Sink with movable insert plate that can be tilted with a support element to remove residual media

Abstract

The invention relates to a sink (1) with a tub (2) which has a bottom wall (3) and adjoining side walls (4, 5, 6, 7), whereby a receiving space (8) delimited by the walls (4 to 7) is formed. The sink (1) has an insert plate (10) which is separate from the tub (2) and is inserted into the receiving space (8), wherein the sink (1) has a lifting device (11) with which the insert plate (10) can be moved relative to the tub (2). The sink (1) further has at least one residual media removal device (64) with which residual media can be removed from the upper side (10a) of the insert plate (10).The residual media removal device (64) has a movement unit (65) with which the insert plate (10) can perform a tilting movement to a horizontal plane for removing the residual media, wherein the movement unit (65) has a support element (66) which is coupled to a carrier wing (33) on which the insert plate (10) rests and which can be raised and lowered by the lifting device (11), so that from a support position of the support element (66) the carrier wing (33) can be tilted about a horizontal axis, so that the insert plate (10) is tilted to the horizontal plane.

Description

[0001] One aspect of the invention relates to a sink with a tub. The tub has a bottom wall and adjoining side walls. The tub has a receiving space defined by the walls. Furthermore, the sink has an insert plate separate from the tub, which is inserted into the receiving space.

[0002] Such sinks are known. For example, US 2005 / 0067747 A1 discloses a sink having a tub. A base extending upwards is formed integrally with the tub bottom. A plate can be attached to this base. This creates a cutting board on which objects, such as food, can be cut. This design is disadvantageous in that the integrated base is always present, making the tub's basic design complex and also restricting the space available. Furthermore, the plate that can be placed on the base is always positioned at only one height. It can only be attached or removed by a user.

[0003] Furthermore, a sink is known from DE 362 1151 A1. Separate from the tub, various inserts are provided that can be inserted into the receiving space. The inserts can be plates or other tub-like containers. These can be placed on the upper edge of the tub. This also severely limits the usability of a sink, and the inserts must be attached or removed by the user and can only be positioned in one specific position.

[0004] DE 10 2019 218 650 A1 discloses a sink with an insert plate. The sink has a residual media drainage device that allows the insert plate to be tilted to drain residual water from the top.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a sink with a tub and a separate insert plate, in which the insert plate can be kept clean by simply tilting it.

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a sink with a tub and a separate insert plate, in which a lifting device for the insert plate is stably attached.

[0007] This object is achieved by a sink according to claim 1.

[0008] One aspect of the invention relates to a sink with a tub. The tub has a bottom wall and adjoining side walls. The tub furthermore has a receiving space which is delimited by the bottom wall and the side walls. The receiving space is open at the top. The sink has an insert unit which is separate from the tub, in particular an insert plate, in particular a continuous and hole-free insert plate. This can be inserted or inserted into the receiving space. The sink furthermore has a lifting device with which the insert unit, in particular the insert plate, can be moved in the vertical direction of the sink relative to the tub. This is made possible by a specific lifting device of the sink. A sink is therefore now provided which fundamentally makes it possible to arrange the insert unit at different heights.This is also made possible by a lifting device, eliminating the need for manual adjustment by the user. The lifting device essentially allows for continuous height adjustment of the insert plate. This allows the insert plate to be moved to and adjusted to a wide range of heights.

[0009] The sink also has an active residual media removal device. The residual media removal device can be used to remove residual media from the top side of the insert plate. The residual media removal is, in particular, a physical device made up of functional components. This design makes it possible to keep the insert plate clean, particularly on its top side. Cleaning as needed is also made possible. In particular, it prevents residual media from accumulating on the top side. Residual media generally refers to media that can accumulate on the top side of the insert plate for a longer period of time. For example, this could be liquid that remains on the top side of the insert plate and would not drain away. Other solid media can also be considered such residual media.

[0010] In particular, it is provided that the residual media removal device has a movement unit. The movement unit is designed to move the insert plate in a defined manner to remove the residual media. This allows the sink to be operated individually in a removal mode. In the removal mode, which differs from the sink's normal mode, a removal process for residual media is carried out on the upper side of the insert plate. In this embodiment, it is therefore provided that the removal of residual media is carried out by a separate movement of the insert plate. In particular, a specific, defined removal movement of the insert plate can be induced for this purpose. This is carried out in particular by the sink's movement unit. This configuration enables comprehensive and needs-based removal of the residual media.

[0011] Preferably, this defined removal movement of the insert plate is such that the residual media enters the receiving space of the tray and can then be removed from there via a drain opening. This prevents the residual media from escaping from the tray and, for example, onto a neighboring worktop if this removal of the residual media is carried out in a defined manner.

[0012] It is intended that a movement of the insert plate initiated by the movement unit for the removal of residual media is a tilting movement of the insert plate. In particular, such a movement is therefore a tilting movement in relation to a horizontal plane. The tilting movement can very advantageously achieve the drainage of liquid media from the top side of the insert plate. At least one defined tilting position or inclined position is thus set, which enables a correspondingly metered drainage of these residual media. Particularly advantageously, in this drainage mode and the set tilting position, drainage can take place into the receiving space itself. This can then also automatically drain the residual medium contained in the receiving space via a drain opening in the tray.This allows the residual media to be removed from the top of the insert plate without the user having to directly touch the top of the insert plate. For example, there is no longer any need to explicitly wipe it with a cloth or similar.

[0013] The movement unit has at least one support element which is coupled to a carrier wing on which the insert plate rests and which can be raised and lowered by the lifting device. In a support position of the support element, the carrier wing can be tilted about a horizontal axis, so that the insert plate can be tilted or is tilted towards the horizontal plane. Such a simple support element allows the insert plate to be tilted in a defined and precise manner. In a space-saving yet highly functional manner, the insert plate can therefore be reliably tilted into at least one tilt position over the service life of the sink. The support element is therefore supported on the component, in particular from above, to effect the tilting. The carrier wing is an integral part of the sink.

[0014] In one embodiment, the support element rests against a component of the sink in a support position, so that when the insert plate is moved downwards, the insert plate can be tilted, in particular is tilted, toward the horizontal plane by maintaining this support position. Thus, when the insert plate is moved downwards, the support element, which until then was preferably not yet in the support position, is brought into the support position in an intermediate position. In particular, the support element automatically reaches the support position in this intermediate position. This position is maintained as the insert plate is moved further downwards.

[0015] In one embodiment, the support element is a downwardly projecting pin. It is oriented so as to project freely downwards. This enables secure mechanical contact with the component for adjusting the support position. Furthermore, such a pin is compact and space-saving.

[0016] In one embodiment, the support element is fixedly arranged on the support wing. This prevents relative movement between the support element and the support wing. This occurs when the insert plate is moved downwards once it has reached the support position. This enables very smooth tilting of the insert plate. This is particularly true because the support wing then pivots very continuously and automatically. This is because the support wing is pivotally mounted on a plate holder in the sink, meaning this bearing point is moved downwards as well, whereas another area of the support wing is prevented from moving further downwards because it is directly coupled to the support element. In the support position, the support element prevents the other area from moving downwards.

[0017] In one embodiment, the support element is reversibly attachable and removable. Specifically, it is mounted directly on the support wing. The support element can therefore be attached and removed without damage. This also makes it available as a retrofit component. This highly advantageous embodiment also allows users to decide for themselves whether and when they want to use the tilt function.

[0018] In one embodiment, the support element is arranged in a non-contact manner with the component in the maximum upward position of the insert plate. Only in an intermediate lowering position or an intermediate position does the support element, as already explained above, come into contact with the component to create the support position. This ensures that tipping does not occur immediately from the uppermost end position when the insert plate is lowered. This prevents unwanted drainage of residual media, such as water, outside the tub, for example, onto a worktop next to the sink.

[0019] In one embodiment, the component is a bottom wall of the sink. In this example, the support element, particularly its lower free end, contacts the bottom wall when the support position is reached.

[0020] In one embodiment, the component is an elastic sealing cover of the sink, with which the lifting device is covered at least laterally.

[0021] The sealing sleeve is preferably a bellows. The support element rests with its lower end on an upper bellows wall when the support position is reached. This is another very simple example of securely adjusting a tilt position. It is possible to install a very short support element, especially if the uppermost bellows wall is the one against which the support element rests from above, thereby creating the support position.

[0022] In one embodiment, the support wing is arranged on a plate holder of the sink and is pivotable about the horizontal axis. The plate holder can be raised and lowered using the lifting device. In particular, the sink has at least two separate and independently movable support wings that are pivotally mounted on the plate holder.

[0023] In one embodiment, a lower free end of the support element, which is intended for direct contact with the component, is elastically deformable and / or has a soft element. This minimizes contact noise and prevents scratching of the component. Furthermore, this achieves greater adhesion, preventing the support element from slipping away from the component when in contact.

[0024] In one embodiment, the top surface has a microstructure. This also allows for a lotus effect of residual liquid media on the top surface. This means that even small tilt angles are sufficient to remove such residual media from the entire surface. A microstructure can be a coating.

[0025] In one embodiment, the sink has a control unit with which the tilting of the insert plate can be electronically controlled. In particular, the lifting device can be controlled by the control unit to lower the insert plate. For this purpose, a motor of the sink, in particular of the lifting device, can be controlled.

[0026] In one embodiment, at least two different tilt scenarios for tilting the insert plate can be controlled with the control unit. The tilt scenarios can differ, for example, in the height position at which tilting begins, i.e., the support position is reached, and / or in the tilt angle by which the insert plate is tilted, and / or in the tilt time, i.e., how long the tilting occurs. It is possible for a user to select a tilt scenario, for example, by operating a control element of a sink control device.

[0027] The tilt function can be activated, for example, simply by pressing a corresponding symbol, for example a touch-sensitive operating surface of the operating device.

[0028] Several implementation options are conceivable: - Operation from any plate position: When the tilt function is activated, the plate moves downwards and remains in the tilted position for a certain time to allow the water to drain away and can then move back to its previous position automatically; - Another possibility is to define a program flow: Start tilting from any plate position, move downwards and tilt, and after successful tilting return to a service position; - It is also possible to program the control in such a way that the tilt position is approached and the insert plate then remains in that position without automatically ending the tilting, so that the user then selects the next position himself.

[0029] A further aspect of the invention relates to a sink with a tub. The tub has a bottom wall and adjoining side walls. The tub furthermore has a receiving space which is delimited by the bottom wall and the side walls. The receiving space is open at the top. The sink has an insert unit which is separate from the tub, in particular an insert plate, in particular a continuous and hole-free insert plate. This can be inserted or inserted into the receiving space. The sink furthermore has a lifting device with which the insert plate can be moved in the vertical direction of the sink relative to the tub. This is made possible by a specific lifting device of the sink. A sink is therefore now provided which fundamentally makes it possible to arrange the insert unit at different heights.This is also made possible by a lifting device, eliminating the need for manual adjustment by the user. The lifting device essentially allows for continuous height adjustment of the insert plate. This allows the insert plate to be moved to and adjusted to a wide range of heights.

[0030] The sink also has an active residual media removal device. The residual media removal device can be used to remove residual media from the top side of the insert plate. The residual media removal is, in particular, a physical device made up of functional components. This design makes it possible to keep the insert plate clean, particularly on its top side. Cleaning as needed is also made possible. In particular, it prevents residual media from accumulating on the top side. Residual media generally refers to media that can accumulate on the top side of the insert plate for a longer period of time. For example, this could be liquid that remains on the top side of the insert plate and would not drain away. Other solid media can also be considered such residual media.

[0031] In particular, it is provided that the residual media removal device has a movement unit. The movement unit is designed to move the insert plate in a defined manner to remove the residual media. This allows the sink to be operated individually in a removal mode. In the removal mode, which differs from the sink's normal mode, a removal process for residual media is carried out on the upper side of the insert plate. In this embodiment, it is therefore provided that the removal of residual media is carried out by a separate movement of the insert plate. In particular, a specific, defined removal movement of the insert plate can be induced for this purpose. This is carried out in particular by the sink's movement unit. This configuration enables comprehensive and needs-based removal of the residual media.

[0032] Preferably, this defined removal movement of the insert plate is such that the residual media enters the receiving space of the tray and can then be removed from there via a drain opening. This prevents the residual media from escaping from the tray and, for example, onto a neighboring worktop if this removal of the residual media is carried out in a defined manner.

[0033] It is intended that a movement of the insert plate initiated by the movement unit for the removal of residual media is a tilting movement of the insert plate. In particular, such a movement is therefore a tilting movement relative to a horizontal plane. The tilting movement can very advantageously achieve the drainage of liquid media from the top side of the insert plate. At least one defined tilting position or inclination is thus set, which enables a correspondingly metered drainage of these residual media. In this drainage mode and the set tilting position, drainage into the receiving space itself can therefore particularly advantageously take place. This then also allows the residual medium contained in the receiving space to drain automatically via a drain opening in the tray.This allows the residual media to be removed from the top of the insert plate without the user having to directly touch the top of the insert plate. For example, there is no longer any need to explicitly wipe it with a cloth or similar.

[0034] The movement unit has at least one reversibly attachable and removable support element which can be brought into a support position so that when the insert plate is moved downwards by this support position being maintained, the insert plate can be tilted to the horizontal plane.

[0035] Preferably, the reversible, detachable connection between the support element and the insert plate, or between the support element and a support wing of the sink that carries the insert plate, is a tool-free and detachable connection. For example, it can be a plug-in connection, a bayonet connection, or a snap connection.

[0036] To adjust the insert plate to different tilt angles, a support element can be variable in length. For example, it can be a telescopic element. It is also possible for it to be constructed from several sub-elements, each of which is rigid in length. This allows different discrete lengths of a support element to be created, depending on the number of sub-elements used. These sub-elements can, for example, be plugged together.

[0037] Different tilt angles can also be achieved by different mounting positions of the support element on the insert plate and / or the support wing.

[0038] Embodiments of the above-mentioned first independent aspect relating to the sink are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the further independent aspect relating to a sink and vice versa.

[0039] The lifting device is preferably attached to the bottom wall of the tub with a fastening device. The lifting device extends through an opening or a passage in the bottom wall, so that the lifting device is arranged on both sides of the bottom wall. With this type of design, the lifting device can be attached in a mechanically stable manner. In this context, the bottom wall represents an advantageous mechanical coupling component of the tub. On the one hand, the lifting device can therefore also sit directly on the bottom wall and / or be suspended. In this context, the bottom wall is a correspondingly mechanically stable component. On the other hand, this design, in which the lifting device also extends through an opening in the bottom wall and forms on both sides of the opening, creates a space-saving concept. On the one hand, this enables accessibility to the lifting device outside the receiving space.This allows access to the lifting device outside the tub. This design also eliminates the need to install the entire lifting device in the receiving space. This allows the receiving space to be maximized and thus not undesirably restricted. In particular, this design of the lifting device also allows the insert plate to be lowered as far as possible toward the floor wall.

[0040] In an advantageous embodiment, the lifting device has a lifting unit whose length can be adjusted in the height direction of the sink. This advantageously enables the height adjustment of the insert plate. In particular, this lifting unit is arranged centrally on the base wall. Such central positioning also ensures that the insert plate arranged thereon is held centrally. This enables particularly smooth movement of the insert plate upwards and downwards while maintaining the horizontal position of the insert plate. The central positioning of the lifting unit on the base wall also enables diverse access to the lifting unit in the receiving space itself from all sides. In particular, the lifting device has only a single such lifting unit. This means that it is designed to save components and the space required by the lifting device in the receiving space itself is minimized.

[0041] In an advantageous embodiment, the lifting device comprises a lifting unit whose length can be adjusted in the vertical direction of the sink. The lifting unit comprises a housing. Furthermore, the lifting unit comprises a lifting device arranged in the housing. The lifting unit extends through the opening in the bottom wall of the sink. In particular, the lifting unit is arranged on both sides of the bottom wall. Thus, both the housing of the lifting unit and the lifting device, when installed, extend on both sides of this opening in the bottom wall. The advantages achievable in this regard have already been mentioned above for the corresponding design of the entire lifting device.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment, the housing of the lifting unit comprises several, particularly rigid, housing segments. These are movable relative to one another in the vertical direction of the sink. In particular, these housing segments form a telescopic housing of the lifting unit.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that an upper side of the insert plate has an area which is at least 80 percent, in particular at least 90 percent, in particular at least 95 percent of the area of the receiving space in a horizontal plane. However, the area of the upper side of the insert plate is less than 99 percent of this area of the receiving space. Through such dimensioning, the insert plate is formed virtually over the entire surface with regard to the clear width of the receiving space between the side walls and thus fills this receiving space almost completely when viewed in the horizontal plane. On the other hand, however, a small gap is made possible all around, in particular between 3 mm and 15 mm, in particular between 3 mm and 10 mm, so that on the one hand the relative movement of the insert plate can take place unhindered when adjusting or changing the position.In particular, this prevents direct contact and, if necessary, rubbing of a side edge of the insert plate against the inside of the side walls. This prevents damage to the side walls, as well as damage to the insert plate and the lifting device. Last but not least, this design also advantageously allows any liquid present on the upper side of the insert plate to drain easily into the receiving space through this gap between the edge of the insert plate and the inside of the side walls.

[0044] The tub preferably has a drain, especially on the bottom wall. This allows any medium that collects in the tub to drain away easily via the drain.

[0045] In particular, the tub is formed integrally with the bottom wall and the side walls. In particular, the tub is made of metal.

[0046] The base wall may be flat, slightly inclined, or slightly curved. In particular, the point on the base wall where an outlet for the sink drain is provided is set furthest down in height.

[0047] It can be provided that the upper side of the plate is completely flat. However, it can also have a slight curvature. It is also possible for the upper side of the insert plate to be structured at least in some areas. This can create a certain roughness. This can better prevent objects placed on it from undesired slipping. For example, this is advantageous if the insert plate changes position while objects are still arranged on the upper side of the insert plate. It is also possible for the upper side to have specific positioning areas. These can be depressions. For example, such depressions can be relatively small. This is advantageous in order to be able to position vessels such as a glass or the like more securely. This is particularly advantageous if a change in position involves tipping.Any unwanted slipping of such vessels is then avoided.

[0048] The lifting device can be a push chain or a spindle drive. The push chain consists of specially shaped, high-precision, mechanical chain links. The chain links interlock seamlessly. What makes the push chain special, unlike a "normal" chain, is that it works in both directions. It can pull and push.

[0049] A pinion is located in the drive housing of the push chain, which engages the intermediate links of the chain and moves the chain link by link – both forward and backward. The chain itself has two loose ends. The load to be moved is attached to one end. The other end can be guided freely and is usually coiled in a storage unit. This saves installation space and is the main advantage of the push chain.

[0050] The drive element, usually an electric motor, applies thrust to the chain links. The shoulders of the individual chain links then press against each other, forming a rigid unit. This allows them to lift or push the load.

[0051] The terms “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “depth direction”, “width direction”, “height direction” indicate the positions and orientations given when the sink is used and arranged as intended.

[0052] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the respective combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which emerge and can be produced by separate combinations of features from the explained embodiments. Embodiments and combinations of features are also to be regarded as disclosed that therefore do not have all the features of an originally formulated independent claim.

[0053] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic sectional view through an embodiment of a sink according to the invention with an insert plate in a first position; Fig. 2 the representation of the sink according to Fig. 2 with the insert plate in a Fig. 1 different second position; Fig. 3 a plan view of an embodiment of a sink; Fig. 4 a perspective partial view of an embodiment of a sink with an embodiment of support wings of a lifting device; Fig. 5 a perspective sectional view of a portion of the arrangement in Fig. 4 with a sealing cover around a lifting unit of the lifting device; Fig. 6 a perspective view of an embodiment of the sink with a receiving housing on the underside of the bottom wall of the tub; Fig. 7a a schematic sectional view through an embodiment of a sink according to the invention with an insert plate in an untilted position with a first embodiment of a support element; Fig. 7b the representation of the embodiment according to Fig. 7a with the insert plate in a tilted position; Fig. 8a a schematic sectional view through a further embodiment of a sink according to the invention with an insert plate in an untilted position with a second embodiment of a support element; and Fig. 8b the representation of the embodiment according to Fig. 8a with the insert plate in a tilted position.

[0054] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0055] In Fig. 1 shows a schematic vertical sectional view (xy-plane with height direction y and width direction x) of a sink 1. The sink 1 has a tub 2. The tub 2 has a bottom wall 3 and adjoining and upwardly extending side walls 4, 5, 6 ( Fig. 3) and 7 ( Fig. 3). The tub 2 is in particular formed in one piece. It is preferably made of metal. The tub 2 has a receiving space 8. The receiving space 8 is delimited by the aforementioned walls 3 to 7. The tub 2 thus has an upper loading opening 9. The sink 1 furthermore has an insert unit. The insert unit is in particular an insert plate 10. The insert plate 10 is in particular formed in one piece. The insert plate 10 is a separate component of the sink 1 from the tub 2. The sink 1 furthermore has a lifting device 11. The insert plate 10 is arranged on the lifting device 11. In particular, it is arranged on the lifting device 11 in a non-destructively detachable manner. The lifting device 11 can move the insert plate 10 relative to the tub 2. In this context, a movement in the vertical direction (y-direction) of the sink 1 can take place.Additionally or instead of this, rotation about a vertical axis A of the lifting device 11 can occur. Additionally or instead of this, tilting of the insert plate 10 can occur. This means that the insert plate 10 can be adjusted with its plane at an angle to a horizontal plane. It can thus be positioned tilted or inclined. In . Fig. 1, the insert plate 10 is shown in an exemplary position in the receiving space 8. In particular, this is a downwardly retracted position. In this respect, the insert plate 10 is arranged directly adjacent to the base wall 3.

[0056] Preferably, the sink 1 has an interaction unit 12. The interaction unit 12 can have a display unit 13 ( Fig. 3). The interaction unit 12 can have an operating device 14. The operating device 14 can have one or more operating elements. The operating elements can be push buttons or switches or toggle elements or rotary knobs. However, the operating device 14 can also have a touch-sensitive control panel 15 in addition to or instead of this. In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the interaction unit 12 has at least one optical detection unit 16. The optical detection unit 16 can be a camera, for example. The camera can be sensitive in the spectral range visible to humans. However, the interaction unit 12 can also have an acoustic unit 17 in addition to or instead of this. This acoustic unit 17 can be designed to receive and / or output voice signals. In addition, the interaction unit 12 can have an identification unit 18.The identification unit 18 is designed to recognize or identify a user of the sink 1. The identification unit 18 can, for example, also be formed by the optical detection unit 16. In addition to or instead of this, the identification unit 18 can, however, also have, for example, the acoustic unit 17. This allows the user to be identified, for example, by evaluating a user's voice signal. In addition to or instead of this, the identification unit 18 can be designed as a unit for detecting and evaluating a biometric feature of a user. For example, this can be a fingerprint sensor or a sensor for recognizing an iris pattern.

[0057] As in the Fig. 1 to 3, the interaction unit 12 can be formed laterally and directly adjacent to the tray 2. For example, an upwardly open receiving housing 19 can be provided here. The receiving housing 19 can be formed separately from the tray 2. However, it can also be formed non-destructively and permanently with the tray 2. In particular, the receiving housing 19 can also be formed integrally with the tray 2. The side wall directly adjoining the receiving housing 19, in this example the side wall 5, also forms a boundary wall for the receiving volume 20 of the receiving housing 19.

[0058] Thus, the receiving volume 20 is separated from the receiving space 8 of the tub.

[0059] In Fig. 2 is the representation according to Fig. 1, but the insert plate 10 in a Fig. 1 different position shown. In Fig. 2, the insert plate 10 is oriented horizontally, but moved upwards. In particular, this position represents the maximum possible height in normal mode. In particular, in this position, an upper side 10a of the insert plate 10 is flush with an upper edge 2a of the tub 2. In particular, in this position, the insert plate 10 forms a cover or lid for the receiving space 8. However, this upper edge 2a can also be, for example, an upper side of a mounting frame or a decorative frame that is a component of the sink 1. Using the mounting frame, the sink 1, in particular the tub 2, can be mounted in a recess in a worktop. Using a decorative frame, the tub 2 can be covered from above. A gap between the tub 2 and a boundary wall in the worktop, which bounds the recess, can thus be covered from above. Such a decorative frame represents, in particular, an upper visible component of the arrangement.

[0060] In particular, the sink 1 also has a control unit 21 ( Fig. 3). The control unit 21 can operate the lifting device 11. In particular, the interaction unit 12 can also be operated by the control unit 21.

[0061] The sink 1 can, as shown in the simplified plan view in Fig. 3, preferably also have a faucet 22. The faucet 22 represents a functional unit of the sink 1. Likewise, the interaction unit 12, in particular the operating device 14, can be regarded as a functional unit of the sink 1. Another functional unit of the sink 1 can be the insert plate 10. Another functional unit of the sink 1 can be the lifting device 11.

[0062] The lifting device 11 preferably comprises a lifting unit and a motor. This allows its length or height to be adjusted along the vertical axis A. Furthermore, it can be rotated about the vertical axis A in addition to or instead of the vertical axis A. This also enables a rotational movement about this vertical axis A as a position or position change of the insert plate 10.

[0063] Last but not least, the lifting device 11 can also be adjusted so that the insert plate 10 can be inclined or set at an angle relative to a horizontal plane.

[0064] The interaction unit 12 can detect an operating state of the sink 1 and / or a change in the operating state of the sink 1 and / or an operating action of a user who operates the sink 1, in particular at least one functional unit of the sink 1. Depending on the detection by the interaction unit 12, the lifting device 11 can be operated to automatically change the position of the insert plate 10. Fig. 3 also shows a schematic representation of a user's finger 23. The interaction unit 12 is preferably designed to detect a gesture of the user, in particular of the finger 23. In particular, the gesture is a contactless gesture. In addition to or instead of this, however, the operating device 14 can also be operated directly with the finger 23. It is provided that an operating state and / or a change in the operating state can be detected by the camera 16 and / or the acoustic unit 17 and / or the operating device 14. An operating state can, for example, be a setting of the operating device 14 and / or a change in the operating state can be a change in the setting of the operating device 14.

[0065] A change in position of the insert plate 10 can be dependent on the type and / or intensity and / or duration of an operating state of at least one functional unit of the sink 1 and / or a change in position can be dependent on the type and / or intensity and / or duration of an operating state change of at least one such functional unit of the sink 1.

[0066] The interaction unit 12 has a normal mode. In this mode, the actual operation of the sink 1 is also recorded. In addition, the interaction unit 12 has a definition mode that differs from the normal mode. This can be set, for example, by a user. In this definition mode, it is possible for at least one user to define or specify at least one reference position of the insert plate 10. In particular, such a reference position in this definition mode can be linked to a specific operating state of at least one functional unit of the sink 1 and / or to a defined change in the operating state of at least one functional unit of the sink 1. At least one such reference position can be stored as a user profile in a memory unit 24 of the interaction unit 12.

[0067] In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that the Fig. 3 (depth direction z and width direction x) of the upper side 10a at least 80 percent, in particular at least 90 percent, in particular at least 95 percent of the area of the receiving space 8, which in a horizontal plane (in Fig. 3 the plane of the figure). In particular, however, this area of the upper side 10a is smaller than 99 percent of this area of the receiving space 8 in the said horizontal plane. This ensures that a peripheral edge 25 of the insert plate 10 is spaced from the side walls 4, 5, 6 and 7. In particular, this creates a peripheral gap 26 between the insert plate 10 and the side walls 4 to 7. The gap 26 can be between 3 mm and 15 mm. Preferably, this gap 26 is so small, at least in the horizontal position of the insert plate 10, that objects such as cutlery or the like cannot slip through. Pinching of a finger 23 can then also be avoided in this horizontal position of the insert plate 10.

[0068] As in the Fig. As further shown in Figures 1 to 3, the sink 1 has a drain opening 27, for example, a drain. This is formed in particular in the bottom wall 3. Media from the receiving space 8 can drain out of the tub 2 through this drain opening 27.

[0069] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a sink 1. The lifting device 11 is shown. The lifting device 11 has a lifting unit 28. This is fastened centrally to the base wall 3. The lifting unit 28 is movable in the direction of the axis A. The lifting unit 28 has a plurality of lifting segments. Fig. 4, the lifting unit 28 is shown in its fully retracted state. This means that it is retracted as far downwards as possible into the receiving space 8. This lifting unit 28 preferably has an upper lifting segment. The upper lifting segment is formed in particular by an upper housing segment 29 of a housing 40 of the lifting unit 28. A plate holder 31 is arranged in an upper region 30 of this upper lifting segment. The plate holder 31 is here a flat-cylindrical disc. This plate holder 31 has a central web 32. A first support wing 33 is arranged on this central web 32. In particular, the support wing 33 is mounted on the central web 32 so as to be pivotable about a horizontal axis B. The one-piece support wing 33 rests on the plate holder 31 from above. An upper side 34 of this plate holder 31 has upper side regions 34a and 34b. These are offset downwards relative to the central web 32.The support wing 33 rests on this upper side region 34a. For the sake of clarity, a second support wing is arranged, not shown, which is separate from the first support wing 33 but in particular of the same size and shape. This second support wing is mounted on the central web 32 so as to be pivotable about a further horizontal axis C. The horizontal axes B and C are oriented parallel to one another. The second support wing rests from above on the second upper side region 34b. In the horizontal basic position, an upper side 33a of the support wing 33 is flush with an upper side 32a of the central web 32. This is designed accordingly with an upper side of the second support wing.

[0070] The support wing 33 and the second support wing (not shown) are spaced apart from one another by the central web 32. They can be pivoted independently of one another about their axes B and C. This also allows individual tilt positions of a support wing 33 relative to the horizontal plane to be set. In particular, the plate holder 31 has an opening 35 for this purpose. Through this opening, an actuating element can extend through the plate holder 31 from below and thus contact the second support wing from below and lift it, so that it is pivoted about its horizontal axis C. Accordingly, on the side opposite the opening 35, a further opening is formed, which is located below the first support wing 33. This too can then be raised accordingly, as explained.Preferably, the opening 35 is covered from above by an elastic cover 36. The elastic cover 36 allows the actuating element to protrude through the opening 35 and be positioned higher than the upper side region 34b. Due to the elastic deformation of the elastic cover 36, a corresponding projection of the actuating element can be achieved. This then also allows the corresponding second support wing to be raised.

[0071] The plate holder 31 with the cover 36 is designed as a 2K component.

[0072] In Fig. 5 is a perspective sectional view of a portion of the arrangement in Fig. 4 shown.

[0073] It can be seen that the plate holder 31, designed as a flat cylinder, rests from above on an upper side 37 of the upper lifting segment of the lifting unit 28. This upper side 37 is, in particular, an upper side of an upper cover plate 38.

[0074] The lifting unit 28 has a lifting device 39. The lifting device 39 can be a spindle drive. However, it can also be a push chain, for example. The lifting unit 28 also has a housing 40. The housing 40 surrounds this lifting device 39 on its circumference. The housing 40 is, in particular, a telescopic housing. This means that it has several housing segments. In the exemplary embodiment, these lifting segments are designed as hollow cylinders. In the exemplary embodiment, an upper housing segment 29 in an extended state is formed by a second housing segment 41 following downwards, a further housing segment 42 following downwards, a housing segment 43 following further downwards, and then a lower housing segment 44. In Fig. Figure 5 shows the fully retracted position of the lifting unit 28. The lifting unit 28 is thus completely lowered. In this state, the housing 40 is completely retracted and in a height-minimized position. The housing segments 29 and 41 to 44 are thus completely retracted, as shown in Fig. 5. If the lifting unit 28 is extended from this downwardly moved state, in which the insert plate 10 is then also arranged in the lowered position, and thus moved upwards, the housing segments 29 and 41 to 44 are pulled apart. This is then exemplified in the sectional view of another embodiment of the sink 1 in Fig. 6. The lifting device 39 is arranged in an interior 45 of this housing 40. The lifting unit 28 extends through an opening or passage 46 in the bottom wall 3. The lifting unit 28 is thus arranged on both sides of this bottom wall 3.

[0075] Furthermore, the lifting device 11 has a sealing sleeve 47. The sealing sleeve 47 is a separate component from the housing 40. The sealing sleeve 47 circumferentially surrounds the portion of the lifting unit 28 that extends into the receiving space 8. The sealing sleeve 47 is elastic. It can be formed in one piece. For example, it can be designed as a bellows. However, other material and geometric specifications are also possible.

[0076] In Fig. 5, the sealing sleeve 47 is designed as a bellows. It is in Fig. 5 in the fully compressed or folded state. The sealing sleeve 47 has an upper edge 48. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper edge 48 is clamped between the plate holder 31 and the cover 38. In particular, this upper edge 48 is also arranged in a sealing manner between the plate holder 31 and the cover 38. The cover 38 can also be referred to as a lift plate.

[0077] Furthermore, this sealing sleeve 47 has a lower end 49. This lower end 49 rests directly on the inside of the base wall 3. Furthermore, it is provided that the sink 1 has an adapter 50. This adapter 50 is preferably a separate component. The adapter 50 is preferably designed as a circumferential, uninterrupted adapter ring. The adapter 50 is placed from above onto this lower edge 49 of the sealing sleeve 47. As can be seen, the lower edge 49 is clamped between this adapter 50 and the base wall 3. In particular, a sealing clamp is also formed here.

[0078] In particular, the adapter 50 is attached to the base wall 3 in a non-destructive, detachable manner, in particular by screwing. For this purpose, a counterbearing 51 can be arranged beneath the base wall 3, for example. This counterbearing 51 can be a bearing ring. At the same time, the counterbearing 51 can be designed as an acoustic damping unit.

[0079] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the lifting device 11 extends on both sides of the base wall 3. It extends through the opening or passage 46.

[0080] In particular, the lifting device 11 has only a single lifting unit 28. In particular, only a single lifting device 39 is provided for the lifting unit 28. This lifting device 39 can be, for example, a spindle drive or a push chain. However, it can also be a hydraulic or pneumatic lifting cylinder.

[0081] The lifting unit 28 is adjustable in length along the longitudinal axis A and thus in the vertical direction. The lifting unit 28 is arranged centrally on the base wall 3.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment, the element 51 is also designed as a damper unit. This acoustically decouples the lifting device 11 from the base wall 3. The damper unit can be a rubber damper or an acoustic foam. This damper unit is arranged directly on the underside of the base wall 3. It can be provided that the damper unit 51 is connected to a receiving housing 52 of the lifting device 11. This receiving housing 52 is arranged below the base wall 3. It can be provided that this receiving housing 52 is arranged completely below the base wall 3 and thus completely outside the receiving space 8. It can also be provided that the lowermost housing segment 44 of the housing 40 of the lifting unit 28 is formed integrally in the receiving housing 52. In such an embodiment, only this housing segment 44 can extend through the passage 46 and be arranged on both sides of the passage 46.

[0083] In Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of the sink 1. It can be seen that the receiving housing 52 is arranged below the base wall 3. When viewed from a projection in the direction of the axis A, its surface is arranged within the surface of the base wall 3, in particular completely within this surface of the base wall 3. The receiving housing 52 is closed from below by a cover 53. The cover 53 can be removed. This allows access to the interior of the receiving housing 52. A motor 54 is arranged in this receiving housing 52. The motor 54 is a component of the lifting unit 28. The motor 54 is thus arranged completely outside the receiving space 8. The lifting device 39 is driven by the motor 54, so that its length is changed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A.

[0084] Preferably, the receiving housing 52, which is a separate component from the base wall 3 and thus also separate from the tub 2, is held on the underside of the base wall 3 by at least one, in particular several, fastening elements 55, 56, 57 and a further, not shown, additional fastening element. The fastening elements 55 to 57 are non-destructively and permanently attached to this underside, which represents the outer side, of the base wall 3. In particular, the fastening elements 55 to 57 are welded or glued to this underside.

[0085] Preferably, a fastening element 55 to 57 has a base 58. This base 58 is particularly plate-shaped. With this base 58, the fastening element 55 is fastened directly to the underside 3. In addition to the base 58, the fastening element 55 also has a coupling pin 59. This is designed for direct coupling to the receiving housing 52. For this purpose, the receiving housing 52 preferably has a flange 60. There is a hole in this flange 60. The coupling pin 59 can be passed through this hole. This allows a mechanical connection to be achieved between the fastening element 55 and the receiving housing 52. The other fastening elements 56 and 57 are also designed accordingly.

[0086] Preferably, the fastening device 61, by means of which the receiving housing 52 is fastened to the tub 2, in particular to the bottom wall 3, is a multi-point mounting. This multi-point mounting is formed by the fastening elements 55, 56, and 57. In particular, the multi-point mounting is a four-point mounting. This is formed by the fastening elements 55 to 57, preferably four in this case.

[0087] In an advantageous embodiment, a coupling pin 59 is additionally designed as a vertical level control element. With this level control element, the level of the receiving housing 52 can be defined in the height direction of the sink 1. In particular, a horizontal position of the receiving housing 52 can thus be level-adjusted. In an advantageous embodiment, the coupling pin 59 has a thread 62 for this level control. A screw nut 63 can be screwed onto this thread 62. By screwing this screw nut 63, the height of the receiving housing 52 can thus be level-adjusted. This is made possible in a particularly advantageous manner by the four-point bearing, in which in particular all four fastening elements 55 to 57 with their respective coupling pins 59 are designed as level control elements.

[0088] Preferably, this non-destructively detachable connection of the receiving housing 52 to the tray 2 also easily enables irreversible assembly and disassembly of the receiving housing 52.

[0089] A disassembly mode different from the normal mode of the lifting unit 28 can also be set. In this disassembly mode, the lifting unit 28 is adjusted to a position even higher in height than the maximum raised position of the lifting unit 28 in normal mode and thus also the corresponding position of the insert plate 10. In the maximum raised position in normal mode, it is provided in particular that the upper side 10a of the insert plate 10 is flush with the upper side of the upper edge 2a of the tub 2 or a decorative frame or a mounting frame. In the disassembly position which is higher thereto, the insert plate 10 is preferably positioned such that its underside 10b is arranged a vertical distance higher than this upper edge 2a. In particular, this vertical distance is at least 2 cm, in particular at least 3 cm.As a result, the insert plate 10 can be grasped by one hand at its edge 25 and held securely for removal from the lifting unit 28. The disassembly position is, in particular, a horizontal position of the insert plate 10. The underside 10b of the insert plate 10 is thus positioned completely above the upper edge 2a.

[0090] In Fig. 7a shows an embodiment of the sink 1 in a schematic sectional view.

[0091] Here, too, the sink 1 has at least one residual media removal device 64, with which residual media can be removed from the top side 10a of the insert plate 10. A residual media removal device 64 is also present in other previously explained embodiments. The residual media removal device 64 has a movement unit 65 with which the insert plate 10 can be moved in a defined manner to remove the residual media, in particular liquid residual media. A movement of the insert plate 10 initiated by the movement unit 65 to remove residual media is a tilting movement of the insert plate 10 relative to a horizontal plane.The movement unit 65 has at least one support element 66, which in this embodiment is coupled to a support wing 33, on which the insert plate 10 rests and which can be raised and lowered by the lifting device 11, so that in a support position of the support element 66, the support wing 33 can be tilted about a horizontal axis, so that the insert plate 10 is tilted, in particular tilted, to the horizontal plane.

[0092] The support element 66 is a downwardly projecting pin. It is arranged on the support wing 33. It is preferably reversibly removable and reattachable from the support wing 33. It can be attached to the support wing 33, for example, by a plug-in connection, a snap-in connection, or a bayonet connection. In particular, it is thus also designed as a retrofit component.

[0093] In the embodiment shown, it is positioned radially outwards to the longitudinal axis A so far that it is arranged laterally to the sealing sleeve 47, here the bellows, and can be guided past it without contact.

[0094] The support element 66 is in Fig. 7a in a contactless manner to a component of the sink 1, which is intended for mechanical contact with the support element 66. This component is in Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b the floor wall 3. In Fig. 7a, the insert plate 10 is arranged, for example, in an upper end position.

[0095] From there, the insert plate 10 can then be moved downwards, as explained. This then reaches an intermediate lowering position, in which the lower free end 66a of the support element 66 contacts the upper side of the base wall 3. This achieves a supporting position of the support element 66. If the insert plate 10 is then moved further downwards, the supporting position is maintained. Since the support element 66 is rigid in length during this process, the support wing 33, on which the support element 66 is arranged, is pushed upwards. Since it is pivotally attached to the plate holder 31, which also moves downwards, the support wing 33 pivots upwards, so that the separate insert plate 10 is held at the top at this point and is tilted due to the other support wing, which moves completely downwards. This tilting position is in Fig. 7b shown.

[0096] The lower free end 66a of the support element 6, which is intended for direct contact with the component, can be elastically deformable and / or have a soft element.

[0097] In Fig. 8a and Fig. 8b is in a corresponding representation as in Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b shows another embodiment of a sink 1. In contrast to Fig. 7a and Fig. In Figure 7b, the support element 66 is arranged radially further inward. Here, too, it is preferably arranged on the support wing 33, and in particular, it is reversibly removable and attachable.

[0098] As can be seen, the support element 66 is positioned such that, when lowered, it contacts an upper wall of the sealing sleeve 47, in particular an upper bellows wall 47a, from above. This then also achieves a support position again. The further procedure for adjusting the tilt position, as shown in Fig. 8b is then analogous to how in Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b.

[0099] The Fig. The embodiments explained in Figures 7a to 8b can be constructed in at least partial components or devices, as the examples for Fig. 1 to 6 and vice versa. List of reference symbols 1 sink 2 tubs 2a upper edge 3 floor wall 4 side wall 5 Side wall 6 Side wall 7 Side wall 8 Recording room 9 Loading opening 10 insert plate 10a top 10b bottom 11 Lifting device 12 Interaction Unit 13 Display unit 14 Operating device 15 Control panel 16 optical detection unit 17 Acoustic unit 18 Identification unit 19 housings 20 recording volume 21 Control unit 22 faucet 23 fingers 24 storage units 25 Rand 26 gap 27 Drain opening 28 lifting unit 29 upper lifting segment 30 upper area 31 record recording 32 central bridge 32a top 33 first carrier wing 33a top 34 Top 34a Topside area 34b Top area 35 Breakthrough 36 Cover 37 Top 38 Cover plate 39 lifting device 40 housings 41 Housing segment 42 housing segment 43 Housing segment 44 Housing segment 45 Interior 46 Implementation 47 Sealing cover 47a Bellows wall 48 upper edge 49 lower end 50 adapters 51 Counter bearing 52 housings 53 Cover 54 Engine 55 Fastening element 56 Fastening element 57 Fastening element 58 bases 59 Coupling pin 60 flange 61 Fastening device 62 threads 63 screw nut 64 Residual media removal device 65 movement units 66 Support element 66a free end QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2005 / 0067747 A1

[0002] DE 362 1151 A1

[0003] DE 10 2019 218 650 A1

[0004]

Claims

Sink (1) with a tub (2) which has a bottom wall (3) and adjoining side walls (4, 5, 6, 7), and the tub (2) has a receiving space (8) delimited by the walls (4 to 7), wherein the sink (1) has an insert plate (10) which is separate from the tub (2) and is inserted into the receiving space (8), wherein the sink (1) has a lifting device (11) with which the insert plate (10) can be moved relative to the tub (2), wherein the sink (1) has at least one residual media removal device (64) with which residual media can be removed from the upper side (10a) of the insert plate (10), and the residual media removal device (64) has a movement unit (65) with which the insert plate (10) can be moved in a defined manner to remove the residual media, and a movement of the insert plate (10) initiated by the movement unit (65) to remove of residual media is a tilting movement of the insert plate (10) to a horizontal plane,characterized in that the movement unit (65) has a support element (66) which is coupled to a carrier wing (33) on which the insert plate (10) rests and which can be raised and lowered by the lifting device (11), so that from a support position of the support element (66) the carrier wing (33) can be tilted about a horizontal axis, so that the insert plate (10) is tilted to the horizontal plane. Sink (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the support element (66) in the support position rests against a component (3, 47a) of the sink (1), so that when the insert plate (10) is moved downwards by this support position which is further maintained, the insert plate (10) can be tilted to the horizontal plane. Sink (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the support element (66) is a downwardly projecting pin. Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (66) is arranged in a fixed position on the support wing (33). Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (66) is arranged reversibly attachable and detachable on the support wing (33). Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (66) is arranged in the maximum upwardly moved end position of the insert plate (10) without contact with the component (3, 47a) and is only in contact with the component (3, 47a) in an intermediate lowering position to create the support position. Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the component is a bottom wall (3) of the sink (1). Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the component is an elastic sealing sleeve (47) of the sink (1), with which the lifting device (11) is covered at least laterally. Sink (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the sealing sleeve (47) is a bellows and the support element (66) in the support position rests with its lower end (66a) on an upper bellows wall (47a) of the bellows. Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support wing (33) is arranged on a plate holder (31) and is pivotable about the horizontal axis, wherein the plate holder (31) can be raised and lowered with the lifting device (11), in particular at least two separate and independently movable support wings (33) are arranged on the plate holder (31). Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a lower free end (66a) of the support element (66), which is provided for direct contact with the component (3, 47a), is elastically deformable and / or has a soft element. Sink (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sink (1) has a control unit (21) with which a tilting of the insert plate (10) can be controlled, in particular the lifting device (11) for lowering the insert plate (10) can be controlled. Sink (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that at least two different tilting scenarios for tilting the insert plate (10) can be controlled with the control unit (21). Sink (1) with a tub (2) which has a bottom wall (3) and adjoining side walls (4, 5, 6, 7), and the tub (2) has a receiving space (8) delimited by the walls (4 to 7), wherein the sink (1) has an insert plate (10) which is separate from the tub (2) and is inserted into the receiving space (8), wherein the sink (1) has a lifting device (11) with which the insert plate (10) can be moved relative to the tub (2), wherein the sink (1) has at least one residual media removal device (64) with which residual media can be removed from the upper side (10a) of the insert plate (10), wherein the residual media removal device (64) has a movement unit (65) with which the insert plate (10) can be moved in a defined manner to remove the residual media, and a movement of the insert plate (10) initiated by the movement unit (65) to remove of residual media is a tilting movement of the insert plate (10) to a horizontal plane,characterized in that the movement unit (65) has a reversibly attachable and removable support element (66) which can be brought into a support position, so that when the insert plate (10) is moved downwards by this support position which is further maintained, the insert plate (10) can be tilted to the horizontal plane.

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