DE202014010439U1 - functional unit - Google Patents

Abstract

Functional unit, in particular shelf or extractor element, with at least two frame elements and at least one, preferably with exactly one hinge, by means of which the frame elements are positioned at different angles to each other, wherein the frame members span a space whose shape depends on the angle between the frame elements and wherein the frame elements are arranged such that the functional unit over the entire height or over a partial area of the height of the functional unit has a variable depth and preferably from top to bottom decreasing depth.

Description

The present invention relates to a functional unit, in particular a shelf or an extractor element.

Functional units, such as shelves or cabinets for kitchens, are known in numerous different embodiments, for example as base cabinets, wall units or tall cabinets. They usually consist of a body which can be closed by a door or flap or in which a plurality of extracts is added.

In the majority of known furniture elements for kitchens there is a disadvantage in that they have fixed predetermined dimensions and therefore can not or only with difficulty adapted to different spatial conditions.

The present invention is therefore the object of developing a functional unit, in particular for use as a furniture element and preferably for a kitchen to the effect that this allows a particularly flexible use.

This object is achieved by a functional unit having the features of claim 1.

Thereafter, it is provided that the functional unit is formed with at least two frame members and at least one hinge and preferably with exactly one hinge, by means of which the frame members are positioned at different angles to each other, wherein the frame members span a space whose shape of the angle between the Frame elements depends and wherein the frame members are arranged such that the functional unit over the entire height or over a portion of the height of the functional unit has a variable depth and preferably a decreasing from top to bottom depth.

By using a hinge, it is possible to position the frame elements at the desired angle to each other, so that different widths and depths of the functional unit, such as a top shelf can be realized. The shelf can for example stand up on a worktop, preferably in its rear area, which adjoins the kitchen wall. As a result of the depth of the functional unit, which increases, for example, at the top, comparatively little space is occupied by the functional unit at the height of the worktop. The functional unit, due to its greater depth, offers sufficient storage space or space for equipment or for technical equipment, such as z. B. a fume hood.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the functional unit has an upper side and that the hinge is located in the upper side or in the region of the upper side of the functional unit. It is conceivable that the functional unit only has exactly one hinge.

It is also conceivable that the functional unit has a hinge which is located in or in the region of the underside.

An embodiment is also conceivable in which the depth of the functional unit increases from top to bottom.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the functional unit has at least two frame elements and at least one foot piece, on which at least two frame elements converge. Preferably, two foot pieces are provided, which form the two lower portions of the functional unit and on each of which a plurality of frame elements terminate.

Preferably, it is further provided that the frame elements more in the height direction of the functional unit, d. H. Has obliquely or vertically from top to bottom extending legs which extend at an angle to each other, it is preferably provided that at least one of these legs is vertical and at least one leg is inclined relative to a vertical plane. Preferably, the vertically extending leg is about the rear, d. H. around a leg facing away from the front side, and at the obliquely extending leg around the front, d. H. around a leg facing towards the front or running in the front leg.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that at least one connecting means is provided, which has at least a first portion which is in communication with the hinge and which in at least one operating state, preferably in the state in which no finished fixation of the frame elements is done, relative is movable to the hinge and having at least a second portion which is connected to the frame member.

Preferably, the or connecting means is rotatable relative to the Grundköper, ie movable in the circumferential direction of the base body. This can be achieved, for example, by arranging in the base body at least one groove in which the at least one connecting means runs. It is also conceivable that this or that Connecting means are arranged on a circumferential element, such as on a ring or the like, which is rotatable relative to the base body. In this way, an alignment of the connecting means relative to the base body is conceivable.

By means of the present invention, it is conceivable, for example, for the two frame elements to be at 90 ° to each other in the upper region of the functional unit, for example, or to be pivoted relative to one another such that acute and obtuse angles are present between the frame elements. It is also conceivable to fold the functional unit so that it is as space-saving as possible by the frame elements are largely or completely adjacent to each other, which may be useful, for example in the context of transport or storage.

By the hinge according to the invention it is possible, the frame or members along the groove or the like preferably. to move along the circumference of the body and to fix in the desired position. For example, the angle between two frame elements can be adjusted to 45 ° or even to a smaller or larger angle. If the functional unit is to be folded, it is conceivable to reduce the angle, so that the frame elements rest against one another or have a comparatively small distance from one another. By creating a groove, it is conceivable that the frame members are fixable in any position and not only in certain positions in the groove, so that accordingly any angle between the frame elements are adjustable.

However, the invention also encompasses the case in which the hinge has preferred positions in which the frame elements can be fixed relative to the hinge.

Due to the fact that different angles between the frame elements are adjustable, the outer dimensions of the functional unit can be changed accordingly without further ado. If the two frame elements are the same size and they are at 90 ° to each other, the result is a plan view in cross-section square functional unit. If the angle is changed, a rectangular functional unit results in the plan view in cross section. It is thus possible in a simple manner to create differently dimensioned functional units by adjusting the angle between the frame elements, without requiring a structural change of the functional unit is required.

Preferably, the groove is circumferential, but may also be only partially present, d. H. do not extend around the entire base body.

The groove preferably has at least one opening through which the connecting means can be inserted into the groove. The opening is dimensioned such that the connecting means can be inserted with its first portion through this opening in the groove. If the connecting means is moved in the groove away from the opening, it is positively held by the groove in the radial direction of the hinge, but is movable along the groove prior to assembly of the frame member.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that one or more struts extend between two legs extending in the height direction of the functional unit, wherein it is preferably provided that the struts have a surface inclined relative to the horizontal, wherein it is provided in particular that the Angle about which the surface is inclined, preferably in the range of 30 ° to 60 ° and preferably at 45 °.

The one or more frame members, preferably all frame members may be made of a material whose thickness is less than its height and width.

The struts preferably extend along one or more outer sides of the functional unit, wherein it is preferably provided that the surface is remote from the outer side, d. H. turned towards the interior of the functional unit or inclined. The term "strut" is to be understood generally and includes any element that extends between the legs. The struts can be designed as plates, profiles, strips, rods, etc.

The struts serve as a support for any functional elements, such as drawers, trays or any other shelves. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the functional elements have mating surfaces which rest on the struts and preferably extend parallel to the surface of the struts.

The strut may be fixedly secured to the legs or such that the strut is slidable along the legs or otherwise positionable at a plurality of different positions of the legs. For example, it is conceivable that the legs have a groove which extends in the longitudinal direction of the legs and that the strut (s) has a projection which runs in the groove.

It is conceivable that the functional unit has a first side and a preferably opposite second side, such as a right and a left outer side, and that at least one strut is located both on the first and on the second side, wherein the struts are aligned so that their relative to the horizontal inclined tops to the inside of the functional unit point. In the view from the front, the functional unit can thus have, for example, on its right and on its left side one or more struts which face each other so that the perpendiculars extending from the surfaces of the right and left struts intersect each other. These statements do not apply to the pages right and left, but for any pages of the functional unit, such as front and rear, etc.

Preferably, the top of the struts is inclined relative to the horizontal, for example, at an angle in the range of 30 ° to 60 °, and preferably at an angle of 45 °.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the legs, between which the strut extends, at least in the region on which the strut is arranged, in a cross-sectional view to each other include a predetermined angle, wherein it is preferably provided that this angle regardless of the angle, the frame elements to each other, is constant and is preferably at 90 °. Each of these areas on which the strut abuts can thus be angled relative to a center plane of the functional unit by an angle of 45 °, so that two of these areas enclose an angle of 90 ° with each other.

The above angle indications are only exemplary values which do not limit the invention.

It is preferably provided that the legs have grooves in which the struts are slidably received.

Preferably, the legs form the outer edges of the functional unit. The groove is preferably arranged on a side facing away from the outside of the legs.

Furthermore, it can be provided that guide elements are provided, by means of which a resting on the legs functional element, such as in particular a tray or a tray or the like, are extendable and insertable, wherein the guide elements are arranged on the struts and / or on the functional element. These guide elements can be designed as pull-out rails, roller bearings, etc. Of course, it is also encompassed by the invention that the functional elements slide on the surface of the legs along when the functional elements are pulled out or inserted.

Preferably, it is provided that said connecting means, which connects the hinge to the frame members, is received with its second portion in a bore or other receptacle of the end portion of the frame member adjacent to the hinge. Thus, for example, in the end face of the frame element, with which it adjoins the hinge, a receptacle or the like may be provided, in which the connecting means is located. The connecting means is preferably arranged detachably in the receptacle when the frame element is not yet firmly connected to the hinge.

Furthermore, it can be provided that a fixing element is provided which cooperates with the connecting means such that the frame element is fixed relative to the hinge when the fixing element is in its fixing position. Thus, it is possible to hold by appropriate actuation of the fixing element, the frame member in the desired position and preferably to fix relative to the hinge. If it is to be released from this fixed position, it may be provided to release the fixing element again, with the result that the frame element is again movable relative to the hinge or that the connecting means can be moved again along the groove.

Preferably, it is provided that the fixing element cooperates with a portion of the connecting means, which has at least one bevel relative to the longitudinal axis of the connecting means, wherein this bevel is oriented such that in said cooperation, a movement of the frame member towards the hinge takes place. In this case, the frame member is used on the hinge, preferably until the end face of the frame member abuts the hinge by the fixing element is brought into its fixing position. This can be done, for example, that the fixing element is formed by a screw and the screw is tightened.

This screw can be screwed into a bore or threaded bore or other receptacle of the frame element, so that the end region of the screw comes into contact with the connecting means. If the end region of the screw or another section of the screw comes into contact with the connection means and preferably with the said bevel, the fixing element together with the frame element becomes the hinge attracted and fixed to the hinge by traction and / or by positive locking.

The number of frame members that communicate with each other by means of the hinge element is arbitrary. It is conceivable that three, four, six or eight end regions of frame elements are connected to the hinge. This list is exemplary and does not limit the invention.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the main body of the hinge has at least one recess or at least one projection which is positively connected to the end region of the frame element. In this way it is ensured that a particularly strong connection between the frame member and the hinge is created. In this case, for example, the hinge may have a recess into which a projection or the frame element or its end region as such / engages, or vice versa, the hinge may have a projection which communicates with a recess of the frame element in connection or occurs.

It is also conceivable that the functional unit has horizontal and vertical legs, wherein the horizontal legs are guided displaceably relative to the vertical legs or can be arranged at different positions of the vertical legs. In this way it is possible to adjust the height of the top of the functional unit.

The functional unit according to the invention can have exactly two or even more than two frame elements.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the functional unit is modularly configured and expandable, for example, in that a plurality of functional units are combined or grouped to form a system, in particular a furniture system comprising a plurality of functional units, such as shelves or the like. For example, it is conceivable that a plurality of functional elements are arranged next to one another and / or one above the other.

The functional elements according to the present invention can be realized in any desired sizes.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is conceivable that the frame elements are formed circumferentially or that the frame elements are open on one or more sides, d. H. not formed circumferentially. The term "frame element" is therefore by no means to be understood as restricting it to include only peripheral frames, such as picture frames, although such an embodiment is also included in the invention.

The term "frame member" includes any member which is directly or indirectly associated with the at least one hinge.

The frame member may - as stated - be formed circumferentially, wherein the peripheral structure may be closed or may also have an interruption. The frame element may also have the shape of a horizontal or standing U, V or L, etc. The frame member may be straight or curved. Preferably, at least one leg of the frame, in the case of a U- or V-shaped frame preferably both end portions of the U or V directly or indirectly with the one or more hinges in combination.

Thus, it is conceivable, for example, that, for example, two or more than two frame elements are provided, each having a peripheral or any differently configured frame or shape or have one or more open sides. So it is conceivable, for example, that the frame elements are open at the bottom or side and thus have the shape of a standing, upside down or lying U, V, L, etc.

In a conceivable embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the frame elements encircling, d. H. are designed in the form of a closed frame.

The frame elements mentioned, which are connected to each other via the at least one hinge, may be formed in one or more parts. Each frame element can thus consist of exactly one part or of several parts. They can be connected to each other by means of a hinge or preferably by means of two hinges and be pivotable relative to each other, wherein in the case of two hinges these are preferably spaced apart in the vertical direction or in the case of lying functional units in the horizontal direction.

In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that the hinge or the hinges are arranged so that it lies in the intersection of the planes formed by the two or more than two existing frame elements.

It is also conceivable that at least one and preferably all of Frame elements do not end at the hinge, but extend beyond this. In this case, the hinge may be arranged for example in a central region of the frame element.

However, the invention also encompasses the case in which the frame elements end at the hinge and, for example, extend in a substantially star-shaped or radial manner from the at least one hinge.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the at least one hinge is located in a central area of the frame element or elements and / or the functional unit. Preferably, the frame member (s) has at least one horizontal leg, wherein the at least one hinge is centrally disposed in the horizontal leg or wherein the at least one hinge is arranged such that the horizontal legs of the frame members terminate at the hinge.

It is conceivable that the frame elements have at least one and preferably two horizontal legs and at least one vertical leg and preferably two vertical legs which extend between the horizontal legs. Thus, a preferred embodiment of the invention is that the frame elements have the shape of a rectangle or a square or a U, whose inner portion is hollow.

The features mentioned with regard to the horizontal and / or vertical legs apply correspondingly to legs inclined relative to the horizontal and / or inclined relative to the vertical.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that in each case a frame element is located overall in a plane.

Alternatively, it is provided that at least a portion of the frame element is present, which lies in a different plane than the remaining part of the frame element. It is thus conceivable, for example, that the one or more vertical limbs of the frame element or elements are angled and thus not lie in the plane in which the remaining frame element is arranged. The background to this angled arrangement is that it can compensate for the different angles that sandwich the frame members.

If the area between the ends of two frame elements z. B. be closed by a door, hinges must be arranged on the frame elements directly or indirectly. If the hinges were arranged directly on the respective frame elements lying in one plane, depending on the angle between the frame elements, an orientation of the hinges would be dependent on this angle, which could lead, for example, to the door fixed to the hinge in its closed position in the 90th ° angle protrudes from the frame member and does not extend to the adjacent frame member in the closed position, which would be desirable per se.

The same applies to the fasteners of statements, shop etc.

In order to keep the alignment of the door hinges etc. the same even at different angles between the frame elements, it can thus be provided to angle the section of the frame elements on which the door hinges etc. are arranged.

In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that at least one adapter, in particular for fixing a hinge for a door or flap or for fixing a pull-out rail or for fixing a wheel is provided which is fixed to the frame member by means of one or more fixing means.

This adapter is preferably used to set the correct angle, for example, for mounting a hinge for a door or flap.

This adapter can be fixed, for example, by positive engagement with the frame member.

It is conceivable that the frame element preferably has at least one groove as fixing means, in which at least one projection of the adapter is positively received, wherein it is preferably provided that the groove is dovetail-shaped in cross-section and the adapter has a dovetail-shaped projection which in the groove of the frame element is received. The reverse application is of course conceivable, namely, that the said groove in the adapter and the projection on the frame element is located.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the frame element spans a plane and that an angled part of the frame element is arranged in a plane extending at an angle thereto, wherein the adapter is arranged on this angled part of the frame element. As already stated above, the adapter serves, for example, for fixing a hinge or a pull-out rail, and the angled part of the frame element serves to ensure that the door or flap or the drawer is correctly aligned.

Accordingly, it is preferably provided that the angle of the said angled frame member is formed depending on the angle which the two frame elements enclose with each other.

In a further embodiment of the invention, at least one element, in particular at least one metal element, in particular at least one metal insert is provided which extends between the angled portion of the frame member and the adjacent portion of the frame member and which defines the angle to which the angled portion of the frame member is angled relative to the plane defined by the frame element plane. By the metal element, which is also formed angled, thus can be set exactly the angle by which the angled portion of the frame member protrudes from the plane formed by the frame member.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the frame elements have at least one horizontal leg, preferably two horizontal legs and at least one vertical leg, preferably two vertical legs, which extend between the horizontal legs, wherein the fixing means for the adapter or the or horizontal and / or on the one or more vertical legs.

Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the fixing means are located on both sides or only on one side of the frame elements.

In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that at least one flap or door and in particular at least one sliding door is provided, by means of which at least one side and preferably the front side of the functional unit can be closed. It is also conceivable that in the space spanned by the frame members one or more extracts and / or containers and / or shelves are located.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that at least one of the frame elements, preferably all frame elements consist of a flat material, d. H. of a material whose thickness is less than its height and width. For example, strip-shaped elements made of plastic or wood may be considered.

The functional unit may have one or more leveling feet, preferably height-adjustable leveling feet and / or rollers.

In a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that at least one holding means, in particular for holding a storage container, such as a trash can, is located on the frame element (s) and / or on the hinge.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the structural element is covered on its upper side by a plate and / or that extends from the structural element at least one lighting unit or at least one extractor element. Preferably, a plurality of bulbs are in a horizontally extending bar, which is covered by closed closure element, such as sliding doors through them.

The present invention furthermore relates to a modular system comprising functional units, in particular furniture elements according to one of the preceding claims, and adapters for mounting on the frame element or elements, the adapters being identically designed for all functional units. In this embodiment of the invention, the adapters are thus designed as identical parts, which are identical regardless of the angle at which the frame elements are in relation to one another. The angle compensation is made by the angled part of the frame elements, as described in more detail above.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the door or flap or another closure element, in particular one or more sliding doors has at least one holding portion which engages behind a portion of the functional unit. This holding section is preferably located in the upper region of the closure element. Furthermore, the door or flap or the sliding door can be movable in a guide and / or by means of rollers or sliding elements. Preferably, these elements are located in the lower region of the closure element.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that at least one element arranged in the functional unit, in particular at least one storage shelf or a flap, is movable and / or pivotable in front of the functional unit, it being preferably provided that one or more lever mechanisms and / or or pivot axes are provided, which are preferably attached directly or indirectly to the frame member or on the strut and / or on the hinge. Thus, at least one kinematics may be provided, which is a movement of a functional unit, such. B. causes a shelf.

The kinematics can be designed such that the functional unit is made of that of the frame surrounded space is moved to an area in front of the frame. This movement can be superimposed by a downward movement, which has the advantage that the shelf or the like is more accessible to a user.

Further details and advantages of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawing. Show it:

1 : different views of the functional unit as a basic structure and with floors and doors,

2 : different views of the functional unit with floors, doors and flaps,

3 : a perspective view of the functional unit with detail views of the foot part,

4 : a perspective view of the functional unit with detail views,

5 a side view and a perspective view of the functional unit,

6 : different views of the functional unit with kinematics for moving floors,

7 FIG. 2: a perspective view of the functional unit with a sectional view, FIG.

8th : different views of the functional unit with floors and doors,

9 : different views of the hinge,

10 : different views of the connecting element and

11 : different views of the hinge with it fixed or to be fixed frame elements.

Out 1 is a perspective view of a functional unit according to the present invention. The functional unit 1 includes a centrally located hinge 30 , From this hinge 30 four frame elements extend 10a . 10b . 20a and 20b , Like this 1 shows, each of these frame members is L-shaped and has a horizontal leg H and a running from top to bottom legs V and V 'on.

The horizontal legs H are in their one end portion with the hinge 30 in connection and with their other end region with the legs V and V '.

The legs V, V 'running from top to bottom end in pairs in the foot part F in their lower end region. They can be fixedly arranged there or movable relative to the foot part.

The legs V extend vertically, whereas the legs V 'are inclined relative to a vertical plane.

1b) shows the functional element in the form of a shelf with floors 900 and side walls W1 and W2 attached to the frame members 10a . 10b . 20a . 20b or are arranged or held between them extending strips.

1c) shows a further perspective view and illustrates that the front side of the shelf by two sliding doors T1 and T2 is closed, the sliding doors to open the shelf are successively displaced.

The doors, in particular the sliding doors may for example consist of glass or of a non-transparent material such as aluminum.

1d) shows an embodiment according to 1b) with a cover plate D.

The embodiment according to 1 shows the functional unit in the form of a shelf. However, the invention is not limited thereto, but also includes other functional units in which, for example, elements for a fume hood, in particular a blower, filters, etc. are arranged.

Out 2a) is a functional unit can be seen in the upper part of the functional unit according to 1 corresponds, ie represents a shelf, the floors 900 and which is closed by sliding doors T1 and T2. Below this shelf area are several flaps K and a panel K '. These flaps can for example serve to introduce vapors from a hob area in the functional unit. If an extractor is not required, it is conceivable that the flaps K are closed and thus lie in the plane of the front side of the functional unit, as is true for the doors T1 and T2.

2 B) shows a comparable embodiment in which, however, the shelf area is open, ie the front side is not closed by doors.

2c) shows a functional unit whose front consists only of flaps K and a panel K '. The flaps K can basically not only serve to extract haze, but also release compartments for inserting kitchen utensils.

3a) again shows a perspective view of the skeleton of the functional unit one according to 1a) , 3b) shows the lower portion of the functional unit in detail and illustrates that the two legs V, V 'both end in the foot part F.

The foot part F is in detail in 3 shown. 3c) shows a side view, 3d) shows a front view, 3e) shows a perspective view 3f) a view from above and 3g) another perspective view. Like this 3 shows, the foot part F is a downwardly extending groove N, which serves to receive the edge region of the sliding doors.

Out 4a) is a further embodiments of the functional unit can be seen. In this case, extending between the legs V and V 'strips L, the top does not extend horizontally, but at an angle to the horizontal, for example, by 45 °. Like this further 4a) As can be seen, the strips arranged on the right and on the left face one another and thus enclose an angle of, for example, 90 ° with each other. On this sloping strips shelves or other functional elements, such as drawers can be stored or moved.

The strips L are not only inclined with respect to the horizontal, but also have bevelled end regions. These end portions are required so that the strips L rest against the legs V, V 'running from top to bottom. Like this 4c) shows that these legs do not extend in the same plane as the horizontal leg H, but are formed at an angle thereto. The angle between the legs V, V 'is in the embodiment shown here 90 °. This is of course only an exemplary value.

If the angle between the horizontal legs H is chosen to be different, it is ensured that the angle between the legs V, V 'always remains identical, so that with regard to the bevel in the end region of the strips L equal L strips can be used.

4b) shows enlarged view of the upper edge region of the functional unit 1 with the horizontal legs H, the vertical leg V and the relative to the vertical forward, ie inclined to the user leg V '.

Out 5a) it can be seen that it is conceivable the floors 900 not only to slide in and out at the same height, but also to achieve a height adjustment frame of the extension movement. In this way it is possible for a user to reach the ground 900 to get to him, while this is lowered at the same time, so that it is more accessible to the user.

5b) shows an example of the top floor 900 for this kind of kinematics. In principle, however, such a movement is for any soil 900 conceivable. Also, a movement of the soil only in the vertical or horizontal direction is possible. Of the invention are of course fixed floors 900 includes.

For the purpose of height adjustment, the strips L may be stored in different grooves N ', which extend to the legs V, V'. This results, for example, from 4a) , For this they can not lasts L not only between the 4c) illustrated portions of the legs V, V 'extend, but also embrace them, so that engagement of a projection in the groove N' is possible. In order to allow for this case, an assembly of the strips L, these can be made in two parts, wherein a part of one side of the legs and the other part of the other side of the legs is recognized and then both parts z. B. are interconnected by positive locking.

6 shows different views of the functional units, wherein 6a) a view on the side from the outside, 6c) a view to the side from the inside, 6b) a view from the front and 6d) shows a top view.

How this particular out 6b ), the soils can 900 on lever mechanisms 920 may be arranged, for example, consist of two levers which are parallel to each other, so that a parallelogram-like movement is possible.

The levers are fastened on the one hand to the strips L and on the other hand to a central fastening element Z, which looks like 6b) visible with the hinge 30 flees. The fastener Z, for example, he stood on the 30 to be ordered. It is also conceivable that the lever mechanisms are attached to the strips L arranged on the right and left, when the floors extend over the entire width of the functional unit.

The views according to 6 show the ground 900 in unfolded state. If this is no longer needed by the user, it is pivoted upwards into the area between the legs V, V '. This can be done manually or by means of a drive or spring force, etc.

Out 7a) shows a further perspective view of the functional unit. As can be seen from this figure, the doors T1 and T2 do not extend in a vertical plane but inclined thereto, the inclination of the doors corresponding to the inclination of the leg V '. This is especially evident 7b) , From this figure also shows that the leg V in a vertical plane, where, however, the leg V 'relative to the front, ie to a user who is to the right of the unit according to 7b) stops, is inclined.

From this figure further results that the depth of the shelf increases from bottom to top.

7b) illustrates that each of the sliding doors T1, T2 is provided in the lower end region with one or more rollers running on a guide. To prevent tilting of the doors, they are provided with brackets T1 ', T2', which engage behind, for example, a bar or other element of the functional unit.

8a) to c) again clarifies the arrangement of the doors T1, T2 with the holders arranged thereon in the closed state ( 8a) ), with door T1 shifted to the right ( 8b) ) and with door T2 shifted to the left ( 8c) ). Like this 8th shows, the brackets T1 ', T2' are dimensioned so that they can be inserted into each other, so that the doors can be positioned one behind the other.

Out 9a) and b) is a preferred embodiment of a hinge 30 can be seen according to the invention. The hinge 30 includes a main body 32 , which at its outer periphery a preferably circumferential groove 33 having. Like this 9b) shows, the groove is T-shaped in cross-section or has a differently shaped undercut. 9b) shows a sectional view through the main body 32 according to the section line in 9a) ,

At the base body 32 There are several, distributed in the circumferential direction depressions 35 , which serve to receive the end faces of the frame members.

In the groove 33 run several fasteners 40 whose shape is out 10 is apparent. The connecting elements 40 have a first section 41 up in the groove 33 is included as well as a second section 42 which communicates with the end portions of the frame members by means of the hinge 30 are movable relative to each other. The section 43 is located between the two groove walls 33a and 33b behind which the undercut is located.

The second section 42 is received in such a bore or other receptacle of the frame members that is longitudinally displaceable in the bore or receptacle, as long as the frame members are not relative to the hinge 30 are fixed. How out 10 As can be seen, the second section has areas 44 on, which run obliquely, ie not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connecting element 40 ,

Like this further 9a) indicates the groove 33 at least one extended area 33c on, which is dimensioned such that the connecting elements 40 through this into the groove 33 can be introduced. If the fasteners then from the area 33c ) moved in the groove, they are by positive engagement in the groove 33 fixed.

10b) shows the connecting element 40 in a side view, 10c) in a plan view, 10d) in a perspective view and 10a) in a front view, looking at the connecting element in 10b) from the right.

Out 11b) is also a perspective view of the hinge with a plurality of connecting elements recorded therein recognizable.

11a) shows in a perspective view of the hinge with the arranged or to be arranged ends of the frame members 10 . 20 , Like this 11a) shows, the frame elements 10 . 20 on the fasteners 40 put on so that the fasteners 40 in a frontal bore or other recording of the frame elements 10 . 20 are arranged. Depending on the position in which the groove 33 the frame elements 10 . 20 be fixed, results between them a certain angle and in terms of the entire structural element of a particular shape.

For mounting the frame elements 10 . 20 on the fasteners 40 plugged in or already in the frame elements 10 . 20 introduced fasteners 40 are inserted into the groove.

Subsequently, a screw is screwed into the bottom threaded hole 10 ' respectively. 20 ' the frame elements 10 . 20 , The screw enters with the bevelled area 44 the connecting elements 41 in contact in such a way that the screw and with this the frame element 10 . 20 to the main body 32 is attracted to the hinge. This movement takes place until the end face S of the frame element 10 . 20 in the groove-like receiving area 35 of the main body is arranged. In this condition results in a stable connection between the hinge 30 and the frame elements 10 . 20 , allowing a movement of the frame elements 10 . 20 is excluded relative to the hinge and in the groove. The angle of the frame elements to each other is thus fixed.

If this is to be changed, the screws or other fixing means must be loosened, so that the frame elements from the receiving area 35 can be moved and then along the groove 33 can be moved.

The present invention is directed to any functional unit and is not limited to shelves, cabinets, fume hoods, etc., although shelves represent a preferred embodiment of the invention.

The functional unit shown in the figures can be used, for example, as a top shelf, which rests on a kitchen worktop with the foot parts F and is preferably arranged in the rear region of the worktop or the hob. It is preferably provided that the vertically extending legs V extend parallel to or on a kitchen wall or furniture wall, so that the functional unit can be arranged well in a niche. The functional units can be interconnected to form a group of shelves or other functional units.

Claims (25)

Functional unit, in particular shelf or extractor element, with at least two frame elements and at least one, preferably with exactly one hinge, by means of which the frame elements are positioned at different angles to each other, wherein the frame members span a space whose shape depends on the angle between the frame elements and wherein the frame elements are arranged such that the functional unit over the entire height or over a partial area of the height of the functional unit has a variable depth and preferably from top to bottom decreasing depth. Functional unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the functional unit has an upper side and that the hinge is located in the upper side or in the region of the upper side of the functional unit and / or that the functional unit has at least two frame elements and at least one foot piece on which at least two frame elements converge. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame elements comprises a plurality of legs extending in the height direction of the functional unit, which extend at an angle to each other, wherein it is preferably provided that at least one of these legs is vertical and at least one leg relative to a vertical plane is inclined. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one connecting means is provided which has at least a first portion which communicates with the hinge and which is movable in at least one operating state relative to the hinge and which has at least a second portion which is connected to the frame element. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that extending between two extending in the height direction of the functional unit legs of the frame elements one or more struts, wherein it is preferably provided that the struts have a relative to the horizontal inclined surface, in particular provided that the angle about which the surface is inclined is preferably in the range of 30 ° to 60 ° and preferably 45 °. Functional unit according to claim 5, characterized in that the strut is fixedly arranged on the legs or such that the strut is displaceable along the legs or is otherwise positionable at a plurality of different positions of the legs, wherein it is preferably provided that the legs have grooves, in which the struts are slidably received. Functional unit according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the shelf has a first side and a preferably opposite second side and that at least one strut is located both on the first and on the second side, wherein the struts are aligned, the their inclined relative to the horizontal tops to the inside of the functional unit point. Functional unit according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the legs, between which the strut extends, at least in the region on which the strut is arranged to include a predetermined angle to each other, wherein it is preferably provided that this angle independently from the angle which the frame elements enclose each other, is constant and is preferably at 90 °. Functional unit according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that on the struts at least one functional element, such as in particular a drawer or a tray rests, and / or that guide elements are provided, by means of which a resting on the struts functional element, such as in particular a drawer or a tray, extendable and can be inserted, wherein the guide elements are arranged on the struts and / or on the functional element. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 9, characterized in that the hinge has at least one base body having a groove or a plurality, preferably superimposed grooves and that the first portion of the connecting means is movably received in the groove or that the connecting means to a means, in particular fixed to a ring or the like, which is rotatable relative to the base body. Functional unit according to one of claims 4 to 10, characterized in that the connecting means is received with its second portion in a bore or in any other receptacle of the end portion of the frame member adjacent to the hinge. Functional unit according to one of claims 4 to 11, characterized in that a fixing element is provided which cooperates with the connecting means such that the frame member is fixed relative to the hinge, wherein it is preferably provided that the fixing element cooperates with a portion of the connecting means, which has a bevel relative to the longitudinal axis of the connecting means, wherein this bevel is oriented in such a way that in the said interaction a movement of the frame element takes place towards the hinge. Functional unit according to claim 12, characterized in that the fixing element is formed by a screw which is screwed into a bore, in particular into a threaded bore or other receptacle of the frame element, so that the end region of the screw comes into contact with the connecting means. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the main body of the hinge has a recess or a projection which is in positive connection with the adjacent to the hinge end portion of the frame member. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame elements are formed circumferentially or that the frame elements are open on one or more sides and / or that the frame members U-, V- or L-shaped and / or that the frame members straight or curved and / or that the frame elements are formed in one or more parts and / or that exactly one hinge is provided or at least two hinges are provided, which are preferably spaced apart in the vertical direction of the functional unit. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hinge axis lies in the intersection of the planes spanned by the frame elements and / or that at least one, several and preferably all of the frame elements do not end at the hinge, but extend beyond the hinge and / or that at least one, several and preferably all of the frame elements terminate at the hinge. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one hinge is located in a central region of the frame member and / or the functional unit and / or characterized in that each one frame element is located entirely in one plane or at least one angled Section of the frame element is present, which lies in a different plane than the remaining part of the frame element. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one adapter, in particular for fixing a hinge for a door or flap or for fixing a pull-out rail or for fixing a wheel or foot, is provided which on the one or more frame elements by means of one or several fixative is fixed. Functional unit according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that an element, preferably a metal element, in particular a metal insert is provided which extends between said angled part of the frame member and the adjacent region of the frame member and defines the angle to which the angled portion of the frame element is angled relative to the plane defined by the frame element plane. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one flap or door, in particular at least one sliding door is provided, by means of which at least one side and preferably the front side of the functional unit is partially or completely closable and / or characterized that in the space spanned by the frame elements one or more extracts and / or containers and / or shelves and / or extractor elements and / or lighting means are located. Functional unit according to claim 20, characterized in that the door or flap, in particular one or more sliding doors has a holding portion which engages behind a portion of the functional unit and / or that the door or flap or the at least one sliding door in a guide of the functional unit and / or by means of rollers or sliding elements is movable. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one arranged in the functional unit element, in particular at least one shelf or flap is movable in front of the plane of the functional unit and / or is pivotable, wherein it is preferably provided that for effecting this movement or a plurality of lever mechanisms and / or pivot axes are provided, which are preferably attached directly or indirectly to the frame member or on the strut and / or on the hinge. Functional unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional unit is covered on its upper side by a plate and / or that there is at least one lighting means or at least one extractor element in the functional unit, wherein it is preferably provided that the lighting means in a region of Functional unit is arranged, which is covered by a closure element, such as in particular a sliding door in its closed position for a user located in front of the functional unit. Modular system comprising functional units according to one of the preceding claims, wherein preferably adapter for mounting on the frame or the elements are provided, wherein the adapters are identical for all functional units. Furniture system with at least one worktop, in particular with at least one kitchen worktop and with at least one functional unit according to one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the functional unit is located in an area above the worktop and preferably rests on this.

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