EP4372161A1 - Water supply device for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of a domestic refrigeration appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a water supply device (15) for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit (11) of a household refrigeration appliance (1), with a carrier (53) for carrying at least one pump (79, 80) of the water supply device (15) and/or hoses (78, 85, 95, 97) of the water supply device (15), wherein the carrier (53) has a holding unit (70) which is designed to hold a sensor unit (68) of the water supply device (15) in a non-destructively detachable manner.

Description

One aspect of the invention relates to a water supply device for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of a household refrigeration appliance. The water supply device has a carrier. This carrier is intended to carry at least one pump of the water supply device and/or to carry at least one hose of the water supply device. Another aspect of the invention relates to a liquid and/or dispensing unit of a household refrigeration appliance. Another aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance. Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method for determining a fill level in a water tank of a water supply device.

In the case of household refrigeration appliances, such as a refrigerator or a freezer or a fridge-freezer combination appliance, it is known that a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit can be present. This can be used to dispense water or water-containing drinks. It is also possible for ice to be produced from the liquid provided, in particular water. This can be ice cubes or crushed ice. This ice can then also be dispensed via the corresponding dispensing unit. In this context, household refrigeration appliances are known which, for example, have a dispensing device on the outside of a door of the household refrigeration appliance. For this purpose, a niche can be arranged in the outside of the door. A container can be inserted into this, for example, in order to be able to insert the liquid and/or ice to be dispensed into it.

In known water supply systems, it is known that a level detection is carried out in a water tank of the water supply system. Sensor detection can also be provided for this purpose.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water supply device in which a compact structure is achieved and a wide variety of functional units can be arranged in a space-saving manner.

This object is achieved by a water supply device, a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit, a household refrigeration appliance and a method according to the independent claims.

One aspect of the invention relates to a water supply device for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of a household refrigeration appliance. The water supply device has a carrier. This carrier is intended to carry at least one pump of the water supply device and/or to carry at least one hose of the water supply device.

The carrier also has a holding unit. This is designed to hold a sensor unit of the water supply device in a non-destructively detachable manner.

The invention therefore forms a multifunctional carrier for a specific assembly of a liquid and/or dispensing unit, namely the water supply device. On the one hand, this carrier is intended to accommodate water delivery components such as a pump and/or a hose, and on the other hand, to accommodate a detection device, in particular the sensor unit. This means that a wide variety of different components of the water supply device can be arranged on this multifunctional carrier. This enables a space-saving design. In addition, these individual components to be accommodated can also be attached in such a way that their functions are not restricted or do not restrict one another. A detachable connection with which a sensor unit can be arranged on this carrier is particularly advantageous. This is because this holding unit enables such a sensor unit to be reversibly attached and removed. This means that the sensor unit can also be removed for maintenance or replacement purposes. In this context, it is then also very easy to carry out this assembly process.

In one embodiment, the carrier is formed in one piece. This means in particular that it is manufactured in a single manufacturing process. In the In this context, the overall geometry of the carrier is only formed during this manufacturing process. One-piece manufacturing does not mean that individual components of the carrier are each initially manufactured separately and generated in their basic form and then subsequently joined together, for example by gluing or the like. A one-piece formation of the carrier can be carried out, for example, by injection molding. In such an embodiment, the carrier is then an injection-molded component. The carrier is made in particular from plastic. This means that it can be provided with a low weight. Furthermore, this material is robust against a wide variety of and also strongly fluctuating environmental influences and is therefore also low-wear. A carrier, in particular a one-piece one, made of metal is also possible, in particular as a bent and/or punched and/or embossed component.

In one embodiment, the holding unit has at least one receptacle into which the sensor unit can be inserted at least in part. This improves the positioning of the sensor unit on the holding unit. This enables the sensor unit to be embedded in at least part of the holding unit. In addition, such a concept also enables the sensor unit to be positioned in a way that is protected at least in part.

In one embodiment, the holder has at least one holder web. In one embodiment, this has a support bed for the sensor unit. Such a holder web is compact in itself and yet designed to be mechanically stable. As a result, it requires little space and can still bear the corresponding mechanical load. The support bed can be designed as a ring section. This enables the sensor unit to be inserted and held in a very secure position. In particular, the sensor unit, in particular with its housing, can thus be placed in a strip-like manner on the support bed. In particular, a form-fitting fit can also be provided here.

In one embodiment, the holder has at least two separate holder webs. These can each be designed with a corresponding support bed. This further improves the secure positioning of the sensor unit. Nevertheless, a very compact and lightweight holding unit is still provided.

Especially when the sensor unit is elongated, a secure and precise mounting and holding of the sensor unit can still be made possible by such a plurality of mounting webs, which are arranged separately and at a distance from one another.

In one embodiment, the holding unit has at least one snap element for snapping the sensor unit into place. This is an advantageous embodiment for holding the sensor unit in a non-destructive manner. This is because it enables the position of the sensor unit to be fixed particularly securely in the arranged state. On the other hand, it enables quick assembly and disassembly. These advantages of quick assembly and disassembly are particularly important when only one such snap element is provided. Such a snap element can be designed as a freely projecting tongue. This can then snap directly onto the housing of the sensor unit when it is arranged in the holding unit. This means that the basic design of this snap connection is also geometrically and functionally very simple.

In one embodiment, the snap element is a separate component from the at least one receiving web. It can also be arranged at a distance from the receiving web. Such a concept improves the mechanically stable mounting, since different components of the holding unit engage directly at different points on the sensor unit.

Last but not least, this also improves handling and accessibility to the individual components of the holding unit.

In one embodiment, the holding unit has a stop wall. This is intended for the abutting positioning of a stop web of the sensor unit. This is particularly the case when the sensor unit is arranged in the mounted end position on the carrier. Such an additional stop connection ensures the positional accuracy of the sensor unit in the holding unit. improved again. In particular, the stop wall is a different component to the snap element and a receiving web. This means that with the direct contact between the stop web and the stop wall, a further mechanical connection area can be created between the holding unit and the sensor unit. The position-fixed fit is thus improved again. This enables a very precise end position of the sensor unit on the carrier. This can then also be maintained permanently. This improves the permanently safe and precise detection with the sensor unit.

In one embodiment, the carrier has a base body. In particular, this base body is formed like a frame. Preferably, the carrier can have a support wall. This is different from the base body. It can be provided that this support wall is arranged so as to protrude from the base body. The holding unit is arranged, in particular completely, on the support wall. As a result, the base body is not impaired by such additional components of the carrier. In this context, the base body can then be fully coupled to other units, for example an insert part of the household refrigeration appliance. In this context, no holding units or other components of the carrier are in the way. In addition, the positioning on the support wall also enables a more exposed attachment of the holding unit. Both accessibility and mechanically stable attachment are improved as a result.

In one embodiment, the support wall is formed as a stiffening strip, in particular one with multiple angles. This increases the stiffness of the support as such. In particular, this can also be used to stiffen the frame-like base body. Because the support wall is also formed as a strip, it is compact in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the base body. The strip geometry also means that the dimensions of this support wall perpendicular to its longitudinal axis are smaller than the length along this longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, the water supply device has at least one sensor unit. In particular, the sensor unit can be a reed switch. Such a sensor unit is very simply designed and yet permanently functionally reliable and robust in its detection. In particular, such a reed switch can switched or closed and opened by the influence of a magnetic field. It is therefore very advantageous and easy to arrange such a detection element, for example a magnetic float, in a water tank of the water supply device, which floats up or down in a vertical direction depending on the level of the liquid in a water tank. In this way, a simple, yet reliable and safe concept for level detection can be achieved in interaction between this detection element and the reed switch.

By holding or installing this sensor unit, which can in particular be a level detection sensor unit, detachably on this carrier, it is possible to achieve a precise level determination on a permanent basis.

In one embodiment, the water supply device has a water tank that is separate from the carrier. In particular, its fill level with liquid, in particular water, can be detected with the sensor unit already mentioned.

In one embodiment, the carrier has a counter-coupling device. This is intended for coupling with a coupling device. The coupling device is designed in particular on an insert part of the household refrigeration appliance that is separate from the water supply device, so that the carrier can be attached to this insert part. In particular, it is provided that the carrier is freely supported and can be attached directly to the insert part. In particular, a non-destructively detachable connection can also be provided here. The carrier thus provides a further additional function. In this context, it is therefore in particular a central component of the water supply device. In this context, in the embodiment mentioned, it is also precisely the central component that is to be mechanically connected directly to this insert part. The carrier can therefore also provide and absorb these corresponding holding forces, although it may already be extensively equipped with other components, such as a pump and/or hoses, as well as the sensor unit.

In one embodiment, the carrier has at least one holding arm for holding at least one hose of the water supply device. This holding arm is in particular, freely cantilevered. In one embodiment, the holding arm is arranged so as to protrude from a frame-like base body of the carrier. A holding arm provided and oriented in this way enables simplified assembly of components on the carrier. Nevertheless, the holding arm is arranged in a stable manner, namely on the frame-like base body. The freely cantilevered arrangement also makes the holding arm accessible in many ways and can accommodate additional components of this kind in different positions. In particular, a holding arm arranged in this way can also bear corresponding loads and serves as an advantageous carrier component for corresponding additional components. The exposed orientation also makes it easy to handle other parts or components when attached to the holding arm and makes them easily accessible.

In one embodiment, the carrier has at least one water basin. In particular, this water basin is integrated in the carrier. This means in particular that the water basin is formed in one piece with the carrier. Such a water basin or reservoir advantageously makes it possible to prevent undesired water from running into an ice tray of the liquid and/or dispensing unit. In particular, if a water tank of the water supply device is arranged higher in height than this ice tray, water can run or drip from the hoses that lead from the water tank to the ice tray due to the corresponding pressure conditions, in particular hydrostatic pressure, even if the ice tray is already sufficiently full. Such undesired running or dripping can lead to undesired overflow of the ice tray. By having the water basin between the water tank and the ice tray in the hose system or interposing it, the pressure regulation can be improved in such a way that corresponding running or dripping of liquid into the ice tray can be better avoided. The larger volume of the water basin compared to the connecting hoses means that a corresponding pressure equalization takes place on the way between the higher water tank and the lower ice bowl, so that the dripping into the ice bowl mentioned above can be avoided. The water basin can therefore also be referred to as a pressure equalization chamber or dosing chamber in this context. In an advantageous embodiment, the number of components is also reduced because this water basin is integrated into the carrier. This is because there is no need to provide a separate water basin, which would have to be mounted on the carrier using a corresponding assembly process.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the water basin also represents a holding component of the carrier. In this context, the water basin can be integrated into a holding structure of the carrier, for example. This holding structure thus serves on the one hand to accommodate further components of the water supply device, such as a pump and/or at least one hose, but on the other hand also serves to temporarily store the water on the way from the water tank to an ice tray.

In one embodiment, such a water basin is thus integrated into such a holding structure, in particular also into a specifically designed holding arm. In one embodiment, this water basin can be arranged directly on a base body, in particular a frame-like base body, of the carrier. In one embodiment, the water basin can be oriented so as to protrude freely from this base body. This means that the advantages already explained above for the advantageous embodiment with the holding arm can also be achieved with this water basin.

In one embodiment, the holding arm can be provided in addition to the water basin. These components can then be arranged at a distance from one another, in particular cantilevered from the base body. In this context, they can be arranged in the same direction from the base body. In this way, in an advantageous embodiment, a free space or an air space is formed between the holding arm and the water basin, in which additional components of the water supply device can be arranged in a very compact and yet highly functional manner. This is because at least one pump and/or at least one hose can then be arranged and held in this free space in a compact and yet positionally secure manner. In this context, it is also particularly advantageous that these additional components are arranged hanging in the free space. This can be done, for example, by the holding arm has corresponding receptacles, in particular depressions, into which, for example, a hose can be inserted. The water basin can also have such a receptacle, in particular an opening, at least on one boundary wall, into which at least one hose can be inserted and received. This allows these additional components to be attached in a suspended manner to the support arm and/or the water basin.

In an advantageous embodiment, the carrier has at least one, in particular several, separate holding claws. These holding claws are intended for holding one or more hoses of the water supply device and/or at least one pump of the water supply device. In this context, a holding claw is a component that at least partially grips a hose and/or a pump. A holding claw thus has at least two holding fingers that partially grip the object to be held. In one embodiment, a holding claw can be a freely projecting web, at the end of which these claw fingers are arranged. Such holding claws are then arranged in an exposed manner and a particularly simple assembly scenario is possible. Due to the advantageous accessibility, a hose and/or a pump can then be very easily inserted into the holding claw. In particular, the holding claw is designed so that a hose and/or part of a pump is held in the holding claw in a form-fitting manner. A force-fitting attachment can also be provided. In particular, a clamping force can then be formed with which the hose and/or the part of the pump are held in the holding claw. This enables a particularly stable and secure fit. Even when the water supply device is in operation, in particular when a pump is in operation, the respective position is then permanently held securely, even if vibration forces occur due to the operation of the pump.

In one embodiment, these preferably several holding claws are integrated into a holding arm. In addition or instead of this, one holding claw or several holding claws can be integrated into a boundary wall of the water basin. In particular, a holding claw is arranged in the free space, as explained above and as it can be formed between a holding arm and the water basin in the carrier. This enables secure and simple installation these additional components in this free space between the holding arm and the water basin is further improved.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit for a household refrigeration appliance. The liquid and/or ice dispensing unit can have a water supply device according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The liquid and/or ice dispensing unit can additionally have a dispensing device. This is intended for directly dispensing the liquid and/or ice. This dispensing device can be arranged, for example, on a door of the household refrigeration appliance. It can be arranged in a niche in the door that is open on the outside. The liquid and/or ice dispensing unit can also have an ice production unit. This is a separate unit from the water supply device of the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit. The liquid and/or ice dispensing unit can also have an ice tray. With this ice tray, water introduced can be frozen, for example, into ice cubes.

The liquid and/or ice dispensing unit can also have a conveyor unit with which ice produced and temporarily stored in a storage trough, such as ice cubes or crushed ice, can be conveyed to the dispensing device.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance. The household refrigeration appliance has a water supply device according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The household refrigeration appliance can also have a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit. In one embodiment, the water supply device has a water tank. This can preferably be reversibly removed and reinserted. This means that it can be filled with liquid, in particular water, by a user external to the household refrigeration appliance. For example, this can be done at a water tap.

• Insbesondere Erfassen eines am Wassertank vertikal bewegbaren angeordneten Detektionselements der Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung mit der extern zum Wassertank angeordneten Sensoreinheit, wenn aufgrund des Füllstands im Wassertank eine spezifische Höhenposition des sich mit dem Füllstand in der Höhenposition verändernden Detektionselements erreicht wird;
• Insbesondere Erfassen des Verlassens des Erfassungsbereichs der Sensoreinheit durch das Detektionselement, wenn der Füllstand im Wassertank sinkt;
• Insbesondere Erfassen der weiteren Betriebsdauer und/oder der weiteren Fördermenge zumindest einer Pumpe der Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung seit dem Erfassen des Verlassens des Erfassungsbereichs der Sensoreinheit durch das Detektionselement;
• Insbesondere Vergleichen der weiteren Betriebsdauer und/oder der weiteren Fördermenge mit einer Referenz-Betriebsdauer und/oder einer Referenz-Fördermenge;
• Insbesondere Erkennen eines leeren Wassertanks als leeren Füllstand, wenn die weitere Betriebsdauer der Referenz-Betriebsdauer entspricht und/oder wenn die weitere Fördermenge der Referenz-Fördermenge entspricht.

A further aspect relates to a method for determining a fill level in a water tank of a water supply device. The water supply device can, in one embodiment, be designed according to the above-mentioned aspect or a advantageous embodiment thereof. The method comprises in particular the following steps:

• In particular, detecting a detection element of the water supply device arranged vertically on the water tank with the sensor unit arranged externally to the water tank when, due to the fill level in the water tank, a specific height position of the detection element, which changes in height position with the fill level, is reached;
• In particular, detecting when the detection element leaves the detection range of the sensor unit when the level in the water tank drops;
• In particular, detecting the further operating time and/or the further delivery rate of at least one pump of the water supply device since the detection element detects that the pump has left the detection range of the sensor unit;
• In particular, comparing the further operating time and/or the further delivery quantity with a reference operating time and/or a reference delivery quantity;
• In particular, recognizing an empty water tank as an empty fill level if the remaining operating time corresponds to the reference operating time and/or if the remaining delivery rate corresponds to the reference delivery rate.

This method makes it particularly easy to detect specific fill levels in the water tank. It is no longer necessary to provide several separate sensor units, each of which detects different discrete fill levels. In particular, it is provided that only a single sensor unit is provided. It is particularly advantageous with the method to detect a fill level of liquid in a water tank that is not equal to the maximum fill level and/or that is not equal to the empty tank. Because the proposed new concept uses the sensor unit to directly detect a fill level that is not equal to the empty water tank, it is possible to determine other fill levels, in particular an empty water tank, by specifically evaluating parameters of operating units of the water supply facility. In particular, the empty water tank and thus an empty fill level no longer have to be detected directly with a sensor unit, but this can be done indirectly using the proposed method. It is therefore based on a fill level of liquid in the water tank that is different from the empty fill level and additional Information from operating parameters, in particular at least one pump of the water supply device, calculates when the empty fill level is reached. This also makes it possible to detect the empty fill level more precisely. When using magnetic floats as a detection element, for example, inaccuracies in the fill level detection can occur due to the size and also the at least partial immersion in the water. This can be avoided by the method and thus the empty level in the water tank can be recorded or calculated more precisely.

Since in an advantageous embodiment the volume of the water tank is known, in particular also predetermined and stored in a storage unit of the water supply device, it can also be determined via the recorded current operating times and/or delivery quantities how much liquid has been pumped out of the water tank since the time of detection of the sensor device leaving the detection range, it can also be determined very easily and yet precisely and quickly when the liquid empty level in the water tank is reached.

In particular, the sensor unit is positioned in such a way that a fill level is detected by the interaction of the detection element and the sensor unit, which is different from the maximum fill level and different from the liquid empty level. By directly detecting an intermediate level or an intermediate fill level in this way, the possible other fill levels can be calculated precisely, which is particularly advantageous. This means that at least one other fill level in the water tank can be deduced from such a single directly detected fill level, or this can be calculated precisely.

In this context, the reference operating time indicates the period of time which, based on the volume of the water tank and the mode of operation of the pump, indicates the period of time that passes from the detection of the sensor unit leaving the detection range until the empty level in the water tank is just reached. The same applies to the reference flow rate, so that here too, due to the known volume of the water tank and the knowledge of the amount of water still in the water tank when the detection of the sensor unit leaving the detection range is Sensor unit through the detection element, so that here too it can be precisely detected via this observation when the empty level in the water tank is reached.

In one embodiment, the detection element is a detection element that is partially immersed in the water in the water tank. The sensor unit is preferably positioned in the vertical direction in such a way that the detection area is left when the part of the detection element that is immersed in the water is arranged with a lower end, viewed in the vertical direction, at a predetermined distance from the inside of the bottom of the water tank or is just sitting on this inside. If, for example, this lower end is still approximately between less than 2 millimeters, in particular between less than 2 millimeters and more than 0.5 millimeters, from the bottom of the water tank and this lower end is therefore not yet sitting on this bottom, a very precise level for an intermediate fill level can also be detected here, from which a very simple check and calculation can then be carried out on the basis of the preferably existing parameters set out above and their evaluation as to when exactly the empty fill level in the water tank is reached. However, in another embodiment, it is also possible that the touching down that is taking place and thus exactly this state and this point in time are present when the detection element detects that the sensor unit has left the detection range. Because the detection element is partially immersed in the water, it is also possible in this embodiment to easily calculate when the actual empty level in the water tank is reached. Because even when the lower end of this detection element is just beginning to touch the inside of the floor, there is still liquid, in particular water, in the water tank and thus even with this positional state of the detection element the empty level of the water tank has not yet been reached. However, because it is then known how much water is still in the water tank and by comparing the above-mentioned parameters with corresponding reference values, it is possible to calculate very precisely when the empty level in the water tank has been reached.

One aspect of the invention relates to a water supply device for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of a household refrigeration appliance. The water supply device has a carrier for carrying at least one pump the water supply device and/or for carrying at least one hose of the water supply device. The carrier has at least one holding structure for carrying the at least one pump of the water supply device and/or for carrying the at least one hose of the water supply device. This holding structure has at least one water basin. It is therefore preferably provided in this water supply device that a water basin is provided on the carrier. In an advantageous embodiment, such an intermediate reservoir for water can thus be provided on the water path between a water tank of the water supply device and an outlet. This advantageously enables a hydrostatic pressure to be equalized, in particular when the water tank is located higher in height than the outlet of the water supply device. In an advantageous embodiment, this can prevent undesirable dripping of liquid from this outlet into, for example, an ice tray of the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit. Undesirable overflow of the ice tray and/or extensive freezing of the ice tray can thus be avoided.

Preferably, the water basin is integrated into the support structure. In one embodiment, it can be provided that the support structure is arranged in a freely cantilevered manner from a base body of the carrier, in particular a frame-like base body.

Preferably, at least one holding claw, in particular several holding claws, is arranged on the water basin for holding hoses and/or at least one pump of the water supply device. In particular, this at least one holding claw is integrated freely cantilevered on the water basin. It can be provided that this at least one holding claw extends in a free space between a holding arm of the carrier and the holding structure which is separate and spaced apart from it.

In one embodiment, the holding claws have claw openings. In one embodiment, these are oriented upwards in the height direction of the water supply device. This makes it particularly easy to insert a hose and/or a pump from above. This enables a very simple assembly scenario with clear assembly steps to be carried out. In this context, it is also particularly advantageous that a A pre-assembly module is produced with at least one hose and at least one pump, which are then already pre-assembled with each other. This pre-assembly module can then be very easily inserted from above into this at least one retaining claw.

In one embodiment, the water basin has a boundary wall, in particular a boundary wall that faces a support arm of the carrier. In particular, this boundary wall has a passage for a hose. In particular, the passage is arranged on an upper edge of the boundary wall. It is designed in particular as a recess that is open at the top for receiving and passing through a hose. This also provides a simple holding and mounting scenario for a hose that is to be mounted directly on this boundary wall. This makes it very easy to insert and remove this hose from this passage. Nevertheless, a stable fit of the hose on this boundary wall is achieved.

One aspect of the invention relates to a water supply device for a liquid and/or ice dispenser of a household refrigeration appliance. The water supply device has a carrier. The carrier is intended to carry at least one pump of the water supply device and/or at least one hose of the water supply device. The carrier has at least one, in particular freely projecting, holding arm. The holding arm is intended to hold at least one hose and/or at least one pump. In particular, these components can be arranged directly on the carrier. In addition, the carrier has a base body. This base body is in particular designed like a frame. The holding arm is arranged so as to protrude from this base body.

In one embodiment, the support arm has a receptacle for a hose and/or for a part of the pump on its upper edge. This allows the support arm to hold the hose and/or the pump from above. It is therefore also very easy to mount the hose and/or the pump from above on the support arm. This enables very easy access and yet stable positioning of the additional components mentioned on the support arm. In particular The holder is open at the top. This creates a trough-like or ring-like depression in the upper edge of the holding arm.

One aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance with an outer housing. The household refrigeration appliance also has an inner container. The inner container is a separate component from the outer housing. In particular, the inner container is accommodated in the outer housing. In one embodiment, the inner container delimits at least one receiving space for food. The receiving space is a component of the household refrigeration appliance. In addition, an intermediate space is formed between the outer housing and the inner container. This is intended for filling with thermally insulating material of the household refrigeration appliance. The household refrigeration appliance also has an insert part. This can also be referred to as a backing part. The insert part is arranged in the intermediate space in the region of an opening formed in a wall of the inner container. The insert part has a coupling device. The household refrigeration appliance also has a water supply device. The water supply device is in particular a component of a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of the household refrigeration appliance. In one embodiment, the water supply device has a counter-coupling device. This is intended for coupling with the coupling device when the water supply device is mounted or is mounted on the insert part. In particular, the coupling device and the counter-coupling device are designed in such a way that at least one component, in particular a carrier, of the water supply device is arranged freely on the insert part and is also arranged in the receiving space. This means that with this specific structure, this at least one component of the water supply device is held without additional support and/or support below the component only by the holding forces between the coupling device and the counter-coupling device. It can also be provided that this component, in particular the water supply device, extends freely into the receiving space and this is held by the direct, in particular mechanical, coupling between the coupling device and the counter-coupling device. This creates a particularly advantageous assembly concept for the Water supply device is made possible. This is because a specific insert part serves as the component to which the water supply device can be directly mounted. By designing the coupling device and the counter-coupling device in such a way that the corresponding weight forces of the water supply device can be absorbed, additional support elements and seat components on which the water supply device would have to rest and be supported can be avoided. This also saves the number of components and enables a simpler and faster assembly scenario. In addition, this also makes it possible for the water supply device to be arranged very specifically in the household refrigeration appliance and to be held in place permanently. Corresponding weight forces and also leverage forces that act on the insert part can be absorbed accordingly. This also makes it possible, in a particularly advantageous manner, for other components of the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit, which are also arranged adjacent to the water supply device and/or are directly connected to it, to be easily removed without damaging the holding connection between the water supply device and the insert. Even components that are arranged vertically below the water supply device and/or are removed below the component that is directly connected to the insert do not result in this connection interface, in particular the attachment interface, between the insert and the component of the water supply device being damaged. In this context, the coupling device and the counter-coupling device are mechanically so stable and robust that the position of the water supply device in its freely cantilevered extension and in its freely supporting arrangement on the insert is also permanently maintained.

In one embodiment, the coupling device extends through the opening into the receiving space. As a result, it is also arranged in a locally exposed manner, so that direct coupling with the counter-coupling device is easier. Especially when the water supply device, in particular the said component, is brought up to the insert and is directly connected to it, it is possible to use this position The coupling device makes it easier to carry out the mechanical coupling process and to reach the coupled end position precisely.

In one embodiment, the coupling device has at least one coupling rail. The component can be directly attached to this. A coupling rail is in particular an elongated component. This allows an increased mechanical coupling with the counter-coupling device to be achieved. This provides improved support for a hanging connection between the coupling device and the counter-coupling device. This is because the weight forces of the component can be transferred to the coupling device over a larger area or absorbed by it. In addition, such a rail can be relatively long in one spatial direction, but is relatively compact in the other two spatial directions. A space-saving arrangement can therefore also be achieved at least in these other two spatial directions.

In one embodiment, the coupling device has several, in particular two, separate coupling rails. This can improve the mechanically stable connection with the counter-coupling device. The absorption and dissipation of corresponding weight forces and lever forces is thereby further improved.

Preferably, at least one coupling rail can be L-shaped when viewed in cross-section. The cross-section is preferably formed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the coupling rail. On the one hand, this shape of a coupling rail creates a simple geometry. On the other hand, it enables quick and yet stable coupling with a counter-coupling device. In particular, hanging the counter-coupling device from above in such a shaped coupling rail is easy and safe. This prevents the counter-coupling device from slipping or slipping out of the coupling rail. In particular, hanging the counter-coupling device from above in such a coupling rail also enables improved absorption of weight forces and lever forces.

In particular, the coupling rail is oriented in its L-shape in such a way that one L-leg points upwards in the vertical direction and is cantilevered upwards. This creates a receiving area into which the counter-coupling device can be inserted. This further improves the hanging connection, as the upwardly projecting leg of the L-shape prevents the counter-coupling device from slipping out.

In one embodiment, the coupling device has at least one positioning dome. This can be inserted into a dome receptacle of the counter-coupling device. By inserting them into one another, at least one plug connection is created. This additionally supports the positioning accuracy of the coupling device and the counter-coupling device relative to one another. In addition, this also enables easier assembly, because this positioning dome and the dome receptacle can also provide assembly coding.

In one embodiment, the positioning dome is additionally designed as a screw dome. This allows an additional screw connection to be formed between the insert part and the component of the water supply device that is to be directly connected to it. The screw connection improves the permanent, precise positioning of the component on the insert part and thus also of the water supply device on the insert part.

In one embodiment, the coupling connection between the coupling device and the counter-coupling device can be released without causing any damage. This allows the water supply device to be reversibly assembled and disassembled on the insert. The entire water supply device can therefore be removed from the insert for maintenance work and/or cleaning work and/or replacement work and then reassembled.

The component of the water supply device, which is in particular attached directly to the insert part, can be a carrier in one embodiment. This can be designed to carry at least one pump of the water supply device and/or to carry at least one hose of the water supply device. In one embodiment, a central component of the water supply device is therefore also the component that is directly connected to the insert part. This robust component in particular is therefore not only used to support other components of the water supply device, but also represents the interface to the insert.

In one embodiment, the insert has at least one retaining element. This extends in particular into the receiving space. The retaining element extends over the clear width of the opening, so that the retaining element overlaps with those surface areas of the wall of the inner container that border on or delimit the opening. This enables the insert to be attached to the wall of the inner container in the area of the opening in a very simple manner. In particular, this enables a self-retaining connection of the insert to the wall. It can be provided that the retaining element is integrated in the insert. The insert can be a plastic part, for example. It can be an injection-molded component, for example. By forming the retaining element in one piece with the insert, the number of components is reduced. The retaining element can be formed mechanically stable with the insert. This allows corresponding forces to be absorbed and position tolerances of the retaining element can be avoided.

In one embodiment, at least one holding element is designed as an elongated holding rail. In one embodiment, this elongated holding rail can be formed on a base body of the insert part, so that a receiving groove for the surface area is formed between the holding rail and the base body. The surface area thus dips into this receiving groove, so that the insert part is stable. As this surface area is surrounded on both sides by partial areas of the insert part, the insert part can also be stable on the wall. This embodiment makes it particularly easy to install the insert part. This is because a simple relative movement between the insert part and the wall allows the surface area to be pushed into this receiving groove, thus creating the desired final position of the insert part on the wall in the area of the opening in a very targeted manner. In addition, this geometry also prevents the insert part from becoming undesirably detached from the wall.

Preferably, the opening has at least one threading area. This threading area has a larger clear width than a adjacent breakthrough area of the breakthrough. This locally limited widening of the breakthrough makes it possible to achieve a particularly simple installation scenario for the insert on the wall. This is because it is very easy for the insert to be introduced into the breakthrough from one side of the wall in such a way that the holding rail is introduced into the threading area from one side of the wall and can thus be moved through the breakthrough to the other side of the wall. When the insert is mounted, in particular moved, this holding rail is pushed locally through this threading area so that the holding rail is then arranged on the opposite side of the wall. When the insert is moved further in this linear installation direction, the surface area that has already been slightly inserted into the receiving groove slides more extensively into this receiving groove until the end position of the insert on the wall is reached. Such a simple installation scenario is made possible in particular by this widened threading area. This eliminates the overlapping condition between the retaining rail and the surface area that exists in the breakthrough area.

In one embodiment, the clear width of the threading area is at least as large as the distance between a free edge of the holding element and an opposite area of the insert. In particular, this clear width of the threading area is at least as large as the distance between a free edge of the holding element and another free edge of another holding element. This makes it possible for the holding element to be pushed from one side of the wall through the threading area to the opposite side of the wall when the insert is mounted on the wall by a sliding movement.

In one embodiment, one end of the holding element is widened, particularly when viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the holding element. In particular, this end is designed as a threading end. This widening of the end makes it very easy to carry out the assembly process as explained above. This is because a funnel-like inlet can be formed at this end of the holding element. This makes it easier to guide the holding element through the opening from one side of the wall, particularly in the threading area. Jamming or spreading or an undesirable This prevents collisions from occurring. This widening makes it easier to accommodate the particularly abrupt transition between the threading area and the further breakthrough area. It also makes it easier to insert the surface area further into the receiving groove when the insert part is moved further relative to the wall.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for mounting a domestic refrigeration appliance component of a domestic refrigeration appliance on an insert part of the domestic refrigeration appliance. In the method, a water supply device, in particular a carrier thereof, for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of the domestic refrigeration appliance is mounted on the insert part as a domestic refrigeration appliance component. The insert part is mounted in an intermediate space between an outer housing of the domestic refrigeration appliance and a separate inner container of the domestic refrigeration appliance in an area of an opening in a wall of the inner container. The insert part is coupled with a coupling device to a counter-coupling device of the water supply device, so that at least one component of the water supply device is arranged freely supporting on the insert part and is arranged in the receiving space. In particular, the water supply device, in particular a carrier of this water supply device, is thus directly attached freely supporting to the insert part.

Advantageous embodiments of the household refrigeration appliance and/or the water supply device, as mentioned above, are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the method. In this context, the individual components, considered individually and/or in operative connection, are intended and suitable for enabling or carrying out corresponding method steps.

One aspect of the invention relates to a water supply device for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of a household refrigeration appliance. The water supply device has a housing. Components for conveying water are arranged in this housing. The components are part of the water supply device. In one embodiment, the housing has a housing cover. The housing also has, in particular, a base module The base module is arranged on the housing cover with a connection that can be removed without damaging it. This concept encloses the components of the water supply device and is arranged in a protected manner. This means that the components can also be protected from undesirable forces, such as impact or the like. Especially when the water supply device is arranged in a receiving space of the household refrigeration appliance, impact with food or storage containers, such as a storage shell or the like, cannot lead to the components for supplying water being damaged or displaced. This is particularly advantageous in preventing undesirable leaks in the components for supplying water and/or extensive water leakage. In addition, since the housing is made up of two separate components, access to the components in the housing is very easy. This means that the base module and/or the housing cover, for example, can be reversibly removed and the components in the housing are freely accessible. Because the housing cover is directly connected to the base module, in particular with a non-destructively removable connection, these components can also be easily separated from one another and reassembled.

In one embodiment, the base module is designed as a single piece. This reduces the number of components. In particular, if the housing needs to be opened, it is very easy to remove just the base module as a single piece component. This also reduces the assembly and disassembly effort.

In one embodiment, in a connected end position of the base module with the housing cover, the base module is coupled to the housing cover with at least one snap connection. This is another very advantageous embodiment, because it also ensures that the assembled end position is held reliably and securely. Undesirable slipping of the base module relative to the housing cover or vice versa can then be better avoided. In addition, a snap connection is a mechanically simple connection that can be reversibly released and recreated. It is permanently highly functional and robust. Any forces that occur can be easily absorbed. The snap connection also enables a very position-fixed holder of the end position between the housing cover and the base module.

In one embodiment, the housing cover has at least one guide element. A counter-guide element arranged on the base module can be coupled to this. This enables a relative movement, in particular a linear one, between the base module and the housing cover to be guided in a particularly simple manner. This enables a clamp-free and jerk-free connection between the housing cover and the base module. Especially when this guide device with the guide element and the counter-guide element specifies a linear assembly direction, the base module can also be mounted very easily on the housing cover. This is because in the coupled state, the base module can move in a straight line relative to the housing cover, which is then also safely guided to reach the end position. This enables a very low-complexity assembly scenario.

In one embodiment, a guide element is formed on an outside of the housing cover. This guide element is exposed and therefore very easy for a user to see. This makes coupling the counter-guide element with the guide element very simple and accurate. In addition, the relative movement between the counter-guide element and the guide element coupled to it can be observed over almost the entire assembly path. The assembled final state is then also easily recognizable visually. In particular, if a snap connection is provided that holds the final position between the base module and the housing cover, the final position can also be clearly perceived through haptic feedback.

In one embodiment, a guide element is designed as a guide runner. In particular, in this context, a step is formed in the side wall of the housing cover. This guides the linear assembly direction in a particularly advantageous manner. This is because such a step predetermines the movement path of the counter-guide element on the guide element in at least two spatial directions.

In one embodiment, the guide element extends over at least 70 percent, in particular at least 90 percent, of the length of a side wall. In particular, the side wall is a longitudinal side wall of the housing cover. A longitudinal side wall is in particular a wall oriented in the vertical direction that is longer than other adjacent side walls of the housing cover oriented in the vertical direction. In particular, the housing cover is designed like a cuboid. On the one hand, guide elements with such long dimensions ensure that the entire assembly path between the currently coupled state and the end position between the base module and the housing cover is guided very evenly. In addition, a mutual contact between the guide elements and the counter-guide element can still be maintained in the corresponding end position. Therefore, the end position between the components mentioned is also supported by this length of the guide element.

In one embodiment, the base module has a guide part. The guide part is intended to guide a water tank of the water supply device when the water tank is brought to the housing. In one embodiment, this guide part is thus integrated in the base module. This means that it is manufactured in one piece with it. This also makes it easier to assemble and find the end position of the water tank in the water supply device. This enables the water tank to be moved to the end position in a very targeted manner. This guided movement of the water tank is particularly advantageous if this assembly process also automatically involves a coupling between a hose and/or a nozzle of the water tank and a hose and/or a nozzle in a unit of the water supply device adjacent to the water tank. This is because it not only automatically reaches the end position of the water tank reliably and safely, but also automatically generates the associated coupling process between the nozzles mentioned. This means that this interface can also be coupled in a targeted manner. This makes it easier to avoid unwanted leaks at this interface.

In one embodiment, the guide part is designed as a guide tongue. This means that it is arranged and oriented in a very exposed manner. A very simple and This allows for clear coupling with the water tank. It also makes it easier to guide the water tank during the assembly process. This makes it easier to prevent the water tank from tipping over or slipping out of the coupled position with the guide tongue.

In one embodiment, the guide part is arranged protruding from a side wall of the floor module. This exposed position and orientation makes it particularly easy to couple the water tank to it and to safely guide the assembly movement into the final position.

In one embodiment, the guide part can be arranged in a freely cantilevered manner. This supports the advantages mentioned above.

In one embodiment, the base module has a mounting plate. The mounting plate is intended for mounting the water tank. This mounting plate is oriented in such a way that the water tank can be mounted laterally and directly adjacent to the housing of the water supply device or to the housing of a free assembly of the water supply device. The mounting plate is preferably dimensioned in such a way that it corresponds to at least 90 percent of the surface area of the base of the water tank. This means that the water tank can be mounted with its base on the mounting plate, in particular over its entire surface.

In one embodiment, the guide part is integrated into this mounting plate. This means that the mounting plate and the guide part are formed as one piece. In one embodiment, the guide part can protrude upwards above the top of the mounting plate when viewed in the vertical direction. This concept stabilizes this guide part by integrating it into the mounting plate. This prevents damage to the guide part in the event of a collision or other force being applied.

In addition, such a concept also prevents any additional components that may be located externally to the water supply system and on which the floor module is placed from being damaged, for example scratched, when the water tank is installed. In this context, the mounting plate forms an intermediate part between this further component, for example a shelf of the household refrigeration appliance, such as a glass plate, and the water tank.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance with a water supply device according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof.

A household refrigeration appliance is designed in particular for storing and preserving food. A household refrigeration appliance can be, for example, a refrigerator or a freezer or a fridge-freezer combination appliance. It can have an outer housing and an inner container arranged therein. In one embodiment, the inner container can delimit at least one receiving space for food. Such a receiving space can be, for example, a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment. In addition, a household refrigeration appliance can have at least one door that is movably arranged on the body of the household refrigeration appliance. In this door, for example, a dispensing device of the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of the household refrigeration appliance can be arranged.

One aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance with an outer housing and with an inner container which is accommodated in the outer housing and which delimits a receiving space for food. The household refrigeration appliance has an intermediate space which is formed between the outer housing and the inner container and which is intended to be filled with thermally insulating material. The household refrigeration appliance has an insert which is arranged in the intermediate space in the region of an opening through a wall of the inner container. The insert has a base body, in particular a plate-like one, which has at least one hole onto which at least one pipe socket of the insert which projects into the intermediate space is formed. The pipe socket is formed as a coupling socket for a hollow part of the household refrigeration appliance. This makes it possible for the insert to be used as a multifunctional component. It serves as an interface part between the receiving space and the intermediate space in order to be able to connect components to it. With the integrated coupling sockets, it is now also possible to couple hollow parts locally to the insert independently of the base body itself. This makes it possible to guide of components in the gap and in the immediate vicinity of the base body. This makes it possible to lay cables and hoses as lines that carry media in a more directed manner. The coupling sockets can be used to lay the components more precisely, particularly at the transition to the hole in the base body. This also improves the connection to the hollow parts and makes them leak-free. The direct connection of these hollow parts to pipe sockets is easier and more stable.

The coupling socket can have a coupling structure. This is intended for coupling, in particular mechanical coupling, with an additional part. The coupling structure can have a thread. It can also have a snap-on device or a bayonet device. A plug-in coupling for easy connection to the additional part is also possible. This is advantageous if an extension is to be formed as a hollow part on the coupling socket, so that a laying channel for another component is formed through the coupling socket and the hollow part, in particular an empty pipe. The additional component can be a hose, for example. However, it is also possible for a hollow part in the form of a hose to be coupled directly to the coupling structure. The medium, for example water, then flows directly in this channel. An additional empty pipe in which the separate hose is then laid is then not required.

In one embodiment, the hollow part is an empty pipe for holding a separate hose. However, the hollow part can also be a hose itself. This allows liquids such as water to be directed in a more targeted manner.

In one embodiment, the coupling socket is curved in an arc shape at least in some areas. This allows a hose that is guided through the hole in the base body to be laid without kinks. This also makes it possible to continue the hose into the hollow part without kinks.

In one embodiment, the insert part has the plate-like base body, which has at least one further hole, onto which at least one pipe socket of the insert part is formed, which projects into the intermediate space and is formed as a coupling socket for another hollow part of the household refrigeration appliance. In addition to In addition to the advantages already mentioned above, this enables improved coupling and laying of several, even different, hollow parts.

In one embodiment, the hollow part is an empty pipe for holding a cable. This also allows electrical elements to be laid and routed safely.

In one embodiment, the additional hole is formed higher on the base body than the hole, as viewed in the vertical direction of the household refrigeration appliance. This also prevents, for example, the electrical components from being affected in the event of a leak in the lower hole, through which liquid medium can be conducted.

In one embodiment, the hollow part is arranged on an inner side of a vertical side wall of the outer housing facing the intermediate space. This achieves an advantageous position and enables short installation paths to the devices of the household refrigeration appliance to which water is to be supplied.

In one embodiment, spacers are arranged on the inside of the side wall, on which the hollow part is arranged. This enables stable positioning and yet avoids long linear contact with this side wall. This has advantages in terms of thermal insulation. The hollow part can then be embedded circumferentially in the thermal insulation material that is arranged in the intermediate space.

In one embodiment, the household refrigeration appliance has at least one hose that extends through the hole in the coupling nozzle and from there into the intermediate space, the hose being laid upwards in the height direction at least after the coupling nozzle in the intermediate space and being laid in a receiving area between a ceiling wall of the outer housing and an intermediate plate of the household refrigeration appliance arranged adjacent thereto. This also results in a short laying path. Furthermore, existing installation space in this ceiling area of the household refrigeration appliance is used in order to be able to guide the hose, in particular, to a door of the household refrigeration appliance. Especially when a water dispensing unit is arranged in this door, the hose can be laid via this Ceiling area and a hinge with which the door is attached to the housing can also be easily and quickly installed in the door. In particular, no thermally insulating material is arranged in the receiving space.

In one embodiment, the intermediate plate has, in particular, groove-like receptacles in which the hose is laid. This also ensures that the hose is positioned precisely.

In particular, a gap is formed between the intermediate plate and a ceiling wall of an inner container of the household refrigeration appliance, which gap contains thermally insulating material.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for assembling a water supply device, in particular according to an above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof.

In one embodiment, the base module is mounted in a first mounting direction on the housing cover of the housing. In particular, in a further step, a water tank of the water supply device, which is separate from the housing, is mounted in a second mounting direction oriented perpendicularly to this first mounting direction. For this purpose, the water tank is also guided in particular. The water tank is guided through this second mounting direction to a subassembly, which is in particular enclosed by the housing. The water tank is arranged outside this housing of the subassembly. In the final position, it borders directly on the side of the housing of the subassembly.

One aspect of the invention relates to a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit of a household refrigeration appliance. In particular, the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit has a water treatment device according to an above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof.

Embodiments of an independent aspect relating to a water supply device are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the other independent aspects. The same applies to the independent aspects relating to a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit and/or for a household refrigeration appliance. The same applies to the processes.

The information "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "horizontal", "vertical", "depth direction", "width direction", "height direction" indicate the positions and orientations that apply when the device or household appliance is used and positioned as intended.

Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and/or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are also to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which emerge and can be produced from the explained embodiments using separate combinations of features.

Fig. 1

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltskältegeräts mit einem Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung;

Fig. 2a

eine Teildarstellung des Haushaltskältegeräts gemäß Fig. 1 in einer zu Fig. 1 unterschiedlichen Perspektive;

Fig. 2b

eine Teildarstellung eines weiteren Ausführungsbeispiels des Haushaltskältegeräts gemäß Fig. 1 in einer zu Fig. 1 unterschiedlichen Perspektive;

Fig. 3

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Teilbereichs in Fig. 1;

Fig. 4

eine Darstellung gemäß Fig. 3, jedoch mit bereits abgenommenem Wassertank;

Fig. 5

die Komponenten gemäß Fig. 4 im voneinander getrennten Zustand einer Gehäusehaube und eines Bodenmoduls einer Teilbaugruppe der Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung;

Fig. 6

eine perspektivische Schnittdarstellung durch die Anordnung in Fig. 4;

Fig. 7

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Teilbereichs einer Wand eines Innenbehälters mit einem Durchbruch und einem daran angeordneten Einlegeteil des Haushaltskältegeräts;

Fig. 8

die Darstellung gemäß Fig. 7 mit einer zusätzlichen Komponente einer Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung, die an dem Einlegeteil montiert ist;

Fig. 9

die Darstellung der Komponenten in Fig. 7 in einem ersten Montagezustand;

Fig. 10

die Komponenten gemäß Fig. 9 in einem zu Fig. 9 unterschiedlichen weiteren Montagezustand;

Fig. 11

eine Schnittdarstellung durch die Anordnung gemäß Fig. 3;

Fig. 12

eine weitere Vertikalschnittdarstellung durch die Anordnung gemäß Fig. 11;

Fig. 13

eine vergrößerte Darstellung eines Teilbereichs einer Teilbaugruppe der Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung mit einer Halteeinheit für eine Sensoreinheit;

Fig. 14

die Darstellung der Komponenten gemäß Fig. 13 mit einer an der Halteeinheit montierten Sensoreinheit in einer zu Fig. 13 unterschiedlichen Perspektive;

Fig. 15

eine perspektivische Darstellung von Komponenten der Teilbaugruppe der Wasserbereitstellungseinrichtung;

Fig. 16

die Darstellung der Komponenten in einer Draufsicht, jedoch ohne Schläuche, wie sie in Fig. 15 gezeigt sind;

Fig. 17

eine Explosionsdarstellung von Teilkomponenten, wie sie in Fig. 15 gezeigt sind; und

Fig. 18

der zusammengebaute Zustand der Komponenten gemäß Fig. 17.

Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below using schematic drawings. They show:

Fig.1

a perspective view of an embodiment of a household refrigeration appliance according to the invention with an embodiment of a water supply device according to the invention;

Fig. 2a

a partial representation of the household refrigeration appliance according to Fig.1 in a Fig.1 different perspective;

Fig. 2b

a partial representation of another embodiment of the household refrigeration appliance according to Fig.1 in a Fig.1 different perspective;

Fig. 3

a perspective view of a part of Fig.1 ;

Fig.4

a representation according to Fig.3 , but with the water tank already removed;

Fig.5

the components according to Fig.4 in the separated state of a housing cover and a base module of a subassembly of the water supply device;

Fig.6

a perspective sectional view through the arrangement in Fig.4 ;

Fig.7

a perspective view of a partial area of a wall of an inner container with an opening and an insert part of the household refrigeration appliance arranged thereon;

Fig.8

the representation according to Fig.7 with an additional component of a water supply device mounted on the insert;

Fig.9

the representation of the components in Fig.7 in a first assembly state;

Fig.10

the components according to Fig.9 in one to Fig.9 different further assembly state;

Fig. 11

a sectional view through the arrangement according to Fig. 3 ;

Fig. 12

another vertical section through the arrangement according to Fig. 11 ;

Fig. 13

an enlarged view of a portion of a subassembly of the water supply device with a holding unit for a sensor unit;

Fig. 14

the representation of the components according to Fig. 13 with a sensor unit mounted on the holding unit in a Fig. 13 different perspective;

Fig. 15

a perspective view of components of the subassembly of the water supply device;

Fig. 16

the representation of the components in a top view, but without hoses, as shown in Fig. 15 are shown;

Fig. 17

an exploded view of subcomponents as shown in Fig. 15 are shown; and

Fig. 18

the assembled condition of the components according to Fig. 17 .

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

In Fig.1 an embodiment of a household refrigeration appliance 1 is shown in a perspective view. The household refrigeration appliance 1 is designed for storing and preserving food. The household refrigeration appliance 1 can be a refrigerator or a freezer or a fridge-freezer combination appliance. The household refrigeration appliance 1 has a housing 2. This can also be referred to as a body. The housing 2 has an outer housing 3. The outer housing in particular also has vertical side walls 3a and 3b. It also has a ceiling wall, not shown here. In Fig.1 an intermediate plate 3c is shown in one embodiment. This intermediate plate 3c is arranged between the top wall of the outer housing 3 and a top wall of an inner container 4 of the household refrigeration appliance 1. As a result, a receiving space is formed between the top wall of the outer housing 3 and the intermediate plate 3c, in which components can be arranged. Thermally insulating material is arranged in the space between the intermediate plate 3c and the top wall of the inner container 4. In one embodiment, receptacles 3d, 3e are formed on an upper side of the intermediate plate 3c facing the top wall of the outer housing 3. In particular, these can be receptacles 3d, 3e for at least one hose.

In addition, the housing 2 also has an inner container 4. The inner container 4 is separate from the outer housing 3. The inner container 4 is accommodated in the outer housing 3. The inner container 4 defines with walls at least one receiving space 5 for food. The receiving space 5 can be a refrigerator compartment. In a further embodiment, the household refrigeration appliance 1 can have a further receiving space 6. This can be a freezer compartment.

In addition, the household refrigeration appliance 1 has at least one door 7. In the exemplary embodiment, two doors 7 and 8 are provided, which close the receiving space 5 at the front. It is also possible that further doors 9 and 10 are provided, which close the preferably present further receiving space 6 at the front.

The household refrigeration appliance 1 preferably has a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit 11. This is intended to dispense liquids, such as drinks, and/or ice. As can be seen in the exemplary embodiment and in the further perspective in Fig. 2a As shown, this liquid and/or ice dispensing unit 11 has a dispensing device 12. In this embodiment, this is arranged in the door 7. A niche 13 is preferably formed on an outer side 7a of the door 7. A receptacle, such as a drinking glass, can be placed in this. Liquid is then dispensed by operating the dispensing device 12.

As can be seen, the dispensing device 12 can be connected to a water supply device 15 in a fluid-conducting manner by means of at least one line 14. The water supply device 15 is arranged here in the receiving space 5. It is in particular a component of the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit 11. In another exemplary embodiment, the water supply device 15 can be connected via a further line 16 to a further device 17 arranged in the receiving space 6. This makes it possible, for example, to produce and provide very cooled liquid or ice. Water which reaches the device 17 from the water supply device 15 via this line 16 can then be very cooled, in particular also frozen, in the receiving space 6, which is preferably designed as a freezer compartment. In this context, In one embodiment, an ice tray, which can be part of the device 17, for example, can be filled with water from the water supply device 15 and then corresponding ice can be produced. In one embodiment, this ice can then also be stored in a specific compartment, for example a compartment 18, as shown in Fig.1 shown. The device 17 can be an ice producing device or an ice maker of the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit 11.

In Fig. 2a the household refrigeration appliance 1 is shown from the side with the outer casing 3 removed and the inner container 4 shown transparently on this side wall so that the components can be seen as they have been explained.

In Fig. 2b is, in a corresponding representation as in Fig. 2a , another embodiment of a household refrigeration appliance 1 is shown. In contrast to Fig. 2a Here, the device 17 is arranged in the receiving space 5, in particular in an upper corner area. However, the device 17 is thermally insulated from the rest of the receiving space 5. In this embodiment, ice can also be automatically dispensed from the device 17 to the dispensing unit 12, for example by means of an ice chute arranged in the household refrigeration appliance 1.

In Fig.3 is an enlarged view of a section of Fig.1 shown. The partial area in which the water supply device 15 is arranged is shown here. A wall 19 of the inner container 4 is shown here. The water supply device 15 is arranged adjacent to this vertical wall 19. A partition wall 20, such as a shelf, is arranged below the water supply device 15. The water supply device 15 preferably has a subassembly 21. The subassembly 21 is equipped in particular with components such as at least one hose and/or at least one pump. It is therefore intended in particular for conveying or forwarding liquid, in particular water. The subassembly 21 has a housing 22. In one embodiment, this housing 22 has a housing cover 23. In one embodiment, this housing 22 has a base module 24. In particular, the partition wall 20 is arranged directly below the water supply device 15. It can in particular be separate from the Water supply device 15. This allows it to be easily cleaned independently of the water supply device 15.

In addition, the water supply device 15 has a water tank 25 in one embodiment. The water tank 25 is separate from the subassembly 21. It is therefore also arranged outside the housing 22. In the embodiment, it is provided that the water tank 25 in its shown end position is arranged immediately adjacent to and subsequent to the subassembly 21. It is arranged in front of the subassembly 21 in the depth direction (z direction), in particular of the household refrigeration appliance 1. The water tank 25 is arranged so that it can be removed without causing any damage. It can therefore be reversibly removed and reinserted. In particular, it can therefore be removed by a user and filled manually, for example at a water tap.

For this purpose, it is arranged to be movable in a linear direction, in this case in the depth direction.

In Fig.4 is a perspective view of the arrangement according to Fig.3 shown, where in Fig.4 the water tank 25 is removed. This allows a configuration of the base module 24 to be seen in this embodiment. The base module 24 has in particular a base unit 26. This limits the housing 22 at the bottom. This base unit 26 is also directly connected to the housing cover 23.

In addition, the base module 24 has a guide part 27. The guide part 27 is intended to guide the water tank 25 during assembly and disassembly. This promotes the linear assembly direction of the water tank 25. It can be provided that this guide part 27 is a freely projecting guide tongue. It can be formed in one piece on a side wall 28 of the base unit 26 and arranged to protrude from there.

In another embodiment, as shown in Fig.4 As shown, this floor module 24 can have a storage plate or a mounting plate 29. This is intended to ensure that the water tank 25 in its Final position as shown in Fig.3 shown, is placed thereon. As a result, components such as the partition wall 20 are not directly contacted by the water tank 25.

In the embodiment according to Fig.4 the guide part 27 can also be formed in one piece with this mounting plate 29. It is thus integrated into this mounting plate 29. In the vertical direction (y-direction) this guide part 27 preferably protrudes upwards relative to the top of the mounting plate 29.

The mounting plate 29 can have a raised stop 30 on the front. This prevents the water tank 25 from sliding forwards in its final position, as shown in Fig.3 shown, prevented.

Furthermore, this specific guidance scenario also makes it possible for a coupling nozzle of the water tank 25 to be automatically coupled to a coupling nozzle 31 of the subassembly 21 when the water tank 25 is attached to the end position.

The housing cover 23 is connected to the base module 24 by a detachable connection. As shown in Fig.5 , the base module 24 can be separated from the housing cover 23. For this purpose, in one embodiment it can be provided that the base module 24 can be separated from the housing cover 23 in a relative movement, in particular a linear relative movement, as shown by way of example by the mounting direction P1. In one embodiment, a guide element 34 is formed on an outer side 32 of a side wall 33 of the housing cover 23. The guide element 34 is integrated into this outer side 32. The guide element 34 can be designed as a guide skid. This also means that it can be formed, for example, as a step in this outer side 32. It can, as shown in the embodiment, be formed over at least 90 percent of the length of the side wall 33. Here it is formed over the entire length, which is measured in the width direction (x direction). The side wall 33 here represents a longitudinal side wall of the housing cover 23. In particular, a counter-guide element 35 of the base module 24 can be coupled to this guide element 34, so that the relative movement between the housing cover 23 and the base module 24 In addition or instead of this, a corresponding guide element can also be formed on the opposite longitudinal side wall of the housing cover 23. This can then be coupled to a counter-guide element 36 in order to be able to guide the relative movement.

Preferably, the base module 24 is formed in one piece. It can, for example, be an injection-molded component. In Fig.5 the assembly direction P1 is shown in which the floor module 24 is to be moved when it is moved from the end position according to Fig.4 is to be removed and removed from the housing cover 23. If the base module 24 is to be reinstalled, it must be coupled to the housing cover 23 opposite to the installation direction P1 and placed in the end position according to Fig.4 In particular, the water tank 25 can then be pushed on in a perpendicular mounting direction P2 until it reaches the Fig.3 has reached the final position shown.

In Fig.6 is a perspective sectional view of the arrangement according to Fig.4 shown, where in Fig.4 the section line VI-VI is shown.

As can also be seen here, a snap connection 37 can be formed in one embodiment. With this snap connection 37, in particular, the end position of the base module 24 with the housing cover 23 can be held better. Undesirable slipping of the base module 24 can thus be better prevented. In particular, the snap connection 37 can be overcome by overcoming a force threshold when moving the base module 24 from the end position. In this respect, in one embodiment, no additional release tool or the like is required in order to be able to release the snap connection 37.

It is particularly advantageous that the household refrigeration appliance 1 has an insert part 38, as shown in Fig.7 shown in the assembled final position. The insert part 38 can also be referred to as a backing part.

It is in a space 39 ( Fig.1 ). This gap 39 is formed between the outer casing 3 and the inner container 4. The gap 39 is preferably filled with a thermally insulating material. The thermally insulating material may comprise insulation foam and/or vacuum insulation panels. As in Fig.7 As can be seen, this wall 19 has an opening 19a. The insert part 38 is arranged in the area of this opening 19a. It extends with partial elements into the receiving space 5.

The insert part 38 is preferably a one-piece component. It is made in particular from plastic. It can be an injection-molded component. The insert part 38 is provided here in the exemplary embodiment for direct coupling to the water supply device 15. It is designed in particular so that the water supply device 15 can be coupled directly to this insert part 38. In particular, this coupling connection is designed so that the water supply device 15 can be attached to this insert part 38 in a freely supporting manner. The water supply device 15 can therefore also be attached to this insert part 38 and then extends freely cantilevered into the receiving space 5. In this context, for example, in Fig.5 This cantilevered attachment, there of the subassembly 21, to the insert 38 is shown. In particular, Fig.4 a corresponding illustration is shown. It is therefore not necessary for the water supply device 15 to be supported downwards. Rather, this coupling connection between the insert part 38 and at least one specific component of the water supply device 15 can absorb the corresponding weight forces and lever forces.

The insert part 38 preferably has a coupling device 40 for this purpose. This coupling device 40 is provided for direct coupling with a counter-coupling device, as is formed on the water supply device 15. In particular, the coupling connection here is a purely mechanical coupling connection. In the exemplary embodiment, the coupling device 40 can have a coupling rail 41. Preferably, a first, in particular upper, coupling rail 41 and a second, in particular lower, coupling rail 42 are provided here.

In one embodiment, these coupling rails 41 and 42 can be L-shaped in a cross section perpendicular to their longitudinal axes. On these coupling rails 41 and 42, the water supply device 15 can be arranged directly, in particular suspended.

In one embodiment, the coupling device 40 can also have at least one positioning dome 43. This is for inserting a dome receptacle 44, as shown in Fig.8 This positioning dome 43 can be a screw dome in one embodiment. This allows a screw connection to be provided at the location of the positioning dome and the inserted dome receptacle 44. The coupling device 40 is provided with a counter-coupling device 45, as shown in Fig.8 shown, detachably connected without destruction. This counter-coupling device 45 can have counter-coupling rails 46, as shown in Fig.8 is shown. These counter-coupling rails 46 and 47 can engage, in particular be hooked into, the preferably existing coupling rails 41 and 42.

As further stated in Fig.7 As can also be seen, the insert part 38 has additional integrated channels 48 which are intended for connection to hoses for conducting media. This concerns the two channels 48 which have a rounder cross-section. They are intended for two pumps 79, 80. In one exemplary embodiment, a household refrigeration appliance 1 can also have just one pump 79 or 80 for the liquid and/or ice dispensing unit 11. In addition, there are channels 48 which, for example, have a more angular cross-section. These are arranged above the rounder channels 48 in the vertical direction. These more angular channels 48 are cable channels here. In particular, a cable duct and a channel 48 arranged underneath and with a rounder cross-section always belong together. Cables for the respective pump 79, 80 can be laid in these cable ducts.

In Fig.7 the base body 55 has a hole 55a which belongs to one channel 48. A coupling nozzle 48a is formed on the back of the hole 55a. This coupling nozzle 48a thus protrudes from the back of the base body 55 into the intermediate space 39. The coupling nozzle 48a is formed in one piece with the base body 55. The coupling nozzle 48a enables a coupling with a hollow part, such as an empty pipe for laying a separate hose or a hose. If two pumps 79, 80 are present, a second hole 55b can be provided in the base body 55. A Coupling socket 48b. For a channel 48, which is designed as a cable channel, a hole 55c can be formed in the base body 55. It can then also be provided here that a coupling socket 48c ends at the rear at the hole 55c. In particular, the holes 55a and 55c for passing through a hose on the one hand and at least one cable for one of the pumps 79, 80 on the other hand are assigned to one another and are arranged offset from one another in the vertical direction.

A further hole 55d can also be formed in the base body 55. A coupling socket 48d can also be formed on the rear end of this. In particular, the coupling sockets 48a and 48b can have coupling structures in order to be able to directly couple empty pipes or a hose to them.

The coupling pieces 48a to 48d are also in the Fig. 2a and 2 B to recognize. In Fig. 2a and 2 B empty pipes 14a and 16a are also shown schematically as examples. Hoses can be laid in these. In particular, the empty pipes can only be laid up to the transition in the ceiling area. In the receiving area between the ceiling wall of the outer housing 3 and the intermediate plate 3c, the hoses are laid in particular without empty pipes. These can be omitted there because they are not laid in the thermal insulation material there, which is particularly the case in the lateral gap 39. In order to be able to lay the hoses and cables in this area even after the thermal insulation material has been introduced, the empty pipes that are laid before the thermal insulation material is introduced are advantageous there.

As already mentioned in Fig.7 As can be seen, the opening 19a has a threading area 49. This has a clear width 50. In particular, this clear width 50 is larger than a clear width 51 of an opening area 52 of the opening 19a.

As in Fig.8 can be seen, the water supply device 15 has a component, in particular a carrier 53. The carrier 53 is directly coupled to the insert part 38. The carrier 53 is only partially shown here, so that the insert part 38 can be seen behind it. In particular, in Fig.8 only a base body 54 of this carrier 53 is shown. The base body 54 can be formed like a frame, as shown in Fig.8 is shown. This also allows hoses and cables to be passed through to the insert part 38.

In Fig.9 The representation of the components is according to Fig.7 shown. However, unlike Fig.7 , the assembled final state of the insert part 38 is shown. Rather, an intermediate assembly state is shown here. During assembly, in one embodiment, it can be provided that the provided insert part 38 is brought to the opening 19a from a side of the wall 19 facing the intermediate space 39. In this case, during an assembly process, it can be provided that the insert part 38 has a base body 55, as is also shown in Fig.7 is shown. At least one holding element 56 can be formed on this base body 55. Preferably, two holding elements 56 and 57 are formed on it. The holding elements 56 and 57 can preferably be elongated holding rails 58 and 59. They protrude from the base body 55. This makes it possible for the holding rails 58 and 59, which are preferably L-shaped in cross section, to each form a receiving groove 60 and 61. In this, according to the illustration in Fig.7 in the final position of the insert part 38, a respective surface area 62 and 63 of the wall 19 is introduced. The surface areas 62 and 63 delimit the opening 19a, here on the upper side and on the lower side. These surface areas 62 and 63 are thus inserted into these slot-like receiving grooves 60, 61, so that the insert part 38 is held on the wall 19. In addition, this insert part 38 is then surrounded in the further assembly process by the insulation material, in particular the insulation foam, which is introduced into the gap 39, and is thus additionally stabilized and fixed in position.

The holding rails 58 and 59 are oriented and arranged in the height direction in such a way that their distance, in particular of the free edges 58a, 59a facing away from one another, is greater than the clear width 51. However, in an advantageous embodiment, this distance between the free edges 58a and 59a facing away from one another ( Fig.7 ) is smaller than the clear width 50 of the threading area 49 measured in this direction. This advantageously makes it possible, as shown in Fig.9 shown, a simple installation is possible. Starting from the position in Fig.9 the insert part 38 can be positioned in such a way that the holding rails 58 and 59 are guided through the opening 19a in the threading area 49, so that the insert part 38 then extends on both sides of the opening 19a. For this purpose, threading ends 58b and 59b of the holding rails 58 and 59 are preferably widened.

This facilitates the threading of the surface areas 62 and 63 into these receiving grooves 60 and 61.

Based on the Fig.9 The intermediate assembly state achieved can then be achieved by further moving the insert 38 in the direction of arrow P3, as shown in Fig.10 shown, the insert part 38 can then already be guided and brought into the final position with a linear movement, as it is then according to Fig.7 is reached.

In Fig. 11 A perspective view of a sectional view of an embodiment of a water supply device 15 is shown. As can be seen in this illustration, a nozzle 64 of the water tank 25 is coupled to the nozzle 31 of the subassembly 21.

Furthermore, it can be seen that in one embodiment, a detection element 65 is arranged in the water tank 25. The detection element 65 can be a magnetic float. In an advantageous embodiment, its movement is guided by a guide device 66. As a result, a linear movement in the vertical direction in particular is guided particularly advantageously. This movement can be limited by a stop element 67. In particular, the stop element 67 is arranged below a maximum possible fill level of water in the water tank 25 when viewed in the vertical direction. This means that the detection element 65 can only float up to this stop element 67.

This detection element 65 is in particular part of a fill level detection device. This in turn is in particular part of the water supply device 15. Another component of this fill level detection device can be a sensor unit 68, as shown in Fig. 12 This sensor unit 68 is arranged in particular in the subassembly 21, in particular in the interior of the housing 22.

In particular, the sensor unit 68 is installed in a fixed location therein.

As can be seen in this context, only one such sensor unit 68 is provided here. The sensor unit 68 can, for example, be a reed switch It is arranged, particularly in terms of height, such that in conjunction with the detection element 65 it detects a water level in the water tank 25 that does not relate to the maximum level and not to the empty level and thus to the empty level of the water tank 25. Rather, an intermediate level in between can be directly detected as a level.

This is advantageous in that the empty fill level of the water tank 25 can also be determined indirectly with just a single sensor unit 68. In one embodiment, this is done by detecting a detection element 65 arranged vertically on the water tank with this sensor unit 68. In particular, when the fill level increases accordingly, for example when filling, this detection element 65 floats up and thus moves vertically upwards. If it is moved so far upwards that the reed switch in the form of the sensor unit 68, which is preferably present here, is triggered, in particular closed, due to the magnetic field, this intermediate fill level is detected directly. There can then also be a higher fill level in the water tank 25, for example the water tank 25 can be filled to the maximum. In the present embodiment, this is not detected directly with the sensor unit 68. In particular, overflow is prevented because the water tank 25 is filled manually by a user.

If water is then removed from the water tank 25 during operation, the fill level drops. If this fill level drops below this intermediate fill level, the detection element 65 moves downwards from its upper position on the stop element 67. In the course of this fill level reduction, the sensor unit 68 then detects that the sensor has left this detection range. This means that at a specific lower fill level that is not the empty fill level, the sensor unit 68 detects that the detection element 65 has left the detection range of the sensor unit 68. In the exemplary embodiment, this means that the reed switch is opened again. Depending on the time at which the detection element 65 detects this leaving the detection range of the sensor unit 68, a further operating time and/or a further delivery quantity that is delivered from this time is then detected, in particular by at least one pump of the water supply device 15. This can be done by appropriate sensors. and/or a control unit. In particular, this additional operating time and/or the additional delivery quantity is then compared with a predetermined reference operating time and/or a predetermined reference delivery quantity. The reference operating time is a time period that describes how long it takes until the residual amount of water remaining in the water tank 25 has been pumped out, in particular sucked out with a pump, after the detection of the departure from the detection range. This reference operating time therefore characterizes the time period until the water in the water tank, starting from the fill level that was present when the detection element 65 detected the departure from the detection range of the sensor unit 68, is completely empty in the water tank 25. The same can be done with a corresponding reference delivery quantity. This then characterizes the delivery rate per unit of time that is required, in particular by at least one pump, to pump the water still present in the water tank 25 at the time at which the detection element 65 detects that the sensor unit has left the detection range until the water has been completely pumped out of the water tank 25.

If, in this comparison, this additional operating time corresponds to the reference operating time and/or the additional delivery quantity corresponds to the reference delivery quantity, the empty fill level and thus the empty water tank 25 can be determined indirectly and very precisely.

In an advantageous embodiment, the detection element 65 is one that is deliberately arranged to be immersed in the water, in particular only in certain areas. In particular, the sensor unit 68 is positioned in such a way that the detection area is left when the sub-area of the detection element 65 immersed in the water is arranged with a lower end 65a, viewed in the vertical direction, at a predetermined distance, for example about one millimeter, from the bottom 25a, in particular from the inside of the bottom 25a, of the water tank 25 or, in another embodiment, is arranged to sit just on this bottom 25a. This is because there is still a residual amount of water in the water tank 25 and, according to the above-mentioned scenario, in an advantageous embodiment, when more water is pumped out of the water tank 25, the empty fill level can be detected exactly, and in particular the point in time at which this empty fill level is reached can be calculated very precisely.

In particular, the fill level is determined when the water in the water tank 25 is reduced when at least one of the pumps 79, 80 is activated. If the switch is then opened, in particular because the detection element 65 moves out of the detection range of the sensor unit 68, the fill level is determined. If, however, opening of the switch is detected and the pumps 79, 80 are deactivated, it is also detected that the water tank 25 is being removed by a user. In this case, the fill level is not determined.

In Fig. 13 a partial section is shown in a perspective view, which represents the carrier 53. The preferably one-piece carrier 53, which is made in particular of plastic, preferably as an injection-molded component, is a multifunctional carrier or a multi-component carrier. In particular, it is provided that the sensor unit 68 is arranged on this carrier 53 so that it can be detachably removed without causing any damage. The carrier 53 preferably has a holding unit 70, which is designed to hold the sensor unit 68, which is integrated into and thus formed in one piece with it. The holding unit 70 has, in one embodiment, a first receiving web 71 and a second receiving web 72. These preferably each have a receptacle. These receptacles are formed here as support beds 73 and 74. These support beds 73, 74 are formed here as ring sections. These freely projecting receiving webs 71 and 72 thus receive the sensor unit 68 in these support beds 73 and 74. The receiving webs 71, 72 can also be referred to as retaining brackets.

In one embodiment, the holding unit 70 also has at least one snap element 98. This is a freely projecting tongue. It is also integrally formed on a support wall 69, like the receiving webs 71 and 72 in this embodiment. The support wall 69 is preferably formed on the base body 54, in particular protruding therefrom. The snap element 98 is arranged separately from the receiving webs 71 and 72. This snap element 74 can be used to create a snap connection with the sensor unit 68. In particular, the snap element 74 snaps onto a housing of the sensor unit 68.

In Fig. 14 is a partial section with the components according to Fig. 13 and the sensor unit 68 is shown in the assembled final state. As can be seen here, the housing of the sensor unit 68 engages in the receptacles of the receiving webs 71 and 72. In addition, a snap connection with this housing is formed via the snap element 98.

In addition, in one embodiment, it is provided that the holding unit 70 has a stop wall 75. This stop wall 75 can be part of the support wall 69. The stop wall 75 is intended for the abutting positioning of a stop web 76 of the sensor unit 68. This is particularly the case when the sensor unit 68 is arranged in the mounted end position on the support 53. As already mentioned in Fig. 13 As can be seen, the support wall 69 is designed as an angled, in particular multi-angled, stiffening strip.

In Fig. 15 an embodiment of the carrier 53 is shown in a perspective view. In particular, the carrier 53 is designed as a one-piece component. In particular, it is realized as an injection-molded component. In one embodiment, the carrier 53 has a holding arm 77. In particular, this holding arm 77 is arranged protruding from the base body 54. In particular, it is oriented in a freely cantilevered manner. The holding arm 77 is designed as intended to receive and thus also hold at least one hose 78 and/or at least one pump 79 and/or 80 of the water supply device 15. The holding arm 77 preferably has a receptacle 81. This can be a receptacle that is open at the top. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the hose 78 can therefore be inserted into this from above. It is then safely and reliably positioned and can be easily assembled and disassembled thanks to this design. In particular, the nozzle 31 is also shown here. In particular, the receptacle 81 has engagement webs 82. These are integrally formed on the receptacle 81. They can engage in groove-like receptacles 83 of the hose coupling for the hose 78. This enables a particularly precise and stable mounting on the holding arm 77.

In one embodiment, the carrier 53 has a holding structure 84. In one embodiment, this holding structure 84 is a separate unit from the holding arm 77. of the carrier 53. The holding structure 84 is designed to receive and hold at least one hose 78 and/or 85. In particular, the holding structure 84 is provided in addition to or instead of receiving or holding at least one pump 79 and/or 80. In the exemplary embodiment, two pumps 79 and 80 are part of the water supply device 15. However, there may also be more or fewer such pumps.

The carrier 53 is preferably designed to be able to carry at least one hose, in particular all hoses, and/or at least one pump, in particular all pumps, of the water supply device 15. In particular, these components are accommodated, in particular suspended, in corresponding receptacles. In particular, the carrier 53 is thus designed such that the hoses and/or the pumps are arranged suspended from the carrier 53. In particular, the pumps 79 and 80 can also be arranged freely hanging on this carrier 53. Only the hoses can then be inserted directly into corresponding receptacles from above and suspended therefrom, and the pumps 79 and 80 can be arranged freely hanging. They are then in particular only suspended from the carrier 53 via the hoses. In addition to this or instead of this, it is also possible for nozzles of the pumps 79 and/or 80, to which the hoses 78 and 85 open, to protrude into corresponding receptacles and therefore the pumps themselves are also suspended or suspended from these components.

In one embodiment, the holding structure 84 has a water basin 86. The water basin 86 therefore represents an intermediate reservoir for water which is conveyed from the water tank 25 to an outlet of the water supply device 15. Such an outlet can be formed, for example, by an outlet 87 ( Fig.2 ) can be formed. In particular, if this outlet 87 is arranged lower than the water tank 25 in terms of height, such a water basin 86 is particularly advantageous as an intermediate reservoir. This is due to the hydrostatic pressure that arises due to this height difference. This water basin 86 can thus compensate for this hydrostatic pressure, so that undesirable dripping of water from this outlet 87 can be avoided. In particular, this makes it possible that after filling, for example, the device 17, in particular an ice tray, no more water drips out of this outlet 87. Overflow of the ice tray can thus be easily avoided.

In one embodiment, this water basin 86 is formed in one piece with this carrier 53. It is particularly integrated into this carrier 53. As in Fig. 15 As can also be seen, in one embodiment this water basin 86 can be arranged so as to protrude from the base body 54. In particular, this water basin 86 can be oriented so as to protrude freely from this base body 54. The water basin 86 is designed in one embodiment as a shaft-like structure. It is particularly advantageous if an upwardly open receptacle 89 is formed in a boundary wall 88 of the water basin 86. In this, a Fig. 15 An additional water hose (not shown) can be attached.

In one embodiment, the holding structure 84 has at least one holding claw 90. Preferably, several such holding claws 90, 91, 92 and 93 are provided. These holding claws 90 to 93, the number and position of which are to be understood as merely examples, extend freely from the holding structure 84, in particular the water basin 86, in particular the inner boundary wall 88. In particular, they extend in the direction of the holding arm 77, which is preferably present and separate from the holding structure 84. In particular, this carrier 53 provides a free space 94 between the holding structure 84 and the holding arm 77. Components of the water supply device 15, such as hoses and/or pumps, can be arranged in this free space 94 in a very compact and space-saving manner and can be held very stably.

In Fig. 16 the arrangement is in accordance with Fig. 15 shown in a top view, whereby the exemplary hoses 78, 85 and 95 are not shown here. The position and design of the holding claws 90 to 93 are shown. They each preferably have claw openings 90a, 91a, 92a and 93a. These are oriented upwards in the vertical direction and are therefore open at the top. This makes it particularly easy to mount the additional components, such as hoses and pumps. In addition, these attached components can then be easily held by these holding claws 90 to 93. In particular, they can then also be held stably in these claw openings 90a to 93a by the corresponding weight force.

In Fig. 17 An exploded view of an embodiment of the carrier 53 and a pre-assembly assembly or a pre-assembly module 96 is shown. The pre-assembly module 96 has, for example, the pumps 79 and 80 and at least some of the hoses 85, 78 and a further hose 97. This hose 97 is preferably the one that is then also shown in the assembled state in Fig. 18 which flows into the water basin 86. In particular, it is inserted in the holder 89. The individual components of the carrier 53, as already explained in detail above, can be seen here in more detail. In Fig. 18 is the composite state of the Fig. 17 shown components.

List of reference symbols

1

Household refrigeration appliance

2

Housing

3

Outer casing

3a

Side wall

3b

Side wall

3c

Intermediate plate

3d

Recording

3e

Recording

4

Inner container

5

Recording room

6

Recording room

7

door

7a

Outside

8th

door

9

door

10

door

11

Liquid and/or ice dispensing unit

12

Output device

13

niche

14

Line

14a

Empty pipe

15

Water supply facility

16

Line

16a

Empty pipe

17

Furnishings

18

Academic subject

19

Wall

19a

breakthrough

20

partition wall

21

Subassembly

22

Housing

23

Housing cover

24

Floor module

25

Water tank

25a

Floor

26

Base unit

27

Guide part

28

Side wall

29

Mounting plate

30

attack

31

Coupling socket

32

Outside

33

Side wall

34

Guide element

35

Counter guide element

36

Counter guide element

37

Snap connection

38

Insert

39

Space

40

Coupling device

41

upper coupling rail

42

lower coupling rail

43

Positioning dome

44

Cathedral recording

45

Counter-coupling device

46

Counter coupling rail

47

Counter coupling rail

48

channel

48a

Coupling socket

48b

Coupling socket

48c

Coupling socket

48d

Coupling socket

49

Threading area

50

clear width

51

clear width

52

Breakthrough area

53

carrier

54

Base body

55

Base body

55a

Hole

55b

Hole

55c

Hole

55d

Hole

56

Holding element

57

Holding element

58

Holding rail

58a

free edge

58b

Threading end

59

Holding rail

59a

free edge

59b

Threading end

60

Receiving groove

61

Receiving groove

62

Surface area

63

Surface area

64

Support

65

Detection element

65a

lower end

66

Guide device

67

Stop element

68

Sensor unit

69

Support wall

70

Holding unit

71

first receiving bridge

72

second receiving bridge

73

Top bed

74

Top bed

75

Notice board

76

Stop bar

77

Holding arm

78

Hose

79

pump

80

pump

81

Recording

82

Intervention bridge

83

Recording

84

Support structure

85

Hose

86

Water basin

87

Outlet

88

Boundary wall

89

Recording

90

Retaining claw

90a

Claw opening

91

Retaining claw

91a

Claw opening

92

Retaining claw

92a

Claw opening

93

Retaining claw

93a

Claw opening

94

free space

95

Hose

96

Pre-assembly module

97

Hose

98

Snap element

P1

Mounting direction

P2

Arrow direction

P3

Arrow

x

Width direction

y

Altitude direction

z

Depth direction

Claims (15)

Water supply device (15) for a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit (11) of a domestic refrigeration appliance (1), with a carrier (53) for carrying at least one pump (79, 80) of the water supply device (15) and/or hoses (78, 85, 95, 97) of the water supply device (15), wherein the carrier (53) has a holding unit (70) which is designed to hold a sensor unit (68) of the water supply device (15) in a non-destructively detachable manner. Water supply device (15) according to claim 1, wherein the carrier (53) is formed in one piece, in particular from plastic. Water supply device (15) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holding unit (70) has at least one receptacle into which the sensor unit (68) can be inserted at least in part. Water supply device (15) according to claim 4, wherein the receptacle has at least one, in particular several separate, receptacle webs (71, 72) which have a support bed (73, 74) for the sensor unit (68), which is formed in particular as a ring section. Water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding unit (70) has at least one snap element (98) for snap-fitting the sensor unit (68). Water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding unit (70) has a stop wall (75) for the abutting positioning of a stop web (76) of the sensor unit (68), in particular when the sensor unit (68) is arranged in the mounted end position on the carrier (53). Water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (53) has a frame-like base body (54) on which a Support wall (69) is arranged protruding, wherein the holding unit (70) is arranged on the support wall (69). Water supply device (15) according to claim 7, wherein the support wall (69) is formed as a, in particular multiple, angled stiffening strip. Water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the water supply device (15) has the sensor unit (68), which is designed in particular as a reed switch. Water supply device (15) according to claim 9, wherein the water supply device (15) has a water tank (25) separate from the carrier (53), the fill level of which can be detected by the sensor unit (68). Water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (53) has a counter-coupling device (45) which is designed for coupling to a coupling device (40) on an insert part (38) of the domestic refrigeration appliance (1) which is separate from the water supply device (15), so that the carrier (53) is held in a freely supporting manner and can be attached to the insert part (38). Water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (53) has at least one, in particular freely cantilevered, holding arm (77) for holding at least one hose (78, 85, 95, 97) of the water supply device (15), which is arranged protruding from a frame-like base body (54) of the carrier (53) and/or the carrier (53) has at least one, in particular freely cantilevered, water basin (86), in particular on which several holding claws (90, 91,92, 93) for holding hoses (78, 85, 95, 97) and/or at least one pump (79, 80) of the water supply device (15) are arranged. Household refrigeration appliance (1) with a liquid and/or ice dispensing unit (11) which has a water supply device (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the water supply device (15) has a water tank (25). Method for determining a fill level in a water tank (25) of a water supply device (15), in particular according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 12, comprising the following steps: - detecting a detection element (65) of the water supply device (15) arranged vertically on the water tank (25) with the sensor unit (68) arranged externally to the water tank (25) when, due to the fill level in the water tank (25), a specific height position of the detection element (65) changing in height position with the fill level is reached; - detecting the departure of the detection range of the sensor unit (68) by the detection element (65) when the fill level in the water tank (25) drops; - detecting the further operating time and/or the further delivery rate of at least one pump (79, 80) of the water supply device (15) since the detection element (65) detected that the pump had left the detection range of the sensor unit (68); - comparing the further operating time and/or the further delivery rate with a reference operating time and/or a reference delivery rate; - Detecting an empty water tank (25) as an empty fill level if the further operating time corresponds to the reference operating time and/or if the further delivery quantity corresponds to the reference delivery quantity. Method according to claim 14, wherein the detection element (65) is a detection element (65) partially immersed in the water in the water tank (25), wherein the sensor unit (68) is positioned such that the leaving of the detection area occurs when the partial area of the detection element (65) immersed in the water is arranged with a lower end (65a) at a predetermined distance from the bottom (25a) of the water tank (25) or sitting straight on the bottom (25a).

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