Accessory and garment steamer comprising same

Abstract

The invention relates to an accessory for a garment steamer head (100). The garment steamer head comprises a bottom plate (102). The accessory includes a tray (104) having an upper surface on which the base plate can dock when performing a descaling operation. The tray has a lower surface adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal support surface, such as a laundry facing surface of a horizontally oriented ironing board. An attachment device (108) arranged at the forward end of the tray attaches a tip (109) of the garment steamer head to the tray. The tray also has a plurality of support ribs (110A, 110B) including a lower portion for contacting an external horizontal support surface. The support ribs include a pair of ribs spaced apart from each other across a rear end (112) of the tray. The support ribs are arranged to protrude rearward beyond the lower surface. The invention further provides a garment steamer comprising the accessory and the garment steamer head.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an accessory for descaling operation of a garment steamer.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a garment steamer comprising the accessory.

[0003] The present invention can be used in the field of garment care. BACKGROUND

[0004] Garment steamers are known for steaming or steam treating garments to remove creases by using the heat and moisture in the steam.

[0005] One type of garment steamer comprises a base unit which houses a water tank. A steamer head, which can also be referred to as an iron head or hand unit, is connected to the base unit by a flexible hose cord through which steam and / or water is delivered from the base unit to the steamer head. A steam generator is comprised in the base unit and / or the steamer head. The steamer head is provided with a soleplate, also referred to as a treatment plate, which defines one or more steam outlets through which steam is emitted onto the fabric being treated.

[0006] In order to maintain effective steam generation and prolong operational life, especially if relatively hard water is used, descaling operations / programs are recommended for such garment steamers. The descaling operation is typically performed by the user holding the steamer head and allowing scale (together with hot water and / or steam) to be flushed from the steamer head into the air or a sink. Holding the steamer head throughout the descaling operation tends to be necessary because of the risk associated with hot water and steam being emitted towards other people, such as members of the user’s household, especially children.

[0007] However, a descaling tray can be provided to receive the hot water, steam and / or scale emitted during the descaling operation. However, potential safety issues can arise in relation to the use of such a descaling tray. For example, the steamer head can be removed from the descaling tray together with the steamer head, and the steamer head can be tipped over during the descaling operation. As a result, the hot water and / or steam emitted from the steamer head can not be received in the descaling tray, and / or any hot water already emitted into the descaling tray can spill over. Consequently, the comfort and safety of the user and anyone nearby can be compromised.

[0008] Garment steamers can be designed for both vertical steam hanging of garments and horizontal ironing of garments on an ironing board. Such vertical steam hanging can require a relatively small and lightweight steamer head. However, such a relatively small and lightweight steamer head is prone to tipping over, especially due to the weight of the hose cord which can equal or even exceed the weight of the steamer head. These factors exacerbate the aforementioned safety issues in relation to the use of a descaling tray.

[0009] WO2021 / 009786A1 discloses a container for collecting wash water from an iron and adapted to support the plates of a garment steamer during a cleaning cycle. The container comprises an upper half-shell providing a surface supporting the plates and a lower half-shell comprising a support base and lateral containment walls defining a containment compartment configured to collect water and steam discharged by the plates.

[0010] WO2020 / 053909A1 discloses a support base for an iron. The support base comprises a base body adapted to rest on a surface or work plane, and a multifunctional support element detachably associated with the base body. The support element has a first use configuration, in which the support element is associated with the base body, and a second use configuration, in which the support element is removed from the base body. Summary of the Invention

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide an accessory for a clothes steamer that avoids or alleviates one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0012] The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0013] To this end, the accessory according to the invention comprises a tray,

[0014] - the tray forms an upper surface, and the bottom plate can be docked on the upper surface to enable the descaling operation of the garment steamer head,

[0015] - the tray forms a lower surface adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal supporting surface,

[0016] - attachment means arranged at the front end of the tray to attach the tip of the steamer head to the tray, and

[0017] - a plurality of support ribs including a lower portion flush with the lower surface and projecting rearwardly therefrom, the support ribs comprising a pair of ribs spaced apart from one another across a rear end of the tray.

[0018] The pair of ribs may help balance the tray on the outer horizontal support surface.

[0019] The attachment arrangement, which may alternatively be referred to as an "attachment system", may help reduce the risk of the steamer head, in particular the tip of the steamer head, being inadvertently detached from the tray during a descaling operation. Thus, the attachment arrangement may help ensure that the descaling operation is carried out safely.

[0020] When the sole plate is docked on the tray, the lower portion of the tray can protrude rearward beyond the rear end of the sole plate. Thus, the risk of the tray tipping over backwards, with the steamer head's sole plate docked on the tray, can be minimized. The lower portion, in combination with the attachment means, can facilitate the steamer head to be supported on the tray, with the tray stably sitting on the external horizontal support surface, without the need for the user to hold the steamer head.

[0021] In some embodiments, the plurality of support ribs comprises a central rib arranged between the pair of ribs. The central rib can add additional stability in the vicinity of the rear end of the tray. In particular, the optional central rib can facilitate to enhance the stability provided by the pair of ribs.

[0022] In such embodiments, the central rib preferably protrudes rearward by a length shorter than each of the pair of ribs.

[0023] The tip of the steamer head that is attachable to the tray via the attachment means preferably comprises the tip of the housing of the steamer head.

[0024] Attaching the steamer head to the tray via its housing can provide a relatively robust and durable solution, in particular as compared to attaching the steamer head to the tray via the tip of the sole plate of the steamer head, due to the sole plate being heated to a relatively high temperature.

[0025] In some embodiments, the attachment means comprises a cavity for receiving the tip of the steamer head, e.g. the tip of the housing of the steamer head. This can provide a relatively straightforward manufacturable way of implementing the attachment means.

[0026] In such embodiments, the cavity is preferably partially defined by an upper wall portion arranged to contact an upper surface of the tip of the steamer head when the sole plate is docked on the tray. By contacting the upper surface of the tip of the steamer head, the upper wall portion can facilitate to minimize the risk of the steamer head tilting.

[0027] For example, the upper wall portion is arranged to contact an upwardly facing surface of the top of the housing of the steamer head when the sole plate is docked on the tray.

[0028] In some embodiments, the upper surface of the tray is arranged to support the sole plate at an angle with respect to the lower surface of the tray. In other words, a first plane of the upper surface is inclined with respect to a second plane of the lower surface.

[0029] Thus, during descaling, the tray can support the steamer head at a desired angle. For example, such an angle can be chosen to ensure that a descaling solution can contact relevant parts inside the steamer head, in particular relevant parts prone to fouling, during a descaling operation. Such an angle can thus facilitate water and / or scale to be easily flushed out of the interior of the steamer head.

[0030] In at least some embodiments, the tray includes a recess (forming a receptacle) for receiving scale and / or water from the steamer head during a descaling operation.

[0031] A rim preferably extends at least partially around the recess, on which rim the soleplate of the steamer head may rest. In such an embodiment, the upper surface may be considered to be comprised in the rim.

[0032] In some embodiments, the tray further includes a flange extending at least partially around the recess. The flange can assist a user in manipulating the tray, for example, when moving the tray to contain water and / or scale. The flange can also assist in storing the tray after use, for example, by assisting in attaching the tray to an ironing board.

[0033] According to another aspect, there is provided a clothes steamer comprising a steamer head having a sole plate and an accessory according to any embodiment described herein.

[0034] In some embodiments, the garment steamer includes a hose cord arranged to extend rearwardly away from the rear of the steamer head. This rearward extension of the hose cord can help minimize the risk of the hose cord obstructing movement of the steamer head, particularly when the steamer head is moved over clothing.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, the handle of the steamer head may extend rearwardly beyond the rearmost portion of the housing of the steamer head.

[0036] While such a handle and rearwardly extending hose cord may increase the risk of the steamer head tipping, this risk may be mitigated by the attachment means and support ribs, as these features of the tray may help reduce the risk of the tray and the steamer head tipping backwards.

[0037] In some embodiments, the clothes steamer comprises an ironing board and a coupling device adapted to detachably couple the tray to the ironing board when the sole plate is not docked on the tray.

[0038] The coupling device (also referred to as a "coupling system") helps the user to easily retrieve the tray when performing a descaling operation, noting that the descaling operation tends to occur, for example, once every few weeks, depending on factors such as water hardness and frequency of use of the clothes steamer.

[0039] The ability to attach the tray to the ironing board of a garment steamer can help minimize the risk of the tray being misplaced (in other words, located somewhere different from the rest of the garment steamer). By attaching the tray to the ironing board, the tray can also remain attached to the ironing board, and thus the garment steamer, when the garment steamer is transported from one location to another. By helping to prevent the tray from being misplaced, the attachment device can help ensure compliance with descaling recommendations for the garment steamer.

[0040] By reducing the risk of misplacing the tray, users are more likely to perform a descaling operation when recommended. Alternatively or additionally, users are more likely to use the tray for descaling rather than some other container not specifically designed for this purpose, such as a sink. Thus, the coupling device can help ensure that the descaling operation is performed correctly, effectively, and safely. It should be noted that correctly and effectively performing the descaling operation can help ensure that the garment steamer operates reliably throughout its operating life.

[0041] In at least some embodiments, the ironing board has a garment-facing side and an underside, the garment-facing side and the underside facing in opposite directions, the garment being supportable against the garment-facing side, and the coupling means being arranged to detachably couple the tray to the underside.

[0042] By being able to couple the tray to the underside of the ironing board, the tray can be positioned to minimize the risk that the tray will interfere with ironing or steaming the clothes supported by the clothes-facing side. Additionally, when coupled to the ironing board, the tray can be conveniently hidden from view.

[0043] In some embodiments, the coupling means comprises at least one resilient fastening means adapted to releasably secure components of the tray to the ironing board. The resilient fastening means may facilitate relatively straightforward coupling and detachment of the tray to and from the ironing board for user application.

[0044] In some embodiments, the at least one resilient fastening arrangement comprises a resilient member and a securing member, the resilient member being arranged to bias the securing member into engagement with said portion of the tray.

[0045] For example, the resilient member comprises (eg is defined by) a spring.

[0046] In some embodiments the coupling means comprises a support member against which a portion of the tray can rest while the at least one resilient fastening means secures said portion of the tray, whereby the support member and the resilient fastening means are arranged to retain the tray to the ironing board.

[0047] Preferably, the portion that abuts the support member is located at or near a first end of the tray, and the portion that is releasably secured by the resilient fastening means is located at or near a second end of the tray opposite the first end. This can provide a relatively straightforward, secure, and easy-to-use coupling component of the tray. In some embodiments, the portion and / or component of the tray is or is comprised in a flange that extends at least partially around the recess.

[0048] Detailed description and other aspects of the present invention are given below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] Certain aspects of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts or sub-steps are designated in the same manner:

[0050] Figure 1 The steamer head and tray of a clothes steamer according to an example of the present invention are depicted.

[0051] Figure 2A and 2B Provides views of the upper and lower surfaces of a tray according to one example of the present invention, respectively, and

[0052] Figures 3A to 3E Various views of a tray coupled to an ironing board according to the present invention are provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The present invention relates to an accessory for a clothes steamer head, which includes a base plate. The accessory includes a tray having an upper surface, on which the base plate can be docked during a descaling operation. The tray has a lower surface, which is suitable for cooperating with an external horizontal support surface, such as the surface of a horizontally oriented ironing board facing the clothes. An attachment device arranged at the front end of the tray is capable of attaching the tip of the clothes steamer head to the tray. The tray also has a plurality of support ribs, which include a lower portion for contacting the external horizontal support surface. The support ribs are arranged to protrude rearwardly beyond the lower surface of the tray. For example, when docked on the tray, the support ribs can protrude rearwardly beyond the rear end of the base plate. A clothes steamer including an accessory and a clothes steamer head is also provided.

[0054] Figure 1 A steamer head 100 of a clothes steamer according to an example is shown. The steamer head 100 includes a bottom plate 102 .

[0055] Steam generated by a steam generator (not shown) included in the clothes steamer may be released to the clothes through at least one steam outlet (not shown) defined by the soleplate 102 .

[0056] The bottom plate 102 comprises a metal alloy or a metal, such as aluminum. Such a metal bottom plate 102 is preferably coated with a material such as that suitable for promoting the sliding of the bottom plate 102 on the fabric.

[0057] In at least some embodiments, the steamer head 100 includes a housing 101 to which a base plate 102 is coupled. The housing 101 may be made of any suitable material, such as a plastic material, for example, an engineering thermoplastic.

[0058] Preferably, the steamer head 100 includes a handle 103 , which enables the steamer head 100 to be held by the user and moved on the clothes when the user grasps the handle 103 .

[0059] In some embodiments, the clothes steamer includes a base unit having a water tank and a hose cord for connecting the steamer head 100 to the base unit. The water tank stores water for generating steam. To this end, the water stored in the water tank is supplied to the steam generator.

[0060] In some embodiments, a steam generator is included in the base unit, and steam generated by the steam generator is supplied to the steamer head 100 via a hose cord.

[0061] In such an embodiment, the steamer head 100 preferably includes a steam heater arranged to reheat the steam and / or water received from the steam generator before the steam leaves the steamer head via the at least one steam outlet. The steam heater may help to minimize the risk of water splashing onto the treated clothing.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the steamer head 100 may comprise a steam chamber arranged to generate steam from water supplied (eg pumped) thereto from a water tank comprised in the base unit.

[0063] Accessories including tray 104 are included in Figure 1 、 Figure 2A and Figure 2B The base plate 102 can be docked (in other words, can be mounted) on the tray 104 so that a descaling operation can be performed. The accessories can be defined by the tray 104, for example.

[0064] The tray 104 can be made of any suitable mechanical and thermally strong material. In some embodiments, the tray 104 is made of a plastic material. For example, the tray 104 is made of polypropylene, such as recycled polypropylene.

[0065] The tray 104 can be manufactured in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the tray 104 is manufactured by plastic injection molding, such as by injection molding using polypropylene.

[0066] The evaporation of water, particularly in the steam heater or steam chamber of the steamer head 100, can cause scale to build up over time. A descaling operation can remove at least some of this scale.

[0067] The descaling operation can be implemented, for example, using a user-selectable descaling mode of the clothes steamer. For example, the clothes steamer includes a user interface configured to enable a user to select the descaling mode of the clothes steamer.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, a descaling solution different from the water used in normal operation of the garment steamer may be used, for example by introducing the descaling solution into the steam heater or steam chamber of the steamer head 100 for the descaling operation.

[0069] In such an embodiment, the descaling solution preferably comprises (eg is defined by) aqueous acetic acid. The aqueous acetic acid may be provided in any suitable manner, for example as a mixture of distilled water and white vinegar.

[0070] More generally, during a descaling operation, scale and / or water is flushed from the steamer head 100, for example via a steam outlet defined by the soleplate 102. During a descaling operation, scale and / or water flushed from the steamer head 100 may be received in the tray 104.

[0071] When the sole plate 102 is docked on the tray 104, the sole plate 102 faces the interior of the tray 104. The tray 104 preferably includes a recess 105 for receiving scale and / or water from the steamer head 100 during a descaling operation.

[0072] like Figure 2A As shown, the tray 104 forms an upper surface US on which the base plate 102 can be docked, in other words, can be mounted on the upper surface US so as to be able to perform a descaling operation.

[0073] The bottom plate 102 may preferably be supported on a rim 106 that extends at least partially around the recess 105. In such an embodiment, the upper surface US may be considered to be included in the rim 106.

[0074] The shape of the upper surface US and / or edge 106 preferably follows the contours of the base plate 102. This may facilitate docking of the base plate 102 onto the tray 104 by providing the user with an intuitive visual guide on how to dock the base plate 102 onto the tray 104.

[0075] In some embodiments, the upper surface US is arranged to support the base plate 102 at an angle relative to the lower surface LS of the tray 104, which cooperates with, for example rests on, an external horizontal support surface. In other words, a first plane of the upper surface US is inclined relative to a second plane of the lower surface LS. Preferably, the angle is in the range of 0 to 5 degrees, preferably 3 degrees, so that the front of the tray 104 is lower than the rear thereof when the lower surface LS is arranged on a horizontal surface. Figure 3C 1 and 2. A tray 104 is shown having an upper surface US that is angled relative to a lower surface LS.

[0076] Thus, the tray 104 can support the steamer head 100 at a desired angle during descaling. For example, such an angle can be selected to ensure that the descaling solution can contact relevant parts of the interior of the steamer head 100 during the descaling operation, particularly relevant parts of the steam heater or steam chamber where scale is likely to accumulate.

[0077] In some embodiments, and as Figure 2A As best shown, the one or more floor retaining members R1, R2 are arranged around the upper surface US and upstanding from the upper surface US.

[0078] The floor retaining members R1, R2 can help to minimize or prevent forward, rearward and / or lateral movement of the floor 102 on the upper surface US when the floor 102 is docked on the tray 104.

[0079] In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 2A As shown, the one or more floor retaining members R1, R2 include a front floor retaining member R1 arranged at or near the front end of the tray 104. The front floor retaining member R1 can help to minimize or prevent forward movement of the floor 102 on the upper surface US when the floor 102 is docked on the tray 104.

[0080] The front floor retaining member R1 preferably extends around the upper surface US from the left side of the tray 104 to the front end, to the right side of the tray 104. Thus, the front floor retaining member R1 can help to minimize or prevent (at least) forward and lateral movement of the floor 102 on the upper surface US when the floor 102 is docked on the tray 104.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, the one or more floor retaining members R1, R2 include a rear floor retaining member R2 arranged at or near the rear end 112 of the tray 104. The rear floor retaining member R2 can help to minimize or prevent rearward movement of the floor 102 on the upper surface US when the floor 102 is docked on the tray 104.

[0082] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the tray 104 includes a flange 107 extending at least partially around the recess 105. Such a flange 107 can be considered to protrude laterally outwardly from the recess 105.

[0083] The flange 107 can help a user to handle the tray 104, for example when moving the tray 104 containing water and / or limescale. The flange 107 can also assist storage of the tray 104 after use, for example by helping to couple the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 3A to 3E The flange 107 can help a user to handle the tray 104, for example when moving the tray 104 containing water and / or limescale. The flange 107 can also assist storage of the tray 104 after use, for example by helping to couple the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, as described in more detail below with reference to

[0084] In some embodiments, the one or more floor retaining members R1, R2 are arranged between the upper surface US and the flange 107, for example between the edge 106 and the flange 107.

[0085] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2AThe tray 104 includes an attachment device 108 arranged at the front end of the tray 104 to attach the tip 109 of the steamer head 100 to the tray 104 .

[0086] The attachment device 108 may help reduce the risk of the steamer head 100, and in particular the tip 109, being inadvertently separated from the tray 104 during a descaling operation. Thus, the attachment device 108 may help ensure a safe application of a descaling operation.

[0087] like Figure 2B As best shown in FIG, the tray 104 forms a lower surface LS that is adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal and flat support surface. For example, cooperation of the lower surface LS of the tray 104 with the external horizontal support surface means that the tray 104 can be supported on the external horizontal support surface by resting its lower surface LS on the external horizontal support surface.

[0088] In this way, when the lower surface LS cooperates with the external horizontal support surface, for example when resting on the external horizontal support surface, the external horizontal support surface can support the tray 104 on which the bottom plate 102 of the garment steamer head 100 is docked.

[0089] The outer horizontal support surface may be provided, for example, by the garment-facing side 122 of the ironing board 120, as long as the ironing board 120 adopts a horizontal orientation.

[0090] The lower surface LS may be adapted to cooperate with the outer horizontal support surface in any suitable manner. Figure 2B As shown, the lower surface LS is included in a support foot of the tray 104. For example, the lower surface LS is included in a support foot that extends around at least a portion of the perimeter of the underside of the tray 104.

[0091] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, when the steamer head 100 is docked on the tray 104, a plurality of support ribs 110A, 110B protrude rearward beyond the rear end 111 of the bottom plate 102. The support ribs 110A, 110B include lower portions LP1, LP2 that are flush with the lower surface LS of the tray 104. For example, each support rib 110, 110B includes a lower portion LP1, LP2 that is flush with the lower surface LS of the tray 104.

[0092] That the lower parts LP1 , LP2 are flush with the lower surface LS means that the lower parts LP1 , LP2 also cooperate with, eg rest on, the outer horizontal supporting surface.

[0093] When the steamer head 100 is docked on the tray 104, the lower parts LP1 and LP2 protrude backward beyond the rear end 111 of the bottom plate 102, which minimizes the risk of the tray 104 tipping backward when the bottom plate 102 of the steamer head 100 is docked thereon.

[0094] It is also noted that the steamer head 100 can be supported on a tray 104 that sits stably on an external horizontal support surface without requiring the user to hold the steamer head 100 .

[0095] By including both the attachment device 108 and the support ribs 110A and 110B, the tray 104 reduces the risk of the tip 109 of the steamer head 100 separating from the tray 104, and the support ribs 110A and 110B reduce the risk of the tray 104 and the steamer head 100 tipping over backward, so that the steamer head 100 can be stably supported by the tray 104 during the descaling operation. Since the user does not need to hold the steamer head 100, user convenience can be improved and / or user safety can be improved.

[0096] In some embodiments, the hose cord is connected to the handle 103 of the steamer head 100. In such an embodiment, the hose cord can be connected to the handle 103 and extend rearwardly away from the handle 103. In an alternative embodiment, the hose cord can be connected to the rear portion of the housing 101 other than the handle 103 and extend rearwardly away from the rear portion.

[0097] More generally, the hose cord preferably extends rearwardly away from the rear of the steamer head 100. This can help minimize the risk of the hose cord obstructing movement of the steamer head 100, particularly as the steamer head 100 is moved over clothing.

[0098] While the hose cord extending rearward from the rear of the steamer head 100 may increase the risk of the steamer head 100 tipping over during the descaling operation, this risk may be mitigated by the attachment means 108. The lower portions LP1, LP2 of the support ribs 110A, 110B may also help reduce the risk of the tray 104 tipping over rearwardly along with the steamer head 100.

[0099] In some embodiments, as Figure 1 As shown, the handle 103 of the steamer head 100 extends rearward beyond the rearmost portion of the housing 101 .

[0100] This extension of the handle 103 may aid in the maneuverability of the steamer head 100. Although a handle 103 extending rearward beyond the rearmost portion of the housing 101 may increase the risk of the steamer head 100 tilting during a descaling operation, this risk may be mitigated by the attachment means 108 and the support ribs 110A, 110B, as previously described.

[0101] In some embodiments, as Figure 1 、 Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the plurality of support ribs 110A, 110B includes a pair of ribs 110A, 110B spaced apart from one another across a rear end 112 of the tray 104. The pair of ribs 110A, 110B may help balance the tray 104 on an external horizontal support surface.

[0102] In some embodiments, the plurality of support ribs 110A, 110B includes a center rib (not shown) disposed between the pair of ribs 110A, 110B. The center rib can add additional stability near the rear end 112 of the tray 104. In particular, the optional center rib can help enhance the stability provided by the pair of ribs 110A, 110B.

[0103] In such an embodiment, the central rib preferably protrudes rearwardly by a length shorter than each of the pair of ribs 110A, 110B.

[0104] The tip 109 of the steamer head 100 , which preferably comprises the tip of the housing 101 , may be attached to the tray 104 via an attachment device 108 .

[0105] Attaching the steamer head 100 to the tray 104 via its housing 101 may provide a relatively robust and durable solution, particularly compared to attaching the steamer head 100 to the tray 104 via, for example, the tip of the soleplate 102 of the steamer head 100, due to the soleplate 102 being heated to a relatively high temperature.

[0106] In some embodiments, and as in Figure 2A As best shown in , the attachment means 108 includes a cavity 113 for receiving the tip 109 of the steamer head 100 (eg, including the tip 109 of the tip of the housing 101). This may provide a relatively straightforward, manufacturable way of implementing the attachment means 108.

[0107] In such an embodiment, the cavity 113 is preferably defined in part by an upper wall portion 114, wherein the upper wall portion 114 is arranged to contact an upper surface of the tip 109 of the steamer head 100 when the base plate 102 is docked on the tray 104. By contacting the upper surface of the tip 109 of the base plate 102, the upper wall portion 114 can help minimize the risk of the steamer head 100 tilting (particularly as the rear end of the handle 103 tends to tilt closer to the tray 104).

[0108] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the upper wall portion 114 is arranged to contact a face-up surface of the tip of the housing 101 of the garment steamer head 100 when the base plate 102 is docked on the tray 104.

[0109] In some embodiments, such as Figures 3A to 3E As shown, the garment steamer includes an ironing board 120. During steam treatment and / or ironing of garments using the garment steamer head 100, garments can be supported by the ironing board 120.

[0110] The garment-facing side 122 of the ironing board 120 is the side on which garments are supported. The ironing board 120 also has an underside 124, the garment-facing side 122 and the underside 124 facing in opposite directions. In other words, the garment-facing side 122 faces in a first direction, while the underside 124 faces in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[0111] In some embodiments, the garment steamer includes a pole assembly (not shown) for supporting the ironing board 120. In such embodiments, the garment steamer can be considered a stand steamer.

[0112] The pole assembly is preferably a telescopic pole assembly. In such embodiments, the height adjustment of the ironing board 120 can be achieved by extending and retracting the telescopic pole assembly.

[0113] Alternatively or additionally, the ironing board 120 is preferably tiltable between a vertical orientation and a horizontal orientation. The vertical orientation can be used for steam treatment of hanging garments, while the horizontal orientation can be used for ironing. In some embodiments, the horizontal orientation is also used for descaling operations when the ironing board 120 is used to provide an external horizontal support surface.

[0114] In some embodiments, the garment steamer includes a support base arranged to support the base unit and / or the pole assembly.

[0115] More generally, the garment steamer preferably includes a coupling device to detachably couple the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 when the base plate 102 is not docked on the tray 104.

[0116] The coupling device can facilitate easy retrieval of the tray 104 by the user when performing descaling operations, noting that descaling operations tend to be performed once every few weeks, depending on factors such as water hardness and frequency of use of the garment steamer.

[0117] The ability to couple the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 of the garment steamer can facilitate minimization of the risk of the tray 104 being misplaced (in other words, located somewhere different from the rest of the garment steamer), and thus facilitate ensuring compliance with descaling recommendations for the garment steamer.

[0118] By reducing the risk of misplacing the tray 104, users are more likely to perform a descaling operation when recommended. Alternatively or additionally, users are more likely to use the tray 104 for descaling rather than some other container not specifically designed for this purpose, such as a sink. Thus, the coupling device can help ensure that the descaling operation is performed correctly, effectively, and safely. It should be noted that correctly and effectively performing the descaling operation can help ensure that the garment steamer operates reliably throughout its operating life.

[0119] In some embodiments, such as Figures 3A to 3E As shown, the coupling means is arranged to removably couple the tray 104 to the underside 124 of the ironing board 120. By coupling the tray 104 to the underside 124 of the ironing board 120, the tray 104 can be positioned to minimize the risk of the tray 104 interfering with the ironing or steaming of garments supported by the garment-facing side 122. Furthermore, when coupled to the ironing board 120, the tray 104 can be conveniently hidden from view.

[0120] In some embodiments, such as Figures 3A to 3E As shown, the coupling means comprises at least one resilient fastening means 126 adapted to releasably secure a part 127 of the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 .

[0121] Any suitable type of resilient fastening device 126 may be employed for this purpose. In some embodiments, at least one resilient fastening device 126 includes a resilient member 128 and a securing member 129 , the resilient member 128 being arranged to bias the securing member 129 into engagement with the component 127 of the tray 104 .

[0122] In some embodiments, such as Figures 3A to 3E As shown, the elastic member 128 includes (e.g., is defined by) a spring. It is contemplated that any suitable type of spring may be included in the elastic member 128, such as Figure 3C and 3D Coil springs, leaf springs, etc. shown.

[0123] In some embodiments, and with continued reference to Figure 3C and Figure 3D , at least one resilient fastening device 126 includes a tactile portion 130 that can be contacted and moved by a user, such as by a user's finger, to cause the securing member 129 to move against the bias provided by the resilient member 128 (eg, a spring).

[0124] During coupling of the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, the user can move the haptic portion 130 such that the securing member 129 is secured such that the part 127 of the tray 104 can be moved towards the ironing board 120 beyond the securing member 129. Upon release of the haptic portion 130, the securing member 129 can engage a bottom surface of the part 127 to secure the part 127 to the ironing board 120 while the part 127 of the tray 104 remains in the position beyond the securing member 129.

[0125] During release of the tray 104 from the ironing board 120, the user can move the haptic portion 130 such that the securing member 129 is positioned such that the part 127 of the tray 104 can be moved beyond the securing member 129 away from the ironing board 120. Note that the movement of the tray 104 towards and away from the ironing board 120 is indicated in Figure 3A by double headed arrows.

[0126] The haptic portion 130 can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, and as best shown in Figure 3D the haptic portion 130 comprises one or more protrusions 131A, 131B for helping the user to establish a firm contact with the haptic portion 130 upon moving the haptic portion 130.

[0127] In some embodiments, and as best shown in Figure 3C and Figure 3E the coupling device comprises a support member 123 against which a portion 125 of the tray 104 can rest while at least one elastic fastening device 126 secures a part 127 of the tray 104, such that the support member 123 and the elastic fastening device 126 are arranged to hold the tray 104 to the ironing board 120.

[0128] In such embodiments, the portion 125 is preferably located at or near a first end of the tray 104 and the part 127 is located at or near a second end of the tray 104 opposite the first end. This can provide a relatively straightforward, safe and easy to use coupling part of the tray 104.

[0129] For example, the portion 125 and / or the part 127 of the tray 104 are comprised in a flange 107 extending at least partially around the recess 105.

[0130] In some embodiments, the at least one elastic fastening device comprises a snap fastening device. Such a snap fastening device can provide for a relatively straightforward coupling of the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 and release of the tray 104 from the ironing board 120.

[0131] The snap fastening means may have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the snap fastening means comprises, for example, a cantilevered snap fastening means.

[0132] Note that the coupling arrangement may generally be considered to comprise mounting features provided on the ironing board 120 , for example on the underside 124 of the ironing board 120 .

[0133] The coupling means / mounting feature may be made from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the coupling means / mounting feature comprises a plastic material, such as polypropylene, such as recycled polypropylene.

[0134] The above embodiments described are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical methods of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the technical methods of the present invention may be modified or equivalently replaced without departing from the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An accessory for a garment steamer head (100), the garment steamer head (100) comprising a bottom plate (102), the accessory comprising a tray (104), the tray forms an upper surface (US) on which the bottom plate can dock to enable the descaling operation of the steamer head, - said tray forms a lower surface (LS) adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal supporting surface, - attachment means (108) arranged at the front end of the tray to attach the tip (109) of the steamer head to the tray, and - a plurality of support ribs (110A, 110B), the plurality of support ribs (110A, 110B) including lower portions (LP1, LP2) flush with the lower surface and projecting rearwardly therefrom, the support ribs comprising a pair of ribs spaced apart from one another across a rear end (112) of the tray.

2. The accessory according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of supporting ribs (110A, 110B) further includes a central rib disposed between the pair of ribs (110A, 110B).

3. The accessory according to claim 2, wherein: The rearward protrusion length of the central rib is shorter than that of each of the pair of ribs (110A, 110B).

4. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The attachment device (108) includes a cavity (113) for receiving the tip (109) of the steamer head (100).

5. The accessory according to claim 4, wherein The cavity (113) is partially defined by an upper wall portion (114) arranged to contact an upper surface of the tip (109) of the steamer head (100).

6. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The upper surface (US) is arranged to support the base plate (102) at an angle relative to the lower surface (LS).

7. An accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: - the tray (104) comprises a recess (105) for receiving scale and / or water from the steamer head (100) during the descaling operation, and The upper surface (US) is comprised in a rim (106) extending at least partially around the recess, on which rim the soleplate (102) of the steamer head can be supported.

8. The accessory according to claim 7, wherein The tray (104) also includes a flange (107) extending at least partially around the recess (105).

9. A clothes steamer, comprising: - a steamer head (100) having a bottom plate (102), and - An accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The clothes steamer according to claim 9, wherein: The plurality of support ribs (110A, 110B) are arranged to protrude rearward beyond a rear end (111) of the bottom plate (102) when docked on the tray (104).

11. The clothes steamer according to claim 9 or 10, comprising a hose cord arranged to extend rearwardly away from the rear of the steamer head (100).

12. The garment steamer according to any one of claims 9 to 11, comprising: - an ironing board (120), and - coupling means adapted to detachably couple the tray (104) to the ironing board when the soleplate (102) is not docked on the tray.

13. The clothes steamer according to claim 12, wherein: The ironing board (120) has a garment-facing side (122) and an underside (124), the garment-facing side and the underside facing in opposite directions, garments being supported against the garment-facing side (122), the coupling means being arranged to couple the tray (104) to the underside.

14. The clothes steamer according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The coupling means comprises at least one resilient fastening means (126) adapted to releasably secure a component (127) of the tray (104) to the ironing board (120).

15. The clothes steamer according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one resilient fastening arrangement (126) comprises a resilient member (128) and a securing member (129), the resilient member being arranged to bias the securing member into engagement with the component (127) of the tray (104).

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