Steam generator and laundry treatment device

Abstract

The present invention proposes a steam generator and a clothes processing device, wherein the steam generator comprises: a base assembly, on which a heating area and an installation space are configured; a water tank assembly, which is configured to be placed on the base assembly, and the water tank assembly comprises an isolation portion; wherein, based on the situation that the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the isolation portion is located in the installation space, and forms at least a first chamber and a second chamber with the base assembly, the first chamber and the second chamber are connected, and the heating area is located in the first chamber and / or the second chamber. The steam generator proposed by the present invention can effectively shorten the steam generation time, realize rapid steam output, avoid users waiting for a long time, and facilitate user use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of steam generation, and in particular to a steam generator and a clothes processing device. Background Art

[0002] Currently, the power of steam generators is generally small, and the amount of water required to be heated is large, resulting in a long heating time, and users need to wait for a while before getting steam. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art.

[0004] To this end, a first aspect of the present invention provides a steam generator.

[0005] A second aspect of the present invention provides a clothes treating device.

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides a steam generator, comprising: a base assembly, on which a heating area and an installation space are configured; a water tank assembly, which is configured to be suitable for being placed on the base assembly, and the water tank assembly includes an isolation portion; wherein, based on the situation that the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the isolation portion is located in the installation space, and forms at least a first chamber and a second chamber with the base assembly, the first chamber and the second chamber are communicated, and the heating area is located in the first chamber and / or the second chamber.

[0007] The steam generator proposed by the present invention includes a base assembly and a water tank assembly. The base assembly is provided with a heating area and an installation space, the heating area is formed on the bottom wall of the installation space, the water tank assembly includes an isolation portion, and the water tank assembly can be installed on the base assembly. In particular, when the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the isolation portion is located inside the installation space, and at least a first chamber and a second chamber can be defined on the base assembly, and the first chamber is connected to the second chamber, and the heating area is located in the first chamber and / or the second chamber, and any of the chambers can be heated. Specifically, when the heating area is located in the first chamber or the second chamber, the chamber where it is located can be heated separately; when the heating area is located in the first chamber and the second chamber at the same time, local heating can be used to heat only one of them; in addition, one of the first chamber and the second chamber is used as the main heating chamber, and the other is used as the secondary heating chamber to further improve the heating efficiency.

[0008] The steam generator proposed in the present invention can form at least two chambers on the base assembly, one of which serves as a hot zone to cooperate with the heating area and can generate steam under the heating effect of the heating area, and the other serves as a cold zone and will not absorb the heat generated by the heating area. By reducing the amount of water that needs to be heated in the heating area, the steam generation time can be effectively shortened, and rapid steam output can be achieved, thus avoiding long waiting times for users and making it easier for users to use.

[0009] The steam generator according to the above technical solution of the present invention may also have the following additional technical features:

[0010] In the above technical solution, the isolation part includes: a partition; and a partition part, which is arranged on the partition and extends in a direction away from the partition.

[0011] In this technical solution, the isolating part includes a partition and a separator. The partition is arranged horizontally, and the separator is arranged longitudinally on the partition and extends in a direction away from the partition. When the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the partition and the water tank assembly together define a large chamber, and the separator divides the large chamber into at least a first chamber and a second chamber, so that the heating area only supplies heat to one of the chambers, thereby accelerating the generation speed. In addition, the separator isolates the first chamber and the second chamber, and the separator can effectively play a role in heat insulation, preventing the cold zone from absorbing the heat of the hot zone, ensuring the internal temperature of the hot zone, and ensuring the steam generation speed.

[0012] In any of the above technical solutions, the isolation part further includes: a steam channel formed on the partition and connected to the first chamber or the second chamber, and the steam channel and the partition part are located on opposite sides of the partition.

[0013] In this technical solution, the isolation part also includes a steam channel, wherein the steam channel and the isolation part are formed on two opposite sides of the partition, and the steam channel is connected to the chamber provided with the heating area to ensure steam output.

[0014] In any of the above technical solutions, the second chamber is located on the peripheral side of the first chamber, the heating area is located in the first chamber, and the steam channel is connected to the first chamber.

[0015] In this technical solution, the second chamber is located on the periphery of the first chamber and is arranged around the first steam, the heating area is located in the first chamber, and the steam channel is connected to the first chamber. That is, the first chamber is used in conjunction with the heating area to generate steam under the heating effect of the heating area, and the generated steam is discharged through the steam channel.

[0016] In addition, the second chamber is located on the peripheral side of the first chamber, which can play a heat insulating role. On the one hand, it can prevent heat loss inside the first chamber. On the other hand, the high-temperature steam and liquid in the first chamber can prevent scalding the user, ensuring user safety.

[0017] In any of the above technical solutions, the water tank assembly also includes: a water tank, which is arranged on the isolation part; a water inlet valve, which is arranged on the water tank, and one of the water inlet valve and the heating area is located in the first chamber, and the other is located in the second chamber.

[0018] In this technical solution, the water tank assembly further includes a water tank and a water inlet valve. The water tank is arranged on the isolation portion and is located above the first chamber and the second chamber. In addition, the water inlet valve and the heating area are arranged in different chambers, which ensures that the water tank supplies water to the chamber equipped with the heating area and prevents the water inlet valve from being damaged by heat.

[0019] In any of the above technical solutions, the water inlet valve includes: a valve body, the valve body has a water inlet and a water outlet, and the water inlet is connected to the water tank; a valve core is arranged in the valve body, and the valve core is configured to open or close the water inlet.

[0020] In this technical solution, the water inlet valve includes a valve body and a valve core. The valve body is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet, the water inlet is connected to the water tank, and the water outlet protrudes from the water tank; the valve core is arranged inside the valve body and can move under the drive of an external force to open or close the water inlet.

[0021] In any of the above technical solutions, the height of the water outlet is greater than or equal to 5 mm and less than or equal to 20 mm; the width of the water outlet is greater than or equal to 5 mm.

[0022] In this technical solution, the first chamber is connected to the second chamber, and the water tank is connected to the first chamber and the second chamber through the water inlet valve. The liquid in the water tank enters the first chamber and the second chamber through the water inlet. The liquid levels of the first chamber and the second chamber are at the same height under the action of air pressure and are both equal to the height of the water outlet. That is, the height of the water outlet determines the height of the liquid in the first chamber and the second chamber, and also determines the amount of liquid to be heated in the heating area. When the power of the heating area is constant, the smaller the amount of liquid to be heated in the heating area, the faster the steam is generated and the shorter the steam output time.

[0023] The valve body of the steam generator proposed by the present invention has a water outlet height of less than or equal to 20 mm, which can ensure the water outlet speed and ensure that only a small amount of liquid exists in the first chamber and the second chamber to accelerate the steam generation speed. In addition, the height of the water outlet is greater than or equal to 5 mm, which can effectively overcome the liquid tension and avoid the situation where the liquid cannot flow through the water outlet due to surface tension, thereby ensuring that the water supply is carried out in an orderly manner.

[0024] Furthermore, the width of the water outlet is greater than or equal to 5 mm, and the width and height of the water inlet match each other, which can not only overcome the tension of the liquid and ensure smooth outflow of the liquid, but also ensure that the amount of liquid to be heated in the heating area is not excessive and speed up the steam generation speed.

[0025] In any of the above technical solutions, the lateral distance between the center of the water inlet valve and the center of the heating area is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 100 mm.

[0026] In this technical solution, it is difficult to ensure that the steam generator is always in a horizontal state during use. When the water tank is tilted at a certain angle, the position of the water outlet will also change. For example, when the water outlet of the water tank is facing the heating area, the position of the water outlet will rise, and the water outlet will re-surface the water surface. The liquid in the water tank will flow out until the water outlet is re-submerged. At this time, the amount of water in the first chamber will be more than normal, which will cause the water vaporization speed to slow down, affecting normal use.

[0027] The present invention optimizes the lateral distance between the center of the water inlet valve and the center of the heating area to ensure that the distance between the two is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 100 mm, which can effectively avoid the occurrence of the above situation, reduce the impact of the water tank tilt on the water intake, and ensure the steam generation speed.

[0028] In any of the above technical solutions, a limiting portion is provided on the valve body; the valve core includes: a push rod, one end of which passes through the water inlet and is located inside the water tank; a sealing member is provided at one end of the push rod and is located inside the water tank; an elastic member is sleeved on the push rod and abuts against the limiting portion and the other end of the push rod, and the sealing member closes the water inlet under the action of the elastic member.

[0029] In this technical solution, a limit part is provided on the valve body, and the valve core includes a push rod, a sealing member and an elastic member. The push rod is located inside the valve body, and one end of the push rod passes through the water inlet and is located inside the water tank; the end extending into the water tank is provided with a sealing member, and the other end of the push rod protrudes out of the water tank and is provided with a limit end; an elastic member is sleeved on the push rod, and the two ends of the elastic member are respectively in contact with the limit end and the sealing member. The elastic member can be a spring.

[0030] In the absence of external force, the push rod has a tendency to move outside the water tank under the action of the elastic member, so that the sealing member closes the water outlet; under the drive of external force, the push rod can move toward the inside of the water tank, so that the sealing member opens the water outlet. That is, in the absence of external force, the elastic member is in a contracted state, and the sealing member closes the water outlet.

[0031] In any of the above technical solutions, the base assembly includes: a mounting end surface, the water tank assembly is configured to be suitable for being placed on the mounting end surface; and a convex portion, which is arranged on the mounting end surface; wherein, based on the situation where the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the convex portion abuts against the push rod, and the sealing member opens the water inlet.

[0032] In this technical solution, the base assembly includes a mounting end surface and a convex portion, wherein the water tank assembly can be placed on the mounting end surface, and the heating area is also formed on the mounting end surface; the convex portion is arranged on the mounting end surface and extends in a direction away from the mounting end surface.

[0033] When the water tank assembly is placed on the mounting end surface, the convex portion is opposite to the position of the water inlet valve. At this time, the convex portion can lift the push rod, so that the push rod drives the sealing component to open the water outlet, thereby ensuring that the water tank supplies water to the first chamber and the second chamber; when the water tank assembly is removed from the mounting end surface, the elastic component drives the push rod to move, and the push rod drives the sealing component to seal the water outlet again, thereby preventing liquid leakage in the water tank.

[0034] In any of the above technical solutions, the base assembly includes: a support member, on which a accommodating space is arranged to form an installation space, an isolation portion is arranged in the accommodating space, and the accommodating space is separated into at least a first chamber and a second chamber; a heating member, which is arranged on the support member and forms a heating area.

[0035] In this technical solution, the base assembly includes a support and a heating element. The support is provided with an accommodation space to form an installation space, and the water tank assembly can be arranged on the support so that the isolation portion is located inside the accommodation space; in addition, when the water tank assembly is arranged on the support, the isolation portion is located inside the accommodation space, and the accommodation space can be divided into at least a first chamber and a second chamber to play a role in local heating; the heating element is arranged on the support, and a heating area is formed in a local area of ​​the support to ensure heat supply to the first chamber or the second chamber.

[0036] In any of the above technical solutions, the base assembly further includes: a base, a support member is arranged on the base, and the heating member is located between the base and the support member.

[0037] In this technical solution, the base assembly also includes a base. The support member is arranged on the base, and the other components are supported by the support member. The base provides a placement position for the other components to ensure the overall stability of the steam generator. In addition, the heating element is located between the base and the support member to ensure the placement position of the heating element.

[0038] In any of the above technical solutions, it also includes: a steam outlet pipe, which is arranged on the isolation part and is connected to the first chamber or the second chamber.

[0039] In this technical solution, the steam generator is further provided with a steam outlet pipe. The steam outlet pipe is provided on the isolation part and is connected with the first chamber or the second chamber. The steam outlet pipe can play the role of exhaust and guidance, and can guide the steam generated in the heating area to a designated area while exhausting the steam.

[0040] A second aspect of the present invention provides a clothes processing device, comprising: a steam generator as described in any of the above technical solutions; and a control device electrically connected to a heating element of the steam generator.

[0041] The clothes treating device proposed by the present invention comprises a control device and a steam generator as in any of the above technical solutions. Therefore, all the beneficial effects of the above steam generator are not discussed here one by one.

[0042] Specifically, the control device is electrically connected to the heating element of the steam generator and can control the heating element to work so that the first chamber or the second chamber is heated and produces steam. In addition, the control device can also adjust the operation of the heating element to adjust the steam generation speed.

[0043] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description or may be learned by practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and easily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0045] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a steam generator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the disassembly of the steam generator of the illustrated embodiment;

[0047] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a steam generator of the illustrated embodiment;

[0048] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the working principle of the steam generator of the illustrated embodiment;

[0049] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a water inlet valve in a steam generator of the illustrated embodiment;

[0050] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of the water inlet valve of the illustrated embodiment from another perspective;

[0051] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A partial enlarged view of the steam generator at point A of the illustrated embodiment.

[0052] in, Figures 1 to 7 The corresponding relationship between the reference numerals and the component names is as follows:

[0053] 100 steam generator, 102 base assembly, 104 heating area, 106 water tank assembly, 108 isolation part, 110 first chamber, 112 second chamber, 114 partition, 116 partition, 118 steam channel, 120 water tank, 122 water inlet valve, 124 valve body, 126 water inlet, 128 water outlet, 130 limiting part, 132 push rod, 134 sealing member, 136 elastic member, 138 mounting end surface, 140 protrusion, 142 support member, 144 accommodating space, 146 heating member, 148 base, 150 steam outlet pipe, 152 insulation cavity, 154 limiting end. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] In order to more clearly understand the above-mentioned purpose, features and advantages of the present invention, the present invention is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that the embodiments of the present application and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other without conflict.

[0055] In the following description, many specific details are set forth to facilitate a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0056] Refer to the following Figures 1 to 7 The steam generator 100 and the laundry treating apparatus provided according to some embodiments of the present invention are described.

[0057] Embodiment 1:

[0058] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the first embodiment of the present invention provides a steam generator 100 , including: a base assembly 102 and a water tank assembly 106 .

[0059] The base assembly 102 is provided with a heating area 104 and an installation space, the water tank assembly 106 includes an isolation portion 108, and the water tank assembly 106 can be installed on the base assembly 102. When the water tank assembly 106 is placed on the base assembly 102, the isolation portion 108 is located in the installation space, and a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112 can be defined on the base assembly 102, and the first chamber 110 is connected to the second chamber 112, and the heating area 104 is located in the first chamber 110 and / or the second chamber 112, and provides heat for any of the chambers.

[0060] Specifically, the heating area 104 can be located in the first chamber 110, or in the second chamber 112, or in both the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112; when the heating area 104 is located in the first chamber 110 or the second chamber 112, it can directly provide heat to the chamber where it is located; when the heating area 104 is located in both the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112, local heating can be used to provide heat to one of the chambers to achieve rapid steam output.

[0061] Furthermore, one of the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112 serves as a main heating chamber, and the other serves as a secondary heating chamber, so as to further improve the heating efficiency.

[0062] That is, the steam generator 100 proposed in this embodiment can form at least two chambers on the base assembly 102, one of which serves as a hot zone to cooperate with the heating area 104 and can generate steam under the heating effect of the heating area 104, and the other serves as a cold zone and will not absorb the heat generated by the heating area 104. By reducing the amount of water that needs to be heated in the heating area 104, the steam generation time can be effectively shortened, and rapid steam output can be achieved, thereby avoiding long waiting times for users and making it easier for users to use.

[0063] Specifically, the present embodiment takes the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112 as an example, but those skilled in the art can understand that a third chamber, a fourth chamber, etc. can also be formed. The number of chambers can be set according to actual conditions, as long as rapid heating is guaranteed.

[0064] Embodiment 2:

[0065] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the second embodiment of the present invention provides a steam generator 100 , including: a base assembly 102 and a water tank assembly 106 .

[0066] The base assembly 102 is provided with a heating area 104 and an installation space, the water tank assembly 106 includes an isolation portion 108, and the water tank assembly 106 can be installed on the base assembly 102. When the water tank assembly 106 is placed on the base assembly 102, the isolation portion 108 is located in the installation space, and a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112 can be defined on the base assembly 102, and the first chamber 110 is connected to the second chamber 112, and the heating area 104 is located in the first chamber 110 and provides heat for the first chamber 110. That is, the first chamber 110 generates steam as a hot zone, and the second chamber 112 does not generate steam as a cold zone.

[0067] In this embodiment, if Figure 4As shown, further, the isolation portion 108 includes a partition 114 and a partition 116 . The partition 114 is disposed transversely, and the partition 116 is disposed longitudinally on the partition 114 and extends in a direction away from the partition 114 .

[0068] When the water tank assembly 106 is placed on the base assembly 102, the partition 114 and the water tank assembly 106 together define a large chamber, and the partition 116 divides the large chamber into a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112, so that the heating area 104 only provides heat to the first chamber 110, thereby accelerating the production speed.

[0069] In addition, the partition 116 isolates the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112. The partition 116 can effectively play a role of heat insulation to prevent the liquid in the second chamber 112 from absorbing the heat of the hot zone, thereby ensuring the internal temperature of the first chamber 110 and the steam generation speed.

[0070] In this embodiment, further, Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the isolation part 108 further includes a steam channel 118. The steam channel 118 and the partition 116 are formed on two opposite sides of the partition plate 114, and the steam channel 118 is connected to the first chamber 110 to ensure the steam output inside the first chamber 110.

[0071] In this embodiment, further, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the steam generator 100 is further provided with a steam outlet pipe 150. The steam outlet pipe 150 is provided on the isolation portion 108 and is connected to the first chamber 110 through the steam passage 118. The steam outlet pipe 150 can play the role of exhaust and guidance, and can guide the steam generated inside the first chamber 110 to a designated area while exhausting the steam.

[0072] In this embodiment, further, Figure 3 As shown, the second chamber 112 is located on the peripheral side of the first chamber 110 and is arranged around the steam channel 118. That is, the second chamber 112 can play a heat insulation effect, on the one hand, preventing the heat loss in the first chamber 110, and on the other hand, preventing the high-temperature steam and liquid in the first chamber 110 from scalding the user, thereby ensuring the safety of the user.

[0073] Embodiment three:

[0074] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the third embodiment of the present invention provides a steam generator 100 , including: a base assembly 102 and a water tank assembly 106 .

[0075] The base assembly 102 is provided with a heating area 104 and an installation space, the water tank assembly 106 includes an isolation portion 108, and the water tank assembly 106 can be installed on the base assembly 102. When the water tank assembly 106 is placed on the base assembly 102, the isolation portion 108 is located in the installation space, and a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112 can be defined on the base assembly 102, and the first chamber 110 is connected to the second chamber 112, and the heating area 104 is located in the first chamber 110 and provides heat for the first chamber 110. That is, the first chamber 110 generates steam as a hot zone, and the second chamber 112 does not generate steam as a cold zone.

[0076] In this embodiment, further, Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the water tank assembly 106 further includes a water tank 120 and a water inlet valve 122. The water tank 120 is disposed on the isolation portion 108 and is located above the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112. In addition, the water inlet valve 122 is located in the second chamber 112, and the heating area 104 is located in the first chamber 110. On the one hand, it is ensured that the water tank 120 supplies water to the first chamber 110, and on the other hand, it is prevented that the water inlet valve 122 is damaged by heat.

[0077] In a specific embodiment, Figure 3 As shown, the water tank 120 is arranged around the steam channel 118, and there is a heat-insulating cavity 152 between the steam channel 118 and the water tank 120. The water tank 120 can be used directly as a handle, avoiding the need to set up an additional handle; the heat-insulating cavity 152 can effectively prevent the heat loss inside the steam channel 118, prevent the steam from liquefying, and prevent the steam inside the steam channel 118 from scalding the user.

[0078] In this embodiment, further, Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the water inlet valve 122 includes a valve body 124 and a valve core. The valve body 124 is provided with a water inlet 126 and a water outlet 128, the water inlet 126 is connected to the water tank 120, and the water outlet 128 is protruded from the water tank 120; the valve core is arranged inside the valve body 124, and can move under the driving of external force, thereby opening or closing the water inlet 126.

[0079] Specifically, Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, a limit portion 130 is provided on the valve body 124, and the valve core includes a push rod 132, a sealing member 134 and an elastic member 136. The push rod 132 is located inside the valve body 124, and one end of the push rod 132 passes through the water inlet 126 and is located inside the water tank 120; the end extending into the water tank 120 is provided with a sealing member 134, and the other end of the push rod 132 protrudes out of the water tank 120 and is provided with a limit end 154; the elastic member 136 is sleeved on the push rod 132, and the two ends of the elastic member 136 are respectively in contact with the limit end 154 and the sealing member 134.

[0080] In the absence of external force, the push rod 132 has a tendency to move outside the water tank 120 under the action of the elastic member 136, so that the sealing member 134 closes the water outlet 128; under the drive of external force, the push rod 132 can move toward the inside of the water tank 120, so that the sealing member 134 opens the water outlet 128. That is, in the absence of external force, the elastic member 136 is in a contracted state, and the sealing member 134 closes the water outlet 128.

[0081] In a specific embodiment, Figure 2 As shown, the base assembly 102 includes a mounting end surface 138 and a protrusion 140. The water tank assembly 106 can be placed on the mounting end surface 138, and the heating area 104 is also formed on the mounting end surface 138; the protrusion 140 is arranged on the mounting end surface 138 and extends in a direction away from the mounting end surface 138.

[0082] That is, if Figure 7 As shown, when the water tank assembly 106 is placed on the mounting end surface 138, the convex portion 140 is opposite to the position of the water inlet valve 122, and the convex portion 140 can lift the push rod 132, so that the push rod 132 drives the seal 134 to open the water outlet 128, ensuring that the water tank 120 supplies water to the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112; when the water tank assembly 106 is removed from the mounting end surface 138, the elastic member 136 drives the push rod 132 to move, and the push rod 132 drives the seal 134 to seal the water outlet 128 again to prevent liquid leakage inside the water tank 120.

[0083] In a specific embodiment, Figure 4As shown, the first chamber 110 is connected to the second chamber 112, and the water outlet 128 is connected to the second chamber 112. The liquid in the water tank 120 enters the second chamber 112 through the water inlet 126, and then enters the first chamber 110 through the second chamber 112. Therefore, the liquid levels of the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112 are at the same height under the action of air pressure, and are both equal to the height of the water outlet 128. That is, the height of the water outlet 128 determines the height of the liquid in the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112, and determines the amount of liquid to be heated in the heating area 104. When the power of the heating area 104 is constant, the smaller the amount of liquid in the first chamber 110, the faster the steam is generated and the shorter the time of steam output.

[0084] Therefore, if Figure 6 As shown, the height H of the water outlet 128 of the valve body 124 of the steam generator 100 proposed by the present invention is less than or equal to 20 mm, which can ensure the water outlet speed and ensure that only a small amount of liquid exists in the first chamber 110 to accelerate the steam generation speed. In addition, the height H of the water outlet 128 is greater than or equal to 5 mm, which can effectively overcome the liquid tension and avoid the situation where the liquid cannot flow through the water outlet 128 due to surface tension, thereby ensuring orderly water supply.

[0085] Specifically, the height H of the water outlet 128 may be 8 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm, etc.

[0086] In addition, if Figure 6 As shown, the width W of the water outlet 128 is greater than or equal to 5 mm, and the width and height of the water inlet 126 match, which can not only overcome the tension of the liquid and ensure smooth outflow of the liquid, but also ensure that the amount of liquid in the first chamber 110 is not excessive and speed up the steam generation speed.

[0087] Specifically, the width W of the water outlet 128 may be 8 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm, etc.

[0088] In a specific embodiment, Figure 4 As shown, it is difficult to ensure that the steam generator 100 is always in a horizontal state during the use of the steam generator 100. When the water tank 120 is tilted at a certain angle, the position of the water outlet 128 will also change. For example, when the water outlet 128 of the water tank 120 is facing the side of the heating area 104, the position of the water outlet 128 will rise, and the water outlet 128 will be exposed to the water surface again. The liquid in the water tank 120 will flow out until the water outlet 128 is submerged again. At this time, the amount of water in the first chamber 110 will be more than normal, which will cause the water vaporization speed to slow down, affecting normal use.

[0089] Therefore, if Figure 4As shown, in the steam generator 100 provided by the present invention, the lateral distance D between the center of the water inlet valve 122 and the center of the heating area 104 is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 100 mm. By optimizing the lateral distance between the center of the water inlet valve 122 and the center of the heating area 104, the above situation can be effectively avoided, the influence of the tilt of the water tank 120 on the water intake amount can be reduced, and the steam generation speed can be guaranteed.

[0090] Specifically, the lateral distance D between the center of the water inlet valve 122 and the center of the heating area 104 can be 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, etc.

[0091] Embodiment 4:

[0092] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the fourth embodiment of the present invention provides a steam generator 100 , including: a base assembly 102 and a water tank assembly 106 .

[0093] The base assembly 102 is provided with a heating area 104 and an installation space, the water tank assembly 106 includes an isolation portion 108, and the water tank assembly 106 can be installed on the base assembly 102. When the water tank assembly 106 is placed on the base assembly 102, the isolation portion 108 is located in the installation space, and a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112 can be defined on the base assembly 102, and the first chamber 110 is connected to the second chamber 112, and the heating area 104 is located in the first chamber 110 and provides heat for the first chamber 110. That is, the first chamber 110 generates steam as a hot zone, and the second chamber 112 does not generate steam as a cold zone.

[0094] In this embodiment, further, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the susceptor assembly 102 includes a support member 142 and a heating member 146 .

[0095] Among them, a accommodating space 144 is set on the support member 142 to form an installation space, and the water tank assembly 106 can be set on the support member 142, and the isolation portion 108 is located inside the accommodating space 144; in addition, when the water tank assembly 106 is set on the support member 142, the isolation portion 108 is located inside the accommodating space 144, and the accommodating space 144 can be divided into a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112 to ensure that the heating element 146 only heats the first chamber 110; the heating element 146 is set on the support member 142, and a heating area 104 is formed in a local area of ​​the support member 142 to ensure heat supply for the first chamber 110.

[0096] In this embodiment, further, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the base assembly 102 also includes a base 148 .

[0097] The support member 142 is disposed on the base 148, and the other components are supported by the support member 142. The base 148 provides a placement position for the other components to ensure the overall stability of the steam generator 100. In addition, the heating element 146 is located between the base 148 and the support member 142 to ensure the placement position of the heating element 146.

[0098] Embodiment five:

[0099] A fifth embodiment of the present invention provides a clothes treating device, comprising: a steam generator and a control device as in any of the above embodiments (this embodiment is not shown in the figures).

[0100] The clothes treating device proposed by the present invention comprises a control device and a steam generator as in any of the above embodiments. Therefore, all the beneficial effects of the above steam generator are obtained and will not be discussed one by one here.

[0101] Specifically, the control device is electrically connected to the heating element of the steam generator and can control the heating element to work so that the first chamber or the second chamber is heated and produces steam. In addition, the control device can also adjust the operation of the heating element to adjust the steam generation speed.

[0102] Specifically, the clothes processing device may be a clothes steamer, and more specifically, may be a handheld clothes steamer. Specific embodiment:

[0104] In order to solve the problem that the existing steam generator takes a long time to produce steam and has a poor user experience. The present invention provides a steam generator 100 that can quickly generate steam. Among them, an isolation portion 108 for separating a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112 is provided above the heating element 146. The isolation portion 108 can reduce the speed at which the water in the second chamber 112 located outside the isolation portion 108 absorbs heat, while the water in the first chamber 110 located inside the isolation portion 108 can quickly absorb the heat of the heating element 146, so that steam can be quickly generated, reducing the waiting time of the user and improving the user experience.

[0105] Specifically, Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 7As shown, the steam generator 100 includes: a steam outlet pipe 150, a water tank 120, a support member 142, a base 148, an isolation part 108, a heating member 146, a water inlet valve 122, a spring, a push rod 132, a sealing member 134, etc. Among them, the steam outlet pipe 150 serves as a steam outlet; the water tank 120 is provided with a water storage chamber, which can store water for generating steam, and except for the lower opening, the rest of the water tank 120 is sealed; a valve body 124 is provided at the water outlet below the water tank 120, and a water outlet 128 is provided below the valve body 124, and the water in the water tank 120 enters the heating area 104 through the water outlet 128; the valve body 124 is also provided with a spring, a push rod 132 and a sealing member 134.

[0106] The function of the support 142 is to fix and support the water tank 120; the bottom surface of the support 142 is provided with a convex portion 140, and its function is: after the water tank 120 is filled with water and loaded into the support 142, the convex portion 140 will push the push rod 132 upward, and the push rod 132 compresses the spring, and at the same time, the push rod 132 drives the seal 134 assembled on its upper end to move upward, so that the water in the water tank 120 enters the heating area 104 through the water inlet 126; and in the water filling state when the water tank 120 is separated from the support 142, the seal 134 will move downward due to the elastic force of the spring and fit closely with the valve body 124 to prevent the water in the water tank 120 from flowing out, so as to facilitate the user's water filling operation. The preferred material of the seal 134 is silicone or rubber.

[0107] The base 148 is installed under the support member 142 to provide support and protection.

[0108] The isolation part 108 is assembled with the water tank 120. The isolation part 108 is provided with a partition 116, which is used to separate the water into a first chamber 110 and a second chamber 112. The second chamber 112 is used as a cold zone, and the first chamber 110 is used as a hot zone, so that the water in the hot zone is quickly heated up and steam is generated. The isolation part 108 is also provided with a steam channel 118, and the steam generated in the hot zone is discharged through the steam channel 118 and the steam outlet pipe 150.

[0109] The heating element 146 is installed at the bottom of the support member 142. The support member 142 is provided with a through hole so that part of the heating surface of the heating element 146 is exposed and in contact with water to form a heating area 104. The heating element 146 can be a heating plate, a thick film heating sheet, a PTC heating sheet (Positive Temperature Coefficient, a semiconductor material or component with a large positive temperature coefficient, referred to as PTC thermistor), etc.

[0110] like Figure 2As shown, the steam outlet pipe 150, the water tank 120, the isolation part 108, the valve body 124, the spring, the push rod 132 and the sealing member 134 are assembled into one component, which is the water tank assembly 106, and the support member 142, the base 148 and the heating member 146 are assembled into one component, which is the base assembly 102; the water tank assembly 106 and the base assembly 102 can be easily separated, so that the user can add water to the water tank 120 through the isolation part 108. Secondly, the heating area 104 and the inner surface of the support member 142 are prone to scale due to frequent contact with water. After the water tank assembly 106 is separated from the base assembly 102, the user can easily clean the scale, which improves the pain point that the sealed heating chamber of the existing steam generator 100 cannot clean the scale.

[0111] like Figure 4 As shown in the figure, the arrow indicates the direction of steam flow. The working principle of the steam generator 100 provided by the present invention is as follows: the user fills the water tank 120 with water through the valve body 124, and installs the water tank 120 into the support 142. The convex portion 140 pushes the push rod 132 upward, and the push rod 132 compresses the spring, while driving the seal 134 to move upward. The water in the water tank 120 enters the valve body 124 through the water inlet 126 between the valve body 124 and the seal 134, and then enters the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112 composed of the support 142 and the isolation portion 108 through the water outlet 128 on the valve body 124, and is heated in the first chamber 110 to become steam. When the water in the second chamber 112 is above the upper side of the water outlet 128, the external air can no longer enter the water tank 120 from the water outlet 128, so the water in the water tank 120 can no longer flow out (otherwise a negative pressure will be formed in the water tank 120). When the water in the first chamber 110 is heated and evaporated and reduced, the second chamber 112 is continuously replenished into the first chamber 110, causing the liquid level of the second chamber 112 to drop. At this time, when the water outlet 128 is exposed to the water surface again, the water in the water tank 120 will be replenished into the second chamber 112. In this way, automatic water replenishment can be achieved.

[0112] A certain gap is provided between the lower surface of the partition 116 and the upper surface of the support 142 and the heating area 104, and the water in the second chamber 112 enters the first chamber 110 through the gap and contacts the heating area 104. According to the communicating vessel principle, the horizontal planes on both sides of the partition 116 are at the same height, that is, the liquid levels of the first chamber 110 and the second chamber 112 are at the same height, and the horizontal plane of the second chamber 112 is at the same height as the height of the water outlet 128. Therefore, the amount of water in the first chamber 110 can be adjusted by adjusting the height of the water outlet 128.

[0113] After power is turned on for heating, the water above the heating area 104 quickly absorbs heat, vaporizes into water vapor, and is discharged through the steam channel 118 and the steam outlet pipe 150; and the partition 116 acts as a heat insulator, so that the water in the second chamber 112 outside it can only absorb heat slowly, which is beneficial to improving the heat absorption efficiency of the first chamber 110 and shortening the time of steam generation.

[0114] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the height of the water outlet 128 is H and the width is W. By adjusting the height of the water outlet 128, the amount of water in the first chamber 110 inside the partition 116 can be adjusted. When the power of the heating element 146 is constant, the smaller the amount of water in the first chamber 110, the faster the water vaporization speed and the shorter the time of steam output. Therefore, the smaller the water volume, the better, that is, the smaller the height of the water outlet 128, the better. However, since water has a certain tension, when the height of the water outlet 128 is too small, the water cannot flow through the water outlet 128 into the heating chamber due to surface tension. Therefore, the setting of the height of the water outlet 128 must consider the tension of the water. Similarly, the width W of the water outlet 128 also needs to consider the tension of the water. Setting the height H of the water outlet 128 to 5mm≤H≤20mm and setting the width W of the water outlet 128 to W≥5mm can not only overcome the tension of the water and make the water output smooth, but also ensure that the amount of water in the first chamber 110 will not be too much and speed up the steam output.

[0115] like Figure 4 As shown, the distance between the center of the valve body 124 and the center of the heating area 104 is D. Because this product is applied to a handheld garment steamer, the user needs to hold the garment steamer in his hand when operating it, and the steam generator 100 will inevitably tilt. In actual use, when the steam generator 100 tilts at a certain angle, the position of the water outlet 128 will also change. When the steam generator 100 tilts forward, the position of the water outlet 128 will rise, and the water outlet 128 will re-surface the water surface, and the water in the water tank 120 will flow out until the water outlet 128 is re-submerged. At this time, the amount of water in the first chamber 110 will be more than normal, which will cause the water vaporization speed to slow down, affecting normal use. When D is larger, the influence of the tilt of the steam generator 100 on the water volume is also greater, so it is necessary to optimize the value of D, and set the range of D to 20mm≤D≤100mm.

[0116] In the description of the present invention, the term "plurality" refers to two or more than two. Unless otherwise clearly defined, the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "upper" and "lower" is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. It is only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and does not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation on the present invention. The terms "connection", "installation", "fixation", etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0117] In the description of this specification, the description of the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "specific embodiments", etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner.

[0118] The above are only preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, the present invention may have various modifications and variations. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steam generator, characterized in that: include: A base assembly, the base assembly is provided with a heating area and a mounting space, and the base assembly includes a support member; a water tank assembly, the water tank assembly being configured to be placed on the base assembly, the water tank assembly comprising an isolation portion; The isolation portion comprises: Partitions; A partition portion, disposed on the partition plate and extending in a direction away from the partition plate; Wherein, based on the situation that the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the isolation part is located in the installation space and forms at least a first chamber and a second chamber with the base assembly, the first chamber and the second chamber are connected, and a gap is provided between the lower surface of the partition and the upper surface of the support and the heating area, the water in the second chamber enters the first chamber through the gap and contacts the heating area, and the heating area is located in the first chamber and / or the second chamber.

2. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The isolation unit also includes: A steam channel is formed on the partition and communicated with the first chamber or the second chamber, and the steam channel and the partition are located on two opposite sides of the partition.

3. The steam generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second chamber is located at a peripheral side of the first chamber, the heating area is located in the first chamber, and the steam channel is communicated with the first chamber.

4. The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The water tank assembly also includes: A water tank, disposed on the isolation portion; A water inlet valve is arranged on the water tank, and one of the water inlet valve and the heating area is located in the first chamber, and the other is located in the second chamber.

5. The steam generator according to claim 4, characterized in that: The water inlet valve comprises: A valve body, wherein the valve body has a water inlet and a water outlet, and the water inlet is connected to the water tank; A valve core is disposed in the valve body, and the valve core is configured to open or close the water inlet.

6. The steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The height of the water outlet is greater than or equal to 5 mm and less than or equal to 20 mm; The width of the water outlet is greater than or equal to 5 mm.

7. The steam generator according to claim 4, characterized in that: A lateral distance between the center of the water inlet valve and the center of the heating area is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 100 mm.

8. The steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The valve body is provided with a limiting portion; The valve core comprises: A push rod, one end of which passes through the water inlet and is located inside the water tank; A sealing member, arranged at one end of the push rod and located inside the water tank; The elastic member is sleeved on the push rod and abuts against the limiting portion and the other end of the push rod. The sealing member closes the water inlet under the action of the elastic member.

9. The steam generator according to claim 8, characterized in that: The base assembly comprises: A mounting end surface, the water tank assembly being configured to be suitable for being placed on the mounting end surface; A convex portion, arranged on the mounting end surface; Wherein, based on the situation that the water tank assembly is placed on the base assembly, the protrusion abuts against the push rod, and the sealing component opens the water inlet.

10. The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The support member is provided with an accommodation space to form the installation space, and the isolation portion is provided in the accommodation space and divides the accommodation space into at least the first chamber and the second chamber; The base assembly further comprises: The heating element is arranged on the supporting element and forms the heating area.

11. The steam generator according to claim 10, characterized in that: The base assembly further comprises: The base is provided on the support member, and the heating member is located between the base and the support member.

12. The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: A steam outlet pipe is arranged on the isolation portion and is communicated with the first chamber or the second chamber.

13. A clothes processing device, characterized in that: include: A steam generator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12; and A control device is electrically connected to the heating element of the steam generator.

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