Steam generator and steamer

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a steam generator and a garment steamer, wherein the steam generator comprises an evaporation assembly with a water channel and a heating assembly arranged outside the evaporation assembly; one end of the water channel along an extension direction is provided with an inlet, and the opposite end of the water channel along the extension direction is provided with an outlet; the heating assembly is connected with the evaporation assembly and transmits heat by contact. The steam generator of the embodiment of the present application can make the heat generated by the heating assembly directly transmitted to the water channel, so that the heat transfer efficiency can be improved.

Description

[0001] This application is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202111467375.5, filed on December 3, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of electrical equipment technology, and in particular to a steam generator and garment steamer. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, steam generators are widely used in home appliances such as cooking and clothing care, serving as the core heating module for products like garment steamers, steam rice cookers, steam pressure cookers, steam blenders, instant kettles, and coffee machines. When a steam generator is working, its water tank is typically filled with water, which is then pumped into the generator body via a water pump or gravity to evaporate and form steam. The steam is then piped to the cooking chamber of cooking equipment or the nozzle of clothing care products.

[0004] However, the steam generators in related technologies have a complex structure and relatively low heat transfer efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the present application aims to provide a steam generator and garment steamer that can improve heat transfer efficiency.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, one embodiment of this application provides a steam generator, comprising:

[0007] An evaporation assembly having a water channel, wherein one end of the water channel along the extension direction has an inlet and the opposite end of the water channel along the extension direction has an outlet;

[0008] A heating component is disposed outside the evaporation component, and the heating component is interconnected with the evaporation component and transfers heat through contact.

[0009] In one embodiment, the heating component is welded or fastened to the evaporation component.

[0010] In one embodiment, the evaporation assembly is a water pipe having the water channel.

[0011] In one embodiment, the water pipe includes sub-pipes and connecting pipes, wherein there are multiple sub-pipes, and adjacent sub-pipes are connected by connecting pipes; or,

[0012] The water pipe is a one-piece molded structure.

[0013] In one embodiment, the water pipes are bent to form a multi-layered structure arranged in layers along the height direction, and the heating assembly is located between at least one adjacent layer of the water pipes in the multi-layered structure.

[0014] In one embodiment, in the multi-layered water pipes, at least one layer of the water pipes has a curved projection on a plane perpendicular to the height direction.

[0015] In one embodiment, the heating component is located in the area between two adjacent layers of water pipes and is in contact with both layers of water pipes.

[0016] In one embodiment, the multiple layers of water pipes and the heating assembly form a receiving space extending in the height direction, and the steam generator further includes a thermostat disposed within the receiving space.

[0017] In one embodiment, the water pipe is made of any one of aluminum, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel; or,

[0018] The water pipe includes an outer pipe and an inner pipe fitted inside the outer pipe. The outer pipe is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, and the inner pipe is made of stainless steel.

[0019] In one embodiment, the evaporation assembly includes an evaporation body and a connecting joint, the evaporation body having a plurality of first sub-channels and the connecting joint having second sub-channels;

[0020] The two adjacent first sub-channels along the water flow direction are connected by the connecting joints, so that all the first sub-channels on the evaporation body and all the second sub-channels of the connecting joints together form the water channel.

[0021] In one embodiment, a plurality of first sub-channels are arranged at lateral intervals along the evaporation body;

[0022] The heating component is in contact with the end face of the evaporating body located at the top or bottom of the plurality of first sub-channels; or, the heating component is in contact with the side wall surface of any one of the opposite sides in the lateral direction of the evaporating body.

[0023] In one embodiment, the heating component and the evaporation component are in surface contact; and / or,

[0024] The cross-sectional area of ​​the waterway is greater than or equal to 18 square millimeters.

[0025] In one embodiment, the steam generator further includes a temperature controller disposed on the evaporation assembly and adjacent to the inlet.

[0026] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the outline of the cross-section of the waterway is a straight line segment.

[0027] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the waterway is trapezoidal or triangular; or,

[0028] The outline of the cross-section of the waterway includes a curved segment and three straight segments, wherein the curved segment and the three straight segments are connected end-to-end in sequence; or,

[0029] The outline of the cross-section of the waterway includes two straight segments and two curved segments, which are staggered and connected end to end in sequence.

[0030] In one embodiment, the sidewall of the waterway is provided with ribs that extend linearly or spirally along the direction of water flow; or,

[0031] The sidewall of the waterway is provided with grooves that extend in a straight line along the direction of water flow.

[0032] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the rib is any one of a triangle, a semicircle, and a trapezoid.

[0033] In one embodiment, the heating component is a heating element, and the housing of the heating element is made of any one of aluminum, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel; or,

[0034] The evaporation component is a heating element, and the housing of the heating element includes an outer shell and an inner shell fitted inside the outer shell. The outer shell is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, and the inner shell is made of stainless steel.

[0035] Another embodiment of this application provides a garment steamer, including:

[0036] A housing, the housing including a receiving cavity and a steam port communicating with the receiving cavity;

[0037] The steam generator described above is disposed within the housing;

[0038] A water supply assembly installed inside the casing includes a water tank, a water pump, a first water inlet pipe, and a second water inlet pipe. The first water inlet pipe connects the outlet of the water tank and the inlet of the water pump, and the second water inlet pipe connects the outlet of the water pump and the inlet of the flow channel.

[0039] A steam distributor is installed inside the casing, wherein the steam inlet of the steam distributor is connected to the outlet of the flow channel, and the steam outlet of the steam distributor is connected to the steam port.

[0040] In one embodiment, the housing includes a main housing, a handle housing, and a panel having the steam inlet. The main housing, the handle housing, and the panel surround the receiving cavity. The steam generator, the water pump, and the steam distributor are disposed between the main housing and the handle housing. The water tank is disposed inside the handle housing.

[0041] In one embodiment, the garment steamer further includes a protective shell disposed within the receiving cavity, and the steam generator is disposed within the protective shell; and / or,

[0042] The end face of the steam distributor located on the periphery of the steam outlet is sealed against the inner wall of the receiving cavity located on the periphery of the steam outlet, so that a pressure stabilizing cavity is defined between the steam distributor and the inner wall. A pressure stabilizing rib is also formed on the inner wall within the pressure stabilizing cavity. The pressure stabilizing rib divides the pressure stabilizing channel within the pressure stabilizing cavity. The steam inlet is connected to the beginning of the pressure stabilizing channel along the steam flow direction, and the steam outlet is connected to the end of the pressure stabilizing channel along the steam flow direction.

[0043] This application provides a steam generator and a garment steamer. The heating component of the steam generator is located outside the evaporation component. The heating component and the evaporation component are connected to each other and transfer heat through contact. This allows the heat generated by the heating component to be directly transferred to the water channel, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Exploded view;

[0046] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a structural schematic of the steam generator from another perspective, with the evaporation and heating components shown in cross-section.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Exploded view;

[0049] Figure 6 for Figure 4 The diagram shows a structural schematic of the steam generator from another perspective, with the evaporation and heating components shown in cross-section.

[0050] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Exploded view;

[0052] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fourth type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Exploded view;

[0054] Figure 11 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the steam generator from another perspective;

[0055] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A partial cross-sectional view of the evaporation assembly shown;

[0056] Figure 13 for Figure 11 AA section view;

[0057] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water channel of the fifth type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water channel of the sixth type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water channel of the seventh type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 17 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the water channel of the eighth type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the water channel of the ninth type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the water channel of the tenth type of steam generator according to an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a garment steamer according to an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 21 for Figure 20 A half-sectional view of the garment steamer shown;

[0065] Figure 22 for Figure 21 A magnified view of a section at point C;

[0066] Figure 23 for Figure 21 DD sectional view;

[0067] Figure 24 for Figure 23 The exploded view of the panel and the structure inside the cavity shown.

[0068] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0069] Steam generator 100; Evaporation assembly 10; Water channel 10a; Inlet 10b; Outlet 10c; Straight section 10d; Curved section 10e; Rib 10f; Receiving space 10g; Sub-pipe 11; Connecting pipe 12; Evaporation body 13; First sub-water channel 13a; Connecting joint 14; Second sub-water channel 14a; Heating assembly 20; Thermostat 30; Temperature limiter 40; Mounting bracket 50; Housing 200; Receiving cavity 200a; Steam port 200b; Pressure stabilizing rib 200c; Pressure stabilizing channel 200d; Main shell 210; Handle shell 220; Panel 230; Water supply assembly 300; Water tank 310; Water pump 320; First water inlet pipe 330; Second water inlet pipe 340; Steam distributor 400; Protective shell 500; First half-shell 510; Second half-shell 520; Sealing ring 600; Connecting joint 700. Detailed Implementation

[0070] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and technical features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and the detailed descriptions in the specific implementation should be understood as explanations of the purpose of this application and should not be regarded as undue limitations on this application.

[0071] In the description of this application, "height direction" is based on the attached... Figure 6 The orientation or positional relationship between "top" and "bottom" is based on the attached... Figure 10 "Horizontal" is based on the attached Figure 13 The orientations or positional relationships shown are intended only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0072] One embodiment of this application provides a steam generator 100; please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1 to 3The steam generator 100 includes an evaporation assembly 10 and a heating assembly 20. The evaporation assembly 10 has a water channel 10a, one end of which has an inlet 10b along the extension direction, and the other end of which has an outlet 10c along the extension direction. The heating assembly 20 is disposed outside the evaporation assembly 10. The heating assembly 20 is connected to the evaporation assembly 10 and transfers heat through contact. That is, the heating assembly 20 transfers the heat generated by the heating assembly 20 to the water channel 10a through direct contact heat transfer between the heating assembly 20 and the evaporation assembly 10.

[0073] Another embodiment of this application also provides a garment steamer; please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 20 to 24 The garment steamer includes a housing 200, a water supply assembly 300, a steam distributor 400, and a steam generator 100 provided in any embodiment of this application. The housing 200 includes a receiving cavity 200a and a steam outlet 200b communicating with the receiving cavity 200a. The water supply assembly 300, the steam distributor 400, and the steam generator 100 are all disposed within the receiving cavity 200a. The water supply assembly 300 includes a water tank 310, a water pump 320, a first water inlet pipe 330, and a second water inlet pipe 340. The first water inlet pipe 330 communicates with the outlet of the water tank 310 and the water inlet of the water pump 320, and the second water inlet pipe 340 communicates with the water outlet of the water pump 320 and the inlet of the water channel. The steam inlet of the steam distributor 400 is connected to the outlet of the water channel, and the steam outlet of the steam distributor 400 is connected to the steam outlet 200b.

[0074] Specifically, please refer to Figure 23 and Figure 24 The steam inlet of the steam distributor 400 and the outlet of the water channel 10a can be connected by a connecting joint 700, or the steam inlet of the steam distributor 400 and the outlet of the water channel 10a can be directly connected.

[0075] When the garment steamer is working, the water pump 320 pumps water from the water tank 310 into the water channel 10a through the inlet 10b. The water in the water channel 10a exchanges heat with the heat transferred to the water channel 10a by the heating element 20 and is heated into steam. The steam flows out from the outlet 10c and into the steam distributor 400 for distribution before flowing out from the steam port 200b to care for the clothes.

[0076] In this embodiment of the application, the heating component 20 of the steam generator 100 is disposed outside the evaporation component 10. The heating component 20 is connected to the evaporation component 10 and heat is transferred through contact. Thus, the heat generated by the heating component 20 can be directly transferred to the water channel 10a, thereby improving the heat transfer efficiency.

[0077] In addition, the steam generator 100 of this application embodiment has a simple structure, which is convenient for processing and manufacturing, and can also save production costs.

[0078] It should be noted that the steam generator 100 of this application embodiment is not limited to use in garment steamers. The steam generator 100 can be used in any electrical device that requires the use of the steam generator 100.

[0079] In this embodiment of the application, the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can be fixed together by welding. The welding method is simple and convenient, and can ensure that the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can be in close contact.

[0080] In some embodiments, the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can also be connected in other ways. For example, the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can be fastened together using fasteners such as screws and bolts, or the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can be fixed together by snap-fitting, plugging or other methods.

[0081] The type of heating component 20 is not limited, as long as it can transfer heat to the evaporation component 10 through contact. For example, the heating component 20 can be a heating tube, a PTC heating element, or a film heater.

[0082] The contact between the heating element 20 and the evaporation element 10 can be surface contact; for example, the contact surfaces of the heating element 20 and the evaporation element 10 can both be planes (see [link]). Figure 3 Alternatively, one of the contact surfaces of the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 may be an outwardly convex curved surface, while the other may be an inwardly concave curved surface. Surface contact is beneficial for the evaporation component 10 to be heated more evenly, thereby improving the heat transfer effect.

[0083] In some embodiments, the contact between the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can also be a line contact. For example, the contact surfaces of the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can both be outwardly convex curved surfaces, or one of the contact surfaces of the heating component 20 and the evaporation component 10 can be a curved surface, while the other contact surface can be a plane.

[0084] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 1 to 8 The evaporation component 10 is a water pipe with a water channel 10a. In other words, the evaporation component 10 can be composed of a single water pipe. The water pipe has a simple structure, good heat transfer effect, and low cost.

[0085] Water pipes can be single-layered or double-layered, consisting of an outer pipe and an inner pipe. Double-layered water pipes can be manufactured by assembling the inner and outer pipes and then pressing them from the outside or expanding them from the inside. Expansion can be achieved through mechanical expansion (such as pushing a steel ball or pulling with a cone) or water expansion.

[0086] Water pipes can be made of materials with good heat transfer properties. For example, single-layer water pipes can be made of aluminum, aluminum alloy, or stainless steel, while double-layer water pipes can have an outer tube made of aluminum or aluminum alloy and an inner tube made of stainless steel. Steam generators 100 using stainless steel water pipes or inner tubes can also be used in cooking appliances where the generated steam needs to come into direct contact with food.

[0087] In addition, when the heating element 20 is a heating tube, the housing of the heating tube can be a single-layer housing or a double-layer housing with an outer shell and an inner shell fitted inside the outer shell. The material of the single-layer housing can be aluminum, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, etc., and the material of the outer shell of the double-layer housing can be aluminum, aluminum alloy, etc., and the material of the inner shell can be stainless steel.

[0088] When the heating element's housing or outer shell is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, and the water pipe or its outer tube is also made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, aluminum-aluminum heat transfer can be achieved, resulting in high heat transfer efficiency and low cost.

[0089] There are various methods for processing water pipes; for example, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figures 1 to 6 In one embodiment, the water pipe can be a one-piece molded structure. For example, the water pipe can be integrally molded by casting, extrusion molding or other methods. The water channel 10a of the one-piece molded water pipe is smoother and has a stronger ability to prevent scale buildup.

[0090] In addition, the cross-sectional area of ​​waterway 10a can be greater than or equal to 18 square millimeters, thereby further improving the ability to prevent scale buildup.

[0091] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 In another embodiment, the water pipe may also be composed of sub-pipes 11 and connecting pipes 12. There are multiple sub-pipes 11, and adjacent sub-pipes 11 are connected by connecting pipes 12 respectively.

[0092] Specifically, the number of sub-pipes 11 can be two or more, and the number of connecting pipes 12 needs to be adjusted according to the number of sub-pipes 11, as long as there is one connecting pipe 12 between every two adjacent sub-pipes 11. The sub-pipes 11 and connecting pipes 12 can also be processed by casting, extrusion molding, or other methods. The method of connecting sub-pipes 11 and connecting pipes 12 together facilitates the connection of water pipes into structures with unique overall shapes, especially those structures that are difficult to manufacture in one piece. This allows the water pipes to meet various usage requirements.

[0093] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 4 to 8 The water pipes are bent to form a multi-layered structure arranged in layers along the height direction, and the heating component 20 is located between at least one adjacent layer of water pipes in the multi-layered water pipes.

[0094] Specifically, the number of layers in the water pipes can be... Figures 4 to 8 The two layers shown can also be more than two layers. When the water pipe has two layers, the heating component 20 is set in... Figures 4 to 8 When the number of water pipe layers is greater than two, the heating component 20 can be set between one of the two adjacent water pipe layers, or between some of the two adjacent water pipe layers, or between each of the two adjacent water pipe layers.

[0095] By bending the water pipes to form a multi-layered structure arranged in layers along the height direction, and placing the heating element 20 between at least one adjacent layer of water pipes in the multi-layered water pipes, the length of the water pipes can be increased in a relatively limited space, extending the flow of water in the water channel 10a. This also further improves the heat transfer efficiency of the heating element 20, thereby enabling the water to be fully heated in the water pipes, and thus obtaining hot water or steam at a higher temperature.

[0096] Further, in one embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In a multi-layered water pipe system, at least one layer of the pipe may have a curved projection on a plane perpendicular to the height direction. That is, only one layer of the pipe may have a curved projection on the plane perpendicular to the height direction, or some layers or each layer of the pipe may have curved projections on the plane perpendicular to the height direction. For example... Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The two layers of water pipes shown are designed such that each layer is curved when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the height direction. This arrangement can increase the length of the water pipes, extend the flow of water within the waterway 10a, and make full use of the lateral space of the heating component 20, thereby allowing the overall structure of the heating component 20 to be more compact.

[0097] Additionally, the heating element 20 located between two adjacent layers of water pipes can contact only one layer of water pipes, or it can contact both layers of water pipes (i.e., Figure 6 (As shown in the contact method), preferably, the heating component 20 is in contact with two layers of water pipes, thereby further improving the heat transfer efficiency of the heating component 20.

[0098] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 6 The multi-layer water pipes and heating components 20 form a containment space 10g extending along the height direction. The steam generator 100 also includes a temperature controller 30, which is disposed within the containment space 10g.

[0099] Specifically, the thermostat 30 is mainly used to control the heating temperature. The type of thermostat 30 is not limited. For example, the thermostat 30 can be an electronic thermostat, such as an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor electronic thermostat, or a mechanical thermostat, such as a snap-action mechanical thermostat.

[0100] For easier installation of the thermostat 30, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1 to 8 A mounting bracket 50 can also be installed on the steam generator 100. The mounting bracket 50 is connected to the water pipe, and the thermostat 30 is fixed on the mounting bracket 50.

[0101] Setting the thermostat 30 within the 10g accommodating space saves installation space for the thermostat 30, allowing the overall structure of the heating assembly 20 to be more compact.

[0102] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 4 to 6 The thermostat 30 can be positioned near the inlet 10b of the waterway 10a.

[0103] Specifically, generally speaking, the closer to the inlet 10b of water channel 10a, the lower the temperature inside water channel 10a, and vice versa. When the heating element 20 is powered on, if the steam generator 100 is in a dry-burning state due to lack of water, or if the power of the heating element 20 exceeds the heat required for boiling water / generating steam, the surface of the heating element 20 will heat up rapidly. When the heating element 20 is powered off and not working, if water continues to enter through the inlet 10b, the temperature inside water channel 10a near the inlet 10b will drop faster than at other locations within water channel 10a, resulting in a larger temperature difference. Therefore, by utilizing these characteristics, placing the temperature controller 30 on the evaporation element 10 and near the inlet 10b of water channel 10a allows for easy sensing of the temperature near the inlet 10b of water channel 10a and the surface temperature of the heating element 20, thereby enabling precise electronic or mechanical temperature control.

[0104] Additionally, please see Figures 1 to 3 A temperature limiter 40 can also be installed on the evaporation assembly 10. The type of temperature limiter 40 is not limited. For example, the temperature limiter 40 can be a resettable snap-action temperature limiter, a manually reset temperature limiter, a thermal fuse, etc. The temperature limiter 40 can play a safety protection role to improve the safety of the steam generator 100.

[0105] The evaporation assembly 10 described in this application embodiment is not limited to the structural form of a water pipe. For example, in another embodiment, please refer to... Figures 9 to 13The evaporation assembly 10 may include an evaporation body 13 and a connecting joint 14. The evaporation body 13 has a plurality of first sub-channels 13a, and the connecting joint 14 has second sub-channels 14a. Adjacent first sub-channels 13a along the water flow direction are connected by the connecting joint 14, so that all the first sub-channels 13a on the evaporation body 13 and all the second sub-channels 14a of the connecting joint 14 together form a channel 10a.

[0106] Specifically, the evaporation body 13 can be integrally formed by casting, extrusion molding, or other methods.

[0107] The evaporator body 13 can be made of materials with good heat transfer properties, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, etc.

[0108] The number of first sub-channels 13a can be two or more, and the specific number can be determined according to the size of the evaporation body 13 and the total length of the required channels 10a.

[0109] The connecting joint 14 mainly serves to connect two adjacent first sub-channels 13a. The number of connecting joints 14 needs to be adjusted according to the number of first sub-channels 13a. As long as all the first sub-channels 13a on the evaporator body 13 and the second sub-channels 14a of all connecting joints 14 can form a channel 10a together.

[0110] For example, Figures 9 to 13 The evaporator body 13 has three first sub-channels 13a. Therefore, two connecting joints 14 are required on the evaporator body 13 to allow the three first sub-channels 13a and the two second sub-channels 14a in the connecting joints 14 to form a continuous channel 10a. In some embodiments, when the evaporator body 13 has only two first sub-channels 13a, only one connecting joint 14 is needed to allow the two first sub-channels 13a and the second sub-channels 14a in the connecting joint 14 to form a continuous channel 10a.

[0111] The evaporator body 13 is provided with multiple first sub-channels 13a, which can increase the flow of water in the channels 10a as much as possible in a relatively limited space, thereby enabling the water to be fully heated in the channels 10a.

[0112] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 13 All the first sub-channels 13a can be arranged side by side, that is, the axes of all the first sub-channels 13a on the evaporator body 13 are roughly on the same plane. This makes the entire channel 10a smooth and without dead corners, thereby improving the ability to prevent scale buildup.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first sub-channel 13a may also be configured as multiple rows.

[0114] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 9 to 13 Multiple first sub-channels 13a are arranged laterally along the evaporation body 13. The heating component 20 is in contact with the end face of the bottom of the multiple first sub-channels 13a of the evaporation body 13. That is, the heating component 20 is located on the lower side of the multiple first sub-channels 13a. This facilitates the installation of the heating component 20 and allows the heat generated by the heating component 20 to be transferred to each first sub-channel 13a in a relatively even manner.

[0115] In some embodiments, the heating component 20 may also contact the end face of the evaporation body 13 located at the top of a plurality of first sub-channels 13a.

[0116] In another embodiment, the heating component 20 may also contact the side wall surface of either side of the evaporation body 13 in the lateral direction.

[0117] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The outline of the cross section of waterway 10a is at least partially a straight segment 10d.

[0118] Specifically, when the evaporation assembly 10 is an integrally formed water pipe, the cross-section of the water channel 10a refers to the cross-section of the water channel 10a at any position within the entire water pipe. When the evaporation assembly 10 is a combination structure of the sub-pipe 11 and the connecting pipe 12 as described in the previous embodiment, the cross-section of the water channel 10a mainly refers to the cross-section of the water channel 10a within the sub-pipe 11. In some embodiments, it may also include the cross-section of the water channel 10a within the connecting pipe 12. When the evaporation assembly 10 is a combination structure of the evaporation body 13 and the connecting joint 14, the cross-section of the water channel 10a mainly refers to the cross-section of the first sub-water channel 13a located on the evaporation body 13. In some embodiments, it may also include the cross-section of the second sub-water channel 14a within the connecting joint 14.

[0119] The outline of the cross section of waterway 10a is at least partially a straight segment 10d means that at least part of the sidewall of waterway 10a is a plane extending along the direction of water flow.

[0120] The shape of the cross-section of the waterway 10a, whose outline is at least partially a straight segment 10d, can be varied. For example, please refer to... Figure 6 The cross-section of waterway 10a can be triangular, meaning that the outline of the cross-section of waterway 10a can be formed by connecting three straight line segments 10d (the rounded corners in the figure are negligible).

[0121] For example, please refer to Figure 14 The cross-sectional shape of waterway 10a can be trapezoidal, that is, the outline of the cross-section of waterway 10a can be formed by connecting four straight line segments 10d (the rounded corners in the figure are negligible).

[0122] For example, please refer to Figure 3 The outline of the cross-section of waterway 10a may also include a curved segment 10e and three straight segments 10d, with the curved segment 10e and the three straight segments 10d connected end to end in sequence (the rounded corners in the figure are ignored). Figure 3 The curve segment 10e shown is arc-shaped and protrudes away from the three straight segments 10d. The curve segment 10e and the three straight segments 10d roughly form the shape of the letter "D". It is understood that in other embodiments, the curve segment 10e and the three straight segments 10d may not form the shape of the letter "D". For example, the angle between two adjacent straight segments 10d may not be 90 degrees. The arc-shaped curve segment 10e may also protrude towards the three straight segments 10d. Alternatively, the curve segment 10e may not be arc-shaped.

[0123] For example, please refer to Figure 15 The outline of the cross-section of the waterway 10a may also include two straight segments 10d and two curved segments 10e, with the straight segments 10d and the curved segments 10e interspersed and connected end to end in sequence. Figure 15 The two straight segments 10d shown are of equal length and parallel to each other, and the two curved segments 10e are arcs with equal arc length and the same curvature. At the same time, the two curved segments 10e bulge in a direction away from each other. The cross-sectional shape of the waterway 10a enclosed by the two straight segments 10d and the two curved segments 10e is roughly racetrack-shaped. It is understood that in other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the waterway 10a enclosed by the two straight segments 10d and the two curved segments 10e may not be racetrack-shaped. For example, the two straight segments 10d may not be of equal length and / or parallel, and the two curved segments 10e may also be arcs with unequal arc length and / or different curvature. The two curved segments 10e that are arcs may also bulge in a direction closer to each other, or at least one of the two curved segments 10e may not be arc-shaped.

[0124] Setting at least a portion of the outline of the cross-section of the water channel 10a as a straight segment 10d can increase the heat transfer area of ​​the sidewall of the water channel 10a and improve the heat transfer efficiency.

[0125] It is understandable that the shape of the cross-section of the waterway 10a, whose outline has at least a portion of a straight line segment 10d, is not limited to the above types, as long as the outline of the cross-section of the waterway 10a has at least a portion of a straight line segment 10d.

[0126] In some embodiments, the outline of the cross-section of the waterway 10a may also be composed of only curves. For example, the shape of the cross-section of the waterway 10a may also be circular, elliptical, etc.

[0127] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 16 to 18 The sidewall of the water channel 10a is provided with ribs 10f extending linearly along the direction of water flow. There can be one or more ribs 10f. If the water pipe or evaporator body 13 is extruded, the ribs 10f can also be manufactured by extrusion molding; alternatively, regardless of whether the water pipe or evaporator body 13 is extruded, the ribs 10f can be machined. The ribs 10f extending linearly along the direction of water flow increase the heat transfer area of ​​the sidewall of the water channel 10a, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency.

[0128] In another embodiment, please refer to Figure 19 The sidewall of the water channel 10a may also be provided with spirally extending ribs 10f along the water flow direction. That is, the sidewall of the water channel 10a may have ribs 10f with a structure similar to an internal thread, and the number of spirally extending ribs 10f can be one or more. If the water pipe or evaporator body 13 is extruded, the spirally extending ribs 10f along the water flow direction can be processed by rotational extrusion molding. Alternatively, regardless of whether the water pipe or evaporator body 13 is extruded, the spirally extending ribs 10f can be machined. The spirally extending ribs 10f along the water flow direction can also increase the heat transfer area of ​​the sidewall of the water channel 10a and improve heat transfer efficiency.

[0129] Furthermore, the shape of the cross-section of the reinforcing bar 10f is not limited; for example, the shape of the cross-section of the reinforcing bar 10f can be... Figure 16 The triangle shown Figure 17 The semicircle shown Figure 18 The trapezoid shown is an example.

[0130] In some embodiments, grooves extending linearly along the water flow direction can be provided on the sidewall of the water channel 10a. There can be one or more grooves, and they can be manufactured by extrusion molding or machining. Grooves extending linearly along the water flow direction can also increase the heat transfer area of ​​the sidewall of the water channel 10a and improve heat transfer efficiency.

[0131] It should be noted that when the evaporation assembly 10 is a combination structure of the sub-tube 11 and the connecting tube 12 as described in the previous embodiment, the aforementioned ribs 10f or grooves are mainly provided in the sub-tube 11. That is, ribs 10f or grooves may or may not be provided in the connecting tube 12. When the evaporation assembly 10 is a combination structure of the evaporation body 13 and the connecting joint 14 as described in the previous embodiment, the aforementioned ribs 10f or grooves are mainly provided in the first sub-channel 13a of the evaporation body 13. That is, ribs 10f or grooves may or may not be provided in the second sub-channel 14a of the connecting joint 14.

[0132] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 21 and Figure 23 The housing 200 includes a main housing 210, a handle housing 220, and a panel 230 with a steam port 200b. The main housing 210, handle housing 220, and panel 230 surround to form a receiving cavity 200a. A steam generator 100, a water pump 320, and a steam distributor 400 are disposed between the main housing 210 and the handle housing 220. A water tank 310 is disposed inside the handle housing 220. In other words, the garment steamer can be a handheld garment steamer.

[0133] Specifically, the steam generator 100 can be placed roughly horizontally between the main housing 210 and the handle housing 220. Meanwhile, the outlet 10c of the water channel 10a can face the steam inlet of the steam distributor 400. This arrangement not only helps to save installation space in the housing 200a, but also shortens the length of the connecting pipe 700 to reduce steam condensation.

[0134] The water tank 310 can be fixed inside the handle housing 220 using components such as clips. The water tank 310 is set inside the handle housing 220 and together with the handle housing 220, it forms the handle of the handheld garment steamer, thereby effectively saving installation space in the receiving cavity 200a.

[0135] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 21 , Figure 23 and Figure 24 The garment steamer can also have a protective shell 500 installed inside the housing cavity 200a, and the steam generator 100 is installed inside the protective shell 500 to protect the steam generator 100.

[0136] The structure of the protective shell 500 is not limited; for example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 24 The protective shell 500 can be formed by splicing together the first half shell 510 and the second half shell 520.

[0137] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 21 to 24The end face of the steam distributor 400 located on the periphery of the steam outlet is sealed against the inner wall of the receiving cavity 200a located on the periphery of the steam outlet 200b, so that a pressure stabilizing cavity is defined between the steam distributor 400 and the inner wall. A pressure stabilizing rib 200c is also formed on the inner wall, located in the pressure stabilizing cavity. The pressure stabilizing rib 200c divides the pressure stabilizing channel 200d in the pressure stabilizing cavity. The steam inlet is connected to the beginning of the pressure stabilizing channel 200d along the steam flow direction, and the steam outlet 200b is connected to the end of the pressure stabilizing channel 200d along the steam flow direction.

[0138] Specifically, the width of the voltage regulation channel 200d is not limited; for example, the width of the voltage regulation channel 200d can be 0.5mm.

[0139] A sealing ring 600 can be clamped between the end face of the steam distributor 400 located on the side of the steam outlet and the inner wall of the receiving cavity 200a located on the side of the steam outlet 200b to achieve a seal. The end face of the steam distributor 400 located on the side of the steam outlet can also directly abut against the inner wall of the receiving cavity 200a located on the side of the steam outlet 200b.

[0140] When steam enters the pressure stabilizing chamber from the steam inlet of the steam distributor 400, the pressure stabilizing rib 200c will block the steam, so that the steam can fill the pressure stabilizing channel 200d and then flow out from the steam outlet 200b, thus obtaining stable steam.

[0141] The various embodiments / implementations provided in this application can be combined with each other without creating contradictions.

[0142] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application are included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A steam generator, characterized in that, include: An evaporation assembly having a water channel, wherein one end of the water channel has an inlet along the extension direction and the opposite end of the water channel along the extension direction has an outlet; the evaporation assembly includes an evaporation body and a connecting joint, the evaporation body having a plurality of first sub-water channels and the connecting joint having second sub-water channels; adjacent two first sub-water channels along the water flow direction are respectively connected through the connecting joint, such that all the first sub-water channels on the evaporation body and all the second sub-water channels of the connecting joint together form the water channel; A heating component is disposed outside the evaporation component, and the heating component is interconnected with the evaporation component and transfers heat through contact.

2. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple first sub-channels are arranged at lateral intervals along the evaporation body; The heating component is in contact with the end face of the evaporating body located at the top or bottom of the plurality of first sub-channels; or, the heating component is in contact with the side wall surface of any one of the opposite sides in the lateral direction of the evaporating body.

3. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating component and the evaporation component are in surface contact; and / or, The cross-sectional area of ​​the waterway is greater than or equal to 18 square millimeters.

4. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam generator also includes a temperature controller, which is disposed on the evaporation assembly and adjacent to the inlet.

5. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outline of the cross-section of the waterway has at least a portion that is a straight line segment.

6. The steam generator according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cross-sectional shape of the waterway is trapezoidal or triangular; or, The outline of the cross-section of the waterway includes a curved segment and three straight segments, wherein the curved segment and the three straight segments are connected end-to-end in sequence; or, The outline of the cross-section of the waterway includes two straight segments and two curved segments, which are staggered and connected end to end in sequence.

7. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sidewalls of the waterway are provided with ribs that extend linearly or spirally along the direction of water flow; or, The sidewall of the waterway is provided with grooves that extend in a straight line along the direction of water flow.

8. The steam generator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cross-sectional shape of the rib can be any one of a triangle, a semicircle, or a trapezoid.

9. The steam generator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating component is a heating element, and the housing of the heating element is made of any one of aluminum, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel; or, The evaporation component is a heating element, and the housing of the heating element includes an outer shell and an inner shell fitted inside the outer shell. The outer shell is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy, and the inner shell is made of stainless steel.

10. The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The heating component is welded or fastened to the evaporation component.

11. A garment steamer, characterized in that, include: A housing, the housing including a receiving cavity and a steam port communicating with the receiving cavity; The steam generator according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the steam generator is disposed within the housing; A water supply assembly installed inside the casing includes a water tank, a water pump, a first water inlet pipe, and a second water inlet pipe. The first water inlet pipe connects the outlet of the water tank and the inlet of the water pump, and the second water inlet pipe connects the outlet of the water pump and the inlet of the water channel. A steam distributor is installed inside the casing, wherein the steam inlet of the steam distributor is connected to the outlet of the water channel, and the steam outlet of the steam distributor is connected to the steam port.

12. The garment steamer according to claim 11, characterized in that, The housing includes a main housing, a handle housing, and a panel with the steam inlet. The main housing, the handle housing, and the panel surround the receiving cavity. The steam generator, the water pump, and the steam distributor are disposed between the main housing and the handle housing. The water tank is disposed inside the handle housing.

13. The garment steamer according to claim 12, characterized in that, The garment steamer further includes a protective shell disposed within the receiving cavity, and the steam generator is disposed within the protective shell; and / or, The end face of the steam distributor located on the periphery of the steam outlet is sealed against the inner wall of the receiving cavity located on the periphery of the steam outlet, so that a pressure stabilizing cavity is defined between the steam distributor and the inner wall. A pressure stabilizing rib is also formed on the inner wall within the pressure stabilizing cavity. The pressure stabilizing rib divides the pressure stabilizing channel within the pressure stabilizing cavity. The steam inlet is connected to the beginning of the pressure stabilizing channel along the steam flow direction, and the steam outlet is connected to the end of the pressure stabilizing channel along the steam flow direction.

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