Garment steam ironing machine with detachable butt joint unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to a garment steamer (100) comprising a base (102), a steamer head (104), a hose cord (106) for connecting the base to the steamer head. The garment steam ironing machine also includes a rod assembly (108) having at least one rod, and an ironing plate (140) mounted on the rod assembly. The garment steam ironing machine further comprises a docking unit (110) for docking the steam ironing machine head during the inactive steam treatment period. The garment steam ironing machine also includes a support arm (112) having a first end (114) for supporting the docking unit and a second end (116) removably connectable to the ironing plate. The ironing plate comprises a plate coupling device that allows for translational relative movement between the support arm and the ironing plate when the support arm is being attached to or detached from the plate coupling device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a clothing steam ironing machine, which comprises a steam ironing machine head and a detachable docking unit for docking the steam ironing machine head.

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

[0003] Garment steamers are known for ironing or steaming garments to remove wrinkles using the heat and moisture from the steam.

[0004] A garment steamer is a so-called vertical garment steamer, which comprises a base housing a water reservoir and a steam generating unit. A steamer head (also called ironing device) is connected to the base via a flexible hose, through which steam is delivered to the steamer head. A steam plate (also called soleplate) is provided on the steamer head, which is used to define one or more steam vents, through which steam is discharged onto the fabric being treated.

[0005] During treatment by a garment steamer, a garment may be hung on a hanger and the user positions the steamer head over the garment to remove wrinkles.

[0006] Vertical garment steamers often include garment support features and / or accessories, such as an ironing board or pad, to help the user achieve better and faster wrinkle removal.The ironing board is typically mounted on a rod assembly.

[0007] In particular, such a vertical garment steam ironing machine may include a tiltable ironing board. The tilting of the ironing board enables the garment to be oriented at different angles during steam ironing. Since for users who are accustomed to ironing garments (especially long pants and long-sleeved formal shirts), the user usually desires a horizontal orientation.

[0008] When the user is not in the process of activating steam treatment of a garment, the user usually wishes to rest the steam ironing machine head on the docking unit, in other words on the support means at the side of the rod assembly or at the side of the ironing board.

[0009] Positioning such a docking unit so that the steam ironer head can be easily placed on and picked up from the docking unit can be challenging, especially when the docking unit is to be conveniently used with the ironing board tilted in different angular orientations, such as horizontal and vertical orientations.

[0010] EP3926088A1 discloses a garment steam ironing machine, which has a base, a steam ironing machine head connected to the base via a hose, and a rod assembly connected to the base and extending upward. A docking assembly for docking the steam ironing machine head is provided, the docking assembly having a support arm and a steam ironing machine head holder for releasably supporting the steam ironing machine head. A first pivoting connection is provided between the support arm and the steam ironing machine head holder, so that the orientation of the steam ironing machine head holder can be rotated and adjusted without using tools. The steam ironing machine head holder can be rotated to a desired position so that the steam ironing machine head faces away from the user.

[0011] EP4026941A1 discloses a garment steam ironing machine, comprising a rod assembly, an ironing board defining a surface and cooperating with the rod assembly to present a vertical orientation or a horizontal orientation, a steam ironing machine head for releasing steam, a retainer for retaining the steam ironing machine head, and a pivoting connection arranged between the ironing board and the retainer. The pivoting connection comprises a first end attached to the ironing board and a second end attached to the retainer. The retainer is fixed relative to the second end. The pivoting connection has a rotation axis inclined at a first angle relative to the surface of the ironing board, and the first angle is in the range of [+10; +65] degrees.

[0012] FR3096992A1 discloses a device for steaming garments, comprising a tool for ironing and / or smoothing garments; at least one rod supporting an ironing board, the ironing board comprising a flat surface against which the garments to be ironed can be arranged to be treated with the tool; and a support for placing the tool in a stable manner during an inactive ironing and / or steaming phase. Summary of the invention

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the above challenges.

[0014] The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments.

[0015] For this purpose, the clothing steam ironing machine of the present invention comprises:

[0016] base,

[0017] Steam ironing machine head,

[0018] a hose cord for connecting the base to the steam ironing machine head,

[0019] a rod assembly, the rod assembly comprising at least one rod,

[0020] Ironing board mounted on pole assembly,

[0021] a docking unit for docking the steam ironing machine head during a period of inactive steam treatment,

[0022] A support arm having a first end for supporting the docking unit and a second end, the first end being detachably connectable to an ironing board, the ironing board comprising a board coupling device, the board coupling device allowing a translational relative movement between the support arm and the ironing board when the support arm is being attached to the board coupling device or being detached from the board coupling device.

[0023] The support arm being detachably connected to the ironing board may have various advantages. For example, this enables a more compact packaging of the garment steamer, thereby facilitating transportation and shipment. Alternatively or additionally, being able to remove the support arm from the ironing board may enable the docking unit to be installed at another location on the garment care device. This may facilitate convenient positioning of the docking unit for the user.

[0024] Preferably, the translational relative movement is parallel to the flat surface of the ironing board, on which the garments are arranged during treatment. This means that when the ironing board is oriented horizontally, the translational relative movement for connecting and detaching the support arm from the ironing board is a horizontal movement. Such a horizontal movement is considered to be more user-friendly than, for example, moving the support arm vertically (e.g. up and down) to connect or detach the support arm from the ironing board.

[0025] The support arm has a dimension, such as a length dimension, extending from a first end to a second end.

[0026] The plate coupling device may be considered as defining a specific axis along which translational relative movement is guided by the plate coupling device during attachment or detachment of the support arm to or from the plate coupling device.

[0027] In such embodiments, during the translational relative movement of attaching or detaching the support arm to or from the panel coupling device, a dimension of the support arm, such as a length dimension, is aligned, for example, along the particular axis.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, the board coupling arrangement may comprise a snap-fit ​​mechanism configured to secure the support arm in response to reaching a defined point during the translational relative movement between the support arm and the ironing board.

[0029] Since the arrangement of the docking unit enables the user to pick up the steam ironing machine head along a picking direction that is angled to the horizontal plane along which the support arm is translated to be removed from the ironing board, the risk of the support arm accidentally separating from the ironing board when the user picks up the steam ironing machine head can be reduced.

[0030] The translational relative movement may be, for example, a sliding relative movement.

[0031] In some embodiments, the board coupling device comprises a board cavity open on the periphery of the ironing board. The board cavity forms a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end of the support arm.

[0032] As the hollow volume of the cavity accommodates the second end of the support arm, the term "cavity" as used herein may alternatively be referred to as a "sheath."

[0033] In some embodiments, the second end has an outer surface.The plate cavity is defined by a wall having an inner surface.

[0034] The support arm may include a top outer surface portion and a bottom outer surface portion facing opposite directions relative to each other, a pair of side outer surface portions extending between the top outer surface portion and the bottom outer surface portion, respectively, and a front outer surface portion extending in front of the second end, between the top outer surface portion and the bottom outer surface portion and between the pair of side outer surface portions.

[0035] In such embodiments, the hollow volume of the cavity can be defined by an inner surface that contacts each of the top and bottom outer surface portions, each of the pair of side outer surface portions, and the front outer surface portion of the support arm when the support arm is secured to the plate coupling device.

[0036] This may provide a relatively secure mounting of the support arm with an associated reduction in wobble of the docking unit during use.

[0037] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second end of the support arm has a cross-sectional shape substantially the same as the inner surface, such as a polygonal cross-sectional shape, such as approximately rectangular, square, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, etc.

[0038] This generally polygonal shape may help avoid undesired rotation of the support arm within the plate cavity.

[0039] In other words, the plate cavity and the second end are shaped so that the second end can be received in and engage with the inner surface of the plate cavity.

[0040] Thus, the term "substantially the same" means that the respective cross-sectional shapes of the inner and outer surfaces are sufficiently similar to enable the second end to be received within and engage with the inner surface of the plate cavity.

[0041] The term "substantially identical" accordingly encompasses the situation where one or both of the inner and outer surfaces include surface features, such as protrusions and / or recesses, as long as these surface features do not prevent the second end from being received in and engaging with the inner surface of the plate cavity.

[0042] In view of this, preferably, the inner surface of the wall defining the plate cavity comprises a plurality of linear protruding ribs.

[0043] The plurality of linear protruding ribs can help engage and guide the second end into the plate cavity while limiting the contact area between the outer surface of the second end and the inner surface of the plate cavity. Such limitation can help minimize friction when the support arm is connected to and disconnected from the ironing board. The protruding ribs can also help better control manufacturing tolerances than if the protruding ribs were not included.

[0044] Preferably, the plurality of linear protruding ribs extend parallel to an axis along which the translational relative movement of the support arm is effected for attachment to and detachment from the ironing board, respectively.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, opposing portions of the inner surface of the plate cavity may be provided with protruding ribs.

[0046] Preferably, the ironing board extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end, and the board cavity is open at the first end and / or the second end.

[0047] Preferably, the first end tapers towards a more pointed portion of the ironing board, the more pointed portion being opposite the wider end of the second end of the ironing board.

[0048] In at least some embodiments, the support arm includes a flexible tongue with a protruding catch at the end of the tongue, and the wall defining the plate cavity includes a slot. The protruding catch can cooperate with the slot to lock the support arm in the plate cavity.

[0049] The protruding catch and the slot form a snap-fit ​​mechanism for locking / retaining the support arm in the board cavity. Such a snap-fit ​​mechanism can provide a user-friendly way of connecting and detaching the support arm and the ironing board from each other.

[0050] Preferably, the flexible tongue and the protruding catch are arranged on the top surface of the support arm.

[0051] This enables it to be clearly seen by the user when the support arm and the ironing board are connected and detached from each other.

[0052] In some embodiments, the second end of the support arm is removably connected to the rod assembly via a rod assembly coupling device, and the rod assembly coupling device allows horizontal translational relative movement between the support arm and the rod assembly when the support arm is attached to or detached from the rod assembly coupling device.

[0053] In some embodiments, the rod assembly coupling device includes a snap-fit ​​mechanism configured to secure the support arm in response to reaching a defined point during horizontal translational relative movement between the support arm and the rod assembly.

[0054] Being able to detachably connect the support arm to the rod assembly may have various advantages. For example, this enables a more compact packaging of the garment steamer, thereby facilitating transportation and shipment. Alternatively or additionally, being able to detach the support arm from the rod assembly may enable the docking unit to be installed at other locations on the garment care device. The latter may help to conveniently position the docking unit for the user.

[0055] A horizontal translational relative movement to connect or detach the support arm from the pole assembly is considered to be more user friendly than, for example, moving the support arm vertically (eg, up or down) to connect or detach the support arm from the pole assembly.

[0056] Since the arrangement of the docking unit enables the user to pick up the steam ironing machine head along a picking direction that is angled with the horizontal plane along which the support arm is translated to be detached from the rod assembly, the risk of the support arm accidentally separating from the rod assembly when the user picks up the steam ironing machine head can be reduced.

[0057] The horizontal translation relative movement may be, for example, a horizontal sliding relative movement.

[0058] In some embodiments, the rod assembly coupling device includes a first coupling mechanism. The first coupling mechanism includes a first cavity disposed on the rod assembly, the first cavity forming a hollow volume adapted to receive the second end of the support arm.

[0059] In some embodiments, the rod assembly coupling device includes a second coupling mechanism. The second coupling mechanism includes a second cavity, which is arranged on the rod assembly and is used to accommodate the second end of the support arm. In such embodiments, the second cavity forms a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end of the support arm. Preferably, the second cavity is arranged at 180 degrees relative to the first cavity.

[0060] Therefore, the support arm can be connected to the opposite side of the rod assembly.In this way, both right-handed and left-handed users can comfortably use the garment steam ironing machine.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first cavity is defined by a first wall having a first inner surface, and the outer surface of the second end has a cross-sectional shape substantially the same as the first inner surface, for example, the cross-sectional shapes of the outer surface and the first inner surface are both polygonal, such as a rectangle, square, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, etc., as described above with respect to the plate cavity.

[0062] In other words, the first cavity and the second end of the support arm are shaped such that the second end can be received in and engaged with the first inner surface of the first cavity.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the second cavity is defined by a second wall having a second inner surface, and the outer surface of the second end has a cross-sectional shape substantially the same as the second inner surface, for example, the cross-sectional shapes of the outer surface and the first inner surface are both polygonal, such as a rectangle, square, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, etc., as described above with respect to the first cavity.

[0064] In other words, the second cavity and the second end of the support arm are shaped such that the second end can be received in and engaged with the second inner surface of the second cavity.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first wall includes a first slot, and the protruding catch is capable of cooperating with the first slot to lock the support arm in the first cavity.

[0066] The protruding catch forms a snap-fit ​​mechanism with the first slot for locking / retaining the support arm in the first cavity. Such a snap-fit ​​mechanism can provide a user-friendly way of connecting and disassembling the support arm and the rod assembly from each other.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the second wall includes a second slot, and the protruding catch is capable of cooperating with the second slot to lock the support arm in the second cavity.

[0068] The protruding catch forms a snap-fit ​​mechanism with the second slot for locking / retaining the support arm in the second cavity.Such a snap-fit ​​mechanism can provide a user-friendly way of connecting and disassembling the support arm and the rod assembly from each other.

[0069] The snap-fit ​​mechanism design for removably connecting the support arm to the ironing board may be the same as the snap-fit ​​design for removably connecting the support arm to the rod assembly. This may provide a consistent engagement method at the rod assembly and ironing board locations of the garment steamer. This may further improve the user-friendliness of the garment steamer.

[0070] In some embodiments, the first inner surface includes a plurality of first linear protruding ribs.

[0071] The plurality of first linear protruding ribs can help engage and guide the second end into the first cavity while limiting the contact area between the outer surface of the second end and the first inner surface of the first cavity. Such limitation can help minimize friction when the support arm is connected and disconnected from the rod assembly. The protruding ribs can also help better control manufacturing tolerances compared to when the protruding ribs are not included.

[0072] Preferably, the plurality of first linear protruding ribs extend parallel to an axis along which the translational relative movement of the support arm is connected to and detached from the lever assembly, respectively.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, opposing portions of the first inner surface may be provided with protruding ribs.

[0074] This can help to minimize the wobble of the support arm when it is inserted into the first cavity, thereby providing the user with assurance of the stability and quality of the support arm.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the second inner surface includes a plurality of second linear protruding ribs.

[0076] The second plurality of linear protruding ribs does have similar benefits as the aforementioned plurality of first linear protruding ribs.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first cavity is disposed on a first side of the rod assembly and the second cavity is disposed on a second side of the rod assembly opposite the first side, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity open outwardly in opposite directions relative to and away from each other.

[0078] Preferably, the structure of the second cavity is the same as that of the first cavity.

[0079] This allows the support arm to be easily attached to the first cavity or the second cavity arranged on either side of the rod assembly because the second end of the support arm is inserted / removed from each of the first cavity and the second cavity using the same connection / detachment scheme.

[0080] In some embodiments, the docking unit is detachably mounted on the first end of the support arm by a coupling that allows the docking unit to be detached and reattached in two angular orientations that are 180 degrees from each other.

[0081] This enables the docking unit to be rotated 180 degrees when the support arm is changed from the left side to the right side of the pole assembly and vice versa, thereby enabling the docking unit to always face the direction most convenient for correct docking by the user of the steam ironing machine head.

[0082] Preferably, the docking unit comprises a support plate for supporting the steam ironing machine head from below.

[0083] For example, a steam plate of a steam ironing machine head defining at least one steam vent can rest on the support plate.

[0084] Preferably, the support plate is inclined at an angle ranging from 30 degrees to 70 degrees relative to the horizontal plane.

[0085] This allows for a convenient orientation of the steam ironing head when the steam ironing head is docked or undocking with the docking unit.

[0086] Preferably, the support plate comprises side support members extending from a peripheral portion of the support plate to laterally support the steam ironer head.

[0087] This allows the steam ironing machine head to be docked securely and stably in the docking unit.

[0088] Detailed description and other aspects of the present invention are given below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] Certain aspects of the invention will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter and considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like components or sub-steps are designated in the same manner:

[0090] Figure 1 depicts a garment steam ironing machine according to one example,

[0091] Figure 1A Depicted Figure 1 3D view of a garment steam ironing machine,

[0092] Figure 2 Depicted Figure 1 The support arm, docking unit and steam ironing machine head of the garment steam ironing machine shown,

[0093] Figure 3 Depicts a portion of a rod assembly coupling by which a support arm is removably coupled to a Figure 1 The garment steam ironing machine shown,

[0094] Figure 3A Depicted Figure 3 A magnified view of

[0095] Figure 4 depicts another portion of a rod assembly coupling by which a support arm is detachably coupled,

[0096] Figure 4A depicts an enlarged view of the mounting portion of the support arm and the docking unit according to the present invention,

[0097] Figure 4B depicts a side view of a support arm and a docking unit according to the invention,

[0098] Figure 4C depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of the coupling between a support arm and a mounting portion of a docking unit according to the invention,

[0099] Figure 5 depicts the steam ironing head in a first orientation in which the body of the steam ironing head extends substantially perpendicular to the support arm to couple the support arm to the wand assembly,

[0100] Figure 5A depicts the steam ironing machine head in a second orientation after being rotated 180 degrees from the first orientation,

[0101] Figure 6 Depicted is a method for coupling a support arm to a Figure 1 The translational movement of the ironing board in the garment steam ironing machine shown,

[0102] Figure 7 Provided Figure 1 Another view of the ironing board of the garment steam ironing machine shown,

[0103] Figure 8 Depicts a plate coupling device by which the support arm is removably coupled to Figure 1 the ironing board of the garment steam ironing machine shown, and

[0104] Fig. 9 Provided Figure 8 Another view of a portion of a panel coupling arrangement is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0105] Figure 1 and Figure 1A A garment care device 100 according to one example is depicted. The garment care device 100 comprises a base 102 and a steam iron head 104. A hose cord 106 connects the base 102 to the steam iron head 104.

[0106] At least one steam nozzle is arranged in the steam ironing machine head 104 (particularly the steam plate of the steam ironing machine head 104) for releasing steam to the garments to be treated.

[0107] Preferably, the base 102 includes a water tank (not visible in the figure). The water tank stores water for generating steam. To this end, the garment care device 100 also includes a steam generator (also not visible in the figure), and the water stored in the water tank is supplied to the steam generator.

[0108] In some embodiments, a steam generator is included in the base 102 , and steam generated by the steam generator is supplied to the steam iron head 104 via a hose cord 106 .

[0109] In such embodiments, preferably, the steam ironing head 104 comprises a steam heater (not visible in the figure) arranged to reheat the steam received from the steam generator before the steam leaves the steam ironing head 104 via the at least one steam vent. The steam heater may help to minimize the risk of water droplets splashing onto the treated garments.

[0110] The garment care device 100 comprises a rod assembly 108. Preferably, the rod assembly 108 supports an ironing board 140. To this end, the rod assembly 108 comprises at least one rod. In other words, the rod assembly can be regarded as a support assembly, the purpose of which is to support an ironing surface against which a garment to be treated can be placed.

[0111] therefore, Figure 1 and Figure 1A The illustrated garment care device 100 may be considered a vertical garment steamer.

[0112] The rod assembly 108 may be made of any suitable material, such as a metal or metal alloy and / or an engineering thermoplastic.

[0113] Preferably, the ironing board 140 can be Figure 1 The vertical orientation shown and Figure 1A The horizontal orientations shown are inclined between. For example, the vertical orientation can be used for steaming hanging garments, while the horizontal orientation can be used for ironing.

[0114] The garment care device 100 includes a docking unit 110 for docking the steam ironing head 104. When the steam ironing head 104 is not held by the user, in other words, during a steam treatment inactive period, the steam ironing head 104 may be docked in the docking unit 110, in other words, supported by the docking unit 110.

[0115] It should be noted that the docking unit 110 and the ironing board 140 may be made of any suitable mechanically strong material, such as an engineering thermoplastic material.

[0116] See also Figure 2 and Figure 6 Preferably, the docking unit 110 includes a support plate 111A arranged to support the steam ironer head 104 from below, and a side support member 111B extending from a peripheral portion of the support plate 111A to support the steam ironer head 104 laterally.

[0117] Preferably, the support plate 111A is arranged so that the steam ironing head 104 is supported by the docking unit 110 at a certain angle relative to the horizontal plane. This can help the user to easily pick up the steam ironing head 104 and easily put the steam ironing head 104 back to the docking unit 110.

[0118] Preferably, the support plate 111A is inclined at an angle ranging from 30 degrees to 70 degrees relative to a horizontal plane.

[0119] The side support members 111B may help retain the steam iron head 104 on the docking unit 110 despite the support plate 111A being angled relative to the horizontal.

[0120] Preferably, the support plate 111A comprises a surface of a heat insulating material on which the steam plate of the steam ironing head 104 can rest.

[0121] The garment care device 100 further includes a support arm 112 for supporting the docking unit 110. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration, the docking unit 110 is connected to the pole assembly 108 via a support arm 112 .

[0122] See also Figure 2 , the support arm 112 includes a first end 114. The docking unit 110 is coupled to the support arm 112 at the first end 114.

[0123] In some embodiments, the docking unit 110 is detachably mounted on the first end 114 of the support arm 112 by a coupling that allows the docking unit 110 to be detached and reattached in two angular directions that are 180 degrees from each other.

[0124] Thus, the docking unit 110 may be oriented to always face the direction most convenient for a user to properly dock the steam iron head 104 , regardless of whether the support arm 112 is attached to the cavity on the right or left side of the wand assembly 108 .

[0125] For example, Figure 5 The steam ironing machine head 104 is depicted in a first orientation in which the body of the steam ironing machine head extends substantially perpendicular to the support arm 112 (the support arm 112 is received within the first cavity 118A), and Figure 5A The steam iron head 104 is depicted in a second orientation (with the support arm 112 received within the second cavity 118B) after being rotated 180 degrees from the first orientation.

[0126] The removable coupling of the docking unit 110 at the first end 114 to the support arm 112 may be achieved in any suitable manner.

[0127] For example, see Figure 2 and Figure 4 , a protrusion 115A protruding from the first end 114 of the support arm 112 is releasably received in and engaged with a recess provided on a mounting portion 115B of the docking unit 110. In this non-limiting example, the mounting portion 115B extends from the underside of the support plate 111A. The mounting portion 115B has cylindrical symmetry, so that the coupling between the mounting portion 115B and the protrusion 115A can still be achieved after it is rotated 180 degrees.

[0128] Figure 4A depicts an enlarged view of the support arm 112 and the mounting portion 115B of the docking unit 110 according to the present invention, and Figure 4B depicts a side view of a support arm and a docking unit according to the invention,

[0129] Figure 4C An enlarged cross-sectional view of the coupling between the support arm and the mounting portion 115B of the docking unit 110 is depicted in accordance with the present invention.

[0130] The docking unit 110 is removably mounted to the support arm 112, for example, via a "pin and hole" mechanism. When the user actuates the button 117 (the button 117 is spring-loaded by the spring 121), the pin 119 (moving with the button 117) is retracted from the hole 120 formed in the mounting portion 115B, and thus, the mounting portion 115B of the docking unit 110 can be removed from the protrusion 115A of the support arm 112. When the user releases the button, the force applied by the spring causes the pin 119 to extend into the hole 120 and thus lock the docking unit in place on the support arm 112.

[0131] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the second end 116 of the support arm 112 is removably connected to the rod assembly 108 .

[0132] The support arm 112 being detachably connected to the rod assembly 108 may have various advantages. For example, this enables removal of the docking unit 110, making it easier to store the garment steamer 100 after use. Alternatively or additionally, being able to remove the support arm 112 from the rod assembly 108 may enable the docking unit 110 to be installed at other locations on the garment care device 100, as will be described in more detail below. The latter may help to conveniently position the docking unit 110 for the user, for example, depending on the orientation of the ironing board 140 (e.g., horizontal or vertical orientation).

[0133] The second end 116 is removably connected to the rod assembly 108 via a rod assembly coupling that allows horizontal translational relative movement between the support arm 112 and the rod assembly 108 when the support arm 112 is attached to or detached from the rod assembly coupling.

[0134] Such horizontal translational relative movement is believed to be more user-friendly than, for example, moving support arm 112 vertically (eg, upward or downward) to connect or detach support arm 112 from pole assembly 108 .

[0135] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As best shown in the figures, the support arm 112 has a dimension, such as a length dimension, extending from a first end 114 to a second end 116, wherein the rod assembly connection device defines a specific axis HA along which horizontal translational relative movement is required to attach the support arm 112 to the rod assembly connection device and remove the support arm 112 from the rod assembly connection device.

[0136] In such embodiments, a dimension (eg, a length dimension) of the support arm 112 is aligned along a particular axis HA during horizontal translational relative movement to attach and detach the support arm 112 from the rod assembly coupling.

[0137] Since the arrangement of the docking unit 110 enables the user to pick up the steam ironing head 104 in a direction PD that is angled with the horizontal plane along which the support arm 112 is translated to be detached from the rod assembly 108, the risk of the support arm 112 accidentally separating from the rod assembly 108 when the user picks up the steam ironing head 104 is reduced. In other words, the steam ironing head picking direction PD is not parallel to the direction of the horizontal translational relative movement along which the support arm is translated to be detached from the rod assembly.

[0138] When the garment steam ironing machine 100 is oriented for use, Figure 1 1 and 2 along which the horizontal relative movement (i.e., horizontal translation) occurs. Figure 1 Whether it is used in a position where the ironing board is in a vertical orientation (e.g. horizontal or inclined at an angle), in at least some embodiments, the axis HA extends transversely (e.g. perpendicularly) to the longitudinal direction LD of the ironing surface.

[0139] The axis HA is in the direction of horizontal translational relative movement. The pick-up direction PD is at an angle to the axis HA, and the horizontal translational relative movement along the axis HA is allowed by the rod assembly coupling device. The pick-up direction PD is not parallel to HA, thereby avoiding accidental removal of the support arm during picking up of the steam ironing machine head.

[0140] In some embodiments, and as Figure 3 and Figure 5 As best shown in , the rod assembly coupling device includes a first coupling mechanism. The first coupling mechanism includes a first cavity 118A disposed on / at the rod assembly 108, the first cavity 118A forming a hollow volume adapted to receive the second end 116 of the support arm 112.

[0141] See also Figure 2 , the second end 116 of the support arm 112 has an outer surface 120. Figure 3As shown, the first cavity 118A is defined by a first wall 122A having a first inner surface 124A. In such embodiments, preferably, the outer surface 120 has substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the first inner surface 124A.

[0142] In other words, the first cavity 118A and the second end 116 are shaped such that the second end 116 can be received in and engaged with the first inner surface 124A.

[0143] Thus, the term “substantially identical” means that the respective cross-sectional shapes of the first inner surface 124A and the outer surface 120 are sufficiently similar such that the second end 116 can be received within and engaged with the first inner surface 124A of the first cavity 118A.

[0144] The term “substantially identical” accordingly encompasses the situation where one or both of the first inner surface 124A and the outer surface 120 include surface features, such as protrusions and / or recesses, as long as these surface features do not prevent the second end 116 from being received in and engaging with the first inner surface 124A of the first cavity 118A.

[0145] In view of this, and as described Figure 3 A magnified view of Figure 3A As best shown in FIG. 1 , the first interior surface 124A of the first wall 122A defining the first cavity 118A preferably includes a plurality of first linear protruding ribs 126A.

[0146] These first plurality of linear protruding ribs 126A can help engage and guide the second end 116 into the first cavity 118A while limiting the contact area between the outer surface 120 of the second end 116 and the first inner surface 124A of the first cavity 118A. This limitation can help minimize friction when connecting and disconnecting the support arm 112 from the rod assembly 108. These first plurality of linear protruding ribs 126A can also help better control manufacturing tolerances compared to when the protruding ribs 126A are not included.

[0147] Preferably, the plurality of first linear protruding ribs 126A extend parallel to the axis HA, respectively.

[0148] Alternatively or additionally, protruding ribs 126A may be provided on opposing portions of the first inner surface 124A of the first cavity 118A.

[0149] This can help to minimize wobble of the support arm 112 when the second end 116 is inserted into the first cavity 118A. Thus, the user is provided with stability and assurance of a secure connection of the support arm 112.

[0150] In at least some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the outer surface 120 and the cross-sectional shape of the first inner surface 124A of the first wall 122A defining the first cavity 118A are both substantially rectangular.

[0151] This generally rectangular shape may help avoid undesired rotation of the support arm 112 within the first cavity 118A. However, other polygonal cross-sectional shapes, such as square, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, etc., are also contemplated for use for this purpose.

[0152] In at least some embodiments, the support arm 112 includes a flexible tongue 130 having a protruding catch 132 at the end of the tongue 130. The first wall 122A includes a first slot 134A,

[0153] The protruding catch can cooperate with the first slot to lock the support arm in the first cavity. Preferably, the flexible tongue 130 and the protruding catch 132 are arranged on the top surface of the support arm 112 .

[0154] The protruding catch and the first slot form a snap-fit ​​mechanism for locking / retaining the support arm in the first cavity. Figures 2 to 5 An example of this situation is best illustrated.

[0155] When the support arm 112 is translated along the axis HA to be received in the first cavity 118A, the protruding catch 132 initially contacts the first wall 122A whose first inner surface 124A defines the first cavity 118A, causing the tongue 130 to bend and allow the second end 116 to be received in the first cavity 118A. When subsequently advanced along the axis HA, the protruding catch 132 is aligned with the first groove 134A, and at this time, the elasticity of the tongue 130 causes the protruding catch 132 to be positioned in the first groove 134A, thereby locking the support arm 112 in the first cavity 118A.

[0156] like Figure 8 As shown, the button 135 is arranged between the first end 114 and the second end 116. The button 135 is arranged on the tongue 130, away from the protruding catch 132. The button 135, the tongue 130 and the protruding catch 132 are arranged on the top surface of the support arm 112 so that the button is clearly visible to the user when the docking unit 110 is connected to the rod assembly 108 via the support arm 112. This greatly improves the user-friendliness when the support arm 112 is detached from the rod assembly 108.

[0157] When the user wishes to remove the support arm 112 from the rod assembly 108, the user may depress the button 135, for example with a finger, to bend the tongue 130 and bring the protruding catch 132 out of the first slot 134A, thereby extracting the support arm 112 from the first cavity 118A along the axis HA.

[0158] This can help the user intuitively know how to release the snap fit mechanism.

[0159] In some embodiments, and see Figure 5 , the rod assembly coupling device includes a second coupling mechanism. The second coupling mechanism includes a second cavity 118B, which is arranged on the rod assembly 108 and is used to accommodate the second end 116 of the support arm 112. In such embodiments, the second cavity 118B forms a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end 116 of the support arm 112.

[0160] Preferably, the second cavity 118B is arranged 180 degrees relative to the first cavity 118A. Therefore, the support arm 112 can be connected to the opposite side of the rod assembly 108. In this way, both right-handed and left-handed users can comfortably use the garment steam ironing machine 100.

[0161] In some embodiments, and as Figure 5 As shown, the first cavity 118A is arranged on the first side S1 of the rod assembly 108, and the second cavity 118B is arranged on the second side S2 of the rod assembly 108 opposite to the first side S1, and the first cavity 118A and the second cavity 118B open outward in opposite directions relative to each other.

[0162] Preferably, the second cavity 118B is defined by a second wall 122B having a second inner surface 124B. In such embodiments, the outer surface 120 of the second end 116 of the support arm 112 has a substantially similar cross-sectional shape to the second inner surface 124B, such as a polygonal cross-sectional shape, such as a generally rectangular shape, as described above with respect to the first cavity 118A.

[0163] Preferably, the second inner surface includes a plurality of second linear protruding ribs, also as described above with respect to the first cavity 118A.

[0164] In at least some embodiments, the second wall 122B includes a second slot 134B, and the protruding catch 132 can cooperate with the second slot to lock the support arm in the second cavity.

[0165] The protruding catch 132 and the second slot 134B form a snap-fit ​​mechanism for locking / retaining the support arm in the second cavity, as similarly described above with respect to the first cavity 118A.

[0166] In some embodiments, the structure of the second cavity 118B is the same as that of the first cavity 118A.

[0167] This allows the support arm 112 to be easily attached to the first cavity 118A or the second cavity 118B arranged on either side S1, S2 of the rod assembly because the second end 116 of the support arm is inserted into / removed from each of the first cavity 118A and the second cavity 118B using the same connection / disconnection scheme.

[0168] In some embodiments, and see Figures 6 to 9 , the ironing board 140 comprises a board coupling arrangement which allows a translational relative movement between the support arm and the ironing board.

[0169] The panel coupling device defines another specific axis along which a translational relative movement needs to take place, in other words guided by the panel coupling device, during attachment and detachment of the support arm 112 to and from the panel coupling device.

[0170] In such embodiments, a dimension (eg, a length dimension) of the support arm 112 is aligned along the other particular axis during translational relative movement to attach and detach the support arm 112 from the panel coupling device.

[0171] Preferably, the translational relative movement is parallel to the flat surface of the ironing board on which the garments are arranged during treatment. The plate coupling device comprises a plate cavity 118C open on the periphery of the ironing board. The plate cavity forms a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end 116 of the support arm 112.

[0172] Plate cavity 118C is defined by wall 122C having inner surface 124C having substantially the same cross-sectional shape as outer surface 120 of second end 116, such as a polygonal cross-sectional shape, such as generally rectangular, as described above with respect to first cavity 118A and second cavity 118B.

[0173] like Fig. 9 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the inner surface 124C preferably includes a plurality of linear protruding ribs 126C, as similarly described above with respect to the first cavity 118A and the second cavity 118B.

[0174] In at least some embodiments, a groove 134C is arranged in the wall 122C defining the plate cavity 118C, and the protruding snap 132 can cooperate with the groove 134C to lock the support arm 112 in the plate cavity 118C. Therefore, the snap-fit ​​mechanism design for detachably connecting the support arm 112 to the ironing board 140 can be the same as the snap-fit ​​design for detachably connecting the support arm 112 to the rod assembly 108.

[0175] This may provide a consistent method of engagement at the locations of the rod assembly 108 and the ironing plate 140 of the garment steamer 100. This may further improve the user-friendliness of the garment steamer 100.

[0176] In some embodiments, the ironing board 140 extends longitudinally between a first end 142 and a second end 144, and the board cavity 118C is open at the first end and / or the second end.

[0177] Preferably, the first end 142 tapers toward a more pointed portion 146 of the ironing board 140 , which may correspond to the tip of the ironing board.

[0178] The pointed end 146 is opposite a wider end 148 of the second end 144 of the ironing board 140 , which may correspond to a shoulder of the ironing board.

[0179] In the various figures, the plate cavity 118C is open at the wider end 148 .

[0180] The embodiments described above are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the process of the present invention. Although the present invention is described in detail in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the process may be modified or replaced by equivalents 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 construed as limiting their scope.

Claims

1. A clothing steam ironing machine (100), comprising: a base (102), Steam ironing machine head (104), a hose cord (106) for connecting the base to the steam ironing machine head, a rod assembly (108), the rod assembly comprising at least one rod, an ironing board (140) mounted on the rod assembly, a docking unit (110) for docking the steam ironing machine head during a steam treatment inactive period, A support arm (112) having a first end (114) and a second end (116), the first end being used to support the docking unit, the second end being removably connectable to the ironing board, the ironing board comprising a board coupling device, the board coupling device allowing translational relative movement between the support arm and the ironing board when the support arm is being attached to or detached from the board coupling device, wherein the board coupling device comprises a board cavity (118C) open on the periphery of the ironing board, the board cavity forming a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end (116) of the support arm (112).

2. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The ironing board extends longitudinally between a first end (142) and a second end (144), and the board cavity (118C) is open at the first end and / or the second end.

3. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The second end (116) has an outer surface (120), and the plate cavity (118C) is defined by a wall (122C) having an inner surface (124C), the outer surface having substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the inner surface.

4. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 3, wherein: The inner surface (124C) includes a plurality of linear protruding ribs (126C).

5. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The support arm (112) comprises a flexible tongue (130) having a protruding buckle (132) at the end of the tongue. The wall (122C) defining the plate cavity includes a groove (134C), The protruding catch can cooperate with the slot to lock the support arm in the plate cavity.

6. A garment steam ironing machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The second end (116) of the support arm (112) is removably connectable to the rod assembly via a rod assembly coupling device, and the rod assembly coupling device allows horizontal translational relative movement between the support arm and the rod assembly when the support arm is being attached to or removed from the rod assembly coupling device.

7. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 6, wherein: The rod assembly coupling device includes a first coupling mechanism, the first coupling mechanism including a first cavity (118A) disposed on the rod assembly (108), the first cavity forming a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end (116).

8. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 7, wherein: The rod assembly connection device includes a second connection mechanism, which includes a second cavity (118B) arranged on the rod assembly (108), the second cavity forming a hollow volume suitable for accommodating the second end (116), and the second cavity is arranged at 180 degrees relative to the first cavity.

9. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 8, wherein: The first cavity (118A) is defined by a first wall (122A) having a first inner surface (124A), the outer surface having substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the first inner surface, and / or The second cavity (118B) is defined by a second wall (122B) having a second inner surface (124B), the outer surface having substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the second inner surface.

10. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 9, wherein: The first wall (122A) includes a first groove (134A), and the protruding buckle can cooperate with the first groove to lock the support arm in the first cavity, and / or The second wall (122B) includes a second groove (134B), and the protruding buckle can cooperate with the second groove to lock the support arm in the second cavity.

11. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 9, wherein: The first inner surface (124A) includes a plurality of first linear protruding ribs (126A), and / or The second inner surface (124B) includes a plurality of second linear protruding ribs (126B).

12. A garment steam ironing machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The docking unit (110) is detachably mounted on the first end (114) by a coupling, which allows the docking unit (110) to be detached and reattached in two angular directions at 180 degrees from each other.

13. A garment steam ironing machine (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The docking unit (110) comprises a support plate (111A) for supporting the steam ironing machine head (104) from below, and the support plate (111A) is inclined at an angle ranging from 30 degrees to 70 degrees relative to a horizontal plane.

14. The garment steam ironing machine (100) according to claim 13, wherein: The support plate (111A) includes side support members (111B) extending from a peripheral portion of the support plate (111A) to laterally support the steam ironing machine head (104).

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