EP4187159A1

EP4187159A1 - Fume extraction device with variable channel unit, combination apparatus comprising a fume extraction device with a variable channel unit, kitchen cabinet with a combination apparatus and method for installation of a combination apparatus in a kitchen cabinet

Info

Publication number: EP4187159A1
Application number: EP21210182.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Eduardo PUOTI; Lokesh PATIL
Original assignee: Electrolux Appliances AB
Current assignee: Electrolux Appliances AB
Priority date: 2021-11-24
Filing date: 2021-11-24
Publication date: 2023-05-31
Also published as: AU2022397523A1; WO2023094328A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a fume extraction device (100) with a channel unit (200) for guiding fumes in a flow direction (S), wherein the channel unit (200) is configured for connection with a mounting wall (310) and comprises at least one first channel element (210) and at least one second channel element (220), wherein the at least one first channel element (210) and the at least one second channel element (220) are in connection with each other via at least one intermediate channel element (230), wherein for adjusting a variable length (L) of the channel unit (200) the at least one first channel element (210) and/or the at least one second channel element (220), and the at least one intermediate channel element (230) are configured and/or arranged to be moveable at least partially relative to each other, preferably in the flow direction (S). The present invention relates further to a combination apparatus (500) with a hob (400) and a fume extraction device (100). The present invention relates further to a kitchen cabinet (300) with a combination apparatus (500) and to a method for installation of a combination apparatus (500) in a kitchen cabinet (300).

Description

The present invention is in the field of kitchen appliances and relates to a fume extraction device with a variable channel element for guiding fumes. The present invention relates further to a combination apparatus that comprises a hob and at least one fume extraction device with a variable channel element. Moreover, the present invention relates to a kitchen cabinet with such a combination apparatus and a method for installation of a combination apparatus in a kitchen cabinet.
In the area of kitchen appliances there is also a need of efficient and optimized installation and mounting, in particular with regard to fume extraction devices and their flow channels for guiding fumes efficiently from a hob. Frequently, an arrangement or system of several channel elements is used to guide fumes accordingly, for example, when a fume extraction device is integrated in a kitchen cabinet together with a hob. For this purpose, for example, the kitchen cabinet has a mounting wall with a recess to which a channel element must be connected and through which the fumes are then conducted or guided. In particular, the installation or mounting of so-called combination apparatuses with a hob and a fume extraction device requires certain skill and effort.
However, the installation or mounting of the channel arrangement or the channel system is often time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Published European patent application No. EP 3 789 678 A1 , for example, relates to a fume extraction device with a connection device for connection to an air duct. The fume extraction device is designed for installation in kitchen furniture and comprises a device housing. The connection device comprises a flexible elastic pull-out element in form of a bellows which can be changed in shape after applying a tensile force in order to connect an air outlet opening with the air duct. For installation, a circumferential clamp is required as an additional element, which is attached to the bellows in sections by means of snap-in connections.
It is hence an object of the present invention to provide a fume extraction device with a channel unit for guiding fumes that is characterized by a simplified and optimized installation or mounting and by a flexibility in relation to different construction space requirements, for example, of a kitchen furniture such as a kitchen cabinet. It is further an object of the present invention to provide a combination apparatus comprising a hob and such a fume extraction device and to provide a kitchen cabinet with such combination apparatus. And it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for installation of a combination apparatus in a kitchen cabinet.
The object is achieved by the fume extraction device according to claim 1, the combination apparatus according to claim 10, the kitchen cabinet according to claim 12 and the method according to claim 13. Further examples and applications of the present invention result from the dependent claims and are explained in the following description with partial reference to the figures.
A first general aspect of the present invention relates to a fume extraction device with a channel unit, preferably a geometric variable channel unit, for guiding fumes in a flow direction), wherein the channel unit is configured for connection with a mounting wall and comprises at least one first channel element and at least one second channel element. The at least one first channel element and the at least one second channel element are in connection, preferably fluid connection, with each other via at least one intermediate channel element, wherein for adjusting a variable length of the channel unit, preferably a variable longitudinal extension of the channel unit or a variable longitudinal expansion of the channel unit, the at least one first channel element and/or the at least one second channel element, and the at least one intermediate channel element are configured and/or arranged to be moveable, preferably translatory moveable, at least partially relative to each other, preferably essentially in the flow direction.
The present invention provides, for example, a fume extraction device which can be installed or mounted efficiently and quickly in different spatial environments, for example kitchen cabinets of different size, but needs not a number of additional components, preferably components for guiding fumes downstream of a blower unit of the fume extraction device.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, the at least one second channel element and the at least one intermediate channel element are each configured as individual parts or as separate parts. In addition, it is possible that the at least one first channel element is configured as an individual part or as a separate part. The at least one first channel element may be configured for connection with a housing wall of a housing of the fume extraction device. The housing of the fume extraction device may comprise or preferably accommodate at least one blower unit for realization of the extraction function of the fumes. The housing wall may be preferably an outer housing wall comprising an outlet opening for the fumes to be blown out by the at least one blower unit.
The channel unit may be configured as a kit. This ensures, for example, simple and inexpensive production.
Besides to being formed as an individual part or as a separate part, it is alternatively possible that the at least one first channel element is integrally formed in one piece with a housing wall of a housing of the fume extraction device. The housing of the fume extraction device may preferably comprise or accommodate at least one blower unit for realization of the extraction function of the fumes. The housing wall may be preferably an outer housing wall comprising an outlet opening for the fumes to be blown out by the at least one blower unit. More particularly, the at least one first channel element may even be provided or featured by the outlet opening itself.
It is possible that the at least one first channel element and/or the at least one second channel element, and the at least one intermediate channel element may form each at least partially a form-fit connection of variable length, preferably essentially in the flow direction. In other words, the at least one second channel element and the at least one intermediate channel element may be configured to overlap at least in sections, preferably at different positions to each other and/or essentially in the flow direction.
This can provide, for example, an extendable and retractable channel unit which length, i.e. longitudinal extension, can be adjusted variably easily.
The form-fit connection may comprise, for example, a sleeve-like connection.
The at least one first channel element and/or the at least one second channel element and/or the at least one intermediate channel element may be configured dimensionally stable.
This ensures, for example, a channel unit of corresponding stability and/or stiffness.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, for guiding the fumes the at least one first channel element, the at least one second channel element and/or the at least one intermediate channel element can be configured free of undercuts, preferably each in one direction, more preferably each essentially in a longitudinal direction and/or essentially in the flow direction.
Preferably an inner perimeter of the at least one first channel element and the at least one second channel element may be formed free of undercuts. This allows, for example, that the at least one intermediate channel element to be inserted and moveable at least partially at the at least one first channel element and the at least one second channel element.
It is possible that the at least one first channel element, the at least one second channel element and/or the at least one intermediate channel element may form each at least partially a plug-in connection, preferably a loss-proof plug-in connection, and/or a clamp connection.
According to a further aspect of the present invention, a sealing element can be arranged between the at least one first channel element and the at least one intermediate channel element, and/or a sealing element can be arranged between the at least one second channel element and the at least one intermediate channel element. This further optimizes the channel unit of the fume extraction device according to the present invention, for example, with regard to medium tightness, preferably gas tightness and/or liquid tightness.
It is possible that an extension of the at least one intermediate channel element may be at least twice than an extension of the at least one first channel element and/or an extension of the at least one second channel element, each essentially in a longitudinal direction, preferably essentially in the flow direction. Additionally or alternatively, it is possible that the at least one intermediate channel element may comprise a smaller outer perimeter than an inner perimeter of the at least one first channel element and/or the at least one second channel element.
The at least one second channel element may comprise at least one flange section or at least one flange member for detachable connection with the mounting wall. This allows, for example, a sufficient fixation of the at least one second channel element and thus of the channel unit of the fume extraction device.
As already described above, the at least one first channel element and/or the at least one second channel element, and the at least one intermediate channel element may each form an essentially form-fit connection, preferably an essentially moveable form-fit connection.
A second general aspect of the present invention relates to a combination apparatus, comprising a hob, preferably a hob as disclosed herein, and at least one fume extraction device as disclosed herein.
Preferably, the at least one fume extraction device may be configured as a downdraft fume extraction device and/or may be integrated at least partially in the hob, preferably at least partially in a cooktop plate of the hob. The cooktop plate may be configured essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped. The cooktop plate may comprise an essentially rectangular contour in a view, preferably in a top view in the direction of the cooktop plate. However, other contours are also possible.
The at least one first channel element may be arranged, preferably detachable connected or fixed, at a housing wall of the at least one fume extraction device. The housing wall may be preferably an outer housing wall of the at least one fume extraction device. The housing wall, preferably a section of the housing wall configured for the arrangement of the at least one first channel element, may be preferably oriented or aligned essentially perpendicular to the hob, preferably essentially perpendicular to a cooktop plate of the hob. It is alternatively possible that the at least one first channel element may be integrally formed in one piece with the housing wall, preferably the outer housing wall, comprising an outlet opening for the fumes to be blown out by the at least one blower unit. In other words, the at least one first channel element may be configured, for example, as a flange being molded or formed integrally with the outer housing wall for provision of an outlet opening and/or in which the at least one intermediate channel element can be inserted or plugged in at least partially, preferably essentially in the flow direction. Hence, the channel unit may be configured preferably for variable adjustment of its length, preferably essentially in the flow direction. It may also be possible that the at least one first channel element is the outlet opening itself, which may be provided as a cutout in the housing wall.
A third general aspect of the present invention relates to a kitchen cabinet with a combination apparatus as disclosed herein, wherein the kitchen cabinet comprises a mounting wall, wherein the mounting wall is configured for connection with the at least one second channel element of the channel unit of the at least one fume extraction device. The mounting wall may be configured essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped. The mounting wall may be arranged or preferably aligned essentially perpendicular to the flow direction, preferably essentially perpendicular to the flow direction at least in the channel unit, preferably when the combination apparatus is installed or mounted in the kitchen cabinet, i.e. in an installation position.
The kitchen cabinet may be configured to receive or integrate at least partially at least one fume extraction device as disclosed herein or preferably at least one combination apparatus as disclosed herein. The mounting wall may comprise a wall recess for flowing through of the fumes and may be configured for forming a detachable connection with the at least one second channel element of the at least one fume extraction device as disclosed herein.
A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a method for installation of a combination apparatus with at least one fume extraction device in a kitchen cabinet. The at least one fume extraction device may be configured as disclosed herein and the combination apparatus may be configured as disclosed herein, and the kitchen cabinet may be preferably configured as disclosed herein. The kitchen cabinet may comprise a mounting wall with a wall recess for flowing through of the fumes, and a worktop with an insertion opening for integrating and/or supporting at least partially the combination apparatus. The mounting wall and the worktop may be arranged preferably essentially perpendicular to each other. Both the mounting wall and the worktop may be configured essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped.
The method comprises:

providing the combination apparatus at a distance from the worktop, preferably at a distance opposite the insertion opening, in particular wherein the combination apparatus is equipped with at least the intermediate channel element and particularly with the first channel element and/or the second channel element;
inserting, preferably translatory inserting, the combination apparatus, preferably in a position angled to an installation position of the combination apparatus, at least partially through the insertion opening into the kitchen cabinet until the combination apparatus contacts at least in sections the worktop;
moving the at least one second channel element, preferably sliding the at least one second channel element along the at least one intermediate channel element, towards the mounting wall, preferably towards the wall recess, until the at least one second channel element contacts at least in sections the mounting wall;
connecting the at least one second channel element with the mounting wall, preferably via at least one screw connection.

The method of the present invention may provide, for example, a quick and easy installation of a combination apparatus with a hob and at least one fume extraction device in a kitchen cabinet. The method can be carried out at least partially automated, for example, by means of an assembly robot. The assembly robot may be configured, preferably programmed, to perform the installation of the combination apparatus in the kitchen cabinet.
The method according to the present invention may further comprise aligning the combination apparatus with reference to the worktop, preferably with reference to the insertion opening, in a position angled to the installation position of the combination apparatus, preferably before inserting the combination apparatus at least partially through the insertion opening; and/or pivoting the inserted aligned combination apparatus from the angled position to the installation position.
This allows, for example, a more or less intelligent integration and installation of the combination apparatus with an extended channel unit but limited size of the insertion opening. In other words, the combination apparatus can be pivoted and/or rotated at least partially for integration in the kitchen cabinet.
The method according to the present invention may further comprise cutting through the at least one intermediate channel element and creating the at least one intermediate channel element with a predetermined length or extension, preferably essentially in the flow direction. This method step of cutting through is particularly performed prior to the method step of inserting the combination appliance or the method step of equipping the combination apparatus with at least the intermediate channel element.
This allows, for example, the installation of the combination apparatus in kitchen cabinets of different size, i.e. different mounting wall distances, according to which preferably merely the channel unit has to be adjusted accordingly. The cutting through of the at least one intermediate channel element can be realized, for example, with a saw.
In order to avoid repetition, features which are directed to the method according to the present invention and/or disclosed in connection therewith should also be considered as disclosed according to the fume extraction device and/or the combination apparatus and be claimable and vice versa.
The previously described examples and features of the present invention can be combined with each other in any way.
Further or other details and advantageous effects of the present invention are described in more detail below with reference to the attached figures:

Fig. 1: illustrates a perspective view of an example of a combination apparatus according to the present invention with an example of a fume extraction device according to the present invention;
Fig. 2: illustrates a perspective view of the channel unit of the example of the fume extraction device according to the present invention as shown in figure 1;
Fig. 3: illustrates an example of a kitchen cabinet according to the present invention with the example of the combination apparatus according to the present invention as shown in figure 1;
Figs. 4a: to 4d illustrate an example of the method of the present invention on the basis of sectional views of portions of the kitchen cabinet and the combination apparatus.

The following detailed description of the examples shown in the figures serves as a closer illustration or exemplification and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example of a combination apparatus 500 according to the present invention with an example of a fume extraction device 100 according to the present invention.
The combination apparatus 500 comprise a hob 400 and the fume extraction device 100. The fume extraction device 100 is at least partially integrated in the hob 400.
The hob 400 comprises eight cooking units 401 to 408. Each of the cooking units 401 to 408 may be preferably configured as an induction cooking unit 401 to 408 with each a resonant circuit comprising, for example, at least one resonant capacitor and at least one induction coil (not shown for the sake of clarity). In other words, the cooking units 401 to 408 may be operated by hob power units comprising power boards, i.e. power electronics (not shown for the sake of clarity). Alternatively, the cooking units 401 to 408 can be configured differently with regard to the principle of generating heat, for example, as heating coils, gas burners or the like. The cooking units 401 to 408 are a least partially integrated in and/or are at least partially supported by a frame structure 430 of the hob 400. The frame structure 430 serves as supporting structure of the hob 400.
The hob 400 further comprises a cooktop plate 420. The cooktop plate 420 may be configured essentially flat and/or essentially plated-shaped. The cooktop plate 420 may be made, for example, of glass and/or ceramic material. The cooktop plate 420 is arranged on a front face of the frame structure 430. The cooking units 401 to 408 are at least partially arranged or integrated in the cooktop plate 420. The cooktop plate 420 comprises an inlet recess 421. The inlet recess 421 may the arranged and/or formed essentially centrally in the cooktop plate 420. The inlet recess 421 may comprise an essentially rectangular cross-section through which fumes are to be sucked.
As already stated above, the hob 500 comprises the fume extraction device 100. The fume extraction device 100 comprises an intake duct 110 that is connected to the inlet recess 421 of the cooktop plate 420 in order to suck and guide the fumes from the hob 400.
The intake duct 110 is in flow connection with a blower unit of the fume extraction device 100. The flower unit is arranged inside a housing 120 of the fume extraction device 100 and not visible in figure 1. The flower unit may comprise a propeller and an electric motor for driving the propeller in order to realize the extraction, i.e. suction effect for the fumes.
In order to guide the extracted or sucked fumes from the hob 400, the fume extraction device 100 comprises or is configured for connection with a channel unit 200. The channel unit 200 serves for guiding sucked fumes and comprises three channel elements. The channel unit 200 is preferably a variable channel unit 200 which will be described in further detail below.
The channel unit 200 is configured for guiding fumes essentially in a flow direction S.
The channel unit 200 comprises three channel elements, i.e. a first channel element 210, a second channel element 220 and an intermediate channel element 230.
The first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230 are configured tube-shaped and/or at least partially thin-walled. Preferably the intermediate channel element 230 is configured essentially thin-walled.
The first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and/or the intermediate channel element 230 may preferably be made of essentially a plastic material, preferably by at least one injection process and/or by at least one casting process.
The first channel element 210 and the second channel element 220 are in connection via the intermediate channel element 230.
The channel unit 200 with the three channel elements 210, 220 and 230 is characterized by a variable length L, preferably essentially in flow direction S. In other words, the extension of the channel unit 200 in a longitudinal direction X of the channel unit 200 (see also figure 2) may be variable and/or adjustable, preferably with regard to a distance to a mounting wall 310 of a kitchen cabinet 300 where inter alia the channel unit 200 is to be mounted.
The channel unit 200, and preferably the second channel element 220, is configured for connection with the mounting wall 310 of a kitchen cabinet 300. The kitchen cabinet 300 in figure 1 is illustrated schematically and rudimentary for the sake of clarity. The mounting wall 310 comprises a wall recess 320 for further guiding the fumes from the channel unit 200. In order to detachable connect the second channel element 220 to the mounting wall 310, the second channel element 220 comprises a first flange section 221 and a second flange section 222. The first flange section 221 and the second flange section 222 are arranged and/or formed spaced apart from each other.
The first channel element 210 is connected to a housing wall 121 of the housing 120 that comprises a corresponding recess (not visible in figure 1) via which sucked fumes from the hob 400 are pressed by the blower unit into the channel unit 200.
The housing wall 121 may be arranged and/or oriented essentially perpendicular to the hob 400, preferably to the cooktop plate 420.
It is possible that the second channel element 220 may be detachably fixed to the mounting wall 310 of the kitchen cabinet 300 via screw connections at the first and second flange sections 221 and 222. The mounting wall 310 and the housing wall 121 may be configured essentially plate-shaped and/or may be located to each other essentially parallel.
The configuration of the channel unit 200 as a variable channel unit 200 will be described below in further detail in relation to figure 2.
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the channel unit 200 of the example of the fume extraction device 100 according to the present invention as shown in figure 1.
As described above, the channel unit 200 comprises a first channel element 210, a second channel element 220 and an intermediate channel element 230. For adjusting a variable length L of the channel unit 200, the first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230 are configured and/or are arranged to be movable, preferably translatory movable, at least partially relative to each other, preferably essentially in the flow direction S which is preferably the longitudinal direction X of the channel unit 200. The longitudinal direction X of the channel unit 200 may be preferably the direction of the largest extension of the channel unit 200.
According to one aspect of the present invention and as it can be retrieved from figure 2, the first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230 are each configured as individual parts. In other words, each of the channel elements 210, 220 and 230 of the channel unit 200 is formed as a separate part or element. The channel unit 200 thus forms a variable plug system of channel elements 210, 220, 230 being configured at least to be plugged and/or inserted in one direction.
As it can be further retrieved from figure 2, the first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230 each comprises an essentially rectangular-shaped flow cross-section for guiding fumes. It is, however, possible, that the channel elements 210, 220, and 230 may comprise a different flow cross-section, for example, an essentially round or an essentially oval-shaped flow cross-section.
The channel elements 210, 220 and 230 are configured in such a way that they can be inserted correspondingly at least partially into one another and are movable relative to each other, and at least overlap, at least in sections, in an initial status and in an installed or mounted status.
Preferably, the intermediate channel element 230 is configured to allow at least the second channel element 220 to slide along the intermediate channel element 230 in a direction, preferably essentially in a longitudinal direction X. The intermediate channel element 230 may further be configured to be inserted and/or to be plugged at least partially into the first channel element 210, preferably essentially in a longitudinal direction X. Preferably the intermediate channel element 230 may comprise a smaller outer perimeter than an inner perimeter of the first channel element 210 and an inner perimeter of the second channel element 220. The inner perimeter may preferably represent each a flow cross-section.
This ensures, for example, a variable length L of the channel unit 200 and a simplified installation or mounting of the combination apparatus 500, preferably the fume extraction device 100, at the kitchen cabinet 300, i.e. at the mounting wall 310 of the kitchen cabinet 300 with regard to the channel unit 200.
In other words, the first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230 may form each at least partially essentially a form-fit connection of variable length, preferably essentially in the flow direction S.
The first channel element 210 and the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230 are configured preferably dimensionally stable such that a necessary stiffness and/or stability of the channel unit 200 can be ensured.
In order to allow an optimized flow of fumes, the first channel element 210, the second channel element 220 and preferably the intermediate channel element 230 are configured free of undercuts in their flow areas, i.e. the wall sections that come into contact with the fumes, preferably essentially in the longitudinal direction X.
Further, the channel elements 210, 220, 230 may form at least partially a plug-in connection, preferably a loss-proof plug-in connection and/or a sufficient clamp connection. This ensures, for example, that no channel element 210, 220, 230, preferably the second channel element 220, comes loose and/or falls off unintentionally or undesirably during installation or mounting.
In order to optimize the channel unit 200, a sealing element (not shown in the figures) such as a sealing tape or a sealing compound may be arranged between the first channel element 210 and the intermediate channel element 230, and/or between the second channel element 220 and the intermediate channel element 230.
As it can be further retrieved from figure 2, the extension of the intermediate channel element 230 may be at least twice than the extension of the first channel element 210 and/or an extension of the second channel element 220, each essentially in the longitudinal direction X.
However, preferably the intermediate channel element 230 may be configured to be cut through, preferably by a hand saw, in order to vary the extension of the intermediate channel element 230 accordingly to the respective needs for installation or mounting.
Figure 3 illustrates an example of a kitchen cabinet 300 according to the present invention with the example of the combination apparatus 500 according to the present invention as shown in figure 1. The kitchen cabinet 300 comprises a worktop 330 with an insertion opening 331 for installation of the combination apparatus 500. The worktop 330 is configured essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped and comprises an essentially rectangular contour in a view. The combination apparatus 500 in figure 3 is aligned with reference to the worktop 330 in a position angled to the installation position of the combination apparatus 500.
As already illustrated in figure 1, the kitchen cabinet 300 comprises further a mounting wall 310 with a wall recess 320 for further guidance of the fumes.
Due to the configuration of the fume extraction device 100 according to the present invention as exemplary described above, it is possible to simplify and optimize the installation or mounting.
For example, the combination apparatus 500 merely needs to be simply inserted into the kitchen cabinet 300 of corresponding configuration via the insertion opening 331 that allows further a significant time saving for the installation or mounting, which will be described in detail below.
Also the channel unit 200 of the fume extraction device 100 according to the present invention allows an uncomplicated installation or mounting and connection to the kitchen cabinet 300, i.e. the mounting wall 310.
As it can be retrieved from figure 3, the mounting wall 310 of the kitchen cabinet 300 is configured essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped. The mounting wall 310 is arranged essentially perpendicular to the worktop 330 and/or to the cooktop plate 420 of the hob 400 of the combination apparatus 500 in an installation position.
Figures 4a to 4d illustrate graphically on the basis of sectional views of portions an example of the method of the present invention for installation of a combination apparatus 500 as disclosed herein in a kitchen cabinet 300, preferably as already exemplary illustrated with regard to figure 3.
The method of the present invention can be preferably carried out at least partially automated by means of an assembly robot (not shown in the figures for the sake of clarity).
Figure 4a illustrates a sectional view of a portion of a kitchen cabinet 300 and a combination apparatus 500 with a hob 400 and a fume extraction device 100 in a first phase.
The kitchen cabinet 300 may be preferably configured as disclosed herein. The kitchen cabinet 300 comprises a worktop 330 (see also figure 3) and mounting wall 310 with a wall recess 320 for flowing through of the fumes coming from the fume extraction device 100 via the channel unit 200 in an operating status. With regard to the illustration in figure 3 and as already mentioned, the worktop 330 of the kitchen cabinet 300 may be configured essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped. The worktop 330 comprises an insertion opening 331 being configured for insertion and/or supporting the combination apparatus 500 in an installation position that is illustrated in figure 4b.
The channel unit 200 comprises a first channel element 210, an intermediate channel element 230 and a second channel element 220. The first channel element 210 may be integrally formed as one piece with the housing wall 121 of the housing 120 of the fume extraction device 100. The housing wall 121 may be an outer housing wall being essentially flat and/or essentially plate-shaped and being preferably arranged essentially perpendicular to the worktop 330 and/or the cooktop plate 420 the hob 400.
The provided combination apparatus 500, preferably configured as disclosed herein, is illustrated in figure 4a during translatory inserting through the insertion opening 331 of the worktop 330. This is easily recognizable, for example, by the distance between the cooktop plate 420 and the worktop 330.
The channel unit 200 with its channel elements 210, 220 and 230 is more or less in a pushed-in or pushed-together status. The channel unit 200 is arranged accordingly such that the flow direction S is essentially parallel to the worktop 330 and/or to the cooktop plate 420 or to each a plane that can be defined or determined accordingly.
The combination apparatus 500 is inserted through the insertion opening 331 of the worktop 330 until the combination apparatus 500, i.e. the worktop plate 420 of the hob 400 of the combination apparatus 500 contacts at least in sections the worktop 330 as it is graphically illustrated in a sectional view of a portion in figure 4b. The cooktop plate 420 contacting the worktop 300 can be easily retrieved from figure 4b. The combination apparatus 500 is now in an installation position and is inter alia supported by the worktop 330 of the kitchen cabinet 300 via the contacting of the cooktop plate 420.
Figure 4c now illustrates graphically the moving of the second channel element 220, i.e. the sliding of the second channel element 220 along the intermediate channel element 230 towards the mounting wall 310 with the wall recess 320 until the second channel element 220 contacts at least in sections the mounting wall 310. Figure 4c illustrates in a sectional view the second channel element 220 contacting the mounting wall 310. As it can be further retrieved from figure 4c, the second channel element 220 extends in its longitudinal direction X accordingly such at it overlaps at least in sections with the outer surface of the of intermediate channel element 230 essentially in the flow direction S. As it exemplary disclosed herein, a sealing element can be arranged, for example, between the intermediate channel element 230 and the second channel element 220 (not shown in the figures for the sake of clarity).
Hence, the channel unit 200 is now in a status such that it can be detachably connected to the mounting wall 310 via, for example, screw connections (in the figures not shown for the sake of clarity) in the area of the first flange section 221 and the second flange section 222 of the second channel element 220.
Figure 4d illustrates in a further sectional view a portion of the contour of the second channel element 220 and the flow cross section of the fumes.
The first flange section 221 and the second flange section 222 for detachably connecting the second channel element 220 to the mounting wall 310 are clearly visible.
The present invention is not limited to the examples described above. Rather, a large number of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive idea and therefore fall within the scope of protection.

List of reference signs

100: fume extraction device
110: intake duct
120: housing
121: housing wall
200: channel unit
210: first channel element
220: second channel element
221: first flange section
222: second flange section
230: intermediate channel element
300: kitchen cabinet
310: mounting wall
320: wall recess
330: worktop
331: insertion opening
400: hob
401: cooking unit
402: cooking unit
403: cooking unit
404: cooking unit
405: cooking unit
406: cooking unit
407: cooking unit
408: cooking unit
420: cooktop plate
421: inlet recess
430: frame structure
500: combination apparatus
L: length
S: flow direction
X: longitudinal direction

Claims

A fume extraction device (100) with a channel unit (200) for guiding fumes in a flow direction (S),
wherein the channel unit (200) is configured for connection with a mounting wall (310) and comprises at least one first channel element (210) and at least one second channel element (220),

wherein the at least one first channel element (210) and the at least one second channel element (220) are in connection with each other via at least one intermediate channel element (230),

wherein for adjusting a variable length (L) of the channel unit (200) the at least one first channel element (210) and/or the at least one second channel element (220), and the at least one intermediate channel element (230) are configured and/or arranged to be moveable at least partially relative to each other, preferably in the flow direction (S).
The fume extraction device (100) according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one second channel element (220) and the at least one intermediate channel element (230) are each configured as individual parts.
The fume extraction device (100) according to claim 1 or 2,
wherein the at least one first channel element (210) and/or the at least one second channel element (220), and the at least one intermediate channel element (230) form each at least partially a form-fit connection of variable length, preferably in the flow direction (S).
The fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein the at least one first channel element (210) and/or the at least one second channel element (220) and/or the at least one intermediate channel element (230) are/is configured dimensionally stable.
The fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein for guiding the fumes the at least one first channel element (210), the at least one second channel element (220) and/or the at least one intermediate channel element (230) are/is configured free of undercuts, preferably each in one direction, more preferably each in a longitudinal direction (X) and/or in the flow direction (S) .
The fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein the at least one first channel element (210), the at least one second channel element (220) and/or the at least one intermediate channel element (230) form each at least partially a plug-in connection, preferably a loss-proof plug-in connection, and/or a clamp connection.
The fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein a sealing element is arranged between the at least one first channel element (210) and the at least one intermediate channel element (230), and/or

wherein a sealing element is arranged between the at least one second channel element (220) and the at least one intermediate channel element (230).
The fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein an extension of the at least one intermediate channel element (230) is at least twice than an extension of the at least one first channel element (210) and/or an extension of the at least one second channel element (220), each in a longitudinal direction (X), preferably in the flow direction (S), and/or

wherein the at least one intermediate channel element (230) comprises a smaller outer perimeter than an inner perimeter of the at least one first channel element (210) and/or the at least one second channel element (220).
The fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein the at least one second channel element (220) comprises at least one flange section (221, 222) or at least one flange member for detachable connection with the mounting wall (310).
A combination apparatus (500) comprising a hob (400) and at least one fume extraction device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims,
wherein preferably the at least one fume extraction device (100) is configured as a downdraft fume extraction device (100) and/or is integrated at least partially in the hob (400), preferably at least partially in a cooktop plate (420) of the hob (400).
The combination apparatus (500) according to claim 10,
wherein the at least one first channel element (210) is arranged at a housing wall (120), preferably at an outer housing wall (120), of the at least one fume extraction device (100), wherein the housing wall (120), preferably the outer housing wall (120), is oriented perpendicular to the hob (400), preferably to a cooktop plate (420) of the hob (400).
A kitchen cabinet (300) with a combination apparatus (500) according to claim 10 or 11,
wherein the kitchen cabinet (300) comprises a mounting wall (310), wherein the mounting wall (310) is configured for connection with the at least one second channel element (220), wherein the mounting wall (310) is arranged perpendicular to the flow direction (S), preferably perpendicular to the flow direction (S) at least in the channel unit (200).
A method for installation of a combination apparatus (500) with at least one fume extraction device (100) in a kitchen cabinet (300),
the at least one fume extraction device (100) being configured according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9 and the combination apparatus (500) being configured according to claim 10 or 11, and the kitchen cabinet (300) being preferably configured according to claim 12,

wherein the kitchen cabinet (300) comprises a mounting wall (310) with a wall recess (320) for flowing through of the fumes, and a worktop (330) with an insertion opening (331) for integrating at least partially the combination apparatus (500),

wherein the mounting wall (310) and the worktop (330) are arranged preferably perpendicular to each other,

the method comprising:
• providing the combination apparatus (500) at a distance from the worktop (330), preferably at a distance opposite the insertion opening (331), in particular wherein the combination apparatus (500) is equipped with at least the intermediate channel (230) element and particularly with the first channel element (210) and/or the second channel element (220) ;

• inserting, preferably translatory inserting, the combination apparatus (500), preferably in a position angled to an installation position of the combination apparatus (500), at least partially through the insertion opening (331) into the kitchen cabinet (300) until the combination apparatus (500) contacts at least in sections the worktop (330);

• moving the at least one second channel element (220), preferably sliding the at least one second channel element (220) along the at least one intermediate channel element (230), towards the mounting wall (310), preferably towards the wall recess (320), until the at least one second channel element (220) contacts at least in sections the mounting wall (310);

• connecting the at least one second channel element (220) with the mounting wall (310), preferably via at least one screw connection.
The method according to claim 13, comprising:
• aligning the combination apparatus (500) with reference to the worktop (330), preferably with reference to the insertion opening (331), in a position angled to the installation position of the combination apparatus (500), preferably before inserting the combination apparatus (500) at least partially through the insertion opening (331); and/or

• pivoting the inserted aligned combination apparatus (500) from the angled position to the installation position.
The method according to claim 13 or 14, comprising:
• cutting through the at least one intermediate channel element (230) and creating the at least one intermediate channel element (230) with a predetermined length, preferably in the flow direction (S), which method step of cutting through particularly being performed prior to the method step of inserting the combination appliance or the method step of equipping the combination apparatus (500) with at least the intermediate channel element (230).