Domestic appliance device, domestic appliance having such a domestic appliance device, and method for assembling such a domestic appliance device

Abstract

The invention relates to a household appliance device (12), in particular a household refrigeration appliance device, comprising at least one mounting unit (16) for fixing at least to a first side (22) of a household appliance wall (20) and at least one functional unit (18) for fixing at least to a second side (24) of the household appliance wall (20), wherein the functional unit (18) is connected to the mounting unit (16) in an assembled state. To provide a generic device with improved efficiency, it is proposed that the household appliance device (12) has a locking unit (26) which snaps the functional unit (18) to the mounting unit (16) in the assembled state along a joining direction (28) of the functional unit (18).

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to a household appliance device according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method for assembling a household appliance device according to the preamble of claim 11.

[0002] A household appliance device comprising at least one mounting unit and one functional unit, each fixed to at least one side of a household appliance wall, is already known from the prior art. It has already been proposed that the mounting unit be connected to the mounting unit in a force-fit and form-fit manner, specifically by means of screws, when assembled.

[0003] DE 10 2012 218697 A1 discloses a refrigeration appliance with an inner container to the inside of which a built-in component is attached.

[0004] DE 10 2013 224260 A1 discloses a household refrigerating appliance comprising a thermally insulated body with an inner container that defines a coolable interior space intended for storing food, and an interior lighting system, at least indirectly attached to the inner container and comprising at least one light source.

[0005] WO 2016 / 071218 A1 discloses a household appliance with a mains connection socket for inserting a mains connection cable and with a device plug that fits the mains connection socket.

[0006] DE 10 2012 224165 A1 discloses an interior light for a refrigeration appliance, comprising a light source and a housing on which the light source is mounted.

[0007] Other relevant prior art documents are GB1244271A, DE102017217635A1 and US2018 / 274841A1.

[0008] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with improved efficiency characteristics. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of independent claims 1 and 11, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims. Advantages of the invention

[0009] The invention relates to a household appliance device, in particular a household refrigeration appliance device, according to claim 1, comprising at least one backing unit for fixing at least on a first side of a household appliance wall and at least one functional unit for fixing at least on a second side of the household appliance wall, wherein the functional unit is connected to the backing unit in an assembled state.

[0010] It is proposed that the household appliance device has a locking unit which locks the functional unit to the backing unit in the assembled state along a joining direction.

[0011] This design can increase efficiency in terms of labor, costs, and / or product efficiency. The locking mechanism allows the functional unit to be positively and, in particular, potentially also force-fitted to the backing unit, eliminating the need for additional components, especially screws. This can advantageously reduce manufacturing effort, particularly production time and / or costs. Assembly is thus simplified. Furthermore, the safety of the fixation can be further optimized, as the locking mechanism can compensate for tolerances, especially variations in the material thickness of the household appliance wall and / or the functional unit and / or the backing unit, thereby preventing uncontrolled detachment of the functional unit and unstable fixation.Consequently, a high level of manufacturing accuracy can be achieved.

[0012] The household appliance device could, for example, be a cooking appliance device, in particular an oven device and / or a microwave device and / or a grill device, a household cleaning appliance device, for example a dishwasher device or a washing machine device, and preferably a household refrigeration appliance device. In an assembled state, the household appliance device preferably forms a subassembly of a household appliance, in particular a household refrigeration appliance. However, it would also be conceivable for the household appliance device to comprise the entire household appliance, in particular the entire household refrigeration appliance.The household appliance could be a large household appliance, in particular a household refrigeration appliance, for example a chest freezer and advantageously a refrigerator and / or freezer, and / or a cooking appliance, for example an oven and / or a microwave and / or a grill, and / or a household cleaning appliance, for example a dishwasher or washing machine.

[0013] The household appliance could have at least an inner housing and / or an outer housing. The inner housing could at least include the appliance wall. Preferably, the appliance wall is part of the appliance assembly. However, it would also be conceivable that the appliance wall is part of the household appliance itself, which includes the appliance assembly.

[0014] In particular, the inner housing is surrounded by the outer housing on at least one side, especially at least the first side of the appliance wall. The inner housing and the outer housing could define a cavity of the appliance that is at least partially, and preferably completely, enclosed. The second side of the appliance wall could be a side of the inner housing facing the cavity, especially the outer housing. In at least one process step, especially a foaming process, during the manufacture of the appliance, the cavity could be at least partially filled with at least one insulating material. Advantageously, the insulating material at least partially surrounds the backing unit and / or fixes the backing unit at least to the first side of the appliance wall.

[0015] The second side of the household appliance wall could be a side of the inner housing facing away from the cavity, in particular the outer casing. The inner housing could define an at least partially enclosed interior of the household appliance, which is bounded, for example, on at least five sides, preferably on six sides. In particular, the second side of the household appliance wall is a side of the inner housing facing the interior.

[0016] Preferably, the backing unit is fixed to both the first and second sides of the household appliance wall. The household appliance wall has an opening. A method for assembling the household appliance device according to claim 11 comprises several process steps. In particular, in a first process step, the backing unit could be guided at least partially through the opening along an assembly direction from the first side of the household appliance wall. Furthermore, in the first process step, the backing unit could be rotated after passing through the opening. In a pre-assembled state of the household appliance device, and especially in the assembled state, the backing unit could extend through at least the opening and be fixed to both the first and second sides of the household appliance wall.

[0017] The backing unit could have at least one first fixing element and preferably at least one second fixing element. The opening could be at least partially adapted to the shape and configuration of the first and / or second fixing element, so that the first and / or second fixing element could be guided through the opening in the first process step along the assembly direction, starting from the first side of the household appliance wall. In the first process step, the backing unit could be rotated such that, after passing through the opening, the first and / or second fixing element rests at least partially, preferably completely, flush against the second side of the household appliance. In the assembled state, the first and / or second fixing element could fix the backing unit to the second side of the household appliance wall.In particular, the first and / or second fixing element defines a bayonet lock for the backing unit.

[0018] The storage unit and / or the functional unit could, for example, consist at least partially and / or largely of a mineral and / or a metal and / or a plastic and / or a composite material. The term "largely" shall be understood to mean, for example, at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85%, and particularly advantageously at most 95% of a volume and / or mass fraction. The storage unit could consist at least partially and preferably at least largely of the same material as the functional unit. In particular, the storage unit is formed in one piece. The functional unit could also be formed in one piece.The term "one-piece" is to be understood as at least materially bonded, for example by an adhesive bonding process, a welding process, an injection molding process, and / or another process that would appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, and / or formed in one piece, such as by production using a single- or multi-component injection molding process and / or by production from a single casting and / or by a stamping process from a single blank. Advantageously, "one-piece" is also to be understood as "one-part." "One-part" is to be understood in particular as formed in one piece. Preferably, this single piece is produced from a single blank, a compound, and / or a casting, most preferably using an injection molding process, in particular a single- and / or multi-component injection molding process.The storage unit and / or the functional unit could be manufactured at least partially and / or to a large extent by means of a 3D printing process, a sheet metal bending process or preferably an injection molding process.

[0019] The functional unit could provide a stop function, in particular a stop function, and / or a holding function, for example for a shelf of the household appliance. In particular, the functional unit has at least one insertion element that is at least substantially elongated. Advantageously, the insertion element is at least substantially round. In the assembled state, the insertion element could be inserted into the backing unit and at least partially connect the functional unit to the backing unit. In particular, in the assembled state, the insertion element is positioned at least partially and / or to a large extent on the first side of the household appliance wall. Advantageously, the functional unit has at least one functional element. The functional element could be arranged on a side of the functional unit facing away from the insertion element, in particular in the interior.In particular, the functional element is positioned on the second side of the appliance wall when assembled. The functional element could project at least partially, and preferably completely, into the interior and could, for example, be designed to stop and / or hold the shelf.

[0020] In a second process step, the functional unit could be guided at least partially through the opening from the second side of the household appliance wall along an assembly direction, particularly the insertion direction, and / or connected to the backing unit. Specifically, the insertion direction of the functional unit defines a direction perpendicular to the second side of the household appliance wall, pointing from the interior to the second side of the household appliance wall, particularly the opening. Preferably, in the second process step, the functional unit, especially the insertion element, is inserted into the backing unit through the opening along the insertion direction. In the assembled state, the functional unit is snapped into the backing unit on the first and / or the second side of the household appliance wall.Advantageously, the mounting unit accommodates the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, at least partially in the assembled state, especially on the first side of the household appliance wall. Particularly preferably, the locking unit engages the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, with the mounting unit in the assembled state, at least on the first side of the household appliance wall. Additionally, other force-fit and / or form-fit connections could also be used to fix the functional unit to the mounting unit, such as plug connections, swivel connections, and / or screw connections.

[0021] The assembled state refers to a state in which the functional unit, unlike the unassembled state of the household appliance and / or the pre-assembled state, is connected to the backing unit, at least by a positive locking mechanism. In the unassembled state, the backing unit and the functional unit are arranged separately from each other. In particular, in the unassembled state, the household appliance wall is free of the functional unit and the backing unit. In the pre-assembled state, the backing unit could be bonded to the first side of the household appliance wall by a material bond, in particular by being foamed in place on the first side, and / or fixed to the second side of the household appliance wall by a force-fit and / or positive locking mechanism, in particular by means of a bayonet fitting.With regard to a temporal progression, particularly with regard to at least one process step in the assembly of the household appliance device, the pre-assembled state lies after the unassembled state and before the assembled state.

[0022] In the present application, numerical prefixes such as "first" and "second" serve only to distinguish between objects and / or to relate objects to one another and do not imply a total number and / or ranking of the objects. In particular, a "second object" does not necessarily imply the existence of a "first object".

[0023] The term "intended" here and in the following refers to something specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function means that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0024] According to the invention, the locking unit defines a first locking position and at least one second locking position located behind the first locking position with respect to the joining direction. This allows for further increased efficiency with regard to fixing and / or flexibility, since the connection between the functional unit and the backing unit can be flexibly adapted to tolerances, in particular deviations in material thickness, the household appliance wall and / or the functional unit and / or the backing unit. The at least two consecutive locking positions improve the compensation of tolerances regarding deviations in the material thickness of the household appliance wall and / or the functional unit and / or the backing unit when fixing the functional unit to the backing unit.This enables gap-free and secure mounting of the functional unit and the backing unit to the household appliance wall. The locking unit could have a plurality of locking positions, which are preferably arranged at least one behind the other, particularly along the joining direction. The first locking position and at least the second locking position could be spaced apart from each other by at least 0.01 mm, advantageously by at least 0.05 mm, and most advantageously by at least 0.1 mm.

[0025] Preferably, the first detent position and at least the second detent position are arranged one behind the other with respect to the joining direction at a distance of no more than 1 mm, in particular no more than 0.5 mm, and preferably no more than 0.1 mm. This allows for a particularly precise and small increment in the connection, especially the detent, between the functional unit and the backing unit. This enables even more efficient connection of the functional unit to the backing unit, which in turn further optimizes the safety of the household appliance. Furthermore, particularly small tolerances of the household appliance wall and / or the functional unit and / or the backing unit can be compensated for when fixing the functional unit to the backing unit. The detent unit could optionally include at least one locking pawl.Alternatively and / or additionally, the locking unit could at least have a locking mechanism and / or a clamping mechanism.

[0026] The first detent position is defined by a first detent element of the backing unit and at least one first counter-detent element of the functional unit corresponding to the first detent element. According to the invention, the detent unit comprises at least one first detent element of the functional unit and at least one first counter-detent element of the backing unit corresponding to the first detent element, which define the first detent position. This provides improved fixation of the functional unit to the backing unit with regard to safety and / or flexibility.

[0027] It is provided that the storage unit has, in addition to the first locking element, at least a second locking element which defines the second locking position. Furthermore, in a further embodiment of the invention, the second locking position is defined by a second locking element of the storage unit and at least one second locking element of the functional unit corresponding to the second locking element. In order to further optimize the efficiency with regard to fixing, the storage unit according to the invention has at least one second locking element of the functional unit and at least one second locking element of the storage unit corresponding to the second locking element, which define the second locking position.

[0028] Advantageously, the locking unit is at least partially integral with the functional unit and / or at least partially integral with the backing unit. In particular, the locking unit and the functional unit share at least one component. Alternatively and / or additionally, the locking unit and the backing unit could share at least one component.

[0029] It would be conceivable for the first and second locking elements to be arranged offset one behind the other along the joining direction. Alternatively and / or additionally, the first and second counter-locking elements could be arranged offset one behind the other along the joining direction. In this case, the first and second counter-locking elements are arranged one behind the other along the joining direction in such a way that the first and second locking elements define the previously described first locking position and at least the second locking position. For example, in addition to the first and second counter-locking elements, the storage unit could have at least one further counter-locking element which, together with the first or second locking element or at least one further locking element of the functional unit, defines at least one further locking position of the locking unit.The first locking element and at least the second locking element could have a spiral arrangement. It would also be conceivable that the first locking element and the second locking element are arranged directly one behind the other along the joining direction, and in particular without offset from each other – along a direction perpendicular to the joining direction. The locking unit could be arranged at least partially on the first side of the household appliance wall. In particular, the first locking element and at least the second locking element, which together with the first locking element and at least the second locking element define the first locking position and at least the second locking position, are arranged together on the first side of the household appliance wall, in particular the cavity, and / or on the second side of the household appliance wall, in particular the interior.Alternatively, the first locking element or at least the second locking element could be positioned on the first side of the household appliance wall, in particular the cavity, and / or on the second side of the household appliance wall, in particular the interior. Preferably, the first locking element and at least the second locking element are arranged on the first side of the household appliance wall on the backing unit in the assembled state.

[0030] In the assembled state, the first locking element is engaged in the first counter-locking element and / or the second locking element is engaged in the second counter-locking element. In the assembled state, the first locking element and the first counter-locking element and / or the second locking element and the second counter-locking element could be arranged on the first side of the household appliance wall. In particular, the insertion element has at least the first locking element and / or at least the second locking element. For example, the first locking element and the second locking element could be arranged on opposite sides of the insertion unit. Furthermore, the first counter-locking element and the second counter-locking element could be arranged on opposite sides of the insertion unit such that the first counter-locking element corresponds to the first locking element and the second counter-locking element corresponds to the second locking element according to the invention.According to the invention, in the assembled state, the first locking element connects the functional unit to the backing unit in the first locking position by means of the first counter-locking element, or alternatively, in the assembled state, the second locking element connects the functional unit to the backing unit in the second locking position by means of the second counter-locking element. It would also be conceivable that, in the assembled state, the household appliance device has at least one further force-fit and / or form-fit connection, for example, a screw connection, which, in addition to the locking element, connects the functional unit to the backing unit at least partially or to a large extent in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner.

[0031] It is conceivable that the first locking element is arranged on the insertion element. The first locking element could be at least partially movable and / or flexible and / or elastic. In particular, the first locking element can be pressed into at least one hollow inner region of the insertion element when the insertion unit is inserted into the backing unit. For example, the first locking element can be bent and / or deflected non-destructively and preferably reversibly by at least 2%, advantageously by at least 5%, preferably by at least 10%, and particularly preferably by at least 20% along its extension in a further direction perpendicular to that direction.An elastic first locking element should be understood to mean at least that the first locking element is repeatedly deformable, at least partially, without mechanically damaging and / or destroying the first locking element, and that, in particular, after deformation, the first locking element independently returns to a basic shape of the first locking element.

[0032] The first and / or second locking element could, for example, be designed as a projection on the backing unit. Alternatively, the first and / or second locking element could at least be a bulge on the backing unit. It is proposed that the first locking element be designed as a first locking lug and the first locking element as a corresponding first locking edge. This would further increase efficiency in terms of cost-effectiveness and / or secure fastening, as a simple and / or cost-effective locking mechanism could be provided. This would significantly simplify the assembly of the functional unit with the backing unit for the installer.

[0033] In particular, a first protrusion of the backing unit has the first locking edge, which defines the first counter-locking element. In at least the second process step, the functional unit could be pushed into the backing unit along the joining direction until the locking unit engages the functional unit with the backing unit, in particular the first counter-locking element, preferably the first locking edge, and / or the second counter-locking element, preferably the second locking edge, by means of the first locking element, preferably the locking lug, and / or the second locking element. In the assembled state, in particular in the first locking position, the first locking lug is at least partially flush with the first locking edge. Alternatively, in the assembled state, the first locking lug could be at least partially pressed into the interior of the insertion element.The first locking lug could be located at least partially below the first locking edge, and in particular at least partially against an inner wall of the backing unit.

[0034] It would be conceivable for the first locking element and / or the second counter-locking element to have a shape, size, and / or design that differs at least substantially from the first locking element and / or the first counter-locking element. However, to provide an even more efficient and / or simpler fixation, particularly locking, of the functional unit to the backing unit, it is proposed that the second locking element be designed as a second locking lug and the second counter-locking element as a corresponding second locking edge. Furthermore, manufacturing costs can be reduced because the first and second locking elements are designed as two identically shaped locking lugs of the functional unit, and the first and second counter-locking elements are each designed as locking edges of the backing unit. In particular, a second protrusion of the backing unit could have the second locking edge, which defines the second counter-locking element.

[0035] In the assembled state, particularly in the second locking position, the second locking lug is at least partially flush with the second locking edge. Alternatively, in the assembled state, particularly in the first locking position, the second locking lug could be positioned at a distance from the second locking edge along the joining direction.

[0036] In general, when assembled, the first locking lug can be designed so that in the first locking position, it rests at least partially flush with the first locking edge, while the second locking lug is positioned along the joining direction at a distance from the second locking edge. Alternatively, in the second locking position, the second locking lug can be designed so that in the second locking position, it rests at least partially flush with the second locking edge, while the first locking lug is positioned along the joining direction at a distance from the first locking edge. In this way, only one of the two locking lugs will be in contact with (or in contact with) the respective locking edge when assembled. This makes the fixing of the backing unit to the appliance wall and / or to the functional unit less susceptible to manufacturing tolerances (e.g., wall thickness).In particular, depending on existing tolerances, especially depending on the wall thickness of the household appliance wall, either only the first locking lug may be at least partially flush with the first locking edge, or only the second locking lug may be at least partially flush with the second locking edge.

[0037] If the backing unit has at least one receiving area in which the functional unit is at least partially inserted in the assembled state, the efficiency with regard to a force-fit and / or form-fit fixing of the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, with the backing unit can be further optimized.

[0038] In the first process step, the backing unit could be guided through the opening along the assembly direction from the first side of the appliance wall in such a way that the receiving area defines a region of the backing unit at least partially, and preferably to a large extent, on the first side of the appliance wall. In the pre-assembled state, particularly in the state in which the backing unit is fixed to the first and / or second side of the appliance wall, the receiving area could define at least the region of the backing unit on the first side of the appliance wall. In the assembled state, the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, could be snapped into place in the receiving area by means of the locking unit.

[0039] To maximize efficiency in fixing the backing unit to the appliance wall and / or connecting the functional unit, particularly the insertion element, to the backing unit, and to effectively prevent insulating foam from escaping during the foaming process, it is proposed that the backing unit have at least one cup-shaped receiving element that defines the receiving area. Furthermore, the functional unit, especially the insertion element, can be protected from insulating foam in the assembled state. Additionally, a wing-shaped element on the receiving element can simplify the installation of the backing unit for a technician.

[0040] The cup-shaped receiving element could be open on one side facing the joining direction, in particular on one side facing the second household appliance wall, and at least partially or preferably completely closed on one side facing away from the joining direction, in particular on one side facing the cavity. In particular, the receiving element is at least partially foamed onto the first side of the household appliance wall, at least in the pre-assembled state. In particular, the receiving element could advantageously be surrounded by the insulating material in the assembled state. In particular, the insulating material at least partially fixes the receiving element to the first side of the household appliance wall. Advantageously, the shape of the cup-shaped receiving element is adapted to the shape of the functional unit, in particular the insertion element.In the second step of the process, the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, could be inserted into the receiving element along the joining direction. Preferably, the insertion element is inserted into the receiving element in the assembled state. The receiving element could have at least the protrusion on, in particular, at least one side of the receiving element facing the cavity and / or the insulating material. In particular, the receiving element has the first locking element, in particular the first locking edge, and the second locking element, in particular the second locking edge. In the assembled state, the locking unit, in particular the first locking element and / or the second locking element, could snap the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, to the receiving element.

[0041] The receiving element could have at least one wing element. The wing element is arranged on a side of the receiving element facing the cavity. Preferably, the receiving element has at least a first and a second wing element, which are arranged at opposite positions on the side of the cup-shaped receiving element facing the cavity. The first and / or second wing element is provided for more efficient and / or simpler assembly of the backing unit, so that an installer could hold the backing unit by the first and / or second wing element and guide it through the opening in at least the first step of the process. In particular, the installer could use the first and / or second wing element to rotate the backing unit until the first and / or second fixing element fixes the backing unit to the second side of the household appliance wall.The first and / or second wing element could at least be arranged on the bulge of the receiving element.

[0042] The backing unit has at least one protective element to cover the opening. Particularly when the backing unit is foamed in place, the protective element could cover and / or protect the opening and / or the functional unit. The protective element could be arranged on the receiving element and be designed as a round shield that is at least partially curved. The protective element could project from the receiving element and be curved towards the first and / or second fixing element. In particular, in the assembled state, an edge of the protective element rests against the first side of the household appliance wall. Advantageously, the edge lies flush with the first side of the household appliance wall.

[0043] If the household appliance device has a positioning unit that positions the functional unit relative to the backing unit in at least one direction perpendicular to the joining direction, efficiency can be further optimized with regard to work efficiency. Using the positioning unit, an installer can clearly see how the functional unit and backing unit can be correctly connected to each other for secure fixation. Furthermore, incorrect assembly, in particular incorrect locking, of the functional unit to the backing unit can be avoided.

[0044] The positioning unit could have at least one groove on the functional unit and / or a guide element on the backing unit. Alternatively, and preferably, the positioning unit could have at least one groove on the backing unit and / or a guide element on the functional unit. In particular, the shape and / or extent of the groove is adapted to the shape and / or extent of the guide element. The guide element could be web-like and arranged on a side of the insertion element facing the receiving element. In particular, the receiving element has the groove. In the second process step, especially when inserting the functional unit into the backing unit, the guide element could be inserted into the groove and guided along the groove.Particularly in the assembled state, the guide element is positioned in the groove and the functional unit, especially the insertion element, is connected to the backing unit, especially the receiving element, along the direction perpendicular to the joining direction. Advantageously, in the assembled state, the functional unit, especially the insertion element, is connected to the backing unit, especially the receiving element, by means of the groove and the guide element in a rotationally and / or positively locking manner.

[0045] Furthermore, it is proposed that the positioning unit has a ramp, in particular a ramp, of the functional unit which, in the assembled state, rests against a counter-ramp of the backing unit. This allows for improved force-fit and / or form-fit fixing along the direction perpendicular to the joining direction, particularly with regard to the diameter of the functional unit.

[0046] In particular, the ramp is arranged on the insertion element. The ramp could be positioned at least partially, and preferably completely, around the entire circumference of the at least substantially round insertion element. The counter-running surface of the backing unit could be part of the receiving element. In the assembled state, the ramp could be at least partially, and preferably completely, flush with the counter-running surface and fix the functional unit, in particular the insertion element, to the backing unit, in particular the receiving element, along the direction perpendicular to the joining direction. In particular, the ramp has a clamping effect with the counter-running surface. In the assembled state, the ramp could clamp the functional unit to the backing unit.

[0047] In a further aspect, which could also be considered independently of the other aspects, it is proposed that the functional unit have at least one cover element to cover a fixing area of ​​the functional unit and / or the backing unit with the household appliance wall. This would advantageously protect the fixing area of ​​the functional unit and / or the backing unit from external influences. This would thus improve the safety of fixing the functional unit to the backing unit.

[0048] The cover element could be arranged on the functional unit such that, in the assembled state, it rests at least partially flush with at least the second side of the household appliance wall. In particular, the cover element covers the opening. The cover element could be a shield-like element that is curved on one side facing away from the insertion element. Specifically, the side of the cover element facing away from the insertion element faces the interior of the inner housing. Alternatively and / or additionally, the cover element could have at least one recess on one side facing the insertion element. Specifically, the shape, size, and / or extent of the recess is adapted to the first and / or second fixing element.In the assembled state, the recess receives the first and / or second fixing element at least partially, preferably completely, on the second side of the household appliance wall. Alternatively, the side of the cover element facing the insertion element could be completely hollowed out. In particular, in the assembled state, at least one edge of the cover element rests against the second side of the household appliance wall.

[0049] Furthermore, the invention is based on a modular system for assembling a household appliance device, in particular a household appliance, with at least one set of household appliance walls of different thicknesses, with a backing unit for fixing at least on a first side of one of the household appliance walls and with a functional unit for fixing at least on a second side of one of the household appliance walls.

[0050] It is proposed that the modular system incorporates a snap-fit ​​unit that connects the functional unit to the backing unit along a specific joining direction when assembled. This allows for advantageous high flexibility and / or improved efficiency in terms of labor and / or cost efficiency. In particular, inner housings with varying material thicknesses, and thus household appliance walls of different thicknesses, can be used without requiring any adjustments to the function or design of the household appliance, especially the functional unit and / or the backing unit. This can lead to a significant reduction in material and / or manufacturing costs.

[0051] A "set" of objects is understood to mean, in particular, a plurality of similar objects that exhibit various characteristic features, such as different sizes, thicknesses, materials, shapes, colors, or the like. Advantageously, the objects of a set can be combined with each other in several different ways and / or combined with objects of another set in several different ways, thereby forming a plurality of different, yet similarly combined objects, especially household appliances.

[0052] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method according to claim 11 for assembling a household appliance device, in particular a household refrigeration appliance device, with at least one backing unit which is fixed at least on a first side of a household appliance wall, and with at least one functional unit which is fixed at least on a second side of the household appliance wall, wherein the functional unit is connected to the backing unit.

[0053] It is proposed that the functional unit be snapped into place with the backing unit along a joining direction. Such an assembly method can advantageously increase product efficiency, labor efficiency, and / or cost efficiency, particularly by eliminating separate assembly steps, such as screwing the functional unit to the backing unit. This can also advantageously further reduce manufacturing effort, especially production time and / or manufacturing costs.

[0054] The household appliance device is not to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the household appliance device may, to fulfill a function described herein, have a different number of individual elements, components, and units than specified herein. Drawings

[0055] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently combine these features into meaningful further combinations according to the following claims.

[0056] They show: Fig. 1 A household appliance designed as a household refrigerator with a household appliance device in a perspective view, Fig. 2 An inner housing of the household appliance with the household appliance device in an assembled state, Fig. 3 A storage unit of the household appliance device in a side view, Fig. 4 The storage unit in a rear view, Fig. 5 The storage unit in a top view, Fig. 6 A functional unit of the household appliance device in a side view, Fig. 7 The functional unit in another side view, Fig. 8 The functional unit in a rear view, Fig. 9 The storage unit and the functional unit with an assembly direction of the functional unit, Fig. 10 The storage unit and the functional unit with the assembly direction of the functional unit in a sectional view, Fig. 11 A household appliance wall of the household appliance device with an opening, Fig.Fig. 12 the household appliance device in the assembled state with a locking unit, Fig. 13 the household appliance device in the assembled state in section, Fig. 14 view A of the household appliance device in the assembled state, Fig. 15 the sectioned view A with a first locking position of the locking unit, Fig. 16 the sectioned view A with a second locking position of the locking unit, Fig. 17 the household appliance device in the assembled state in a sectioned top view, Fig. 18 a schematically illustrated modular system for assembling the household appliance device and Fig. 19 a schematically illustrated method for assembling the household appliance device. Description of the exemplary embodiment

[0057] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a household appliance 10 designed as a household refrigeration appliance with a household appliance device 12 designed as a household refrigeration appliance device according to claim 1. The household appliance 10 has an outer housing 70. The outer housing 70 surrounds an inner housing 68 of the household appliance 10.

[0058] In the Figure 2 A section of the inner housing 68 is shown. The inner housing 68 at least partially defines an interior space 72 of the household appliance 10. In this exemplary embodiment, the inner housing 68 has a household appliance wall 20 of the household appliance device 12. The household appliance wall 20 has a first side 22 and a second side 24. The first side 22 is a side of the household appliance wall 20 facing away from the interior space 72. The second side 24 is a side of the household appliance wall 20 facing the interior space 72. Figure 2 shows an assembled state of the household appliance device 12.

[0059] The household appliance device 12 according to claim 1 comprises a support unit 16, which is fixed to at least the first side 22 of the household appliance wall 20. Furthermore, the household appliance device 12 comprises a functional unit 18, which is fixed to at least the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20. In the assembled state, the functional unit 18 is connected to the support unit 16. By means of a locking unit 26 comprising the household appliance device 12, the functional unit 18 is snap-fitted to the support unit 16 in the assembled state along a joining direction 28 of the functional unit 18 to the support unit 16 (see Figure 1). Figure 9 and 14 ). While the Figures 3 to 5 Detailed views of the storage unit 16 are shown in Figures 6 to 8, and detailed views of the functional unit 18 can be found in the figures. Furthermore, the figures show... Figures 9 and 10Further detailed views and an alignment of the storage unit 16 to the functional unit 18, as well as the joining direction 28 of the functional unit, are shown. Furthermore, the Figures 12 to 17 Various views and sections of the household appliance device 12 in the assembled state, wherein the Figure 11 A detailed view of an opening 74 in the household appliance wall 20 for mounting the storage unit 16 and the functional unit 18 can be seen.

[0060] The in Figure 3 The detailed view of the storage unit 16 shows that the storage unit 16 has at least one cup-shaped receiving element 56. The receiving element 56 defines a receiving area 54 of the storage unit 16. The receiving area 56 is shown by way of example only in Figures 3 and 12. In the assembled state, the functional unit 18 is at least partially inserted into the receiving area 54 (see Figure 3). Figure 12The receiving element 56 is designed to at least partially receive the functional unit 18 in its assembled state.

[0061] In this exemplary embodiment, the locking unit 26 has two counter-locking elements 38, 48 arranged on the backing unit 16. The backing unit 16 has a protrusion on each of the opposite sides of the cup-shaped receiving element 56, which defines a first counter-locking element 38 and a second counter-locking element 48. The first counter-locking element 38 and the second counter-locking element 48 are positioned on opposite sides of the cup-shaped receiving element 56 and are designed to lock the functional unit 18 to the backing unit 16. Here, the first counter-locking element 38 is designed as a first locking edge 42 and the second counter-locking element 48 as a second locking edge 52.

[0062] The mounting unit 16 has a first and a second wing element 76. The first and second wing elements 76 are identical to each other and are each arranged on one of the projections having the counter-locking elements 38, 48 and on the receiving element 56. By means of the first and second wing elements 76, the mounting unit 16 is held during assembly of the household appliance device 12 and guided through the opening 74 of the household appliance wall 20.

[0063] The household appliance device 12 has a positioning unit 58. The positioning unit 58 is designed to position the functional unit 18 in at least one direction 44 perpendicular to the insertion direction 28 of the functional unit 18 relative to the storage unit 16 (see figure). Figures 9 and 10In this exemplary embodiment, the positioning unit 58 has a first and second groove 78 in the support unit 16. The first and second grooves 78 are identical to each other and are arranged at opposite positions on the cup-shaped receiving element 56. The first and second grooves 78 extend completely along a main plane of extension of the receiving element 56 and are designed for correct and / or easy positioning of the functional unit 18 in the support unit 16 (see Figure 1). Figure 9 and 17 ). To facilitate the insertion of the functional unit 18 into the storage unit 16, the first and second grooves 78 have a funnel-shaped form at one end.

[0064] In an upper section 86 of the pot-shaped receiving element 56, the backing unit 16 has a rim 82. In this exemplary embodiment, a first and a second fixing element 80 of the backing unit 16 are arranged on the rim 82. The first and second fixing elements 80 are identical to each other and are therefore provided with the same reference numeral. The first and second fixing elements 80 are located on opposite sides of the rim 82. One edge 92 of the first and second fixing elements 80 is chamfered. The first and second fixing elements 80 form a bayonet fitting of the backing unit 16 and fix the backing unit 16 in the assembled state to the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 (see Figure 1). Figure 13 ).

[0065] The storage unit 16 has a protective element 84 in the upper part 86 of the cup-shaped receiving element 56. The protective element 84 is a round shield, at least partially curved, which projects from the receiving element 56 and is open towards the first and second fixing elements 80. The protective element 84 is arranged between the edge 82 and the first and second counter-locking elements 38, 48 along the main extension plane of the receiving element 56. In the assembled state, an edge 90 of the protective element 84 rests against the first side 22 of the household appliance wall 20 (see figure). Figure 12 and 13 ).

[0066] The positioning unit 58 has a counter-running surface 62 of the backing unit 16. The counter-running surface 62 is located in the upper part 86 of the cup-shaped receiving element 56. In the assembled state, the functional unit 18 lies flush against the counter-running surface 62 (see figure). Figure 13 and 15 ).

[0067] The Figure 4 Figure 1 shows a rear view of the backing unit 16 with a rear side 88 of the backing unit 16, which is completely closed. The exact positions of the first and second groove 78, the first locking unit 38, the second locking unit 48, and the first and second wing elements 76 are visible. The top view of the backing unit 16 is shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 Furthermore, it illustrates the arrangement of the first and second fixing element 80 to the first and second wing element 76 and the first and second groove 78.

[0068] The in the Figures 6 to 8The detailed views of the functional unit 18 shown here indicate that the functional unit 18 has at least one elongated insertion element 94. In the assembled state, the insertion element 94 is inserted into the receiving element 56, wherein the insertion element 94 is at least substantially adapted to the shape and size of the receiving element 56 and is at least substantially round (see Figure 1). Figure 13 , 15 and 16 For example, the Figures 7 and 8 It can be seen that the insertion element 94 is hollow in an inner area 95.

[0069] Corresponding to the first and second grooves 78, the positioning unit 58 has a first and second guide element 96 of the functional unit 18. The first and second guide elements 96 are arranged on the insertion element 94 and extend along a main extension plane of the insertion element 94. The first and second guide elements 96 are each provided for the correct positioning and / or insertion of the functional unit 18 into the storage unit 16. In this exemplary embodiment, the functional unit 18 has two identical guide elements 96, which are arranged on opposite sides of the insertion unit 94, corresponding to the first and second grooves 78. Figure 17 It can be seen that in the assembled state the first and second guide elements 96 are inserted into the first and second groove 78.

[0070] The view of functional unit 18 in Figure 7This clarifies that the positioning unit 58 has at least one ramp 60, specifically a ramp slope, of the functional unit 18. The ramp 60 is arranged around the circumference of the at least substantially round insertion element 94. In the assembled state, the ramp 60 rests against the counter ramp 62 and clamps the functional unit 18 with the backing unit 16 (see figure). Figure 13 ).

[0071] To cover a fixing area 66 of the functional unit 18 and / or the storage unit 16, which is exemplified in the Figure 13 and 15 As shown, the functional unit 18 has at least one cover element 64. The cover element 64 completely covers the opening 74 in the household appliance wall 20 and lies at least partially flush with the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 with a side 98 of the cover element 64 facing the insertion element 94 (see figure). Figure 13On the first side 22 of the household appliance wall 20, the protective element 84 covers the fixing area 66 and / or the opening 74. A side 99 of the cover element 64 facing away from the insertion element 94 is at least partially rounded. On the side 98 of the cover element 64 facing the insertion element 94, the cover element 64 has two recesses 100 corresponding to the first and second fixing elements 80. The recesses 100 are identical to each other and are positioned on opposite sides of the cover element 64 on the side 98 facing the insertion element 94. In the assembled state, the recess 100 at least partially receives the first and second fixing elements 80 (see figure). Figure 13 ).

[0072] The functional unit 18 has a functional element 102. The functional element 102 is arranged on the side 99 of the cover element 64 facing away from the insertion element 94. For stabilization, the functional element 102 has at least one—in this exemplary embodiment—three support elements 106 on an inner wall 104 of the functional element 102. The support elements 106 are identical to each other, so that only one of the support elements 106 is provided with a reference numeral.

[0073] The detent unit 26 has a first detent element 36 of the functional unit 18. The first detent element 36 corresponds to the first counter-detent element 38 and, together with the first counter-detent element 38, defines a first detent position 30 of the detent unit 26 (see figure). Figure 15 The first locking element 36 is designed as a first locking lug 40. In the assembled state in the first locking position 30, the first locking lug 40 rests against the first locking edge 42 (see figure). Figure 15 ).

[0074] The detent unit 26 has a second detent element 46 of the functional unit 18. The second detent element 46 corresponds to the second counter-detent element 48 and, together with the second counter-detent element 48, defines a second detent position 32 of the detent unit 26 (see figure). Figure 15 The second locking element 46 is designed as a second locking lug 50. In the assembled state in the second locking position 32, the second locking lug 50 rests against the second locking edge 52 (see figure). Figure 16 ).

[0075] The first locking element 36 and the second locking element 46 are at least partially movable along the direction 44 perpendicular to the joining direction 28 and can be pressed at least partially into the hollow inner area 95 of the insertion element 94.

[0076] The Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an arrangement of the functional unit 18 and the storage unit 16 relative to each other and show the joining direction 28 of the functional unit 18.

[0077] Along the joining direction 28, the functional unit 18 is inserted into the storage unit 16 in a method for assembling the household appliance device 12. The functional unit 18 is positioned relative to the storage unit 16 such that the first and second guide elements 96 can each be inserted into the corresponding first and second grooves 78 along the joining direction 28. The sectional view of the storage unit 16 and the functional unit 18 in the Figure 10 to illustrate that when the functional unit 18 is inserted into the storage unit 16 by means of the locking unit 26, the functional unit 18 can be locked to the storage unit 16.

[0078] The Figure 11Figure 1 shows the opening 74 in the household appliance wall 20, which is provided for connecting the functional unit 18 to the storage unit 16. The opening 74 is shown in a view of the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20. It is clearly recognizable that the shape and size of the opening 74 are adapted to the shape and size of the storage unit 16. Specifically, the opening 74 has a shape and size adapted to the first and second fixing elements 80.

[0079] In at least one initial process step 108 during the assembly of the household appliance device 12, the backing unit 16 is guided through the opening 74 and fixed to the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 by means of the first and second fixing elements 80. Here, the backing unit 16 is held by an assembler at the first and second wing elements 76 and rotated through the opening until the first and second fixing elements 80 are at least partially flush with the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20. In at least one pre-assembled state, the backing unit 16 is fixed to at least the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20 by means of the first and second fixing elements 80. To fix the backing unit 16 to the first side 22 of the household appliance wall 20, the receiving element 56 is foamed in place in the first process step 108.The protective element 84 protects the functional unit 18 and / or the interior 72 of the inner housing 68 from foaming in the foaming process.

[0080] In at least a second process step 110, the functional unit 18 is inserted into the storage unit 16 along the joining direction 28 with the insertion element 94 and locked into place. In the assembled state, the functional unit 18 is connected to the storage unit 16.

[0081] The Figures 12 to 17 illustrate the assembled state of the household appliance device 12. The Figure 13 is a cutaway view of the Figure 12 to be seen here. Figure 13that the first and second fixing elements 80 fix the backing unit 16 on the second side 24 of the household appliance wall 20. The cover element 64 covers the opening 74 and / or the fixing area 66 such that the first and second fixing elements 80 are arranged in the recesses 100 in the assembled state.

[0082] In the Figures 14 to 16 View A - closed and sectioned - of the assembled state of the household appliance device 12 is shown. Figure 12 shown. Figures 15 and 16 The first detent position 30 and the second detent position 32 are shown respectively. The first detent position 30 is located in front of the second detent position 32 with respect to the joining direction 28. In this exemplary embodiment, the first detent position 30 and the second detent position 32 are arranged one behind the other with respect to the joining direction 28 at a distance 34 of at most 1 mm.

[0083] The Figure 17Figure 12 shows the household appliance device 12 in its assembled state in a sectional top view, specifically from the rear 88 of the backing unit 16, and illustrates the connection of the functional unit 18 with the backing unit 16. In its assembled state, the functional unit 18 is at least partially flush with the backing unit 16.

[0084] Furthermore, the Figure 18A schematic modular system 14 for assembling the household appliance device 12. The modular system 14 comprises a set of household appliance walls 20 with different thicknesses. Furthermore, the modular system 14 comprises at least the previously described functional unit 18 and backing unit 16, which are designed for fixing to at least one of the sides 22, 24 of the household appliance wall 20. The modular system 14 includes the locking unit 26, by means of which the functional unit 18 can be snapped to the backing unit 16 and thus adapted to any household appliance wall 20 of the set of household appliance walls 20 (see Figure 1). Figure 2 ).

[0085] A in Figure 19The schematic flowchart of a method for assembling the household appliance device 12 shows the first process step 108 and the second process step 110. In this exemplary embodiment, the second process step 110 is carried out after the first process step 108 in terms of timing. Reference sign

[0086] 10 Appliance 12 Appliance mounting device 14 Modular system 16 Backing unit 18 Functional unit 20 Appliance wall 22 First side - first side of the appliance wall Rear wall 24 Second side - second side of the appliance wall Front inner wall 26 Locking unit 28 Insertion direction 30 First locking position 32 Second locking position 34 Spacing 36 First locking element 38 First counter-locking element 40 First locking lug 42 First locking edge 44 Direction 46 Second locking element 48 Second counter-locking element 50 Second locking lug 52 Second locking edge 54 Receiving area 56 Receiving element 58 Positioning unit 60 Run-up surface 62 Counter-run-up surface 64 Cover element 66 Fixing area 68 Inner housing 70 Outer housing 72 Interior 74 Opening 76 Wing element 78 Groove 80 Fixing element 82 Edge 84 Protective element 86 Upper section 88 Back 90 Edge 92 Edge 94 Insertion element 95 Inner area 96 Guide element 98 Side 99 Side 100 Recess 102 Functional element 104 Inner wall 106 Support element 108 First process step 110 SecondProcess step

Claims

1. Household appliance apparatus (12), in particular household refrigeration appliance apparatus, with at least one storing unit (16) for fixing at least to a first side (22) of a household appliance wall (20) and with at least one functional unit (18) for fixing at least to a second side (24) of the household appliance wall (20), wherein the functional unit (18) is connected to the storing unit (16) in an installed state, and with a latching unit (26), which connects the functional unit (18) to the storing unit (16) in a latching manner along a joining direction (28) in the installed state, wherein the latching unit (26) defines a first latching position (30) and at least one second latching position (32) lying behind the first latching position (30) in relation to the joining direction (28), wherein the latching unit (26) has at least one first latching element (36) of the functional unit (18) and at least one first mating latching element (38), which corresponds to the first latching element (36), of the storing unit (16), these defining the first latching position (30), wherein the latching unit (26) has at least one second latching element (46) of the functional unit (18) and at least one second mating latching element (48), which corresponds to the second latching element (46), of the storing unit (16), these defining the second latching position (32), and wherein in the installed state the first latching element (36) connects the functional unit (18) to the storing unit (16) in the first latching position (30) in a latching manner by means of the first mating latching element (38), or alternatively, in the installed state the second latching element (46) connects the functional unit (18) to the storing unit (16) in the second latching position (32) in a latching manner by means of the second mating latching element (48).

2. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to claim 1, characterised in that the first latching position (30) and the second latching position (32) are arranged at a distance (34) of at most 1 mm behind each other in relation to the joining direction (28).

3. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first latching element (36) is embodied as a first latching lug (40) and the first mating latching element (38) is embodied as a corresponding first latching edge (42).

4. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second latching element (46) is embodied as a second latching lug (50) and the second mating latching element (48) is embodied as a corresponding second latching edge (52).

5. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the storing unit (16) has at least one receiving region (54), in which the functional unit (18) is at least partially inserted in the installed state.

6. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to claim 5, characterised in that the storing unit (16) has at least one pot-like receiving element (56), which defines the receiving region (54).

7. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised by a positioning unit (58), which positions the functional unit (18) in at least one direction (44), relative to the storing unit (16), which is perpendicular to the joining direction (28).

8. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to claim 7, characterised in that the positioning unit (58) has a rising area (60), in particular a rising slope, of the functional unit (18), which rests against a mating rising area (62) of the storing unit (16) in the installed state.

9. Household appliance apparatus (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the functional unit (18) has at least one cover element (64) for covering a fixing region (66) of the functional unit (18) and / or the storing unit (16) to the household appliance wall (20).

10. Household appliance (10), in particular household refrigeration appliance, with a household appliance apparatus (12) according to one of the preceding claims.

11. Method for installing a household appliance apparatus (12), in particular a household refrigeration appliance apparatus, according to one of claims 1 to 9, with at least one storing unit (18), which is fixed at least on a first side (22) of a household appliance wall (20), and with at least one functional unit (18), which is fixed at least on a second side (24) of the household appliance wall (20), wherein the functional unit (18) is connected to the storing unit (16), wherein the functional unit (18) is latched to the storing unit (16) along a joining direction (28), by the first latching element (36) connecting the functional unit (18) to the storing unit (16) in the first latching position (30) in a latching manner by means of the first mating latching element (38), or alternatively, the second latching element (46) connecting the functional unit (18) to the storing unit (16) in the second latching position (32) in a latching manner by means of the second mating latching element (48).

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