EP1128407B1 - Household apparatus with time switching device - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a time switch with manual setting of time of day and an operating time with a single-knob control with an outer first setting. The knob automatically returns to a second setting from a depressed third setting when released and remains there. When depressed to the third setting again and released the knob returns to the first setting and remains there. The knob is rotatable in the first setting and interacts with function switches. The device has a time switch enabling manual setting of time of day and an operating time with a single-knob control (6,8) that can be depressed from an outer first axial setting (8-1) through a lower second setting (8-2) to a depressed third setting (8-3) by a manual force. The knob automatically returns to the second setting when released and remains there. When depressed to the third setting again and released the knob returns to the first position and remains there. The knob is rotatable in the first position and interacts with switching elements (1F-35,18,20,22) for changing to setting functions for time of day or an operating time.

Description

The invention relates to a household appliance with a timer device according to the Preamble of claim 1.

The household appliance is in particular an electric or gas-powered oven or a cooker, but can also be a roast, grill, roast, toast or other Be a food handling device, as well as a tumble dryer, a Washing machine, a dishwasher, an extractor fan or a kitchen mixer.

It is known such household appliances with a day clock and a timer to provide to which latter an operating time in the form of an operating period or is adjustable in the form of an operating end time. For setting the time of day and operating time normally separate adjustment elements are used.

There are known timers in which via a bit generator, "+/-" - keys and various function selection buttons or other additional function selector the various Functions of the timer can be selected and set.

In the published patent application DE 4 017 422 a Household appliance with a timer device according to the preamble of claim 1 disclosed.

By the invention, the problem to be solved, a new timer device to create a shutdown function and a simpler and cheaper construction and has a simple and clear operation option. The new operating concept should fit to any designs of home appliances.

This object is achieved according to the invention by the characterizing features of Claim 1 solved.

A household appliance with a time switching device on which a time of day and a Operating time are manually adjustable, where a one-button control with which both the time of day as well the operating time is adjustable, is provided by a type in which a control knob by manual pressure from an outer first axial position through a submerged second axial position pressed into a depressed third axial position which is lower than the recessed second axial position, and after releasing the manual pressure automatically returns to the second axial position and remains there, in which also thereafter the control knob by a manual pressure force pressed from the sunk second axial position in the depressed third axial position is and after releasing the manual pressure force automatically submerged second axial position returns to the outer first axial position and there remains, and in which the control knob at least in the outer first axial position is rotatable; is characterized according to the invention in that cooperating with the control knob switching means for Switching the timer device alternatively to the function for setting the Time of day or on the function for adjusting the operating time are provided, wherein this switching automatically takes place depending on how long the control knob held by a manual pressure force in the pressed third axial position will be at least one time or another when he is in the third axial position arrives on its axial path of movement from the outer first axial position and back to this one again; and that the time of day and the operating time ever through Turning the control knob in its outer first axial position are adjustable.

The invention provides the following advantages: A new operating concept for time switches with shutdown function; a simple, clear operation; a simple one and inexpensive construction; a design that suits all home appliances is.

In the present invention, the functions "time of day and operating time" of a electronic time switch with automatic switch-off only via a single knob (One-button control) of a bit generator or similar electronic device selected and set. Other function selection buttons or function selection elements are not needed. According to the invention, a one-button operating device is sufficient.

Further features of the invention are contained in the subclaims. According to the Subclaims, the following embodiments are provided:

Fig. 1

schematisch einen Teil eines Haushaltsgerätes mit einer Zeitschaltereinrichtung nach der Erfindung,

Fig. 2 - 5

ein Display mit einer Einknopf-Bedieneinrichtung gemäß der Erfindung in einer ersten Funktion I "Tageszeit einstellen bei Erstbetrieb oder nach Stromausfall",

Fig. 6, 7, 8

das Display und die Einknopf-Bedieneinrichtung der Zeitschaltereinrichtung bei einer zweiten Funktion II "Korrektur der Tageszeit",

Fig. 9 - 15

das Display und die Einknopf-Bedieneinrichtung der Zeitschaltereinrichtung bei einer dritten Funktion III "Betriebszeitdauer einstellen",

Fig. 16 - 22

das Display und die Einknopf-Bedieneinrichtung der Zeitschaltereinrichtung bei einer vierten Funktion IV "Betriebsendezeitpunkt einstellen" als alternative Möglichkeit zur vorgenannten dritten Funktion III.

The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the drawings of preferred embodiments. In the drawings show

Fig. 1

FIG. 2 schematically shows a part of a household appliance with a timer device according to the invention, FIG.

Fig. 2-5

a display with a one-button operating device according to the invention in a first function I "set time of day during initial operation or after power failure",

Fig. 6, 7, 8

the display and the one-button operating device of the timer device in a second function II "correction of the time of day",

Fig. 9 - 15

the display and the one-button operating device of the timer device at a third function III "set operating time",

Fig. 16 - 22nd

the display and the one-button operating device of the timer device in a fourth function IV "set operating end time" as an alternative way to the aforementioned third function III.

Fig. 1 shows schematically a housing part or a panel 2 of a household appliance (eg oven or stove) and a timer device 4 according to the invention, on which a time of day and an operating time are manually adjustable. The timer device 4 includes a one-button operating device 6 in which with a single control knob 8 both the time of day and the operating time adjustable is. The operating time may be one operating period or another Embodiment be an end of operation. The one-button operating device 6 contains an operable by the control knob 8, by a dashed line indicated bit generator 10, which depends on the respective setting of the control knob 8 bit signals an electronic control part 12 of the timer device 4 feeds or generated in it.

The one-button operating device 6 is of a type in which the control knob 8 by a manual pressure force from an outer first axial position 8-1 through a sunk second axial position 8-2 in a depressed third axial position 8-3 pressed is, which is lower than the sunk second axial position 8-2, wherein the control knob 8 after release of the manual pressure force 14, which schematically as pressure direction arrow 14, automatically returns to the second axial position 8-2 and remains there.

The control knob 8 is then by a renewed manual pressure force 14 of the sunk second axial position 8-2 in the pressed third axial position 8-3 pressed, wherein the push button 8 automatically after releasing the manual pressure force 14 through the sunk axial position 8-2 through to the outer first axial position 8-1 returns and stays there.

The control knob 8 is rotatable at least in the outer first axial position 8-1. He is thus not only a pure push button or pushbutton, but also a rotary knob for adjusting various functions depending on the rotational movement.

The timing control includes cooperating with the control knob 8 switching means 16 for switching the timer device alternatively to the function for setting the time of day or the function for setting the operating time, where this switching automatically takes place depending on whether the control knob 8 by a manual pressure force 14 in the depressed third position 8-3 a predetermined Minimum period is held at least one time or another he in the depressed third axial position 8-3 passes on its axial path of movement from the outer first axial position 8-1 and back to this. Depending on the way adjusted function is then by turning the control knob 8 in his outer first axial position 8-1 the time of day or the operating time adjustable.

According to the preferred embodiment, a predetermined minimum time of z. B. provided for at least two seconds, preferably of three seconds, which the Control knob 8 are held manually in the pressed third axial position 8-3 must, so that a switchover of the function takes place.

The functions are schematically illustrated in FIG. 1 in that the operating knob 8 in FIG its outer first axial position 8-1 an electrical contact 1F, in the sunk Axial position 8-2 another electrical contact 2F, and deeper in the lower lying pressed axial position 8-3 a third electrical contact 3F closes, and that the control part 12 can recognize which of these contacts is closed and how long the third contact 3F for the duration of said minimum time of z. B. 2 or 3 seconds is closed. Whenever the third contact 3F is closed is, in the control part 12, a changeover switch 18 to an electrical connection 20, to which the function for setting the time of day is assigned, or to one switched electrical contact 22, which has the function for adjusting the operating time assigned.

The rotation angle range of the control knob 8 is in one of both directions of rotation limited predetermined final value. The control knob 8 has an actuating part 24, with which he in reaching the final value in one direction of rotation an electric Contact T4, and on reaching the final value in the other direction of rotation one other electrical contact T5 closes. The closing of the one electric Contact T4 causes the setting of a higher time value, and the closing of the other electrical contact causes the setting of a smaller time value of Time or the operating time, depending on whether the switch 18 one or the other the two electrical connections 20 or 22 has closed. The concerned Time value changes as long as the control knob 8 on the relevant Direction of rotation is manually held. Such a technique is known in watches. According to another known technique, which is also alternative in the present invention is used, the time value is at each reaching the turn direction changed only by a predetermined time step.

According to another embodiment, not shown, instead of the Rotation angle and the direction of rotation of the control knob 8 detected and in dependence of which the time to be set to a higher value or to a lower value be set.

A display device 30 (display) of the timer device 4 has digit locations 32, 33, 34 and 35 for time display. These same numbers show alternatively the time of day or the operating time, depending on whether by the control knob 8, the function for setting the time of day or the function for setting the operating time has been.

Further, the display device 30 includes an operating time icon 36 and a time of day symbol 38. The four digit positions 32, 33, 34 and 35 are divided into two groups of two, between which a separation symbol 40 z. B. in the form of a colon located. The separator icon and digits are depending on the set function unlit, illuminated or flashing.

According to the preferred embodiment it is provided that the switching of the function for setting the operating time to the function for setting the time of day automatically reversed if within a predetermined Waiting time, z. B. 10 seconds, after this switching no manual adjustment the time of day on the control knob 8 is made.

The following describes possible functions.

First function I "Set time of day during first operation or after power failure" according to FIGS. 2, 3, 4 and 5:

In Fig. 2, the control knob 8 is in its sunk second axial position; the 0 and the time of day symbols are flashing.

In Fig. 3, the control knob 8 of the bit generator 10 for a minimum period of for example, three seconds pressed by a manual pressure force 14, which automatically turns on the function for setting the time of day and thereby set the digits to a starting time value of, for example, 12:00 and blink as well as the time of day icon.

In Fig. 4 is the control knob 8 of the bit generator in its outer first Axial position, where the 12:00 digits and the time of day symbol flash; if however, the control knob 8 of the bit generator within a predetermined waiting time from Z. B. 10 seconds is not rotated, then automatically results in a switch to the functional state of Fig. 10, in which the operating time duration adjustable is.

In Fig. 5, the control knob 8 in the one operating direction, z. B. turned to the right up to a stop or an electrical contact such. B. the contact T4, whereby the bit generator causes the desired time of day to be set, e.g. B. 20:38, and that the digits 32, 33, 34 and 35 as well as the time of day symbol so long flash until the control knob 8 of the bit generator in the sunk second axial position sunk manually.

Second function II "correction of the time of day":

In Fig. 6, the control knob 8 of the bit generator during the minimum time of, for example Manually pressed for 3 seconds by a manual pressure force 14, whereby the current time of z. Eg 20:38 and the time of day symbol flash kick off.

In Fig. 7, the control knob 8 of the bit generator in its outer first axial position. Here, the numbers flash with the current time of day from z. Eg 20:38 and the daytime symbol. When the control knob 8 of the bit generator within a predetermined Waiting time of z. B. 10 seconds is not rotated, then appears on the display device 30, the state of FIG. 10, d. H. the function for setting the operating period.

Fig. 8 shows the rotation of the control knob 8 in one direction of rotation (clockwise rotation). This will set the desired new time of day by the bit generator.

The digits 32, 33, 34 and 35 and the time of day symbol will flash until the knob 8 of the bit generator manually in the sunk second axial position is pressed.

Third function III "Set operating time":

In Fig. 9, the control knob 8 of the bit generator in its sunk second axial position. The current time of day z. B. 13:15 and the daytime icon light up.

In Fig. 10, the operating element 8 of the bit generator in the outer first axial position. By setting the bit generator, the digits were all set to the Value 00:00 and they and the operating time icon flash.

In Fig. 11, the control knob 8 of the bit generator in the one direction of rotation (right) turned. This will set the operating time. The operating time symbol lights up and the illuminated digits also show the current time remaining Operating time duration. It is preferably a countdown count.

In Fig. 12, the control knob 8 of the bit generator was sunk manually after a Operating time has been set. As a result, now shine the digits, which the current time of day from z. For example, to display 5:00 PM, the time of day icon and the operating time icon.

In Fig. 13, the operating element 8 of the bit generator is outside. It was not according to Fig. 12 sunk. The set operating time has expired. The digits show 00:00 and shine; the operating time symbol flashes; the household appliance, z. B. a Oven, is automatically turned off; and preferably also becomes an acoustic one Generates signal, z. B. a beep of z. B. three minutes.

In Fig. 14, the operating element 8 of the bit generator was sunk manually after an operating period has been set in accordance with FIG. 11. The operating time has expired. The digits with the current time of day, z. 17:00, and the daytime icon to shine. The operating time symbol flashes. The household appliance, eg. Oven, is automatically switched off and it is preferably an acoustic signal, z. B. a beep of z. B. generates three minutes of time. Then you can the operations of Figs. 10 and 15 follow.

In Fig. 15, the control knob 8 of the bit generator is sunk. The digits with the current time of day, z. For example, at 5:00 pm, the daytime icon will light, and the Household appliance, z. B. the oven is ready to start again according to FIG. 9.

Instead of the third function III shown in FIGS. 9 to 15 may (alternatively) a fourth Function IV "set operating end time" be provided, which below with reference to Figs. 16-22:

In Fig. 16, the control knob 8 of the bit generator is sunk. As a result, the digit digits light up, which the daytime of z. For example, 13:15, and the time of day icon.

In Fig. 17, the operation knob 8 of the bit generator is outside. This will cause the digit digits to flash with the daily time of z. B. 13:15 clock and the operating time symbol.

In Fig. 18, the control knob 8 of the bit generator is manually in the one direction of rotation, z. B. to the right, rotated. This will end the operation (end of operation) is set and the operating time symbol lights up.

In Fig. 19, the control knob 8 of the bit generator was sunk manually after a The factory has been set. This will now light up the digits, the Daytime symbol and the working time symbol.

In Fig. 20, the control knob 8 of the bit generator is again in its outer first axial position. The operating end time has been reached, ie the operating time has expired, which can be recognized by the number of digit digits. The 00:00 and the operation time symbols are flashing. The household appliance, z. As an oven, is automatically turned off, while still a predetermined time an optical signal can be generated, for. B. a beep of three minutes duration.
In Fig. 21, the operation knob 8 of the bit generator has been sunk again, instead of leaving it in the outer position as shown in Fig. 20 after an operation end time has been set. The operating time has expired and thus the end of operation has been exceeded. The digit digits with the current time of day and the time of day icon light up. The operating time symbol flashes. The household appliance, z. As an oven is turned off, and preferably also during a certain period of time an audible signal is generated, for. B. beep during z. B. three minutes.

Subsequently, the processes according to FIG. 17 or according to FIG. 22 can follow.

In Fig. 22, the operation knob 8 of the bit generator is sunk. You have the starting situation of Fig. 16. The household appliance, for. As an oven is ready to start again.

Claims (11)

1. Domestic appliance with a time switch device (4), at which a time of day and an operating time are manually settable, wherein there is provided a single-knob control device (6), by which not only the time of day but also the operating time are settable, of a kind in which a control knob (8) can be pressed by manual pressure force (14) from an outer first axial setting (8-1) through a recessed second axial setting (8-2) into a depressed third axial setting (8-3) disposed deeper than the recessed second axial setting (8-2) and after release of the manual pressure force (14) automatically returns to the second axial setting (8-2) and remains there, in which moreover the control knob (8) is thereafter pressable by a manual pressure force (14) from the recessed second axial setting (8-2) into the depressed third axial setting (8-3) and after release of the manual pressure force (14) automatically returns through the recessed second axial setting (8-2) to the outer first axial setting (8-1) and remains there, and in which the control knob (8) is rotatable at least into the outer first axial setting (8-1), characterised in that switching-over means (1 F, 2F, 3F; 18, 20, 22) co-operating with the control knob are provided for switching over the time switch device (4) alternatively to the function for setting of the time of day or to the function for setting of the operating time, wherein this switching-over takes place automatically in dependence on how long the control knob (8) is held by a manual pressure force (14) in the depressed third axial setting at least on one or other occasion when it passes into the third axial setting (8-3) on its axial movement travel from the outer first axial setting (8-1) and back again to this, and that the time of day and the operating time are each settable by rotation of the control knob in its outer first axial setting (8-1).
2. Domestic appliance according to claim 1, characterised in that the switching-over to one or other function for setting of the time of day or function for setting of the operating time respectively takes place when the control knob is held by a manual pressure force (14) for a predetermined minimum time in the depressed third axial setting (8-3).
3. Domestic appliance according to claim 2, characterised in that the minimum time amounts to at least two seconds.
4. Domestic appliance according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the rotational angle range of the control knob (8) in the two rotational directions is each limited to a predetermined end value and that through rotation to the end value in one rotational direction the time is set to a higher value and through a rotation to the end value in the other rotational direction the time is set to a lower value.
5. Domestic appliance according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the time switch device (4) comprises a bit generator (10) activatable by the control knob (8).
6. Domestic appliance according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a display apparatus (30) with digit positions (32, 33, 34, 35) is provided and that the same digit positions are controllable by the control knob (8) alternatively for display of time of day or for display of the operating time.
7. Domestic appliance according to claim 6, characterised in that the display apparatus (30) comprises an illuminatable time of day symbol (38) and an illuminatable operating time symbol (36), of which one is illuminated each time when the time switch device is set to the function for setting the time of day and the other is illuminated each time when the time switching device is set to the function for setting the operating time.
8. Domestic appliance according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the settable operating time is an operating time duration.
9. Domestic appliance according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the settable operating time is an operating end time point.
10. Domestic appliance according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the switching-over from the function for setting the operating time to the function for setting the time of day is automatically switched back to the function for setting the operating time when within a predetermined waiting time after switching over to the function for setting the time of day no manual setting of the time of day is undertaken at the control knob (8).
11. Domestic appliance according to claim 10, characterised in that the waiting time is less than 11 seconds.

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