iron

Abstract

An iron (10) comprises a plate assembly (12) and a containment body (14), wherein the containment body (14) has an open shape towards a front part (11A) of the iron (10) and comprises a lower portion (16), an upper portion (18) having a handle function, and a rear portion (17).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an iron provided with an ergonomic shape suitable to reduce user strain during ironing.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Irons - for domestic or professional use - having a "closed" shape are known, i.e., in which the handle is connected to the base with both ends, as well as irons with an "open" shape, i.e., in which the handle comprises an end connected to the base, while the opposite end remains free.

[0003] In both types of irons it has been highlighted that the use thereof involves an uncomfortable and annoying position for the arm, wrist and hand of the user during the ironing operations which, over time, can lead to a strain thereof, which results in discomfort and subsequently in long-term stress and fatigue.

[0004] Discomfort, strain and tensions on the arm are caused by a number of factors including, for example, incorrect posture, force applied for ironing and the interaction frequency with the iron itself, for example to move it from the horizontal operating position to the vertical resting position, or vice versa.

[0005] These problems are even more evident when the iron must be used to perform a vertical ironing session, since it is necessary to unnaturally bend the wrist to keep the iron in the correct position to dispense steam on a vertical plane.

[0006] Irons normally also have a user interface by means of which the user can set the desired operating parameters, for example the temperature level of the heating plate, the amount of steam to be dispensed, the type of fabric to be ironed, and more. The position and shape of the latter can also contribute to creating tension and strain on the user's arm.

[0007] Documents WO2020 / 170283 A2, FR 3089525 A1, DE 2712805 A1, US 4 782609 A and US 2639521 A disclose irons of a known type.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to improve an iron which can overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an iron having an ergonomic shape, i.e., which is comfortable to use, preventing or at least limiting the generation of tension and strain on the arm, wrist and hand of the user.

[0010] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an iron which is properly balanced and allows ironing operations to be performed both horizontally and vertically without causing discomfort or fatigue for the user.

[0011] A further object of the present invention is to provide an iron which is practical to use and which allows the user an easy access to the control devices.

[0012] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an iron which makes it easy to both set up and display and control a set ironing mode.

[0013] A further object of the present invention is to provide an iron which is able to be used by a wide variety of people, having different physical and muscular structures.

[0014] The Applicant has studied, tested and realized the present invention to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and to obtain these and further objects and advantages.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention is expressed and characterized in the independent claim. The dependent claims show other features of the present invention or variants of the main solution idea.

[0016] According to the aforementioned objects, an iron according to the invention, which overcomes the limits of the prior art and eliminates the defects therein, comprises a heating plate assembly provided with an ironing soleplate and a containment body associated with the plate assembly. The containment body has a "C" shape, open towards the front part of the iron and comprising a lower portion shaped to be associated with the plate assembly, an upper portion, and a rear portion connecting said lower and upper portions one to the other.

[0017] The upper portion is configured to act as a handle and comprises a gripping portion and an end portion.

[0018] The upper portion extends along a longitudinal axis, which is preferably inclined upwards towards the front part of the iron, so as to reduce the stresses and strain on the wrist and on the shoulder of the user.

[0019] According to embodiments, the gripping portion forms, together with the end portion, a seat configured to provide additional support for the finger of a user, in particular during vertical ironing sessions.

[0020] The gripping portion has a cavity and the end portion has an abutment wall delimiting such a cavity towards the front part, on which the user's index finger can rest, thus also acting as a reference area for the hand.

[0021] A control button for dispensing steam is advantageously disposed inside the cavity.

[0022] Therefore, thanks to the shape of the iron according to the invention, the user is led to assume a position of the hand on the handle suitable to limit the stresses acting both on the hand itself and on the wrist, especially in vertical use, and on the arm and / or shoulder, so as to help the user maintain correct posture during the ironing operations and prevent strain.

[0023] In accordance with embodiments, the gripping portion has a section having a variable shape and size along the longitudinal axis.

[0024] In particular, it has a smaller section near the end portion and a larger section in correspondence with a central zone thereof, on which, during use, the palm of the user's hand is positioned.

[0025] According to embodiments, the upper portion and in particular the gripping portion comprises an inner support body having the function of providing strength and rigidity to the handle itself, and an outer coating of rubber or other similar deformable material, suitable to confer a certain degree of friction to allow a safe grip for the user both during horizontal ironing and during vertical ironing.

[0026] According to further embodiments, at least the thickness of the outer coating covering a lower surface of the support body can vary along the longitudinal axis, between a minimum value in correspondence with the end zones and a maximum value in correspondence with the central zone, that is in correspondence with the zone at which, in use, the palm of the user's hand is positioned.

[0027] The containment body and the plate assembly are designed such that the centre of gravity of the iron is located within the gripping portion, along a median plane thereof.

[0028] This position of the centre of gravity provides high control of the iron during ironing, making the iron more manageable.

[0029] Preferably, the centre of gravity is located in correspondence with a central zone thereof along the longitudinal development thereof, close to the lower surface thereof.

[0030] According to further embodiments, the width of the gripping portion is substantially increasing from the front part towards the rear part.

[0031] According to further embodiments, a user interface is installed on the end portion, provided with at least one display device to display the selected ironing program, for example shown in the form of icons or text messages. Such a user interface preferably covers substantially the entire upper surface of the end portion, thereby providing a large display surface for the icons and / or text.ILLUSTRATION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following embodiment description, given as a non-limiting example, with reference to the attached drawings in which: fig. 1 is a schematic axonometric view of an iron according to embodiments of the invention; fig. 2 is a side view of the containment body of the iron of fig. 1; fig. 3a is a sectional view along the line A-A of fig. 2; fig. 3b is a sectional view along the line B-B of fig. 2; fig. 3c is a sectional view along the line C-C of fig. 2; fig. 3d is a sectional view along the line D-D of fig. 2; fig. 4 is a side view of the iron of fig. 1.

[0033] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the figures. It is to be understood that elements and features of an embodiment can be conveniently combined or incorporated into other embodiments without further clarification.DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to the possible embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the attached figures by way of non-limiting example. The phraseology and terminology used herein is also for non-limiting exemplary purposes.

[0035] Fig. 1 illustrates an iron 10 according to the invention, for domestic or professional use, which comprises a plate assembly 12 provided with a support surface 21 of an ironing soleplate 13 and a containment body 14 associated with the plate assembly 12.

[0036] Said containment body 14 has an open shape towards a front part 11A of the iron 10.

[0037] The containment body 14 has in particular a substantially "C" shape, or "U" shape, with the free ends facing said front part 11A.

[0038] Said containment body 14 comprises a lower portion 16, an upper portion 18, having the function of a handle, and a rear portion 17 connecting the lower portion 16 and the upper portion 18 together.

[0039] The upper portion 18 extends along a longitudinal axis X between a rear part 11B and said front part 11A of the iron 10.

[0040] The longitudinal axis X is inclined upwards in the direction from said rear part 11B and said front part 11A at an inclination angle α with respect to the support surface 21 of said ironing soleplate 13.

[0041] The inclination angle is preferably between 1° and 7°, even more preferably between 3° and 5°. In the illustrated example the angle α is about 3°.

[0042] The upper portion 18 comprises a gripping portion 19 having an oblong shape extending along the longitudinal axis X and, in correspondence with the free end thereof, an end portion 20.

[0043] An axis of a plane P1 on which the top of an upper surface 32 of the gripping portion 19 lies (figs. 2 and 4) on which the user's hand rests can for example be considered as the longitudinal axis X. Therefore, the angle α can be defined as the angle between the lying plane of the support surface 21 and the plane P1.

[0044] Providing the gripping portion 19 inclined upwards allows to reduce the stresses generated on the wrist of a user during ironing sessions, facilitating the movement of the iron 10 forwards, without the need to unnaturally bend the wrist, so as to have a more comfortable and less tiring ironing session.

[0045] According to embodiments, the gripping portion 19 has a section with variable dimensions along the longitudinal axis X, consistent with the shape of a user's hand, which is therefore substantially entirely in contact with the gripping portion 19. In other words, thanks to the conformation of the gripping portion 19, any gaps between the hand and the gripping portion 19 are limited to a minimum, thus improving the resting thereon.

[0046] Said gripping portion 19 in cooperation with said end portion 20 form a seat 27 configured to provide support to a user's finger, in particular during vertical ironing sessions.

[0047] Said gripping portion 19 has a cavity 28 and said end portion 20 has an abutment wall 29 delimiting such a cavity 28 on which the user's index finger can rest.

[0048] A steam dispensing button 30 is advantageously disposed inside the cavity 28.

[0049] According to embodiments, said button 30 is disposed in the cavity 28 on the side opposite the abutment wall 29 and, advantageously, extends partially outside of such a cavity 28, beyond a lower surface 31 of the gripping portion 19 so as to facilitate the operation thereof by the user without forcing the finger or hand.

[0050] Furthermore, said seat 27 and said button 30 serve as a reference for positioning the finger and therefore the hand of the user, facilitating the user to assume a correct position, such as not to strain the wrist, arm and / or shoulder during ironing.

[0051] In accordance with embodiments, the gripping portion 19 comprises a support body 22 configured to act as a supporting structure and confer strength and rigidity to the handle portion 19 and a coating 23 in deformable material, disposed outside the support body 22 and configured to provide a more practical and comfortable grip for the user.

[0052] Said support body 22 can have a tubular shape, or be at least partially hollow to allow any power and / or data transmission cables between the cord 15 and the end portion 20 to be housed therein.

[0053] Said coating 23 can be made with a rubber component, or similar material suitable to provide a certain degree of friction so as to ensure a reliable grip by the user.

[0054] Said coating 23 can cover the entire perimeter of the support body 22, with the exception, if necessary, of a side portion 24 thereof.

[0055] In such a case, the coating 23 can comprise a first upper layer 25 covering the surface of the support body 22 above the side portion 24 and a second lower layer 26 covering the lower surface of the support body 22.

[0056] Along the longitudinal axis X, the coating 23 preferably extends at least over the entire length of the gripping portion 19.

[0057] According to possible embodiments, the coating 23, or at least the second lower layer 26, also extends in correspondence with the end portion 20, to facilitate the positioning of a user's fingers and ensure a reliable grip.

[0058] According to embodiments of the present invention, said gripping portion 19 has a variable section along the longitudinal axis X.

[0059] According to embodiments, in a side view (fig. 4) the gripping portion 19 has an upper surface 32 having a straight and rectilinear profile and a lower surface 31 with a variable profile.

[0060] According to possible embodiments, the profile of the upper surface 32 lies entirely on a first plane P1 and at least part of the profile of the lower surface 31 lies on a second plane P2. The planes P1 and P2 are divergent towards the front part 11A of the iron 10 and mutually inclined with respect to one another by an angle β of between 1° and 6°, preferably about 3°.

[0061] According to further embodiments, the second plane P2 is inclined with respect to a third plane P3 on which the profile of the lower portion 16 lies by an angle γ of between 8° and 12°, preferably about 10°.

[0062] According to further embodiments, the width of the gripping portion 19 is substantially increasing from the front part 11A towards the rear part 11B so as to be narrower where the index finger and thumb are positioned and wider where the palm of the hand rests.

[0063] In particular, said gripping portion 19 can have a larger section in correspondence with a central zone 34 (figs. 2 and 3b) and a smaller section upstream and downstream of the latter, and can further have a recess 33 near the rear portion 17 to facilitate the positioning of the user's pinkie and / or ring finger.

[0064] According to possible embodiments, both the inner body 22 and the outer layer(s) 23, 25, 26 have a variable thickness along the longitudinal axis X.

[0065] The thickness of the inner body 22 and the outer layer 23, in particular, can vary in correspondence with the lower surface 31, while it can remain substantially constant in correspondence with the upper surface 32.

[0066] Figs. 3a-3d exemplify the section of the gripping portion 19 and the thickness of the different layers which compose it along the section planes A-A, B-B, C-C and D-D indicated in fig. 2.

[0067] Said inner body 22, in correspondence with and / or near the upper surface 32, can have a substantially constant thickness along the entire longitudinal axis X.

[0068] The thickness of said inner body 22 in correspondence with and / or near the lower surface 31 on which the palm of the hand rests has a greater thickness in correspondence with the areas of the gripping portion 19 having a smaller section, such as the cavity 27 and the recess 33 (figs. 3a and 3c), and a smaller thickness in correspondence with the areas with a greater section (figs. 3b and 3d), such as the central zone 34.

[0069] In particular, the inner body 22 has a maximum thickness Slmax in correspondence with the end of the seat 27 opposite the abutment wall 29, and a minimum thickness S1min in correspondence with the central zone 34.

[0070] Said coating 23, in correspondence with and / or near the upper surface 32, can have a substantially constant thickness along the entire longitudinal axis X.

[0071] The thickness of the coating 23 in correspondence with and / or near the lower surface 31 has a maximum thickness S2max in correspondence with the central zone 34, while upstream and downstream thereof it can have a minimum thickness S2min.

[0072] According to embodiments, in correspondence with the central zone 34 the thickness of the inner body 22 is minimum while the thickness of the coating 23, in particular of the second layer 26, is maximum

[0073] The centre of gravity G of the iron 10 is located within the gripping portion 19 (fig. 4), along a median plane thereof to allow high control of the iron 10 during ironing.

[0074] The centre of gravity G of the iron 10 is preferably located in correspondence with the central zone 34 of the gripping portion 19 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0075] In particular, said centre of gravity G is located near the lower surface 31, that is substantially in correspondence with the area placed, in use, in contact with the palm of the user's hand.

[0076] According to such embodiments, the plate assembly 12, containment body 14, ironing soleplate 13, and other components are designed in order to position the centre of gravity, i.e., the centre of gravity G, in such a position.

[0077] According to further embodiments, a user interface 35 is arranged on the end portion 20 through which the user can control and / or adjust the operation of the iron 10.

[0078] The user interface 35 comprises at least one display device 36 to display the desired program or mode of operation, e.g., reported in the form of icons or text messages. Such a display device 36 preferably covers substantially the entire upper surface of the end portion 20, thereby providing a large display surface for the icons and / or messages.

[0079] To this end, it can be provided that the upper surface 36 of the end portion 20 is inclined downwards with respect to said gripping portion 19 towards the front part 11A, so as to increase the useful available surface.

[0080] Thereby, even in the case of ironing apparatuses provided with separate bases provided with boilers or tanks, the user does not have to rotate their head to look at the selected ironing mode thereon, but can comfortably receive the information on the display device 36.

[0081] According to embodiments, the user interface 35 further comprises one or more buttons 37 of the push-button type, or of the touch-sensitive type, by means of which the user can select the desired program or mode of operation.

[0082] The Applicant has performed an anthropometric analysis of the iron 10 according to the invention, in particular to highlight, during an ironing session, the percentage of time in which the limit values are exceeded in terms of: wrist flexion / extension greater than 45°, ulnar deviation greater than 15° and radial deviation greater than 20°.

[0083] The values were considered in relation to the regulations, in particular the standard ISO 11228-3 / EN 1005-5.

[0084] The results obtained showed very low values with regard to both the wrist and the arm which move the iron 10.

[0085] In particular, the percentage of time in which the limit values are exceeded was found to be less than 8.5% with respect to the duration of an ironing session; that is, for the majority of the time, overall above 90%, or 91.5%, the user's wrist and arm remain within the limit values defined by the standard.

[0086] In particular, the angle assumed by the wrist during ironing is a consequence of both the angle α of the handle 18, and the angle assumed by the elbow (typically about 85°-95°), which in turn are a function of both the positioning height of the ironing board and the height of the user.

[0087] The Applicant has conducted some tests to evaluate the benefit provided to the user by the inclination of the angle α of the gripping portion 19 of the iron 10 according to the invention.

[0088] In the tests carried out, to avoid, or at least limit, the influence given by the angle of the elbow and the height of the person, for each user the iron was positioned at the height of the hips (with relative tolerance) so that during the ironing session the elbow was bent at an angle of about 90° and the shoulder could move freely.

[0089] Therefore, excluding among the variables the height of the user and consequently the angle assumed by the elbow, as an incident variable on the flexion / extension of the wrist and on the ulnar deviation, the angle assumed by the wrist itself remains which in turn is dependent on the angle α, i.e., on the inclination of the upper surface 32 of the gripping portion 19 of the iron 10 on which the hand rests.

[0090] The shape of the product, which is expressed in the angle α, once the conditions of correct use are met, allows to minimize the percentage of time the user uses the device in uncomfortable conditions. In particular, as reported above, in the case of the iron 10 according to the invention, such a percentage was found to be 8.5%

[0091] Therefore, the iron 10 according to the invention appears to have high ergonomics and is therefore very comfortable to use without causing pain or strain.

[0092] It is clear that modifications and / or additions of parts may be made to the iron 10 described so far, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims.

[0093] In the following claims, the references in brackets have the sole purpose of facilitating reading and must not be considered as limiting factors as regards the scope of protection underlying the specific claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0034]Reference will now be made in detail to the possible embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the attached figures by way of non-limiting example. The phraseology and terminology used herein is also for non-limiting exemplary purposes.

[0035]Fig. 1 illustrates an iron 10 according to the invention, for domestic or professional use, which comprises a plate assembly 12 provided with a support surface 21 of an ironing soleplate 13 and a containment body 14 associated with the plate assembly 12.

[0036]Said containment body 14 has an open shape towards a front part 11A of the iron 10.

[0037]The containment body 14 has in particular a substantially "C" shape, or "U" shape, with the free ends facing said front part 11A.

[0038]Said containment body 14 comprises a lower portion 16, an upper portion 18, having the function of a handle, and a rear portion 17 connecting the lower portion 16 and the upper portion 18 together.

[0039]The upper portion 18 extends al...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an iron provided with an ergonomic shape suitable to reduce user strain during ironing.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Irons - for domestic or professional use - having a "closed" shape are known, i.e., in which the handle is connected to the base with both ends, as well as irons with an "open" shape, i.e., in which the handle comprises an end connected to the base, while the opposite end remains free.

[0003] In both types of irons it has been highlighted that the use thereof involves an uncomfortable and annoying position for the arm, wrist and hand of the user during the ironing operations which, over time, can lead to a strain thereof, which results in discomfort and subsequently in long-term stress and fatigue.

[0004] Discomfort, strain and tensions on the arm are caused by a number of factors including, for example, incorrect posture, force applied for ironing and the interaction frequency with the iron itself, for example to move it from the horizontal operating position to the vertical resting position, or vice versa.

[0005] These problems are even more evident when the iron must be used to perform a vertical ironing session, since it is necessary to unnaturally bend the wrist to keep the iron in the correct position to dispense steam on a vertical plane.

[0006] Irons normally also have a user interface by means of which the user can set the desired operating parameters, for example the temperature level of the heating plate, the amount of steam to be dispensed, the type of fabric to be ironed, and more. The position and shape of the latter can also contribute to creating tension and strain on the user's arm.

[0007] Documents WO2020 / 170283 A2, FR 3089525 A1, DE 2712805 A1, US 4 782609 A and US 2639521 A disclose irons of a known type.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to improve an iron which can overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an iron having an ergonomic shape, i.e., which is comfortable to use, preventing or at least limiting the generation of tension and strain on the arm, wrist and hand of the user.

[0010] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an iron which is properly balanced and allows ironing operations to be performed both horizontally and vertically without causing discomfort or fatigue for the user.

[0011] A further object of the present invention is to provide an iron which is practical to use and which allows the user an easy access to the control devices.

[0012] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an iron which makes it easy to both set up and display and control a set ironing mode.

[0013] A further object of the present invention is to provide an iron which is able to be used by a wide variety of people, having different physical and muscular structures.

[0014] The Applicant has studied, tested and realized the present invention to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art and to obtain these and further objects and advantages.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention is expressed and characterized in the independent claim. The dependent claims show other features of the present invention or variants of the main solution idea.

[0016] According to the aforementioned objects, an iron according to the invention, which overcomes the limits of the prior art and eliminates the defects therein, comprises a heating plate assembly provided with an ironing soleplate and a containment body associated with the plate assembly. The containment body has a "C" shape, open towards the front part of the iron and comprising a lower portion shaped to be associated with the plate assembly, an upper portion, and a rear portion connecting said lower and upper portions one to the other.

[0017] The upper portion is configured to act as a handle and comprises a gripping portion and an end portion.

[0018] The upper portion extends along a longitudinal axis, which is preferably inclined upwards towards the front part of the iron, so as to reduce the stresses and strain on the wrist and on the shoulder of the user.

[0019] According to embodiments, the gripping portion forms, together with the end portion, a seat configured to provide additional support for the finger of a user, in particular during vertical ironing sessions.

[0020] The gripping portion has a cavity and the end portion has an abutment wall delimiting such a cavity towards the front part, on which the user's index finger can rest, thus also acting as a reference area for the hand.

[0021] A control button for dispensing steam is advantageously disposed inside the cavity.

[0022] Therefore, thanks to the shape of the iron according to the invention, the user is led to assume a position of the hand on the handle suitable to limit the stresses acting both on the hand itself and on the wrist, especially in vertical use, and on the arm and / or shoulder, so as to help the user maintain correct posture during the ironing operations and prevent strain.

[0023] In accordance with embodiments, the gripping portion has a section having a variable shape and size along the longitudinal axis.

[0024] In particular, it has a smaller section near the end portion and a larger section in correspondence with a central zone thereof, on which, during use, the palm of the user's hand is positioned.

[0025] According to embodiments, the upper portion and in particular the gripping portion comprises an inner support body having the function of providing strength and rigidity to the handle itself, and an outer coating of rubber or other similar deformable material, suitable to confer a certain degree of friction to allow a safe grip for the user both during horizontal ironing and during vertical ironing.

[0026] According to further embodiments, at least the thickness of the outer coating covering a lower surface of the support body can vary along the longitudinal axis, between a minimum value in correspondence with the end zones and a maximum value in correspondence with the central zone, that is in correspondence with the zone at which, in use, the palm of the user's hand is positioned.

[0027] The containment body and the plate assembly are designed such that the centre of gravity of the iron is located within the gripping portion, along a median plane thereof.

[0028] This position of the centre of gravity provides high control of the iron during ironing, making the iron more manageable.

[0029] Preferably, the centre of gravity is located in correspondence with a central zone thereof along the longitudinal development thereof, close to the lower surface thereof.

[0030] According to further embodiments, the width of the gripping portion is substantially increasing from the front part towards the rear part.

[0031] According to further embodiments, a user interface is installed on the end portion, provided with at least one display device to display the selected ironing program, for example shown in the form of icons or text messages. Such a user interface preferably covers substantially the entire upper surface of the end portion, thereby providing a large display surface for the icons and / or text.ILLUSTRATION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following embodiment description, given as a non-limiting example, with reference to the attached drawings in which: fig. 1 is a schematic axonometric view of an iron according to embodiments of the invention; fig. 2 is a side view of the containment body of the iron of fig. 1; fig. 3a is a sectional view along the line A-A of fig. 2; fig. 3b is a sectional view along the line B-B of fig. 2; fig. 3c is a sectional view along the line C-C of fig. 2; fig. 3d is a sectional view along the line D-D of fig. 2; fig. 4 is a side view of the iron of fig. 1.

[0033] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the figures. It is to be understood that elements and features of an embodiment can be conveniently combined or incorporated into other embodiments without further clarification.DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to the possible embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the attached figures by way of non-limiting example. The phraseology and terminology used herein is also for non-limiting exemplary purposes.

[0035] Fig. 1 illustrates an iron 10 according to the invention, for domestic or professional use, which comprises a plate assembly 12 provided with a support surface 21 of an ironing soleplate 13 and a containment body 14 associated with the plate assembly 12.

[0036] Said containment body 14 has an open shape towards a front part 11A of the iron 10.

[0037] The containment body 14 has in particular a substantially "C" shape, or "U" shape, with the free ends facing said front part 11A.

[0038] Said containment body 14 comprises a lower portion 16, an upper portion 18, having the function of a handle, and a rear portion 17 connecting the lower portion 16 and the upper portion 18 together.

[0039] The upper portion 18 extends along a longitudinal axis X between a rear part 11B and said front part 11A of the iron 10.

[0040] The longitudinal axis X is inclined upwards in the direction from said rear part 11B and said front part 11A at an inclination angle α with respect to the support surface 21 of said ironing soleplate 13.

[0041] The inclination angle is preferably between 1° and 7°, even more preferably between 3° and 5°. In the illustrated example the angle α is about 3°.

[0042] The upper portion 18 comprises a gripping portion 19 having an oblong shape extending along the longitudinal axis X and, in correspondence with the free end thereof, an end portion 20.

[0043] An axis of a plane P1 on which the top of an upper surface 32 of the gripping portion 19 lies (figs. 2 and 4) on which the user's hand rests can for example be considered as the longitudinal axis X. Therefore, the angle α can be defined as the angle between the lying plane of the support surface 21 and the plane P1.

[0044] Providing the gripping portion 19 inclined upwards allows to reduce the stresses generated on the wrist of a user during ironing sessions, facilitating the movement of the iron 10 forwards, without the need to unnaturally bend the wrist, so as to have a more comfortable and less tiring ironing session.

[0045] According to embodiments, the gripping portion 19 has a section with variable dimensions along the longitudinal axis X, consistent with the shape of a user's hand, which is therefore substantially entirely in contact with the gripping portion 19. In other words, thanks to the conformation of the gripping portion 19, any gaps between the hand and the gripping portion 19 are limited to a minimum, thus improving the resting thereon.

[0046] Said gripping portion 19 in cooperation with said end portion 20 form a seat 27 configured to provide support to a user's finger, in particular during vertical ironing sessions.

[0047] Said gripping portion 19 has a cavity 28 and said end portion 20 has an abutment wall 29 delimiting such a cavity 28 on which the user's index finger can rest.

[0048] A steam dispensing button 30 is advantageously disposed inside the cavity 28.

[0049] According to embodiments, said button 30 is disposed in the cavity 28 on the side opposite the abutment wall 29 and, advantageously, extends partially outside of such a cavity 28, beyond a lower surface 31 of the gripping portion 19 so as to facilitate the operation thereof by the user without forcing the finger or hand.

[0050] Furthermore, said seat 27 and said button 30 serve as a reference for positioning the finger and therefore the hand of the user, facilitating the user to assume a correct position, such as not to strain the wrist, arm and / or shoulder during ironing.

[0051] In accordance with embodiments, the gripping portion 19 comprises a support body 22 configured to act as a supporting structure and confer strength and rigidity to the handle portion 19 and a coating 23 in deformable material, disposed outside the support body 22 and configured to provide a more practical and comfortable grip for the user.

[0052] Said support body 22 can have a tubular shape, or be at least partially hollow to allow any power and / or data transmission cables between the cord 15 and the end portion 20 to be housed therein.

[0053] Said coating 23 can be made with a rubber component, or similar material suitable to provide a certain degree of friction so as to ensure a reliable grip by the user.

[0054] Said coating 23 can cover the entire perimeter of the support body 22, with the exception, if necessary, of a side portion 24 thereof.

[0055] In such a case, the coating 23 can comprise a first upper layer 25 covering the surface of the support body 22 above the side portion 24 and a second lower layer 26 covering the lower surface of the support body 22.

[0056] Along the longitudinal axis X, the coating 23 preferably extends at least over the entire length of the gripping portion 19.

[0057] According to possible embodiments, the coating 23, or at least the second lower layer 26, also extends in correspondence with the end portion 20, to facilitate the positioning of a user's fingers and ensure a reliable grip.

[0058] According to embodiments of the present invention, said gripping portion 19 has a variable section along the longitudinal axis X.

[0059] According to embodiments, in a side view (fig. 4) the gripping portion 19 has an upper surface 32 having a straight and rectilinear profile and a lower surface 31 with a variable profile.

[0060] According to possible embodiments, the profile of the upper surface 32 lies entirely on a first plane P1 and at least part of the profile of the lower surface 31 lies on a second plane P2. The planes P1 and P2 are divergent towards the front part 11A of the iron 10 and mutually inclined with respect to one another by an angle β of between 1° and 6°, preferably about 3°.

[0061] According to further embodiments, the second plane P2 is inclined with respect to a third plane P3 on which the profile of the lower portion 16 lies by an angle γ of between 8° and 12°, preferably about 10°.

[0062] According to further embodiments, the width of the gripping portion 19 is substantially increasing from the front part 11A towards the rear part 11B so as to be narrower where the index finger and thumb are positioned and wider where the palm of the hand rests.

[0063] In particular, said gripping portion 19 can have a larger section in correspondence with a central zone 34 (figs. 2 and 3b) and a smaller section upstream and downstream of the latter, and can further have a recess 33 near the rear portion 17 to facilitate the positioning of the user's pinkie and / or ring finger.

[0064] According to possible embodiments, both the inner body 22 and the outer layer(s) 23, 25, 26 have a variable thickness along the longitudinal axis X.

[0065] The thickness of the inner body 22 and the outer layer 23, in particular, can vary in correspondence with the lower surface 31, while it can remain substantially constant in correspondence with the upper surface 32.

[0066] Figs. 3a-3d exemplify the section of the gripping portion 19 and the thickness of the different layers which compose it along the section planes A-A, B-B, C-C and D-D indicated in fig. 2.

[0067] Said inner body 22, in correspondence with and / or near the upper surface 32, can have a substantially constant thickness along the entire longitudinal axis X.

[0068] The thickness of said inner body 22 in correspondence with and / or near the lower surface 31 on which the palm of the hand rests has a greater thickness in correspondence with the areas of the gripping portion 19 having a smaller section, such as the cavity 27 and the recess 33 (figs. 3a and 3c), and a smaller thickness in correspondence with the areas with a greater section (figs. 3b and 3d), such as the central zone 34.

[0069] In particular, the inner body 22 has a maximum thickness Slmax in correspondence with the end of the seat 27 opposite the abutment wall 29, and a minimum thickness S1min in correspondence with the central zone 34.

[0070] Said coating 23, in correspondence with and / or near the upper surface 32, can have a substantially constant thickness along the entire longitudinal axis X.

[0071] The thickness of the coating 23 in correspondence with and / or near the lower surface 31 has a maximum thickness S2max in correspondence with the central zone 34, while upstream and downstream thereof it can have a minimum thickness S2min.

[0072] According to embodiments, in correspondence with the central zone 34 the thickness of the inner body 22 is minimum while the thickness of the coating 23, in particular of the second layer 26, is maximum

[0073] The centre of gravity G of the iron 10 is located within the gripping portion 19 (fig. 4), along a median plane thereof to allow high control of the iron 10 during ironing.

[0074] The centre of gravity G of the iron 10 is preferably located in correspondence with the central zone 34 of the gripping portion 19 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0075] In particular, said centre of gravity G is located near the lower surface 31, that is substantially in correspondence with the area placed, in use, in contact with the palm of the user's hand.

[0076] According to such embodiments, the plate assembly 12, containment body 14, ironing soleplate 13, and other components are designed in order to position the centre of gravity, i.e., the centre of gravity G, in such a position.

[0077] According to further embodiments, a user interface 35 is arranged on the end portion 20 through which the user can control and / or adjust the operation of the iron 10.

[0078] The user interface 35 comprises at least one display device 36 to display the desired program or mode of operation, e.g., reported in the form of icons or text messages. Such a display device 36 preferably covers substantially the entire upper surface of the end portion 20, thereby providing a large display surface for the icons and / or messages.

[0079] To this end, it can be provided that the upper surface 36 of the end portion 20 is inclined downwards with respect to said gripping portion 19 towards the front part 11A, so as to increase the useful available surface.

[0080] Thereby, even in the case of ironing apparatuses provided with separate bases provided with boilers or tanks, the user does not have to rotate their head to look at the selected ironing mode thereon, but can comfortably receive the information on the display device 36.

[0081] According to embodiments, the user interface 35 further comprises one or more buttons 37 of the push-button type, or of the touch-sensitive type, by means of which the user can select the desired program or mode of operation.

[0082] The Applicant has performed an anthropometric analysis of the iron 10 according to the invention, in particular to highlight, during an ironing session, the percentage of time in which the limit values are exceeded in terms of: wrist flexion / extension greater than 45°, ulnar deviation greater than 15° and radial deviation greater than 20°.

[0083] The values were considered in relation to the regulations, in particular the standard ISO 11228-3 / EN 1005-5.

[0084] The results obtained showed very low values with regard to both the wrist and the arm which move the iron 10.

[0085] In particular, the percentage of time in which the limit values are exceeded was found to be less than 8.5% with respect to the duration of an ironing session; that is, for the majority of the time, overall above 90%, or 91.5%, the user's wrist and arm remain within the limit values defined by the standard.

[0086] In particular, the angle assumed by the wrist during ironing is a consequence of both the angle α of the handle 18, and the angle assumed by the elbow (typically about 85°-95°), which in turn are a function of both the positioning height of the ironing board and the height of the user.

[0087] The Applicant has conducted some tests to evaluate the benefit provided to the user by the inclination of the angle α of the gripping portion 19 of the iron 10 according to the invention.

[0088] In the tests carried out, to avoid, or at least limit, the influence given by the angle of the elbow and the height of the person, for each user the iron was positioned at the height of the hips (with relative tolerance) so that during the ironing session the elbow was bent at an angle of about 90° and the shoulder could move freely.

[0089] Therefore, excluding among the variables the height of the user and consequently the angle assumed by the elbow, as an incident variable on the flexion / extension of the wrist and on the ulnar deviation, the angle assumed by the wrist itself remains which in turn is dependent on the angle α, i.e., on the inclination of the upper surface 32 of the gripping portion 19 of the iron 10 on which the hand rests.

[0090] The shape of the product, which is expressed in the angle α, once the conditions of correct use are met, allows to minimize the percentage of time the user uses the device in uncomfortable conditions. In particular, as reported above, in the case of the iron 10 according to the invention, such a percentage was found to be 8.5%

[0091] Therefore, the iron 10 according to the invention appears to have high ergonomics and is therefore very comfortable to use without causing pain or strain.

[0092] It is clear that modifications and / or additions of parts may be made to the iron 10 described so far, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims.

[0093] In the following claims, the references in brackets have the sole purpose of facilitating reading and must not be considered as limiting factors as regards the scope of protection underlying the specific claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0034]Reference will now be made in detail to the possible embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the attached figures by way of non-limiting example. The phraseology and terminology used herein is also for non-limiting exemplary purposes.

[0035]Fig. 1 illustrates an iron 10 according to the invention, for domestic or professional use, which comprises a plate assembly 12 provided with a support surface 21 of an ironing soleplate 13 and a containment body 14 associated with the plate assembly 12.

[0036]Said containment body 14 has an open shape towards a front part 11A of the iron 10.

[0037]The containment body 14 has in particular a substantially "C" shape, or "U" shape, with the free ends facing said front part 11A.

[0038]Said containment body 14 comprises a lower portion 16, an upper portion 18, having the function of a handle, and a rear portion 17 connecting the lower portion 16 and the upper portion 18 together.

[0039]The upper portion 18 extends al...

Claims

1. Iron (10) comprising a plate assembly (12) and a containment body (14), which comprises at least a lower portion (16), an upper portion (18) and a connecting rear portion (17) between said lower and upper portions (16, 18), wherein said upper portion (18) has the function of an handle and a free end in correspondence with a front part (11A) of the iron (10), extending along a longitudinal axis (X) inclined upwards, by an inclination angle (α), in the direction of said front part (11A), with respect to a support surface (21) and comprises a gripping portion (19) with an oblong shape extending along said longitudinal axis (X) and an end portion (20) arranged in correspondence with a free end of said gripping portion (19), characterized in that said iron (10) has its own centre of gravity (G) located in said gripping portion (19) along a median plane thereof, in correspondence with a central area (34) along said longitudinal axis (X).

2. Iron (10) as in claim 1, characterized in that said inclination angle (α) is comprised between 1° and 7°.

3. Iron (10) as in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said gripping portion (19) and said end portion (20) are shaped so as to define a seat (27) for positioning a user's finger on a lower surface (31) of said gripping portion (19).

4. Iron (10) as in claim 3, characterized in that said end portion (20) has an abutment wall (29) delimiting a cavity (28) of said seat (27) towards said front part (11A).

5. Iron (10) as in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that in said seat (27) it comprises a button (30) for the dispensing of steam.

6. Iron (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said gripping portion (19) has a section with variable shape and size along said longitudinal axis (X), having a smaller section near said end portion (20) and said rear portion (17) and a larger section in correspondence with a central zone (34) thereof.

7. Iron (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said gripping portion (19) comprises a recess (33) on a lower surface (31) near the rear portion (17).

8. Iron (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said upper portion (18) comprises an inner support body (22) having the function of providing strength and rigidity, and an outer coating (23) in rubber or other deformable material.

9. Iron (10) as in claim 8, characterized in that at least the thickness of said coating (23) is variable along said longitudinal axis (X), between a minimum value in correspondence with the end zones and a maximum value in correspondence with a central zone (34).

10. Iron (10) as in claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the thickness of said inner body (22) in correspondence with and / or near a lower surface (31) has a greater thickness in correspondence with the areas of said gripping portion (19) having a smaller section and a smaller thickness in correspondence with the areas with a greater section.

11. Iron (10) as in any claim 8 to 10, characterized in that the thickness of said inner body (22) and said outer layer (23) varies in correspondence with a lower surface (31), while it remains substantially constant in correspondence with an upper surface (32) of said gripping portion (19).

12. Iron (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said centre of gravity (G) is located near a lower surface (31) of said gripping portion (19).

13. Iron (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it comprises a user interface (35) installed on said end portion (20) provided with at least one display device (36) to display icons corresponding to a program or an operating mode.

14. Iron (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said end portion (20) has an upper surface (38) inclined downwards towards said front part (11A) and said display device (36) extends for the majority of said upper surface (38).

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