Connector attachment and steam generator including the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connector attachment (126) for attaching to a housing of a steam generator, the housing surrounding a steam chamber (124). The connector attachment includes a water inlet (128) for receiving water from a water supply system and quantitatively supplying the water into the steam chamber. The connector attachment also includes a steam outlet (132) for delivering steam generated in the steam chamber to the outside of the steam chamber. The steam outlet includes a tubular element (132B) for extending into the steam chamber. The tubular element terminates at a first end (136). The steam outlet also includes a hose connector (132A) for extending to the outside of the housing. The hose connector terminates at a second end (138). A linear flow path for steam is defined between the first end and the second end. A steam generator including the connector attachment and a garment care device including such a steam generator are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector attachment for attaching to a housing of a steam generator, the connector attachment comprising a water inlet and a steam outlet. The invention also relates to a steam generator comprising such a connector attachment, and a garment care device comprising the steam generator.

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

[0003] The steam generator evaporates water to generate steam. For this purpose, a water inlet is provided for quantitatively supplying water into the steam generator, and a steam outlet allows steam to leave the steam generator.

[0004] Various types of garment care devices including steam generators are known, such as so-called upright steamers, which typically include a base unit, a hand unit having at least one steam outlet, and a steam hose cord connecting the steam generator in the base unit to the hand unit.

[0005] The water inlet and the steam outlet in conventional steam generator (for example, the steam generator included in the vertical steam engine) are spaced apart from each other. Usually, the water inlet is located at the top side of the steam generator, and the steam outlet is located at the bottom side of the steam generator.

[0006] Spatially separating the water inlet and steam outlet in this manner limits the compactness of the steam generator. A larger steam generator, in turn, means higher costs for production, storage, and transportation to consumers. Furthermore, if the steam outlet is located at the bottom of the steam generator, there is an increased risk of fouling particles escaping through the steam outlet and blocking it. Blockage of the steam outlet by fouling can shorten the operating life of the steam generator.

[0007] FR 2714401 A1 discloses a steam dispensing device comprising a steam generator for supplying steam to an iron. The device has a water injection hole with means for closing the hole and an outlet for supplying steam to a separate attachment. Summary of the Invention

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the above challenges.

[0009] The invention is defined by the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

[0010] To this end, the steam generator according to the present invention comprises:

[0011] a housing enclosing a steam chamber for generating steam, and

[0012] - a connector attachment attached to the housing, the connector attachment comprising:

[0013] a water inlet for receiving water from a water supply and metering said water into the steam chamber, and

[0014] - a steam outlet for delivering steam generated in the steam chamber to the outside of the steam chamber, the steam outlet comprising a tubular element extending into the steam chamber and a hose connector extending to the outside of the shell, the tubular element being in fluid communication with the hose connector, wherein the tubular element terminates at a first end inside the steam chamber and the hose connector extends away from the shell to terminate at a second end outside the shell, a linear flow path for the steam being defined between the first end and the second end.

[0015] Protrusion of the tubular element into the steam chamber may help to minimise or prevent the steam outlet from being blocked by scaling.Manufacturing may be facilitated by including the tubular element in the connector attachment, rather than in a housing surrounding the steam chamber.

[0016] Since both the water inlet and the steam outlet are included in the connector attachment, the water inlet and the steam outlet may be considered to be adjacent to each other.

[0017] This adjacent arrangement of the water inlet and steam outlet may help to provide a more compact design.

[0018] A linear flow path for steam defined between the first and second ends of the steam outlet can provide various benefits. In particular, the linear flow path can help reduce scale accumulation and / or allow scale to more efficiently fall from the steam outlet back into the steam chamber. Furthermore, the linear flow path can help any water that condenses in the steam outlet flow back into the steam chamber, thereby minimizing the risk of water splashing onto garments.

[0019] In some embodiments, the tubular element extends into the steam chamber such that a distance from the first end of the tubular element to an inner surface of the housing adjacent the tubular element is in the range of [1; 10] mm.

[0020] Preferably, the tubular element is made of a plastic material. This can help reduce scale clogging of the steam outlet. Plastic materials tend to be relatively insulating and therefore less likely to provide a surface for water to evaporate and for scale to accumulate. Alternatively or additionally, scale may only weakly adhere to the plastic material.

[0021] In some embodiments, the water inlet and steam outlet are integrally formed as a single piece of plastic material.

[0022] Any suitable plastic material may be used to form part or all of the connector attachment, such as polyamides, such as glass-filled nylons, and / or fluoropolymers.

[0023] For example, the water inlet and the steam outlet are integrated or molded into the connector attachment to form a single piece of plastic material.

[0024] In some embodiments, the connector attachment is attached to an upper portion of the housing, the housing and connector attachment being arranged such that the hose connector and tubular element extend substantially vertically when the steam generator is oriented for use.

[0025] This vertical arrangement of the hose connector and tubular element, combined with the above-mentioned linear steam path, can promote the return of condensed water to the steam chamber. This can help reduce water retention in the steam hose attached to the hose connector and thereby minimize the risk of water splashing onto clothing.

[0026] In some embodiments, the water inlet comprises a water hose connector extending outside the housing for receiving water from a water supply, wherein the water hose connector is fluidly connected to a water conduit in fluid communication with the steam chamber.

[0027] In such an embodiment, when the steam generator is oriented for use, the water hose connector preferably extends substantially horizontally and the water conduit extends substantially vertically.This arrangement of the water inlet may help to reduce inadvertent water dosing or dripping into the steam chamber.

[0028] This vertical arrangement of the water line relative to the water hose connector is achieved, for example, via an elbow at the connection between the water hose connector and the water line.

[0029] Preferably, the steam generator comprises a steam surface arranged to evaporate water thereon to generate steam, wherein the steam surface is inclined at an oblique angle relative to the substantially vertically extending water conduit.

[0030] This arrangement of the steam surface relative to the water conduit may promote evaporation of water on the steam surface and thereby help to minimise the accumulation of water at the base of the steam chamber.

[0031] The steam surface is preferably inclined relative to the substantially vertically extending water conduit at an angle of inclination in the range of [15; 45] degrees. The angle of the steam surface relative to the horizontal may be in the range of [45; 75] degrees.

[0032] This angle range has been found to be optimal for minimizing water accumulation at the base of the steam chamber, even at relatively high water flow rates. This angle also allows scale to break off and fall from the steam surface more efficiently, allowing it to accumulate in the scale-depositing area at the base of the steam chamber. This, in turn, can help extend the transient steam generation capacity of the steam generator, as less scale adhering to the steam surface means more efficient heat transfer to the water being metered thereto.

[0033] In some embodiments, the steam generator includes an anti-scale adhesion pipe fluidly connected to the water pipe and extending into the steam chamber for supplying water into the steam chamber.

[0034] For example, the scale-preventing adhesion conduit extends from a water inlet aperture arranged in the housing through the aperture.

[0035] Anti-scale adhesion piping can help minimize or prevent scale from hindering water delivery to the steam chamber.

[0036] Preferably, the scale-resistant conduit is in the form of a tubular insert formed from a fluoropolymer material. Due to its relatively low adhesion to scale, this fluoropolymer material can help reduce scale accumulation and promote scale shedding. Thus, the fluoropolymer material can help prevent scale from blocking water delivery to the steam chamber.

[0037] In some embodiments, the steam generator includes a sealing member disposed between the connector attachment and the housing.

[0038] In such an embodiment, the sealing member preferably defines:

[0039] - a first hole through which the tubular element extends, and

[0040] - a second hole through which the anti-scale adhesion conduit extends.

[0041] The second hole may allow the scale-resistant adhesion conduit to pass through the wall of the housing and into the steam chamber.

[0042] For example, the first hole and the second hole are separated from each other by a portion of the sealing member.

[0043] In some embodiments, the sealing member includes a surface portion and a nose portion, the surface portion extending around the scale-preventing adhesion pipe, and the nose portion extending substantially perpendicular to the surface portion at a distal end of the scale-preventing adhesion pipe.

[0044] This arrangement of the anti-scaling adhesion pipe and the sealing member can further promote scale shedding during the temperature cycle of the steam generator. This may be due to the mismatch in thermal expansion coefficients between the material of the sealing member (e.g., elastomeric material) and the anti-scaling adhesion material of the anti-scaling adhesion pipe (e.g., fluoropolymer).

[0045] In some embodiments, the water inlet includes a hose retaining portion for helping to retain the water hose.

[0046] For example, the hose holding portion is included in the above-mentioned water hose connector.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, the steam outlet may include a further hose retaining portion for assisting in retaining the steam hose.

[0048] For example, a further hose holding part is included in the hose connector.

[0049] Particularly in embodiments in which the connector attachment is formed from a plastics material, such as glass-filled nylon, the hose retaining portion and / or the further hose retaining portion may be relatively simply provided, such as via a molding process for manufacturing the connector attachment.

[0050] In some embodiments, the connector attachment comprises a plate member arranged to support the water inlet and the steam outlet.

[0051] The plate member may facilitate mounting the connector attachment to the housing, in particular mounting the connector attachment to the housing such that the water inlet and the steam outlet are adjacent to each other.

[0052] Preferably, the plate member has one or more alignment features for assisting in mounting the connector attachment, for example for assisting in positioning the connector attachment on the housing and / or sealing member.

[0053] Such alignment feature(s) may help ensure reliable function of the steam generator by facilitating precise positioning of the connector attachment during manufacture / assembly of the steam generator.

[0054] In embodiments where the steam generator includes a sealing member, the alignment feature(s) may assist in positioning the connector attachment on the sealing member.

[0055] Thus, the alignment feature(s) may help to form a proper seal between the connector attachment and the housing.

[0056] According to another aspect, there is provided a garment care device comprising:

[0057] - a base unit comprising a steam generator according to embodiments described herein,

[0058] - a hand unit having at least one steam outlet, and

[0059] - A steam hose cord connecting the steam generator to the hand unit, the steam generated by the steam generator leaving the device via at least one steam outlet.

[0060] In some embodiments, the hand unit further comprises a steam heater arranged to reheat steam received from the steam generator before the steam leaves the hand unit via the at least one steam exhaust port.The steam heater may help minimise the risk of water splashing onto garments.

[0061] According to another aspect, there is provided a connector attachment for attaching to a housing of a steam generator, the housing enclosing a steam chamber, the connector attachment comprising:

[0062] a water inlet for receiving water from a water supply system and metering said water into the steam chamber,

[0063] - a steam outlet for delivering steam generated in the steam chamber to the outside of the steam chamber, the steam outlet comprising a tubular element for extending into the steam chamber and a hose connector for extending to the outside of the housing, the tubular element being in fluid communication with the hose connector, wherein the tubular element terminates at a first end and the hose connector terminates at a second end, a linear flow path for the steam being defined between the first end and the second end.

[0064] Preferably, the water inlet and steam outlet are integrally formed as a single piece of plastics material.

[0065] A kit of parts may include a connector attachment according to embodiments described herein, together with the sealing member described above and / or the anti-scale adhesion pipe described above.

[0066] This kit of parts may be used to replace an existing connector attachment of a steam generator.

[0067] More generally, it should be noted that embodiments described herein with respect to steam generators may apply to the connector attachment itself and / or the kit of parts, and embodiments described herein with respect to the connector attachment and / or the kit of parts may apply to steam generators.

[0068] Detailed description and other aspects of the present invention are given below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] Certain aspects of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like components or sub-steps are designated in the same manner:

[0070] Figure 1A and Figure 1B depicts a garment care device according to one example,

[0071] Figure 2 A steam generator for inclusion in a garment care device is depicted,

[0072] Figure 3 provides a view of the interior of the steam generator,

[0073] Figure 4A An exploded view of a portion of a steam generator is provided.

[0074] Figure 4B The dosing of water inside the steam generator is shown when the steam generator is oriented for use.

[0075] Figure 4C Depicts the angle of the steam generator's steam surface relative to the horizontal plane,

[0076] Figure 5 provides a view of a connector attachment according to one example,

[0077] Figure 6 provides a view of a sealing member according to one example,

[0078] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Provides an illustration of a scale-adhesion-resistant pipe according to one example, and

[0079] Figure 8 A steam generator test rig is schematically depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A garment care device 100 according to one example is depicted. The garment care device 100 includes a base unit 102 including a steam generator ( Figure 1A and Figure 1B The design of the steam generator, which may help make the base unit 102 more compact, will be described in more detail below.

[0081] The garment care device 100 further comprises a hand unit 104. At least one steam outlet (not visible in the drawings) is provided in the hand unit 104 for releasing steam to the garment to be treated.

[0082] A steam hose cord 106 connects the steam generator to the hand unit 104. Steam generated by the steam generator exits the device via at least one steam exhaust port.

[0083] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The garment care device 100 shown can be considered a vertical steamer. In this non-limiting example, the garment care device 100 includes an ironing board 108 that is positioned at a position such as Figure 1A shown in and by Figure 1B The vertical orientation represented by the dashed line 110 and the Figure 1B The horizontal orientation shown is tiltable.

[0084] In some embodiments, the hand unit 104 further comprises a steam heater (not visible in the drawings) arranged to reheat steam received from the steam generator before the steam exits the hand unit 104 via the at least one steam exhaust port. The steam heater may help minimize the risk of water splashing onto the garment being treated.

[0085] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B In the non-limiting example shown, the garment care device 100 includes a holder 112 for supporting the hand unit 104 when the hand unit 104 is not held by a user. As shown, such a holder 112 can be mounted on the ironing board 108.

[0086] Figures 2 to 4C Various views of a steam generator 120 according to one example are provided. For example, the steam generator 120 may be included in Figure 1A and Figure 1B The garment care device 100 is shown in the above-mentioned base unit 102.

[0087] like Figure 4B As best shown in FIG, steam generator 120 includes housings 122A, 122B that surround a steam chamber 124. Housings 122A, 122B may be formed of any suitable material capable of withstanding steam generation in steam chamber 124. Preferably, housings 122A, 122B are formed of a metallic material, such as aluminum.

[0088] In at least some embodiments, the housings 122A, 122B are at least partially formed via a casting (eg, die casting) process. In a specific, non-limiting example, the housings 122A, 122B are formed from die-cast aluminum.

[0089] In some embodiments, for example Figures 2 to 4C As shown, the housings 122A, 122B include an upper portion 122A and a lower portion 122B. The upper portion 122A and the lower portion 122B may be connected to each other to enclose the steam chamber 124.

[0090] This connection of the upper portion 122A and the lower portion 122B may be achieved in any suitable manner, such as using one or more screws 125 .

[0091] It should be noted that in the context of the components of the housings 122A, 122B, the terms "upper" and "lower" are used with reference to the orientation of the steam generator 120 in use, such as when the steam generator 120 is installed in the base unit 102 of the garment care device 100, where the base unit 102 itself is oriented for use. With respect to the embodiments described below, further reference is made to the orientation of the steam generator 120 in use.

[0092] The connector attachment 126 may be attached to the housings 122A, 122B. Figure 3 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the connector attachment 126 includes a water inlet 128 for receiving water from a water supply and metering the water into the steam chamber 124 .

[0093] In at least some embodiments, water inlet 128 includes a water hose connector 128A for receiving water from a water supply.

[0094] Such a water hose connector 128A is preferably capable of connecting a water hose 130 to the connector attachment 126 .

[0095] For example, such a water hose 130 can deliver water from a water reservoir (not visible in the drawings) to the water inlet 128. Figure 3 This is indicated by arrow 131. Such a water reservoir is comprised in the base unit 102 of the garment care device 100, for example.

[0096] The connector attachment 126 also includes a steam outlet 132 for delivering the steam generated in the steam chamber 124 to the outside of the steam chamber 124. Figure 3 This is indicated by arrow 133. The steam outlet 132 includes a hose connector 132A that extends away from the housings 122A, 122B.

[0097] The hose connector 132A is preferably capable of connecting the steam hose 134 to the connector attachment 126 .

[0098] Such a steam hose 134 is, for example, comprised in or defines a steam hose cord 106 of the garment care device 100 .

[0099] Since the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 are both included in the connector attachment 126, the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 can be considered to be adjacent to each other. This adjacent arrangement of the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 can help provide a more compact design. In particular, the adjacent arrangement of the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 can mean that the above-mentioned base unit 102 incorporating the steam generator 120 is made more compact.

[0100] like Figure 3 As best shown in FIG, steam outlet 132 includes a tubular element 132B that extends into steam chamber 124 and is in fluid communication with hose connector 132A. Extension of tubular element 132B into steam chamber 124 may help minimize or prevent steam outlet 132 from becoming blocked by scale.

[0101] Manufacturing may be facilitated by including the tubular element 132B in the connector attachment 126, rather than in the housings 122A, 122B surrounding the steam chamber 124. In particular, obtaining such a tubular element 132B via casting (e.g., the die casting process used to manufacture the housings 122A, 122B) as described above may not be easy or feasible.

[0102] Back to Figure 3 The tubular element 132B terminates at a first end 136 inside the steam chamber 124, and the hose connector terminates at a second end 138 outside the housings 122A, 122B. A linear flow path for steam is defined between the first end 136 and the second end 138.

[0103] Such a linear flow path may be provided by the hose connector 132A and the tubular element 132B extending along a common axis CA passing through the (axially aligned) centers of the hose connector 132A and the tubular element 132B.

[0104] A linear flow path for steam defined between the first end 136 and the second end 138 of the steam outlet 132 can provide various benefits. In particular, the linear flow path can help reduce scale accumulation and / or can allow scale to more effectively fall from the steam outlet 132 back into the steam chamber 124. Additionally, the linear flow path can help any water that condenses in the steam outlet 132 flow back into the steam chamber 124, thereby minimizing the risk of water splashing onto garments.

[0105] In some embodiments, the tubular element 132B extends into the steam chamber 124 such that a distance D from a first end 136 of the tubular element 132B to an inner surface 139 of the housing 122A, 122B adjacent the tubular element 132B is in the range of [1; 10] mm.

[0106] Preferably, the tubular element 132B is made of a plastic material. Any suitable plastic material may be used for this purpose, such as polyamide and / or fluoropolymer.

[0107] In a non-limiting example, tubular element 132B is made of glass-filled nylon.

[0108] By making the tubular element 132B from a plastic material, fouling of the steam outlet 132 can be further mitigated. Plastic materials tend to be relatively insulating and therefore less likely to provide a surface on which water evaporates and deposits fouling. Alternatively or additionally, fouling may only weakly adhere to the plastic material, particularly when the tubular element 132B is made from a fluoropolymer.

[0109] In some embodiments, for example, Figures 2 to 4C As shown, the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 are integrally formed as a single piece of plastic material.

[0110] For example, the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 are integrated or molded to form a single piece of plastic material that defines the connector attachment 126 .

[0111] Any suitable heat-resistant plastic material may be used to form the connector attachment 126, such as polyamides, such as glass-filled nylons, and / or fluoropolymers.

[0112] The connector attachment 126 is preferably attached to the upper portion 122A of the housing 122A, 122B, wherein the housing 122A, 122B and the connector attachment 126 are arranged so that when the steam generator 120 is oriented for use, the hose connector 132A and the tubular element 132B extend substantially vertically. This vertical arrangement of the hose connector 132A and the tubular element 132B, combined with the above-mentioned linear flow path, can promote the return of condensed water to the steam chamber 124. This can help reduce water stagnation within the steam hose 134 attached to the hose connector 132A and, therefore, minimize the risk of water splashing onto clothing.

[0113] It should be noted that the term "substantially vertical" herein may mean that the extension of the tubular element 132B is within 10 degrees of a vertical line defined by the local direction of gravity. Figure 4C Indicated by reference symbol V.

[0114] exist Figures 2 to 4C In the non-limiting example shown, the upper portion 122A of the housing 122A, 122B includes a vertically extending (when the steam generator 120 is oriented for use) chimney portion 141 to which the connector attachment 126 may be attached.

[0115] Chimney portion 141 may help orient tubular element 132B in the substantially vertical manner described above.

[0116] In some embodiments, and with reference to Figure 3 , the water hose connector 128A is fluidly connected to the water conduit 128B, wherein the water hose connector 128A and the water conduit 128B form an elbow 140 at their connection.

[0117] Figure 4B and Figure 4C Shown is the steam generator 120 when being oriented for use.In the orientation in this use, water hose connector 128A extends horizontally substantially, and water conduit 128B extends vertically substantially.This arrangement of water inlet 128 can help to reduce unintentional water dosing or dripping in the steam chamber 124.

[0118] It should be noted that the term "substantially vertical" herein may mean that the extension of the water conduit 128B is within 10 degrees of a vertical line defined by the local direction of gravity. Figure 4C Indicated by reference symbol V.

[0119] The term "substantially horizontal" may mean that the extension of the water hose connector 128A is within 10 degrees of a horizontal plane perpendicular to a vertical line V defined by the local direction of gravity. Figure 4C Indicated by reference symbol H.

[0120] exist Figures 2 to 4C In the non-limiting example shown, the chimney-shaped portion 141 may help orient the water conduit 128B in a substantially vertical manner.

[0121] Figures 2 to 4C The illustrated housings 122A, 122B define a water inlet aperture 142. In the non-limiting example shown in these figures, the water inlet aperture 142 is provided in an upper portion 122A of the housings 122A, 122B.

[0122] In the non-limiting example shown in the drawings, the housings 122A, 122B further define a steam outlet aperture 143 adjacent the water inlet aperture 142. In this case, the tubular element 132B extends through the steam outlet aperture 143 into the steam chamber 124.

[0123] While in this example a portion 145 of the housing 122A, 122B separates the water inlet aperture 142 from the steam outlet aperture 143, in an alternative example the water is delivered and the tubular element 132B extends through a single aperture provided in the housing 122A, 122B.

[0124] The steam generator 120 preferably includes an anti-scale adhesion pipe 144 that is fluidly connected to the water pipe 128B of the water inlet 128 (regardless of whether the water inlet 128 includes a water hose connector 128A). In this embodiment, the anti-scale adhesion pipe 144 extends into the steam chamber 124 for supplying water to the steam chamber 124.

[0125] For example, the scale-preventing adhesion pipe 144 extends from and / or through the water inlet hole 142 .

[0126] The anti-scale sticking conduit 144 may help minimize or prevent scale from impeding water delivery to the steam chamber 124. To this end, the anti-scale sticking conduit 144 may be formed from a non-stick material, such as a fluoropolymer.

[0127] Preferably, the scale-resistant conduit 144 is in the form of a tubular insert formed from a fluoropolymer material. Due to its relatively low adhesion to scale, this fluoropolymer material can help reduce scale accumulation and promote scale shedding. Thus, the fluoropolymer material can help prevent scale from blocking water delivery to the steam chamber 124.

[0128] More generally, the steam generator 120 includes a steam surface 146 arranged to evaporate water thereon to generate steam.

[0129] In the non-limiting example shown in the figures, the steam surface 146 is included in the lower portion 122B of the housing 122A, 122B. The steam surface 146 is heated via a heating element arrangement 147 which is arranged in the lower portion 122B of the housing 122A, 122B.

[0130] like Figure 4C As shown, the steam surface 146 is inclined at an inclination angle OA relative to the substantially vertically extending water conduit 128B. The term inclined in this context means that the steam surface 146 extends neither parallel nor perpendicular to the direction of extension of the water conduit 128B.

[0131] This arrangement of the steam surface 146 relative to the water tube 128B can facilitate metered delivery (see Figure 4B WA in the figure) to the evaporation of water on the steam surface 146, and thereby helping to minimize the accumulation of water at the base 149 of the steam chamber 124.

[0132] It should be noted, for the avoidance of doubt, that this arrangement of the water conduit 128B relative to the steam surface 146 is achievable regardless of whether the water inlet 128 includes the hose connector 128A.

[0133] Preferably, the water inlet 128 is positioned as high as possible (taking into account the orientation of the steam generator 120 in use) to help a larger portion of the steam surface 146 be used to evaporate water and to help extend the time it takes for water to reach the bottom of the steam surface 146 (which can be at a lower temperature), thereby minimizing the accumulation of water at the base 149 of the steam chamber 124.

[0134] Preferably, the steam outlet 132 is positioned as high as possible (taking into account the orientation of the steam generator 120 in use) and as far away from the steam surface 146 as possible. This can help extend the operating life of the steam generator 120 because scale can accumulate mostly at the base 149 to the middle region of the steam chamber 124, and generally heavier scale particles can be more difficult to be carried by the steam to the higher steam outlet 132.

[0135] In some embodiments, and with reference to Figure 4C , the steam surface 146 is inclined at an inclination angle OA relative to the substantially vertically extending water conduit 128B, which is in the range of [15; 45] degrees.

[0136] The angle ΔH of the steam surface 146 relative to the horizontal plane H can be in the range of [45; 75] degrees. This angle range has been found to be optimal for minimizing water accumulation at the base 149 of the steam chamber 124, even at relatively high water flow rates. This angle can also allow scale to break off and fall from the steam surface 146 more effectively, allowing the scale to accumulate in the scale deposition area at the base 149 of the steam chamber 124. This, in turn, can help extend the transient steam generation capacity of the steam generator 120, as less scale adhering to the steam surface 146 can mean more efficient heat transfer to the water being metered thereto.

[0137] In some embodiments, as Figures 2 to 4C As shown, the steam generator 120 includes a sealing member 148 disposed between the connector attachment 126 and the housings 122A, 122B. The sealing member 148 can help minimize or prevent fluid (particularly steam and water) from leaking from the steam chamber 124 between the housings 122A, 122B and the connector attachment 126.

[0138] The sealing member 148 may be formed of any suitable material. For example, the sealing member 148 may be formed of an elastic material, such as silicone rubber.

[0139] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 , the sealing member 148 preferably defines:

[0140] - a first hole 150 through which the tubular element 132B extends, and

[0141] A second hole 152 through which the anti-scale adhesion duct 144 extends.

[0142] The second hole 152 may allow the anti-scale adhesion conduit 144 to pass through the wall of the housing 122A, 122B and into the steam chamber 124 .

[0143] In the non-limiting example shown in the figures, the first aperture 150 and the second aperture 152 are separated from one another by a portion 151 of the sealing member 148 .

[0144] In some embodiments, for example Figure 6 In the embodiment shown in FIG, the sealing member 148 includes a surface portion 155 for extending around the anti-scale adhesion pipe 144, and a nose portion 154 arranged to extend substantially perpendicularly to the surface portion 155 at the end of the anti-scale adhesion pipe 144 (eg, be enlarged).

[0145] The steam chamber exposed end of the anti-scale adhesion conduit 144 , such as a tubular insert, may be aligned with the steam chamber exposed surface portion of the nose portion 154 .

[0146] The end of the anti-scale adhesion pipe 144 is partially aligned with the surface of the nose portion 154 (e.g., flush aligned), which can further promote scale shedding during temperature cycling of the steam generator 120. This may be due to the mismatch in thermal expansion coefficients between the material of the sealing member 148 (e.g., an elastomeric material) and the anti-scale adhesion material of the anti-scale adhesion pipe 144 (e.g., a fluoropolymer).

[0147] The sealing member 148 can be engaged with the housings 122A, 122B in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in the figures, the nose portion 154 is insertable into the steam chamber 124 via the water inlet aperture 142, but is shaped so that once inserted, the retraction of the nose portion 154 through the water inlet aperture 142 is limited.

[0148] In the non-limiting example shown in the drawings, the nose portion 154 is conical, although other shapes, such as pyramidal, are also contemplated, which means that the nose portion 154 is easier to insert into the steam chamber 124 than to retract it from the steam chamber 124.

[0149] In some embodiments, as Figure 5 As best shown in FIG, the water inlet 128 includes a hose retaining portion 156 for helping to retain the water hose 130. For example, the hose retaining portion 156 is included in the water hose connector 128A described above.

[0150] In the non-limiting example shown in the figures, the hose retaining portion 156 is defined by annular protrusion(s) that project from an outer surface of the water hose connector 128A.

[0151] It should also be noted that the reference Figure 2 Alternatively or additionally, the water hose 130 may be secured to the water hose connector 128A using a water hose clamp 157 that is arranged to compress the water hose 130 around and against the water hose connector 128A.

[0152] Alternatively or additionally, the steam outlet 132 may include a further hose retaining portion 158 for assisting in retaining the steam hose 134. For example, the further hose retaining portion 158 is included in the hose connector 132A.

[0153] In the non-limiting example shown in the figures, the other hose retaining portion 158 is defined by annular protrusion(s) protruding from an outer surface of the hose connector 132A.

[0154] It should also be noted that the reference Figure 2 Alternatively or additionally, the steam hose 134 may be secured to the hose connector 132A using a steam hose clamp 159 arranged to compress the steam hose 134 around and against the hose connector 132A.

[0155] Particularly in embodiments where the connector attachment 126 is formed from a plastic material (e.g., glass-filled nylon), the hose retaining portion 156 and / or the further hose retaining portion 158 may be provided relatively simply, such as via a molding process used to manufacture the connector attachment 126.

[0156] The connector attachment 126 can be attached to the housing 122A, 122B in any suitable manner. In the non-limiting example shown in the figures, the connector attachment 126 can be attached to the housing 122A, 122B via screws 160 that pass through holes defined by the connector attachment 126 and screw into openings defined by the housing 122A, 122B.

[0157] More generally, and with reference to Figure 5 , the connector attachment 126 preferably includes a plate member 168 arranged to support the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 .

[0158] In such an embodiment, the sealing member 148 can contact the underside of the plate member 168 and the outer surface of the housings 122A, 122B. The sealing member 148 is preferably received in a complementary shaped recessed portion of the outer surface of the housings 122A, 122B.

[0159] The plate member 168 preferably has one or more alignment features to help position the connector attachment 126 in the correct location on the housing 122A, 122B and / or the sealing member 148 .

[0160] The underside of plate member 168 may include an annular ridge 174 around tubular element 132B and / or another annular ridge 176 around water conduit 128B that compresses sealing member 148 to ensure a proper seal between plate member 168 and upper portion 122A of housing 122A, 122B.

[0161] Alternatively or additionally, one or more studs 178 protruding from the underside of the plate member 168 may facilitate engagement of the connector attachment 126 with the sealing member 148 .

[0162] Figure 7A and Figure 7B A view of an anti-scale adhesion conduit 144 in the form of a tubular insert is provided. In this non-limiting example, the anti-scale adhesion conduit 144 includes a downstream cylindrical portion 180 and an upstream flared portion 182.

[0163] The upstream flared portion 182 may help limit movement of the scale prevention conduit 144 within the second bore 152 of the sealing member 148 in a direction toward the steam chamber 124 .

[0164] Figure 8 The steam generator test apparatus is schematically depicted. Box 184 indicates a supply of water having a pH of 7.5 to 7.9, a hardness [dH] of 11.1 to 14.1, and a conductivity [μS] of 670 to 830. This water is used to fill a water tank 186. A pump 188 is used to pump water from the water tank 186 to the steam generator 120. Condensed water is collected in a container 190. For the steam generator 120 according to the present disclosure (Table 1), and for a conventional steam generator in which the water inlet and steam outlet are remote from each other and therefore neither is included in the connector attachment 126 in the manner described herein (Table 2), the mass of condensed water collected every 30 minutes and the hardness of the condensed water were determined.

[0165]

[0166] Table 1

[0167]

[0168] Table 2

[0169] During steam delivery, the steam can transfer energy to the steam hose 134 and condense into water. Therefore, the amount of water collected in the container 190 can correspond to the sum of the amount of steam condensed water and water droplets escaping from the steam generator without evaporation.

[0170] It is assumed that due to the inclusion of the water inlet 128 and the steam outlet 132 in the connector attachment 126, more water will be collected in the container 190 compared to the case of a conventional steam generator. However, no significant difference in the amount of condensed water collected in the container 190 was observed. This was verified via a two-sample T-test. It should be noted that a two-sample T-test (also known as an independent sample T-test) is a method for testing whether the unknown population means of two groups are equal.

[0171] In terms of hardness, the quality of condensed water collected from the steam generator 120 according to the present disclosure is the same as that collected from a conventional steam generator, which also supports this quantitative observation. Similar water hardness was also verified via a two-sample T-test.

[0172] Thus, the benefits provided by the connector attachment 126 (eg, in terms of facilitating a more compact design) may not result in compromised steam performance.

[0173] The above embodiments described are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical methods of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the technical methods of the present invention may be modified or equivalently replaced without departing from the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A steam generator (120) for a garment care device (100), the steam generator comprising: - a housing (122A, 122B) enclosing a steam chamber (124) for generating steam, and - a connector attachment (126) attached to the housing, the connector attachment (126) comprising: a water inlet (128) for receiving water from a water supply system and metering said water into the steam chamber, a steam outlet (132) for delivering steam generated in the steam chamber to the exterior of the steam chamber, the steam outlet comprising a tubular element (132B) extending into the steam chamber and a hose connector (132A) extending to the exterior of the housing, the tubular element being in fluid communication with the hose connector, wherein the tubular element terminates at a first end (136) inside the steam chamber and the hose connector extends away from the housing to terminate at a second end (138) outside the housing, a linear flow path for the steam being defined between the first end and the second end; The water inlet (128) includes a water hose connector (128A) extending outside the housing (122A, 122B) for receiving water from the water supply system, the water hose connector (128A) being fluidly connected to a water conduit (128B) which is in fluid communication with the steam chamber (124), wherein when the steam generator is oriented for use, the water hose connector extends substantially horizontally and the water conduit extends substantially vertically.

2. The steam generator (120) of claim 1, wherein the water inlet (128) and the steam outlet (132) are integrally formed as a single piece of plastic material.

3. The steam generator (120) according to claim 1, wherein the tubular element (132B) is made of a plastic material.

4. A steam generator (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connector attachment (126) is attached to an upper portion (122A) of the shell (122A, 122B), the shell and the connector attachment being arranged so that when the steam generator is oriented for use, the hose connector (132A) and the tubular element (132B) extend substantially vertically.

5. The steam generator (120) according to claim 1 comprises a steam surface (146) arranged to evaporate water thereon to generate the steam, the steam surface being inclined at an inclination angle (OA) relative to the water pipe (128B) extending substantially vertically, the inclination angle being in the range of [15; 45] degrees.

6. The steam generator (120) according to claim 1, comprising an anti-scale adhesion pipe (144) fluidly connected to the water pipe (128B), the anti-scale adhesion pipe extending into the steam chamber (124) for supplying water into the steam chamber.

7. The steam generator (120) of claim 6, wherein the scale-preventing pipe (144) is in the form of a tubular insert formed of a fluoropolymer material.

8. The steam generator (120) according to claim 6 or 7, comprising a sealing member (148) arranged between the connector attachment (126) and the housing (122A, 122B), wherein the sealing member defines: - a first hole (150) through which said tubular element (132B) extends, - a second hole (152) through which the anti-scale adhesion conduit (144) extends.

9. The steam generator (120) according to claim 8, wherein the sealing member (148) includes a surface portion (155) and a nose portion (154), wherein the surface portion (155) extends around the anti-scale adhesion pipe (144) and the nose portion (154) extends substantially perpendicular to the surface portion at the end of the anti-scale adhesion pipe.

10. The steam generator (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 7 and 9, wherein: - the water inlet (128) includes a hose retaining portion (156) for assisting in retaining the water hose (130), and / or - the steam outlet (132) comprises a further hose retaining portion (158) for assisting in retaining the steam hose (134).

11. The steam generator (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5 to 7 and 9, wherein the connector attachment (126) comprises a plate member (168) arranged to support the water inlet (128) and the steam outlet (132).

12. The steam generator (120) of claim 11, wherein the plate member (168) has one or more alignment features for facilitating installation of the connector attachment (126).

13. A garment care device (100), comprising: - a base unit (102) comprising a steam generator (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, - a hand unit (104) having at least one steam outlet, and - a steam hose cord (106) connecting the steam generator to the hand unit, the steam generated by the steam generator leaving the device via at least one of the steam outlets.

14. The garment care device (100) of claim 13, wherein the hand unit (104) further comprises a steam heater arranged to reheat the steam received from the steam generator (120) before the steam leaves the hand unit via at least one of the steam exhaust ports.

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