Garment-steaming apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a garment-steaming apparatus having a portable housing (3) comprising a steamer head (2) and a portion to be gripped, the garment-steaming apparatus further comprising - an air suction circuit comprising a fan (40) and a motor (41) configured to rotate the fan (40), the fan (40) and the motor (41) being arranged in the portion to be gripped; and - a steam generating system arranged in the steamer head (2); - a treatment face having at least one steam delivery opening (22) and at least one air suction opening (24); the garment-steaming apparatus being characterized in that the portable housing (3) forms, at the steamer head (2), an upper air circulation channel that allows air to circulate around the steam generating system when the fan (40) is rotating.

Description

Garment steamer FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of household laundry care appliances, more specifically steam ironing appliances. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] To iron or clean fabric, a portable garment steamer, commonly called a "steamer," can be used. These portable devices typically include a treatment surface that is applied to the garment. This surface is heated and, ideally, has vents to distribute steam generated by an internal steam system. By gliding the treatment surface over clothing or fabric, the steam helps remove creases and provides a cleaning, odor-removing, and even antibacterial effect. These devices offer an alternative to traditional irons by allowing for vertical steaming of fabric.

[0003] To further improve the efficiency of garment steamers, models incorporating a suction system on the treatment surface have been developed. This ensures that the fabric is held firmly against the heated surface, resulting in better steaming without altering the device's operation. Typically, these steamers are designed to be held by the user in one hand for several minutes. Documents CN 113 389 029 A, CN 214 300 931 U, and FR3137395 A1 describe such examples of garment steamers.

[0004] However, because of the heating elements that allow the treatment surface to reach an adequate temperature, generally above 100°C, and / or the heating elements of the steam generation system that allow it to reach a vaporization temperature, the outer walls of the garment steamer can be at a high temperature, which presents a danger to the user.

[0005] One aim of the invention is to provide a portable garment steamer that offers good garment steaming quality and reduces the risk of burns for the user.

[0006] This goal is achieved by a steaming device having a portable housing comprising a steaming head and a gripping portion extending in a direction transverse to the steaming head, the steaming device further comprising an air suction circuit including a fan and a motor configured to drive the fan in rotation, the fan and the motor being arranged in the gripping portion; and a steam generation system arranged in the steaming head; a treatment face intended to come into contact with a piece of textile to be steamed and having at least one steam distribution orifice connected to the steam generation system and at least one air suction orifice connected to the air suction circuit;

[0007] the garment steamer being characterized in that the portable unit forms at the level of the steamer head an upper air circulation channel allowing air circulation around the steam generation system when the fan is rotating.

[0008] The garment steamer features an advantageous air circulation duct around the perimeter of the steam generation system, allowing the heat produced by these components to be dissipated by convection. When the device is in use, air is drawn in from the steaming head, serving both to press the fabric against the treatment plate and to cool the upper part of the portable unit. Therefore, even if the user touches the perimeter of the steaming head, there is no risk of burns.

[0009] The garment steamer may have the following advantageous, but not limiting, features, taken individually or in any technically feasible combination: The air circulation channel allows air to circulate over most of the periphery of the steam generation system, and preferably all around the steam generation system, i.e., around its entire circumference. The gripping portion comprises a handle and a base, the base being positioned opposite the steaming head relative to the handle, and in which the fan and motor are arranged. This allows for good mass distribution of the functional elements within the portable housing, and therefore improved ergonomics of the device. The treatment surface comprises a heated treatment plate.Applying a treatment plate heated to the appropriate temperature improves the quality of the steaming and the time it takes to iron the garment. The steam generation system includes a vaporization chamber connected to at least one steam distribution port, with the vaporization chamber in thermal contact with the treatment plate. This allows the treatment plate to be heated simultaneously using the high temperature of the vaporization chamber and increases the appliance's compactness. The steam generation system includes a heating element configured to heat the vaporization chamber, in which the vaporization chamber and the treatment plate are integrated into a single unit. This contributes to increasing the appliance's compactness.The device also includes a liquid reservoir connected to the steam generation system. The reservoir is preferably mounted on the handheld unit against the rear face of the steaming head, opposite the treatment face. This allows for easy refilling of the liquid reservoir without disassembling the device. The device further includes a pump positioned between the reservoir and the steam generation system. The upper air circulation channel in this pump allows for airflow around its periphery when the fan is rotating. This enables the liquid to be easily injected into the vaporization chamber with a compact steaming head and cools the pump, which is subjected to the high temperature near the vaporization chamber.The device further comprises a modular unit configured to support the treatment face and the steam generation system. The portable unit includes an upper wall extending from the steaming head around the entire periphery of the steam generation system. This upper wall forms a cavity into which the modular unit is intended to be at least partially inserted. A portion of the upper air circulation channel is separated between the upper wall and the modular unit. This provides thermal insulation for the upper wall of the steam generation system and allows the upper wall of the device to be cooled by convection, thus reducing the risk of burns during use. The device also includes a seal between the upper wall and the modular unit, configured to prevent air from escaping outside the upper air circulation channel.This ensures that all the air drawn in through the appropriate opening circulates within the air intake system. It also prevents liquid from entering the device from outside, outside the steam generation system. The gripping section includes a hollow volume that defines an intermediate airflow channel connected to the upper airflow channel. This increases the distance traveled by the airflow and vents the drawn-in air away from the steamer head, improving user comfort. The intermediate airflow channel is formed by a duct inserted inside the gripping section. This facilitates assembly of the device and protects any electronic components located within the gripping section from the intermediate airflow channel.The attached duct is connected to the upper air circulation channel at its upper end. The steamer also includes a sealing gasket on the upper end of the attached duct, creating an airtight connection between the intermediate and upper air circulation channels. This ensures that all air drawn in through the appropriate opening flows through the air intake circuit. It also prevents condensation from forming outside the intermediate air circulation channel. The gripping portion includes a base with a hollow volume that defines a lower air circulation channel connected to the intermediate air circulation channel. This increases the distance the airflow travels and vents the drawn-in air away from the steamer head, improving user comfort.The base includes a lower surface on which the garment steamer can be placed in its resting position, the lower surface preferably being formed by a cover including at least one air exhaust vent connected to the lower air circulation channel. The air drawn in is thus expelled at the base, without being directed towards the user, which improves user comfort.The base includes a hollow volume defining a secondary lower air circulation channel in fluid communication with the lower air circulation channel. The motor is arranged within the secondary lower air circulation channel. The portable unit has a peripheral wall at the base with at least one cooling air inlet. The steamer further includes a cooling fan arranged within the secondary lower air circulation channel. The cooling fan is configured to be driven by the motor, so as to draw airflow into the secondary lower air circulation channel towards the motor when the cooling fan is rotating. This cools the motor and protects it from the steam-laden airflow from the air intake.The portable unit comprises a one-piece casing, preferably made of plastic. This increases the device's durability, particularly its resistance to drops. The device also includes a filter grid covering at least one air intake port to filter the air drawn in through that port. This prevents the suction of solid particles, typically lint, which could clog the air intake system. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0010] Other features, purposes and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is purely illustrative and not limiting, and which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings on which:

[0011] This is a perspective view of a garment steamer according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0012] This is a cross-sectional view of the garment steamer.

[0013] This is a perspective view of the garment steamer before assembly.

[0014] Across all figures, similar elements bear identical references. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] With reference to the figure, the garment steamer has a portable unit 3 comprising a steaming head 2 and a gripping portion extending transversely to the steaming head 2. By "transverse," it is understood that the steaming head 2 extends in a direction (axis M) that is not parallel to the principal direction (axis P) along which the gripping portion extends. Thus, axis M forms a non-zero angle with axis P, and axis M may be orthogonal to axis P, or it may have a non-right angle with axis P, as in the illustrated embodiment.

[0016] Typically, the gripping portion includes a handle 31 and a base 4 opposite the steaming head 2 with respect to the handle 31. The handheld case 3 may typically have a flared shape at the base 4, i.e. wider than at the handle 31.

[0017] When the garment steamer is in use, the handheld unit 3 is designed to be gripped by the user at the designated gripping area, specifically at the handle 31 formed between the steaming head 2 and the base 4. It is intended for one-handed operation. The handle 31 is then held by the user, with the steaming head 2 oriented towards the garment to be steamed. The handle 31 preferably has an ergonomic surface and shape to improve user comfort.

[0018] The garment steamer includes a treatment surface designed to be placed against a piece of fabric to be steamed, and more specifically, to be pressed against the fabric, typically hung on a hanger. The treatment surface is considered to correspond to a "front" end of the steamer head 2. The garment steamer 1 is then held approximately vertically. "Vertically" means that the steamer head 2 is above the grip portion of the handheld unit 3, or that the base 4 is below the handle 31.

[0019] Preferably, the treatment face includes a heated treatment plate 20. The treatment plate 20 can be a metal plate, for example, made of aluminum. Applying a surface heated to a suitable temperature to the textile improves wrinkle removal. Such a heated treatment plate 20 can be heated by one or more heating elements 23 arranged in the steaming head 2 near the treatment plate 20. The treatment plate 20 can have various shapes, such as, for example, a rectangular or triangular shape.

[0020] When not in use, the garment steamer 1 can be placed on the base 4 in its resting position. As illustrated, the portable case 3 may include a flat underside, allowing the garment steamer 1 to be positioned vertically on the surface S. Preferably, the base 4 includes a lower surface forming a support, allowing the user to place the garment steamer 1 vertically on a flat surface, such as a table or shelf, in its resting position when not in use. The flared shape of the base 4 advantageously provides stability for the garment steamer in its resting position.

[0021] With reference to the figure, when the garment steamer 1 is in its resting position, the longitudinal axis P of the handle 31 is preferably slightly inclined forward, i.e., in the direction of the treatment plate 20. For example, the handheld unit 3 is configured so that the longitudinal axis P makes a non-zero angle with an axis orthogonal to the outer face (corresponding to the flat surface S), for example, an angle of approximately 15°. In another embodiment, the longitudinal axis P of the handle 31 is perpendicular to the underside of the garment steamer.

[0022] With reference to the, the steaming head 2 has a slender shape extending transversely to the handle 31, preferably forming an angle between 65° and 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis P of the handle 31. The front end of the steaming head 2 lies in a plane in front of the lower portion of the portable housing 3 forming the base 4. This ensures that the base 4 does not interfere with the application of the treatment face to the textile piece to be steamed.

[0023] Steam generation system

[0024] The garment steamer includes a steam generation system arranged in the steaming head 2. The steam generation system is adapted to allow steam to be emitted at the treatment surface. To this end, the treatment surface has at least one steam distribution orifice 22 connected to the steam generation system, and designed to vent the steam formed in the steaming head 2 onto the garment being steamed.

[0025] For example, the treatment plate 20 is traversed by the steam distribution orifice 22. Preferably, the treatment plate 20 comprises a plurality of steam distribution orifices 22 distributed over its surface. The steam distribution orifices 22 may be in the form of holes or slots.

[0026] Typically, the steam generation system includes a vaporization chamber 21, in steam communication with at least one steam distribution port 22. The vaporization chamber 21 is heated by a heating element 23. The heating element 23 is configured to heat the walls of the vaporization chamber 21, so that a liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 21 is vaporized. The vaporization chamber 21 is in steam communication with the exterior of the garment steamer at the treatment face, via the steam distribution port 22.

[0027] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 21 is in thermal contact with the treatment plate 20. This advantageously allows the treatment plate 20 to be heated via the vaporization chamber 21, which is brought to a temperature above 100°C, preferably between 140°C and 150°C. Thus, the garment steamer can be more compact and lighter. Alternatively or in addition, the heating element 23 of the steam generation system can be positioned near the treatment plate 20.

[0028] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 21 and the treatment plate 20 are a single unit, incorporating the heating element 23. In other words, the treatment plate 20 can be integral with the vaporization chamber 21; that is, the treatment plate 20 and the walls of the vaporization chamber 21 are made as a single piece, preferably from a conductive material such as a metal alloy, typically aluminum. This allows the treatment plate 20 and the vaporization chamber 21 to be heated simultaneously, further increasing the compactness of the garment steamer 1. Of course, in an alternative embodiment not shown, the treatment plate 20 may include its own heating element, independent of the heating element 23 of the steam generation system.

[0029] Preferably, the walls of the vaporization chamber 21 are made of a metal alloy, for example, aluminum. The heating element 23 can be a heating resistor located near the vaporization chamber 21, preferably inside the walls of the vaporization chamber 21. Preferably, the heating element 23 has a power rating of 2000 W or less, preferably between 1200 and 1400 W. This allows the walls of the vaporization chamber 21 to be heated efficiently to the appropriate temperature for vaporizing a liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 21, while simultaneously heating the processing plate 20.

[0030] The steam generation system is connected via a fluid connection to a liquid reservoir 5, in order to generate steam from the liquid stored in the reservoir 5, typically water or a cleaning solution diluted in water. This fluid connection can be achieved conventionally via a tube from the portable unit 3 connecting the vaporization chamber 21 to the reservoir 5.

[0031] Preferably, the reservoir 5 is mounted on the handheld unit 3 against a rear face of the steaming head 2 opposite the treatment face. In other words, the reservoir 5 is mounted against a rear face of the steaming head 2, opposite the front face of the steaming head 2 which has the treatment plate 20.

[0032] Since the reservoir 5 is located outside the portable unit 3, it is not necessary to disassemble the device to refill the reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 preferably has a capacity of approximately 100 ml. The reservoir 5 may include a filling opening closed by a cap. The reservoir 5 preferably includes a transparent casing, defining the outer wall of the reservoir 5, fitted with a removable cap for refilling the reservoir 5. Alternatively, the reservoir 5 may be removably mounted on the portable unit 3. This allows for easy refilling of the garment steamer with liquid.

[0033] The reservoir 5 preferably includes a ball valve, configured to close when the reservoir 5 is disconnected from the portable housing 3, to prevent water from flowing out of the reservoir 5. Preferably, the reservoir 5 includes a vent configured to allow air to enter when the water level drops in the reservoir 5 and to prevent the reservoir 5 from becoming under negative pressure. Advantageously, the vent is also configured to allow air contained in the reservoir 5 to be expelled when the pressure in the reservoir 5 increases.

[0034] Typically, the liquid is injected into the vaporization chamber 21 via a pump 25. The pump 25 is arranged to circulate the liquid contained in the reservoir 5 to the vaporization chamber 21. The pump 25 is preferably located near the vaporization chamber 21, in the steaming head 2, for example in a central area of ​​the upper portion of the portable housing 3, between the steam generation system and the reservoir 5.

[0035] The liquid reservoir 5 is preferably an added part to the vaporization head 2. For example, it is fixed to a rear face of the steaming head 2, on a face opposite to the treatment plate 20. Preferably, the reservoir 5 is removably mounted on the portable housing 3.

[0036] Preferably, the steam generation system includes electrical safety and thermal control elements. For example, the steam control system should include a thermostat configured to cut off the power supply to the heating element 23 if the temperature exceeds a setpoint value.

[0037] Air intake system

[0038] The garment steamer 1 includes an air intake system. This system is designed to draw air into the treatment surface. To achieve this, the treatment surface has at least one air intake opening 24 connected to the air intake system. This allows outside air to be drawn into the garment steamer 1 during operation, thus pressing the garment to be steamed against the treatment plate 20.

[0039] The air intake system includes a fan 40 and a motor 41 configured to rotate the fan 40 around a shaft 42. The fan 40 and the motor 41 are arranged in the gripping portion. The fan 40, which is part of the air intake system, draws air from the air intake port 24 at the surface being treated. Preferably, the fan 40 and the motor 41 are arranged in the base 4.

[0040] The garment steamer 1 is unique in that the handheld unit 3 forms an upper airflow channel at the steaming head 2, allowing air to circulate around the steam generation system when the fan 40 is rotating. This upper airflow channel is visible in the cross-sectional view. The steam generation system is thus located within this airflow channel. In other words, the steam generation system is directly swept by the air flowing through the airflow channel. Typically, an upper wall of the handheld unit 3 forms a duct that allows air to circulate around the periphery of the steam generation system. This airflow also allows heat to be dissipated from around the steam generation system, particularly from the vaporization chamber 21, which reaches a high temperature.This helps to limit the risk of burns to a user, as the portable unit 3 is thus considerably cooled.

[0041] Preferably, the garment steamer also includes a filter grid covering the air intake orifice 24 to filter an airflow drawn through the air intake orifice 24.

[0042] Preferably, the treatment face includes a plurality of air intake ports 24. The air intake ports 24 can be arranged around the treatment plate 20, for example, around its entire circumference. Alternatively, the air intake ports 24 can extend along several sides of the treatment plate 20. This improves the convection cooling of the steam generation system, as the intake air circulates around the entire periphery of the steam generation system. The filter grid can then cover all the air intake ports 24. Preferably, it is not housed in a cavity but is in contact with the textile during operation. This prevents it from becoming quickly clogged with particles.

[0043] Preferably, the pump 25 is also located in the upper air circulation duct. Typically, the pump 25 is positioned between the reservoir 5 and the steam generation system. This also results in air circulation around the pump 25 when the fan 40 is rotating. This helps to cool the pump 25, which can be subjected to high temperatures if located near the vaporization chamber 21.

[0044] Preferably, the air intake system is configured to allow an air intake flow rate greater than 10 m 3 / h and less than 60 m 3 / h and, preferably, an air intake flow rate greater than 20 m 3 / h and less than 50 m 3 / h.

[0045] Preferably, the garment steamer further includes a modular unit configured to support the treatment face and the steam generation system, and the portable case 3 includes a top wall extending at the level of the steaming head 2 over the entire periphery of the steam generation system.

[0046] For example, the upper wall of the portable housing 3 can be substantially cylindrical and extend around the entire periphery of the steam generation system, with an open front end corresponding to the base of the cylinder, the steam generation system being arranged inside the cylindrical wall. More generally, the upper wall forms a cavity into which the modular unit is intended to be at least partially inserted, a portion of the upper air circulation channel being delimited between the upper wall and the modular unit. Preferably, the upper air circulation channel thus extends all the way around the steam generation system.

[0047] For example, the modular unit includes an end cap 26 attached to the open front end of the upper wall of the portable housing 3. The end cap 26 is configured to support the processing plate 20 and the steam generation system. The upper airflow channel is defined by the cylindrical wall and the end cap 26.

[0048] Alternatively, the modular unit can be formed by the treatment plate 20 and the vaporization chamber 21 formed from the same monobloc conductive material and incorporating a heating element 23, typically a heating resistance integrated into the conductive material.

[0049] Preferably, the steaming head 2 includes a sealing gasket 27 located between the upper wall and the modular unit. Typically, the sealing gasket is arranged between the open front end of the upper wall and the nozzle 26. The sealing gasket 27 is configured to prevent air from escaping outside the upper air circulation channel, particularly at the open front end. Thus, all the air drawn in through the air intake port 24 circulates within the air intake circuit around the steam generation system. The sealing gasket 27 is preferably also watertight. The space provided between the nozzle 26 supporting the treatment plate 20 and the upper wall of the portable unit 3 is visible in the exploded view.

[0050] Preferably, the gripping portion includes a hollow volume defining an intermediate air circulation channel in fluid communication with the upper air circulation channel. For example, the air suction circuit extends into the handle 31 of the garment steamer 1. The intermediate air circulation channel allows air to circulate from the steamer head 2 to the gripping portion in which the fan 40 is arranged.

[0051] Alternatively or complementarily, the intermediate air circulation channel can be formed by an added duct 32 inside the gripping portion, for example over the entire height of the handle 31.

[0052] Typically, the attached duct 32 is connected to the upper air circulation channel at its upper end. Preferably, the garment steamer includes a sealing gasket 33 located on the upper end of the attached duct 32 to prevent air from escaping outside the air intake circuit, particularly at the upper end of the attached duct 32. The airflow from the air intake port 24 in the upper air circulation channel thus passes through the intermediate air circulation channel without escaping from the garment steamer 1. This limits pressure losses and improves suction efficiency, thereby enhancing the quality of the steaming. Furthermore, the sealing gasket 33 is configured to ensure a tight connection between the intermediate air circulation channel and the upper air circulation channel. It is also preferably watertight.This prevents condensate from flowing towards the steaming head 2, which could cause short circuits.

[0053] Preferably, the base 4 includes a hollow volume defining a lower air circulation channel in fluid communication with the intermediate air circulation channel. The fan 40 and the motor 41 are typically arranged within the hollow volume to allow circulation of the air drawn in through the air intake port 24.

[0054] The lower air channel is typically formed as an extension of the added duct 32. The lower air channel can be offset from the intermediate air circulation channel, i.e. the channels can extend along distinct axes, a bent portion being able to connect the two channels for example.

[0055] The garment steamer 1 includes at least one air exhaust port in fluid communication with the air intake circuit, allowing the air drawn in through the air intake port 24 to be expelled from the appliance after circulating around the periphery of the steam generation system. At least one air exhaust port is typically connected to the lower air circulation channel.

[0056] Preferably, the lower face is formed by a cover 45 comprising at least one air exhaust orifice, i.e., through which at least one air exhaust orifice passes. The presence of a separate cover 45 advantageously allows for cleaning of the lower air circulation channel, for example, to remove particles or lint that may have been drawn into the device and could obstruct the rotation of the motor 41 around its shaft 42.

[0057] Preferably, the base 4 further includes a hollow volume defining a secondary lower air circulation channel in fluid communication with the lower air circulation channel. The motor 41 can be arranged within the secondary lower air circulation channel. For example, the secondary lower air channel can be concentric with the lower air channel, but of smaller diameter. Preferably, the majority of the air from at least one air intake port 24 flows from the intermediate air circulation channel to the lower air circulation channel. The secondary lower air circulation channel allows for a separate airflow, in particular to ensure the cooling of the motor 41.

[0058] Advantageously, the garment steamer has at the base 4 a peripheral wall comprising at least one cooling air inlet 44. The peripheral wall may correspond to a lateral wall extending transversely relative to the flat lower face on which the garment steamer can be placed in a rest position, and may include at least one air exhaust orifice connected to the lower air circulation channel.

[0059] In this embodiment, the base 4 may include a cooling fan 43 arranged in the secondary lower airflow channel. The cooling fan 43 is configured to be driven in rotation by the motor 41, so as to draw airflow into the secondary lower airflow channel towards the motor 41 when the cooling fan 43 is rotating. Typically, the cooling fan 43 is arranged around the shaft 42, below the motor 41, that is, between the motor 41 and the flat underside of the portable housing 3.

[0060] Preferably, the lower portion of the portable unit 3 includes at least one cooling air outlet. The cooling air outlet is connected to the secondary lower air circulation channel. Air drawn in through the cooling air inlet 44 when the cooling fan 43 is rotating is expelled from the steamer 1 through the cooling air outlet. The cooling air outlet typically passes through the lower face, or through the cover 45 closing the lower end of the lower air circulation channel, if the cover 45 also covers the secondary lower air circulation channel.

[0061] Power supply and device control

[0062] The garment steamer 1 can be powered by a power cord 6, designed to be plugged into a standard electrical outlet to connect the garment steamer 1 to a household electrical network. The power cord 6 operates the components of the steam generation system and the air suction circuit.

[0063] Preferably, the power cord 6 can be attached to the handheld unit 3, for example at the base, near the underside. This improves the balance and ergonomics of the device. The power cord 6 can also be detachable. Preferably, the power cord 6 is longer than 200 cm. This allows a user to advantageously apply the treatment plate 20 to a garment hanging on a hanger at a height of more than 1.5 meters from the floor. The power cord 6 preferably has a mass of approximately 150 grams when the steamer 1 is held by the user at a height of about 1.5 meters from the floor.

[0064] The portable unit 3 preferably includes control means configured to control steam emission and air intake. The control means are preferably located on the handle 31, so that they can be operated by the user with the hand used to hold the garment steamer 1.

[0065] The garment steamer 1 may include, for example, a power button 74. The power button 74 allows the garment steamer 1 to be switched on and off. It may be located on one face of the handheld unit 3, forming an upper face of the base 4, opposite the lower face, as illustrated in the figure. Alternatively, it may be located on a side wall of the handheld unit 3, preferably at the handle 31.

[0066] The garment steamer 1 may include, for example, a steam trigger 72. The steam trigger 72 is configured to allow for targeted steam distribution from at least one steam outlet 22. For example, pressing the steam trigger 72 by the user can activate the pump 25 and inject liquid from the reservoir 5 into the steaming chamber 21. Water in liquid and / or vapor form can then be sprayed onto the garment to be steamed opposite the treatment side, thus improving steaming efficiency. Preferably, steam is projected outside the garment 1 as long as the steam trigger 72 is held down by the user.Pressing the vaporization trigger 72 can also activate the motor 41, thus rotating the fan 40 so that an airflow is drawn in through the air intake port 24 when the device is in suction operating mode.

[0067] Preferably, pump 25 is configured to supply the steam generation system with a flow rate of 35 ml / min or less. This flow rate is sufficient to distribute steam to the garment being steamed. The flow rate must be limited to reduce the risk of liquid splashing outside the appliance, which could cause burns or damage the garment.

[0068] The garment steamer 1 may include, for example, a suction control button 73. The suction control button 73 typically allows the user to select an operating mode for the garment steamer 1. Typically, the suction control button 73 can drive the motor 41 to modulate the rotational speed of the fan 40 and / or the cooling fan 43 around the shaft 42. Preferably, the garment steamer 1 can also operate in a mode without suction. This allows the device to be adapted to the type of textile item being steamed.

[0069] Assembling the device

[0070] Preferably, the portable unit 3 comprises a one-piece casing. Preferably, the one-piece casing is made of a plastic material. For example, the portable unit 3 can be made of polypropylene or polycarbonate. Thus, the outer surface of the garment steamer 1 is a single piece. This increases the appliance's resistance to impacts, for example, in case of a fall, and therefore its lifespan.

[0071] Typically, the components of the base 4 are inserted into the portable housing 3 through the lower end of the lower air circulation channel, at the level of the base 4. The modular unit carrying the steam generation system can be arranged in the steaming head 2, i.e. assembled on the upper wall of the portable housing 3. The tank 5 can then be mounted on the rear face of the steaming head 2, in fluid connection with the steam generation system.

[0072] The garment steamer 1 is designed for easy handling and is therefore intended to have a balanced mass distribution between the steaming head 2 and the base 4. Advantageously, the garment steamer 1 has its center of gravity located in the handle 31, regardless of the fill level of the reservoir 5. Preferably, the mass of the steaming head 2 and the mass of the base 4 are each at least 40% of the total mass of the garment steamer 1, typically less than or equal to 1.4 kg. The garment steamer 1 is thus easy to handle and ergonomic, as the masses of the steaming head 2 and the base 4 are substantially equivalent.

[0073] Using the garment steamer

[0074] The operation of the garment steamer 1 will now be described. When the user wishes to use the garment steamer 1, they fill the reservoir 5 with liquid, typically water. They connect the garment steamer 1 to the household electrical supply using the power cord 6 and then switch the garment steamer 1 on by pressing the power button 74.

[0075] The heating element 23 of the steam generation system is then supplied with electrical current to reach its operating temperature. Preferably, the treatment plate 20 is also heated.

[0076] When the user wishes to use the device 1 in a vertical steaming position, he brings the treatment plate 20 vertically opposite the piece of textile to be steamed and then presses on the control means, for example on the vaporization trigger 72, which has the effect of operating the pump 25 and allowing the flow of liquid from the reservoir 5 to the vaporization chamber 21.

[0077] The steam produced in the vaporization chamber 21 then escapes through the steam distribution orifices 22. The steam is then diffused onto the textile piece which, combined with the heating and drying action of the treatment plate 20, allows for effective wrinkle removal.

[0078] Simultaneously, the control means can be provided to activate an air intake in conjunction with the steam distribution. Typically, the pressure of the steam trigger 72 drives the motor 41. Consequently, the fan 40 rotates around the shaft 42, drawing air in through the air intake 24. This intake presses the textile piece against the treatment surface. The steam emission combined with the intake thus optimizes the wrinkle removal. Furthermore, the air intake also promotes drying of the portion of the textile piece that has just been steamed. It has been observed that this particular process allows the wrinkle removal effect to be maintained for a longer period after the textile piece has been treated.Advantageously, the suction control button 73 can be used to change the rotation speed of the motor 41, and thus adapt the suction airflow to the textile item to be steamed.

[0079] In another embodiment, the control means allow the user to control the suction independently of the steam distribution control. Thus, the user could control the steam distribution alone or in combination with the suction.

[0080] During treatment, the user can move the steamer 1 vertically, for example, from top to bottom, to treat all or part of the garment. The steamer 1 can also be used occasionally in a horizontal steaming position, for example, to steam a horizontally placed garment by bringing the treatment surface horizontally above the garment. For example, the garment might be placed against a table, such as a tablecloth, or be part of a piece of furniture, such as an armchair.

[0081] The invention is not limited to the embodiment described and illustrated in the accompanying figures. Modifications to the optional features remain possible, particularly with regard to the composition of the various technical features or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the general principles of the invention.

Claims

A garment steamer having a portable housing (3) comprising a steaming head (2) and a gripping portion extending in a direction transverse to the steaming head (2), the garment steamer further comprising: - an air suction circuit comprising a fan (40) and a motor (41) configured to drive the fan (40) in rotation, the fan (40) and the motor (41) being arranged in the gripping portion; and - a steam generation system arranged in the steaming head (2); - a treatment face intended to come into contact with a piece of textile to be steamed and having at least one steam distribution orifice (22) connected to the steam generation system and at least one air suction orifice (24) connected to the air suction circuit;the garment steamer being characterized in that the portable unit (3) forms at the level of the steamer head (2) an upper air circulation channel allowing air circulation around the periphery of the steam generation system, when the fan (40) is rotating, the steam generation system being disposed in the air circulation channel. Garment steaming device according to claim 1, wherein the gripping portion comprises a handle (31) and a base (4), the base (4) being opposite the steaming head (2) relative to the handle (31), and wherein the fan (40) and the motor (41) are arranged in the base (4). Garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the treatment face comprises a heated treatment plate (20). Wrinkle-removing device according to claim 3, in which the steam generation system comprises a vaporization chamber (21) in steam communication with at least one steam distribution orifice (22), the vaporization chamber being in thermal contact with the treatment plate (20). A steaming device according to any one of claims 3 and 4, wherein the steam generation system includes a heating element (23) configured to heat the vaporization chamber (21), and wherein the vaporization chamber (21) and the treatment plate (20) are one piece and incorporate the heating element (23). A garment steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a liquid reservoir (5) in communication with the steam generation system, the reservoir (5) preferably being mounted on the portable housing (3) against a rear face of the garment steamer head (2) opposite the treatment face. A steaming device according to claim 6, further comprising a pump (25) arranged between the reservoir (5) and the steam generation system, and in which the upper air circulation channel allows air to circulate around the periphery of the pump (25) when the fan (40) is rotating. A garment steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a modular unit configured to support the treatment face and the steam generation system, and in which the portable housing (3) comprises an upper wall extending at the level of the steaming head (2) over the entire periphery of the steam generation system, the upper wall forming a cavity into which the modular unit is intended to be at least partially inserted, a portion of the upper air circulation channel being delimited between the upper wall and the modular unit. Garment steaming device according to claim 8, further comprising a sealing gasket (27) disposed between the upper wall and the modular unit, the sealing gasket (27) being configured to prevent air from escaping outside the upper air circulation channel. A garment steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the gripping portion comprises a hollow volume delimiting an intermediate air circulation channel in fluid communication with the upper air circulation channel. Wrinkle-removing device according to claim 10, wherein the intermediate air circulation channel is formed by a conduit added (32) inside the gripping portion. A garment steamer according to claim 11, wherein the added duct (32) is connected to the upper air circulation channel at an upper end, the garment steamer (1) further comprising a sealing gasket (33) disposed on the upper end of the added duct (32), so as to have a sealed connection between the intermediate air circulation channel and the upper air circulation channel. Wrinkle-removing device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the gripping portion (31) comprises a base (4) including a hollow volume delimiting a lower air circulation channel in fluid communication with the intermediate air circulation channel. A garment steamer according to claim 13, in which the base (4) includes a lower face on which the garment steamer (1) can be placed in a rest position, the lower face preferably being formed by a cover (45) comprising at least one air exhaust orifice connected to the lower air circulation channel. A steaming device according to any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein: - the base (4) comprises a hollow volume delimiting a secondary lower air circulation channel in fluid communication with the lower air circulation channel, the motor (41) being arranged in the secondary lower air circulation channel; - the portable housing (3) has at the base (4) a peripheral wall having at least one cooling air inlet orifice (44); - the steaming device further comprises a cooling fan (43) arranged in the secondary lower air circulation channel, the cooling fan (43) being configured to be driven in rotation by the motor (41), so as to cause an aspiration of an airflow in the secondary lower air circulation channel towards the motor (41), when the cooling fan (43) is rotating. Garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the portable unit (3) comprises a one-piece shell, preferably made of a plastic material. A garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a filter grid covering at least one air intake orifice (24) to filter an airflow drawn through at least one air intake orifice (24).

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