Abstract:
A ground-preparation appliance device includes an energy storage unit, a movably drivable preparation unit, and a temperature control unit. The preparation unit is configured to generate an airflow. The temperature-control unit is configured to use the airflow to transmit heat at least one of to and from the energy-storage unit.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to patent application no. DE 10 2015 218 540.0, filed on Sep. 28, 2015 in Germany, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    A ground-preparation appliance, in particular configured as a lawn mower, which has at least a rechargeable battery and at least a rotatably drivable preparation tool, wherein an air flow that is generated by the preparation tool is used for collecting cuttings has already been proposed. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0003]    The disclosure proceeds from a ground-preparation appliance device having at least an energy-storage unit and having at least a movably drivable preparation unit. 
         [0004]    It is proposed that the ground-preparation appliance device has a temperature-control unit which, in particular, in at least an operating state is provided for using an air flow that is generated by the preparation unit and advantageously emanates from the preparation unit for transmitting heat, preferably at least by means of convection, from the energy-storage unit, in particular to an environmental region, and/or to the energy-storage unit, in particular from an environmental region. A flow direction of the air flow herein is advantageously at least substantially directed from the preparation unit toward the energy-storage unit. “Provided” is to be understood in particular to mean specially conceived and/or equipped. An object to be provided for a specific function is in particular to be understood to mean that the object fulfills and/or executes this specific function in at least an application state and/or an operating state. 
         [0005]    A “ground-preparation appliance device” in this context is to be understood to be in particular at least a part, in particular a substructure, of a ground-preparation appliance, in particular of an autonomous ground-preparation appliance. In particular, the ground-preparation appliance device may also comprise the entire ground-preparation appliance, in particular the entire autonomous ground-preparation appliance. A “ground-preparation appliance” in this context is to be understood in particular to be an appliance which in particular by means of the preparation unit is provided for preparing a ground and/or a subsoil, advantageously in a direct manner, and/or which is provided for preparing a ground-proximate region and/or for preparing in the vicinity of the ground. Particularly preferably, a ground-preparation appliance herein may be configured, for example, as a vacuum cleaner, a power sweeper, a cleaning machine, as an ice resurfacing machine, as a scarification machine, as an in particular hand-held lawn trimmer, and/or advantageously as a lawn mower. Furthermore in this context, an “autonomous ground-preparation appliance” is to be understood to be in particular an appliance which performs an operation at least in part in a self-acting manner, such as, in particular, commencing in a self-acting manner, terminating in a self-acting manner, and/or at least selects in a self-acting manner a parameter such as a route parameter and/or a reversal point, and/or advantageously moves in a self-acting manner at least for performing an operation, and/or moves autonomously in a predefined operating region. In particular, the ground-preparation appliance device herein may at least have an appliance housing which advantageously is configured as an external housing, at least a ground-preparation chamber which in particular is disposed on a lower side and/or on a side of the ground-preparation appliance that faces the ground, at least a drive unit which in particular comprises at least one internal-combustion engine and/or advantageously at least one electric motor, at least an electronics unit, and/or at least a controller unit. 
         [0006]    Furthermore, an “energy-storage unit” is to be understood to be in particular a unit which in particular is provided for at least temporarily storing and/or generating electrical energy. The energy-storage unit is advantageously provided for supplying the ground-preparation appliance device and/or at least a component of the ground-preparation appliance device such as, for example, the drive unit, the electronics unit, and/or the controller unit, with energy. The energy-storage unit herein may at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely be configured as an arbitrary energy-storage unit such as, for example, as a gas tank, as a fuel cell, as a condenser, as a battery, and/or preferably as a rechargeable battery such as, for example, as a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery, and/or as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The energy-storage unit herein is preferably configured as an energy-storage cell, in particular as a battery cell and/or as a rechargeable battery cell. The term “at least to a major part” herein is to be understood to mean, in particular, at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85%, and particularly advantageously at least 95%. 
         [0007]    Furthermore, a “preparation unit” is to be understood to be in particular a unit which is provided in particular for preparing, in particular for preparing an area, advantageously for preparing a ground and/or preparing in the vicinity of a ground. In particular, the preparation unit herein is configured to be drivable in a linear and/or advantageously in a rotatable and/or rotating manner. Moreover, the preparation unit at least in an operating state is preferably provided to generate, in particular by means of moving, advantageously by means of rotating and/or of rotatingly moving at least one air flow, in particular the air flow already mentioned above, and in particular not by way of a blower, a fan, in particular a motor fan, a ventilator and/or a vacuum generator, or the like. The preparation unit herein preferably at least comprises one, advantageously precisely one, preparation tool, in particular a ground-preparation tool. The preparation tool herein may be configured as an arbitrary, in particular movable preparation tool that is advantageously drivable in a rotating manner, such as, for example as a brush, a cloth, a rag, a thread, a rope, a cutter, a cutting blade, and/or as a rotor blade. In particular, the preparation tool is different from a blower, a fan, in particular a motor fan, a ventilator, and/or a vacuum generator, or the like. Moreover, the preparation unit can at least comprise one, advantageously precisely one, preparation-tool receptacle which is in particular provided for receiving the preparation tool. Preferably, the preparation unit, in particular the preparation tool, and/or the preparation-tool receptacle, is/are at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposed in the ground-preparation chamber. 
         [0008]    Moreover, a “temperature-control unit” is to be understood to be in particular an in particular active and/or advantageously passive unit which in particular has at least a thermal connection to the energy-storage unit and/or to the air flow that is in particular generated by the preparation unit and/or advantageously emanates from the latter, and is advantageously provided for influencing a temperature of the energy-storage unit. One object “influencing” another object in this context is to be understood to mean in particular that the further object in the absence of the object has and/or assumes another state, another quantity, and/or another temperature than in the presence of the object. Advantageously, the temperature-control unit, by means of the air flow that is generated in particular by the preparation unit and/or advantageously emanates from the latter, is provided for modifying, adapting a temperature of the energy-storage unit in particular to an advantageous operation, and/or for keeping said temperature in a predefined and/or predefinable temperature range. Particularly preferably, the temperature-control unit is provided for modifying and/or adapting the temperature of the energy-storage unit in such a manner that the temperature of the energy-storage unit in particular at least during operation lies in an optimal operating-temperature range, in particular between 5° C. and 65° C., preferably between 10° C. and 45° C., and particularly preferably between 15° C. and 30° C. Advantageously, the temperature-control unit herein is disposed at least in part and preferably at least to a major part in the air flow that is generated in particular by the preparation unit and/or advantageously emanates from the latter. Furthermore, the temperature-control unit is particularly preferably at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposed in a vicinity of the preparation unit and advantageously of the preparation tool. Additionally, the temperature-control unit is advantageously at least in part disposed outside the appliance housing. The temperature-control unit herein may comprise, for example, at least a fluid duct, advantageously an air duct, at least an air-guiding means which may advantageously be disposed in a vicinity of the preparation unit and/or be configured integrally with the preparation unit, at least a Peltier element, at least a thermal transmitter, advantageously a cooling element, and/or at least a receptacle in particular for the energy-storage unit. A “vicinity” is to be understood in particular as a spatial region which is formed by points which from a reference point and/or a reference component, in particular the preparation unit, lie at a distance that is less than half, preferably less than a third, preferably less than a quarter, and particularly preferably less than a sixth of a diameter and/or of a main extent of the ground-preparation chamber and/or of the preparation unit, and/or which from a reference point and/or a reference component, in particular the preparation unit, are each spaced apart by at most 20 cm, preferably by at most 10 cm, and particularly preferably by at most 5 cm. “Integral” in this context is to mean in particular connected in at least a materially integral manner. The materially integral connection may be established, for example, by way of an adhesive process, an insert-molding process, a welding process, a soldering/brazing process, and/or another process. However, integral is advantageously to be understood as being shaped in one piece. This one piece is preferably manufactured from a single blank, one mass, and/or one casting, such as by an extrusion method, for example, and/or by an injection-molding method. Moreover, an “active object” is to be understood to be in particular an object which is provided for being actively controlled and/or actuated. Furthermore, a “passive object” is to be understood to be in particular an object which is free of any potential for being actuated. An efficiency, in particular a preparation efficiency, a time efficiency, a component efficiency, an installation-space efficiency, a charging efficiency, and/or a cost efficiency may be improved, in particular, by way of a corresponding design embodiment of the ground-preparation appliance device. In particular, the energy-storage unit may advantageously be operated in an optimal temperature range, on account of which damages and/or output losses may be avoided, and/or service life and/or durability may be increased. Flexibility may moreover be increased, in particular since an operation that is at least largely independent from environmental conditions may be achieved. Also, a charging time may advantageously be reduced when an energy-storage unit which is configured as a rechargeable battery is used, in particular cooling intervals prior to and/or during a charging cycle may be dispensed with by virtue of a lower operating temperature of the energy-storage unit. 
         [0009]    The temperature-control unit is preferably provided for at least cooling the energy-storage unit, on account of which overheating of the energy-storage unit in particular in the case of temperatures above 65° C. may advantageously be avoided. Moreover, in particular in the case of high environmental temperatures such as in midsummer, cooling intervals may advantageously be avoided, on account of which more rapid preparation and/or optimized, in particular output-optimized and/or energy-optimized operation is enabled. Alternatively or additionally, however, it is also conceivable that the temperature-control unit is additionally provided for heating the energy-storage unit, for example while using waste heat from the drive unit, in particular during operation in the case of low environmental temperatures such as in cold seasons and/or in indoor ice rinks, for example. Alternatively or additionally, it is moreover conceivable that cooling and/or heating is performed by means of a base station of the ground-preparation appliance, a standalone blower unit which is provided in particular for removing condensate, an in particular additional cooling unit, and/or an in particular additional heating unit. Cooling of the energy-storage unit herein is preferably performed at least at a temperature of the energy-storage unit above 65° C., advantageously above 55° C., and particularly advantageously above 45° C. Moreover, heating of the energy-storage unit is preferably performed at least at a temperature of the energy-storage unit below 5° C., advantageously below 7.5° C., and particularly advantageously below 10° C. 
         [0010]    Furthermore, particularly simple, rapid, and/or efficient heat transmission may be achieved in particular when the temperature-control unit advantageously directly contacts and/or touches the energy-storage unit. In particular, the temperature-control unit and the energy-storage unit herein have at least a contact area, the latter advantageously being adapted to both the former. 
         [0011]    It is moreover proposed that the temperature-control unit has at least an energy-storage receptacle which is provided for at least in part, preferably at least to a major part and particularly preferably entirely receiving the energy-storage unit and for at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposing the latter in a vicinity of the preparation unit and advantageously of the preparation tool. In particular, the energy-storage unit thus in at least an operating state is at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposed in a vicinity of the preparation unit and advantageously of the preparation tool. Advantageously, the energy-storage receptacle and/or the energy-storage unit is/are furthermore at least in part and preferably at least to a major part disposed in the air flow that is, in particular, generated by the preparation unit, and/or advantageously emanates from the latter. Moreover, the energy-storage receptacle is advantageously provided for closing off the energy-storage unit at least in a substantially fluid-tight manner. An object being provided for “closing off” a further object “at least in a substantially fluid-tight manner” in this context is understood to mean in particular that the object is provided for preventing and/or blocking an ingress of a fluid, advantageously of a liquid, in particular into the further object to at least a degree of 95%, preferably at least to 97%, and particularly preferably at least to 99%. An efficiency of the heat transmission may be improved in particular on account thereof. 
         [0012]    In one design embodiment of the disclosure it is proposed that the ground-preparation appliance device has at least a ground-preparation chamber, in particular the ground-preparation chamber already mentioned above, in which the preparation unit and advantageously at least the preparation tool at least to a major part and preferably entirely, and the temperature-control unit at least in part, are disposed. In particular, the air flow that is generated in particular by the preparation unit, and/or advantageously emanates from the latter, in this case impacts the temperature-control unit, in particular a component of the temperature-control unit that contacts and/or touches the energy-storage unit advantageously in a direct manner, preferably a thermal transmitter of the temperature-control unit, directly, in particularly without deflection, and/or without guides, on account of which additional air ducts in particular may be dispensed with. Moreover, a component efficiency may advantageously be increased, and an efficiency of the heat transmission may be further improved. 
         [0013]    Preferably, the energy-storage unit is at least in part disposed in the ground-preparation chamber, on account of which a design embodiment which in particular is almost neutral in terms of installation space may advantageously be achieved. 
         [0014]    In one preferred design embodiment of the disclosure it is proposed that the ground-preparation appliance device has at least a ground-preparation chamber, in particular the ground-preparation chamber already mentioned above, which defines at least an opening which is provided in particular for infeeding and/or outfeeding at least a part of a preparation material, advantageously a cut product, which in particular is to be prepared and/or has been prepared, to the preparation unit and/or from the preparation unit, the temperature-control unit being at least in part disposed in a vicinity of the opening. On account thereof, simple integration in particular may be achieved, in particular without having to perform extensive adaption work in terms of design. The opening herein corresponds in particular to a clearance of the ground-preparation chamber. Advantageously, the opening herein in relation to a preferred direction of movement of in particular the ground-preparation appliance is at least in part and preferably to at least a major part disposed ahead of or behind the preparation unit. Particularly preferably, the ground-preparation chamber at least has two, advantageously precisely two, openings, in particular one preparation-product infeed opening and one preparation-product outfeed opening. 
         [0015]    The temperature-control unit could contact and/or touch the ground-preparation chamber directly, for example. However, it is preferably proposed that the ground-preparation appliance device has at least a ground-preparation chamber, in particular the ground-preparation chamber already mentioned above, by way of which the temperature-control unit is at least in part integrally configured. Advantageously, the temperature-control unit herein contacts the ground-preparation chamber across a large area. An object being “at least in part integrally configured” with a further object in this context is to be understood in particular, to mean that at least a component of the object and/or the object is/are integrally connected and/or configured by way of at least a component of the further object and/or of the further object. Two objects being in “contact across a large area” is to be understood, in particular, to mean that a contact area between the objects corresponds to a proportion in terms of area at least of 20%, advantageously at least of 40%, preferably at least of 60%, and particularly preferably at least of 80% of a lateral face of at least one of the objects, said lateral face facing in particular the other object. On account thereof, a particularly efficient heat transfer in particular between the temperature-control unit and the ground-preparation chamber may, in particular, be achieved. 
         [0016]    Preferably, the temperature-control unit in relation to a preferred direction of movement in particular of the ground-preparation appliance is disposed in a forward region of the appliance housing and advantageously at least ahead of a drive shaft of the ground-preparation appliance device. In one particularly preferred design embodiment of the disclosure it is proposed that the temperature-control unit in relation to a preferred direction of movement in particular of the ground-preparation appliance is at least in part and preferably to at least a major part or entirely disposed ahead of the preparation unit, in particular at least ahead of the preparation-tool receptacle, and advantageously ahead of the preparation tool. On account thereof, a contamination of the temperature-control unit, in particularly by a preparation product such as, for example, cut product, or the like, may, in particular, be avoided. 
         [0017]    It is furthermore proposed that the temperature-control unit has at least a thermal transmitter which in particular in at least an operating state is at least in part disposed in the air flow that is generated in particular by the preparation unit and/or advantageously emanates from the latter, and is advantageously provided for an in particular direct heat transmission and/or heat exchange between the air flow and the energy-storage unit. Particularly preferably, the thermal transmitter herein comprises a plurality, such as, for example, at least two, at least three, at least four, and/or at least five rib elements, in particular fins and/or pins, which advantageously at least in part are arcuate, advantageously circular-arcuate and/or are disposed in particular along a main flow direction of the air flow that is generated in particular by the preparation unit and/or advantageously emanates from the latter. In particular, at least the thermal transmitter is at least in an operating state at least in part, preferably to at least a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposed in a vicinity of the preparation unit. Moreover, the thermal transmitter is preferably at least in part, preferably to at least a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposed outside the appliance housing, advantageously in the ground-preparation chamber. Preferably, the thermal transmitter herein is at least in part, preferably to at least a major part, and particularly preferably entirely composed of a material which has an in particularly increased heat conductivity of at least 0.3 W/mK, and advantageously of at least 0.5 W/mK. On account thereof, a heat transmission and/or a heat exchange, in particular, may be simplified and/or accelerated. 
         [0018]    In one preferred design embodiment of the disclosure it is proposed that the temperature-control unit has at least a thermal transmitter, in particular the thermal transmitter already mentioned above, which at least in part, preferably to at least a major part, and particularly preferably entirely is composed of an electrically isolating material. Alternatively or additionally, the thermal transmitter at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, is composed of a corrosion-resistant material. The thermal transmitter particularly preferably at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, is composed of a plastics, advantageously of an in particular synthetic polymer, preferably of HDPE (“high density polymer”), advantageously having a heat conductivity between 0.2 W/mK and 0.7 W/mK, and advantageously between 0.35 W/mK and 0.5 W/mK. On account thereof, costs in particular may be reduced and safety regulations may be met. Moreover, complex geometries and/or thermal transmitters having thin wall thicknesses may also be implemented, on account of which the temperature-control unit and in particular the thermal transmitter may advantageously be adapted to various conditions and/or circumstances. Moreover, a weight of the temperature-control unit may advantageously be kept low, on account of which an output efficiency may be increased, and/or a comfort in particular for a user may be improved. 
         [0019]    In one design embodiment of the disclosure it is proposed that the energy-storage unit is configured to be interchangeable and/or replaceable. Advantageously, the temperature-control unit herein has at least an interface for coupling advantageously in a form-fitting manner in particular across a large area to the energy-storage unit, into which interface the energy-storage unit is interchangeably and/or replaceably introducible, advantageously in a plug-in manner such as by means of at least a sliding rail and at least one latching element, for example. Advantageously, the energy-storage unit herein has a further interface that in particular corresponds to the interface. Preferably, the temperature-control unit and the energy-storage unit herein bear on one another across a large area. Advantageously, a contact area between the temperature-control unit and the energy-storage unit herein is at least largely configured so as to be planar. Flexibility in particular may be advantageously improved on account thereof. Moreover, it is conceivable in this case, in particular in order to improve thermal contact, that the temperature-control unit has at least a contacting element such as, for example, a heat-conducting paste, a heat-conducting gel, and/or an elastic element having heat-conducting properties, which may advantageously be disposed in a vicinity of the interface, and/or between the interface and the energy-storage unit. It is conceivable herein, for example, that the contacting element, by means of compression when connecting the temperature-control unit to the energy-storage unit, configures a connection across a large area between the temperature-control unit and the energy-storage unit. 
         [0020]    It is moreover proposed that the ground-preparation appliance device has at least one appliance housing, in particular the appliance housing already mentioned above, and at least one sealing unit which in particular is at least in part configured so as to be elastic, wherein the temperature-control unit is at least in part disposed outside the appliance housing, and the sealing unit is provided in order for a passage point of the temperature-control unit through the appliance housing to be closed off at least in a substantially fluid-tight manner. Advantageously, the sealing unit herein is at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely disposed between the temperature-control unit and the appliance housing, and particularly preferably directly contacts and/or touches the temperature-control unit and/or the appliance housing. Particularly preferably, the sealing unit at least in part, preferably to at least a major part, and particularly preferably entirely encompasses the temperature-control unit. The sealing unit herein may, in particular, at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, be composed of an arbitrary material, but advantageously of an elastomer, a silicone, and/or a rubber. Particularly preferably, the sealing unit is at least provided in order to completely prevent the ingress of water into the appliance housing and/or into the temperature-control unit. On account thereof, advantageous sealing may, in particular, be achieved, and/or IP protection classifications may be met. 
         [0021]    Furthermore, a ground-preparation appliance device having at least an energy-storage unit, and having at least a movably drivable preparation unit is proposed, wherein the ground-preparation appliance device has at least one appliance housing which is configured, in particular, as an external housing, and at least an insulating unit which is provided in order for the appliance housing to be at least in part, and preferably at least to a major part, insulated, in particular thermally insulated and/or acoustically insulated, in relation to an environment, in particular an environmental region of the ground-preparation appliance. An “insulating unit” in this case is to be understood to be in particular a unit which in particular is provided in order to at least in part influence, and advantageously to reduce, prevent and/or block at least in part a heat transfer, a heat proliferation, and/or a transmission of thermal energy, in particular through the appliance housing and/or into the appliance housing, and/or an acoustic transfer, an acoustic proliferation, and/or an acoustic transmission, in particular through the appliance housing. The insulating unit herein may at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, be composed of an arbitrary material such as, for example, styrofoam, glass wool, rock wool, natural fibers, cellulose, perlite, and/or polystyrene. Moreover, the insulating unit may be present in an arbitrary form such as, for example, as a bulk material, as a mat, as a plate, as a foam, as a liquid, and/or as a gas. In particular, the insulating unit could also be configured by way of a vacuum unit which defines at least a region having a pressure, in particular an air pressure, of at most 300 mbar, advantageously of at most 100 mbar, and particularly advantageously of at most 1 mbar. In particular, the insulating unit is provided in order for at least the temperature-control unit and/or the energy-storage unit to be at least in part and preferably at least to a major part shielded. Furthermore, the insulating unit is in particular at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, disposed in a vicinity of a housing shell of the appliance housing, and preferably in an upper region of the appliance housing in relation to an operating position of the ground-preparation appliance. Particularly advantageously, the insulating unit is disposed between an in particular solar-resistant external housing shell and an advantageously at least in part acoustically insulating internal housing shell. On account thereof, additional heating of the ground-preparation appliance device and/or of the ground-preparation appliance, in particular at least of the energy-storage unit, may, in particular, be reduced and/or advantageously be entirely avoided. Moreover, a sound level may advantageously be reduced, on account of which an operating comfort may in particular be increased. 
         [0022]    Moreover, the disclosure proceeds from a method for operating a ground-preparation appliance device which comprises at least an energy-storage unit and at least a movably drivable preparation unit by way of which in at least an operating state at least one air flow that advantageously emanates from the preparation unit is generated. 
         [0023]    It is proposed that the air flow, in particular in at least an operating state, is used for transmitting heat, preferably at least by means of convection, from the energy-storage unit in particular to an environmental region, and/or to the energy-storage unit in particular from an environmental region. On account thereof, an efficiency, in particular a preparation efficiency, a time efficiency, a component efficiency, an installation-space efficiency, and/or a cost efficiency may be improved in particular. Moreover, flexibility may be increased in particular since an operation that is at least largely independent of the environmental conditions may be achieved. 
         [0024]    Herein, the ground-preparation appliance device is not to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the ground-preparation appliance device in order to fulfill a functional mode which is described herein may have individual elements, components, and units which in terms of numbers deviate from any number mentioned herein. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0025]    Further advantages are derived from the following description of the drawing. An exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated in the drawing. The drawing, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination with one another. A person skilled in the art will expediently also view the features individually and combine the latter so as to form meaningful further combinations. 
           [0026]    In the figures: 
           [0027]      FIG. 1  shows a ground-preparation appliance, configured as an autonomous lawn mower, having a ground-preparation appliance device, in an illustration from above; 
           [0028]      FIG. 2  shows the ground-preparation appliance in a lateral partial illustration; 
           [0029]      FIG. 3  shows the ground-preparation appliance in an illustration from below; 
           [0030]      FIG. 4  shows an energy-storage module of the ground-preparation appliance device, in a first exploded illustration from obliquely above; 
           [0031]      FIG. 5  shows the energy-storage module in a second exploded illustration from obliquely below; 
           [0032]      FIG. 6  shows the energy-storage module in an assembled state, in a view from below; 
           [0033]      FIG. 7  shows a ground-preparation appliance having a further ground-preparation appliance device, in an illustration from below; 
           [0034]      FIG. 8  shows a preparation unit of a further ground-preparation appliance device, in a perspective illustration; 
           [0035]      FIG. 9  shows part of a preparation unit of a further ground-preparation appliance device, in a perspective illustration; 
           [0036]      FIG. 10  shows the preparation unit of  FIG. 9  in a perspective illustration; and 
           [0037]      FIG. 11  shows a ground-preparation appliance having a further ground-preparation appliance device, in a perspective illustration. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0038]      FIGS. 1 to 3  show a ground-preparation appliance  24   a  in an illustration from above (cf.  FIG. 1 ), in a lateral partial illustration (cf.  FIG. 2 ), and in an illustration from below (cf.  FIG. 3 ), wherein for the sake of clarity some components of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  have been removed in particular in  FIG. 2 . The ground-preparation appliance  24   a  in the present case is configured as an autonomous ground-preparation appliance. The ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is configured to be self-driving and is in particular provided for performing ground preparation in a self-acting manner. The ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is configured so as to be operated with a rechargeable battery. The ground-preparation appliance  24   a  herein in an exemplary manner is configured as an autonomous lawn mower and is provided in particular for preparing a ground-proximate region, in particular for cutting and/or mowing a lawned area. Alternatively, however, a ground-preparation appliance may also be configured as another ground-preparation appliance such as, for example, as a vacuum cleaner, a power sweeper, a cleaning machine, as an ice resurfacing machine, as a scarification machine, and/or as an in particular hand-held lawn trimmer. 
         [0039]    The ground-preparation appliance  24   a  has a ground-preparation appliance device. The ground-preparation appliance device comprises an appliance housing  28   a . The appliance housing  28   a  is configured as an external housing. At least a major part of the components necessary for operating the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is disposed within the appliance housing  28   a . In the present case, the appliance housing  28   a  at least in a part-region has an external housing shell  62   a  and an internal housing shell  64   a . The external housing shell  62   a  faces an environment. The external housing shell  62   a  is configured so as to be solar-resistant. The internal housing shell  64   a  faces away from the environment. The internal housing shell  64   a  at least in part is configured so as to be acoustically insulating. The external housing shell  62   a  and the internal housing shell  64   a  define an insulating-unit receptacle region. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for an insulating-unit receptacle region and/or at least one of the housing shells to be dispensed with. Moreover, the ground-preparation appliance device has a running gear  35   a  which is known per se. Furthermore, the ground-preparation appliance device has a ground-preparation chamber  20   a . The ground-preparation chamber  20   a  is disposed on a lower side and/or on a side of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  that faces the ground. The ground-preparation chamber  20   a  herein is open toward the lower side and/or on that side of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  that faces the ground. The ground-preparation chamber  20   a  in the present case is configured as a cutting bowl. The ground-preparation chamber  20   a  is composed of plastics. Alternatively, it is conceivable that a ground-preparation chamber at least in part, preferably to at least a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, is composed of any other material such as, for example, of a composite material, an alloy, a ceramics material, and/or a metal. The ground-preparation appliance device furthermore has a preparation unit  11   a . The preparation unit  11   a  is at least in part disposed in the ground-preparation chamber  20   a . The preparation unit  11   a  comprises a preparation-tool receptacle  13   a . Moreover, the preparation unit  11   a  has a preparation tool  12   a . The preparation tool  12   a  is configured so as to be rotatable and/or rotatingly drivable. The preparation tool  12   a  is configured as a cutter blade. The preparation tool  12   a  herein is different from a blower, a fan, in particular a motor fan, a ventilator, and/or a vacuum generator, or the like. The preparation tool  12   a  is composed of metal, in the present case in particular of steel. Furthermore, the preparation tool  12   a  in an exemplary manner comprises three cutter elements  30   a . The cutter elements  30   a  are disposed at an angular spacing of 120°. The preparation tool  12   a  is provided for preparing a preparation product. The preparation tool  12   a  is provided for a ground-proximate preparation, in particular for cutting and/or mowing a lawned area. Alternatively, however, other preparation units, in particular having other preparation tools, other cutter blades, and/or cutter blades having another number of cutter elements, cutting geometries, and/or composed of other materials, are also conceivable. Also, a preparation unit, in particular a preparation-tool receptacle and/or a preparation tool, could at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, be composed of an arbitrary material such as, for example, plastics, a composite material, an alloy, a ceramics material, and/or a metal such as steel, for example. 
         [0040]    Furthermore, the ground-preparation chamber  20   a  defines at least an opening  50   a ,  52   a . In the present case, the ground-preparation chamber  20   a  defines two openings  50   a ,  52   a . A first opening  50   a  of the openings  50   a ,  52   a  is configured as a preparation-product infeed opening and in relation to a preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is disposed ahead of the preparation unit  11   a . A second opening  52   a  of the openings  50   a ,  52   a , is configured as a preparation-product outfeed opening and in relation to the preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is disposed behind the preparation unit  11   a . The openings  50   a ,  52   a  herein are provided for infeeding and outfeeding a preparation product, in the present case of in particular a cut product, in particular grass, to the preparation unit  11   a  and from the preparation unit  11   a.    
         [0041]    In order for the preparation unit  11   a  to be driven and/or operated, the ground-preparation appliance device comprises a drive unit  36   a . The drive unit  36   a  is disposed in the appliance housing  28   a . The drive unit  36   a  comprises a motor, in the present case in particular an electric motor. The drive unit  36   a  has at least an operational connection to the preparation unit  11   a . To this end, the drive unit  36   a  may comprise further units such as, for example, at least a gearbox. Moreover, the ground-preparation appliance device comprises a running-gear drive  38   a . The running-gear drive  38   a  is provided for driving the running gear  35   a  in a manner known per se. The running-gear drive  38   a  in the present case has at least an operational connection to the drive unit  36   a . Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for a running-gear drive to be configured so as to be entirely separate and/or autonomous from a drive unit. For the supply of energy, the ground-preparation appliance device furthermore comprises an energy-storage unit  10   a . The energy-storage unit  10   a  to a major part is disposed within the appliance housing  28   a . In the present case, the energy-storage unit  10   a  is fixedly installed. The energy-storage unit  10   a  is configured as a rechargeable battery, in particular as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The energy-storage unit  10   a  comprises at least one energy cell  76   a , in the present case in particular a rechargeable battery cell, and in particular is configured as at least one energy cell  76   a . An optimal operating-temperature range of the energy-storage unit  10   a  herein lies between 18° C. and 25° C. The energy-storage unit  10   a  furthermore has at least an operational connection to the drive unit  36   a . The energy-storage unit  10   a  herein is at least provided for supplying energy to the drive unit  36   a  in at least an operating state. Alternatively, it is conceivable for an energy-storage unit to be configured as a battery and/or as a fuel cell. Moreover, an energy-storage unit could be configured so as to be interchangeable and/or replaceable. Moreover, the ground-preparation appliance device comprises further units for operating the ground-preparation appliance  24   a , such as an electronics unit  40   a  and a controller unit  42   a , for example. In the present case, the energy-storage unit  10   a  is provided for supplying energy to the electronics unit  40   a  and to the controller unit  42   a.    
         [0042]    In order to guarantee an operation of the energy-storage unit  10   a  that is efficient in terms of output and/or free from damage, a temperature of the energy-storage unit  10   a  should at all times be in the optimal operating-temperature range. In particular in the case of very hot and/or cold environmental temperatures such as in midsummer and/or in indoor ice rinks, for example, a temperature of the energy-storage unit  10   a  in the case of solutions that are known to date often cannot however be kept in this optimal operating-temperature range, which may lead in particular to cooling intervals and/or heating intervals, in particular in the case of a temperature of the energy-storage unit  10   a  climbing beyond a critical value of approximately 65° C. and/or dropping below a critical value of approximately 5° C. 
         [0043]    For this reason, the ground-preparation appliance device has a temperature-control unit  14   a  for modifying and/or adapting the temperature of the energy-storage unit  10   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  is configured so as to be passive. The temperature-control unit  14   a  to a major part is disposed within the appliance housing  28   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  in relation to the preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is disposed in a forward region of the appliance housing  28   a . Moreover, the temperature-control unit  14   a  is at least in part disposed outside the appliance housing  28   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  herein has a passage point  66   a  through the appliance housing  28   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  is disposed in a vicinity of the preparation unit  11   a . In the present case, the temperature-control unit  14   a  is at least in part disposed in the ground-preparation chamber  20   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  is furthermore disposed in a vicinity of the first opening  50   a . Thus, the temperature-control unit  14   a  in relation to the preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  is disposed ahead of the preparation unit  11   a . Moreover, the temperature-control unit  14   a  in the present case is aligned in such a manner that a main direction of extent  68   a  of the temperature-control unit  14   a  is aligned so as to be perpendicular to the preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a . Moreover, the main direction of extent  68   a  of the temperature-control unit  14   a  is aligned so as to be horizontal in relation to a supporting ground. 
         [0044]    In order for the protection classification of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a  to be maintained, the ground-preparation appliance device moreover comprises a sealing unit  46   a . The sealing unit  46   a  is designed so as to be elastic. The sealing unit  46   a  is composed of a rubber material. The sealing unit  46   a  is disposed on the appliance housing  28   a , in particular fastened thereto. In a fitted state, the sealing unit  46   a  completely encompasses the temperature-control unit  14   a . The sealing unit  46   a  herein bears on a sealing face  47   a  of the temperature-control unit  14   a  (cf. also  FIG. 5 ). The sealing unit  46   a  is provided for closing off the passage point  66   a  of the temperature-control unit  14   a  through the appliance housing  28   a  at least in a substantially fluid-tight manner. In principle, it is also conceivable for a sealing unit of any other material to be used. 
         [0045]    Moreover, the temperature-control unit  14   a  at least in part is disposed in an air flow  16   a  that is generated by the preparation unit  11   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  herein has a thermal connection to the air flow  16   a . Moreover, the temperature-control unit  14   a  has a thermal connection to the energy-storage unit  10   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  in the present case is provided for cooling the energy-storage unit  10   a . The temperature-control unit  14   a  is provided for reducing a temperature of the energy-storage unit  10   a  in at least an operating state and for keeping said temperature preferably at least below 65° C., advantageously at least below 45° C. The temperature-control unit  14   a  herein is intended to use, in the at least one operating state, the air flow  16   a  that is generated by the preparation unit  11   a  and that emanates from the preparation unit  11   a  for transmitting heat from the energy-storage unit  10   a  to an environmental region, in particular of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a . The preparation unit  11   a  herein at least in part acts as a fan and/or a ventilator. Alternatively or additionally, a temperature-control unit could also be provided for heating an energy-storage unit. Also, a preparation unit could have at least an air-guide means, for example an aerodynamic profile, in particular in order to amplify the air flow and/or in order to improve a cooling output. Moreover, a ground-preparation appliance device could also comprise further units such as, for example, a base station, a standalone blower unit, an in particular additional cooling unit, and/or an in particular additional heating unit, which may be provided alternatively or additionally for cooling and/or heating the energy-storage unit. It is also conceivable for an air flow that in particular is generated by a preparation unit and/or that advantageously emanates from the latter to be used for cooling and/or heating other components such as, for example, a drive unit, an electronics unit, and/or a controller unit, and/or for executing more comprehensive tasks such as, for example, for collecting cut product. 
         [0046]    One design embodiment of the temperature-control unit  14   a  will now be explained in more detail hereunder (cf. also  FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 ). The temperature-control unit  14   a  has an energy-storage receptacle  18   a . The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  in the present case is composed at least to a major part of plastics. The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is configured as a receptacle housing. The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is configured in two parts. The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is provided for receiving the energy-storage unit  10   a . The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is provided for mounting the energy-storage unit  10   a  at least in a substantially fluid-tight, in particular water-tight, manner, on account of which effective discharging of heat is required, in particular. The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  contacts the energy-storage unit  10   a . The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  and the energy-storage unit  10   a  herein have a contact face  54   a  and/or a structure, the latter being adapted to both the former. The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  has a thermal connection to the energy-storage unit  10   a . The energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is provided for disposing the energy-storage unit  10   a  in a vicinity of the preparation unit  11   a . In the present case, the energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is moreover provided for disposing the energy-storage unit  10   a  at least in part in the ground-preparation chamber  20   a . Moreover, the energy-storage receptacle  18   a  is provided for aligning the energy-storage unit  10   a  in such a manner that a main direction of extent  70   a  of the energy-storage unit  10   a  is aligned so as to be perpendicular to the preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a . Moreover, the main direction of extent  70   a  of the energy-storage unit  10   a  is aligned so as to be horizontal in relation to a supporting ground. In the present case, the main direction of extent  70   a  of the energy-storage unit  10   a  is parallel with the main direction of extent  68   a  of the temperature-control unit  14   a.    
         [0047]    Moreover, the temperature-control unit  14   a  comprises at least a thermal transmitter  22   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  has a plurality of rib elements  32   a . In the present case, the thermal transmitter  22   a  at least has seven rib elements  32   a . The rib elements  32   a  are configured as fins. The rib elements  32   a  are configured so as to be arcuate. In the present case, the rib elements  32   a  are configured so as to be circular-arcuate, in particular along a main flow direction of the air flow  16   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  and in particular the rib elements  32   a  herein are aligned in such a manner that a main direction of extent  72   a  of the thermal transmitter  22   a  is aligned so as to be perpendicular to the preferred direction of movement  44   a  of the ground-preparation appliance  24   a . Moreover, the main direction of extent  72   a  of the thermal transmitter  22   a  is aligned so as to be horizontal in relation to a supporting ground. In the present case, the main direction of extent  72   a  of the thermal transmitter  22   a  is parallel with the main direction of extent  70   a  of the energy-storage unit  10   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  moreover is composed of a corrosion-resistant material. Furthermore, the thermal transmitter  22   a  is composed of an electrically isolating material. The thermal transmitter  22   a  is composed of a polymer, in the present case in particular of HDPE. Alternatively, it is conceivable for a thermal transmitter at least in part, preferably at least to a major part, and particularly preferably entirely, to be composed of any other material such as, for example, of a composite material, an alloy, a ceramics material, plastics with added fillers, and/or of a metal. The thermal transmitter  22   a  is furthermore disposed in a vicinity of the preparation unit  11   a . Moreover, the thermal transmitter  22   a  is disposed outside the appliance housing  28   a , and in particular in the ground-preparation chamber  20   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  is disposed in a vicinity of the first opening  50   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  is moreover disposed in the air flow  16   a . Furthermore, the thermal transmitter  22   a  is coupled to the energy-storage receptacle  18   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  in the present case is configured integrally with the energy-storage receptacle  18   a . Moreover, the thermal transmitter  22   a  has a thermal connection to the energy-storage unit  10   a . In the present case, the thermal transmitter  22   a  contacts the energy-storage unit  10   a  at least by means of a contact element  56   a . The contact element  56   a  herein extends from the rib elements  32   a  to the energy-storage unit  10   a . The thermal transmitter  22   a  herein is provided for a direct heat transmission and/or thermal exchange between the air flow  16   a  and the energy-storage unit  10   a.    
         [0048]    Furthermore, the ground-preparation appliance device has an insulating unit  48   a . The insulating unit  48   a  is disposed in the insulating-unit receptacle region. The insulating unit  48   a  is disposed between the external housing shell  62   a  and the internal housing shell  64   a . The insulating unit  48   a  is composed of glass wool. The insulating unit  48   a  is provided for insulating the appliance housing  28   a  at least in part in relation to an environment and, on account thereof, for at least shielding the temperature-control unit  14   a  and the energy-storage unit  10   a , on account of which additional heating of the energy-storage unit  10   a  may be reduced, in particular. 
         [0049]    Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for a further insulating unit to be used for insulating a drive unit. Moreover, an insulating unit could be composed of an arbitrary other material. It is also conceivable for an insulating unit to be fastened to an appliance housing in a materially integral manner or by means of any other fastening method. 
         [0050]    Moreover, the energy-storage unit  10   a  at least together with the thermal transmitter  22   a  forms an energy-storage module  26   a  (cf. in particular  FIG. 4 ). In the present case, the energy-storage unit  10   a , the temperature-control unit  14   a , in particular the thermal transmitter  22   a  and the energy-storage receptacle  18   a , and a connection element  34   a , which is provided, in particular, for connecting to the electronics unit  40   a , of the ground-preparation appliance device form the energy-storage module  26   a.    
         [0051]    Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for a temperature-control unit to comprise further units such as, for example, at least a fluid duct, at least an air-guide means, and/or at least a Peltier element which advantageously may have a thermal connection to an air flow that in particular is generated by the preparation unit and/or advantageously emanates from the latter, and to an energy-storage unit. An energy-storage receptacle and/or a thermal transmitter could also at least in part be composed of another material such as, for example, a metal, in particular aluminum. Moreover, it is conceivable for an energy-storage receptacle and/or a thermal transmitter, in particular having a plurality of rib elements, to be completely dispensed with. 
         [0052]    Further exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are shown in  FIGS. 7 to 11 . The descriptions hereunder and the drawings are substantially limited to the points of differentiation between the exemplary embodiments, wherein in terms of components with identical references, in particular in terms of components having identical reference signs, reference may also be made in principle to the drawings and/or the description of the other exemplary embodiments, in particular those of  FIGS. 1 to 6 . In order for the exemplary embodiments to be differentiated, the index letter a has been added to the reference signs of the exemplary embodiment in  FIGS. 1 to 6 . In the exemplary embodiments of  FIGS. 7 to 11  the index letter a has been replaced by the index letters b to e. 
         [0053]    A further exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is shown in  FIG. 7 . The index letter b is added to the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 7 . The further exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 7  at least substantially differs from the previous exemplary embodiment by way of a design embodiment of a temperature-control unit  14   b  and of a ground-preparation chamber  20   b.    
         [0054]    In the present case, the ground-preparation chamber  20   b  is at least in part configured integrally with the temperature-control unit  14   b . Herein, a thermal transmitter  22   b  of the temperature-control unit  14   b  is in particular configured integrally with the ground-preparation chamber  20   b . The ground-preparation chamber  20   b  herein is composed of a material that has a thermal conductivity of approximately 50 W/mK. In the present case, the ground-preparation chamber  20   b  is composed of steel. Moreover, it is conceivable for a thermal transmitter  22   b  having rib elements  32   b  to be dispensed with in the present case. 
         [0055]    A further exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is shown in  FIG. 8 . The index letter c has been added to the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 8 . The further exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 8  at least substantially differs from the previous exemplary embodiments by way of a preparation unit  11   c.    
         [0056]    In the present case, a temperature-control unit  14   c  comprises an air-guide means  58   c . The air-guide means  58   c  is configured integrally with the preparation unit  11   c , in the present case in particular with a preparation tool  12   c  of the preparation unit  11   c . The air-guide means  58   c  corresponds to an aerodynamic profile of the preparation unit  11   c . The air-guide means  58   c  is at least provided for guiding in a targeted manner an air flow  16   c  that is in particular generated by the preparation unit  11   c  and emanates from the preparation unit  11   c . In the present case, the air-guide means  58   c  is provided for improving a cooling output. 
         [0057]    A further exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 . The index letter d has been added to the exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 9 and 10 . The further exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 9 and 10  at least substantially differs from the previous exemplary embodiments by way of a preparation unit  11   d.    
         [0058]    In this case, a temperature-control unit  14   d  comprises a plurality of air-guide means  58   d . The air-guide means  58   d  are configured integrally with the preparation unit  11   d , in the present case in particular with a preparation-tool receptacle  13   d  of the preparation unit  11   d . The air-guide means  58   d  are configured as wing elements. The air-guide means  58   c  are disposed so as to be concentric in relation to a rotation axis of the preparation unit  11   d . The air-guide means  58   d  herein extend radially outward. The air-guide means  58   d  are configured so as to be arcuate and are bent in particular in the direction of rotation. The air-guide means  58   d  is at least provided for guiding in a targeted manner an air flow  16   d  that is in particular generated by the preparation unit  11   d  and emanates from the preparation unit  11   d . In the present case, the air-guide means  58   d  is provided for amplifying the air flow  16   d.    
         [0059]    A further exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is shown in  FIG. 11 . The index letter e has been added to the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 11 . The further exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 11  at least substantially differs from the previous exemplary embodiments by way of an energy-storage unit  10   e.    
         [0060]    In the present case, an appliance housing  28   e  has an opening flap  82   e . Moreover, the energy-storage unit  10   e , in particular by means of the opening flap  82   e , is configured so as to be interchangeable and/or replaceable. The energy-storage unit  10   e  comprises an energy-storage housing  74   e  and at least an energy cell  76   e . The energy cell  76   e  is disposed within the energy-storage housing  74   e . Moreover, the energy-storage unit  10   e  has a first interface  78   e , in particular for connecting to a temperature-control unit  14   e . The temperature-control unit  14   e  is fixed within the appliance housing  28   e . The temperature-control unit  14   e  has a second interface  80   e  for integrating the energy-storage unit  10   e . The second interface  80   e  in the present case corresponds to an energy-storage receptacle  18   e  which is provided in particular for at least in part receiving the energy-storage unit  10   e  and for at least in part disposing the latter in a vicinity of a preparation unit  11   e . The second interface  80   e  is configured in a manner corresponding to that of the first interface  78   e . In the present case, the first interface  78   e  and the second interface  80   e  are provided for a form-fitting connection between the energy-storage unit  10   e  and the temperature-control unit  14   e . Alternatively, it is also conceivable that at least an element of a temperature-control unit could be connected to the energy-storage unit and/or be configured integrally with the latter, and that the energy-storage unit is interchangeable and/or replaceable conjointly with the element of the temperature-control unit. In this case, the energy-storage unit and/or the element of the temperature-control unit could comprise a first interface for connecting to a second interface of a further element of the temperature-control unit. It is also conceivable for at least a contacting element such as, for example, a heat-conducting paste, a heat-conducting gel, and/or an elastic element having heat-conducting properties to be used for improving a thermal contact.