BE1029848B1 - Cover unit for covering a camera of a household appliance, household appliance, method for detachably coupling a cover unit and method for detecting a coupled cover unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cover unit (300) for covering a camera (120) of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher. The cover unit (300) has a closure element (305) that can be actuated by rotation and additionally or alternatively a closure element (305) for detachably coupling the cover unit (300) to a camera (120) and additionally or alternatively to the household appliance, in particular the Rinsing device (100), arranged counter-closure element (310).

Description

Description

Cover unit for covering a camera of a household appliance, household appliance,

Method of releasably coupling a cover unit and method of detecting a coupled cover unit

The invention relates to a cover unit for covering a camera of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, a method for releasably coupling a cover unit and a method for detecting a coupled cover unit.

In dishwashing appliances, such as dishwashers, to improve comfort,

Operating and rinsing properties optical systems are used. For example, a camera can be arranged inside the dishwasher. Different applications can be viewed and monitored here on the one hand with the door closed and on the other hand with the door open. In particular, by installing the camera in the door of the dishwasher, when the door is open, people who are near the

Dishwashers are to be perceived by the camera.

The object of the invention is an improved cover unit for covering a

to provide a flushing device camera, an improved flushing device, an improved method for releasably coupling a cover assembly, and an improved method for detecting a coupled cover assembly.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a cover unit for covering a camera of a household appliance, a household appliance, a method for releasably coupling a

Cover unit and a method for detecting a coupled cover unit with the

Features of the main claims solved. Advantageous refinements and developments of the invention result from the following dependent claims.

The advantages that can be achieved with the invention, in addition to the possibility of situation-related covering or switching off of the camera, are particularly simple to use.

A cover unit for covering a camera of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, is presented. The cover unit has a closure element that can be actuated by rotation and additionally or alternatively a closure element for releasably coupling the cover unit to a device arranged on the camera and additionally or alternatively on the household appliance, in particular the dishwasher

counter-closure element. The household appliance can be, for example, a

Dishwashing device, in particular a domestic dishwasher for cleaning dishes, which has at least one camera for monitoring an interior of the dishwashing device or for monitoring a cleaning process. Such a camera can be arranged, for example, in a door for closing the interior or in a side wall of the interior or in a ceiling of the interior. If the flushing device is opened by a user, for example, then the camera, particularly if it is arranged in the door that is now open, can be used in addition to the device and the camera arranged therein

Dishes also capture images of the area surrounding the dishwasher. If the camera records a person, for example, this can be perceived as annoying.

Advantageously, the camera can be covered with the cover unit presented here, so that it can be used for a desired period of time, for example during a

Putting the dishwasher, can not take pictures. For this purpose, the cover unit can be attached directly to the camera or to a part of the camera using the closure element

Household appliance or dishwasher, in which the camera is arranged, are attached. In a coupled state, the cover unit can cover the camera or at least one lens or viewing pane of the camera, so that advantageously none

Camera recordings are possible. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the

Cover unit, which can also be referred to as a closure flap, for detachable

Coupling with the camera or the household appliance, in particular trained dishwasher. This has the advantage that the cover unit is completely covered by the household appliance, in particular

Rinsing device can be removed, for example, to clean the camera and the

to allow cover unit. In addition, a detachable cover unit can advantageously be exchanged or replaced flexibly and inexpensively.

According to one embodiment, the cover unit can have a closure element which is formed as a sliding element for sliding into retaining rails of the counter-closure element. For example, running rails or holding rails can be arranged on two sides of the camera lens, into which the closure element or also the entire cover unit, for example shaped as a slide, can be pushed in from above or from the side. Advantageously, the cover unit can be completely removed from the camera and rinsing device if necessary. In addition, both the

Cover unit and the mating closure element can be produced inexpensively.

According to a further embodiment, the cover unit can have a closure element which can be formed as a thread for screwing as a bayonet closure.

For this purpose, for example, both the closure element and the

Counter-locking element circular and threaded with interlocking

Structures be formed. For example, similar to some camera lenses, the closure element can be placed on the mating closure element and firmly coupled to it by performing a slight rotational movement, for example by approximately 90 degrees. The screw system can, for example, be watertight and additionally or alternatively have a flushing system in the thread.

Advantageously, a bayonet lock can be produced inexpensively and the cover unit can be coupled to the camera firmly and reliably by means of a bayonet lock and at the same time easily detachable by a user if necessary.

According to a further embodiment, the cover unit can have a closure element which can be formed as a thread for screwing as a screw closure. For example, both the closure element and the

Counter-closure element be circular in shape and screwed together

have thread. Advantageously, a screw cap can be produced inexpensively and the cover unit can be coupled to the camera firmly and reliably by means of a screw cap and at the same time easily detachable by a user if necessary.

According to a further embodiment, the cover unit can have a closure element which can be formed as openings for closure as a hinge.

For example, the closure element and the counter-closure element can be constructed with a combined locking/folding hinge and, for example, the

Viewing pane of the camera unit can be attached as needed or as desired. The

The closure element can, for example, as a so-called clip closure, first be pushed onto the hinge device and then folded over onto the lens.

Hinges can advantageously be produced in a cost-effective and space-saving manner.

According to a further embodiment, at least the closure element

be formed elastomer. For example, the cover unit can be made entirely or at least partially of a flexible elastomer. The closure element can therefore simply be slipped over the camera lens if desired or required. Appropriate

Holding devices on the camera's viewing slide can, for example, prevent the camera from falling off

Prevent closure element in operation or at standstill of the household appliance, especially the dishwasher. This embodiment has the advantage that

Closure element can be manufactured inexpensively and at the same time waterproof and easily attached.

According to a further embodiment, the cover unit can be formed with wings which can be slid into a field of view of the camera by rotation. For example, the cover a mechanical shutter iris, comparable to the principle of

Have the pupil of the eye or a camera diaphragm. The mechanism can be, for example, between the lens of the camera and a shutter of the

Be arranged cover unit. Here, by turning the locking disc, the

Mechanism for adjusting the closure elements are triggered. A twist of

Closing disc, for example by 60 °, a plurality of wings in front of the

Push the camera unit and thus cover your viewing angle. Alternatively, they can

Closure elements can also be designed as in the construction of an excavator shovel. The

Triggering or opening and closing of the blades can be achieved, for example, by permanent magnets integrated in the rotatable closure disk.

If the magnets are exactly in the pivoting direction of the closure elements, they can attract the corresponding magnetically designed closure elements and thus the view of the

open camera. If the closure element is rotated 90 degrees, the magnets can no longer work and the closure elements can, for example, by a simple

Close spring preload. Advantageously, the camera lens can be covered very precisely as a result.

In addition, a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, such as a household

Dishwasher, with a camera and a counter-locking element for releasable

Coupling with a variant of the previously presented cover unit and additionally or alternatively presented with a camera with a variant of the previously presented closure element that can be actuated by rotation. Advantageously, the camera of the

Household appliance, in particular the rinsing device, for example, monitor a processing operation within the household appliance, such as a rinsing process, and also after

Wish and need can be switched mechanically inactive by using the cover unit. For people who have bought the household appliance, in particular the dishwasher, with the camera, but do not want it activated for various reasons or aspects, there is the possibility of switching off the camera at desired times or permanently using the shutter.

According to one embodiment, the household appliance, in particular the washing-up appliance, can comprise the cover unit coupled to the mating closure element. For example, the cover unit can be arranged on the camera with a rotatable closure element, or the cover unit can be used as a flexibly exchangeable accessory part of the camera

Household appliance, be designed in particular the dishwasher. Advantageously, the

The camera of the flushing device can therefore be used depending on the situation and user requirements.

According to a further embodiment, the camera can be designed to capture the coupled cover unit. Additionally or alternatively, the rinsing device

Have sensor for detecting the coupled cover unit. For example, a

Sensor for detecting the closure element can be arranged on the camera. This

For example, the sensor can monitor the inserted and/or closed cover unit or flap in order to advantageously deactivate the camera or, conversely, activate it again. Any type of sensor can advantageously be used here, for example an optical sensor that

Closure flap can easily and inexpensively sense.

In addition, a method for releasably coupling a variant of the cover unit presented above with a mating closure element of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, and additionally or alternatively a camera of the household appliance, in particular the dishwasher, is presented. The method has a step of providing the flushing device and the cover unit, and a step of coupling the

Closure element of the cover unit with the counter-closure element. Advantageously, the camera can be covered and deactivated at the same time, for example

Example during transport of the flushing device.

In addition, a method for detecting a coupled variant of the previously presented

Cover unit presented in a variant of the previously presented household appliance, or the dishwasher. The method includes a step of sensory detection of the

Cover unit, a step of deactivating the camera when the cover unit is detected, and additionally or alternatively a step of activating the camera when the

Cover unit is not detected. For example, a check of the cover unit per

Camera at defined time intervals, for example every 24 hours, or at certain prominent test points, such as at predetermined

Operating conditions, for example to start a program, after each loading of the

washing baskets or opening the washing machine door, etc. If the lens is detected to be covered, the camera functions are deactivated within these time intervals or check points. Activation or deactivation of the camera can be indicated, for example, via the device display and additionally or alternatively to an external

Display device or control device are transmitted as a smartphone.

Advantageously, the camera can be operated in an energy-saving manner using this method.

The approach presented here also creates a device that is designed to

Carry out, control or implement steps of a variant of a method presented here in appropriate facilities. Also through this

Embodiment of the invention in the form of a device, the object on which the invention is based can be solved quickly and efficiently.

The device can be designed to read input signals and

Using the input signals to determine and provide output signals. A

The input signal can represent, for example, a sensor signal that can be read in via an input interface of the device. An output signal can be a control signal or a

Represent data signal that can be provided at an output interface of the device. The device can be designed to take the output signals

to determine the use of a processing rule implemented in hardware or software. For example, the device to a logic circuit, an integrated

Circuit or include a software module and for example as a discrete

Be realized component or be comprised of a discrete component.

A computer program product or computer program is also advantageous

Program code on a machine-readable carrier or storage medium such as a

Semiconductor memory, a hard disk memory or an optical memory can be stored. If the program product or program runs on a computer or

Executed device, the program product or program for implementation,

Implementation and / or control of the steps of the method are used according to one of the embodiments described above.

An embodiment of the invention is shown purely schematically in the drawings and is described in more detail below. It shows

Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a flushing device according to one

embodiment;

Figure 2 schematic representation of an embodiment of a door of a

Flushing device with a camera according to an embodiment;

Figure 3 schematic representation of an embodiment of a door of a

flushing device with a concealable camera;

Figure 4A is a schematic representation of a cover unit according to a

embodiment;

FIG. 4B shows a schematic representation of the cover unit according to FIG. 4a in one

rear view;

FIG. 5A shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5B shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of the concealable camera according to FIG

FIG. 5A with a cover according to an embodiment;

Figure 6 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

flushing device with a concealable camera;

FIG. 7A shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to one

embodiment;

FIG. 7B shows a schematic representation of the covering unit according to FIG. 7A in one

rear view;

FIG. 8A shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8B shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of the concealable camera according to FIG

FIG. 8A with a cover according to an embodiment;

Figure 9 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

flushing device with a concealable camera;

FIG. 10A shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to one

embodiment;

FIG. 10B shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to FIG. 10A in one

rear view;

FIG. 11A shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a concealable camera according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the concealable camera according to FIG

FIG. 11A with a cover according to an embodiment;

Figure 12 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door of a

flushing device with a concealable camera;

FIG. 13A shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of an embodiment of a concealable camera with a sensor;

FIG. 13B shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of an embodiment of a coverable camera with a sensor and with a cover according to an embodiment;

Figure 14 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door of a

flushing device with a concealable camera;

FIG. 15A shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to one

embodiment;

FIG. 15B shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to FIG. 15A in a

rear view;

FIG. 16A shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera according to an embodiment;

FIG. 16B shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of the covered camera according to FIG

Figure 16A;

FIG. 17A shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to one

embodiment;

Figure 17B shows a schematic representation of a cover unit according to Figure 17A in

locking position;

FIG. 18A shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a concealable camera according to an embodiment;

FIG. 18B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a concealable camera according to FIG

FIG. 18A in the closed position;

FIG. 19A shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a concealable camera according to an embodiment;

FIG. 19B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a concealable camera according to FIG

Figure 19A in the open position;

FIG. 20 shows a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method for releasably coupling a cover unit to a mating closure element of a camera of a flushing device; and

Figure 21 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for

Detection of a coupled cover unit in a flushing device.

FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional representation of a household appliance using the example of a flushing device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The flushing device is only an example

Dishwasher designed and includes in this embodiment

Interior 105 in which crockery 110 is arranged for washing, merely by way of example. The

Interior 105 can be closed with a door 115 in this exemplary embodiment. For the

The rinsing device 100 monitors a rinsing process in the interior 105 in the latter

Embodiment, a camera 120, which is arranged only by way of example in the door, and only by way of example, a further camera 125 in a side wall 130 and an additional camera 135 in a ceiling 140 of the dishwasher 100. In another

Embodiment, the flushing device, for example, only include a camera at one of the positions mentioned or at another location, for example in the

Rear wall of the dishwasher can be arranged.

In this exemplary embodiment, the camera 120, the additional camera 125 and the additional camera 135 can be closed with a cover unit, as shown in the following FIGS. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19. The cameras 120 , 125 , 135 are configured, purely by way of example, to detect covering by such a covering unit and to provide such a state by means of a signal to a device 145 , merely by way of example. The

Device 145 is configured in this embodiment to include one, two, or all

deactivate cameras 120, 125, 135 when the cover unit has been detected. In addition, the cameras 120, 125, 135 can only be activated as an example if the cover unit is not detected.

Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

Flushing device with a camera 120 according to an embodiment. The one shown here

Door 115 and camera 120 correspond or are similar to the door and camera described in the previous figure. So the 120 camera is in this one

Embodiment designed to monitor an interior of the rinsing device, as described in the previous figure. Installing the camera 120 in the door 115 in this exemplary embodiment makes it possible for people who are in the vicinity of the dishwasher to see or perceive the camera directly when the door is open. If just at the moment the camera 120 on

picture and this does not show the user or the bystander that she is taking a picture, this is perceived as annoying or problematic.

Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

Rinsing device with a coverable camera 120. The door 115 shown here and the camera 120 correspond to or are similar to the door described in the previous figures and the camera described. The camera 120 can be covered by a cover unit 300 in this exemplary embodiment. For this purpose, the cover unit 300 is circular in shape, merely by way of example, and has a closure element 305 which is in this

Embodiment for releasably coupling the cover unit with a counter-closure element 310 arranged on the camera. This is just an example

Closure element 305 formed in this embodiment as a sliding element for sliding onto the camera 120.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show a schematic representation of a cover unit 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. The covering unit 300 corresponds to or is similar to the covering unit described in FIG. 3 above. The cover unit 300 is shown in a front view in FIG. 4A and in a rear view in FIG. 4B. The

Covering unit 300 has a closure element 305, merely by way of example, that in this

Embodiment is formed as a sliding element. Accordingly, the

Cover unit 300 are also referred to as slides in this configuration.

Figures 5A and 5B show a schematic cross-sectional view of a coverable

Camera 120 according to an embodiment. The camera 120 corresponds or is similar to the camera described in the preceding FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 and is integrated in a door 115, which corresponds to or is similar to the door of a dishwasher described in the preceding FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, by way of example only. The camera 120 is in the

Figure 5A shown uncovered, while in Figure 5B it is covered with a cover unit 300. In this exemplary embodiment, the camera 120 has a

Counter-closure element 310 on a lens 505 or a visor of

Camera 120 on. The mating closure element 310 is merely an example

Retaining rails for detachable coupling to the closure element 305 of the cover unit 300 are formed. In another exemplary embodiment, the mating closure element can also be arranged next to, above or below the camera and additionally or alternatively be formed as part of the door.

In other words, in Figures 3, 4 and 5, the cover of the camera 120 per

Slider realized, that is, in the form of an accessory. The slider can be slid onto the camera lens from the side or from above. The lens 505 has devices in the form of

Running or retaining rails that are shaped to hold the closure element 305.

Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

Rinsing device with a coverable camera 120. The door 115 shown here and the camera 120 correspond to or are similar to those in the previous figures 1, 2, 3 and

The described door and the described camera. The camera 120 is in this

Embodiment can be covered by a cover unit 300. The cover assembly 300 is the same as or similar to that described in Figures 3, 4 and 5 above

Cover unit, with the difference that the cover unit 300 in this

Embodiment has a closure element 305, which as a thread for

Screwing is formed as a bayonet lock. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, the cover unit 300 can be coupled to the camera 120 both by rotation and in a detachable manner.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show a schematic representation of a cover unit 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. The cover assembly 300 corresponds or is similar to the cover assembly described in Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6 above. Here is the

Cover unit 300 in FIG. 7A in a front view and in FIG. 7B in one

Rear view shown. The cover unit 300 has only one example

Closure element 305 that in this embodiment as a thread for

Screwing is formed as a bayonet lock.

Figures 8A and 8B show a schematic cross-sectional view of a coverable

Camera 120 according to an embodiment. The camera 120 corresponds to or is similar to the camera described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 and is only exemplary integrated in a door 115, the door described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 a flushing device corresponds or resembles. The camera 120 is in the

Figure 8A shown uncovered while covered with a cover unit 300 in Figure 8B. In this exemplary embodiment, the camera 120 has a

Counter-closure element 310 on the lens 505. This is just an example

Counter-closure element 310 with buttons for pushing into the shaped as a thread

Closure element 305 of the cover unit 300 formed. In another

Embodiment, the counter-closure element next to, above or below the

Be arranged camera and additionally or alternatively be formed as part of the door.

In other words, in Figures 6, 7 and 8 the coverage of the camera 120 is per

screw cap shown. As with lenses, the screw connection is per

Bayonet catch implemented. The bolting system is designed to be watertight, just by way of example. In another embodiment, it can

Screwing system must be provided with a flushing system in the thread.

Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

Rinsing device with a coverable camera 120. The door 115 and the camera 120 shown here correspond or are similar to the door and the camera described in the preceding FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8. The camera 120 is in this

Embodiment can be covered by a cover unit 300. The cover assembly 300 is the same as or similar to that described in Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 above

Cover unit, with the difference that the cover unit 300 in this

Embodiment has a closure element 305, which as a thread for

Screwing is formed as a screw cap.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show a schematic representation of a cover unit 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. The cover assembly 300 corresponds or is similar to the cover assembly described in Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 above. Here is the

Cover unit 300 in FIG. 10A in a front view and in FIG. 10B in one

Rear view shown. The cover unit 300 has only one example

Closure element 305 that in this embodiment as a thread for

Screwing is formed as a screw cap.

FIGS. 11A and 11B show a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera 120 according to an exemplary embodiment. The camera 120 is the same as or similar to that described in previous Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8 and, by way of example only, is incorporated into a door 115 like that shown in the previous ones

Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8 described door of a washing machine corresponds or is similar. The camera 120 is shown uncovered in FIG. 11A, while it is covered with a covering unit 300 in FIG. 11B. In this exemplary embodiment, the camera 120 has a mating shutter element 310 on the lens 505 . This is just an example

Counter-closure element 310 is formed with elevations for screwing into the closure element 305 of the cover unit 300, which is formed as a thread. In another

Embodiment, the counter-closure element next to, above or below the

Be arranged camera and additionally or alternatively be formed as part of the door.

In other words, in Figures 9, 10 and 11 another cover per

Screw cap shown, which is constructed according to the closure principle, as can also be found in water bottles.

Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

Rinsing device with a coverable camera 120. The door 115 and the camera 120 shown here correspond or are similar to the door and the camera described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9 and 11 described. The camera 120 is in this

Embodiment can be covered by a cover unit 300. The cover unit 300 corresponds to or is similar to the cover unit described in the previous figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, with the difference that the cover unit 300 in this

Embodiment has a closure element 305, which as openings to

Closing is formed as a hinge. In this exemplary embodiment, a counter-closure element 310 is arranged on the camera 120, which is formed with elevations for clicking into the openings of the closure element 305 of the cover unit 300, merely by way of example. In other words, in this figure, the closure element 305 with a

Clip closure shown. This is an example with a combined rest/

Folding hinge constructed and attachable to the viewing pane of the camera unit as needed or as desired. The closure element 305 can first be slid onto the hinge device and then folded over onto the camera 120 .

Figures 13A and 13B show a schematic cross-sectional view of a

Exemplary embodiment of a concealable camera 120 with a sensor 1300. The camera 120 corresponds to or is similar to the camera described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11 and 12 and is only integrated in a door 115 by way of example, corresponding or similar to the washer door described in Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11 and 12 above. The camera 120 is shown uncovered in FIG. 13A, while it is covered with a covering unit 300 in FIG. 13B. In this

In the exemplary embodiment, the camera 120 includes a sensor 1300 that is designed to detect the coupled cover unit 300 . As a result of the covering unit 300 being detected, the camera 120 can be deactivated in this exemplary embodiment in order to save energy. In other words, a device is shown in this figure, which has a sensor 1300 for

Detection of the cover unit 300 has. Incidentally, such a sensor 1300 is not explicitly shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in the other figures, but can also be present in all of these exemplary embodiments. The sensor 1300 monitors the inserted and closed flap in order to then deactivate the camera 120 or, conversely, to activate it again. In this exemplary embodiment, an optical sensor 1300 is installed purely as an example

Closing flap recognizes, e.g. by detecting one of a reflection surface of the

Shutter flap reflected light beam detected. In another exemplary embodiment, any type of sensor can be used that simply and inexpensively senses the closure flap. Alternatively, the closure element can also be detected solely via the camera, i.e. without an additional sensor.

Figure 14 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a door 115 of a

Rinsing device with a coverable camera 120. The door 115 and the camera 120 shown here correspond or are similar to the door and the camera described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12 and 13 described. In this case, the camera 120 can be covered by a cover unit 300 in this exemplary embodiment. The cover unit 300 corresponds or is similar to the cover unit described in the previous figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13, with the difference that the cover unit 300 in this exemplary embodiment is formed from elastomer . As a result, the closure element 305 can be placed flexibly over the camera 120 . In another exemplary embodiment, only the closure element can also be made of elastomer.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show a schematic representation of a cover unit 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. The cover assembly 300 is the same as or similar to that described in Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 above

cover unit. The cover unit 300 is shown in FIG. 15A in a front view and in FIG. 15B in a rear view. In this exemplary embodiment, the cover unit 300 is made of elastomer.

FIGS. 16A and 16B show a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera 120 according to an exemplary embodiment. The camera 120 is the same as or similar to that described in previous Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14 and, by way of example only, is incorporated into a door 115, like that shown in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14 described door of a

flushing device corresponds or resembles. The camera 120 is shown uncovered in FIG. 16A, while it is covered with a covering unit 300 in FIG. 16B. The cover unit 300 is made of flexible elastomer, purely by way of example, and is slipped over the lens 505 of the camera 120 in FIG. 16B. Appropriate holding devices on the

Visible slides prevent the closure element 300 from falling off during operation or during operation

Dishwasher stopped.

FIGS. 17A and 17B show a schematic representation of a cover unit 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. The cover assembly 300 is the same as or similar to that described in Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 above

Cover unit, with the difference that the cover unit 300 shown here fixed to the

Camera 120 is arranged. Here, the cover unit 300 is provided with a plurality of wings

1700 formed, which can be pushed into a viewing area of the camera 120 by rotation.

In other words, the cover unit 300 in this exemplary embodiment is provided with a mechanical shutter iris according to the principle of the pupil of the eye or one

Shaped camera bezel. By rotating a locking disc 1705 of

The mechanism for adjusting the wings 1700 or the closure elements can be triggered in the cover unit 300 . A rotation of the shutter disc 1705 by just 60 degrees, for example, pans all 6 elements in front of the camera unit and thus covers its angle of view.

FIGS. 18A and 18B show a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera 120 according to an embodiment. The camera 120 corresponds or is similar to the camera described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 and 17 and is only exemplary in a door 115 integrated, which of in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 16 described door of a

flushing device corresponds or resembles. The camera 120 is shown uncovered in FIG. 18A, while it is covered in FIG. 18B. By way of example only, camera 120 in this exemplary embodiment is formed by a cover unit 300 with a plurality of wings 1700, which can be pushed into a field of view of camera 120 by rotation, as already described, for example, in FIGS. 17A and 17B. The mechanism is merely an example between the viewing pane or lens 505 and the

Locking disk 1705 arranged.

FIGS. 19A and 19B show a schematic cross-sectional representation of a concealable camera 120 according to an exemplary embodiment. The camera 120 corresponds to or is similar to the camera described in the previous figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17 and 18 and is integrated in a door 115 only by way of example. corresponding or similar to the washer door described in Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 and 18 above. The camera 120 is shown covered in FIG. 19A, while it is uncovered in FIG. 19B. The is merely an example

Camera 120 formed in this embodiment by a cover unit 300 with two wings 1700, by rotation about an axis 1900 of the cover unit 300 in one

Field of view of the camera 120 are slidable. The mechanism is arranged between the viewing pane or lens 505 and the closure pane 1705 merely by way of example. In other words, in this figure, another embodiment for

Locking of the camera unit is shown by turning a locking disc 1705.

The locking elements are designed like the construction of an excavator shovel. The

The blades can be triggered or opened and closed, for example, as shown here, by the integrated in the rotatable closure disk 1705

Permanent magnets 1905 can be achieved. If the magnets are positioned exactly in the pivoting direction of the closure elements, they will attract the closure elements, which are magnetically designed only by way of example, and thus open the view of the camera 120. If this

If the locking element is turned 90 degrees, the magnets are no longer effective and the

Closing elements close, for example, with a simple spring preload.

FIG. 20 shows a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 2000 for releasably coupling a cover unit to a mating closure element of a camera of a flushing device. The method 2000 includes a step 2005 of providing the

Rinsing device and the cover unit and a step 2010 of coupling the

Closure element of the cover unit with the counter-closure element. By way of example only, the step 2010 of coupling is in three in this embodiment

sub-steps 2010A, 2010B, 2010C. In sub-step 2010C, this

Embodiment fixed the cover unit only by way of example by means of a detachable hinge on the camera. In the following sub-step 2010B, the cover unit based on that

hinge folded over the camera and sub-step 2010C attaches it to the dem

Hinge opposite end of camera hooked.

FIG. 21 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 2100 for

Detection of a coupled cover unit in a flushing device. The method 2100 comprises a step 2105 of sensory detection of the covering unit, a step 2110 of

disabling the camera when the capping unit is detected, and a step 2115 of - activating the camera when the capping unit is not detected. The examination of

In this exemplary embodiment, the covering unit takes place at defined time intervals, for example in

Time intervals of 24 hours, for example. If the lens is detected to be covered, the camera functions are deactivated within these time intervals.

In another exemplary embodiment, the method can also exclusively include the steps of detection and deactivation. Additionally or alternatively, the

Check also on certain prominent checkpoints, such as certain

operating conditions, for example at the start of the program, after each loading, etc. The camera can optionally be activated and deactivated via the

Device display shown and additionally or alternatively transmitted to an external display device or operating device such as a smartphone.

Claims (12)

patent claims 1. Cover unit (300) for covering a camera (120) of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher (100), the cover unit (300) having a closure element (305) that can be actuated by rotation and/or a closure element (305) for detachably coupling the cover unit ( 300) with a counter-closure element (310) arranged on the camera (120) and/or on the flushing device (100). 2. Cover unit (300) according to claim 1, wherein the cover unit (300) has a closure element (305) which is formed as a sliding element for insertion into holding rails of the counter-closure element (310). 3. cover unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover unit (300) has a closure element (305) which is formed as a thread for screwing as a bayonet lock. 4. cover unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover unit (300) has a closure element (305) which is formed as a thread for screwing as a screw cap. 5. Cover unit (300) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover unit (300) has a closure element (305) which is formed as openings for closing as a hinge. 6. cover unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the closure element (305) is formed from elastomer. 7. cover unit (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover unit (300) is formed with wings (1700) which are slidable by rotation in a field of view of the camera (120). 8. Household appliance, in particular a dishwasher (100), with a camera (120) and a counter-closure element (310) for detachable coupling to a cover unit (300) according to one of the preceding claims and/or a camera (120) with a closure element that can be actuated by rotation (305) according to any one of the preceding claims. 9. Household appliance, in particular flushing appliance (100), according to claim 8, with the counter-closure element (310) coupled cover unit (300). 10. Household appliance, in particular flushing device (100), according to one of the preceding claims 8 or 9, wherein the camera (120) is designed to capture the coupled cover unit (300), and/or wherein the household appliance, in particular flushing device (100 ), a sensor for detecting the coupled cover unit (300). 11. Method (2000) for releasably coupling a cover unit (300) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7 with a mating closure element (310) of a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher (100) and/or a camera (120) of the household appliance, in particular a dishwasher (100), wherein the method (2000) has the following steps (2005, 2010): providing (2005) the domestic appliance, in particular the dishwasher (100), and the cover unit (300); and coupling (2010) the closure member (305) of the cover unit (300) to the mating closure member (310). 12. Method (2100) for detecting a coupled cover unit (300) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7 in a household appliance, in particular a dishwasher (100), according to one of the preceding claims 8 to 10, the method (2100) having the following steps ( 2105, 2110, 2115) comprises: sensing (2105) the cover unit (300); disabling (2110) the camera (120) when the cover unit (300) is detected; and/or activating (2115) the camera (120) when the cover unit (300) is not detected.