EP4076126B1 - Dish rack - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a dishwashing holder for a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher, which has at least one washing container, which is movably arranged in the washing container and which comprises a dish rack and a storage surface that can be coupled to the dish rack for holding dishes.

The items to be washed are usually arranged in a washing container of a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher, in one or more dish racks, where they are exposed to washing liquor, i.e. washing liquid and any additives such as cleaning agents, rinse aid and the like, during the cleaning process. The dish racks of known dishwashers often consist of a wire mesh and are usually slidably mounted on the side walls of the washing container using rail systems so that they can be pulled out of the washing container of the dishwasher. A disadvantage of these known dish racks is that they essentially have a rigid wire construction, which only allows limited variations when loading them with items to be washed.

There are also known crockery baskets for dishwashers, in particular household dishwashers, which are divided into storage areas with special devices for arranging certain items of crockery or cutlery. In some crockery baskets, the storage surfaces are pivotally attached so that, if necessary, they can be brought into a horizontal position in which they can be loaded with items to be washed, or can be brought into a vertical position in order to increase the storage space in the crockery basket. These known shelves have the disadvantage that they only offer the choice between using or folding up the shelf, without expanding the possible variations in the arrangement of items to be washed in the dish rack or on the shelf.

Furthermore, it is known that cups have depressions in their respective base areas, in which washing liquor usually accumulates during a wash cycle of a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher. This accumulated washing liquor dries in the drying phase of a dishwasher unfortunately not completely in a known manner. In order to counteract the formation of so-called puddles, an inclined surface is introduced into the receiving base of a dish rack of a dishwasher, which, however, only has an effect on small, especially low, cups and which is effective when loading the dish rack of a dishwasher with large items to be washed, such as Bowls, tall cups and glasses and the like, significantly limits the available space. For large cups and glasses, the steep elevation of the base of the dish rack also has a negative effect on the stability.

The publication EP 2 554 099 A2 discloses a dish rack which can be positioned in a dish rack having a base of a dishwasher. The dish rack can be positioned in the dish rack in at least two operating states, so that at least part of the bottom of the dish rack can assume different configurations. For this purpose, the dish rack has an elongated shape and comprises two sections which are connected to one another along a central connecting line. At least one of the two sections of the dish rack includes a grid structure which includes small bars for the purpose of sufficient drainage of washing liquid. The other section of the dish rack comprises a crosspiece which is arranged at right angles to the small bars of one of the two sections of the dish rack and which comprises coupling means for coupling the dish rack to the bottom of the dish rack.

The publication DE 20 2004 021 026 U1 discloses a dishwasher with at least one washing container, at least one crockery basket and with at least one storage element that can be coupled to the crockery basket and includes a storage area for storing items to be washed. The storage element can be locked on the crockery basket and pivoted about an axis to different angles of inclination. At least one support element is provided which supports the storage element at a location distanced from the axis at different angles of inclination.

The publication EP 2 245 975 A1 discloses a storage element which is pivotally attached to a bottom wire of a dish rack by means of a plurality of snap connections. The storage element can be pivoted between a folded-up rest position and a folded-down operating position. This also includes Storage element has several profiled struts, which have recesses and projections for safely holding items to be washed, such as glasses. The storage element has at least one hook element on the underside, which can be snapped into at least one intermediate connecting wire running perpendicular to the ground wire in the folded down operating position of the storage element. As the hook element engages in the intermediate connecting wire, the storage element can be at least slightly displaced horizontally in its folded down operating position.

The publication DE 10 2004 035 725 A1 discloses a dishwasher with at least one washing container, at least one crockery basket and a storage surface that can be coupled thereto for storing items to be washed, the storage surface being lockable to the crockery basket and pivotable about an axis to different angles of inclination. At least one support element is provided which supports the storage surface at a location distanced from the axis at different angles of inclination.

The publication EP 1 665 975 A1 discloses a crockery basket with a crockery holding device pivotably mounted on the crockery basket with an elongated base element and a plurality of support elements, the support elements being attached to the base element at a distance from one another, extending perpendicularly or obliquely to the pivot axis and vertically or obliquely in a first pivoting position of the crockery holding device are aligned at the top. The support elements are aligned in a tilted, second pivoting position of the dish holding device at an angle of at least 5° to the horizontal, preferably between 5° to 45° to the horizontal.

The publication CN 100 531 665 C discloses a dishwasher rack structure having at least two horizontal frames formed at a certain distance up and down, at least two vertical frames connected to both ends of the at least two horizontal frames and bent into a "U" shape to form two movable shelves which are placed on a lower surface of the at least two vertical frames and which include a length extending on an upper side of a movable spike, a spike device which is mounted on the side of the vertical frame is to adjust a rotation angle of the movable pin, and a curved portion fixed to the vertical frame so that the movable shelf rail member is fixed to the curved portion of the movable shelf so that the movable shelf rail member moves along the rail in combination with connecting the movable shelves.

The publication CN 104 825 112 A discloses a dish rack assembly for a dishwasher and a dishwasher with such a dish rack assembly. The dish rack assembly includes a frame that includes a frame bottom wall and a frame side wall, and movable shelves disposed within the frame. Each movable shelf includes a mounting bar and a plurality of stop bars attached to the mounting bar. The plurality of stop bars are spaced along the length of the mounting bar and the mounting bar is pivotally connected to the frame.

The publication US 2005/109378 A1 discloses a dishwasher for washing dishes. It comprises a rinsing container which has a peripheral wall delimiting a rinsing chamber, a rotating spray device arranged in the rinsing chamber for spraying rinsing liquid into the rinsing chamber and at least one side spray device arranged in the rinsing chamber for spraying rinsing liquid into the rinsing chamber. Furthermore, the dishwasher comprises a crockery basket arranged in the washing chamber for receiving and rinsing dishes using the washing liquid distributed by the rotating spray device and the at least one side spray device, and an adjustable carrier for items to be washed, which is attached to the crockery basket and between a first position which an item to be washed placed therein is predominantly exposed to the direct spray jet from the at least one side spray device, and a second position in which an item to be washed placed therein is exposed to the direct spray jet from both the rotating spray device and from the at least one side spray device is adjustable.

The publication US 2008/272073 A1 discloses a support member comprising a body defining a first channel configured to be in engages a main spine of a folding rack and defines a second channel disposed perpendicular to the first channel and configured to engage a wire member of a dish rack of a dishwasher to secure the folding rack thereto. The body further includes an opening configured to receive one of a plurality of prongs of the folding frame. The opening may define horizontal and vertical support portions configured to support the received tine when the folding frame is in a folded or unfolded position, respectively. The opening may further define an arcuate channel extending between the horizontal support portion and the vertical support portion, the arcuate channel being configured to displace the prong axially along the longitudinal axis when the prong is between the horizontal support portion and the vertical support portion is moved.

Although previously known crockery baskets and storage elements have proven themselves in everyday practical use, there is a constant need for improvement. It is particularly desirable to largely avoid the formation of puddles described even with larger items to be washed, to provide more loading flexibility for the customer, to improve the drying result with optimal use of space in the crockery basket and in particular to ensure optimal drying of even small items to be washed, in particular cups and the like at the same time to achieve better use of space for large items to be washed.

The term “washware” is generally used in the context of this patent application for any type of washware, i.e. both dishes and cutlery. A piece of tableware can in turn be a cookware, i.e. a vessel or a device that is used to prepare meals, or an eating utensil, i.e. a vessel or a device that is used to serve and consume meals. A piece of cutlery can be a tool that is used for eating. The cutlery commonly used in European culture today consists of a knife, fork and spoon.

Against this background, an object of the present invention is to propose an improved dishwashing holder for a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher.

This object is achieved by the washware holder according to the invention for a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher, with the features according to claim 1. Advantageous developments of the present invention are specified in claims 2 to 15.

The washware holder for a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher, having at least one washing container, according to the present invention can be movably arranged in the washing container and comprises a dish rack and a storage surface that can be coupled to the dishwashing basket for holding items to be washed. The storage surface can be locked on the crockery basket and pivoted about an axis to different angles of inclination. Furthermore, at least one support element is arranged on the underside of the storage surface, which supports the storage surface at a location distanced from the axis at different angles of inclination. The support element arranged on the underside of the storage surface has a number of locking steps which come into engagement with the crockery basket, whereby the storage surface is supported at different angles of inclination. The storage surface is also displaceable along the axis, so that a change in the angle of inclination of the storage surface occurs through a combined movement, i.e. through a longitudinal displacement of the storage surface along an axis and a preferably simultaneous rotation of the storage surface around the axis.

The dishwashing holder according to the invention for a dishwasher, in particular a household dishwasher, has the advantage that the angle of inclination of the storage surface in the dish rack can be variably adjusted. This means that the storage area can be adjusted depending on the height and width of the items to be placed on it. Since the angle of inclination of the storage surface can be adjusted depending on the space required by the items to be washed, the items to be washed can be arranged in the crockery basket in a particularly space-saving manner, which enables optimal use of the space in the crockery basket. Because the support element supports the storage surface at a point distanced from its pivot axis, a complex mechanism for absorbing relatively large torques on the pivot axis to lock the storage surface becomes unnecessary. Due to the simple construction of the support element, the manufacturing costs of the washware holder of the dishwasher, in particular the household dishwasher, are reduced according to the present invention.

The use of a storage surface whose angle of inclination can be varied promotes a more comfortable, easily accessible and safe storage of the items to be washed in the dish rack with optimal use of the available storage space. As a result, a clear arrangement of the items to be washed can be achieved in certain positions in the dish rack and mutual contact of the items to be washed can be prevented, which promotes their cleaning and prevents damage to the items to be washed and noise development during the washing operation of the dishwasher, in particular the household dishwasher.

In a first embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the locking steps on the support element are designed as supports which, depending on the angle of inclination, engage the crockery basket and preferably hold it fixed by a support.

The locking steps on the support element, which are designed as supports, can each have a concavely curved surface, so that they each rest securely on the crockery basket over a longer distance. The design of the support element with a number of locking stages makes it easier to handle the support mechanism.

In a second embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the supports of the locking steps on the support element have an offset in the range of 1 to 10 mm, preferably of 2 to 8 mm, in particular of 3 to 6 mm.

These offset areas set out enable optimal positioning of the storage surface depending on the dimensions of the items to be stored. Undesirable puddle formation can be effectively avoided even with larger items to be washed and more loading flexibility is effectively provided for the customer. Ultimately, the drying result can be improved with optimal use of space in the dish rack.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that at least two support elements are arranged on the underside of the storage surface, preferably evenly distributed.

The provision of at least two support elements ensures, on the one hand, improved stability and, on the other hand, optimal positional accuracy of the storage surface. A uniform distribution of the at least two support elements results in reduced deflection of the storage surface.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the storage surface can be pivoted between a folded-up rest position and at least one folded-down operating position.

The folded-up rest position of the storage surface is preferably a substantially vertical position of the storage surface, whereas the at least one folded-down operating position is an oblique position of the storage surface at a selected angle of inclination of the storage surface. The majority of folded down operating positions promotes more comfortable, easily accessible and safe storage of the items to be washed in the items holder while making optimal use of the available storage space. As a result, a clear arrangement of the items to be washed can be achieved in certain positions in the crockery basket and mutual contact of the items to be washed can be prevented, which promotes their cleaning and prevents damage to the items to be washed and noise development during the washing operation of the dishwasher, in particular the household dishwasher.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the preferably flat storage surface consists of a plurality of longitudinal elements and transverse elements, preferably made of plastic or metal.

The large number of longitudinal elements and transverse elements of the preferably flat storage area promote a simple but stable construction of the storage area. Spray shadows are effectively avoided and improved cleaning and drying performance is achieved without any further effort. They also enable the most unhindered flow of washing liquid through the shelf.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the support surface is preferably equipped in the area of the axis with a stop contour for items to be washed, which is designed to be continuous or spaced apart.

The stop contour for items to be washed ensures that the items to be washed are effectively secured against slipping and thus against possible damage to them. The stop contour for items to be washed has an effective effect regardless of the dimensions of the items to be washed.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the stop contour for items to be washed comprises round and/or polygonal stop segments.

The forms of stop elements mentioned are simple and inexpensive to produce and they enable the most unhindered flow of washing liquid through the storage surface.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the storage surface is preferably releasably connected to the crockery basket via a clamp connection.

The preferably detachable connection of the storage surface to the crockery basket via a clamp connection ensures that the storage surface is securely fixed to the dish rack. If necessary, the storage area can also be separated as a whole from the crockery basket, for example for the purpose of arranging bulky items to be washed. The clamping connection between the storage surface and the crockery basket can be formed, for example, by correspondingly curved, preferably hook-shaped ends of the storage surface.

In a further embodiment according to the invention, it is provided that the crockery basket has a receiving base of the crockery basket which is formed from a plurality of spaced longitudinal elements and transverse elements and forms a storage area, the transverse elements being arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal elements and the transverse elements being connected to the longitudinal elements at nodes .

This design of the crockery basket ensures, in a known manner, a high level of stability and the desired dimensional accuracy of the crockery basket.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the receiving base of the crockery basket is designed to be horizontal, approximately horizontal or slightly inclined in the area below the storage surface.

This design of the receiving base of the crockery basket in the area below the storage area already allows items to be washed at an angle while avoiding undesirable puddle formation and improving the drying performance.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that a longitudinal element of the crockery basket forms the axis for the storage surface and that the storage surface is preferably releasably connected to this longitudinal element of the crockery basket via a clamp connection.

The use of an already existing longitudinal element of the crockery basket ensures that the storage surface is securely fixed to the crockery basket. If necessary, the storage area can also be separated as a whole from the crockery basket, for example for the purpose of arranging bulky items to be washed. The clamping connection between the storage surface and the crockery basket can be formed, for example, by correspondingly curved, preferably hook-shaped ends of the storage surface.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the number of support elements arranged on the underside of the storage surface is equal to the number of transverse elements covered at least in areas by the storage surface, so that each support element is assigned a transverse element.

Providing an equal number of support elements and cross elements ensures, on the one hand, improved stability and, on the other hand, optimal positional accuracy of the storage surface. Furthermore, such a distribution of the support elements results in reduced deflection of the storage surface.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the crockery basket has a plurality of separate storage surfaces, preferably arranged next to one another, each of which is assigned at least one support element.

Such an arrangement of separate storage surfaces enables independent adjustment of different angles of inclination of separate storage surfaces and thus optimal utilization of the crockery basket for loading the items to be washed. This also makes it possible, for example, to use several storage areas next to each other in the crockery basket, for example in order to accommodate a larger amount of flat items to be washed in the crockery basket.

In a further embodiment according to the invention it is provided that the storage surface and the at least one support element are manufactured from the same material, in particular by an injection molding process.

Such material uniformity allows for a reliable and cost-effective manufacturing process. It is particularly advantageous if the support element is at least partially made of elastic material, in particular of a plastic. This allows the support element to be easily adjusted into the desired positions. The support element is preferably biased towards the storage surface with a spring tension, the spring tension being able to be generated either by a separate spring mechanism or by the spring force inherent in the elastic material.

Further advantageous refinements and aspects of the washware holder for the dishwasher, in particular household dishwasher, are the subject of the subclaims and the exemplary embodiments of the washware holder described below. In addition, the dishwashing receptacle is explained in more detail using preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Perspektivansicht einer Ausführungsform einer bekannten Geschirrspülmaschine, insbesondere einer bekannten Haushaltsgeschirrspülmaschine;

Fig. 2A

eine schematische Perspektivdarstellung einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen und an einen Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut in einer ersten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 2B

eine schematische und teilweise Frontansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A in der ersten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 2C

eine schematische und teilweise Seitenansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A in der ersten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 3A

eine schematische Perspektivdarstellung der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A in einer zweiten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 3B

eine schematische und teilweise Frontansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 3A in der zweiten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 3C

eine schematische und teilweise Seitenansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 3A in der zweiten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 4A

eine schematische Perspektivdarstellung der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A in einer dritten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 4B

eine schematische und teilweise Frontansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 4A in der dritten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 4C

eine schematische und teilweise Seitenansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 4A in der dritten Betriebsposition;

Fig. 5

eine schematische Frontansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A;

Fig. 6

eine schematische Seitenansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A;

Fig. 7

eine schematische Perspektivansicht der bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A;

Fig. 8

eine schematische Draufsicht auf die bevorzugte Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut nach Fig. 2A; und

Fig. 9A bis 9C

schematische und teilweise Frontansichten von drei weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemäßen und an den Geschirrkorb ankoppelbaren Ablagefläche zur Aufnahme von Spülgut.

Show it

Fig. 1

a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a known dishwasher, in particular a known household dishwasher;

Fig. 2A

a schematic perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a storage surface according to the invention that can be coupled to a crockery basket for holding items to be washed in a first operating position;

Fig. 2B

a schematic and partial front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in the first operating position;

Fig. 2C

a schematic and partial side view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in the first operating position;

Fig. 3A

a schematic perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention that can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in a second operating position;

Fig. 3B

a schematic and partial front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 3A in the second operating position;

Fig. 3C

a schematic and partial side view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 3A in the second operating position;

Fig. 4A

a schematic perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention that can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in a third operating position;

Fig. 4B

a schematic and partial front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 4A in the third operating position;

Fig. 4C

a schematic and partial side view of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the dish rack Connectable storage area for holding items to be washed Fig. 4A in the third operating position;

Fig. 5

a schematic front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A ;

Fig. 6

a schematic side view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A ;

Fig. 7

a schematic perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A ;

Fig. 8

a schematic top view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A ; and

9A to 9C

Schematic and partial front views of three further preferred embodiments of the storage surface according to the invention that can be coupled to the crockery basket for holding items to be washed.

In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements have been given the same reference numbers unless otherwise stated.

The Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a household dishwasher 1, generally a dishwasher. The household dishwasher 1 has a box-shaped washing container 2 with a front container opening 6 for holding items to be cleaned. The front container opening 6 defines a particularly vertically oriented opening plane 4.

The washing container 2 of the household dishwasher 1 is provided with an appliance door 3 which closes the container opening 6 and is pivotably mounted about a horizontal axis, so that the body can be closed watertight. The appliance door consists, in a known manner, of an inner door 3.1 and an outer door 3.2. In addition, a furniture leaf 3.3 can be attached to the outer door 3.2.

The washing container 2 and the appliance door 3 form a washing chamber for washing items to be washed. The device door 3 is in the Fig. 1 shown in its open position. By pivoting about a pivot axis 5 provided at a lower end of the appliance door 3, the appliance door 3 can be opened in particular completely or partially and in particular can be closed completely.

The washing container 2 is, for example, cuboid-shaped and comprises a container bottom 7, a container ceiling 8 opposite the container bottom 7, a container rear wall 9 opposite the container door 5 and two opposite container side walls 10, 11. The washing container 2 can be made of stainless steel, plastic or a combination of stainless steel - Be made of plastic.

The dishwasher 1 also has at least one loading level 12 to 14. In particular, several loading levels 12 to 14 can be provided, whereby a loading level 12 can be a lower crockery basket (lower basket), a loading level 13 can be an upper crockery basket (upper basket) and a loading level 14 can be a cutlery drawer of the dishwasher 1. The multiple loading levels 12 to 14 are preferably arranged one above the other in the washing container 2. Each loading level 12 to 14 can be moved either in an insertion direction E (arrow) into the washing container 2, in particular linearly, or in an extension direction A (arrow), in particular linearly out of it.

The Fig. 2A shows a schematic perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a storage surface 15 according to the invention that can be coupled to a crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed in a first operating position BP1.

The storage surface 15 can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13, shown as an example and in part; However, it can of course be coupled to the lower crockery basket (not shown) or even to the cutlery drawer (not shown). The upper crockery basket 13 and the storage area 15 are part of the washware holder 16.

Furthermore, the storage surface 15 is on the upper crockery basket 13 by means of several clamp connections 17 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C , Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 ) can be locked, preferably releasably connected, and about an axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be swiveled to different angles of inclination as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved (swivel direction S (double arrow) and displacement direction V (double arrow)). The change in the angle of inclination of the storage surface 15, which can be locked on the crockery basket 13, occurs through a combined movement, i.e. through a longitudinal displacement of the storage surface 15 along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) and a preferably simultaneous rotation of the storage surface 15 about the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ). The shelf 15 is at an angle of inclination W.1 ( Fig. 2C ) panned.

Several support elements 18 are arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which the storage surface 15 on one of the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) distant point at different inclination angles, in this case at an inclination angle W.1 ( Fig. 2C ), support.

Furthermore, each support element 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 has a number of locking steps 19.1, 19.2 and 19.3 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which come into engagement with the upper crockery basket 13, whereby the storage surface 15 is at different angles of inclination, in the present case at an inclination angle W.1 ( Fig. 2C ), is supported. The storage surface 15 and the support element 18 are made of the same material, in particular by an injection molding process.

The storage surface 15 can be pivoted between a folded-up rest position (not shown) and at least one folded-down operating position BP1. As shown, the storage surface 15 is set to an angle of inclination W.1 ( Fig. 2C ) panned.

The upper crockery basket 13 has a receiving base 29 formed from a plurality of spaced longitudinal elements 26 and transverse elements 27 and forming a storage area 28, the transverse elements 27 being arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal elements 26 and the transverse elements 27 being connected to the longitudinal elements 26 at node points 30 are.

The receiving base 29 of the crockery basket 13 in the area below the storage surface 15 is horizontal, approximately horizontal or slightly inclined (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ).

A longitudinal element 26 of the crockery basket 13 forms the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) for the storage surface 15, so that the storage surface 15 can be pivoted to different angles of inclination as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved. The storage surface 15 is secured by means of several clamp connections 17 ( Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C , Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 ) on which as axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) lockable, preferably releasably connected.

In a manner not shown, the crockery basket 13 can also have several separate, preferably side-by-side storage surfaces 15, each of which is assigned at least one support element 18.

The Fig. 2B shows a schematic and partial front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in the first operating position BP1.

The number of support elements 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 is equal to the number of transverse elements 27 that are at least partially covered by the storage surface 15, so that each support element 18 is assigned a transverse element 27 (see also Fig. 3B and Fig. 4B ).

The Fig. 2C shows a schematic and partial side view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in the first operating position BP1.

The Fig. 3A shows a schematic perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in a second operating position BP2.

The upper crockery basket 13 and the storage surface 15 which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13, shown by way of example and in part, are part of the washware holder 16.

Furthermore, the storage surface 15 is on the upper crockery basket 13 by means of several clamp connections 17 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C , Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 ) can be locked, preferably releasably connected, and about an axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be swiveled to different angles of inclination as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved (swivel direction S (double arrow) and displacement direction V (double arrow)). The change in the angle of inclination of the storage surface 15, which can be locked on the crockery basket 13, occurs through a combined movement, i.e. through a longitudinal displacement of the storage surface 15 along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) and a preferably simultaneous rotation of the storage surface 15 about the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ). The shelf 15 is at an angle of inclination W.2 ( Fig. 3C ) panned.

Several support elements 18 are arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which the storage surface 15 on one of the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) distant point at different angles of inclination, in this case at an angle of inclination W.2 ( Fig. 3C ), supported.

Furthermore, each support element 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 has a number of locking steps 19.1, 19.2, 19.3 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which come into engagement with the upper crockery basket 13, whereby the storage surface 15 is at different angles of inclination, in the present case at an inclination angle W.2 ( Fig. 3C ), is supported. The storage surface 15 and the support element 18 are made of the same material, in particular by an injection molding process.

The storage surface 15 can be pivoted between a folded-up rest position (not shown) and at least one folded-down operating position BP2. As shown, the storage surface 15 is set to an angle of inclination W.2 ( Fig. 3C ) panned.

The upper crockery basket 13 has a storage area 28 formed from a plurality of spaced longitudinal elements 26 and transverse elements 27 forming receiving base 29, the transverse elements 27 being arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal elements 26 and the transverse elements 27 being connected to the longitudinal elements 26 at node points 30.

The receiving base 29 of the crockery basket 13 in the area below the storage surface 15 is horizontal, approximately horizontal or slightly inclined (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ).

A longitudinal element 26 of the crockery basket 13 forms the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) for the storage surface 15, so that the storage surface 15 can be pivoted to different angles of inclination as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved. The storage surface 15 is secured by means of several clamp connections 17 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C , Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 )) on which as axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) lockable, preferably releasably connected.

In a manner not shown, the crockery basket 13 can also have several separate, preferably side-by-side storage surfaces 15, each of which is assigned at least one support element 18.

The Fig. 3B shows a schematic and partial front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 3A in the second operating position BP2.

The number of support elements 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 is equal to the number of transverse elements 27 that are at least partially covered by the storage surface 15, so that each support element 18 is assigned a transverse element 27 (see also Fig. 2B and Fig. 4B ).

The Fig. 3C shows a schematic and partial side view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 3A in the second operating position BP2.

The Fig. 4A shows a schematic perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A in a third operating position BP3.

The upper crockery basket 13 and the storage surface 15 which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13, shown by way of example and in part, are part of the washware holder 16.

Furthermore, the storage surface 15 is on the upper crockery basket 13 by means of several clamp connections 17 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C , Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 ) can be locked, preferably releasably connected, and about an axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be swiveled to different angles of inclination as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved (swivel direction S (double arrow) and displacement direction V (double arrow)). The change in the angle of inclination of the storage surface 15, which can be locked on the crockery basket 13, occurs through a combined movement, i.e. through a longitudinal displacement of the storage surface 15 along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) and a preferably simultaneous rotation of the storage surface 15 about the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ). The shelf 15 is at an angle of inclination W.3 ( Fig. 4C ) panned.

Several support elements 18 are arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which the storage surface 15 on one of the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) distant point at different angles of inclination, in this case at an angle of inclination W.3 ( Fig. 4C ), supported.

Furthermore, each support element 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 has a number of locking steps 19.1, 19.2, 19.3 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which come into engagement with the upper crockery basket 13, whereby the storage surface 15 is at different angles of inclination, in the present case at an inclination angle W.3 ( Fig. 4C ), is supported. The storage surface 15 and the support element 18 are made of the same material, in particular by an injection molding process.

The storage surface 15 can be pivoted between a folded-up rest position (not shown) and at least one folded-down operating position BP3. As shown, the storage surface 15 is set to an angle of inclination W.3 ( Fig. 4C ) panned.

The upper crockery basket 13 has a receiving base 29 formed from a plurality of spaced longitudinal elements 26 and transverse elements 27 and forming a storage area 28, the transverse elements 27 being arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal elements 26 and the transverse elements 27 being connected to the longitudinal elements 26 at node points 30 are.

The receiving base 29 of the crockery basket 13 in the area below the storage surface 15 is horizontal, approximately horizontal or slightly inclined (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ).

A longitudinal element 26 of the crockery basket 13 forms the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) for the storage surface 15, so that the storage surface 15 can be pivoted to different angles of inclination as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved. The storage surface 15 is secured by means of several clamp connections 17 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C , Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 )) on which as axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be locked, preferably releasably connected.

In a manner not shown, the crockery basket 13 can also have several separate, preferably side-by-side storage surfaces 15, each of which is assigned at least one support element 18.

The Fig. 4B shows a schematic and partial front view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 4A in the third operating position BP3.

The number of support elements 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 is equal to the number of transverse elements 27 that are at least partially covered by the storage surface 15, so that each support element 18 is assigned a transverse element 27 (see also Fig. 2B and Fig. 3B ).

The Fig. 4C shows a schematic and partial side view of the preferred embodiment of the storage surface 15 according to the invention and which can be coupled to the upper crockery basket 13 for holding items to be washed Fig. 4A in the third operating position BP3.

The Fig. 5 shows a schematic front view of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the upper crockery basket 13 (see also 2A to 4C ) dockable storage surface 15 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A .

There are several support elements 18 on the underside of the storage surface 15 (see also Fig. 7 ) arranged, which the storage surface 15 on one of the axis C (see also Fig. 2A , Fig. 3A and Fig. 4A ) distant point at different inclination angles W.1, W.2, W.3 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) support.

The majority of the support elements 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 are preferably arranged evenly distributed; However, they can also be arranged at at least two different distances from one another.

Furthermore, each support element 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 has a number of locking steps 19.1, 19.2, 19.3 (see also Fig. 7 ), which is connected to the upper dish rack 13 (see also 2A to 4C ) come into engagement, whereby the storage surface 15 has different angles of inclination W.1, W.2, W.3 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) is supported. The locking steps 19.1, 19.2, 19.3 on the support element 18 are designed as supports 20.1, 20.2, 20.3, which depending on the angle of inclination W.1, W.2, W.3 (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) attack the upper crockery basket 13 and preferably hold it fixed by support 15.

Furthermore, the supports 20.1, 20.2, 20.3 of the locking stages 19.1, 19.2, 19.3 on the respective support element 18 have an offset V.1, V.2 in the range from 1 to 10 mm, preferably from 2 to 8 mm, in particular from 3 to 6 mm, up. The offsets V.1, V.2 can have both the same and different values.

The Fig. 6 shows a schematic side view of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the upper crockery basket 13 (see also 2A to 4C ) dockable storage surface 15 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A .

The storage surface 15 is on the upper crockery basket 13 by means of several clamp connections 17 (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C and Fig. 8 ) can be locked, preferably releasably connected, and about an axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) both in different inclination angles W.1, W.2, W.3 (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) pivotable (double arrow S) as well as along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved (double arrow V). The individual clamping connection 17 can preferably be designed as a clamping hook 17.1 known to those skilled in the art.

Furthermore, the support surface 15 is preferably in the area of the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) with a stop contour 21 (see also Fig. 7, Fig. 8 , Figures 9A, 9B and 9C ) for items to be washed that are continuous or spaced.

The Fig. 7 shows a schematic perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the upper crockery basket 13 (see also 2A to 4C ) dockable storage surface 15 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A .

Several support elements 18 are arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 (see also Fig. 5 ), which the storage surface 15 on one of the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) distant point at different inclination angles W.1, W.2, W.3 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) support.

Furthermore, each support element 18 arranged on the underside of the storage surface 15 has a number of locking steps 19.1, 19.2 and 19.3 (see also Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 ), which come into engagement with the upper crockery basket 13, whereby the storage surface 15 has different angles of inclination W.1, W.2, W.3 (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) is supported.

The Fig. 8 shows a schematic top view of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the upper crockery basket 13 (see also 2A to 4C ) dockable storage surface 15 for holding items to be washed Fig. 2A .

The storage area 15 has a preferably flat surface 22 (see also Fig. 6 ) and it consists of a large number of longitudinal elements 23 and transverse elements 24, preferably made of plastic or metal. The intersecting longitudinal elements 23 and transverse elements 24 form an open grid structure 25, which ultimately forms the storage surface 15.

The storage surface 15 is on the upper crockery basket 13 by means of several clamp connections 17 (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C , Fig. 4C and Fig. 6 ) can be locked, preferably releasably connected, and about an axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be swiveled to different angles of inclination (double arrow S) and along the axis C (see also Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) can be moved (double arrow V). The individual clamping connection 17 can preferably be designed as a clamping hook 17.1 known to those skilled in the art.

The 9A to 9C show schematic and partial front views of three further preferred embodiments of the inventive and the crockery basket 13 (see also 2A to 4C ) dockable storage surface 15 for holding items to be washed.

The respective support surface 15 is, as already stated, preferably in the area of the axis C (see Fig. 2C , Fig. 3C and Fig. 4C ) equipped with a stop contour 21 for items to be washed, which are continuous or spaced. In the case of a spaced design of the stop contour 21, it has several round and/or polygonal stop contour segments, which are arranged at the same or different distances or which have the same or approximately the same shape or different shapes.

The stop contour 21 arranged on the support surface 15 can, for example, have a rectangular contour ( Fig. 9A ), a wavy contour ( Fig. 9B ) or a jagged contour ( Fig. 9C ) exhibit. In principle, any contours, in particular combinations of the contours mentioned, are possible for the stop contour 21.

Although the present invention has been described using exemplary embodiments, it can be modified in many ways.

Reference symbol list

1

Dishwasher; Household dishwasher

2

Rinse container

3

Appliance door

4

Opening level

5

Pivot axis

6

Container opening

7

container bottom

8th

container ceiling

9

Container rear wall

10

Container side wall

11

Container side wall

12

loading level; lower dish rack (lower basket)

13

loading level; upper dish rack (upper basket)

14

loading level; Cutlery drawer

15

storage area

16

Washware storage

17

Clamp connection

17.1

Clamp hook

18

Support element

19.1

Locking level

19.2

Locking level

19.3

Locking level

20.1

edition

20.2

edition

20.3

edition

21

stop contour

22

surface

23

Longitudinal element

24

Cross element

25

Grid structure

26

Longitudinal element

27

Cross element

28

footprint

29

receiving floor

30

junction

A

Extension direction (arrow)

BP1

First operating position

BP2

Second operating position

BP3

Third operating position

C

axis

E

Insertion direction (arrow)

S

Swivel direction (double arrow)

v

Shift direction (double arrow)

V.1

offset

V.2

offset

W.1

Angle of inclination

W.2

Angle of inclination

W.3

Angle of inclination

Claims (15)

1. Dish rack (16) for a dishwasher (1), in particular a household dishwasher, having at least one dishwasher cavity (2), said dish rack (16) being able to be movably arranged in the dishwasher cavity (2) and comprising a dish basket (13) and a storage surface (15) for holding items to be washed, which storage surface (15) can be coupled to the dish basket (13), wherein the storage surface (15) can be locked on the dish basket (13) and can be pivoted about an axis (C) into different angles of inclination (W. 1; W.2; W.3), wherein at least one support element (18) is arranged on the underside of the storage surface (15), which support element (18) supports the storage surface (15) at different angles of inclination (W. 1; W.2; W.3), at a point spaced from the axis (C), and wherein the support element (18) arranged on the underside of the storage surface (15) has a number of locking steps (19.1, 19.2, 19.3), which come into engagement with the dish basket (13), whereby the storage surface (15) is supported at different angles of inclination (W.1; W.2; W.3),
   characterised in that
   the storage surface (15) also can be slid along the axis (C), so that a change to the angle of inclination (W.1; W.2; W.3) of the storage surface (15) is carried out by a combined movement, i.e. by a longitudinal sliding of the storage surface (15) along an axis (C) and preferably a simultaneous rotation of the storage surface (15) about the axis (C).
2. Dish rack (16) according to claim 1, characterised in that the locking steps (19.1, 19.2, 19.3) are configured on the support element (18) as supports (20.1, 20.2, 20.3) which act on the dish basket (13) depending on the angle of inclination (W. 1, W.2, W.3) and preferably fixedly hold this dish basket (13) by the support surface.
3. Dish rack (16) according to claim 2, characterised in that the supports (20.1, 20.2, 20.3) of the locking steps (19.1, 19.2, 19.3) on the support element (18) have an offset ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm, preferably from 2 to 8 mm, in particular from 3 to 6 mm.
4. Dish rack (16) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterised in that at least two support elements (18) are arranged so as to be preferably uniformly distributed on the underside of the storage surface (15).
5. Dish rack (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the storage surface (15) can be pivoted between a folded-up resting position and at least one folded-down operating position (BP1; BP2; BP3).
6. Dish rack (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the preferably planar storage surface (15) consists of a plurality of longitudinal elements (23) and transverse segments (24), preferably made of plastic or metal.
7. Dish rack (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the support surface (15) is preferably provided in the region of the axis (C) with a stop contour (21) for items to be washed, which is designed in a continuous or spaced-apart manner.
8. Dish rack (16) according to claim 7, characterised in that the stop contour (21) for items to be washed comprises round and/or polygonal stop segments.
9. Dish rack (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the storage surface (15) is preferably releasably connected to the dish basket (13) via a clamping connection (17).
10. Dish rack (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the dish basket (13) has a receiving bottom (29) formed from a plurality of spaced-apart longitudinal elements (26) and transverse elements (27) and forming an adjustable surface, wherein the transverse elements (26) are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal elements (27) and wherein the transverse elements (26) are connected to the longitudinal elements (27) at intersection points (30).
11. Dish rack (16) according to claim 10, characterised in that the receiving bottom (29) of the dish basket (13) is configured in the region below the storage surface (15) to be horizontal, approximately horizontal, or slightly inclined.
12. Dish rack (16) according to claim 10 or 11, characterised in that a longitudinal element (26) of the dish basket (13) forms the axis (C) for the storage surface (15) and that the storage surface (15) is preferably releasably connected to this longitudinal element (26) of the dish basket (13) via a clamping connection (17).
13. Dish rack (16) according to claim 10, 11 or 12, characterised in that the number of support elements (18) arranged on the underside of the storage surface (15) is equal to the number of transverse elements (27) covered at least in some regions by the storage surface (15), so that a transverse element (27) is assigned to each support element (18).
14. Dish rack (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the dish basket (13) has a plurality of separate, preferably adjacently arranged, storage surfaces (15), in each case at least one support element (18) being assigned thereto.
15. Dish rack according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the storage surface (15) and the at least one support element (18) are produced in a uniform material, in particular by an injection-moulding method.

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