U.S. patent application number 14/974380 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-23 for domestic cooling appliance with a specific receptacle for a light module.
The applicant listed for this patent is BSH HAUSGERAETE GMBH. Invention is credited to DOGUKAN CETINYOL, BILAL CINCI, LARS DINTER, MURAT SOGUT, MATTHIAS WIEDENMANN, TANZER YILDIZGOCER.
Application Number | 20160178275 14/974380 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56129001 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160178275 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CETINYOL; DOGUKAN ; et
al. |
June 23, 2016 |
DOMESTIC COOLING APPLIANCE WITH A SPECIFIC RECEPTACLE FOR A LIGHT
MODULE
Abstract
A domestic cooling appliance includes a receiving space for
foodstuffs which is delimited by walls and an illuminating device
for illuminating the receiving space. One wall has at least one
receptacle for a light module of the illuminating device. The
receptacle is spaced further from the receiving space than an inner
side facing the receiving space of a wall region of the one wall
adjacent the receptacle.
Inventors: |
CETINYOL; DOGUKAN;
(ISTANBUL, TR) ; CINCI; BILAL; (TEKIRDAG, TR)
; DINTER; LARS; (MUENCHEN, DE) ; SOGUT; MURAT;
(TEKIRDAG, TR) ; WIEDENMANN; MATTHIAS;
(NEENSTETTEN, DE) ; YILDIZGOCER; TANZER;
(TEKIRDAG, TR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BSH HAUSGERAETE GMBH |
Muenchen |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
56129001 |
Appl. No.: |
14/974380 |
Filed: |
December 18, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
62/264 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 27/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F25D 27/00 20060101
F25D027/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 18, 2014 |
TR |
2014/15377 |
Claims
1. A domestic cooling appliance, comprising: a receiving space for
foodstuffs; walls delimiting said receiving space, one of said
walls having a wall region with an inner side facing said receiving
space; an illuminating device for illuminating said receiving
space, said illuminating device including at least one light module
and at least one receptacle for said at least one light module; and
said at least one receptacle being disposed at said one wall and
spaced further from said receiving space than said inner side of
said wall region of said one wall adjacent said at least one
receptacle.
2. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein
said at least one receptacle is formed in one piece with said one
wall.
3. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein
said at least one receptacle is formed as a stamping in said one
wall.
4. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein
said at least one light module has a front side facing said
receiving space, and said at least one light module is mounted with
said front side being flush with said inner side of said wall
region or being disposed in said at least one receptacle with an
outward offset relative to said inner side of said wall region, as
viewed from said receiving space towards said at least one
receptacle.
5. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein
said at least one receptacle has a circumferential abutment flange
delimiting a continuous hole in said at least one receptacle, and
said abutment flange is formed with an outward offset relative to
said inner side of said wall region, as viewed from said receiving
space in a direction towards said at least one receptacle.
6. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 5, wherein
said at least one light module extends through said hole.
7. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 5, wherein:
said abutment flange has an inner surface facing said receiving
space; said at least one light module includes a housing having a
front flange with an outer side; and said at least one light module
is mounted in said at least one receptacle with said outer side of
said front flange abutting on said inner surface of said abutment
flange.
8. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 7, wherein
said front flange has an inner side forming a front side of said at
least one light module being flush with said inner side of said
wall region or disposed with an outward offset relative to said
inner side of said wall region.
9. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 5, wherein
said abutment flange has at least one flange section with at least
one recess forming an assembly coding for said at least one light
module.
10. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein
said at least one light module is non-destructively detachably
disposed in said at least one receptacle.
11. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 10, wherein:
said at least one receptacle has an abutment flange with an outer
side facing away from said receiving space; said at least one light
module has a housing and latching elements formed on and in one
piece with said housing; and said latching elements engage behind
said outer side of said abutment flange to enable mounting of said
at least one receptacle with retention through latching.
12. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, which
further comprises an evaporator, said one wall being a top wall
covering said evaporator.
13. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 12, wherein
said top wall is a stepped wall having a lowermost step and a
rearmost step, and said at least one receptacle is formed in said
lowermost step or is formed in said rearmost step as viewed in a
depth direction of the domestic cooling appliance.
14. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein
said at least one light module has a plurality of light emitting
diodes.
15. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 1, wherein:
said illuminating device includes a further light module
irradiating light through at least one light transmission opening
in said one wall into said receiving space; and a distance adapter
is disposed adjacent said at least one light transmission opening,
said further light module is disposed on said distance adapter,
said distance adapter spaces said further light module from said
one wall outside said receiving space, and said distance adapter
causes light from said further light module to be directed to said
light transmission opening.
16. The domestic cooling appliance according to claim 15, wherein
said distance adapter has a stepped inner side.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the priority, under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119, of Turkish Patent Application TR 2014/15377, filed Dec.
18, 2014; the prior application is herewith incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates to a domestic cooling appliance
including a receiving space for foodstuffs, which is delimited by
walls. The domestic cooling appliance further includes an
illuminating device for illuminating the receiving space.
[0003] Domestic cooling appliances for receiving food are known in
the form of refrigerators, freezers or refrigerator-freezers. The
receiving space of the domestic cooling appliance, which is formed
in a housing, can be closed by a door mounted on the housing. In
order to also provide for improved and sufficient brightness in the
receiving space with the door open, it is known to utilize
illuminating devices which particularly illuminate the receiving
space when the door of the domestic cooling appliance is open.
[0004] However, in that context there is the disadvantage that
conventional and known constructions of such illuminating devices
are disposed in such a way that they either blind a person looking
into the receiving space and/or that their light emission is very
uneven so that the receiving space is illuminated in a very uneven
manner. Further, such illuminating devices are also disposed in
such a way that they are disposed in the receiving space itself or
that they extend into it so that on one hand available space of the
receiving space is used up and on the other hand as a result of
that configuration of the illuminating devices damage to the
illuminating device might possibly occur simply by bumping against
it.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a
domestic cooling appliance with a specific receptacle for a light
module, which overcomes the hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of
the heretofore-known appliances of this general type and in which
the illuminating device is improved with regard to an enhanced
illumination of the receiving space and an individual configuration
regarding positioning.
[0006] With the foregoing and other objects in view there is
provided, in accordance with the invention, a domestic cooling
appliance including a receiving space for foodstuffs which is
delimited by walls. The domestic cooling appliance further includes
an illuminating device for illuminating the receiving space. A core
concept of the invention is to be seen in that a wall which
delimits the receiving space has at least one receptacle for a
light module of the illuminating device. The light module is
disposed in the receptacle. This receptacle is spaced further from
the receiving space than an inner side, facing the receiving space,
of a wall region of the wall adjacent the receptacle. This
consequently means that the receptacle for the light module is
disposed to face away from the receiving space relative to the wall
region and that consequently this receptacle is constructed to
extend outward, as it were, from the wall region, thus facing away
from the receiving space. Through the use of such an embodiment the
light module can be disposed as it were outside the receiving space
and thus does not restrict the receiving space with regard to its
usable volume. Besides, this positioning also enables a more even
illumination of the receiving space. Also, in consequence of this
specific embodiment of the receptacle the light module can thus, to
a certain degree, be disposed to be embedded with at least one
partial area of the light module in a partial area of the wall so
that furthermore a particularly stable mounting of the light module
is enabled.
[0007] It is preferably provided that the receptacle is formed in
one piece with the wall. Through the use of this embodiment the
number of components is reduced and, specifically, a particularly
secure positioning of the light module in relation to the wall can
be achieved. Besides, such an embodiment is to be viewed as more
robust and the light module can thus be attached to the receptacle
in a more stable manner. Moreover, assembly work required to fasten
a separate receptacle to the wall is unnecessary.
[0008] It is particularly preferably provided that the receptacle
is formed as a stamping in the wall. Through the use of such an
embodiment the construction of the receptacle can be particularly
precise relative to the adjacent wall region and thus a highly
form-precise hollow or recess for the light module can be created.
In this context then, a receptacle having such a construction
constitutes, viewed outward from the receiving space, a
particularly advantageous bulge in this wall, which accommodates
the light module in a particularly protected and mechanically
stable manner and which is with regard to the distribution of the
light emitted by the light module into the receiving space a
particularly preferred embodiment.
[0009] It is preferably provided that with a front side facing the
receiving space the light module in a mounted state is flush with
an inner side of the wall region. Through the use of such an
embodiment the above-mentioned advantages are, in particular,
reinforced. Besides, a wall is created which also in the area of
the receptacle and thus of the light module inserted therein
appears as it were as the same continued plane so that in the
transition between the wall region adjacent the receptacle and the
light module inserted therein there is no offset as it were or
break.
[0010] It can also be provided that with a front side facing the
receiving space the light module in a mounted state is disposed in
the receptacle with an outward offset relative to the inner side of
the wall region. This embodiment is also advantageous in that a
more homogenous light irradiation by the light module into the
receiving space is enabled, while on the other hand the light
module does not extend into the receiving space. It is thus
provided in both advantageous embodiments that the light module
does not extend from the receptacle into the receiving space.
[0011] It is preferably provided that the receptacle has a
continuous hole which is delimited by a circumferential abutment
flange of the receptacle. Through the use of this embodiment the
installation of a larger light module is also enabled and the
fastening facilitated. It is preferred that the flange is a
stamping flange.
[0012] When looking from the receiving space in the direction of
the receptacle, the abutment flange is constructed with an outward
offset in relation to the inner side of the wall region and thus as
it were further removed. Such an abutment flange which, in
particular, completely encircles the continuous hole, despite
permitting the light module to pass through, still enables a
sufficiently stable mechanical attachment of the light module
thereto and in addition also stabilizes the wall, in particular, in
the area of the continuous hole so that an undesired twisting of
the wall in this area is prevented, in particular when the light
module is mounted.
[0013] It is preferably envisaged that the light module is disposed
in such a way that it extends through the hole.
[0014] It is preferably provided that the light module has a
housing with a front flange, wherein the front flange with an outer
side in a mounted state of the light module in the receptacle is in
contact with an inner surface of the abutment flange facing the
receiving space or abuts thereon. Through the use of such an
embodiment of the light module the abutment flange of the
receptacle is enabled to abut over an area as large as possible so
that also in a direction of rotation around a longitudinal axis of
the hole and thus also, in particular, around a longitudinal axis
of the light module a very even abutment is achieved and thus also
an improved attachment. Due to the abutting of two flanges also a
very extensive mechanical coupling and operative connection can be
achieved which prevents an undesired tilting of the light module
relative to the abutment flange. Thus, also a highly secure
positioning of the light module is achieved, which in a
particularly advantageous manner contributes to a permanently even
illumination of the receiving space.
[0015] It is particularly envisaged that an inner side of the front
flange which forms a front side of the light module is flush with
the inner side of the wall region or set back from the inner side
in an outward direction.
[0016] In an advantageous embodiment it is envisaged that at least
one flange section of the abutment flange has at least one recess
as an assembly coding for the light module. Thus, an incorrect
installation of the light module in the receptacle can be prevented
as well as undesired light irradiation into the receiving space. If
the assembly coding is formed in the abutment flange itself, the
assembly coding can feature a very simple form, yet be reliably
effective as regards the prevention of an incorrect installation of
the light module.
[0017] It is preferably provided that such an assembly coding is
constructed according to the Poka Yoke principle.
[0018] In particular, the light module is non-destructively
detachably disposed in the receptacle. Thus, for purposes of
assembly, replacement or cleaning, the light module can be removed
and afterwards installed again.
[0019] It is preferably provided that the light module has a
housing on which latching elements are formed in one piece, which
in a mounted state engage behind an abutment flange of the
receptacle on an outer side facing away from the receiving space to
enable retention through latching. Through the use of such an
embodiment a very simple and quick assembly is rendered possible,
which, however, still enables a stable retention of the light
module in the receptacle. Besides, it is enabled precisely by using
this embodiment in connection with the front flange of the light
module that the abutment flange is contacted on both sides by
components of the light module and thus, as it were, the front
flange of the light module abuts on one side of this abutment
flange and the latching element abuts on or is braced against the
opposite other side. Thus to a certain degree a clamping engaging
connection is created which is conducive to the exact fit of the
light module.
[0020] It is preferably envisaged that the wall is a top wall which
covers an evaporator of the domestic cooling appliance. The wall
can be formed as a level plate. Preferably, however, it is formed
to be uneven and, in particular, stepped like a flight of stairs.
Thus, light modules can be installed in different steps, which is
further conducive to a more homogenous illumination.
[0021] It is particularly provided that this wall thus features a
stepped form and that the receptacle, viewed in a vertical
direction of the domestic cooling appliance, is formed in an
undermost or lowermost step and/or, viewed in a depth direction of
the domestic cooling appliance, in a rearmost step.
[0022] It is advantageously provided that the light module has a
plurality of light emitting diodes. These have a very space-saving
and compact construction and besides enable high light density in
conjunction with, by comparison, highly homogenous light
emission.
[0023] It is preferably provided that the wall has at least one
light transmission opening through which light of a further light
module of the illuminating device can be irradiated into the
receiving space. Adjacent the light transmission opening there is a
distance adapter by using which the further light module disposed
thereon is spaced from the wall outside the receiving space and by
using which the light of the light module can be directed to the
light transmission opening. This is a further highly advantageous
embodiment, since with regard to the local position of the light
module in a depth direction of the domestic cooling appliance
and/or in a width direction of the domestic cooling appliance a
covered configuration can be achieved. This means that when the
door of the domestic cooling appliance is open and a user is
looking into the receiving space from outside, by using such an
embodiment of the specific positions of this wall also a concealed
configuration, as it were, of the light module outside the
receiving space is enabled, while still a light emission from this
light module into the receiving space is achieved which contributes
to a highly homogenous illumination of the receiving space. Thus,
by using such a distance adapter, in particular, a considerably
greater spacing apart of the light module and the light
transmission opening is achieved than provided for the light module
disposed in the receptacle.
[0024] In the embodiment with the distance adapter it is, in
particular, provided that the front side of the light module is
disposed to be considerably spaced apart from an inner side of the
wall region of the wall adjacent the light transmission opening,
that on the other hand the light module disposed in the receptacle
with the front side of the light module is preferably flush with
the inner side of the wall region adjacent the receptacle.
[0025] In an advantageous embodiment it is provided that an inner
side of the distance adapter is stair-shaped. Thus improved light
distribution can be achieved which enables individually required
light irradiation into the receiving space.
[0026] It can be provided that these steps are disposed to be
completely circumferential around a longitudinal axis of the
distance adapter and that thus the steps are, viewed in the
direction of the longitudinal axis, formed in the manner of a
flight of stairs.
[0027] However, it can also be provided that the inner side of the
distance adapter is flat and, as regards this context,
stepless.
[0028] The distance adapter is preferably formed as a separate
component, which is attached to the wall. In this context an
adhesive or welded connection can be envisaged. However, a latching
connection or an adhesive connection or a screw connection or the
like can also be formed.
[0029] In a particularly advantageous embodiment it is provided
that, viewed from the light module in the direction of the light
transmission opening, an inner side of the distance adapter opens
out like a funnel. Thus, the aspect of light irradiation from the
light module into the receiving space in a manner as homogenous and
extensive as possible is further improved.
[0030] Advantageously, it is provided that the distance adapter is
made of plastic. Thus, it can be formed as a simple injection
moulded component in one piece and is highly weight-minimized.
Advantageously, in its bottom, which faces away from the receiving
space, the distance adapter has a continuous hole, which is
delimited by a circumferential abutment flange, wherein the light
module is disposed on this abutment flange. This embodiment results
in a preferred fastening option for the light module with regard to
stable positioning and a robust attachment to the distance
adapter.
[0031] It is preferably provided that a plane featuring the
abutment flange delimiting the hole is parallel to a plane of a
front flange of the distance adapter facing the wall.
[0032] Thus as it were a symmetrical structure of the distance
adapter is formed and the light module attached to the distance
adapter substantially as it were emits the light in a main
radiation direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
distance adapter.
[0033] In a further advantageous alternative embodiment it is
provided that a plane featuring the abutment flange delimiting the
continuous hole is not parallel to a plane of a front flange of the
distance adapter facing the wall. In particular, in this embodiment
it is provided that the planes are disposed at an angle of between
30.degree. and 70.degree., in particular of between 30.degree. and
50.degree., to each other. Through the use of such an asymmetrical
construction of the distance adapter highly individual illumination
directions and illumination scenarios can be achieved in the
receiving space, which yet again contribute to homogenous light
irradiation.
[0034] It is preferably provided that the light module is disposed
in such a way that a main radiation direction of the light emitted
by the light module is perpendicular to the abutment flange which
delimits the continuous hole of the bottom of the distance
adapter.
[0035] In particular, the light module is non-destructively
detachably disposed at this abutment flange of the distance
adapter, in particular disposed through latching.
[0036] Further features of the invention are apparent from the
claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The
features and feature combinations previously mentioned in the
description and the features and feature combinations mentioned
below in the description of the figures and/or shown in the figures
alone are usable not only in the respectively specified
combination, but also in other combinations or else alone, without
leaving the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are also to
be regarded as included and disclosed by the invention, which are
not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which derive
and are producible from the illustrated explanations by separated
feature combinations. Also, embodiments and feature combinations
are to be regarded as disclosed which thus do not include all
features of an originally formulated independent claim.
[0037] Other features which are considered as characteristic for
the invention are set forth in the appended claims.
[0038] Although the invention is illustrated and described herein
as embodied in a domestic cooling appliance with a specific
receptacle for a light module, it is nevertheless not intended to
be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and
structural changes may be made therein without departing from the
spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of
equivalents of the claims.
[0039] The construction and method of operation of the invention,
however, together with additional objects and advantages thereof
will be best understood from the following description of specific
embodiments when read in connection with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0040] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic, perspective view of an embodiment
of a domestic cooling appliance according to the invention;
[0041] FIG. 2 is a fragmentary, perspective view showing the
interior of the receiving space in the direction of an upper
wall;
[0042] FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, vertical sectional view of the
representation in FIG. 2;
[0043] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a wall with
light modules;
[0044] FIG. 5 is a side-elevational view of the representation in
FIG. 4;
[0045] FIG. 6 is a further perspective view of the wall according
to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5;
[0046] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the section in FIG. 5;
[0047] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the wall according to FIGS.
4 to 7 with a receptacle for the light module;
[0048] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a distance adapter as it is
mounted on the wall according to FIGS. 4 to 7;
[0049] FIG. 10 is a further perspective view of the distance
adapter according to FIG. 9;
[0050] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a light
module;
[0051] FIG. 12 is a perspective view, in which the light module
according to FIG. 11 is mounted on the distance adapter according
to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10;
[0052] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the representation in FIG.
12;
[0053] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a
distance adapter with a light module attached thereto;
[0054] FIG. 15 is a side-elevational view of the embodiment in FIG.
14; and
[0055] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a
wall, in which light modules are installed.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0056] Referring now in detail to the figures of the drawings, in
which identical or functionally identical elements bear the same
reference numerals, and first, particularly, to FIG. 1 thereof,
there is seen an exemplary representation of a domestic cooling
appliance which is configured to receive foodstuffs and which can,
for example, be a refrigerator, a freezer or a
refrigerator-freezer. This domestic cooling appliance 1 includes a
body 2 with an inner container 3. The inner container 3 with its
walls defines a first interior or receiving space 4 for food, which
is a cooling space, and underneath and separate from it a second
interior or receiving space 5 for food, which is a freezing space.
The first receiving space 4 generally serves for the frost free
cooling of refrigerated goods, in particular at temperatures
between +4.degree. C. and +8.degree. C. However, the first
receiving space 4 can also be configured as a 0.degree.
C.-compartment, in particular for keeping fresh fruit or
vegetables. The first receiving space 4 is accessible through an
open door 6, which closes this receiving space 4 at the front. The
second receiving space 5 generally serves for the deep-freezing of
frozen goods at, for example, -18.degree. C. The second receiving
space 5 is accessible when a second further door 7 is open.
[0057] In the embodiment there is a plurality of compartment
dividers or shelves 8, 9 and 10 in the receiving space 4. However,
the number is to be regarded as merely exemplary.
[0058] The first receiving space 4 is delimited by vertical walls
in the form of side walls 3a and 3b of the inner container 3 and by
a rear wall 3c, a top wall 3d and a bottom wall 3e of the inner
container 3. The inner container 3 moreover at the front has a
charging aperture or loading opening closable by the door 6.
[0059] On an inner side of the door 6 there is a plurality of door
racks 12 which are to be seen as merely exemplary with regard to
their configuration in space and their number.
[0060] In addition, the domestic cooling appliance 1 has a cooling
circuit which also includes at least one evaporator 13, which is
disposed in an upper region of the first receiving space 4. This
evaporator 13 is disposed in such a way that in the direction of
the first receiving space 4 it is concealed from view by a further
wall 14, which is an upper wall. In the embodiment this additional
upper wall 14 is thus a covering wall for the evaporator 13 so that
the evaporator 13 is, in particular, disposed between the top wall
3d and this upper wall 14.
[0061] Moreover, the domestic cooling appliance 1 includes an
illuminating device 15 which is configured to illuminate the
receiving space 4.
[0062] In FIG. 2 the domestic cooling appliance 1 is shown in a
perspective partial sectional view, in which the upper wall 14 is
viewed from below. As can be seen, this upper wall 14 is not a
level plate, but a wall with a plurality of steps. In the
embodiment the illuminating device 15 includes a plurality of
separate light modules, which are installed in this upper wall
14.
[0063] In FIG. 3 the embodiment of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is shown in a
vertical sectional view and thus in a sectional plane concerning
the y-z plane. Thus, the stepped form of this upper wall 14 can be
recognized.
[0064] The illuminating device 15 includes a light module 16, which
in a vertical direction and thus in the y direction is disposed in
an undermost or lowermost step 14a of the upper wall 14 and in a
horizontal direction and thus in the z direction, which is the
depth direction, in the rearmost step 14a. Besides, in this step
14a a further, in particular structurally identical light module 16
is installed.
[0065] Furthermore, the illuminating device 15 includes a further
light module 17, which viewed vertically is disposed on a higher,
in particular second middle step 14b and with regard to the depth
direction is disposed in the middle step 14b. Moreover, the upper
wall 14 includes a highest third step 14c, which also viewed in the
depth direction is the foremost or frontmost step 14c and thus the
step closest to the door 6.
[0066] As can be seen in FIG. 2, in the embodiment there are two
light modules 17. Likewise, there are two light modules 16.
[0067] Through the use of the illuminating device 15 a very
homogenous illumination of the receiving space 4 is achieved when
the door 6 is open and yet an undesired blinding of a user who
looks into the receiving space 4 is prevented. Also, the light
modules 16 and 17 can thus be disposed in such a way that they are
as it were concealed so that a user who normally looks into the
receiving space in a horizontal direction or in a substantially
horizontal direction does not immediately see the light modules 16
and 17.
[0068] In FIG. 4 the upper wall 14 is shown with the two light
modules 16 and the two light modules 17 in a perspective view. It
can be seen that the rear light modules 16 are each disposed in a
respective receptacle 18 and 19. These receptacles 18 and 19 are
stampings in the upper wall 14 which is formed in one piece, in
particular of metal, especially stainless steel. Besides it is
envisaged that the front light modules 17 are disposed spaced from
the step 14b by using distance adapters 20, 21, which are each
conical or funnel-shaped in the embodiment. Thus, by using these
distance adapters 20, 21, which are preferably made of plastic and
formed as separate components from the wall 14, the light modules
17 are spaced further from the wall 14 than is implemented with the
light modules 16 by using the receptacles 18 and 19.
[0069] The receptacles 18 and 19 are formed in such a way that in a
mounted state the light module 16 with a front side 16a facing the
receiving space 4 is flush with an inner side 22 of a wall region
23 of the wall 14 adjacent the respective receptacles 18 and 19 or
disposed in the respective receptacles 18 and 19 with an outward
offset relative to this inner side 22. This means that the light
modules 16 do not extend into the receiving space 4. For this
purpose, the receptacles 18 and 19 are formed in such a way that
they are spaced further from the receiving space 4 than the inner
side 22 of the wall region 23 of the wall 14 facing the receiving
space 4. Thus the receptacles 18, 19, viewed in an outward
direction, are spaced further from the receiving space 4 than the
wall regions 23 and are thus as it were structures which are
oriented outwards and thus face away from the receiving space
4.
[0070] In FIG. 5 the illustration of FIG. 4 is shown in a side view
and it can be seen that the light modules 16 and 17 are directly
assembled on the upper wall 14.
[0071] Besides, it can also be gathered from FIG. 5 that in a
vertical direction and thus in the y direction the light module 17
is spaced further from the step 14b than the light module 16 with
regard to the step 14b.
[0072] In FIG. 6 in a further perspective view the wall 14 is
shown, wherein in this case an oblique view is presented from above
and the light modules 16 and 17 can be seen in an assembled state
on the wall 14.
[0073] In FIG. 7 in an enlarged view a partial section of the wall
14 is shown, wherein in this case the light module 16 is shown in a
mounted state. The flush configuration of the front side 16a with
the inner side 22 of the wall region 23 can be seen. Also, the
receptacle 18 is shown.
[0074] In FIG. 8 the receptacle 18 as implemented as an indentation
in the wall 14 in the step 14a is shown in more detail. It can be
seen that the receptacle 18 is an elevation facing away from the
receiving space 4 which thus rises from the plane of the step 14a
in such a way that it faces away from the receiving space 4. The
receptacle 18 includes a continuous hole 24, which is delimited by
a circumferential stamped abutment flange 25 of the receptacle 18.
Thus, this abutment flange 25, viewed from the receiving space
towards the receptacle 18, is formed with an outward offset
relative to the inner side 22 and thus also formed with an outward
offset in relation to the step 14a. In a mounted state of the light
module 16 in this receptacle 18 the light module 16 extends through
this hole 24.
[0075] The light module 16 as shown in a perspective view in FIG.
11 in an exemplary manner has a housing 26 with a front flange 27.
This front flange 27 includes an outer side 27a, which in a mounted
state on the receptacle 18 abuts on an inner side 25a (FIG. 8) of
the abutment flange 25 facing the receiving space 4. An inner side
27b of this front flange 27 which forms a front side 16a of the
light module 16 is preferably flush with the inner side 22 of the
wall region 23 or, viewed outwards from the receiving space, formed
with an outward offset in relation to this inner side 22.
[0076] As can further be seen, at least one abutment flange section
25b, in the embodiment a first flange section 25b and an opposite
second flange section 25c, each has a plurality of recesses 28
which by using their differing local positions form an assembly
coding for the light module 16. For this purpose, as can also be
gathered from FIG. 11, the housing 26 has corresponding engaging
elements 29, which extend through the recesses 28 when the light
module 16 is inserted into the receptacle 18. In the embodiment the
assembly coding is of the Poka Yoke type.
[0077] Besides, the housing 26 has on its narrow sides latching
elements 30, each formed thereto in one piece, which in a mounted
state snap behind the abutment flange 25 and, in particular, snap
behind brackets 31 formed onto the opposing flange sections 25d and
25e and curved outwards. Thus the light module 16 is reliably held
in the receptacle 18 so as to ensure a secure position. In
particular, the light module 16 is non-destructively detachably
disposed in the receptacle 18. Thus, in a mounted state of the
light module 16 the latching elements 30 are disposed in such a way
that they engage behind the abutment flange 25 of the receptacle 18
on an outer side 25f facing away from the receiving space 4 to
enable retention through latching. Thus, precisely by using the
mechanical interaction with the front flange 27 of the housing 26
and the abutting on the abutment flange 25 an abutment of the
housing 26 on the abutment flange 25 on both sides is achieved and
thus also to a certain degree a clamping connection on both
sides.
[0078] Preferably the light module 16 has a plurality of light
emitting diodes as light sources.
[0079] In FIG. 9 a distance adapter 20 is shown in a first
perspective view. Further explanations are based on the distance
adapter 20 since the further distance adapter 21 is structurally
identical. In the embodiment of FIG. 9 it can be seen that this
distance adapter 20 is formed like a cone or funnel on at least one
inner side 32. In a mounted state the inner side 32 of the distance
adapter 20 opens out from the light module 17 to a light
transmission opening 33 (FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) in the step 14b like a
funnel. Through the use of this embodiment light from a light
module 17 of the illuminating device 15 can be irradiated into the
receiving space through the light transmission opening 33, wherein
the distance adapter 20 is adjacent the light transmission opening
33, wherein by using the distance adapter 20 the light module 17 is
spaced from the wall 14 and, in particular, from the step 14b and
spaced from and outside the receiving space 4.
[0080] As mentioned above, the distance adapter 20 is provided as a
separate component, in particular made of plastic, and it is
fastened to the wall 14 by using an adhesive connection or a welded
connection or the like.
[0081] As can be seen in FIG. 9, the distance adapter 20 has a
continuous hole 35 in its bottom 34 which faces away from the
receiving space 4. This hole 35 is delimited by a circumferential
abutment flange 36, wherein the light module 17 is positioned at
the abutment flange 36. It can also be seen in this case that the
abutment flange 36 has recesses 37 on opposing flange sections 36a
and 36b, and on the further opposing flange sections 36c and 36d
snap elements 38. As regards mounting options on the distance
adapter 20, reference is made to the explanations concerning FIG. 8
with regard to the receptacle 18. Since in an advantageous
embodiment the light module 17 is virtually identical to the light
module 16, fastening to the distance adapter 20 can be performed in
a manner which corresponds to the mounting of the light module 16
in the receptacle 18.
[0082] In the embodiment shown it is provided that the abutment
flange 36 of the distance adapter 20 extends in a plane which is
parallel to a plane in which a front flange 39 extends. In a
mounted state of the distance adapter 20 the front flange 39 faces
the receiving space 4 and is thus closer to it than the bottom 34.
Through the use of the front flange 39 the distance adapter 20 is
assembled on the step 14b.
[0083] In FIG. 10 the distance adapter 20 as illustrated in FIG. 9
is shown in a different perspective view, wherein in this case a
view of the stepped and thus not level construction of the inner
side 32 is shown. As regards assembly, again an outer side 27a of
the abutment flange 27 of the housing 26 of the light module 17
abuts on an inner side 36e of the abutment flange 36 facing the
receiving space 4. In a mounted state of the light module 17 the
latching elements 30 then abut on an outer side 36f (FIG. 9) of the
abutment flange 36 facing away from the receiving space.
[0084] In FIG. 12 the assembled state of the light module 17 on the
distance adapter 20 is shown in a perspective view. It can be seen
that the latching elements 30 rest on the outer side 36f.
[0085] In FIG. 13 a sectional view of the embodiment in FIG. 12 is
shown. In this case also light sources 42 of the light module 17
can be recognized.
[0086] In FIG. 14 a further embodiment of a distance adapter 20 is
shown in a perspective view. In this case in contrast to the
embodiment according to FIGS. 9 and 10 as well as FIGS. 12 and 13
an asymmetrical structure of the distance adapter 20 is shown. This
means that the abutment flange 36 extends in a plane E1 which is
not parallel to a plane E2, in which the front flange 39 extends,
but is inclined towards it.
[0087] In this context FIG. 15 shows a simplified side view,
wherein it can be seen that an angle .alpha. between a plane E1 in
which the abutment flange 36 extends and a plane E2 in which the
front flange 39 extends is preferably between 30.degree. and
70.degree., particularly preferably between 30.degree. and
50.degree..
[0088] In contrast to the embodiments of the distance adapter 20
illustrated above it can also be envisaged that the inner wall 32
is not stepped, but level.
[0089] In FIG. 16 in a perspective view a further embodiment of a
wall is shown, which can feature an illuminating device 15. In this
embodiment it is envisaged that the wall is a shelf, for example
the shelf 8 or 9 or 10. It is provided in this context that this
shelf 40 has an underside 41 which in the mounted state in the
domestic cooling appliance 1 faces downward and thus in a negative
y direction with regard to the illustration of FIG. 1. In such an
embodiment then, as can also be seen in FIG. 16, in the mounted
state in the receiving space 4 light from the light module 17 is
irradiated diagonally from top to bottom into the receiving space 4
and into the partial volume underneath the shelf 40.
* * * * *