Refrigerating household appliance comprising a drawer that is provided with a flap for directing at least one cold air flow into the drawer and use of the flap

By using a strategically placed flap to direct cold air into the drawers, the issue of inadequate air circulation and temperature unevenness in ventilated refrigerators is addressed, resulting in improved cooling efficiency and reduced energy use.

EP4549851A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-05-07BEKO EUROPE MANAGEMENT SRL
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Patent Information

Application Number
EP2023206849
Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-10-30
Publication Date
2025-05-07

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Abstract

A refrigerating household appliance (1), optionally a ventilated fridge / refrigerator comprises: a cabinet (2) defining at least one compartment (3); a door (4) movably engaged with the cabinet (2) between a closed position wherein the door (4) is configured to isolate the corresponding compartment (3) with respect to an external environment and an open position wherein the compartment (3) is open and not isolated from the external environment; a ventilation system (5) configured to force the circulation of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) in the compartment (3); at least one chamber (6), optionally of a drawer, arranged in a corresponding region (3a) of the compartment (3) and configured to be pulled out from the compartment (3) when the door (4) is in the open position, the chamber (6) comprising a bottom (6a) and a lateral perimeter (6b) transversally developing from the bottom (6a), defining a housing space (7) for housing food or any other product to be kept refrigerated, the chamber (6) being covered by a covering element (8) which can be part of the chamber (6) or of the refrigerating household (1) such as a shelf and which is spaced from a back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to allow the flow of air to reach the region (3a) of the compartment (3); and, a flap (9) interposed between the chamber (6) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2), spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to collect a part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3) and direct such part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) into the housing space (7) of the chamber (6), the flap (9) allowing another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the chamber (6) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2).
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Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigerating household appliance, optionally a ventilated fridge / refrigerator.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a drawer for refrigerating household appliances, optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators.

[0003] The present invention also relates to the use of a flap interposed between a drawer for compartments of refrigerating household appliances, optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, and a back wall of a cabinet of a refrigerating household appliance to direct at least one cold air flow into the drawer.

[0004] The object of the present invention is suitable for use in the household appliance industry and, in particular, may find numerous applications on various types of refrigerating household appliances equipped with an internal ventilation system, such as refrigerators, fridges, freezers and the like.BACKGROUND

[0005] Fan-cooled refrigerators, also known as forced-air refrigeration or circulating air refrigeration, are designed to distribute cool air evenly throughout the refrigerator and freezer compartments. This technology helps to maintain a consistent and uniform temperature, which is essential for preserving the freshness of the food in all parts and compartments of the appliance.

[0006] Ventilated refrigerators typically use internal fans or blowers. These fans are strategically placed within the refrigerator to circulate air in the most efficient and effective manner. Such fans allow the temperature fluctuations within the refrigerator, which can affect food quality, to be minimized. In particular, the fans keep the temperature inside the refrigerator stable, which has the positive effect of extending the shelf life of food and reducing food spoilage.

[0007] In addition, the forced air circulation inside the refrigerators helps food items to cool down more quickly after being placed inside.

[0008] Some modern refrigerators feature multi-vent systems, where air is distributed through multiple vents strategically placed in different sections of the fridge / refrigerator and freezer, improving temperature uniformity.

[0009] Although the fans in refrigerator ventilation systems consume a minimal amount of energy, the improved temperature control results in energy savings as the compressor does not have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature.

[0010] In freezer compartments, air circulation can help prevent frost and ice build-up.

[0011] In view of all benefits of ventilation inside refrigerators and freezers, the manufacturers of these appliances make every effort to ensure that the ventilation flows reach all the parts or compartments provided, even the less accessible ones such as food drawers or similar storage chambers. Some examples of different designs and different solutions for improving the internal ventilation of refrigeration appliances are disclosed and shown in the documents cited below.

[0012] Document EP2096389A2 relates a refrigerating appliance having various internal spaces and / or compartments and a ventilation fan system operating therein. Such a document teaches to provide different circulation paths, in some cases by means of internal walls provided with gaps and passages properly designed. Even if a drawer or a similar compartment is provided at the lowest part of the refrigerating appliance, the air circulation flow inside the appliance can access the drawer through suitable openings located between the drawer and the cover shelf and / or the surrounding walls of the appliance itself.

[0013] Document D219652032A1 discloses and illustrates a traditional refrigerator. Such an appliance has a plurality of shelves distributed in the interior space and a plurality of drawers and / or compartments provided at the lowest part of the interior space. At least one gap is provided between the shelf covering the drawers and the rear wall of the refrigerator to allow the circulation air to pass under the shelf and into the drawers. The cover shelf may be provided with a deflecting baffle which collects the flow circulating air in correspondence of the rear wall of the appliance to direct it under the shelf and into the drawers.

[0014] In document DE102014221717A1, a refrigerating appliance, in particular a refrigerator provided with a freezer on the top, is disclosed and illustrated. The refrigerator is provided with a chamber having a rear opening at which a deflecting baffle is arranged to guide the cold air flow coming from the refrigeration cycle system into the chamber. The baffle is integral with the chamber.

[0015] Document US0651216A1 discloses and illustrates a refrigerator provided with a plurality of shelves and a ventilation fan system therein. Between the shelves and the back wall of the refrigerator, a collecting and deflecting element is arranged. Such a collecting and deflecting element has a plurality of through openings distributed so as to allow the passage of air between the back wall and the spaces above and below the shelves. At each through opening, the collecting and deflecting element has a deflecting baffle capable of collecting air from the rear of the appliance to direct it towards the corresponding shelf.

[0016] Document DE10201621834A1 discloses and illustrates a refrigerator in which the interior space has a plurality of shelves and, at the lowest part, a pull-out ice collection drawer. The ice collection drawer is covered by one shelf which is spaced from the rear wall of the appliance to define a corresponding gap through which the circulating cold air can flow under the covering shelf. The ice collection drawer is provided with an openable rear wall which allows the air to circulate close to the real wall of the appliance and through the gap to reach the inner chamber defined by the ice collection drawer. In the open position, the openable wall of the ice collecting drawer leans on a sloping surface of the rear wall of the appliance in order to allow the air passing through the gap to enter into the drawer.

[0017] Despite the many advantages of the known ventilated household appliances, the applicant has identified a number of disadvantages.

[0018] In particular, ventilated household appliances provided with one or more drawers for housing food or any other product to be refrigerated do not ensure a sufficient circulation of cold air into the drawers. Therefore, the housing space defined by the drawers is generally not well cooled with the risk that food may spoil more easily and quickly than in other parts of the appliance.

[0019] The above mentioned drawback is also reflected in temperature homogeneity within the compartments of the refrigerating household appliance. In fact, there are many regions of the known refrigerating household appliances with significant temperature differences.

[0020] It is also to be considered that, due to one or more regions less cold than others, the ventilation system as well as the compressor have to work continuously, determining a high energy consumption.SUMMARY

[0021] It is an objective of the present invention to ensure a stable and efficient cooling of each compartment, including each drawer, of the ventilated refrigerating household appliances.

[0022] It is also an objective of the present invention to guarantee a temperature homogeneity within each compartment of the ventilated refrigerating household appliances.

[0023] It is also an objective of the present invention to ensure an efficient and effective cooling and temperature management of each compartment of the ventilated refrigerating household appliances.

[0024] It is also an objective of the present invention to minimize the energy consumption for cooling the compartments of the ventilated refrigerating household appliances.

[0025] In the light of the disclosure set out herein, and without in any way limiting the disclosure, in a 1 st< aspect, which may be combined with any other aspect or part thereof described herein, a refrigerating household appliance (1), optionally a ventilated fridge / refrigerator comprises: a cabinet (2) defining at least one compartment (3); a door (4) movably engaged with the cabinet (2) between a closed position, wherein the door (4) is configured to isolate the corresponding compartment (3) with respect to an external environment and an open position, wherein the compartment (3) is open and not isolated from the external environment; an evaporator (13) operatively arranged in correspondence of a back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to cool down the compartment (3) through the back wall (2a); a ventilation system (5) configured to force the circulation of at least one cold air flow in the compartment (3); at least one chamber (6), optionally of a drawer, arranged in a corresponding region (3a) of the compartment (3) and configured to be pulled out of the compartment (3) when the door (4) is in the open position, the chamber (6) comprising a bottom (6a) and a lateral perimeter (6b) developing transversely from the bottom (6a) and defining a housing space (7) for housing food or any other product to be kept refrigerated, the chamber (6) being covered by a covering element (8) which can be part of the chamber (6) or of the refrigerating household appliance (1) such as a shelf, at least the covering element (8), in particular also the chamber (6), being spaced from a back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to allow at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) to reach the region (3a) of the compartment (3), a flap (9) interposed between the chamber (6) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2), the flap (9) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to collect a part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3) and to direct such part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) towards the housing space (7) of the chamber (6), optionally the flap (9) allowing another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the chamber (6) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0026] In a further independent aspect 1 st< ter, which can be combined with the previous aspect and / or any one of the following aspects, a refrigerating household appliances (1), optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, comprises: a cabinet (2) defining at least one compartment (3); a ventilation system (5) configured to force the circulation of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) in the compartment (3); an evaporator (13) operatively arranged in correspondence of a back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to cool down the compartment (3) through the back wall (2a); a chamber (6), optionally of a drawer, arranged in a corresponding region (3a) comprising a bottom (6a) and a lateral perimeter (6b) developing transversely from the bottom (6a) and defining a housing space (7) for housing food or any other product to be kept refrigerated, the chamber (6) being covered by a covering element (8) which can be part of the chamber (6) or of the refrigerating household appliance (1) such as a shelf, at least the covering element (8), in particular also the chamber (6), being spaced from a back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to allow at least one air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) to reach the region (3a) of the compartment (3); a flap (9) interposed between the chamber (6) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2), where the evaporator (13) is active, the flap (9) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to collect a part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3) and to direct such part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) towards the housing space (7) of the chamber (6), optionally the flap (9) allowing another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the chamber (6) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0027] In a further independent aspect 1 st< quater, which can be combined with the previous aspect and / or any one of the following aspects, a drawer for refrigerating household appliances (1), optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, defines a chamber (6) configured to be located in a corresponding region (3a) of a compartment (3) of a refrigerating household appliance (1), the chamber (6) of the drawer comprising: a bottom (6a); a lateral perimeter (6b) developing transversely from the bottom (6a); a housing space (7) at least partially defined by the bottom (6a) and the perimeter (6b) for housing food or any other product to be kept refrigerated; a flap (9) engaged to the lateral perimeter (6b), in particular to a portion of the lateral perimeter (6b) configured to face a back wall (2a) of a cabinet (2) of a refrigerating household appliance (1), the flap (9) protruding from the lateral perimeter (6b) to a size that defines, with the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), a passage space so that the flap collecting a part (12b) of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) and directing such a part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) into the housing space (7) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, the flap (9) allowing another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the chamber (6) of the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0028] In a further independent aspect 1 st< quinquies, which can be combined with the previous aspect and / or any one of the following aspects, a use of a flap (9) interposed between a drawer for compartments (3) of refrigerating household appliances (1), optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, and a back wall (2a) of a cabinet (2) of a refrigerating household appliance (1) provided with an evaporator (13) to cool the compartment (3) through the back wall (2a) wherein the flap (9) is configured to be spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to: collect a part (12b) of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the corresponding compartment (3) along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) and to direct such part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) into a housing space (7) defined by a bottom (6a) and a perimeter wall (6b), developing from the bottom (6a), of a chamber (6) of the drawer; allow another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the corresponding compartment (3) along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to go beyond the flap (9) between the chamber (6) of the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0029] In the following aspects, details are added relating to the drawer and the flap (9) considered in the previous independent aspects as well as further details of the refrigerating household aspect (1).

[0030] Each and every aspect relating to the features of the drawer and the flap (9) and / or to the features relating to the refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the previous independent aspects is clearly combinable with any one of the following depending aspects.

[0031] In a 2 nd< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) develops on a laying plane transverse to the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0032] In a 3 rd< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) develops on a laying plane inclined with respect to the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0033] In a 4 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) develops on a laying plane transverse to a rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0034] In a 5 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) develops on a laying plane inclined with respect to a rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0035] In a 6 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) comprises: a first portion (9a) facing the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1); a second portion (9b), opposite to the first portion (9a), facing a rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0036] In a 7 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0037] In a 8 th< aspect according to the two previous aspects, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is located under a covering element (8), in particular of the chamber (6) of the drawer or of the refrigerating household appliance (1), which covers the housing space (7) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0038] In a 9 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is spaced from the covering element (8), in particular vertically spaced from the covering element (8).

[0039] In a 10 th< aspect according to the four previous aspects, the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is located close to or on the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0040] In a 11 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is located close to or on an end, optionally a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, optionally in correspondence of a gap (3b) defined between the end of the rear wall (6c) of the chamber (6) of the drawer and the covering element (8), so that to direct at least one part (12b) of the circulating cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) within the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the housing space (7) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0041] In a 12 th< aspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is engageable to an end, optionally a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, optionally in correspondence of a gap (3b) defined between the end of the rear wall (6c) of the chamber (6) od the drawer and the covering element (8), so that to direct at least one part (12b) of the circulating cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) inside the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the housing space (7) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0042] In a 13 th< aspect according to any one of the seven previous aspects, the flap (9) comprises a coupling element (9c) arranged on the second portion (9b) and configured to be engaged by the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, optionally the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) being configured to be engaged by an end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0043] In a 14 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the coupling element (9c) of the flap (9) comprises: a pair of baffles (9d), optionally parallel each other; and, an engagement recess (9e), defined between the baffles (9d), the engagement recess (9e) being configured to receive the engagement of the end of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0044] In a 15 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the engagement recess (9e) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of flap (9) is configured to determine an interlocking engagement with the end, in particular the top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0045] In a 16 th< aspect according to any one of the two previous aspects, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) develops, optionally cantilevered, from the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) according to an inclined direction with respect to the baffles (9d) of the coupling element (9c).

[0046] In a 17 th< aspect according to any one of the three previous aspects, at least one of the baffles (9d), optionally, each of the baffles (9d), adheres to a corresponding surface of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0047] In a 18 th< aspect according to any one of the four previous aspects, the engagement recess (9e) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is configured to engage the end, in particular the top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, by interference.

[0048] In a 19 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects from the 14 th< aspect to the 17 th< aspect, the end, in particular the top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer is fixed to the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9), in correspondence of the engagement recess (9e) thereof, by one or more fixing elements, optionally a bonding agent or a fastening device.

[0049] In a 20 th< aspect according to any one of the six previous aspects, the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is provided with a junction surface (9f) developing between the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) and a corresponding baffle (9d) of the coupling element (9c), the junction surface (9f) being inclined with respect to the baffles (9d) of the coupling element (9c), in particular being also inclined with respect to the first portion (9a) of the flap (9).

[0050] In a 21 st< aspect according to the previous aspect, the junction surface (9f) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) has a slope lower than the slope of the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) in order to force the cold air flow (12b), entering into the housing space (7) of the chamber (6) of the drawer (6) through the gap (3b), to form one or more vortices and / or turbulences inside the housing space (7).

[0051] In a 22 nd< aspect according to the previous aspect, the junction surface (9f) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) and the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) define an intermediate angle (a) comprised between 90° and 160°, optionally between 100° and 140°, in particular between 110° and 130°, preferably corresponding to 120°.

[0052] In a 23 rd< aspect according to the two previous aspect, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) and the junction surface (9f) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) define a split-line profile, in particular concave on the opposite side of the bottom wall (6a) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, optionally concave towards the covering element (8).

[0053] In a 24 th< aspect according to any one of the aspects from the 21 st< aspect to the 22nd aspect, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) and the junction surface (9f) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) define an arched profile, in particular concave on the opposite side of the bottom wall (6a) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, optionally concave towards the covering element (8).

[0054] In a 25 th< aspect according to any one of the nineteen previous aspects, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is substantial planar, in particular from the first portion (9a) until the second portion (9b).

[0055] In a 26 th< aspect according to any one of the twelve previous aspects, the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is inclined with respect to the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer (6) of an angle (β) comprised between 15° and 45°, optionally between 20° and 40°, in particular between 25° and 35°, preferably corresponding to 30°.

[0056] In a 27 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) occupies only one part of an end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0057] In a 28 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects from the 1 st< aspect to the 26 th< aspect, the flap (9) occupies two-thirds, in particular one-third, of an end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0058] In a 29 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects from the 1 st< aspect to the 26 th< aspect, the flap (9) occupies an entire end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer.

[0059] In a 30 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the ventilation system (5) is arranged at the top of the compartment (3) whereas the region (3a), where the chamber (6) of the drawer is positioned, is located far from the ventilation system (5), optionally near or opposite the top of the compartment (3), the ventilation system (5) being configured to force the circulation of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) downwards towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the chamber (6) of the drawer and the housing space (7) of the latter.

[0060] In a 31 st< aspect according to the previous aspect, the ventilation system (5) is configured to force the circulation of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) downwards towards the region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the chamber (6) of the drawer and the housing space (7) of the latter, at least along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0061] In a 32 nd< aspect according to the previous aspect, the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) defines an air drop channel (3c) developing between the ventilation system (5) and the region (3a) of the compartment (3) where the chamber (6) of the drawer is positioned.

[0062] In a 33 rd< aspect according to the previous aspect, the air drop channel (3c) is at least partially defined by the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), in particular, the air drop channel (3c) developing along the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) to be cooled by the evaporator (13) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0063] In a 34 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the air drop channel (3c) is also at least partially defined by the chamber (6) of the drawer and a covering element (8) which can be part of the chamber (6) of the drawer or of the refrigerating household appliance (1) such as a shelf, the chamber (6) of the drawer and the covering element (8) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0064] In a 35 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the air drop channel (3c) is also defined by a plurality of shelves (10) distributed between the ventilation system (5) and the covering element (8) and / or the chamber (6) of the drawer, each shelf (10) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), in particular according to a distance equal to the distance between the chamber (6) of the drawer or the covering element (8) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

[0065] In 36 th< aspect according to the two previous aspects, the air drop channel (3c) is divided into a first sub-channel (3d) and a second sub-channel (3e) by the flap (9), the first sub channel (3d) developing from the first portion (9a) of the flap until the housing space (7) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, the second sub-channel (3e) developing from the first portion (9a) of the flap (9), at least until the bottom (6a) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, between the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the latter and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), optionally the second sub-channel (3e) developing beyond the bottom (6a) of the chamber (6) of the drawer until a housing space (11a) of a further drawer (11) provided below the drawer.

[0066] In a 37 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the first sub-channel (3d) is defined between the flap (9) and a corresponding rear end (8a) of the covering element (8) facing the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), whereas the second sub-channel (3e) is defined between the flap (9) and the back wall (2a) of the cabinet (2) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), each sub-channel (9d, 9e) defining a corresponding cross-section having a respective size (D1, D2).

[0067] In a 38 th< aspect according to the previous aspect, the sizes (D1, D2) of the sub-channels (3d, 3e) are substantially the same.

[0068] In a 39 th< aspect according to the 37 th< aspect, the size (D2) of the second sub-channel (3e) is greater than the size (D1) of the first sub-channel (3d).

[0069] In a 40 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) is made from a single piece.

[0070] In a 41 st< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) is made of plastic material.

[0071] In a 42 nd< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects from the 1st aspect to the 40 th< aspect, the flap (9) is made of a metallic material.

[0072] In a 43 rd< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) is made by means of a moulding process, in particular by means of an injection moulding process or of an extrusion process.

[0073] In a 44 th< aspect according to any one of the previous aspects, the flap (9) is removable or can be removed from the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the chamber (6) of the drawer, in particular for allowing cleaning and / or maintenance operations or for allowing that bulky food be housed into the housing space (7) of the chamber (6).BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0074] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a refrigerating household appliance, optionally a ventilated fridge / refrigerator, according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a schematically perspective view of a drawer for refrigerating household appliances, optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, according to the present invention; Figure 3 is an enlarged detail of a hypothetical embodiment of a drawer for refrigerating household appliances, optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators located inside a refrigerating household appliance according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention which may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to construct and use the present invention.

[0076] With reference to Figure 1, it is shown a refrigerating household appliance 1, optionally a ventilated fridge / refrigerator. The refrigerating household appliance 1 comprises a cabinet 2 having a base (not shown in the figures) a back wall 2a and two lateral walls (also not shown in the figures) developing perpendicularly from the base and a top wall 2b, opposite the base, connected to the back wall 2a and the lateral walls. The cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1 delimits at least one compartment 3 which is appropriately cooled in order to operate as a fridge / refrigerator. At least one additional compartment (not shown in the figures) can be provided by the cabinet 2, optionally below the compartment 3, to operate as a freezer. Opposite the back wall 2a, a door 4 is movably engaged to the cabinet 2, between a closed position (figure 1) wherein the door 4 is configured to isolate the corresponding compartment 3 with respect to an external environment and an open position (not shown in the figures) wherein the compartment 3 is open and not isolated from the external environment.

[0077] The compartment 3 has a vertical development in which three regions 3a, 3f, 3g are defined and / or can be identified therein. In particular, the compartment 3 has a region 3a located at the lowest part thereof, a top region 3f provided at the highest part of the compartment 3 and a middle region 3g developing between the lower region 3a and the top region 3f.

[0078] The refrigerating household appliance 1 also comprises a ventilation system 5 which helps to maintain a uniform temperature throughout the compartment 3. The ventilation system 5 may have various key components and functions to ensure efficient cooling such as at least one fan located inside the compartment 3 to force the circulation of at least one cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c (figure 3) therein. The fan helps to circulate cold air from the freezer to the compartment 3 distributing the cold air evenly, preventing hot spots and maintaining a uniform temperature.

[0079] In correspondence of the back wall 2a of the cabinet, an evaporator 13 is active to cool down the compartment 3 through the back wall 2a. The evaporator 13 is responsible for absorbing heat from the compartment 3 and to maintain the latter as sufficient cold as necessary. After absorbing heat in the evaporator, a suitable refrigerant gas is compressed by a compressor (not shown in the figures), which increases its temperature and pressure. The high-pressure and high-temperature gas is then sent to condenser coils 14, located outside the cabinet 2. In the condenser, the suitable refrigerant releases the heat absorbed in the evaporator, returning to a liquid state. This process allows the suitable refrigerant to cycle continuously, maintaining the desired temperature inside the fridge.

[0080] As shown in figure 1, the ventilation system 5 is operatively located in the compartment 3, in the top region 3f thereof, so that the cold air flows 12a, 12b, 12c can circulate downwards towards the lower region 3a through the middle region 3g along the back wall 2a and the lateral walls of the cabinet 2.

[0081] In the lower region 3a of the compartment 3, the refrigerating household appliance 1 has at least one drawer, also called "chiller drawer", defining a chamber 6 for accommodating food or any other product to be kept refrigerated. The drawer is configured to be pulled out of the compartment 3 when the door 4 is in the open position.

[0082] As shown in figures 1 and 2, the chamber 6 of the drawer comprises a bottom 6a and a lateral perimeter 6b developing transversely from the bottom 6a. The lateral perimeter 6b has a front wall 6b' provided with a handle 6b", two parallel side walls 6b‴ developing perpendicularly from the front wall 6b' and a rear wall 6c parallel to the front wall 6b'. The bottom 6a and the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 define a housing space 7 which is substantially box-shaped or parallelepipedal.

[0083] The chamber 6 of the drawer can be covered by a covering element 8 which can be part of the drawer or of the refrigerating household appliance 1, for example a shelf thereof.

[0084] Advantageously, the covering element 8 and / or the chamber 6 of the drawer are spaced from the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 to allow the cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c to reach the region 3a of the compartment 3.

[0085] As shown in figure 1, the refrigerating household appliance 1 comprises, in the middle region 3g of the compartment 3, a plurality of shelves 10 each arranged above the other in parallel positions. In other words, the shelves 10 are vertically distributed between the covering element 8 and the ventilation system 5.

[0086] Similarly to the covering element 8 and the drawer, each shelf 10 is spaced from the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2, preferably according to the same distance between the back wall 2a and the chamber 6 of the drawer 6 and / or between the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 and the covering element 8 in order to define an air drop channel 3c of the compartment 3 which puts the ventilation system 5 in direct communication with the lower region 3a. More specifically, the air drop channel 3c develops between the ventilation system 5 and the lower region 3a of the compartment 3 in which the chamber 6 of the drawer is located. Therefore, the air drop channel 3c is at least partially defined by the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1 and at least partially by the chamber 6 of the drawer and the covering element 8 thereabove.

[0087] As shown in figure 3, the air drop channel 3c is divided into a first sub-channel 3d and a second sub-channel 3e by a flap 9 interposed between the chamber 6 of the drawer and the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2. The first sub-channel 3d develops from the drop channel 3c, through the gap 3b, until the housing space 7 of the chamber 6 of the drawer whereas the second sub-channel 3e develops from the drop channel 3c, at least until the bottom 6a of the chamber 6 of the drawer, between the rear wall 6c of the latter and the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1.

[0088] In particular, the second sub-channel 3e develops beyond the bottom 6a of the chamber 6 of the drawer until a housing space 11a of a further drawer 11 located below the chamber 6 of the drawer, in the lower region 3a of the compartment 3.

[0089] Always with reference to the figure 3, the first sub-channel 3d is defined between the flap 9 and a corresponding rear end 8a of the covering element 8 facing the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1, whereas the second sub-channel 3e is defined between the flap 9 and the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2. Each sub-channel 3d, 3e defines a corresponding cross-section having a respective size D1, D2. As shown in figure 3, the size D2 of the second sub-channel 3e is greater than the size D1 of the first sub-channel 3d. However, it is also possible for the sizes D1, D2 of the sub-channels 3d, 3e to be substantially the equal.

[0090] With regard to the flap 9 mentioned above, it should be noted that such a flap 9 is spaced from the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 to collect a part 12b of the cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c circulating along the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 towards the lower region 3a of the compartment 3, and to direct such part 12b of the cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c into the housing space 7 of the chamber 6 of the drawer. The flap 9 is also configured to allow another part 12c of the cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c, circulating along the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 towards the lower region 3a of the compartment 3, to pass over the flap 9 between the chamber 6 of the drawer and the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 to reach the housing space 11a of the further drawer 11a. In particular, the flap is configured to direct the other part 12c of the cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c, towards the second sub-channel 3e of the drop channel 3c

[0091] The flap 9 develops on a laying plane transversely, optionally inclined, to the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1 and to the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer.

[0092] More specifically, the flap 9 comprises a first portion 9a, substantially planar and flat, facing the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1 and a second portion 9b, opposite the first portion 9a, facing the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer. The first portion 9a of the flap 9 is spaced from the back wall 2a of the cabinet 2 of the refrigerating household appliance 1 and is located below the covering element 8, in particular vertically below the covering element 8, of the housing space 7 of the chamber 6 of the drawer, whereas the second portion 9b of the flap 9 is located close to or on the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer.

[0093] Preferably, the second portion 9b of the flap 9 is located close to or on a top end of the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer, in correspondence of the gap 3b defined between the end of the rear wall 6c of the chamber 6 of the drawer and the covering element 8 so that to direct at least one part 12b of the circulating cold air flow 12a, 12b, 12c inside the compartment 3 towards the lower region 3a and the housing space 7 of the drawer 6 located in it.

[0094] In particular, the second portion 9b of the flap 9 is engageable with the top end of the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer in correspondence of a gap 3b.

[0095] Therefore, the flap 9 can be removed from the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer when necessary. For instance, removal of the flap 9 can be carried out when cleaning and / or maintenance operations are to be performed or when bulky food items need to be housed into the housing space 7 of the chamber 6. Advantageously, the flap 9 can be removed from the corresponding chamber 6 even when the drawer is housed into the region 3a of the compartment 3 of the appliance 1.

[0096] To ensure the engagement between the flap 9 of the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer, the flap 9 comprises a coupling element 9c arranged on the second portion 9b. The coupling element 9c is configured to be engaged by the top end of the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer.

[0097] As shown in figures 2 and 3, the coupling element 9c of the flap 9 comprises a pair of baffles 9d, optionally parallel to each other, and an engagement recess 9e defined between the baffles 9d and configured to receive the engagement of the top end of the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer and to defined, with such a rear wall 6c, an interlocking engagement. When the flap 9 is engaged with the top end of the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer, the top end of the rear wall 6c is inserted into the engagement recess 9e and each of the baffles 9d adheres to a corresponding surface of the rear wall 6c as shown in figure 3.

[0098] As can be seen from figures 2 and 3, the first portion 9a of the flap 9 is cantilevered from the coupling element 9c according to an inclined direction with respect to the baffles 9d and the engagement recess 9e.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the invention, it is possible for the top end of the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer to be fixed to the coupling element 9c of the flap 9, in correspondence of its engagement recess 9e. Many different examples of fastening can be provided. One possible fastening system can be provided by using one or more fastening elements or fastening devices. Another possible fastening system can be provided by using a suitable bonding agent or similar adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible to fix the coupling element 9c of the flap 9 to the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer by interfering with the top end of the rear wall 6c and the engagement recess 9e.

[0100] Alternatively to a flap 9 which can be engaged to the rear wall 6c of the perimeter wall 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer, the flap 9 can be integrated to the rear wall 6c in order to define with the corresponding perimeter wall 6b a single piece of the chamber 6 of the drawer.

[0101] According to another embodiment of the invention shown in figure 3, the coupling element 9c of the flap 9 is provided with a junction surface 9f developing between the first portion 9a of the flap 9 and a corresponding baffle 9d of the coupling element 9c. The junction surface 9f is inclined with respect to the baffles 9d of the coupling element 9c and, in particular, is also inclined with respect to the first portion 9a of the flap 9.

[0102] As it can be seen from figure 3, the first portion 9a of the flap 9 and the junction surface 9f of the coupling element 9c of the flap 9 define a split-line profile, in particular concave on the opposite side of the bottom wall 6a of the chamber 6 of the drawer, optionally concave towards the covering element 8. It should be noted that, the first portion 9a of the flap 9 and the junction surface 9 of the coupling element 9c of the flap 9 can also define an arched profile (not shown), in this case also concave on the opposite side of the bottom wall 6a of the chamber 6 of the drawer, optionally concave towards the covering element 8.

[0103] The junction surface 9f has a slope lower than the slope of the first portion 9a of the flap 9 in order to force the cold air flow 12b, entering into the housing space 7 of the chamber 6 of the drawer through the gap 3b and the first sub-channel 3d of the compartment 3, to form one or more vortices and / or turbulences inside the housing space 7.

[0104] The junction surface 9f and the first portion 9a of the flap 9 define an intermediate angle a comprised between 90° and 160°, optionally between 100° and 140°, in particular between 110° and 130°, preferably corresponding to 120°, whereas the first portion 9a of the flap 9 is inclined with respect to the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer of an angle β comprised between 15° and 45°, optionally between 20° and 40°, in particular between 25° and 35°, preferably corresponding to 30°.

[0105] As can be seen in figure 2, the flap 9 occupies only of the top end of the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer, in particular the flap 9 occupies two-thirds or one-third of such top end. It should also to be noted that the flap 9 can also be configured to occupy the entire top end of the rear wall 6c of the lateral perimeter 6b of the chamber 6 of the drawer.

[0106] It is advantageous if flap 9 is made in one single piece from of a plastic material. If necessary, the flap 9 can also be made of a metallic material. Preferably, the flap 9 is produced by means of a moulding process, in particular by means of an injection moulding process or an extrusion process.ADVANTAGES

[0107] First of all, the provision of the flap according to the above description allows to solve the problems found in known refrigerating household appliances.

[0108] In particular, the provision and / or the use of the above disclosed flap, according to the position and the orientation disclosed and illustrated, makes it possible to maintain a stable and efficient cooling of the compartment, including each drawer, of the ventilated refrigerating household appliance. This makes it possible to achieve an efficient and effective cooling of the compartment and the drawers of the appliance, together with efficient internal temperature management.

[0109] Last but not least, the arrangement above disclosed allows to minimize the energy consumption for cooling the compartments of the ventilated refrigerating household appliances.

Claims

1. Refrigerating household appliance (1), optionally a ventilated fridge or refrigerator, comprising: - at least one compartment (3) configured for storing foodstuff or any other product to be kept refrigerated, the compartment (3) being defined by a cabinet (2) or by a body or by a shell of the refrigerating household appliance (1); - a heat exchanger, in particular an evaporator (13), operatively arranged in correspondence of a back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) to cool down the compartment (3) through the back wall (2a); - a ventilation system (5) configured to force the circulation of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) in the compartment (3); - at least one drawer arranged in a corresponding predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3), the drawer comprising a bottom (6a) and a lateral perimeter (6b) developing transversely from the bottom (6a), the drawer defining a housing space (7) for housing foodstuff or any other product to be kept refrigerated, the drawer being covered by a covering element (8) which can be part of the drawer or of the refrigerating household appliance (1) such as a shelf, at least the covering element (8), in particular also the drawer, being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) to allow at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) to reach the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3); and - a flap (9) interposed between the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3), where the heat exchanger is active, the flap (9) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) and being configured to collect at least a part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) towards the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3) and to direct such part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) towards the housing space (7) of the drawer.

2. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to the previous claim, wherein the flap (9) develops on a laying plane transverse to the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) and / or to a rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer, in particular the flap (9) developing on a laying plane inclined with respect to the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) and / or the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, optionally the flap (9) allowing another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating along the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) towards the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), the flap (9) comprising: - a first portion (9a) facing the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) according to a predetermined distance, optionally the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) being located below a covering element (8), in particular of the drawer or of the refrigerating household appliance (1), which covers the housing space (7) of the drawer, more optionally the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is spaced from the covering element (8), in particular being vertically spaced from the covering element (8); - a second portion (9b), opposite to the first portion (9a), facing a rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer, optionally the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) being located close to or on the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, more optionally the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) being located close to or on an end, optionally a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, in particular in correspondence of a gap (3b) defined between the end of the rear wall (6c) of the drawer and the covering element (8), so that to direct at least one part (12a) of the circulating cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) inside the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) towards the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the housing space (7) of the drawer.

3. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the two previous claims, wherein the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is engageable or engaged to an end, optionally a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, optionally in correspondence of a gap (3b) defined between the end of the rear wall (6c) of the drawer and the covering element (8), so that to direct at least one part (12b) of the circulating cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) inside the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) towards the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the housing space (7) of the drawer.

4. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the three previous claims, wherein the flap (9) comprises a coupling element (9c) arranged on the second portion (9b) and configured to be engaged by the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer, optionally the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) being configured to be engaged by an end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer, in particular the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) developing, optionally cantilevered, from the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) according to an inclined direction with respect to the baffles (9d) of the coupling element (9c).

5. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to the previous claim, wherein the coupling element (9c) of the flap (9) comprises: - a pair of baffles (9d), optionally parallel each other, in particular at least one of the baffles (9d), optionally each of the baffles (9d), adhering to a corresponding surface of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer; and, - an engagement recess (9e), defined between the baffles (9d), the engagement recess (9e) being configured to receive the engagement of the end of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer, optionally the engagement recess (9e) being configured to determine an interlocking engagement with the end, in particular the top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer, more optionally by interference.

6. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to the previous claim, wherein the end, in particular the top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer is fixed to the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9), in correspondence of the engagement recess (9e) thereof, by one or more fixing elements or a fastening devices, optionally a bonding agent or a similar adhesive.

7. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the three previous claims, wherein the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) is provided with a junction surface (9f) developing between the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) and a corresponding baffle (9d) of the coupling element (9c), the junction surface (9f) being inclined with respect to the baffles (9d) of the coupling element (9c), in particular being also inclined with respect to the first portion (9a) of the flap (9), optionally the junction surface (9f) having a slope lower than the slope of the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) in order to force the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c), entering into the housing space (7) of the drawer through the gap (3b), to form one or more vortices and / or turbulences inside the housing space (7), in particular the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) and the junction surface (9f) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) defining: - a split-line profile, in particular concave on the opposite side of the bottom wall (6a) of the drawer, optionally concave towards the covering element (8); or - an arched profile, in particular concave on the opposite side of the bottom wall (6a) of the drawer, optionally concave towards the covering element (8).

8. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to the previous claim, wherein: - the junction surface (9f) of the coupling element (9c) of the second portion (9b) of the flap (9) and the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) define an intermediate angle (a) comprised between 90° and 160°, optionally between 100° and 140°, in particular between 110° and 130°, preferably corresponding to 120°; and / or, - the first portion (9a) of the flap (9) is inclined with respect to the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer of an angle (β) comprised between 15° and 45°, optionally between 20° and 40°, in particular between 25° and 35°, preferably corresponding to 30°.

9. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the flap (9) is removable or can be removed from the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, even when the drawer is housed in the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

10. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the flap (9) occupies only one part of an end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, optionally the flap (9) occupying two-thirds or one-third, of an end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer, more optionally the flap (9) occupying an entire end, in particular a top end, of the rear wall (6c) of the lateral perimeter (6b) of the drawer.

11. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the ventilation system (5) is arranged at the top of the compartment (3) whereas the predefined region (3a) where the drawer is positioned is located far from the ventilation system (5), optionally near or at the opposite of the top of the compartment (3), the ventilation system (5) being configured to force the circulation of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) downwardly towards the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3), in particular towards the drawer and the housing space (7) of the latter, optionally at least along the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), in particular an air drop channel (3c) developing between the ventilation system (5) and the predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3) in which the drawer is located, is at least partially defined by the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), optionally also by the drawer and a covering element (8) which can be part of the drawer or of the refrigerating household appliance (1) such as a shelf, the drawer and the covering element (8) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), and more optionally further by a plurality of shelves (10) distributed between the ventilation system (5) and the covering element (8) or the drawer, each shelf (10) being spaced from the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), in particular according to a distance equal to the distance between the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) and / or the distance between the covering element (8) and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

12. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to the previous claim, wherein the air drop channel (3c) is divided into a first sub-channel (3d) and a second sub-channel (3e) by the flap (9), the first sub-channel (3d) developing from the first portion (9a) of the flap until the housing space (7) of the drawer, the second sub-channel (3e) developing from the first portion (9a) of the flap (9), at least until the bottom (6a) of the drawer between the rear wall (6c) of the perimeter wall (6b) of the latter and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), optionally the second sub-channel (9e) developing beyond the bottom (6a) of the drawer until a housing space (11a) of a further drawer (11) provided below the drawer, in particular the first sub-channel (3d) being defined between the flap (9) and a corresponding rear end (8a) of the covering element (8) facing the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), whereas the second sub-channel (3e) being defined between the flap (9) and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), each sub-channel (9d, 9e) defining a corresponding cross-section having a respective size (D1, D2), more in particular the sizes (D1, D2) of the sub-channels (3d, 3e) being substantially the same, preferably the size (D2) of the second sub-channel (3e) being greater than the size (D1) of the first sub-channel (3d).

13. Refrigerating household appliance (1) according to the any one of the previous claims, wherein the heat exchanger is attached to the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) or in contact with the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) or adjacent to the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3), optionally the refrigerating household appliance (1) comprises a door (4) movably engaged with the cabinet (2) between a closed position wherein the door (4) is configured to isolate the corresponding compartment (2) with respect to an external environment and an open position wherein the compartment (3) is open and not isolated from the external environment, the drawer being arranged in the corresponding predefined region (3a) of the compartment (3) and being configured to be pulled out of the compartment (3) when the door (4) is in the open position.

14. A drawer for refrigerating household appliances (1), optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, configured to be located in a corresponding region (3a) of a compartment (3) of a refrigerating household appliance (1), the drawer comprising: - a bottom (6a); - a lateral perimeter (6b) developing transversely from the bottom (6a); - a housing space (7) at least partially defined by the bottom (6a) and the perimeter (6b) for housing foodstuff or any other product to be kept refrigerated; and - a flap (9) engaged to the lateral perimeter (6b), in particular to a portion of the lateral perimeter (6b) configured to face a back wall (2a) of a compartment (3) of a refrigerating household appliance (1), the flap (9) protruding from the lateral perimeter (6b) to a size that defines, with the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), a passage space so that the flap (9) collects a part (12b) of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1), to direct such a part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) into the housing space (7) of the drawer, the flap (9) allowing another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

15. Use of a flap (9) interposed between a drawer for compartments of refrigerating household appliances, optionally ventilated fridges / refrigerators, and a back wall (2a) of a compartment (3) of a refrigerating household appliance (1) provided with a heat exchanger, in particular an evaporator (13), to cool down the compartment (3) through the back wall (2a), wherein the flap (9) is configured to be spaced from the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) and inclined with respect to the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) and a rear wall (6c) of a perimeter wall (6b) of the drawer located inside the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance to: - collect a part (12b) of at least one cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the corresponding compartment (3) along the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1) and to direct such part (12b) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) in a housing space (7) defined by the bottom (6a) and the perimeter wall (6b), developing from the bottom (6a), of the drawer; and - allow another part (12c) of the cold air flow (12a, 12b, 12c) circulating inside the corresponding compartment (3) along the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) to go beyond the flap (9) between the drawer and the back wall (2a) of the compartment (3) of the refrigerating household appliance (1).

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