Distance element for spacing an object off a support, fastening arrangement and continuous flow heater

Abstract

The present invention relates to a spacer element (10) for separating an object (12) from a support (16), extending along a longitudinal axis (L) between a front end (17) and a rear end (18), comprising at least one passage section (19) for guiding a fastening element (20), wherein the passage section (19) is at least partially bounded along the longitudinal axis (L) by at least one expandable locking element (23) which further encompasses the spacer element (10), and which can be expanded by inserting a fastening element (20) into the passage section (19), in that the at least one locking element (23) moves radially away from the passage section (19) with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) when expanding, and the spacer element (10) can be arranged in a recess (22) of an object (12) in a manner that prevents movement by means of the at least one locking element (23).and wherein the spacer element (10) further comprises at least one movable spring element (24) generating a spring force, which is designed and configured to be deflectable along the longitudinal axis (L) while generating a spring force and is automatically retractable against the spring force. The invention further relates to a fastening arrangement (13) and a flow heater (11).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a spacer element for distancing an object from a support, wherein the spacer element extends along a longitudinal axis between a front end and a rear end and comprises at least one passage section along the longitudinal axis for passing a fastening element, wherein the front end of the spacer element comprises a contact surface for bearing the spacer element against a support and the rear end is designed and configured for at least partially arranging the spacer element in a recess of an object.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a fastening arrangement comprising a spacer element.

[0003] The invention further relates to an instantaneous water heater comprising at least two fastening arrangements.

[0004] Components for spacing an object from a support have been known in the art for many years. Such components are used, for example, to position objects at a specific distance from a support or to attach objects to a support at a predetermined distance using the component. The art includes, among other things, so-called spacer rings or spacer sleeves for creating a distance between two objects or components. Furthermore, a wide variety of connection techniques and fastening materials and devices are known for attaching objects to a support. For example, numerous different dowels and dowel geometries are known that provide a holding effect through expansion for correspondingly expandable components of the dowel.Such connection techniques and fastening materials and devices are generally used for the direct attachment of objects, thus allowing only limited control over the desired distance between the object and the support. Furthermore, when attaching objects, it is not necessary to position them at a distance from a support, as a flush fit is usually desired. If predetermined distances between the support and the object are required, spacers are also available.

[0005] The available connection technologies and fastening materials do not offer a way to individually space an object on a support without extensive additional measures. On uneven surfaces, spacers of varying lengths are required to space the objects on the support and achieve a level surface. Furthermore, these spacers are often problematic to handle, as they must be selected appropriately for the specific application and then attached and secured at the designated points. Using these standard spacers and fastening materials results in a series of time-consuming and therefore costly work steps.Furthermore, a wide variety of fastening materials and spacers must be kept on hand for each application, leading to costly warehousing. Overall, manually selecting suitable spacers or other standoffs when fastening objects carries a high risk of improper fastening, especially with small components and uneven surfaces.

[0006] Such spacing problems occur particularly frequently when mounting support elements, especially those used for mounting instantaneous water heaters, or with the water heaters themselves. For example, there are large-capacity instantaneous water heaters that are not only heavy but also difficult to handle. Since these heaters are often mounted on unplastered or uneven walls, achieving a level mounting requires either reworking the wall (support surface) or manually adjusting the gap between the wall and the water heater using suitable tools or aids. This makes the installation process lengthy, and without suitable tools or aids for spacing, mounting the heater directly onto the uneven wall is the only option, or significant delays in installation are to be expected.

[0007] For reliable and trouble-free operation of instantaneous water heaters, it is crucial that the water heaters, or the mounting hardware, are securely attached to the surface (e.g., wall) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Instantaneous water heaters, especially large-capacity models, can weigh several kilograms, making careful installation essential. Furthermore, the orientation and tilt can influence the hot water heating performance. Installing instantaneous water heaters according to the manufacturer's instructions is often problematic and time-consuming, increasing the risk of damage. Additionally, installation positions are frequently chosen that do not provide optimal access to the mounting points, limiting the use of unplanned (auxiliary) tools.

[0008] Document DE 10 2006 002262 A1 discloses a flow heater with a back panel having four spacer elements in the form of a grub screw.

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a spacer element for distancing an object from a support, which ensures reliable attachment of the object to the support and is simultaneously quick and easy to implement. The object further includes providing a corresponding mounting arrangement and a corresponding flow heater.

[0010] This task is solved by the aforementioned spacer element in that the feedthrough section is at least partially limited along its longitudinal axis by at least one expandable locking element that further encompasses the spacer element, wherein the at least one locking element can be expanded by inserting a fastening element into the feedthrough section, whereby the at least one locking element moves radially away from the feedthrough section with respect to its longitudinal axis when expanding, and the spacer element can be arranged in a recess of an object in a movement-resistant manner by means of the at least one locking element, and wherein the spacer element further comprises at least one movable spring element generating a spring force, which is designed and configured to be deflectable along the longitudinal axis while generating a spring force and can be moved back automatically against the spring force.

[0011] In this way, the spacer element according to the invention can be used, among other things, to achieve leveling on a surface on which an object is to be mounted. The at least one expanding locking element secures the entire spacer element in a recess of the object to be mounted when a fastening element is inserted, thus determining the distance between the spacer element and the corresponding recess. Variable distances can be selected depending on the depth to which the spacer element is inserted into the recess. An advantage is that, in a system with a support, the distance can be adjusted depending on the pressure applied to the spring elements. This allows for the uncomplicated and time-saving use of the spacer element according to the invention, particularly when mounting objects.Since the locking elements preferably enable automatic movement locking of the spacer element when a fastener is inserted into the feedthrough section, simple handling without special modifications to the components used is also ensured. In conjunction with the at least one movable spring element generating a spring force, the spacer element provides a reliable means of precisely positioning the at least one spacer element or the object to be spaced on a support, by individually taking the surface finish into account. Preferably, the spacer element adjusts itself automatically at the moment a fastener is inserted.

[0012] In a preferred use of at least one of the spacer elements according to the invention, the corresponding spacer element can be arranged, preferably inserted, into a recess of an object, which can also be referred to as a functional area. The object is further preferably a lower housing part of an instantaneous water heater. Depending on the design and dimensioning of the spacer element, the front end, which has a contact surface, can be arranged in the recess of the object at a distance from the rear end in order to create a gap to the corresponding support. In other words, the front end protrudes from the recess of the object. The object is placed on the support to be fastened (e.g.,The object is positioned (a surface) and aligned with appropriate counter-pressure so that it is free from distortion, i.e., essentially flat, and can be attached to the support by fasteners that can be passed through the opening of the spacer element. The applied counter-pressure allows the at least one spring element of the spacer element to move against the spring force, enabling the spacer element to be displaced along its longitudinal axis in the direction of the object's recess. Once the desired or required depth is reached, the at least one locking element can be radially expanded from the opening by passing (inserting / twisting) the fastener element, thereby self-locking the at least one locking element within the object's recess.

[0013] The spacer element according to the invention, used to create a distance between an object, particularly when mounting an instantaneous water heater, reduces the risk of damage to both the object being spaced and the spacer element itself. Furthermore, damage to the respective support surface is prevented because the spring elements are designed to yield under load. This allows the assembly, disassembly, or maintenance of an object spaced by spacers to be reliably performed even by less trained or skilled personnel, further increasing the range of applications and uses for such spacers while simultaneously reducing maintenance and assembly costs.

[0014] Furthermore, the spacer element according to the invention results in less noise generation when objects are spaced apart, since there is no direct contact between the object and the designated support. The spacer element can thus absorb and transmit vibrations, thereby reducing vibrations.

[0015] The passage section of the spacer element according to the invention can be completely open, partially open, or at least configured such that it is designed to accommodate a fastening element. The passage section is preferably designed as a recess or at least partially as a material taper, wherein the material taper releases the passage section when a fastening element is inserted. The passage section can alternatively also be referred to as a passage sleeve.

[0016] The material of the spacer element according to the invention preferably comprises predominantly plastics (e.g., ABS, PS, PP, etc.), in particular durable plastics that possess suitable strength, durability, and elasticity properties for the at least one spring element. The spacer element according to the invention is further preferably designed as a one-piece injection-molded part.

[0017] In preferred embodiments, the spacer element is designed such that the protruding area is 1 mm to 10 mm, particularly preferably in the range of 2 mm to 8 mm. Thus, in preferred embodiments, level differences of up to 10 mm on the surface to be spaced can be compensated for. Depending on the size of the spacer element provided for fastening, significantly larger areas are also conceivable.

[0018] A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the feedthrough section is further limited, at least partially, along its longitudinal axis by at least one guide element encompassing the spacer element. This guide element is designed and configured to guide a fastening element through the feedthrough section, at least partially, along the longitudinal axis of the spacer element. The at least one guide element stabilizes the spacer element along its longitudinal axis and limits the space for the passage of fastening elements. The feedthrough section is thus at least partially designed as a sleeve. Preferably, the spacer element comprises a plurality of guide elements. In general, such guide elements can also be referred to as guide segments, sliding elements, or sliding segments, since this facilitates, in particular, the sliding of a fastening element into or through the feedthrough section.The guide section can be supported. In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the guide elements is designed and configured to be at least partially deflectable in the radial direction.

[0019] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that the at least one inhibiting element is designed and configured to project at least partially into the passage section. The inhibiting effect is generated, in particular, by contact between a fastening element and the at least one guide element, whereby the at least one guide element displaces the at least one inhibiting element to form and configure a movement-inhibiting arrangement. The at least partial projection of the at least one inhibiting element into the passage section also serves to improve the effective connection with a fastening element. If the at least one inhibiting element is designed to project within the passage section, the insertion of a fastening element causes the at least one inhibiting element to spread open.In this way, a movement-inhibiting arrangement of the spacer element in the object recess can be provided.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one locking element comprises a locking area designed and configured to lock the at least one spread locking element at a distance from a recess in the object. The locking area is, for example, an independent locking element of the locking element or a locking section of the at least one locking element provided for locking. The locking area further enhances the locking effect of the at least one spread locking element. For this purpose, the locking area is, for example, designed with a special surface texture, such as serrations, knobs, recesses, material thickenings, modified material properties, applied adhesives, etc. Essentially, all modifications of the at least one locking element that contribute to a simplified or enhanced locking effect are suitable.

[0021] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the at least one spring element is designed and configured to position the spacer element at a distance from the object when the spacer element is in contact with a support, against the spring force, within a recess of the object. If a force applied to the at least one spring element is greater than the spring force of the at least one spring element, the spacer element is movable. The at least one spring element allows the spacer element to return automatically to its original position within the object, particularly when no force is applied. In the intended use of the spacer element, the at least one spring element is configured in conjunction with a counter-position, which is provided, in particular, within an object recess, to provide the counter-movement.

[0022] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the spacer element comprises one to five, in particular three, locking elements and / or one to five, in particular three, guide elements, wherein the locking elements and / or the guide elements are arranged essentially in a star shape around the feedthrough section. This is particularly advantageous for fastening elements with a substantially round cross-section, as it ensures a uniform force application and / or a uniform force transmission. Depending on the use, dimensions, or design of the spacer element, more than five locking elements and / or guide elements may also be provided in preferred embodiments. It is further preferred that the number of locking elements and guide elements is identical. It is particularly preferred that the locking elements and guide elements are arranged alternately around the feedthrough section.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spacer element comprises at least two spring elements, wherein the spring elements are essentially arranged and positioned opposite each other along the longitudinal axis. Two spring elements provide a more reliable force distribution when forces act upon the spacer element. Furthermore, greater restoring forces can be generated by using two spring elements. Depending on the application, dimensions, or design of the spacer element, more than two spring elements may also be provided in preferred embodiments, particularly when higher spring forces are required.

[0024] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the spacer element further comprises at least one anti-rotation device, which is designed and configured for arrangement in a corresponding anti-rotation receptacle of an object recess to prevent rotation of the spacer element. Preferably, at least one of the guide elements is designed and configured as an anti-rotation device. The at least one anti-rotation device characterizes, on the one hand, the insertion position of the spacer element to prevent improper arrangement of the spacer element in an object recess, and on the other hand, the anti-rotation device prevents rotation of the spacer element about its longitudinal axis. The anti-rotation device further preferably comprises a (cross-shaped) locking means that can be arranged in a correspondingly designed anti-rotation receptacle.

[0025] The contact surface of the front end of the spacer element is not intended to come into direct contact with the support to be installed, nor is it designed to be in contact with the support across its entire surface. A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the contact surface is essentially planar. An at least essentially planar contact surface provides a uniform force transmission to the spacer element. Furthermore, the essentially planar contact surface is particularly well-suited to align with flat surfaces, thereby improving the holding effect on the surface and reducing the possibility of slippage.

[0026] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the contact surface has at least one anti-slip feature extending along its longitudinal axis beyond the contact surface, which is designed and configured to prevent the spacer element from slipping. The anti-slip feature particularly reduces unwanted movement of the spacer element during placement on a support. This ensures precise positioning of the spacer element or the object, thereby preventing or at least reducing incorrect attachment / arrangement of the object on a support. The anti-slip feature can be, for example, an independent component of the contact surface or an additional section of the contact surface specifically designed to prevent slippage.For this purpose, the contact surface is designed, for example, with a special surface finish, such as serrations, bumps, material thickenings, altered material properties, applied adhesives, etc. Basically, any modification of the at least one contact surface that contributes to reduced slippage of the spacer element on a support is suitable.

[0027] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the anti-slip device is formed by at least one locking element. For this purpose, the at least one locking element is designed to project at least partially beyond the contact surface. In this case, the anti-slip device is formed in the area of ​​the penetration section.

[0028] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that the spacer element is essentially mirror-symmetrical along a symmetry axis running through the feedthrough section along the longitudinal axis. This reduces manufacturing costs and synchronizes the specific properties of the individual components of the spacer element, particularly when dealing with a large number of locking elements, guide elements, and spring elements. Furthermore, the manufacturing components can be more easily automated in this way, resulting in cost-effective production and assembly of the individual components.

[0029] The problem is also solved by the aforementioned fastening arrangement, comprising a spacer element according to the invention and a support element, wherein the support element includes a spacer element recess adapted to the spacer element and is designed and configured to receive the spacer element at least partially in the spacer element recess, and wherein the spacer element and the support element have a passage for guiding a fastening element, wherein the support element with the spacer element received at least partially in the spacer element recess is provided for arrangement on a support in order to fasten at least the support element and the spacer element to the support by means of a fastening element, wherein at least one locking element of the spacer element can be expanded by inserting a fastening element in the passage.by the at least one inhibiting element moving radially away from the passage section with respect to the longitudinal axis during spreading, and the spacer element being arranged in a movement-resistant manner in the spacer element recess of the support element by means of the at least one inhibiting element. The fastening arrangement preferably further comprises at least one fastening element for fastening the at least one support element to a support. The objects provided for fastening / spacering preferably comprise at least two fastening arrangements according to the invention, that is, at least two spacer elements and at least two spacer element recesses, particularly preferably four fastening arrangements.This means four spacer elements and four spacer element recesses. In special embodiments, the spacer element recess is designed as an object recess. Preferably, the spacer element recess or the object recess has an internal section that is provided for at least partially arranging the guide section of the spacer element. The internal section can alternatively also be referred to as a (guide) sleeve.

[0030] To avoid repetition, particular reference is made in connection with the fastening arrangement according to the invention to the advantages already described in connection with the spacer element according to the invention, especially the advantages in connection with the aforementioned use of the spacer element according to the invention. These also apply analogously to the fastening arrangement according to the invention.

[0031] The spacer element and / or the recess for the object is / are preferably designed with dimensions that are suitable for the recess and / or the spacer element, or slightly larger / smaller. In particular, the arrangement of the spacer element in the recess for the object creates a slight static friction that prevents it from falling out on its own.

[0032] The problem is further solved by the aforementioned instantaneous water heater according to the invention, comprising at least two fastening arrangements according to the invention with at least one spacer element according to the invention and at least one support element, wherein the fastening arrangement is designed and configured for fastening the instantaneous water heater to a support, in particular to a wall, wherein the at least one spacer element is provided for individual spacing between the at least one support element and the support.

[0033] The instantaneous water heater provides a reliable, convenient, and secure mounting / spacer for the water heater on a support surface, while also enabling simple and therefore cost-effective installation. The mounting arrangement according to the invention, in conjunction with the at least one spacer element according to the invention, allows for improved spacing of the instantaneous water heater, thus enabling efficient use of available space while simultaneously providing an intuitive mounting method. The instantaneous water heater is preferably an electric instantaneous water heater.

[0034] An advantageous further development is characterized by the fact that the spacer elements are designed and configured, depending on the surface properties of the support, to fasten the support element with a different distance between the support element and the support.

[0035] To avoid repetition, particular reference is made in connection with the instantaneous water heater according to the invention to the advantages already described in connection with the spacer element and the fastening arrangement according to the invention, especially the advantages in connection with the aforementioned use of the spacer element according to the invention. These also apply analogously to the arrangement according to the invention.

[0036] Further advantageous features and embodiments, as well as preferred items of the spacer element, the fastening arrangement, and the instantaneous water heater according to the invention, will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments of the spacer element, the fastening arrangement, and the instantaneous water heater are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic exploded view of the fastening arrangement according to the invention and a section of an instantaneous water heater according to the invention in partial sectional view with a spacer element according to the invention in partial sectional view, Fig. 2a a schematic perspective view of the spacer element according to the invention, Fig. 2b a schematic side view of the in Fig. 2a The spacer element according to the invention, shown in Fig. 2, is a schematic view from the underside of the spacer element. Fig. 2a und Fig. 2b shown spacer element according to the invention, Fig. 3a a schematic front view of an object recess for a spacer element according to the invention, Fig. 3b a schematic side view in partial sectional view of the in Fig. 3a shown object recess for a spacer element according to the invention, Fig. 4a a schematic side view of the fastening arrangement according to the invention in partial sectional view as well as a section of an instantaneous water heater according to the invention in partial sectional view with a spacer element according to the invention in partial sectional view Fig. 4 a detailed view of the in Fig. 4a area shown.

[0037] The spacer element of the instantaneous water heater according to the invention and the arrangement according to the invention are described in more detail with reference to the aforementioned figures.

[0038] The spacer element 10 shown in the drawings is designed as an example for spacing an instantaneous water heater 11 (only partially shown in the figures). The invention relates similarly to comparable spacer elements 10 that are provided for spacing other objects 12 on a support, in particular housings. The fastening arrangement 13 shown in the drawings is also designed as an example for spacing / fastening an instantaneous water heater 11. The invention relates similarly to comparable fastening arrangements 13 that are provided for spacing / fastening other objects 12 on a support, in particular housings.

[0039] Fig. 1 and Fig. 4a und Fig. 4b Each figure schematically shows an embodiment of a fastening arrangement 13 for fastening / spaced an instantaneous water heater 11, which is installed in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 4a und Fig. 4b The illustration only shows a partial view. The section of the instantaneous water heater 11 shown is, in particular, the housing 14 or the lower housing part / rear panel 15 of the instantaneous water heater 11. Fig. 1 , Fig. 2a bis Fig. 2c and Fig. 4a und Fig. 4b Each figure shows the spacer element 10 according to the invention for spacing an object 12 from a support 16. The spacer element 10 is shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 4a und Fig. 4b shown in conjunction with the fastening arrangement 13 according to the invention, while the spacer element 10 is in the Fig. 2a bis Fig. 2c is depicted in isolation.

[0040] The spacer element 10 according to the invention extends along a longitudinal axis L between a front end 17 and a rear end 18 and comprises at least one passage section 19 along the longitudinal axis L for guiding a fastening element 20. The front end 17 of the spacer element 10 further comprises a contact surface 21 for bearing the spacer element 10 against a support 16, and the rear end 18 is designed and configured for at least partial arrangement of the spacer element 10 in a recess 22 of an object 12. A recess 22 for arranging the spacer element 10 according to the invention is provided in the Fig. 3a und Fig. 3b The object recess 22 preferably has a structure that essentially corresponds to the geometry of the spacer element 10.

[0041] The spacer element 10 is characterized according to the invention in that the passage section 19 is at least partially limited along the longitudinal axis L by at least one expandable locking element 23 which further encompasses the spacer element 10, wherein the at least one locking element 23 can be expanded by inserting a fastening element 20 into the passage section 19, in that the at least one locking element 23 moves radially R away from the passage section 19 with respect to the longitudinal axis L when expanding, and the spacer element 10 can be arranged in a movement-restricting manner in a recess 22 of an object 12 by means of the at least one locking element 23. Fig. 2c The expansion capability of the at least one locking element 23 is shown in detail. The radial removability R of the at least one locking element 23 is illustrated by the arrows. The process of the radial movement R of the at least one locking element 23 is also shown in the embodiment of the Fig. 4a und Fig. 4b shown by depicting a fastening element 20 being inserted into the feedthrough section 19.

[0042] According to the invention, the spacer element 10 is further characterized in that the spacer element 10 further comprises at least one movable spring element 24 generating a spring force, which is designed and configured to be deflectable along the longitudinal axis L while generating a spring force and can be moved back automatically against the spring force. Fig. 2b Figure 1 shows the path of movement F of the at least one spring element 24 when a force is applied to the front end 17 of the spacer element 10. The at least one spring element 24 is moved from the rear end 18 towards the front end 17. When the force is removed and the spacer element 10 is supported, the at least one spring element 24 returns to its initial position. Preferably, the passage section 19 is further limited, at least partially, along the longitudinal axis L by at least one guide element 25 encompassing the spacer element 10. This guide element 25 is designed and configured to guide a fastening element 20, at least partially, through the passage section 19 along the longitudinal axis L of the spacer element 10.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the recess 22 includes, among other things, a region for arranging the at least one locking element 23, the at least one guide element 25, and the at least one spring element 24. For arranging the spring element 24, at least one ramp-shaped section 29 is preferably provided within the recess 22, which is located in the Fig. 3a und Fig. 3b are shown in detail. The ramp-shaped sections 29 are provided to support the at least one spring element 24 in order to form a corresponding counter-position for providing the spring force. Preferably, the at least one spring element 24 is designed and configured to, when the spacer element 10 rests against a support 16, position the spacer element 10 at a distance from the object in a recess 22 of an object 12, contrary to the spring force. A spaced arrangement of an object 12 is shown in the Fig. 4a As shown, a gap S is formed between support 16 and object 12. The size of the gap S can be varied depending on the set distance between support 16 and object 12 by means of the spacer element 10, with at least one inhibiting element 23 providing the inhibiting effect in each case.

[0044] An advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the at least one locking element 23 is designed and configured to project at least partially into the passage section 19. This is particularly evident in the top view of the Fig. 2c The locking elements 23, which partially project into the passage section 19, are shown in detail. When a fastening element 20 is inserted into the passage section 20, the at least one locking element 23 can be radially expanded R. Preferably, the at least one locking element 23 comprises a locking area 26, which is designed and configured to lock the at least one expanded locking element 23 at a distance from an object recess. Fig. 2b , Fig. 4a and in particular Fig. 4b The locking area 26 is designed as a section with a raised section. The locking area 26 additionally supports the movement-inhibiting property of the at least one inhibiting element 23.

[0045] In an advantageous embodiment, the spacer element 10 comprises one to five, in particular three, locking elements 23 and / or one to five, in particular three, guide elements 25, wherein the locking elements 23 and / or the guide elements 25 are arranged essentially in a star shape around the passage section 19. The embodiments of the spacer element 10 according to the invention shown in the figures each depict three guide elements 25 and three locking elements 23. The recess 22 provided for this purpose preferably also has a corresponding configuration for receiving the respective components. Preferably, the spacer element 10 further comprises at least two spring elements 24, wherein the spring elements 24 are formed and arranged essentially opposite each other along the longitudinal axis L. The opposite arrangement of the spring elements 24 is particularly advantageous in the Fig. 2a und Fig. 2c shown. The recess 22 provided for this purpose preferably also has a corresponding configuration for receiving the corresponding components.

[0046] In a further preferred embodiment, the spacer element 10 has at least one anti-rotation device 27, which is designed and configured for arrangement in a corresponding anti-rotation receptacle 28 of an object recess 22 in order to prevent rotation of the spacer element 10. Fig. 2c The anti-rotation device 27 is designed as a cross-shaped projection extending along the longitudinal axis L. The anti-rotation device receptacle 28 is located in the Fig. 3a shown and enables at least partial inclusion of the anti-rotation device 27 therein, but at least in such a way that rotation of the spacer element 10 about the longitudinal axis L is essentially prevented.

[0047] Preferably, the installation area 21 is essentially planar and equipped. Fig. 1 as well as Fig. 2a The spacer element 10 has a substantially planar surface. Preferably, the contact surface 21 has at least one anti-slip feature 30 extending along the longitudinal axis L beyond the contact surface 21, which is designed and configured to prevent the spacer element 10 from slipping. The anti-slip feature 30 is particularly evident in the side view of the Fig. 2b removable. Advantageously, the anti-slip device 30 is formed by at least one locking element 23. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2a The longitudinal extent of the at least one inhibiting element 23 is shown, creating a projection beyond the contact surface 21. The anti-slip device 30 can thus be arranged on a support 16, thereby reducing slippage.

[0048] An advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the spacer element 10 is designed and configured essentially mirror-symmetrically along a mirror axis running along the longitudinal axis L through the feedthrough section 19. The essentially mirror-symmetrical design of the spacer element 10 is particularly advantageous in the Fig. 2c shown. Furthermore, the object recess 22 also preferably has an essentially mirror-symmetrical design, which is shown in the Fig. 3a is shown.

[0049] The aforementioned descriptions relating to the spacer element 10 according to the invention also refer to the fastening arrangement 13 according to the invention, comprising a spacer element 10 according to the invention and a support element 31, in particular a housing 14, wherein the support element 31 comprises a spacer element recess / object recess 22 adapted to the spacer element 10 and is designed and configured for at least partially receiving the spacer element 10 in the spacer element recess / object recess 22, and the spacer element 10 and the support element 31 have a passage section 19 for passing a fastening element 20, wherein the support element 31 with the spacer element 10 received at least partially in the spacer element recess / object recess 22 is provided for arrangement on a support 16.to fasten at least the support element 31 and the spacer element 10 to the support 16 by means of a fastening element 20, wherein at least one locking element 23 of the spacer element 10 can be expanded by inserting a fastening element 20 into the feedthrough section 19, in that the at least one locking element 23 moves radially away from the feedthrough section 19 with respect to the longitudinal axis L when expanding, and the spacer element 10 can be arranged in a movement-locking manner in the spacer element recess / object recess 22 of the support element 31 by means of the at least one locking element 23. The fastening arrangement 13 is in the , Fig. 1 This is exemplified by the exploded view with the corresponding spacer element 10. Furthermore, the Fig. 4a und Fig. 4b also a fastening arrangement 13 according to the invention with a spacer element 10 according to the invention.

[0050] The aforementioned descriptions relating to the spacer element 10 and the mounting arrangement 13 according to the invention apply equally to the instantaneous water heater 11 according to the invention, comprising at least two mounting arrangements 13 according to the invention, each with at least one spacer element 10 and at least one support element 31, wherein the mounting arrangement 13 is designed and configured for mounting the instantaneous water heater 11 to a support 16, in particular to a wall, and wherein the at least one spacer element 10 is provided for individual spacing between the at least one support element 31 and the support 16. An example of spacing is shown in the Fig. 4a as well as Fig. 4b shown.

[0051] Another advantageous embodiment of the instantaneous water heater 11 is characterized in that the spacer elements 10, depending on the surface finish of the support 16, form and establish a different distance between the support element 31 and the support 16 when the support element 31 is attached to the support 16. The different distances between the support element 31 and the support 16 are not shown in detail in the figures. While starting from the Fig. 4a Where only a single spacing between support element 31 and support 16 is shown, in the preferred embodiment of the instantaneous water heater 11 there would be two spacer elements 10, each spacing the support element 31 from the support 16 by a different distance.

Claims

1. Spacer element (10) for spacing an object (12) from a support (16), wherein the spacer element (10) extends along a longitudinal axis (L) between a front end (17) and a rear end (18) and comprises at least one passage section (19) along the longitudinal axis (L) for passing through a fastening element (20), wherein the front end (17) of the spacer element (10) comprises a contact surface (21) for contacting the spacer element (10) on a support (16) and the rear end (18) is configured and adapted for at least partially arranging the spacer element (10) in an object recess (22) of an object (12), characterised in that the passage section (19) is at least partially delimited in the course of the longitudinal axis (L) by at least one spreadable restraining element (23) which further surrounds the spacer element (10), wherein the at least one restraining element (23) is spreadable by inserting a fastening element (20) into the passage section (19), in that the at least one restraining element (23) extends radially with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) away from the passage section (19) during spreading and the spacer element (10) is arrangeable in a movement-inhibiting arrangement in an object recess (22) of an object (12) by means of the at least one restraining element (23), and wherein the spacer element (10) further comprises at least one a spring force-forming movable spring element (24) which is configured and adapted to move out along the longitudinal axis (L), forming a spring force, and which is automatically movable back against the spring force.

2. Spacer element (10) according to claim 1, characterised in that the passage section (19) is further at least partially bounded in the course of the longitudinal axis (L) also by at least one guide element (25) which comprises the spacer element (10) and is configured and adapted for at least partially guiding a fastening element (20) through the passage section (19) in the course of the longitudinal axis (L) of the spacer element (10).

3. Spacer element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the at least one restraining element (23) is configured and adapted to protrude at least partially into the passage section (19).

4. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the at least one restraining element (23) comprises a locking region (26) which is configured and adapted to lock the at least one spread-out restraining element (23) in a distanced position with an object recess (22).

5. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the at least one spring element (24) is configured and adapted to arrange the spacer element (10) at a distance in an object recess (22) of an object (12) against the spring force when the spacer element (10) bears against a support (16).

6. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, comprising one to five, in particular three, restraining elements (23) and / or one to five, in particular three, guide elements (25), wherein the restraining elements (23) and / or the guide elements (25) are arranged substantially in a star shape around the passage section (19).

7. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, comprising at least two spring elements (24), wherein the spring elements (24) are configured and adapted substantially opposite each other along the longitudinal axis (L).

8. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, further comprising at least one anti-rotation device (27) configured and adapted to be arranged in a corresponding anti-rotation receptacle (28) of an object recess (22) in order to prevent rotation of the spacer element (10).

9. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the contact surface (21) is configured and adapted to be substantially planar.

10. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the contact surface (21) has at least one anti-slip device (30) which extends along the longitudinal axis (L) beyond the contact surface (21), which is configured and adapted to prevent the spacer element (10) from slipping.

11. Spacer element (10) according to claim 10, characterised in that the anti-slip device (30) is formed by at least one restraining element (23).

12. Spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the spacer element (10) is configured and adapted to be essentially mirror-symmetrical along a mirror axis extending in the course of the longitudinal axis (L) through the passage section (19).

13. Fastening arrangement (13) comprising a spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 12 and a carrier element (31), wherein the carrier element (31) comprises a spacer element recess (22) adapted to the spacer element (10) and is configured and adapted to at least partially receive the spacer element (10) in the spacer element recess (22), and the spacer element (10) and the carrier element (31) comprising a passage section (19) for the passage of a fastening element (20), wherein the carrier element (31) with the spacer element (10) received at least partially in the spacer element recess (22) is provided for arrangement on a support (16), in order to fasten at least the carrier element (31) and the spacer element (10) to the support by means of a fastening element (20), wherein at least one restraining element (23) of the spacer element (10) is spreadable by insertion of a fastening element (20) in the passage section (19), in that the at least one restraining element (23) moves out radially with respect to the longitudinal axis (L) from the passage section (19) during spreading, and the spacer element (10) is arrangeable in the spacer element recess (22) of the carrier element (31) by means of the at least one restraining element (23) so as to prevent movement.

14. Continuous flow heater (11) comprising at least two fastening arrangements (13) according to claim 13 with at least one spacer element (10) according to one or more of claims 1 to 12 and at least one carrier element (31), wherein the fastening arrangement (13) is configured and adapted for fastening the continuous flow heater (11) to a support (16), in particular to a wall, wherein the at least one spacer element (10) is provided for individual spacing of the at least one carrier element (31) and the support (16).

15. Continuous flow heater (11) according to claim 14, characterised in that the spacer elements (10) respectively configure and adapt a different spacing between the carrier element (31) and the support depending on the surface properties of the support (16) when the carrier element (31) is attached to the support (16).

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