DE102024203167A1 - Laundry drum with volume-expanding expansion ring areas, household appliance and method for producing a laundry drum - Google Patents

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a laundry drum (6) for a household appliance (1) for the care of laundry items, with an annular drum shell (11), characterized in that the drum shell (11) has at least one annular strip (13) which has a first radius (r1), and the drum shell (11), viewed in the direction of a longitudinal axis (A) of the laundry drum (6), has a first expansion ring region (14) which adjoins the annular strip (13) towards the front and has a radius (r2) which is larger than the first radius (r1), and the drum shell (11), viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis (A) of the laundry drum (6), has a second expansion ring region (15) which adjoins the annular strip (13) towards the rear and has a radius (r2) which is larger than the first radius (r1).

Description

One aspect of the invention relates to a laundry drum for a household appliance for washing laundry items. The laundry drum has an annular drum shell. Another aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance for washing laundry items with such a laundry drum. Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a laundry drum.

From the EP 0 043 429 A1 A multi-part plastic tub is known. The connecting area between the individual parts of the tub is relatively large in this regard and thus protrudes far outwards in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis of the tub. Since a tub, just like a laundry drum, is part of a vibration system of a household appliance for washing laundry, during operation of the household appliance there is a relative movement between this tub and the laundry drum relative to a housing of the household appliance in which this system is arranged. To prevent the tub from hitting the walls of this housing during this relative movement, it is necessary to set an appropriate horizontal distance which ensures that the tub does not hit a wall, for example a side wall, of the housing even during operation of the household appliance.

This requirement and the desire to be able to care for more laundry per care cycle with existing and, in particular, standardized external dimensions of a household appliance requires appropriate design.

In order to save energy during laundry care, it is desirable to be able to care for more laundry per care process.

The object of the present invention is to provide a laundry drum, a household appliance for the care of laundry items and a method for producing a laundry drum with which more laundry items can be cared for per care process.

This object is achieved by a laundry drum, a household appliance and a method according to the independent claims.

One aspect of the invention relates to a laundry drum for a household appliance for washing laundry. The laundry drum has a shell wall. This shell wall is a hollow cylindrical drum shell. It is thus ring-shaped. In particular, the laundry drum can also have a rear wall, so that the laundry drum is closed at the rear when viewed along its longitudinal axis.

The drum shell has at least one annular strip. This annular strip has a first radius. The drum shell has a first expansion ring region, which adjoins the annular strip towards the front as viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the laundry drum. This annular strip has a larger radius than the first radius. The drum shell also has a second expansion ring region, which adjoins the annular strip towards the rear as viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the laundry drum. This second expansion ring region has a larger radius than the first radius. This creates a laundry drum that, due to its very specific shape and geometry, exhibits an increase in volume. In particular, it is possible for only the annular strip, which is groove-like in relation to the expansion ring regions, to have a radius similar to that found in conventional volumes of laundry drums. Because the multiple expansion ring regions, which are very specific here, are expanded radially outwards, an increase in volume is achieved for the entire laundry drum. This is manifested in particular by the radial volumes created by the expansion ring regions, which have radii that extend beyond the first radius. It is precisely this number and arrangement of the expansion ring areas, and the annular strips located between them in the axial direction, that ensure high mechanical stability, particularly of the drum shell, even with a laundry drum that still has increased volume. The formation of the annular strip stabilizes the drum shell and also makes it torsionally rigid.

Viewed in the axial direction, the annular strip is smaller than the first expansion ring region and/or the second expansion ring region. Thus, it is provided that these two expansion ring regions are longer in the axial direction, in particular several times longer than the annular strip. This maximizes the volume increase of the laundry drum while still taking into account the high stability of the drum shell. With the laundry drum according to the invention, a volume increase of up to 5% can be achieved compared to the cylindrical laundry drum with otherwise identical dimensions, since the radius of the drum shell of the cylindrical laundry drum can only correspond to the first radius of the annular strip in order to maintain the required distance to the inner wall of a tub in which the laundry drum is mounted in a rotating manner and which has a has an inward constriction.

In one embodiment, the drum shell has local carrier troughs. These are, in particular, integrated into the drum shell and thus formed integrally therewith. The bases of the carrier troughs are arranged further inward than the expansion ring regions, viewed radially relative to the longitudinal axis. Therefore, any carriers arranged on these carrier troughs do not penetrate into the expansion ring regions and are therefore preferably not even partially projecting into the expansion ring region. Thus, viewed radially, the carriers project inward with their entire radial height, exposed beyond the expansion ring regions, and can thus be fully utilized for conveying the laundry items introduced.

In one embodiment, the expansion ring regions are embossed regions. They can therefore be formed by embossing into the drum shell. In particular, a driver recess and/or the ring strip can also be formed as embossed regions in the drum shell.

In one embodiment, a carrier trough has a base that is at least partially toroidally shaped. Thus, the base is not completely flat, but specifically curved. This improves both the assembly and the overall position of a carrier. In particular, improved transitions can then be formed between such a base of a carrier trough and an adjoining annular strip and/or an adjoining expansion ring region. Undesired snagging or even damage to laundry items at these specific local points can thus be avoided. Furthermore, the volume of the laundry drum can be advantageously maximized with such a toroidal carrier trough.

In one embodiment, a driver recess has a base that is at least partially, in particular completely, cylindrically or conically shaped. A base of the driver recess designed in this way is straight in the axial direction, at least partially, allowing the driver to be particularly easily attached, for example, locked, to the drum shell with a translational movement in the axial direction.

In one embodiment, a driver recess has a base that is curved around the longitudinal axis in the circumferential direction. Thus, the shape of the base adapts to the curvature of the ring strip and/or an adjacent expansion ring region.

In one embodiment, a driver recess has a base that is curved in the circumferential direction around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In particular, an inward curvature, thus directed toward the longitudinal axis, can be formed here. Thus, viewed in the axial direction, the base in a sectional plane in which the longitudinal axis also runs entirely is not rectilinear, but rather shaped accordingly, in particular concave. This can further enhance the aforementioned advantages.

In one embodiment, the radially outwardly open annular strip is intended as a receiving channel, in particular for a radially inwardly extending connecting area of a suds container. The annular strip is therefore both locally formed on the drum shell and geometrically designed for this stated function. This makes it possible for the laundry drum and the suds container to overlap, viewed horizontally. This creates a system between a suds container and a laundry drum, both of which are designed with increased volume and yet still maintain their full functionality, even with regard to the movements required during operation of the household appliance.

In one embodiment, the first expansion ring region is conical. Additionally or instead, the second expansion ring region can be conical. This means that, in a sectional plane in which the longitudinal axis of the laundry drum runs in a straight line, an expansion ring region decreases in diameter from the annular strip to an end facing away from the annular strip or toward an edge region. Therefore, in one embodiment, the drum shell has its largest inner diameter at the location of the annular strip.

In another embodiment, the first expansion ring region is cylindrical and/or the second expansion ring region is cylindrical. In particular, a conical shape of the expansion ring regions is not provided here.

In one embodiment, the drum shell has a radial taper at a front edge region viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis compared to the expansion ring regions. In addition, or instead of this, the drum shell has a radially tapered shape at a rear edge region, as viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the laundry drum, compared to the expansion ring regions. Thus, the expansion ring regions do not extend all the way to the front and rear ends of the drum shell, viewed in the axial direction, but rather end set back. This also creates a high level of rigidity, especially at these local points near the ends of the drum shell.

The laundry drum according to the invention is not limited to having exactly one annular strip and exactly two expansion ring regions, but rather at least one annular strip and at least two expansion ring regions, which are designed as described above. Thus, the drum shell can also have multiple annular strips and more than two expansion ring regions, particularly if the tub surrounding the drum shell has multiple inwardly tapered regions. Furthermore, an expansion ring region can also be formed from multiple subregions of the expansion ring region, for example, if the expansion ring region is interrupted by a driver recess.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising a laundry drum according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment and a tub. The laundry drum is accommodated in a separate tub. The tub surrounds at least the drum wall of the laundry drum.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance for washing laundry. The household appliance comprises a laundry drum according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. In particular, the household appliance may also comprise a tub. The laundry drum is arranged in this tub. The household appliance may comprise a housing in which the laundry drum, in particular also the tub, is accommodated.

In one embodiment, a connecting region, at which two separate, annular container parts of the tub are connected, is arranged radially engaging with the annular strip. This is particularly the case when the tub and the laundry drum are at rest, so that they are arranged radially overlapping at this specific local location.

• - Bereitstellen einer ringförmigen Trommelwand beziehungsweise eines ringförmigen Trommelmantels;
• - lokales radiales Expandieren der Trommelwand, so dass zumindest zwei durch zumindest einen nutartigen Ringstreifen getrennte Expansionsringbereiche gebildet werden. Der Ringstreifen ist umlaufend um eine Längsachse der Wäschetrommel verlaufend. Er ist in jedem Azimutalabschnitt auf gleicher Axiallage ausgebildet. Der nutartige Ringstreifen ist daher in Umlaufrichtung der Längsachse betrachtet nicht wellenförmig, sondern geradlinig ausgebildet. Die Expansionsringbereiche werden vorzugsweise gleich ausgebildet. Dies bedeutet, dass sie in radialer Richtung den gleichen Radius aufweisen und/oder in axialer Richtung die gleiche Axiallänge aufweisen. In axialer Richtung werden die Expansionsringbereiche um ein Vielfaches größer ausgebildet, als der Ringstreifen. Insbesondere ist vorgesehen, dass der Trommelmantel von innen her ausgedehnt wird, also von innen her die Expansionsringbereiche geometrisch und lokal definiert erzeugt werden. Möglich ist es dabei, dass von außen ein Werkzeug, insbesondere als Stempel, bereitgestellt wird, welches die spezifische Negativgeometrie aufweist, um den Ringstreifen und/oder Mitnehmermulden ausbilden zu können beziehungsweise diese lokalen Bereiche radial nicht expandiert werden.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a laundry drum, in particular according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The method preferably comprises the following steps:

• - Providing an annular drum wall or an annular drum shell;
• - Local radial expansion of the drum wall, so that at least two expansion ring regions separated by at least one groove-like annular strip are formed. The annular strip runs circumferentially around a longitudinal axis of the laundry drum. It is formed at the same axial position in each azimuthal section. The groove-like annular strip is therefore not wavy, viewed in the circumferential direction of the longitudinal axis, but rather straight. The expansion ring regions are preferably formed identically. This means that they have the same radius in the radial direction and/or the same axial length in the axial direction. In the axial direction, the expansion ring regions are formed many times larger than the annular strip. In particular, it is provided that the drum shell is expanded from the inside, i.e., the expansion ring regions are created from the inside in a geometrically and locally defined manner. It is possible to provide a tool from the outside, in particular as a punch, which has the specific negative geometry to be able to form the annular strip and/or driver recesses, or to prevent these local regions from being radially expanded.

The toroidal creation of a base surface of a driver trough enables the driver to be mounted with a small rotational movement along the toroidal base of the driver trough over a large radius of the surface. This creates a particularly advantageous assembly concept for a driver, which enables the driver to be mounted by displacement transverse to the circumferential direction, thus essentially providing the same ease of assembly as with an axial, translational movement. Furthermore, this type of shaping of the base of the driver trough also reduces stresses in the drum shell compared to stamping a flat surface, especially compared to a cylindrical surface.

In particular, the drum shell is constructed in one piece. It is made of metal, particularly steel, such as stainless steel.

One aspect of the invention relates to a tub for a household appliance for the care of Laundry items. The tub has a first annular container part made of plastic. Furthermore, the tub has a second annular container part, separate from the first annular container part and also made of plastic. In the direction of a longitudinal axis of the tub, the second container part is arranged behind the first container part. Thus, the first container part is closer to a loading opening of the tub than the second container part, viewed in the direction of this longitudinal axis. The two container parts are firmly connected to one another at a connecting area.

A rear edge region of the first and thus front container part, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the lye container, is shaped inwards in the radial direction to this longitudinal axis. A coupling structure for coupling or connecting to the other container part is formed on this rear edge region. This coupling structure is therefore intended to be located and structurally designed to be able to form a direct connection with the other container part. This coupling structure extends laterally outwards from the edge region in the radial direction. Furthermore, a front edge region of the second, rear container part, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis, is shaped inwards in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis. A counter-coupling structure is formed on this radially tapered front edge region. This is intended to be coupled to the coupling structure. The counter-coupling structure extends laterally outwards from this tapered front edge region. It is firmly connected to the coupling structure. The rear edge region of the first container part and the front edge region of the second container part are therefore arranged facing one another, in particular adjacent to one another. The container parts are mechanically connected by the coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure. Such a concept therefore provides a lye container which only locally has a specifically designed connecting region. Viewed from the connecting region to other parts of the container parts, this connecting region is therefore offset radially inwards. This means that, particularly when viewed inversely, container regions of the container parts which adjoin the connecting region axially to the front and rear protrude radially further outwards than this rear edge region and the front edge region. This essentially also achieves the effect of expanding the volume of the lye container, since these container regions of the container parts which adjoin the connecting region are essentially shifted radially outwards, thus increasing the volume of the lye container.

The proposed concept of the tub makes it possible, on the one hand, to maintain the aforementioned distance, particularly from the inside of the side walls of a household appliance when installed in the housing. This also ensures that, during operation of the household appliance and when the tub moves relative to the side walls, it is prevented from striking these side walls. On the other hand, the tub is larger in volume, particularly compared to conventional tubs, so that a larger laundry drum can be accommodated in the tub.

This also makes it possible to increase the volume of the suds container and yet still enable low-wear, and in particular wear-free, operation of the household appliance with such a suds container.

In particular, the clear width of the tub at a radially innermost point of the connection area is between 535 mm and 540 mm.

Preferably, a clear width, in particular an inner diameter, of the lye container in a container region of the container parts which lies outside the connecting region is between 554 mm and 560 mm.

Such a tub also allows for more extensive and improved utilization of the available space in the appliance's housing. Furthermore, such a concept also makes it possible to reduce the number of dampers in the appliance's vibration system. In particular, such a damper system can be reduced in size, so that, for example, only three dampers are required instead of four. This also improves the dynamic behavior of this vibration system and enables a reduction in noise and energy consumption of the appliance.

In one embodiment, the rear edge region is continuously curved inward. In particular, this rear edge region thus has a conical shape in cross-section.

It is also possible for the front edge area to be continuously bent inwards. This can also be conically shaped in one embodiment. When the container parts are assembled, these two edge areas create a trough shape in which the coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure are accommodated. This trough shape allows the coupling structure arranged at the edge areas to be The coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure are arranged partially recessed in this recess. Last but not least, the coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure are also protected to a certain extent in the axial direction, and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis, to the front and rear. This is because the container areas of the container parts adjacent to the tapered edge areas extend radially further outward, thus providing a certain degree of shading or protection for this coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure to the front and rear.

In one embodiment, the coupling structure is arranged laterally projecting from a rear end or a rear edge of the rear edge region. Thus, the coupling structure is essentially molded onto the rearmost point of this rear edge region. This allows it to extend radially to the longitudinal axis to the maximum extent into the trough formed by the edge regions.

The same applies, in an advantageous embodiment, to the counter-coupling structure. This, too, is formed, in particular, at a front end or a front edge of the front edge region and extends radially outward laterally therefrom.

In one embodiment, the coupling structure is designed as a radial web. In particular, in the final assembled state of the tub, this web extends at least 50 percent, in particular at least 60 percent, in particular at least 70 percent, in particular at least 80 percent, in particular at least 90 percent, in particular 100 percent, of its radial extent into the radial recess formed by the tapered edge region. In particular, the web is designed to extend completely and thus also uninterruptedly around the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, the coupling structure is designed as a radial web which, in a pre-assembly state of the lye container in which the container parts are not yet firmly connected at the connecting region, extends to a maximum of 40 percent, in particular a maximum of 50 percent, in particular a maximum of 60 percent of its radial extent into the radial recess formed by the tapered edge region. This means in particular that in one embodiment, the coupling structure in a pre-assembly state is even longer in the radial direction or extends further radially outwards from the radial recess than in the final assembled state. This radial pre-assembly extension is advantageous in particular for joining, in particular welding. This is because it allows the required welding pressures or joining pressure to be applied during welding without any disadvantages occurring at the corresponding points. This is particularly advantageous in vibration welding when frictional heat occurs.

In one embodiment, this can also be advantageous in that different locations are possible with regard to the orientation of the container parts prior to the permanent connection, resulting in corresponding positioning. To enable different connection positions for the container parts here as well, such a large outward projection of the web in the radial direction is advantageous. This is because the counter-coupling structure can then be positioned radially at various points on the coupling structure in an azimuthal section, or can be positioned directly on it, and only then can the permanent connection be carried out.

In such an embodiment, it can be provided that, after the coupling structures have been firmly connected to one another, any radial projection of the coupling structure that is no longer required is permanently removed. For example, this projection can be cut off, pinched off, or severed in some other way. Thus, even in such an embodiment, the above-mentioned advantageous embodiment is achieved in the final assembled state, in which the coupling structure is then arranged at least 90 percent of its radial extent in the edge recess formed by the tapered edge region.

In one embodiment, the counter-coupling structure is designed as a radial web. In the final assembled state of the suds container, the counter-coupling structure extends at least 50 percent, in particular at least 60 percent, in particular at least 70 percent, in particular at least 80 percent, in particular at least 90 percent, in particular 100 percent, of its radial extent into the radial recess formed by the tapered rear edge region. In one embodiment, it can be provided that the counter-coupling structure is designed as a radial web which, in a pre-assembled state of the suds container, in which the container parts are not yet firmly connected to one another at the connecting region, extends a maximum of 60 percent of its radial extent into the radial recess formed by the tapered front edge region.

The advantages that can be achieved are as mentioned above for the corresponding examples of the coupling structure.

In one embodiment, the coupling structure is supported by a support part on an outer side of the rear edge region. Thus, the main region of the coupling structure, preferably designed as a radial web, is supported by this support part. Bending or twisting is thus prevented.

The aforementioned radial web, which in particular forms a contact flange for the counter-coupling structure, can have a radial contact surface for the counter-coupling structure. The counter-coupling structure then rests directly against this surface.

In one embodiment, the counter-coupling structure is supported by at least one support part on an outer side of the front edge region. The corresponding advantages as mentioned for the embodiment of the support part and the coupling structure also apply here. In one embodiment, the support parts can be axially oriented plate-like elements. It is possible for the radial web, which in one embodiment forms the counter-coupling structure, to have a contact surface for the coupling structure. It is possible for the radial web of the counter-coupling structure and/or the radial web of the coupling structure to have a receptacle into which the other structure can be axially inserted. Such a receptacle can, for example, be groove-like. Thus, viewed in the axial direction, the structures not only lie against one another, but are also designed to engage or overlap in this axial direction. This enables improved positioning and holding.

In one embodiment, the coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure are welded together. This creates a solid connection. It is possible, for example, to energetically process the plastic materials through plastic welding, i.e., through specific thermal action, in such a way that a solid connection is subsequently formed once the material has cooled down again. A solid connection here is, in particular, a positionally fixed connection that remains permanently. In particular, this solid connection is a permanent connection. This means that it cannot be separated without destroying the components.

In one embodiment, this fixed connection is force-locking and form-locking.

In one embodiment, a rear edge or a rear end of the rear edge region is the radially innermost point of the tapered rear edge region. In particular, a front edge or a front edge or a front end of the front edge region is the radially innermost point of the tapered front edge region.

In one exemplary embodiment, a main region of the jacket wall of the front container part adjoining the rear edge region towards the front is arranged in the same radial position as a main region of the jacket wall of the rear container part adjoining the front edge region towards the rear. These main regions are in particular the container regions that extend radially further outwards than the connecting region. In particular, these main regions directly adjoin the respectively mentioned edge regions. The jacket wall or the lye jacket wall is in particular the tubular or annular cylindrical wall of the lye container. The lye container can also have a rear wall which is closed off at the rear. The lye container has a loading opening at the front.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance for washing laundry items. The household appliance comprises a tub according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. In particular, the household appliance also comprises a laundry drum accommodated in the tub. The tub and the laundry drum also form a system. The system is, in particular, designed to be volume-expanded. This allows a larger number of laundry items to be washed during one laundry-care cycle.

The household appliance is preferably a washing machine or a washer-dryer.

• - Bereitstellen eines ersten ringförmigen Behälterteils aus Kunststoff;
• - Bereitstellen eines dazu separaten zweiten ringförmigen Behälterteils aus Kunststoff,
• - in Richtung einer Längsachse des Laugenbehälters Anordnen des zweiten Behälterteils hinter dem ersten Behälterteil, wobei
• - ein axial hinterer Randbereich des ersten Behälterteils in radialer Richtung zur Längsachse nach innen geformt wird, und an diesem radial verjüngten Randbereich eine Koppelstruktur ausgebildet ist, die sich seitlich nach außen erstreckt, und ein axial vorderer Randbereich des zweiten Behälterteils in radialer Richtung zur Längsachse nach innen geformt wird, und an diesem radial verjüngten Randbereich eine Gegenkoppelstruktur ausgebildet ist, die sich seitlich nach außen erstreckt, und
• - die Koppelstruktur und die Gegenkoppelstruktur zum Erzeugen eines Verbindungsbereichs fest miteinander verbunden werden.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for producing a tub, in particular according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. The method preferably comprises the following steps:

• - Providing a first annular container part made of plastic;
• - Providing a separate second ring-shaped container part made of plastic,
• - in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the tub, arranging the second tub part behind the first tub part, wherein
• - an axially rear edge region of the first container part is formed inwards in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis, and a coupling structure is formed on this radially tapered edge region, which extends laterally outwards, and an axially front edge region of the second container part in the radial direction direction to the longitudinal axis is formed inwards, and on this radially tapered edge region a counter-coupling structure is formed which extends laterally outwards, and
• - the coupling structure and the counter-coupling structure are firmly connected to each other to create a connection area.

Such a process also enables the simple yet highly precise production of a lye container. In particular, the degree of automation in production is particularly high. This also makes it possible to provide a lye container with increased volume, while still maintaining a highly stable, locally specific connection area and thus withstanding corresponding mechanical stresses.

It is also possible that the fixed connection between the container parts at the connecting area is not characterized by a permanent connection, but rather by a detachable connection. Such a fixed detachable connection can be, for example, a screw connection or a snap connection.

In particular, the household appliance comprises a housing. The tub is accommodated in the housing. The housing preferably has a standard external width dimension. In particular, the width can be between 58 cm and 61 cm, especially between 59 cm and 60 cm.

Preferably, a width-direction distance between the tub and an inner side of an adjacent side wall of the housing is between 9 mm and 21 mm. Preferably, the distance can be between 10 mm and 13 mm or between 16 mm and 20 mm. Depending on the configuration of the household appliance, for example depending on a spring/damper configuration and/or the spin speed to be achieved, corresponding values can be specifically advantageous. This distance is measured from the side wall when the tub is at rest. Preferably, this distance is measured in the connection area to this inner side of the side wall. In particular, it is measured from the coupling structure and/or the counter-coupling structure to the inner side of the side wall. In particular, it is therefore provided that a radially outer end of the coupling structure and/or a radially outer end of the counter-coupling structure is the radially outermost point of the entire tub.

It may be provided that such a radially inward displacement of the connecting region, particularly compared to the axially adjacent container regions of the container parts, is not formed over the entire azimuthal circumference around the longitudinal axis. It is therefore possible that this radial recess is formed in the connecting region only in local azimuthal sections.

For example, this is preferably formed when viewing the tub from the front in the 3 o'clock position and in the 9 o'clock position. In particular, this specific connection region is formed locally only at the 3 o'clock position and only at the 9 o'clock position. Since, in particular, only at these locations is there a correspondingly smaller distance to walls, in particular the side walls, of the housing, and therefore, with regard to the other positioning of the tub in the housing and the relative movement of the tub to the housing during operation, a potentially critical approach of the tub to the inner sides of the walls of the housing occurs, it can be provided in one embodiment to form this specific geometric and functional connection region only at these locations. At other azimuthal locations, this tapered configuration of the front edge region and/or the rear edge region can therefore not be formed or can be less formed than is the case in this 3 o'clock position or the 9 o'clock position.

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltsgeräts zur Pflege von Wäschestücken mit einer schematischen Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Laugenbehälters und/oder eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Wäschetrommel;
• 2 eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines Trommelmantels einer Wäschetrommel gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;
• 3 eine Schnittdarstellung durch ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Wäschetrommel mit einem Trommelmantel gemäß 2 und einem montierten Mitnehmer in einer Mitnehmermulde des Trommelmantels;
• 4 eine Schnittdarstellung durch ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Systems mit einer Wäschetrommel gemäß 3 und einem Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Laugenbehälters;
• 5 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung durch ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Haushaltsgeräts mit einem Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Laugenbehälters und/oder einem Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Wäschetrommel;
• 6 eine vergrößerte Darstellung eines Teilbereichs eines Laugenbehälters und eines Teilbereichs einer Wäschetrommel;
• 7 eine Darstellung gemäß 6, wobei hier ein Abstand zwischen dem Laugenbehälter und einer Innenseite einer Seitenwand des Gehäuses des Haushaltsgeräts gezeigt ist;
• 8 eine Darstellung gemäß 6 und 7 mit einem alternativen Ausführungsbeispiel eines Verbindungsbereichs des Laugenbehälters; und
• 9 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung durch Teilkomponenten eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Haushaltsgeräts mit einer Erläuterung zu Fertigungsszenarien eines Laugenbehälters.

Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show:

• 1 a schematic representation of an embodiment of a household appliance according to the invention for the care of laundry items with a schematic representation of an embodiment of a tub according to the invention and/or an embodiment of a laundry drum according to the invention;
• 2 a perspective view of an embodiment of a drum shell of a laundry drum according to an embodiment of the invention;
• 3 a sectional view through an embodiment of a laundry drum according to the invention with a drum shell according to 2 and a mounted driver in a driver recess of the drum shell;
• 4 a sectional view through an embodiment of a system with a laundry drum according to 3 and an embodiment of a lye container according to the invention;
• 5 a schematic sectional view through an embodiment of a household appliance with an embodiment of a tub according to the invention and/or an embodiment of a laundry drum according to the invention;
• 6 an enlarged view of a portion of a tub and a portion of a laundry drum;
• 7 a representation according to 6 , wherein a distance between the tub and an inner side of a side wall of the housing of the household appliance is shown;
• 8 a representation according to 6 and 7 with an alternative embodiment of a connecting area of the tub; and
• 9 a schematic sectional view through partial components of an embodiment of a household appliance according to the invention with an explanation of manufacturing scenarios of a suds container.

In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

In 1 A household appliance 1 is shown in a schematic perspective view. The household appliance 1 is designed for washing laundry. It can be, for example, a washing machine or a washer-dryer. The household appliance 1 has a housing 2. This can also be referred to as an outer casing. This housing 2 has at least two vertical side walls 3 and 4.

The household appliance 1 also has a tub 5. Furthermore, the household appliance 1 has a laundry drum 6. The tub 5 and the laundry drum 6 form a system 7. This system 7 can be part of an oscillation system 8 of the household appliance 1. The oscillation system 8 can, for example, have several springs and dampers (not shown). With these, the tub 5 and the laundry drum 6 are movably mounted in the housing 2. As already described in 1 As shown schematically, the laundry drum 6 is accommodated in the tub 5. The household appliance 1 also has a care product dispensing device 9. This can, for example, have a dispenser tray. Furthermore, the household appliance 1 has an operating and/or display device 10. In particular, a control unit (not shown) is also provided, which is a component of the household appliance 1.

In 2 A perspective view of a drum shell 11 of the laundry drum 6 is shown. The drum shell 11 is designed here as a cylinder or a ring. In addition to this drum shell 11, the laundry drum 6 preferably has a 2 not shown rear wall 12 ( 1 ) on.

The drum shell 11 is preferably made of metal, in particular stainless steel. The laundry drum 6 has a longitudinal axis A. This is also the axis of rotation about which the laundry drum 6 is rotatably mounted during a laundry care process. The drum shell 11 has a groove-like annular strip 13. In this exemplary embodiment, the annular strip 13 is formed in the drum shell 11, completely encircling the longitudinal axis A without interruption. The annular strip 13 is formed in the same axial position over its entire azimuthal extent.

The ring strip 13 has a radius r1, which is a first radius.

As furthermore in 2 As can also be seen, the drum shell 11 has a first expansion ring region 14. Viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, which is oriented in the depth direction (z-direction) of the household appliance 1, this expansion ring region directly adjoins the annular strip 13 towards the front. In addition, the drum shell 11 has a second expansion region 15, which is different from the first expansion region 14. Viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, this second expansion region adjoins the annular strip 13 towards the rear, in particular directly adjoins it. The expansion regions 14 and 15 each have a radius that is greater than the first radius r1.

In particular, the two expansion regions 14 and 15 have an identical second radius r2, which is larger than the first radius r1. The annular strip 13 is therefore radially smaller relative to the expansion ring regions 14, 15.

As can also be seen, the expansion ring regions 14 and 15 have a larger dimension in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis A than the annular strip 13. In particular, this axial extension of the expansion regions 14 and 15 in the axial direction is many times, in particular at least three times, in particular at least four times, larger than the axial extension of the annular strip 13.

In particular, it is provided that only one such ring strip 13 is formed between the expansion regions 14 and 15.

In one embodiment, viewed in the axial direction, the first expansion ring ends region 14 in front of a front end or a front edge 16 of the drum shell 11. Thus, a front end 14a of the first expansion ring region 14 is set back from the front edge 16. In particular, an edge region 17, which extends between the front end 14a and the front edge 16, is formed with a smaller radius than the radius r2. This edge region 17 can, for example, also be conical.

In one exemplary embodiment, the drum shell 11 has a rear end or a rear edge 18. In particular, a rear end 15a of the second expansion ring region 15 is set back from this rear edge 18. In particular, an edge region 19 between the rear edge 18 and the rear end 15a is formed with a smaller radius than the second radius r2. Here, too, a conical shape of the edge region 19 can be provided, at least in some regions.

As in 2 As can be seen, the drum shell 11 also has several driver recesses 20 and 21. In particular, three such driver recesses 20, 21 are provided. They are designed equidistant from each other in the direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis A. As shown in 2 As can be seen, these carrier troughs 20, 21 are intended to accommodate carriers (not shown) for carrying laundry items while the laundry drum 6 rotates. The carrier trough 21 preferably has a base 22. This base can preferably be toroidal, cylindrical, or conical in shape. In particular, this base 22 has a curvature when viewed in the direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis A, in particular a curvature that bulges away from the longitudinal axis A.

In particular, it is provided that this base 22 is curved in the circumferential direction about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. This means that in a cross-section of the drum shell 11 in which the cutting plane has the longitudinal axis A or the longitudinal axis A is arranged running entirely therein, a non-rectilinear cutting edge of the base 22 is present. With such a curved shape of the base 22 in this explained cutting plane, the cutting surface of the base 22 is curved, in particular concavely curved. This means that the ends of this curved base 22, viewed in the axial direction, are further away from the longitudinal axis A than an intermediate curvature maximum, which then has the smallest radial distance from the longitudinal axis A. Furthermore, the area of a driver 23 that rests against the bottom 22 of the driver recess 20, 21 can have a contour corresponding to the curvature of the bottom 22, so that the driver 23 can be displaced along the curvature in the axial direction. This displacement corresponds to a rotation of the driver 23 around the center of the radius of curvature in the displacement area.

As in 2 As can also be seen, the annular strip 13 merges directly into the driving recesses 20 and 21. Viewed in the axial direction, the annular strip 13 ends in a middle axial third of the length of a driving recess 20, 21, in particular completely centrally on a driving recess 20, 21.

A driver recess 20, 21 has a smaller distance from the longitudinal axis A than the expansion ring regions 14 and 15 with their second radii r2. Therefore, in one exemplary embodiment, a driver recess 20, 21 is raised relative to the expansion ring regions 14 and 15 with respect to the longitudinal axis A. When viewed from an expansion ring region 14, 15, a driver recess 20, 21 can therefore also be referred to as a driver elevation.

As can also be seen, the driver recesses 20, 21 do not extend in the axial direction beyond the axial dimensions of the expansion ring areas 14 and 15, in particular they are shorter in this respect.

In addition, fastening structures are formed in the driver recesses 20, 21, which are to be understood merely as examples, in order to be able to fasten a driver thereto.

This structure in the drum shell 11, which comprises the expansion ring regions 14 and 15 as well as the ring strip 13 and preferably also the driver recesses 20, 21, can be created by embossing. For this purpose, an embossing die can be arranged on the outside of the still undeformed material blank of the then already ring-shaped drum shell 11, which has the negative pattern of the described structure. The regions forming the expansion ring regions 14 and 15 are then pressed outward by corresponding expansion elements arranged inside the drum shell 11.

In one embodiment, the annular strip 13 then continues to have the first radius r1 that the drum shell 11 has before this expanding embossing. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the stamp can also have a corresponding negative structure or negative mask for producing the driver recesses 20, 21. Here, too, by appropriate The above-mentioned exemplary shapes are produced by applying sufficient pressure from the interior of the drum shell 11.

The annular strip 13 is designed both locally and geometrically as a receiving groove for a radially inwardly formed connecting area of the lye container 5.

In the exemplary embodiment, the expansion ring areas 14 and 15 are cylindrical. In another exemplary embodiment, as will be 5 As explained, the expansion ring areas 14 and 15 can also be conical.

In 3 The laundry drum 6 is shown in a longitudinal section. In 3 can therefore also be seen on the inside of the drum shell 11. In the carrier recess 20, a carrier 23 is mounted here as an example. For mounting the carriers 23, the carriers 23 can have locking elements (not shown) that fit into the 2 can engage in the recesses visible on the bottom 22 of the carrier troughs 20, 21, whereby a locking on the bottom 22 can be effected by an axial displacement of a respective carrier 23 in the longitudinal direction A. In addition, a front attachment 6a of the laundry drum 6 can also be seen, which in one embodiment is arranged on the front edge region 17.

As in 2 and 3 As can be seen, the transitions between a bottom of the ring strip 13 and the expansion ring regions 14 and 15 are inclined and/or rounded in the example. The same is preferably provided for the transitions between the bottom of the driver recess 20 and the expansion ring regions 14 and 15.

In 4 The laundry drum 6 and an embodiment of a tub 5 are shown in a longitudinal section. Therefore, an embodiment of a system 7 is shown. The laundry drum 6 is preferably according to the embodiment in 2 and 3 trained.

In particular, the drum shell 11 is formed in one piece or from a one-piece blank.

In contrast, the lye container 5 is constructed in several parts. It preferably has a first annular container part 24. This is made of plastic, in particular completely of plastic. It can, for example, be an injection-molded component. In addition, the lye container 5 has a second container part 25 separate from the first container part 24. This is also made of plastic. It can also be an injection-molded component. The two separate container parts 24 and 25 are firmly connected to one another at a connecting area 26. As already described in 4 As can be seen, this connecting region 26 is located further inwards in the radial direction than the main regions or expanded container regions 27 and 28 of the container parts 24 and 25 which adjoin the connecting region 26 in the axial direction to the front and rear. It can also be seen that this connecting region 26 engages in the annular strip 13 of the drum shell 11 or extends into it, as viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. Therefore, in this assembled final state of the system 7, as viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, an overlapping arrangement is formed between the suds container 5 and the laundry drum 6 at this specific local location. A rear wall 29 of the suds container 5 is also shown.

In 5 A further embodiment of the system 7 is shown in a schematic sectional view. This sketchy representation shows that the laundry drum 6, particularly in the expansion regions 14 and 15, does not have coaxial wall sections with respect to the longitudinal axis A, but rather, a conical orientation of the expansion regions 14 and 15 is formed. Therefore, in this example, the container sub-regions 27 and 28 are also conical.

In 6 An enlarged view of an embodiment of the lye container 5 is shown in the connecting region 26. As can be seen here, an axially rear edge region 30 of the first front annular container part 24 is designed to taper continuously radially inward. Furthermore, in one embodiment, a front edge region 31 of the rear second annular container part 25, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis A, is designed to taper continuously radially.

Thus, a radial recess 32 is formed in relation to the radial positions of these edge regions 30 and 31 as well as the container regions 27 and 28. A coupling structure 33 and a counter-coupling structure 34 extend into this radial recess 32. The coupling structure 33 is formed integrally on the rear edge region 30. It can have a radial web 35. In particular, this radial web 35, which extends in 6 is shown only schematically and symbolically, from a front end or a rear edge 36 of this rear edge region 30. Furthermore, in one embodiment, it can be provided that the front edge region 34 has a radially oriented web 37. This can extend in one embodiment from a front End or a front edge 38 of this front edge region 31 extend radially outwards.

It is possible for the coupling structure 33 and/or the counter-coupling structure 34 to merely have contact surfaces on which these two structures abut one another. However, at least one of the two structures, i.e. the coupling structure 33 and/or the counter-coupling structure 34, can also have axial receptacles into which the other structure can then axially engage. This can also create a connecting region 20 in which the structures 33 and 34 are designed to engage axially. Furthermore, this axial engagement can also form a radial stop, so that the position of the container parts 24 and 25 can be varied perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, but is limited by these stops.

As in 6 As can be seen, the coupling structure 33 and the counter-coupling structure 34 extend with their dimensions viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A at least 90 percent within the radial recess 32. In this regard, a schematic representation in 6 an assembled final state of the lye container 5 is shown.

Expressed inversely, the lye container 5 has expanded radially outside the connecting region 26. The container regions 27 and 28 are thus widened radially.

A distance b, as in 6 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A and is measured between the radial minimum of the connecting region 26 and the bottom of the annular strip 13, is in one example preferably between 10 mm and 12 mm.

In 7 is a representation according to 6 Here, a distance a, which is measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, is shown between a radially outer point of the connecting region 26 and an inner side of a side wall, shown here as an example of the side wall 4. This distance a is preferably between 9 mm and 21 mm and particularly preferably between 9 mm and 13 mm or between 16 mm and 20 mm.

In 8 is a corresponding representation as in 6 and 7 However, in contrast to 6 and 7 , in which assembled final states are shown, a pre-assembly state of the tub 5 is shown. The coupling structure 33 and/or the counter-coupling structure 34 are formed here in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis A with an extent that projects significantly further laterally beyond the radial recess 32 than in the manufactured final states according to 6 and 7 is the case. In particular, the radial webs 35 and 37 have radial projections. These are preferably provided so that during production and before the connection of the container parts 24 and 25, the position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A can be variably adjusted. In order to avoid that in an azimuthal position in the direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis A, viewed radially, there would no longer be any contact between the coupling structure 33 and the counter-coupling structure 34, this extension is provided here. Once the desired end position between the container parts 24 and 25 has been set, and then the fixed connection between the coupling structures 33 and the counter-coupling structure 34 has been set, for example by welding, screwing, or snapping, the no longer required radial projection of the webs 35 and/or 37 can be removed in a further production step. This then creates a corresponding configuration, as shown in 6 and 7 is shown schematically. Even then, in the final manufactured state, a distance a is realized, which is maintained when the system 7 is at rest and thus the household appliance 1 is not in operation.

As in 8 can also be seen, and can also be present in all other exemplary embodiments, the connecting region 26 has at least one support part 40. This is formed on the coupling web 35 and ends on the outside of the tapered edge region 30 and/or optionally also beyond that on an outside of the container region 27. In one exemplary embodiment, it is possible for at least one further support part 39 to be provided. This is formed on the web 37 and ends on an outside of the edge region 31. If necessary, it can also extend axially so far that it ends on an outside of the container region 28. The support parts 39 and 40 can, for example, be plate-like. In particular, they are formed integrally with the respective container parts 24 and 25.

Especially when the container parts 24 and 25 are made of plastic, tools are provided that also allow for corresponding undercuts. These can be demolded using so-called sliders. It is possible that vibration welding can be used when joining the container parts 24 and 25, for example by welding. For example, a welding tool with a holding device is then provided. It is then possible that one of the two container parts 24, 25 is fastened to the holding device. In a subsequent step, the laundry drum 6 is then inserted into this container part. Subsequently, the other Container part of the tub 5 is positioned from above over the laundry drum 6. This additional container part of the tub 5 is then, as shown in 9 shown, is moved in a vibration direction V, which is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, with a specific amplitude and at the same time is moved translationally in the direction Y, i.e. in the direction of the longitudinal axis A. In this case, pressure is exerted on the flange, which is formed by the coupling structure 33 and the counter-coupling structure 34.

It is possible that the radial extent of the preferably fully circumferential coupling webs 33 and/or the counter-coupling structure 34 differs in azimuthal sections. For example, this radial extent may be smaller at the 3 o'clock position and the 9 o'clock position than in other azimuthal sections. Therefore, in particular, the scenario according to 8 It is provided that a temporary overhang is also formed at the 3 o'clock position and the 9 o'clock position, which is then removed after the permanent connection has been created, so that the dimension or distance a is also set at this 3 o'clock position and the 9 o'clock position. This makes it possible to create a stable and tight design of the connection area 26 precisely at this point, which is narrower than at other azimuthal positions, between the lye container 5 and a side wall 3, 4. Once this permanent connection has been formed, the overhang that is no longer required can subsequently be cut off, in particular at the 3 o'clock position and the 9 o'clock position. For example, an ultrasonic cutting process can be used here.

In this context, the holding tool or the holding device, as already mentioned above, moves from the radial direction toward the outside of the container part that is first provided and into which the laundry drum 6 is then inserted. In particular, this slide then moves from the radial direction toward the outside of the edge region of the container part that is first provided.

This pre-assembly module is thereby held in place with the provided container part and the laundry drum 6 inserted therein. Subsequently, in this held state, the previously mentioned welding tool is used to create the fixed connection at the connecting area 26 between the then two existing container parts 24 and 25.

This firm connection, in particular welding, takes place when, according to the explanation to 9 the desired position between the container parts 24 and 25 is reached.

List of reference symbols

1

household appliance

2

Housing

3

side wall

4

side wall

5

Lye container

6

Laundry drum

6a

Essay

7

system

8

Oscillation system

9

Care product addition device

10

Display device

11

Drum shell

12

back wall

13

Ring stripe

14

Expansion ring area

15

Expansion ring area

16

edge

17

peripheral area

18

edge

19

peripheral area

20

Carrier trough

21

Carrier trough

22

Floor

23

Driver

24

Container part

25

Container part

26

Connection area

27

Container area

28

Container area

29

back wall

30

peripheral area

31

peripheral area

32

Radial trough

33

Coupling structure

34

Negative feedback structure

35

coupling bridge

36

edge

37

web

38

edge

39

Support part

40

Support part

QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0 043 429 A1 [0002]

Claims (15)

Laundry drum (6) for a household appliance (1) for the care of laundry items, with an annular drum shell (11), characterized in that the drum shell (11) has at least one annular strip (13) which has a first radius (r1), and the drum shell (11), viewed in the direction of a longitudinal axis (A) of the laundry drum (6), has a first expansion ring region (14) which adjoins the annular strip (13) towards the front and has a radius (r2) which is larger than the first radius (r1), and the drum shell (11), viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis (A) of the laundry drum (6), has a second expansion ring region (15) which adjoins the annular strip (13) towards the rear and has a radius (r2) which is larger than the first radius (r1). Laundry drum (6) after Claim 1 , characterized in that the first expansion ring region (14) and/or the second expansion ring region (15) are longer in the axial direction, in particular are many times longer, than the ring strip (13). Laundry drum (6) after Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the drum shell (11) has local driver troughs (20, 21), the bottoms (22) of which are arranged radially further inward than the expansion ring areas (14, 15). Laundry drum (6) after Claim 3 , characterized in that the driver recesses (20, 21) extend in the axial direction over the entire ring strip (13) and into the first expansion ring region (14) and into the second expansion ring region (15). Laundry drum (6) after Claim 3 or 4 , characterized in that a driver trough (20, 21) has a bottom (22) which is at least partially toroidal, cylindrical or conical in shape. Laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding Claims 3 until 5 , characterized in that a driver trough (20, 21) has a bottom (22) which is curved in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis (A). Laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding Claims 3 until 6 , characterized in that a driver trough (20, 21) has a bottom (22) which is curved in the circumferential direction about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A). Laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the annular strip (13) is designed as a receiving groove for a radially inwardly formed connecting region (26) of a suds container (5). Laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first expansion ring region (14) is conical and/or the second expansion ring region (15) is conical. Laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 8 , characterized in that the first expansion ring region (14) is cylindrical and/or the second expansion ring region (15) is cylindrical. Laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drum shell (11) is radially tapered at a front edge region (17) in comparison to the expansion ring regions (14, 15) and/or the drum shell (11) is radially tapered at a rear edge region (19) in comparison to the expansion ring regions (14, 15). System (7) with a laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding claims and with a tub (5) surrounding the drum wall (11). Household appliance (1) for the care of laundry items with a laundry drum (6) according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 11 and/or with a system (7) according to Claim 12 . Household appliance (1) by Claim 13 in which a connecting region (26), to which two separate, annular container parts (24, 25) of the lye container (5) are connected, is arranged radially engaging in the annular strip (13). Method for producing a laundry drum (6), in particular according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 11 , comprising the following steps: - providing an annular drum wall (11); - locally radially expanding the drum wall (11) so that at least two expansion ring regions (14, 15) separated by at least one annular strip (13) are formed.