Extraction device with filter carrier and filter

Abstract

The invention relates to an extraction device (14) for removing air from an area above a cooking hob (12). The extraction device (14) comprises an inlet opening (38) for drawing air into the interior of the extraction device (14), an outlet opening (30) for discharging the air, at least one filter element (52; 52a, 52b), and at least one filter carrier (50) for accommodating the at least one filter element (52; 52a, 52b). The filter element (52; 52a, 52b) and the filter carrier (50) are arranged between the inlet opening (38) and the outlet opening (30) in the direction of air flow. According to the invention, the filter element (52; 52a, 52b) is a separate unit that can be separated and removed from the filter carrier (50). The invention further relates to a combination appliance (10) and a method for providing a filter carrier (50) of an extraction device (14) with a filter element (52a, 52b).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an extraction device comprising at least one filter carrier and at least one filter according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention further relates to a combination device according to claim 13. Finally, the invention also relates to a method for providing a filter carrier of an extraction device with a filter element according to the preamble of claim 14.

[0002] When cooking on a cooking stove, kitchen vapors are generated and distributed throughout the cooking area. To prevent these vapors from dispersing throughout the kitchen, an extraction device, particularly a range hood, is typically installed. This extraction device operates in parallel with the cooking stove, drawing in the vapors to filter out particles and / or small droplets, and / or blowing them outward. While range hoods located above the cooking area are common, the market for downdraft extraction devices has been growing in recent years. This extraction device is typically located below the worktop of the cooking stove and includes at least one fan for drawing air from the cooking area through an opening or recess in the worktop. The extraction device further includes a filter assembly, located within or downstream of the opening or recess, to perform the filtering function. This filter assembly typically has a complex structure, making it difficult to access during maintenance and, in particular, difficult to thoroughly clean due to inaccessible corners.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide an extraction device, a combination device and a method for providing a filter carrier of an extraction device with a filter element, which allow or support simplified handling of the filter system of this extraction device, in particular during maintenance work, and achieve thorough filter cleaning in order to avoid output losses over the entire service life of the extraction device.

[0004] The object of the extraction device according to the preamble of claim 1 is achieved by the features of the characterizing portion of claim 1. Alternative advantageous embodiments of the extraction device according to the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0005] An extraction device for removing air from the area above a cooking hob comprises an inlet opening for drawing air into the interior of the extraction device, an outlet opening for exhausting the air, at least one filter element, and at least one filter carrier for accommodating the at least one filter element. The filter element and the filter carrier are arranged between the inlet opening and the outlet opening in the direction of air flow. The filter element according to the present invention is a self-contained unit that can be separated and removed from the filter carrier. This removability particularly facilitates cleaning and / or replacement of the filter element, ensuring that the extraction device maintains its full filtering function at all times.

[0006] The filter element is configured to filter particles, possibly solid particles, and / or liquid droplets, from air passing through it. The air particularly includes cooking vapors drawn in from the area above the cooking hob. After filtering, the air exits the extraction device through the outlet opening and mixes, in particular, with room air or ambient air. A preferred embodiment of the filter element is a flat filter element, which particularly comprises a planar filter area.

[0007] Preferably, in order to further facilitate handling during maintenance work, provision is made for not only the filter element to be detachable and removable from the filter carrier, but also for the filter carrier itself to be removably arranged inside the extraction device. In that way, the extraction device is provided in such a way that very simple maintenance work can be performed, namely initially the filter carrier is removable from the extraction device, in particular via the inlet opening of the extraction device, and thereafter the filter element is detachable from the filter carrier, so that both the filter carrier and the filter element can be cleaned separately.

[0008] In particular, the extraction device is a range hood, which can be a downdraft range hood. The extraction device is preferably configured to be combined with a cooking hob to form a combined appliance. To this end, the extraction device can be arranged below, in particular directly below, the cooking hob.

[0009] In order to drive the air flow through the extraction device, at least one fan is preferably arranged inside the extraction device, in particular between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. Air approaching the fan can be conveyed through a fan opening of the fan, in particular a fan housing.

[0010] Preferably, the filter element, in particular the flat filter element, comprises a filter frame or filter support which surrounds and / or supports the filter area or filter section. Thus, the filter element can comprise a frame portion and a filter portion, wherein the filter portion is configured to perform the filtering function, while the frame portion is configured to provide a supporting function, in particular to stretch the filter portion and in this respect to support the filter portion in performing the filtering function.

[0011] An advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides a filter carrier comprising a filter seat for receiving or accommodating a filter element. The filter seat allows for a clear assignment and positioning of the filter element to and within the filter carrier. The filter element is preferably accommodated or receivable in a clamped position within the filter seat. This allows for a gap-free installation, which in particular prevents noise caused by vibrations. The clamp is advantageously spring-loaded.

[0012] In order to hold the filter element securely in place, the filter carrier in particular comprises a retainer element configured to retain the filter element in the filter seat. At least one of the following characteristics may apply to the retainer element:

[0013] - the holder element is elastically arranged at the filter carrier,

[0014] - the retainer element is made of a flexible material,

[0015] - the retaining element forms a snap or clamping element,

[0016] The retaining element rests on, preferably presses against, a section of the filter frame.

[0017] In particular, the holder element rests on an upper section of the filter element.

[0018] A particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention provides at least one spring element supported on the inner surface of the filter carrier and acting on the filter element, in particular the filter frame. More specifically, the spring element presses the filter frame against the retaining element. The spring element can be made of any suitable material, but a metal spring is preferably used.

[0019] A favorable clamping mechanism for the filter element is established by a retainer element and a spring element acting on opposite sides of the filter frame. The opposite sides are preferably defined by an upper portion or upper section and a lower portion or lower section of the filter frame. A particularly suitable filter frame design is a rectangular shape.

[0020] The filter element may comprise a first filter frame portion or a first filter frame section assigned to a spring element, and a second filter frame portion or a second filter frame section assigned to a retainer element and relative to the first filter frame portion or the first filter frame section. In the case of a rectangular shape, the first filter frame portion or section and the second filter frame portion or section may be frame portions arranged in parallel on opposite sides of a rectangle. In this embodiment, at least one of the first filter frame portion or section and the second filter frame portion or section comprises a recess or a cutout of a division of the retainer element or the spring element for receiving the corresponding assignment. The division may be any protrusion engaged in the cutout or the recess.

[0021] More specifically, the filter frame is released or releasable from the holder element in the stressed state of the spring element, and the spring element is at least partially unloaded when the filter frame is in its assembled position. In this way, assembly or disassembly can be easily performed by stressing the spring element, in particular pressing a section of the filter element against the spring element, and thereafter engaging the filter element, in particular the filter frame, with the holder element or respectively releasing the filter element, in particular the filter frame, from engagement with the holder element.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the filter carrier comprises a carrier frame part, preferably an upper carrier frame part, which can be at least partially disassembled from the filter carrier. Partial disassembly may mean that the carrier frame part is completely removable from the filter carrier. Alternatively, the carrier frame part can be rotatably mounted at the edge of the filter carrier. In order to fasten the carrier frame part to the remaining one or more parts of the filter carrier, at least one locking device or locking feature can be included on at least one of the components involved or at at least one place. By means of such a locking device or locking feature, not only is a connection between the carrier frame part and the remaining one or more parts of the filter carrier achieved, but also a filter element can be fixed inside or at the filter carrier.

[0023] The retainer element can be part or a subsection of the carrier frame portion. Alternatively, the retainer element can be formed by the carrier frame portion, i.e., the carrier frame portion itself can be the retainer element. This allows for simple and efficient filter element placement, as the carrier frame portion can be attached or closed after at least one filter element has been placed in position.

[0024] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the filter carrier, which can be a filter seat of the filter carrier, includes a guiding device for guiding the insertion of the filter element. The guiding device can be a supporting surface or a lay-on edge, and a guide slot can also be considered. In addition or as an alternative, a support section for pivotally receiving the filter element can be included. The pivotal reception is preferably for a filter frame part or a filter frame segment, advantageously for a lower filter frame part or a lower filter frame segment. More specifically, the support section can be a cavity or the like for receiving the filter frame part or segment, thereby allowing the filter element to pivot around the axis of rotation in this area so that the relative filter frame segment can be swung into and out of its installation position. Such an arrangement provides a particularly simple guided installation process.

[0025] Preferably, the extraction device, in particular its filter unit, includes at least two filter elements, i.e., at least a first filter element and a second filter element, which may be a first flat filter element and a second flat filter element. The at least first filter element and the second filter element may be arranged parallel to each other in a filter carrier. However, preferably, the two filter elements are arranged in an inclined orientation, more preferably in a V-shaped alignment, so that the two, particularly rectangular, filter elements define an angle, preferably an acute angle, in the cross-section of the arrangement of the two filter elements. More specifically, the V-shape is provided by two flat filter elements arranged at an angle between 5 and 85 degrees, preferably between 20 and 70 degrees, and more preferably between 30 and 60 degrees. A symmetrical arrangement of the filter arrangement is not preferred, i.e., the two flat filters do not have to be identical. Instead, the design of the two filter elements may be characterized by different lengths and / or widths. Such an asymmetrical arrangement can be advantageous for standardized and non-reversible reassembly. Naturally, such a symmetrical arrangement is a specific solution.

[0026] The object is also achieved by a combination appliance comprising a cooking hob and an extraction device according to any of the preceding embodiments.

[0027] The cooking hob may comprise at least one cover plate or worktop, in which an opening or a recess is formed, in particular in or near its central area. The extraction device is particularly arranged below the cover plate or worktop and may comprise at least one fan for extracting air, in particular cooking vapors, from the area above the cooking hob through the opening or recess in the cover plate or worktop.

[0028] The cooking hob can be of any type, including an electric cooking hob or a gas cooking hob. In particular, an induction cooking hob is part of a combination appliance. The cooking hob can furthermore be a self-service cooking appliance, in particular integrated into a countertop of a kitchen appliance, or the cooking hob can be part of an oven.

[0029] The user-accessible top surface of the combination appliance's cover or worktop can be used to place cookware thereon, specifically for performing a cooking process. To this end, the cooking hob preferably includes at least one heating element defining a cooking zone on the cover or worktop. The cover or worktop can be of any suitable design or material, but is advantageously made of glass ceramic.

[0030] Finally, the object is further achieved by a method for providing a filter carrier with an extraction device for a filter element. According to the invention, the filter element is a flat filter element that is inserted into the filter carrier with its bottom edge and then pivoted into its installed position in the filter carrier. The installed position is preferably an inclined position.

[0031] A special embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized in that the filter element

[0032] - inserted into the lower section of the filter seat,

[0033] - pressed against the force of a spring arranged in the lower section of the filter seat,

[0034] - pivoted into its installed position, and

[0035] - supported on the retaining element by at least partially releasing the spring tension.

[0036] The installation process steps mentioned above are described in sequential order as they are performed.

[0037] The novel and inventive features of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims.

[0038] The present invention will be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a combination appliance including a cooking range and a downdraft extraction device mounted in a cabinet;

[0040] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a cross-sectional perspective view of a disassembled combined appliance having the front cut away and including a first collecting device and a first example of a second collecting device for spilled liquid;

[0041] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 a rear view of the combined appliance;

[0042] Figure 4 is with Figure 2 A slightly different combination of appliances, in a central cross-sectional view and from another angle, having a transparent table;

[0043] Figure 5 It is from Figure 4 The filter carrier is removed by a combination appliance;

[0044] Figure 6 is with Figure 5A separate depiction of a similar filter carrier with a modified filter assembly and having a first example of a retainer element;

[0045] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The filter assembly, wherein the filter assembly is lifted;

[0046] Figure 8 is based on Figure 6 A perspective cross-sectional view of a filter assembly;

[0047] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 an enlarged detailed view of the detail IX indicated in FIG. 1 in a lateral viewing direction;

[0048] Figure 10 is with Figure 8 a similar perspective cross-sectional view of a filter assembly but having a second example of a retainer element;

[0049] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 An enlarged detailed view of the detail XI indicated in FIG. 1 in a lateral viewing direction;

[0050] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An exploded view of a filter assembly according to a second example is shown in FIG;

[0051] Figure 13 is based on Figure 12 A top view of a bottom area of ​​the unloaded carrier housing;

[0052] Figure 14a 、 Figure 14b Shows the basis Figure 11 but in two different situations during the installation process of the filter element of the filter assembly;

[0053] Figure 15a 、 Figure 15b Shows the basis Figure 12 The bottom part of the filter assembly, Figure 14a 、 Figure 14b Consistently also detailed views in two different situations of the installation process of the filter element of the filter assembly;

[0054] Figure 16 is with Figure 9 and Figure 11 a similar enlarged detail view but showing a third example of a retainer element; and

[0055] Figure 17 is with Figure 9 、 Figure 11 and Figure 16A similar but enlarged detail view showing a fourth example of a retainer element.

[0056] In all the figures, the same or equivalent parts are marked with the same reference numerals.

[0057] Figure 1 A combination appliance 10 is shown which includes a cooking hob 12 and a downdraft extraction device 14 mounted in a cabinet 16. The cooking hob 12 is mounted in a cutout of a kitchen countertop 18 forming the top cover of the cabinet 16. The downdraft extraction device 14 is configured to carry away cooking vapors that occur during the cooking process, particularly when cooking with an uncovered cooker. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As best seen in FIG, the cooking hob 12 includes cooking zones 20a and 20b arranged on the left and right halves of a worktop 22 of the cooking hob 12. The left and right halves are separated from each other by a suction opening 24 for extracting cooking vapors. The suction opening 24 is arranged along the centerline of the worktop. The suction opening 24 is covered by a covering grid 26 to prevent items (e.g., cookware) from falling into the suction opening 24.

[0058] exist Figure 1 1 shows a cover 28 of the extraction device 14 in a transparent manner. The cover 28 provides a closed housing or first passage for the drawn-in cooking vapors on their way from the extraction opening 24 to an outlet opening 30 in a base area 32 of the cabinet 16. The outlet opening 30 is also covered, namely by an outlet grille 34.

[0059] The flow of drawn cooking vapors through the extraction device 14 is driven by the operation of an extraction fan 36 arranged inside the hood 28. Said extraction fan 36 comprises a bottom side suction opening 38 for drawing cooking vapors from the interior space of the hood 28.

[0060] As shown in the rear view of the combined appliance 10 Figure 3 As shown, the rear fan outlet 40 is arranged for the air blown rearwards from the extraction fan housing 42 to exit horizontally. The fan outlet 40 is connected to a first end of an air duct 44 designed as a rectangular tube and forms a second channel arranged downstream of the first channel mentioned above. Directly at the passage from the fan outlet 40 to the air duct 44, a 90-degree air duct bend is implemented, which turns the air flow from horizontal to vertical downwards. The air duct 44 can be guided along the rear side of the cabinet 16 and can be bent again by 90 degrees close to the rear lower edge of the cabinet 16 so as to direct the air flow towards the discharge opening 30 in the base area 32 of the cabinet 16. Accordingly, the second end of the air duct 44 is connected to the discharge opening 30. At Figure 1The embodiment shown in shows a solution of the air duct 44 in which the inclined section of the air duct pointing to the lower subdivision is slightly pointed to the right. Naturally, solutions are also conceivable in which the subdivision is arranged in an exact vertical direction.

[0061] exist Figure 1 Through the dotted arrow 46 1 to 46 5 The path of cooking vapors from the cooking area through the extraction device 14 and back into the room air is shown. On the way through the extraction device 14, the cooking vapors pass through a filter assembly 48, which is arranged downstream just behind the suction opening 24. The filter assembly 48, which will be described in more detail further below, includes a filter carrier 50 and a filter 52, in particular a grease filter, which is adapted to remove particles and liquid droplets, in particular fat droplets, from the cooking vapors, thereby purifying the cooking vapors so that the filtered air can be fed back into the room air.

[0062] Figure 2 The cross-sectional view further shows two power strips 54, one for the left cooking zone 20a and one for the right cooking zone 20b, which provide power to the cooking zones in the left cooking zone 20a and the right cooking zone 20b. In this embodiment, the cooking hob 12 is an induction cooking hob and the cooking zones are powered by induction coils 56 arranged below the worktop 22 of the cooking hob 12 (see in particular FIG. Figure 4 A further circuit board is attached to the underside of the power strip 54 assigned to the right cooking zone 20 b and is arranged to form the control electronics for the combination appliance 10 .

[0063] As from Figure 4 As can be seen in the figure (also a cross-sectional representation of the combined appliance 10 but with a cross-sectional plane in the central region (in longitudinal relation to the rectangular design of the cooking hob 12)), the extraction fan 36 comprises a cylindrical fan propeller with a plurality of fan blades arranged along the surface of the cylindrical shell, which fan propeller rotates about a vertical axis 60. Thus, air is sucked in from below (intake opening 38) and blown radially outwards and leaves the fan housing 42 at the fan outlet 40, as already mentioned above. Furthermore, Figure 4 A central cross-section through the filter assembly 48 is also provided, illustrating the arrangement of the filter 52 in the filter carrier 50 .

[0064] according to Figure 5 , Figure 4 The filter assembly 48 is removed from the suction opening 24 and is shown in a raised position compared to the cooking hob 12. In order to remove the filter assembly 48, the cover grid 26 must be removed before removing the filter assembly 48. This virtual state is not shown in the drawings. Instead, according to Figure 5 , the cover grid 26 is shown in a position relocated into the suction opening 24. Figure 5 In the overall presentation and with Figure 4 The removed filter assembly 48, shown enlarged, includes a V-shaped filter element 52 received in a hanging position in a filter carrier 50. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The filter 52 of the embodiment of FIG. 5 is designed in one piece, ie the filter surface extends along the entire V-shaped area (including its rounded acute-angled bottom section).

[0065] According to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In contrast to the filter design described above, Figure 6 and Figure 7 The filter of the different design comprises two rectangular flat filter elements 52a, 52b which are arranged in an oblique direction in such a way that Figure 6 In the assembled state of the filter assembly 48 they also form a V-shaped filter arrangement.

[0066] according to Figure 4 、 Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 、 Figure 7 The two filter assembly embodiments are interchangeable, ie both solutions are equally suitable for the combination appliance 10 according to the invention.

[0067] As from Figure 7 As can be seen, for the two rectangular flat filter elements 52a, 52b, but also for the V-shaped filter element 52, not only is the entire filter assembly 48 removable from the suction opening 24, but also the filter 52 (ie according to Figure 5 The V-shaped filter 52 and the Figure 6 and Figure 7 The two rectangular flat filter elements 52a, 52b) are also removable from the carrier housing 62, in particular for cleaning and / or replacement purposes.

[0068] Figure 7 The construction of the filter assembly 48 is also shown in more detail. As shown, the filter carrier 50 comprises a carrier housing 62 and a carrier frame 64 which are separable from each other. In the assembled state, the carrier frame 64 forms the upper side of the filter carrier 50 and thus covers the open upper side of the carrier housing 62. Both types of filter arrangements (a single-piece V-shaped filter 52 or a V-shaped arrangement of two flat filter elements 52a, 52b) can be fixedly connected to the carrier frame 64. However, preferably, as by Figure 7As indicated, any one filter arrangement 52; 52a, 52b is disconnected from the carrier frame 64. In fact, the filter element 52 or 52a, 52b and the carrier frame 64 are discontinuous units. In addition, the carrier frame 64 is configured to be used for when the flat filter element 52a, 52b is inserted in the carrier housing 62, the flat filter element 52a, 52b is maintained in the appropriate position. For this reason, two retainer elements 74 are included in the longer carrier frame portion 66, one of which retainer elements at each of these longer carrier frame portions 66, specifically in a central arrangement. The retainer element 74 and its function are further described in more detail below.

[0069] As in Figure 2 By the dotted arrow 46 1 and 46 2 As shown, the flow of cooking vapor is from the suction opening 24 and the open top side of the V-shaped filter arrangement 52; 52a, 52b, through the filter surfaces (primarily the filter surface facing the extraction fan 36), and then exits the filter assembly 48 by penetrating the side surfaces 68 extending downwardly from the longer carrier frame portion 66. In order to provide a wide path for the air flow on its way out of the carrier housing 62, the side surfaces 68 are largely open, so that only a frame section of each side surface 68 remains.

[0070] The overall filtering of the cooking vapours (i.e. without providing any non-filtered bypass for the cooking vapours) is achieved in different ways by two different filter arrangements 52; 52a, 52b:

[0071] - the one-piece V-shaped filter 52 provides a surrounding filter surface which of course does not include its open top side, but rather its end surfaces, so that air flows in all horizontal directions penetrate the filter surface;

[0072] The V-shaped arrangement of the two flat filter elements 52a, 52b provides a filtration path only through the filter surfaces of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b. To prevent any non-filtering bypass, the bottom edge of the rectangular flat filter element is supported by the inner surface of the bottom region 70 in a manner so as to provide a nearly sealed contact area against this portion of the carrier housing 62. Furthermore, the end surfaces of this type of filter arrangement lacking a filter surface are also sealed against the carrier housing 62, for example, by the lateral edges of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b also abutting the inner surface of the end wall 72 of the carrier housing 62 in a manner so as to provide a nearly sealed contact area against these portions of the carrier housing 62.

[0073] Both filter designs described above are washable, for example in a dishwasher. The carrier housing 62 is also washable after being separated from the carrier frame 64.

[0074] Now let's turn to the specific arrangement of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b inside the carrier housing 62 and the means provided for holding the flat filter elements 52a, 52b in their installed position. As indicated above, a retainer element 74 is assigned to each of the two flat filter elements 52a, 52b. Each retainer element 74 is attached to the longer carrier frame part assigned to it, more specifically is integrally formed therewith. As shown in Figure 8 (which is a perspective sectional view of a center section through the filter carrier 50, the flat filter elements 52a, 52b and the two retainer elements 74) can be seen in more detail, the retainer elements 74 are provided for pressing the associated flat filter elements 52a, 52 so as to prevent upward movement. Each retainer element 74 acts on an upper cross member 76 of the rectangular frame of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b. The lower cross member 78 of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b rests on the bottom area 70 of the carrier housing 62. Since the two flat filter elements 52a, 52b have an inclined arrangement due to the V shape they form, lateral supports are included, which are not Figure 8 , but can be realized by supporting bolts or ribs or by a supporting frame arranged in the bottom area 70 of the carrier housing 62. Alternatively, the lateral support of the lower cross members 78 of the first flat filter element 52a of the flat filter elements can be formed only by the lower cross members 78 of the second flat filter element 52b of the flat filter elements, which lower cross members 78 support each other in the horizontal direction.

[0075] Figure 9 It is as follows Figure 8 Detail IX in FIG shows an enlarged view of the connection between the retaining element 74 and the upper cross member 76 in the lateral direction. As illustrated in this figure, the retaining element 74 is formed as an S-shaped structure (in cross section and in an inclined position), wherein the first end and the adjacent first curve are connected to the carrier frame 64 and the second curve forms the actual lower bracket 80. The lower bracket 80 engages with a recess 82 in the upper side of the upper cross member 76 of the filter frame, which recess 82 is also V-shaped in this example. However, any other design of the recess is also conceivable, for example a groove shape. In accordance with Figure 9 In the installed position, the retainer element 74 is slightly tightened to provide a clamped installation of the flat filter element 52a. The connection can be released to remove the flat filter element 52a by acting on the free end of the S-shaped retainer element 74 to lift the lower bracket 80. Figure 9Further shown is an introduction bevel 84 at the second curve, which is oriented toward the near outer edge of the upper cross member 76 of the flat filter element 52a during the installation process. Such an introduction bevel makes the installation process easier by enabling the outer edge to be slipped in.

[0076] according to Figures 6 to 9 The embodiment of forms a first example of a retainer element 74 and an associated filter assembly according to the present invention. Figure 10 and Figure 11 , shows a second example of a filter assembly. This second example differs from the first example in some basic features. First, as in Figure 11 (Is it as Figure 10 As can be seen in the enlarged detailed view of the connection between the retaining element 74 and the upper cross member 76 in the lateral direction (indicated by the detail XI in FIG), the retaining element 74 is formed as a rigid mandrel or tongue in the second example. The mandrel or tongue is provided for engagement in the recess 82, also as according to Figures 6 to 9 The lower bracket 80 according to the second example is the rounded end of the core shaft or tongue. Due to the inflexibility of the retaining element 74 of the second example, the installation process is also different from the installation process of the first example. Figures 13 to 15b This installation process is further explained in more detail. In addition, in contrast to the embodiment according to the first example, Figure 8 and Figure 9 The carrier housing includes upper supports 86 between its end walls 72 .

[0077] Figure 12 An exploded view of the entire filter assembly according to the second example, in particular all of its included components, is presented. As mentioned several times above, the two flat filter elements 52a, 52b are arranged in a V-shaped alignment within the carrier housing 62. The carrier frame 64 closes this arrangement from above by coupling it to the upper side of the carrier housing 62. As an example, this coupling can be performed using a snap-fit ​​mechanism. When closed by the carrier frame 64, the flat filter elements 52a, 52b are fixedly arranged in their respective mounting positions. Figure 12 Also shown is a specific lower lateral support of the lower cross member 78 of the flat filter element 52a, 52b according to the second example. To this end, short vertical ribs 88 extend upwards from the bottom area 70 near the end wall 72, thereby forming a stop against lateral movement of the lower cross member 78 of the filter frame. In addition, Figure 12Also shown is the left one of the inclined guide edges 90 that allows the side members of the filter frame to slide along it during the insertion of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b. Finally, the filter assembly according to the second example includes four leaf spring elements 92, namely one on the left and one on the right for each flat filter element 52a, 52b, which provide elastic support for the lower cross member of the filter frame and thus press the filter frame of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b onto the retainer element 74.

[0078] Figure 13 The mounting of the leaf spring elements 92 is shown in greater detail in the top view of the bottom region 70 of the unloaded carrier housing 62. Adjacent to the vertical ribs 88, on the left and right, respectively, one leaf spring element 92 is fixed at one end to the bottom region 70. In its unstressed state, each leaf spring element 92 is fixed in an inclined orientation toward its other end, which is the free end of the leaf spring element 92 and contacts the underside of the associated lower cross member 78.

[0079] Turning now to the specific installation process of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b according to the second example, reference will be made to Figure 14a 、 Figure 14b as well as Figure 15a 、 Figure 15b Explains this particular installation process. Figure 11 The display, Figure 14a and Figure 14b The relationship between the holder elements 74 in two different situations is presented during a mounting process or a removal process, respectively, of the flat filter elements 52 a , 52 b . Figure 14a The illustrated situation represents the mounted position of the flat filter elements 52a, 52b close to the end position of the retainer element 74, in which the lower bracket section 80 of the retainer element 74 almost completely engages the recess 82 of the upper cross member 76 of the filter frame. In order to remove the flat filter element 52a, it must be pushed further downwards in order to release the retainer element 74 from its engagement with the recess 82, as shown by Figure 14b In this case, the flat filter element 52a can be turned inwards so that the upper cross member 76 and thereafter the entire flat filter element 52a can be moved over the retainer element 74 when being lifted outside the carrier housing 62 .

[0080] The aforementioned further downward push of the flat filter element 52a is performed against the force of the two leaf spring elements 92 associated with the flat filter element 52a, as indicated by Figure 15a 、 Figure 15b shown, where Figure 15a The display and Figure 14aThe installation process corresponds to the Figure 15b The display and Figure 14b The installation process of Figure 15a 、 Figure 15b A detailed view of the lower cross member 78 of the flat filter element 52b and one of the two associated leaf spring elements 92 is shown in two installed situations, wherein Figure 15a The leaf spring element 92 is shown with the flat filter element 52b close to an end position (ie close to its final installed position), and Figure 15b The leaf spring element 92 is shown in a situation where the flat filter element 52b is pushed completely downwards to enable the flat filter element 52b to be removed from the carrier housing 62. In addition, Figure 15a 、 Figure 15b and Figure 13 In combination, it is also disclosed that each of the leaf spring elements 92 is fixed at the bottom region 70 of the carrier housing 62 by means of two bolts 94 .

[0081] Figure 16 and Figure 17 A third and fourth example of a retainer element 74 and their respective retaining capabilities for retaining a flat filter element 52a in position are disclosed. Both the third and fourth examples operate with hook-shaped retainer elements 74, each of which includes a protrusion 96 positioned at a free end and pointing downwards, wherein, according to Figure 16 A third example includes a retainer element 74 having an elongated arm, thereby forming a snap hook therein, and Figure 17 A fourth example includes a retainer element 74 having short arms forming mounting hooks therein.

[0082] Due to its length, according to Figure 16 The hook with its projection 96 reaches behind the inner top edge of the upper cross member 76, thereby preventing both the rotational movement and the lifting movement of the flat frame element 52a. In this case, the recess 82 in the upper side of the upper cross member 76 does not work. This arm length also provides the flexibility of the hook, so that the insertion of the flat filter element 52a can be achieved in the same manner as the first example (that is, without using any leaf spring elements). Naturally, using the same manner and providing an installation process similar to the second example can further facilitate the insertion process.

[0083] In contrast, according to Figure 17The short arm solution of the fourth example shown in FIG is characterized by a protrusion 96 at the free end of the mounting hook engaging with a recess 82 in the upper side of the upper cross member 76. In the fourth example, the retaining element also prevents both rotational movement and lifting movement of the flat frame element 52a. The reduced arm length is also closely related to the reduced flexibility, so that the mounting solution consistent with the second example (i.e., using a leaf spring element 92 to push the flat filter element 52a downward so that the retainer element 74 is disengaged from the recess 82 to remove the flat filter element 52a) is the only option.

[0084] Although the illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and that various other changes and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art in the above embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0085] List of Reference Numerals

[0086] 10 Combination appliances

[0087] 12 Cooking stoves

[0088] 14 Downdraft extraction device

[0089] 16 Cabinets

[0090] 18 Kitchen Countertops

[0091] 20a, 20b cooking areas

[0092] 22 Workbench

[0093] 24 Suction opening

[0094] 26 Covering Grid

[0095] 28 hood

[0096] 28a, 28b first cover portion and second cover portion

[0097] 30 discharge opening

[0098] 32 base area

[0099] 34 outlet grille

[0100] 36 Extraction fan

[0101] 38 Inhalation opening

[0102] 40 Fan outlet

[0103] 42 Fan housing

[0104] 44 air ducts

[0105] 46 1 to 46 5 Arrows indicating air flow

[0106] 48 filter assembly

[0107] 50 filter carriers

[0108] 52 filters

[0109] 52a, 52b Flat filter element

[0110] 54 Power Board

[0111] 56 Induction Coil

[0112] 58 Control electronics

[0113] 60 vertical axis

[0114] 62 carrier shell

[0115] 64 Carrier Frame

[0116] 66 Longer carrier frame section

[0117] 68 side surface

[0118] 70 bottom area

[0119] 72 end wall

[0120] 74 retainer element

[0121] 76 Upper cross member

[0122] 78 Lower cross member

[0123] 80 lower bracket

[0124] 82 recess

[0125] 84 Introducing the Inclined Surface

[0126] 86 upper strut

[0127] 88 vertical ribs

[0128] 90 guide edge

[0129] 92 Leaf spring element

[0130] 94 bolts

[0131] 96 bulge

Claims

1. An extraction device (14) for removing air from an area above a cooking hob (12), wherein: The extraction device (14) comprises: an inlet opening (38) for drawing the air into the interior of the extraction device (14), - an outlet opening (30) for exhausting the air, - at least one filter element (52; 52a, 52b), and - at least one filter carrier (50) for receiving the at least one filter element (52; 52a, 52b), wherein the filter element (52; 52a, 52b) and the filter carrier (50) are arranged between the inlet opening (38) and the outlet opening (30) in the direction of air flow, It is characterized by: The filter element (52; 52a, 52b) is a separate unit that can be separated and removed from the filter carrier (50), The filter carrier (50) includes a filter seat for receiving the filter element (52a, 52b), The filter carrier (50) includes a retainer element (74) configured to retain the filter element (52; 52a, 52b) in the filter seat, At least one spring element (92) is supported on the inner surface of the filter carrier (50) and acts on the filter element (52a, 52b).

2. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: This air includes cooking vapors.

3. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The extraction device (14) is a range hood.

4. The extraction device (14) according to claim 3, It is characterized by: The extraction device (14) is a downdraft range hood.

5. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The extraction device (14) is configured to be combined with the cooking hob (12) to form a combined appliance (10).

6. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The outlet opening (30) is used to discharge the air into the room air or the ambient air.

7. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The at least one filter element (52; 52a, 52b) is a flat filter element.

8. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The filter carrier (50) is removably arranged inside the extraction device (14).

9. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The filter element (52a, 52b) is received or receivable in a clamped position within the filter seat.

10. The extraction device (14) according to claim 9, It is characterized by: The clamp is spring loaded.

11. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The retainer element (74) - elastically arranged at the filter carrier (50), and / or - Made of flexible material, and / or - forming a clasp or clip element, - resting on a section of the filter frame.

12. The extraction device (14) according to claim 11, It is characterized by: The retainer element (74) presses onto the upper section of the filter frame.

13. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The spring element (92) is a metal spring.

14. The extraction device (14) according to claim 1, It is characterized by: The spring element (92) acts on the filter frame.

15. Extraction device (14) according to claim 14, It is characterized by: The spring element (92) presses the filter frame against the holder element (74).

16. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: The filter element (52; 52a, 52b) comprises a filter frame or filter support surrounding and / or supporting a filter area or filter section.

17. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: The retainer element (74) and the spring element (92) act on opposite sides of the filter frame.

18. Extraction device (14) according to claim 17, It is characterized by: The retainer element (74) and the spring element (92) act on an upper filter frame part (76) or an upper filter frame section and a lower filter frame part (78) or a lower filter frame section of a rectangular filter frame.

19. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: The filter element (52a, 52b) comprises a first filter frame part (78) or a first filter frame segment assigned to the spring element (92), and a second filter frame part (76) or a second filter frame segment assigned to the retainer element (74) and opposite to the first filter frame part (78) or the first filter frame segment, wherein at least one of the first and second filter frame parts (76, 78) or the first and second filter frame segments comprises a recess (82) or a cutout for receiving a portion (80) of the respectively assigned retainer element (74) or the spring element.

20. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: In the stressed state of the spring element (92), the filter frame is released or releasable from the holder element (74), and the spring element (92) is at least partially unloaded when the filter frame is in its assembled position.

21. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: The filter carrier (50) comprises a carrier frame portion (64) which is at least partially detachable from the filter carrier (50), wherein the carrier frame portion (64) comprises at least one locking device or locking feature for establishing a fixation of the filter element (52; 52a, 52b) in or at the filter carrier (50).

22. Extraction device (14) according to claim 21, It is characterized by: The carrier frame portion (64) is an upper carrier frame portion.

23. The extraction device (14) according to claim 21, It is characterized by: The carrier frame portion (64) can be completely removed from the filter carrier (50) or rotatably mounted at an edge of the filter carrier (50).

24. The extraction device (14) according to claim 20, It is characterized by: The retainer element (74) is part of or a subdivision of or is formed by the carrier frame portion (76), which can be attached or closed after the at least one filter element (52; 52a, 52b) is placed in place.

25. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: The filter carrier (50) comprises a guide means (90) for guiding the insertion of the filter element (52a, 52b) and / or a support section for pivotally receiving the filter element (52a, 52b).

26. Extraction device (14) according to claim 25, It is characterized by: The support section is used for pivotally receiving a filter frame part (78) or a filter frame section.

27. Extraction device (14) according to claim 26, It is characterized by: The supporting section serves for pivotally receiving the lower filter frame part or the lower filter frame section.

28. The extraction device (14) according to claim 25, It is characterized by: The filter seat of the filter carrier (50) comprises the guide means (90) and / or the support section.

29. Extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, It is characterized by: At least a first filter element (52a) and a second filter element (52b) are arranged in a V-shaped arrangement in the filter carrier (50).

30. Extraction device (14) according to claim 29, It is characterized by: The first filter element (52a) and the second filter element (52b) are a first flat filter element and a second flat filter element.

31. A combined appliance (10) comprising a cooking hob (12) and an extraction device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 30.

32. A method for providing a filter carrier (50) of an extraction device (14) with a filter element (52a, 52b), It is characterized by: The filter element (52a, 52b) is a flat filter element which is inserted with its bottom edge (78) into the filter carrier (50) and thereafter pivoted into its installed position in the filter carrier (50), In the following installation steps, the filter element (52a, 52b) is installed in the following order: - inserted in the lower section of the filter seat, - pressed against the force of a spring (92) arranged in the lower section of the filter seat, - pivoted into its installed position, and - supported on the retainer element (74) by at least partially releasing the spring tension.

33. The method according to claim 32, It is characterized by: This mounting position is an inclined mounting position.

Images