Garment care device having a pump for pumping water after detecting power-up of the garment care device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a garment care device (100), comprising: a water tank (102) for storing water; a steam generator (104); and a pump (106) for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator to generate steam. A water fluid transport volume (FV) is defined between an outlet (O1) of the water tank and an inlet (IN1) of the steam generator. The water fluid transport volume is in the range of 5 to 30 ml, preferably 10 to 30 ml. The pump is arranged to pump water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to reach the steam generator. The garment care device further comprises a steam trigger (124) and a control unit (120, 130). The control unit is adapted to: i) detect power-up of the garment care device, and ii) generate an activation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after power-up of the garment care device is detected. The control unit is further adapted to: iii) in response to said activation signal, activate the pump at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] g / min for a first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment care device having a water tank and a steam generator, and in particular to controlling a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator.

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

[0003] Various types of garment care devices are known in which water contained in a water tank is pumped to a steam generator to generate steam for treating garments.

[0004] An example of such a garment care device is a so-called pressurized steam generator (PSG) iron, which has a hand unit connected to a separate base containing a water tank. The steam generator is contained in the hand unit. By pumping water from the water tank in the base to the steam generator in the hand unit, pressurized steam is generated. This pressurized steam can help iron garments more quickly.

[0005] Including the water tank in the base can enable extended ironing sessions involving relatively heavy ironing loads. This is because the tank's capacity can be greater than if the water tank were included in the hand unit. Besides requiring less frequent refilling, locating the water tank in the base prevents the weight of the water in the tank from interfering with handling the hand unit.

[0006] In response to actuation of the steam trigger, a high-pressure pump in the base pumps water to the hand unit via a hose. The water is then transported to the steam generator in the hand unit, where steam is generated almost instantly. This allows the user to enjoy powerful steam delivery similar to that provided by a boiler system, but with a more compact design.

[0007] However, enhancing the responsiveness of this type of garment care device remains a challenge. In particular, a key goal is to minimize the delay between steam trigger actuation and steam delivery.

[0008] DE 10 2020 129002 A1 discloses a steam iron comprising an ironing unit, a water supply unit, and a control unit in communication with the ironing unit and the water supply unit. The steam iron further comprises a steam switch that is activated by the control unit when the ironing unit is heated to 180°C or higher, and operates a first usage mode when the activated steam switch is pressed for the first time. The first usage mode comprises a high flow phase, during which a water pump included in the water supply unit pumps water at a high flow rate of 150 to 300 g / min for a high flow period of 1 to 15 seconds.

[0009] EP 3 266 926 A1 discloses a method of heating water in a household appliance, the method comprising: pumping water from a water supply through a conduit to a heater at a lower power level according to conditions corresponding to the air in the pump; and pumping water from the water supply to the heater at a higher power level. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a garment care device that avoids or alleviates the above-mentioned problems.

[0011] The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0012] To this end, the clothing care device according to the present invention comprises:

[0013] - a water tank for storing water,

[0014] - steam generator,

[0015] a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator for generating steam, a water fluid transport volume being defined between the water tank and the steam generator, said water fluid transport volume being in the range of 5 to 30 ml, preferably in the range of 10 to 30 ml, the pump being arranged to pump water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to the steam generator,

[0016] -Steam triggers, and

[0017] - a control unit adapted to:

[0018] i) detecting power-up of the garment care device,

[0019] ii) generating an activation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after detecting power-up of the garment care device, and

[0020] iii) in response to the actuation signal, actuating the pump at a first predetermined flow rate within a range of [150; 250] g / min for a first predetermined duration, the first predetermined duration not exceeding a value within a range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

[0021] Pumping water at this relatively high flow rate for this relatively short duration after powering up the garment care device can allow the water fluid transport volume to be filled relatively quickly. In this way, the delay in steam generation can be shortened, thereby improving the user experience and performance of garment steaming.

[0022] In some embodiments, powering up the garment care device corresponds to the first time powering up occurs in the useful life of the garment care device.

[0023] The first occurrence of power up in the useful life of the garment care device may correspond to the first time the garment care device is powered up from its factory power setting.

[0024] In embodiments where the power-up corresponds to the first power-up occurring in the useful life of the garment care device, the first predetermined flow rate is preferably in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute and the first predetermined duration is in the range of [2; 5] seconds.

[0025] For example, when power-up corresponds to the first occurrence of power-up in the useful life of the garment care device, the first predetermined flow rate is 200 grams per minute for a first predetermined duration of 3.6 seconds.

[0026] In some embodiments, powering up the garment care device corresponds to a subsequent powering up occurring after powering up has occurred for the first time in the useful life of the garment care device.

[0027] The subsequent power-up(s) may correspond to power-ups(s) performed after the first power-up and the first power-down during the useful life of the garment care device. The subsequent power-up(s) may correspond to power-ups(s) of the garment care device for subsequent ironing sessions occurring hours / days / weeks after the completion of the previous ironing session.

[0028] In embodiments where a power up corresponds to a subsequent power up, the first predetermined flow rate is preferably in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute and the first predetermined duration is in the range of [0.2; 2] seconds.

[0029] For example, when the power-up corresponds to a subsequent power-up, the first predetermined flow rate is 200 grams / minute for a first predetermined duration of 1 second.

[0030] Preferably, the first predetermined duration is a cumulative duration when the steam trigger is repeatedly actuated.

[0031] For example, the pump is actuated at the first predetermined flow rate due to one or more repeated (ie, continuous) actuations of the steam trigger, wherein the cumulative duration of the one or more repeated actuations corresponds to the first predetermined duration.

[0032] In some embodiments, after actuating the pump at the first predetermined flow rate during the first predetermined duration, the control unit is further adapted to:

[0033] iv) in response to the actuation signal, actuating the pump at a second predetermined flow rate in the range of [30; 60] g / min for a second duration, the second duration having a value greater than (or equal to) a difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration.

[0034] By subsequently reducing the flow rate to a second predetermined flow rate in this manner, the risk of oversupplying the steam generator with water when the water fluid transport volume is closer to being full of water can be reduced. This can help minimize undesirable "splashing" of liquid water from the garment care device.

[0035] Preferably, the second duration is a cumulative duration when the steam trigger is repeatedly actuated.

[0036] The garment care device preferably comprises a user interface adapted to enable a user to select one or more steam treatment modes, wherein the control unit is further adapted to control the pump based on said user selection after actuating the pump at said second predetermined flow rate for a second duration.

[0037] The one or more steam treatment modes preferably include: a higher steam rate mode, in which the pump is controlled by the control unit to pump water at a higher flow rate; and a lower steam rate mode, in which the pump is controlled by the control unit to pump water at a lower flow rate. The higher steam rate mode can be considered a "MAX" mode, and the lower steam rate mode can be considered an "ECO" mode.

[0038] In embodiments wherein the pump is actuated at the above-mentioned second predetermined flow rate for the second duration, the control unit may be further adapted to control the pump based on said user selection after actuating the pump at said first predetermined flow rate for the first predetermined duration and at said second predetermined flow rate for the second duration.

[0039] In some embodiments, the garment care device comprises:

[0040] - a base comprising a water tank,

[0041] - a hand unit comprising a steam generator, and

[0042] - A hose for conveying water from the base to the hand unit, wherein the hose is made of silicone rubber material or EPDM material.

[0043] The internal volume of the hose may account for at least a portion of the aqueous fluid transport volume mentioned above.

[0044] The first predetermined flow rate and first predetermined duration can be selected based on the material used to make the hose, particularly when the power-up is a subsequent power-up. For example, it has been found that silicone rubber causes more water evaporation from the hose between uses than EPDM. For this reason, the first predetermined flow rate and first predetermined duration, when a subsequent power-up is detected, can be selected so that, when the hose is made of silicone rubber, the volume of water pumped to the steam generator compensates for this greater evaporation.

[0045] There is further provided a method of controlling a garment care device, the garment care device comprising:

[0046] - a water tank for storing water,

[0047] - steam generator,

[0048] a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator for generating steam, a water fluid transport volume being defined between the water tank and the steam generator, the pump being arranged to pump water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to the steam generator, and

[0049] -Steam trigger,

[0050] The method comprises the following steps:

[0051] i) detecting power-up of the garment care device,

[0052] ii) generating an activation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after detecting power-up of the garment care device, and

[0053] iii) in response to the actuation signal, actuating the pump at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] g / min for a first predetermined duration, the first predetermined flow rate being in the range of [150; 250] g / min, the first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

[0054] In some embodiments, detecting comprises:

[0055] - Detecting a power-up of the garment care device, the power-up corresponding to a first power-up occurring in the useful life of the garment care device.

[0056] In embodiments where detecting comprises detecting a power-up corresponding to a first occurrence of a power-up in the useful life of the garment care device, the actuating preferably comprises:

[0057] - activating the pump at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute for a first predetermined duration in the range of [2; 5] seconds.

[0058] In some embodiments, detecting comprises:

[0059] - Detecting a power up of the garment care device, the power up corresponding to a subsequent power up occurring after a power up has occurred for the first time in the useful life of the garment care device.

[0060] In embodiments wherein detecting comprises detecting a power up corresponding to a subsequent power up, said actuating preferably comprises:

[0061] - activating the pump at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute for a first predetermined duration in the range of [0.2; 2] seconds.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: after actuating the pump at the first predetermined flow rate during the first predetermined duration,

[0063] - in response to the activation signal, actuating the pump at a second predetermined flow rate in the range of [30; 60] g / min for a second duration having a value greater than (or equal to) the difference between:

[0064] - a predetermined duration threshold in the range [8; 25] seconds, and

[0065] - a first predetermined duration.

[0066] In some embodiments, the garment care device further comprises a user interface adapted to enable a user to select one or more steam treatment modes, and the method further comprises controlling the pump based on the user selection after actuating the pump at the second predetermined flow rate for the second duration.

[0067] The one or more steam treatment modes preferably include a higher steam rate mode in which the pump is controlled to pump water at a higher flow rate, and a lower steam rate mode in which the pump is controlled to pump water at a lower flow rate.

[0068] The garment care device controlled by the method preferably comprises:

[0069] - a base comprising a water tank,

[0070] - a hand unit comprising a steam generator, and

[0071] - A hose for conveying water from the base to the hand unit, wherein the hose is made of silicone rubber material or EPDM material.

[0072] There is also provided a computer program product comprising instruction codes which, when executed by a control unit of a garment care device as defined above, cause the garment care device to carry out the method as defined above.

[0073] The embodiments described herein with respect to a garment care device are applicable to the method and the computer program product, and the embodiments described herein with respect to the method and the computer program product (e.g., control logic used in such a computer program product) are applicable to a garment care device.

[0074] Detailed explanation and other aspects of the present invention will be given below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] Certain aspects of the invention will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter and considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like parts or sub-steps are designated in the same manner:

[0076] Figure 1 schematically depicts an example of a garment care device according to the present invention,

[0077] Figure 2 A block diagram of a garment care device according to an example of the present invention is provided.

[0078] Figure 3 A simplified flow chart of a method of controlling a garment care device according to the present invention is provided.

[0079] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A flow chart of control logic for controlling a garment care device according to the present invention is provided, and

[0080] Figures 5 to 8 Graphs of water flow rate and steam trigger actuation over time are provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] Figure 1 A garment care device 100 according to a non-limiting example is depicted. The garment care device 100 includes a water tank 102 for storing water and a steam generator 104. The garment care device includes a pump 106 for pumping water from the water tank 102 to the steam generator 104 to generate steam.

[0082] A water fluid transport volume FV is defined between the outlet O1 of the water tank 102 and the inlet IN1 of the steam generator 104. The pump 106 is arranged to pump water from the water tank 102 through the water fluid transport volume FV to reach the steam generator 102.

[0083] exist Figure 1 In the example shown in FIG, the garment care device 100 comprises a treatment plate 108 in which at least one steam outlet 110 is provided. In this case, the steam generated by the steam generator 104 is released from the garment care device 100 via the at least one steam outlet 110.

[0084] In some embodiments (such as Figure 1), the garment care device 100 includes a base 112 including a water tank 102 and a hand unit 114 including a steam generator 104. In this embodiment, the garment care device 100 further includes a hose 116 for conveying water from the base 112 to the hand unit 114.

[0085] The internal volume of the hose 116 may account for at least a portion of the water fluid transport volume FV mentioned above, such as Figure 1 This aspect will be further described below.

[0086] The hose 116 is preferably made of a silicone rubber material or an EPDM material. The importance of selecting the material of the hose 116 for controlling the pump 106 after powering up the garment care device 100 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0087] The garment care device 100 includes control units 120, 130 and a steam trigger 124. The steam trigger 124 is actuatable by a user in order to control the garment care device 100, and in particular to control steam generation by the garment care device 100.

[0088] The steam trigger 124 is preferably included in the hand unit 114 of the garment care device 100 so that the user can control the operation of the garment care device 100 via the steam trigger 124 while applying steam generated by the steam generator 104 to garments (not shown). The steam trigger 124 is, for example, arranged below the handle 126 of the hand unit 114. Figure 1 As shown in .

[0089] In some embodiments, the garment care device 100 includes a user interface 128 adapted to enable a user to select one or more steam treatment modes. Figure 1 The user interface 128 depicted in FIG is located on the hand unit 114 . Alternatively, the user interface 128 may be located on the base 112 .

[0090] The one or more steam treatment modes preferably include a higher steam rate mode in which the pump 106 is controlled by the control units 120, 130 to pump water at a higher flow rate, and a lower steam rate mode in which the pump 106 is controlled by the control units 120, 130 to pump water at a lower flow rate. The higher steam rate mode can be considered a "MAX" mode, and the lower steam rate mode can be considered an "ECO" mode.

[0091] For example, the so-called "MAX" steam treatment mode corresponds to successive steps of reducing the water flow rate when the steam trigger is actuated continuously, such as:

[0092] - 150 g / mn during 1 second from the start of stage 510, then

[0093] - 138 g / mn during 1 second, then

[0094] - 118 g / mn during 1 second, then

[0095] -97g / mn.

[0096] For example, the so-called "ECO" steam treatment mode corresponds to successive steps of reducing the water flow rate (below the water flow rate in the "MAX" mode) when the steam trigger is continuously actuated, such as:

[0097] - 118 g / mn during 1 second from the start of stage 510, then

[0098] - 81 g / mn during 2 seconds, then

[0099] -62g / mn.

[0100] exist Figure 1 In the non-limiting example shown in , the control units 120, 130 are arranged in the base 112. In this case, electrical wiring 132 is provided between the hand unit 114 and the base 112. In particular, the electrical wiring 132 can connect the steam trigger 124 in the hand unit 114 to the control units 120, 130 in the base 112.

[0101] In examples where the user interface 128 is included in the hand unit 114 , electrical wiring 132 may connect the user interface 128 to the control units 120 , 130 .

[0102] In other examples (not shown), the various components of the garment care device are each included in the hand unit. Thus, the water tank, steam generator, pump, steam trigger and control unit are included in the hand unit, for example together with the treatment plate.

[0103] More generally, the control units 120, 130 are adapted to:

[0104] i) detecting power-up of the garment care device 100,

[0105] ii) generating an activation signal when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after detecting power-up of the garment care device 100, and

[0106] iii) in response to the actuation signal, actuating the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate within the range of [150; 250] g / min for a first predetermined duration not exceeding a value within the range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

[0107] Pumping water at such a relatively high flow rate for such a relatively short duration can allow for relatively rapid filling of the water fluid transport volume FV after powering up the garment care device 100. In this way, the delay in steam generation can be shortened, thereby improving the user experience and performance of garment steaming.

[0108] The control of the pump 106 mentioned above differs from some known garment care devices in which, after power-up, water is pumped at a relatively low flow rate to avoid overflowing from the steam generator, which may not have yet reached a temperature sufficient to vaporize the water. In the present disclosure, an opposite approach is taken, in which, when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after power-up of the garment care device 100, water is initially pumped at a relatively high flow rate (but for a limited duration) so that the water can reach the steam generator 104 more quickly.

[0109] The water fluid transport volume FV is defined as the sum of the following water volumes:

[0110] a first water volume between the outlet O1 of the water tank 102 and the inlet IN0 of the hose 116. The inlet IN0 corresponds to the connection point of the hose 116 on the base 112. In other words, the first water volume corresponds to the water volume inside the base 112 between the outlet O1 and the inlet IN0 of the water tank 102.

[0111] A second volume of water between the inlet IN0 of the hose 116 and the inlet IN1 of the steam generator 104 .

[0112] The aqueous fluid transport volume FV is in the range of 5 to 30 ml, preferably 10 to 30 ml, more preferably 10 to 25 ml, more preferably 15 to 17 ml, such as about 16 ml.

[0113] The first water volume is in the range of 2.5 to 5 ml.

[0114] It should be noted that between the outlet O1 of the water tank 102 and the inlet IN0 of the hose 116, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown above, only the water pump 106 is inserted along the water flow path.

[0115] However, there may be additional element(s) fluidly arranged along the water flow path, such as:

[0116] a pressure relief valve (not shown) for returning the water flow to the tank 102 in the event of an unexpected increase in pressure in the water flow path,

[0117] - An electrically controllable valve (not shown) to close the water flow path.

[0118] The second water volume is in the range of 2.5 to 25 milliliters.

[0119] For example, for a hose with an inner diameter of 2 milliliters and a length of 1 meter, the second water volume is approximately 3 milliliters.

[0120] For example, for a hose with an inner diameter of 3.2 ml and a length of 2.5 m, the water volume FV is approximately 20 ml.

[0121] A first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] g / min combined with a first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range of [0.2; 5] seconds can assist in providing efficient filling of such water fluid transport volume FV while minimizing the risk of overflowing the steam generator 104.

[0122] exist Figure 1 In the non-limiting example shown in FIG, the control unit 120, 130 includes a controller 120 (e.g., a microcontroller 120) and a pump control circuit 130. In this example, the controller 120 detects power-up of the garment care device 100 and generates an activation signal when the steam trigger 124 is activated for the first time after detecting power-up of the garment care device 100. Then, in response to the activation signal, the controller 120 in combination with the pump control circuit 130 activates the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration.

[0123] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the non-limiting examples shown in , the control unit 120 and the pump control circuit 130 are included in the same printed circuit board assembly 134. In these particular examples, the printed circuit board assembly 134 is disposed in the base 112 of the garment care device 100.

[0124] The garment care device 100 preferably includes a power switch 136 that can be actuated by a user of the garment care device 100 to cause the described powering up of the garment care device 100. Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown in , the power switch 136 is included in the base 112, although it is also contemplated that the power switch is provided in the hand unit (not shown).

[0125] In such an embodiment, the detection of powering on of the garment care device 100 may include the detection of powering on caused by actuation of the power switch 136. To this end, the power switch 136 is connected to the control units 120, 130. Figure 2 In the particular example shown in , the power switch 136 is connected to the controller 120 included in the control units 120 , 130 .

[0126] The garment care device 100 may be powered in any suitable manner. Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown in , the garment care device 100 can be connected to a mains power supply delivered via an AC power outlet 138. In this case, the garment care device 100 also includes a power supply 140 for converting the mains AC power into voltage-regulated DC power for the various components of the garment steamer 100.

[0127] In this example, powering up the garment care device 100 is performed by user actuation of the power switch 136 after connecting the garment care device 100 to the AC power outlet 138 .

[0128] Figure 2 Also shown is a heater 142 included in the steam generator 104. The heater 142 heats the steam generator 104 to vaporize water pumped into the steam generator from the water tank 102. The steam generator 104 may also include a suitable temperature sensor 144 (e.g., a thermistor) for sensing the temperature of the steam generator 104.

[0129] exist Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown in , the steam trigger 124 and the temperature sensor 144 are mounted on an additional printed circuit board assembly 146 included in the hand unit 114, wherein the temperature sensor 144 (e.g., a thermistor) is connected to a temperature sensor control circuit 148, which is included in the printed circuit board assembly 134 arranged in the base 112.

[0130] More generally, the control units 120, 130 are preferably connected to the temperature sensor 144 and the heater 142. In such embodiments, the control units 120, 130 may control the pump 106 and / or control the heater 142 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 144.

[0131] exist Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown in FIG, the controller 120 of the control units 120, 130 is connected to a heater control circuit 150. In this case, the combination of the controller 120 and the heater control circuit 150 controls the heater 142.

[0132] Figure 3 A simplified flow chart of a method 200 of controlling a garment care device 100 is provided. The method 200 includes the following steps:

[0133] i) detecting 202 power-up of the garment care device 100,

[0134] ii) generating 204 an activation signal when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after detecting power-up of the garment care device 100, and

[0135] iii) in response to the actuation signal, actuating 206 the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] g / min for a first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

[0136] In some embodiments, detecting 202 includes:

[0137] - Detecting a power-up of the garment care device 100 , which corresponds to the first power-up occurring in the useful life of the garment care device 100 .

[0138] The first occurrence of power-up in the useful life of the garment care device 100 may correspond to the first time the garment care device 100 is powered up from its factory power setting.

[0139] In embodiments where detecting 202 includes detecting a power-up corresponding to a first power-up occurring in the useful life of the garment care device 100, actuating 206 preferably includes:

[0140] - activating the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] grams / minute for a first predetermined duration in the range of [2; 5] seconds.

[0141] For example, when detecting 202 includes detecting a power-up corresponding to a first power-up occurring in the useful life of the garment care device 100, actuating 206 includes actuating the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate of 200 grams / minute for a first predetermined duration of 3.6 seconds.

[0142] Alternatively or additionally, detecting 202 includes:

[0143] - Detecting a power up of the garment care device 100 that corresponds to a subsequent power up that occurs after a first power up has occurred in the useful life of the garment care device 100 .

[0144] The subsequent power-up(s) may correspond to power-up(s) performed after the first power-up and the first power-down in the useful life of the garment care device 100. The subsequent power-up(s) may correspond to power-up(s) of the garment care device during(s) subsequent ironing sessions that occur hours / days / weeks after the completion of the previous ironing session.

[0145] In embodiments where detecting 202 comprises detecting a power-up corresponding to a subsequent power-up, actuating 206 preferably comprises:

[0146] - activating the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] grams / minute for a first predetermined duration in the range of [0.2; 2] seconds.

[0147] For example, when the detecting 202 includes detecting a power-up corresponding to a subsequent power-up, the actuating 206 includes actuating the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate of 200 grams / minute for a first predetermined duration of 1 second.

[0148] In embodiments where the garment care device 100 includes the aforementioned hose 116 for conveying water from the base 112 to the hand unit 114 , the first predetermined flow rate and the first predetermined duration after detecting subsequent power-up are preferably set according to the material used to make the hose 116 .

[0149] For example, it has been found that silicone rubber causes more water to evaporate from the hose 116 between uses than EPDM. Although silicone rubber and EPDM can be considered fluid-impermeable materials, they are actually porous on a microscopic level, causing water inside the hose to evaporate over time when the garment care device 100 is not in use, especially during relatively long periods of non-use.

[0150] For this reason, the first predetermined flow rate and the first predetermined duration when a subsequent power-up is detected can be selected so that, in the case where the hose is made of silicone rubber, the volume of water pumped to the steam generator 104 compensates for this greater evaporation. The first predetermined flow rate can be relatively high to ensure that this greater filling required by the hose 116 made of silicone rubber occurs quickly enough.

[0151] In some embodiments, method 200 further comprises: after actuating 206 pump 106 at the first predetermined flow rate during the first predetermined duration,

[0152] - in response to the actuation signal, actuating 208 the pump at a second predetermined flow rate in the range of [30; 60] g / min for a second duration of time, the value of the second duration being greater than (or equal to) the difference between:

[0153] - a predetermined duration threshold in the range [8; 25] seconds, and

[0154] - a first predetermined duration.

[0155] By subsequently reducing the flow rate to a second predetermined flow rate in this manner, the risk of oversupplying the steam generator 104 with water when the water fluid transport volume FV is closer to being full of water can be reduced. This can help minimize unwanted "splashing" of liquid water from the garment care device 100.

[0156] Preferably, the second duration (with a lower flow rate) is longer than the first predetermined duration (with a higher flow rate) for the following reasons:

[0157] the second predetermined flow rate is lower than the first predetermined flow rate, so that it fills the remaining portion of the water fluid transport volume FV that was not completely filled by the first predetermined flow rate within the first predetermined duration, while avoiding overflowing the steam generator,

[0158] The treatment plate 108 needs to be thermally stabilized for a certain period of time by dosing water at a lower flow rate (such as in "MAX" mode or "ECO" mode) before dosing water at a higher flow rate.

[0159] In embodiments where the garment care device 100 includes the aforementioned user interface 128 adapted to enable a user to select one or more steam treatment modes, the method 200 may further include controlling 210 the pump 106 based on the user selection after actuating the pump 106 at the second predetermined flow rate for the second duration.

[0160] For example, in step 210 , the pump 106 may be controlled according to the higher steam rate (“MAX”) mode described above or according to the lower steam rate (“ECO”) mode described above.

[0161] exist Figure 2 In the non-limiting example shown in , after actuating 206 the pump 106 at the first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration and actuating 208 the pump 106 at the second predetermined flow rate for a second duration, in step 210 the pump 106 is controlled based on the user selection.

[0162] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A flow chart 300 of control logic for controlling the garment care device 100 is provided. Figure 4A The start 302 of the control logic is shown in FIG.

[0163] Decision block 306 inquires whether power-up of the garment care device 100 is detected. If such power-up is detected, the control logic proceeds to decision block 308.

[0164] Decision block 308 inquires whether the temperature of the steam generator 104 (eg, as determined by the temperature sensor 144 described above) is less than 90°C.

[0165] If the temperature is not less than 90° C., the control logic proceeds to operation block 310 where the heater 142 is controlled to heat the steam generator 104 to 165° C. The control logic then proceeds to decision block 312 .

[0166] Decision block 312 inquires whether the steam trigger 124 is activated. If the steam trigger 124 is activated, the control logic proceeds to decision block 314. Decision block 314 inquires whether the temperature of the steam generator 104 is greater than or equal to 165° C. If the temperature of the steam generator 104 is less than 165° C., the control logic returns to operation block 310 and the heater 142 is controlled to heat the steam generator 104 to 165° C.

[0167] On the other hand, if the temperature of the steam generator is greater than or equal to 165°C, the control logic proceeds to Figure 4B (1) in , which will be described below.

[0168] Returning to decision block 308 , if the temperature is below 90° C., the control logic proceeds to operation block 316 where the heater 142 is controlled to heat the steam generator 104 for 2 minutes. The control logic then proceeds to decision block 318 .

[0169] Decision block 318 asks whether the steam trigger 124 has been activated. If the answer to decision block 318 is "yes" (abbreviated as "Y" in the flowchart), the control logic proceeds to decision block 320. Decision block 320 asks whether the two-minute period for heating the steam generator 104 mentioned above has been reached or exceeded. If the answer to decision block 320 is "no" (abbreviated as "N" in the flowchart), the control logic reverts to operation block 316. If the answer to decision block 320 is "yes," the control logic proceeds to decision block 322.

[0170] Regarding decision block 308, it should be noted that when the temperature of the steam generator 104 is relatively low (in this case, below 90° C.), the power-on detected in 306 can be considered a "cold start," meaning that the garment care device 100 was powered on after a relatively long rest period. On the other hand, if the temperature of the steam generator 104 is higher (in this case, greater than or equal to 90° C.), the garment care device 100 is considered to have been powered off (e.g., turned off or in standby mode) just recently and subsequently restarted. Therefore, the temperature of the steam generator 104 can indicate a relatively short "rest period" for the garment care device 100.

[0171] More generally, the garment care device 100 preferably includes the aforementioned temperature sensor 144 for sensing the temperature of the steam generator 104. In such an embodiment, the control units 120, 130 are adapted to actuate the pump 106 at a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration in response to the actuation signal and the sensed temperature of the steam generator 104 being greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature threshold.

[0172] For example, the predetermined temperature threshold is between 70° C. and 95° C., preferably between 75° C. and 95° C., such as about 80° C. or about 90° C. Setting the predetermined temperature threshold within such a range allows distinguishing the aforementioned “cold start” from the aforementioned “rest time”.

[0173] When the steam generator 104 includes the above-mentioned heater 142 controlled by the control unit 120, 130, 150, the control unit 120, 130, 150 is preferably adapted to control the heater 142 to heat the steam generator 104 in response to power-up. In such an embodiment, the control unit 120, 130, 150 may include the heater control circuit 150 mentioned above.

[0174] In this embodiment, the control units 120, 130, 150 are preferably adapted to control the heater 142 to heat the steam generator 104 for a predetermined heating duration and / or to a given temperature before actuating the pump 106 for a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration. This can help reduce the risk of overflowing the steam generator 104.

[0175] For example, the control units 120 , 130 , 150 are adapted to control the heater 142 to heat the steam generator 104 for a predetermined heating duration and / or to a given temperature in response to power on and the sensed temperature of the steam generator 104 being greater than or equal to the predetermined temperature threshold mentioned above.

[0176] Return to Figure 4A , decision block 322 asks whether the flag value is equal to a first value (e.g., "1"). If the answer is "yes," then the power-up corresponds to the first occurrence of such a power-up in the useful life of the garment care device 100. In this scenario, control logic proceeds to action block 324, where the pump 106 is actuated at a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration.

[0177] In this particular example, when the flag value is equal to "1," the pump 106 is actuated at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] grams / minute for a first predetermined duration in the range of [2; 5] seconds, as previously described.

[0178] It should be noted that the first value of the flag is set during manufacturing.

[0179] The control logic then proceeds from operation block 324 to operation block 326. In operation block 326, the flag value is set to a second value (e.g., "0"). Changing the flag value from "1" to "0" in this manner means that when the power-up corresponds to the subsequent power-up described above, the answer to decision block 322 will be "no."

[0180] From operation block 326, control logic proceeds to operation block 328 where, in response to the actuation signal, the pump 106 is actuated at the aforementioned second predetermined flow rate in the range of [30; 60] g / min for a second duration of time greater than (or equal to) the difference between:

[0181] - a predetermined duration threshold in the range [8; 25] seconds, and

[0182] - a first predetermined duration.

[0183] Then, the control logic proceeds to Figure 4B (1) in , which will be described below.

[0184] In the scenario where the answer to decision block 322 is "no," the subsequent power-up of the garment care device 100 is detected, and the control logic proceeds to operation block 330, where the pump 106 is actuated at a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration. In this particular example, the pump 106 is actuated at a first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute for a first predetermined duration in the range of [0.2; 2] seconds, as previously described.

[0185] From operation block 330, control logic proceeds to operation block 332 where, in response to the actuation signal, the pump 106 is actuated at the aforementioned second predetermined flow rate in the range of [30; 60] g / min for a second duration of time greater than (or equal to) the difference between:

[0186] - a predetermined duration threshold in the range [8; 25] seconds, and

[0187] - a first predetermined duration.

[0188] Then, the control logic proceeds to Figure 4B (1) in .

[0189] Steering Figure 4B , in operation block 334, the pump 106 is controlled based on the predefined flow control logic of the steam treatment mode selected by the user. In other words, the pump 106 is controlled by the control units 120, 130 to pump water according to the steam treatment mode that has been selected by the user via the user interface 128. For example, in operation block 334, the pump 106 is controlled according to the aforementioned higher steam rate ("MAX") mode or the aforementioned lower steam rate ("ECO") mode.

[0190] Decision block 336 asks if the steam trigger 124 is released. If the steam trigger 124 is not released, the control logic returns to operation block 334. If the steam trigger 124 is released, the control logic proceeds to operation block 338. In operation block 338, the pump is in an "off state," where the pump 106 is not pumping water.

[0191] Decision block 340 asks if the garment care device 100 is powered off or idle. If the answer to decision block 340 is “no,” control logic proceeds to decision block 342.

[0192] Decision block 342 asks whether the steam trigger 124 is activated. If the answer to decision block 342 is "yes," the control logic returns to operation block 334, where the pump 106 is controlled based on the predefined flow control logic for the user-selected steam treatment mode. If the answer to decision block 342 is "no," the control logic returns to decision block 340.

[0193] If the answer to decision block 340 is yes, the control logic ends at 344 .

[0194] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned second duration is based on a predetermined duration threshold in the range of [8; 25] seconds.

[0195] The value of the second duration is preferably greater than (or equal to) the difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration.

[0196] For example, if the first predetermined duration is 3 seconds and the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds, the second duration is greater than (or equal to) 20-3=17 seconds. This may be applicable when the water fluid transport volume FV is tubular and has a relatively large inner diameter of 3 mm and a length of 1.8 meters.

[0197] For example, if the first predetermined duration is 3 seconds and the predetermined duration threshold is 8 seconds, the second duration is greater than (or equal to) 8-3=5 seconds. This may be applicable when the water fluid transport volume FV is tubular and has a relatively small inner diameter of 2 mm and a length of 1.8 meters.

[0198] In the following Figures 5 to 8 Some examples are shown in the figure.

[0199] Figure 5 A graphical representation of a first scenario is provided in which the steam trigger 124 is actuated continuously for 25 seconds. In this scenario, during phase 500, the water fluid transport volume FV is partially filled with a first predetermined flow rate (200 g / min) within a first predetermined duration (3 seconds).

[0200] The remainder of the aqueous fluid transport volume FV is filled at a relatively low flow rate of 45 g / min during stages 502 and 504. This relatively low flow rate corresponds to a second predetermined flow rate.

[0201] It should be noted that at the start of phase 504 (which is not a predictable time), the fluid transport volume FV may already be completely filled with water. In this case, this means that the additional water pumped into the fluid transport volume FV will cause water to reach the interior of the steam generator. As a result, at the start of phase 504, some steam may be produced by the steam generator.

[0202] exist Figure 5 In this scenario, it is assumed that the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.

[0203] The value of the second duration is preferably greater than (or equal to) the difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration, and is therefore greater than (or equal to) 20-3=17 seconds.

[0204] Dashed vertical line 508 illustrates when the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration has reached a value of the predetermined threshold duration.

[0205] The cumulative duration of the steam trigger during the phases 502 and 504 (this cumulative duration corresponds to the second duration) is 25-3=22 seconds, which is greater than the 17 seconds calculated above.

[0206] At the beginning of stage 506, the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, from 25 seconds to 28 seconds in this example.

[0207] When the steam trigger 124 is actuated again at time 28 seconds, since the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration in this example is greater than (or equal to) the predetermined duration threshold of 20 seconds, steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting the flow rate distribution map associated with the user-selected steam treatment mode (e.g., "MAX" or "ECO"), and neither the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate is used.

[0208] Figure 6 A graphical representation of a second scenario is provided in which the steam trigger 124 is actuated continuously for 20 seconds. In this scenario, during phase 500, the water fluid transport volume FV is partially filled at a first predetermined flow rate (200 g / min) within a first predetermined duration (3 seconds).

[0209] The remainder of the aqueous fluid transport volume FV is filled at a relatively low flow rate of 45 g / min during stages 502 and 504. This relatively low flow rate corresponds to a second predetermined flow rate.

[0210] It should be noted that at the start of stage 504 (which is not a predictable time), the fluid transport volume FV may already be completely filled with water. In this case, this means that the additional water pumped into the fluid transport volume FV will cause water to reach the interior of the steam generator. As a result, at the start of stage 504, some steam may be produced by the steam generator.

[0211] exist Figure 6 In this scenario, it is assumed that the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.

[0212] The value of the second duration is preferably greater than (or equal to) the difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration, and is therefore greater than (or equal to) 20-3=17 seconds.

[0213] Dashed vertical line 508 illustrates when the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration has reached a value of the predetermined threshold duration.

[0214] The cumulative duration of the steam trigger during phases 502 and 504 (this cumulative duration corresponds to the second duration) is 20-3=17 seconds. This value is equal to the 17 seconds calculated above.

[0215] At the beginning of stage 506, the steam trigger 124 is released for 8 seconds, from 20 seconds to 28 seconds in this example.

[0216] When the steam trigger 124 is actuated again at time 28 seconds, since the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration in this example is greater than (or equal to) the predetermined duration threshold of 20 seconds, steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting the flow rate distribution map associated with the user-selected steam treatment mode (e.g., "MAX" or "ECO"), and neither the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate is used.

[0217] Figure 7 A graphical representation of a third scenario is provided in which the steam trigger 124 is initially actuated continuously for 6 seconds. In this scenario, during stage 500, the water fluid transport volume FV is partially filled with a first predetermined flow rate (200 g / min) within a first predetermined duration (3 seconds).

[0218] Then, a second predetermined flow rate (45 grams / minute) is implemented at the beginning of stage 502A for a duration of 3 seconds until the steam trigger 124 is released at time 6 seconds.

[0219] At the beginning of stage 506A, the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, from time 6 seconds to 9 seconds in this example.

[0220] The steam trigger 124 is then actuated again for another consecutive 16 seconds corresponding to stages 502B and 504 (between times 9 seconds and 25 seconds).

[0221] exist Figure 7 In this scenario, it is assumed that the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.

[0222] The value of the second duration is preferably greater than (or equal to) the difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration, and is therefore greater than (or equal to) 20-3=17 seconds.

[0223] Dashed vertical line 508 illustrates when the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration has reached a value of the predetermined threshold duration.

[0224] At the start of stage 502B, the cumulative duration of the steam trigger during stage 502A is 3 seconds, and therefore less than the 17 seconds calculated above.

[0225] As a result, at the beginning of stage 502B, the pump is actuated at the second predetermined flow rate (45 g / min) rather than in accordance with the user-selected steam treatment mode (eg, "MAX" or "ECO").

[0226] It should be noted that at the start of stage 504 (which is not a predictable time), the fluid transport volume FV may already be completely filled with water. In this case, this means that the additional water pumped into the fluid transport volume FV will cause water to reach the interior of the steam generator. As a result, at the start of stage 504, some steam may be produced by the steam generator.

[0227] At the beginning of stage 506B, the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, from time 25 seconds to 28 seconds in this example.

[0228] When the steam trigger 124 is actuated again at time 28 seconds, since the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration in this example is greater than (or equal to) the predetermined duration threshold of 20 seconds, steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting the flow rate distribution map associated with the user-selected steam treatment mode (e.g., "MAX" or "ECO"), and neither the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate is used.

[0229] It should be noted that in this third scenario, the cumulative duration of the steam trigger during stages 502A, 502B and 504 (which cumulative duration corresponds to the second duration) is 3+16=19 seconds. This value is greater than the 17 seconds calculated above.

[0230] In some embodiments, the first predetermined duration is a cumulative duration when the steam trigger 124 is repeatedly actuated.

[0231] For example, the pump 106 is actuated at the first predetermined flow rate as a result of one or more discrete actuations of the steam trigger 124 , where the cumulative duration of the one or more discrete actuations corresponds to the first predetermined duration.

[0232] Figure 8 A graphical representation of a fourth scenario is provided in which the respective durations of each of the multiple (in this case, two) actuations include discrete actuations 500A (for 1 second) and 500B (for 2 seconds) of the steam trigger 124. The steam trigger is then actuated for a cumulative duration of 1+2=3 seconds.

[0233] In this example, since the first predetermined duration is 3 seconds, the first predetermined flow rate is stopped as soon as the cumulative duration of 3 seconds is reached. This occurs at time 512 (4 seconds in this example).

[0234] At time 512, as the steam trigger continues to be pressed, the pump is then actuated at a second predetermined flow rate in the range of [30; 60] grams per minute (in this example, 45 g / mn) between time 4 seconds and time 25 seconds (and therefore for a total duration equal to 25-4=21 seconds).

[0235] exist Figure 8 In this scenario, it is assumed that the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.

[0236] The value of the second duration is preferably greater than (or equal to) the difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration, and is therefore greater than (or equal to) 20-3=17 seconds.

[0237] Dashed vertical line 508 illustrates when the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration has reached a value of the predetermined threshold duration.

[0238] The cumulative duration of the steam trigger during the phases 502 and 504 (this cumulative duration corresponds to the second duration) is 25-4=21 seconds. This value is greater than the 17 seconds calculated above.

[0239] At the beginning of stage 506, the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, from 25 seconds to 28 seconds in this example.

[0240] When the steam trigger 124 is actuated again at time 28 seconds, since the cumulative duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration in this example is greater than (or equal to) the predetermined duration threshold of 20 seconds, steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting the flow rate distribution map associated with the user-selected steam treatment mode (e.g., "MAX" or "ECO"), and neither the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate is used.

[0241] The above embodiments as 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, those skilled in the art will understand 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 particular, although the present invention has been described based on a clothing care device, the present invention may be applied to any household device having a steam generator, a water tank, and a device for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude pluralities. Any figure marks in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A clothing care device (100), comprising: - a water tank (102) for storing water, - a steam generator (104), a pump (106) for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator for generating steam, a water fluid transport volume (FV) being defined between an outlet (O1) of the water tank and an inlet (IN1) of the steam generator, the pump being arranged to pump water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to reach the steam generator, - a steam trigger (124), and - a control unit (120, 130) adapted to: i) detecting power-up of the garment care device, ii) generating an activation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after detecting the power-up of the garment care device, and iii) in response to the actuation signal, actuating the pump at a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration, characterized in that the aqueous fluid transport volume is in the range of 5 to 30 ml, the first predetermined flow rate is in the range of [150; 250] g / min, and the first predetermined duration is in the range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

2. The garment care device (100) of claim 1, wherein the aqueous fluid transport volume is in the range of 10 to 30 milliliters.

3. The garment care device (100) of claim 1, wherein the powering up of the garment care device corresponds to a first powering up occurring in a useful life of the garment care device.

4. The garment care device (100) of claim 3, wherein the first predetermined flow rate is in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute and the first predetermined duration is in the range of [2; 5] seconds.

5. The garment care device (100) of claim 1, wherein the powering up of the garment care device corresponds to a subsequent powering up occurring after a powering up has occurred for the first time in the useful life of the garment care device.

6. The garment care device (100) of claim 5, wherein the first predetermined flow rate is in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute and the first predetermined duration is in the range of [0.2; 2] seconds.

7. The garment care device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: After actuating the pump (106) at the first predetermined flow rate during the first predetermined duration, the control unit (120, 130) is further adapted to: iv) in response to the actuation signal, actuating the pump at a second predetermined flow rate for a second duration, the second predetermined flow rate being in the range of [30; 60] grams per minute, the second duration having a value greater than or equal to the difference between: - a predetermined duration threshold, and - said first predetermined duration.

8. The garment care device (100) of claim 7, wherein the predetermined duration threshold is in the range of [8; 25] seconds.

9. A garment care device (100) according to claim 7, wherein actuating the pump (106) at the first predetermined flow rate during the first predetermined duration and then at the second predetermined flow rate during the second duration is performed during one or repeated actuations of the steam trigger (124), and wherein the pump is actuated at the second predetermined flow rate until the steam trigger is released when or after the cumulative duration of the one or repeated actuations reaches the predetermined duration threshold.

10. The garment care device (100) according to claim 7 comprises a user interface (128) adapted to enable a user to select one or more steam treatment modes, wherein the control unit (120, 130) is further adapted to: after actuating the pump (106) at the second predetermined flow rate within the second duration, control the pump based on the user selection, wherein the one or more steam treatment modes comprise: a higher steam rate mode, in which the pump (106) is controlled by the control unit (120, 130) to pump water at a higher flow rate; and a lower steam rate mode, in which the pump is controlled by the control unit (120, 130) to pump water at a lower flow rate.

11. The garment care device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein actuating the pump (106) at the first predetermined flow rate is performed during one or repeated actuations of the steam trigger (124) until the cumulative duration of the one or repeated actuations reaches the first predetermined duration.

12. The garment care device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: - a base (112), said base comprising said water tank (102), - a hand unit (114), said hand unit comprising said steam generator (104), and - a hose (116) for conveying water from the base to the hand unit, wherein the hose is made of silicone rubber material or EPDM material.

13. A method of controlling a garment care device (100), the garment care device comprising: - a water tank (102) for storing water, - a steam generator (104), a pump (106) for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator for generating steam, a water fluid transport volume (FV) being defined between an outlet (O1) of the water tank and an inlet (IN1) of the steam generator, the pump being arranged to pump water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to reach the steam generator, and - Steam trigger (124), The method comprises the following steps: i) detecting (202) powering up of the garment care device, ii) generating (204) an activation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after detecting the power-up of the garment care device, and iii) in response to the actuation signal, actuating (206) the pump at a first predetermined flow rate for a first predetermined duration, characterised in that the aqueous fluid transport volume is in the range of 5 to 30 milliliters, the first predetermined flow rate is in the range of [150; 250] grams per minute, and the first predetermined duration is in the range of [0.2; 5] seconds.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the aqueous fluid transport volume is in the range of 10 to 30 milliliters.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the detecting (202) comprises: - detecting the powering up of the garment care device, the powering up corresponding to a first powering up occurring in the useful life of the garment care device.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the actuating (206) comprises: - actuating said pump at said first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] g / min for said first predetermined duration in the range of [2; 5] seconds.

17. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the detecting (202) comprises: - detecting the powering up of the garment care device, the powering up corresponding to a subsequent powering up occurring after a powering up has occurred for the first time in the useful life of the garment care device.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the actuating (206) comprises: - actuating said pump at said first predetermined flow rate in the range of [150; 250] g / min for said first predetermined duration in the range of [0.2; 2] seconds.

Images