Foldable ironing chamber with folding and unfolding guidance

Abstract

A flatwork cavity (10) is described, comprising a base (11), a top (13), a strut (14) extending between the base (11) and the top (13), an unfoldable curtain (12) comprising a first end adapted to be fixed to the base (11) and a second end opposite the first end, and a guide (15) fixed to the second end of the curtain (12), the guide (15) comprising a fixing element arranged to ensure the detachable fixing of the guide (15) to the top and a guiding element arranged to guide the translation of the guide (15) along the strut.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ironing cavities. In particular, this invention aims to provide a foldable ironing cavity. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of fabric care, manual ironing devices allow users to iron fabric items, such as clothes, by holding the device near the item. However, these devices require direct action from the user throughout the ironing process, which is a considerable constraint and time-consuming process for the user.

[0003] Furthermore, drying chambers allow items placed by the user within an enclosed cavity formed by the drying chamber to dry. Hot air is injected into the enclosed cavity to dry items placed within the drying chamber without requiring user intervention. However, these drying chambers are limited to drying items, and ironing items located within the drying chamber is particularly prohibited.

[0004] The ironing chamber allows items to be dried or ironed without direct user intervention.

[0005] The ironing chamber consists of a top, a base, and a curtain. The top, base, and curtain form a closed cavity within the ironing chamber. The user places one or more items into the ironing chamber and initiates a cycle of actions to be performed by the ironing chamber.

[0006] However, most known ironing cavities are fixed and cannot be easily installed, disassembled, or moved. Therefore, their use is limited to the room in which they are installed, unless a lengthy and tedious unloading, transportation, and reinstallation is required for the user.

[0007] Some ironing chambers, such as those described in documents EP1471178A1 and EP1600551A1, include a curtain inserted between the base and the top. A zipper is provided on the curtain, which the user can open to access the interior of the ironing chamber to place or remove clothing, and then close the zipper before initiating the ironing cycle.

[0008] Documents EP1057923A1, EP1215330A1, KR100813048B1, KR20170141489A, KR100813048B1 and KR20170141489 describe a foldable ironing cavity including a foldable curtain inserted between the base and the top.

[0009] However, when the user manipulates the curtain to fold or unfold the ironing cavity, the user should guide the folding and unfolding of the curtain themselves. The user should ensure that the curtain remains well positioned relative to the rest of the ironing cavity, and especially relative to the top, when folding or unfolding the curtain so that it can be subsequently attached to the top to hold it in place. This manual guidance by the user folds or unfolds the curtain complicates the folding and unfolding of the ironing cavity for the user. This manual guidance can also complicate the attachment of the curtain to the top by the user, for example, if the curtain is mispositioned relative to the top when unfolded due to improper user guidance. Furthermore, the curtain may be misfolded by the user, resulting in undesirable wrinkles on the curtain, or an oversized ironing cavity after folding. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide an ironing cavity that is easier to fold and unfold compared to existing technologies.

[0011] This invention relates to an ironing cavity, comprising:

[0012] -Base;

[0013] - The top facing the base;

[0014] - A strut, which extends between the base and the top to hold the top at a distance from the base;

[0015] - An extendable curtain, the extendable curtain being configured to extend between the base and the top, the curtain including a first end adapted to be secured to the base and a second end opposite the first end; and

[0016] - A guide member, fixed to the second end of the curtain, the guide member including a fixing element and a guiding element, the fixing element being configured to ensure that the guide member is detachably fixed to the top, the guiding element being configured to guide the translation of the guide member along the strut, wherein the ironing cavity has:

[0017] - A working configuration in which the guide is secured to the top by the fixing element, and the curtain unfolds to connect the top and the base, the base, the top, and the curtain together defining a closed cavity for the ironing chamber; and

[0018] -Entry configuration, in which the guide is separated from the top and the curtain is at least partially folded to provide an open space between the guide and the top for receiving items to be ironed.

[0019] Some preferred but non-limiting features of the ironing cavity described above are as follows, which may be used alone or in combination:

[0020] - The strut has an adjustable length to hold the top at an adjustable distance from the base; in the working configuration and the entry configuration, the strut has a first length;

[0021] - The ironing cavity also has a transport configuration in which the curtain is at least partially folded and the support rod has a second length that is strictly less than the first length;

[0022] -The support rod is telescopic;

[0023] - The curtain includes a multi-layered fabric wall, the multi-layered fabric wall including a first layer and a second layer, the first layer being made of a fabric material comprising elastic fibers, and the second layer being made of a sealing fabric material;

[0024] - The curtain includes a fabric wall and a frame, the frame including a plurality of support strips arranged at regular intervals along the fabric wall, and each portion of the fabric wall located between two frame support strips having a convex shape, such that the frame and the fabric wall ensure the accordion-like folding and unfolding of the curtain;

[0025] - The guide has a substantially oval shape and is fixed to the second end of the curtain;

[0026] - The guiding element of the guide includes at least one guide wheel adapted to roll along the strut;

[0027] - The fixing element of the guide includes a clamping hook for clamping the guide to the top;

[0028] - The fixing element of the guide includes a rod having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end of the rod forming the clamping hook for clamping the guide to the top, and the second end of the rod being adapted to be pivotally actuated to release the clamping hook for clamping the guide to the top;

[0029] - The fixing element of the guide includes a truncated conical wall, and the top includes a cavity adapted to receive the truncated conical wall when the guide is fixed to the top;

[0030] - The top includes a sealing joint adapted to ensure a seal between the guide and the top when the guide is secured to the top;

[0031] - The ironing cavity includes two substantially parallel struts disposed on each side of the base, and the guiding element is adapted to ensure translational guidance of the guide along each of the two struts;

[0032] - In the access configuration, the curtain is at least partially folded within the base;

[0033] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method of using an ironing cavity according to a first aspect, comprising at least the following steps for switching from the working configuration to the entering configuration:

[0034] - Separate the retaining element of the guide from the top; and

[0035] - The guide element is translated along the strut to fold the curtain, the translation being guided by the guide element.

[0036] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method of using an ironing cavity according to a first aspect, comprising at least the following steps for switching from the entry configuration to the working configuration:

[0037] - To cause the guide element to translate along the strut in order to unfold the curtain, the translation being guided by the guide element; and

[0038] - Secure the fixing element of the guide to the top.

[0039] The method according to the second or third aspect may also include the step of adjusting the length of the strut.

[0040] The method according to the second or third aspect may further include the step of: placing an article in or removing it from the open receiving space disposed between the guide and the top when the ironing cavity is in the entry configuration.

[0041] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method of using an ironing cavity according to the first aspect, comprising the following sequential steps:

[0042] -E1: First evaporation is performed by generating steam at a first evaporation flow rate during a non-zero first evaporation time and injecting the steam into the ironing cavity;

[0043] -E2: Second evaporation is performed by generating steam at a second evaporation flow rate during a non-zero second evaporation time and injecting the steam into the ironing cavity, wherein the second evaporation flow rate is strictly less than the first evaporation flow rate; and

[0044] -E3: Drying is performed by blowing hot air into the ironing chamber during a non-zero drying time. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, given by way of non-limiting example, and illustrated in the accompanying drawings:

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, the ironing cavity being in a working configuration.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, the ironing cavity being in a working configuration.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a schematic front view of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, the ironing cavity being in an access configuration.

[0049] Figure 4a and Figure 4b These are schematic side views and schematic perspective views of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the ironing cavity is in an entry configuration.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view of the top of the ironing cavity according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 6a and Figure 6b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an element of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 7a and Figure 7b This is a schematic perspective view of the base of the ironing cavity according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 8 This is a schematic bottom view of the base of the ironing cavity according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 9c These are schematic perspective top view, schematic perspective bottom view, and exploded perspective view of the guide member of the ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This is a schematic front view of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is located in both the working structure and the transport structure.

[0056] Figure 11a and Figure 11b This is a schematic side view of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is located in both the working structure and the transport structure.

[0057] Figure 12a and Figure 12b This is a schematic perspective view of an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is located in both the working structure and the transport structure.

[0058] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of a method using an ironing cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 14a , Figure 14b and Figure 14c This is a perspective view of a ballast clamp suitable for use in a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a clothes hanger suitable for use in a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 16a This is a perspective view of a movable ironing cavity suitable for use in a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 16b This is a perspective view of a perforated grid suitable for use in a method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0063] exist Figures 1 to 1 The ironing cavity 10 shown in Figure 2 by way of non-limiting example includes:

[0064] -Base 11;

[0065] - Top 13 facing the base 11;

[0066] - Support rod 14, which extends between the base 11 and the top 13 to hold the top 13 at a distance from the base 11;

[0067] - An expandable curtain 12, the expandable curtain 12 being configured to extend between the base 11 and the top 13, the curtain 12 including a first end 121 adapted to be fixed to the base 11 and a second end 122 opposite to the first end 121; and

[0068] - Guide 15, which is fixed to the second end 122 of the curtain 12, the guide 15 includes fixing elements 152, 155, 156, the fixing elements 152, 155, 156 are configured to ensure that the guide 15 is detachably fixed to the top 13, and the guide element 151 is configured to guide the translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14.

[0069] The ironing cavity 10 has:

[0070] -exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 10a , Figure 11a and Figure 12a The working configuration shown is by way of non-limiting example, in which the guide 15 is secured to the top 13 by the fixing elements 152, 155, 156, and the curtain 12 unfolds to connect the top 13 and the base 11, the base 11, the top 13, and the curtain 12 together defining a closed cavity of the ironing chamber 10; and

[0071] -exist Figure 3 , Figure 4a and Figure 4b The entry configuration is shown by way of non-limiting example, in which the guide 15 is separated from the top 13 and the curtain 12 is at least partially folded to provide an open space between the guide 15 and the top 13 for receiving items to be ironed.

[0072] The items to be ironed or the fabric items may be, for example, clothing or plush toys. It should be understood that the ironing cavity 10 or ironing cabinet is adapted to receive one or more items to be ironed, and is adapted to perform ironing on all items placed in the ironing cavity 10 simultaneously.

[0073] The strut 14 has a structural function for stabilizing the ironing cavity 10 and a supporting function for holding the top 13 at a desired distance from the base 11, the distance between the base 11 and the top 13 depending on the construction of the ironing cavity 10. The strut 14 can be fixed to the base 11 and the top 13.

[0074] The strut 14 also guides the guide 15 in translation, i.e., sliding, along the strut 14. Translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14, adapted to bring the guide 15 closer to the top 13, causes the curtain 12 to unfold. Translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14, adapted to bring the guide 15 closer to the base 11, causes the curtain 12 to fold. Therefore, translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14 causes the curtain 12 to fold or unfold along the direction of translation of the guide 15.

[0075] Therefore, the ironing cavity 10 allows for guiding the translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14, i.e., guiding the folding and unfolding of the curtain 12. Thus, the user can easily fold or unfold the curtain 12 without having to manage the guidance of the curtain 12 itself during folding or unfolding along the strut 14, which is ensured by the guide element 151 of the guide 15.

[0076] Users can also easily attach or detach the guide 15 from the top 13 using the fixing elements 152, 155, 156 of the guide 15, which ensure that the guide 15 is detachably secured to the top 13.

[0077] The guidance created by the translation of the guide 15 facilitates the unfolding and folding of the curtain 12, allowing for good positioning of the curtain 12 relative to the top 13 so that the curtain 12 can be easily attached to the top 13. Once unfolded, the curtain 12 is immediately in the correct position to be attached to the top 13. Therefore, the user can easily modify the construction of the ironing cavity 10.

[0078] No specific device, such as a zipper, is needed for closing and opening the curtain 12 when placing items to be ironed into the ironing chamber 10.

[0079] In fact, the simple folding of the curtain 12 allows the ironing chamber 10 to switch to an access configuration and thus creates open space between the curtain 12 and the top 13 of the ironing chamber 10. The user can then place one or more fabric items to be ironed in the open space.

[0080] The folding of the curtain 12 and its attachment to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10 allow for a switch to the working configuration, where the open space where the item to be ironed is positioned becomes the enclosed space of the ironing cavity 10. The user can then initiate action cycles, such as drying, ironing, and / or sterilizing cycles. The ironing cavity 10 then performs these action cycles on the item without requiring additional user intervention.

[0081] The axis of the curtain corresponds to the folding and unfolding direction of the curtain 12, also known as the vertical direction. The axis of the curtain is substantially orthogonal to the base 11 and top 13 of the ironing cavity 10. The axis of the curtain passes substantially through the center of the ironing cavity 10. The terms "high" and "low" are used to refer to the position along the axis of the curtain, with the base 11 in a low position and the top 13 in a high position.

[0082] The radial direction is the direction perpendicular to and through the axis of the curtain. The terms "inner" and "outer" are used to refer to the radial direction, such that the inner portion or inner surface of an element is closer to the axis of the curtain than the outer portion or outer surface of the same element. Therefore, the closed cavity of the ironing cavity 10 forms the inner cavity of the ironing cavity 10.

[0083] The support rod 14 extends substantially vertically. The length of the support rod 14 corresponds to its dimension along the axis of the curtain, i.e., its dimension in the direction of maximum extension. The distance between the top 13 and the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10 substantially corresponds to the length of the support rod 14 in the vertical direction.

[0084] curtain

[0085] The first end 121 of the curtain 12 is adapted to be fixed to the base 11. Therefore, the first end 121 is fixedly installed relative to the base 11 and cannot be removed by the user.

[0086] When the curtain 12 is unfolded, it is substantially taut, or even stretched, between the base 11 and the top 13. The fabric wall 100 can form a sleeve substantially around the axis of the curtain, thus limiting the presence of pleats.

[0087] When the curtain 12 is at least partially folded, the curtain 12 can be partially or completely folded onto itself. The curtain 12 can rest at least partially on the base 11, and if necessary, rest within the base 11.

[0088] The curtain 12 can be sealed or flexible. A sealed curtain 12 allows the desired humidity and temperature in the ironing chamber 10 to be maintained during the ironing process. A flexible curtain 12 allows for easy folding or unfolding of the curtain 12 while limiting the occurrence of wrinkles.

[0089] The curtain 12 may include a multi-layered fabric wall, which includes a first layer and a second layer, the first layer being made of a fabric material comprising elastic fibers and the second layer being made of a sealing fabric material.

[0090] Curtain 12 may include a fabric wall and a frame. The frame may include a first curtain connector 210 and a second curtain connector 220, the first curtain connector 210 being configured to secure the fabric wall to the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10, and the second curtain connector 220 being configured to secure the fabric wall to the guide 15, as shown in... Figure 10a , Figure 10b , Figure 12a and Figure 12b The examples are shown in a non-restrictive manner.

[0091] The first curtain connector 210 is fixed to the first end 121 of the curtain 12, and the second curtain connector 220 is fixed to the second end 122 of the curtain 12. The first curtain connector 210 and / or the second curtain connector 220 may each have a substantially oval or similar shape.

[0092] The first curtain connector 210 and the second curtain connector 220 can be sewn onto the entire periphery of the first end 121 and the second end 122 of the curtain 12, respectively, to define the substantially oblong periphery of the first end 121 and the second end 122 of the curtain 12. Therefore, the circumference of the unfolded curtain 12 is substantially oblong over its entire vertical length.

[0093] The first curtain connector 210 and / or the second curtain connector 220 may be made of plastic material.

[0094] The frame may also include multiple support strips spaced regularly along the fabric wall. Each section of the fabric wall located between two support strips has a convex shape, such that the frame and fabric wall ensure the accordion-like folding and unfolding of the curtain 12.

[0095] Working structure, entry structure

[0096] In its working configuration, the ironing cavity 10 has dimensions suitable for ensuring the ironing of at least one fabric article located within the enclosed cavity of the ironing cavity 10. A support rod 14 may be disposed within the enclosed cavity of the ironing cavity 10. A curtain 12 forms the outer wall of the ironing cavity 10 and has an accordion-like shape.

[0097] In the entry configuration, the curtain 12 has at least one pleat and is in the shape of a folded accordion. The guide 15 is located at a distance from the top 13, and is closer to the base 11 relative to the working configuration, so that an open space for receiving items to be ironed is configured between the guide 15 and the top 13. Therefore, in the entry configuration of the ironing cavity 10, the user can place clothing in the open receiving space.

[0098] Transport structure and struts

[0099] The ironing cavity 10 can also have the function of Figure 10b , Figure 11b and Figure 12b The transport configuration shown is by way of non-limiting example and is adapted for easy transport by a user of the ironing cavity 10. The ironing cavity 10 is mobile or portable, allowing for easy installation, removal, and transport by the user. The mobile ironing cavity 10 has a limited weight and, particularly, dimensions in the transport configuration that allow for its transport by the user. Therefore, the user can transport the ironing cavity 10 to different locations. Furthermore, due to the guidance of the guide 15 along the support rod 14, the user can install or remove the ironing cavity 10 without difficulty and within a limited time.

[0100] The strut 14 may have an adjustable length to hold the top 13 at an adjustable distance from the base 11. In other words, the length of the strut 14 is adjustable, and a change in the length of the strut 14 causes a corresponding change in the distance between the top 13 and the base 11. In the working configuration and the entry configuration, the strut 14 has a first length. In the transport configuration, the curtain 12 is at least partially folded, and the strut 14 has a second length that is strictly less than the first length. Therefore, the strut 14 is shorter in the transport configuration than in the working or entry configuration. Therefore, the top 13 is closer to the base 11 in the transport configuration than in the working or entry configuration. In other words, the ironing cavity 10 has a smaller size in the transport configuration than in the working or entry configuration. Therefore, the ironing cavity 10 is smaller in the transport configuration than in the working or entry configuration. Therefore, when the ironing cavity 10 is in the transport configuration, it can be transported more easily. Furthermore, the reduced size of the ironing cavity 10 in its transport configuration also allows for space savings when the ironing cavity 10 is stored, for example, in a cabinet.

[0101] In the transport configuration, the guide 15 can be secured to the top 13 by fastening elements 152, 155, and 156, and the curtain 12 is at least partially folded to connect the base 11 and the top 13. In a variation, the guide 15 can be detached from the top 13, and the curtain 12 can also connect the base 11 and the top 13. In another variation, the guide 15 can be located at a distance from the top 13.

[0102] The base 11 can be movable to allow displacement of the ironing cavity 10. For example, the base 11 can be mounted on a wheel. Therefore, regardless of the construction of the ironing cavity 10, it can be more easily moved by the user.

[0103] The strut 14 can be telescopic, with multiple sections of the strut 14 interlocking and sliding to adjust the length of the strut 14.

[0104] The strut 14 may include: a first portion 141 fixed to the base 11, a second portion 142 fixed to the top 13, and a connector 143 connecting the first portion 141 and the second portion 142 of the strut 14. The second portion 142 of the strut 14 may be movable relative to the first portion 141, and in particular, may be retracted into the first portion 141 to adjust the length of the strut 14.

[0105] The first length of the strut 14 can substantially correspond to the sum of the length of the first portion 141 of the strut 14 and the length of the second portion 142 of the strut 14. When the strut 14 has the first length, the first portion 141 and the second portion 142 of the strut 14 can be connected and locked in place by the coupling 143 to form a substantially continuous strut 14 extending substantially vertically. Thus, the strut 14 allows for ensuring continuous guidance of the guide 15 as it translates along the strut 14 to unfold the curtain 12. In fact, the guide 15 can extend substantially at the first portion 141 of the strut 14 when the ironing cavity 10 is in the entry configuration. Therefore, the guide 15 should be translated by the user along the first portion 141 of the strut 14, the coupling 143, and then the second portion 142 of the strut 14 to secure it to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10.

[0106] The second length of the strut 14 can substantially correspond to the length of the first portion 141 of the strut 14, wherein the second portion 142 of the strut 14 is retracted into the first portion 141 of the strut 14, or folded against the first portion 141 of the strut 14. Therefore, when the strut 14 has the second length, the distance between the top 13 and the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10 is reduced.

[0107] The strut 14 may also include guide elements adapted to cooperate with the guide element 151 of the guide 15 to optimize the guidance of the translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14. For example, the guide element of the strut 14 may include a guide rail in which the guide wheel 151 of the guide 15 is adapted to roll. This further improves the accuracy of guiding the translation of the guide 15 along the strut 14.

[0108] Guide

[0109] The guide 15 is movable and is mounted to slide along the strut 14. The guide 15 can extend around the strut 14 and is configured to contact the strut 14.

[0110] exist Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 9c The guide 15, shown by way of non-limiting example, may have a substantially oblong shape. The guide 15 is secured to the second end 122 of the curtain 12. More specifically, the guide 15 may be secured to a second curtain connector 220, which is also secured to the second end 122 of the curtain 12. The guide 15 may have a substantially oblong cylindrical shape about the axis of the curtain.

[0111] Specifically, the guide 15 may have a base 154 for placing the curtain 12, a gripping element 153, a guiding element 151 and / or fixing elements 152, 155, 156.

[0112] The base 154 for placing the curtain 12 is adapted to ensure that the guide 15 is secured to the second end 122 of the curtain 12. The base 154 for placing the curtain 12 may have a substantially oval shape. The periphery of the base 154 for placing the curtain 12 may substantially correspond to the periphery of the second curtain connector 220.

[0113] The curtain 12 can be fixed to the base 154 for placing the curtain 12, for example, via a second curtain connector 220, which is simultaneously fixed to the second end 122 of the curtain 12 and the base 154 for placing the curtain 12.

[0114] The base 11 of the ironing cavity 10 may have a substantially elongated oval shape. The periphery of the base 11 may substantially correspond to the periphery of the first curtain connector 210. The curtain 12 may be secured to the base 11 via the first curtain connector 210, which is simultaneously secured to both the first end 121 of the curtain 12 and the base 11. In particular, the first curtain connector 210 may be screwed onto the bottom 111 of the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10.

[0115] The gripping element 153 of the guide 15 may include a handle. A user grasps the handle 153 to slide the guide 15 along the strut 14, bringing it closer to the base 11 or top 13 of the ironing cavity 10. The handle 153 may be formed from an outward protrusion of the base 11 of the guide 15. The guide 15 may include two handles 153 positioned on either side of an elongated base 154. Therefore, a user can simultaneously grasp both handles 153 to displace the guide 15, facilitating guidance.

[0116] The guide element 151 of the guide 15 is adapted to extend into contact with the strut 14, more specifically, with the outer surface of the strut 14, to ensure guidance of translational movement of the guide 15 along the strut 14. The guide element 151 may be mounted on, for example, within, a generally elongated oval base 154 of the guide 15, so as to protrude at least partially at a location further inward than the base 154. The guide element 151 of the guide 15 may include at least one guide wheel adapted to roll along the strut 14 during translational displacement of the guide 15. The guide wheel 151 may be in the form of a disc or caster. The guide wheel 151 allows for reduced friction during translational displacement of the guide 15 along the strut 14.

[0117] The ironing cavity 10 may include two substantially parallel struts 14 disposed on each side of the base 11, for example, on both sides of an elongated oval base 11. A guide element 151 is adapted to ensure translational guidance of the guide 15 along each of the two struts 14. Specifically, the guide element 151 may include at least two guide wheels disposed on both sides of an elongated oval base 154. Each guide wheel 151 contacts one of the two struts 14 of the ironing cavity 10. This configuration allows for more efficient and precise guidance of the translational movement of the guide 15 along the struts 14. Specifically, the guide element 151 may include two pairs of guide wheels 151 disposed on both sides of the elongated oval base 154, each pair of guide wheels 151 contacting one of the two struts 14 of the ironing cavity 10.

[0118] The retaining elements 152, 155, 156 of the guide 15 are adapted to detachably secure the guide 15 to the top 13. The top 13 may include retaining elements adapted to cooperate with the retaining elements 152, 155, 156 for securing the guide 15 to the top 13 to ensure that the guide 15 is detachably secured to the top 13. Figure 6a and Figure 6b A non-limiting example of cooperation between guide 15 and top 13 is shown to secure or attach guide 15 to top 13.

[0119] The fixing elements 152, 155, and 156 of the guide 15 may include clamping hooks 1551 for clamping the guide 15 to the top 13. Securing the guide 15 to the top 13 is achieved by clamping the guide 15 to the top 13. This clamping allows the curtain 12 to be automatically attached to the top 13 when it reaches the fully extended position, i.e., without any specific gesture from the user. In fact, since the extension of the curtain 12 is guided by the guide elements 151 of the guide 15, the clamping hooks 1551 automatically take position to be clamped to the top 13: when the guide 15 reaches the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10, the clamping hooks 1551 engage with the top 13 to lock the guide 15 relative to the top 13 without requiring additional action from the user. The clamping hooks 1551 may be mounted and secured to the base 154 of the guide 15 for placing the curtain 12, at a position further inward than the handle 153. The clamping hook 1551 can protrude upward toward the top 13 relative to the base 154 of the guide 15 for placing the curtain 12, such that the clamping hook 1551 contacts the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10 when the curtain 12 is unfolded.

[0120] The retaining elements 152, 155, and 156 of the guide 15 may include a rod 155, which includes a first end 1551 and a second end 1552 opposite to the first end 1551. The first end 1551 of the rod 155 forms a clamping hook for clamping the guide 15 to the top 13. The second end 1552 of the rod 155 is adapted to be pivotally actuated to release the guide 15 from the top 13. In particular, when the guide 15 is attached to the top 13, the second end 1552 of the rod 155 can be pivotally actuated by a user to disengage the clamping hook 1151 formed by the first end 1551 from the top 13.

[0121] The second end 1552 of the rod 155 protrudes toward the base 11 relative to the base 154 of the guide 15, i.e., downward, so that the guide 15 can be grasped by the user when it is secured to the top 13 by the clamping hook forming the first end 1551 of the rod 155. The user can actuate the second end 1552 of the rod 155 to pivot the rod 155, thereby disengaging the first end 1551 of the rod from the top 13 and thus separating the guide 15 from the top 13.

[0122] The fixing elements 152, 155, and 156 of the guide 15 may include a frustoconical wall 152. The top 13 includes a cavity adapted to receive the frustoconical wall 152 when the guide 15 is fixed to the top 13. The cavity of the top 13 may extend substantially downward relative to the top 13. The frustoconical wall 152 allows for further improvement in the guiding accuracy of the curtain 12's unfolding, particularly allowing for precise positioning of the guide 15 relative to the top 13 at the end of the displacement process of the guide 15 toward the top 13 when the ironing cavity 10 is displaced toward the working configuration, so as to allow for easy attachment of the guide 15 to the top 13. The cavity of the top 13 may have a shape and size substantially complementary to the frustoconical wall 152 of the guide 15: for example, the shape and size of the inner surface of the cavity of the top 13 may substantially correspond to the shape and size of the outer surface of the frustoconical wall 152 of the guide 15. The truncated conical wall 152 can be mounted and fixed to the base 154 for placing the curtain 12, or it can be integral with the base 154. The truncated conical wall 152 can extend upward relative to the base 154 toward the top 13, such that when the curtain 12 is unfolded, the truncated conical wall 152 contacts the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10, and in particular inserts into the cavity of the top 13.

[0123] The fixing elements 152, 155, and 156 of the guide 15 may include fixing clips 156 for securing the curtain 12. These fixing clips 156 are mounted and secured along the periphery of the base 154 for placing the curtain 12. The fixing clips 156 may be resilient tabs. For example, four fixing clips 156 may be distributed along the base 154 for placing the curtain. The fixing clips 156 cooperate with the fixing elements of the top 13 when the curtain 12 is unfolded, for example, they may be inserted into corresponding receiving portions of the top 13 when the curtain 12 is unfolded. Therefore, the fixing clips 156 help to secure the curtain 12 to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10 and hold the ironing cavity 10 in its working configuration.

[0124] Top 13 may include a sealing joint 131, an embodiment of which is... Figure 5 , Figure 6a and Figure 6b As can be seen, the sealing joint 131 is adapted to ensure a seal between the guide 15 and the top 13 when the guide 15 is secured to the top 13. In particular, the sealing joint 131 allows for a steam seal such that when the ironing chamber 10 is in the working configuration and an ironing cycle is performed, the steam injected into the closed cavity of the ironing chamber 10 will not escape from the ironing chamber 10.

[0125] The sealing joint 131 can be arranged along the entire circumference of the guide 15. When the guide 15 is secured to the top 13, the fixing elements 152, 155, 156 of the guide 15 are supported on the sealing joint 131 to ensure a tight seal.

[0126] Steam generation and injection apparatus; drying apparatus by blowing hot air.

[0127] The ironing cavity 10 also includes:

[0128] -A device 200 that generates steam and injects it into the ironing cavity 10; and

[0129] - A drying device 100 that blows hot air, the device 100 being adapted to generate hot air and inject it into the ironing cavity 10.

[0130] The steam generation and injection device 200 and the drying device 100 by blowing hot air can be integrated into the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10, as shown in... Figure 7a and Figure 7bThe following is shown as a non-limiting example. The steam generation and injection device 200 and the drying device 100 by blowing hot air may include at least one pipe extending from the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10 to a receiving cavity for the items to be ironed, at the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10. Thus, the generated steam and hot air are injected into the ironing cavity 10 at the base 11 and rise towards the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10 via one or more items to be ironed. This allows for ensuring effective ironing of items placed in the ironing cavity 10.

[0131] The drying apparatus 100, which uses hot air for drying, may include a ventilator associated with a heating resistor. The air is heated by the heating resistor and ventilated by the ventilator to be injected into the interior of the ironing cavity 10.

[0132] The ironing chamber 10 may also include a cooling device by blowing cold air, adapted to cool one or more fabric items placed in the ironing chamber 10 after ironing. The cooling device by blowing cold air can correspond to the drying device 200 by blowing hot air. This device can be parameterized to blow hot air and then blow cold air once the drying step by blowing hot air is complete. Thus, the ironed garments retrieved by the user are cooled to avoid any risk of burns to the user.

[0133] Components for holding clothes

[0134] The ironing cavity 10 may include at least one element for placing clothing, which is adapted to ensure the placement and retention of clothing during ironing cycles. The user prepares the items to be ironed by placing them in the ironing cavity 10, specifically on the element for placing clothing.

[0135] At least one element for holding clothing can be detachably mounted and secured to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10. For example, a metal rod, a hanger 40, and / or at least one securing clamp for holding items can be detachably mounted and secured to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10. Therefore, Figure 5 A non-limiting example of a hanger 40 and a clamp 41 detachably attached to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10 is shown.

[0136] At least one element for holding clothing may include at least one ballast clamp 30, such as in Figures 14a to 14cThe following is shown as a non-limiting example. The user can then hook at least one ballast clamp 30 onto the fabric article and place the fabric article in the ironing cavity 10 before or after hooking the ballast clamp 30, particularly onto the hanger 40 of the ironing cavity 10. The ballast clamp 30 is preferably hooked onto the lower portion of the fabric article, such as the base 11 of the garment, with the upper portion of the fabric article resting on the hanger 40 of the ironing cavity 10. Multiple ballast clamps 30 can be hooked onto the fabric article. For example, if the fabric article is a shirt, the ballast clamp 30 can be hooked onto each sleeve of the shirt and the base 11 of the shirt. If the fabric article is trousers, the ballast clamp 30 can be hooked onto the lower portion of each leg of the trousers.

[0137] Ballast clamp 30 may have different weights and / or dimensions. Ballast clamp 30 may have a width between 100 mm and 200 mm, preferably about 150 mm. Ballast clamp 30 may have a weight between 300 g and 1 kg, preferably about 400 g.

[0138] Figure 14a An example of a ballast clamp 30 is shown, which has a larger than Figure 14b The dimensions and weight of the ballast clamp 30 are shown. The dimensions of the ballast clamp 30 are adapted to the fabric articles on which it is intended to be hooked. This allows for easy hooking of the ballast clamp 30 onto the fabric articles. The weight of the ballast clamp 30 is suitable for adjusting the fiber tension of the fabric articles, which therefore allows for further improvement in the efficiency of the ironing process.

[0139] One or more openings can be formed in the hanger 40, such as Figure 15 The example shown is a non-limiting one. Therefore, the steam and / or hot air injected into the ironing cavity 10 can pass through the opening in the hanger 40, which allows for further improvement in the efficiency of the ironing process.

[0140] The hanger 40 may have a minimum width of 450 mm and / or a minimum thickness of 40 mm. The hanger 40 may have rounded edges, which allows for the omission of labeling on items placed on the hanger 40.

[0141] The hanger 40 can be placed on a metal rod or on a hook fixed to the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10.

[0142] The base 11 may include at least one element for holding clothing, such as a perforated grille 60. (As in...) Figure 16a and Figure 16bThe perforated grid 60, shown by way of non-limiting example, is adapted to be placed on the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10 in contact with the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10. A user can place fabric items on the perforated grid 60. The perforated grid 60 forms a shelf adapted to receive fabric items to be ironed. The perforated grid 60 can be a removable grid formed by two grid halves. The two grid halves are arranged to contact each other and to contact the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10 so as to form a perforated grid 60 covering the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10.

[0143] When the steam generation and injection device, as well as the drying device by blowing hot air, are integrated into the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10, the perforated grid 60 is positioned near the steam and hot air outlet of the base 11 of the ironing cavity 10. Therefore, the temperature is particularly high for items placed on the perforated grid 60. Thus, the perforated grid 60 allows for particularly effective ironing and, if necessary, sterilization of items placed on it. For example, plush toys or shoes can be placed on the perforated grid 60.

[0144] How to use the ironing cavity

[0145] The method of using the ironing cavity 10 described above includes at least the following steps for switching from the working configuration to the entry configuration:

[0146] - Separate the retaining elements 152, 155, 156 of the guide 15 from the top 13; and

[0147] - The guide element 15 is translated along the strut 14 to fold the curtain 12, and this translation is guided by the guide element 151.

[0148] The method of using the ironing cavity 10 described above includes at least the following steps for switching from the entry configuration to the working configuration:

[0149] - To cause the guide element 15 to translate along the strut 14 to unfold the curtain 12, the translation being guided by the guide element 151; and

[0150] - Secure the fixing elements 152, 155, and 156 of the guide 15 to the top 13.

[0151] These methods of using the ironing cavity 10 have similar advantages to those described regarding the ironing cavity 10. In particular, the guide 15 is guided along the translation of the support rod 14, which allows for easy folding and unfolding of the curtain 12 and attachment of the curtain 12 to the top 13. The above-described methods of use allow for easy modification of the construction of the ironing cavity 10.

[0152] The user can, for example, loosen the clamping hook 1551 of the guide 15 from the top to separate the guide 15 from the top 13.

[0153] The fact that the fixing elements 152, 155, 156 of the guide 15 are secured to the top 13 can be achieved without any specific action from the user when the curtain 12 reaches the fully extended position. More specifically, when the guide 15 reaches the top 13 of the ironing cavity 10, the clamping hook 1551 can engage with the top 13 to lock the guide 15 relative to the top 13 without any additional action from the user.

[0154] The method of using the ironing cavity 10 may also include adjusting the length of the support rod 14. The length of the support rod 14 can be adjusted by the user. For example, when the ironing cavity 10 is in the insertion configuration, the user can retract the second portion 142 of the support rod 14 back into the first portion 141 of the support rod to switch the support rod 14 from a first length to a second length that is strictly less than the first length. Conversely, the user can extend the second portion 142 of the support rod 14 out of the first portion 141 of the support rod 14 to switch the support rod 14 from the first length to the second length.

[0155] More specifically, the method includes the following steps for switching from an entry structure to a transport structure:

[0156] - Adjust the length of the strut 14 to switch the strut 14 from a first length to a second length that is strictly less than the first length.

[0157] The method includes the following steps for switching from a transport structure to an entry structure:

[0158] - Adjust the length of the strut 14 to switch the strut 14 from a second length that is strictly less than the first length to the first length.

[0159] The method of using the ironing cavity 10 may also include the steps of placing an item in or removing it from the open receiving space configured between the guide 15 and the top 13 when the ironing cavity 10 is in the entry configuration.

[0160] Therefore, the user places one or more items to be ironed in the open receiving space. When the ironing cavity 10 is in the working configuration, the open receiving space becomes the closed cavity of the ironing cavity 10.

[0161] As in Figure 13 As shown as a non-limiting example, a method for ironing at least one fabric article intended to be placed in the ironing cavity 10 using a movable ironing cavity 10 includes the following sequential steps:

[0162] -E1: First evaporation is performed by generating steam at a first evaporation flow rate during a non-zero first evaporation time and injecting the steam into the ironing cavity 10;

[0163] -E2: Second evaporation is performed by generating steam at a second evaporation flow rate during a non-zero second evaporation time and injecting the steam into the ironing cavity 10, wherein the second evaporation flow rate is strictly less than the first evaporation flow rate; and

[0164] -E3: Drying is carried out by blowing hot air into the ironing chamber 10 during the non-zero drying time.

[0165] The method may also include a step E4 of cooling the article by blowing cold air into the ironing chamber 10, which is performed after step E3 of drying by blowing hot air.

[0166] The method may also include a preliminary step E0 in which the user parameterizes the ironing cavity 10 using the parameterization unit 50 of the ironing cavity 10.

Claims

1. An ironing cavity (10), comprising: - Base (11); - Top (13) facing the base (11); - A strut (14) extending between the base (11) and the top (13) to hold the top (13) at a distance from the base (11); - An expandable curtain (12) configured to extend between the base (11) and the top (13), the curtain (12) including a first end (121) adapted to be fixed to the base (11) and a second end (122) opposite to the first end (121); and - A guide (15) fixed to the second end (122) of the curtain (12), the guide (15) including fixing elements (152, 155, 156) configured to ensure that the guide (15) is detachably fixed to the top (13), wherein the ironing cavity (10) has: - A working configuration in which the guide (15) is secured to the top (13) by the fixing elements (152, 155, 156), and the curtain (12) unfolds to connect the top (13) and the base (11), the base (11), the top (13), and the curtain (12) together defining a closed cavity of the ironing chamber (10); and - An entry configuration in which the guide (15) is separated from the top (13) and the curtain (12) is at least partially folded to provide an open receiving space for receiving items to be ironed between the guide (15) and the top (13), characterized in that the guide (15) includes a guide element (151) configured to guide the translation of the guide (15) along the strut (14).

2. The ironing cavity (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The support rod (14) has an adjustable length to hold the top (13) at an adjustable distance from the base (11), wherein the support rod (14) has a first length in both the working configuration and the entry configuration, and wherein the ironing cavity (10) also has a transport configuration in which the curtain (12) is at least partially folded and the support rod (14) has a second length that is strictly less than the first length.

3. The ironing cavity (10) according to claim 2, wherein, The support rod (14) is telescopic.

4. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The curtain (12) includes a multi-layer fabric wall (100), which includes a first layer and a second layer, the first layer being made of a fabric material comprising elastic fibers and the second layer being made of a sealing fabric material.

5. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The curtain (12) includes a fabric wall (100) and a frame, the frame including a plurality of support strips arranged at regular intervals along the fabric wall (100), and wherein each portion of the fabric wall (100) located between two frame support strips has a convex shape, such that the frame and the fabric wall (100) ensure accordion-like folding and unfolding of the curtain.

6. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The guide (15) has a substantially oval shape, and wherein the guide (15) is fixed to the second end (122) of the curtain (12).

7. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The guide element (151) of the guide (15) includes at least one guide wheel adapted to roll along the strut (14).

8. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The fixing elements (152, 155, 156) of the guide (15) include clamping hooks (1551) for clamping the guide (15) to the top (13).

9. The ironing cavity (10) according to claim 8, wherein, The fixing elements (152, 155, 156) of the guide (15) include a rod (155) having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein the first end of the rod (155) forms the clamping hook (1551) for clamping the guide (15) to the top (13), and wherein the second end (1552) of the rod (155) is adapted to be pivotally actuated to release the clamping hook (1551) for clamping the guide (15) to the top (13).

10. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The fixing elements (152, 155, 156) of the guide (15) include a truncated conical wall (152), and the top (13) includes a cavity adapted to receive the truncated conical wall (152) when the guide (15) is fixed to the top (13).

11. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The top (13) includes a sealing joint (131) adapted to ensure a seal between the guide (15) and the top (13) when the guide (15) is secured to the top (13).

12. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising two substantially parallel struts (14) disposed on each side of the base (11), and wherein, The guide element (151) is adapted to ensure translational guidance of the guide (15) along each of the two struts (14).

13. The ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the access configuration, the curtain (12) is at least partially folded inside the base (11).

14. A method of using the ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising at least the following steps for switching from the working configuration to the entering configuration: - Separate the fixing elements (152, 155, 156) of the guide (15) from the top (13); and - The guide (15) is translated along the strut (14) to fold the curtain (12), the translation being guided by the guide element (151).

15. A method of using the ironing cavity (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising at least the following steps for switching from the entry configuration to the working configuration: - The guide (15) is translated along the strut (14) to unfold the curtain (12), the translation being guided by the guide element (151); and - Secure the fixing elements (152, 155, 156) of the guide (15) to the top (13).

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising the step of adjusting the length of the strut (14).

17. The method according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising the step of: placing an article in or removing it from the open receiving space disposed between the guide (15) and the top (13) when the ironing cavity (10) is in the access configuration.

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