Method for mounting a camera on the inner container wall of a household appliance, and household appliance

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a method for assembling a camera (14) on a wall (7) of an inner container (4) of a household appliance (1), having the following steps: - providing a back piece (26) and a camera (14) independent of the back piece (26), - fixing the back piece (26) on the wall (7) in the region of a recess (17), - moving the camera (14) towards the back piece (26) in a first assembly direction (Ml) oriented perpendicular to the plane of the recess (17), so that the camera (14) and the back piece (26) are joined together through the recess (17) and thereby an intermediate assembly state is set, in which the camera (14) and the back piece (26) are arranged on opposite sides (7a, 7b) of the wall (7), - moving the camera (14) relative to the back piece (26) in a second assembly direction (M2) oriented parallel to the plane of the recess (17) until a final position of the camera (14) on the back piece (26) is reached.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the invention relates to a method for mounting a camera on the wall of the internal container of a household appliance. Another aspect relates to a household appliance. Background Technology

[0002] It is known in modern household appliances, such as household refrigeration appliances, that at least one camera is present, by means of which the receiving space for food can be detected. In household refrigeration appliances, this camera is known to be mounted on the wall of an inner container that defines the boundary of the receiving space. This mounting is more difficult because an insulation layer is required between the inner container and the outer shell of the household refrigeration appliance. To achieve this mounting, a rear-mounted component is used in addition to the camera. This rear-mounted component is typically positioned in the intermediate space between the inner container and the outer shell. The rear-mounted component is thus positioned particularly on the foam side. This means that the rear-mounted component is positioned in the intermediate space between the inner container and the outer shell, into which insulating foam is introduced. This configuration is known, for example, by DE 102013 216 767 A1. This rear-mounted component snaps into a recess in the wall of the inner container. Furthermore, a support for the camera housing and illumination unit is inserted there and simultaneously snapped into the rear-mounted component. The connection interface for electrically connecting the camera is integrated into the back wall of the rear unit or is introduced into the rear unit via a cable.

[0003] In this configuration, the assembly and positioning of the cameras are relatively costly. The connection interfaces must be connected to each other at a correspondingly high assembly cost. These connection interfaces must then be additionally joined and wired after the cameras are assembled. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The objective of this invention is to provide a method and a household appliance in which the assembly of a camera in the household appliance is improved.

[0005] This task is solved by the method and household appliances according to the present invention.

[0006] One aspect of the invention relates to a method for mounting a camera to the wall of an internal container of a household appliance. The internal container is, in particular, made of plastic. The internal container is provided first. A rear mount, independent of the internal container, is also provided. The rear mount is configured to directly and mechanically connect to the camera through a recess in the wall. The recess is constructed within the wall of the internal container.

[0007] In addition, a camera independent of the rear mount is provided. The camera is provided with a housing and a first electrical connector. The electrical connector is arranged in the housing. Furthermore, the camera housing and the rear mount are arranged on opposite sides of the wall. The rear mount is fixed to the wall in the area of ​​a recess. In a further step, the camera, in particular the camera housing, moves toward the rear mount along a first assembly direction. The first assembly direction is specifically oriented perpendicular to the plane of the recess. The camera and the rear mount are assembled through the recess by moving the camera toward the rear mount along the first assembly direction. This establishes a first intermediate assembly state in which the camera and the rear mount are arranged on the opposite side of the wall. Immediately after reaching the intermediate assembly state, the camera moves relative to the rear mount along a second assembly direction, which is parallel to the plane of the recess. This movement of the camera in the second assembly direction continues for a considerable period of time until the final position of the camera on the rear mount is reached at the end of the movement path.

[0008] The proposed method achieves a highly advantageous assembly scheme for mounting a camera. By arranging the rear mount and camera on opposite sides of the wall and in a recess, and further by directly mechanically connecting them, the components are stably and reliably held together. In one embodiment, the subsequent assembly of the camera onto the assembly having the wall and the rear mount already mounted on the wall can also be easily performed. The camera can then be very precisely fixed to the assembly via the two aforementioned assembly directions.

[0009] Particularly advantageously, the assembly scheme for the camera allows for the realization of specific intermediate assembly states through a multi-stage assembly scheme in two different assembly directions. This is because, initially in a completely non-contact state, the camera can be very easily guided along the first assembly direction, where direct mechanical coupling with the subsequent components is easily achieved. Thus, a very advantageous pre-positioning of the components is achieved in this intermediate assembly state. Consequently, the camera, starting from this intermediate assembly state, can be guided along the second assembly direction, and its final position can be easily and precisely set.

[0010] Furthermore, this allows for the setup of two very simple and intuitive assembly directions, in which the camera must move to reach the final position. This avoids complex assembly movements.

[0011] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that the second assembly direction is implemented parallel to the notch. In one embodiment, when the camera has reached an intermediate assembly state, the camera is still against the wall. If the camera then moves in the second assembly direction, a certain support or guide device is also provided by the wall. This also makes it particularly easy to support movement along the second assembly direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the guidance of the rear-mounted component on one side of the wall and the camera on the other side to the notch is at least temporarily simultaneous. However, it is advantageous that in one embodiment, the rear-mounted component is first guided onto the wall from one side and then positioned directly on the wall in the area of ​​the notch. If this assembly is achieved, the camera can then be guided onto the notch from the opposite side of the wall in that embodiment. In this embodiment, the corresponding guidance of the rear-mounted component and the camera on the wall in the area of ​​the notch is thus achieved sequentially in time.

[0013] The operational steps can thus be implemented in a more targeted and coordinated manner.

[0014] Specifically, to achieve the intermediate assembly state, only a portion of the camera is guided through the notch and inserted into the rear component. The rear component preferably has an insertion cavity into which the portion of the camera is inserted along a first assembly direction in this assembly scheme. Furthermore, by having a portion of the camera pass through the notch and then be positioned, it is also achieved that during the subsequent second assembly stage, i.e., movement along a second assembly direction, the camera does not undesirably move out of the notch.

[0015] Particularly advantageously, the assembly scheme is such that, when movement is performed along the second assembly direction, the electrical connector of the camera on one side and the electrical connector of the rear component on the other side are automatically coupled in the insertion cavity of the rear component.

[0016] In one embodiment, movement along the second assembly direction is performed linearly. This further simplifies the assembly process because this linear movement can be performed very precisely and easily. This particularly advantageously avoids jamming or separation. The final assembly state between the camera and the rear component is thus reliably achieved.

[0017] In one embodiment, a second electrical connector is mounted on a rear member. The second electrical connector is configured to connect with a first electrical connector. The second electrical connector is a separate component. The second electrical connector is positioned on or snapped onto the rear member via a snap-fit ​​connection. This embodiment also allows the second electrical connector to be easily assembled onto the rear member in its own separate assembly step. The second electrical connector is then reliably positioned on the rear member. This creates a pre-assembled component from the rear member and the second electrical connector, which is then guided onto and positioned on the wall in the recessed area. The advantageous snap-fit ​​connection allows for easy and quick attachment of the second electrical connector to the rear member. In particular, the attachment of the second electrical connector is achieved solely through the snap-fit ​​connection. This eliminates the need for additional separate fixing elements, such as bolts or similar components, to position and hold the second electrical connector on the rear member.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment, a cover independent of the rear member is fitted onto the rear member. Thus, the second electrical connector is at least partially surrounded between the rear member and the cover independent of the rear member. The second electrical connector is also thus arranged protectively. This is also advantageous because the rear member is arranged in the intermediate space between the inner container and the outer housing. Especially when the appliance is a household refrigeration appliance, insulation material is introduced into the intermediate space. The insulation material is, in particular, insulation foam. The insulation foam is also directly arranged on the rear member. The corresponding surrounding of the second electrical connector thus eliminates the need for direct placement of the insulation foam on the second electrical connector. The arrangement of the surrounding allows the second electrical connector to be positioned isolated from the insulation foam. This also achieves that, in the completed state of the household refrigeration appliance, a passage through a notch to the second electrical connector is available from the food receiving space limited by the wall of the inner container.

[0019] In one embodiment, the assembly consists of these components—namely, the rear component, the second electrical connector, and the cover—which move toward the camera in a first assembly direction to connect with it. This also allows for easy pre-assembly of the three components relative to each other. The pre-assembled component can also be easily positioned as a whole in the recessed area in the first assembly direction.

[0020] During the movement of the camera in the first assembly direction, when the camera finishes moving along the first assembly direction completely on the opposite side of the wall, the camera's electrical connector is also guided through the notch as a partial area. Thus, in one embodiment, the first electrical connector is fully inserted into the rear assembly at the end of the movement along the first assembly direction. By moving the camera relative to the rear assembly along the second assembly direction, the first electrical connector moves or shifts on the side of the wall where the second electrical connector is also located, and the second electrical connector is assembled onto the rear assembly. During the movement along the second assembly direction, the first electrical connector also automatically moves towards the second electrical connector on the same side of the wall. The second electrical connector automatically engages with the first electrical connector by the movement along the second assembly direction. This is another very advantageous embodiment. Because this allows for automatic mechanical and electrical connection of the two electrical connectors during the assembly of the camera and the rear assembly. Automatic blind mating of the two electrical connectors is also achieved through this advantageous assembly method. When the camera and the rear unit reach their final position, the two electrical connectors are automatically plugged in together.

[0021] In one embodiment, the rear member snaps directly onto the recess. The rear member is thus reliably and accurately held in place on the wall itself.

[0022] In one embodiment, no additional fastening elements, such as bolts or similar components, are required. The rear component is secured to the wall, particularly in the area of ​​the recess, solely by the clips.

[0023] In one embodiment, as the camera moves along the second assembly direction, the latching element on the camera engages with the mating latching element on the rear assembly. This direct interlocking also achieves mechanically stable and easy coupling.

[0024] In one embodiment, as the camera moves along the second assembly direction, coupling is performed between a coupling element on the camera and a mating coupling element on the rear mount. This is done so that the coupling element and the mating coupling element engage, thereby holding the camera on the rear mount. In one embodiment, the coupling element and the mating coupling element are thus shaped such that they are physically overlapped when viewed from the second assembly direction at the camera's final position on the rear mount. The coupling element and the mating coupling element thus mate with each other in the second assembly direction. This prevents the camera from disengaging in the first assembly direction.

[0025] In one embodiment, the coupling element and the mating coupling element are arranged, viewed in the second assembly direction, on opposite edge sides of the snap-fit ​​element and the mating snap-fit ​​element, which are different from the coupling element and the mating coupling element. This achieves accurate positioning of the camera on one side of the rear panel and on the other side of the wall. This also provides a structure that stably holds and fixes the camera's position on the rear panel and the wall in a direction perpendicular to the wall.

[0026] In one embodiment, the latching element and the mating latching element are constructed not to overlap in the second assembly direction and thus not to engage with each other. This allows for a stable and reliable latching or clamping. Furthermore, it facilitates the final release of the camera from the rear assembly. Because the latching connection between the latching element and the mating latching element can be released first, a return movement of the camera along the second assembly direction is possible. The engagement between the coupling element and the mating coupling element is then released along the second assembly direction. The camera can then be easily removed from the rear assembly.

[0027] In one embodiment, the coupling element and / or mating coupling element are shaped such that when the camera is moved in the second assembly direction, the coupling element and / or mating coupling element pulls the camera toward or presses it against the wall in the first assembly direction. Thus, at least one coupling element and / or mating coupling element is specifically configured with an inclined contact surface, and another element rests against and is guided along said contact surface.

[0028] At least the coupling element and / or the paired coupling element are thus constructed in a wedge shape.

[0029] In one embodiment, the rear component is arranged on the wall from one side such that mating snap-fit ​​elements and / or mating coupling elements are guided through a notch and extended to the opposite side of the wall, from which a camera is guided onto the wall along a first assembly direction. This achieves another advantageous embodiment in the assembly process. Because the assembly worker or robot can see the mating coupling elements and / or mating snap-fit ​​elements on the side of the wall where the camera is also guided, the mechanical coupling between the mentioned elements can be implemented more easily and with more specific targeting, and consequently, can also be visually perceived by the assembly worker or robot accordingly. Furthermore, this also makes it easier to check the final assembly state of the corresponding elements regarding the snap-fit ​​and / or coupling.

[0030] The snap-fit ​​element is a component that functions differently from the coupling element. The snap-fit ​​element is also independent of the coupling element and is spaced apart from it. The same applies to the corresponding mating elements.

[0031] Another aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance. The household appliance has a camera having a housing and a first electrical connector. The first electrical connector is disposed within the housing. The household appliance also has a rear component independent of the camera. The rear component is configured to directly connect to the camera housing through a recess in the wall of the internal container of the household appliance. This is designed such that the housing and the rear component are disposed on opposite sides of the wall in the region of the recess. A second electrical connector is disposed on the rear component. The second electrical connector is configured to connect with the first electrical connector. The rear component also has a recess into which the camera extends in a portion of a direction perpendicular to the plane of the recess. The recess is dimensionally constructed in a plane parallel to the recess such that a portion of the camera can move relative to the rear component in a specified assembly direction parallel to the plane of the recess during the assembly process in which the camera is configured to be positioned on the rear component, thereby setting a defined final position of the camera within the recess. Thus, the rear component is constructed with the insertion cavity as specified, the insertion cavity particularly implementing the corresponding assembly scheme according to the foregoing aspects or an advantageous embodiment thereof.

[0032] In one embodiment, the rear component has a contact flange for abutting against a wall. The rear component also has a receiving well integrated into the contact flange, in which a second plug-in connector is arranged, particularly snapped onto the receiving well by means of a snap-fit ​​connection. The receiving well may be part of the insertion cavity.

[0033] In another embodiment, the cover of the household appliance, independent of the rear unit, is disposed directly on the rear unit, such that the second electrical plug-in connector is disposed at least partially surrounded between the rear unit and the cover.

[0034] In one embodiment, the latching element of the rear unit passes through a notch, thereby latching the camera onto the side of the wall where the camera is positioned, specifically the latching element of the camera latches onto a mating latching element of the rear unit. In particular, the latching connection is formed on the side of the wall where the camera, with its housing, is positioned.

[0035] In another embodiment, the mating coupling element of the rear component is coupled to the coupling element of the camera. Specifically, the mating coupling element and the coupling element are interlocked and engaged in a direction extending in a plane parallel to the notch.

[0036] In the final state of assembly of the two electrical connectors, the two electrical connectors are simply plugged together. The two electrical connectors do not snap together. By simply plugging together, the camera can also be easily released. Therefore, it is not necessary to release the non-existent and / or non-snap-fitting connection between the electrical connectors.

[0037] The terms "up," "down," "front," "back," "horizontal," "vertical," "depth," "width," and "height" indicate the position and orientation resulting from the compliant use and positioning of the appliance.

[0038] Further features of the invention are derived from the technical solutions, drawings, and description of the drawings. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the specification, as well as those mentioned below in the description of the drawings and / or shown separately in the drawings, can be used not only in the corresponding combinations, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the framework of the invention. The following embodiments of the invention are thus also considered to be included and disclosed, which are not shown and illustrated in detail in the drawings, but are known and can be produced by individual combinations of features from the described embodiments. The following embodiments and combinations of features are also considered to be disclosed, and therefore do not possess all the features of the technical solutions of the invention as originally described. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The embodiments of the present invention are illustrated below with reference to schematic diagrams. In the accompanying drawings:

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a household appliance is shown;

[0041] Figure 2 An exploded view of an embodiment of a camera with a rear-mounted unit according to the present invention is shown;

[0042] Figure 3 A perspective view of a pre-assembled component with a rear assembly, a second electrical connector, and a cover is shown, the rear assembly being fitted onto the wall of the inner container.

[0043] Figure 4 Showing the cutting basis Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a pre-assembled component;

[0044] Figure 5 The image shows a cutaway view of the intermediate assembly state, featuring a camera and... Figure 3 A horizontal cross-sectional view of a pre-assembled component;

[0045] Figure 6 Showing according to Figure 5The view of the camera in its final assembled state on the rear unit; and

[0046] Figure 7 Showing according to Figure 6 A three-dimensional view of the final assembly state.

[0047] In the accompanying drawings, identical or functionally identical elements are given the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0048] exist Figure 1 A simplified diagram illustrates household appliance 1. Household appliance 1 is a household refrigeration appliance. This household refrigeration appliance is specifically designed for storing and preserving food. The household refrigeration appliance can be, for example, a refrigerator, a freezer, or a combination of refrigerator and freezer.

[0049] A household refrigeration appliance has a housing 2. The housing 2 has an outer housing 3. An inner container 4, independent of the outer housing 3, is arranged within the outer housing 3. The inner container 4 is particularly made entirely of plastic. The inner container 4 has walls that define the boundaries of a receiving space 5 for food. The receiving space 5 can be, for example, a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment. The receiving space 5 is defined by the vertical side walls 6 and 7, bottom wall 8, top wall 9, and rear wall 10 of the inner container 4. Insulation material 12 is introduced into the intermediate space 11 between the outer housing 3 and the inner container 4. The insulation material can be, for example, insulating foam.

[0050] The household refrigeration appliance also has a door 13. The door is movably arranged on the housing 2. The door is configured to close the receiving space 5 at the front.

[0051] The household refrigeration appliance also includes a camera 14. The camera 14 is positioned on the vertical side wall, particularly the vertical side wall 7, of the inner container 4. The camera is configured to detect the receiving space 5. A rear component 15, arranged in the intermediate space 11, is configured and mounted for mechanical retention or direct mechanical coupling with the camera 14.

[0052] exist Figure 2 The exploded view shows component 16. Component 16 has a wall of inner container 4, here for example, wall 7. A notch 17 is formed in wall 7. Notch 17 is a through hole. Notch 17 is completely closed around the plane of wall 7 and is thus limited by a surrounding boundary edge.

[0053] Component 16 also includes a camera 14. The camera 14 has a cover 14a. The cover 14a is, in particular, an anti-fog element. Furthermore, the camera 14 is configured with at least one lens 18. The camera 14 also has an end element 19. The end element 19 is part of the housing 20 of the camera 14. In one embodiment, another part of the housing 20 is a housing arm 21. In one embodiment, the camera 14 also has an electronics module 22. The electronics module 22 specifically has a circuit board and an image sensor mounted on the circuit board.

[0054] In one embodiment, the camera 14 also has a plug module 23. The plug module 23 has a circuit board 24 and a first electrical plug-in connector 25.

[0055] In addition Figure 2 The image also shows a rear mount 26, independent of wall 7 and camera 14. The rear mount 26 is constructed as a single piece. The rear mount has a contact flange 27. The rear mount 26 rests against the outer side 7 of wall 7 by means of the circumferentially closed contact flange 27. The rear mount 26 also has a insertion cavity 28. The insertion cavity 28 is constructed in accordance with regulations and is provided for receiving a first electrical connector 25. That is, in the assembled state, the first electrical connector 25 is inserted into the insertion cavity 28. The insertion cavity 28 is constructed rearwardly, particularly open.

[0056] The insertion cavity 28 is bounded by a flange 29 in the front region facing the wall 7. The flange 29 passes through the recess 17 in the assembled state of the rear component 26. A tab 30 is constructed on the end of the flange 29 opposite to the contact flange 27. In the assembled state, the tab 30 is located on the side of the wall 7 where at least the housing 20 of the camera 14 is also located.

[0057] As in addition Figure 2 As can be seen, the rear member 26 in this embodiment has a plurality of mating snap-fit ​​elements 31. In particular, the mating snap-fit ​​elements are constructed on the tab 30.

[0058] In this embodiment, the rear component 26 also has a plurality of mating coupling elements 32. Specifically, these mating coupling elements are constructed on the tab 30. As in Figure 2 As can be seen, the mating snap-fit ​​element 31 and the mating coupling element 32 are formed, and in particular, constructed as a single piece, on the opposing joint section of the joint 30. In the assembled state of the rear member 26 on the wall 7, the mating snap-fit ​​element 31 and the mating coupling element 32 are arranged on the following side of the wall 7, on which the housing 20 of the camera 14 is also located.

[0059] In the assembled state of the rear component 26 on the wall 7, the rear component 26 extends on both sides of the recess 17. However, the majority and main portion of the rear component 26 is arranged on the outer side 7a of the wall 7. In contrast, the camera 14, with respect to its size, is arranged on the opposite side of the wall 7, with the majority of its observation area thereon. In particular, it is arranged on the inner side 7b of the wall 7. The inner side 7b faces the receiving space 5.

[0060] In one embodiment, the rear member 26 has a receiving well 33. The receiving well 33 is integrally constructed with the remainder of the rear member 26. The rear member 26 may be made of, for example, plastic, and in particular, constructed as an injection-molded member. The receiving well 33 is part of the insertion cavity 28.

[0061] The receiving well 33 is configured to receive a second electrical connector 34, independent of the receiving well, for the receiving assembly 16. The receiving well 33 is therefore open on the side opposite to the contact flange 27. The second electrical connector 34 is configured for positioning within the receiving well 33. The assembly 16 also has a cover 35. The cover 35 is independent of the rear member 26. The cover is configured for mounting on the receiving well 33, thereby forming a closed volume space in which the second electrical connector 34 is arranged. The second electrical connector is arranged, in particular, at least partially surrounded, within the volume space.

[0062] The cover 35 is secured to the receiving well 33 by at least one snap-fit ​​connection. In another embodiment, the second electrical connector 34 is arranged to be held in the receiving well 33 by a snap-fit ​​connection. Therefore, no additional securing elements, such as bolts or similar components, are required. In one embodiment, the cover 35 can also be secured to the receiving well 33 by only one or more snap-fit ​​connections. Additional securing elements may also be unnecessary in this case.

[0063] exist Figure 3 The pre-assembled component 36 is shown in a perspective view. The pre-assembled component has a wall 7, a rear component 26, a second electrical plug-in connector 34, and a cover 35.

[0064] Regarding the assembly setup, the second electrical connector 34 is first installed in the receiving well 33. Specifically, the second electrical connector is snapped in accordingly. Then, the cover 35 is assembled onto the receiving well 33. The resulting pre-assembled component 36 is then assembled onto the wall 7, as in... Figure 3 As shown in the figure. The rear member 26 passes through the notch 17 with a flange 29, so that the tab 30 with the mating snap element 31 and the mating coupling element 32 is arranged on the opposite side of the wall 7.

[0065] exist Figure 4 The middle shows along Figure 3 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view cut along line IV-IV. The cross-sectional plane is shown here in the yz plane and in the area of ​​the receiving well 33, the second electrical connector 34, and the cover 35. It can be seen that the second electrical connector 34 is arranged to snap into the receiving well 33 by a snap-fit ​​element 37. Relatedly, additional snap-fit ​​connections may also be provided. Furthermore, cable guides 39 can be seen in the cover 35 and in the receiving well 33.

[0066] exist Figure 5 The intermediate assembly state of the component is shown in the horizontal cross-sectional view (the cross-sectional plane is the xz plane).

[0067] as Figure 3 As described above, in the assembly method, the wall 7 and the resulting internal container 4 are provided first. Specifically, a notch 17 is created in the wall 7. Then, the rear component 26 is provided. This continues until... Figure 3 The assembly steps in the assembly state have been described.

[0068] Furthermore, camera 14 is then provided in its assembled state. (As in...) Figure 5 As shown in the image, camera 14 is from Figure 3 Starting from the state in the first assembly direction M1, the camera 14 is guided onto the wall 7 in the region of the recess 17. The first assembly direction M1 is specifically a straight assembly direction. Thus, the camera 14 is guided onto the wall 7 from the side opposite the rear member 26 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the wall 7 and thus perpendicular to the plane of the recess 17. Here, the first electrical connector 25 is passed through the recess 17 until it is fully positioned on the side of the wall 7 where the receiving well 33 is also located. The first electrical connector 25 is then inserted into the insertion cavity 28 of the rear member 26.

[0069] If the motion camera 14 ends along the first assembly direction M1, then the following is achieved: Figure 5 The image shows an intermediate assembly state. It can also be seen here that the two electrical connectors 25 and 34 are arranged spaced apart from each other. This arrangement 40 is then installed in the final assembly state. For this purpose, from... Figure 5 Starting from the intermediate assembly state, camera 14 will be moved along as follows Figure 6 The second assembly direction M2 shown moves toward the rear member 26. The second assembly direction M2 is, in particular, a completely straight line. The second assembly direction M2 is parallel to the plane extending planarly from the notch 17.

[0070] The movement in the second assembly direction M2 continues for such a long time until the final position of the camera 14 relative to the rear member 26 is reached. Figure 6In this context, it is related to the corresponding situation, as in Figure 5 The horizontal cross-sectional view shown in the figure illustrates the final position. In this final position, the first electrical connector 25 and the second electrical connector 34 are automatically connected. This linear movement also allows the electrical connectors 25 and 34 to move directly toward each other and, consequently, to be automatically guided into place and mated together. In particular, this also automatically enables blind mating of the connectors 25 and 34 during the assembly process.

[0071] Furthermore, it can be seen that during the linear movement in the second assembly direction M2, the coupling element 41 of the camera 14 is coupled to the mating coupling element 32. Specifically, in this prescribed arrangement, the coupling element 41 and the mating coupling element 32 cooperate with each other. This also means that when the camera reaches its final assembly state, the coupling element and the mating coupling element are arranged overlapping each other in the second assembly direction M2. This is in... Figure 6 This can be seen in the image. Preferably, the coupling element 41 and the mating coupling element 32 are inclined on their contact surfaces facing each other and abutting each other. This also ensures that, on the one hand, the coupling mechanism is stably maintained, and on the other hand, the camera 14 is automatically pulled onto and pressed against the wall 7 in the first assembly direction M1 when moving in the assembly direction M2.

[0072] In addition Figure 6 As can be seen in the final assembly position of camera 14, a snap-fit ​​connection is achieved between the mating snap-fit ​​element 31 of the rear member 26 and the snap-fit ​​element 42 of camera 14 on the side opposite to the coupling element 41 and the mating coupling element 32. In this cross-sectional plane, a corresponding mechanical coupling is thus achieved between camera 14 and rear member 26 on the opposite side of recess 17. Not only is the coupling element 41 coupled to the mating coupling element 32, but the snap-fit ​​connection between the snap-fit ​​element 42 and the mating snap-fit ​​element 31 is also formed entirely on the side of wall 7 where the housing 20 of camera 14 is also located. Furthermore, as in Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can also be seen, the insertion cavity 28 is sized such that the first electrical plug-in connector 25 can move or be moved within the insertion cavity along the entire path between the intermediate and final assembly positions, so that it can then be adjusted according to... Figure 6 The final state can also be achieved in the position.

[0073] Furthermore, it is also like in Figure 6As can be seen, the snap-fit ​​connection between the snap-fit ​​element 42 and the mating snap-fit ​​element 31 does not engage in the second assembly direction M2. This also allows for easy release of the final assembly position. This can be done in one embodiment by removing the cover 14a. Then, with the aid of a tool, one can enter the housing 20 from this opening, and this entry can be made to such an extent that the snap-fit ​​connection between the snap-fit ​​element 42 and the mating snap-fit ​​element 31 can be reached from the inside and the snap-fit ​​connection can be decoupled accordingly. The camera 14 is thus decoupled again at the location where the snap-fit ​​connection is formed. The coupling state between the coupling element 41 and the mating coupling element 32 can also be released by moving in the opposite direction of the assembly direction M2. The camera 14 can then be removed from the wall 7 and the rear member 26 in the opposite direction of the first assembly direction M1.

[0074] The camera 14 is held to the wall 7 solely by means of the aforementioned snap-fit ​​connection and the aforementioned coupling connection with the rear mount 26. No additional fixing elements, bolts, or similar components are provided or required.

[0075] exist Figure 7 The image shows the final assembly state of camera 14 on wall 7 and rear mount 26 using a three-dimensional cross-sectional view, just like... Figure 6 Already explained and in Figure 6 As shown in the cross-sectional view. However, in Figure 7 The middle shows with Figure 6 Different cross-sectional planes. This cross-sectional plane, in particular, does not pass through the middle pair of these three pairs of snap-fit ​​elements 42 and mating snap-fit ​​elements 31 (as in...). Figure 6 (as in the middle), but in the area of ​​the external snap-fit ​​element 42 and the mating snap-fit ​​element 31, and in the area of ​​the corresponding external coupling element 41 and the mating coupling element 32.

[0076] It should also be clarified that when the camera 14 moves along the second assembly direction M2, the edge 21a of the housing portion in the form of housing arm 21 is moved past the mating snap element 31 and then snaps with the mating snap element 31 by the snap element 42 after the mating snap element.

[0077] Part of the insertion cavity 28 can be formed, in particular, by the receiving well 33.

[0078] List of reference numerals

[0079] 1. Household appliances

[0080] 2. Shell

[0081] 3. Outer casing

[0082] 4 inner container

[0083] 5. Receiving space

[0084] 6. Sidewalls

[0085] 7. Sidewalls

[0086] 7a Outer side

[0087] 7b inner side

[0088] 8 bottom wall

[0089] 9. Top Wall

[0090] 10. Rear wall

[0091] 11. Intermediate Space

[0092] 12 Thermal insulation materials

[0093] 13 doors

[0094] 14 cameras

[0095] 14a Cover

[0096] 15 Rear components

[0097] 16 components

[0098] 17 Notch

[0099] 18 lenses

[0100] 19. End components

[0101] 20. Housing

[0102] 21. Housing Arm

[0103] 22 Electronic Modules

[0104] 23. Plug Module

[0105] 24 circuit boards

[0106] 25 Plug-in connectors

[0107] 26 Rear-mounted components

[0108] 27 Contact Flange

[0109] 28 Insertion cavity

[0110] 29 Flange

[0111] 30 stitches

[0112] 31 Matching snap-fit ​​components

[0113] 32 Paired Coupling Elements

[0114] 33 Receiving Well

[0115] 34 Plug-in connectors

[0116] 35 lids

[0117] 36 Pre-assembled components

[0118] 37. Clip-on components

[0119] 38 Matching snap-fit ​​components

[0120] 39 Cable guide section

[0121] 40 Arrangement

[0122] 41 Coupling element

[0123] 42. Snap-fit ​​components

[0124] M1 First Assembly Direction

[0125] M2 Second Assembly Direction.

Claims

1. A method for mounting a camera (14) onto the wall (7) of the inner container (4) of a household appliance (1), wherein, Implement the following steps: Provide the internal container (4). A rear mount (26) is provided, the rear mount being configured for direct mechanical connection to the camera (14) through a notch (17) in the wall (7). Its characteristics include the following steps: A camera (14) is provided, independent of the rear unit (26), having a housing (20) and a first electrical connector (25) disposed within the housing (20). The housing (20) of the camera (14) and the rear component (26) are positioned opposite each other relative to the wall (7). The rear component (26) is fixed to the wall (7) in the area of ​​the recess (17). The camera (14) is moved toward the rear component (26) along a first assembly direction (M1) perpendicular to the plane of the notch (17), so that the camera (14) and the rear component (26) are joined together through the notch (17) and thus an intermediate assembly state is established, in which the camera (14) and the rear component (26) are arranged on opposite sides (7a, 7b) of the wall (7). Starting from the intermediate assembly state, the camera (14) is moved relative to the rear component (26) in a second assembly direction (M2) parallel to the plane oriented to the notch (17) until the final position of the camera (14) on the rear component (26) is reached. During the movement of the camera (14) along the second assembly direction (M2), the coupling element (41) on the camera (14) is coupled to the mating coupling element (32) on the rear component (26), thereby establishing a coupling element (41) and the mating coupling element (32) in the second assembly direction. After mating in the second assembly direction (M2), the camera (14) is engaged and thus held on the rear member (26). As the camera (14) moves along the second assembly direction (M2), a snap-fit ​​connection is achieved between the mating snap-fit ​​element (31) of the rear member (26) and the snap-fit ​​element (42) of the camera (14) on the side opposite to the coupling element (41) and the mating coupling element (32), so that the camera (14) is held on the wall (7) only by the snap-fit ​​connection and only by the coupling connection to the rear member (26).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movement is carried out linearly along the second assembly direction (M2).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A second electrical connector (34) is assembled on the rear member (26). The second electrical connector is configured to connect with the first electrical connector (25). The second electrical connector (34) is a separate component and is snapped onto the rear member (26) by means of a snap-fit ​​connection.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cover (35) is fitted onto the rear member (26) such that the second electrical plug-in connector (34) is at least partially surrounded between the rear member (26) and the cover (35) independent of the rear member.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, These components constitute a pre-assembled component (36), which moves toward the camera (14) in the first assembly direction (M1) to connect with the camera (14).

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4-5, characterized in that, When the first electrical connector (25) of the camera (14) reaches the middle position of the assembly, it is fully guided through the notch (17) so that when the camera (14) moves relative to the rear member (26) along the second assembly direction (M2), the first electrical connector (25) moves toward the second electrical connector (34) on the side of the wall (7) where the second electrical connector (34) is also located, and the first electrical connector (25) automatically engages with the second electrical connector (34) by moving along the second assembly direction (M2).

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4-5, characterized in that, The rear component (26) is snapped onto the notch (17).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4-5, characterized in that, The camera (14) is held on the rear member (26) and pressed against the wall (7) in the direction of the rear member (26).

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4-5, characterized in that, The rear component (26) is arranged on the wall (7) from one side, such that the mating snap element (31) and / or the mating coupling element (32) are guided through the notch (17) and extended to the opposite side of the wall (7), from which the camera (14) is guided onto the wall (7) along the first assembly direction (M1).

10. A household appliance (1) comprising: a camera (14) having a housing (20) and a first electrical connector (25) disposed in the housing (20); and a rear component (26) independent of the camera (14), the rear component being configured to directly connect to the housing (20) through a notch (17) in a wall (7) of an inner container (4) of the household appliance (1), such that the housing (20) and the rear component (26) are disposed on opposite sides of the wall (7), wherein, The rear unit (26) has a second electrical connector (34) configured to connect with the first electrical connector (25), and the rear unit (26) has an insertion cavity (28) into which the camera (14) extends in a portion of a direction perpendicular to the plane of the notch (17), wherein the insertion cavity (28) is sized in a plane parallel to the notch (17) such that the portion of the camera (14) can be positioned relative to the rear unit (26) during assembly of the camera (14) on the rear unit (26) in a parallel direction. The camera (14) moves in the direction of the plane of the notch (17) to set the final position defined in the insertion cavity (28), wherein, as the camera (14) moves along the direction parallel to the plane of the notch (17), the coupling element (41) on the camera (14) couples with the mating coupling element (32) on the rear member (26), such that the coupling element (41) and the mating coupling element (32) engage and interlock in the direction parallel to the plane of the notch (17), thereby holding the camera (14) on the rear member (26). And when the camera (14) is moved along a second assembly direction (M2) oriented relative to the rear member (26) in a plane parallel to the notch (17), a snap-fit ​​connection is achieved between the mating snap-fit ​​element (31) of the rear member (26) and the snap-fit ​​element (42) of the camera (14) on the side opposite to the coupling element (41) and the mating coupling element (32), so that the camera (14) is held on the wall (7) only by the snap-fit ​​connection and only by the coupling connection to the rear member (26).

11. The household appliance (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The rear component (26) has a contact flange (27) for abutting against the wall (7) and a receiving well (33) integrated on the contact flange (27), in which the second electrical plug-in connector (34) is arranged.

12. The household appliance (1) according to claim 11, wherein, The cover (35) is arranged on the rear member (26) such that the second electrical plug-in connector (34) is arranged to be surrounded at least partially between the rear member (26) and the cover (35).

13. The household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, The mating snap element (31) of the rear component (26) passes through the notch (17), so that the camera (14) is snapped with the mating snap element (31) of the rear component (26) on the side of the wall (7) where the camera (14) is arranged by the snap element (42).

14. The household appliance (1) according to claim 11, wherein, The second electrical plug-in connector (34) is snapped onto the receiving well by means of a snap-fit ​​connection.

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