten AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel an gegenĆ¼berliegenden Enden 15a und 15b jeweils ein Halteelement 24 beziehungsweise 25 ausgebildet. Die Halteelemente 24 und 25 sind beispielsweise Schnappelemente, wie Schnapphaken beziehungsweise federnde Hakenelemente. Sie sind radial nach auƟen gerichtet, sodass im eingesetzten Zustand, wie dies in Fig. 2 bei den linksseitigen und rechtsseitigen Ausgestaltungen gezeigt ist, ein Hinterschnappen der Ɩffnung 12 ermƶglicht ist. Dies bedeutet, dass die Begrenzungswand 16 einer Ɩffnung 12 durch diese Halteelemente 24 und 25 hintergriffen werden und an einer der Frontseite 11a gegenĆ¼berliegenden RĆ¼ckseite anliegen.In Fig. 4 a first embodiment of a spacer element 15 is shown in a perspective view, which is formed in one piece. This arcuate part comprises a front axial web 21 oriented in the axial direction (in the direction of the longitudinal axis A). In addition, a rear axial web 22 ( Fig. 5 ) educated. In the axial direction between the first axial web or front axial web 21 and the rear axial web 22, a radial web 23 is formed, which thus extends in a surface perpendicular to the axis A. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a holding element 24 and 25, respectively, are formed on opposite ends 15a and 15b of the rear axial web 22. The holding elements 24 and 25 are, for example, snap elements, such as snap hooks or resilient hook elements. They are directed radially outwards, so that in the inserted state, as shown in Fig. 2 shown in the left-hand and right-hand configurations Snapping behind the opening 12 is enabled. This means that the delimitation wall 16 of an opening 12 is engaged from behind by these holding elements 24 and 25 and lies against a rear side opposite the front side 11a.

Im eingesetzten Zustand eines derartigen Distanzelements 15, welches in Fig. 4 und Fig. 5 aus unterschiedlichen Perspektiven gezeigt ist, in eine Ɩffnung 12, liegt der hintere Axialsteg 22 in die Ɩffnung 12 eintauchend und an der Begrenzungswand 16 an. Der Radialsteg 23 liegt dann insbesondere an der Frontseite 11a an. Der vordere Axialsteg 21 erstreckt sich in Richtung der LƤngsachse A betrachtet weiter nach vorne als die Dicke der Dekorblende 14. Es kann auch vorgesehen sein, dass die Dicke des Radialstegs 23 in Richtung der LƤngsachse A betrachtet grĆ¶ĆŸer ist als die Dicke der Dekorblende 14.In the inserted state of such a spacer element 15, which is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is shown from different perspectives, in an opening 12, the rear axial web 22 is immersed in the opening 12 and against the boundary wall 16. The radial web 23 then rests in particular on the front side 11a. The front axial web 21, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, extends further forward than the thickness of the decorative panel 14. It can also be provided that the thickness of the radial web 23, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, is greater than the thickness of the decorative panel 14.

Insbesondere liegt ein frontseitiger Rand des vorderen Axialstegs 21 an der Struktur 20 an.In particular, a front edge of the front axial web 21 rests on the structure 20.

In Fig. 6 ist in einer ersten perspektivischen Darstellung ein weiteres AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel eines Distanzelements 15 gezeigt. Im Unterschied zur Darstellung gemƤƟ Fig. 4 und Fig. 5 ist hier vorgesehen, dass die Lichtleiterkopplung 18 unterschiedlich ausgebildet ist. Diese ist dahingehend konzipiert, dass sie fĆ¼r Lichtleiter 17 gestaltet ist, wie sie in Fig. 2 bei der linksseitigen Realisierung dargestellt sind. Die AusfĆ¼hrung der Lichtleiterkopplung 18, wie sie bei dem Distanzelement 15 gemƤƟ Fig. 4 und Fig. 5 gezeigt ist, ist fĆ¼r Lichtleiter 17, wie sie in Fig. 2 in der linksseitigen Ausgestaltung realisiert sind, vorgesehen. Dort ist die AuƟenkontur des Lichtleiters 17 zumindest in dem Koppelbereich, der mit dem Distanzelement 15 vorgesehen ist, eckig, insbesondere viereckig, vorzugsweise trapezfƶrmig. Bei der rechtsseitigen Ausgestaltung ist der Lichtleiter 17 im Bereich der vorgesehenen Kopplung mit dem Distanzelement 15 stiftartig ausgebildet, vorzugsweise zylinderfƶrmig.In Fig. 6 a further embodiment of a spacer element 15 is shown in a first perspective illustration. In contrast to the representation according to FIGS. 4 and 5 it is provided here that the light guide coupling 18 is designed differently. This is designed in such a way that it is designed for light guides 17, as shown in FIG Fig. 2 are shown in the implementation on the left. The execution of the optical fiber coupling 18, as it is in the case of the spacer element 15 according to FIG FIGS. 4 and 5 is for light guides 17 as shown in FIG Fig. 2 are realized in the left-hand configuration. There the outer contour of the light guide 17 is angular, in particular square, preferably trapezoidal, at least in the coupling area which is provided with the spacer element 15. In the right-hand configuration, the light guide 17 is designed like a pin in the area of the intended coupling with the spacer element 15, preferably cylindrical.

Bei der Darstellung in Fig. 6 ist darĆ¼ber hinaus eine AnlaufschrƤge 26 einer radialen AuƟenseite des vorderen Axialstegs 21 ausgebildet, die sich nur bereichsweise Ć¼ber die azimutale LƤnge des vorderen Axialstegs 21 erstreckt, vorzugsweise maximal Ć¼ber ein Viertel der azimutalen LƤnge dieses vorderen Axialstegs 21 erstreckt. Durch diese AnlaufschrƤge 26 ist ein Verklemmen oder Verspreizen der Frontkappe 10 bei einer Drehbewegung um die Achse A an dem Distanzelement 15 vermieden. Durch die AnlaufschrƤge 26 ist darĆ¼ber hinaus auch eine radiale FĆ¼hrung bei der Drehbewegung der Frontkappe 10 relativ zum Distanzelement 15 erreicht, sodass auch hier eine ƤuƟerst positionsgenaue Anordnung erhalten bleibt.When shown in Fig. 6 In addition, a run-on bevel 26 of a radial outer side of the front axial web 21 is formed, which extends only partially over the azimuthal length of the front axial web 21, preferably over a quarter of the azimuthal length of this front axial web 21. This run-up bevel 26 prevents the front cap 10 from jamming or spreading during a rotary movement about the axis A on the spacer element 15. Through the In addition, radial guidance during the rotational movement of the front cap 10 relative to the spacer element 15 is also achieved, so that an extremely positionally accurate arrangement is maintained here as well.

In Fig. 7 ist ein weiteres AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel eines Distanzelements 15 gezeigt. Hier ist insbesondere im Unterschied zu Fig. 6 eine weitere unterschiedliche Formgebung der Lichtleiterkopplung 18 dargestellt. Im Unterschied zu den AusfĆ¼hrungen gemƤƟ Fig. 4 bis Fig. 6 ist hier eine nach unten geschlossene Lichtleiterkopplung 18 ausgebildet, sodass auch ein Koppelboden 18a gebildet ist. Dadurch wird auch eine Streulichtabstrahlung nach unten verbessert verhindert.In Fig. 7 Another embodiment of a spacer element 15 is shown. This is particularly different from Fig. 6 Another different shape of the light guide coupling 18 is shown. In contrast to the statements according to FIGS. 4 to 6 a downwardly closed light guide coupling 18 is formed here, so that a coupling bottom 18a is also formed. This also prevents stray light radiation downwards in an improved manner.

Insbesondere ist vorgesehen, dass ein Distanzelement 15 auch eine Ablaufrinne aufweist, die an dem vorderen Axialsteg 21 ausgebildet ist. Eine derartige Ablaufrinne 27 ist beispielsweise bei der AusfĆ¼hrung in Fig. 6 gezeigt. In dem Zusammenhang ist der vordere Axialsteg 21 hinterschnitten ausgebildet, sodass insbesondere zwischen der Frontseite des Radialstegs 23 und einem vorderen freien Rand des vorderen Axialstegs 21 eine derartige Ablaufrinne 27 gebildet ist. Dadurch kann von der Frontseite 11a an das Distanzelement 15 gelangende FlĆ¼ssigkeit Ć¼ber den Radialsteg 23 in die Ablaufrinne 27 gelangen und durch die Formgebung des Distanzelements 15 Ć¼ber diese Ablaufrinne 27 dann seitlich abgeleitet werden. Ein Eindringen dieser FlĆ¼ssigkeit in die Ɩffnung 12 und von dort gegebenenfalls zu elektronischen Komponenten der Bedienvorrichtung 6 ist dadurch verhindert.In particular, it is provided that a spacer element 15 also has a drainage channel which is formed on the front axial web 21. Such a drainage channel 27 is for example in the embodiment in Fig. 6 shown. In this context, the front axial web 21 is formed undercut, so that such a drainage channel 27 is formed in particular between the front side of the radial web 23 and a front free edge of the front axial web 21. As a result, liquid reaching the spacer element 15 from the front side 11a can reach the drainage channel 27 via the radial web 23 and can then be drained off laterally via this drainage channel 27 due to the shape of the spacer element 15. Penetration of this liquid into the opening 12 and from there possibly to electronic components of the operating device 6 is prevented.

BezugszeichenlisteList of reference symbols

11
HaushaltsgerƤtHome appliance
22
GehƤusecasing
33
MuffelGrouch
44th
GarraumCooking space
55
TĆ¼rdoor
66th
BedienvorrichtungControl device
77th
BedienelementeControls
88th
AnzeigeeinheitDisplay unit
99
DrehknebelRotary knob
1010
FrontkappeFront cap
10a10a
FrontwandFront wall
10b10b
MantelwandCladding wall
1111th
BedienblendeControl panel
11a11a
FrontseiteFront
1212th
Ɩffnungopening
1313th
hinteres Enderear end
1414th
DekorblendeDecorative cover
14a14a
FrontseiteFront
1515th
DistanzelementSpacer element
15a15a
Endeend
15b15b
Endeend
1616
BegrenzungswandBoundary wall
1717th
LichtleiterLight guide
1818th
LichtleiterkopplungFiber optic coupling
18a18a
KoppelbodenPaddock floor
1919th
KoppelstĆ¼ckCoupling piece
2020th
Strukturstructure
2121
vorderer Axialstegfront axial web
2222nd
hinterer Axialstegrear axial web
2323
RadialstegRadial web
2424
HalteelementRetaining element
2525th
HalteelementRetaining element
2626th
AnlaufschrƤgeApproach slope
2727
AblaufrinneDrainage channel
AA.
Achseaxis

Claims (12)

  1. Operator control apparatus (6) for a household appliance (1), with an operator control panel (11) and an operator control knob (9), which is arranged on the operator control panel (11) and is mounted such that it can be rotated about an axis of rotation to adjust operating conditions of the household appliance (1), wherein the operator control knob (9) has a front cap (10), which is arranged such that it protrudes forwards from a front side (11a) of the operator control panel (11) in the direction of a longitudinal axis (A) of the operator control knob (9) and ends with a rear end (13) before the front side (11a) of the operator control panel (11), and the front cap (10) is connected to a coupling rod of the operator control apparatus (6), which extends through an opening (12) in the operator control panel (11), characterised in that arranged on the front side (11a) of the operator control panel (11) is a decorative panel (14), which partially covers the operator control panel (11) and which is arranged such that it is adjacent to the opening (12) of the operator control panel (11) and only partially surrounds the opening (12), and arranged in the region of the opening (12) is a one-piece spacer element (15) of the operator control apparatus (6), by way of which the rear end (13) of the front cap (10) is arranged spaced apart from the decorative panel (14) when viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis (A), wherein the spacer element (15) is arranged at a fixed position on the operator control panel (11) and the front cap (10) is able to rotate relative to the spacer element (15), wherein the spacer element (15) is a ring section, and wherein the spacer element (15) abuts a delimiting wall (16) that delimits the opening (12) and is held in the opening (12) in a radially pretensioned manner.
  2. Operator control apparatus (6) according to claim 1, characterised in that, when viewed in an area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A), the spacer element (15) and the decorative panel (14) are arranged such that they do not overlap.
  3. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spacer element (15) has a rear axial web (22), when viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis (A), which is arranged such that it is immersed in the opening (12), and has a front axial web (21) that extends axially further forwards than the decorative panel (14).
  4. Operator control apparatus (6) according to claim 3, characterised in that the front axial web (21) has a run-on chamfer (26) for the rotary movement of the front cap (10).
  5. Operator control apparatus (6) according to claim 3 or 4, characterised in that the front axial web (21) has a run-off groove (27) on a radial outer side.
  6. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spacer element (15) has a radial web (23), which abuts the front side (11a) of the operator control panel (11).
  7. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spacer element (15) has holding elements (24, 25), in particular snap-on elements, for fastening the spacer element (15) to the operator control panel (11), in particular in the opening (12).
  8. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spacer element (15) is embodied from an opaque material, in particular from a black plastic.
  9. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spacer element (15) is made of POM or an elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.
  10. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the spacer element (15) has an integrated light guide coupling (18) for mechanically connecting to a light guide (17).
  11. Operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operator control knob (9) has a light guide (17), which extends through the opening (12) in the operator control panel (11).
  12. Household appliance (1) with an operator control apparatus (6) according to one of the preceding claims.
EP16751187.2A 2015-08-19 2016-07-19 Operation device for a household appliance comprising a spacer element and household appliance comprising an operating device Active EP3338027B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PL16751187T PL3338027T3 (en) 2015-08-19 2016-07-19 Operation device for a household appliance comprising a spacer element and household appliance comprising an operating device

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102015215770.9A DE102015215770A1 (en) 2015-08-19 2015-08-19 Operating device for a household appliance with a spacer element and household appliance with an operating device
PCT/EP2016/067170 WO2017029051A1 (en) 2015-08-19 2016-07-19 Operation device for a household appliance comprising a spacer element and household appliance comprising an operating device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3338027A1 EP3338027A1 (en) 2018-06-27
EP3338027B1 true EP3338027B1 (en) 2021-12-15

Family

ID=56684586

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP16751187.2A Active EP3338027B1 (en) 2015-08-19 2016-07-19 Operation device for a household appliance comprising a spacer element and household appliance comprising an operating device

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3338027B1 (en)
CN (1) CN107923625A (en)
DE (1) DE102015215770A1 (en)
PL (1) PL3338027T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2017029051A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102017121287A1 (en) 2017-09-14 2019-03-14 HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA Sensor with coupling rod
DE102019200708A1 (en) * 2019-01-22 2020-07-23 BSH HausgerƤte GmbH Household appliance with a switching element

Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2006000581A1 (en) * 2004-06-24 2006-01-05 BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerƤte GmbH Control panel for an electrical domestic appliance

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AT284936B (en) * 1967-09-22 1970-10-12 Elektroschaltgeraete Rochlitz Device for sealing actuation parts and at the same time holding further components
US3534706A (en) * 1968-12-23 1970-10-20 Gen Motors Corp Control knob arrangement for a range
DE102005023159A1 (en) 2005-05-19 2006-11-23 BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerƤte GmbH Switch device, in particular rotary switch device
KR101309298B1 (en) * 2007-05-25 2013-09-17 ģ‚¼ģ„±ģ „ģžģ£¼ģ‹ķšŒģ‚¬ Washing machine and control panel assembly thereof
DE102009047683A1 (en) * 2009-12-08 2011-06-09 BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerƤte GmbH Operating device for hob, has operating element formed in mushroom-shape and comprising cap partially placed over supporting element and movable relative to supporting element in direction perpendicular to longitudinal axis
DE102010063190A1 (en) * 2010-12-16 2012-06-21 BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerƤte GmbH Operating device for a domestic appliance and domestic appliance, in particular oven, with an operating device

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2006000581A1 (en) * 2004-06-24 2006-01-05 BSH Bosch und Siemens HausgerƤte GmbH Control panel for an electrical domestic appliance

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2017029051A1 (en) 2017-02-23
PL3338027T3 (en) 2022-03-28
CN107923625A (en) 2018-04-17
DE102015215770A1 (en) 2017-02-23
EP3338027A1 (en) 2018-06-27

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