Garment garment steamer with descaling tray

Abstract

The invention relates to a garment steamer. The garment steamer comprises a garment steamer head (100), an ironing plate and a tray (104). The garment steamer head is provided with the bottom plate (102), and the bottom plate can be in butt joint with the tray, so that descaling operation can be carried out. The garment steamer further comprises a connecting device used for detachably connecting the tray to the ironing plate when the bottom plate is not in butt joint with the tray.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment steamer having a tray for descaling operation.

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

[0003] Garment steamers are known for steaming or steam treating garments to remove creases by using the heat and moisture in the steam.

[0004] 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-held 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 sole plate, also referred to as a treatment plate, which defines one or more steam outlets through which steam is emitted onto the fabric being treated.

[0005] 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 risks associated with hot water and steam being emitted to other people, such as members of the user’s household, especially children.

[0006] However, a descaling tray can be provided to receive hot water, steam and / or scale emitted during the descaling operation. While such a descaling tray can provide various benefits, in particular relating to the safety and effectiveness of the descaling operation, there can be a risk of misplacement of such a descaling tray, partly because the descaling operation is a maintenance program which is performed, for example, every few weeks. Misplacement of the descaling tray can mean that the descaling operation is not performed when it should be performed, or that the descaling operation is performed without the descaling tray. This can increase the likelihood of the descaling operation being performed incorrectly, ineffectively or in a way which compromises the safety of the user and / or people around them.

[0007] EP3926088A1 discloses a garment steamer comprising a base, a steamer head connected to the base via a hose, and a pole assembly connected to the base and extending upwardly. A docking assembly is provided to dock the steamer head. A support arm and a steamer head holder releasably support the steamer head.

[0008] WO2014 / 163388A1 discloses a garment treatment apparatus. The garment treatment apparatus comprises a chamber forming an outer appearance of the garment treatment apparatus and a support member which is removable from the chamber. The support member provides a space to support a garment when the garment is removed from the chamber. A garment treatment unit is also removable from the chamber. The garment treatment unit supplies at least one of heat and moisture to a garment supported by the support member. SUMMARY

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to propose a garment steamer which avoids or mitigates one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0010] The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0011] To this end, the garment steamer according to the invention comprises:

[0012] a steaming head comprising a sole plate,

[0013] an ironing plate,

[0014] a tray on which the sole plate can be docked, so that a descaling operation of the steaming head can be performed, and

[0015] coupling means for detachably coupling the tray to the ironing plate when the sole plate is not docked on the tray.

[0016] The coupling means, which can also be referred to as a “coupling system”, can help the user to easily retrieve the tray when a descaling operation is performed, noting that descaling operations are likely to occur, for example, once every few weeks, depending on factors such as water hardness and frequency of use of the garment steamer.

[0017] The ability to couple the tray to the ironing plate of the garment steamer can help to minimize the risk of the tray being misplaced, in other words, being located somewhere different from the rest of the garment steamer. By coupling the tray to the ironing plate, even when the garment steamer is transported from one location to another, the tray can remain together with the ironing plate, and thus with the garment steamer as a whole. By helping to avoid misplacement of the tray, the coupling means can help to ensure compliance with recommendations for descaling of the garment steamer.

[0018] By reducing the risk of misplacement of the tray, the user will be more likely to implement a descaling operation when recommended to do so. Alternatively or additionally, the user will be more likely to use the tray for the descaling operation, rather than using some other container, such as a sink, which is not specifically designed for this purpose. Thus, the coupling means can help to ensure that the descaling operation is performed correctly, efficiently and safely. It should be noted that performing the descaling operation correctly and efficiently can help to ensure that the garment steamer works reliably during its operational lifetime.

[0019] In at least some embodiments, the ironing board has a garment-facing side and an underside, the garment-facing side and the underside face in opposite directions, garments can be supported against the garment-facing side, and the coupling arrangement is arranged to detachably couple the tray to the underside.

[0020] By coupling the tray to the underside of the ironing board, the tray can be positioned to minimise the risk of the tray interfering with the ironing or steaming of garments supported by the garment-facing side. Furthermore, when coupled to the ironing board, the tray can be conveniently hidden from view.

[0021] In some embodiments, the coupling arrangement comprises at least one resilient fastening arrangement adapted to releasably secure a portion of the tray to the ironing board. The resilient fastening arrangement can facilitate relatively direct implementation by a user of coupling and decoupling the tray to and from the ironing board.

[0022] 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 the said component of the tray.

[0023] For example, the resilient member comprises (e.g. is defined by) a spring.

[0024] In some embodiments, the at least one resilient fastening arrangement comprises a haptic portion, the haptic portion being contactable and moveable by a user, e.g. by a user’s finger, to move the securing member against the bias provided by the resilient member (e.g. spring).

[0025] During coupling of the tray to the ironing board, the user can move the haptic portion so that the securing member is positioned so that the said component of the tray can be moved beyond the securing member towards the ironing board. Upon release of the haptic portion, the securing member can engage the said component so as to secure the said component to the ironing board while the said component of the tray remains in a position beyond the securing member. During decoupling of the tray from the ironing board, the user can move the haptic portion so that the securing member is positioned so that the said component of the tray can be moved beyond the securing member and away from the ironing board.

[0026] As an alternative or in addition to the haptic portion, the securing member can comprise a latching portion for contacting the said component of the tray, the latching portion being shaped so that movement of the said component of the tray against the latching portion moves the securing member against the bias.

[0027] In some embodiments, the coupling arrangement comprises a support member against which a portion of the tray can rest while the at least one resilient fastening arrangement secures the said component of the tray, whereby the support member and the resilient fastening arrangement are arranged to retain the tray to the ironing board.

[0028] Preferably, the portion of the tray that rests against the support member is located at or near a first end of the tray, and the component 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 direct, secure and easy to use coupling of the tray to the ironing board.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one resilient fastening means comprises a snap fastening means. Such a snap fastening means can enable relatively more straightforward coupling and decoupling of the tray to / from the ironing board.

[0030] In some embodiments, one or more guide elements are provided on the ironing board and are arranged, via contact with the tray, to be able to guide the tray such that the component is engaged by the snap fastening means. Thus, the guide elements can assist a user in correctly positioning the tray relative to the snap fastening means when coupling the tray to the ironing board.

[0031] For example, once the tray is positioned via contact with the guide elements, the tray can be pushed towards the ironing board such that the tray is engaged by the snap fastening means.

[0032] In some embodiments, the coupling means is arranged such that a rotational movement about an axis extending perpendicular to the ironing board couples and decouples the tray to / from the ironing board. This can provide a relatively simple and cost effective solution for the coupling means, as this design can be implemented by distributing existing components over the ironing board (e.g. the underside of the ironing board), without necessarily requiring additional components or assemblies dedicated to enabling detachable coupling of the tray to the ironing board.

[0033] The one or more fastening members (e.g. hooks) are preferably arranged to allow the tray to be positioned in an initial orientation adjacent the ironing board, and to engage the tray when the tray is moved in rotational movement about the axis.

[0034] The fastening members (e.g. hooks) can for example be integrated into the ironing board. For example, the fastening members are moulded with the body of the ironing board.

[0035] More generally, the tray can form an upper surface on which a soleplate can be docked (in other words, mounted) so as to be able to perform a descaling operation.

[0036] In at least some embodiments, the tray comprises a recess (forming a receptacle) for receiving scale and / or water from the steamer head during a descaling operation.

[0037] The rim preferably extends at least partially around the recess, on which a soleplate of the steamer head can be supported. In such embodiments, the upper surface can be considered to be comprised in the rim.

[0038] In some embodiments, the tray further comprises a flange extending at least partially around the recess, wherein the coupling device is adapted to detachably couple the tray to the ironing board via the flange. The flange can help a user to handle the tray, e.g. when moving the tray containing water and / or limescale. The flange can also help with storage of the tray after use by helping to couple the tray to the ironing board.

[0039] In some embodiments, the portion and / or component of the tray is located in or comprised by the flange.

[0040] The tray preferably comprises an attachment device arranged at the front end of the tray to attach a tip of a garment steamer head to the tray. The attachment device, which can alternatively be referred to as an “attachment system”, can help to reduce the risk of the garment steamer head, in particular the tip of the garment steamer head, unintentionally detaching from the tray during a descaling operation. Thus, the attachment device can help to ensure that the descaling operation is performed safely.

[0041] The tip of the garment steamer head that is attachable to the tray via the attachment device preferably comprises a tip of a housing of the garment steamer head.

[0042] Attaching the garment steamer head to the tray via its housing can provide a relatively robust and durable solution, in particular compared to attaching the garment steamer head to the tray via a tip of a soleplate of the garment steamer head, due to the soleplate being heated to a relatively high temperature.

[0043] In some embodiments, the tray forms a lower surface adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal support surface, and the tray comprises a plurality of support ribs comprising a lower portion that is flush with the lower surface, the support ribs being arranged to protrude rearward beyond a rear end of the soleplate when docked on the tray.

[0044] By the lower portion protruding rearward beyond the rear end of the soleplate when the soleplate is docked on the tray, the risk of the tray tipping rearward when the soleplate of the garment steamer head is docked thereon can be minimized. The lower portion, e.g. in combination with the attachment device, can help the garment steamer head to be supported on the tray with the tray stably sitting on the external horizontal support surface without the user having to hold the garment steamer head.

[0045] A detailed description of the application and other aspects will be given below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0046] Particular aspects of the application will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described below and in connection with the drawings, in which like parts or sub-steps are designated with the same reference numerals:

[0047] Figure 1 a garment steamer head and a tray of a garment steamer according to one example of the application are depicted,

[0048] Figure 2A and Figure 2Bare provided, respectively, a view of the upper surface and a view of the lower surface of a tray according to a first example of the present application,

[0049] Figures 3A-3E Different views of a tray coupled to an ironing board according to a first example of the present application are provided,

[0050] Figures 4A-4E Different views of a tray coupled to an ironing board according to a second example of the present application are provided,

[0051] Figures 5A-5D Different views of a tray coupled to an ironing board according to a third example of the present application are provided, and

[0052] Figures 6A-6F Various views of a tray coupled to an ironing board according to a fourth example of the present application are provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] The present application relates to a garment steamer comprising a steamer head, an ironing board and a tray. The steamer head has a soleplate which is dockable on the tray so as to be able to perform a descaling operation. When the soleplate is not docked on the tray, coupling means detachably couple the tray to the ironing board.

[0054] Figure 1 A steamer head 100 of a garment steamer according to an example is shown. The steamer head 100 comprises a soleplate 102.

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

[0056] The soleplate 102 comprises a metal alloy or a metal, for example aluminum. Such a metal soleplate 102 is preferably coated with a material, for example adapted to facilitate the sliding of the soleplate 102 on the fabric.

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

[0058] Preferably, the steamer head 100 comprises a handle 103 which, when the handle 103 is gripped by a user, enables the steamer head 100 to be held and moved on the garment by the user.

[0059] In some embodiments, the garment steamer comprises 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, the steam generator is comprised 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 embodiments, the steamer head 100 preferably comprises a steam heater arranged to re-heat steam and / or water received from the steam generator before the steam exits the steamer head via the at least one steam outlet. The steam heater can help to minimize the risk of water splashing onto the garments being treated.

[0062] In alternative embodiments, the steamer head 100 can comprise a steam chamber arranged to generate steam from water supplied (e.g. pumped) to the steam chamber from a water tank comprised in the base unit.

[0063] With reference to Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the garment steamer comprises a tray 104 with which the soleplate 102 can interface (in other words, can be mounted to) so as to enable the descaling operation to be performed. The tray 104 can be considered to be comprised in an accessory, e.g. to define an accessory.

[0064] The tray 104 can be made from any suitable mechanically and thermally robust material. In some embodiments, the tray 104 is made from a plastic material. For example, the tray 104 is made from polypropylene, e.g. recycled polypropylene.

[0065] The tray 104 can be manufactured in any suitable way. In some embodiments, the tray 104 is manufactured by plastic injection moulding, e.g. by injection moulding using polypropylene.

[0066] Evaporation of water (in particular in the steam heater or steam chamber of the steamer head 100) can cause scale to accumulate over time. The descaling operation can remove at least some of this scale.

[0067] The descaling operation can be implemented, for example, using a descaling mode of the garment steamer that is selectable by a user of the garment steamer. For example, the garment steamer comprises a user interface configured to enable a user to select a descaling mode of the garment steamer.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, the descaling operation can be performed using a descaling solution that is different from the water used in normal operation of the garment steamer, e.g. by introducing the descaling solution into the steam heater or steam chamber of the steamer head 100.

[0069] In such embodiments, the descaling solution preferably comprises aqueous acetic acid (e.g. is defined by it). The aqueous acetic acid can be provided in any suitable way, e.g. 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] In at least some embodiments, such as 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, during descaling, the tray 104 can support the steamer head 100 at a desired angle. 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 in FIG, one or more floor retaining members R1, R2 are arranged around and upstanding from the upper surface US.

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

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

[0080] The front bottom plate 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 bottom plate retaining member R1 can help to minimize or prevent (at least) forward and lateral movement of the bottom plate 102 on the upper surface US when the bottom plate 102 is docked on the tray 104.

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

[0082] In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B 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-6F 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 bottom plate 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] With reference to Figures 3A-6F The garment steamer includes an ironing board 120. The garment can be supported by the ironing board 120 during steam treatment and / or ironing of the garment using the steamer head 100.

[0086] In at least some embodiments, the ironing board 120 has a garment-facing side 122 against which a garment can be supported and 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.

[0087] In some embodiments, the garment steamer comprises a pole assembly (not shown) for supporting the ironing board 120. In such embodiments, the garment steamer can be considered a stand steamer.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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 a hung garment, 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.

[0090] In some embodiments, the garment steamer comprises a support base arranged to support the base unit and / or the pole assembly.

[0091] More generally, the garment steamer comprises 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.

[0092] The coupling device can facilitate easy retrieval of the tray 104 by the user when a descaling operation is due to be performed, 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.

[0093] The ability to couple the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 of the garment steamer can help to minimize the risk of the tray 104 being misplaced (in other words, being located somewhere different from the rest of the garment steamer), and thus help to ensure compliance with descaling recommendations for the garment steamer.

[0094] By reducing the risk of the tray 104 being misplaced, the user will be more likely to implement a descaling operation when recommended to do so. Alternatively or additionally, the user will be more likely to use the tray 104 for descaling operations, rather than using some other container not specifically designed for this purpose, such as a sink. The coupling device can thus help to ensure that descaling operations are performed correctly, effectively and safely. It should be noted that performing descaling operations correctly and effectively can help to ensure that the garment steamer works reliably during its operational lifetime.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 3A-6F The coupling arrangement is arranged to detachably couple the tray 104 to an 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 minimise the risk of the tray 104 interfering with 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.

[0096] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 3A-3E , Figures 4A-4E and Figures 5A-5D The coupling arrangement comprises at least one resilient fastening arrangement 126; 132; 138A, 138B adapted to releasably secure a component 127; 127A, 127B of the tray 104 to the ironing board 120.

[0097] Any suitable type of resilient fastening arrangement 126; 132; 138A, 138B can be employed for this purpose. In some embodiments, the at least one resilient fastening arrangement 126; 132; 138A, 138B comprises a resilient member 128; 134; 140A, 140B and a securing member 129; 135; 141A, 141B, the resilient member 128; 134; 140A, 140B being arranged to bias the securing member 129; 135; 141A, 141B into engagement with the component 127; 127A, 127B of the tray 104.

[0098] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 3A-3E The resilient member 128 comprises a spring (e.g. is defined by a spring). Any suitable type of spring can be considered for inclusion in the resilient member 128, such as Figure 3C and Figure 3D a coil spring, a leaf spring, etc.

[0099] In some embodiments, and with continued reference to Figure 3C and Figure 3D The at least one resilient fastening arrangement 126 comprises a haptic portion 130 which is contactable and moveable by a user, e.g. by a user’s finger, to move the securing member 129 against the bias provided by the resilient member 128 (e.g. spring).

[0100] During coupling of the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, the user can move the haptic portion 130 so as to position the securing member 129 so that the part 127 of the tray 104 can be moved beyond the securing member 129 towards the ironing board 120. Upon release of the haptic portion 130, the securing member 129 can engage the bottom surface of the part 127 so as 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.

[0101] During release of the tray 104 from the ironing board 120, the user can move the haptic portion 130 so that the securing member 129 is positioned so 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.

[0102] 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 when moving the haptic portion 130.

[0103] As an alternative or in addition to such a haptic portion 130, and with reference to the elastic fastening means 132 shown in Figure 4C and Figure 4D , the securing member 135 can comprise a latching portion 136 for contacting the part 127 of the tray 104, the latching portion 136 being shaped so that movement of the part 127 of the tray 104 against the latching portion 136 moves the securing member 135 against a bias provided by the elastic member 134 (e.g. a spring).

[0104] In some embodiments, such as shown in Figure 4D , the latching portion 136 is shaped so that during pulling of the tray 104 away from the ironing board 120, movement of the part 127 of the tray 104 against an upwardly facing surface 137 of the latching portion 136 moves the securing member 135 against a bias provided by the elastic member 134 (e.g. a spring), thereby enabling release of the tray 104.

[0105] Alternatively or additionally, the latching portion 136 can be shaped such that, during pushing of the tray 104 towards the ironing board 120, movement of the part 127 of the tray 104 against the downwardly facing surface of the latching portion 136 causes the securing member 135 to move against a bias provided by the resilient member 134 (e.g. a spring), thereby enabling the part 127 of the tray 104 to be advanced closer to the ironing board 120 beyond the latching portion 136. Subsequent movement of the securing member 135 can secure the part 127 of the tray 104 in position near the ironing board 120 due to the bias provided by the resilient member 134.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figure 3C 、 Figure 3E 、 Figure 4C and Figure 4E , the coupling arrangement comprises a support member 123 against which a portion 125 of the tray 104 can rest, whilst at least one resilient fastening device 126; 132 secures a part 127 of the tray 104, such that the support member 123 and the resilient fastening device 126; 132 are arranged to retain the tray 104 to the ironing board 120.

[0107] 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, secure and easy to use coupling part of the tray 104.

[0108] 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.

[0109] Note that the coupling arrangement can generally be considered to comprise a mounting feature MF provided on the ironing board 120, for example on the underside 124 of the ironing board 120.

[0110] The coupling arrangement / mounting feature MF can be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the coupling arrangement / mounting feature comprises a plastics material, for example polypropylene, for example recycled polypropylene.

[0111] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 5A-5D , the at least one resilient fastening device 126; 132; 138A, 138B comprises a snap fastening device 138A, 138B. Such snap fastening devices 138A, 138B can enable relatively straightforward implementation of coupling and decoupling of the tray 104 from the ironing board 120.

[0112] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 5A-5DAs shown, the at least one elastic fastening device 126; 132; 138A, 138B includes a first snap fastening device 138A spaced apart from a second snap fastening device 138B. In such embodiments, the first snap fastening device 138A engages a first component 127A of the tray 104, and the second snap fastening device 138B engages a second component 127B of the tray 104.

[0113] For example, the first snap fastening device 138A is disposed opposite the second snap fastening device 138B.

[0114] When a user wishes to decouple the tray 104 from the ironing board 120, grasping and pulling the tray 104 can cause flexing of the elastic members 140A, 140B to enable the components 127A, 127B of the tray 104 to disengage from the securing members 141A, 141B. The tray 104 can then be used for a descaling operation.

[0115] For example, flexing of the first elastic member 140A of the first snap fastening device 138A and flexing of the second elastic member 140B of the second snap fastening device 138B causes the first component 127A and the second component 127B of the tray 104 to disengage from the first securing member 141A and the second securing member 141B, respectively, of the snap fastening devices 138A, 138B.

[0116] When a user wishes to couple the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, the user can push the tray 104 towards the ironing board 120 such that the top surfaces of the components 127A, 127B of the tray 104 (e.g. the top surface of each of the first component 127A and the second component 127B) abut against the securing members 141A, 141B to cause flexing of the elastic members 140A, 140B. When the elastic members 140A, 140B are sufficiently flexed, the components 127A, 127B of the tray 104 can be advanced towards the ironing board 120 beyond the securing members 141A, 141B such that, when the user releases the tray 104, the tray 104 remains abutting against the ironing board 120 with the bottom surfaces of the components 127A, 127B engaged with the securing members 141A, 141B.

[0117] The snap fastening devices can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, for example Figures 5A-5D As shown, the snap fastening devices 138A, 138B include cantilever snap fastening devices 138A, 138B, for example.

[0118] In some embodiments, and as Figures 5A-5CAs best shown in FIG, one or more guide elements 144A, 144B are provided on the ironing board 120 and are arranged to guide the tray 104 via contact with the tray 104 so that the components 127A, 127B are engaged by the snap fastening means 138A, 138B. Thus, when coupling the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, the guide elements 144A, 144B can assist a user in properly positioning the tray 104 relative to the snap fastening means 138A, 138B. Once the tray 104 is positioned via contact with the guide elements 144A, 144B, the tray 104 can be pushed toward the ironing board 120 until the components 127A, 127B are engaged by the fastening members 141A, 141B, as previously described.

[0119] In some embodiments, the first guide element 144A is arranged to contact the tray 104 at or near the front end of the tray 104 , while the second guide element 144B is arranged to contact the tray 104 at or near the rear end 112 of the tray 104 .

[0120] For example, the first guide element 144A is arranged to contact the flange 107 of the tray 104 near the front end of the tray 104 and / or the second guide element 144B is arranged to contact the flange 107 of the tray 104 at the rear end 112 of the tray 104 .

[0121] In some embodiments, and as an alternative to or in addition to the resilient fastening means 126; 132; 138A, 138B, the coupling means is arranged such that a rotational movement couples the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 and decouples the tray 104 from the ironing board 120. Figures 6A-6F Such an example is shown in .

[0122] This may provide a relatively simple and cost-effective solution for the coupling arrangement, as the design may be implemented via the distribution of existing components on the ironing board 120 (e.g. the underside of the ironing board 120), without requiring additional components or assemblies specifically for achieving a detachable coupling of the tray 104 to the ironing board 120.

[0123] In such an embodiment, and as Figure 6D and Figure 6E As best shown in , rotational movement of the tray 104 about an axis A1 extending perpendicular to the ironing board 120 (eg, extending perpendicular to an underside 124 of the ironing board 120 ) couples the tray 104 to the ironing board 120 and detaches the tray 104 from the ironing board 120 .

[0124] One or more fastening members 146A, 146B, 146C, e.g. one or more hooks, are preferably arranged to allow an initial orientation of the tray 104 positioned in the vicinity of the ironing board 120 and to engage the tray 104, e.g. the flange 107, when the tray 104 is moved in rotation from the initial orientation to a subsequent orientation about the axis Al. Such a rotation is represented in Figure 6E by the arrow 148, while the axial movement of the tray 104 is represented in Figure 6C and Figure 6D by the arrow 150, the axial movement of the tray 104 being such that the tray 104 is positioned in the vicinity of the ironing board 120.

[0125] In some embodiments, the movement in rotation of the tray 104 about the axis Al in a first rotation direction 148 couples the tray 104 to the ironing board 120, and the movement in rotation of the tray 104 about the axis Al in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction enables the tray 104 to be uncoupled from the ironing board 120.

[0126] It is noted that, in the non-limiting example illustrated in Figures 6A-6E , the first rotation direction is clockwise when the ironing board 120 is viewed from below, in other words when viewed facing the lower side 124 of the ironing board 120. In this example, the uncoupling of the tray 104 from the ironing board 120 comprises a counter-clockwise rotation of the tray 104 about the axis Al.

[0127] The one or more fastening members 146A, 146B, 146C, e.g. one or more hooks, can for example be integrated to the ironing board 120. For example, the fastening members 146A, 146B, 146C are molded with the body of the ironing board 120.

[0128] In some embodiments, and again with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2A , the tray 104 comprises 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.

[0129] The attachment device 108 can help to reduce the risk of the steamer head 100, and in particular the tip 109, being unintentionally uncoupled from the tray 104 during a descaling operation. Thus, the attachment device 108 can help to ensure a safe application of the descaling operation.

[0130] In some embodiments, and as best shown in Figure 2B , the tray 104 forms a lower surface LS which is adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal and flat support surface. For example, the cooperation of the lower surface LS of the tray 104 with an external horizontal support surface means that the tray 104 can be supported on the external horizontal support surface by resting the lower surface LS on the external horizontal support surface.

[0131] In this way, the external horizontal support surface can support the tray 104 when the lower surface LS cooperates with the external horizontal support surface, e.g. when resting on the external horizontal support surface, the bottom plate 102 of the garment steamer head 100 being docked on the tray 104.

[0132] The external horizontal support surface can for example be provided by the garment side 122 of the ironing board 120, as long as the ironing board 120 adopts a horizontal orientation.

[0133] The lower surface LS can be adapted to cooperate with the external horizontal support surface in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, as shown, the lower surface LS is comprised in a support foot of the tray 104. For example, the lower surface LS is comprised in a support foot extending around at least a portion of the perimeter of the lower side of the tray 104. Figure 2B

[0134] In some embodiments, the plurality of support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C protrude backwards beyond the rear end 111 of the bottom plate 102 when docked on the tray 104.

[0135] The support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C comprise a lower portion LP1, LP2 which is flush with the lower surface LS of the tray 104. For example, each support rib 110, 110B, 110C comprises a lower portion LP1, LP2 which is flush with the lower surface LS of the tray 104.

[0136] The lower portion LP1, LP2 being flush with the lower surface LS means that the lower portion LP1, LP2 also cooperates with the external horizontal support surface, e.g. rests on the external horizontal support surface.

[0137] By protruding backwards beyond the rear end 111 of the bottom plate 102 through the lower portion LP1, LP2 when docked on the tray 104, the risk of the tray 104 tipping backwards in the case where the bottom plate 102 of the garment steamer head 100 is docked thereon can be minimised.

[0138] It is also noted that the garment steamer head 100 can be supported on the tray 104, the tray 104 being stably seated on the external horizontal support surface without the need for the user to hold the garment steamer head 100.

[0139] In some embodiments, the attachment means 108 and the lower portion LP1, LP2 of the support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C are combined, the former reducing the risk of the pointed end 109 of the garment steamer head 100 detaching from the tray 104 and the latter reducing the risk of the tray 104 tipping backwards together with the garment steamer head 100. Thus, the garment steamer head 100 can be stably supported by the tray 104 during the descaling operation. As the user does not need to hold the garment steamer head 100, the user’s convenience can be improved and / or the user’s safety can be improved. ​

[0140] In some embodiments, the hose cord is connected to the handle 103 of the garment steamer head 100. In such embodiments, the hose cord can be connected to the handle 103 and extend rearwardly away from the handle 103. In alternative embodiments, the hose cord can be connected to a rear portion of the housing 101 other than the handle 103 and extend rearwardly away from that rear portion.

[0141] More generally, the hose cord preferably extends rearwardly away from a rear portion of the garment steamer head 100. This can help to minimize the risk of the hose cord impeding movement of the garment steamer head 100, particularly when the garment steamer head 100 is moved over the laundry.

[0142] While a hose cord extending rearwardly from a rear portion of the garment steamer head 100 can increase the risk of the garment steamer head 100 tilting during a descaling operation, this risk can be mitigated by the attachment means 108. Alternatively or additionally, the lower portions LP1, LP2 of the support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C can help to reduce the risk of the tray 104 tipping rearwardly with the garment steamer head 100.

[0143] In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 1 As shown, the handle 103 of the garment steamer head 100 extends rearwardly beyond a rearmost portion of the housing 101.

[0144] This extension of the handle 103 can help the operability of the garment steamer head 100. While a handle 103 extending rearwardly beyond a rearmost portion of the housing 101 can increase the risk of the garment steamer head 100 tilting during a descaling operation, this risk can be mitigated by the attachment means 108 and / or the support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C, as previously described.

[0145] In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 1 , Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the plurality of support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C includes a pair of ribs 110A, 110B spaced apart from one another across the rear end 112 of the tray 104. The pair of ribs 110A, 110B can help to balance the tray 104 when located on an external horizontal support surface.

[0146] In some embodiments, the plurality of support ribs 110A, 110B, 110C includes a central rib 110C disposed between the pair of ribs 110A, 110B. The central rib 110C can add additional stability near the rear end 112 of the tray 104. In particular, the optional central rib 110C can help to reinforce the stability provided by the pair of ribs 110A, 110B.

[0147] In such embodiments, the central rib 110C preferably protrudes rearward a length shorter than each of the pair of ribs 110A, 110B.

[0148] The tip 109 of the steamer head 100, which is attached to the tray 104 via the attachment device 108, preferably comprises the tip of the housing 101.

[0149] Attaching the steamer head 100 to the tray 104 via its housing 101 can provide a relatively robust and durable solution, in particular as compared to attaching the steamer head 100 to the tray 104 via the tip of the bottom plate 102 of the steamer head 100, for example, due to the bottom plate 102 being heated to a relatively high temperature.

[0150] In some embodiments, and as best shown in Figure 2A the attachment device 108 comprises a cavity 113 for receiving the tip 109 of the steamer head 100, e.g. the tip of the housing 101. This can provide a relatively straightforward manufacturability of applying the attachment device 108.

[0151] In such embodiments, the cavity 113 is preferably partially defined 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 bottom plate 102 is docked on the tray 104. By contacting the upper surface of the tip 109 of the bottom plate 102, the upper wall portion 114 can help to minimize the risk of the steamer head 100 tilting, in particular the rear end of the handle 103 tending to tilt closer to the tray 104.

[0152] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 the upper wall portion 114 is arranged to contact a facing upward surface of the tip of the housing 101 of the steamer head 100 when the bottom plate 102 is docked on the tray 104.

[0153] The above described embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical method of the present application. Although the present application is described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the technical method of the present application can be modified or equivalently replaced without departing from the scope of protection of the claims of the present application. 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 signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A clothes steamer, comprising: - a steamer head (100), comprising a bottom plate (102), - Ironing board (120), - a tray (104) on which the soleplate can dock to enable the descaling operation of the steamer head to be performed, and - coupling means for detachably coupling the tray to the ironing board when the soleplate is not docked on the tray, wherein the tray comprises: - a recess (105) for receiving scale and / or water from the steamer head during the descaling operation, and - a rim (106) extending at least partially around the recess, on which rim the base plate (102) can be supported.

2. The clothes steamer according to claim 1, wherein: The ironing board (120) has a garment-facing side (122) and a lower side (124), the garment-facing side and the lower side facing in opposite directions, garments being supported against the garment-facing side (122), the coupling means being arranged to detachably couple the tray (104) to the lower side.

3. The clothes steamer according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The coupling means comprises at least one elastic fastening means (126; 132; 138A, 138B) adapted to releasably secure a part (127; 127A, 127B) of the tray (104) to the ironing board (120).

4. The clothes steamer according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one resilient fastening device (126; 132; 138A, 138B) comprises a resilient member (128; 134; 140A, 140B) and a fixing member (129; 135; 141A, 141B), the resilient member being arranged to bias the fixing member into engagement with the part (127; 127A, 127B) of the tray (104).

5. The clothes steamer according to claim 4, wherein: The resilient member (128) comprises a spring, and the at least one resilient fastening device (126) comprises a tactile portion (130) that can be contacted and moved by a user to cause the securing member (129) to move against the bias provided by the spring.

6. The clothes steamer according to claim 4, wherein: The securing member (135) includes a latch portion (136) for contacting the component (127) of the tray (104), the latch portion being shaped such that movement of the component of the tray against the latch portion overcomes the bias to move the securing member.

7. The clothes steamer according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The coupling device comprises a support member (123) against which a portion (125) of the tray (104) can rest while the at least one resilient fastening device (126; 132; 138A, 138B) secures a part (127) of the tray, the support member and the resilient fastening device being thereby arranged to retain the tray to the ironing board (120).

8. The clothes steamer according to claim 7, wherein: The portion (125) is located at or near a first end of the tray (104), and the member (127) is located at or near a second end of the tray opposite the first end.

9. The clothes steamer according to claim 4, wherein: The at least one resilient fastening means comprises a snap fastening means (138A, 138B).

10. The clothes steamer according to claim 9, wherein: One or more guide elements (144A, 144B) are provided on the ironing board (120), the guide elements being arranged to guide the tray (104) via contact with the tray so that the components (127A, 127B) are engaged by the snap fastening means (138A, 138B).

11. The clothes steamer according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The coupling means is arranged such that rotational movement about an axis (A1) extending perpendicularly to the ironing board (120) couples the tray (104) to the ironing board and decouples the tray from the ironing board.

12. The clothes steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The tray (104) further comprises a flange (107) extending at least partially around the recess (105), the coupling means being adapted to detachably couple the tray (104) to the ironing board (120) via the flange.

13. The clothes steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The tray (104) comprises an attachment means (108) arranged at a front end of the tray for attaching a tip (109) of the steamer head (100) to the tray.

14. The garment steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: - said tray (104) forms a lower surface (LS) adapted to cooperate with an external horizontal support surface, and - the tray comprises a plurality of support ribs (110A, 110B, 110C), the plurality of support ribs comprising a lower portion (LP1, LP2) flush with the lower surface, the support ribs being arranged to protrude rearwardly beyond a rear end (111) of the base plate (102) when docked on the tray.

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