Hinge assembly and item of furniture or domestic appliance

Abstract

The invention relates to a hinge assembly comprising a drive device and a hinge having a hinge arm, wherein: the hinge is designed to move a pivoting element of a domestic appliance or of an item of furniture; the pivoting element is accommodated on a carcass of the domestic appliance or item of furniture so as to be movable via the hinge; one side of the hinge is designed for mounting on the carcass, and another side of the hinge is designed for mounting on the pivoting element; and the drive device comprises a drive-motor unit, an end portion of the drive-motor unit being coupled to the hinge arm. According to the invention, a first flange component and a second flange component are provided for arranging the drive-motor unit on the pivoting element, wherein: the drive-motor unit can be arranged on the pivoting element by means of the first flange component and by means of the second flange component; the first flange component and the second flange component each have a mounting portion (14) for fastening the flange component, and each have a coupling portion for coupling the drive-motor unit to the flange component; when the flange components are arranged on the pivoting element, the coupling portion of the first flange component and the coupling portion of the second flange component are aligned with one another, so that the two flange components are provided symmetrically; and the drive-motor unit is located between the first flange component and the second flange component.

Description

[0001] "Hinge arrangement and furniture or household appliance"

[0002] State of the art

[0003] In the case of furniture and household appliances with movably mounted pivoting elements, such as doors or flaps, different arrangements are known for movably attaching the pivoting element to a body of the furniture or household appliance. When the furniture or household appliance is in use, the pivoting element can be moved with the hinge arrangement relative to the body, for example about a horizontally or vertically aligned pivot axis, in order to be able to access an interior of the body and / or the pivoting element and, when the pivoting element on the body is closed, to separate the interior from the outside. The pivoting element can usually be moved manually and / or by a drive, for example.

[0004] For furniture and household appliances such as cupboard furniture or refrigerators or freezers, compact and mechanically stable hinge assemblies are tailored to the specific use on the furniture or household appliance. This means that a hinge assembly designed and proven as a standard product can be used in a wide variety of applications. The hinge assembly is generally connected to the body and the pivot element. For mass products such as refrigerators and freezers, it is desirable to design the furniture or household appliance and the hinge assembly accordingly, thus enabling standardization. This means that proven hinge assemblies can be used universally without any changes in their design for a wide variety of different furniture and household appliances. This is advantageous both economically and when assembling such furniture and household appliances.Object and advantages of the invention.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to further improve a hinge arrangement mentioned at the outset and / or an associated piece of furniture or household appliance under economic and technical aspects, in particular to further develop it with a view to increasing operating comfort for a user.

[0006] This problem is solved by the independent claims. The dependent claims are directed to expedient and advantageous developments of the invention.

[0007] The invention is based on a hinge arrangement comprising a drive device and a hinge with a hinge arm, wherein the hinge is designed to move a pivoting element of a household appliance or a piece of furniture, wherein the pivoting element can be movably received on a body of the household appliance or piece of furniture via the hinge, wherein one side of the hinge is designed for attachment to the body and another side of the hinge is designed for attachment to the pivoting element, wherein the drive device has a drive motor unit which is designed for arrangement on the pivoting element and wherein an end section of the drive motor unit is coupled to the hinge arm, so that the articulated hinge arm of the hinge can be set in motion with the drive motor unit in such a way that in the assembled state of the hinge arrangement a movement of the pivoting element relative to the body takes place.For example, the hinge arrangement is a motorized hinge such as an electric door opener or an electric hinge, for example for automatically moving refrigerator doors of refrigerators, cabinet doors for freezers or the like. For example, the hinge arrangement has a standard hinge which is designed to be mounted via two end sections of the hinge on a section on the body prepared for the hinge and on a section on the pivot element prepared for the hinge. For example, the hinge comprises, for example, exactly one hinge arm, exactly two, exactly three or more than three hinge arms which are provided on the hinge in an articulated manner. For example, the plurality of joint axes of the hinge arm or the hinge arms are aligned parallel to one another. For example, the hinge is a multi-joint hinge such as a four-, five- or six-joint hinge.For example, prepared sections are provided on both sides of the end sections of the hinge, for example with a flat contact surface for contact with the pivot element on the one hand and the body on the other. The contact surface has at least one opening or a through-hole, for example a through-bore or a screw receptacle or a screw means receptacle, by means of which the hinge, such as one side of the hinge, can be detachably but firmly attached, for example screwed, to the body on the one hand and to the pivot element on the other. A fastening means, such as a screw means, engages through the through-hole and into a material area of ​​the pivot element or into the material of the body.For example, the one through hole or the multiple through holes on the hinge are through holes that are already present on a known hinge as standard for attachment to furniture or a household appliance. For example, the through holes can be used additionally or exclusively to connect the hinge to a flange component, e.g. with a screw, which penetrates the flange component and the contact surface, engages in the material of the pivot element or the body and connects the respective sections to one another. For example, a pivot element has exactly one hinge arrangement with the associated hinge and exactly one further hinge, i.e. exactly two hinges. For example, the two hinges are similar in function and design, for example identical. For example, the drive device is an electric motor or E-motor, e.g.a linear drive or e.g. spindle drive. For example, the drive device is a linear drive with an actuating element that can be moved back and forth in a linear manner, such as a push rod. For example, the actuating element is implemented by a driven rotating spindle or is moved linearly by such a spindle. For example, the actuating element is mechanically coupled to the hinge arm, for example movement-coupled. For example, the actuating element is part of a lever arrangement. For example, the actuating element can be coupled to the hinge via a receptacle on the hinge arm, which e.g. comprises a screw contour on the hinge that is accessible from the outside or a receptacle contour on the hinge arm. For example, the actuating element can be coupled to the hinge via a screw-on contour or plug-in contour on the mounted hinge that is accessible from the outside, for example with a screw-in or plug-in opening on the hinge arm.For example, the hinge is designed in such a way that it functions correctly without the drive motor unit, with a pivoting movement of the pivot element. For example, the hinge is a standard hinge. For example, the hinge is designed without a drive device acting on the hinge arm or another drive device such as a drive motor, so that the pivot element can be moved relative to the body when a tensile or compressive force is applied to the pivot element from the outside, for example by a person. The hinge enables the pivot element to pivot in two opposite pivot directions relative to the body.

[0008] For example, in the hinge arrangement with a drive device, when the coupled adjusting element moves forward, the pivoting element is moved away from the body from a position moved towards the body, e.g. a closed position, or opened, by means of the drive device. When the adjusting element coupled to the hinge arm of the hinge moves forward, the pivoting element is moved towards the body from a position moved away from the body or pivoted away, e.g. an open position, or closed, under the driven, forced hinge arm movement. The drive device can be switched accordingly.

[0009] Optionally, between the drive device and the

[0010] A clutch is present on the hinge arms. For example, there is a step-up or step-down gear or another gear, and / or a clutch such as a slip clutch and / or an overload clutch.

[0011] For example, the body-side end of the hinge engages with a body fastening arrangement of the hinge, for example in the area of ​​a body edge that is vertical in the used state and is formed on the outside of the body between a lower section on a front side of the body and a section on a side wall of the body that adjoins the front. For example, the fastening arrangement has an element with legs, e.g. an angle element with legs of the angle that are at right angles to one another and connected to one another, which engages with the section on the front with one leg and the section on the side wall with another leg. For example, the vertical body edge and adjoining sections on the body are engaged at the bottom right front or bottom left front of the body, depending on whether the pivoting element is hinged or articulated on the right or left of the body.Elements of the hinge extend from the leg at the front in the direction of the pivot element or the fastening element of the hinge that can be attached to it.

[0012] The essence of the invention is that a first flange component and a second flange component are provided for arranging the drive motor unit on the pivoting element, wherein the drive motor unit can be arranged on the pivoting element by means of the first flange component and by means of the second flange component, wherein the first flange component and the second flange component each have an attachment section for fastening the respective flange component and each have a coupling section for coupling the drive motor unit to the respective flange component, wherein in the arranged state of the flange components on the pivoting element, the coupling section of the first flange component and the coupling section of the second flange component are aligned towards each other, so that the two flange components are present symmetrically, wherein the drive motor unit between the first flange component and the second

[0013] Flange component is present.

[0014] For example, the drive motor unit is in direct contact with the coupling section of the first flange component. For example, the drive motor unit is in direct contact with the coupling section of the second flange component. For example, the drive motor unit is in direct contact with the coupling section of the first flange component. For example, the drive motor unit is in direct physical contact or touching with a section of the coupling section of the first flange component.

[0015] Alternatively, for example, the drive motor unit is indirectly in contact with the coupling portion of the first flange component. For example, the drive motor unit is indirectly in contact with the coupling portion of the second flange component. For example, the drive motor unit is in indirect contact with the coupling portion of the first flange component.

[0016] For example, the hinge arrangement comprises the hinge with, for example, exactly one articulated hinge arm or with several articulated hinge arms. The hinge is, for example, a multi-joint hinge or a four- or five-joint hinge. For example, the hinge arrangement comprises the drive device and the flange components. For example, a pivot element is articulated on the body with a hinge that is additional to the hinge arrangement. For example, exactly one drive device is usually sufficient to move exactly one pivot element. For example, the pivot element is pivotally mounted on the body via exactly two articulated bearing points, each with a hinge. For example, exactly two flange components are provided. For example, the two flange components are mirror-inverted to one another. For example, the two flange components are provided on outer sections of the drive motor unit, such as, for example,provided at the longitudinal ends of the drive motor unit, e.g. at opposite longitudinal ends of the drive motor unit. The receptacle between the two flange components enables the drive motor unit to be attached to the pivoting element in an economically advantageous manner. In addition, the drive motor unit can be easily mounted on the pivoting element. For example, the flange components are designed to be mounted on the pivoting element, for example in the lower edge area on a flat inside of a refrigerator door or in the area of ​​a narrow horizontal underside of the refrigerator door. Because the two separate flange components are present, their positioning on the pivoting element is possible easily or individually, variably and adaptably. For example, the flange components can be adapted, for example, to a length of the drive motor unit.For example, both flange components can be attached to the swivel element using the same fastening type, for example with corresponding screws or plug-in components, so that only one type of fastening device is required. This also makes attachment easier. The symmetry of the flange components relates to the hinge arrangement. For example, the two separate flange components are not identical. For example, the two flange components are mirror-inverted. For example, the flange components on the hinge arrangement and thus, when mounted on the swivel element, are aligned with one another with their respective longitudinal axes. For example, the longitudinal axes of the two flange components lie on a common spatial axis, which advantageously allows the hinge arrangement to be attached to the swivel element.For example, the two flange components have a distance which provides an area in which the drive motor unit is suitably present. For example, the drive motor unit and the flange components are coordinated such that the drive motor unit can be detachably connected to the two flange components. Preferably, opposite sections of the drive motor unit can be connected to the respective coupling section of the flange components. For example, end sections of the drive motor unit can be connected to the respective coupling section of the flange components. A respective section of the drive motor unit can be connected to the respective coupling section of the flange components, for example, in a latched, plug-in, and / or clamped manner. For example, the respective coupling section has an elastically deflectable coupling section which can be connected to a suitable mating section.For example, the respective coupling section has an elastically flexible coupling section that can be releasably locked to a, for example, rigid locking section that matches the coupling section at the respective end section of the drive motor unit. For example, the locking is fixed but can be released from the outside, for example by manual intervention, e.g. by applying a release force to the coupling section. For example, the drive motor unit is releasably held on the two flange components.

[0017] For example, the drive motor unit is clamped or latched onto the two flange components. This is the case, for example, when the hinge assembly is in the installed, operational state of a piece of furniture or a household appliance.

[0018] When assembling the hinge assembly, the drive motor unit can initially be separated from the rest of the hinge assembly, which simplifies assembly. The two flange components can be more easily transported, selected, and mounted on the swivel element without the drive motor unit attached. Only the alignment, e.g., the coincident alignment of the longitudinal axes to a common spatial axis, and the distance between the two flange components on the swivel element need to be observed during assembly.

[0019] For example, of the two flange components, exactly one

[0020] Flange component, which faces away from the side of the hinge facing the pivot element, can be attached to the pivot element without contact with the hinge, with a corresponding distance from the pivot arm. The drive motor unit is then present in the area of ​​the distance in the fully assembled state. For example, the other flange component is received on the hinge, such as on a fastening element of the hinge. For example, the fastening element is used to fasten the corresponding side of the hinge to the pivot element. For example, the other flange component, which is a flange component close to the hinge arm, can also be attached directly to the pivot element. For example, connecting means, such as screws, are provided, via which the common or simultaneous connection of the other flange component to the pivot element and also to the fastening element of the hinge is set up.

[0021] For example, both flange components are designed as additional components, such as an additional adapter, related to a complete hinge that functions without a drive device, e.g. a conventional hinge or an automatic hinge, and can be additionally attached thereto. For example, starting from such a known hinge or automatic hinge that does not include a drive device or drive motor unit, the hinge arrangement according to the invention can be designed. For example, a known hinge can be retrofitted with a drive motor unit. This makes it easy to retrofit a refrigerator with a conventional hinge, for example. For example, a known hinge for a refrigerator door that cannot be moved by a motor can be easily retrofitted, so that the refrigerator door can be moved automatically or electrically with the retrofitted hinge.

[0022] For example, a known hinge automat can be retrofitted with a drive device or a drive motor without any adjustment to the hinge automat.

[0023] For example, the flange components in the working condition of the

[0024] Hinge arrangement on the pivot element, e.g., in the same orientation, linearly offset from one another or spaced along a line. For example, both respective longitudinal axes of the flange components coincide or are parallel and offset from one another, e.g., within one width or, e.g., half a width of the drive motor unit.

[0025] For example, the drive motor unit is accommodated between the separate flange components. The two or respective coupling sections are aligned towards one another when arranged on the pivot element, e.g., flush with one another. For example, the longitudinal axis of the drive motor unit is transverse, e.g., at right angles or angles to a pivot axis of the hinge or transverse to a pivot axis of the hinge arm.

[0026] For example, each flange component is designed in its basic form as an angular element with, for example, exactly two or three or more than three flat sections aligned at an angle to one another. For example, one section forms the attachment section and another section forms the coupling section. For example, the coupling section is formed by exactly one section or by exactly two or more than two sections at an angle to one another.

[0027] The flange component is designed, for example, as an angle element. The flange component is designed, for example, from sheet metal and / or plastic.

[0028] For example, in the arranged state of the drive motor unit on the pivoting element, the coupling section of the first flange component and the coupling section of the second flange component are aligned towards one another, so that the two flange components are mirror-symmetrical.

[0029] For example, a mirror plane is present with respect to the coupling section of the first flange component and the coupling section of the second flange component. For example, the respective narrow sides of the attachment section and the coupling section point towards one another or are aligned towards one another. This facilitates simple assembly of the hinge arrangement with the drive device on the pivot element. For example, an associated mirror plane lies in the middle of a distance between the two flange components in the longitudinal direction of the flange components or in the longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit. The mirror plane is, for example, transverse to the longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit. For example, the two flange components are designed to be mirror-symmetrical to one another in their shape.

[0030] For example, the coupling section of the first flange component and the coupling section of the second flange component are designed identically. This simplifies assembly. For example, an identical design of e.g. ...

[0031] For example, the coupling section is connected to the drive motor unit via two spaced-apart connection or bearing points on the coupling section. This creates a multi-point or two-point fastening, for example. The connection via the coupling section is detachable, for example by plugging it in. The two bearing points enable a variable connection to the drive motor unit. For example, a bearing point on the coupling section of the flange component is designed in such a way that a different type of fastening is possible between the flange component and the drive motor unit. For example, a screw-on connection is possible, for example as a screw-on connection with the other bearing point.

[0032] For example, the other

[0033] Flange component connected via the coupling section to the corresponding side of the drive motor unit, for example plugged in.

[0034] For example, the attachment portion of the first flange component and the attachment portion of the second flange component are identically configured. This enables a uniform type of connection, e.g., to the pivot element. For example, the flange component in question is connected to one side of the hinge via the attachment portion. For example, the connection to one side of the hinge is made with a fastening element, for example, with a fastening element of the hinge.

[0035] For example, the first flange component engages a first end section of the drive motor unit, and the second flange component engages a second end section of the drive motor unit, the first flange component and the second flange component being spaced apart. This provides stable mounting. For example, two-point mounting or two-point fastening of the drive motor unit is provided. For example, the second end section of the drive motor unit can be attached to the pivot element via the second flange component. For example, the first end section of the drive motor unit can be attached to a region of the pivot element that is spaced apart from the hinge via the first flange component. For example, the attachment of the drive motor unit to the associated side of the hinge is arranged via the first flange component, for example additionally.For example, the first flange component is designed to fasten the pivot element side of the hinge to the pivot element.

[0036] For example, the attachment section and the coupling section are aligned at an angle to one another. For example, the flange component is a bent sheet metal element. For example, the attachment section and the coupling section are each plate-shaped. The angularity is mechanically stabilizing and enables stable attachment of the drive motor unit to the pivot element and / or to the associated side of the hinge. When attached to the pivot element, such as the inside of a refrigerator door, the coupling section extends, for example, perpendicular to the plane of the inside of the pivot element. For example, when attached to the pivot element, such as the inside of a refrigerator door, a flat and / or a planar side of the attachment section extends parallel to the plane of the inside of the pivot element.

[0037] For example, the attachment section and the coupling section are aligned at an angle, for example, at right angles to each other. For example, one surface side of the attachment section and one surface side of the coupling section are connected to each other via an edge section, such as a bending edge. For example, the edge section runs aligned with the longitudinal axis of the drive motor unit, e.g., parallel to the longitudinal axis of the drive motor unit.

[0038] For example, the attachment portion is configured for connection to a fastening element, wherein the fastening element serves to attach the other side of the hinge to the pivot element. This allows the flange component in question to be connected to the hinge sufficiently tightly and snugly, enabling the precise and stable positioning of the drive motor unit relative to the remaining part of the hinge assembly. For example, the attachment portion is formed integrally with the hinge.

[0039] For example, the attachment portion has a flat portion, for example a bottom of the attachment portion. For example, the flat portion of the attachment portion is adapted to engage beneath a bottom side of the fastening element. For example, the flat portion is sandwiched between other flat regions. For example, the flat portion is present between a side of the pivot element and a side of the fastening element. For example, the flange component is connectable to the pivot element on the one hand and to the fastening element on the other hand. For example, the associated side of the hinge is connected to the pivot element. For example, the fastening element is a component of a conventional hinge designed to fasten the hinge to the pivot element.

[0040] For example, the attachment section has a base for flat contact with the pivoting element and a web section formed above the base, the web section being spaced from the base by a material-free area. This enables a variably adjustable and stable connection of the flange component to the pivoting element on the one hand and to a counter section on the other. For example, the base is used to attach the flange component to the pivoting element. For example, the base is used to screw the flange component to, for example, the inside of the pivoting element. For example, the base rests with an underside of the base on, for example, the inside of the pivoting element. For example, the fastening element is supported on the top side of the base. For example, an underside of a fastening element is supported on the top side of the base.For example, the underside is present on the hinge in order to attach the corresponding side of the hinge to the pivot element. For example, the web section serves for further fixing or connection to the hinge and / or to sections of the drive motor unit. For example, the base and / or the web section each have a through-hole for a screw fastener to pass through. Using the through-hole, the flange component can be attached, for example screwed, to a mating section. For example, the flange component can be attached, for example screwed, to a flange component on a section of the drive motor unit. For example, the flange component can be attached, for example screwed, to the other flange component on the hinge. For example, the flange component can be attached, for example screwed, to a part of the hinge that engages the pivot element. For example, the web section is a sheet metal section, e.g.a strip-shaped sheet metal section. The sheet metal section is, for example, freely cantilevered above the floor. For example, a free end of the web section is aligned opposite a free end of the coupling section. For example, the free ends are aligned in respective longitudinal directions towards one and the other long side, for example, in a common outward direction on the flange component. For example, both opposite longitudinal ends of the flange component serve to connect the flange component to other sections, such as, for example, sections of the drive motor unit. For example, in the hinge-side flange component, a section of the drive motor unit is detachably attached to one end of the coupling section. For example, another component engages at the free end of the web section, for example, one side of the hinge engages at the free end of the web section.For example, on the flange component facing away from the hinge, in addition to the coupling section, the web section also serves to connect to other sections. For example, in addition to the coupling section, the web section also serves for further fastening to or with the drive motor unit, which increases the stability of the connection.

[0041] For example, the planes of the floor on the one hand and the web section on the other hand, or the surface of the floor and the surface of the web section, are aligned with each other, e.g. parallel to each other.

[0042] For example, the drive motor unit is releasably mounted on the first flange component and / or the second flange component by a tool-free connection. This facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the drive motor unit between the two flange components.

[0043] For example, the drive motor unit is on the first

[0044] Flange component and attached in a similar way to the second flange component or to both flange components, for example, plugged in in a similar way or otherwise attached in a similar way so that they can be releasably connected. For example, the attachment is by means of a plug-in connection, clamp connection, and / or snap-in connection. The type of connection is, for example, a positive-locking, releasable connection. Another type of connection, such as a fixed connection, is also possible.

[0045] For example, the first flange component and / or the second flange component provides a stop in a longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit for the attached drive motor unit. Additionally or alternatively, and / or the first flange component and / or the second flange component provides a stop in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit. For example, a fixed attachment position of the drive motor unit is set up on the pivoting element. In a further or third direction, which is perpendicular to the two aforementioned directions of the longitudinal direction and transverse to the longitudinal direction, or e.g. normal to the surface side of the pivoting element, the drive motor unit is supported on the flange component. The drive motor unit is supported, for example, on one side of the flange component. The drive motor unit is supported, for example, on an upper side of the bottom of the flange component.For example, the drive motor unit is firmly fixed to the furniture or household appliance when in use.

[0046] For example, the drive motor unit acts on the hinge arm of the hinge via a lever arrangement. For example, a coupling is set up between the drive motor unit and the hinge arm using the lever arrangement. For example, a mechanical coupling is set up between the drive motor unit and the hinge arm, with a movement coupling of a driven, movable part of the drive motor unit and the hinge arm. For example, the movable part of the drive motor unit is the thrust element, which has a movement coupling with the hinge arm. For example, the lever arrangement acts on a point on the hinge that is easily accessible from the outside when the hinge arrangement is in the assembled state. For example, the point on the hinge that is easily accessible from the outside comprises the receptacle on the hinge arm of the hinge. For example, the attack point or the receptacle on the hinge arm is present as standard.prepared. For example, this serves to optionally provide an additional function on a known hinge, such as a damping function with a damper or for another additional component. For example, the attack point on a known hinge is used for the releasable docking of a damper for movement damping on the hinge for a damped movement of the pivot element relative to the body.

[0047] For example, the single-part or multi-part lever arrangement engages, on the one hand, a linearly movable thrust element of the drive motor unit, such as a push rod. For example, the lever arrangement engages, on the other hand, the hinge arm, directly or indirectly. For example, the lever arrangement comprises a component that can be attached separately to the hinge, such as an attachment element or adapter element, which is made, for example, of a plastic material.

[0048] For example, the lever arrangement is designed in such a way that when the drive device is activated, the pivoting element moves relative to the body in an opening direction or in a closing direction, which occurs via the kinematics predetermined by the hinge. For example, the lever arrangement is designed in such a way that when the pushing element moved by the drive motor unit, such as a push rod, moves linearly, the hinge arm performs a pivoting movement about a hinge arm axis. For example, the movement of the hinge arm via further hinge arms of the hinge leads to a pivoting movement of the pivoting element relative to the body or leads to an opening movement of the pivoting element in an opening direction or in a closing direction opposite to the opening direction. By means of the lever arrangement, a torque is transmitted to the rotatably mounted lever arm of the hinge about its rotation or pivot axis.

[0049] For example, the lever arrangement comprises a control lever which is pivotally connected to an attachment element of the lever arrangement, the attachment element detachably engaging a receptacle on the hinge arm of the hinge. For example, the attachment element is a plug-in element which can be plugged into a receptacle designed as a plug-in receptacle, for example plugged and locked into place. For example, the attachment element of the lever arrangement provides a multi-point or two-point connection point for the control lever of the drive motor unit on the hinge arm. This creates a space-saving and reliable coupling of the drive motor unit and the hinge arm of the hinge.

[0050] For example, the control lever is connected to the push element. For example, the control lever is connected to a push rod of the drive motor unit. For example, the location on the hinge arm includes a prepared contour that can be used to couple the lever arrangement to the hinge arm or serves for this purpose. For example, the contour includes two spaced-apart, designed insertion openings in an upper side of the hinge arm. For example, the location on the hinge arm, such as the prepared contour, includes two differently designed insertion openings in an upper side of the hinge arm. For example, the location on the hinge arm, such as the contour, includes a round opening and an elongated hole.

[0051] For example, the receptacle for coupling a section such as a receiving element of the lever arrangement on the hinge or on the hinge arm is provided on a hinge receptacle that is already present as standard on the hinge. For example, the hinge receptacle that is already present as standard comprises an opening that serves as a plug-in section and / or screw receptacle and is known, for example, as a so-called “Zamak receptacle”. For example, the control lever has a curved shape, for example for an articulated connection of the control lever to the attachment element. For example, the control lever comprises two opposing, spaced-apart bearing points, for example for an articulated connection of the control lever to the attachment element. For example, the control lever has a curved shape and comprises two opposing, spaced-apart bearing points. For example, the curved shape relates to a side view.For example, in the plan view and in the longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit, the control lever is straight. For example, the curved shape of the control lever bridges a height offset. For example, a height offset is bridged which occurs when viewed normal to the base of the flange component and / or, in the assembled state, to an inner side of the pivot element. For example, the height offset affects different heights between a central longitudinal axis of the thrust element and the point on the hinge arm at which the lever arrangement or the attachment element engages.

[0052] The invention also extends to a piece of furniture or a household appliance having a carcass and a pivoting element movably mounted on the carcass, wherein a hinge arrangement according to one of the embodiments described above is provided for moving the pivoting element. This makes it possible to achieve the features and advantages discussed in a piece of furniture or a household appliance such as a refrigerator. Since it should be possible to optionally attach the pivoting element to the front of the carcass on the left or right, a matching double flange component set or a left-hand set with two matching flange components and a right-hand set with two matching flange components is to be provided for optionally attaching the door to a right or left side of the carcass.

[0053] Description of the figures Further features and advantages are explained in more detail using the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. In detail:

[0054] Fig. 1 shows a schematically illustrated household appliance in a perspective view from the front with a pivoting element movably mounted thereon via a hinge arrangement in the open position relative to a body of the household appliance,

[0055] Fig. 2 shows a partially folded hinge of the hinge arrangement according to Fig. 1 with an attachment element in a perspective view,

[0056] Fig. 3 shows the arrangement according to Fig. 2 with the drive device indicated by dashed lines and shown in sections from the side in a first fully pivoted position in the state attached to a household appliance, which is shown partially and partially hidden,

[0057] Fig. 4 to

[0058] Fig. 7 shows the arrangement according to Fig. 2 without parts of the household appliance and the drive device from the side in different swivel positions,

[0059] Fig. 8 shows a section of the hinge arrangement according to Fig. 1 with a drive motor unit, with two flange components and a section of one side of the hinge,

[0060] Fig. 9 shows section A in Fig. 8 enlarged,

[0061] Fig. 10 shows section B in Fig. 8 on an enlarged scale, and Fig. 11 shows the two flange components according to Fig. 8, whereby, compared to Fig. 8, the drive motor unit, which is shown interrupted and in section, and the section of the side of the hinge are only indicated by dashed lines.

[0062] Fig. 1 shows schematically a household appliance 1, for example a refrigerator, with a body 2 and a pivoting element 3 which is movably mounted on the body 2 and which, in the exemplary embodiment, forms a refrigerator door of the refrigerator.

[0063] In order to move the pivoting element 3 in an opening direction PI of the pivoting element 3 and in a closing direction P2 of the pivoting element 3 relative to the body 2, a hinge arrangement 4 with a hinge 5 is provided at the bottom, from the front right, on the household appliance 1. The pivoting element 3 is accordingly hinged on the right of the refrigerator. At the top right of the household appliance 1, a hinge 11 corresponding to the hinge 5 acts between the body 2 and the pivoting element 3. The hinges 5, 11 are each, for example, a standard hinge, for example a multi-joint hinge such as an automatic hinge, e.g. a wide-angle hinge with several articulated hinge arms.

[0064] The two hinges 5, 11 form a movement or pivot bearing of the pivot element 3 on the body 2. The two hinges 5, 11 are each present between the body 2 and the pivot element 3 in such a way that, when the household appliance 1 is in the installed state, both hinges 5, 11 form a common perpendicular or vertical pivot axis S, about which the pivot element 3 can be pivoted back and forth relative to the body 2 in the directions P1 and P2.

[0065] The pivoting element 3 can be pivoted or opened to varying degrees relative to the body 2 from a closed position on the body 2, as indicated in Fig. 3, at a pivoting angle between a front vertical surface of the body 2 and a vertical inner or outer surface of the pivoting element 3 of 0 degrees in the direction PI. The other Figures 4 to 7 show the successively further opening hinge 5 in its various opening positions without the body 2 and without the pivoting element 3.

[0066] Accordingly, Fig. 4 shows a position of the hinge 5 belonging to a corresponding pivot position of the pivot element 3 or a partially open position of the hinge 5, in which the pivot element 3, starting from the closed state at the zero angular degree position according to Fig. 3, would be partially open or pivoted by 20 angular degrees in the direction PI to the body 2 or its vertical front side.

[0067] Accordingly, Fig. 5 shows a position of the hinge 5 or a partially open position of the hinge 5, in which the pivoting element 3, starting from the closed state according to Fig. 3, would be partially open or pivoted by 45 degrees relative to the body 2 or its vertical front side.

[0068] Accordingly, Fig. 6 shows a position of the hinge 5 or a partially open position of the hinge 5, in which the pivoting element 3, starting from the closed state according to Fig. 3, would be partially open or pivoted by 90 degrees to the body 2 or its vertical front side.

[0069] Finally, Fig. 7 shows a position of the hinge 5 or a partially open position of the hinge 5, in which the pivoting element 3, starting from the closed state according to Fig. 3, would be fully open or pivoted to the maximum extent by 115 angular degrees to the body 2 or its vertical front side.

[0070] The hinge arrangement 4 comprises the hinge 5, which comprises a hinge arm 6 and further hinge arms not designated in more detail, a drive device 7 and flange components 12, 13. The flange component 12 according to Fig. 2-7 is designed as an alternative to the flange component 12 according to Fig. 8-11.

[0071] The hinge 5, as well as the upper hinge 11, forms the basic mechanical unit for moving the pivoting element 3 of the household appliance 1. All hinge axes of the hinge arms are aligned parallel to one another, as with standard hinges. One of these hinge axes coincides with the pivot axis S (see Fig. 4).

[0072] The pivoting element 3 is movably mounted on the body 2 via the hinge 5. One side 9 of the hinge 5 is designed for attachment to the body 2, and another side 10 of the hinge 5 is designed for attachment to the pivoting element 3. The drive device 7 (see Fig. 8) has a drive motor unit 8, which is designed for arrangement on the pivoting element 3. The drive device 7 is configured as an electric drive device.

[0073] An end section 8a of the drive motor unit 8, viewed in the longitudinal direction, is coupled to the hinge arm 6, as shown in more detail in Fig. 8 and 9. When the drive device 7 is in power-supplied drive mode, the drive device 7 is supplied with power via a connection (not shown) to a power supply arrangement, e.g. internally in the drive device 7 with an energy storage device such as a battery and / or externally with an electric cable supply. With the drive motor unit 8 activated and supplied with power, the articulated hinge arm 6 can be set in a pivoting movement S3 about a hinge arm pivot axis during the opening process of the pivot element 3 (see Fig. 4), wherein the hinge arm pivot axis coincides with the pivot axis S of the pivot element (see Fig. 4).Thus, when the hinge assembly 4 and the hinge 11 are mounted on the household appliance 1, the pivoting element 3 moves relative to the body 2 in the direction PI or, if the hinge arm 6 is pivoted in the direction opposite to the direction S3, in the closing direction P2. The hinge assembly 4 is accordingly designed as a motorized hinge, for example, as an electric door opener such as a refrigerator door opener.

[0074] For arranging the drive motor unit 8 on the pivoting element 3, two, for example, separate flange components 12 and 13 are provided. The flange components 12, 13 are, for example, additional or separate components to the hinge 5. Alternatively, the hinge-side flange component 12 could also be formed integrally with side 10 of the hinge 5. The drive motor unit 8 can be arranged on the pivoting element 3 by means of the flange components 12, 13. The drive motor unit 8 is received at each end on opposite longitudinal end sections of the drive motor unit 8 between the two flange components 12, 13. The drive motor unit 8 is advantageously attached to and removed from the two flange components 12, 13 manually using a simple assembly procedure, for example by a fitter.

[0075] Both flange components 12 and 13 each have an attachment section 14 for fastening the flange component 12, 13 to the pivoting element 3 and a coupling section 15 for coupling the drive motor unit 8 to the flange component 12, 13. The attachment section 14 and the coupling section 15 are each flat, planar sections, for example sheet metal sections, if the flange component 12, 13 is made of a sheet metal material. The attachment section 14 and the coupling section 15 are, for example, at an angle to one another, for example at right angles. The attachment section 14 and the coupling section 15 are, for example, connected to one another in one piece in the region of a bending edge.

[0076] When the flange components 12, 13 are arranged on the pivoting element 3, the two coupling sections 15 are aligned toward one another. For example, the respective narrow sides of the attachment section 14 and the coupling section 15 point toward one another or are aligned toward one another. The two flange components 12 and 13 are symmetrical. A corresponding mirror plane E is indicated in Fig. 11.

[0077] As Figures 8 and 11 particularly illustrate, when the drive motor unit 8 is mounted on the pivoting element 3, the two coupling sections 15, or rather their narrow end faces, of the flange components 12, 13 are aligned toward one another. Thus, the two flange components are mirror-symmetrical to the mirror plane E.

[0078] The sides 9 and 10 of the hinge 5 each have openings 16, e.g. screw openings for the engagement or penetration of fastening means such as screws and / or recesses 17 for fastening the hinge 5 to the household appliance 1. The openings 16 and recesses 17 are, for example, present as standard in standard hinges and can also be used in the hinge arrangement 4, for example in conjunction with receptacles for the fastening means that are also provided as standard on the household appliance 1 or the body 2 and the pivot element 3. For this purpose, the side 10 of the hinge 5 has, for example, a flat and / or, for example, plate-like fastening element 10a with, for example, exactly two spaced-apart openings 16. Furthermore, the flange component 12 can be connected to the side 10 of the hinge 5, for example, via the recess 17 and / or the openings 16.

[0079] The drive motor unit 8 engages the hinge arm 6 of the hinge 5 via a lever arrangement 18. The lever arrangement 18 establishes a coupling between the drive motor unit 8 and the hinge arm 6. The coupling is a mechanical coupling and comprises a movement coupling, for example a kinematic coupling of elements of the drive motor unit 8 on the one hand and the hinge 5 on the other. The movement of a driven, movable part, such as a linearly reciprocating push rod of the drive motor unit 8 (hidden in the figures or in Fig. 9), effects a movement coupling with the hinge arm 6, which can thereby be pivoted about a hinge axis of the hinge 5 or about the pivot axis S. Depending on the drive direction of the push rod, the hinge arms are thus opened or folded together, and the pivot element 3 is thereby pivoted relative to the body 2 in the respective direction P1 or P2.

[0080] The lever arrangement 18 has a control lever 19 which is connected to a linear element of the drive motor unit 8, e.g. a push rod. The control lever 19 is articulated to an attachment element 20, such as a plug-in element of the lever arrangement 18. The attachment element 20 engages detachably, for example screwed or latched, on a receptacle 21 on the hinge arm 6 of the hinge 5. The receptacle 21 is present on the hinge as standard, e.g. easily accessible from the outside, as a plug-in and / or screw-in receptacle and can be used to connect the drive motor unit 8 via the lever arrangement 18.

[0081] The control lever 19 has a curved shape and comprises, at the hinge-side end section, two opposing, spaced-apart bearing points for an articulated connection to the attachment element 20. The control lever 19 is articulated about a joint axis G (see Fig. 2) to the attachment element 20, which is fixedly attached to the hinge arm 6. For this purpose, for example, aligned round openings are provided, two on the attachment element 20 and two on the control lever 19, through which a joint element, such as a joint pin 22, passes and is axially secured. List of reference symbols

[0082] 1 household appliance

[0083] 2 Corpus

[0084] 3 Swivel element

[0085] 4 Hinge arrangement

[0086] 5 Hinge

[0087] 6 hinge arm

[0088] 7 Drive device

[0089] 8 Drive motor unit

[0090] 8a final section

[0091] 9 Page

[0092] 10 pages

[0093] 10a Fastening element

[0094] 11 Hinge

[0095] 12 Flange component

[0096] 13 Flange component

[0097] 14 Attachment section

[0098] 15 Coupling section

[0099] 16 Opening

[0100] 17 Recess

[0101] 18 Lever arrangement

[0102] 19 control levers

[0103] 20 attachment element

[0104] 21 recording

[0105] 22 joint pin

Claims

Claims 1. Hinge arrangement (4) comprising a drive device (7) and a hinge (5) with a hinge arm (6), wherein the hinge (5) is designed to move a pivoting element (3) of a household appliance (1) or a piece of furniture, wherein the pivoting element (3) can be movably received on a body (2) of the household appliance (1) or piece of furniture via the hinge (5), wherein one side (9) of the hinge (5) is designed for attachment to the body (2) and another side (10) of the hinge (5) is designed for attachment to the pivoting element (3), wherein the drive device (7) has a drive motor unit (8) designed for arrangement on the pivoting element (3) and wherein an end section (8a) of the drive motor unit (8) is coupled to the hinge arm (6) so that the pivotally mounted hinge arm (6) of the hinge (5) can be set in motion by means of the drive motor unit (8).that in the assembled state of the hinge assembly (4) a movement of the pivoting element (3) relative to the body (2) takes place, characterized in that a first flange component (12) and a second flange component (13) are provided for an arrangement of the drive motor unit (8) on the pivoting element (3), wherein the drive motor unit (8) can be arranged on the pivoting element (3) by means of the first flange component (12) and by means of the second flange component (13), wherein the first flange component (12) and the second flange component (13) each have an attachment section (14) for fastening the respective flange component (12, 13) and each have a coupling section (15) for coupling the drive motor unit (8) to the respective flange component (12, 13), wherein in the arranged state of the flange components (12,13) on the pivoting element (3) the coupling section (15) of the first flange component (12) and the coupling section (15) of the second flange component (13) are aligned towards each other, so that the two flange components (12, 13) are symmetrically arranged, with the drive motor unit (8) between the first, Flange component (12) and the second flange component (13) are present.

2. Hinge arrangement (4) according to claim 1, characterized in that in the arranged state of the drive motor unit (8) on the pivoting element (3) the coupling section (15) of the first flange component (12) and the coupling section (15) of the second flange component (13) are aligned towards each other, so that the two flange components (12, 13) are mirror-symmetrical.

3. Hinge arrangement (4) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the coupling section (15) of the first flange component (12) and the coupling section (15) of the second flange component (13) are identically designed.

4. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mounting section (14) of the first flange component (12) and the mounting section (14) of the second flange component (13) are identically designed.

5. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first flange component (12) engages a first end section (8a) of the drive motor unit (8), and that the second flange component (13) engages a second end section of the drive motor unit (8), wherein the first flange component (12) and the second flange component (13) are spaced apart.

6. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mounting section (14) and the coupling section (15) are aligned at an angle to each other.

7. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the attachment section (14) is designed for connection with a fastening element (10a), wherein the fastening element (10a) is designed for The purpose is to attach the other side (10) of the hinge (5) to the pivot element (3).

8. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the attachment section (14) has a base for planar contact with the pivoting element (3) and a web section formed above the base, wherein the web section is spaced apart from the base by a material-free area.

9. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive motor unit (8) is detachably mounted on the first flange component (12) and / or on the second flange component (13) by a connection that can be set without tools.

10. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first flange component (12) and / or that the second flange component (13) provides a stop in a longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit (8) for the attached drive motor unit (8) and / or provides a stop in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the drive motor unit (8).

11. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive motor unit acts on the hinge arm (6) of the hinge (5) via a lever arrangement (18).

12. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lever arrangement (18) comprises a control lever (19) which is pivotally connected to an attachment element (20) of the lever arrangement (18), wherein the attachment element (20) detachably engages a receptacle (21) on the hinge arm (6) of the hinge (5).

13. Hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control lever (19) has a curved shape and two opposing includes spaced bearing points for a jointed connection of the control lever (19) with the mounting element (20).

14. Furniture or household appliance (1) with a body (2) and a pivoting element (3) movably mounted on the body (2), characterized in that a hinge arrangement (4) according to one of the preceding claims is provided for moving the pivoting element (3).

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