Pipe device for a domestic refrigeration appliance with specifically shaped overlapping region of pipes which is soldered, and domestic refrigeration appliance and method

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to pipe devices (12) for domestic refrigeration appliances (1) having specific cavity regions (19a, 19b) for soldered connections between the pipes (13, 14) of the pipe device (12). Further aspects relate to a domestic refrigeration appliance (1) and a method.

Description

[0001] Pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance with specific shapes in an overlapping area of ​​pipes which is soldered, as well as household refrigeration appliance and method

[0002] One aspect of the invention relates to a pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance. The pipe device has a first pipe and a separate second pipe. The second pipe has a pipe section, in particular at its end, with which it is partially inserted axially into the first pipe. An overlap region is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe. The overlap region is therefore the axial section in which the two pipes are guided into one another and axially overlap. The pipe section is formed, in particular only in the overlap region, with an outer diameter that is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer first pipe, such that a cavity is formed between an inner side of the first pipe and an outer side of the pipe section. Soldering material is introduced into this cavity, at least in some regions, and with this soldering material the two pipes are firmly soldered together.In the overlap region, a local constriction is formed in at least the outer first tube. This constriction therefore represents a narrowing when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the overlap region.

[0003] A further aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance having a piping device. Furthermore, a further aspect of the invention relates to a method for producing a piping device.

[0004] Household refrigeration appliances are known to contain pipes through which a variety of media are conveyed. It is also known that the pipes of a household refrigeration appliance's refrigeration circuit contain a refrigerant flowing within these pipes. Since the pipes are not usually manufactured as a single piece over their entire length, pipe devices are provided where the separate pipes are guided into one another and firmly connected to one another with specific joints. This is achieved by mechanical connections, such as the aforementioned constrictions, and also by adhesive joints. Such a household refrigeration appliance is known, for example, from US Pat. No. 4,330,924. The adhesive used there is a two-component adhesive.

[0005] In addition, and in contrast to designs in which pipes for a household appliance are joined with a specific adhesive joint, the joining of the pipes with a soldering material is well known. Soldered joints are significantly different from adhesive joints both in terms of material and technology, and thus in terms of the manufacturing process. Therefore, a variety of different design and manufacturing considerations and problems arise here, as are those associated with adhesive joints.

[0006] In this context, DE 39 28 308 A1 discloses a method for soldering a pipe end and a counterpart. In one embodiment shown therein, a pipe section is provided into which a counterpart is partially inserted axially. A squeezing process of the pipe section forms a narrowed wall section. However, this wall section is designed such that the counterpart can still be moved axially relative to the pipe section. This is provided there in order to be able to adjust the axial positioning before the soldering process and to be able to adjust the counterpart and the pipe section during the soldering process, whereby these two parts of this pipe device, which are not yet fixed, must also be held during the soldering process. As also explained therein, a soldering gap distance is always greater than 0 and at least 0.05 mm. Therefore, solder material can and should pass backwards through this narrowed wall section in the axial direction.This allows molten solder material to pass axially through this wall section and flow or overflow the end of the counterpart located immediately behind the narrowed wall section. However, this can lead to the solder material at least partially closing the open cross-section of this counterpart.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a pipe device, a household refrigeration appliance and a method in which, in the case of soldered pipes, an improved connection is formed in an overlapping region of the pipes.

[0008] This object is achieved by a pipe device, a household refrigeration appliance and a method according to the independent claims. One aspect of the invention relates to a pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance. The pipe device has a first pipe and a separate second pipe. The second pipe has a pipe section, in particular at its end, with which it is axially inserted into the first pipe in some areas. An overlap region is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe. The overlap region is therefore the axial section in which the two pipes are guided into one another and overlap axially. The pipe section is formed, in particular only in the overlap region, with an outer diameter which is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer first pipe such that a cavity is formed between an inner side of the first pipe and an outer side of the pipe section.Solder material is introduced into this cavity, at least in some areas, firmly brazing the two tubes together. A local constriction is formed in at least the outer first tube in the overlap area. This constriction therefore represents a narrowing when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the overlap area.

[0009] The cavity is divided by the constriction on the outer first tube, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tube device, into two separate axially separated cavity regions without overlap. The front cavity region extends entirely within the overlap region. The axially rear cavity region extends at least 50 percent of its axial length within the overlap region. Solder material is introduced into the front cavity region. Therefore, it is intended that solder material should only be present in the front cavity region.

[0010] In this pipe device, the cavity in the overlap area is therefore given a specific shape. In addition, very specific soldering material is introduced locally. This shape and axial arrangement of the cavity areas result in the cavity areas being radially expanded compared to the area of ​​the first pipe which axially adjoins the cavity areas. In this context, the cavity areas are each delimited in the axial direction by a front end and a rear end. This also means in particular that each of the two cavity areas is designed to be closer to the longitudinal axis at the ends viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pipe device than in the remaining axial section. Thus, the two ends of each cavity area which respectively delimit the cavity areas in the axial direction are designed as respective constrictions.In particular, a length section of the outer first tube, which adjoins the second cavity region at the rear, is thus designed with a smaller diameter than the two cavity regions.

[0011] It is therefore also provided that the second tube with the tube section extends into the axially rear cavity region by at least a specific length or axially overlaps with this rear cavity region, which corresponds to at least 50 percent of this axial length of the rear cavity region. This axial length of the rear cavity region is defined, in particular limited, by the above-mentioned ends, i.e. the axially front end and the axially rear end. In this context, the axially front end is closer to the front cavity region than the axially rear end of this rear cavity region. It is therefore provided that this second tube extends into the second cavity region over a relatively great length.In this context, it is possible for it to extend at least 60 percent, in particular at least 70 percent, in particular at least 80 percent, in particular at least 90 percent, in particular 100 percent, overlapping with the rear cavity area. Such a large overlap length between the rear cavity area and the second tube enables, on the one hand, a mechanically stable positioning of the two tubes relative to each other.

[0012] This also ensures that the two tubes are arranged coaxially in the overlapping area, in particular at least in the first cavity region. Such a far-reaching interweaving of the two tubes to the rear beyond the constriction also prevents the two tubes from tilting towards each other. This means that the cavity is designed to be as uniform as possible when viewed in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis. In particular, it is designed symmetrically in this regard. This particularly advantageously enables the introduction and distribution of the soldering material. This enables a very uniform distribution of the soldering material, particularly in the front cavity region. The proposed tube device avoids the use of a soldering material which, with regard to melting and then very individual, possibly even rapid solidification, can lead to undesirable asymmetrical soldering material distributions in the prior art.This allows for a particularly uniform distribution of the soldering material in the proposed tube device, both axially and circumferentially around the longitudinal axis. This results in a particularly homogeneous and uniform solder joint between the first tube and the second tube in this front, first cavity area. This also results in particularly stable and resilient solder joints.

[0013] This also advantageously increases the process capability of the soldering process.

[0014] A soldered joint in particular enables particularly high gas tightness, particularly in comparison to adhesive joints. This means that the diffusion tightness is very high. Especially when the two pipes are made of metal in the overlapping area, the solder material creates a particularly tight interface. For example, this is very advantageous in places in a household refrigeration appliance where particularly high gas tightness is required. This is the case, for example, with a dryer in the refrigeration circuit. A dryer or dryer cartridge is a component of a household refrigeration appliance, particularly the refrigeration circuit. A dryer dries out moisture that has accumulated in the refrigerant. The dryer contains zeolite for this purpose, for example. This drying of the introduced moisture prevents the capillaries in the refrigeration circuit from freezing and therefore prevents the refrigeration circuit from being blocked.In particular, a soldered connection is clearly advantageous in these areas compared to an adhesive connection, especially since an adhesive connection does not achieve this gas tightness.

[0015] In one embodiment, the cavity regions are radially expanded compared to the constriction. This also means, in particular, that the constriction represents a narrow point between the cavity regions. The cavity regions are separated from one another by this constriction. In particular, a rear end of the front cavity region ends directly at the constriction. An axially front end of the rear cavity region ends directly at this constriction.

[0016] With regard to the terms "front cavity region" and "rear cavity region," this is to be viewed starting from the front end or the front edge of the outer first tube, which faces the second tube. The rear cavity region is therefore further away from this front edge of the first tube in the axial direction than the first cavity region. Thus, this rear cavity region is also further away in the axial direction from the length section of the second tube that does not extend into the overlap region.

[0017] In one embodiment, the axially rearward, second cavity region is formed as a solder material dead zone. This rear cavity region is thus intended to slow down any solder material that may be passing through the constriction. Therefore, the second cavity region is intended to be a solder material empty zone and only serves as a collection area in those actually undesirable situations in which solder material passes from the first cavity region through the constriction to the rear. This defined design of the rear cavity region ensures that any still-molten solder material that might accidentally and essentially undesirably still pass through the constriction to the rear is decelerated in a defined manner.By designing the rear cavity region as a solder material dead zone, particularly in conjunction with the at least 50 percent overlap length between the rear cavity region and the second tube, it is ensured that no solder material reaches the rear end or the rear edge of the second tube. This prevents this rear end of the second tube from becoming clogged with solder material, even if solder material were to accidentally enter the rear cavity region via this constriction, and it prevents the cross-section of the second tube at this rear end from being soldered closed or narrowed, at least in some areas, by undesired solder material. The second cavity region is thus essentially or completely free of solder material.

[0018] This is also advantageously achieved by the aforementioned specific overlap length between the second tube and the rear cavity region, which is provided at least 50 percent of the length of the rear cavity region. In one embodiment, the axial lengths of the two cavity regions differ by a maximum of 30 percent. In particular, the reference here is the axial length of the shorter of the two cavity regions. In particular, the cavity regions differ by a maximum of 20 percent in their lengths, in particular by a maximum of 10 percent in their lengths. Such similarity in the axial lengths can further enhance the aforementioned advantages.

[0019] In one embodiment, the total axial length of the two cavity regions corresponds to at least twice, in particular at least 2.3 times, the, in particular maximum, inner diameter of the first tube in the cavity, and / or at most 4 times, in particular at most 3 times, the, in particular maximum, inner diameter of the first tube in the cavity.

[0020] This geometric dimensioning supports the mechanical stability of the tubes in the overlap area and, on the other hand, also very advantageously enables the coaxial arrangement of the two tubes, at least over the overlap length in the first cavity area. Furthermore, this geometry also very advantageously creates an axial length over which the solder material should extend as intended and desired, in order to create a maximally strong, resilient and gas-tight solder connection with a minimized amount of solder material. On the other hand, however, this dimensioning also ensures that the design of the rear cavity area is advantageous, particularly with regard to the advantageously provided functionality of a solder material dead zone.

[0021] Preferably, the total length of the two hollow spaces in the direction of the longitudinal axis corresponds to a maximum of four times, in particular a maximum of three times, the diameter of the pipe. This is a further advantageous dimensioning, as it means that no undesirably large length of the first pipe is or does not have to be widened accordingly. This also takes into account the compact design and space-saving arrangement of the pipe device, in particular in the area in which the hollow spaces are formed. A particularly advantageous result is that the overlap length between the two pipes can also be optimized. This is particularly true if the second pipe is to be inserted with the aforementioned rear end or the rear edge up to the rear end of the rear second hollow space.This is particularly advantageous when such a precise overlap length is to be provided, for example, when the rear cavity region is to be delimited by the second tube over its entire axial length. In this case, the outer side of the second tube forms the radially inner boundary of the second cavity region, in particular over the entire axial length of this second rear cavity region.

[0022] In one embodiment, an axial stop for one end of the second tube is formed at an axially rear end of the overlap region on an inner side of the first tube. This is an advantageous embodiment because it firmly specifies the maximum overlap length between the two tubes. This prevents the two tubes from being pushed together too far or, as the case may be, not pushed together far enough. This axial stop also provides haptic feedback during both manual and automated production as to when this specific overlap length has been reached. This axial stop also particularly advantageously achieves further stabilization of the second tube in the first tube. This further prevents the second tube from tilting relative to the first tube. In particular, it also enables the second tube to rest directly against this axial stop.In one exemplary embodiment, this further prevents solder material accidentally entering the rear second cavity region from overflowing this rear end or the rear edge of the second tube, preventing the cross-section or the clear width of the rear end of the second tube from becoming clogged with solder material, at least in some areas. The axial stop is formed, viewed in the axial direction, at the end of the overlap region that faces away from the longitudinal section of the second tube that does not extend into the first tube and is axially at its maximum distance from it.

[0023] In one embodiment, an inner diameter of the first tube at the axial stop is smaller than an inner diameter of the first tube at the constriction. On the one hand, this ensures stable support of the two tubes, particularly in the overlap area. On the other hand, this results in advantages in production, particularly in the sequence of processes. This is because it is then possible for the first tube to be provided with basic dimensions and for a front length section of the first tube, which is intended for the overlap with the second tube, to then be expanded. This expansion can then be carried out in such a way that the rear end of the expansion is formed in such a way that the axial stop is integrated at the same time.Such a design and procedure also makes it possible for a second pipe to be inserted into an otherwise smaller first pipe, at least via the widened front section, which could not be inserted into the basic geometry or dimensions of the first pipe. This also makes it possible for a pipe with a relatively small diameter to be used as the first pipe, which can then nevertheless be arranged and connected in an overlapping manner in a front longitudinal section with a second pipe, which could not be inserted given the basic dimensions of the first pipe.

[0024] Furthermore, this also makes it possible for the second tube to be axially inserted following this expansion of the first tube and to be moved up to this axial stop, if this is provided for in a particular embodiment. Only then is the constriction created.

[0025] If the second tube is not to be inserted into the first tube in the axial direction up to the axial stop, in particular after the first tube has been expanded, a holding element, such as a holding rod, can be inserted into the second tube. This holding element with the surrounding second tube can then be inserted into the first tube, so that then only the holding element rests against the axial stop, but the second tube is arranged at a distance from it in the axial direction, but in particular is arranged at least 50 percent of the intended and still-to-be-created axial length of the second cavity region. The constriction can then also be created subsequently.Once this is created, the holding element can be withdrawn, particularly if the constriction also preferably holds the first tube and the second tube firmly together, in particular if the constriction forms a positionally fixed arrangement between the two tubes. In one embodiment, the axial length of the constriction is between 1.5 mm and 7.0 mm, in particular between 2.0 mm and 5.0 mm. This enables an axial length of the constriction that can be dimensioned very small, so that the hollow areas with their respective aforementioned functionalities can be sufficiently dimensioned, while the overall length of the hollow areas is not overdimensioned.On the other hand, this axial length of the constriction also creates a very stable and resilient interface between the two tubes, which also advantageously enables radial and axial position fixation and coaxiality of the two tubes. Undesirable tilting of the two tubes relative to each other is advantageously prevented by such a dimensioned constriction.

[0026] In one embodiment, the axial length of the front cavity region is between 80 percent and 120 percent, in particular between 90 percent and 110 percent, of the inner diameter of the second tube. This specific geometry also promotes the aforementioned advantages. In particular, it also achieves a very advantageous axial length for the introduction of the brazing material and then also forms a correspondingly advantageous length over which the brazed connection extends.

[0027] In one embodiment, a cross-sectional contour of the constriction is corner-free. The cross-sectional contour is formed in a sectional plane oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubular device. For example, this cross-sectional contour can be oval or circular.

[0028] In an alternative advantageous embodiment, such a cross-sectional contour can be angular. For example, it can be triangular, square, or pentagonal. Preferably, it is hexagonal. This allows the use of standard tools, and no development of such tools is required.

[0029] It is possible for the constriction to be created by embossing. It is also possible for an embossing tool to be designed in two parts. This means that, for example, the outside of the first tube is engaged from opposite sides. In such an embodiment, the constriction therefore has a two-part shape. It is also possible for several embossing elements, for example three or four or five or six, to act on the first tube from the outside. In this case, such a constriction is also formed in three or more parts. It is also possible for such a constriction to be created, for example, by rotating rollers as an embossing tool. This is particularly advantageous if the cross-sectional contour is to be corner-free.

[0030] A further aspect of the invention relates to a household refrigeration appliance with at least one pipe device according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The household refrigeration appliance can be a refrigerator, a freezer, or a refrigerator-freezer combination appliance.

[0031] In one embodiment, the pipe device can be part of a refrigeration circuit of the household refrigeration appliance. Refrigerant can be conveyed through the pipe device as intended. Thus, in one embodiment, the pipe device can be a refrigerant pipe device that is intended or installed for conveying refrigerant. In particular, the pipe device is formed in the area of ​​a dryer, for example, on or in the dryer, of the refrigeration circuit.

[0032] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a pipe device. The pipe device can be designed in one embodiment according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. In particular, the method comprises the following steps:

[0033] - inserting a second pipe with a pipe section into a first pipe so that the pipes overlap axially in an overlap region and a cavity is formed between the pipes in the overlap region;

[0034] - After creating the overlap region, creating a local constriction at least on the first, outer tube in the overlap region, so that the cavity is divided into separate cavity regions such that the axially front cavity region extends completely in the overlap region and the axially rear cavity region extends at least 50 percent of its axial length in the overlap region, and at the constriction the inside of the first tube rests against an outside of the second tube such that the tubes are fixed to one another, in particular in the axial and / or radial direction, in particular the tubes are arranged coaxially at least in the first cavity region;

[0035] - introducing a soldering material into the front first cavity region;

[0036] - Solidification of the introduced soldering material to produce a solid, in particular material-locking, connection between the tubes at least in the front first cavity region.

[0037] Such a manufacturing process enables the creation of a highly precise and mechanically resilient pipe device. In particular, this also enables the manufacturing process to be highly automated. This process is particularly advantageous in producing a very precise soldered connection, thus enabling the use of this specific joining technology in the pipe device. Nevertheless, the process can also prevent unwanted clogging of the inner pipe with solder material. Furthermore, a pipe device can be created that, in particular, enables an outer pipe formed with a base geometry that would fundamentally prevent the insertion of a second pipe with a corresponding base geometry into the overlap area.It is therefore particularly advantageous for this first tube to be expanded starting from its basic geometry, i.e. starting from its inner diameter and / or its outer diameter, at the length section intended for overlapping with the second tube. The specific positioning and creation of the constriction in particular allows a particularly coaxial arrangement of the tubes in the overlap area to be achieved before the actual introduction of the solder material and before the creation of the solder joint. This generates a particularly symmetrical gap between the two tubes in the overlap area, particularly in the front cavity region. This allows for the creation of a solder joint that saves solder material and yet is particularly homogeneous.

[0038] A further aspect of the invention relates to a pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance, obtainable by the above-mentioned method or an advantageous embodiment thereof. A further independent aspect of the invention relates to a pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance.

[0039] A further independent aspect of the invention relates to a pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance. The pipe device has a first pipe and a separate second pipe. The second pipe has a pipe section, in particular at its end, with which it is partially inserted axially into the first pipe. An overlap region is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe. The overlap region is therefore the axial section in which the two pipes are guided into one another and axially overlap. The pipe section is formed, in particular only in the overlap region, with an outer diameter that is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer first pipe, such that a cavity is formed between an inner side of the first pipe and an outer side of the pipe section. Soldering material is introduced into this cavity, at least in some regions, and with this soldering material the two pipes are firmly soldered together.In the overlap region, a local constriction is formed in at least the outer first tube. This constriction therefore represents a narrowing when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the overlap region.

[0040] The cavity is divided by the constriction on the outer first tube, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tube device, into two separate axially separated cavity regions without overlap. The front cavity region extends entirely within the overlap region. The axially rear cavity region extends at least 50 percent of its axial length within the overlap region.

[0041] The total axial length of the two cavity regions is at least twice, in particular at least 2.3 times, the, in particular maximum, inner diameter of the first tube in the cavity, and / or at most 4 times, in particular at most 3 times, the, in particular maximum, inner diameter of the first tube in the cavity.

[0042] A further independent aspect of the invention relates to a pipe device for a household refrigeration appliance. The pipe device has a first pipe and a separate second pipe. The second pipe has a pipe section, in particular at its end, with which it is partially inserted axially into the first pipe. An overlap region is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe. The overlap region is therefore the axial section in which the two pipes are guided into one another and axially overlap. The pipe section is formed, in particular only in the overlap region, with an outer diameter that is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer first pipe, such that a cavity is formed between an inner side of the first pipe and an outer side of the pipe section. Soldering material is introduced into this cavity, at least in some regions, and with this soldering material the two pipes are firmly soldered together.In the overlap region, a local constriction is formed in at least the outer first tube. This constriction therefore represents a narrowing when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the overlap region.

[0043] The cavity is divided by the constriction on the outer first tube, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tube device, into two separate axially separated cavity regions without overlap. The front cavity region extends entirely within the overlap region. The axially rear cavity region extends at least 50 percent of its axial length within the overlap region.

[0044] At an axially rear end of the overlap region, an axial stop for one end of the second tube is formed on an inner side of the first tube, in particular an integrated stop formed in particular by embossing.

[0045] Embodiments of the above-mentioned first independent aspect relating to the pipe device are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of these further independent aspects relating to the pipe device. Accordingly, a household refrigeration appliance and a method for producing a pipe device are also formed, which take into account the further aspects of the pipe devices as mentioned above.

[0046] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. In the drawings: Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a household refrigeration appliance according to the invention with an embodiment of a pipe device according to the invention;

[0047] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pipe device according to the invention;

[0048] Fig. 3 is a sectional view through the pipe device according to Fig. 2; and

[0049] Fig. 4 schematic cross-sectional representations of different cross-sectional contours of a constriction of the pipe device according to Fig. 2.

[0050] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0051] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a household refrigeration appliance 1. The perspective view shows the household refrigeration appliance 1 viewed from a rear side 2. The household refrigeration appliance 1 has a housing 3. At least one receiving space 4 for food is formed in the housing 3. This receiving space 4 can be a refrigerator compartment or a freezer compartment. At the front, the household refrigeration appliance 1 has a door 5, which is arranged on the housing 3 for closing this at least one receiving space 4 from the front. In particular, in a lower, rear region of the household refrigeration appliance 1, a machine compartment 7 is formed, which is delimited by walls 6. In one exemplary embodiment, components of a refrigeration circuit 8 of the household refrigeration appliance 1 are arranged in the machine compartment 7. For example, a compressor 9 can be arranged therein. Line regions 10 and 11 of the refrigeration circuit 8 also run therein.At least one of the line regions 10 and 11 has a pipe device 12. Therefore, in one example, the pipe device 12 can be arranged at least partially in the engine room 7.

[0052] The household refrigeration appliance 1, in particular the refrigeration circuit 8, preferably has a dryer 8a. This dryer 8a dries the circulating refrigerant, i.e., removes moisture introduced into the refrigerant. The pipe device 12 is preferably arranged at least partially in the area of ​​the dryer 8a, for example, on or in the dryer 8a, in particular with a connecting interface between two of its pipes.

[0053] In one exemplary embodiment, the pipe device 12 has a first pipe 13. In addition, the pipe device 12 has a second pipe 14 that is separate from the first pipe 13. The second pipe 14 is inserted into the interior of the first pipe 13 by a pipe section 15 (Fig. 3), which represents an end piece of the second pipe 14. This forms an overlap region 16 in which the two pipes 13 and 14 are arranged overlapping in the direction of a longitudinal axis A of the pipe device 12. The overlap region 16 is axially delimited by a front end 16a (Fig. 3) and a rear end 16b (Fig. 3). The pipe section 15 has an outer diameter that is smaller than an inner diameter of the outer first pipe 13. The dimensions of this outer diameter and the inner diameter are such that in the overlap region 16, between an inner side 17 (Fig.3) of the outer first tube 13 and an outer side 18 of the inner, second tube 14, a radial cavity 19 is formed.

[0054] As can also be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the outer first tube 13 has a widened region 20. This region is expanded in the radial direction toward the longitudinal axis A relative to a base geometry 21 of the first tube 13. This means that, in one exemplary embodiment, an inner dimension of this widened region 20 is larger than an inner dimension, in particular an inner diameter 22, of the base geometry 21.

[0055] It is therefore provided in one embodiment that the first tube 13 is initially provided with its basic geometry 21 and the expanded region 20 is produced by expanding this front length section.

[0056] In particular, an outer dimension, in particular an outer diameter 23, of the second tube 14 is larger than the inner diameter 22.

[0057] As can be seen in Fig. 3, the first tube 13, viewed in the axial direction, faces rearward and thus away from the first tube 14 and is thus still formed with the original basic geometry 21 adjacent to the expanded region 20. As can also be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the first tube 13 has a constriction 24. This constriction 24, in particular here a single constriction 24, is completely formed circumferentially around the longitudinal axis A. The constriction 24 is formed in the expanded region 20.

[0058] For example, the radial constriction 24 here is created by embossing. It is therefore provided that, in one exemplary embodiment, after the expanded region 20 has been created in the first tube 13, the second tube 14 is inserted axially into the expanded region 20. Only subsequently is the constriction 24 created. In particular, the constriction 24 is created such that the second tube 14 is held in position and coaxially in the first tube 13. Therefore, an inner side of the constriction 24 bears directly, in particular in a pressing manner, against the outer side 18. In particular, the second tube 14 is held coaxially to the first tube 13 in this overlap region 16.

[0059] As can also be seen in Fig. 3, which shows a sectional view through the perspective view in Fig. 2 of the tubular device 12, this constriction 24 separates the cavity 19 into an axially front, first cavity region 19a and a second, rear cavity region 19b adjoining it in the axial direction to the rear. The front cavity region 19a is open towards the front. This means that a front end 25 of the front cavity region 19a has an internal dimension, in particular an internal diameter, which leaves the cavity 19 open towards the front. Soldering material can thus be introduced into the cavity region 19a via this cavity region 19a open towards the front.

[0060] As can also be seen in Fig. 3, the first cavity region 19a is delimited by a rear end 26. In this exemplary embodiment, the rear end 26 is also a front end of the constriction 24. At the rear end 26, the first cavity region 19a is thus delimited to the rear in the axial direction.

[0061] The rear second cavity region 19b, which is formed without overlap in the axial direction with the first cavity region 19a and separated from the first cavity region 19a by the constriction 24, is delimited by an axially front end 27 and an axially rear end 28. This means that at these ends 27 and 28, the widening is eliminated and, on the one hand, a radially smaller dimension is formed, as is generated in particular by the rear end of the constriction 24, and, on the other hand, is formed by a constriction. This constriction can, for example, have an outer dimension such as that formed by an outer diameter 29 that the first tube 13 has in the basic geometry 21.

[0062] However, it is also possible for this end 28 to be formed by a different radial dimension. In all embodiments, however, the rear end 28 is arranged radially closer to the axis A than the remaining widened portion 20b, which forms or delimits the second cavity portion 19b.

[0063] The first front cavity region 19a is formed or limited by a partial region 20a of the widened region 20.

[0064] As can also be seen in Fig. 3, the two cavity regions 19a, 19b are each delimited in the axial direction by a front end and a rear end. In particular, the second cavity region 19b is delimited in the axial direction by a radially narrower end 27 compared to the expanded partial region 20b and a radially narrower end 28 in this respect.

[0065] In particular, it is provided that the axially front cavity region 19a extends completely into the overlap region 16. The axially rear, second cavity region 19b extends at least 50 percent of its axial length into the overlap region 16. In the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 3, it is shown that the axially rear cavity region 19b extends at least 90 percent, in particular 100 percent, of its axial length into the overlap region 16. In the exemplary embodiment, it is provided that an axial stop 30 is formed on the first tube 13. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a rear end 31 and thus a rear edge of the second tube 14 axially abuts against this axial stop 30. This axial stop 30 is formed (inaudible, 43.48) 17. An inner diameter of the first tube 13 is smaller at this axial stop 30 than an inner diameter of the first tube 13 at the constriction 24.An axial length L1 of the front cavity region 19a is between 80 percent and 120 percent, in particular between 90 percent and 110 percent of an inner diameter 32 of the second tube 14.

[0066] In one embodiment, the axial lengths L1 and L2 of the two cavity regions 19a and 19b differ by a maximum of 30 percent.

[0067] In particular, this rear cavity region 19b is designed as a solder material dead zone.

[0068] The total axial length, which results from the sum of the axial lengths L1 and L2, of the two cavity regions 19a and 19b is at least twice, in particular at least 2.3 times, and / or at most 4 times, in particular at most 3 times, the inner diameter 35 of the first, outer tube 13.

[0069] In one exemplary embodiment, the axial length S of the constriction 24 is between 1.5 mm and 7.0 mm, in particular between 2.0 mm and 5.0 mm. As can also be seen in Fig. 3, solder material 33 is introduced into the first cavity region 19a as intended. In particular, solder material is introduced only in this first cavity region 19a. The first cavity region 19a is preferably completely filled with solder material. A radial distance between the outer side 18 of the second tube 14 and the inner side 17 of the first tube 13 in the overlap region 16, in particular in the two cavity regions 19a, 19b, is preferably between 0.10 mm and 0.25 mm.

[0070] Fig. 4 shows schematic cross-sectional views of the tubular device 12, in particular in the region of the constriction 24. Therefore, different cross-sectional contours 34 of the constriction 24 are shown in the sectional planes. This cross-sectional contour 34 can be corner-free or angular. Furthermore, the cross-sectional contour 34 and thus also the constriction can be formed by a single tool, in particular a stamping tool. It is also possible for this stamping tool to be two-part, three-part, four-part, etc. Thus, the cross-sectional contour 34 is also formed, for example, by a two-part mold, a three-part mold, etc. For example, in the upper left illustration in Fig. 4, a two-part mold is formed, with the two arrows symbolizing a two-part stamping tool. This is also the case with the angular cross-sectional contour 34 in the top row in the middle of Fig. 4.By way of example, a triangular cross-sectional contour 34 is shown in the center of the bottom row. Here, as symbolized by the arrows, this can be a three-part shape created by three stamping tools. In contrast, a preferred hexagonal cross-sectional contour 34 is shown in the bottom row on the right. This can be created, for example, by a six-part mold and thus by a stamping tool with six parts. The cross-sectional contours 34 are to be understood as merely a few possible embodiments.

[0071] List of reference symbols

[0072] 1 household appliance

[0073] 2 Back

[0074] 3 housings

[0075] 4 Recording room

[0076] 5 Door

[0077] 6 walls

[0078] 7 Engine room

[0079] 8 Refrigeration circuit

[0080] 8a Dryer

[0081] 9 Compressor

[0082] 10 Management area

[0083] 11 Management area

[0084] 12 Pipe device

[0085] 13 pipe

[0086] 14 pipe

[0087] 15 pipe section

[0088] 16 Overlap area

[0089] 17 Inside

[0090] 18 Outside

[0091] 19 Cavity

[0092] 19a Cavity area

[0093] 19b Cavity area

[0094] 20 area

[0095] 20a sub-area

[0096] 20b sub-area

[0097] 21 Basic geometry

[0098] 22 inner diameter

[0099] 23 outer diameter

[0100] 24 Constriction

[0101] 25 End

[0102] 26 End 27 End

[0103] 28 End

[0104] 29 outer diameter

[0105] 30 stops

[0106] 31 End 32 Inner diameter

[0107] 33 Soldering material

[0108] 34 Cross-sectional contour

[0109] 35 inner diameter

Claims

Patent claims 1. Pipe device (12) for a household refrigeration appliance (1), comprising a first pipe (13) and a second pipe (14), which is partially inserted into the first pipe (13) with a pipe section (15) so that an overlapping region (16) is formed between the first pipe (13) and the second pipe (14), wherein the pipe section (15) in the overlapping region (16) has an outer diameter (23) which is smaller than an inner diameter (35) of the outer first pipe (13), so that between an inner side (17) of the first pipe (13) and an outer side (18) of the pipe section (15) a cavity (19) is formed, in which at least partially soldering material (33) is introduced, with which soldering material the two pipes (13, 14) are firmly soldered, wherein in the overlapping region (16) a local, radial constriction (26) is formed in at least the outer first tube (13), characterized in thatthat the cavity (19) is divided by the radial constriction (26) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (A) of the tubular device (12) into two separate cavity regions (19a, 19b), of which the axially front cavity region (19a) extends completely in the overlap region (16) and the axially rear cavity region (19b) extends at least 50% of its axial length in the overlap region (16) and soldering material (33) is introduced into the front cavity region (19a).

2. Pipe device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cavity regions (19a, 19b) are radially widened compared to the constriction (26).

3. Pipe device (12) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the axially rear cavity region (19b) is formed as a solder material dead zone.

4. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axial lengths (L1, L2) of the cavity regions (19a, 19b) differ by a maximum of 30%.

5. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the total axial length (L1, L2) of the two cavity regions (19a, 19b) corresponds to at least twice, in particular at least 2.3 times, the, in particular maximum, inner diameter (35) of the first pipe (13) in the cavity (19), and / or at most 4 times, in particular at most 3 times, the, in particular maximum, inner diameter (35) of the first pipe (13) in the cavity (19).

6. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an axial stop (30) for a rear end (31) of the second pipe (14) is formed at an axially rear end (16b) of the overlap region (16) on an inner side (17) of the first pipe (13).

7. Pipe device (12) according to claim 6, characterized in that an inner diameter of the first pipe (13) at the stop (30) is smaller than an inner diameter of the first pipe (13) at the constriction (26).

8. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axial length (S) of the constriction (26) is between 1.5 mm and 7.0 mm, in particular between 2.0 mm and 5.0 mm.

9. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an axial length (L1) of the front cavity region (19a) is between 80% and 120%, in particular between 90% and 110%, of the inner diameter (32) of the second pipe (14).

10. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cross-sectional contour (34) of the constriction (26) is corner-free.

11. Pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a cross-sectional contour (34) of the constriction (26) is angular, in particular hexagonal.

12. Household refrigeration appliance (1) with at least one pipe device (12) according to one of the preceding claims.

13. Household refrigeration appliance (1) according to claim 11, wherein the pipe device (12) is part of a refrigeration circuit (8) of the household refrigeration appliance (1), and refrigerant is conducted in the pipe device (12).

14. A method for producing a pipe device (12), in particular according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, comprising the following steps: Inserting a second pipe (14) with a pipe section (15) into a first pipe (13) such that the pipes (13, 14) overlap axially in an overlap region (16) and a cavity (19) is formed between the pipes (13, 14) in the overlap region (16); After creating the overlap region (16), creating a local constriction (26) at least on the first, outer tube (14) in the overlap region (16), so that the cavity (19) is divided into separate cavity regions (19a, 19b) such that the axially front cavity region (19a) extends completely in the overlap region (16) and the axially rear cavity region (19b) extends at least 50% of its axial length (L2) in the overlap region (16), and at the constriction (26) the inner side (17) of the first tube (13) rests against an outer side (18) of the second tube (14) such that the tubes (13, 14) are fixed to one another in the axial and / or radial direction; introducing a soldering material (33) into the front first cavity region (19a); Solidification of the introduced soldering material (33) to produce a firm connection between the tubes (13, 14) at least in the front first cavity region (19a).

15. Pipe device (12) for a household refrigeration appliance (1), obtainable by the method according to claim 14.

Images