MERCHANDISE PRESENTER

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a product presenter for presenting goods to be kept warm in an environment with increased air humidity, wherein the product presenter comprises a heatable presentation plate arranged in a product space and humidity providing means for providing increased air humidity in the product space, and wherein the heatable presentation plate is arranged below a horizontally oriented access level.

[0002] Such product presenters are known, for example, from DE 90 04 530 U1 or also disclosed in the subsequently published DE 10 2019 130 936 or in US 5 771 789 A, wherein the increased air humidity is intended in particular to counteract the drying out of the goods that are to be presented on the presentation plate.

[0003] Because the heatable display plate is positioned below the horizontally aligned access level, goods can also be well presented in plates or bowls, which can particularly ensure high product pressure and thus a special incentive to purchase the presented goods.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a product presenter that is easy to clean.

[0005] The object of the invention is achieved by a merchandise display having the features of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments, possibly independent of these, can be found in the subclaims and the following description.

[0006] The invention is based on the overarching basic idea that cleaning of a generic product presenter can be made easier if the presentation plate, which is usually very heavy and in any case relatively unwieldy, does not have to be moved.

[0007] A product presenter for presenting goods to be kept warm in an environment with increased air humidity, which comprises a heatable presentation plate arranged in a product space and air humidity providing means for providing increased air humidity in the product space and in which the heatable presentation plate is arranged below a horizontally oriented access level, can be easily cleaned if the product presenter is characterized in that the heatable presentation plate is arranged in a presentation tray arranged in the product presenter and delimited at the top by the access level, having a tray base and a tray edge and is sealingly connected to the presentation tray.The seal allows for easy cleaning, as cleaning underneath the display panel is either unnecessary or very rare due to the seal. For this purpose, an inspection hatch or other lateral access to the display tray can be provided. Since the sealing connection reduces the risk of any dirt getting underneath the display panel due to the design of the seal, moving the relatively bulky display panel is eliminated, at least for regular cleaning operations, such as daily cleaning, which simplifies the cleaning process.

[0008] The arrangement of the presentation plate in a presentation tray enables a compact structure with a suitable design, whereby the presentation tray can also have an insulating effect, for example.

[0009] In the present context, a presentation tray is understood to mean any tray-like arrangement within which a presentation panel is arranged or can be arranged. The presentation tray preferably has a tray edge that extends beyond the presentation panel and is limited at the top by the access level, through which access to the presentation panel or to goods arranged on the presentation panel can then be achieved.

[0010] In this case, the tub edge preferably surrounds the presentation plate on all sides, whereby it is understood that further components, such as additional insulation, a drip tray, a drain or the like, can be provided between the presentation plate and the tub edge, as will be explained in detail below by way of example.

[0011] Cumulatively or alternatively, a product presenter for presenting goods to be kept warm in an environment with increased air humidity, wherein the product presenter comprises a heatable presentation panel arranged in a product area and air humidity provision means for providing increased air humidity in the product area, and wherein the heatable presentation panel is arranged below a horizontally oriented access level, can be characterized in that an upwardly directed steam outlet of the air humidity provision means is arranged above the presentation panel to enable easy cleaning. Due to an upwardly directed steam outlet, the steam outlet can be easily cleaned with a suitable arrangement or design of the rest of the product presenter, since an upwardly directed opening is correspondingly also easily accessible.With a suitable design of the upward-facing steam outlet, it can also ensure uniform humidification of the product area, especially above the display panel or above the displayed goods. Here, too, the display panel itself does not need to be moved for easy cleaning, as the upward-facing steam outlet is accessible independently of the display panel, thus implementing the basic ideas mentioned above.

[0012] An easy-to-clean product presenter according to the invention, if the product presenter is for presenting goods to be kept warm in an environment with increased air humidity, which product presenter comprises a heatable presentation plate arranged in a product area and air humidity provision means for providing increased air humidity in the product area, and in which the heatable presentation plate is arranged below a horizontally oriented access level, characterized in that a steam outlet of the air humidity provision means is arranged above the presentation plate, above a drip tray and / or a drip tray downstream of it. The drip tray makes it possible to collect any condensate before the steam escapes or at the steam outlet, which per se prevents contamination of the product area and therefore also of the presentation plate orThis counteracts the wear of the goods presented on it and thus facilitates cleaning. Accordingly, only the drip tray needs to be cleaned, which also simplifies cleaning overall, particularly if the drip tray is positioned in such a way that it can be cleaned without moving the display panel. This can ultimately be achieved, for example, by positioning the drip tray next to the display panel or, if appropriate, between the display panel and the edge of the display panel.

[0013] Easy cleaning of a product display for presenting goods to be kept warm in an environment with increased humidity, which product display comprises a heatable display panel arranged in a product area and humidity supply means for providing increased humidity in the product area, and in which the heatable display panel is arranged below a horizontally oriented access level, can also be enabled cumulatively or alternatively if the product display is characterized in that a steam outlet for the humidity supply means is arranged in a cleaning lid above the display panel. Since a cleaning lid is naturally much easier to lift and clean, as it can be designed and optimized precisely for this purpose, cleaning of the product display is also made easier in this way.In particular, if the cleaning lid is designed to be removable, cleaning can be made considerably easier. It is conceivable that the cleaning lid could be designed in such a way that it can also be cleaned in a dishwasher, for example. This arrangement also eliminates the need to clean the steam outlet underneath the display plate, so that even with this design, moving the display plate for cleaning is not absolutely necessary.

[0014] It is understood that easy cleaning is particularly possible when the steam outlet features explained above are combined in some way, with the combination of all three steam outlet configurations ultimately being cumulatively advantageous. This also applies in particular in combination with the presentation plate sealingly connected to the presentation tray, which can be combined with one of the aforementioned steam outlet configurations or with several of these configurations to cumulatively enable easier cleaning of the product display, in particular without the presentation plate having to be moved.

[0015] It goes without saying that any seal between the display panel and the display tray reduces the risk of contamination underneath the display panel, even if only parts of the display panel are sealed to the display tray. These parts are preferably arranged so that the seal is located where the risk of contamination is greatest. Depending on the specific design of the merchandise display, this can, for example, be provided on the operator side if it is assumed that operating personnel, because they have to reach into the merchandise area particularly frequently, also contribute to contamination accordingly.However, if the merchandise presenter is designed in such a way that access is provided not only from the operator side but also from the customer side, a seal can be provided there, for example, if it is assumed that the operating personnel will work with sufficient care, while the customer may be somewhat more careless in this regard.

[0016] In particular, it is understood that it is advantageous if the heatable display panel is sealed to at least one side of the tub rim, so that the seal can then prevent dirt and the like from getting underneath the display panel across the entire side, for example, across a customer side or an operator side. For this purpose, but also independently of this, as already indicated above, it may be possible to provide access underneath the display panel via an inspection opening if dirt could still get underneath the display panel, which may be particularly the case if the display panel is not sealed on all sides.

[0017] Accordingly, it is advantageous if the display panel is sealed to the entire tub rim on each side, or even forms the tub floor. This makes it particularly easy to structurally ensure that no dirt gets under the display panel.

[0018] It is understood that the sealing connection between the display panel and the display tray does not necessarily have to be direct, but that additional components may be provided between the display panel and the display tray or its tray edge, such as a cleaning tray, steam outlets, ventilation arrangements, drip trays, and / or similar, as long as a sealing connection between the display panel and the tray edge is established across such components. Furthermore, it is understood that such components may also constitute part or the entire tray edge.

[0019] In the present context, any connection between a panel and an edge, i.e. in this case the presentation panel and at least part of the rim of the presentation panel, which can sufficiently prevent dirt, liquid or similar from penetrating underneath the presentation panel can be used as a sealing connection. In particular, such a sealing connection can be provided by sealing lips, rubber seals or elastic seals, but also by hardening or cross-linking compounds, such as thermoplastic or other hardening plastic compounds such as silicone compounds. The latter are preferred precisely because, unlike the solutions known from the prior art, there is no provision for movement of the presentation panel, so that adhesive bonds orhardening compounds can be used to provide a sealing connection in a structurally simple manner, especially around the presentation panel.

[0020] If necessary, the sealing connection can be designed to create a rounded edge between the tub rim and the display panel. This allows for easier cleaning, as less dirt accumulates on rounded edges and, secondly, rounded edges are also easier to clean.

[0021] However, if necessary, the display panel can also represent only part of the tub base, for example, by having a corresponding recess in an assembly that otherwise provides the tub base, and then inserting the display panel into this recess. This allows the sealing connection to be provided indirectly via the assembly that otherwise provides the tub base from the display panel to the tub rim by sealingly connecting the display panel to this assembly, and then sealingly connecting this assembly to the tub rim.

[0022] In particular, the assembly that otherwise provides the tub floor can be relatively small, so that it only provides a fraction of the tub floor. In this case, the majority of the tub floor is provided by the display panel.

[0023] In order not to make cleaning unnecessarily difficult, it is advantageous if the presentation plate and the assembly that otherwise provides the tub base merge flush with one another, if necessary only by a narrow gap bridged by the sealing connection.

[0024] The assembly forming the tub rim or a tub rim can also, if necessary, transition into the tub floor via a rounded area instead of an edge. As already explained above, a rounded area is easier to clean than a chamfered area. Depending on the specific design, the rounded area can be attached to the tub rim and welded or otherwise firmly connected to it, or even formed as a single piece.

[0025] The presentation panel can be directly connected to the rounded area, so that the latter can represent the bottom of the tub except for the transition into the rounded area.

[0026] Preferably, the upward-facing steam outlet of the humidity supply means is located at the access level. With a suitable design or arrangement of this upward-facing steam outlet, this allows good access to the corresponding steam outlet, making it easy to clean. Furthermore, a steam outlet arranged in this way also enables uniform humidification of the entire product area, which accordingly also promotes uniform humidification of the products arranged on the display panel.

[0027] In addition, the steam outlet or another steam outlet can be directed horizontally across the presentation plate, which, cumulatively or alternatively, in particular in conjunction with the feature explained above that the steam outlet should be provided above the presentation plate, can ensure good humidification of the goods located or arranged on the presentation plate, since the air humidity provided via the steam outlet can then flow directly towards the goods.

[0028] It is also advantageous if the steam outlet(s) is located below the access level. Especially in conjunction with the previously explained feature that the steam outlet should be located above the display panel, this allows a microclimate with high humidity to be specifically created above the display panel and within the display tray.

[0029] In the present context, any opening into the merchandise area, particularly above the display panel, through which increased air humidity provided by the air humidity provision means for the merchandise area can enter the merchandise area can serve as a steam outlet. In particular, it is understood that - as already indicated above - not just one but several steam outlets can be provided, thereby enabling an even distribution of the air humidity. These steam outlets can, in particular, be directed upwards or horizontally, as already explained above. It is understood that the steam outlets can, if necessary, also open into the merchandise area at an oblique angle or with a change of direction. Depending on the specific design, it is also conceivable that additional steam outlets can be provided at other positions, for example, elevated in the merchandise area or elsewhere.

[0030] The steam outlet(s) are part of the humidity supply means, which may also include, in particular, a steam generator. On the other hand, depending on the specific implementation, it may be sufficient to provide sufficiently increased humidity on the side of the steam outlet facing away from the product area by means of a liquid level or other means of providing humidity, which can then enter the product area through the steam outlet. Suitable water surfaces or moist areas, such as sponges or similar, may be sufficient for this purpose. If necessary, a targeted increase in humidity can be achieved by means of an air flow, which can be provided, for example, by a fan or blower.It is also conceivable, in particular, that the liquid provided to increase the humidity be heated to ensure increased humidity. However, steam generators appear particularly suitable for providing increased humidity, which, if necessary, convey the increased humidity to the steam outlet(s) using appropriately arranged steam supply lines and / or steam distributors.

[0031] It is understood that the humidity providing means may preferably comprise at least one water tank so that increased humidity can be provided via the humidity providing means over a sufficiently long period of time.

[0032] Preferably, one or more of the steam outlets are provided only on the operator side. This enables easy cleaning, as operating personnel then only have to clean the steam outlet(s) from the operator side. Even with such a design, sufficient air humidification can be ensured throughout the entire product area if the arrangement and number of steam outlets as well as the technical design of the remaining air humidification means are designed accordingly. It goes without saying that, if necessary, the steam outlet(s) can also be provided exclusively on a different side, for example on the customer side, particularly if the product presenter can also be opened on the customer side, as cleaning can then also be carried out easily from there.

[0033] Furthermore, the arrangement of the steam outlets on only one side of the product presenter or the presentation panel means that the humidity supply means only have to be arranged on this side, which on the one hand considerably simplifies the structural design and on the other hand also simplifies access for maintenance and inspection work.

[0034] On the other hand, it is understood that, especially if this requires the type of humidification, for example due to the nature of the goods to be presented, steam outlets can be provided on several sides or at other locations.

[0035] The drip tray can be connected to the display panel via an overflow so that any dirt, liquids, in particular cleaning fluids, and / or similar substances can flow into the drip tray via this overflow and be drained away there. This also makes cleaning the product display panel even easier. The overflow can be flush with the display panel so that dirt particles, liquids, and the like can easily be pushed or flowed into the overflow. The overflow can also be slightly raised above the display panel so that the overflow is not directly possible, in which case particles, liquids, or similar substances can be transported via the overflow into the drip tray, for example with mechanical assistance using a cloth or squeegee or other suitable aid.This can limit excessive and uncontrolled discharge of liquid or particles from the presentation plate into the drip tray.

[0036] Preferably, the drip tray is accessible through the access opening, which on the one hand makes it easy to clean the drip tray itself, but on the other hand also makes it easier to transport liquid, particles or similar from the presentation plate into the drip tray.

[0037] If the drip tray opens into a drain, liquids such as condensate or cleaning fluids, and / or particles or other dirt, can be easily drained from the drip tray. The drain can lead, for example, into a container, a building drain, or the sewer system. This also makes it easier to keep the merchandise display clean, and in particular, minimizes the risk of stagnant liquid remaining in the display and potentially leading to the formation of organic debris.

[0038] As already explained above, it is advantageous if the cleaning lid is designed to be removable, as this can facilitate the corresponding cleaning processes. In particular, it is then possible to easily clean the cleaning lid on both sides or to subject it to separate cleaning, for example, in a dishwasher. It is understood that the cleaning lid can also be provided on the merchandise display in a merely hinged manner, in which case, by opening it, access from both sides for cleaning purposes can be enabled.

[0039] Preferably, the cleaning cover can be removed or folded through the access level, which makes it easier for the operating personnel to remove or fold the cleaning cover, since they are already used to accessing the goods area via the access level.

[0040] In the present context, any arrangement that supports a steam outlet of the humidity supply means and covers an opening into the goods compartment, preferably of the humidity supply means, can serve as a cleaning cover. This arrangement is then preferably removable and not too heavy, and should in particular weigh less than 3 kg, especially less than 2.5 kg, so that it can be easily moved by personnel. In particular, it is advantageous if the cleaning cover is relatively thin, for example, made of sheet metal with a thickness of less than 1 mm, so that it is relatively light and easy to handle.

[0041] An even distribution of the increased air humidity or steam can be ensured if one or more steam outlets, or possibly even all steam outlets, are fed by a steam distributor. Such a steam distributor can, for example, be a line for steam or air, and accordingly also for air with high humidity, connecting at least two steam outlets on the side facing away from the goods area. It is understood that the steam outlets can be arranged directly in the steam distributor or can be directly connected to the steam distributor. On the other hand, it is understood that further steam lines can be arranged between the steam distributor and the steam outlets, which enable the conduction of air, in particular with high air humidity, or steam.

[0042] The steam distributor, in turn, can then be connected via a steam supply line, or possibly via several steam supply lines, to a steam generator or other devices that provide steam or increased air humidity.

[0043] It is understood that, if necessary, several separate steam distributors may also be provided, which may be connected in parallel or in series, particularly with regard to the steam or air flow.

[0044] In particular, the steam distributor can be formed by the drip tray, allowing condensate accumulating in the steam distributor to collect directly in the drip tray. The latter may also apply to condensate accumulating in the area of ​​the steam outlets and flowing toward the steam distributor or the drip tray forming the steam distributor.

[0045] While efforts are made to minimize condensate formation, condensate formation is often unavoidable, particularly during a run-in phase when, for example, the steam outlets are still relatively cold.

[0046] The steam distributor can be easily and effectively cleaned if it has a cleaning cover, especially the cleaning cover, since lifting the cleaning cover also provides easy access to the steam distributor underneath. Especially if the cleaning cover has a steam outlet for the humidity supply, the interaction between the cleaning cover and the steam distributor can be well implemented.

[0047] Regardless of whether the steam distributor is formed by the drip tray, it is advantageous if a cleaning cover or the cleaning lid covers the drip tray, as this also makes the drip tray located beneath the cleaning cover easier to clean. This is especially true if the steam outlet for the humidity supply system is located in the cleaning lid.

[0048] The most even distribution of humidity or steam through the steam distributor can be ensured if at least two pipes of a steam supply line lead into it. Depending on the specific implementation, several pipes can of course also be advantageous, especially if the steam distributor is relatively long.

[0049] Preferably, a component supporting the steam outlet extends into the drip tray. This allows any condensate to drain directly into the drip tray. Since the component extends into the drip tray, this also applies to any condensate that might accumulate, for example, on the side of the steam outlet facing the goods compartment.

[0050] In this context, it should be clarified that all considerations made here regarding condensate also apply to other flowable or migrating contaminants, liquids or particles.

[0051] In particular, the cleaning cover can extend into the drip tray, whereby dirt particles, but also any condensate, particularly in the area of ​​a steam outlet of the corresponding cleaning cover, can drain or migrate into the drip tray.

[0052] An assembly supporting a steam outlet or the steam outlet can preferably extend over part of the tub rim or one side of the display panel, which ensures a compact design and, with a suitable design, easy cleaning, since the assembly can then be removed for cleaning purposes if necessary, eliminating the need for a separate assembly. This is especially true if the corresponding assembly extends over an entire side of the tub rim or an entire edge of the display panel.

[0053] In particular, if the cleaning cover, as the assembly supporting one or more steam outlets, extends over a part, preferably over an entire side, of the tub rim or over a part of the edge, preferably over an entire edge, of the presentation plate, cleaning can be made easier, since the cleaning cover can then be easily removed if necessary and no separate assembly is required.

[0054] The drip tray can preferably be sealed to the display panel, so that a sealed connection, possibly even all around, can be created indirectly via the drip tray from the display panel to the display tray. Depending on the specific design, it is understood that there may not be a need for a strictly sealed connection between the drip tray and the display tray itself if the risk of contamination can be eliminated at this point through other measures. However, a sealed connection at this point also ensures that the risk of dirt or liquid penetrating between the drip tray and the display tray can be reduced to a minimum.Such a sealing connection between the drip tray and the presentation plate enables a compact construction of the product presenter, which is particularly true if the drip tray is sealingly connected to the presentation plate with one of its outer sides.

[0055] If the sealing connection between the drip tray and the presentation plate is provided in an area of ​​the overflow or an upper edge of the drip tray, dirt and / or water can be wiped over this upper edge or over this overflow from the presentation plate into the drip tray without dirt, liquid or similar being able to get between the presentation plate and the drip tray.

[0056] As already explained above, the height of the overflow or the projection of the upper edge above the display panel should not exceed the height that allows dirt, liquid, or similar materials to be transferred from the display panel into the drip tray with reasonable effort. It is understood that the upper edge or overflow can be flush with the display panel or even slightly below it. On the other hand, it is also conceivable for the overflow or upper edge to project above the display panel, as long as dirt, liquid, or similar materials can be transferred from the display panel into the drip tray with reasonable effort.

[0057] Specifically, it is advantageous if the overflow or the upper edge of the drip tray protrudes no more than 1 cm, and especially no more than 5 mm, from the display plate. Experience has shown that such overflows, heights, or edges can be overcome with a squeegee, a rag, or other mechanical aids, allowing the display plate to be easily cleaned beyond the drip tray.

[0058] Preferably, the access level is defined by the lowest access edge via which access to the display panel is possible. The lowest access edge can be an upper edge of the tub rim. It is also conceivable for such an access edge to be defined by the cleaning lid, an upper edge of the drip tray, or the upward steam outlet, particularly if access to the display panel is only possible via these components. In this way, the access level can be clearly and unambiguously defined with respect to the display panel and the display tub, as well as the associated components, such as the drip tray, cleaning lid, and steam outlets.

[0059] In particular, if access from the customer side is not provided or not mandatory, the lowest access edge can be provided at least on the operator side. If an access edge is also provided from the customer side, via which access to the presentation panel can be achieved, the customer-side access edge can preferably also be located on the access level, which in particular enables a uniform and simple structure. It is understood that in alternative embodiments, access can also be provided only from the customer side, in particular if the merchandise presenter does not have an operator side, i.e. a side that should only be accessible by operating personnel, which is often the case, for example, with shelf-like or refrigerator-like merchandise presenters.It is also conceivable that in alternative embodiments the lowest access edge is provided on the customer side, if this appears to be particularly appropriate for increasing the product pressure or for other reasons.

[0060] It has been found that the display plate is preferably positioned more than 2 cm, especially more than 3 cm, below the access level. This allows goods to be presented in relatively deep catering trays without the trays projecting too far upwards, thus reducing the product pressure.

[0061] Additionally, or alternatively, it is advantageous if the display panel is positioned less than 10 cm, preferably less than 8 cm, below the access level. Even goods arranged on plates or in shallow bowls, or even goods presented directly on the display panel, can then still be perceived from the customer side with sufficient product pressure.

[0062] In particular, good compromises for the arrangement of the presentation plate in relation to the access level lie between the aforementioned limits.

[0063] As already explained above, the access level, which is essentially horizontal, is preferably defined by the lowest access edge. Alternatively, it can also be defined by the access edge on the operator side or the customer side, although this may result in different dimensions, as explained above. If, however, the lowest access edge is chosen as the benchmark for the access level, it is advantageous if the remaining edge of the tub does not protrude more than 4 cm above the access level. This is to ensure that the pressure on the customer side is maintained and that access from other sides, be it from the customer side or the operator side, is not unnecessarily difficult. It is also advantageous if any viewing windows through which a view into the product area or the customer side are provided are also provided.onto the presentation plate is made possible, can reach down to at least 4 cm above the access level, whereby preferably the view through the viewing windows onto the presentation plate should not be obstructed further than this limit in order to enable sufficient product printing.

[0064] The access level therefore means that people who want to reach into the merchandise area onto the display panel have to reach through the access level into the display tray or onto the display panel, so that the height of the access level should also be selected with regard to user-friendliness in mind, so that access can be as convenient as possible.

[0065] The terms "above", "below", "upwards" and "downwards" each refer to the horizontal, from which a corresponding scale is to be applied in the vertical direction upwards or downwards.

[0066] If the presentation plate comprises a glass plate, the presentation plate can be designed to be relatively robust, stable and hygienic, particularly in conjunction with the sealing connection explained above.

[0067] If a black glass plate is used as the glass plate, the presentation plate can be given a pleasant appearance.

[0068] Additionally, or particularly alternatively, the presentation panel can comprise a stainless steel panel, particularly one made of chrome-nickel steel, or a stainless steel composite panel. A stainless steel panel is significantly more shatter-resistant than a glass panel and can also give the presentation panel an appropriate appearance. Since stainless steel tends to warp when exposed to heat, a stainless steel composite panel, in which only a thin layer of stainless steel is provided on a carrier panel, proves particularly advantageous. If necessary, the carrier panel can also be provided with a stainless steel layer on both sides like a sandwich. Aluminum, for example, is suitable as a carrier panel due to its good thermal conductivity, although other materials, particularly materials with good thermal conductivity, can also be advantageously used depending on the specific implementation.

[0069] It is understood that the above-mentioned advantages are particularly effective when the glass plate, in particular the black glass plate, or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate represents an uppermost component of the presentation plate, so that the glass plate, in particular the black glass plate, or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate is directly adjacent to the merchandise area and any dishes or any goods that are to be presented in the merchandise presenter can be placed or laid down directly on the glass plate or on the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate.

[0070] In addition, the presentation plate may preferably comprise a heating plate, whereby uniform heating for the presentation plate can be provided in a structurally simple manner.

[0071] In particular, the heating plate can be positioned outside the topmost component of the display panel, so that the heating plate can be effectively protected from external influences, especially if the display panel is firmly connected to the display tray. This applies in particular if the heating plate is located below the glass panel or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite panel.

[0072] The heating plate can be pressed against the glass or stainless steel plate using a pressure plate, which can achieve excellent thermal bonding. The pressure plate can be easily removed for maintenance purposes, for example, in the event of a heating plate defect, allowing the heating plate to be replaced. The inspection opening described above can be used advantageously for this purpose.

[0073] In particular, it may be sufficient to seal the glass plate or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate with the display tray, thus creating a sealed connection between the display tray and the display tray. This eliminates the need for corresponding connections for the other components of the display tray, such as the heating plate. In this way, the glass plate or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate can effectively protect all underlying components from dirt and potential damage.

[0074] Preferably, the display panel or the glass, stainless steel, or stainless steel composite panel is sealed to the display tray in a manner that is permanent or detachable only by destruction. This minimizes any wear and tear on the sealing connection. Potential damage to the display panel or other components can also be largely avoided, as moving the display panel is then impossible or only possible under special circumstances.

[0075] Irrespective of this, it is understood that the term "presentation panel" refers to any panel-like device within a merchandise display that is suitable for presenting goods in the intended manner. Accordingly, a heatable presentation panel is suitable and intended to withstand temperatures higher than room temperature. Preferably, the heatable presentation panel itself, as already explained above, carries a heater, in particular a heating panel.

[0076] In this case, any arrangement comprising a product room for presenting goods to be kept warm can be considered as a product presenter, whereby the product room can, if necessary, be permanently accessible from the outside. If necessary, the product room can, however, be closed, which can correspondingly minimize the energy required to provide the increased air humidity or heat for the goods to be kept warm. On the other hand, the product presenter can also be used, if necessary only temporarily, for presenting goods at room temperature or even at colder temperatures, for which purpose it can also be equipped with a refrigeration machine or similar cooling devices, as is well known from the prior art. In particular, it is conceivable that goods can also be presented with increased air humidity in colder environments if this should appear advantageous due to the nature of the goods.

[0077] Preferably, the merchandise display is accessible not only from the operator side, but also from the customer side, particularly via appropriate doors or other lockable merchandise area openings. However, it is also conceivable for such a merchandise display to be accessible only from the customer side, meaning that it must also be stocked, cleaned, and otherwise maintained by operating personnel from the customer side.

[0078] It is understood that the features of the solutions described above or in the claims may also be combined if necessary in order to be able to implement the advantages cumulatively.

[0079] Further advantages, objects, and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which are particularly illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 shows a product presenter in a cross-section along the line II in Fig. 2 ; Figure 2the product presenter after Fig. 1 from its operating side with indicated devices arranged in the lower space; Figure 3 the goods presenter according to Fig. 1 and 2 in a perspective view from the operator side with the lower chamber open; Figure 4 the view according to Fig. 3 with the inspection flap open; Figure 5 the product presenter Figs. 1 to 4 in a perspective section along the line VV in Fig. 2 ; Figure 6the product presenter after Figs. 1 to 5 in a perspective section along the line VI-VI in Fig. 2 ; and Figure 7 the merchandise area of ​​the merchandise presenter according to Figs. 1 to 6 in a perspective view from the operator side with the steam distributor open.

[0080] The one in the Figures 1 to 7The product presenter 10 shown comprises a product space 20 in which a presentation panel 30 is arranged. Below the product space 20 is a support 46, which in turn supports the presentation panel 30 and is supported by a frame 12.

[0081] Below the support 46, a sub-space 11 is provided, which in turn does not serve for the presentation of goods, but rather for the accommodation of technically necessary or useful components or as storage space, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0082] Here, the lower chamber 11 is separated from the surroundings by a wall 13. It is understood that this wall does not necessarily have to be sealed as long as the necessary hygienic or climatic conditions and a sufficiently attractive external appearance are ensured. In certain embodiments, parts of the lower chamber 11 may be better sealed in order to meet correspondingly higher hygienic or climatic requirements in these parts.

[0083] In this embodiment, the support 46 carrying the presentation plate 30 also forms a presentation tray 31 with the presentation plate 30 as a tray base 32 and a tray rim 33 formed by the support 46 or by an outer side 63 of a drip tray 60 or by a cleaning cover 62.

[0084] A space (not numbered) located between the presentation plate 30 and the carrier serves to improve insulation, so that in particular the presentation plate 30 with its heating plate 39 does not overheat too quickly and possibly even damage the carrier 46.

[0085] Goods can be presented to a customer within the presentation tray 31 or on the presentation plate 30.

[0086] In the present embodiment, the goods space 20 is delimited by a customer-side cover 21, side glasses 22, a lid cover 23, hinged doors 24 and a cover glass 29.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the customer-side cover 21, the side glass panels 22, the lid cover 23, the hinged doors 24, and the cover glass 29 are transparent, allowing a view into the merchandise area 20 from the outside. This allows customers a view into the merchandise area 20 from almost all sides, in particular from a customer side 53, but also allows operating personnel to view the merchandise area 20 from an operator side 52, so that the highest possible product visibility is achieved for customers, and operating personnel can quickly and directly obtain an overview of the arrangement, number, and type of goods on display.

[0088] It is understood that, depending on specific requirements, at least some of the above-mentioned transparent assemblies may also be opaque, as long as the product pressure is not reduced to an unnecessarily high degree or as long as operating personnel can obtain a sufficient insight into the product space 20 to a sufficient extent or in another way.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the side glass panels 22 and the hinged doors 24 are designed as semi-transparent mirrors, so that while the goods compartment 20 can be viewed from outside through the side glass panels 22 and the hinged doors 24, the goods compartment 20 is reflected from the customer side 53 toward the customer side 53, which correspondingly increases the product pressure that can be generated by the goods compartment 20. It is understood that in different embodiments, such measures can be at least partially omitted.

[0090] In the present embodiment, both the customer-side cover 21 and the lid cover 23 and the hinged doors 24 can be opened, allowing good access to the merchandise area 20 from both the customer side 53 and the operator side 52. It is understood that in different embodiments, access may be somewhat restricted if such free access, in particular from the customer side 53 or through the lid cover 23, does not appear absolutely necessary. Likewise, the hinged doors 24 can be omitted if the operator side 52 does not appear necessary for access to the merchandise area 20, so that the merchandise presenter 10 then does not have a designated operator side 52 and such a merchandise presenter 10 is then stocked or cleaned from the customer side 53.

[0091] In the present embodiment, the hinged doors 24 are designed to be removable and can be stored in a storage space 16 for the hinged doors 24, which is formed within the lower space 11, so that, particularly during peak times, the hinged doors 24 do not hinder the operating process from the operator side 52. Particularly for such cases, the lid cover 23 can then also be opened by sliding the lid cover 23 under the cover glass 29. It is understood that modified procedures or arrangements are readily conceivable in different embodiments.

[0092] The side glasses 22 and the cover glass 29 are firmly connected to each other and stabilized by side supports 17, which are connected to the support 46 and / or the frame 12 with sufficient lateral stability. This allows the arrangement of the side glasses 22 and the cover glass 29 to be further stabilized, with the side supports 17 also supporting the hinged doors 24 and, if necessary, supporting the lid cover 23.

[0093] In the present embodiment, the side supports 17 are attached directly to the support 46 via fastenings 19. In a different embodiment, the fastenings 19 can also be connected directly to the frame 12 or to both the support 46 and the frame 12. It is understood that in further embodiments, the side supports 19 can also be connected directly or indirectly to the frame 12 in other ways and stabilized accordingly.

[0094] In the present embodiment, the side supports 17 also carry two support arms 18, which point from the side supports 17 in the direction of the customer side 53.

[0095] These support arms 18 serve in particular to carry a heat radiator 25 and a lighting device 26, whereby - depending on the specific embodiment - the heat radiator 25 or the lighting device 26 may also be dispensed with.

[0096] In the present embodiment, both the heat radiator 25 and the lighting 26 are each arranged on crossbeams 27, which connect and thereby stabilize the two support arms 18. This stabilization also allows, in particular, the entire arrangement surrounding the merchandise area to be stabilized, although it is understood that other configurations are also conceivable in different embodiments.

[0097] As particularly in the Figures 2 to 4As shown, a rack is provided in the lower space 11 in which catering trays 37 can be stored. This makes it possible to organize a quick and reliable supply of goods, particularly during peak times. The catering trays 37 then only need to be removed, for example, and placed on the presentation plate 30 in order to present the goods contained in the catering trays 37. On the other hand, it is also conceivable for the goods from the reserved catering trays 37 to be transferred directly to the presentation plate 30 in order to then be able to present them accordingly. In these cases, too, a supply of goods can be quickly organized via the catering trays 37, which can be stored in the lower space 11.

[0098] To ensure sufficient product printing in all these cases, particularly on the customer side 53, the presentation tray 31 has a depth 56 of 5 cm relative to an access level 50. The depth 56 is ultimately determined by the arrangement of the presentation plate 30 within the support 46. It is understood that in different embodiments, the presentation tray 31 may optionally be designed with a greater depth 56 or a lesser depth 56, if this appears appropriate, particularly with regard to the product printing, but also with regard to easy access to the presentation plate 30 or into the presentation tray 31.

[0099] In this case, the access level 50 is defined by a horizontally oriented level 54, which includes both the access edge 51 on the operator side 52 and the access edge 51 on the customer side 53, wherein the access edge 51 defines the edge of the tub rim 33 of the presentation tub 31, via which access into the presentation tub 31 or onto the presentation plate 30 can be made from the outside, i.e. in particular from the customer side 53 or from the operator side 52.

[0100] In the present embodiment, the two access edges 51 are arranged vertically 55 at the same height. This particularly ensures a homogeneous appearance and also appears ergonomically sensible, since in the present embodiment, access should be ergonomically easy for as many people as possible from both the customer side 53 and the operator side 52, and a view into the presentation tray 31 or onto the presentation plate 30 should be possible for as many people as possible from both the operator side 52 and the customer side 53, so that no distinction is made between operating personnel on the one hand and customers on the other.

[0101] It is understood that in alternative embodiments, the access edges 51 can also be arranged at different heights if this appears advantageous for whatever reason. In this case, it proves expedient to use the lowest access edge 51 to define the access level 50. For reasons of good visibility and good ergonomics during access, it is advantageous if the access edges 51 are selected to have a height difference of no more than 4 cm with respect to a horizontal plane 54.

[0102] As is immediately apparent, the tub rim 33 of the presentation tub 31 has four sides 34, which ultimately encircle the presentation panel 30 and each end with its upper edge at the access level 50. This, in particular, results in a particularly harmonious appearance, although it is understood that here too the upper edges of the individual sides 34 of the tub rim 33 can, if necessary, be provided at different heights relative to the access level 50.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the presentation plate 30 is heatable, for which purpose the presentation plate 30 comprises the aforementioned heating plate 39, which is arranged beneath a black glass plate 38. The black glass plate 38 serves in particular to protect, facilitate cleaning, and / or provide an attractive appearance to the presentation plate 30, while the heating plate 39 serves to make the presentation plate 30 heatable. It is understood that in different embodiments, other types of heating can also be provided for heating the presentation plate 30. In the present embodiment, the heat radiator 25 also serves to heat the presentation plate 30. In different embodiments, the heating plate 39 or the heat radiator 25 may be omitted, or other types of heating may be provided.

[0104] Instead of the black glass plate 38, for example, a stainless steel composite plate can be used, which may have the advantage that it can be more shatter-resistant than a glass plate.

[0105] In order to be able to provide increased humidity or steam in the goods room 20 as required, the goods presenter 10 comprises humidity providing means 40.

[0106] In this embodiment, the humidity supply means 40 comprise in particular a plurality of steam outlets 41, which open into the goods compartment 20 above the presentation plate 30. As shown in particular in the Figures 1 , 5 and 6As shown, some of the steam outlets 41 are directed upwards or vertically 55 and, in this embodiment, are arranged in the access level 50. Depending on the specific embodiments, however, different product displays may also have upwardly directed steam outlets that are not arranged in the access level. It is immediately apparent that the upwardly directed steam outlets 41 are directly accessible and can thus be easily cleaned.

[0107] Furthermore, some of the steam outlets 41 are directed horizontally 54 across the display panel 30 and arranged below the access level 50. This allows, in particular, the increased humidity to flow directly into the display tray or to pass over the display panel 30. It is understood that in different embodiments, horizontally directed steam outlets can also be provided at other locations, in particular, if necessary, above the access level.

[0108] If necessary, individual vertically 55 directed steam outlets 41 can also be combined with horizontally 54 directed steam outlets 54 in different embodiments to form correspondingly larger steam outlets pointing in several directions, if this appears advantageous.

[0109] In the present embodiment, the steam outlets 41 are located only on the operator side 52, which appears particularly advantageous for cleaning purposes. However, it is immediately apparent that corresponding steam outlets could also be provided on other sides 34 of the tub rim 33, if necessary.

[0110] In the present embodiment, the steam outlets 41 share a common steam distributor 42, although it is understood that several separate steam distributors 42 may also be provided in different embodiments. The steam distributor(s) 42 enable the most uniform distribution of the air humidity or steam across the steam outlets 41.

[0111] The latter can be further enhanced if the steam distributor(s) 42 are supplied with steam or increased air humidity via at least two steam supply lines 43, as is the case in the present embodiment and in particular in Figure 7 is shown as an example. Here, too, it is understood that more than two steam supply lines 43 per steam distributor 42 may be provided.

[0112] Pipes 44 lead from the steam supply lines 43 to a T-piece 45, which can also be referred to as a steam distributor 42. From the T-piece 45, another pipe 44 extends to a technical box 28, which houses a steam generator (not shown in detail but known per se), a control system, and a pump. In addition to the technical box 28 provided in the lower chamber 11, a water filter 48 and a water tank 47 are also provided in the lower chamber 11, so that the steam generator in the technical box 28 can be adequately supplied with clean water.

[0113] Starting from the steam generator 28, air humidity or steam 49 can then pass through the pipes 44, the T-piece 45, the steam supply lines 43 and the steam distributor 42 to the steam outlets 41 and from there exit into the goods room 20.

[0114] It is understood that, in particular, the supply of air humidity or steam 49 up to the steam outlets 41 can, if necessary, also be ensured by other measures in different embodiments.

[0115] The carrier 46 has an inspection opening 14 on its operator side 52, as shown by way of example in Figures 3 and 4 which can be covered by an inspection hatch 15. Any malfunctions or major cleaning work can then be carried out on the pipes 44, the steam supply lines 43, and the T-piece 45 by opening the inspection hatch 15.

[0116] As already explained above, the product presenter 10 has a drip tray 60 with an outer side 63, which essentially points in the direction of the presentation tray 31 or into the unspecified cavity of the support 46 under the presentation plate 30.

[0117] In this exemplary embodiment, the drip tray 60 has an outlet 61 which, in this exemplary embodiment, opens out through the lower space 11, so that liquid, other particles, dirt, and in particular condensate can be drained from the drip tray 60 through the outlet 61. In the present exemplary embodiment, the outlet 61 is arranged above a building-side inlet into the sewer system, so that liquids, particles, and other substances from the outlet 61 can be drained directly into the sewer system. In alternative exemplary embodiments, the outlet 61 can open into a drain provided for this purpose or into a corresponding tank or bucket provided for this purpose. The latter embodiments make it necessary to empty the bucket or tank at certain times, which, however, can easily be done, for example, during cleaning work that is already being carried out or while refilling the water tank 47.

[0118] The drain 61 is also easily accessible through the inspection opening 14 or through the lower chamber 11 for maintenance purposes and in particular for cleaning purposes.

[0119] The drip tray 60 also carries a cleaning lid 62, the vertical walls of which open into the drip tray 60. In this way, any liquids, particles, condensate, or other contaminants flow, drip, or fall from both the outside of the cleaning lid 62 and the inside of the cleaning lid 62 into the drip tray 60, so that the presentation plate 30 or the presentation tray 31, in particular, can be spared from this.

[0120] In this embodiment, the cleaning cover 62 carries the steam outlets 41, so that the drip tray 60 forms the steam distributor 42 and the steam allocations 43 open into the drip tray 60.

[0121] On the operator side 52, the drip tray 60 has an unnumbered upper edge which lies in the access level 50, which is advantageous both in terms of design and also with regard to possible cleaning.

[0122] Furthermore, the drip tray 60 has an upper edge 64 on its outer side 63 facing the goods compartment 20, which forms an overflow 65, which in this embodiment is arranged 5 mm above the display panel 30. In alternative embodiments, the upper edge 64 or the overflow 65 can also be arranged flush with or slightly below the display panel 30 or, in particular, the black glass panel 38.

[0123] As a result, the outer side 63 of the drip tray 60 or the vertical wall 55 of the cleaning lid 62 facing the product compartment 20 forms one side 34 of the tub rim 33, as long as the upper edge 64 or the overflow 65 is located above the presentation plate 30 or the black glass plate 38. In the embodiments in which the upper edge 64 or the overflow 65 is flush with the presentation plate 30 or the black glass plate 38 or is located below them, the corresponding side 34 of the tub rim 33 is then formed only by the vertical wall 55 of the cleaning lid 62 facing the product compartment 20.

[0124] The presentation plate 30 or the black glass plate 38 of the presentation plate 30 is connected to the tub edge 33 by a tight connection 35.

[0125] In the present embodiments, the sealing connection 35 is provided circumferentially around the presentation plate 30 so that no dirt particles or liquids can pass past the presentation plate 30, under the presentation plate 30 and in particular onto the carrier 46.

[0126] In the present case, the sealing connection 35 is achieved by an adhesive connection or by a silicone insert or the like, whereby ultimately it does not appear to be important for the specific embodiment which of these alternatives is implemented in each case, as long as the sealing connection 35 is sufficiently stable, in particular also thermally stable.

[0127] The sealing connection 35 is made in the area of ​​the operator side 52 with the outer side 63 of the drip tray 60, which in turn is connected in a correspondingly tight manner to the support 46, which provides the further tray edges 33 of the presentation tray 31.

[0128] In this way, any particles, dirt, or liquid can leave the display tray 31 simply through the drip tray 60, thus facilitating cleaning. In particular, it is no longer necessary to move the display tray 30 for cleaning purposes.

[0129] Depending on the specific vertical height 55 of the upper edge 64 or the overflow 65 in relation to the presentation plate 30, any dirt or liquids can be easily transferred from the presentation plate 30 into the drip tray 60 by means of a squeegee or a cloth, wherein the slightly raised upper edge 64 in the present embodiment can minimize uncontrolled runoff.

[0130] The product presenter 10 presented here is essentially designed to present goods that are to be kept warm in an environment with increased humidity.

[0131] It is understood that, if necessary, the heat radiator 25 and the heating plate 39 can also be switched off if an increased or not excessively increased temperature of the presented goods is not intended, whereby, if necessary, an increased air humidity can also be provided in these cases.

[0132] In alternative embodiments, the merchandise display 10 may also include refrigeration machines or other cooling devices if goods are to be presented chilled. Increased air humidity may also be provided here, where appropriate, although such a versatile merchandise display 10 only appears necessary if a very large number of different goods, which are to be stored and presented at different temperatures under different ambient conditions, are to be presented throughout the day or at different times using the same merchandise display 10. List of reference symbols:

[0133] 10Product presenter 11Lower compartment 12Frame 13Wall 14Inspection opening 15Inspection flap 16Storage space for the hinged doors 17Side supports 18Support arm 19Fastening for side supports 20Goods compartment 21Customer-side cover 22Side glass 23Lid cover 24Door 25Heat radiator 26Lighting 27Cross beam 28Technical box including steam generator, control system, pump 29Cover glass 30Presentation plate 31Presentation tray 32Tub base 33Tub rim 34Side of the tub rim 33 35Sealing connection 37Gastronomy tray 38Black glass plate 39Heating plate 40Humidity supply means 41Steam outlet 42Steam distributor 43Steam supply line 44Pipe 45T-piece 46Support 47Water tank 48Water filter 49Humidity or steam 50Access level 51Access edge 52Operator side 53Customer side 54horizontal 55vertical 56Depth of the presentation tray 31 60Drip tray 61Drain 62Cleaning cover 63Outside of the drip tray 60 64Top edge of the drip tray 60 65Overflow

Claims

1. A merchandising fixture (10) for presenting goods to be kept warm in an environment with elevated humidity, wherein the merchandising fixture (10) comprises a heatable presentation plate (30) arranged in a storeroom (20) as well as humidifiers (40) for providing an elevated humidity in the storeroom (20), and wherein the heatable presentation plate (30) is arranged under a horizontally (54) aligned access level (50), characterized in that a steam outlet (41) of the humidifier (40) arranged over a drip tray (60) for leading a condensate before the steam exits is arranged above the presentation plate (30).

2. The merchandising fixture (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the humidifiers (40) comprise a steam generator.

3. The merchandising fixture (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the steam outlet (41) follows the drip tray (60) and / or that the drip tray (60) is arranged on the steam outlet (41).

4. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the heatable presentation plate (30) comprises a heating plate (39), and is arranged in a presentation tray (31) with a tray floor (32) and a tray edge (33), which is arranged in the merchandising fixture (10) and upwardly bordered by the access level (50), and connected so as to form a seal with the presentation tray (31), wherein in particular the heatable presentation plate (30) is connected so as to form a seal with at least one side (34) of the tray edge (33), preferably with the entire tray edge (33), and / or constitutes the tray floor (32) or a portion of the tray floor (32).

5. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the steam outlet (41) is arranged under the access level (50).

6. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the steam outlet (41) of the humidifier (40) with an upwardly directed opening is arranged upwardly directed, wherein the upwardly directed steam outlet (41) of the humidifier (40) is preferably arranged in the access level (50).

7. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that one or several of the steam outlets (41) are provided only on the operator side (52).

8. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the drip tray (60) is connected with the presentation plate (30) via an overflow (65) and / or can be accessed through the access opening and / or flows into a drain (61).

9. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a steam outlet (41) of the humidifier (40) is arranged above the presentation plate (30) in a cleaning cover (62), wherein the cleaning cover (62) is removable in design, and wherein the cleaning cover (62) is preferably designed so that it can be removed through the access level (50), and / or preferably covers the drip tray (60).

10. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that one or several of the steam outlets (41) are fed via a steam distributor (42), which preferably is formed by the drip tray (60), wherein the steam distributor (42) preferably has the cleaning cover (62) and / or wherein at least two pipes (44) of a steam supply line (43) empty into the steam distributor (42).

11. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that an assembly that carries a or the steam outlet (41), preferably the leaning cover (62), extends into the drip tray (60) and / or over a portion, preferably an entire side (34), of the tray edge (34) or rim of the presentation plate (30) .

12. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the drip tray (60), preferably by way of its outer sides (63), is connected so as to form a seal with the presentation plate (30), wherein the sealing connection (35) between the drip tray (60) and the presentation plate (30) is preferably provided in an area of the overflow (65) or an upper rim (64) of the drip tray (60).

13. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the access level (50) is defined by the deepest access rim (51) via which the presentation plate (30) can be accessed, wherein the deepest access rim (51) is preferably provided at least on the operator side (52), and wherein, if an access rim (51) via which the presentation plate (30) can be accessed is also provided from the customer side (53), the customer-side access rim (51) preferably also lies on the access level (50).

14. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the presentation plate (30) is arranged under the access level (50) by more than 2 cm, preferably by more than 3 cm, and / or by less than 10 cm, preferably by less than 8 cm.

15. The merchandising fixture (10) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the presentation plate (30) comprises a glass plate, preferably a black glass plate (38), a stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate and / or a heating plate (39), wherein the heating plate (39) is arranged under the glass plate or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate and / or the glass plate or the stainless steel or stainless steel composite plate is connected to form a seal with the presentation tray (31).