U.S. patent application number 15/570457 was filed with the patent office on 2019-02-14 for home appliance device.
The applicant listed for this patent is BSH HAUSGERAETE GMBH. Invention is credited to MEHMET CIYANOGLU, MUSTAFA ERTIK, NECATI BORA GUEREL, STEPHAN KEMPFLE, AYDIN SAHIN, AHMET SAYGI, MURAT SOEGUET, ERDEM SUEMER, TANZER YILDIZGOECER.
Application Number | 20190049169 15/570457 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55858766 |
Filed Date | 2019-02-14 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190049169 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CIYANOGLU; MEHMET ; et
al. |
February 14, 2019 |
HOME APPLIANCE DEVICE
Abstract
A home appliance device, in particular a home appliance chiller
device, with improved efficiency, includes a refrigerant cycle
having a heat generating unit, a machine compartment having a first
sub-compartment and a second sub-compartment separated from the
first sub-compartment. The second sub-compartment is configured for
at least partly receiving the heat generating unit. An airflow unit
is configured for conveying air from the first sub-compartment to
the second sub-compartment in such a way that, in operation, the
second sub-compartment is kept at least substantially warmer than
the first sub-compartment. A home appliance including the home
appliance device is also provided.
Inventors: |
CIYANOGLU; MEHMET;
(ISTANBUL, TR) ; ERTIK; MUSTAFA; (TEKIRDAG,
TR) ; GUEREL; NECATI BORA; (TEKIRDAG, TR) ;
KEMPFLE; STEPHAN; (ELLZEE, DE) ; SAHIN; AYDIN;
(ISTANBUL, TR) ; SAYGI; AHMET; (TEKIRDAG, TR)
; SOEGUET; MURAT; (TEKIRDAG, TR) ; SUEMER;
ERDEM; (TEKIRDAG, TR) ; YILDIZGOECER; TANZER;
(TEKIRDAG, TR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BSH HAUSGERAETE GMBH |
MUENVHEN |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
55858766 |
Appl. No.: |
15/570457 |
Filed: |
April 28, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
April 28, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2016/059513 |
371 Date: |
October 30, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 23/028 20130101;
F25D 2323/0026 20130101; F25D 23/003 20130101; F25D 25/021
20130101; F25D 2323/02 20130101; F25D 29/005 20130101; F25D
2323/00266 20130101; F25D 2323/002 20130101; F25D 11/02 20130101;
F25D 23/006 20130101; F25D 25/025 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F25D 23/00 20060101
F25D023/00; F25D 23/02 20060101 F25D023/02; F25D 25/02 20060101
F25D025/02; F25D 11/02 20060101 F25D011/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 29, 2015 |
TR |
2015/05248 |
Apr 25, 2016 |
TR |
2016/05303 |
Claims
1-15. (canceled)
16. A home appliance device or home appliance chiller device,
comprising: a refrigerant cycle having a heat generating unit; a
machine compartment having a first sub-compartment and a second
sub-compartment separated from said first sub-compartment, said
second sub-compartment being configured for at least partly
receiving said heat generating unit; and an airflow unit configured
for conveying air from said first sub-compartment to said second
sub-compartment to keep said second sub-compartment at least
substantially warmer than said first sub-compartment during
operation.
17. The home appliance device according to claim 16, wherein said
airflow unit includes a fan for implementing an airflow from said
first sub-compartment to said second sub-compartment to
substantially prevent air heated by said heat generating unit from
entering into said first sub-compartment during operation.
18. The home appliance device according to claim 16, wherein said
heat generating unit includes a compressor and a condenser.
19. The home appliance device according to claim 16, wherein: said
first sub-compartment includes a fresh-air entrance; and said
refrigerant cycle includes an expansion device disposed inside said
first sub-compartment, said expansion device being positioned in a
vicinity of said fresh-air entrance and being configured to come
into direct contact with fresh air upon suction thereof through
said fresh-air entrance.
20. The home appliance device according to claim 16, wherein said
machine compartment includes a divisional wall section for dividing
said machine compartment into said first sub-compartment and said
second sub-compartment.
21. The home appliance device according to claim 20, wherein said
machine compartment includes two lateral wall sections, a rear wall
section, a bottom wall section and a front wall section, said
divisional wall section extending from said rear wall section to
said front wall section.
22. The home appliance device according to claim 20, wherein said
divisional wall section is provided with an aperture being part of
said airflow unit and allowing an airflow from said first
sub-compartment to said second sub-compartment.
23. The home appliance device according to claim 22, wherein said
airflow unit includes a fan for implementing an airflow from said
first sub-compartment to said second sub-compartment, and said
aperture is a frame or housing for said fan.
24. The home appliance device according to claim 21, wherein: said
divisional wall section includes a first wall section in a vicinity
of said front wall section and a second wall section in a vicinity
of said rear wall section; and said second wall section is provided
with an aperture allowing an airflow from said first
sub-compartment to said second sub-compartment.
25. The home appliance device according to claim 16, which further
comprises: a door or a drawer; and an opening device configured for
opening said door or said drawer from a closed position, said
opening device being at least partly disposed in said machine
compartment.
26. The home appliance device according to claim 25, wherein said
opening device is disposed inside said second sub-compartment.
27. The home appliance device according to claim 25, wherein: said
machine compartment includes a divisional wall section for dividing
said machine compartment into said first sub-compartment and said
second sub-compartment; an electrical connection unit electrically
connects said opening device with a further unit disposed in said
first sub-compartment; and said divisional wall section has a
cabling recess for passing said electrical connection unit through
said divisional wall section.
28. The home appliance device according to claim 27, which further
comprises a cover unit for at least substantially preventing an
airflow from said second sub-compartment into said first
sub-compartment through said cabling recess.
29. The home appliance device according to claim 28, wherein said
electrical connection unit has a connector plug, and said cover
unit, in an installation position, at least partly encompasses said
connector plug for securing a position of said connector plug.
30. A home appliance or refrigerator, comprising a home appliance
device according to claim 16.
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a home appliance device, in
particular a home appliance chiller device, according to claim
1.
[0002] EP 1 980 806 A2 discloses a refrigerator comprising a
refrigerant cycle with heat generating elements such as a condenser
and a compressor. The heat generating elements are arranged in a
machine compartment. The machine compartment comprises an air
supply channel in which the condenser and the compressor are
arranged. Furthermore the machine compartment comprises an air
discharge channel aerodynamically downstream of the air supply
channel, through which air heated by the heat generating elements
is discharged.
[0003] The objective of the invention is in particular to provide a
home appliance device with improved characteristics regarding
efficiency, in particular energy efficiency and/or thermal
efficiency. The objective is achieved, according to the invention,
by the features of claim 1, while advantageous implementations and
further developments of the invention may be gathered from the
dependent claims.
[0004] A home appliance device, in particular a home appliance
chiller device, is proposed, comprising: a refrigerant cycle having
a heat generating unit; a machine compartment having a first
sub-compartment and a second sub-compartment separated from the
first sub-compartment and configured for at least partly,
preferably at least mostly and advantageously entirely receiving
the heat generating unit; and an airflow unit configured for
conveying air from the first sub-compartment to the second
sub-compartment such that, in operation, the second sub-compartment
is kept at least substantially warmer than the first
sub-compartment.
[0005] By means of the invention in particular an efficiency of the
home appliance device can be improved. Preferably energy efficiency
and thermal efficiency can be increased minimizing a heat transfer
from the heat generating unit to other main components of the
refrigerant cycle by dividing the machine compartment into
sub-compartments having different temperatures. In particular
sub-cooling and super-heating effects can be improved.
[0006] In this context, "configured" is in particular to mean
specifically programmed, designed and/or equipped. By an object
being configured for a certain function is in particular to be
understood that the object implements and/or fulfills said certain
function in at least one application state and/or operating state.
By a "home appliance device" is in particular to be understood at
least a portion, preferably a sub-assembly group, of a home
appliance. The home appliance is in particular provided for storing
and preferably tempering victuals such as beverages, meat, fish,
vegetables, fruits, milk and/or dairy products in at least one
operating state, advantageously for the purpose of enhancing a
keepability of the stored victuals. Advantageously, the home
appliance is embodied as a home chiller appliance, which is in at
least one operating state configured for cooling victuals. The home
chiller appliance could in particular be embodied as a climate
cabinet, an ice-box, a refrigerator, a freezer, a
refrigerator-freezer combination and/or a wine cooler.
[0007] In this context, a "machine compartment" is in particular to
be understood as a compartment which is closed from at least three,
preferable at least four and advantageously from at least five
sides and which is in particular configured for accommodating
further units of the home appliance device, in particular at least
partly accommodating the refrigerant cycle. The machine compartment
is in particular different from a storage compartment of the home
appliance device, which is configured for storing victuals. The
first sub-compartment and the second sub-compartment are in
particular arranged side by side. Preferably the first
sub-compartment and the second sub-compartment are at least
substantially of equal size. In this context, a "refrigerant cycle"
is in particular to be understood as a cycle which is configured
for transferring heat out of a storage compartment. The refrigerant
cycle may in particular be embodied as an adsorption-type and/or
Peltier-type refrigerant cycle. Preferably the refrigerant cycle is
embodied as a compression-type refrigerant cycle. The refrigerant
cycle may in particular comprise main components such as a
compressor, a condenser, a dryer, an expansion device, an
evaporator and/or a heat exchanger. The main components of the
refrigerant cycle are preferably connected in series in a closed
loop. Furthermore, the refrigerant cycle comprises in particular a
refrigerant which runs in the closed loop and which is preferably
exchanged between the main components. In this context, a "heat
generating unit" is in particular to be understood as a unit which
comprises at least one heat generating element discharging waste
heat. In particular the heat generating unit is at least
substantially warmer than its surroundings, in particular than an
airflow surrounding the heat generating unit. The heat generating
unit comprises in particular at least one heat generating element,
e.g. the compressor and/or the condenser. By the term "at least
substantially warmer" is in particular to be understood warmer by
at least 5.degree. C., preferably at least 10.degree. C. and
advantageously 15.degree. C. The refrigerant cycle may comprise at
least one refrigerant unit. In this context, a "refrigerant unit"
is in particular to be understood as a unit which is different from
the heat generating unit and comprises at least one refrigerant
element which is at least substantially colder than its
surroundings, in particular an airflow surrounding the refrigerant
element. The refrigerant unit comprises in particular at least one
refrigerant element, e.g. the expansion device and/or the
evaporator. By the term "at least substantially colder" is In
particular to be understood colder by at least 5.degree. C.,
preferably at least 10.degree. C. and advantageously 15.degree.
C.
[0008] The heat generating unit and the refrigerant unit are
preferably arranged at least partly inside the machine compartment
in such a way that the second sub-compartment is substantially
warmer than the first sub-compartment. The heat generating unit is
in particular at least partly, preferably at least mostly and
advantageously entirely arranged inside the second sub-compartment.
Preferably the first sub-compartment is free of any elements of the
heat generating unit. The refrigerant unit is in particular at
least partly, preferably at least mostly and advantageously
entirely arranged inside the first sub-compartment. The term "at
least mostly" with reference to an object is in particular to mean
more than 50%, preferably more than 70%, and advantageously more
than 90% of a volume, in particular an enclosed volume, and/or of a
mass of the object.
[0009] The home appliance device may in particular further comprise
a control unit. The control unit may in particular be at least
partly, preferably at least mostly and advantageously entirely
placed inside the machine compartment, preferably in the first
sub-compartment. In this context, a "control unit" is in particular
to be understood as an electronic unit which is preferably
configured for controlling and particularly preferably for
feedback-controlling at least the refrigerant cycle, preferably the
compressor, in such a way that a temperature inside a storage
compartment corresponds to a preferably adjustable set temperature
value. The control unit comprises in particular a control element,
e.g. a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor. In addition the
control unit may comprise a storage element with a control program
which is preferably executable by the control element. In
particular the control unit may comprise a temperature sensor,
which is configured for measuring the actual temperature inside the
storage compartment. The control unit may in particular be
configured for powering further units of the home appliance device.
Alternatively or additionally the home appliance device may
comprise a power supply unit to power further units of the home
appliance device.
[0010] The first sub-compartment preferably comprises a fresh-air
entrance and the second sub-compartment preferably comprises a
heated-air exit. In particular, when conveying air from the first
sub-compartment to the second sub-compartment by means of the
airflow unit, fresh air enters the fresh-air entrance into the
first sub-compartment, is conveyed into the second sub-compartment
and being heated within the second sub-compartment before being
pushed out of the second sub-compartment through the heated-air
exit. In particular, preferably all of the heated air leaving the
heated-air exit of the second sub-compartment did enter the machine
room upstream via the fresh-air entrance within the first
sub-compartment.
[0011] The airflow unit may in particular be implemented as a
thermal airflow unit, which is preferably configured for producing
an airflow due to thermal updraft, in particular produced by the
heat generating unit. In a preferred implementation of the
invention it is further proposed that the airflow unit comprises a
fan configured for implementing an airflow from the first
sub-compartment to the second sub-compartment, such that, in
operation, air heated by the heat generating unit is substantially
prevented from entering the first sub-compartment. The fan is in
particular positioned aerodynamically upstream of the heat
generating unit and preferably aerodynamically downstream of the
refrigerant unit. Preferably the fan is arranged inside the first
sub-compartment. As a result, in particular a controllable airflow
can be generated. Preferably a cooling efficiency of the airflow
unit can be increased. Advantageously a homogeneous airflow through
the entire machine compartment can be achieved. Furthermore a
reflow of heated air from the second sub-compartment into the first
sub-compartment can be avoided.
[0012] For the purpose of improving a thermal efficiency, in
particular a super-heating of the refrigerant, it is proposed that
the heat generating unit comprises a compressor and a condenser.
The condenser and the compressor are in particular arranged side by
side inside the second sub-compartment. Advantageously the
compressor, which is in particular warmer than the condenser, is
positioned aerodynamically downstream of the condenser. Preferably,
the condenser is positioned in a vicinity of an airflow inlet
opening of the second sub-compartment. Advantageously, the
condenser is positioned in a vicinity of an airflow outlet of the
second sub-compartment. In this context, a "vicinity" is in
particular to be understood as a spatial area around a reference
object, comprising coordinates which have a distance from the
reference object of at most 200 mm, preferably at most 100 mm and
advantageously at most 50 mm.
[0013] In addition, it is proposed that the refrigerant cycle
comprises an expansion device, which is arranged inside the first
sub-compartment, and that the first sub-compartment comprises a
fresh-air entrance, wherein the expansion device is positioned in a
vicinity of the fresh-air entrance and configured for getting into
direct contact with the fresh air upon suction thereof. The
expansion device comprises in particular a capillary tube and/or a
valve, preferably a stop valve and/or an expansion valve. In
particular further elements of the refrigerant cycle, in particular
the dryer, may be positioned in a vicinity of the fresh-air
entrance. As a result, in particular a thermal efficiency can be
further increased. Furthermore a sub-cooling effect of the
refrigerant can be enhanced.
[0014] Further, it is proposed that the machine compartment
comprises a divisional wall section configured for dividing the
machine compartment into the first sub-compartment and the second
sub-compartment. In particular the divisional wall section is
located centrally with respect to the machine compartment and
preferably divides the machine compartment equally into the first
sub-compartment and the second sub-compartment. The divisional wall
section and in particular further wall sections of the machine
compartment are in particular made of metal and are advantageously
embodied as metal sheets. As a result, the machine compartment can
be separated into the two sub-compartments in a simple manner.
Furthermore, the divisional wall section insulates the two
sub-compartments from each other.
[0015] In order to construct the machine compartment in a simple
and cost-efficient manner, it is proposed that the machine
compartment comprises two lateral wall sections, a rear wall
section, a bottom wall section and a front wall section, wherein
the divisional wall section extends from the rear wall section up
to the front wall section. The two lateral wall sections, the rear
wall section, the bottom wall section and the front wall section in
particular delimit the machine compartment from five sides. The
machine compartment may be delimited from a sixth side by the
storage compartment of the home appliance device. Alternatively or
additionally the machine compartment may comprise a top wall
section, which delimits in particular the machine compartment from
the sixth side. The front wall section comprises in particular an
air inlet vent and/or an air outlet vent, which are in particular
arranged side by side and are implemented lamellar. The wall
sections are preferably at least partly fixable to each other by a
fixing unit. The fixing unit comprises in particular at least one
guiding element, which is embodied as a rail. In particular the
divisional wall is fixed to the bottom wall section by the guiding
element.
[0016] It is further proposed that the divisional wall section is
provided with an aperture which is part of the airflow unit and
allows an airflow between the first sub-compartment and the second
sub-compartment. The aperture is in particular implemented as an
air outlet of the first sub-compartment and advantageously as an
air inlet of the second sub-compartment. Preferably the aperture is
at least substantially circular. This allows preferably dispensing
with further air inlets and outlets of the machine compartment.
[0017] In a preferred implementation of the invention it is
proposed that the aperture is embodied as a frame or housing for
the fan. The fan is in particular fixed to the aperture. In
particular the frame or the housing for the fan extends into the
first sub-compartment. As a result, the fan can be preferably
positioned inside the machine compartment in a compact manner. In
particular an installation space inside the machine compartment can
be used efficiently. Furthermore preferably the fan and further
components of the airflow unit can be protected.
[0018] In a preferred implementation of the invention it is
proposed that the divisional wall section comprises a first wall
section in a vicinity of the front wall section and comprises a
second wall section in vicinity of the rear wall section, wherein
the second wall section is provided with the aperture. As a result,
an air path through the machine compartment can in particular be
extended further for the purpose of homogeneously cooling the
entire machine compartment.
[0019] In another aspect of the invention, which can in particular
be considered in combination with as well as separately from other
aspects of the invention, it is proposed that the home appliance
device further comprises an opening device configured for opening a
closed door, in particular a closed door leaf of the door, or a
closed drawer, in particular a bottom drawer, wherein the opening
device is at least partly arranged in the machine compartment. The
opening device is in particular attached to the divisional wall
section, preferably to the first wall section of the divisional
wall section. In particular the opening device is at least
substantially arranged centrally inside the machine compartment.
Preferably the opening device extends at least partly through the
front wall section. The front wall section comprises in particular
a pass-through recess for the opening device. The opening device
comprises in particular a preferably movable plunger, which is
configured for contacting the door and/or the drawer, preferably
when the opening device opens the door and/or the drawer in an
operation state. Preferably the plunger is at least partly arranged
inside the pass-through recess of the front wall section. As a
result, an applicability of the home appliance device can be
augmented.
[0020] In order to save installation space in the first
sub-compartment and due to dimensions of the opening device, it is
proposed that the opening device is arranged inside the second
sub-compartment. The opening device is in particular attached to a
side of the divisional wall section facing the second
sub-compartment.
[0021] In addition, it is proposed that the home appliance device
further comprises an electrical connection unit configured for
electrically connecting the opening device with a further unit
which is arranged in the first sub-compartment, wherein the
divisional wall section comprises a cabling recess configured for
passing the electrical connection unit through. The further unit is
preferably attached onto the divisional wall section, preferably
onto the first section of the divisional wall section and
advantageously onto a side of the divisional wall section which
faces the first sub-compartment. Preferably the further unit is the
control unit and/or the power supply unit of the home appliance
device. In this context, an "electrical connection unit" is in
particular to be understood as a unit configured for electrically
connecting at least two electrical units, which are preferably
arranged in different sub-compartments, in particular in the first
sub-compartment and in the second sub-compartment, to each other,
and which comprises in particular a cabling harness and/or an
electrical connector for connecting the at least two electrical
units. The divisional wall section comprises the cabling recess in
particular in its first wall section. As a result, the opening
device is connectable in a simple manner, in order to be powered
and controlled.
[0022] Furthermore, it is proposed that the home appliance device
comprises a cover unit configured for at least substantially
preventing an airflow from the second sub-compartment into the
first sub-compartment through the cabling recess. The cover unit is
in particular configured for sealing the cabling recess. The cover
unit comprises in particular a sealing element, which at least
partly overlaps with the opening device, the electrical connection
unit and/or the divisional wall section. Preferably the cover unit
is fixable to the divisional wall section, in particular the first
wall section of the divisional wall section. The cover unit is in
particular implemented integrally. "Implemented integrally" is, in
particular, to mean, in this context, connected at least by
substance-to-substance bond, e.g. by a welding process, an adhesive
bonding, an injection-molding process and/or by another process
that is deemed expedient by a person having ordinary skill in the
art. Advantageously, "implemented integrally" could in particular
mean made of one piece. "Made of one piece" is, in particular, to
mean, in this context, manufactured from one single piece, e.g. by
production from one single cast and/or by manufacturing in a
one-component or multi-component injection-molding process, and
advantageously from a single blank. In particular the cover unit
may be made of plastic or metal, preferably sheet metal. As a
result, an operational safety can be improved. Preferably damage,
in particular caused by a short circuit of the electrical
connection unit due to warm and humid airflow from the second
sub-compartment into the first sub-compartment, can be prevented.
Furthermore, a lifetime of the home appliance device can be
extended.
[0023] It is additionally proposed that the cover unit in an
installation position at least partly encompasses a connector plug
of the electrical connection unit for securing a position of the
connector plug. The cover unit comprises in particular a locking
element, which is preferably shaped at least partly corresponding
to the electrical connector unit, in particular the connector plug.
The locking element is in particular embodied as a form-fit
element, preferably a locking corner. As a result, the connector
plug can in particular be secured in an installation position in a
simple and cost effective manner.
[0024] The home appliance device is herein not to be limited to the
application and implementation described above. In particular, for
the purpose of fulfilling a functionality herein described, the
home appliance device can comprise a number of respective elements,
structural components and units that differs from the number
mentioned herein. Furthermore, regarding the value ranges mentioned
in this disclosure, values within the limits mentioned are to be
understood to be also disclosed and to be used as applicable.
[0025] Further advantages may become apparent from the following
description of the drawing. In the drawing an exemplary embodiment
of the invention is shown. The drawing, the description and the
claims contain a plurality of features in combination. The person
having ordinary skill in the art will purposefully also consider
the features separately and will find further expedient
combinations.
[0026] If there is more than one specimen of a certain object, only
one of these is given a reference numeral in the figures and the
description. The description of this specimen may be
correspondingly transferred to the other specimens of the
object.
[0027] It is shown in:
[0028] FIG. 1 a home appliance comprising a home appliance device
in a schematic front view,
[0029] FIGS. 2, 3 a portion of the home appliance device,
comprising a machine compartment, in various perspective views,
[0030] FIGS. 4, 5 a portion of the home appliance device,
comprising a refrigerant cycle, in various views,
[0031] FIGS. 6, 7 a portion of the home appliance device,
comprising a divisional wall section, an opening device and a cover
unit, in different views and
[0032] FIGS. 8, 9 the cover unit in different views,
[0033] FIG. 1 shows a home appliance 62 comprising a home appliance
device in a schematic front view. The home appliance 62 is embodied
as a refrigerator. The home appliance 62 could further be embodied
as a climate cabinet, an ice-box, a freezer, a refrigerator-freezer
combination and/or a wine cooler.
[0034] The home appliance device comprises a housing 64. The home
appliance device comprises a storage compartment 68. The storage
compartment 68 is configured for storing victuals. The storage
compartment 68 is arranged inside the housing 64. The home
appliance device comprises a door 50. For closing the storage
compartment 12, the door 50 comprises a door leaf 70. Further, the
home appliance device comprises a drawer 52. The drawer 52 is
configured for storing victuals inside the storage compartment
68.
[0035] The home appliance device comprises a machine compartment
14, which is arranged inside the housing 64. In an installation
position of the home appliance device, the machine compartment 14
is positioned below the storage compartment 68. Alternatively or
additionally the machine compartment 14 could be positioned on top
of the storage compartment 68.
[0036] FIGS. 2 and 3 show the machine compartment 14 in various
perspective views. The machine compartment 14 is delimited from
five sides by wall sections 34, 36, 38, 40. The machine compartment
14 comprises two lateral wall sections 34. The two lateral wall
sections 34 delimit the machine compartment 14 from opposite sides.
The machine compartment 14 comprises a rear wall section 36. The
machine compartment 14 comprises a bottom wall section 38. The
machine compartment 14 comprises a front wall section 40. The
storage compartment 68 delimits the machine compartment 14 from a
sixth side, in particular an upper side. Alternatively or
additionally, the machine compartment 14 may comprise an upper wall
section which delimits the sixth side.
[0037] The front wall section 40 comprises an air inlet vent 72.
Further the front wall section 40 comprises an air outlet vent 74.
The air inlet vent 72 and the air outlet vent 74 are arranged side
by side. The air inlet vent 72 and the air outlet vent 74 are
implemented at least substantially lamellar. Alternatively or
additionally other wall sections of the machine compartment 14 such
as the rear wall section 36 and/or the lateral wall sections 34 may
comprise an air inlet vent and/or an air outlet vent.
[0038] The machine compartment 14 comprises two sub-compartments
16, 18. The machine compartment 14 comprises a first
sub-compartment 16. The machine compartment 14 comprises a second
sub-compartment 18. The second sub-compartment 18 is embodied
separate from the first sub-compartment 16. The first
sub-compartment 16 and the second sub-compartment 18 are arranged
side by side. The first sub-compartment 16 and the second
sub-compartment 18 are of at least substantially equal size.
[0039] The first sub-compartment 16 comprises a fresh-air entrance
30. The fresh-air entrance 30 is embodied by the air inlet vent 72.
The second sub-compartment 18 comprises a heated-air exit 76. The
heated-air exit 76 is embodied by the air outlet vent 74.
[0040] The machine compartment 14 comprises a divisional wall
section 32. The wall sections 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 are at least
partly fixable to each other by a fixing unit 78. The fixing unit
78 comprises at least one guiding element 80 configured for
attaching at least the wall sections 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 to each
other. The guiding element 80 is embodied as a rail. In the present
case the fixing 78 unit comprises at least one guiding element 80
for each wall section 32, 34, 36, 38, 40. For example, the
divisional wall section 32 is fixed to the bottom wall section 38
by the guiding element 80. The divisional wall section 32 is
configured for dividing the machine compartment 14 into the first
sub-compartment 16 and the second sub-compartment 18. The
divisional wall section 32 separates the second sub-compartment 18
from the first sub-compartment 16. The divisional wall section 32
extends from the rear wall section 36 up to the front wall section
40. The divisional wall section 32 comprises a first wall section
44. The first wall section 44 is situated in a vicinity of the
front wall section 40. The divisional wall section 32 comprises a
second wall section 46. The second wall section 46 is situated in a
vicinity of the rear wall section 36.
[0041] The home appliance device comprises an airflow unit 20. The
airflow unit 20 is configured for sucking fresh air into the first
sub-compartment 16, in particular through the fresh-air entrance
30. The airflow unit 20 is further configured for transporting air
from the first sub-compartment 16 to the second sub-compartment 18.
The airflow unit 20 is configured for discharging heated air out of
the second sub-compartment 18, in particular through the heated-air
exit 76. By means of the airflow unit 20 the second sub-compartment
18 is kept at least substantially warmer than the first
sub-compartment 16. In operation the airflow unit 20 substantially
prevents air from entering the first sub-compartment 16 from the
second sub-compartment 18. The airflow unit 20 comprises a fan 22.
The fan 22 is configured for implementing an airflow from the first
sub-compartment 16 towards the second sub-compartment 18. The
divisional wall section 32, in particular the second wall section
46, is provided with an aperture 42. The aperture 42 is part of the
airflow unit 20. The aperture 42 allows an airflow between the
first sub-compartment 16 and second sub-compartment 18. The
aperture 42 is embodied as a frame for the fan 22. The airflow unit
20 further comprises a fan housing, in which the fan 22 is
accommodated. Alternatively or additionally, the aperture 42 can be
embodied as the fan housing.
[0042] FIGS. 4 and 5 show a portion of the home appliance device,
comprising a refrigerant cycle 10 of the home appliance device, in
a perspective view and a top view. The refrigerant cycle 10
comprises a refrigerant. The refrigerant cycle 10 is at least
partly, preferably mostly, arranged inside the machine compartment
14. The refrigerant cycle 10 comprises a high-pressure side and a
low-pressure side. The refrigerant cycle 10 comprises a compressor
24. The high-pressure side starts at the compressor 24. The
compressor 24 is part of a heat generating unit 12 of the home
appliance device. The refrigerant enters the compressor 24 as a
super-heated gas. A pressure and a temperature of refrigerant are
increased by the compressor 24. An enthalpy of the refrigerant
rises as a result of compression. The refrigerant cycle 10 further
comprises a condenser 26. The condenser 26 is connected to the
compressor 24. In the condenser 26, the refrigerant undergoes a
phase change. The super-heated gas condenses into a sub-cooled
liquid. The refrigerant cycle 10 further comprises a dryer 82. The
dryer 82 is part of a refrigerant unit 86 of the home appliance
device. The dryer 82 is connected to the condenser 26. The dryer 86
is configured for removing water vapor from the refrigerant. The
refrigerant cycle 10 comprises an expansion device 28. The
expansion device 28 is part of the refrigerant unit 86. The
expansion device 28 is connected to the dryer 82. The expansion
device 28 comprises a capillary tube 84. Additionally or
alternatively the expansion device 28 may comprise an expansion
valve. The capillary tube 84 has a smaller diameter than every
other tube of the refrigerant cycle 10. The capillary tube 84 is
configured as a metering device, which preferably restricts a flow
of the refrigerant. At the end of the capillary tube 84, the
high-pressure side ends and the low-pressure side starts. The
refrigerant leaves the expansion device 28 through an expansion
point. In the expansion point, a diameter of the capillary tube 84
is increased. The refrigerant cycle 10 comprises an evaporator. The
refrigerant enters the evaporator. While passing through the
evaporator the sub-cooled refrigerant liquid undergoes a phase
change from a sub-cooled liquid to a super-heated gas. The
refrigerant cycle 10 comprises a suction tube. The suction tube
connects the evaporator to the compressor 24. Further the
refrigerant cycle 10 comprises a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger
is implemented by welding the capillary tube 84 and the suction
tube together. Via a heat exchange through the heat exchanger after
the evaporator, the refrigerant is converted into a super-heated
gas before reentering the compressor 24. Furthermore, via the heat
exchanger the refrigerant is converted into a sub-cooled liquid
before entering the expansion device 28.
[0043] The suction tube connecting the evaporator and the
compressor 24 is at least partly arranged inside the second
compartment 18. The compressor 24 is arranged inside the second
sub-compartment 18. The compressor 24 is arranged aerodynamically
downstream of the airflow unit 20. The compressor 24 is arranged in
a vicinity of the heated-air exit 76. The condenser 26 is arranged
inside the second compartment 18. The condenser 26 is arranged
aerodynamically downstream of the airflow unit 20. The condenser 26
is arranged in a vicinity of the airflow unit 20, and in particular
of the aperture 42 of the divisional wall section 32. The condenser
26 is arranged aerodynamically upstream of the compressor 24. The
expansion device 28, in particular the capillary tube 84 and
preferably the dryer 82, are arranged inside the first
sub-compartment 16. The expansion device 82, in particular the
capillary tube 84 and preferably the dryer 82, are arranged
aerodynamically upstream of the airflow unit 20. The expansion
device 82, in particular the capillary tube 84 and preferably the
dryer 82, are positioned in a vicinity of the fresh-air entrance
30. The expansion device 28, in particular the capillary tube 84
and preferably the dryer 82, are configured for getting into direct
contact with the fresh air upon suction thereof. The evaporator is
preferably arranged in a vicinity of the storage compartment
68.
[0044] The home appliance device further comprises an evaporation
tray 88. The evaporation tray 88 is configured for collecting
condensed water from the storage compartment 68. The evaporation
tray 88 is arranged aerodynamically downstream of the airflow unit
30. The evaporation tray 88 is configured for evaporating the
condensed water. The evaporation tray 88 is arranged inside the
second sub-compartment 18. Preferably the evaporation tray 88 is
thermally coupled to the refrigerant cycle 10, in particular to the
compressor 24. The evaporation tray 88 is arranged between the
compressor 24 and the condenser 26.
[0045] The home appliance device further comprises a water line 90
preferably configured for cooling tap water. The water line 90
comprises in particular a water valve 92. The water line 90, in
particular the water valve 92, is at least partly arranged inside
the first sub-compartment 16. The water line 90, in particular the
water valve 92, is at least partly arranged aerodynamically
upstream of the airflow unit 20.
[0046] The home appliance device further comprises a control unit
94. The control unit 94 is configured for controlling and
preferably for feedback-controlling at least the refrigerant cycle
10, preferably the compressor 24. The control unit 94 is arranged
inside the first sub-compartment 16. The control unit 94 is
attached to the divisional wall section 32, in particular to the
first wall section 44 of the divisional wall section 32. The
control unit 94 is attached to a side of the divisional wall
section 32, which faces the first sub-compartment 16. In addition
the control unit 94 serves as a power supply unit. Alternatively or
additionally the home appliance device may comprise a separate
power supply unit.
[0047] FIGS. 6 and 7 show a portion of the home appliance device,
comprising the divisional wall 32 and an opening device 48 of the
home appliance device, in various views. The opening device 48 is
configured for opening a closed door 50, in particular a closed
door leaf 70 of the door 50 (see FIG. 1). Alternatively or
additionally the opening device 48 may be configured for opening a
closed drawer 52, in particular a bottom drawer.
[0048] The opening device 48 is at least partly arranged in the
machine compartment 14 (see FIGS. 2 to 4). The opening device 48 is
arranged at least substantially centrally inside the machine
compartment 14. The opening device 48 extends at least partly
through the front wall section 40 of the machine compartment 14
(see FIG. 2). The front wall section 40 comprises in particular a
pass-through recess 96 for the opening device 48. The opening
device 48 comprises a plunger 98. The plunger 98 is movable. The
plunger 98 is configured for contacting the door 50. Alternatively
or additionally the plunger 98 may be configured for contacting the
drawer 52. The plunger 98 is arranged at least partly inside the
pass-through recess 96 of the front wall section 40. The opening
device 48 is arranged inside the second sub-compartment 18. The
opening device 48 is attached to the divisional wall section 32, in
particular to the first wall section 44 of the divisional wall
section 32. The opening device 48 is attached to a side of the
divisional wall section 32 which faces the second sub-compartment
18.
[0049] The home appliance device further comprises an electrical
connection unit 54. The electrical connection unit 54 is configured
for electrically connecting the opening device 48 with a further
unit. The further unit is arranged in the first sub-compartment 16.
In this case the further unit is the control unit 94. Alternatively
or additionally the further unit may be a separate power supply
unit of the home appliance device. The divisional wall section 32
comprises a cabling recess 56. The divisional wall section 32
comprises the cabling recess 56 in particular in its first wall
section 44. The cabling recess 56 is configured for at least partly
passing through the electrical connection unit 45. The electrical
connection unit 54 comprises a connector plug 60. In an
installation position, the opening device 48 connects to the
connector plug 60. The electrical connection unit 54 further
comprises a cabling harness 100. The cabling harness 100 connects
the connector plug 60 to the control unit 94. The cabling harness
100 passes through the cabling recess 54.
[0050] FIGS. 8 and 9 show of cover unit 58 of the home appliance
device. The cover unit 58 is implemented integrally. The cover unit
58 may be made of plastic or metal, in particular sheet metal. The
cover unit 58 is configured for at least substantially preventing
airflow from the second sub-compartment 18 into the first
sub-compartment 16 through the cabling recess 56. The cover unit 58
is attachable to the divisional wall section 32, in particular to
the first wall section 44 of the divisional wall section 32. The
cover unit 58 is attachable to the divisional wall section 32 by
two screws. The cover unit 58 at least partly encompasses the
connector plug 60 of the electrical connection unit 54. In an
installation position the cover unit 58 comprises a locking element
102. The locking element 102 is a form fit element. The locking
element 102 is shaped at least partly corresponding to the
electrical connector unit 54, in particular to the connector plug
60. The locking element 102 is in particular embodied as a locking
corner.
[0051] The cover unit 58 is configured for sealing the cabling
recess 56. The cover unit 58 comprises a sealing element 104. The
sealing element 104 at least partly overlaps with the electrical
connector unit 54, in particular with the connector plug 60,
preferably in a main extension direction of the divisional wall
section 32. The sealing element 104 is implemented as a bent
portion of the cover unit 58. The cover unit 58 comprises a further
sealing element 106. The further sealing element 106 at least
partly overlaps with the divisional wall section 32, preferably in
a main extension direction of the divisional wall section 32. The
further sealing element 106 is implemented as a protrusion of the
cover unit 58.
REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0052] 10 refrigerant cycle [0053] 12 heat generating unit [0054]
14 machine compartment [0055] 16 first sub-compartment [0056] 18
second sub-compartment [0057] 20 airflow unit [0058] 22 fan [0059]
24 compressor [0060] 26 condenser [0061] 28 expansion device [0062]
30 fresh-air entrance [0063] 32 divisional wall section [0064] 34
lateral wall section [0065] 36 rear wall section [0066] 38 bottom
wall section [0067] 40 front wall section [0068] 42 aperture [0069]
44 first wall section [0070] 46 second wall section [0071] 48
opening device [0072] 50 door [0073] 52 drawer [0074] 54 electrical
connection unit [0075] 56 cabling recess [0076] 58 cover unit
[0077] 60 connector plug [0078] 62 home appliance [0079] 64 housing
[0080] 68 storage compartment [0081] 70 door leaf [0082] 72 air
inlet vent [0083] 74 air outlet vent [0084] 76 heated-air exit
[0085] 78 fixing unit [0086] 80 guiding element [0087] 82 dryer
[0088] 84 capillary tube [0089] 86 refrigerant unit [0090] 88
evaporation tray [0091] 90 water line [0092] 92 water valve [0093]
94 control unit [0094] 96 pass-through recess [0095] 98 plunger
[0096] 100 cabling harness [0097] 102 locking element [0098] 104
sealing element [0099] 106 further sealing element
* * * * *