Ice maker

Abstract

The invention relates to an ice-making device, in particular for a household appliance, comprising a housing and at least one forming element which is suitable and intended for forming a piece of ice, wherein at least one forming holder 4 is provided in which the at least one forming element 3 is arranged, wherein the at least one forming holder 4 is pivotable about a first pivot axis S relative to the housing 2 from a first position 5 to an ejection position 6, wherein a pivoting into the ejection position 6 actuates an ejection mechanism 7 acting on the at least one forming element 3 such that in the ejection position 6 the piece of ice emerges from the forming element 3.

Description

The invention relates to an ice making device, in particular for a household appliance, comprising a housing and at least one forming element which is suitable and intended for forming an ice piece.Such household appliances are, for example, refrigeration appliances of household equipment, in particular refrigerators, freezers or the like. Such devices often comprise an ice preparation device for providing pieces of ice. By means of a liquid supply device, a liquid, generally water, is supplied to a forming element in which the liquid then freezes. The shaped element specifies the shape of the ice pieces.The removal of the ice piece from the molded element and the subsequent provision for a user previously requires great technical complexity or is associated with complexity for the user.It is an object of the present invention to provide an ice making device which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages. It is a further object of the invention to provide a household appliance which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages.The object is achieved by the subject matter of claims 1 and 11.According to the invention, an ice-making device, in particular for a domestic appliance, is provided, comprising a housing and at least one forming element which is suitable and intended for forming out an ice piece, wherein at least one forming-holding device is provided in which the at least one forming element is arranged, wherein the at least one forming-holding device is pivotable about a first pivot axis relative to the housing from a first position into an ejection position, wherein a pivoting into the ejection position actuates an ejection mechanism acting on the at least one forming element in such a way that, in the ejection position, the ice piece exits the forming element.The household appliance is preferably a refrigeration appliance of the household equipment, for example a refrigerator, a freezer or the like.The coupling according to the invention of the movement of the at least one mold holding device or of the at least one mold element arranged therein into an ejection position with the actuation of the ejection mechanism is provided by a particularly simple ice preparation device which provides the ice piece to the user in a simple manner.According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the at least one forming element is fluidically connected to a liquid supply device. The liquid supply device can be part of the ice-making device or else part of the domestic appliance. In the following, an ice piece is to be understood as the result of a transition of a liquid into the solid aggregate state. The liquid is advantageously supplied to the forming element via the liquid supply device. An ice piece is thus to be understood below as the solid form of the liquid used. The liquid is preferably water, but may also be a mixture of water-based liquids.By cooling the at least one shaped element, the liquid can freeze in the shaped element or transition into the solid aggregate state. The at least one shaped element specifies the shape of the piece of ice. The ice piece can advantageously be spherical. However, other geometric shapes would also be conceivable, for example cuboid, cube-shaped, ellipsoid-shaped, etc.The filling of the at least one mold element with the liquid and the formation of the ice piece advantageously take place when the at least one mold-retaining device is in the first position. As soon as the process of forming the ice piece is finished, an ejection of the ice piece can take place at the request of the user. After ejection, the at least one mold holding device is preferably pivoted back from the ejection position into the first position.According to a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one drive and / or gear mechanism is provided, which is operatively connected to the at least one mold-holding mechanism. Preferably, the drive and / or gear mechanism drives the pivoting of the mold-holding device. Accordingly, the drive and / or transmission device can comprise an electric motor, for example. Other drive devices would of course be possible to be provided. The drive and / or transmission device preferably comprises at least one force transmission element, for example a transmission, a belt or the like. Preferably, the drive and / or transmission device drives the pivoting of the at least one shape-retaining device from the first position into the ejection position. Preferably, the drive and / or transmission device drives the pivoting of the at least one shape-retaining device from the ejection position into the first position.Preferably, the at least one shape-retaining device is pivoted from the first position into the ejection position by a predetermined angle α. The angle α is preferably in a range between 90° and 180°, preferably in a range between 160° and 180°, more preferably in a range between 170° and 180°. Between the first position and the ejection position, the angle α thus stretches.Alternatively or cumulatively, the at least one drive and / or transmission device provides a transmission of force for pivoting the mould holding device. In this case, the at least one drive and / or transmission device is advantageously operatively connected to a drive device external to the ice-making device. This drive device then preferably provides a force and / or a torque of the at least one drive and / or transmission device, which then brings about the pivoting of the at least one at least one shape-retaining device. Preferably, the drive and / or transmission device brings about the pivoting of the at least one shape-retaining device from the first position into the ejection position. Preferably, the drive and / or gear mechanism device brings about the pivoting of the at least one shape-retaining device from the ejection position into the first position.The at least one drive and / or transmission device is advantageously arranged in or on the housing. The housing preferably comprises a partition wall which is arranged between the drive and / or transmission device and the at least one shape-retaining device.According to a further preferred embodiment, a first coupling element is arranged on the housing. The first coupling element is preferably circular cylindrical. Preferably, the first coupling element is fixedly arranged on the housing. The term "fixed" is intended to mean that the first coupling element is arranged so firmly on the housing that no movement, for example rotation, of the first coupling element relative to the housing is possible. It would be conceivable for the first coupling element to be arranged on the housing by means of a materially bonded connection, for example a welded connection. However, other connections, for example, form-fit connections such as screw connections, would also be conceivable. Preferably, the first coupling element is arranged on the housing in such a way that the first pivot axis extends centrally through the first coupling element. Preferably, the first pivot axis is a fictitious axis.According to a further preferred embodiment, a connecting arrangement is provided which provides an operative connection between the at least one drive and / or transmission device and the at least one shape-retaining device. By means of the named operative connection via the connection arrangement, a torque is preferably transmitted to the at least one mold holding device. Preferably, the connection arrangement extends through a bore in the first coupling element. The bore is preferably arranged centrally in the first coupling element.According to a further preferred embodiment, a second coupling element is provided. Preferably, the second coupling element is operatively connected to the first coupling element. Advantageously, the second coupling element is formed in the manner of a circular cylinder. Preferably, a rotary shaft member is disposed on the second coupling member. It is further preferred that the rotary shaft element is rotatably mounted on the at least one mold holding device. Advantageously, when the at least one shape-retaining device is pivoted about the first pivot axis, the second coupling element rolls off on the first coupling element, such that the second coupling element and the rotary shaft element move along an outer circumference of the first coupling element. The rotary shaft element is thus pivoted about the first pivot axis by means of the at least one shape-retaining device. It is advantageous here that, when the at least one shape-retaining device is pivoted about the first pivot axis, the rotary shaft element is both pivoted about the pivot axis and rotates about an axis of rotation. Preferably, the axis of rotation corresponds to a central axis of the rotary shaft element, which extends along a longitudinal extension of the rotary shaft element.According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one third coupling element is arranged on the rotary shaft element in a rotationally fixed manner. The term "rotationally fixed" is intended to mean that the at least one third coupling element cannot rotate independently relative to the rotary shaft element. A rotation of the rotary shaft element thus causes a rotation of the at least one third coupling element about the same axis of rotation. The at least one third coupling element is advantageously circular cylindrical. The at least one third coupling element is advantageously operatively connected to at least one tappet element. It is advantageous here that a rotation of the at least one third coupling element causes a linear movement of the at least one tappet element by the operative connection. Preferably, the linear movement of the plunger element along an ejection direction causes an ejection of the ice piece. Preferably, a pivoting of the at least one shape-retaining device from the first position into the ejection position brings about a linear movement of the plunger element along an ejection direction. When the at least one shape-holding device is pivoted from the ejection position back to the first position, the rotary shaft element rotates in the opposite direction due to the opposite rolling movement of the second coupling element. Thus, the at least one third coupling element also rotates in the opposite direction, whereby the at least one tappet element experiences a linear movement of the tappet element counter to the ejection direction and is displaced back into the initial position.The ejection mechanism preferably comprises at least the first coupling member, the second coupling member, the rotary shaft member, at least a third coupling member, and at least a plunger member.According to a further preferred embodiment, the first coupling element is designed as a first gearwheel. The second coupling element is preferably designed as a second gearwheel. Preferably, the second gear meshes with the first gear. Preferably, the first gearwheel and / or the second gearwheel is a spur gear, i.e. a circular cylindrical disc having a toothed circumferential surface. Preferably, the toothing is a straight toothing.Advantageously, the first gearwheel is arranged fixed on the housing. Preferably, the first gearwheel is arranged on the housing in such a way that the first pivot axis extends centrally through the first gearwheel. Advantageously, the bore is arranged at the center of the circular first gearwheel.According to a further preferred embodiment, the first coupling element and the second coupling element are embodied as wheel-like rolling elements. Preferably, a frictional force between the first coupling element and the second coupling element is sufficient to prevent a slip between the first coupling element and the second coupling element and thus to ensure a rolling movement of the second coupling element along the circumference of the first coupling element.According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one third coupling element is designed as at least one third gearwheel. Advantageously, the at least one tappet element has a rack section, which meshes with the at least one third gearwheel. By means of the meshing, a rotation of the at least one third gearwheel is advantageously converted into a linear movement of the at least one tappet element. Preferably, the linear movement of the at least one plunger element along an ejection direction causes an ejection of the ice piece.The ejection mechanism preferably comprises at least the first coupling element in the form of a first gearwheel, the second coupling element in the form of a second gearwheel, the rotary shaft element, at least one third coupling element in the form of a third gearwheel and at least one plunger element.According to a further preferred embodiment, the third coupling element is designed as a friction wheel which is operatively connected in a frictional manner to a friction surface of the tappet element. This frictional operative connection brings about a transmission of the rotation of the friction wheel into the linear movement of the plunger element.According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one shaped element is arranged in a receiving device. Preferably, the receiving device is integrated into the at least one shape-retaining device.According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one shaped element consists of an elastic material. Preferably, at least one holding element is provided, which is arranged on the at least one shaped element or is formed by a wall element of the at least one shaped element. The at least one holding element is preferably connected in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner to at least one counter holding element of the receiving device. Preferably, by means of the force-fit and / or form-fit connection between the at least one holding element and the at least one counter holding element, a displacement of the at least one shaped element upward along the height axis (Z) is prevented.Preferably, the at least one retaining element is arranged along a circumference of the wall element. It is advantageous here that the at least one retaining element is arranged at least partially circumferentially along a circumference of the wall element. Preferably, the at least one holding element is completely circumferential along the circumference of the wall element. However, it would also be conceivable for spatially separated sections of the holding element to be arranged distributed along the circumference of the wall element. The holding element is preferably configured annularly encircling and comprises a receiving groove in which the counter holding element of the receiving device engages.According to a further preferred embodiment, the elastic material is furthermore designed in such a way that it maintains its elasticity even when exposed to cold of preferably up to -30° C. Furthermore, the elastic material is permitted for handling foods, for example, FDA-compliant. Preferably, the elastic material of the at least one shaped element is a silicone.According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one shaped element is connected to the at least one tappet element. Preferably, during the linear movement of the at least one tappet element along the ejection direction, the at least one shaped element is deformed by the at least one tappet element in such a way that the ice piece exits the shaped element. Accordingly, when the shape-retaining device is moved into the ejection position, the shape element is deformed by the at least one tappet element in such a way that the ice piece exits the at least one shape element. Preferably, in the case of a linear movement of the at least one plunger element counter to the ejection direction, the at least one shaped element is pulled into its original shape by the at least one plunger element. Accordingly, when the mold holding device is moved from the ejection position into the first position, the at least one mold element is pulled into the original mold by the at least one plunger element.According to a further preferred embodiment, at least two shaped elements are provided. Preferably, the at least two mold elements are arranged next to one another in the at least one mold-holding device along a width axis (Y). Preferably, the rotating shaft member extends along the width axis (Y). Advantageously, at least two third coupling elements and at least two tappet elements are provided. Preferably, a respective plunger element is assigned to a shaped element.According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one heating device is provided, by means of which the at least one shaped element can be at least partially heated. Preferably, the at least one heating element can be activated before and / or during the dispensing of the ice piece. Such a heating element can be, for example, a resistance wire. Alternatively, a heating ventilation or the like could also be provided. The ice piece can be released from the at least one shaped element by the second heating element, whereby ejection is made possible. By heating the at least one shaped element, the ice piece is advantageously released from the shaped element, whereby ejection is facilitated.The at least one shaped element has an extension along a height axis (Z). In the ice-making device according to the invention, the cooling of the shaped element takes place along the height axis (Z) from above. The cooling of the at least one shaped element takes place in such a way that the formation of the ice or of the solid aggregate state in the shaped element takes place along the height axis (Z) from top to bottom. Furthermore, the cooling is effected in such a way that the formation of the solid aggregate state or of the ice takes place in layers from top to bottom. It has been found that the cause of the formation of cloudy ice is inclusion of certain gases in the ice. As a result of the layer-by-layer formation of the ice in the at least one shaped element along a direction in particular from top to bottom, during the formation of the solid state of aggregation, such a gas is displaced into the liquid residue lying below and does not include it in the ice. The ice piece formed is thus substantially clear or substantially transparent. The ice piece produced by the ice-making device is advantageously a clear ice piece or an ice piece with a clarity of greater than 90%. However, it is also possible to produce a turbid ice piece, i.e. an ice piece with a clarity in a range between 0% and 90%, with the ice-making device.According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one cooling feed device is provided, which feeds a cooled fluid to the at least one shaped element in such a way that it impinges on an upper region of the at least one shaped element along the height axis (Z). The cooled fluid is generated by a cooling device, which can be associated with the ice-making device or else can be part of the domestic appliance. In this case, the transport of the cooled fluid takes place advantageously on the basis of convection. Preferably, a fan or the like is provided in order to apply a cold air flow to the at least one shaped element. Static cooling of the upper region of the at least one shaped element is thus provided. By such a static cooling, a slow layer-by-layer formation of the solid aggregate state can be ensured.According to a further preferred embodiment, a temperature sensor is integrated in the connection between the at least one tappet element and the at least one shaped element, by means of which temperature sensor a temperature of the liquid located in the at least one shaped element is detectable. By monitoring the temperature, it is advantageously possible to monitor the complete formation of the ice piece in the forming element.The object is also achieved by a domestic appliance comprising an ice-making device according to one of the described exemplary embodiments. The household appliance can be equipped with all the features already described above in the context of the ice-making device individually or in combination with one another and vice versa.The domestic appliance is preferably a refrigerating appliance of domestic equipment, for example a refrigerator, a freezer or the like.Further advantages, goals and properties of the present invention will be explained with reference to the following descriptions of the attached figures. Like components may have like reference numerals in the various embodiments.The figures show: FIG. 1 is a view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 shows a plan view of an ice-making device according to one embodiment FIG. 3 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 4 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 5 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 6 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 7 is a view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 8 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 10 is a sectional view of an ice making apparatus according to an embodiment; FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the principle.FIGS. 1-10 show an ice-making device 1, in particular for a domestic appliance 100, comprising a housing 2 and at least one forming element 3, which is suitable and intended for forming an ice piece. At least one shape-holding device 4 is provided in which the at least one shape element 3 is arranged, wherein the at least one shape-holding device 4 is pivotable about a first pivot axis S relative to the housing 2 from a first position 5 into an ejection position 6, wherein a pivoting into the ejection position 6 actuates an ejection mechanism 7 acting on the at least one shape element 3 in such a way that in the ejection position 6 the ice piece exits the shape element 3.The ice-making device 1 and the at least one forming element 3 extend along a height axis Z, a longitudinal axis X and a width axis Y.The ice-making device 1 can be installed in a domestic appliance 100, for example, a refrigerating appliance for domestic use, in particular a refrigerator, a freezer or another domestic appliance.The liquid is preferably water or a water-based mixture.The ice-making device 1 can comprise any number of shaping elements 3. The number of shaping elements 3 depends on the desired number of ice pieces to be prepared. The shape of the ice pieces can likewise be arbitrary. A spherical shape or a cubic shape would be conceivable. In the present FIGS. 1 to 6, for example, an ice-making device 1 is shown which can provide two substantially spherical ice pieces and thus comprises two shaped elements 3. In FIG. 4, for example, an ice-making device 1 is shown, which can provide four substantially spherical ice pieces and thus comprises four shaped elements 3. In FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, for example, an ice-making device 1 is shown, which can provide two substantially cube-shaped ice pieces and thus comprises two shaped elements 3. However, these numbers and shapes are not to be understood as limiting generality.The at least one shaped element 3 comprises a wall element 3 awhich encloses a receiving space 18. The receiving space 3 bis suitable and intended for forming an ice piece 3. The ice piece 3 can be substantially spherical or substantially in the form of an ellipsoid or substantially in the form of a polyhedron or substantially substantially cube-shaped. Of course, any other shapes of the ice piece 3 are conceivable.The ice-making device 1 comprises a receiving device 20, in which the at least one shaped element 3 is arranged. The at least one shaped element 3 furthermore comprises a holding element 21, which can be formed completely by the wall element 3 a, or can be arranged on the wall element 3 a. The at least one holding element 21 is connected in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner to at least one counter holding element 22 of the receiving device 20. In the figures, the holding element 21 is formed circumferentially along the circumference of the shaped element 3. The holding element 21 is designed as an annular element which comprises a circumferential receiving groove 21 a. The counter holding element 22, which is designed as a holding projection, engages into this receiving groove 21 a. The holding element 21 is arranged substantially centrally along the extent along the height axis Z of the at least one shaped element 3.The at least one shaped element 3 consists of an elastic material and comprises an upper opening 3 calong a height axis Z. The at least one shaped element 3 comprises a first section which is arranged along the height axis Z above the holding element 21. Furthermore, the at least one shaped element 3 comprises a second section which is arranged along the height axis Z below the holding element 21. The upper opening 3c is provided and adapted to discharge the ice piece 3 after it is completely formed. Furthermore, the upper opening 3 cis provided for the liquid to enter the at least one forming element 3 via said opening. However, it would be conceivable for an inlet opening for a liquid to be provided in the lower section of the shaped element 3. Such an inlet opening could be arranged diametrically with respect to the upper opening 3c.The elastic material of the at least one shaped element 3 must accordingly be designed in such a way that it has sufficient elasticity or rigidity that the shaped element 3 can resume its original shape. Further, the elastic material must maintain such elasticity even under the cold action preferably up to -30°C. Finally, the elastic material must be permitted for handling foods.The ice making apparatus 1 includes a housing 2 having an upper cover 2 a. At least one bore 2 bis provided in the upper cover, which is aligned with the upper opening 3 cof at least one shaped element 3. Through the bore 2 band the upper opening 3 c, a liquid supply into the at least one forming element 3 can take place. If the ice-making device 1 comprises a plurality of shaped elements 3, a corresponding number of bores 2 bare present, wherein in each case one bore 2 bis assigned to one shaped element 3.It would also be conceivable for the shaped elements 3 to be connected to one another in fluidic fashion. For the liquid supply, only one bore 2b could then be provided in the housing 2.The housing 2 includes a partition wall 25 and an outer wall 26 both extending downward from the top cover 2 aalong the height axis Z. The mold mounting device 4 is pivotably mounted between the partition wall 25 and the outer wall 26. On an inner surface 25 aof the partition wall 25, a first coupling element 9 formed in the shape of a circular cylinder is fixedly arranged. The first coupling element 9 is designed as a first gearwheel 16 and thus comprises a toothing running circumferentially along its circumference. The first gearwheel 16 can therefore not rotate relative to the dividing wall 25 or the housing 2. It would be conceivable for the first gearwheel 16 to be connected to the first separating wall 25 by means of a materially bonded connection, for example a welded connection. However, other types of connections would also be conceivable.On an outer surface 25 bof the partition wall 25 a drive and / or transmission device 8 is arranged. This is operatively connected to the mold-holding device 4 and provides a drive for the pivoting of the mold-holding device 4. The drive and / or transmission device 8 can provide the drive directly, for example by means of an electric motor or as a force transmission, and can be operatively connected to a corresponding external drive.The partition wall 25 and the first coupling element 9 or the first gearwheel 16 have a bore 11. The bore 11 is provided at the center of the first coupling element 9 of circular cylindrical design. A connecting arrangement 10 extends through this bore 11 and provides an operative connection between the drive and / or transmission device 8 and the mold-retaining device 4. This is clearly visible, for example, in FIG. 6. The connecting device 10 comprises a shaft-like element 10a, which is subjected to a torque by the drive and / or transmission device 8. The shaft-like element 10 aincludes a pin-like end region 10 bwhich is arranged in a rotationally fixed manner in a receptacle 4 aof the mold-holding device 4. The connection in a rotationally fixed manner is ensured by projections on the pin-like end region 10 b,which projections engage in the receptacle 4 a. By means of this rotationally fixed connection, a rotation of the shaft-like element 10 acan be transmitted to the mold-holding device 4. Along the width axis Y, however, the named rotationally fixed connection can be released.The receptacle 4a projects into the bore 11 and is thus mounted with respect to the pivoting. On the opposite outer wall 26, the mold holding device 4 is mounted on a bearing element 26 aof the outer wall 26. The mold holding device 4 can thus be pivoted from the first position 5 into an ejection position 6 by means of the drive and / or transmission device 8 about a pivot axis S, which extends centrally through the bore 11. The mold holding device 4 can likewise be pivoted back from the ejection position 6 into the first position 5 by means of the drive and / or transmission device 8 about a pivot axis S.The first position 5 of the mold holding device 4 is shown in FIG. 3. In this first position 5, the at least one forming element 3 is filled with the liquid and the at least one piece of ice is formed in the at least one forming element 3. The ejection position 6 is illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 5 and 6. When pivoted from the first position 5 into the ejection position 6, a central axis M of the forming element 3 is rotated by an angle α (not shown in the figures). The angle α lies in a range between 90° and 180°, preferably in a range 160° and 180°, further preferably in a range between 170° and 180°. By such a pivoting into the ejection position 6, the ice piece can be easily removed by a user, for example, to the effect that it falls into a container, for example, a drinking glass. It would also be conceivable for the at least one piece of ice to be ejected into a collecting container. The pivoting and the pivoting axis S are marked in FIG. 6 with the arrow 27.However, a sole pivoting into the ejection position generally does not result in the ice piece coming loose from the shaped element. Accordingly, according to the invention, an ejection mechanism 7 acting on the forming element is provided. This ejection mechanism 7 is coupled to the pivot of the mold mounting device 4.The ejection mechanism 7 comprises at least a second coupling member 12, a rotating shaft member 13, at least a third coupling member 14 and at least a pusher member 15.The second coupling element 12 embodied in the manner of a circular cylinder is embodied as a second gearwheel 17 and is operatively connected to the first gearwheel 16 (first coupling element 9). The second gearwheel 17 meshes with the first gearwheel 16. Since the first gearwheel 16 is arranged in a fixed manner, when the mould-holding device 4 is pivoted about the pivot axis S, the second gearwheel 17 rolls along the circumference of the first gearwheel 16.The second gearwheel 17 (second coupling element 12) is connected to a rotary shaft element 13 in a rotationally fixed manner. The rolling movement of the second gearwheel 17 thus causes the rotary shaft element 13 to rotate about an axis of rotation D. The axis of rotation D is congruent with a central axis MD of the rotary shaft element 13 and extends along a longitudinal extent of the rotary shaft element 13 along the width axis Y. The rotary shaft element 13 is rotatably mounted on the mold mounting device 4 by means of bearing devices 4 bof the mold mounting device 4.When the at least one shape-retaining device 4 is pivoted about the first pivot axis S, the second gearwheel 17 (second coupling element 12) thus rolls off on the first gearwheel 16 (first coupling element 9), such that the second gearwheel 17 and the rotary shaft element 13 move along an outer circumference 9 aof the first gearwheel 16. Thus, the rotary shaft member 13 is both pivoted about the pivot axis S and rotated about a rotation axis D.At least one third coupling element 14 is arranged on the rotary shaft element 13 in a rotationally fixed manner. The at least one third coupling element 14 embodied in the manner of a circular cylinder is embodied as a third gearwheel 18. A rotation of the rotary shaft element 13 thus also causes a corresponding rotation of the at least one third gearwheel 18. The plunger element 15 comprises a rack portion 19 which meshes with the third gear wheel 18.As a result of the engagement of the third gearwheel 18 with the rack portion 19, the plunger element 15 is moved linearly during a rotation of the third gearwheel 18. The direction of this linear movement is dependent on the direction of rotation of the third gearwheel 18. When the shape-retaining device 4 is pivoted about the pivot axis S from the first position 5 to the ejection position 6, the second gearwheel 17 and thus the rotary shaft element 13 and the at least one third gearwheel 18 rotate in a first direction of rotation. The plunger element 15 is thus displaced linearly along the ejection direction A. When the mold holding device 4 is pivoted from the ejection position 6 back into the first position 5, the second gearwheel 17 and thus the rotary shaft element 13 and the at least one third gearwheel 18 rotate in a second rotational direction which is opposite the first rotational direction. The plunger element 15 is thus displaced linearly counter to the ejection direction A.The receiving device 20 comprises a dish-shaped receiving section 20a, which opens into a hollow cylindrical intermediate section 20b. The intermediate section 20 bis adjoined by a hollow cylindrical channel section 20 c. The hollow cylindrical channel section 20c preferably has a substantially square base surface. The channel section 20c has a smaller diameter than the intermediate section 20b. The tappet element 15 is arranged displaceably in the channel section 20 c. As is well seen in FIG. 2, the channel portion 20c has an upper opening groove 20d. This opening groove 20d allows the third gear 28 to be meshed with the rack portion 19.The plunger element 15 has an end section 15 awhich is arranged in a receiving section 3 eof the molded element 3 in such a way that the plunger element 15 and the molded element 3 are firmly connected. The second section of the at least one shaped element 2 merges into the receiving section 3 e. The receiving portion 3 eis preferably formed integrally with the wall element 3 aof the at least one shaped element 3.The end section 15a has a step along the longitudinal extension of the plunger element 15, whereby an outer diameter of the plunger element 15 in the end section decreases stepwise. The receiving section 3 eis correspondingly of complementary design. Such a form-fit connection ensures good retention of the plunger element 15 in the receiving portion 3 e. It would be conceivable for there to additionally be a cohesive connection, for example an adhesive connection, between the plunger element 15 and the receiving portion 3 e. It can be seen in FIG. 3 that the toothing of the rack section 19 and the width of the wall of the receiving section 3 eterminate flush along a width direction Y.Due to the linear displacement of the plunger element 15 in the ejection direction A, the plunger element 15 moves into the receiving device 20, whereby an ejection of the ice piece takes place. The plunger element 15 is displaced within the channel portion 20 cand the intermediate portion 20 b. In the case of a linear displacement along the ejection direction A, the receiving section 3 eis pushed out of the intermediate section 20 balong the ejection direction A. As a result, a lower portion of the elastic shaped element 3 deforms, which can be seen well in FIGS. 5 and 6. By holding the shaped element 3 via the holding element 21 in the counter holding element 22, an overall displacement of the shaped element 3 by the plunger element 15 is avoided. The ice piece is displaced along the ejection direction A by the deformation or the thrust of the plunger element 15 and thus exits from the opening 3 cof the shaped element.In the case of spherical ice pieces, it is necessary that the upper opening 3c is enlarged upon ejection. For this purpose, the at least one shaped element 3 has extension elements 29 formed in the manner of folds. In the event of ejection, the upper opening 3 cmay be enlarged sufficiently by a deformation of the expansion elements 29 that the spherical ice piece may escape.After the ejection of the ice piece, the at least one shape-holding device 4 is pivoted back from the ejection position 6 into the first position 5. By the opposite rotation of the third gearwheel 18, the plunger element 15 is displaced again out of the receiving device 20 counter to the ejection direction A. Due to the fixed connection of the plunger element 15 to the receiving section 3 e, the receiving section 3 eis displaced back into the intermediate section 20 b. The deformation of the shaped element 3 is accordingly reversed accordingly. The shaped element 3 thus finally reaches its original shape and its original position again. By retracting the mould element 3, a complete restoration of the original shape is thus ensured.A temperature sensor 23 is integrated in the connection between the at least one tappet element 15 and the at least one shaped element 3. The end section 15 aand the receiving section 3 ehave an opening in the center, in which the temperature sensor 23 is received. The temperature sensor 23 may include a water-repellent coating such as a rubber coating. The tappet element 15 is formed hollow-cylindrical, so that a sensor line 30 can be guided inside the tappet element 15 starting from the temperature sensor 23. The temperature of the liquid located in the forming element 3 can be detected by the temperature sensor 23. The temperature of the liquid provides information about the formation of the ice piece. It can thus be determined when the ice piece is completely formed.Furthermore, at least one heating device 24 is provided, by means of which the at least one shaped element 3 can be at least partially heated. Heating the shaped element 3 allows detachment of the ice piece from the wall 3 aof the shaped element 3. This allows easier ejection of the ice piece. FIG. 4 shows the heating device 24 in the form of a heating wire. The heating wire is arranged on or in the wall 3 aof the molded element 3. Preferably, the heating wire is arranged in a lower portion of the molded element 3.FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment of the ice-making device 1. This embodiment comprises a mold mounting device 4 in which 4 mold elements 3 are arranged. These four mold elements 3 are arranged next to one another along the width axis Y in the mold holding device 4. Accordingly, four third gears 14, 18 are arranged side by side on the rotary shaft member 13. The third gearwheels 14, 18 are each operatively connected to a tappet element 15 or mesh with a rack element 19 in each case. The method of operation and the further features are analogous to the previously described embodiments. The description of the embodiments described above thus also applies here mutatismutatismutid.FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 show a further embodiment. This embodiment differs from the preceding embodiments only in that a substantially cubic ice piece is formed instead of a spherical ice piece. The shaped element 3 is thus correspondingly designed differently. FIG. 10 shows the ejection position, in which the mold holding device is pivoted, and the plunger element 15 has been correspondingly displaced into the receiving device 20. According to this embodiment, the shaped elements 3 are provided by means of at least one overflow recess 32. By means of this at least one overflow recess 32, the shaped elements 3 are fluidically connected to one another. Thus, only one bore 2b in the housing 2 is necessary for the liquid supply. The supplied liquid is distributed uniformly into the shaped elements 3 via the at least one overflow recess 32.A difference from the preceding embodiments is the configuration of the fastening of the plunger element 15 to the shaped element 3. The shaped element 3 has on its lower wall along the height axis Z a T-like connecting section, which is surrounded by a complementarily configured section of the plunger element 15. As a result, a firm connection can likewise be ensured both along the ejection direction A and counter to the ejection direction A.Since no closed shape is necessary during the shaping of substantially cube-shaped ice pieces, it can be advantageous if a cover of the shaped element 3 is present in order to keep the dirt particle away from the ice piece or the liquid. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the housing 2 has a cover portion 33 that covers the molded member 3. With regard to a further description of the embodiment according to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, the description of the preceding embodiments can apply. The description of the embodiments described above thus also applies here mutatismutatismutid.The household appliance 100 comprises a cooling device 102 connected and suitable and intended for guiding cooled fluid, preferably cooled air, to the upper region of the at least one shaped element 3. Thus, preferably only this upper region is charged with the cooled fluid. This ensures a layer-by-layer freezing of the liquid in the at least one shaped element 3 along the height axis Z from top to bottom. Static cooling is provided. The cooled fluid, or the cooled air, is supplied to the upper region of the at least one shaped element 3 by means of convection. A sufficiently slow freezing of the liquid in the forming element is thus ensured, whereby a substantially clear ice piece is obtained.At least one cloudy piece of ice can also be produced by the ice-making device 1. Accordingly, a cold air flow can also be provided as a cooling feed.Furthermore, at least one control device 101 is provided. The control device 101 can be associated with the ice-making device 1 or the domestic appliance. FIG. 11 shows a control device 101 which controls the corresponding components. A plurality of control devices 101 can also be provided, which control different components and can be associated with the ice-making apparatus 1 and / or the domestic appliance 100.The control device 101 is connected by signal technology to the temperature sensor 23, the heating device 24 and the cooling device 102. Likewise, control device 101 is connected by signal technology to drive and / or transmission device 8 and or to an external drive device. Furthermore, the control device 101 can actuate a liquid supply device 103, which supplies a liquid to the at least one forming element 3.A cycle for producing at least one piece of ice comprises firstly the filling of the liquid into the at least one shaped element 3. If a complete formation of the ice piece is detected by means of the temperature sensor 23, a user can initiate an ejection process. For this purpose, the heating device 24 is first activated, whereby the ice piece is released from the shaped element 3. Then the drive and / or transmission device 8 is activated, whereby the mold holding device 4 is pivoted from the first position 5 into the ejection position 6 and at the same time the ejection mechanism 7 is actuated, so that the plunger element 15 enters the receiving device 20. After the ejection of the ice piece, the drive and / or transmission device 8 is activated in such a way that the shape-holding device 4 is pivoted from the ejection position 6 into the first position 5. By this pivoting, the ejection mechanism 7 is actuated in such a way that the plunger element 15 pulls the forming element back into its original shape or its original position. A new cycle can then begin and the mold element can be filled again.The applicant reserves the right to claim all the features disclosed in the application documents as essential to the invention, provided they are novel, individually or in combination, compared with the prior art. It is also pointed out that features have also been described in the individual figures, which features may be advantageous per se. The skilled person directly recognizes that a specific feature described in a figure can also be advantageous without the adoption of further features from this figure. Furthermore, the skilled person recognizes that advantages can also result from a combination of a plurality of features shown in individual figures or in different figures.List of reference characters1 Ice-making device 2 Housing 2 aCover 2 b Bore in cover 3 Shaped element 3 aWall element 3 b Aufnahmeraum space 3 c Obere opening 3 d Einlassöffnung opening 3 e Aufnahme portion 4 Shape-retaining device 4 a Aufnahme of the shape-retaining device 4 b Lagerungs device of the shape-retaining device 5 First position of the shape-retaining device 6 Ejection position 7 Ejection mechanism 8 Drive and / or gear device 9 First coupling element 9 a Äußerer periphery of the first coupling element 10 Connecting arrangement 10 a Wellen element 10 b Stift end region of the waveform-like element 11 Bore in the first coupling element 12 Second coupling element 13 Rotary shaft element 14 Third coupling element 15 Plunger element 15 aEnd portion 16 First gearwheel 17 Second gearwheel 18 Third gearwheel 19 Rack portion 20 Receiving device 20 a Portion 20 b Intermediate portion 20 c Kanal portion 20 dupper opening groove 21 holding member 21 areceiving groove 22 counter holding member 23 temperature sensor 24 heater 25 partition wall 25 ainner surface of partition wall 25 bouter surface of partition wall 26 outer wall 26 abehaving outer wall support member 27 arrow 28 arrow 29 extension members 30 sensor line 31 connection portion 32 overflow recess 33 cover portion 100 household appliance 101 controller 102 cooler 103 liquid supply device A ejection direction M central axis of mold member MD central axis of rotary shaft member S first pivot axis D rotational axis U periphery X longitudinal axis Y width axis Z height axis

Claims

Ice-making device (1), in particular for a domestic appliance (100), comprising a housing (2) and at least one shaped element (3) which is suitable and intended for forming out an ice piece, characterised in that at least one shaped-retaining device (4) is provided, in which the at least one shaped element (3) is arranged, wherein the at least one shaped-retaining device (4) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (S) relative to the housing (2) from a first position (5) into an ejection position (6), wherein a pivoting into the ejection position (6) actuates an ejection mechanism (7) acting on the at least one shaped element (3) in such a way that, in the ejection position (6), the ice piece exits from the shaped element (3).Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 1da characterized in that at least one drive and / or transmission device (8) is provided, which is operatively connected to the mould-holding device (4), wherein the drive and / or transmission device (8) drives the pivoting of the at least one mould-holding device (4) or provides a transmission of force for pivoting the mould-holding device (4), wherein the drive and / or transmission device (8) is arranged in or on the housing (2).Ice-making device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first coupling element (9) is fixedly arranged on the housing (2), wherein the first coupling element (9) is formed in the manner of a circular cylinder, wherein the first coupling element (9) is arranged on the housing (2) in such a way that the first pivot axis (S) extends centrally through the first coupling element (9).Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 3da characterized in that a connecting arrangement (10) is provided which provides an operative connection between the at least one drive and / or transmission device (8) and the at least one mould-retaining device (4), wherein the connecting arrangement (10) extends through a bore (11) in the first coupling element (9), wherein the bore (11) is arranged centrally in the first coupling element (9).Ice-making device (1) according to one of Claims 3 or 4da, characterized in that a second coupling element (12) is provided which is operatively connected to the first coupling element (9), wherein the second coupling element (12) is of circular cylindrical design, wherein a rotary shaft element (13) is arranged on the second coupling element (12), wherein the rotary shaft element (13) is rotatably mounted on the at least one mould-retaining device (4), wherein, when the at least one mould-retaining device (4) is pivoted about the first pivot axis (S), the second coupling element (12) rolls on the first coupling element (9), such that the second coupling element (12) and the rotary shaft element (13) move along an outer circumference (9a) of the first coupling element (9); wherein, upon pivoting of the at least one shape-retaining device (4) about the first pivot axis (S), the rotary shaft element (13) is both pivoted about the pivot axis (S) and rotates about an axis of rotation (D).Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 5da characterized in that at least one third coupling element (14) is arranged on the rotary shaft element (13) in a rotationally fixed manner, wherein the at least one third coupling element (14) is operatively connected to at least one plunger element (15), wherein a rotation of the at least one third coupling element (14) causes a linear movement of the at least one plunger element (15) by the operatively connected manner, wherein the ejection of the ice piece takes place along an ejection direction (A) by the linear movement of the at least one plunger element (15).Ice-making device (1) according to one of Claims 5 to 6, characterized in that the first coupling element (9) is designed as a first gearwheel (16), wherein the second coupling element (12) is designed as a second gearwheel (17), wherein the second gearwheel (17) meshes with the first gearwheel (16).Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 6, characterized in that the at least one third coupling element (14) is designed as at least one third gearwheel (18), wherein the at least one plunger element (15) has a toothed rack section (19) which meshes with the at least one third gearwheel (18).Ice-making device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one shaped element (3) is arranged in a receiving device (20), wherein the receiving device (20) is integrated in the at least one shaped-retaining device (4), wherein the at least one shaped element (3) consists of an elastic material and is arranged in a receiving device (20) of the shaped-retaining device (4), wherein at least one retaining element (21) is provided, which is arranged on the at least one shaped element (3) or is formed by a wall element (3a) of the at least one shaped element (3), wherein the at least one retaining element (21) is connected in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner to at least one counter-retaining element (22) of the receiving device (20).Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 6da, characterized in that the at least one shaped element (3) is connected to the at least one plunger element (15), wherein, during the linear movement of the at least one plunger element (15) along the ejection direction (A), the at least one shaped element (3) is de-moulded by the at least one plunger element (15) in such a way that the piece of ice comes out of the at least one shaped element (3), wherein, during a linear movement of the at least one plunger element (15) counter to the ejection direction (A), the at least one shaped element (3) is pulled into its original shape by the at least one plunger element (15).Ice-making device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one heating device (24) is provided, by means of which the at least one shaped element (3) can be at least partially heated.Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 6da, characterized in that at least two shaped elements (3) are provided, wherein the at least two shaped elements (3) are arranged next to one another in the at least one shaped-retaining device (4) along a width axis (Y), wherein at least two third coupling elements (14) and at least two plunger elements (15) are provided, wherein in each case one plunger element (15) is assigned to one shaped element (3).Ice-making device (1) according to Claim 10da, characterized in that a temperature sensor (23) is integrated in the connection between the at least one plunger element (15) and the at least one forming element (3), by means of which temperature sensor a temperature of the liquid located in the at least one forming element 3 can be detected.Domestic appliance (100) comprising an ice preparation device (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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