Furniture component

Abstract

Described is a furniture component (1) having a housing (50) formed thereon and a plurality of exchangeable electronic modules (9) received therein, the electronic modules (9) each having at least one data interface (7) and at least two of the electronic modules (9) each having a separate wireless transceiver unit (7a). The housing (50) provides an energy source (19) for the received electronic modules (9). Several electronic modules (9) can be positioned one behind the other freely or in steps in an extension direction of the housing (50). The electronic modules (9) are suitable and designed for exchanging data with external devices (150) directly or indirectly.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a furniture component with a housing formed thereon and at least one electronic module accommodated therein. The furniture component can have at least one furniture panel. A furniture component according to the present invention can have at least one furniture panel arranged adjacent to a movable furniture front panel for closing off a storage space separated by the movable furniture front panel and has an additional function. The furniture component can, for example, be designed as kitchen furniture and be placed in the work area of ​​a kitchen. The furniture component can also be used in a workshop or bathroom. However, it is also possible for the furniture component to form part of a chest of drawers or a base or wall cabinet or to be designed as a table or cabinet.In the course of automation and mechanization of households and businesses, it is advantageous if furniture components have additional functions.

[0002] WO 2007 / 054773 A2 discloses a separate control device for, for example, kitchen appliances. CN 104 490 095 A discloses a kitchen appliance with a charging option. WO 2015 / 077706 A1 discloses a camera system that can be mounted on mounting rails in stores and wirelessly charged.

[0003] Various furniture components offering additional functions have become known in the prior art. For example, DE 10 2019 120 956.0 discloses a furniture component with a worktop, wherein a recess is provided in the core of the worktop from below, while the top surface is continuous and seamless. A weighing device is arranged in the recess. This enables an additional weighing function with a continuous and seamless surface of the worktop.

[0004] DE 10 2015 117 125 discloses a furniture panel with a transparent edge strip and a lighting device, wherein the light emitted by the lighting means enters the edge strip and illuminates it.

[0005] Likewise, DE 20 2014 100 735 U1 shows a lighting device with a light guide plate and at least one light, wherein a resilient edge band is disclosed.

[0006] WO2015077706A1 discloses a furniture component with an operating panel and a plurality of interchangeable information elements accommodated therein.

[0007] The current state of the art offers advantageous solutions. However, the usability and possible functions can still be expanded and improved.

[0008] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a furniture component which provides extended functions.

[0009] This object is achieved by a furniture component having the features of claim 1. Preferred developments are the subject of the respective subclaims. Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the general description and the description of the exemplary embodiments.

[0010] A furniture component according to the invention comprises a housing formed thereon and a plurality of replaceable operating elements and information elements accommodated therein or thereon, which are constructed as electronic modules. The housing provides a control panel. The electronic modules can be individually replaced. The electronic modules each have (at least partially, predominantly, or all) at least one data interface. At least two of the electronic modules each have their own wireless transmitter-receiver unit (as a data interface). The housing provides a power source for the accommodated electronic modules. The power source can, for example, be a voltage supply and provide a power connection for the electronic modules. At least two or more electronic modules can be positioned freely one behind the other or in stages in a direction of extension of the housing.The control panel is freely configurable, so that the position of the control elements and / or information elements within the control panel can be selected freely or in predefined steps. The electronic modules are suitable and designed to directly or indirectly exchange data with external devices and, in particular, to at least partially control them. The external devices are, in particular, external electrical devices. "External" means that the devices are located outside the housing and preferably outside the furniture component. The control panel has a substantially triangular cross-section.

[0011] A further development of a furniture component according to the invention can be used to control electrical and in particular electronic devices, such as in particular domestic and household appliances, built-in appliances and multimedia devices. The furniture component can comprise a furniture panel and / or a furniture wall arranged, for example, below and / or above a movable furniture front panel. The furniture panel then serves to close off (the top) a storage space separated by the movable furniture front panel. In this embodiment, the furniture panel has a bottom and / or top side with an upper (and preferably essentially horizontal) cover surface and at least one lateral narrow side. A control panel equipped with at least one data interface for communication with at least one electrical device is arranged on at least one narrow side of the furniture panel.The data interface can be arranged, in particular, in an electronic module within the control panel or on or within a receiving space of the furniture panel. The control panel preferably has at least one surface section extending obliquely, in particular inclined, to the lower or upper cover surface of the furniture panel, with at least one (correspondingly inclined) operating section and operating elements and / or information elements arranged thereon.

[0012] The furniture component according to the invention has many advantages. A significant advantage is that the furniture component can offer additional functions in addition to its basic function. For example, a furniture component that provides a furniture panel and adjacent storage space, for example, can fulfill further functions via the housing or control panel and control electrical and, in particular, electronic devices mounted on the furniture component or separate from it. For example, electronic modules can be provided on the control panel as control elements in order to switch electrical devices mounted on the furniture component or remotely on and off and to control them. However, other and remote devices can also be controlled via the control elements of the control panel. For example, a roller shutter control for a window shutter or the control of a blind is also possible.

[0013] In preferred embodiments and further developments, at least one electronic module is designed to display information from at least one external device and / or to control at least one external device. For example, an electronic module can have a display unit and display, for example, the outside or inside temperature or the currently tuned radio station (name or frequency). An electronic module can also be used, for example, to control the roller shutters or the heating.

[0014] In particular, at least one electronic module with a wireless transmitter-receiver unit has a different radio standard than at least one external device that is in data transfer with the electronic module.

[0015] Preferably, a communication path between an electronic module with a wireless transmitter-receiver unit and at least one external device is established by at least one hub, a gateway, a bridge or a smart home control center.

[0016] Preferably, at least two electronic modules in the housing are connected to each other via a wired interface. For example, a display unit arranged in the housing can be directly coupled to a control unit and an input unit via direct or indirect cable connections. Coupling via radio or light signals is also possible.

[0017] An electronic module can also be designed, for example, as a display unit, control unit or input unit.

[0018] In particular, at least one external device is taken from a group of devices that includes multimedia devices, display devices, thermostats, lamps, blind switches, televisions, actuators, drivable furniture parts, household appliances, built-in appliances, hubs, gateways, bridges, smart home control centers, kitchen appliances, garden tools, charging stations, sockets, signaling devices and household appliances and the like.

[0019] At least one electronic module can serve as a central module for coordinating other electronic modules and can include at least one processor or the like. An electronic module configured in this way can be configured as or serve as a node, hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center, or as a computer or control computer. A (first) central module can be connectable to at least one other (second) central module.

[0020] At least one electronic module can be connected (directly or indirectly) to the Internet.

[0021] It is possible to connect at least one electronic module to a remote computer and / or a digital device such as a smartphone, tablet, PC, notebook, or the like. The electronic module can be configured via such a connection. Setup, control, or reconfiguration is also possible. A connection to a (separate or integrated) receiver unit or transceiver unit is also possible.

[0022] Preferably, at least one electronic module is at least partially visible and / or operable through a cover surface of the housing.

[0023] It is particularly preferred that at least two different electronic modules use different radio protocols and / or radio standards. Thus, the electronic modules can be connected to other electronic modules and / or external devices via two, three, four, or more different radio protocols and / or radio standards.

[0024] In particular, at least one electronic module can be operated via a (particularly rechargeable) energy storage device and, for example, a battery. An energy storage device can be used to backup the configuration in the event of a power failure or to ensure continued operation during a power failure.

[0025] The furniture component preferably has at least one wall. In particular, at least one storage space bounded by at least one wall is provided or formed on the furniture component.

[0026] Particularly preferably, the storage space is (at least partly) defined by at least one movable furniture panel or furniture front panel. The storage space can, for example, be optionally closed or made accessible.

[0027] Particularly preferably, the furniture component comprises at least one furniture panel.

[0028] The furniture panel is preferably arranged above (or below or next to) a movable furniture front panel to close off the upper (or lower or side) storage space separated by the movable furniture front panel.

[0029] It is preferred that the furniture panel has several sides, namely a top side (with an upper cover surface) and a bottom side and at least one lateral narrow side.

[0030] Preferably, the housing is mounted and / or attached to the furniture panel.

[0031] The housing, in particular, has at least one operating section. The operating section is preferably suitable and designed to display data from a connected electrical device, such as a time indication, a program selection, a weight of a scale, a device status, etc.

[0032] The control panel preferably has at least one surface section running obliquely to the upper (or lower or lateral) cover surface of the furniture panel, with at least one control section and control and / or information elements arranged thereon. Each control and / or information element can be designed as a separate electronic module. Preferably, the control section with the control and information elements is arranged obliquely to the upper side (underside). The control section with the control and information elements can in particular be arranged at an angle of between 10° and 80° or between 25° and 65° to the upper side (underside) of the furniture panel. A surface inclined to the horizontal allows for better readability and operability. The upper side of the furniture panel preferably provides a surface for depositing objects or a work surface on its cover surface.The top surface usually provides a storage area. The top surface can be formed by a separate top layer. However, the top surface can also be a separate layer.

[0033] The top surface is preferably substantially horizontal, particularly nearly horizontal, and most preferably (completely) horizontal. In the kitchen, for example, such a work surface can be used in a variety of ways. Usability is further enhanced if additional electrical devices can be controlled via the control panel. It is also possible to provide information elements on the control panel that provide acoustic and / or visual information.

[0034] The control panel is particularly inclined and preferably tilted relative to the upper (lower) deck surface and / or the horizontal. This makes it easier for the user to operate the device and read information. The inclined arrangement allows a user standing in front of the furniture component to access different control elements and read information from different information elements.

[0035] In preferred embodiments, the surface visible from above (below) is inclined overall and oriented obliquely to the horizontal, exhibiting a substantially uniform angle of inclination. The surface section with the operating section preferably forms a significant portion of the surface of the control panel, which is visible at all times from above and also from the front (or from diagonally below if the control panel is mounted at a higher elevation).

[0036] Preferably, the operating section with the operating and information elements is aligned obliquely to the upper (lower) cover surface of the furniture panel and is preferably arranged at an angle between 10° and 80°, and particularly preferably between 20° and 70°, and especially between 25° and 65° to the upper (lower) cover surface of the furniture panel. Particularly advantageous angles are between 30° and 60°. This provides the user with easily readable information and operating elements on the control panel.

[0037] In all embodiments, the control panel can form a housing or be mounted on a housing.

[0038] If the housing or control panel is positioned at tabletop or countertop height in a kitchen, a control surface angled upward allows for convenient access to the electronic modules, as well as convenient operation and reading of the electronic modules. If the housing or control panel is positioned above the head height of a typical user, operation and reading are improved by a correspondingly angled downward control surface.

[0039] In all embodiments, it is preferred that the operating section be mounted on a hollow operating profile. In particular, the operating bar is designed as an operating profile. The operating profile can consist partially or (almost) entirely of extruded or coextruded profiles. This also enables relatively long lengths of 1 m or several meters or more without a visible edge in between.

[0040] The operating profile can be composed of several extruded components.

[0041] According to the invention, the control panel has a substantially triangular cross-section. A rounded portion can be provided at one or more corners. Preferably, the underside of the control panel is aligned substantially parallel to the top surface of the furniture panel.

[0042] In advantageous refinements, the control panel has a seal at least along its upper edge that abuts the furniture panel to prevent the ingress of dirt and / or moisture. This ensures long-lasting functionality. Furthermore, a high-quality visual appearance can be maintained over time.

[0043] Preferably, the abutting edge between the operating strip and the furniture panel runs transversely and, in particular, approximately perpendicularly or perpendicularly to the upper surface of the furniture panel. Such configurations are easy to manufacture.

[0044] In another preferred variant, the abutting edge between the operating strip and the furniture panel forms an acute angle to the upper surface of the furniture panel. In designs with an acute angle between the abutting edge of the operating strip and the furniture panel, the front end of the furniture panel preferably overhangs. The longest edge and extension in the transverse direction of an operating strip with an approximately triangular cross-section is then preferably formed on the underside. Such designs increase the installation space available inside the operating strip. This ensures sufficient volume inside the operating strip to accommodate all components, even with small thicknesses of the furniture panel.

[0045] Preferably, the control panel and / or the housing are at least partially flush with the front of the furniture front panel. It is also preferred that the control panel and / or the housing protrude beyond the front of the furniture front panel at least partially.

[0046] In advantageous embodiments, the control panel and / or the housing has at least one drip lip extending beyond the front of the furniture front panel. Alternatively, it is also possible for the underside of the control profile to slope downwards toward the distal end, or for a groove or the like to be provided near the distal end of the underside of the control profile, thereby forming a drip lip in the end region of the control profile. Such embodiments prevent dripping liquids from entering, for example, a drawer beneath the furniture panel or from dripping onto the panel.

[0047] In all embodiments, it is possible for two, three, or more drip tabs to be distributed along the length of the control panel. Particularly preferably, a drip tab extends substantially continuously or completely continuously and forms at least one drip edge.

[0048] In all embodiments, it is preferred that the furniture panel is designed as a tabletop or worktop. Preferably, the length and / or width of the furniture panel is at least 500 mm or more. In particular, the furniture panel has a thickness between 15 mm and 60 mm and preferably between 18 mm and 40 mm. However, smaller or larger thicknesses are also possible. Furniture components for the kitchen area can also have furniture panels measuring 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, or 5 m in length. Even longer furniture panels are also possible and preferred. Likewise, the depth of the furniture panel can vary and be 400 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, or 1200 mm or more. In particular, if the furniture component as a whole forms a type of cooking island, for example, and is accessible from two or more sides, an even greater depth can also be present.

[0049] In preferred embodiments, the control panel and / or the housing extend over a substantial portion of the length of at least one narrow side. It is also possible for the control panel and / or the housing to extend over substantially the entire length of the narrow side or even several or all of the narrow sides. Thus, in a freestanding furniture component, the control panel and / or the housing can also extend all the way around the furniture panel.

[0050] Preferably, the control panel and / or the housing has a mechanical coupling interface for additional connection elements at at least one end of the control panel. In particular, at least one connection element is taken from a group of connection elements, which includes end caps, angle elements, adapter elements, and extension elements. Such connection elements allow for a flexible and modular design of the furniture component.

[0051] The end caps are preferably shaped to encompass the end of the operating profile or housing. This also has the advantage that thermal expansion does not lead to gaps. Furthermore, there are preferably areas for attaching the end caps to the operating profile or housing, so that no gaps arise between the end cap and the operating profile. It is also possible to route the energy or voltage supply through the end caps. The housing or the operating profile of the housing can in particular be designed as an aluminum profile or the like. Preferably, the operating unit (or a corresponding electronic module) is suitable and designed to display data from a connected electrical device, such as a time indication, a program selection, a weight of a scale, a radio frequency, the name of a station, the name of a song or its lyrics, a device status, etc.

[0052] In all embodiments, it is particularly preferred that at least one operating element comprises a touch sensor or contactless sensor. The touch sensor can be designed as a touch sensor. A sensor with a multi-touch function is also possible. A contactless sensor can be designed, for example, as a radar or ultrasonic sensor. A contactless sensor can also be referred to as a distance sensor. A contactless sensor can, for example, detect a gesture near the control bar and can transmit the desired change to a device. The use of proximity sensors and gesture sensors is also possible. It is also possible for part of the surface of the control bar or the control bar as a whole to be touch-sensitive. It is also conceivable for mechanical rotating elements to be arranged on the operating section. The operating section can also comprise lighting devices or be illuminated by appropriately arranged lighting devices.LEDs or other electrical light sources are preferably used.

[0053] In particular, the control panel comprises at least one electronic module in the form of a data storage device and / or a microcontroller. The data storage device is particularly suitable for storing programs and / or data.

[0054] A data interface is located in the control panel or the housing. The data interface can be wired or cable-based and / or configured for a wireless radio connection. Preferably, one (or the) data interfaces has at least one network interface. The typical current data interfaces for devices in the home are preferably provided. Such a data interface also allows a data connection to the electronic modules.

[0055] Preferably, a software update of the electronic modules on or in the control panel or the housing is also possible, in particular automatically, via at least one data interface. For this purpose, the microcontroller or another electronic module can retrieve possible updates as needed or at predetermined fixed or variable intervals and, in particular, install them automatically.

[0056] Preferably, external devices, and in particular external mobile and / or stationary devices, can be connected to the or at least one electronic module of the control panel via the data interface. Preferably, external and preferably external mobile and / or external stationary devices can be controlled using the electronic modules of the control panel or the housing. For example, the room lighting can be controlled, or electrical and electronic devices present in a living room can be controlled. The roller shutters in the room or other components and devices can also be controlled. In the kitchen, appliances for cooking, baking, and washing up can be controlled.

[0057] In preferred developments, the control panel or housing can be configured using at least one program on an external, and in particular external, mobile and / or stationary device. For example, the electronic modules of the control panel or housing can be configured via computers in the local network or, if necessary, via the Internet. It is also possible for the electronic modules of the control panel to be controllable via a portable computer, a tablet, or a smartphone. It is also conceivable for the manufacturer to carry out control and basic programming remotely if required or during initial setup. In preferred embodiments, configuration on the panel itself is also possible. For example, by holding a control element on the panel and, for example, a control element on, for example, a radio. The connection is then preferably established automatically. An intermediary such as a smartphone, etc.is not absolutely necessary.

[0058] Preferably, the control panel or the housing has a mains-independent energy source such as an energy storage device or is assigned such a source so that mains-independent operation is possible.

[0059] In advantageous further developments, the control panel or housing has a cable feedthrough or line feedthrough for the power supply on the side facing the furniture component (e.g., the narrow side of the furniture panel), wherein the furniture component has an opening for the passage of one or more lines or a cable. In all embodiments, cables and / or lines can be used for power and signal transmission. Sheathed or unsheathed lines can be embedded, e.g., in the extrusion profile or coextrusion profile. Sheathed lines can also be loosely inserted in the housing or control panel.

[0060] In particular, at least one electronic module in the housing or in the control panel can be connected to at least one voice-controlled input device or output device. This allows for voice control. Furthermore, acoustic information, music, messages, and the like can also be output via an associated output device. The integration of at least one microphone and / or at least one loudspeaker is also possible. This can be used, for example, to implement the function of an intercom system.

[0061] Preferably, the control panel or electronic modules can display data from the voice-controlled input or output device. For example, the lyrics of a song or a timer can be shown on a display unit. It is also possible for messages from other devices linked to the control panel to be output.

[0062] In advantageous further developments, at least the surface of the control panel is resistant to permanent heat exposure and preferably resistant to temperatures of up to or above 90°C. Such configurations are advantageous for use in kitchens.

[0063] In all embodiments, it is possible and preferred for the furniture panel to have a core that consists at least partially of a wood-based material or a wood-based material. For example, the core can consist at least partially of a particle board or a medium-density or high-density fiberboard (MDF - Medium Density Fiber, HDF - High Density Fiber). It is also possible for the core to consist partially or entirely of natural or artificial stone, granite, glass or concrete, or of metal or a biopolymer. The upper covering surface of the furniture panel can be made in one piece with the core or can also be made of a different material.

[0064] Other features of the furniture component that can be partially or completely considered during implementation include: Furniture components with a furniture panel, where the furniture panel can also be called a "digital worktop." Other features can include: Creating the mounting surface ∘ Subsequent milling and / or subsequent coating Invisible operation ∘ Foil element ∘ Capacitive element ∘ Dielectric element ∘ Radar or high-frequency element Visible operation ∘ Switch element ∘ Touch element ∘ Contactless input sensor element, gesture sensor element Representing the operating area ∘ Color marking element ∘ Foil element ∘ Engraving element Internal information display ∘ Display element (e.g. OLED, LED, LCD, E-Ink) ∘ Foil element External information display ∘ Display element ∘ Projection element ∘ Acoustic element ∘ Device element Ensuring Smart Home operation ∘ Smartphone element, Tablet element ∘ Voice assistant element ∘ SmartHome central element Establishing smart connectivity ∘ ZigBee element, Z-Wave element, Bluetooth element ∘ WLAN element ∘ KNX element ∘ LAN element ∘ 6LoWPAN element ∘ HomeMatic ∘ EnOcean element ∘ DECT ULE element ∘ Home Connect element Establish worktop control panel connection ∘ Adhesive element,Screw element, dowel element ∘ Tongue and groove element ∘ Clamping element ∘ Alignment element Creating a worktop control panel seal ∘ Laser edge element ∘ Sealing element ∘ Sealing adhesive element ∘ Silicone sealing element ∘ Labyrinth sealing element Creating a power supply ∘ Energy storage element ∘ Battery element ∘ Mains power element ∘ Low voltage element ∘ Busbar element Ensuring functional reliability ∘ Update element Supporting the control panel ∘ Supporting element ∘ Bracing element Integrating additional functions ∘ Clock element, signal element, memory element, timer element ∘ Voice function element ∘ Battery display element ∘ USB connection element Ensuring a furniture concept ∘ Front panel spacer element ∘ Overhang element ∘ Fluid drainage element ∘ Worktop thickness compensation element Ensuring operating visibility ∘ Angle element ∘ Swivel element ∘ Light protection element Ensure modularity ∘ Module plug-in element ∘ All-in-one element,Modular device element ∘ Module group element ∘ Device detection module element Provide strip ∘ Seamless strip element ∘ Multi-strip element ∘ Corner connection element ∘ End element ,

[0065] All variations of the furniture component can be used in the kitchen, living area or in the workshop or laboratory.

[0066] In preferred embodiments, the furniture component further comprises one, two, or more walls and can, for example, have several detachable storage compartments. Furthermore, the furniture component can have flaps, doors, pull-outs, lids, or drawers.

[0067] According to the invention, the operating elements and the information elements are constructed as electronic modules, particularly in a modular manner. This allows the operating bar to be freely configurable, so that the position of the operating elements and / or information elements within the operating bar can be selected freely or in predefined steps. In this way, the operating bar can have sections that do not contain electronic modules or that contain operating elements and / or information elements. And the operating bar can have sections that contain electronic modules such as operating elements and / or information elements. This configurability allows the operating bar to be optimally adapted to the furniture component.

[0068] In advantageous designs, the surface of the control panel is coated with a scratch-resistant layer. This layer can be made of Gorilla Glass or sapphire glass, for example, or a coated plastic such as PMMA, PET, PS, SAN, ABS, or PC, or another scratch-resistant material.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the operating strip can be cut to length to fit the furniture panel. In particular, the profiles can also be adjusted on site.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, a film is applied to the electronic module (and not to the extrusion profile). The film then preferably forms the decoration. Particularly preferably, symbols are provided (at the same time) at the designated locations. The symbols are preferably visible when illuminated through the film. The symbols can be applied using suitable printing processes. A further layer of the film can integrate conductor tracks for the touch sensors and / or proximity sensors and / or the illumination of the symbols and / or can have antennas for possible and preferably existing radio modules. In this case, film back-injection allows for considerable freedom and miniaturization.

[0071] It's possible that the extrusion profiles and / or the film influence the appearance. For example, the profiles can be partially colored or solid colored. This makes the joints between the electronic modules less visible. The diffusive effects of the film can achieve homogeneous illumination of the symbols.

[0072] Preferably, the control panel or housing can be attached to the furniture panel using screws, adhesives, magnets or magnetic forces, tongue-and-groove joints, or clips, for example. Adjustment and, for example, height adjustment are possible to ensure the correct alignment of the components.

[0073] Other possible applications include use with or as an intercom system, use to operate a television, e.g. in the kitchen or kitchen-diner, operation of a timer, e.g. as a replacement for an egg timer, to display the remaining running time of household appliances such as the washing machine and other appliances, to monitor, control and also set the alarm system, to operate and display the status of kitchen appliances, to set and display the air conditioning and / or heating, to control and display the status of sockets (on / off / state), to display the temperature, humidity, room climate and air quality, to display and operate the entertainment system, to display and control music and to operate streaming services, to set the acoustic properties of loudspeakers, to output acoustically and display current news or as a live ticker, including for stock prices, etc., to display weather reports, stock market data and disaster warnings, to display messages from messenger services or emails, to display advertisements, to display the fill level or to provide a fill level warning (e.g. for food items such as flour or toilet paper), to display recipes, to operate the tap or coffee machine or awning, to display surveillance videos or a baby monitor.

[0074] Preferably, a gesture recognition is included which recognizes various gestures (e.g. swiping, wiping, zooming, rotational movements, linear movements) during contactless and / or touch-based operation.

[0075] Preferably, at least one safety function is implemented. For example, two confirmation buttons on an oven must be held down or pressed consecutively when turning it on.

[0076] If liquid overflows or spills, it would have to overflow at exactly two defined locations simultaneously to turn on the oven, for example. To further increase safety, another sensor could be checked between the two sensors required to operate the oven. If liquid overflows everywhere, the middle sensor would also indicate this and could prevent the oven from starting.

[0077] Furthermore, at least one sensor can be provided for detecting objects, in particular for detecting objects on the top of the furniture panel or on appliances arranged thereon, such as a cooktop. For example, to reliably detect overheating or the placement of objects. Cooktops, for example, now regularly have a detection system that detects whether something is on the control panel and can provide acoustic feedback if necessary.

[0078] In all embodiments, it is preferred that at least one electronic module is directly or indirectly connected to a hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center. Generally, such hubs, gateways, bridges, or smart home control centers can also be designed as central modules and integrated into the housing. However, it is also possible and preferred for hubs, gateways, bridges, or smart home control centers, for example, to be arranged outside the housing and outside the furniture component.

[0079] With an indirect connection to a hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center, the electronic module can be part of a mesh network and can thus be connected to the hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center via other components of the mesh network. Additional electronic modules can be connected to the same hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center, or to another hub, gateway, bridge, or another smart home control center. At least one external device is also connected to a hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center. In this way, the electronic modules form a wireless connection with the external devices via hubs, gateways, bridges, or smart home control centers. The electronic modules and the external devices in the shared smart home wireless network can use different wireless standards.It is also possible to assign different external devices to an electronic module within the smart home network, allowing one electronic module to operate multiple external devices or receive data from different external devices. For example, one electronic module can operate various external devices, such as radiator thermostats in different rooms. At the same time, different information, such as temperatures or temperature settings, can be displayed from different rooms.

[0080] Advantageously, at least one electronic module is indirectly connected to at least one external device via a hub or via a gateway or via a bridge and / or via a smart home control center. The external device is indirectly connected to at least one electronic module via the same or a different hub or via the same or a different gateway or via the same or a different bridge and / or via the same or a different smart home control center. It is thus possible for the at least one electronic module connected to at least one external device to have a different radio standard than at least one external device. Communication between the electronic module and the external device is thus enabled via the hub(s) or via the gateway(s) or via the bridge(s) and / or via the smart home control center(s).

[0081] Advantageously, the electronic module is connected to the internet via a hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center. This eliminates the need for the electronic module to have its own Wi-Fi or mobile network standard, but allows the use of an energy-saving wireless standard. An energy-saving wireless standard enables extended operation using an independent energy storage device, such as a battery.

[0082] Preferably, the electronic modules can differ in their size and their longitudinal extension within the housing. Depending on the function of the electronic module, the electronic module can be relatively short in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the housing, for example, if only one control element is provided, or it can be relatively long if several control elements and, for example, an additional information display are integrated into the electronic module. The ratio of the respective lengths can reach or exceed a factor of 2, 3, or 5 or more.

[0083] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the embodiments which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0084] The figures show: Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a furniture component according to the invention; Figure 2 shows details of the furniture component according to Figure 1; Figure 3 different frontal views of the furniture component after Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a section through a first variant of a furniture component according to the invention; Figure 5 shows a section through a second variant of a furniture component according to the invention; Figure 6 shows a section through a third variant of a furniture component according to the invention; Figures 7-9a show different cross-sections of control panels for a furniture component according to the invention; Figure 10 shows a highly schematic perspective view of a furniture component according to the invention in the kitchen area; Figure 11 shows a highly schematic view of a house and the data connections emanating from the furniture component; Figure 12 shows a highly schematic view of a control panel and the electronic modules with the associated data connections; Figure 13 shows a highly schematic perspective view of a furniture component according to the invention, e.g. designed as a base cabinet; Figure 14 shows a highly schematic view of another furniture component according to the invention.

[0085] The Figure 1 The furniture component 1 depicted in a schematic perspective view is designed here, for example, as a piece of kitchen furniture 100 or as a kitchen unit or the like. The furniture component 1 has various electrical devices 200, for example, a hob. In particular, separate electrical or electronic devices 200 can also be assigned to the furniture component 1, which can be operated and controlled using the control panel 10 or the electronic modules 9 on the housing 50 of the furniture component 1. For example, the room lighting can be controlled in this way.

[0086] The furniture component 1 has a furniture panel 2, which also serves as a kitchen worktop. Various storage spaces 40 are provided beneath the furniture panel 2, each forming a storage compartment 30 for various items. The furniture front panels 3 below the furniture panel 2 can be designed as a pivoting door or sliding door, or even as a drawer front panel.

[0087] The furniture panel 2 has a top side 4 with an upper cover surface 4a, which can be formed integrally with the furniture panel 2. The cover surface 4a can also be applied as a separate cover layer.

[0088] The furniture panel 2, in particular, has a core 2b. The core 2b preferably consists at least partially of a wood-based material or a wood-based material. It is also possible for the core 2b to consist partially or entirely of a natural stone or artificial stone, granite, glass, or concrete, or of metal or a biopolymer.

[0089] The upper cover surface 4a of the furniture panel can be made in one piece with the core 2b or can also be made of another material.

[0090] A housing 50 with a continuous operating bar 10 is attached at least to the front narrow sides 5 and 6 and optionally also to the rear narrow sides 5, 6 of the furniture component 1, on which an operating section 12 or even several operating sections 12 are arranged on the surface section 11 of the operating bar 10. The surface section 11 here has a substantially constant angle 12a between the surface section 11 or the operating section 12 and the vertical orientation over the entire extent of the operating bar 10. Accordingly, an angle 12b relative to the horizontal can also be measured and converted into the angle 12a accordingly. The upper cover surface 4a of the furniture panel 2 of the furniture component 1 is preferably aligned almost horizontally or (completely) horizontally.

[0091] Above the pivoting door, control elements 13 are visible on the surface section 11 of the control section 12. The control elements are part of electronic modules 9, which are housed in a receiving space 51 inside the housing 50. The control elements can always be visible. However, it is also possible and preferred for the control elements 13 to only become visible after activation, for example, by a light or a proximity sensor. Then, the control elements 13 are only visible when the associated electrical device 200 is operating.

[0092] On another section of the control panel 10, in addition to control elements 13, information elements 14 of electronic modules 9 can be seen on the control section 12. Various information can be output via the information elements 14. The information can relate to or describe the status of the associated electrical device 200, but can also contain general information such as the song title or lyrics of a piece of music currently playing, or general news, weather forecast data, or the like.

[0093] Connecting elements 16 are used here to connect different operating profiles 20 of the operating bar 10 of the housing 50. For example, the connecting elements 16 can be used at sections that are angled accordingly to one another in order to connect different operating profiles 20 to one another.

[0094] Figure 2shows an enlarged view of a connecting element 16 for an exterior angle and a corresponding connecting element 16 for an interior angle. The connecting elements 16 are attached to the corresponding coupling interfaces 10c.

[0095] Figure 3 shows a frontal view from the right and a frontal view from the left of the furniture component 1 after Figure 1 Below the furniture panel 2 with a thickness of 2a, the furniture front panels 3 of the drawers and the hinged door can be seen. In these horizontal views, the operating sections 12 of the control panel 10 can be seen on the narrow sides 5 and 6, respectively. The control panel 10 extends over the entire length 6a of the respective narrow sides 5 and 6.

[0096] Figure 4shows a cross-section through a first variant of a furniture component 1, wherein a section through the furniture panel 2 with the control panel 10 attached to the narrow side 5 or the housing 50 with the control panel 10 can be seen. Below the furniture panel 2 are the furniture body 8 and the furniture front panel 3, which is movably mounted on the furniture body 8.

[0097] The housing of the control panel 10 is designed as an operating profile 20, and here also as an extrusion profile or coextrusion profile 21, and has an approximately triangular cross-section. Here, a substantially right angle preferably exists between the abutting edge 15, which rests against the narrow side 5 of the furniture panel 2 and is connected there to the furniture panel 2, and the surface section 11 with the operating section 12. The underside 10a of the control panel 10 thus practically forms the hypotenuse of the right-angled triangle and preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the upper cover surface 4a of the upper side 4 of the furniture panel 2.

[0098] To increase the stability of the connection between the control panel 10 and the furniture panel 2, a tongue-and-groove connection is implemented here, for example, wherein a groove 24 is formed and, in particular, milled into the narrow side 5 of the furniture panel 2, into which a protruding web engages in a form-fitting manner as a tongue 25 of the housing 50 of the control panel 10. This increases the stability of the connection and provides a positioning and assembly aid.

[0099] The angle 15a between the abutting edge 15 and the upper cover surface 4a is preferably formed as an acute angle and is preferably 35° plus / minus 15°.

[0100] At least the distal lower end of the operating bar 10 is preferably rounded. The surface of the surface section 11, and thus of the operating section 12, is oriented at an angle 12a to a perpendicular on the upper cover surface 4a. The angle 12a is preferably between 10° and 80°, and in particular between 20° and 70°, and particularly preferably between 25° and 65°. In this exemplary embodiment, the angle is approximately 55°. However, larger and smaller angles are also possible.

[0101] The surface section 11 is preferably designed to be completely or partially transparent or semi-transparent, so that information from the injection molding module 28 and electronic module 9 can be output or displayed on the operating section 12 of the operating bar 10 of the housing 50.

[0102] The electronic module 9 is held by the holder, which here is designed as an injection-molded component 28, inside the operating profile 20 in the receiving space 51 of the housing 50. The locking hooks 29 or the like serve to secure the injection-molded component. It is also possible, for example, for contacts to be closed by clipping in, and for the module to be supplied directly with power and data.

[0103] The injection-molded component 28 consists in particular of a film and a plastic processable by injection molding. Additional layers may be present if necessary. The multilayer film preferably comprises a transparent carrier film onto which two or more layers (multilayered) are printed as layers responsible for the function and the decoration. This film comprises at least one and in particular several sensor elements, preferably in the form of capacitive sensor surfaces. The film may also comprise lighting elements. The lighting elements can preferably be light-emitting diodes. Laser diodes or laser elements are also possible. The sensor surfaces, together with the electronic modules 9, serve as operating elements 13.

[0104] The electronic module 9 comprises in particular a circuit board and / or lighting elements and can also comprise sensor elements that serve as operating elements 13.

[0105] In the left area of Figure 4 An enlarged detail of the distal end of the operating profile 20 is shown. In this variation, a drip nose or drip edge 10b can be formed below the distal end. The gap heights are coordinated so that the furniture front panel 3 can be reliably opened even with the drip nose 10b present. Such a drip nose or drip edge 10b reliably prevents liquid dripping from above from entering the interior of a receiving compartment 30 or from dripping onto the upper side of the furniture front panel 3.

[0106] When executing according to Figure 4 the furniture panel 2 with the operating bar 10 projects outwards over the receiving compartments 30 of the furniture component 1.

[0107] In contrast to the design according to Figure 4 shows the furniture component 1 in the cross section Figure 5no such protrusion. The distal end of the control panel 10 is practically flush with the front side 3a of the furniture front panel 3.

[0108] In the Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the cables or lines 23 for supplying power to the electronic module 9 are laid in a cable bushing 22.

[0109] Examples include Figure 5 The data interface 7, the data memory 17, the microcontroller 18, and a power source 19 are schematically shown on the electronic module 9. The power source 19 or the power storage device enable at least temporary operation of the electronic module even without an external power supply.

[0110] In the embodiment according to Figure 6The distal end of the control panel 10 again projects forward beyond the front side 3a of the furniture front panel 3. The data interface 7, the data memory 17, the microcontroller 18, and the power source 19 can also be housed separately from the electronics module 9 inside the control panel 10.

[0111] In Figure 6 On the underside 10a of the control bar 10, at the distal outer end, a variation is drawn in dotted lines, in which a groove 10d is introduced into the underside of the control bar 10. Such a groove 10d can also, if necessary, ensure that the outer end of the underside 10a of the control bar 10 serves as a drip nose or drip edge.

[0112] The injection-molded component has the foil or the foil is attached to it. The electronics module 9 can, in particular, only be used to evaluate the signals from the foil and, if necessary, provide illumination via LEDs mounted on the circuit board or another circuit board. Preferably, the LEDs can also be mounted on the foil.

[0113] In the Figures 7 to 9 Different variations of the structure of an operating bar 10 are shown in cross-section. The different designs each have an operating profile 20, which is formed as an extrusion profile or coextrusion profile 21 or by profile parts 26 and 27. It is also possible for more than two profile parts to form an operating profile 20.

[0114] In Figure 7The profile part 26 forms a covering and holding profile and is manufactured in particular by an extrusion or coextrusion process. The profile part 27 is also an extrusion part and serves as a closure profile. In the embodiment according to Figure 7 a horizontally projecting web can also be designed as a tongue 25, which engages in a correspondingly horizontally formed groove 24 in the furniture panel 2.

[0115] At Figure 8 The profile part 26 serves as a cover profile, while the profile part 27 serves as a locking and holding profile. The web 25, which fits precisely into the groove 24 in the furniture panel 2, is in Figure 8 formed on the profile part 27.

[0116] In Figure 9 A variant is shown in which the profile part 27 is attached to the furniture panel 2. Here, the butt edge 15 runs, as well as in the Figures 7 and 8 between the operating bar 10 and the furniture panel 2 perpendicular to the upper cover surface 4a.

[0117] The electronics module 9 is attached to the underside of the transparent profile part 26. It is also possible and preferred for the electronics module 9 to practically directly form the surface of the operating section 12. In this case, no separate profile part 26 is necessary. The electronics module 9 is attached to the underside of the transparent or partially transparent injection-molded component. The injection-molded component can practically directly form the surface.

[0118] In Fig. 9 The injection-molded component forms the surface, not the extrusion / coextrusion profile. In this example, the extrusion or coextrusion profile only acts as a holder!

[0119] Fig. 9ashows the housing 50 with the control panel 10 in a cross-section. The furniture panel 2 is sectioned here and only a (small) part is visible. The housing 50 or the control panel 10 is connected to the end face or narrow side 5 of the furniture panel 2. On the top side, at the abutting edge 15 between the furniture panel 2 and the control panel 10 or the housing 50, a sealing element 33 is arranged. The extrusion profile or coextrusion profile 21 here comprises a support rail 19b with a cable feedthrough 22 and a suitable number of cables 23. A light source 34, here in the form of an LED light strip, is accommodated in one housing section, which emits light downwards through the transparent cover 34a in order to create background lighting (ambient lighting). In the housing 50, flexible and compressible spacer elements 32 are accommodated, which carry a display 31 or a display unit 14a.The spacer elements 32 press the display unit(s) 14a against the end strip of the control profile 20 with slight pressure. The profile 21 is bent at its lower end and forms a drip nose 10b (optionally also in the form of a continuous drip edge) or a groove 10d on the underside 10a. This provides a defined dripping option. With this arrangement, the control section 12 of the control panel 10 is easily accessible from above, allowing the user to operate and read information comfortably.

[0120] Figure 10shows a highly schematic perspective view of a furniture component 1 in the kitchen area, with two different electrical devices 200 formed on the furniture panel 2 of the furniture component 1. On the scale as an electrical device 200, some food items 201 are shown highly schematically as an example. The measured weight, here 795 grams, is output as information element 14 on the operating section 12 of the control panel 10 by the display unit 14a.

[0121] A schematically illustrated user hand touches a control element 13 shown in dashed lines with a finger. Storage spaces 40 are formed on receiving compartments 30 below the furniture panel 2.

[0122] The operating section 12 of the operating bar 10 of the housing 50 is oriented obliquely to the horizontal and vertical so that a user standing in front of it can see the various information elements 14 and display units 14a at a glance from an angle above.

[0123] In the front area, for example, a signal strength of a reception is plotted in bar form on an information element 14. Next to it, for example, a control for the volume of an acoustic output unit or a control for a hob is shown.

[0124] In the background, an external device 150 can be seen on the upper side 4 of the furniture panel 2, which is shown only very schematically here. The external device 150 can be embodied, for example, as a tablet, a smartphone, a digital terminal 210, or the like.

[0125] It is possible to control the electronic module 9 via the digital terminal 210. However, it is also possible, for example, to change the volume of a music playback via the control elements 13, whereby the music is retrieved via the external device 150 and the acoustic output is provided via coupled loudspeakers.

[0126] Figure 11 and Figure 12 show highly schematic representations of the data connections emanating from the furniture component 1 within a house and the data connections of the electronic modules 9 of a control panel 10.

[0127] In Figure 11Various rooms in the basement, ground floor, and first floor of a single-family home are shown in section, with various external devices (external to the furniture component) present in the different rooms. For example, a washing machine and the heating in the basement, or an oven or a lamp on the ground floor. On the first floor, an electrically operated roller shutter is shown on a window. A motor vehicle is parked in the garage. All of these external devices 150 can be coupled to the furniture component 1 (e.g., a cooking island in the kitchen / living area) via data connections (usually wireless). For this purpose, various electronic modules, each with adapted radio units, are housed in the housing 50 in order to retrieve data from the corresponding external devices 150 via the operating and information elements 13, 14 and / or to control them. Operation can, in turn, be carried out via the digital terminal 210. Fig. 10This can be done via a wireless connection, which is connected, for example, to the roller shutter control or the heating system via corresponding interfaces of the electronic modules 9. A variety of external devices 150 in the house can thus be controlled wirelessly via the electronic modules 9.

[0128] In this case, as Figure 12 As shown, various electronic modules 9 establish and maintain data connections to different or identical external devices 150, either consecutively or simultaneously. The data connections can be transmitted at different frequencies and with different standards. The corresponding electronic modules 9 ensure the appropriate connection.

[0129] The data connections between the electronic modules 9 and the external devices can be established via a hub 60, a gateway 60, a bridge 60 and / or via a smart home control center 60. The hub, the gateway, the bridge or the smart home control center 60 can be located as in Figure 12shown, are located outside the housing 50. It is also possible for an electronic module 9 to serve as the central module. The central module 9a can be designed as a hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center 60. This central module 9a can communicate directly with an external device 150 and / or can itself be connected to an externally arranged hub, gateway, bridge, or smart home control center. This additional connection can then be used to communicate with one or more external devices 150. The hubs, gateways, bridges, or smart home control centers 60 can be connected to an intranet or the internet 70. The communication paths 80 between the individual electronic modules 9, the hubs, gateways, bridges, smart home control centers 60, 9a, the external devices 150, the internet 70, and the digital terminal devices 210 are shown here as an example as a dash-dotted line.

[0130] The electronic modules 9 can be individually replaced in all configurations if necessary, for example, if a module is defective or if a transmission standard changes. An additional, innovative electronic module 9 with a new standard or a different connection type can also be added at any time if necessary. The entire furniture component does not need to be replaced.

[0131] Figure 13shows a further embodiment, wherein the furniture component 1 is designed as a base cabinet 110. A wall cabinet 120 can optionally be provided above it. The base cabinet 110 has a body 8 and an upper furniture panel 2, which can be used, for example, as a worktop. On the front side, a furniture front panel 3 is provided, which can be designed, for example, as a door, behind which a storage compartment 30 is provided. On the front edge of the furniture panel 2, a housing 50 or a control panel 10 is arranged and fastened on the narrow side 5. In the right part of Figure 13The control panel 10 is shown enlarged. Here, two electronic modules 9 are mounted on the mounting rail 19b. The mounting rail 19b can also serve as a power supply. The control section 12 is designed to be angled upwards on the control panel 10 to control remote external devices 150 if necessary. The electronic modules 9 and other parts in the mounting space 51 can be replaced as needed or upon request. This allows the functionality to be expanded later.

[0132] The housing 50 with the electronic modules 9 can also be accommodated in or attached to another wall 35 of the furniture component.

[0133] In Figure 14A furniture component 1 designed as a wall cabinet 120 is depicted. The right-hand part shows an enlarged schematic view of the area of ​​the lower front edge. The furniture panel 2 is located below the receiving compartment 30. A continuous support rail 19b supports the various modules 9. An energy storage device 19a, in the form of, for example, a battery, can ensure the operation of at least one electronic module 9, even if the external power supply fails, either planned or unplanned.

[0134] The housing 50 with the control panel 10 is arranged in the lower area of ​​the wall cabinet 120, with the surface section 11 with the control section 12 oriented diagonally downwards. This allows for convenient operation from an angled position below.

[0135] The electronic modules 9 can be accommodated and arranged at predetermined or selectable intervals in the housing 50. Each electronic module 9 can have its own transmitter-receiver unit 7a in order to establish radio connections with each other and with external devices 150 using the same or different radio standards in a targeted and independent manner. An electronic module 9 can be designed as a central module 9a and can also establish a data connection with other central modules 9a, possibly via the Internet. List of reference symbols:

[0136] 1 Furniture component 19a Energy storage, battery 2 Furniture panel, worktop 19b Mounting rail 2a Thickness of 2 20 Operating profile 2b Core of 2 21 Extrusion profile, coextrusion 3 Furniture front panel sion profile 3a Front of 3 22 Cable feedthrough 4 Top of 2 23 Line 4a upper deck area 24 Groove in 2 4b Bottom of 2 25 Spring on 10 5 Narrow side of 2 26 Profile part 6 Narrow side of 2 27 Profile part 6a Length of 6 28 Holder, injection-molded component 7 Data interface 29 locking hook 7a transmitter-receiver unit 30 Reception compartment 8 Furniture body 31 Display 9 Electronic module 32 spacer element 9a Central module 33 Sealing element 10 Control bar 34 light source 10a Bottom of 10 34a Lid 10b drip nose 35 wall 10c coupling interface 40 Storage space 10d Nut 50 Housing 11 Surface section 50a Cover area 12 Operating section 51 Receiving space, cavity 12a angle 60 Hub, Gateway, Bridge, 12b angle Smart home control center 13 Control element 70 Internet 13a sensor 80 Communication path 14 Information element 100 kitchen furniture 14a Display unit 110 Base cabinet 15 butt edge 120 upper cabinet 15a acute angle 150 external device 16 Connecting element 200 electrical device 17 Data storage 201 Groceries 18 Microcontroller 210 digital device 19 Energy source

Claims

1. A furniture component (1) with a housing (50) formed thereon and a plurality of exchangeable operating elements and information elements that are accommodated therein and are constructed as electronic modules (9), wherein the housing (50) provides an operating panel (10), and wherein the electronic modules (9) can be exchanged individually, and wherein the electronic modules (9) each have at least one data interface (7), and wherein at least two of the electronic modules (9) each have a dedicated wireless transceiver unit (7a), wherein the housing (50) provides an energy source (19) for the accommodated electronic modules (9), wherein multiple electronic modules (9) can be positioned freely or in stages one behind the other in an extension direction of the housing (50), wherein the operating panel is freely configurable so that the position of the operating elements and / or the information elements within the operating panel can be selected freely or in predefined steps, and wherein the electronic modules (90) are suitable and designed to exchange data indirectly or directly with external devices (150), wherein the operating panel (10) has a substantially triangular cross section.

2. The furniture component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one electronic module (9) is designed to display information from at least one external device (150) and / or to control at least one external device (150), and / or wherein an electronic module (9) with a wireless transceiver unit (7a) has a different wireless standard from at least one external device (150) in data transfer with the electronic module (9), and / or wherein a communication path (80) between an electronic module (9) with a wireless transceiver unit (7a) and the at least one external device (150) is established by at least one hub (60, 9a), gateway (60, 9a), bridge (60, 9a), or smart home central station (60, 9a), and / or wherein at least two electronic modules (9) in the housing (50) are connected to one another via a wired interface.

3. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one external device (150) is taken from a group of devices comprising multimedia devices, display devices, thermostats, lamps, roller shutter switches, televisions, actuators, drivable furniture parts, domestic appliances, builtin appliances, kitchen appliances, gardening tools, charging stations, sockets, signal transmitters and home appliances.

4. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one electronic module (9) is used as a central module (9a) for coordinating other electronic modules (9), and wherein in particular the central module (9a) can be connected to another central module and for example a hub (60), gateway (60), bridge (60) or a smart home central station (60).

5. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one electronic module (9) can be connected to the Internet, and / or wherein at least one electronic module (9) is configurable by means of a digital terminal (210), and / or wherein at least one electronic module (9) can be seen and / or operated through a top face (50a) of the housing (50), and / or wherein at least two different electronic modules (9) use different wireless protocols, and / or wherein at least one electronic module (9) can be operated via a battery (19a).

6. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one storage space (40), which is delimited by a wall (35), and wherein the storage space (40) is delimited in particular by a movable furniture front panel (3).

7. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one furniture board (2), and wherein in particular the furniture board (2) is arranged for the termination of a storage space (40) of a movable furniture front panel (3), said storage space being separated off by the movable furniture front panel (3), and wherein preferably the furniture board (2) has multiple sides, specifically an upper side (4) with an upper top face (4a) and a lower side (4b), and at least one lateral short side (5, 6), and wherein the housing (50) is held on the furniture board (2), and / or wherein the housing (50) has at least one operating portion (12).

8. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating portion (12) is suitable and designed to display data from a connected electrical device (200) such as a time, a program selection, a weight from a set of scales, a device condition etc., and / or wherein at least one operating portion (12) comprises at least one sensor, which is taken from a group of sensors comprising touch sensors and contactless sensors, proximity sensors and gesture sensors (13a).

9. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one electronic module (9) can be connected indirectly or directly to a voice-controlled input and / or output device, and wherein the electronic module (9) can in particular display data from the voice-controlled input and / or output device.

10. The furniture component (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the operating panel (10) has at least one surface portion (11) that runs obliquely to the upper top face (4a) of the furniture board (2) and has at least one operating portion (12) and operating and / or information elements (13, 14) arranged thereon, and / or wherein the operating portion (12) is arranged with the operating and information elements (13, 14) oblique to the upper side and / or lower side, and wherein the operating portion (12) is arranged with the operating and information elements (13, 14) at an angle (12a) of between 10° and 80° or between 25° and 65° to the perpendicular on the upper side and / or lower side of the furniture board (2).

11. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (50) terminates at least in some portions flush with the front (3a) of the furniture front panel (3) and / or protrudes at least in some portions beyond the front (3a) of the furniture front panel (3), and wherein the housing (50) has at least one drip nose (10b) or drip edge that protrudes beyond the front (3a) of the furniture front panel (3), and / or wherein the lower side of the operating profile (10) falls away towards the distal end.

12. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the furniture board (2) is designed as a table top or worktop, wherein a length and / or width of the furniture board (2) is greater than 500 mm, and wherein the furniture board has a thickness (2a) between 15 mm and 60 mm, and / or wherein the housing (50) extends over substantially the entire length (6a) of the short side (6), and / or wherein a software update of at least one electronic module (9) is possible via a data interface (7), and / or wherein the operating panel (10) has a networkindependent energy source (19) so that networkindependent operation is possible.

13. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the furniture board (2) has a core (2b) that consists at least partially of a woodbased material or an engineered wood material such as a chipboard or a medium-density or high-density fibreboard (MDF, HDF) or of natural or artificial stone, granite, glass or concrete, or of metal or biopolymer.

14. The furniture component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one display unit (14a) is suitable and designed to output information via static and / or dynamic symbols and / or characters, wherein the display unit (14a) is designed as a display and / or has pre-printed and translucent regions.

Images