Extractor device for installation below a hob or kitchen worktop

Abstract

The invention relates to an extractor device (2) for extracting a vapour (A), which is designed to be installed below a hob (1) or below a kitchen worktop, comprising: • a suction opening (21) which is designed to connect an intake shaft (22) of the extractor device (2) along a vertical axis (Z) to a region above the hob (1) or the kitchen worktop in a vapour-conducting manner, • at least one fan (25) which is designed to suck the vapour (A) from above the hob (1) or above the kitchen worktop through the intake opening (21), and • a suction chamber (24) which is designed to connect the intake shaft (22) to the fan (25) in a vapour-conducting manner. The extractor device (2) is characterised in that the fan (25) is an axial fan (25), wherein an axis of rotation (D) of a fan wheel (25a) of the axial fan (25) runs at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicularly to the vertical axis (Z).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Extractor hood for installation below a hob or kitchen worktop

[0003] The invention relates to a ventilation device for extracting vapors below a cooktop or kitchen worktop, and to a ventilation system with such a ventilation device.

[0004] Cooking typically produces fumes, which can contain not only water vapor but also fat. This is similar to frying, which can also generate fumes, particularly those containing fat and odors. These fumes can also be referred to as steam, kitchen exhaust, or cooking vapors.

[0005] In modern kitchens, it is therefore common practice to actively remove cooking fumes in order to keep the kitchen as free as possible from steam, grease, and odors. This can be achieved through so-called...

[0006] Extractor hoods, which are usually positioned above the cooktop, capture the naturally rising cooking fumes. The fumes are actively drawn in by at least one fan to capture them as completely as possible. The extractor hood can then filter the fumes, which are subsequently released back into the kitchen as purified air.

[0007] Alternatively, the cooking fumes can be vented directly from the kitchen to the outside. It is also common nowadays to use integrated extractor hoods, also known as cooktop extractors, which can be located within the cooktop itself. These hoods draw the fumes downwards into the cooktop, thus keeping them away from the surface. An integrated extractor hood, also called a range hood, can be positioned, for example, to the side between the cooking zones, in the center between the zones, or on one or both sides. In any case, it is standard practice to design the integrated extractor hood as a single unit with the cooktop, which can be manufactured, delivered, and installed in a kitchen countertop as one piece.This can increase the degree of integration of the extractor hood function into the cooktop, thereby reducing manufacturing and installation costs as well as the required installation space. Alternatively, such extractor hoods can also be installed as separate kitchen appliances in a kitchen worktop next to a cooktop or similar appliance. This can increase design flexibility by allowing for the combination of any cooktop and extractor hood, as well as the flexible positioning of the extractor hood relative to the cooktop. However, this can increase the effort and cost of manufacturing both appliances, i.e., the cooktop and the extractor hood, as well as the required installation space in the kitchen unit.

[0008] These types of extractor hoods, whether separate or integrated, can also be called table extractors, downdraft extractors, or simply downdrafts. In any case, these extractor hoods generate an airflow to remove cooking fumes, which are then filtered and returned to the kitchen as purified air. They are a type of range hood that is positioned primarily or entirely below the surface of the cooktop and / or the countertop. Compared to the previously described range hoods, these extractor hoods have the advantage that no unit needs to be installed above the cooktop, which users might find visually intrusive. They also save space in this area.

[0009] Cooker hoods, regardless of their specific design, typically always include a grease filter, which can be a disposable non-woven mat or a washable metal filter. In any case, the filter is always replaceable within the hood, as it becomes clogged over time with the grease absorbed from or filtered out of the cooking fumes. A cooker hood also usually has a fan or blower to draw air containing the cooking fumes from the cooker into the hood and force it through the grease filter, thus removing as much grease as possible from the fumes, as mentioned earlier. To absorb or neutralize odors from the airflow, a replaceable carbon filter may be located between the grease filter and the fan, also as mentioned earlier.

[0010] These types of fans typically feature an electric fan motor whose drive-side part, also called the stator, is fixed to a housing or similar structure of the extractor hood. The stator of the fan motor accommodates a rotor as its rotatable output-side part, allowing the rotor to be set in motion relative to the stator by electromagnetic forces. A fan wheel is fixedly connected to the rotor, so that the rotation of the rotor causes the fan wheel to rotate, thereby drawing in and conveying the cooking fumes. The rotor can be fixedly connected to the fan wheel by means of a shaft. The rotor, shaft, and fan wheel all rotate around a common axis of rotation.

[0011] It is common practice to use radial fans in integrated extractor hoods. With a radial fan, air is drawn in parallel to the axis of rotation and expelled radially, i.e., perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This results in a 90° deflection of the airflow. This leads to a comparatively high noise level. This redirection of airflow can also lead to energy losses, meaning that additional drive energy is required from the radial fan to redirect the airflow.

[0012] The invention thus addresses the problem of improving known extractor hoods for the downward extraction of cooking fumes. In particular, the noise generated during fan operation should be reduced or eliminated. Additionally or alternatively, the energy efficiency of the extractor hood, and especially its fan, should be improved. In any case, this should preferably be achieved in a way that is as simple, space-saving, cost-effective, and / or intuitive to use as possible. At the very least, an alternative to existing methods should be created.

[0013] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a fume extraction device with the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are described in the dependent claims below.

[0014] The invention relates to a ventilation device for extracting cooking fumes, designed to be installed below a cooktop or below a kitchen worktop. Such a ventilation device can also be called a table fan, a downdraft extractor, or a downdraft extractor. Such a ventilation device can be installed individually or together with a cooktop as a mounting unit. The ventilation device comprises: an intake opening designed to connect an intake duct of the ventilation device along a vertical axis, guiding the cooking fumes, to an area above the cooktop or kitchen worktop; at least one fan designed to draw the cooking fumes from above the cooktop or above the kitchen worktop through the intake opening; and an intake chamber designed to connect the intake opening to the fan, guiding the cooking fumes.

[0015] The intake opening is a passage through which the cooking fumes can enter the extractor hood, and this passage may be located in a surface of the cooktop or kitchen worktop. The intake duct is the part of the air duct that connects directly to the intake opening and through which the cooking fumes are initially directed on their way to the fan. The vertical axis indicates the direction perpendicular to the surface of the cooktop or kitchen worktop, i.e., from top to bottom. The intake chamber is the part of the air duct that connects to the intake duct, in which the fan is located and to which the cooking fumes are directed.

[0016] In this way, steam that may be generated during a cooking process can be drawn away below the cooktop or kitchen worktop by means of the extractor fan according to the invention, in order to keep the area above the extractor fan, cooktop, or kitchen worktop free of steam. This can apply accordingly to other gaseous media that can be conveyed by means of the fan.

[0017] The extractor hood can also include at least one filter unit, which is designed to be arranged in the intake chamber and through which the extracted fumes flow, filtering the fumes. By means of such a filter unit or its filter element, the fumes or the extracted airflow can be filtered or cleaned in order to remove components such as grease and the like from the fumes or the extracted airflow.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, a further filter unit, such as a carbon filter, can be used to filter odors from the cooking fumes. Accordingly, a partially cleaned or filtered airflow can be recirculated from the extractor hood at another point and, in particular, returned to the kitchen to retain the thermal energy of the airflow within the building. Alternatively, the filtered or cleaned airflow can also be released outside the building.

[0019] In any case, the extractor fan is characterized by the fact that the fan is an axial fan, wherein one axis of rotation of a fan wheel of the axial fan is aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the vertical axis. An axial fan is a fan in which air is drawn in parallel to the axis of rotation of the fan wheel and also expelled parallel to the axis of rotation. The fan wheel is the rotating element of the axial fan, which generates the airflow through its rotational movement. The axis of rotation is the axis around which the fan wheel rotates during operation. As described at the outset, known extractor fans exhibit a comparatively high noise level and have a comparatively low energy efficiency due to the use of radial fans, which is due to the deflection of the airflow within the radial fan.

[0020] The present invention is based on the understanding that using an axial fan instead of a radial fan reduces noise and improves energy efficiency, since an axial fan does not deflect the airflow within the fan. Compared to a radial fan, the axial fan thus offers the advantage that the air flows straight through the fan without being deflected. This results in lower operating noise and higher energy efficiency, as no additional drive energy is required to deflect the airflow. Multiple axial fans can also be arranged in parallel or in series to increase the airflow rate.

[0021] By aligning the rotation axis of the fan wheel of the axial fan essentially or exactly perpendicular to the vertical axis, i.e. essentially or exactly parallel to the surface or plane of the hob or kitchen worktop, a space-saving and simple design of the extractor hood can also be achieved.

[0022] In other words, the extractor hood according to the invention enables quiet and energy-efficient extraction of cooking fumes through the use of an axially oriented fan that is essentially or exactly horizontal. The horizontal arrangement of the fan also means that all components of the extractor hood can be arranged in one plane below the cooktop, which optimally utilizes the available installation space and allows for a straightforward assembly.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the intake chamber is connected to the intake duct vapor-carrying shaft along a passage axis, wherein the passage axis of the intake chamber is aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0024] The flow axis represents an imaginary line or axis along which the cooking fumes flow from the intake duct into the intake chamber when the extractor hood is in use. Guiding the flow axis can result in a particularly defined, straight flow of the fumes, thus avoiding flow resistance and deflections that can cause noise and reduce energy efficiency. Aligning the flow axis essentially perpendicular to the vertical axis or essentially horizontally can simplify the design of the extractor hood and minimize the installation space required below the cooktop, as previously mentioned.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, the axis of rotation of the fan wheel is aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the axis of passage of the intake chamber.

[0026] This orientation does lead to a deflection of the fumes on their way from the intake duct to the intake chamber, which can cause noise. However, this orientation allows for a flexible arrangement of the axial fan within the intake chamber. In particular, the exhaust opening of the axial fan or the intake chamber can be positioned and oriented more flexibly and reached directly by the axial fan, which can avoid or minimize flow resistance and thus also noise in that area.

[0027] According to another aspect of the invention, the axis of rotation of the fan wheel runs parallel to or aligned with the passage axis of the intake chamber.

[0028] By aligning the axis of rotation parallel to the axis of passage, the airflow can be kept straight after passing through the opening, thereby reducing or avoiding deflections of the airflow within the intake chamber at this point, keeping noise levels low and improving energy efficiency.

[0029] According to a further aspect of the invention, the intake duct is designed to deflect the fumes at an angle, preferably perpendicular to the vertical axis, towards the intake chamber. Deflecting the fumes from a vertical inflow direction to a horizontal flow direction towards the intake chamber allows for a horizontal arrangement of the intake chamber and the axial fan, thus facilitating a space-saving design of the extractor hood.

[0030] According to another aspect of the invention, the intake shaft is connected to the intake chamber via a through-opening in a way that allows steam to pass through.

[0031] The through-opening represents the transition between the intake duct and the intake chamber and enables a defined connection between these two areas of the air guidance system.

[0032] According to a further aspect of the invention, the cross-section of the through-opening corresponds to the cross-section of the intake chamber. Due to the consistent cross-section, noise generation can be kept to a minimum, since there are no constrictions or expansions in the flow path that could lead to turbulence or flow resistance and thus to noise.

[0033] According to another aspect of the invention, the through-opening is designed to accommodate a removable filter element, preferably an odor filter.

[0034] This allows for the use of a filter element at precisely this point in the extractor hood. This enables the filter element to be positioned within the exhaust air stream. Simultaneously, the filter element can be easily accessible to a user at this location, particularly through the intake opening or duct, for removal, cleaning, or replacement.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, a cross-section of the intake chamber corresponds to a height of the axial fan, preferably of the fan wheel of the axial fan.

[0036] This allows the installation space of the intake chamber to be optimally adapted to the axial fan, or utilized for the axial fan, thus enabling or promoting a compact design of the extractor hood. At the same time, the impeller of the axial fan can be made as large as possible in height, or the installation space can be utilized as completely as possible to increase the fan performance.

[0037] According to a further aspect of the invention, the extractor hood also has a filter element, preferably a grease filter, which is designed to be removable and arranged in the intake shaft in the vapor stream in front of the intake chamber.

[0038] The filter element serves to separate particles, especially grease particles, from the extracted fumes before they reach the axial fan. This prevents the particles from damaging the axial fan or impairing its function, as mentioned earlier. Furthermore, the air is cleaned before it is returned to the ambient air after passing through the axial fan. Positioning this filter element in the intake duct can simplify access for personnel. Multiple filter elements can also be arranged in series within the fume stream in this way, combining or complementing each other's filtering effects.

[0039] According to a further aspect of the invention, the filter element is essentially flat. A flat filter element allows for easy handling during insertion and removal, as well as a uniform flow through the filter element. This also makes it possible to realize a filter element with the largest possible surface area while requiring minimal installation space, weight, and cost.

[0040] According to another aspect of the invention, the intake shaft is designed to accommodate the filter element at an angle, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the vertical axis.

[0041] By angling the filter element within the intake shaft, the filter element can be larger than the cross-section of the intake shaft, resulting in a larger filter area and thus better filter performance.

[0042] According to another aspect of the invention, a filter surface of the filter element, preferably a flat one, is larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the intake shaft perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0043] The enlarged filter area allows for better filtration of the air flowing through and can extend the service life of the filter element, as the filtered particles or grease can be distributed over a larger area.

[0044] According to a further aspect of the invention, the filter element is designed to be inserted into the intake shaft in a first orientation through the intake opening or removed from the intake chamber and arranged in the intake shaft in a second orientation.

[0045] This allows for easy insertion and removal of the filter element through the intake opening, whereby the filter element can be rotated into an inclined operating position after insertion in order to then exhibit a comparatively large effective filter area, as already mentioned.

[0046] According to a further aspect of the invention, the first orientation and the second orientation of the filter element are rotated relative to each other by at least 30°, preferably by 45°, with respect to the vertical axis.

[0047] This rotation allows the filter element to be inserted through the intake opening and subsequently brought into the inclined operating position without having to enlarge the intake opening. In other words, a filter element with an effective filter area larger than the cross-section of the intake opening or intake duct can be used in this way. This can enable the use of a comparatively large-area filter element, as described previously. According to a further aspect of the invention, the filter element and the intake duct are designed such that, if the filter element is arranged in the intake duct, the center of mass of the filter element is located opposite the intake chamber, preferably along its axis of passage, relative to the center of the intake opening.

[0048] This arrangement allows for improved positioning of the filter element in the intake duct to ensure complete filtration of the fumes. In particular, the filter element can be positioned facing away from the intake chamber to utilize the installation space below the intake opening as evenly as possible.

[0049] According to another aspect of the invention, the intake shaft has at least one bulge which extends perpendicular to the vertical axis wider than the intake opening.

[0050] The bulge allows the distance over which a filter element, especially one oriented at an angle, can extend to be increased, thus enabling the filter element to have a larger filter area.

[0051] According to another aspect of the invention, the bulge of the intake chamber is preferably arranged opposite it along its through axis.

[0052] This arrangement allows for improved use of the installation space and an effective increase in the filter area. In particular, the filter element can be positioned section by section in the recess, pointing away from the intake chamber, in order to utilize the installation space below the intake opening as evenly as possible.

[0053] According to another aspect of the invention, the intake shaft is wider in the area of ​​the bulge perpendicular to the vertical axis than in the area of ​​the intake opening.

[0054] The widening of the intake duct in the area of ​​the bulge allows for the accommodation of a larger filter element than would be the case if only the intake duct itself could be used for this purpose.

[0055] According to another aspect of the invention, the bulge is arranged offset from the intake opening.

[0056] The offset of the bulge allows for an angled arrangement of the filter element between the intake opening and the bulge. Furthermore, this allows for better utilization of the installation space beneath the cooktop. According to another aspect of the invention, the intake duct transitions from a region of the intake opening at an angle, preferably approximately 45° to the vertical axis, into a region of the bulge.

[0057] This angled transition allows for improved guidance of the filter element and a uniform flow. At the same time, the installation space required for the bulge of the intake duct can be kept to a minimum.

[0058] According to another aspect of the invention, the intake shaft is designed so that the filter element can be removed, preferably and at an angle to the vertical axis, and is to be received section by section in the recess.

[0059] This allows for secure positioning of the filter element in the intake shaft.

[0060] According to a further aspect of the invention, the intake shaft is designed so that the filter element is removable and can be accommodated at an angle to the vertical axis between one of the bottom corners opposite the intake chamber, preferably along its passage axis, preferably the bulge, and one of the upper corners facing the intake chamber, preferably along its passage axis, preferably the bulge.

[0061] This arrangement allows for stable positioning of the filter element in the intake duct and ensures that the entire flow of fumes passes through the filter element. The corners can be literally square, i.e., with two mutually perpendicular flanks forming the base and side wall of the intake duct or its bulge, or they can be sloping surfaces of a relatively short length, inclined at 45° to both the base and side wall of the intake duct or its bulge.

[0062] According to a further aspect of the invention, the recording of the bottom corner and / or the recording of the upper corner is oriented obliquely, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the vertical axis.

[0063] The angled orientation of the mounts enables secure and defined positioning of the filter element at this location as previously described. According to a further aspect of the invention, the filter element has a first edge to rest on the bottom corner of the intake duct and a second edge, opposite the first, to rest on the upper corner of the intake duct. The edges of the filter element allow for simple and secure positioning of the filter element in the intake duct. The edges could have a certain height perpendicular to the flat extent of the filter element in order to lie flat against the corresponding corners of the intake duct or its bulge.According to a further aspect of the invention, the extractor fan has a plurality of axial fans, the respective axis of rotation of each fan wheel of each axial fan being aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the vertical axis.

[0064] The use of multiple axial fans allows for an increase in the conveying capacity and can enable a redundant design of the exhaust system.

[0065] The invention also relates to a ventilation system with a ventilation device as described above and with a cooktop or with a kitchen worktop.

[0066] In this way, a ventilation device according to the invention can be combined with a cooktop or a kitchen worktop for use there, extracting and filtering the fumes and the like that can arise above the cooktop or above the kitchen worktop during cooking processes, and placing them below the cooktop or below the kitchen worktop. The properties and advantages of the ventilation device according to the invention can be utilized as described above.

[0067] According to one aspect of the invention, the extractor hood is installed in a user-oriented manner below the cooktop, with the cooktop and the extractor hood forming a single assembly unit.

[0068] An assembly unit is understood to be a device consisting of two initially separately manufactured subassemblies, smaller units, or smaller devices, which are then joined or connected to each other for handling, storage, transport, sale, and installation as a single unit. Thus, in this case, the cooktop and the extractor hood can initially be manufactured separately and assembled as self-contained units, potentially for use individually or in combination with other devices or units, before being joined or connected to form the assembly unit and used together. This can simplify both manufacturing and use / installation.

[0069] According to another aspect of the invention, the extractor hood is designed to be mounted without the cooktop being installed in a kitchen cabinet, and the cooktop is designed to be mounted on the extractor hood installed in the kitchen cabinet.

[0070] According to this aspect of the invention, the cooktop and the extractor hood are manufactured and delivered separately at the factory, i.e., in a separate state, in order to be handled and installed individually or sequentially on site. Preferably, the cooktop and the extractor hood can be coordinated with regard to their connection options and / or connections, which, however, are only used during on-site installation.

[0071] Accordingly, a user or kitchen fitter can initially install the extractor hood in a kitchen cabinet on their own, particularly by inserting it into a recess in the cabinet from above. The extractor hood can be held in place by mechanical fasteners such as screws, especially from above, which are easily accessible due to the absence of a cooktop, thus simplifying and speeding up the installation.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, the extractor hood can be automatically secured in the kitchen cabinetry by locking mechanisms and the like, both on the extractor hood and / or on the cabinetry. "Automatic" can be understood as an automatic locking mechanism that can establish or maintain a secure connection without manual intervention, particularly through a locking mechanism. In any case, connections between the extractor hood and the kitchen cabinetry, such as electrical connections for powering the extractor hood and the cooktop, can now be made, as these can also be accessed without obstruction. This also applies to connecting the extractor hood's fan duct to the kitchen cabinetry.

[0073] In any case, the cooktop can then be connected separately to the extractor hood by placing or inserting the cooktop onto or into the extractor hood. This mechanical connection can be made using mechanical fasteners such as screws, particularly from above, but also automatically via snap-fit ​​connections and the like. This also applies to connections, especially electrical contacts, which, for example, can be made manually by the user before the cooktop is moved into its final mounting position when tilted sideways, or automatically via appropriately positioned and designed contacts, especially connectors. Thus, the use of an extractor hood system as a prefabricated, one-piece unit is no longer necessary.The assembly unit can be dispensed with, thus avoiding the corresponding disadvantages of a factory-prefabricated assembly unit.

[0074] An embodiment of the invention is shown purely schematically in the drawings and is described in more detail below. It shows

[0075] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an extractor hood system according to the invention, comprising a cooktop and an extractor hood according to the invention, from a slant above front view; and

[0076] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the extractor hood system shown in Figure 1. The figures above are viewed in Cartesian coordinates. A longitudinal axis X extends, which can also be referred to as depth X or length X. Perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X extends a transverse axis Y, which can also be referred to as width Y. Perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y extends a vertical axis Z, which can also be referred to as height Z and corresponds to the direction of gravity. The longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y together form the horizontal X,Y, which can also be referred to as the horizontal plane X,Y.

[0077] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an extractor hood system 1, 2 according to the invention, comprising a cooktop 1 and an extractor hood 2 according to the invention, from a slightly oblique top front view. Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the extractor hood system 1, 2 of Figure 1.

[0078] The cooktop 1 is considered using the example of an induction cooktop 1. The cooktop 1 has a cooktop surface 10 in the form of a glass-ceramic plate 10 with an opening 11 in the form of a recess 11 approximately in the center of the horizontal X, Y. Around the opening 11 in the horizontal X, Y, or laterally along the transverse axis Y to the left and right of it, a cooking zone 12 is provided on each side. Each of these zones can be inductively operated along the vertical axis Z from below the cooktop surface 10 by means of an induction coil 13 to inductively heat a cookware (not shown) placed on the cooking zone 12. Below the left induction coil 13, as shown in Figure 1, a control unit 14 of the cooktop 1 is arranged to operate and / or power its induction coils 13, among other things.

[0079] The cooktop 1 is connected to the aforementioned extractor hood 2 by screws (not shown) to form a single mounting unit, allowing them to be installed and used together in a kitchen worktop (not shown) of a kitchen unit. Alternatively, the extractor hood 2 can be designed to be installed independently of the cooktop 1 in a kitchen unit, with the cooktop 1 being mounted on top of the extractor hood 2, which is then installed in the kitchen unit. In either case, the cooktop 1 and the extractor hood 2 together can also be referred to as the extractor system 1, 2. Alternatively, the extractor hood 2 could also be installed directly in a kitchen worktop near or next to the cooktop 1.

[0080] The extractor fan 2 according to the invention serves to extract or draw away steam A, which can be generated during a cooking process, from above the cooktop 1 or, alternatively, from above a kitchen worktop along the vertical axis Z to below the cooktop 1 or the kitchen worktop, in order to keep the area above the cooktop 1 or the kitchen worktop free of steam. Within the extractor fan 2, the extracted steam can then be cleaned of absorbed grease by means of a filter element 27 acting as a grease filter. A second filter unit (not shown), acting as an odor filter in the form of a carbon filter, can additionally filter odors from the steam. The extractor fan 2 can therefore also be referred to as a table fan 2, a downdraft extractor 2, or a downdraft extractor 2.

[0081] The extractor hood 2 has a housing 20, which serves to attach the extractor hood 2 to the cooktop 1. Corresponding to the opening 11 of the cooktop 1 in terms of size, contour and positioning, the extractor hood 2, or rather its housing 20, has an intake opening 21, which can also be referred to as an inlet opening 21 and serves to allow the fumes A or a fume flow A to flow into the extractor hood 2. The intake opening 21 is arranged directly below the opening 11 of the cooktop 1 and, in the illustration of Figure 1, is concealed by a fume guide element 15, which is arranged in the opening 11.

[0082] The intake opening 21 is connected to an intake duct 22 extending downwards along the vertical axis Z. The intake opening 21 is designed to connect the intake duct 22 of the extractor hood 2, along the vertical axis Z, to an area above the cooktop 1, thereby conveying fumes. The intake duct 22 extends downwards from the intake opening 21 along the vertical axis Z.

[0083] An intake chamber 24 is arranged to the side of the intake duct 22 along the transverse axis Y to the right (see Figure 2). The intake chamber 24 is connected to the intake duct 22 via a through-opening 23. A fan 25, designed as an axial fan 25, is arranged in the intake chamber 24. The fan 25 can also be referred to as a blower 25. The fan 25 is designed to draw in the fumes A from above the cooktop 1 or above the kitchen worktop through the intake opening 21. The intake chamber 24 connects the intake duct 22 to the fan 25 in a fume-conducting manner.

[0084] On one side of the housing 20 an exhaust opening 26 is arranged, see Figure 1, through which the filtered air can be released back into the environment after passing through the extractor fan 2.

[0085] The fan 25 is designed as an axial fan 25. The axial fan 25 has a fan wheel 25a. During operation, the fan wheel 25a of the fan 25 rotates about an axis of rotation D, which is achieved by means of an electric motor (not shown) of the axial fan 25. The axis of rotation D of the fan wheel 25a of the fan 25 is exactly perpendicular to the vertical axis Z. The axis of rotation D of the fan wheel 25a is thus aligned parallel to the cooktop 10 in the horizontal X, Y plane.

[0086] The intake chamber 24 is connected to the intake duct 22 along a passage axis C, allowing steam to flow. The passage axis C of the intake chamber 24 also runs perpendicular to the vertical axis Z and thus in the horizontal plane X, Y. The passage axis C is aligned parallel to the transverse axis Y and to the cooktop 10, meaning that the intake chamber 24 extends parallel to the cooktop 10.

[0087] The intake duct 22 has an inflow axis B. The inflow axis B of the intake duct 22 runs parallel to the vertical axis Z and represents the direction in which the vapor A or the vapor flow A flows downwards through the intake opening 21 into the intake duct 22.

[0088] As shown in Figure 2, the axis of rotation D of the fan wheel 25a runs exactly perpendicular to the axis of passage C of the intake chamber 24. While this orientation does cause the steam A to be deflected on its way from the intake duct 22 to the intake chamber 24, which can lead to noise, it allows for a flexible arrangement of the axial fan 25 within the intake chamber 24. This means that the installation space below the cooktop 1 can potentially be used more efficiently than with a radial fan, as is usually the case. This also applies compared to a parallel or axial arrangement of the axis of rotation D of the fan wheel 25a to the axis of passage C of the intake chamber 24. Furthermore, the exhaust opening 26 of the axial fan 25, and thus of the intake chamber 24, can be reached in a straight line by the axial fan 25, which can avoid or minimize flow resistance and therefore noise in that area.Alternatively, the rotational axis D of the fan wheel 25a could also run parallel to or offset from the passage axis C of the intake chamber 24. This can avoid a deflection there, with the corresponding advantages of reduced noise and increased energy efficiency, but would lead to different requirements for the installation space below the cooktop 1. Furthermore, a deflection of the airflow from the axial fan 25 to the exhaust opening 26 may then be necessary, which could lead to noise and energy losses there.

[0089] In any case, due to the parallel alignment of the rotation axis D with the cooktop 10, the airflow within the intake chamber 24 remains parallel to the cooktop 10. This means that the components of the extractor hood 2 are arranged at the same height or in the same plane, which allows for a space-saving design and makes efficient use of the available space below the cooktop 10.

[0090] In any case, the cross-section of the intake chamber 24 corresponds to the height of the axial fan 25 or the impeller 25a of the axial fan 25. This ensures efficient use of space within the intake chamber 24.

[0091] The intake duct 22 and the intake chamber 24 are connected to each other by means of the aforementioned through-opening 23, whereby the cross-section of the through-opening 23 corresponds to the cross-section of the intake chamber 24. The through-opening 23 thus has the full circumference of the intake chamber 24, thereby achieving a constant diameter of the airflow. This constant cross-section between the through-opening 23 and the intake chamber 24 prevents any narrowing or widening of the flow cross-section, thus avoiding flow resistance at this point. This contributes to a reduction or elimination of noise generation during the operation of the extractor hood 2.

[0092] The through-opening 23 is designed to accommodate a removable filter element, preferably an odor filter (not shown), as already mentioned. The odor filter can be inserted into and removed from the through-opening 23 to allow for cleaning or replacement. The odor filter serves to separate odorous substances from the vapor A before it reaches the intake chamber 24 and is subsequently released into the environment.

[0093] A filter element 27, designed as a grease filter 27, is arranged in the intake duct 22, as already mentioned. The filter element 27 is designed to filter the aspirated vapor A before it leaves the intake duct 22 and reaches the intake chamber 24. The filter element 27 is removable and located in the vapor stream A in the intake duct 22, upstream of the intake chamber 24.

[0094] The filter element 27 is essentially flat or planar. The intake duct 22 is designed to accommodate the filter element 27 at an angle to the vertical axis Z. During use, the filter element 27 is positioned at an angle of approximately 45° to the vertical axis Z within the intake duct 22. This angled arrangement of the filter element 27 within the intake duct 22 results in a filter area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the intake duct 27 perpendicular to the vertical axis Z. The increased filter area of ​​the filter element 27 enables improved filtration performance when separating particles from the vapor A.

[0095] The filter element 27 is designed to be inserted into or removed from the intake shaft 22 through the intake opening 21 in a first orientation. The filter element 27 is further designed to be arranged in the intake shaft 22 in a second orientation. The first and second orientations of the filter element 27 are rotated 45° relative to each other with respect to the vertical axis Z. These different orientations of the filter element 27 allow for easy insertion and removal of the filter element 27 through the intake opening 21, while the filter element 27 is arranged at an angle in the intake shaft 22 when inserted.

[0096] The filter element 27 and the intake duct 22 are designed such that, if the filter element 27 is located in the intake duct 22, its center of mass is located opposite the intake chamber 24 relative to the center of the intake opening 21. The center of mass of the filter element 27 is located along the passage axis C opposite the intake chamber 24. This can allow for improved utilization of the installation space below the cooktop 1.

[0097] The intake duct 22 has a bulge 22a which extends perpendicular to the vertical axis Z and is wider than the intake opening 21. The bulge 22a is arranged opposite the intake chamber 24 along the passage axis C of the intake chamber 24. Due to this arrangement, the intake duct 22 is wider in the area of ​​the bulge 22a perpendicular to the vertical axis Z than in the area of ​​the intake opening 21.

[0098] The protrusion 22a is offset from the intake opening 21, i.e., it extends below the cooktop 1 where the intake chamber 24 is not located, thus making better use of the space below the cooktop 1. This can also facilitate the insertion and removal of the grease filter 27. The intake duct 22 transitions diagonally from a section of the intake opening 21 into a section of the protrusion 22a. This diagonal transition occurs at an angle of approximately 45° to the vertical axis Z. This allows for optimal use of the space below the cooktop 21 at this point as well.

[0099] In the lower part of the bulge 22a is a bottom corner 22b of the intake duct 22. Due to the bulge 22a, the bottom corner 22b of the intake duct 22 is located further away from the passage opening 23 than it would be without the bulge 22a. Closer to the intake opening 21 is an upper corner 22c of the intake duct 22. The upper corner 22c of the intake duct 22 lies on the side of the intake duct 22 facing the intake chamber 24.

[0100] The bulge 22a extends the path from the bottom corner 22b of the intake duct 22 to the top corner 22c of the intake duct 22. The bottom corner 22b is opposite the intake chamber 24 along its axis of passage C. The top corner 22c faces the intake chamber 24 along its axis of passage C. The bottom corner 22b is located in the bulge 22a of the intake duct 22. This extension allows for a sectioned arrangement of the filter element 27 within the bulge 22a, enabling the use of a larger filter element 27 within the intake duct 22. The increased filter surface area of ​​the filter element 27 improves the filtering efficiency and / or extends the service life of the filter element 27 before it needs to be replaced or cleaned.

[0101] The filter element 27 has a first, lower edge 27a to rest on the bottom corner 22b of the intake duct 22. The filter element 27 has a second, upper edge 27b, which is opposite the first edge 27a. The second edge 27b is designed to rest on the upper corner 22c of the intake duct 22. The first edge 27a of the filter element 27 thus rests in the bottom corner 22b of the recess 22a, while the second edge 27b of the filter element 27 rests against the upper corner 22c of the recess 22a. The recesses of the bottom corner 22b and the upper corner 22c are oriented obliquely to the vertical axis Z, namely at an angle of approximately 45° to the vertical axis Z. By angling the images in the bottom corner 22b and the top corner 22c, the filter element 27 is held in a defined inclined position to increase its effective filter area.

[0102] The extractor hood 2 can also have a plurality of axial fans 25. The plurality of axial fans 25 comprises, for example, two or more axial fans 25. Each axial fan 25 of the plurality of axial fans has a rotational axis D of each impeller 25a that is oriented exactly perpendicular to the vertical axis Z. The rotational axes D of the axial fans 25 thus run parallel to the horizontal plane X, Y. The plurality of axial fans 25 can be arranged parallel to each other in the intake chamber 24. In this parallel arrangement, the axial fans 25 are positioned next to each other, with the respective rotational axes D of the impellers 25a running parallel to each other. The parallel arrangement of the axial fans 25 enables an increase in the extraction capacity of the extractor hood 2, since the axial fans 25 together convey a larger volume flow of the fumes A.

[0103] Alternatively, the axial fans 25 can be arranged in series within the intake chamber 24. In this series arrangement, the axial fans 25 are positioned one behind the other along the passage axis C. The fumes A flow through the axial fans 25 sequentially. The series arrangement of the axial fans 25 allows for an increase in pressure build-up within the exhaust system 2, thereby increasing the delivery rate.

[0104] In any case, due to the use of a plurality of axial fans 25 with rotation axes D aligned perpendicular to the vertical axis Z, the space-saving design of the extractor hood 2 is maintained, since all axial fans 25 are located on a plane parallel to the hob plate 10.

[0105] The extractor system 1, 2 is designed such that the extractor unit 2 is installed below the cooktop 1 in the user-oriented orientation, as already mentioned. The cooktop 1 and the extractor unit 2 form a single assembly. This assembly enables a compact design in which all components of the extractor system 1, 2 are provided in a pre-assembled unit.

[0106] Alternatively, the extractor hood 2 can also be designed without the cooktop 1 being mounted in a kitchen cabinet, as already mentioned. In this case, the cooktop 1 is designed to be mounted on the extractor hood 2, which is installed in the kitchen cabinet. With this embodiment, the extractor hood 2 is first installed separately in the kitchen cabinet. The cooktop 1 is then positioned and secured on the already mounted extractor hood 2. This separate installation allows for flexible adaptation to different installation situations and facilitates the replacement of individual components of the extractor hood system 1. (Reference symbol list (part of the description))

[0107] A vapor; vapor flow

[0108] B Inlet axis of the intake duct 22

[0109] C Intake chamber through axis 24

[0110] D Rotation axis of the fan wheel 25a of the fan 25

[0111] X Longitudinal axis; Depth; Length

[0112] Y transverse axis; width

[0113] Z vertical axis; height

[0114] X, Y Horizontal; horizontal plane

[0115] 1, 2 Extractor hood system

[0116] 1 cooking zone; induction cooking zone

[0117] 10. Cooktop; glass ceramic cooktop

[0118] 11 Opening; recess

[0119] 12 cooking stations

[0120] 13 induction coils

[0121] 14 Control unit

[0122] 15 vapor guide element

[0123] 2. Extractor hood; extractor fan; table fan; downdraft extractor;

[0124] Downdraft

[0125] 20 cases

[0126] 21 Intake opening; Inlet opening

[0127] 22 Intake shaft

[0128] 22a Bulge of the intake shaft 22

[0129] 22b bottom corner of the intake shaft 22

[0130] 22c upper corner of the intake duct 22

[0131] 23 Passage opening

[0132] 24 Intake chamber

[0133] 25 fans; axial fans; blowers

[0134] 25a Fan wheel of the fan 25

[0135] 26 Exhaust opening

[0136] 27 Filter element; grease filter

[0137] 27a first, lower edge of the filter element 27

[0138] 27b second, upper edge of the filter element 27

Claims

Patent claims 1. Extraction device (2) for extracting a vapor (A), which is designed to be installed below a cooktop (1) or below a kitchen worktop, with: • an intake opening (21) which is designed to connect an intake duct (22) of the extractor hood (2) along a vertical axis (Z) to an area above the hob (1) or the kitchen worktop, • at least one fan (25) designed to draw in the vapors (A) from above the hob (1) or above the kitchen worktop through the intake opening (21), and • an intake chamber (24) which is designed to connect the intake duct (22) to the fan (25) in a vapor-carrying manner, characterized by the fact that the fan (25) is an axial fan (25), wherein a rotation axis (D) of a fan wheel (25a) of the axial fan (25) is aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z).

2. Extraction device (2) according to claim 1, wherein the intake chamber (24) is connected to the intake duct (22) along a passage axis (C) in a vapor-carrying manner, wherein the through-axis (C) of the intake chamber (24) is aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z).

3. Extraction device (2) according to claim 2, wherein the axis of rotation (D) of the fan wheel (25a) is aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the passage axis (C) of the intake chamber (24).

4. Extraction device (2) according to claim 2, wherein the axis of rotation (D) of the fan wheel (25a) is parallel offset or aligned along the axis of passage (C) of the intake chamber (24).

5. Extraction device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intake shaft (22) is designed to deflect the vapor (A) at an angle, preferably perpendicularly, to the vertical axis (Z) towards the intake chamber (24).

6. Extraction device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intake shaft (22) is connected to the intake chamber (24) by means of a through-opening (23) in a vapor-carrying manner.

7. Extraction device (2) according to claim 6, wherein a cross-section of the through-opening (23) corresponds to a cross-section of the intake chamber (24).

8. Extraction device (2) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the through-opening (23) is designed to accommodate a removable filter element, preferably an odor filter.

9. Extraction device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a cross-section of the intake chamber (24) corresponds to a height of the axial fan (25), preferably of the fan wheel (25a) of the axial fan (25).

10. Extraction device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, furthermore, it is equipped with a filter element (27), preferably a grease filter (27), which is designed to be removable in the intake shaft (22) in the vapor stream (A) in front of the intake chamber (24).

11. Extractor hood (2) according to claim 10, wherein the filter element (27) is designed to extend substantially flat.

12. Extractor hood (2) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the intake duct (22) is designed to accommodate the filter element (27) at an angle, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the vertical axis (Z).

13. Extraction device (2) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein a filter surface of the filter element (27), preferably planar, is larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the intake duct (22) perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z).

14. Extraction device (2) according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the filter element (27) is designed to be inserted in a first orientation through the intake opening (21) into the intake shaft (22) or removed from the intake chamber (22) and arranged in a second orientation in the intake shaft (22).

15. Extraction device (2) according to claim 14, wherein the first orientation and the second orientation of the filter element (27) are rotated relative to each other by at least 30°, preferably by 45°, about the vertical axis (Z).

16. Extraction device (2) according to one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the filter element (27) and the intake duct (22) are designed such that a center of mass of the filter element (27) is located relative to a center of the intake opening (21) opposite the intake chamber (24), preferably along its passage axis (C), if the filter element (27) is arranged in the intake duct (22).

17. Extraction device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the intake duct (22) has at least one bulge (22a) which extends perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z) wider than the intake opening (21).

18. Extraction device (2) according to claim 17, wherein the bulge (22a) of the intake chamber (24) is arranged opposite, preferably along its through axis (C).

19. Extraction device (2) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the intake duct (22) is wider in the area of ​​the bulge (22a) perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z) than in the area of ​​the intake opening (21).

20. Extractor hood (2) according to one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the bulge (22a) is arranged offset from the intake opening (21).

21. Extraction device (2) according to one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the intake duct (22) transitions obliquely, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the vertical axis (Z) from a region of the intake opening (21) into a region of the bulge (22a).

22. Extraction device (2) according to one of claims 10 to 16 and according to one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the intake shaft (22) is designed to accommodate the filter element (27) in a removable manner, preferably and at an angle to the vertical axis (Z), section by section in the recess (22a).

23. Extraction device (2) according to one of claims 10 to 16 and according to one of claims 17 to 22, wherein the intake shaft (22) is designed to accommodate the filter element (27) in a removable manner and at an angle to the vertical axis (Z) between one of the bottom corners (22b) opposite the intake chamber (24), preferably along its passage axis (C), preferably the bulge (22a), and one of the upper corners (22c) facing the intake chamber (24), preferably along its passage axis (C), preferably the bulge (22a).

24. Extraction device (2) according to claim 23, wherein the bottom corner (22b) and / or the top corner (22c) are oriented obliquely, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the vertical axis (Z).

25. Extraction device (2) according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the filter element (27) has a first edge (27a) to form on the bottom side corner (22b) of the intake duct (22), and a second, the first 26. Extraction device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of axial fans (25), the respective axis of rotation (D) of a fan wheel (25a) of each axial fan (25) being aligned at least substantially, preferably exactly, perpendicular to the vertical axis (Z).

27. Extractor hood system (1, 2) with a fume extraction device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 26 and with a hob (1) or with a kitchen worktop.

28. Extraction system (1 , 2) according to claim 27, wherein the extractor hood (2) is installed in a user-oriented manner below the hob (1), wherein the cooktop (1) and the extractor hood (2) form a single assembly unit.

29. Extraction system (1, 2) according to claim 27, wherein the extractor hood (2) is designed without the hob (1) being mounted in a kitchen unit, and wherein the cooktop (1) is designed to be mounted on the extractor hood (2) mounted in the kitchen furniture.

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