Containers for receiving, storing and serving food

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a container for holding, keeping warm, and / or dispensing food, wherein the container has a base body that can be closed by means of a lid. According to one aspect, a brake is provided that slows down a closing movement of the lid. According to another aspect, a connecting module is provided for connecting the lid to the base body, wherein the connecting module is detachably connected to both the lid and the base body.

[0002] Containers for holding, storing, and dispensing food are used, for example, at buffets to keep food warm in a water bath. Typically, the containers comprise a tub-shaped base that can be closed with a lid. These containers are available in a variety of designs, for example, with flat or curved lids that can be opened or closed as needed to keep the food stored in the container fresh and attractive for as long as possible and, if necessary, to present it. These containers are also known in the catering industry under the term "chafing dish."

[0003] One problem with these devices can be the handling of the lid. Removable lids, which are simply placed on the base body to be closed and are not connected to it by a hinge, require additional storage space that must be kept free. Lids that can pivot about horizontal axes and are connected to the base body by a hinge should in turn be able to pivot completely backwards in order to remove a water bath container, for example. There is a risk that the relatively heavy lids could slip uncontrollably from the operator's hand and tip backwards and downwards, which could move the container on the table, cause the warming water to spill over and cause food to be spilled. When closing the lid, the operator has to reach far back and down to grasp the lid. There is therefore a need to further develop the lid's closing mechanism.

[0004] DE 696 08 858 T2 discloses hinges for housing covers of cooking appliances, such as deep fryers.

[0005] US 2005 / 279225 A1 discloses an induction heating pan comprising an inner pan, an outer pan, a lid and a hinge element.

[0006] CN 112 144 997 A discloses a hinge arrangement and a cooking appliance with this hinge arrangement.

[0007] US 2008 / 010778 A1 discloses a hinge for the lid of a serving vessel.

[0008] Sometimes it is desirable for the lid, which is hinged to the base body, to be completely removable from the base body. For example, it may be desirable to clean the lid separately from the base body in a dishwasher. Some existing lids can be removed, but contain mechanical components that are not, or only partially, suitable for use in dishwashers. Other lids can only be removed from the base body with a special tool. It would be advantageous if a practical solution for a removable lid could be found.

[0009] The object of the invention is to design a container for receiving, keeping warm and / or dispensing food which is able to at least partially solve the problems described above.

[0010] This object is achieved by a container having the features of the main claim. Further developments of the invention are defined by the subject matter of the subclaims and the following description.

[0011] According to a first aspect not according to the invention, a container is provided, in particular for holding, keeping warm, and / or dispensing food. The container comprises: a base body, a lid pivotable between a closed position and an open position by means of a pivot joint for closing the base body, and at least one brake for braking a pivoting movement of the lid and / or for holding the lid in a position between the closed position and the open position.

[0012] The brake has a freewheel and is designed in such a way that it slows down a pivoting movement of the lid in the closing direction, while it does not slow down a pivoting movement of the lid in the opening direction.

[0013] The freewheel typically defines a locking direction and a freewheeling direction. Preferably, the locking direction corresponds to the closing direction of the lid, and / or the freewheeling direction corresponds to the opening direction of the lid. In other words, the freewheel is coupled to a pivoting movement of the lid in such a way that the brake brakes or holds the lid in the closing direction, but not in the opening direction.

[0014] The brake can in particular be designed to hold the lid in a variety of positions, preferably continuously, between the closed position and the open position. The open position here refers to the position in which the lid is opened as wide as possible and thus has a maximum opening angle. The maximum opening angle can be defined by at least one stop. In this case, the pivoting movement of the lid is limited by the stop. In the closed position, the lid completely covers the base body. The brake therefore typically ensures that the lid remains stationary in practically any position between the closed position and the open position. The user therefore only has to move the lid into a position in which the food is accessible, and once released, the lid automatically remains in this position due to the braking force of the brake.This also means that closing the lid requires a slight hand force to overcome the braking force of the brake. This required hand force is typically greatest when the lid is open vertically, for example, at approximately 90°, and steadily decreases due to the increasing lever arm upon closing. Typically, when the container is used as intended, the lid is essentially horizontal in the closed position, i.e., perpendicular to gravity.

[0015] Optionally, the brake is a mechanical friction brake. In other words, the braking force is generated by friction between a fixed body and a moving body. Such brakes are typically robust and characterized by a comparatively simple design. In one embodiment, the brake has at least one brake pad and one brake disc. It can be provided that the brake disc is arranged stationary with respect to the base body. The brake pad can move relative to the base body when the cover moves. Alternatively, the brake pad is arranged stationary with respect to the base body. In this case, the brake disc moves relative to the base body when the cover moves.

[0016] In some embodiments, the swivel joint has a rotatable shaft coupled to the freewheel and connected to the cover. The shaft generally rotates synchronously with a pivoting movement of the cover, i.e., both elements are rotated by the same angle of rotation when the cover is pivoted. Optionally, the brake is designed such that the brake pad and the brake disc are at rest relative to one another in the freewheeling direction of the shaft, and a relative movement of the brake pad and the brake disc in the locking direction of the shaft is braked. Furthermore, a spring element can be provided, wherein the spring element is designed to compress the brake pad and the brake disc in the axial direction.

[0017] The shaft can be surrounded by a bearing bush. The shaft can be arranged or mounted in an interior space defined by the bearing bush. The bearing bush can be connected to at least one cover, which at least partially closes the interior space defined by the bearing bush. The brake pad can, for example, be connected to the bearing bush in a rotationally fixed manner, e.g., by means of a positive fit.

[0018] The freewheel can, for example, be mounted on the shaft. The freewheel is often designed as a sleeve freewheel. Optionally, the freewheel is arranged radially between the bearing bush and the shaft. In one embodiment, at least one rolling bearing is arranged radially between the bearing bush and the shaft, for example two rolling bearings or even more than two if required. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that at least one rolling bearing is integrated into the freewheel. At least one sealing element can be provided which is designed to seal the freewheel and / or the at least one rolling bearing against water and moisture. The brake can also be arranged in a housing, whereby the housing can sometimes have two partial housings. For example, the brake can be arranged in or on a connecting module which connects the cover to the base body.The connection module described below is particularly suitable for the connection module.

[0019] The brake disc can radially engage around the shaft, the freewheel, and / or the bearing bush. Optionally, a plain bearing is arranged radially between the bearing bush and the brake disc, allowing rotation, preferably low-friction rotation, of the bearing bush relative to the brake disc.

[0020] Overall, the brake of the type described above achieves a quiet braking function with a long service life. Furthermore, the brake described enables continuous lid positioning. The brake is further characterized by a small number of components and simple installation.

[0021] According to the invention, a container for holding, keeping warm and / or dispensing food is proposed. The container comprises a base body, a cover pivotable between a closed position and an open position for closing the base body and a connecting module for connecting the cover to the base body.

[0022] The connecting module has a first connecting element that is detachably connected to the cover. Furthermore, the connecting module has a second connecting element that is detachably connected to the base body. The connecting module also has at least one component for influencing a pivoting movement of the cover.

[0023] The term "removable connection" is intended to mean, in particular, that the connection can be released non-destructively and without tools. The connection module thus enables a modular coupling of the cover to the base body. In particular, the connection module can be removed from both the base body and the cover. Due to the modularity of the coupling, the base body, the cover, and the connection module can be replaced, repaired, and / or cleaned individually. For example, the base body and the cover can be cleaned separately from the connection module. This can be particularly useful if the connection module or its components, such as the component for influencing the pivoting movement of the cover, are sensitive to water, moisture, and / or cleaning agents.

[0024] Said component may include or be a brake for braking a pivoting movement of the lid and / or for holding the lid in a position between the closed position and the open position. The brake may be configured like the brake mentioned in relation to the first aspect. Alternatively or additionally, said component may include or be a motor element for moving the lid between the closed position and the open position. The connection module may comprise a housing in which the component is arranged.

[0025] In a first variant of the invention, the first connecting element comprises a first positive-locking element, which can be connected to a first counterpart attached to the cover to form a first positive lock. For example, the first positive-locking element is designed as a projection, while the first counterpart has a complementarily shaped first receptacle.

[0026] In this variant, a first resilient pressure piece is provided, which engages in a first locking recess when the first positive locking connection is present. The first resilient pressure piece can help to secure the first positive locking connection. The first resilient pressure piece is, for example, installed in the first positive locking element. Furthermore, the first locking recess can be formed in the first counterpart. Typically, the first locking recess is formed in an inner wall of the counterpart. Alternatively, the first resilient pressure piece can also be installed in the counterpart. In this case, the first locking recess is formed in the first positive locking element.

[0027] Preferably, the first connection can be released from an opening angle of the lid of at least 45°, without the base body having to be held manually. A spring force or holding force of the first resilient pressure piece and / or the geometry of the first positive connection can be designed such that the manual force required to release the first connection is generally smallest at an opening angle of the lid between 80° and 100°, preferably between 85° and 95°, in particular approximately 90°. For example, a longitudinal axis (or longitudinal direction) of the first forming element and a longitudinal axis (or longitudinal direction) of the first counterpart extend parallel to gravity at a certain opening angle of the lid, in particular 90°, so that the positive connection of the lid to the first connecting element can be released in the open position by lifting the lid.

[0028] In a second variant of the invention, the second connecting element comprises a second positive-locking element, which can be connected to a second counterpart attached to the base body to form a second positive lock. A second resilient pressure piece is provided, which engages in a second locking recess when the second positive lock is present. The second resilient pressure piece can help secure the second positive lock.

[0029] The second resilient pressure piece is, for example, installed in the second positive-locking element. Furthermore, the second locking recess can be formed in the second counterpart. Typically, the second locking recess is formed in an inner wall of the second counterpart. Alternatively, the second resilient pressure piece can also be installed in the second counterpart. In this case, the second locking recess is formed in the second positive-locking element.

[0030] In some embodiments, the second form-locking element engages in a second receptacle formed in the counterpart. For example, the second form-locking element is designed as a bolt, while the second receptacle has a complementary shape. Typically, the second locking recess is formed in an inner wall of the second receptacle. Furthermore, the second resilient pressure piece can be installed in the second form-locking element. A longitudinal axis of the second resilient pressure piece can extend in particular at an angle, preferably perpendicular, to a longitudinal axis of the second form-locking element. The second locking recess can be designed as a through-opening, so that the second resilient pressure piece can be released from the outside, preferably by finger pressure.

[0031] To release the second positive locking connection, a third resilient pressure piece can be provided, which is preloaded when the second resilient pressure piece is engaged. The third resilient pressure piece can be configured to at least partially press the second positive locking element out of the receptacle when the second pressure piece is released from the second locking recess. A longitudinal axis of the third resilient pressure piece can be aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second positive locking element and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second resilient pressure piece.

[0032] In some embodiments, the third resilient pressure piece is installed in the second form-locking element. When the second resilient pressure piece is engaged, the third resilient pressure piece can rest against the inner wall of the receptacle. Optionally, a third recess can be formed in the inner wall of the receptacle, into which the third pressure piece engages.

[0033] At least one of the aforementioned resilient thrust pieces can comprise a sleeve and a spring element arranged in the sleeve, as well as a thrust piece, such as a ball or pin, arranged partially in the sleeve and partially protruding from the sleeve. The spring element is designed to exert a spring force on the thrust piece, thereby preloading the thrust piece.

[0034] Typically, the first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to each other via a center piece, wherein the component for influencing a pivoting movement of the lid is optionally attached to the center piece or installed in the center piece.

[0035] The container can sometimes have two connecting modules of the type described. It can be provided that the longitudinal directions of the first form-locking elements extend parallel to one another and point in the same direction. The first form-locks can therefore be released simultaneously by pulling on the lid. It can also be provided that the longitudinal directions of the second form-locking elements run parallel to one another, but are directed in opposite directions (antiparallel). This has the consequence that the second form-locks cannot be released as long as the lid is still attached to the connecting modules. Instead, the second form-locks (i.e. the connection of the connecting modules to the base body) can only be released once the lid has been removed from the connecting module. This can reduce the probability that the lid is cleaned together with the connecting modules.

[0036] The base body is often trough-shaped. The base body generally comprises a base surface, a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls, with the connecting module preferably being attached to the rear wall of the base body, in particular to an upper side of the rear wall. The rear wall can extend laterally from a first end section to a second end section, with the end sections each being connected to a side wall. The connecting modules are preferably attached to the end sections of the rear wall. The reason for this outward connection of the connecting modules is to utilize the flexural rigidity of the side walls and / or the corner radii. This can prevent or reduce rear wall bending when the lid is opened or closed. This, in turn, eliminates the need for additional rear wall stiffening plates.The base surface, front wall, rear wall, side walls, and / or the base body can thus be formed in one piece. In addition to reduced manufacturing costs, this can provide an attractive appearance and / or reduce cleaning effort. Sometimes, at least one bearing block is provided on the base body for connecting to the second connecting element.

[0037] The connection of the connecting module to the base body can be designed so that the connecting module can be easily removed and replaced without tools. In addition to the removability and the associated ease of handling and maintenance, it can also be possible to replace or upgrade the component for influencing the pivoting movement of the lid with another component at a later date, without having to redesign the base body and / or the lid.

[0038] Thus, the modularity also allows for the provision of different versions of the connecting module (e.g., with / without a motor element and / or with / without a brake), which are interchangeable. In this respect, the invention can also provide a system comprising the base body, the cover, and at least two connecting modules, wherein the connecting modules preferably each have a different component for influencing the pivoting movement of the cover.

[0039] Individual features of the container according to the first aspect can be combined with features of the container according to the second aspect, and vice versa. In a preferred embodiment, the container according to the first aspect and the container according to the second aspect have the same features.

[0040] In further embodiments, the container according to one of the aspects described above can be part of a system with additional components. For example, a water bath vessel can be additionally provided, which is accommodated by the base body. A space formed between the base body and the water bath vessel can be filled with water. A heating device can be provided to heat the water and / or keep it warm. The container can, for example, be arranged on a frame with a heating device underneath, wherein, for example, fuel cans or electric heating elements can be used as the heating device.

[0041] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The figures show: Figs. 1-5 schematically show different views of a container for holding, keeping warm and / or dispensing food; Fig. 6 a detailed view of the container according to the Fign. 1-5 with a connecting module for connecting a cover to a base body; Fig. 7-9 schematically different views of the connecting module of the Fig. 6 ; Fig. 10 a sectional view of the connection module along a section line AA of the Fig. 7 with a brake; Fig. 11 an exploded view of the brake of the Fig. 6 ; Fign. 12-13 two further views of the connection module of the Fign. 6-11 ; Fig. 14 a sectional view of a detail of the connection module of the Fig. 13 along a section line BB; Fig. 15 a sectional view of a detail of the connection module of the Fig. 12 along a section line CC; Fig. 16 a sectional view of another brake with marked force flows; Fig. 17 a sectional view of another brake; Fig. 18 an exploded view of the connection module of the Fig. 17 ; Fig. 19. A sectional view of another brake; Fig. 20. Various views of a form-locking element attached to the cover.

[0042] In the following description and in the figures, recurring and functionally identical features are provided with the same reference symbols. For reasons of clarity, reference symbols are sometimes not shown in every example, even if the corresponding elements may be present in the respective example.

[0043] The Fign. 1-5 show various views of a container 1 for holding, keeping warm, and / or dispensing food. The container 1 comprises a tub-shaped base body 2 and a lid 10 which can be pivoted about a pivot axis 40 between a closed position and an open position for closing the base body 2, the container 1 being shown in the closed state. The container 1 can optionally be arranged on a frame with a heating device underneath, with fuel cans or electric heating elements often being used as the heating device. The base body 2 generally forms a receptacle for a tub-shaped water bath vessel (not shown), in which the food can be kept warm. When the container 1 is in use, there is typically water between the base body 2 and the water bath vessel, so that the water bath vessel lies in a water bath. The water is then heated by the heating device mentioned.Such containers 1 are also known as "chafing dishes" and are used, for example, on buffets to keep food warm and present it. Container 1 is available in various designs, for example, with flat or curved lids 10 that can be opened or closed as needed. To allow the food to be seen even when the lid 10 is closed, the lid can include a transparent area, formed, for example, by a glass or plastic plate.

[0044] The base body 2 typically has a base surface 3, a front wall 4, a rear wall 5, and two side walls 6, 7, and is often formed in one piece. The rear wall 5 generally comprises a substantially flat or straight section, which is connected to the side walls 6, 7 via curved transition areas 8. The base body 2 is generally made of a metallic material that is preferably acid-resistant, rust-proof, tasteless, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe, with stainless steel such as Cromargan® being a preferred material in many cases.

[0045] Apart from the optional transparent area, the lid 10 can also be made at least predominantly of a metallic material, such as stainless steel, preferably Cromargan®. The lid 10 can have a handle 11 that facilitates opening and closing the lid 10 by hand.

[0046] The following description addresses various aspects of the container 1. According to a first aspect, at least one brake 50 is provided for braking a pivoting movement of the lid 10 and / or for holding the lid 10 in a position between a closed position and an open position. According to a further aspect of the present invention, at least one connecting module 20 is provided, which connects the lid 10 to the base body 2. As explained below, the brake 50 and the connecting module 20 can be combined with one another.

[0047] First, the connection module 20 and its features are discussed. An example connection module 20 is described in more detail in the Fig. 6 which shows a detail of the container 1 of the Fign. 1-5 Further views, sectional views and exploded drawings of the connecting element 20 are shown in the Figuren 7-19 shown.

[0048] The connection module 20 enables a modular connection of the lid 10 to the base body 2. In particular, the connection module 20 can be removed from both the base body 2 and the lid 10. Due to the modularity of the connection, the elements 2, 10, 20 of the container 1 can be individually replaced, repaired, and / or cleaned.

[0049] The connection module 20 comprises at least one component 50 for influencing a pivoting movement of the lid 10. Said component can in particular comprise or be the brake 50. Alternatively or additionally, said component can comprise or be a motor element (not shown) for moving the lid 10 between the closed position and the open position. The connection module 20 can have a housing 17 with a first housing part 18 and a second housing part 19, which can accommodate said component 50.

[0050] The connecting module 20 further comprises a first connecting element 21, which is detachably connected to the cover 10. The first connecting element 21 typically comprises a first positive-locking element 22, which is designed as an elongated projection and can be connected to a first counterpart 12 attached or molded onto the cover 10 to form a first positive lock. The counterpart 12 is shaped complementarily to the first positive-locking element 22.

[0051] Various views of the form-locking element 12 or counterpart 12 attached or molded onto the cover 10 are shown in the Fig. 20 shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the first counterpart 12 has a first elongated receptacle 13, which positively receives the first form-locking element 12. Due to the first form-locking connection and the elongated shape of the first form-locking element 22, the first connecting element 21 is connected to the cover 10 in a rotationally fixed manner. A first locking recess 14 can be formed in the first receptacle 13 of the counterpart.

[0052] The first form-locking element 22 can be formed integrally with the first housing part 18. Alternatively, the first form-locking element 22 can also be present as a separate component connected to the first housing part 18. A longitudinal axis 41 of the first form-locking element 22 can be aligned at an angle, for example, perpendicularly, to the pivot axis 40 of the cover 10. The orientation of the longitudinal axis 41 also generally depends on the current opening angle of the cover 10.

[0053] Furthermore, a first resilient pressure piece 23 is provided, which engages in the first locking recess 14 when the first positive locking connection is present. The first resilient pressure piece 23 thus supports the holding of the first positive locking element 22 in the first receptacle 13 of the counterpart 12. The first pressure piece 23 is arranged in a recess 28 formed in the first positive locking element 22, which can be designed as a bore. Fig. 7 contains a partial sectional view of the first pressure piece 23. The pressure piece 23 generally comprises a sleeve 24, a compression spring 25, and an element 26 preloaded by the compression spring 25, which element may be designed, for example, as a ball or pin. The preloaded element 26 partially protrudes from the sleeve 24 and is usually held in the sleeve 24 by means of a radially inwardly projecting projection 27 formed by the sleeve 24. The sleeve 24 is fastened in the recess 28. Optionally, the sleeve 24 can be omitted. In this case, the spring 25 and the preloaded element 26 are arranged directly in the recess 28.

[0054] A longitudinal axis of the first positive locking element 22 and a longitudinal axis of the first receptacle 13 are often aligned perpendicular to gravity when the lid 10 is closed. When the lid 10 has an opening angle of 90°, the aforementioned longitudinal axes of the elements 22, 13 extend parallel to gravity. If the lid 10 is lifted in this position, the pressure piece 23 releases from the locking recess 14, so that the first positive locking can be released and the lid 10 can be removed from the connecting module 20.

[0055] In the example shown, the first form-locking element 22 is received by the first receptacle 13 of the counterpart 12. Alternatively, it can also be provided that the first form-locking element receives the counterpart (not shown). In this case, the first form-locking element has a first receptacle, which preferably has a locking recess. Furthermore, the counterpart in this case is designed as a projection, which can be received in a form-fitting manner by the first receptacle. The counterpart attached to the cover can then have the first resilient pressure piece.

[0056] In addition, the connection module 20 has a second connection element 31 which is detachably connected to the base body 2.

[0057] The second connecting element 31 is positively connected to a second counterpart 9 provided on the base body 2. For this purpose, the second connecting element 31 can have a second positive-locking element 32, which can be connected to the second counterpart 9 to form a second positive lock. The second counterpart 9 is shaped complementarily to the second positive-locking element 32 and receives the second positive-locking element 32 in a positive-locking manner. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second counterpart is realized by a bearing block 9, wherein the second positive-locking element 32 is designed as a bolt. In the following, reference is therefore made to the bearing block 9 and the bolt 32. However, other complementary shapes are also conceivable for the second positive lock. A longitudinal axis 42 of the bolt, i.e. of the second positive-locking element 32, generally runs parallel to the pivot axis 40 of the cover 10, preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 41 and often perpendicular to the force of gravity.

[0058] The bearing block 9 typically has a second receptacle 15, which positively receives the bolt 32. A second locking recess 16 can be formed in the inner wall of the second receptacle 15.

[0059] Furthermore, a second resilient pressure piece 33 can be installed in the bolt 32, which engages in the second locking recess 16 when the second positive connection is present. A longitudinal axis of the second resilient pressure piece 33 usually extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis 42 of the bolt 32, wherein a preferred angle can be between 80° and 100° and is in particular approximately 90°.

[0060] The second locking recess 16 can be designed as a through-hole in the bearing block 9, through which the second resilient pressure piece 33 protrudes. This allows a user to access the second resilient pressure piece 33 from the outside and actuate it with finger pressure. The second positive locking mechanism can then be released.

[0061] Optionally, a third resilient pressure piece 34 can be provided, which can be designed, on the one hand, to fix / center the second positive connection when the second pressure piece 33 engages in the second locking recess 16 and, on the other hand, to assist in releasing the second positive connection when the second pressure piece 33 is pressed out of the second locking recess 16. The third resilient pressure piece 34 is preferably also installed in the bolt 32; but can alternatively also be arranged in the second receptacle 15 in the bearing block 9. The third resilient pressure piece 34 is preloaded in the engaged state of the second resilient pressure piece 33 and rests against an inner wall of the second receptacle 15. Optionally, the third resilient pressure piece 34 can engage in a third locking recess 35 formed in the receptacle 15.In one embodiment, which can also be seen in the figures, a longitudinal axis of the third resilient pressure piece 34 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 42 of the bolt 32 and thus perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second resilient pressure piece 33. When the second pressure piece 33 is released from the second locking opening 16, the third resilient pressure piece 34 presses the bolt 32 at least partially out of the second receptacle 15. Thus, when the second resilient pressure piece 33 is actuated, the connection module 20 is disengaged from the bearing block 9 by the spring force of the third resilient pressure piece 34, in order to give the operator haptic and / or acoustic feedback that the connection module 20 or the brake 50 is released and ready for removal.

[0062] The second pressure piece 33 and / or the third pressure piece 34 can be constructed similarly to the first pressure piece 23. Thus, the respective pressure piece 33, 34 can comprise a sleeve, a compression spring, and an element preloaded by the compression spring, which element can be designed, for example, as a ball or pin. The preloaded element typically protrudes partially from the sleeve and is held in the sleeve by a radially inwardly projecting projection formed by the sleeve.

[0063] In the example shown, the second form-locking element 32 is thus positively received by the second receptacle 15 of the bearing block 9. Alternatively, it can also be provided that the second form-locking element receives the counterpart (not shown). In this case, the second form-locking element has a second receptacle, which preferably has a second locking recess. Furthermore, the counterpart in this case is designed as a projection, which can be positively received by the second receptacle. The projection attached or molded onto the base body 2 can then have the second resilient pressure piece and third resilient pressure piece.

[0064] The connection module 20 may have a rigid center piece 29 which is connected at a first end to the first connection element 21 and / or the housing 17 and at an opposite end to the second connection element 31.

[0065] In container 1 of the Figuren 1-5 Two connecting modules 20 are provided which are arranged mirror-symmetrically to one another. A mirror-symmetrical plane of symmetry typically runs parallel to the side walls 6, 7. The longitudinal axes 42 of the second form-locking elements 32 designed as bolts preferably point away from one another and are thus aligned anti-parallel to one another. In order to release the respective second form-lock, the bolts 32 must therefore be pulled out of the second receptacles 15 in opposite directions. The longitudinal axes 41 of the first form-locking elements 22 are preferably aligned parallel to one another and point in the same direction. Thus, by pulling on the cover or lifting the cover 10, preferably at an opening angle of approximately 90°, the first form-locks can be released simultaneously. The alignment of the longitudinal axes 41, 42 also means that the second form-lock can only be released after the cover 10 has been removed from the respective connecting module 20.The connecting modules 20 cannot thus accidentally end up in the dishwasher together with the lid 10. This protects the component 50, which is typically sensitive to water and / or detergents, and increases its service life.

[0066] As already indicated above, each connecting module 20 is connected to the base body 2 via a bearing block 9 fastened to the base body 2, preferably welded thereto. Each bearing block 9 is preferably arranged on an upper side of the flat section of the rear wall 5. Furthermore, the bearing block 9 preferably borders the transition area 8 and is thus positioned on the outside (right or left) of the rear wall 5. The reason for the external connection of the connecting module 20 is to utilize the flexural rigidity of the side walls 6, 7 and the transition areas 8. This prevents the rear wall from bending during opening and closing, and additional rear wall stiffeners are unnecessary.

[0067] The brake 50 will be discussed in more detail below. The brake 50, designed as a friction brake, is provided to slow the pivoting movement of the lid 10 and to hold the lid 10 in a position between the closed position and the open position. With the brake 50, the lid 10 can be held in a variety of positions, preferably continuously, between the closed position and the open position.

[0068] The brake 50 has a freewheel 52, which defines a locking direction 44 and a freewheel direction 45. Here, the locking direction 44 corresponds to the closing direction of the cover 10, and the freewheel direction 45 corresponds to the opening direction of the cover 10. In other words, the freewheel 52 is coupled to a pivoting movement of the cover 10 such that the brake 50 brakes or holds the cover 10 in the closing direction, but not in the opening direction. The freewheel 52 can be designed, for example, as a sleeve freewheel.

[0069] The cover 10 is coupled to a rotatable shaft 54, which defines a rotational axis or pivot axis 40. The shaft 54 ​​may have an axially extending, non-circular projection 56, which positively engages a corresponding recess 57 in the first housing part 18. A fastening means, such as a screw 55, may be provided to fasten the shaft 54 ​​to the first housing part 18.

[0070] Optionally, a bearing bushing 58 can be provided which surrounds the shaft 54. The bearing bushing 58 can define an interior space of the brake 50 in which the freewheel 52 is located. The freewheel 52 is preferably arranged radially between the bearing bushing 58 and the shaft 54. In the example shown, the freewheel 52 is arranged directly on the shaft 54, thus there are no further components between the freewheel 52 and the shaft 54. Furthermore, two rolling bearings 60 are provided, which are arranged on both sides of the freewheel 52 on the shaft 54. The rolling bearings 60 can be deep groove ball bearings, for example, and are generally arranged radially between the bearing bushing 58 and the shaft 54. The rolling bearings 60 enable rotation of the shaft 54 ​​relative to the bearing bushing 58.

[0071] Optionally, the bearing bushing 58 can have a circumferential, radially inward-facing projection 61, which in the axial direction often borders the rolling bearing 60 on one side and the freewheel 52 on the other. Two retaining rings 66 can be provided, each of which borders the ball bearings 60 and forms an axial boundary for the ball bearings 60. The bearing bushing 58 can also have a shoulder 59 that faces radially outward. The rolling bearings 60 are also arranged in the interior space defined by the bearing bushing 58.

[0072] Shaft 54 ​​may have a plurality of steps extending radially and arranged adjacent to one another in the axial direction. Elements 53, 50, and 66 may each be arranged on a step of different radial height.

[0073] A first cover 62 can be provided to cover the interior of the brake 50 enclosed by the bearing bush 58. The bearing bush 58 can be connected to the first cover 62 in a rotationally fixed manner, e.g., by means of screws 63 which engage, for example, in the shoulder 59. For sealing, a sealing element 64 such as an O-ring, which can be formed from an elastic material, can be provided radially between the bearing bush 58 and the first cover 62. For further sealing, a further sealing element such as a radial shaft seal 65 can be provided radially between the cover 62 and the shaft 54. The radial shaft seal 65 defines an area 53 which is filled with a lubricant such as grease for lubrication and further sealing (cf. Fig. 16 ).

[0074] The interior of the brake 50, in which the sleeve freewheel 52 and the ball bearings 60 are located, is sufficiently protected against water and moisture by the O-ring 64 and the radial shaft seal 65.

[0075] On the axially other side, the bearing bush 58 can be connected to a second cover 68. The first cover 62 and the second cover 68 can therefore be arranged on axially opposite sides of the bearing bush 58. For this purpose, the second cover 68 preferably has an internal thread which can be screwed to an external thread of the bearing bush 58. A spacer ring 67 or spacer sleeve can be arranged axially between the second cover 68 and the bearing bush. A retaining ring O-ring 69 can be provided axially between the second cover 68 and the second housing part 19. The O-ring serves to seal against external liquids that could otherwise penetrate through the small thread into element 68. Preferably, for example, a sealing paste can be arranged at least in some areas between the elements 68, 67 and 58 in order to seal this area against external moisture.

[0076] The first cover 62 and the second cover 68 together with the bearing bush 58 can be regarded as an inner housing, while the first housing part 18 and the second housing part 19 can be regarded as an outer housing.

[0077] The Fig. 11 shows an exploded view of the brake 50 or the connection module 20. In the Fig. 11 It can be seen that the bearing bush 58 typically comprises a round section and a flat section radially outward in the circumferential direction. The flat section of the bearing bush 58 is particularly suitable for a rotationally fixed positive connection with components arranged on the bearing bush 58.

[0078] The brake 50 may also include at least one brake pad 70, preferably two brake pads 70, and a brake disc 72. The term "brake disc" used in this document was chosen by analogy with a disc brake of a vehicle and because of the disc-like shape of the element 72. However, unlike a disc brake used in a vehicle, the brake pads 70 rotate while the brake disc 72 remains stationary. Instead of the term "brake disc," terms such as "brake lever" or "brake arm" may also be used.

[0079] The brake pads 70 are usually arranged on the bearing bushing 58 and can have a flat section on their inner side to enable a rotationally fixed positive connection with the bearing bushing 58. The brake disc 72 is usually firmly connected to the rigid center piece 29 and is therefore arranged stationary with respect to the base body 2. The brake pads 70 are arranged in the axial direction on both sides of the brake disc 72. Preferably, a spring element 74 is provided which presses the brake pads 70 and the brake disc 72 together in the axial direction. The spring element 74 can be designed, for example, as a wave spring. A shim 73 can be arranged between the brake pad 70 and the spring element 74, which evenly distributes a spring force of the spring element 74 across the brake pad 70.On the axially other side of the spring element 74, a further disk 75 with a positive fit can be arranged, which rests against an end face of the second cover 68. The purpose of this disk 75 is to prevent the wave spring 74 from twisting when the second cover 68 is screwed on. A plain bearing 76 can be arranged radially between the brake disk 72 and the bearing bush 28, which enables rotation of the bearing bush 58 relative to the brake disk 72.

[0080] The largest possible opening angle of the cover 10 can be determined by a stop 48 located on the center piece 29, whereby the stop 48 is sometimes referred to as a nose. The pivoting movement of the cover 10 is thus limited by this stop 48. The stop 48 engages in a slot-shaped recess 49, which, for example, runs axially between the brake disc 72 and the first housing part 18 and extends in the circumferential direction.

[0081] The operation of a similar brake 50 is explained below using the Fig. 16 described. The Fig. 16 shows a section of a brake 50 and a connection module 20, which are attached to the left of the container 1, while the brake 50 and the connection module 20 of the Fig. 10 attached to the right side of the container 1. In addition, the brake 50 of the Fig. 16 axially slightly shorter than the brake 50 of the Fig. 10 . Functionally identical features are provided with the same reference symbols and a repetition of the description is omitted here.

[0082] In the Fig. 16 Two force flows are indicated by arrows 46 and 47. Arrows 47 indicate the force flow when opening the lid 10, while arrows 46 indicate the force flow when closing the lid 10.

[0083] As described above, the cover 10 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the first housing part 18 and to the shaft 54 ​​via the first positive-locking element 22. The opening direction of the cover 10 corresponds to the freewheeling direction 45 of the shaft 54 ​​and the freewheel 52, so that the shaft 54 ​​rotates when the cover 10 is opened. When the cover 10 is opened, the torque is therefore not transmitted to the braking mechanism, and the brake 50 is therefore not actuated in this case. As a result, in particular, the components 19, 58, 68, 70 do not rotate. The at least one brake pad 70 and the brake disc 72 are at rest relative to one another in the freewheeling direction 45 of the shaft 54.

[0084] If, conversely, the cover 10 is rotated from an open position towards the closing direction, the rotation of the shaft 54 ​​is transmitted from the freewheel 52 to the bearing bush 58 by frictional engagement. From the bearing bush 58, the torque is transmitted to the brake pads 70 by means of positive engagement. The brake pads 70 are pressed against the axial end faces of the brake disc 72 by the spring element 74. In the locking direction 44 of the shaft 54, a relative movement of the brake pad 70 and the brake disc 72 is braked, and the braking effect is thus generated by the friction between the brake pads 70 and the brake disc 72. Overall, the rotation of the shaft 54 ​​and the pivoting movement of the cover 10 are thus braked. The force exerted on the brake disc 72 flows via the center piece 29 and the second connecting element 21 to the bearing block 9 and the container 1.If no manual force is exerted and only gravity acts on the lid 10, the brake 50 ensures that the lid 10 is held in its position. The braking force is preferably designed such that the lid 10 is held continuously and without play in any position between the closed position and the open position. This also means that a slight manual force is required to close the lid 10 to overcome the holding force of the brake 50. This required manual force is greatest in a fully open position at approximately 90° and steadily decreases due to the increasing influence of gravity as the lid 10 closes.

[0085] The plain bearing 76 arranged between the brake disc 72 and the bearing bush 58 allows a relative rotational movement of the bearing bush 58 relative to the brake disc 72. When the cover 10 is closed, the components 19, 58, 68, 70 and the components connected thereto in a rotationally fixed manner also rotate.

[0086] The Fig. 17 shows a longitudinal section of a similar brake 50, which has a simpler structure than the one shown in the sectional view of Fig. 10 shown brake 50. In the Fig. 17 The same features are provided with the same reference symbols and the description will not be repeated here.

[0087] The brake 50 has a freewheel 51 designed as a sleeve type freewheel, in which two roller bearings are integrated. Thus, the separate roller bearings 60 of the Fig. 10 Furthermore, the design of the Fig. 17 the first cover 62. An optional radial shoulder 30 of the shaft 54 ​​limits the freewheel 51 in the axial direction, so that a retaining ring 66 in this area can be omitted. On the other side of the shaft 54, a shim 77 is arranged axially between the retaining ring 66 and the freewheel 51. Overall, the brake 50 of the Fig. 17 thus requires fewer components than the brake 50 of the Fig. 10 , see also the exploded view of the brake 50 in the Fig. 18 .

[0088] A further embodiment of the brake 50 is shown in the Fig. 19 which reveals a longitudinal section of the brake 50.

[0089] The brake of the Fig. 19 resembles the brake 50 of the Fig. 17 in that the rolling bearings are integrated in the freewheel 51 and on the first cover 62 of the brake 50 of the Fig. 10 Instead of the radial shaft seal 65 of the Fig. 17 is in the brake of the Fig. 19 However, an optional sealing ring 78 is provided, which radially seals the system to the outside. The sealing ring 78 is typically located between the brake disc 72 and the first sub-housing 18. Preferably, the sealing ring 78 is embedded in a groove 79 in the brake disc 72. A further sealing ring 78 can be arranged between the brake disc 72 and the second sub-housing 19, preferably also in a groove 79 in the brake disc 72. Since the contacting outer surfaces of the sub-housings 18, 19 move relatively radially to the seals 78, quad rings can optionally be selected for the seals 78, which generally have a lubricant reservoir, thereby minimizing friction. In the area of ​​the screw 55 and / or between the shaft 56 and the contact shoulder of the first housing part 18, a sealing paste and / or an additional sealing element can be provided for sealing in order to shield the system against external moisture.

[0090] Another special feature of the design of the Fig. 19 is that the second cover 68 has been omitted. Instead, the second housing part 19 is connected directly to the bearing bushing 58, typically via a screw connection. This reduces the need for parts. List of reference symbols:

[0091] 1Container 2Main body 3Bottom surface 4Front wall 5Rear wall 6Side wall 7Side wall 8Transition area 9Bearing block 10Lid 11Handle 12First counterpart 13First receptacle 14First locking recess 15Second receptacle 16Second locking recess 17Housing 18First housing part 19Second housing part 20Connecting module 21First connecting element 22First positive locking element 23First spring-loaded pressure piece 24Sleeve 25Compression spring 26Pre-tensioned element 27Protrusion 28Recess 29Middle piece 30Radial shoulder 31Second connecting element 32Second positive locking element 33Second spring-loaded pressure piece 34Third spring-loaded pressure piece 35Third locking recess 40Pivot axis of the cover 41Longitudinal axis of the first form-locking element 22 42Longitudinal axis of the second form-locking element 32 44Locking direction 45Freewheel direction 46Power flow when closing the cover 47Power flow when opening the cover 48Stop 49Slot-shaped recess 50Brake 51Freewheel 52Freewheel 53Lubricant-filledArea 54Shaft 55Fastener 56Axial projection 57Recess 58Bearing bush 59Shoulder 60Rolling bearing 61Protrusion 62First cover 63Screw 64O-ring 65Radial shaft seal 66Retaining ring 67Spacer ring 68Second cover 69O-ring 70Brake pad 72Brake disk 73Shim 74Spring element 75Disk with positive fit 76Plain bearing 77Shim 78Quad ring 79Groove

Claims

1. A container (1) for receiving, keeping warm and / or serving food, comprising: - a trough-shaped base body (2); - a lid (10) for closing the base body (2) which can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position; and - a connecting module (20) for connecting the lid (10) to the base body (2), the connecting module (20) comprising a first connecting element (21), which is detachably connected to the lid (10), the connecting module (20) comprising a second connecting element (31), which is detachably connected to the base body (2), the connecting module (20) comprising at least one component (50) for influencing a pivoting movement of the lid (10), wherein the first connecting element (21) comprises a first form fit element (22), which can be connected to a first counter-piece (12) attached to the lid (10) for forming a first form fit, wherein a first spring plunger (23) is provided, which latches in a first locking depression (14) when the first form fit is present, and / or wherein the second connecting element (31) comprises a second form fit element (32), which can be connected to a second counter-piece (9), which is attached to the lid (2), for forming a second form fit, wherein a second spring plunger (33) is provided, which latches in a second locking depression (16) when the second form fit is present.

2. The container (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first spring plunger (23) is installed in the first form fit element (32), and the first locking depression (14) is formed in the first counter-piece (12).

3. The container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, at a certain opening angle, in particular 90°, of the lid (10), a longitudinal axis (41) of the first form fit element (22) and a longitudinal axis of the first counter-piece (12) extend parallel to the force of gravity, so that the form-locked connection between the lid (10) and the first connecting element (21) can be released by lifting of the lid (10).

4. The container (1) according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the second form fit element (32) engages in a second receptacle (15) formed in the second counter-piece (9), the second locking depression (16) being formed in an inner wall of the second receptacle (15), the second spring plunger (33) being installed in the second form fit element (32) and extending at an angle, preferably perpendicularly, with respect to a longitudinal axis (42) of the second form fit element (32).

5. The container (1) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein a third spring plunger (34), which is preloaded when the second spring plunger (33) is latched and which is configured to push the second form fit element (32) at least partially out of the receptacle when the second pressure piece (33) is released from the second locking depression (16), is provided for releasing the second form fit.

6. The container (1) according to claims 4 and 5, wherein the third spring plunger (34) is installed in the second form fit element (32) and rests against the inner wall of the second receptacle (15) when the second spring plunger (33) is latched.

7. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting module (20) comprises a housing (17) for accommodating the at least one component (50) for influencing a pivoting movement of the lid (10).

8. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one bearing pedestal (9) is provided at the base body (2) for the connection to the second connecting element (31).

9. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base body (2) comprises a bottom surface (3), a front wall (4), a rear wall (5) and two side walls (6, 7), the connecting module (20) preferably being attached to the rear wall (5) of the base body (2), and in particular to an upper side of the rear wall (5).

10. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two connecting modules (20), the longitudinal directions (41) of the first form fit elements (22) extending parallel to one another and pointing in the same direction, and the longitudinal directions (42) of the second form fit elements (32) running parallel to one another, but being oriented in opposite directions.

11. The container according to claim 9 and claim 10, wherein the rear wall (5) extends in the lateral direction from a first end section to a second end section, the end sections being each connected to a side wall (6, 7), and the connecting modules (20) being attached to the rear wall (5) in the end sections.

12. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the component for influencing the pivoting movement of the lid (10) comprising: - a brake (50) for braking a pivoting movement of the lid (10) and / or for holding the lid (10) in a position between the closed position and the open position and / or - a motor element for moving the lid (10) between the closed position and the open position.