Steam ironing appliance with two independent steam distribution circuits

Abstract

The invention provides an ironing device (2) comprising a base (3) for stably resting on a horizontal support, and an ironing head (4) supported by the base (3), the ironing head (4) comprising a treatment surface (5), on which clothes to be ironed are intended to be placed when the ironing device (2) rests on the base (3), the treatment surface (5) comprising at least one steam discharge area (7.1, 7.2), the ironing device comprising a first steam distribution circuit (11) and a second steam distribution circuit (12) separate from the first steam distribution circuit (11), the at least one steam discharge area comprising at least one first steam outlet hole (8.1) fluidly connected to the first steam distribution circuit (11) and at least one second steam outlet hole (8.2) fluidly connected to the second steam distribution circuit (12). The ironing device (2) is configured so that ironing of clothes to be ironed is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed to the treatment surface (5) and sliding the clothes to be ironed on the treatment surface (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an ironing device configured for ironing clothes or daily fabrics, and in particular to a steam ironing device. Background Art

[0002] Document CA2279702 discloses a steam ironing device comprising a base for stably resting on a horizontal support, and an ironing head supported by the base, the ironing head comprising a treatment surface on which the clothes to be ironed are to be placed, the treatment surface comprising at least one steam discharge area provided with a steam outlet hole.

[0003] The ironing device described in document CA2279702 is configured so that ironing of the clothes to be ironed is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed to the treatment surface and sliding the clothes to be ironed over the treatment surface while the ironing device rests on a base.

[0004] This configuration of the ironing device allows ironing clothes without requiring the user to manipulate and move the ironing head relative to the clothes to be ironed, which greatly facilitates the ironing operation, especially for users who have difficulty maneuvering a portable ironing head.

[0005] However, the quality of ironing obtained with such a steam ironing device is unsatisfactory since it does not remove all the wrinkles present on the garment to be ironed. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these disadvantages.

[0007] The technical problem underlying the invention is in particular to provide an ironing device which is structurally simple and economical while ensuring an improved ironing quality.

[0008] To this end, the present invention relates to an ironing device, which comprises a base for stably resting on a horizontal support (such as a table), and an ironing head supported by the base, the ironing head comprising a treatment surface on which the clothes to be ironed are to be placed, the treatment surface comprising at least one steam discharge area, the ironing device being configured so that ironing of the clothes to be ironed is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed to the treatment surface and sliding the clothes to be ironed on the treatment surface when the ironing device is resting on the base, characterized in that the ironing device comprises a first steam distribution circuit and a second steam distribution circuit separate from the first steam distribution circuit, the at least one steam discharge area comprising at least one first steam outlet hole fluidly connected to the first steam distribution circuit and at least one second steam outlet hole fluidly connected to the second steam distribution circuit.

[0009] This configuration of the ironing device allows to ensure that a large amount of steam will flow through the first steam outlet holes and thus through the clothes to be ironed when the clothes to be ironed cover only a part of the treatment surface, for example only the first steam outlet holes. In fact, when all the steam outlet holes are connected to the same steam distribution circuit, during the ironing operation, the steam tends to flow mainly through the steam outlet holes that are not covered by the clothes to be ironed, which is detrimental to the ironing quality obtained.

[0010] The presence of two independent steam distribution circuits therefore allows the ironing quality of the ironing device according to the invention to be significantly improved.

[0011] The ironing appliance may also have one or more of the following features, alone or in combination.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing device is configured such that ironing of the clothes to be ironed is performed by sliding the clothes to be ironed in a back and forth movement on the treatment surface.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the invention, the treatment surface comprises a heating plate, for example a metal heating plate, which at least partially, for example completely, defines at least one steam discharge area, and the first and second steam outlet openings are arranged in the heating plate. The presence of such a heating plate can avoid the formation of condensation on the treatment surface, thereby avoiding excessive wetting of the clothes to be ironed and splashing of water droplets on the clothes to be ironed.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the invention, the ironing device is configured such that, under use conditions, the treatment surface has a temperature on the heating plate above 110° C. Such a configuration of the ironing device ensures that no condensation forms on the treatment surface.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first steam generator and the second steam generator are in thermal contact with the resistance heating element of the heating plate. This feature allows limiting the manufacturing costs by using one and the same resistance heating element to heat the first and second steam generators and the heating plate.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the invention, the heating plate is arranged in the middle part of the treatment surface. Such a configuration of the treatment surface makes it possible to limit the risk of burns to the user when treating the clothes to be ironed.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the invention, the heating plate is centred with respect to a median plane of the treatment surface, also called median front-back plane, for example with respect to a median plane of the ironing head.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the invention, the heating plate is spaced apart from the peripheral edge of the ironing head.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam outlet openings extend substantially in a mid-plane of the treatment surface.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first steam outlet opening is a first steam outlet slot and the second steam outlet opening is a second steam outlet slot. Advantageously, the first and second steam outlet slots extend substantially parallel to each other. For example, the first and second steam outlet slots may be substantially aligned relative to each other.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the first and second steam outlet slots has a length between 7 and 15 cm, such as between 8 and 12 cm, advantageously about 10 cm, and a width between 1 and 10 mm, preferably about 3 mm.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first steam outlet hole is arranged in the front half of the processing surface, and the second steam outlet hole is arranged in the rear half of the processing surface. Such arrangement of the first steam outlet hole and the second steam outlet hole allows the user to perform optimal ironing of the sleeves of the clothes by moving the sleeves of the clothes from left to right and from right to left on one of the first steam outlet hole and the second steam outlet hole, which greatly facilitates the user's actions.

[0023] In this document, the term "front" refers to the front part of the ironing device located near the user when the user uses the ironing device, and the term "rear" refers to the rear part of the ironing device located opposite the user when the user uses the ironing device.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the ironing appliance comprises at least one steam generator configured to supply the first and the second steam distribution circuit independently.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing device comprises a water tank, for example arranged in a base, and a supply circuit fluidly connected to the water tank and configured to supply water to at least one steam generator.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the supply circuit comprises a supply pump, preferably an electric supply pump, configured to supply water from the water tank to the at least one steam generator. These arrangements allow the first and second steam distribution circuits to be pressurized, thereby facilitating the flow of steam through the first and second steam outlet holes.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one steam generator is arranged in the base. However, according to an alternative embodiment, the at least one steam generator may be arranged in the ironing head.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing appliance comprises a first steam generator configured to supply steam to a first steam distribution circuit and a second steam generator configured to supply steam to a second steam distribution circuit.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam generators comprise first and second transient evaporation chambers, respectively, each transient evaporation chamber being configured to be supplied with water from a water tank.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam generators are formed by a heating body comprising a first and a second transient evaporation chamber.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the heating body comprises a first water injection port leading to the first transient evaporation chamber and a second water injection port leading to the second transient evaporation chamber.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, the heating body comprises at least one heating resistor.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing head comprises a heating element on which a heating plate rests, a first steam distribution circuit comprises a first steam flow channel delimited by the heating element and the heating plate and fluidically connected to the first steam generator and advantageously to the first transient evaporation chamber, and a second steam distribution circuit comprises a second steam flow channel delimited by the heating element and the heating plate and fluidically connected to the second steam generator and advantageously to the second transient evaporation chamber. The first and second steam flow channels ensure that any water droplets present in the steam flow flowing in the first and second steam flow channels can evaporate and further avoid water droplets splashing onto the clothes to be ironed.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first steam distribution circuit comprises a (eg flexible) first steam conduit fluidly connected to the first transient evaporation chamber, and the second steam distribution circuit comprises a (eg flexible) second steam conduit fluidly connected to the second transient evaporation chamber.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first steam flow channel is fluidly connected to the first steam conduit and the second steam flow channel is fluidly connected to the second steam conduit.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the heating element comprises a first steam injection port leading to the first steam flow channel and a second steam injection port leading to the second steam flow channel.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one steam discharge area includes at least a first steam discharge area including a first steam outlet hole and a second steam discharge area including a second steam outlet hole, and each of the first and second steam discharge areas has a width measured in the front-to-back direction, which is between 7 and 15 cm, for example, between 8 and 12 cm, and preferably approximately 10 cm.

[0038] Advantageously, the width of each of the first and second steam exhaust areas corresponds substantially to the maximum width of a sleeve of a garment to be ironed.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the treatment surface further comprises at least one suction zone provided with a plurality of suction openings.

[0040] This configuration of the treatment surface, in particular the presence of the suction orifices, makes it possible, on the one hand, to press and hold the garment to be ironed against the treatment surface and, on the other hand, to tighten the garment to be ironed. Thus, the particular configuration of the treatment surface of the ironing device according to the invention facilitates the ironing of the garment to be ironed, since the user only has to manipulate and move the garment relative to the cleaning head, while at the same time improving the quality of such ironing.

[0041] In addition, the presence of the suction orifice can prevent the steam from the first and second steam outlet holes from escaping toward the user and prevent the user's body safety from being endangered when the clothes are not against the steam outlet holes. Therefore, the specific configuration of the treatment surface of the ironing device according to the present invention increases the safety of the ironing device.

[0042] Furthermore, the presence of the suction orifices ensures that during the ironing process air passes through the garment to be ironed, which on the one hand results in cooling of the garment to be ironed, thereby facilitating condensation of steam on the garment, thus improving the quality of the ironing performed, and on the other hand, drying of the garment to be ironed, which allows the user to wear the ironed garment immediately after the ironing operation.

[0043] Therefore, since the ironing device according to the invention can simultaneously discharge steam through the clothes to be ironed and draw air through the clothes during the ironing operation, the ironing quality of the clothes is significantly improved compared to the ironing devices of the prior art.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing device comprises a first suction circuit and a second suction circuit separate from the first suction circuit, the suction orifices comprising at least one suction orifice fluidically connected to the first suction circuit and at least one suction orifice fluidically connected to the second suction circuit. When the clothes to be ironed cover only a portion of the treatment surface, for example only the at least one suction orifice fluidically connected to the first suction circuit, this configuration of the ironing device ensures that a large amount of air will be sucked in through the at least one suction orifice fluidically connected to the first suction circuit and thus through the clothes to be ironed. In fact, when all the suction orifices are connected to the same suction circuit, during the ironing operation, air tends to be sucked in mainly through the one or more suction orifices not covered by the clothes to be ironed, which is detrimental to the flattening of the clothes on the treatment surface and therefore to the ironing quality obtained.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction orifice comprises a first suction orifice assembly fluidly connected to a first suction circuit and a second suction orifice assembly fluidly connected to a second suction circuit.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the suction orifices of the first suction orifice assembly are arranged at the front half of the treatment surface, and the suction orifices of the second suction orifice assembly are arranged at the rear half of the treatment surface.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing device comprises a first vacuum applying member configured to apply vacuum to the first suction circuit, and a second vacuum applying member separate from the first vacuum applying member and configured to apply vacuum to the second suction circuit.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first vacuum applying member comprises a first electric fan and the second vacuum applying member comprises a second electric fan.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first vacuum applying member comprises a first fan, the second vacuum applying member comprises a second fan, and the first and second fans are driven to rotate by a same motor.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first and second suction circuits respectively comprise a first exhaust outlet and a second exhaust outlet, which are arranged at the back of the ironing device. Therefore, the air sucked by the first and second suction circuits escapes at the back of the ironing device, away from the user, thereby not causing inconvenience to the user.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction aperture comprises at least two suction apertures, which are arranged on either side of at least one steam discharge area. Such a configuration of at least one suction area can prevent steam from burning the user's hands when handling clothes to be straightened.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction orifice assembly includes a first suction orifice subassembly and a second suction orifice subassembly arranged on both sides of at least one steam discharge area, and the second suction orifice assembly includes a third suction orifice subassembly and a fourth suction orifice subassembly arranged on both sides of at least one steam discharge area.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first and second suction aperture subassemblies are arranged on both sides of the heating plate, and the third and fourth suction aperture subassemblies are arranged on both sides of the heating plate.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction orifice assembly includes a plurality of suction orifices positioned near the heating plate and along the heating plate, for example along a first side edge of the heating plate, and the second suction orifice assembly includes a plurality of suction orifices positioned near the heating plate and along the heating plate, for example along a second side edge of the heating plate.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction orifice assembly comprises a first series of suction orifices arranged in the heating plate near the first steam outlet hole and for example along the first steam outlet hole, and the second suction orifice assembly comprises a second series of suction orifices arranged in the heating plate near the second steam outlet hole and for example along the second steam outlet hole. Such arrangement of the first and second series of suction orifices can ensure that the steam is sucked in as close to the steam outlet hole as possible, thereby further improving the safety of use of the ironing device according to the present invention.

[0056] Advantageously, the suction orifices of the first series of suction orifices are substantially aligned and the suction orifices of the second series of suction orifices are substantially aligned.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second series of suction orifices are arranged on either side of a median plane of the treatment surface.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distance between the first steam outlet hole and each suction hole of the first series of suction holes is less than 2 cm, advantageously less than 1 cm, for example about 3 mm, and the distance between the second steam outlet hole and each suction hole of the second series of suction holes is less than 2 cm, and advantageously less than 1 cm, for example about 3 mm. Preferably, at least a portion of the first series of suction holes, and advantageously all of the suction holes, are inclined in the direction of the first steam outlet hole. Preferably, at least a portion of the second series of suction holes, advantageously all of the suction holes are inclined in the direction of the second steam outlet hole.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction circuit includes a pair of first suction chambers arranged in the ironing head, and a pair of first suction ducts, which are fluidly connected to the first vacuum application member and each leads to the corresponding first suction chamber, and the second suction circuit includes a pair of second suction chambers arranged in the ironing head, and a pair of second suction ducts, which are fluidly connected to the second vacuum application member and each leads to the corresponding second suction chamber.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction chamber is arranged on both sides of the heating plate, and the second suction chamber is arranged on both sides of the heating plate.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first suction chamber is arranged at the front part of the ironing head and the second suction chamber is arranged at the rear part of the ironing head.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the suction orifice fluid of the first suction orifice subassembly is connected to one of the first suction chambers, the suction orifice fluid of the second suction orifice subassembly is connected to another one of the first suction chambers, the suction orifice fluid of the third suction orifice subassembly is connected to one of the second suction chambers, and the suction orifice fluid of the fourth suction orifice subassembly is connected to another one of the second suction chambers.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the invention, the suction orifices of the first series of suction orifices are fluidly connected to one of the first suction chambers and the suction orifices of the second series of suction orifices are fluidly connected to one of the second suction chambers.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction circuit includes a plurality of first connection channels arranged on the heating element, each first connection channel being configured to connect a corresponding suction orifice of a first series of suction orifices with a fluid in a first suction chamber, and a plurality of second connection channels arranged on the heating element, each second connection channel being configured to connect a corresponding suction orifice of a second series of suction orifices with a fluid in a second suction chamber.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one suction area comprises a first suction area and a second suction area, which are arranged on both sides of the at least one steam discharge area.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the sum of the passage cross sections of the suction orifices corresponds substantially to the sum of the passage cross sections of the first and second suction ducts.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ironing head is protrudingly arranged on the base.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the base comprises a base body on which the ironing head is placed, the base body converging towards the ironing head, and the ironing head protruding laterally from the base body. This configuration of the ironing head allows the shoulder of the shirt to be ironed to pass around the ironing head. Advantageously, the ironing head protrudes laterally over the entire circumference of the base body.

[0069] According to one embodiment of the invention, the treatment surface is substantially flat, that is to say flat or slightly domed.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the centre of gravity of the ironing head and the centre of gravity of the base are substantially aligned along the vertical axis when the base rests on the horizontal support. Such a configuration of the ironing device ensures that the ironing device is very stable, especially during ironing operation.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the base rests on a horizontal support, the or each normal to the treatment surface is directed upwards or inclined at an angle between 0° and 45°, preferably about 20°, relative to the vertical axis, in the direction of the front of the ironing device. This configuration of the treatment surface makes it possible to limit the diffusion of steam in the direction of the user, while ensuring that the ironing device is more ergonomic.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing head has a substantially triangular profile.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the treatment surface has a substantially triangular profile. Advantageously, one of the vertices of the substantially triangular profile of the treatment surface faces towards the back side of the ironing device.

[0074] According to an embodiment of the invention, the at least one steam outlet hole of the at least one steam exhaust area is located at a distance of less than 3 cm from the apex of the substantially triangular outline of the treatment surface, the treatment surface facing the back side of the ironing device.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the invention, the maximum width of the ironing head is between 10 and 35 cm, and advantageously is about 20 cm.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the invention, the maximum width of the base is between 15 and 40 cm, and advantageously is about 30 cm.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the invention, the base has a substantially square outline.

[0078] According to an embodiment of the invention, the height of the ironing device is between 20 and 40 cm, and when the base rests on said horizontal support, the treatment surface is advantageously more than 20 cm from the bearing surface of the horizontal support.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the invention, the base comprises a handle located near the lower surface of the base. These arrangements greatly limit the risk of burns to the user, in particular when manipulating the ironing device after an ironing operation, for example in order to store the ironing device.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ironing appliance comprises at least one condensate recovery device.These arrangements make it possible to avoid accumulation of condensate in various internal components of the ironing appliance, which could adversely affect the operation of the ironing appliance.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one condensate recovery device is configured to reinject the recovered condensate into a water tank supplying water to the at least one steam generator.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one condensate recovery device comprises a condensate recovery chamber provided with a condensate discharge opening leading to the water tank.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first suction circuit comprises a first condensate recovery device, which is configured to recover condensate formed in the first suction circuit, advantageously formed upstream of the first condensate recovery device and, for example, formed in the first suction duct and / or in the first suction chamber, and the second suction circuit comprises a second condensate recovery device, which is configured to recover condensate formed in the second suction circuit, advantageously formed upstream of the second condensate recovery device and, for example, formed in the second suction duct and / or in the second suction chamber.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first suction circuit includes a first connecting conduit connecting the first suction conduit to the first condensate recovery chamber of the first condensate recovery device, and a second connecting conduit connecting the first condensate recovery chamber to the first vacuum applying member, and the second suction circuit includes a third connecting conduit connecting the second suction conduit to the second condensate recovery chamber of the second condensate recovery device, and a fourth connecting conduit connecting the second condensate recovery chamber to the second vacuum applying member.

[0085] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the ironing head is inclined towards the front direction of the ironing device.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the base rests on the horizontal support, the ironing head extends substantially in an extension plane inclined at an angle between 5° and 45°, advantageously between 10° and 30°, and preferably about 20° relative to the horizontal.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the invention, the ironing head is firmly fixed to the base, for example to the base body.

[0088] The invention also relates to a method for ironing clothes using a device as described above, wherein the ironing of clothes is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed to a treatment surface and sliding the clothes to be ironed on said treatment surface while the ironing device rests stably on a base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] The invention will be better understood with the help of the following description made with reference to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of non-limiting example, an embodiment of the ironing device.

[0090] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ironing device according to the present invention.

[0091] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 view of ironing equipment.

[0092] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Side view of an ironing appliance.

[0093] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A partial top view of an ironing device.

[0094] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A partial top view of an ironing device.

[0095] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial rear perspective view of an ironing device.

[0096] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A partial longitudinal sectional view of an ironing device.

[0097] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A partial perspective view of an ironing device.

[0098] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 A partial top view of an ironing device.

[0099] Fig.10 Belongs to Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a heating body of an ironing device.

[0100] Fig.11 yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of an ironing appliance.

[0101] Fig.12 yes Figure 1 A partially cut-away perspective view of an ironing appliance. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0102] Figures 1 to 12 An ironing device 2 is shown which is configured to iron clothes or linens to be ironed.

[0103] The ironing device 2 comprises a base 3 intended to rest stably on a horizontal support and an ironing head 4 supported by the base 3 and comprising a treatment surface 5 on which clothes to be ironed are intended to be placed when the ironing device 2 rests on the base 3.

[0104] The ironing device 2 is configured such that ironing of the clothes to be ironed is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed onto the treatment surface 5 and sliding the clothes to be ironed on the treatment surface 5 (eg moving back and forth).

[0105] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the base 3 has a substantially square outline, and the ironing head 4 and the treatment surface 5 each have a substantially triangular outline. Advantageously, the apex of each substantially triangular outline of the ironing head 4 and the treatment surface 5 faces the back of the ironing device 2. The treatment surface 5 may be substantially flat or arched.

[0106] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown in more detail in FIG, the ironing head 4 is protrudingly arranged on the base 3. Advantageously, the base 3 has a base body 6 on which the ironing head 4 rests, and the base body 6 converges in the direction of the ironing head 4 so that the ironing head 4 protrudes laterally from the base body 6. This configuration of the ironing head 4 allows the shoulder of the shirt to be ironed to pass around the ironing head 4 easily.

[0107] The ironing device 2 may for example have a height between 20 and 40 cm and when the base 3 rests on a horizontal support, the treatment surface 5 may advantageously be more than 20 cm from the bearing surface of the horizontal support.

[0108] The ironing head 4 may for example have a maximum width between 10 and 35 cm, and advantageously about 20 cm, and the base 3 may for example have a maximum width between 15 and 40 cm, and advantageously about 30 cm.

[0109] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, when the base 3 rests on a horizontal support, the centre of gravity of the ironing head 4 and the centre of gravity of the base 3 are substantially aligned along a vertical axis.

[0110] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the ironing head 4 is inclined toward the front direction of the ironing device 2 and is substantially in the extension plane Pe (see Figure 3 ), when the base 3 rests on a horizontal support, the extension plane Pe is inclined at an angle between 5° and 45° relative to the horizontal plane, preferably at approximately 20°.

[0111] Advantageously, when the base 3 rests on a horizontal support, the or each normal to the treatment surface 5 faces upwards or is inclined at an angle between 0° and 45°, preferably about 20°, relative to the vertical axis towards the front of the ironing device 2.

[0112] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in more detail in FIG, the treatment surface 5 comprises a first steam discharge area 7.1 having a first steam outlet hole 8.1 and a second steam discharge area 7.2 having a second steam outlet hole 8.2. Advantageously, the first steam outlet hole 8.1 is arranged in the front half of the treatment surface 5, and the second steam outlet hole 8.2 is arranged in the rear half of the treatment surface 5.

[0113] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first steam outlet opening 8.1 is a first steam outlet slot and the second steam outlet opening 8.2 is a second steam outlet slot. Advantageously, the first and second steam outlet slots are aligned with each other and extend in the middle plane of the treatment surface 5 and also in the middle plane of the ironing head 4. The length of each of the first and second steam outlet slots may be between 7 and 15 cm, for example between 8 and 12 cm, and advantageously is about 10 cm. Advantageously, the length of each of the first and second steam outlet slots substantially corresponds to the maximum width of the sleeve of the garment to be ironed.

[0114] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the treatment surface 5 comprises a heating plate 9 which defines first and second steam discharge areas 7.1, 7.2 and which may be metallic, for example. First and second steam outlet openings 8.1, 8.2 are advantageously provided in the heating plate 9.

[0115] The heating plate 9 is arranged in the middle of the treatment surface 5 and is spaced from the peripheral edge of the ironing head 4. Advantageously, the heating plate 9 is centered relative to a median plane P of the treatment surface 5.

[0116] Advantageously, the ironing device 2 is configured such that, under use conditions, the treatment surface 5 has a temperature exceeding 110° C. at the heating plate 9 , so that the formation of condensation on the treatment surface 5 is avoided.

[0117] Advantageously, the ironing head 4 comprises a heating element 10 on which the heating plate 9 rests. More specifically, the heating element 10 is configured to heat the heating plate 9. Advantageously, the heating element 10 may incorporate a resistive heating element 10.1.

[0118] The ironing device 2 also includes a first steam distribution circuit 11 and a second steam distribution circuit 12, wherein the first steam distribution circuit 11 is fluidly connected to the first steam outlet hole 8.1 and is configured to supply steam to the first steam outlet hole 8.1, and the second steam distribution circuit 12 is fluidly connected to the second steam outlet hole 8.2 and is configured to supply steam to the second steam outlet hole 8.2, and the second steam distribution circuit 12 is separated from the first steam distribution circuit 11.

[0119] The ironing device 2 further comprises at least one steam generator configured to independently supply the first and second steam distribution circuits 11, 12. Advantageously, the ironing device 2 comprises a first steam generator 13 configured to supply steam to the first steam distribution circuit 11 and a second steam generator 14 configured to supply steam to the second steam distribution circuit 12. The first and second steam generators 13, 14 are arranged in the base 3. However, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the first and second steam generators 13, 14 may be arranged in the ironing head 4.

[0120] The steam device 2 further comprises a water tank 15, for example arranged in the base 3, and a supply circuit 16, the supply circuit 16 being fluidly connected to the water tank 15 and configured to supply water to the first and second steam generators 13, 14. Advantageously, the supply circuit 16 comprises a supply pump 17, which is configured to supply water from the water tank 15 to the first and second steam generators 13, 14.

[0121] like Fig.10 As shown, the first and second steam generators 13, 14 comprise a first transient evaporation chamber 13.1 and a second transient evaporation chamber 14.1, respectively, each of which is configured to be supplied with water from a water tank 15, and which are configured to supply steam to the first and second steam distribution circuits 11, 12, respectively.

[0122] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second steam generators 13, 14 are formed by a heating body 18 comprising a first and a second transient evaporation chamber 13.1, 14.1.

[0123] The heating body 18 comprises a first water inlet 19 leading to the first transient evaporation chamber 13.1 and a second water inlet 21 leading to the second transient evaporation chamber 14.1. The first and second water inlet 19, 21 are connected to the supply circuit 16. The heating body 18 further comprises a heating resistor 22.

[0124] The heating body 18 further comprises a first steam outlet 23 fluidly connected to the first transient evaporation chamber 13.1, and a second steam outlet 24 fluidly connected to the second transient evaporation chamber 14.1.

[0125] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the heating body 18 comprises a casting 25 with an integrated heating resistor 22, and a closing plate 26 resting on the casting 25. The casting 25 and the closing plate 26 delimit the first and second transient evaporation chambers 13.1, 14.1.

[0126] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first steam distribution circuit 11 comprises a first steam flow channel 27 defined by the heating element 10 and the heating plate 9, and a first steam conduit (not visible in the figure), which is, for example, flexible and has an inner diameter of about 5 mm, which fluidically connects the first steam flow channel 27 to the first transient evaporation chamber 13.1. More specifically, the first steam conduit is configured to connect the first steam outlet 23 to a first steam injection port 28, which is arranged on the heating element 10 and opens into the first steam flow channel 27.

[0127] like Fig. 9As shown, the first steam flow channel 27 includes a first steam flow portion 27.1 and a second steam flow portion 27.2, the first steam flow portion 27.1 having a plurality of baffles, and the second steam flow portion 27.2 being substantially straight and opposite to the first steam outlet hole 8.1. More specifically, the first steam injection port 28 leads to the upstream portion of the first steam flow channel 27.

[0128] The second steam distribution circuit 12 comprises a second steam flow channel 29 defined by the heating element 10 and the heating plate 9, and a second steam conduit (not visible in the figure), which is, for example, flexible and has an inner diameter of about 5 mm, which fluidically connects the second steam flow channel 29 to the second transient evaporation chamber 14.1. More specifically, the second steam conduit is configured to connect the second steam outlet 24 to a second steam injection port 31, which is provided on the heating element 10 and opens into the second steam flow channel 29.

[0129] Advantageously, the second steam flow channel 29 comprises a first steam flow portion 29.1 having a plurality of baffles and a second steam flow portion 29.2 which is substantially straight and opposite to the second steam outlet opening 8.2. More specifically, the second steam injection port 31 leads to the upstream portion of the second steam flow channel 29.

[0130] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the treatment surface 5 also includes at least one suction area, which is provided with at least one suction orifice. According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the treatment surface 5 includes a first suction area 32 and a second suction area 33, which are arranged on both sides of the middle plane P of the treatment surface 5, more precisely, on both sides of the two steam discharge areas 7.1, 7.2, and each is provided with a plurality of suction orifices.

[0131] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the ironing device 2 comprises a first suction circuit 34 and a second suction circuit 36, wherein the first suction circuit 34 is fluidically connected to a first suction orifice assembly 35 arranged on the treatment surface 5, and the second suction circuit 36 ​​is separated from the first suction circuit 34 and fluidically connected to a second suction orifice assembly 37 arranged on the treatment surface 5. Advantageously, the suction orifice of the first suction orifice assembly 35 is arranged in the front half of the treatment surface 5, and the suction orifice of the second suction orifice assembly 37 is arranged in the rear half of the treatment surface 5. The spacing between the first assembly 35 and the second assembly 37 is Figure 2 It is schematically shown by the spacing axis S.

[0132] The ironing device 2 further comprises a first vacuum applying member configured to apply vacuum to the first suction circuit 34, and a second vacuum applying member separate from the first vacuum applying member and configured to apply vacuum to the second suction circuit 36. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first vacuum applying member comprises a first electric fan 38 arranged in the base 3, and the second vacuum applying member comprises a second electric fan 39 also arranged in the base 3.

[0133] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first suction circuit 34 includes a pair of first suction chambers 41.1, 41.2 and a pair of first suction ducts 42.1, 42.2, the first suction chambers 41.1, 41.2 are arranged in the ironing head 4 and arranged on both sides of the heating plate 9, the first suction ducts 42.1, 42.2 are fluidly connected to the first vacuum applying member and lead to the first suction chambers 41.1, 41.2 respectively, and the second suction circuit 36 ​​includes a pair of second suction chambers 43.1, 43.2 and a pair of second suction ducts 44.1, 44.2, the second suction chambers 43.1, 43.2 are arranged in the ironing head 4 and arranged on both sides of the heating plate 9, the second suction ducts 44.1, 44.2 are fluidly connected to the second vacuum applying member and lead to the second suction chambers 43.1, 43.2 respectively.

[0134] Advantageously, the first suction chambers 41.1, 41.2 are arranged in the front part of the ironing head 4 and the second suction chambers 43.1, 43.2 are arranged in the rear part of the ironing head 4. According to the embodiment shown in the drawings, the treatment surface 5 comprises (see Figure 4 ) Two side panels 45.1, 45.2, which are advantageously made of plastic, are always cool and safe, and are arranged on both sides of the heating plate 9, each of which partially delimits one of the first suction chambers 41.1, 41.2 and one of the second suction chambers 43.1, 43.2.

[0135] Advantageously, the first and second suction circuits 34 , 36 comprise a first outlet 46 and a second outlet 47 , respectively, which are arranged on the back side of the ironing device 2 , more specifically on the back side of the base body 6 .

[0136] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first suction orifice assembly 35 comprises a first suction orifice subassembly 48 and a second suction orifice subassembly 49, which are arranged on both sides of the first steam discharge area 7.1, more precisely on both sides of the heating plate 9, and the second suction orifice assembly 37 comprises a third suction orifice subassembly 51 and a fourth suction orifice subassembly 52, which are arranged on both sides of the second steam discharge area 7.2, more precisely on both sides of the heating plate 9. Advantageously, the suction orifices of the first subassembly 48 and the third subassembly 51 are arranged in the side plate 45.1, and the suction orifices of the second subassembly 49 and the fourth subassembly 52 are arranged in the side plate 45.2. The suction orifice of the first subassembly 48 opens into the first suction chamber 41.1, the suction orifice of the second subassembly 49 opens into the first suction chamber 41.2, while the suction orifice of the third subassembly 51 opens into the second suction chamber 43.1 and the suction orifice of the fourth subassembly 52 opens into the second suction chamber 43.2.

[0137] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the second subassembly 49 includes a plurality of suction openings located near and along the heating plate 9, and advantageously along the first side edge 9.1 of the heating plate 9, and the third subassembly 51 includes a plurality of suction openings located near and along the heating plate 9, and advantageously along the second side edge 9.2 of the heating plate 9.

[0138] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first assembly 35 also comprises a first series 53 of suction orifices arranged in the heating plate 9 close to and along the first steam outlet opening 8.1, and the second suction orifice subassembly 37 comprises a second series 54 of suction orifices arranged in the heating plate 9 close to and along the second steam outlet opening 8.2. Advantageously, the suction orifices of the first series 53 are substantially aligned, and the suction orifices of the second series 54 are also substantially aligned. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second series 53, 54 are arranged on both sides of the median plane P of the treatment surface 5.

[0139] The distance between the first steam outlet hole 8.1 and each suction orifice of the first series 53 is advantageously less than 1 cm, for example approximately 3 mm, and the distance between the second steam outlet hole 8.2 and each suction orifice of the second series 54 is also advantageously less than 1 cm, for example approximately 3 mm.

[0140] The suction orifices of the first series 53 are fluidly connected to the first suction chamber 41 . 1 , whereas the suction orifices of the second series 54 are fluidly connected to the second suction chamber 43 . 2 .

[0141] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first suction circuit 34 includes a plurality of first connecting channels 55 and a plurality of second connecting channels 56, wherein the plurality of first connecting channels 55 are arranged on the heating element 10, and each first connecting channel 55 is configured to fluidically connect the corresponding suction orifices of the first series 53 with the first suction chamber 41.1, and the plurality of second connecting channels 56 are arranged on the heating element 10, and each second connecting channel 56 is configured to fluidically connect the corresponding suction orifices of the second series 54 with the second suction chamber 43.2.

[0142] Advantageously, the sum of the through cross-sections of all suction orifices arranged on the processing surface 5 corresponds essentially to the sum of the through cross-sections of the first and second suction ducts 42.1, 42.2, 44.1, 44.2, and essentially to the sum of the through cross-sections of the first and second suction chambers 41.1, 41.2, 43.1, 43.2.

[0143] Especially Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the first suction circuit 34 further includes a first condensate recovery device 57, which is configured to recover condensate formed in the first suction circuit 34, such as condensate formed in the first suction ducts 42.1, 42.2 and / or the first suction chambers 41.1, 41.2, and the second suction circuit 36 ​​further includes a second condensate recovery device 58, which is configured to recover condensate formed in the second suction circuit 36, such as condensate formed in the second suction ducts 44.1, 44.2 and / or the second suction chambers 43.1, 43.2.

[0144] Advantageously, each of the first and second condensate recovery devices 57, 58 is configured to re-inject the recovered condensate into the water tank 15, which is configured to supply water to the first and second steam generators 13, 14. To this end, the first condensate recovery device 57 comprises a first condensate recovery chamber 59 provided with a first condensate discharge port 61 leading to the water tank 15, and the second condensate recovery device 58 comprises a second condensate recovery chamber (not visible in the figure) provided with a second condensate discharge port (not visible in the figure) leading to the water tank 15. The first and / or second condensate recovery device may advantageously comprise a filter, preferably a removable filter, to avoid clogging of the holes and contamination of the water in the water tank by textile fibers.

[0145] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first suction circuit 34 includes a first connecting conduit 62 connecting the first suction conduits 42.1, 42.2 to the first condensate recovery chamber 59, and a second connecting conduit 63 connecting the first condensate recovery chamber 59 to the first vacuum application member, and the second suction circuit 36 ​​includes a third connecting conduit 64 connecting the second suction conduits 44.1, 44.2 to the second condensate recovery chamber and a fourth connecting conduit 65 connecting the second condensate recovery chamber to the second vacuum application member.

[0146] The ironing device 2 further comprises a control unit 66 which is particularly configured to control the operation of the first and second steam generators 13 , 14 , the first and second electric fans 38 , 39 , the heating element 10 and the supply pump 17 .

[0147] A method for ironing clothes to be ironed using the ironing device 2 according to the present invention will now be described. This ironing method comprises the following steps:

[0148] - Place the base 3 on a stable horizontal support,

[0149] - turn on the ironing device 2, for example by pressing a power button 67 provided on the base 3,

[0150] - wait until the heating plate 9 reaches a predetermined operating temperature and possibly until the heating body 18 reaches a sufficient temperature to generate steam in the first and second steam distribution circuits 11, 12 (the ironing device 2 may, for example, emit an acoustic or optical signal in order to inform the user that the ironing device 2 is ready for use,

[0151] - controlling the generation of steam via the first and second steam outlet openings 8.1, 8.2, for example by pressing a steam control button 68 provided on the base 3,

[0152] - automatically controlling the operation of the first and second electric fans 38, 39 so that air is sucked in through the respective suction openings provided on the treatment surface 5,

[0153] - manually applying the garment to be ironed onto the treatment surface 5, and

[0154] - Slide the garment to be ironed back and forth over the treatment surface 5 .

[0155] According to an alternative embodiment of the ironing method, the operation control of the first and second electric fans 38 , 39 may be performed by pressing a suction control button provided on the base 3 .

[0156] According to an alternative embodiment of the ironing device 2, the processing surface 5 may include one or more presence sensors, which are configured to automatically detect the presence of clothes to be ironed on the processing surface 5, and the control unit 66 may be configured to control the operation of the first and second steam generators 13, 14 and the first and second electric fans 38, 39 based on the detection of the presence of clothes on the processing surface 5.

[0157] According to another alternative embodiment, the ironing device 2 may comprise user presence detection, eg for an energy saving mode, to activate steam and suction only when a user is present.

[0158] According to another alternative embodiment of the ironing device 2, the ironing device 2 may comprise a steam control pedal to be actuated by the user's foot when the user wishes to eject steam through the first and second steam outlet holes 8.1, 8.2.

[0159] Of course, the invention is not limited to the described and illustrated embodiments, which are provided only as examples. In particular, some modifications may be possible in terms of the composition of the various elements or by replacement by equivalent technologies, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention. Thus, it is clear that the first and second steam generators 13, 14 can be formed by two heating bodies separated from each other.

Claims

1. An ironing device (2) comprising a base (3) for stably resting on a horizontal support, and an ironing head (4) supported by the base (3), the ironing head (4) comprising a treatment surface (5) on which the clothes to be ironed are intended to be placed, the treatment surface (5) comprising at least one steam discharge area, the ironing device (2) being configured so that the ironing of the clothes to be ironed is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed onto the treatment surface (5) and sliding the clothes to be ironed on the treatment surface (5) when the ironing device (2) rests on the base (3), characterized in that The ironing device comprises a first steam distribution circuit (11), a second steam distribution circuit (12) separate from the first steam distribution circuit (11), the ironing device (2) comprises a first steam generator (13) configured to independently supply steam to the first steam distribution circuit (11) and a second steam generator (14) configured to independently supply steam to the second steam distribution circuit (12), the at least one steam discharge area comprises at least a first steam outlet hole (8.1) which is fluidically connected to the first steam distribution circuit (11), and at least one second steam outlet hole (8.2) which is fluidically connected to the second steam distribution circuit (12).

2. The ironing device (2) according to claim 1, wherein: The treatment surface (5) comprises a heating plate (9) at least partially defining the at least one steam discharge area, the first steam outlet opening and the second steam outlet opening being arranged in the heating plate (9).

3. The ironing device (2) according to claim 2, wherein: The heating plate (9) is arranged in the middle of the processing surface (5).

4. The ironing device (2) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The ironing head (4) comprises a heating element (10) on which the heating plate (9) rests, the first steam distribution circuit (11) comprises a first steam flow channel (27) defined by the heating element (10) and the heating plate (9) and fluidically connected to the first steam generator (13), the second steam distribution circuit (12) comprises a second steam flow channel (29) defined by the heating element (10) and the heating plate (9) and fluidically connected to the second steam generator (14).

5. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The treatment surface (5) further comprises at least one suction area (32, 33) provided with a plurality of suction orifices.

6. The ironing device (2) according to claim 5, comprising a first suction circuit (34) and a second suction circuit (36) separated from the first suction circuit (34), the suction orifices comprising at least one suction orifice fluidically connected to the first suction circuit (34) and at least one suction orifice fluidically connected to the second suction circuit (36).

7. The ironing device (2) according to claim 6, wherein: The suction orifice includes a first suction orifice assembly (35) fluidly connected to the first suction circuit (34) and a second suction orifice assembly (37) fluidly connected to the second suction circuit (36).

8. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The ironing head (4) is protrudingly arranged on the base (3).

9. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The base (3) comprises a base body (6), the ironing head (4) is placed on the base body, the base body (6) converges towards the ironing head (4), and the ironing head (4) protrudes laterally from the base body (6).

10. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When the base (3) rests on a horizontal support, the center of gravity of the ironing head (4) and the center of gravity of the base (3) are substantially aligned along a vertical axis.

11. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When the base (3) rests on a horizontal support, the or each normal to the treatment surface (5) is directed upwards or is inclined at an angle between 0° and 45° relative to the vertical axis towards the front direction of the ironing device (2).

12. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The base (3) comprises a handle located near the bottom surface of the base (3).

13. The ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The ironing appliance comprises at least one condensate recovery device (57, 58).

14. A method of ironing clothes using an apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The ironing of clothes is performed by manually applying the clothes to be ironed to the treatment surface (5) and sliding the clothes to be ironed on the treatment surface (5) while the ironing device (2) rests stably on the base (3).

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