HOUSEHOLD REFRIGERATOR DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE HOUSEHOLD REFRIGERATOR DEVICE

Abstract

A household refrigerator device has at least one closure unit for closing at least one storage space in the direction of an upper side. The closure unit has at least one ventilation recess for at least partial ventilation of the storage space, at least one closure element for closing the ventilation recess and at least one actuating element for actuating the closure element. The actuating element has at least one control for operation by way of a user and at least one actuating part connected to the control and which operatively connects the control to the closure element and which pushes the closure element over the ventilation recess as a function of a movement of the control.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. § 119, of German patent application DE 10 2017 205 108.6, filed Mar. 27, 2017; the prior application is herewith incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a household refrigerator device as claimed in the preamble of the main device claim and to a method for assembling a household refrigerator device as claimed in the preamble of the main method claim.

From U.S. Pat. No. 4,850,206 a household refrigerator device having a storage unit is known which defines a storage space that is open in the direction of an upper side of the storage unit. A closure unit for closing the storage space in the direction of the upper side has a ventilation recess for ventilation of the storage space and a closure element for closing the ventilation recess. For actuation of the closure element, the closure unit has an actuating element.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object of the invention consists, in particular, in providing a generic device having improved properties in respect of a construction. The object is inventively achieved by the features of the main claims while advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

The invention starts from a household refrigerator device having at least one closure unit for in particular at least essential closing at least of one storage space in the direction of an upper side, wherein the closure unit has at least one ventilation recess for at least partial ventilation of the storage space, at least one closure element for closing the ventilation recess and at least one actuating element for actuating the closure element.

It is proposed that the actuating element has at least one control for operation by way of a user and at least one actuating part connected to the control and which operatively connects the control to the closure element and which pushes the closure element over the ventilation recess as a function of a movement of the control.

A “household refrigerator device” should be taken to mean in particular at least part, in particular a subassembly, of a household refrigerator. The household refrigerator is particularly advantageously provided, in at least one operating state, to cool chilled goods, in particular food, such as, for example, drinks, meat, fish, milk and/or dairy products, in particular to achieve a longer shelf life of the chilled goods. The household refrigerator can in particular be a chest freezer and advantageously a fridge and/or freezer.

In particular, the household refrigerator device has at least one appliance body. The appliance body defines at least one cold chamber, in particular at least partially. An “appliance body” should in particular be taken to mean a unit which, at least in an assembled state, forms part, in particular a large part, of an outer limit, in particular of a housing, advantageously of a household refrigerator device housing, and which in the assembled state defines part, in particular a large part, of an outer limit of at least one cold chamber, in particular a refrigerating zone and/or a freezer compartment. In particular, the household refrigerator device has at least one appliance door. An “appliance door” should in particular be taken to mean a unit which is connected to the appliance body, at least in an assembled state, so it can move, and in particular pivot, relative to the appliance body and which, in particular in the assembled state, forms part of an outer limit, in particular of a housing, advantageously a household refrigerator device housing. The appliance body and the appliance door, at least in an assembled state, advantageously form the outer limit, in particular the housing, advantageously the household refrigerator device housing. In particular, the appliance body has at least two side walls, at least one back wall, preferably at least one upper side and at least one lower side, which together with the appliance door enclose the cold chamber in at least one operating state.

In particular, the household refrigerator device has at least one storage unit which is arranged, in particular, inside the cold chamber. The storage unit defines the storage space for storing foods. In particular, the storage unit forms at least one delimiting wall of the storage space. The storage unit has in particular an at least essentially tub-shaped form. The storage unit forms in particular at least one refrigeration compartment. For example, the storage unit could form a refrigerator compartment and/or a vegetable compartment and/or a fruit compartment and/or a meat compartment and/or a crisper compartment. An “upper side” of an object should in particular be taken to mean a side which is remote from a level surface in a fitting position. The level surface could in particular be a base, in particular a floor, and/or an installation surface, which could in particular be formed at least partially by the base. In at least one operating state, the closure unit and the storage unit define the storage space at least essentially and advantageously, by considering at least one sealing tolerance, completely. The closure unit is configured in particular as a cover.

A “ventilation recess” should in particular be taken to mean a recess which is provided for exchange of at least one fluid, such as, for example air and/or an air-moisture mixture. A “recess” should in particular be taken to mean a hole and/or an opening and/or a gap. In particular in the case of a plan view of the closure unit, the closure unit delimits the ventilation recess in particular at least from two, advantageously at least from three and preferably at least from four, sides. The ventilation recess is arranged in particular inside an outer limit of the closure unit and advantageously, in particular at least in the case of a plan view of the closure unit, is completely surrounded by the closure unit, in particular enclosed.

In at least one closure state, the closure element closes the ventilation recess at least essentially and advantageously, in particular considering a sealing tolerance, completely. The closure element is arranged in particular so it can move relative to the ventilation recess. In particular, the closure element can be moved relative to the ventilation recess, in particular by actuation of the actuating element. The closure element is advantageously arranged so it can move at least essentially parallel to a main extension plane of the closure unit, whereby a simple and/or compact design is achieved in particular and/or tilting and/or pivoting mounting of the closure element can be omitted. A “main extension plane” of an object should in particular be taken to mean a plane which is parallel to a largest side face of a smallest imaginary cuboid which still just completely surrounds the object, and in particular runs through the center point of the cuboid. “Essentially parallel” should in particular be taken to mean an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction here, in particular in a plane, with the direction having a deviation in particular less than 8°, advantageously less than 5° and particularly advantageously less than 2° compared to the reference direction.

The closure element could, for example, be configured in one piece. Alternatively, the closure element could be configured in several parts, in particular at least two parts, wherein in particular individual parts of the closure element could be connected together in at least one assembled state. For example, the closure element could have at least one closure part for closing the ventilation recess. The closure element could in particular have at least one coupling element which could operatively connect the closure part to the actuating part of the actuating element and in particular could transfer a movement of the actuating element to the closure part. For example, the coupling element and the closure part could be connected together by a latching connection and/or by a connection brought about by clamping and/or by means of a plug-in connection and/or by means of a connection brought about by locking. “In one piece” should in particular be taken to mean at least firmly bonded together, for example by a welding process, a gluing process, an injection process and/or another process that seems expedient to a person skilled in the art, and/or advantageously be formed in one part, such as, for example by way of production from a cast and/or by way of production in a single-component or multi-component injection process and advantageously from a single blank.

A “control” should in particular be taken to mean an element which for actuation by a user is arranged so it can be grasped by the user and in particular is movably mounted. In particular, the closure element closes the ventilation recess as a function of a position of the actuating element and in particular of the control. In at least one closure position of the actuating element and in particular of the control, the closure element closes the ventilation recess at least essentially and advantageously, in particular considering a sealing tolerance, completely. In at least one ventilation position of the actuating element and in particular of the control, the closure element opens the ventilation recess at least partially, in particular at least essentially and advantageously completely. In particular, the ventilation recess, in at least one ventilation position of the actuating element and in particular of the control, is at least partially, in particular at least essentially and advantageously completely, unclosed. In particular, the actuating element, and especially the control, is arranged so it can be moved in particular by a user, at least between at least one closure position and at least one ventilation position, it being possible in particular to adjust at least one intermediate position and advantageously at least two, particularly advantageously at least four and preferably more, intermediate positions.

The actuating part transfers in particular a movement of the control to the closure element. In particular, the actuating part is arranged, in particular in respect of a force path, between the control and the closure element. The control and the actuating part are advantageously connected together non-positively and/or positively.

The phrase that the actuating part pushes the closure element “over” the ventilation recess as a function of a movement of the control should in particular be taken to mean that the actuating part moves the closure element as a function of a movement of the control in a plane oriented at least essentially parallel to a main extension plane of the closure unit, so the closure element closes the ventilation recess in particular. In a fitting position, the actuating part could move the closure element, as a function of a movement of the control, for example above the ventilation recess in order to close the ventilation recess. Alternatively or additionally, the actuating part could move the closure element, as a function of a movement of the control in a fitting position, for example below the ventilation recess in order to close the ventilation recess.

For example, the closure unit could have at least one display unit which could be provided in particular for displaying at least one position of the actuating element, in particular of the actuating part and/or control. In particular, the display unit could have at least one closure display and/or at least one ventilation display. In particular, the actuating element, in particular the control and/or the actuating part, in at least one closure position, could at least essentially expose the closure display of the display unit and/or at least essentially conceal the ventilation display of the display unit. In particular, the actuating element, in particular the control and/or the actuating part, in at least one ventilation position, could at least essentially expose the ventilation display of the display unit and/or at least essentially conceal the closure display of the display unit. In particular, the closure display and/or the ventilation display could be arranged as to be at least essentially fixed and in particular on the closure unit, for example on at least one front element of the closure unit. Alternatively or additionally, the actuating element, in particular the control and/or the actuating part, as a function of a movement of the actuating element, in particular of the control and/or actuating part, could move the closure display and/or the ventilation display into at least one display window of the display unit and/or out of the display window of the display unit.

“Provided” should in particular be taken to mean specially configured and/or equipped. That an object is provided for a particular function, should in particular be taken to mean that the object fulfils and/or performs this particular function in at least one application and/or operating state.

The inventive design can in particular improve a construction. In particular, a high degree of flexibility can be attained in particular in respect of design freedom. In particular, a simpler and/or more compact construction can be achieved. Individual components, in particular of the actuating element, can be replaced particularly easily, so low costs in particular are possible. In particular, the control can be configured relatively freely. For example, a continuous design of the control can be facilitated for various applications, in particular for various types of household refrigerator device, so in particular only a design of the actuating part has to be adapted to the respective application. Alternatively or additionally, the control can be configured in particular in a brand-specific manner and/or according to regional desires, and, more precisely, in particular avoiding the influence of a technical adjusting mechanism of the closure unit.

For example, the control and the actuating part could be connected together by a connection brought about by clamping and/or by a connection brought about by means of locking. The control and the actuating part are preferably latched together. In particular, the closure unit has at least one latching unit by which the control and the actuating part are in particular latched together. A “latching unit” should in particular be taken to mean a unit having at least one latching element, which in the case of a fastening process is elastically deflected in order to then engage behind a corresponding latching element due to an inner tensioning force. In particular, the control and the actuating part are part of the latching unit and form in particular the latching elements of the latching unit. In particular fast assembly and/or disassembly can be achieved thereby and/or a high degree of flexibility, in particular in respect of replacement of elements of the actuating element, is enabled.

In addition, it is proposed that the closure unit has at least one front element through which the control at least partially penetrates. A “front element” should in particular be taken to mean an element which in a fitting position is arranged at a side of the closure unit facing the user. In particular, the front element, in a fitting position, at least partially forms a side of the closure unit facing a user and, in a fitting position, is arranged in particular so as to be visible to the user. For example, the actuating element could be integrated in the front element. The phrase that the control “at least partially” penetrates through the front element should in particular be taken to mean that the control has at least one section which engages at least in the front element and/or which penetrates through the front element. In particular, secure mounting of the control and/or a stable embodiment can be achieved thereby. Integration of the actuating element in at least one front element of the closure unit is in particular possible without problems. In addition, cleaning can be facilitated.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the control and the actuating part are arranged at least partially on different sides of the front element. The phrase that the control and the actuating part are arranged “at least partially” on different sides of the front element should in particular be taken to mean that at least one section of the control and at least one section of the actuating part are arranged on different sides of the front element. In particular, at least a large part of the control and at least a large part of the actuating part are arranged on different sides of the front element. A mass fraction and/or volume fraction of at least 40%, in particular of at least 50%, advantageously of at least 60% and preferably if at least 70%, of the control is arranged in particular on a first side of the front element. A mass fraction and/or volume fraction of at least 60%, in particular of at least 70%, advantageously of at least 80% and preferably of at least 90%, of the actuating part is arranged in particular on a second side of the front element which is different in particular from the first side. In particular, the first side of the front element and the second side of the front element are mutually opposing sides of the front element. A compact and/or stable embodiment in particular can be achieved thereby.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the actuating part at least essentially prevents a movement of the control relative to the front element in at least one direction. The phrase that the actuating part “at least essentially” prevents a movement of the control relative to the front element in at least one direction should in particular be taken to mean that the actuating part allows a movement of the control relative to the front element in the direction of 5% maximum, in particular of 3% maximum, advantageously of 1% maximum and preferably of 0.1% maximum, of an extent of the control along the direction. An “extent” of an object should in particular be taken to mean a maximum spacing of two points of a vertical projection of the object onto a plane. For example, the direction of movement, in particular in the case of a plan view of the closure unit, could be oriented at least essentially parallel to a front edge of the closure unit. In particular, the direction, in particular in the case of a plan view of the closure unit, is oriented at least essentially perpendicularly to a front edge of the closure unit. The direction of movement is oriented in particular at least essentially parallel to a main extension plane of the closure unit. The control can thereby be fixed easily and/or in a component-saving manner, in particular in respect of the direction, in a position relative to the front element, so in particular undesirable loss of the control can be prevented.

In addition, it is proposed that the actuating element is mounted so it can move in at least one width direction. In particular, the width direction, in particular in the case of a plan view of the closure unit, is oriented at least essentially parallel to a front edge of the closure unit. The width direction is oriented in particular at least essentially parallel to a main extension plane of the closure unit. Intuitive operation in particular can be achieved thereby.

For example, the closure element could be mounted so as to move in at least one width direction. The closure element is preferably mounted so as to move in at least one depth direction. In particular, the depth direction is oriented at least essentially perpendicularly to a front edge of the closure unit, in particular in the case of a plan view of the closure unit. The depth direction is in particular oriented at least essentially parallel to a main extension plane of the closure unit. In particular, the depth direction is oriented at least essentially perpendicularly to the width direction. The term “essentially perpendicularly” should here define in particular an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, with the direction and the reference direction, in particular viewed in one plane, enclosing an angle of 90° and the angle having a maximum deviation of in particular less than 8°, advantageously less than 5° and particularly advantageously less than 2°. A high level of operating convenience in particular can be achieved thereby.

In a further aspect of the invention, which can be taken alone or be considered together with other aspects of the invention, it is proposed that the closure unit has at least one movement converter unit for converting a movement of the actuating element, in particular of the actuating part, in at least one width direction into a movement of the closure element in at least one depth direction. In particular, the movement converter unit converts a movement of the actuating element in the width direction into a movement of the closure element in the depth direction, oriented in particular at least essentially perpendicularly to the width direction. The movement converter unit couples in particular a movement of the closure element to a movement of the actuating element oriented in particular at least essentially perpendicularly to the movement of the closure element. In particular a compact embodiment and/or a high degree of flexibility in respect of an arrangement of components of the closure unit can be achieved thereby.

In addition, it is proposed that the movement converter unit has at least one sliding block guide which has at least one guide track and at least one sliding block element guided along the guide track. The sliding block element could be guided, for example, on the guide track. The sliding block element is advantageously guided in the guide track and engages in particular at least partially in the guide track. The movement converter unit can in particular be implemented inexpensively and/or easily thereby.

For example, the guide track could be arranged on the actuating element and in particular on the actuating part. The guide track is preferably arranged on the closure element, so a construction in particular can be simplified.

For example, the sliding block element could be arranged on the closure element. The sliding block element is preferably arranged on the actuating element, in particular on the actuating part, so a particularly straightforward construction and/or assembly can be achieved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the movement converter unit is configured in one piece with the actuating element, in particular with the actuating part, and/or with the closure element. In particular, the movement converter unit is configured in one piece with the actuating element, in particular with the actuating part, and with the closure element. In particular a stable design and/or a low storage option can be enabled thereby.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the closure unit has at least one basic body which is configured to be at least partially transparent and which has at least one at least essentially non-transparent concealing region which at least partially conceals at least the closure element and/or the actuating part. The phrase that the basic body is configured to be “at least partially” transparent should in particular be taken to mean the basic body is configured to be transparent for a mass fraction and/or volume fraction of at least 40%, in particular of at least 50%, advantageously of at least 60% and preferably of at least 70%. “Transparent” should in particular be taken to mean see-through, in particular to a user's naked eye. “Non-transparent” should in particular be taken to mean opaque, in particular to a user's naked eye. The concealing region could be configured, for example, as a coating and/or a painted area of at least one basic element of the basic body. Alternatively or additionally, the concealing region could be integrated in at least one basic element of the basic body, wherein the basic element, in particular in the concealing region, could be made of at least one material different to that in the remaining regions, in particular in a transparent viewing area of the basic body. The phrase that the concealing region “at least partially” conceals at least the closure element and/or the actuating part should in particular be taken to mean that the concealing region conceals at least a section of the closure element and/or the actuating part, wherein the concealing region could also conceal the entire closure element and/or the entire actuating part. In particular, a high level of operating convenience can be enabled thereby. In particular, a high degree of freedom in respect of a design can be achieved. Furthermore, a visually appealing design can be attained.

Furthermore, a method for assembly of at least one household refrigerator device is proposed, having at least one closure unit for closing at least one storage space in the direction of an upper side, wherein the closure unit has at least one ventilation recess for at least partial ventilation of the storage space, at least one closure element for closing the ventilation recess and at least one actuating element for actuating the closure element, wherein the actuating element has at least one control for operation by way of a user and at least one actuating part connected to the control and which is provided for operative connection of the control to the closure element, wherein the actuating part is connected to the control. An advantageous construction can be provided hereby.

The household refrigerator device and the method should not be restricted to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the household refrigerator device or the method for accomplishing a mode of operation described herein can have a number of individual elements, components and units that differs from a number cited herein.

Further advantages emerge from the following description of the drawings. The drawings show exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, description and claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them to form further useful combinations.

Other features which are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a household refrigerator device, 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.

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

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic, perspective view of a household refrigerator with the household refrigerator device in a closed state;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the household refrigerator with the household refrigerator device in a partially open state;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a closure unit of the household refrigerator device;

FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of the closure unit;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged, perspective view of the closure unit in a closure state viewed from a lower side;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged, plan view of the closure unit in the closure state viewed from a lower side;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged, plan view of the closure unit in a ventilation state viewed from a lower side;

FIG. 8 is an exploded, perspective view of a control and an actuating part of an actuating element of the closure unit;

FIG. 9 is an exploded, perspective view of the control and the actuating part; and

FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the control and the actuating part.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the figures of the drawings in detail and first, particularly to FIG. 1 thereof, there is shown a household refrigerator 40 in a closed state. The household refrigerator 40 is configured as a fridge and as a freezer, in particular as a fridge-freezer. The household refrigerator 40 has a household refrigerator device 10. The household refrigerator device 10 has an appliance body 42.

The appliance body 42 partially defines a cold chamber 44 (see FIG. 2). The cold chamber 44 is configured as a refrigerating zone. The household refrigerator device 10 has an appliance door 46. The appliance door 46 is mounted so it can pivot relative to the appliance body 42a. In a closed state, the appliance door 46 seals the cold chamber 44.

The appliance body 42 partially defines a further cold chamber (not shown). The further cold chamber is configured as a freezer compartment. The household refrigerator device 10 has a further appliance door 48. The further appliance door 48 is mounted so it can pivot relative to the appliance body 42. In a closed state, the further appliance door 48 seals the further cold chamber. In a fitting position, the further cold chamber is arranged below the cold chamber 44.

The household refrigerator device 10 has at least one door tray 50 (see FIG. 2). Where objects are present several times, only one of them is provided with a reference numeral in the figures. In the present exemplary embodiment, the household refrigerator device 10 has three door trays 50. Only one of the door trays 50 will be described below. The door tray 50 is secured to the appliance door 46. In an operating state, the door tray 50 is provided for receiving food.

The household refrigerator device 10 has at least one shelf 52 (see FIG. 2). In the present exemplary embodiment, the household refrigerator device 10 has two shelves 52 (see FIG. 2). The shelves 52 are essentially arranged uniformly distributed in the cold chamber 44 in respect of a vertical direction 54. The vertical direction 54 is oriented essentially perpendicularly to a level surface, in particular to a base and/or floor. Only one of the shelves 52 will be described below.

The household refrigerator device 10 has at least one storage unit 56 (see FIG. 2). In the present exemplary embodiment, the household refrigerator device 10 has exactly one storage unit 56. Alternatively, the household refrigerator device 10 could have a different number of storage units 56, such as for example at least two storage units 56, which could be arranged side by side in particular in respect of a width direction 28. The width direction 28 is oriented essentially parallel to a level surface. The width direction 28 is oriented essentially parallel to a back wall of the appliance body 12.

The storage unit 56 defines a storage space, which is open in the direction of an upper side of the storage unit 56, for storing food. The storage unit 56 is configured as a crisper compartment. The storage unit 56 is configured as a pull-out shelf and/or a drawer.

The storage unit 56 is arranged inside the cold chamber 44. In a fitting position, the storage unit 56 is arranged below a closure unit 12. The household refrigerator device 10 has the closure unit 12 (see FIGS. 2 to 8). In a fitting position, the closure unit 12 is arranged above the storage unit 56. In a fitting position, the closure unit 12 closes the storage unit 56 and therewith, in particular, the storage space in the direction of the upper side of the storage unit 56. The closure unit 12 is provided for closing the storage space in the direction of an upper side.

The closure unit 12 has an essentially plate-like form. The closure unit 12 is provided for placement of at least one chilled item. The closure unit 12 is configured as a tray and/or a shelf that can, in particular, be slid in.

The closure unit 12 has a basic body 58. The basic body 58 is partially transparent. The basic body 58 has at least one viewing area 68. In the present exemplary embodiment, the basic body has two viewing areas 68. Only one of the viewing areas 68 will be described below. In the present exemplary embodiment, the basic body 58 is to a large extent made of glass in the region of the viewing area 68.

The basic body 58 has an essentially non-transparent concealing region 66. In a fitting position, the concealing region 66 is arranged between the viewing areas 68 in respect of the width direction 28. In a fitting position, the concealing region 66 extends essentially over the entire extent of the basic body 58 in a depth direction 30. In respect of the width direction, the concealing region 66 is essentially centrally arranged on the basic body 58.

The basic body 58 has a further essentially non-transparent concealing region 70. In a fitting position, the further concealing region 70 is arranged in a front region of the basic body 58 in respect of the depth direction 30. In a fitting position, the further concealing region 70 extends essentially over the entire extent of the basic body 58 in the width direction 28.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the closure unit 12 has a cover unit 60. The cover unit 60 frames the basic body 58 in respect of the depth direction 30 in a front region and in a back region of the closure unit 12.

The closure unit 12 has a front element 24. The front element 24 is part of the cover unit 60. The front element 24 frames the basic body 58 in the front region of the closure unit 12 in respect of the depth direction 30. In an assembled state, the front element 24 is put on the basic body 58.

The closure unit 12 has a rear element 62. The rear element 62 is part of the cover unit 60. The rear element 62 frames the basic body 58 in the back region of the closure unit 12 in respect of the depth direction 30. In the assembled state, the rear element 62 is put on the basic body 58.

The closure unit 12 has a connecting element 64. The connecting element 64 is part of the cover unit 60. The connecting element 64 connects the rear element 62 and the front element 24 together. In a fitting position, the connecting element 64 is arranged on a lower side of the closure unit 12. In a fitting position, the connecting element 64 is arranged below the basic body 58. In respect of the width direction 28, the connecting element 64 is essentially centrally arranged on the closure unit 12.

The closure unit 12 has a plurality of ventilation recess 14 for partial ventilation of the storage space. Only one of the ventilation recess 14 will be described below. In a fitting position, the ventilation recess 14 is arranged in a back region of the closure unit 12 in respect of the depth direction 30. In respect of the width direction 28, the ventilation recess 14 is essentially centrally arranged on the closure unit 12. The ventilation recess 14 is arranged on the rear element 62 and is configured in particular as a recess of the rear element 62.

For closing the ventilation recess 14, the closure unit 12 has a closure element 16 (see FIGS. 4 to 7). In the present exemplary embodiment, the closure element 16 extends essentially over the entire extent of the closure unit 12 in the depth direction 30. The closure element 16 projects from the ventilation recess 14 toward an actuating element 18 of the closure unit 12.

For actuating the closure element 16, the closure unit 12 has the actuating element 18. In a fitting position, the actuating element 18 is arranged in a front region of the closure unit 12 in respect of the depth direction 30. In the present exemplary embodiment, the actuating element 18 is configured in two parts (see FIGS. 4 and 8).

The actuating element 18 has a control 20 for operation by a user. In a fitting position, the control 20 is arranged in the front region of the closure unit 12 in respect of the depth direction 30, so as to be accessible for a user.

The actuating element 18 has an actuating part 22 connected to the control 20 and which operatively connects the control 20 to the closure element 18. In the present exemplary embodiment, the closure element 16 is configured in two parts. The closure element 16 has a closure part 76 for closing the ventilation opening 14. The closure element 16 has a coupling element 78. The coupling element 78 operatively connects the closure part 76 to the actuating part 22 of the actuating element 18. In an assembled state, the coupling element 78 transfers a movement of the actuating element 18 to the closure part 76.

In a fitting position, the actuating part 22 is arranged below the basic body 58. In a fitting position, the actuating part 22 is arranged between the basic body 58 and the connecting element 64 in respect of the vertical direction 54.

In a fitting position, the connecting element 64 is arranged below the concealing region 66. In an assembled state, the concealing region 66 conceals the connecting element 64.

In a fitting position, the closure element 16 is arranged below the concealing region 66. In an assembled state, the concealing region 66 partially conceals the closure element 16.

In a fitting position, the actuating part 22 is arranged below the concealing region 66. In an assembled state, the concealing region 66 partially conceals the actuating part 22.

The closure unit 12 has a display unit 72. The display unit 72 is provided for displaying a position of the actuating element 18. The display unit 72 has a display window 74. The display window 74 is arranged in the further concealing region 70. In respect of the width direction, the display window 74 is arranged essentially centrally on the basic body 58.

In the assembled state, the control 20 and the actuating part 22 are latched together (see FIGS. 8 to 10). The actuating element 18 has a latching unit 82. The latching unit 82 latches the control 20 and the actuating part 22 together.

The latching unit 82 has four latching elements 84. The latching unit 82 has four latching elements 86 that correspond with the latching elements 84. Only one of the latching elements 84 and the corresponding latching elements 86 respectively will be described below.

The latching element 84 is arranged on the control 20. In the present exemplary embodiment, the latching element 84 is configured in one piece with the control 20. The latching element 84 is configured as a recess.

The corresponding latching element 86 is arranged on the actuating part 22. In the present exemplary embodiment, the corresponding latching element 86 is configured in one piece with the actuating part 22. The corresponding latching element 86 is configured as a projection. In an assembled state, the corresponding latching element 86 engages partially in the latching element 84.

The actuating part 22 partially delimits a receiving space 88 (see FIGS. 9 and 10). The corresponding latching element 86 is arranged on a wall delimiting the receiving space 88 and in a force-free state projects partially into the receiving space 88. The receiving space 88 is provided for partially receiving the control 20. In the present exemplary embodiment, the control 20 engages partially in the actuating part 22, and, more precisely, in particular in the receiving space 88 of the actuating part 22.

The control 20 penetrates partially through the front element 24. The front element 24 has a recess 80 (see FIG. 4). In an assembled state, the control 20 penetrates partially through the recess 80 of the front element 24. The recess 80 of the front element 24 has a slotted form. In the assembled state, the control 20 and the actuating part 22 are arranged partially on different sides of the front element 24.

In the assembled state, the actuating part 22 essentially prevents movement of the control 20 relative to the front element 24 in a direction 26. The direction 26 is oriented essentially antiparallel to the depth direction 30.

The actuating element 18 is mounted so as to move in the width direction 28. The actuating element 18 is mounted so as to move in the width direction 28 between a closure position (see FIG. 6) and a ventilation position (see FIG. 7). In the closure position of the actuating element 18, the closure element 16 essentially closes the ventilation recess 14. In the ventilation position of the actuating element 18, the closure element 16 essentially opens the ventilation recess 14.

The closure element 16 is mounted so as to move in the depth direction 30. The closure element 16 is guided with a movement of the closure element 16 in the depth direction 30. The closure unit 12 has a closure element guide 90 (see FIGS. 4 to 7). The closure element guide 90 has a closure element guide element 92. The closure element guide element 92 is arranged on the rear element 62. In the present exemplary embodiment, the closure element guide element 92 is configured in one piece with the rear element 62. The closure element guide element 92 guides the closure element 16, and, more precisely, in particular the closure part 76 of the closure element 16, with a movement of the closure element 16 in the depth direction 30.

The closure element guide 90 has a further closure element guide element 94. The further closure element guide element 94 is arranged on the connecting element 64. In the present exemplary embodiment, the further closure element guide element 94 is configured in one piece with the connecting element 64. The further closure element guide element 94 guides the closure element 16, and, more precisely, in particular the coupling element 78 of the closure element 16, with a movement of the closure element 16 in the depth direction 30.

The closure element 16 and the actuating element 18 are operatively connected together. The closure unit 12 has a movement converter unit 32 for converting a movement of the actuating element 18 in the width direction 28 into a movement of the closure element 16 in the depth direction 30 (see FIGS. 4 to 7).

In the present exemplary embodiment, the movement converter unit 32 has a sliding block guide 34. The sliding block guide 34 has a guide element 36. The guide track 36 is arranged on the closure element 16. In the present exemplary embodiment, the guide track 36 is configured in one piece with the closure element 16. The movement converter unit 32 is configured partially in one piece with the closure element 16.

The movement converter unit 32 has a sliding block element 38 guided along the guide element 36. The sliding block element 38 is arranged on the actuating element 18, and, more precisely, in particular on the actuating part 22 of the actuating element 18. In the present exemplary embodiment, the sliding block element 38 is configured in one piece with the actuating element 18, and, more precisely, in particular with the actuating part 22 of the actuating element 18. The movement converter unit 32 is configured partially in one piece with the actuating element 18, and, more precisely, in particular with the actuating part 22 of the actuating element 18.

In a method for assembly of the household refrigerator device 10, the actuating part 22 is connected to the control 20. The control 20 is partially pushed through the front element 24 and latches with the actuating part 22.

The following is a summary list of reference numerals and the corresponding structure used in the above description of the invention:

• 10 household refrigerator device
• 12 closure unit
• 14 ventilation recess
• 16 closure element
• 18 actuating element
• 20 control
• 22 actuating part
• 24 front element
• 26 direction
• 28 width direction
• 30 depth direction
• 32 movement converter unit
• 34 sliding block guide
• 36 guide track
• 38 sliding block element
• 40 household refrigerator
• 42 appliance body
• 44 cold chamber
• 46 appliance door
• 48 further appliance door
• 50 door tray
• 52 shelf
• 54 vertical direction
• 56 storage unit
• 58 basic body
• 60 cover unit
• 62 rear element
• 64 connecting element
• 66 concealing region
• 68 viewing area
• 70 further concealing region
• 72 display unit
• 74 display window
• 76 closure part
• 78 coupling element
• 80 recess
• 82 latching unit
• 84 latching element
• 86 corresponding latching element
• 88 receiving space
• 90 closure element guide
• 92 closure element guide element
• 94 further closure element guide element

Claims

1. A household refrigerator device, comprising:

at least one closure unit for closing at least one storage space in a direction of an upper side, said closure unit having at least one ventilation recess formed therein for at least partial ventilation of said storage space, at least one closure element for closing said ventilation recess and at least one actuating element for actuating said closure element, said actuating element having at least one control for operation by way of a user and at least one actuating part connected to said control and which operatively connects said control to said closure element and which pushes said closure element over said ventilation recess in dependence on a movement of said control.

2. The household refrigerator device according to claim 1, wherein said control and said actuating part are latched together.

3. The household refrigerator device according to claim 1, wherein said closure unit has at least one front element through which said control at least partially penetrates.

4. The household refrigerator device according to claim 3, wherein said control and said actuating part are disposed at least partially on different sides of said front element.

5. The household refrigerator device according to claim 3, wherein said actuating part at least essentially prevents a movement of said control relative to said front element in at least one direction.

6. The household refrigerator device according to claim 1, wherein said actuating element is moveably mounted in at least one width direction.

7. The household refrigerator device according to claim 1, wherein said closure element is moveably mounted in at least one depth direction.

8. The household refrigerator device according to claim 1, wherein said closure unit has at least one movement converter unit for converting a movement of said actuating element in at least one width direction into a movement of said closure element in at least one depth direction.

9. The household refrigerator device according to claim 8, wherein said movement converter unit contains at least one sliding block guide which has at least one guide track and at least one sliding block element guided along said guide track.

10. The household refrigerator device according to claim 9, wherein said guide track is disposed on said closure element.

11. The household refrigerator device according to claim 9, wherein said sliding block element is disposed on said actuating element.

12. The household refrigerator device according to claim 8, wherein said movement converter unit is configured at least partially in one piece with said actuating element and/or said closure element.

13. The household refrigerator device according to claim 1, wherein said closure unit has at least one basic body which is at least partially transparent and which has at least one at least essentially non-transparent concealing region which at least partially conceals at least said closure element and/or said actuating part.

14. A household refrigerator, comprising:

at least one storage space; and

a household refrigerator device containing at least one closure unit for closing said at least one storage space in a direction of an upper side, said closure unit having at least one ventilation recess formed therein for at least partial ventilation of said storage space, at least one closure element for closing said ventilation recess and at least one actuating element for actuating said closure element, said actuating element having at least one control for operation by way of a user and at least one actuating part connected to said control and which operatively connects said control to said closure element and which pushes said closure element over said ventilation recess in dependence on a movement of said control.

15. A method for assembling at least one household refrigerator device, which comprises the steps of:

providing at least one closure unit for closing at least one storage space in a direction of an upper side;

forming at least one ventilation recess in the closure unit for at least partial ventilation of the storage space;

providing the closure unit with at least one closure element for closing the ventilation recess; and

providing the closure unit with at least one actuating element for actuating the closure element, the actuating element having at least one control for operation by way of a user and at least one actuating part connected to the control and which is provided for operative connection of the control to the closure element, wherein the actuating part is connected to the control.