Fume hood device, downdraft fan, and method of maintenance

Abstract

A vapor screen device (1) for use in a downdraft fan comprises an intake section (2) with an intake opening (3) and a flat filter device (4), wherein the intake section (2) is bounded by a front wall (5) and a rear wall (6). The filter device (4) is arranged at an angle to the flow cross-section of the intake section (2). A downdraft fan (100) according to the invention comprises a blower device and a vapor screen device (1) according to the invention.In the method for maintaining a vapor screen device (1) or a downdraft fan (100) according to the invention, the following steps are carried out in a suitable number and sequence: Opening the vapor screen device (1) by partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall (5) of the intake section (2) into the open position (12); removing and / or inserting the filter device (4); closing the vapor screen device (1) by partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall (4) of the intake section (2) into the closed position (13).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a vapor screen device, particularly for use in a downdraft fan, comprising at least one intake section with at least one intake opening and at least one planar filter device, wherein the intake section is bounded by at least one front wall and at least one rear wall. The present invention further relates to a downdraft fan and a method for maintaining a vapor screen device and / or a downdraft fan.

[0002] Extractor hoods and / or downdraft fans are often installed above or around a cooktop to extract the greasy fumes rising during cooking, thus preventing soiling of kitchen elements and unpleasant odors, as described in European Publication EP 2256418 A2. Typically, the greasy fumes and air rising from the cooktop are drawn into an intake section by at least one fan, filtered of grease and odors, and then, depending on the design of the extractor hood or downdraft fan, vented in either recirculation or exhaust mode.

[0003] Downdraft extractors or table extractors are cooking ventilation devices whose intake opening is typically integrated almost flush with a worktop and / or cooktop. They draw in the greasy cooking fumes rising from the cooktop, remove grease particles and odors, and then direct them downwards, especially under the worktop or cooktop, to a fan. Downdraft extractors or table extractors are used when there is no installation space above the cooktop or when aesthetic considerations preclude such an installation. One or more downdraft extractors or table extractors can also be arranged around a cooktop or integrated into it.

[0004] Similar to a downdraft extractor or a countertop extractor, a downdraft extractor has its fan positioned below the worktop, directing cooking fumes downwards and away from the cooktop. However, a downdraft extractor features a movable fume shield and / or other fume guide elements, allowing the intake opening to be positioned above the cooktop when the extractor is in operation. This slightly elevated position above the cooktop improves the capture and / or collection of fumes and / or air. When not in use, these fume shields can be retracted beneath the worktop or cooktop, concealing them from view.

[0005] Documents EP 2554918 A1 and EP 2554917 B1 and EP 3453976 A1 and US 2016 / 091211 A1 disclose generic downdraft fans.

[0006] Downdraft extractor hoods should not only enable effective and powerful extraction of cooking fumes, but also, especially due to the limited installation space next to a cooktop, be designed to be particularly space-saving. However, this often leads to difficulties. A space-saving design for a downdraft hood usually necessitates a reduction in filter size or surface area, which can then often result in inadequate cleaning or filtration of grease, moisture, and odors from the extracted fumes. Furthermore, the filters, especially those of space-saving downdraft hoods, frequently become clogged, which can significantly reduce the extraction performance of the downdraft extractor. To prevent a drop in performance, the filters then often have to be cleaned and / or replaced frequently, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome.

[0007] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a vapor screen device which enables improved handling of the filter device.

[0008] This problem is solved by the vapor screen device with the features of claim 1, by a downdraft fan with the features of claim 10 and a method with the features of claim 12.

[0009] Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments.

[0010] The vapor screen device according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in a downdraft fan and comprises at least one intake section with at least one intake opening and at least one planar filter device, wherein the intake section is bounded by at least one front wall and at least one rear wall. The filter device is arranged at an angle to the flow cross-section of the intake section.

[0011] Preferably, the filter device is arranged obliquely in the intake section between the front wall and the rear wall. "Obliquely" here refers specifically to not being vertical and especially not horizontal.

[0012] The intake section forms in particular an intake channel, which is preferably capable of being flowed through by air and / or vapors.

[0013] In suitable further developments, the intake section comprises at least two lateral walls that connect the front wall and the rear wall. The front wall is, in particular, the wall facing a cooktop and / or a user.

[0014] In advantageous further developments, the intake section includes at least one upper wall which closes off or limits the intake section at the top.

[0015] The flow cross-section is, in particular, a surface normal or perpendicular to the flow direction of the aspirated vapors. Preferably, the flow cross-section is provided by a largely horizontal plane, through which, in particular, vapors or air drawn in downwards through the intake opening flow. Preferably, the downward flow of vapors or air is generated by means of a blower device.

[0016] The filter device is in particular a grease filter. Preferably, however, the filter device can also include further filters such as at least one odor filter 16, at least one moisture absorber or the like.

[0017] Preferably, in addition to the filter system, the vapor screen device includes further filters such as odor filters, moisture absorbers or similar.

[0018] In suitable further developments, the intake section has a width-to-depth ratio of particularly less than 20, preferably less than 15, most preferably less than 10, most preferably less than 8, preferably 5 and at most 3.

[0019] The width is determined in particular by the length of the front wall and / or back wall.

[0020] The depth is determined in particular by the distance between the front wall and the back wall.

[0021] Preferably, the intake section has a width-to-height ratio of, in particular, less than 15, preferably less than 10, most preferably less than 8, most preferably less than 5, more preferably 3 and at most 1.5.

[0022] The vapor screen device according to the invention has many advantages. A significant advantage is that the filter device in the intake section is arranged at an angle to the flow cross-section of the intake section. This allows large and even very large, flat filter devices to be arranged in the intake section of the vapor screen device, thus providing a particularly large filter area for filtering the aspirated vapor or air. This results in a particularly good filtering effect and / or particularly effective filtration of the aspirated vapor and / or air by the vapor screen device according to the invention.

[0023] Furthermore, due to the large filter surface area achieved through the angled arrangement and the resulting particularly effective filtration of the fumes, the filter unit can be designed to be relatively narrow or thin. This is especially advantageous because the flow velocity and / or the suction power provided by a blower are largely unaffected or only minimally reduced. This makes the fume screen system particularly efficient and, in particular, energy-saving.

[0024] Furthermore, the angled arrangement of the filter device relative to the flow cross-section provides a large surface area, particularly in front of the filter device, where moisture such as grease and / or water from the steam can condense before the aspirated steam reaches the filter device. This separates a considerable portion of the grease and / or water from the steam before it even passes through the filter device. This significantly reduces the load on the filter device and considerably extends the intervals at which the filter device needs to be replaced, cleaned, or maintained. Therefore, the steam screen device according to the invention is particularly user-friendly.

[0025] Furthermore, the angled arrangement of the filter assembly in the intake section allows for particularly easy and quick removal or replacement of the filter assembly. This also makes the vapor screen device according to the invention particularly user-friendly.

[0026] According to the invention, the filter device is arranged in the intake section sloping downwards from the front wall to the rear wall.

[0027] Preferably, the filter device divides the volume or space enclosed by the intake section into a largely front-walled and a largely rear-walled volume or space.

[0028] In advantageous further developments, the filter device is arranged obliquely from top / front to bottom / back in the intake section between the front wall and the rear wall.

[0029] In suitable further developments, an upper edge of the filter device is arranged closer to the front wall than to the rear wall and a lower edge of the filter device is arranged closer to the rear wall than to the front wall in the intake section.

[0030] According to the invention, the filter device is held at least on one side, at least sectionally, by at least one retaining element.

[0031] In a vapor screen assembly for a downdraft extractor hood, the vapor screen assembly, and with it the filter assembly, is movable relative to a worktop in the operating state, particularly perpendicularly and / or translationally to the worktop. To facilitate removal of the filter assembly, the filter assembly, together with the vapor screen assembly, is movable from a rest position to an operating position. In the rest position, the vapor screen assembly and the filter assembly are positioned at least three-quarters below the surface of the worktop. In the operating position, the vapor screen assembly and the filter assembly are positioned at least half above the surface of the worktop.

[0032] Preferably, the filter device is held in a removable position at least on one side, at least in sections, by at least one retaining element.

[0033] Preferably, the filter device is held at least partially on its lower side by at least one retaining element so that it can be removed.

[0034] In advantageous embodiments, the retaining element is at least partially shaped essentially in a U-shape. Preferably, however, the retaining element can also be shaped in any other way, in particular in a V-shape.

[0035] In suitable further developments, the filter device is held removable at least on its lower side, at least section by at least one holding element that is at least sectionally U-shaped.

[0036] Preferably, the filter device is held at least partially on the upper and lower sides by at least one retaining element each.

[0037] According to the invention, the at least one retaining element, which holds the filter device at least partially at least on the lower side, is received on the front wall, in particular in the lower section of the front wall.

[0038] Preferably, the retaining element is located in the lower third, more preferably in the lower quarter, and particularly preferably in the lower fifth, advantageously above the pivot axis of the front wall. Depending on the application and design, the retaining element can be attached to the front wall, in particular by screwing, riveting, gluing, and / or hooking.

[0039] Preferably, the at least one retaining element, which holds the filter device at least partially on the lower side, is essentially U-shaped at least partially.

[0040] Preferably, the retaining element, which holds the filter device at least partially on the lower side, can be designed at least partially in a U-shape, in particular a V-shape or a similar shape.

[0041] In advantageous further developments, the filter device is held removable at least on its lower side, at least section by at least one holding element which is at least sectionally U-shaped.

[0042] In suitable further developments, the lower side of the filter device is at least partially arranged or received in the U-shaped section of the retaining element.

[0043] Preferably, the retaining element, which is at least partially U-shaped and holds the filter device at least partially on the lower side, comprises at least one recess.

[0044] Preferably, the recess of the retaining element, which is particularly U-shaped, is suitable and designed to be penetrated by grease or water.

[0045] Particularly preferred is the at least one retaining element, which holds the filter device at least partially on the upper side, being received on the front wall, in particular in the upper section of the front wall.

[0046] Preferably, the retaining element is located in the upper third, more preferably in the upper quarter, and particularly preferably in the upper fifth, but expediently below the intake opening. Depending on the application and design, the retaining element can be attached to the front wall, in particular by screwing, riveting, gluing, and / or hooking.

[0047] Depending on the task and design, at least one retaining element can also be mounted on the filter device, in particular in the upper section and / or preferably on the upper side or edge of the filter device.

[0048] Preferably, at least one retaining element is provided in the upper section of the front wall and another retaining element in the upper section of the filter assembly. Preferably, the two retaining elements are provided by, for example, a hook and eye, a magnet and a magnetizable element, or a preloading device and a suitable recess, so that the filter assembly, particularly in its upper section, is removably held or attached to the front wall.

[0049] One aspect is that the retaining element is located on the front wall, and the front wall, together with the retaining element of the vapor screen, is designed to be removable; in particular, the front wall is removable in the open position. This allows for easier cleaning of the front wall and the retaining element.

[0050] In advantageous further developments, the intake section includes at least one condensation element.

[0051] Preferably, the condensation element is enclosed by the inside of the back wall and / or received on the back wall and / or is formed at least section by the back wall.

[0052] The condensation element is formed or provided in particular by a metal sheet or a metal plate.

[0053] Preferably, the vapor drawn into the intake section through the intake opening is guided past the condensation element, so that in particular grease and / or water condense on the surface of the condensation element and thus form a condensate which is extracted from the vapor flowing through the intake section.

[0054] Preferably, the condensation element comprises, in particular in the upper section, at least one largely light-transparent section.

[0055] In appropriate further developments, the condensation element is curved at least section by section.

[0056] Preferably, the curved section of the condensation element connects the intake opening to the rear wall of the intake section.

[0057] Preferably, the intake section includes at least one collection device.

[0058] A collection device is in particular a substantially U-shaped tray or drain through which condensate and / or liquid filtered by means of the filter device, such as in particular grease and / or water, is collected and / or preferably drained away.

[0059] The condensate is, in particular, grease and / or water, which condenses on the surface of the condensation element and / or on the filter device.

[0060] Preferably, the collection device is mounted on the rear wall in a way that allows it to be removed at least in sections.

[0061] Preferably, the collection device for removal includes a handle, a grip and / or similar.

[0062] It is particularly preferred that the filter device be held at least partially above the collection device.

[0063] Preferably, the filter device is held at least sectionally by at least one retaining element, in particular by the lower retaining element above the collection device.

[0064] In appropriate further training, at least one holding element keeps at least the lower end of the filter device at least sectionally above the collection device.

[0065] In advantageous further developments, the at least one holding element holds the filter device at least section by section in such a way that liquid and / or condensate separated from the vapor by means of the filter device is drained into the collection device.

[0066] Preferably, the at least one retaining element holds at least the lower end of the filter device sectionally above the collection device in such a way that grease and / or water, which condenses on the condensation element and / or is filtered from the vapor by means of the filter device, is collected in the collection device.

[0067] Preferably, the collection device is suitable and designed to collect liquids separated from the steam, in particular grease and / or water.

[0068] In this context, a separated liquid is, in particular, liquid that has condensed on the condensation element and / or been filtered through the filter device.

[0069] Preferably, the at least one collection device is suitable and designed to collect grease and / or water which condenses on the condensation element and / or is filtered from the vapor by means of the filter device.

[0070] Particularly preferably, liquid separated from the vapor drips or flows from the condensation element and / or the filter device and / or the condensation guide into the collection device.

[0071] Preferably, at least one retaining element includes at least one condensation guide.

[0072] Preferably, the at least one retaining element, which holds the filter device at least partially at least on the lower side, comprises at least one condensation guide.

[0073] The at least one retaining element is particularly preferably designed as a condensation guide.

[0074] In appropriate further training, the condensation system is suitable and designed to direct liquid and / or condensate separated from the vapor from the front wall into the collection device.

[0075] According to the invention, the front wall is pivotably mounted, at least in sections. "Pivotally mounted" is to be understood as also being foldable.

[0076] Preferably, the front wall is pivotably mounted at least in sections about at least one pivot axis.

[0077] Preferably, the front wall is mounted to pivot about at least one horizontal pivot axis, at least in sections.

[0078] It is particularly preferred that at least one pivot axis be arranged in the lower section of the front wall.

[0079] Depending on the task and design, the front wall can also preferably be pivotably mounted at least partially on at least one of its lateral edges or sides about at least one, in particular vertical, pivot axis.

[0080] In appropriate further developments, the front wall is at least sectionally pivotable and / or movable between a largely open position and a largely closed position.

[0081] According to the invention, the filter unit is pivotably mounted on the front wall relative to the worktop or the rear wall of the vapor screen unit. This allows the filter unit to be positioned closer to the operator, making it easier to remove and insert from the vapor screen unit.

[0082] Preferably, the filter assembly is displaceable about the same pivot axis as the front wall of the vapor screen assembly. In particular, it is provided that the filter assembly and the front wall are designed such that they can pivot together.

[0083] In particular, it has proven advantageous to position the upper edge of the filter assembly closer to the front wall than to the rear wall, and the lower edge of the filter assembly closer to the rear wall than to the front wall in the intake section. This allows for a particularly large opening angle of the front wall and / or filter assembly and facilitates the removal and insertion of the filter assembly.

[0084] The largely closed position is in particular a position in which the interior of the intake section is largely inaccessible to a user or the front wall is arranged largely parallel to the rear wall.

[0085] The largely open position is in particular a position in which the interior of the intake section is at least partially accessible to a user, or the front wall is at least partially tilted forward or away from the rear wall.

[0086] In particular, when the device is largely open, at least sections of the front and rear walls are not parallel to each other. Depending on the application and design, the front wall may preferably be arranged horizontally in sections when the device is largely open. It is also preferred that, when the device is largely open, a user can remove at least the filter assembly and / or at least the collection device from the intake section. Furthermore, the removal of additional filter components, such as odor filters, which are located particularly in the lower section of the intake section, is preferably possible when the device is largely open.

[0087] Preferably, the filter device can be removed from the intake section when the front wall is in a largely open position.

[0088] Preferably, the filter device can be removed for cleaning, replacement and / or maintenance of the vapor screen device when the front wall is largely open.

[0089] The front wall is preferably held in the largely closed position by at least one coupling device.

[0090] The coupling device is in particular a magnetic and / or a mechanical coupling device.

[0091] In advantageous further developments, the coupling device comprises at least two coupling elements such as a magnet and a magnetizable metal and / or a hook and an eyelet.

[0092] Preferably, at least one coupling element is located on the front wall and at least one further coupling element is located on the rear wall. Depending on the application and design, however, at least one coupling element can also be located on the filter assembly.

[0093] In appropriate further training, the intake section includes at least one lighting device.

[0094] Preferably, the lighting device is located in the upper section, particularly at the upper end of the intake section. This allows the lighting device to illuminate the cooktop area in front of the vapor shield when the front panel is closed, and when the front panel is open, to shine into the vapor shield assembly, or at least onto the filter assembly, thus facilitating the removal and insertion of the filter assembly.

[0095] Preferably, the lighting device includes at least one LED or other suitable light source.

[0096] In appropriate further training, the intake section includes at least one control element for operating the lighting device.

[0097] In advantageous further developments, the lighting device is at least partially enclosed or contained by the condensing element. In particular, a transparent section of the lighting device is enclosed by the condensing element.

[0098] The downdraft fan according to the invention comprises at least one blower device and at least one vapor screen device as previously described.

[0099] Preferably, the downdraft fan includes at least one air guide.

[0100] Airflow is preferably provided by at least one housing of the downdraft fan.

[0101] In advantageous further developments, the blower device is integrated in operative connection to the intake opening of the intake section.

[0102] Preferably, the downdraft fan draws the vapors or steam rising above a cooktop downwards, in particular under the worktop towards the fan unit.

[0103] Preferably, the downdraft fan draws the vapors or steam rising above a cooktop unit downwards through the intake opening of the vapor screen unit, in particular under the worktop towards the blower unit.

[0104] In appropriate training courses, the downdraft fan is integrated at least partially into the installation surface of a cooktop unit and / or a worktop.

[0105] The downdraft fan according to the invention also exhibits the advantages of the vapor screen device according to the invention. In particular, the blower device enables the intake of greasy vapors and / or air into the vapor screen device according to the invention, whereby the inclined arrangement of the filter device in the intake section enables particularly space-saving and, at the same time, effective filtration of the vapors due to the large surface area of ​​the filter device, without significantly impairing the suction performance of the blower device.

[0106] Preferably, the vapor screen device of the downdraft fan is designed or mounted in a movable manner.

[0107] It is particularly preferred that the vapor screen device be movable at least in sections within the airflow.

[0108] Preferably, the vapor screen device is movable, at least partially, above the worktop. In particular, the vapor screen device is movable from a rest position, in which it is largely enclosed within the housing of the downdraft fan, to an operating position, in which it is arranged, at least partially, above the worktop.

[0109] Preferably, the vapor screen device is movable at least in sections above the worktop in such a way that the front wall can be pivoted into the open position.

[0110] In suitable further developments, the vapor screen device can also be designed to be fixed or non-movable. In such a design, the vapor screen device is positioned at least partially above the worktop in such a way that the front panel can be pivoted into the open position.

[0111] The method according to the invention is suitable for the maintenance of a vapor screen device and / or a downdraft fan as previously described. The following steps are carried out in a suitable number and sequence: opening the vapor screen device by at least partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall of the intake section into the open position; removing and / or inserting the at least one filter device; closing the vapor screen device by at least partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall of the intake section into the closed position.

[0112] One aspect is that the filter assembly or its holding device is moved and / or pivoted, at least partially, into an open position, either simultaneously with or following the movement and / or pivoting of the front wall of the intake section into the open position. Moving and / or pivoting the filter assembly or its holding device facilitates the removal of a filter element from the vapor screen assembly or the installation of a filter element within the vapor screen assembly.

[0113] In particular, the filter assembly or its mounting device is pivoted about an axis that is identical to, or at least parallel to, the axis about which the front wall of the intake section is pivoted into the open position. This allows for more spacious and therefore easier access to the filter assembly.

[0114] According to one aspect, the front wall is pivotable and / or displaceable at least in sections between a largely open position and a largely closed position, whereby the filter device can be removed from the intake section when the front wall is in an open position.

[0115] A further aspect is that the filter device or the holding device is pivotable and / or movable, at least section by section, between a removal position and an operating position, independently of or together with the front wall.

[0116] Preferably, the vapor screen is opened by at least partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall of the intake section from the closed position to the open position. Preferably, the filter assembly is removed and cleaned or replaced by a user. In particular, a cleaned or new filter assembly can also be inserted by a user. Most preferably, the vapor screen is closed by at least partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall of the intake section from the open position to the closed position.

[0117] The method also exhibits the advantages of the vapor screen device and the downdraft fan according to the invention. In particular, the method enables particularly user-friendly maintenance, i.e., particularly user-friendly removal and / or replacement of a particularly effective and space-saving filter device of a vapor screen device and / or a downdraft fan.

[0118] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments, which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0119] The figures show: Figure 1 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a downdraft fan according to the invention with a vapor screen device according to the invention in a front view; Figure 2 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a vapor screen device according to the invention in a perspective view; Figure 3 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a vapor screen device according to the invention with the front wall in the closed position in a sectional side view; Figure 4 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a vapor screen device according to the invention with the front wall in the open position in a sectional side view;Figure 5 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of an upper section of a filter device mounted on the front wall of a vapor screen device according to the invention in the open position in a sectional view from the side; Figure 6 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a lower section of a filter device mounted on the front wall of a vapor screen device according to the invention in the open position in a sectional view from the side; Figure 7 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a lower section of a filter device mounted on the front wall and a collection device of a vapor screen device according to the invention in the closed position in a sectional view from the side;Figure 8 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of a lower section of a filter device mounted on the front wall and a collection device of a vapor screen device according to the invention in the open position in a sectional view from the side; and Figure 9 is a purely schematic representation of an embodiment of an upper section of an intake section in a sectional view from the side.

[0120] In the Figure 1 The figure shown is a purely schematic embodiment of a downdraft fan 100 according to the invention with a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention in a front view.

[0121] The downdraft extractor 100 is integrated into a furniture carcass 300 with a front panel 301 and is partially incorporated into a recess 201 in a worktop 200 of a kitchen unit, which is arranged on the furniture carcass 300. The downdraft extractor 300 is positioned such that the vapor shield 1 behind a cooktop 250 or a cooktop can be moved out of the worktop 200 into a position projecting above the worktop 200.

[0122] Such an arrangement allows the extraction of vapors rising above the cooktop unit 250 into the intake opening 3 of the vapor screen unit 1 by a blower unit 101, which is enclosed here below the worktop 200 by the downdraft fan 100. Depending on the task and design, the downdraft fan 100 and / or the vapor screen unit 1 can also be arranged in a different position, e.g. next to the cooktop unit 250, and / or be fixed, i.e., not movable.

[0123] In the Figure 2 A purely schematic embodiment of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention is shown in a perspective view. For a clearer illustration of the interior of the intake section 2, the vapor screen device 1 is shown here without a front wall 5 and without a flat filter device 4.

[0124] The intake section 2 is formed by a rear wall 6, two side walls 17, and a top wall 18. A condensation element 9, made of sheet metal, is mounted on the rear wall. Moisture, such as grease and / or water, from the warm or hot vapors drawn into the intake section 2 can condense on this condensation element 9 before the vapors reach the filter assembly 4 (not shown in detail here).

[0125] In the embodiment shown here, two odor filters 16 are arranged in the lower section of the intake section 2. The odor filters 16 can be removed from the intake section 2 of the vapor screen device 1 for maintenance and / or replacement by means of two handles attached to the odor filters.

[0126] In the upper section of the intake section 2, a lighting device 15 is installed, and the upper wall 18 has a control element 19 for operating the vapor screen device 1. The control element 19 can control the lighting device 15 and the repositioning of the vapor screen device 1. Depending on the task and design, the suction power of the downdraft fan 100 can also be adjusted via the control element 19 shown here.

[0127] In Figure 3 The figure shown is a purely schematic embodiment of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention, which is integrated into a worktop 200 of a kitchen unit, shown in a sectional view from the side.

[0128] The vapor screen device 1 comprises an intake section 2 with intake opening 3, a flat filter device 4, a collection device 10, a condensation element 9, a coupling device, a lighting device 15 and an odor filter 16.

[0129] In the embodiment shown here, the intake section 2 or intake duct is formed by a front wall 5, a rear wall 6, a top wall 18 and two side walls 17. An intake opening 3 is recessed in the upper section of the front wall 5, through which, as schematically indicated by arrows, steam and / or air from a cooktop or cooktop unit 250 and / or cookware placed on it is drawn into the intake section 2 and discharged downwards, in particular downwards under a worktop 200 of a kitchen unit.

[0130] The filter assembly 4 is arranged at an angle to the flow cross-section of the aspirated vapor in the intake section 2. The flat filter assembly 4 is mounted in a removable manner, sloping downwards from the upper section of the front wall 5 to the lower section of the rear wall 6.

[0131] The filter assembly 4 is held here by two retaining elements 7, 8 at its upper and lower edges or sides. The lower retaining element 7 holds the filter assembly 4 in such a way that the lower end of the filter assembly 4, or its lower edge and / or side, is positioned above the collection device 10.

[0132] A condensation element 9, curved in its upper section, is mounted on the rear wall 6 and the upper wall 18 of the intake section 2. In the embodiment shown here, the condensation element 9 is designed to be at least partially transparent in its upper section near the intake opening 3, so that the light provided by the lighting device 15 can illuminate a cooktop device 250 arranged in front of the vapor screen device 1.

[0133] The coupling device 14, which holds the front wall 5 in the closed position 13, is designed here as a magnetic connection. The coupling device 14 comprises two coupling elements 14a and 14b, one of which is a magnet and the other a magnetizable element. One coupling element 14a is attached to the condensation element 9, and the other coupling element 14b is attached to the filter device 4, which is held on the front wall 5 by means of the retaining elements 7 and 8. Depending on the application and design, the coupling device 9 can also be designed as a mechanical coupling device 14 or connecting device, e.g., by means of a hook and eye or similar. It is also possible for one coupling element 14a or 14b to be held by the rear wall 6 and / or the front wall 5.

[0134] The odor filter 16 is shown here in the lower section of the vapor screen device 1 below the filter device 4.

[0135] In the embodiment shown here, the direction of flow of the aspirated vapor is schematically indicated by the arrows. The warm or hot vapor drawn into the intake section 2 through the intake opening 3 strikes or impacts the upper section of the condensation element 9, which is made here from a metal sheet.

[0136] Due to the largely cool surface of such a condensation element 9, moisture such as water and / or grease condenses here, which then, as schematically indicated by spheres, runs down the surface of the condensation element 9 as liquid droplets and / or a liquid film and is collected by the collecting device 10. Thus, a considerable portion of the grease and / or water is already separated from the vapor before the vapor reaches or flows through the filter device 4.

[0137] The design of a vapor screen device 1 shown here therefore significantly relieves the filter device 4 and considerably reduces the maintenance effort or the required maintenance frequency of the vapor screen device 1.

[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the vapor also flows partially past sections of the condensation element 9 located deeper within the intake section 2, thereby separating further moisture and / or contaminants such as soot particles from the vapor before it encounters the filter device 4, which is arranged at an angle to the flow cross-section in the intake section 2. As schematically indicated by the arrows, the vapor or air flows through the flat filter device. Due to its angled arrangement, the filter device 4 provides a particularly large filter area in a very space-saving manner, i.e., with a small horizontal extent of the side walls 17 of the intake section 2, thus effectively removing grease and / or other contaminants from the vapor.

[0139] The grease and / or other liquid filtered out by the filter assembly 4 largely flows to the lower end of the filter assembly 4, which is held by the lower retaining element 7. From here, the separated grease and / or other filtered liquid drips into the collection device 10.

[0140] In the embodiment shown here, the vapor, filtered after passing through the filter unit 4, partially strikes the front wall, where further moisture condenses and is drained via a condensation channel 11 to the collection unit 10. The filtered vapor then passes through the odor filter 16 in the lower section of the vapor screen unit 1 and is extracted downwards, i.e., under the worktop 200, where the filtered vapor, largely free of grease, moisture, and odors, can be supplied to a recirculating and / or exhaust air system.

[0141] In Figure 4 A further embodiment of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention is shown schematically in a sectional view from the side.

[0142] As in Figure 3 also includes in Figure 4 the vapor screen device 1 includes an intake section 2 with intake opening 3, a flat filter device 4, a collection device 10, a condensation element 9, a coupling device 14, a lighting device 15 and an odor filter 16.

[0143] Unlike the one in Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling elements 14a, 14b of the coupling device 14 are separated and the front wall 5 of the intake section 2 is moved into a largely open position 12 or pivoted about the pivot axis 20.

[0144] The largely open position 12 of the front wall 5 shown here enables, according to the inventive method, the maintenance of a vapor screen device 1 and / or a downdraft fan 100.

[0145] After the front wall has been moved into a largely open position 12 as shown here, the filter assembly 4 is removed from the retaining elements 7, 8 and the intake section 2 for processing or cleaning. The collection device 10, which is removable from the rear wall 6, can also be removed from the intake section 2 and emptied.

[0146] Depending on the task and design, it is also possible that the emptying of the collection device 10 is carried out in a different way, e.g. via a drain arranged laterally on the suction section 2.

[0147] After cleaning and / or replacing the filter assembly 4, the filter assembly 4 or a new filter assembly 4, as shown here, can be reinserted into the retaining elements 7, 8 and the front wall 5 into the Figure 3 The closed position 13 shown is moved or pivoted.

[0148] In Figure 5 The figure shown is a purely schematic embodiment of an upper section of a filter device 4 of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention, mounted on the front wall 5, in a sectional view from the side.

[0149] The filter assembly 4 is held at its upper side by a retaining element 8, which is located in the upper section of the front wall. The retaining element 8 is provided by a recess or depression in a sheet metal part, into which a spring-loaded pin, located in the upper section of the filter assembly 4, can engage or be guided. Depending on the application and design, the retaining element 8 can also be provided by a magnet, which is in or can be brought into contact with a magnetizable element attached to the filter assembly 4.

[0150] As in Figure 4Here too, the front wall 5 of the vapor screen device 1 is in a largely open position 12. Thus, in the embodiment shown here, a user can release the retaining element 8 and remove the flat filter device 4 from the intake section 2. Depending on the application and design, the front wall 5 can also be moved to a wider open position, i.e., e.g., a largely horizontal position.

[0151] In Figure 6 The figure shows a purely schematic embodiment of a lower section of a filter device 4 of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention, mounted on the front wall 5, in a sectional view from the side. The filter device 4 is held at its lower side by a retaining element 7, which is mounted in the lower section of the front wall 5.

[0152] The retaining element 7 here comprises a U-shaped end in which the filter assembly 4 is received. Thus, the U-shaped end holds the filter assembly 4.

[0153] As already in Figure 5 In the embodiment shown here, the front wall 5 is in a largely open position 12, in which a user can remove the filter device 4 from the intake section 2 for maintenance and reinsert it according to the method according to the invention.

[0154] The U-shaped end has several openings 21 and / or holes or recesses through which, in a largely closed position 13 of the front wall 5, grease and / or moisture filtered from the steam is directed into the collection device 10 arranged below or can drip off.

[0155] In the embodiment shown here, the retaining element 7 also provides a condensation guide 11, through which liquid condensed on the front wall 5 and / or in the front wall space or volume can be drained into the U-shaped end of the retaining element 7 and thus into the collecting device 10.

[0156] In Figure 7 The figure shown is a purely schematic embodiment of a lower section of a filter device 4 and a collection device 10 of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention in a largely closed position 13 in a sectional view from the side.

[0157] The lower end or lower edge and / or side of the filter device 4, held by the U-shaped retaining element 7, is positioned above the collection device 10. As shown in Figure 6In the illustrated embodiment, the U-shaped section of the retaining element 7 also has an opening 21 or recess. Thus, grease, water and / or other liquid can drip through the opening 21 or recess of the U-shaped section of the retaining element 7 into the collecting device 10 or be drained away.

[0158] Condensed fat, water and / or other liquids can also drip from the condensation element 9 located above the collection device 10 into the collection device 10 below or be collected by the collection device 10.

[0159] In the embodiment shown here, the collecting device 10 is removable and mounted on the rear wall 6.

[0160] In Figure 8The figure shown is a purely schematic embodiment of a lower section of a filter device 4 and a collection device 10 of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention in a largely open position 12 in a sectional view from the side.

[0161] Here too, the collection device 10 is removable or detachable and is mounted on the rear wall 6.

[0162] In Figure 9 The figure shown is a purely schematic embodiment of an upper section of an intake section 2 of a vapor screen device 1 according to the invention, shown in a sectional view from the side.

[0163] Here, the intake section 2 comprises an intake opening 3 and a curved condensation element 9 mounted on the upper wall 18 and the rear wall 6. The condensation element 9 is designed to be light-transparent in the upper section of the intake section 2 near the intake opening 3, so that the light provided by the lighting device 15 can illuminate a cooktop device 250 arranged in front of the vapor screen device 1.

[0164] The curved design of the condensation element 9 enables user-friendly cleaning of the condensation element 9 and promotes a largely complete drainage or dripping of liquids such as grease and / or water condensed on the condensation element 9 into the collection device 10 located in the lower section of the suction section 2. Reference symbol list

[0165] 1. Vapor screen device 2. Intake section 3. Intake opening 4. Filter device 5. Front wall 6 Back panel 7 Retaining element 8 Retaining element 9 Condensation element 10 Collection device 11 Condensation guide 12 Open position 13 Closed position 14 Coupling device 14a Coupling elements 14b Coupling elements 15 Lighting device 16 Odor filter 17 Side wall 18 Top wall 19 Control element 20 Swivel axis 21 Opening 100Downdraft fan 101Blower device 200 worktop 250 hob 300 Furniture carcass 301 Front panel

Claims

1. Fume hood device (1), in particular for use in a downdraft fan, comprising at least one suction portion (2) having at least one suction opening (3) and at least one planar filter device (4), the suction portion (2) being delimited by at least one front wall (5) and at least one rear wall (6), the filter device (4) being arranged in the suction portion (2) obliquely to the flow cross section of the suction portion (2), the filter device (4) being arranged in the suction portion (2) sloping from the front wall (5) towards the rear wall (6), the filter device (4) being retained, at least in some portions, by at least one retaining element (7, 8) at least on one side, characterised in that, the at least one retaining element (7), which, at least in some portions, retains the filter device (4) at least on the lower side, is accommodated on the front wall (5) and the front wall (5) is pivotally mounted at least in some portions, the filter device (4), together with the front wall (5), being pivotally mounted relative to the rear wall (6) of the fume hood device (1).

2. Fume hood device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the filter device (4) can be moved about the same pivot axis as the front wall (5) of the fume hood device (1).

3. Fume hood device (1) according to either of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one retaining element (7) is accommodated in the lower portion of the front wall (5).

4. Fume hood device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one retaining element (7), which, at least in some portions, retains the filter device (4) at least on the lower side, is substantially U-shaped at least in some portions.

5. Fume hood device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one retaining element (8), which, at least in some portions, retains the filter device (4) at least on the upper side, is accommodated on the front wall (5), in particular in the upper portion of the front wall (5).

6. Fume hood device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the front wall (5) is pivotable, at least in some portions, between a largely open position (12) and a largely closed position (13).

7. Fume hood device (1) according to the preceding claim 6, characterised in that, in the largely open position (12) of the front wall (5), the filter device (4) can be removed from the suction portion (2).

8. Fume hood device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the front wall (5) is retained in the largely closed position (13) by at least one coupling device (14).

9. Fume hood device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the suction portion (2) comprises at least one illumination device (15).

10. Downdraft fan (100), comprising at least one blower device and at least one fume hood device (1) according to any of the preceding claims.

11. Downdraft fan (100) according to claim 10, characterised in that the fume hood device (1) is movable.

12. Method for servicing a fume hood device (1) or a downdraft fan (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised by the following steps in an appropriate number and order: - opening the fume hood device (1) by at least partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall (5) of the suction portion (2) into the open position (12), the filter device (4), together with the front wall (5), being pivoted relative to the rear wall (6) of the fume hood device (1); - removing and / or inserting the at least one filter device (4); - closing the fume hood device (1) by at least partially moving and / or pivoting the front wall (4) of the suction portion (2) into the closed position (13).

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