Garment care device with safety mechanism for removable plug

Abstract

The present invention relates to a detachable plug for accessing the interior of a steam generator (102) of a clothing care device (100). The plug (104) can be detached from the steam generator (102) by rotating a thread. The plug (104) includes a mechanism having a mechanical movement that depends on the temperature of the steam generator (102), so that when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is equal to or higher than a given temperature threshold (T1), the mechanism is suitable for preventing the plug (104) from being detached from the steam generator (102).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a safety system for a garment care device, which comprises a steam generator and an opening provided in the steam generator.

[0002] The present invention can be used in the field of clothing care. Background Art

[0003] Laundry care appliances comprising a steam generator and an opening provided in the steam generator are known.

[0004] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B An example of such a known arrangement is shown in . Figure 1A shows an external view of the known clothing care device 100, and Figure 1B A partial cross-sectional view is shown.

[0005] The clothing care device 100 includes a housing 101. A steam generator 102 is disposed in the housing 101. An opening 103 is provided in the steam generator 102 for accessing the interior of the steam generator 102. A removable plug 104 is used to close the opening 103. A hose cord 100b is connected between the steam generator 102 and the iron 100a.

[0006] like Figure 1B As shown, the removable plug 104 closes the opening 103 by being threadedly fitted into the tubular element 105 defining the opening 103. Figure 1B In the particular example shown, the tubular element extends from the steam generator 102 towards the housing 101 .

[0007] In this type of laundry care device 100, the opening 103 is intended to operate descaling or rinsing of the steam generator 102. In practice, when water is heated and then evaporated in the steam generator 102, scale may accumulate in the steam generator 102 over time.

[0008] When the plug 104 is removed from the opening 103, the scale can be drained, along with the remaining water laden with minerals, into, for example, a sink or a cup. Note that the plug 104 is sometimes provided with a scoop or scraper element 107 at its end, which is used to clear the path to the opening 103 if there is a relatively large amount of scale buildup, which may occur, for example, when a user occasionally rinses the steam generator 102.

[0009] While this known type of garment care device 100 greatly assists the user in descaling / de-scaling the steam generator 102 and thereby helps extend the life of the device 100, the user is generally advised to perform this operation with caution. Typically, the user is required to turn off the device 100 and unplug it from the power source to allow the device 100 to cool for one hour after previous use. Such instructions are explained, for example, in the user manual of the garment care device 100.

[0010] However, if the user does not follow these recommendations, particularly if they do not wait a sufficient amount of time after a previous use of the device 100, the descaling process can pose a risk to the user. Indeed, if the steam generator 102 is still hot and contains pressurized steam, some steam SS may spray toward the user's hand when the user begins to remove the plug 104. In this case, there is a risk of injury to the user, as the user may be scalded by the steam SS.

[0011] EP 3 088 599 A1 discloses a domestic ironing appliance comprising a steam generator provided with a discharge opening.

[0012] EP 0 069 858 A1 discloses a household appliance for generating steam and delivering the steam to an electric iron.

[0013] DE 10 2011 075125 A1 discloses an electric heating element having a heating conductor for heating water and a carrier element for accommodating the heating conductor. The carrier element is reversibly deformed by temperature changes, and the deformation is transferred to the heating conductor.

[0014] EP 3 643 831 A1 discloses a method for cleaning an iron provided with a scale recovery chamber. Summary of the Invention

[0015] The object of the present invention is to provide a detachable plug, in particular a garment care device comprising such a detachable plug, which avoids or alleviates the above-mentioned problems.

[0016] To this end, the clothing care device according to the present invention comprises:

[0017] steam generator;

[0018] a plug provided on the steam generator so as to provide access to the interior of the steam generator, the plug being removable by rotating via a thread,

[0019] The plug comprises a mechanism with a mechanical movement depending on the temperature of the steam generator, such that:

[0020] The mechanism is adapted to prevent the plug from being separated from the steam generator when the temperature of the steam generator is equal to or higher than a given temperature threshold.

[0021] At or above a given temperature threshold, the mechanism prevents the plug from being disengaged from the steam generator. A user can only remove the plug when the steam generator cools below the given temperature threshold, thereby improving the safety of the device.

[0022] Detailed description and other aspects of the present invention are given below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Certain aspects of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts or sub-steps are designated in the same manner:

[0024] Figure 1A A perspective view of the exterior of a prior art garment care device is provided;

[0025] Figure 1B Provided is a diagram showing Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the interior of the garment care device shown;

[0026] Figure 2A provides a cross-sectional view of a removable plug for a garment care device according to an example of the present invention when the temperature is below a given temperature threshold;

[0027] Figure 2B Provides a timer when the temperature is at or above a given threshold. Figure 2A a cross-sectional view of the removable plug shown;

[0028] Figure 3A A perspective view of a removable plug for a garment care device according to another example of the present invention is provided;

[0029] Figure 3B Provided Figure 3A Exploded view of removable plug shown;

[0030] Figures 4A to 4C Provides an illustration of a sliding element of an exemplary removable plug according to the present invention;

[0031] Figures 5A to 5C provides a view of an interior bottom portion of an exemplary removable plug according to the present invention; and

[0032] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a mechanism of a removable plug according to another example of the present invention is provided;

[0033] Figure 7 shows the characteristics of the reversible thermally deformable element used in the clothing care device according to the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a clothing care device according to the present invention;

[0035] Figure 9 A top view of a laundry care device according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present invention relates to a removable plug for accessing the interior of a steam generator of a clothing care device. The plug is removable from the steam generator by rotating it via a thread. The plug includes a mechanism having a mechanical motion dependent on the temperature of the steam generator, such that when the temperature of the steam generator is equal to or above a given temperature threshold, the mechanism is adapted to prevent the plug from being separated from the steam generator. In other words, when the temperature of the steam generator is below the given temperature threshold, the mechanism is adapted to allow the plug to be separated from the steam generator.

[0037] In one embodiment, the plug comprises a first portion and a second portion. The second portion comprises a threaded portion for engaging with a complementary threaded portion provided around an opening of the steam generator.

[0038] The first part can be rotated by a user. To this end, the first part can be coupled to an operating portion, such as a knob, which can be grasped by a user and used to rotate the first part.

[0039] In this embodiment, the mechanism is configured such that when the temperature of the steam generator is below a given temperature threshold, the first portion and the second portion are keyed (i.e., locked) to each other such that user rotation of the first portion causes rotation of the second portion to allow the plug to be separated from the steam generator. The mechanism is also configured such that when the temperature of the steam generator is equal to or above the given temperature threshold, the first portion and the second portion are not keyed to each other.

[0040] The fact that the first and second parts are keyed to each other below a given temperature threshold means that rotation of the first part by the user also causes rotation of the second part. Thus, when the temperature is sufficiently low, the torque applied by the user to the first part is transmitted via the threaded connection to the second part, which engages the opening of the steam generator, thereby loosening the threads (when the first part is twisted in the appropriate direction).

[0041] At or above a given temperature threshold, the first and second portions are not keyed to each other such that user rotation of the first portion does not cause rotation of the second portion. Conversely, when the temperature is at or above the given temperature threshold, the first portion rotates only relative to the second portion.

[0042] This may improve user safety because the temperature of the steam generator needs to drop below a given temperature threshold before the mechanism allows the plug to separate.

[0043] Preferably, the given temperature threshold is in the range of [100; 200]° C. Such a temperature threshold helps to ensure that the plug is only removable when the risk of burns to the user is reduced.

[0044] The first portion and the second portion can be keyed to each other in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the mechanism includes a sliding element configured to slide between a first position, in which the sliding element keys the first portion to the second portion, and a second position, in which the sliding element does not key the first portion to the second portion. In this example, the sliding element's adoption of the first or second position depends on the temperature of the steam generator.

[0045] The mechanism includes a reversible thermally deformable element. When the temperature of the steam generator is equal to or higher than a given temperature threshold, the reversible thermally deformable element expands (i.e., increases in length), preventing the plug from being separated from the steam generator. When the temperature of the steam generator is lower than the given temperature threshold, the length of the reversible thermally deformable element decreases, allowing the mechanism to separate the plug from the steam generator.

[0046] Preferably, the reversibly thermally deformable element is arranged such that when the temperature of the steam generator is equal to or above a given temperature threshold, extension of the reversibly thermally deformable element causes the first part to no longer be keyed to the second part, ie to be unlocked from the second part.

[0047] This expansion is still reversible, so that when the temperature of the steam generator drops below a given temperature threshold, the associated contraction of the reversibly thermally deformable element helps to rebond the first part to the second part. In other words, the reversibly thermally deformable element returns to its original compressed shape.

[0048] Suitable materials for reversibly thermally deformable elements are known. They are sometimes referred to as shape memory materials. Particularly mentioned is nickel-titanium alloy, also known as Nitinol.

[0049] Nickel-titanium alloys have, for example, nickel concentrations of approximately 50-51 mol%, 55-56 wt% and titanium concentrations of 50-49 mol%, 45-44 wt%. A given temperature threshold can be adjusted by making small changes to the nickel and titanium concentrations in the alloy.

[0050] Preferably, the reversible thermally deformable element is in the form of a spring, such as a coil spring. This spring is also referred to herein as a "first spring." The first spring can help control the direction of movement of the reversible thermally deformable element, such as a primary direction.

[0051] In the case where the first spring is a helical spring, the reversible deformation extension of the helical spring causes an axial lengthening / shortening of the helical first spring. This (mainly) axial movement can be effectively used to engage / eliminate the keying between the first and second parts.

[0052] The first spring may be, for example, a helical Nitinol spring.

[0053] The reversibly thermally deformable element is heated to a given temperature threshold to increase its length in order to unlock the first portion from the second portion. The given temperature threshold may be different from the temperature to which the element must be cooled in order to subsequently restore the mechanical bond between the first and second portions. The latter temperature is still below the given temperature threshold, such that the first and second portions are bonded to each other below the given temperature threshold.

[0054] In the case of a helical Nitinol spring, the spring will elongate axially when the temperature reaches or exceeds 75°C, and will compress back to its shorter length when the temperature drops below 65°C.

[0055] Preferably, the mechanism includes a second spring 132 for biasing the first and second parts into engagement with each other when the temperature is below a given temperature threshold. In this case, when the temperature is equal to or above the given temperature threshold, the resistance of the second spring is overcome by increasing the length of the reversibly thermally deformable element.

[0056] The second spring 132 can be formed from any suitable material, such as stainless steel. The second spring is not intended to axially expand and contract to the same extent as the reversibly thermally deformable material within the relevant temperature range of the steam generator. When the plug closes the opening, the second spring 132 can also be further away from the steam generator than the first spring.

[0057] Thus, the increase in the length of the reversibly thermally deformable element (eg, the first spring) overcomes the resistance of the second spring to eliminate the bonding of the first portion to the second portion at or above a given temperature threshold.

[0058] When the steam generator cools sufficiently, the second spring forces the first and second parts to reengage by compressing the reversibly thermally deformable element.

[0059] In one embodiment, the mechanism includes a hollow housing, and the sliding element slides within the hollow housing between a first position in which the first and second parts are keyed to each other and a second position in which the first and second parts are not keyed to each other.

[0060] The hollow housing is for example a hollow cylinder, ie a hollow cylindrical housing, although other shapes of the housing are conceivable.

[0061] Preferably, the sliding element is arranged relative to the reversibly thermally deformable element such that the sliding element is movable from the first position to the second position at or above a given temperature threshold by increasing the length of the reversibly thermally deformable element. For example, such movement may be achieved by axially increasing the length of a coil spring formed from a suitable reversibly thermally deformable material, such as a nickel-titanium alloy.

[0062] Preferably, the second portion comprises an inner bottom portion of the hollow housing, and the sliding element comprises a first end adapted to lock with the inner bottom portion when the temperature of the steam generator is below a given temperature threshold.

[0063] The term "inner bottom portion" refers to a portion that is close to the opening of the steam generator and is distal relative to a portion of the plug (eg, an operating portion) that a user rotates to reach the steam generator.

[0064] The inner bottom portion and the sliding element may experience relatively large torsional stresses during operation. Therefore, they are preferably made of high-strength materials such as SUS304 stainless steel, which has a yield strength of about 215 MPa.

[0065] In this embodiment, the first portion comprises a rotating shaft. The second end of the sliding element is adapted to be permanently slidably locked to the rotating shaft. In other words, the sliding element engages with the rotating shaft via the second end of the sliding element regardless of the temperature of the steam generator.

[0066] When the temperature of the steam generator is at or above a given temperature threshold, the increase in the length of the reversibly thermally deformable element causes the sliding element to be positioned such that the first end and the inner bottom portion of the sliding element become unlocked from each other.

[0067] Thus, when the temperature is at or above a given temperature threshold, rotation of the rotation shaft by a user is not transmitted to the inner bottom portion (and the hollow housing).

[0068] In the example where the reversibly thermally deformable element is defined by the first spring described above, the length of the first spring at or above a given temperature threshold causes the first end and the inner bottom portion of the sliding element to unlock.

[0069] Preferably, the reversible thermally deformable element, such as the first spring, is disposed within the hollow housing. Thus, the reversible thermally deformable element is shielded from water and / or steam present in the steam generator by the hollow housing. Thus, the housing protects the reversible thermally deformable element from contamination by scale.

[0070] The housing is preferably formed from a material having relatively high thermal conductivity combined with sufficient strength and corrosion resistance. Suitable materials for forming the housing include aluminum or brass. Aluminum has a thermal conductivity of approximately 205 W / mK, while brass has a thermal conductivity of approximately 109 W / mK (Young, Hugh D., University Physics, 7th ed., Table 15-5). Such materials facilitate heat transfer from the steam / water within the steam generator to the interior of the hollow housing of the plug. This efficient heat transfer, in turn, facilitates unlocking the first portion of the mechanism from the second portion when the temperature of the steam generator is at or above a given temperature threshold.

[0071] In one example, the hollow housing includes a first portion coupled to a second portion. In this example, the second portion includes a threaded portion for engaging with a complementary threaded portion defining an opening of the steam generator.

[0072] Such a two-part hollow housing may facilitate assembly of the plug.

[0073] Preferably, the first spring is arranged within the second portion.In this example, at least the second portion is formed from a material having relatively high thermal conductivity combined with sufficient strength and corrosion resistance, such as aluminum or brass.

[0074] In this way, heat from the steam generator is transferred to the first spring via the second portion of the hollow housing.

[0075] In other examples, the hollow housing takes the form of a single component.

[0076] In one embodiment, the reversibly thermally deformable element, such as a first spring, is disposed within the steam generator when the plug is connected to the steam generator. Positioning the reversibly thermally deformable element within the steam generator in this manner facilitates heat transfer to the reversibly thermally stretchable element, which can enhance the responsiveness of the mechanism to the temperature of the steam generator.

[0077] When the temperature of the steam generator drops below a given temperature threshold, the reduction in length of the reversibly thermally deformable element helps the first end and the bottom portion to become locked, ie keyed, to each other again.

[0078] In the example where the reversibly thermally deformable element is defined by the first spring, the (compressed) length of the first spring below a given temperature threshold causes the first end and the inner bottom portion of the sliding element to lock with each other. As previously described, restoring this locked state can also be assisted by the second spring.

[0079] The first spring applies a first force on the first end of the sliding element, and the second spring applies a second force on the second end of the sliding element, applying the second force in a direction opposite to the first force.

[0080] The first spring causes the first force to be greater than the second force when the temperature of the steam generator is at or above a given temperature threshold, and the second spring causes the second force to be greater than the first force when the temperature of the steam generator is below the given temperature threshold.

[0081] In a specific example, the mechanism includes the hollow shell, and the hollow shell has the inner bottom portion. The mechanism also includes a rotating shaft connected to the user operating portion, and a sliding element suitable for sliding in the hollow shell. In this example, the rotating shaft and the operating portion define the aforementioned first part of the plug, and the hollow shell and the inner bottom portion define the second part of the plug. The sliding element includes a first end suitable for locking with the inner bottom portion and a second end suitable for permanently slidably locking with the rotating shaft. The mechanism further includes the first spring arranged inside the hollow shell for applying the first force on the first end, and the second spring is also arranged inside the hollow shell for applying the second force on the second end. As previously described, the second force is opposite to the first force.

[0082] The first spring is thermally deformable such that:

[0083] When the temperature of the steam generator is higher than the given temperature threshold, the length of the first spring is such that the first end and the inner bottom portion are unlocked;

[0084] When the temperature of the steam generator is below a given temperature threshold, the length of the first spring is such that the first end and the inner bottom portion are locked.

[0085] More generally, the releasable locking of the first end of the sliding element and the inner bottom part can be achieved in any suitable manner. In a first example, the inner bottom part includes a first pin protruding in the direction of the first end. In this case, the first end includes a first cavity suitable for locking with the first pin.

[0086] The first pin may, for example, form a peg which may be received in a first cavity comprised in the first end of the sliding element.

[0087] Preferably, the first pin has a non-circular cross-sectional shape, and the first cavity has a cross-sectional shape complementary to the non-circular cross-sectional shape. This facilitates locking the first pin and the first cavity when the temperature of the steam generator is below a given temperature threshold.

[0088] The first pin may have any suitable non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, cross-shaped, D-shaped, etc.

[0089] In a second example, the first end comprises a second pin protruding in the direction of the inner bottom portion.In this case, the inner bottom portion comprises a second cavity suitable for locking with the second pin.

[0090] The second pin may, for example, form a peg which may be received in a second cavity comprised in the inner bottom part.

[0091] Preferably, the second pin has a non-circular cross-sectional shape, and the second cavity has a cross-sectional shape complementary to the non-circular cross-sectional shape. This facilitates locking the second pin and the second cavity when the temperature of the steam generator is below a given temperature threshold.

[0092] The second pin may have any suitable non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, cross-shaped, D-shaped, etc.

[0093] Figure 2A and 2B A cross-sectional view of a removable plug 104 is provided according to a non-limiting example. Figure 2A and 2B The plug 104 shown in FIG. 1 closes the opening 103 which provides access to the steam generator 102 of the garment care device 100 when the plug 104 is detached from the steam generator 102 .

[0094] The plug 104 comprises a hollow housing 108 which, in this example, takes the form of a hollow cylinder. The hollow housing 108 has an inner bottom portion 110 .

[0095] In this example, the inner bottom portion 110 includes a first pin 111A.

[0096] The inner bottom portion 110 is fixed to, eg permanently locked to, the hollow housing 108. The annular portion 114 of the inner bottom portion 110 fits into a complementary engagement feature 112 of the hollow housing 108.

[0097] The inner bottom portion 110 may be mounted to the engagement member 112 of the hollow housing 108, for example, via a screw mechanism. The screw mechanism may also be secured by applying a suitable strong adhesive, such as Glue® from Henkel AG & Company, KGaA. to fix, e.g. by snapping.

[0098] In other examples, the inner bottom portion 110 and the hollow housing 108 are integrally formed.

[0099] The plug 104 also includes a rotation shaft 116. A first end 118 of the rotation shaft 116 engages with, or is permanently locked to, a complementary recess 120 in the operating portion 122. Thus, rotation of the operating portion 122 by a user causes the rotation shaft 116 to rotate, regardless of the temperature of the steam generator 102.

[0100] The operating portion 122 may have any suitable shape as long as the user can grasp the operating portion 122 and use the operating portion 122 to rotate the rotating shaft 116. For example, Figure 1A and 1B The plug 104 is shown having an operating portion 122 in the form of a knob.

[0101] In this example, the operating portion 122 and the rotational axis 116 at least partially define the first portions 116, 122 of the plug 104. Additionally, the hollow housing 108 and the inner bottom portion 110 at least partially define the second portions 108, 110 of the plug 104.

[0102] It should be noted that a relatively small clearance tolerance can be provided between the hollow housing 108 and the rotating shaft 116. This relatively small clearance tolerance is acceptable in this case because the rotating shaft 116 is not intended to slide axially relative to the hollow housing 108.

[0103] like Figure 2A As shown, when the temperature of the steam generator 102 is below a given temperature threshold T1, the first parts 116, 122 are keyed to the second parts 108, 110. The second parts 108, 110, in particular the hollow shell 108, are coupled to the tubular element 105 via a threaded coupling 123. Turning the handle 122 in an appropriate direction, such as counterclockwise, enables the hollow shell 108 to be loosened and removed from the tubular element 105.

[0104] The plug 104 includes a mechanism having a mechanical movement that depends on the temperature of the steam generator 102 .

[0105] When the temperature of the steam generator 102 is equal to or higher than a given temperature threshold T1, as shown in FIG. Figure 2B As shown, the mechanism is adapted to prevent the plug 104 from being separated from the steam generator 102. When the temperature of the steam generator 102 is lower than a given temperature threshold T1, the mechanism is adapted to allow the plug to be separated from the steam generator, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A shown.

[0106] exist Figure 2A and 2B In the example shown, the mechanism includes a sliding element 124. The sliding element 124 slides within the hollow housing 108 between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the first portion 116, 122 and the second portion 108, 110 are keyed to each other. Figure 2A As shown, in the second position, the first portions 116 , 122 and the second portions 108 , 110 are not keyed to one another.

[0107] The adoption of the first or second position of the sliding element 124 depends on the temperature of the steam generator 102. In this example, this is achieved thermomechanically by changing the length of the reversibly thermally deformable element. This has the benefit of simple and low-cost manufacturing, although any suitable alternative thermal actuation principle can be used.

[0108] exist Figure 2A and 2B In the example shown, the reversible thermal deformation element is in the form of a first spring 130, which is spiral-shaped and formed of a nickel-titanium alloy. Figure 2A Shown in compressed form, Figure 2B When the temperature is equal to or exceeds a given temperature threshold T1, the length change of the nickel-titanium alloy is sufficient to unlock the first portion 116, 122 from the second portion 108, 110.

[0109] The sliding element 124 has a first end 126 and a second end 128 .

[0110] The second end 128 of the sliding element 124 is adapted to be permanently slidably locked with the rotating shaft 116. In other words, the sliding element 124 is engaged with the rotating shaft 116 via the second end 128 regardless of the temperature of the steam generator 102.

[0111] This is Figure 2A and 2B In the example shown, this is achieved by the second end 128 of the sliding element 124 comprising a recess 129A in which the second end 129B of the rotation shaft 116 is located, regardless of movement of the sliding element 124 caused by temperature changes in the steam generator 102 .

[0112] In other words, the sliding element 124 is always in contact with the rotational shaft 116 , thereby maintaining alignment between the sliding element 124 and the rotational shaft 116 throughout the entire range of motion of the sliding element 124 .

[0113] When the temperature of the steam generator is lower than a given temperature threshold T1, the first end 126 of the sliding element 124 is adapted to be locked with the inner bottom portion 110, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A shown.

[0114] However, when the temperature of the steam generator 102 is at or above the given temperature threshold T1, the extension / elongation of the first spring 130 positions the sliding element 124 such that the first end 126 of the sliding element 124 and the inner bottom portion 110 become unlocked, as shown in FIG. Figure 2B shown.

[0115] Thus, when the temperature is at or above a given temperature threshold T1, user rotation of the rotational axis 116 is not transmitted to the inner bottom portion 110 (and the hollow housing 108). Since this prevents the user from removing the plug 104, the plug 104 improves user safety, as previously described.

[0116] exist Figure 2A and 2B In the example shown, the mechanism includes a second spring 132 for biasing the first portion 116 , 122 into engagement with the second portion 108 , 110 below a given temperature threshold T1 .

[0117] The first spring 130 exerts a first force F1 on the first end 126 of the sliding element 124, and the second spring 132 exerts a second force F2 on the second end 128 of the sliding element 124. The second force F2 is exerted in an opposite direction to the first force F1.

[0118] When the temperature of the steam generator 102 is higher than the given temperature threshold T1, the first spring 130 causes the first force F1 to be greater than the second force F2, that is, the spring force of the second spring 132. When the temperature of the steam generator 102 is lower than the given temperature threshold T1, the second spring 132 causes the second force F2 to be greater than the first force F1.

[0119] The first spring 130 , formed of, for example, nickel titanium (Nitinol) alloy, acts as a temperature sensor. When the first spring 130 is exposed to high temperatures, it changes its geometry and separates the first portion 116 , 122 from the second portion 108 , 110 , thereby preventing the user from removing the plug 104 .

[0120] At lower temperatures, the first spring is compressed to its original compressed shape / geometry, for example by means of the second spring 132. This facilitates reconnection of the first portion 116, 122 to the second portion 108, 110, thereby enabling the user to unscrew the plug 104.

[0121] The size and spring constant of the second spring 132 can allow the reversibly thermally deformable element, such as nickel-titanium (Nitinol) alloy, to fully extend when in a relatively hot environment, and provide a sufficiently strong compressive force when the environment cools to return the first spring 130 to its original compressed shape, while simultaneously pushing the sliding element 124 back toward the inner bottom portion 110.

[0122] Figure 7 The characteristics of a reversibly thermally deformable element used in a laundry care device according to the present invention are shown.

[0123] The reversible thermally deformable element corresponds to the first spring 130 made of nickel-titanium alloy when interacting with and under the action (i.e., force) of the second spring 132. Therefore, the change in length of the first spring 130 is measured for various elevated / decreased temperatures of the first spring 130 / second spring 132 assembly.

[0124] The horizontal axis corresponds to the temperature around the first spring 130 / second spring 132 assembly.

[0125] The vertical axis corresponds to the length change of the first spring 130 .

[0126] Note that the temperature of the assembly first spring 130 / second spring 132 may be relatively different from the temperature of the steam generator itself. In practice, the first spring 130 is encapsulated in a plug that acts as a thermal resistor.

[0127] In this example, the second spring 132 has a spring constant of 0.37 N / mm.

[0128] As shown, the first spring 130 does not behave in a symmetrical manner with increasing or decreasing temperature.

[0129] In other words, at a temperature different from a given temperature threshold T1 of the steam generator, the plug begins to separate from the steam generator.

[0130] For example, when used together, Figure 7 Characteristics of the first spring 130 and the second spring 132:

[0131] When the temperature of the steam generator increases, the plug is prevented from being detached from the steam generator from a temperature T1 having a value of 130° C. (if the temperature is taken from the top of the steam generator);

[0132] When the temperature of the steam generator decreases, the plug may be separated from the steam generator from a temperature T1 below 60° C. (if the temperature is taken at the top of the steam generator).

[0133] exist Figure 2A and 2B In the example shown (and in Figure 3A 、 3B , 5A, 5B and 5C), the inner bottom portion 110 includes a first pin 111A. In the removable plug 104, the first pin 111A protrudes in the direction of the first end 126.

[0134] like Figure 2A As best shown, the first end 126 includes a first cavity 127A adapted to lock with the first pin 111 A. The first pin 111A may, for example, form a peg that is receivable within the first cavity 127A.

[0135] Figure 3A A perspective view of a removable plug 104 according to another example is provided. Figure 3B Provided Figure 3A An exploded view of the removable plug 104 is shown. In this example, the hollow housing 108 includes a first portion 108A connected to a second portion 108B. The second portion 108B includes a threaded portion for engaging with a complementary threaded portion defining the opening 103 of the steam generator 102.

[0136] This two-part hollow housing 108A, 108B may facilitate assembly of the plug 104 .

[0137] In this example, the threaded hole 133 in the operating portion 122 enables the operating portion 122 to be fixed to the rotation shaft 116 so that rotation of the operating portion 122 causes rotation of the rotation shaft 116 , as previously described.

[0138] like Figure 3B As shown, the plug 104 has a retaining ring 134 , such as a circlip, which retains the rotating shaft 116 within the hollow housing 108 .

[0139] In this example, the first and second parts 108A, 108B are connected to each other by a threaded joint (not shown). The hollow shells 108A, 108B in this example have a substantially cylindrical shape. The first recessed area 136 in the outer surface of the first part 108A and the second recessed area 137 in the outer surface of the second part 108B mean that the outer shape of the hollow shells 108A, 108B is not exactly cylindrical, but the first and second recessed areas 136, 137 facilitate tightening the threaded joint by accommodating a suitable tool (e.g., a wrench).

[0140] exist Figure 3A and 3B In the example shown, a seal retainer 138 (e.g., an O-ring retainer 138) is assembled to the second portion 108B. The seal retainer 138 is used to carry a seal, such as an O-ring, which is disposed between the hollow shells 108A, 108B and the tubular element 105 defining the opening 103 of the steam generator 102. This arrangement helps seal the steam generator 102 when the plug 104 is connected to the steam generator 102.

[0141] Although Figure 2A 、 2B 3A and 3B, but the plug 104 may include a scraping element 107 to help remove scale from the steam generator 102. For example, such a scraping element 107 may be attached to the hollow housing 108 and extend into the steam generator 102 via the opening 103 when the plug 104 is attached to the steam generator 102.

[0142] Figures 4A to 4C A view of the sliding element 124 of an exemplary removable plug 104 is provided. Figure 4A The perspective view provided in shows a first cavity 127A in which the first pin 111A of the inner bottom portion 110 can be positioned.

[0143] Figure 4B The perspective view provided in FIG. 1 shows the groove 129A of the sliding element 124 , in which the second end 129B of the rotational shaft 116 is located throughout the entire range of motion of the sliding element 124 , as previously described.

[0144] like Figure 4B As shown, the groove 129A has a non-circular, for example, polygonal, cross-sectional shape, which is complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the second end 129B of the rotating shaft 116. Therefore, when the temperature of the steam generator 102 is lower than the given temperature threshold T1, the rotation of the rotating shaft 116 is transmitted to the sliding element 124 and further to the hollow housing 108.

[0145] exist Figures 4A to 4C In the example shown, the first cavity 127A has a non-circular cross-sectional shape. Figure 5A and 5B As shown, the non-circular (e.g., polygonal) cross-sectional shape of the first cavity 127A complements the cross-sectional shape of the first pin 111A. Therefore, in this example, when the temperature of the steam generator 102 is below a given temperature threshold T1, the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the first pin 111A and the first cavity 127A facilitates locking of the first end 126 with the inner bottom portion 110.

[0146] Figure 5B A view of the inner bottom portion 110 is provided showing the recess 140. The recess 140 is used to receive a suitable tool, such as a screwdriver, to enable the inner bottom portion 110 to be secured to the hollow housing 108 via a screw mechanism, as previously described.

[0147] The sliding element 124 preferably slides freely within the hollow housing 108 to minimize the risk of the sliding element 124 becoming stuck within the hollow housing 108. Furthermore, the first cavity 127A in the sliding element 124 is ideally large enough to always engage the first pin 111A when the first spring 130 is exposed to a temperature below a given temperature threshold T1. At the same time, the first cavity 127A is required to be able to transmit rotational torque from the operating portion 122 to the first pin 111A to enable a user to unscrew the plug 104.

[0148] The sliding interface between the first cavity 127A and the first pin 111A has sufficient tolerance so that the sliding element 124 will always reengage the first pin 111A when the first cavity 127A is aligned with the first pin 111A.

[0149] Stack tolerance calculations may be performed to ensure that first cavity 127A in sliding element 124 is large enough to ensure sliding element 124 can always slide back into engagement with first pin 111A, but small enough to ensure sliding element 124 can transmit rotational forces to first pin 111A.

[0150] Note that after cooling the steam generator 102, there is a possibility that the non-circular cross-section first cavity 127A of the sliding element 124 may not be aligned with the non-circular cross-section first pin 111A. For example, the sliding element 124 may be rotated 90° relative to the inner bottom portion 110, so that the first pin 111A cannot be positioned in the first cavity 127A. However, in this case, when the first cavity 127A is realigned with the first pin 111A, rotating the operating portion 122 to an appropriate degree (e.g., 90° in the same example) will enable the second spring 132 to push the sliding element 124 back toward the inner bottom portion 110.

[0151] Similar alignment considerations apply to Figure 6 . In this case, the first end 126 of the sliding element 124 comprises a second pin 111B that projects in the direction of the inner bottom part 110. In this configuration, the inner bottom part 110 comprises a second cavity 127B adapted to lock with the second pin 111B.

[0152] The second pin 111B can, for example, be formed as a peg that can be received within the second cavity 127B. Preferably, the second pin 111B has a non-circular, for example, polygonal, cross-sectional shape, and the second cavity 127B has a cross-sectional shape that complements the non-circular shape. As previously described, this facilitates locking of the first end 126 with the inner bottom portion 110 when the temperature of the steam generator 102 is below a predetermined temperature threshold T1.

[0153] The plug 104 according to the present invention is Figure 1B The plug shown is similarly mounted to the steam generator 102 .

[0154] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a clothing care device according to the present invention,

[0155] Figure 9 A top view of a laundry care device according to the present invention is shown.

[0156] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical means of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the technical means of the present invention may be modified or equivalently replaced without departing from the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention. In particular, although the present invention has been described based on a clothing care device, the present invention may be applied to any household appliance having a steam generator. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A clothing care device (100), comprising: Steam generator (102); a plug (104) arranged on the steam generator (102) so as to reach the interior of the steam generator (102), the plug (104) being detachable by rotation via a thread, The plug (104) comprises a mechanism having a mechanical movement that depends on the temperature of the steam generator (102), such that when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is equal to or higher than a given temperature threshold (T1), the mechanism is adapted to prevent the plug (104) from being separated from the steam generator (102), wherein the mechanism comprises a reversible thermal deformation element, when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is equal to or higher than the given temperature threshold (T1), the extension of the reversible thermal deformation element causes the mechanism to prevent the plug (104) from being separated from the steam generator (102), and when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is lower than the given temperature threshold (T1), the contraction of the reversible thermal deformation element causes the mechanism to allow the plug (104) to be separated from the steam generator (102).

2. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 1, wherein The plug (104) includes a first portion (116, 122) and a second portion (108, 110), the second portion (108, 110) including a threaded portion for engaging with a complementary threaded portion provided around an opening (103) of the steam generator (102).

3. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The first portion (116, 122) is rotatable by a user, and the mechanism is configured such that when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is below the given temperature threshold (T1), the first portion (116, 122) and the second portion (108, 110) are keyed to each other, such that user rotation of the first portion (116, 122) causes rotation of the second portion (108, 110) to allow the plug (104) to be separated from the steam generator (102), and wherein when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is equal to or above the given temperature threshold (T1), the first portion (116, 122) and the second portion (108, 110) are not keyed to each other.

4. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 3, wherein: The mechanism comprises a sliding element (124) arranged to slide between: a first position in which the sliding element (124) keys the first portion (116, 122) to the second portion (108, 110); and - a second position in which the sliding element (124) does not key the first part (116, 122) to the second part (108, 110).

5. The clothing care device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The reversible thermally deformable element is in the form of a spring.

6. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 1, wherein The institutions include: a hollow housing (108) having an inner bottom portion (110); a rotating shaft (116) connected to a user operating portion (122); a sliding element (124) adapted to slide inside the hollow housing (108), the sliding element (124) comprising a first end (126) adapted to lock with the inner bottom portion (110) and a second end (128) adapted to be permanently slidably locked with the rotational axis (116); a first spring (130) disposed inside the hollow housing (108) for applying a first force (F1) on the first end (126); a second spring (132) disposed inside the hollow housing (108) and configured to exert a second force (F2) on the second end (128), the second force (F2) being opposite in direction to the first force (F1); The reversible thermally deformable element is in the form of the first spring (130), and the first spring (130) is thermally deformable such that: When the temperature of the steam generator (102) is higher than the given temperature threshold (T1), the length of the first spring (130) causes the first end (126) and the inner bottom portion (110) to unlock; When the temperature of the steam generator (102) is lower than the given temperature threshold (T1), the length of the first spring (130) is such that the first end (126) and the inner bottom portion (110) are locked.

7. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 6, wherein The first spring (130) is formed of nickel-titanium alloy.

8. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 6, wherein: The first spring (130) is configured such that the first force (F1) is greater than the second force (F2) when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is higher than the given temperature threshold (T1); The second spring (132) is configured such that the second force (F2) is greater than the first force (F1) when the temperature of the steam generator (102) is lower than the given temperature threshold (T1).

9. The clothing care device (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: The inner bottom portion (110) includes a first pin (111A) extending in the direction of the first end (126); The first end (126) includes a first cavity (127A) adapted to lock with the first pin (111A).

10. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 9, wherein: The first pin (111A) has a non-circular cross-sectional shape; and The first cavity (127A) has a cross-sectional shape that is complementary to the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the first pin (111A).

11. The clothing care device (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: The first end (126) comprises a second pin (111B) projecting in the direction of the inner bottom portion (110); The inner bottom portion (110) includes a second cavity (127B) adapted to be locked with the second pin (111B).

12. The clothing care device (100) according to claim 11, wherein: The second pin (111B) has a non-circular cross-sectional shape; and The second cavity (127B) has a cross-sectional shape that is complementary to the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the second pin (111B).

13. The clothing care device (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: The first spring (130) is disposed within the hollow housing (108).

14. The clothing care device (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein: When the plug (104) is connected to the steam generator (102), the first spring (130) is disposed within the steam generator (102).

15. The clothing care device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The given temperature threshold (T1) is in the range of [100; 200]°C.

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