A connecting element

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of cooking area arrangements with air purification devices below the hob is complex due to varying distances between the hob and the air purification device, requiring individually adapted components and complex ventilation systems.

Innovation Solution

A connection arrangement featuring a height-displaceable connecting element with a handle for easy detachment and reattachment, allowing the hob to be connected to the air purification device, which can be adjusted to fit different kitchen furniture dimensions, facilitating quick and easy installation and maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If custom-made components are used to bridge the distance between cooktop and air purification device, then the air purification device can be positioned close to the cooktop, but the installation becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance between cooktop and air purification deviceVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting element is divided into multiple segments that can be telescopically extended or retracted. This segmentation allows the connection length to be adjusted to match varying distances between cooktops and air purification devices, eliminating the need for custom-made components for each installation scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting element incorporates telescopic sections with movable joints that allow dynamic adjustment of the connection length. This dynamic structure enables the system to adapt to different installation configurations without requiring complex custom fabrication, simplifying the overall installation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the connecting element is fixed in length, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different kitchen furniture dimensions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different kitchen furniture dimensionsVSAvoidconnecting element structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting element features telescopic sections with movable joints that enable dynamic length adjustment. This allows the same connecting element to adapt to various kitchen furniture dimensions and drawer depths, providing versatility without requiring multiple custom components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting element's length parameter can be changed through telescopic extension and retraction mechanisms. This parameter variability allows the system to accommodate different installation scenarios and kitchen furniture configurations while maintaining a standardized component design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If the air purification device is installed in a drawer with different depths, then it can fit various kitchen units, but the distance to the cooktop varies requiring complex adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different kitchen unitsVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The telescopic connecting element with movable joints provides dynamic length adjustment capability, allowing installers to easily compensate for varying drawer depths and distances to the cooktop. This eliminates the need for complex adjustments or custom components when installing in different kitchen units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized connecting element with telescopic capability serves multiple functions across different installation scenarios. It can accommodate various drawer depths, cooktop positions, and kitchen unit configurations, providing universal compatibility while maintaining simple installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3788306B1A connecting element
Publication Date: 2024.11.20 BERLING AERO IP UG
  • EP3788306B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3788306B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3788306B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

In order to solve the problem addressed of providing an improved hob assembly which can be integrated into kitchen furniture of any type, according to the invention, a hob assembly comprising at least one cooking zone, at least one air-purifier device provided beneath the cooking zone, and at least one connecting element for connecting the cooking zone to the air-purifier device such that air can be conducted from the cooking zone to the air-purifier device via the connecting element, is proposed. The connecting element is mechanically removably provided on the cooking zone and is height-adjustably mounted in the air-purifier device.