Cooking device with specific optical display on a front frame

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a cooking device (1) comprising a housing (2), a cooking chamber (3) which is formed in the housing (2), a door (6) which is movably arranged on the housing (2) and is designed to close the cooking chamber (3), and a front frame (7) which peripherally encloses the door (6) at least in some regions at least in the closed state. The cooking device (1) has an optical display device (31), by means of which optical information is displayed on the front face (7a) of the front frame (7, 39).

Description

[0001] Cooking appliance with specific optical display on a front frame

[0002] One aspect of the invention relates to a cooking appliance comprising a housing and a cooking chamber. This cooking chamber is formed within the housing. The cooking appliance further comprises a door. The door is movably mounted on the housing and is arranged to close the cooking chamber. The cooking appliance further comprises a front frame. The front frame surrounds the door at least in part.

[0003] A cooking appliance with a housing, a door for closing a cooking chamber and stationary front parts that are separate from the door and enclose it in certain areas is known, for example, from DE 102008 041 494 A1.

[0004] It is also known that information, for example, regarding the operating conditions of the cooking appliance, can be displayed visually on the cooking appliance. A display device is usually provided for this purpose. Visual information can be presented, for example, on a display of the cooking appliance. However, the flexibility of the display and / or the size of the display are limited.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a cooking appliance in which optical information presentation is improved.

[0006] This object is achieved by a cooking appliance having the features of claim 1.

[0007] One aspect of the invention relates to a cooking appliance with a housing and with a cooking chamber which is formed in the housing, and with a door which is movably arranged on the housing and for closing the cooking chamber. The door is intended to close the cooking chamber, in particular arranged for closing the front of the cooking chamber. The cooking appliance has a front frame which surrounds the door at least in part, at least when the door is closed. The cooking appliance has an optical display device with which optical information is displayed on a front side of the front frame. This improves the optical presentation of information. A specific component of the cooking appliance, namely a front frame which is exposed at the front and is therefore present as a visible component, can thus be used as an information presentation element.Information generated by the electronic display device is projected onto the front panel or directly emitted from it. This allows for more flexible and / or comprehensive visual display of information.

[0008] The optical display device can be configured to project optical information onto the front side, so that the incident light rays are reflected and / or scattered at the front side. In another embodiment, the optical display device can, for example, illuminate the front frame from behind, so that the light rays pass through the front frame and exit at the front of the front frame. In particular, the front frame is configured to be transparent, at least in some areas, for this purpose.

[0009] In one embodiment, the optical display device comprises at least one light source. This is preferably concealed by an appliance component when viewed from the front of the cooking appliance. This is such that the light from the light source cannot be radiated directly forward and is not visible. This prevents dazzling of an observer. Furthermore, the light source can be positioned in a way that protects it from influences such as impact.

[0010] In one embodiment, the optical display device, in particular the light source, is arranged as indirect lighting. This allows a specific visual impression to be created. This also prevents glare. A more subtle light pattern is also possible.

[0011] In one embodiment, the light source is arranged externally of the door. In particular, it can be arranged in the housing. This way, installation space in the door is not restricted. Furthermore, the light source can very advantageously be arranged with thermal protection. In one embodiment, the optical display device has at least one light guide with which light from the light source can be guided. This means that the light source can particularly advantageously be arranged remotely or further away from the front frame. Furthermore, the light from the light source can also be guided to difficult-to-access locations with at least one light guide and / or can be radiated very specifically to a location on the front frame. In particular, the light from a light source arranged externally of the door can be guided into the door using the light guide.

[0012] In one embodiment, at least a partial element of the light guide is arranged behind a front panel of the door. In particular, this partial element is concealed, particularly completely, from the front by the front panel. This protects the light guide. Furthermore, undesirable optical effects of a light guide visible from the front can be avoided.

[0013] In one embodiment, an output end of the light guide faces the front side. This allows the light emerging from the light guide to be radiated directly onto the front side. This enables very sharp and locally directed light irradiation onto the front side. Light losses between the light guide and the front side can be minimized.

[0014] In one embodiment, the front is curved, specifically concave. This allows for highly customized light patterns to be generated.

[0015] In one embodiment, a light source of the optical display device is arranged on the door. This allows for even more direct illumination of the front panel. Furthermore, light generation in the door is also possible when the door is open, so that optical information can be generated and presented on the front panel even when the door is open. This is particularly advantageous when the front frame is arranged on the door itself.

[0016] In one embodiment, the light source is arranged so as to be concealed towards the front. This makes it easier to avoid glare and allows the light source to be positioned in a more protected manner. In one embodiment, the light source is arranged on a rear assembly of the door facing the cooking chamber. This improves the above-mentioned advantages. A front panel, in particular a front pane, of the door, which is arranged on the rear assembly, is then designed without a light source. The rear assembly can have door profiles and at least one inner pane of the door. The rear assembly can be arranged on the front panel of the door, in particular a front pane.

[0017] In one embodiment, the optical display device can generate pure light information and / or can optically generate letters and / or numbers and / or symbols. A wide variety of optical information can be generated thereby.

[0018] In one embodiment, the optical display device is designed to dynamically display light information. This allows, for example, a running light to be displayed.

[0019] In one embodiment, the front side is designed as a reflector at least in part and / or is designed as a scattered light surface at least in part. Light emission from the front side is then further improved.

[0020] In one embodiment, the front frame is designed to be completely circumferential. It can be fixedly mounted on the housing outside the door. In another embodiment, it can also be attached to the door itself and fixedly mounted thereon.

[0021] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance has a front frame that is separate from the door and fixed to the housing. The front frame is, in particular, a visible component of the cooking appliance that is visible from the front.

[0022] In another embodiment, the front frame can also be mounted on the door. It is then firmly connected to the door and coupled to its movement.

[0023] The front frame is arranged to surround the door at least in part. The front frame can be formed in one piece.

[0024] In one exemplary embodiment, the front frame preferably comprises a first frame part and at least one separate second frame part. The first frame part has an end that faces one end of the second frame part. At these mutually facing ends of the two frame parts, these frame parts are arranged so as to abut one another. The end of the first frame part has two contact surfaces that do not extend in a common plane. The end of the second frame part, which is intended to bear directly against the end of the first frame part, in particular to bear directly against it, has two counter-contact surfaces that do not extend in a common plane. The at least two contact surfaces of the end of the first frame part and the at least two counter-contact surfaces of the end of the second frame part bear against one another when the front frame is in the assembled state.Such a design of the abutting ends of at least two separate frame parts significantly improves the positioning of these separate frame parts relative to each other. Positioning accuracy and the maintenance of a set position of the frame parts relative to each other are thus significantly improved. Undesired slipping during assembly is better prevented, and the fundamentally precise, targeted positioning of the ends relative to each other is thus made much easier and more precise. Maintaining the protrusion-free positioning of one end relative to the other in at least one spatial direction is also improved.Such a relatively simple design solution, namely at least two surfaces at each of the adjacent ends that do not extend in a common plane and are intended for the direct contact of counter-contact surfaces that also contact them, allows for improved position adjustment, even during pre-assembly and then also for setting the fixed end position. The at least two contact surfaces thus form an angled contact surface structure. Such a three-dimensional free-form surface also fundamentally enables better contact of the ends, as it is easy to find the contact position of the ends with respect to one another without any protrusion. This is because the angled contact surfaces also allow the counter-contact surfaces to be positioned more precisely, particularly if they are formed to complement the contact surfaces with regard to their angled orientation.These angled contact surfaces allow the complementary angled counter-contact surfaces to be haptically positioned with a defined stop and / or displacement stop, so that the protrusion-free positioning of one end of one frame part to the other end of the other frame part is also improved, in particular it is easy to find and precisely adjustable, and it can be maintained with a connecting part until final assembly.

[0025] In one embodiment, a first contact surface of the end of the first frame part is arranged at an angle greater than 0° and 180°, in particular between 25° and 75°, to a second contact surface of the end of this first frame part. Such a specific, discrete kink between the contact surfaces is particularly advantageous with regard to the positioning of the counter-contact surfaces, which are in particular complementarily shaped and arranged at an angle. This is because the two contact surfaces are then very precisely defined by this kink, which separates the two contact surfaces from one another, and this kink can then also serve as the target contact point for the counter-contact surfaces. It is then also easy to perceive haptically where the final position of the two frame parts relative to one another is.

[0026] Therefore, in one embodiment, it is provided that the two contact surfaces lie directly against one another by means of a specific kinked edge, and that the contact surface structure is a surface structure that is kinked at least once. In one embodiment, it is provided that this kink line or kinked edge of the contact surface structure, by which the two adjacent contact surfaces are separated from one another, is of straight design. This allows the complexity of the contact surface structure to be kept to a minimum, while still achieving the aforementioned advantages. It is precisely the kink angle mentioned above that results in a mechanical profile that positions the complementarily shaped counter-contact surfaces particularly precisely and with particular regard to their kink angles to one another.This means that the contact surfaces arranged at an angle to each other can be recognized as separate contact surfaces even if this angle is not close to 0° and / or close to 180°. However, it is also possible that a discrete bent edge between the two contact surfaces is not straight. It can be curved without corners or at least exhibit a bend in the line of this bent edge.

[0027] In one embodiment, the orientation between a first counter-contact surface and a second counter-contact surface is complementary to the orientation of a first contact surface to a second contact surface. This enables a particularly precise fit of the counter-contact surfaces on the contact surfaces. This achieves a particularly large-area, particularly gap-free, contact of all counter-contact surfaces on the contact surfaces. This enables a particularly advantageous, fixed-position, and thus slip-proof and protrusion-free positioning of the ends of the frame parts relative to one another in at least two spatial directions.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first contact surface directly adjoins the second contact surface. This creates a continuous contact surface structure that is uneven.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first contact surface is arranged closer to the area encompassed by the front frame than the second contact surface. This means that in the plane in which the front frame extends in its entirety, from the outside of the front frame to the area encompassed by the front frame, the first contact surface is further inward than the second contact surface. Thus, viewed precisely in this specific order, a sequence of the contact surfaces is formed. This particularly advantageously prevents any undesired displacement of the two frame parts in this plane in which the front frame extends. It is thus particularly advantageous that the frame parts, which meet at an angle to one another, can be fixed as precisely as possible at their ends, in particular precisely at the outer corner area where the two ends meet.This prevents any undesirable outward offset in the plane. In one exemplary embodiment, the first contact surface is oriented at a greater angle to a vertical than the second contact surface. The second contact surface can therefore form a particularly advantageous stop for the corresponding counter contact surface in order to prevent excessive and therefore overhanging displacement of one frame part relative to the other, particularly in one spatial direction, and in particular in two spatial directions that are part of the plane in which the front frame spans. Furthermore, the first contact surface can also be formed in a specific miter cut due to the larger angle relative to the vertical, so that a special, precise fit of the second frame parts to one another is also possible here.

[0030] In one embodiment, the angle at which the first contact surface is arranged to the vertical is between 25° and 75°, in particular between 30° and 60°.

[0031] In one embodiment, the second contact surface can be oriented at an angle between 0° and 10° to the vertical. The above-mentioned angle dimensions apply in particular when the first contact surface is formed in a single plane. In particular, the additional angle dimensions for the second contact surface apply when this second plane also extends entirely in its own plane.

[0032] In one exemplary embodiment, the first contact surface has a front-side boundary edge. Such a front-side boundary edge can be seen in the depth direction of the cooking appliance and, with regard to the viewing plane, also represents a visible boundary edge. This front-side boundary edge is therefore particularly such that, when viewed from the front of the front frame, it limits the contact surface to the area encompassed by the front frame. In one exemplary embodiment, this front-side boundary edge can be straight. In one exemplary embodiment, it is also possible for this front-side boundary edge to be curved, in particular continuously curved. This enables various shapes for this front-side boundary edge. This also enables different shapes for the first contact surface.This is advantageous when visible surfaces of the frame parts, which are also delimited by this front boundary edge, are flat or, in one embodiment, uneven. In one embodiment, the first contact surface is formed entirely in one plane. In particular, the corresponding first counter-contact surface is then also formed entirely in one plane. This allows these surfaces to contact one another over their entire surface in the overlapping area where they abut one another. The same can be done in one embodiment for the second contact surface. In one embodiment, the second counter-contact surface can then also be designed accordingly.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first contact surface can be a 3D freeform surface. In this case, it is not configured to extend in a single plane. Such a freeform surface also allows for more flexible design of uneven inner front sides of frame parts, while still achieving a large-area contact between such a first contact surface and a corresponding and complementarily shaped first counter-contact surface. Thus, a contact surface can be designed as a freeform surface in a trough-like manner. The corresponding counter-contact surface can then be designed dome-shaped. In this context, an interlocking similar to a head-and-socket principle can be realized.

[0034] In one embodiment, a first counter-contact surface and a second counter-contact surface are arranged and shaped such that the first counter-contact surface directly abuts the first contact surface and / or the second counter-contact surface directly abuts the second contact surface. This creates a type of interlocking, abutting surface structure principle.

[0035] In one exemplary embodiment, the first frame part has a first front surface and a second front surface arranged at an angle thereto. In particular, viewed in the depth direction of the cooking appliance, the first front surface is arranged such that it extends further back than the second front surface. By using such a multiple, different front surface principle, the geometry of the frame part is also individually designed. By forming two front surfaces that do not extend in a common plane, the above-mentioned contact surfaces can also be designed more effectively in different planes. In one exemplary embodiment, the first front surface is larger than the second front surface. In one exemplary embodiment, the first front surface is closer to the area enclosed by the front frame. This is particularly true when viewed in the plane in which the front frame extends with its basic geometry.

[0036] In one exemplary embodiment, the second front surface is a narrow surface strip. In particular, this surface strip represents an outer end of the frame part. In this context, outer means that the front frame is viewed in the plane in which this front frame extends with its basic geometry and this narrow surface strip then essentially forms the outer surface unit of the frame part. In one exemplary embodiment, the second front surface can be spanned in the plane in which the front frame extends with its basic geometry. In one exemplary embodiment, the first front surface can be spanned in a plane inclined thereto. In particular, this first front surface can be formed by an inner boundary edge of the second front surface in the direction of the region encompassed by the front frame, in particular extending backwards at an angle in the depth direction.The front frame therefore has a particularly advantageous three-dimensional structure which, when viewed in the depth direction, makes it appear relatively thin and delicate at its frontmost point and which, when viewed backwards in the depth direction, becomes thicker. In particular, when positioned adjacent to a door and / or an operating device of the household appliance or cooking appliance, specific gaps can be created between the front frame and the side areas of the door and / or the operating device, in particular the control panel. This also makes it possible to create intervention or access areas between the front frame and the door and / or control panel, when viewed in the depth direction. This is also particularly advantageous for realizing optical effects such as backlighting and thus, for example, indirect lighting.In particular, such a geometry of the frame parts can also create so-called shadow gaps.

[0037] The positioning of the frame parts in an intermediate assembly position, in which they are held in order to subsequently fix them in the intermediate position relative to one another, for example by a connecting part, is also significantly improved by the geometry of the abutting surfaces of the frame parts. In one embodiment, the two frame parts are connected by at least one separate connecting part. In particular, the connecting part can be an L-shaped connecting part, in particular a flat angle. Preferably, the two frame parts are connected to one another by screw connections using this connecting part. This makes it possible to create a particularly stable mechanical connection. It is possible for at least one frame part to be hollow at its end facing the other frame part, so that the connecting part can extend into at least this one frame part.This also allows for the positioning of the frame part and a space-saving, concealed mounting location for the connecting piece. It is also possible for the connecting piece to have countersunk holes through which the screws are inserted, allowing countersunk head screws, for example, to be used. This allows for further positioning and centering, as even the smallest positioning tolerances can be compensated for during screwing.

[0038] In one embodiment, the frame components are made of metal. Specifically, they are made of aluminum. This allows for particularly stable and attractive design.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cooking appliance is a built-in appliance. This means that it can be installed into a recess in a furniture wall. Especially with such a built-in appliance, such a front frame offers additional functionality. It serves particularly advantageously as a transition between the adjacent front panels of the furniture wall and the recess, preventing an abrupt jump between these adjacent furniture walls and the built-in appliance. This allows other gaps, especially wider gaps, to be covered by the front frame and / or existing gaps to be minimized.

[0040] It is also possible for the front frame to extend behind a door and / or behind a control panel. Such an overlap with the door and / or control panel areas, viewed in the plane of the front frame, enables the aforementioned designs in an even more advantageous manner, particularly with regard to shadow gaps and / or indirect lighting. When viewed in a projection view in the plane in which the front frame extends with a basic geometry, a partial overlap, particularly of the interior areas of the front frame, with the surface of the door and / or control panel is thus provided.

[0041] The terms “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “depth direction”, “width direction”, “height direction” indicate the positions and orientations given when the device is used and positioned as intended.

[0042] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the respective combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which emerge and can be produced by separate combinations of features from the explained embodiments. Embodiments and combinations of features are also to be regarded as disclosed that therefore do not have all the features of an originally formulated independent claim.

[0043] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show:

[0044] Fig. 1a is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking appliance according to the invention without a door;

[0045] Fig. 1b The representation according to Fig. 1a with a door;

[0046] Fig. 1c shows an enlarged partial section of Fig. 1b;

[0047] Fig. 2 is a front view of an embodiment of a front frame of a cooking appliance according to the invention without a door; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the front frame according to Fig. 2;

[0048] Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the front frame according to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3;

[0049] Fig. 5 is a further perspective partial view of the front frame according to Fig. 2 to Fig. 4;

[0050] Fig. 6 is a perspective sectional view of the view in Fig. 4;

[0051] Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of an example of a first frame part;

[0052] Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective partial view of an embodiment of a second frame part of the front frame;

[0053] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting device for connecting two frame parts of the front frame;

[0054] Fig. 10 is a representation of the connected state of the frame parts with the connecting part of the connecting device;

[0055] Fig. 11 is a schematic sectional view of a portion of an embodiment of a cooking appliance according to the invention;

[0056] Fig. 12 is a schematic sectional view of a portion of a further embodiment of a cooking appliance according to the invention; and

[0057] Fig. 13 is a front view of another embodiment of a household appliance, in particular as part of a household appliance set.

[0058] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference numerals. Fig. 1a shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a cooking appliance 1 according to the invention. The cooking appliance 1 can be an oven, a microwave, or a steam cooking appliance. It is also possible for the cooking appliance 1 to have at least some of these functionalities together. The cooking appliance 1 has a housing 2. At least one cooking chamber 3 is formed in the housing 2. The cooking chamber 3 is delimited by walls of a muffle 4 of the cooking appliance 1. The muffle 4 is separate from an outer housing 5 of the housing 2, but is also a component of the housing 2.

[0059] In addition, the cooking appliance 1 has a door 6 (Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c). This is movably arranged on the housing 2 and is intended for closing the front of the cooking chamber 3. In addition, the cooking appliance 1 has a separate front frame 7. The front frame 7 is provided as an at least partially circumferential border of the door 6. In particular, if the cooking appliance 1 also has a control panel, the control panel can also be at least partially circumferentially bordered by the front frame 7. Especially if at least one door 6 (Fig. 1b) is present, the front frame 7 can surround this door 6 all the way around. The front frame 7 is a visible component on the front. This means that in the fully assembled state of the cooking appliance 1, this front frame 7 is a component that is exposed at the front and can be seen when viewed from the front.

[0060] The cooking appliance 1 has an electronic, optical display device 31 (Fig. 11, 12), with which optical information can be displayed, in particular is displayed, at least on a front side 7a of the front frame 7.

[0061] In Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c, which shows an enlarged portion of Fig. 1b, the door 6 is closed. In the exemplary embodiment, the front frame 7 also reaches behind the door 6 in some areas, in particular behind a front panel, such as an outer pane, of the door 6. This can create a gap towards the rear. The front frame 7 can be formed and arranged such that, when viewed projected onto the plane in which the door 6 and the front frame 7 span, it overlaps with the door 6. In such an exemplary embodiment, it therefore reaches behind at least this front panel of the door 6. The front panel of the door 6 can be formed by a front pane of a pane assembly of the door 6. This can also enable a shadow gap to form between the door 6 and the front frame 7.It is also possible for a lighting device to be arranged on the cooking appliance 1, in particular on the door 6, so that indirect lighting is formed in the gap between the door 6 and the front frame 7. Gaps 29 and 30 are shown in Figs. 1b and 1c. The lighting device can be a component of the optical display device 31.

[0062] As also shown in Fig. 2, the front frame 7 in the exemplary embodiment is closed all the way around. Here, it is designed as a four-sided frame. In one exemplary embodiment, the front frame 7 can be arranged on the housing 2. In particular, it can be arranged, in particular fastened, to the outer housing 5, for example. The front frame 7 is made of metal. In particular, it is made of aluminum. In another exemplary embodiment, the front frame 7 can be arranged on the door 6 itself. It is then fixedly fastened to the door 6, so that its movement is also coupled to the door 6.

[0063] In this exemplary embodiment, the front frame 7 is not formed in one piece. It is made up of several separate frame parts. The front frame 7 can have a first frame part 8, a second frame part 9, a third frame part 10, and a fourth frame part 11. In the exemplary embodiment, the four separate frame parts 8 to 11 are rectilinear elements. They can be extruded profiles, for example.

[0064] In the exemplary embodiment, the frame parts 6 and 10 are oriented opposite one another and parallel to one another, in particular with their longitudinal axes arranged in the vertical direction (y-direction) of the cooking appliance 1. The two additional frame parts 9 and 11 are also oriented parallel to one another and, here, with their longitudinal axes arranged in the width direction (x-direction) of the cooking appliance 1.

[0065] The first frame part 8 has a first end 8a and a second end 8b. The second frame part 9 has a first end 9a and an opposite further end 9b. The frame part 10 has a first end 10a and an opposite second end 10b. Furthermore, the fourth frame part 11 has a first end 11a and an opposite further end 11b. As can be seen, the frame parts 8 to 11 are directly adjacent to one another with their ends 8a to 11b at specific corner regions 12, 13, 14 and 15. The mutually facing ends 8a to 11b are arranged directly adjacent to one another. In Fig. 2, the front frame 7 is shown separately. In Fig. 3, this front frame 7 is shown in a perspective view.

[0066] As can be seen here, in one exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that coupling webs 16 and 17 projecting rearwardly as viewed in the depth direction (z-direction) are formed on some frame parts, here frame parts 8 and 10. These plate-like or strip-like elements, as shown in Fig. 1a, are intended for coupling to the housing 2, in particular the outer housing 5.

[0067] Fig. 4 shows an enlarged view of sub-area I in Fig. 3.

[0068] As can be seen here, the first frame part 8 has a first front surface 8c and a directly adjoining second front surface 8d. The first front surface 8c does not extend in the plane in which the second front surface 8d extends. The first front surface 8c borders on the second front surface 8d at a boundary edge 8e. Both front surfaces 8c and 8d are visible front surfaces. This means that they are each arranged at least partially exposed towards the front. This is particularly true when the door 6 is closed. In one exemplary embodiment, the second front surface 8d extends in a plane or is spanned in a plane that is vertically oriented. In particular, this is the plane spanned by the width direction and the height direction.Viewed in the depth direction, it is also positioned such that, starting from this second front surface 8d, the first front surface 8c extends backwards or extends further backwards than the second front surface 8d.

[0069] In one exemplary embodiment, the first front surface 8c is arranged at an angle to the second front surface 8d. In particular, the first front surface 8c is arranged at an angle to a vertical plane spanned by the height direction and the depth direction. Such an angle is preferably between 20° and 160°. As a result, the first front surface 8c is inclined inwards when viewed from the front and towards the rear when viewed from the front. In this context, "viewed inwards" means that a rear boundary edge 8f, viewed in the depth direction, faces further towards the opposite frame part 10, or is closer to it, when viewed in the width direction, than the front boundary edge 8e, viewed in the depth direction.

[0070] It can be provided that this first front surface 8c is completely spanned in one plane. However, it is also possible for this first front surface 8c to be a 3D freeform surface. It can, for example, be continuously curved, for example, convex or concave.

[0071] As a result, in one embodiment it has a groove-like shape when viewed from the front.

[0072] In one embodiment, a coupling web 18 can be formed on the first front surface 8c adjacent to the rear boundary edge 8f. This strip-shaped coupling web 18 is arranged at an angle, in particular 90°, to the first front surface 8c. In particular, this can stiffen the frame part 8. In particular, this stiffens the first front surface 8c, and in particular, the possibility of twisting is reduced.

[0073] Furthermore, this coupling web 18 can serve as a stop, in particular as a front stop for a coupling base 19. In one exemplary embodiment, the coupling base 19 is, in particular, a component of the second frame part 9. As can be seen, the second frame part 9 has a first front surface 9c and a second front surface 9d. With regard to the geometric and positional configurations of the two front surfaces 9c and 9d, reference may be made, in particular with regard to one exemplary embodiment, to the front surfaces 8c and 8d.

[0074] Here, too, corresponding boundary edges 9e and 9f are present. In particular, the preferably present coupling base 19 borders the rear boundary edge 9f.

[0075] Fig. 5 shows an enlarged perspective view of section II in Fig. 3. Here, too, it can be seen how the ends 11b and 8b of frame parts 8 and 11 abut one another directly. For further explanation regarding the contact surfaces and counter-contact surfaces with which frame parts 8 and 9, on the one hand, and 8 and 11, on the other, abut one another, reference is made to the following explanations. The other connections at ends 9b and 10a, on the one hand, and 10b and 11a, and 8b and 11b, on the other hand, are to be understood accordingly.

[0076] Fig. 6 shows the illustration according to Fig. 4, but also a perspective sectional view of the second frame part 9 and the coupling base 19. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, it can be seen that the first front surface 9c is concavely curved. It therefore has the groove shape already explained above. In the exemplary embodiment, the first front surface 8c can be shaped accordingly.

[0077] As can be seen here, the coupling base 19 is designed as a hollow profile. In particular, it is manufactured in one piece with the second frame part 9. As can also be seen, in one exemplary embodiment, the second frame part 9 has a hollow chamber 20 at a rear end, viewed in the depth direction. A separate connecting part 21 extends into this hollow chamber 20. This connecting part 21 can preferably be an L-shaped flat angle. A first L-leg 21a extends into this hollow chamber 20, whereas a second L-leg 21b (Fig. 9) extends into a preferably present hollow region or hollow chamber on the first frame part 8. The connecting part 21 is provided for mechanically coupling the two frame parts 8 and 9 to one another, in particular by means of screw connections.

[0078] Furthermore, in one exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that a further coupling flange 22 is formed onto the second frame part 9. This is separate from the coupling base 19. The rearwardly projecting coupling flange 22 is provided for further stabilization and is designed for additional mechanical coupling to the first frame part 8 and / or the further, in particular third, frame part 10. It is possible for the coupling base 19 to rest only on a corresponding coupling structure 23, which is formed on the rear side or, in the depth direction, adjacent to the first frame part 8 to the rear, in particular in one piece. However, it is also possible for a specific mechanical coupling to be provided, for example by means of a coupling tab 24a that engages in a coupling receptacle 24b. Further mechanical couplings can also be provided in this regard.

[0079] The same or similar can also be provided with regard to the mechanical coupling between the coupling web 22 and in particular also the coupling structure 23.

[0080] Fig. 7 shows a simplified perspective view of a portion of the first frame part 8. This shows an exemplary embodiment of the frame part 8 as it may be formed in a minimal configuration. Additionally, as explained in the preceding figures, the coupling structure 23 and / or the coupling web 17 may be integrally formed to the rear in exemplary embodiments. In this regard, a one-piece design with the frame part 8 may also be provided.

[0081] As can be seen here, this first end 8a has a first contact surface 8g and a second contact surface 8h. These two contact surfaces 8g and 8h do not extend in a common plane. It can be provided that the first contact surface 8g is completely spanned in one plane. It is possible for the second contact surface 8h to be completely spanned in a different plane. In particular, the contact surfaces 8g and 8h are preferably spanned in planes that are oriented at an angle a1 to one another. This angle a1 is preferably greater than 0° and less than 180°, in particular between 25° and 75°. In particular, the angle a1 can be between 40° and 50°, in particular 45°.

[0082] The two contact surfaces 8g and 8h directly adjoin one another. Here, they are separated from one another by a bent edge or a boundary edge 25. This boundary edge 25 is rectilinear in the exemplary embodiment. In addition, the first contact surface 8g has a front boundary edge 8i. This front boundary edge 8i is also a boundary edge visible from the front when the front frame 7 is assembled. This is also evident in Figs. 2, 3, 4, and 6. In an exemplary embodiment in which the first front surface 8c extends entirely in one plane, this front boundary edge 8i is rectilinear. If the first front surface 8c is a 3D free-form surface, for example, concavely curved and thus shaped like a groove, this front boundary edge 8i is not rectilinear, but in particular also continuously curved, as symbolized by the dashed line 8i'.

[0083] In one embodiment, the first contact surface 8g is oriented at an angle a2 to the vertical. The vertical can be represented here, for example, by the boundary line or boundary edge 8e. In particular, this angle a2 is between 20° and less than 90°, in particular between 20° and 60°.

[0084] In one embodiment, the second contact surface 8h can be spanned in a plane which, in the embodiment, spans the depth direction and the height direction.

[0085] All angle values ​​for angle a1 are also possible, especially in increments of one, which can be realized between 20° and 75°. The same applies to angle a2. Here, too, all angle values ​​in increments of one are possible, which can be realized between the interval limits mentioned above.

[0086] Furthermore, in one embodiment, an angle a5 between the first front surface 8c and the second front surface 8d is between 10° and 80°, in particular between 20° and 50°. The same preferably applies to an angle a6 (Fig. 8).

[0087] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a portion of the second frame part 9. At the end 9a, a first counter-contact surface 9g and a second counter-contact surface 9h are formed. The two counter-contact surfaces 9g and 9h are not formed in a common plane. This means that they do not span a common plane. In one exemplary embodiment, the counter-contact surfaces 9g and 9h are designed to be compatible in size and / or shape and / or orientation to one another such that they fit precisely, in particular each bear over their entire surface, on the contact surfaces 8g and 8h. This means that when the frame parts 8 and 9 are assembled together, the contact surface 8g bears over its entire surface against the counter-contact surface 9g and, at the same time, the contact surface 8h bears over its entire surface against the second counter-contact surface 9h.In particular, the additional angles a3 and a4 are designed such that this precise, direct contact of the two contact surfaces 8g and 8h can be achieved with the counter contact surfaces 9g and 9h. In one embodiment, the folding edges 25 and 26 (Fig. 8) are then parallel to one another, in particular, they abut one another.

[0088] In another embodiment, at least one contact surface, for example, the first contact surface 8g, can also be a 3D freeform surface, as already explained above. In such an embodiment, it is preferably provided that the first counter-contact surface 9g also has a complementary shape, so that a precise and full-surface contact between these first surfaces 8g and 9g is again realized.

[0089] Here, too, the first counter-contact surface 9g has a front-side boundary edge 9i. This can also be completely straight or at least partially curved, in particular concave or, in this case, convex. Preferably, these front-side boundary edges 8i and 9i are shaped such that they are also contacted accordingly over their entire length, over which they abut one another.

[0090] How such a concept, in particular with contact surfaces 8g and 8h arranged at an angle to one another and in particular with counter-contact surfaces 9g and 9h designed to complement them, can be realized is shown in Figs. 2, 3, 4 and 6, so that the separate frame parts 8 and 9 can be positioned exactly relative to one another without one end, for example end 8a, projecting beyond the other end 9a in a plane spanned by the plane in which the front frame 7 extends with its basic geometry. This means in particular that, at least in the height and width directions, the two frame parts 8 and 9 are arranged at the same height with their lower surface areas and in this regard, neither of the two frame parts 8, 9 projects beyond the other downwards or an offset is formed. The same applies with regard to the precise arrangement in the width direction.

[0091] In another exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that at least one of the two contact surfaces 8g and / or 8h, which is uneven in itself, and the counter-contact surface 9g and / or 9h provided for contact therewith are complementarily uneven in shape, so that a precisely positioned arrangement of the frame parts 8 and 9 is also possible in the third spatial direction, namely in the z-direction, so that neither of the two frame parts 8 and 9 protrudes forward relative to the other in the depth direction either. This achieves highly precise contact with a protrusion-free arrangement of frame parts 8, 9, 10 and 11 at the mutually facing ends 8a to 11b, in particular in at least two spatial directions, preferably in three spatial directions.

[0092] 2 and 3 also show an area 27 which is encompassed by the front frame 7. This air area also shows that the first contact surface 8g is arranged closer to the area 27 encompassed by the front frame 7 than the second contact surface 8h. The same applies to the positioning of the counter contact surfaces 9g and 9h. As can also be seen from Figs. 7 and 8, the first contact surface 8g and the first counter contact surface 9g are arranged at a larger angle to a vertical on the one hand and to a horizontal (e.g. frame part 9) on the other hand than the second contact surface 8h on the one hand and the second counter contact surface 9h on the other.

[0093] As can be seen in the exemplary embodiment, the second front surfaces 8d and 9d are narrow surface strips, which are in particular the outer edges of the respective frame part 8, 9. Here, they are also the front surfaces positioned furthest forward in the depth direction.

[0094] In Fig. 9, the aforementioned connecting part 21 is shown in a disassembled state, and the front frame 7 is shown from behind. The left-hand illustration in Fig. 9 shows the final assembled state of the frame parts 8 and 9, and the connecting part 21 is shown in its final assembled position. A hollow area 28 of the first frame part 8 is formed, into which the L-shaped leg 21b extends.

[0095] Fig. 10 shows the arrangement according to Fig. 9, left image. It can be seen that screw holes 21c and 21d are formed on the upwardly projecting L-leg 21b. In particular, they are designed as funnel-shaped countersunk holes so that a countersunk head screw can be inserted into them and screwed into a screw boss formed on the frame part 8. This geometry of the screw holes 21c and 21d enables further centering of the elements relative to one another during screwing. The same can also be done with regard to further holes 21e and 21f formed on the L-leg 21a. In this regard, Fig. 10 shows the connecting part 21 in an exposed representation so that these screw holes 21c, 21d and 21e can be seen.

[0096] Fig. 11 shows a schematic vertical sectional view of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a cooking appliance 1. The cooking appliance 1 can be designed according to the illustrations in Figs. 1 to 10. The electronic, optical display device 31 has at least one light source 32. This can be a light-emitting diode. The light source 32 is arranged externally to the door 6 here. It can be arranged in the housing 2. The optical display device 31 also has electronics that are not explicitly shown here. In the exemplary embodiment, the optical display device 31 has a light guide system 33. This can have at least one light guide. In particular, it has a first light guide 34 on the housing side and a separate light guide 35 on the door side. When the door 6 is closed, the light guides 34 and 35 are coupled to conduct the light.

[0097] In another embodiment, the light guide 34 and the light guide 35 can be formed as a single light guide. This light guide is preferably arranged outside the door and, in particular, is fixedly mounted on the housing 2.

[0098] As can be seen, at least the door-side light guide 35, or if only one light guide is provided, at least behind a front panel of the door 6, is arranged. At least the front panel completely conceals the light guide 35 from the front when the door 6 is closed.

[0099] The light guide 35 is designed to couple the light from the light source 32 toward the front side 7a. The light emerging from the light guide 35 is radiated directly onto the front side 7a. One coupling end of the light guide system 33, in particular of the light guide 35, faces the front side 7a.

[0100] In the upper frame part 11 shown here, a frontal front surface 11d and an at least inclined, in particular concavely curved, front surface 11c are preferably formed. The front surface 11c is part of the front side 7a. In particular, the front surfaces 8c, 9c and a corresponding front surface of the frame part 10 are also

[0101] Parts of the front 7a.

[0102] The front side 7a can be designed to be reflective, at least in some areas. A reflective layer can be applied for this purpose. The front side 7a can also be designed in some areas as a scattered light surface.

[0103] The light is emitted forward through a slit 36.

[0104] In this embodiment, the front frame 7 is fixedly mounted on the housing 2 and thus arranged externally to the door 6. The optical display device 31 is preferably arranged completely externally to the door 6.

[0105] In another embodiment, the front frame 7 can also be arranged on the door 6. It is then firmly connected to the door 6 and coupled to its movement. For example, a light guide of the light guide system 33 can then also be arranged on the door 6. The remaining components of the optical display device 33 can be arranged externally to the door 6.

[0106] Fig. 12 shows a further exemplary embodiment in a representation corresponding to Fig. 11. In this embodiment, in contrast to Fig. 11, the light source 32 of the optical display device 31 is arranged in the door 6 itself. In particular, no light guide system 33 is required. The light source 32 is arranged on the door 6, concealed from the front.

[0107] In this exemplary embodiment, the front frame 7 can preferably be arranged on the door 6. It is then firmly connected to the door 6 and coupled to it in terms of movement. For example, the entire optical display device 33 can then also be arranged on the door 6.

[0108] Fig. 13 shows a schematic front view of an embodiment of a cooking appliance 1. By way of example, it is shown here that letters and / or numbers, for example values ​​of at least one operating parameter of the cooking appliance 1, are displayed locally as optical information, here, for example, on the front surface 9c. It is also possible for a partial area of ​​the front side 7a without letters and / or numbers and / or symbols to be illuminated only with a specific light color, so that a light pattern is generated that encircles the door 6 at least in part.

[0109] In particular, this can also create ambient light, especially as indirect lighting.

[0110] In one embodiment, a household appliance set 37 is also possible. This set comprises the cooking appliance 1 and at least one other, separate household appliance 38. The other household appliance 38 can be a warming drawer, a vacuum drawer, a steam drawer, or a microwave drawer. The other household appliance 38 can be arranged directly below the cooking appliance 1.

[0111] This household appliance 38 can also have a front frame 39, as explained in particular with the front frame 7. The household appliance 38 can also have an optical display device, in particular a separate one. This can be designed according to an exemplary embodiment as explained for the optical display device 31. Corresponding optical displays can thus also be displayed on the front of the front frame 39 of the household appliance 38.

[0112] Optical displays, especially those that do not contain letters and / or numbers and / or symbols, may also be points of light, larger spots of light or lines of light.

[0113] It is also possible for operating areas of an operating device of the cooking appliance 1 and / or the household appliance 38 to be illuminated, in particular backlit, on the front as visual information, and thus also signaled. In such an embodiment, an operating device can generally also be formed on a front frame. In particular, touch-sensitive operating elements can then be formed thereon and / or visually displayed.

[0114] This example may be combined with one or more of the other embodiments mentioned above. List of reference symbols

[0115] 1 cooking appliance

[0116] Housing

[0117] 3 Cooking chamber

[0118] 4 muffles

[0119] 5 outer casing

[0120] 6 Door

[0121] 7 front frame

[0122] 7a front

[0123] 8 frame part

[0124] 8a End

[0125] 8b End

[0126] 8c front surface

[0127] 8d front surface

[0128] 8e boundary edge

[0129] 8g contact surface

[0130] 8h contact surface

[0131] 8i boundary edge

[0132] 9 Frame part

[0133] End

[0134] 9b End

[0135] 9c front surface

[0136] 9d front surface

[0137] 9e boundary edges

[0138] 9f boundary edge

[0139] 9g counter-contact surface

[0140] 9g Counter contact surfaces

[0141] 9h counter-contact surface

[0142] 9i boundary edge

[0143] 10 frame part

[0144] 10a End b End

[0145] Frame part a end b end

[0146] Corner area

[0147] Corner area

[0148] Corner area

[0149] Corner area

[0150] coupling bridge

[0151] coupling bridge

[0152] coupling bridge

[0153] Coupling base

[0154] hollow chamber

[0155] Connecting part a L-leg b L-leg c Screw hole d Screw hole e Screw hole f Screw hole

[0156] coupling bridge

[0157] Coupling structurea Coupling tabb Coupling receptacle

[0158] boundary edge

[0159] Area

[0160] hollow area

[0161] gap

[0162] gap

[0163] Display device

[0164] light source

[0165] Fiber optic system

[0166] light guide

[0167] Light guide 36 slit

[0168] 37 household appliance set

[0169] 38 household appliances

[0170] 39 Front frame x width direction y height direction

[0171] Depth direction

Claims

Patent claims 1. Cooking appliance (1) with a housing (2) and with a cooking chamber (3) which is formed in the housing (2), and with a door (6) which is movably arranged on the housing (2) and for closing the cooking chamber (3), and with a front frame (7) which surrounds the door (6) at least in some areas, at least in the closed state, characterized in that the cooking appliance (1) has an optical display device (31) with which optical information is displayed on a front side (7a) of the front frame (7, 39).

2. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the optical display device (31) has at least one light source (32) which, when viewed from the front of the cooking appliance (1), is concealed by an appliance component, so that the light of the light source (32) cannot be emitted directly to the front and is perceptible.

3. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the optical display device (31), in particular the light source (32), is arranged as indirect lighting.

4. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the light source (32) is arranged outside the door, in particular in the housing (2).

5. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the optical display device (31) has a light guide system (33) with at least one light guide (34, 35) with which light from the light source (32) can be guided into the door (6).

6. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that at least one partial element (35) of the light guide system (33) is arranged at least behind a front panel, in particular a front pane, of the door (6), and is covered at the front by the front panel, in particular completely.

7. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that an output end of the optical fiber system (33) faces the front side (7a).

8. Cooking appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front side (7a) is curved, in particular concave.

9. Cooking appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a light source (32) of the optical display device (31) is arranged on the door (6).

10. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the light source (32) is arranged concealed towards the front.

11. Cooking appliance (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the light source (32) is arranged on a rear assembly of the door (6) facing the cooking chamber (3) when the door (6) is closed.

12. Cooking appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical display device (31) can generate pure light information and / or can optically generate letters and / or numbers and / or symbols.

13. Cooking appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical display device (31) is designed for the dynamic display of light information.

14. Cooking appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front side (7a) is designed at least in regions as a reflector and / or at least in regions as a scattered light surface.

15. Cooking appliance (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front frame (7, 39) is designed to be completely circumferential.

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