Clothes steam ironing machine with improved steam performance and functionality

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laundry care device, the device comprising a steam generator with improved steam performance and functionality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a steam iron for clothing with improved steam performance.

[0002] This invention can be used in the field of clothing care. Background Technology Typically, the steam generators used in irons and some steam ironing products utilize flash steaming to produce steam, thereby metering water at one point or, in some cases, two points onto a hot steaming surface, where the water is instantly evaporated. In some other steam generators, particularly in steam irons, a labyrinth design is used to limit water diffusion and improve steam generation. However, water diffusion on the main steam-generating surface is affected by the labyrinth design and the protrusions on the steam-generating surface. The so-called "open" steam generator design concept can, to some extent, address the issues of limited steam rate and fouling life. The term "open" refers to a flat steam generation surface without labyrinthine extensions. like Figure 1 As shown, known open-type steam generator designs utilize open steam generation surfaces to produce steam, which passes through one or more side steam passages before exiting through the steam exhaust port. However, these side steam passages require considerable space in the steam generator, space that could otherwise be used to generate more steam. Figure 2 As shown by the dashed line, there is also the problem of hot spots, which is caused by water not being able to reach the points around the steam channel. like Figure 3 As shown, when the steam ironing orientation is lateral, especially to the right, the effective steam area is greatly reduced due to the orientation and the area occupied by the steam channel. This requires the steam generator to significantly reduce the steam rate when used in this unfavorable orientation, otherwise it will result in unwanted water splashing during use. Due to this reduction, users may also experience inconsistent steam output. In order to detect the orientation, an orientation sensor is also needed for angle detection, which will increase manufacturing costs. In other words, in the currently known labyrinth steam generator designs, such as Figure 4 As shown, the limitations stem from: - Scale buildup clogs the paths of the labyrinth steam generator. - The instantaneous steam generation area is limited. It depends on the water flow through a labyrinthine path. This results in a lower steam rate and weaker steam perception. - In maze-like designs, the steam effect is poor in different orientations, and the likelihood of leaks is higher. This will result in poor steam effect and splashing. The shortcomings of handheld steam irons are well-known, which is why existing products on the market sometimes suffer from insufficient steam power, short lifespan due to limescale buildup, and low steam performance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a garment care device that avoids or alleviates the aforementioned problems by generating stronger steam at any angle.

[0004] This invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0005] The garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention includes:

[0006] A steam generator (SG) includes an ironing plate (IP) with a steam vent (SV), a heated bottom steam plate (SP), an outer peripheral wall (PW) protruding from the periphery of the steam plate, and a cover (CC) disposed on top of the outer peripheral wall. The steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) above the central area (CA) of the steam plate (SP) without restricting the steam path.

[0007] At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is arranged in the cover (CC) to supply water to the steam plate (SP), thereby vaporizing the water by the steam plate (SP).

[0008] The garment care device (GCD) according to the invention includes a steam generator (SG) comprising an ironing plate (IP) with steam vents (SV), a heated bottom steam plate (SP), an outer peripheral wall (PW) protruding from the periphery of the steam plate (SP), and a cover (CC) disposed on top of the outer peripheral wall (PW). The steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) above a central region (CA) of the steam plate (SP) without restricting the steam path. It also includes a first water injection point (WDP1) and a second water injection point (WDP2) arranged to supply water to the steam plate (SP); and a temperature sensor (TS) mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP) and disposed between the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2).

[0009] This solution allows for increased steam rate and extended product lifespan by employing an open steam chamber structure for small steam irons.

[0010] The following will provide a detailed description of the invention and other aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Specific aspects of the invention will now be explained with reference to the described embodiments and the accompanying drawings, wherein like components or sub-steps are indicated in the same manner:

[0012] Figure 1 A known steam generator with a side steam passage is depicted;

[0013] Figure 2 A known steam generator with a side steam passage and hot spots generated along the side steam passage is described;

[0014] Figure 3 A known steam generator with a side steam passage when tilted toward the side steam passage is described;

[0015] Figure 4 A known steam generator with two side steam passages and a labyrinthine steam path is depicted;

[0016] Figures 5 to 20 Various embodiments according to the present invention are described;

[0017] Figure 21 The case depicts a steam plate in a vertical orientation with a T-joint placed in the handle;

[0018] Figure 22 The case depicts a steam plate positioned horizontally with a T-joint placed in the handle;

[0019] Figure 23 The case depicts a steam plate in a vertical orientation with a T-joint placed within the steam plate.

[0020] Figure 24 The description covers a scenario where the steam plate is horizontally oriented and a T-joint is placed within the steam plate. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention includes:

[0022] A steam generator (SG) includes an ironing plate (IP) with a steam vent (SV), a heated bottom steam plate (SP), an outer peripheral wall (PW) protruding from the periphery of the steam plate, and a cover (CC) disposed on top of the outer peripheral wall. The steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) above the central area (CA) of the steam plate (SP) without restricting the steam path.

[0023] At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is arranged in the cover (CC) to supply water to the steam plate (SP), thereby vaporizing the water by the steam plate (SP).

[0024] In one embodiment, the garment care device (GCD) includes a steam generator (SG) comprising an ironing plate (IP) with steam vents (SV), a heated bottom steam plate (SP), an outer peripheral wall (PW) projecting from the periphery of the steam plate (SP), and a cap (CC) disposed on top of the outer peripheral wall (PW). The steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) above a central region (CA) of the steam plate (SP) without restricting the steam path. The garment care device (GCD) also includes a first water inlet (WDP1) and a second water inlet (WDP2), each arranged to supply water to the steam plate (SP). A temperature sensor (TS) is mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP) and is disposed between the first water inlet (WDP1) and the second water inlet (WDP2). In some embodiments, the temperature sensor (TS) is mounted on a protrusion protruding from the steam plate (SP).

[0025] Positioning the temperature sensor (TS) between the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) allows for more accurate detection of temperature changes caused by water injection events, while mounting it on the protrusion improves thermal contact with the surrounding steam or heating plate surface. This combination results in faster, more accurate temperature measurements, enabling precise control of the heating element (HE) and steam generation, thereby improving garment care efficiency and reducing the risk of overheating or insufficient steam.

[0026] The steam plate (SP) defines a plane that does not contain any structure that forces steam along a given path (i.e., no maze / path / channel...). In other words, the internal volume (VV) is essentially unobstructed.

[0027] The main advantage of the improved design is the inclusion of a larger usable steam generation surface, which effectively increases the steam rate and scale-related life of the steam generator (SG). Because heat is extracted more efficiently from the larger steam generation surface, the steam generator (SG) can also operate at lower peak temperatures.

[0028] The ironing board (IP) is preferably parallel to the steam board (SP) and has a substantially similar external shape.

[0029] An ironing board (IP) is, for example, rectangular, as shown in the figure. It can also have different shapes, such as oval or any other shape.

[0030] A garment care device (GCD) may include a handle HAN for moving the device against the garment to be steam-treated.

[0031] If the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP) is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis hh of the handle, then the steam plate (SP) is said to be in a "longitudinal orientation". Figure 5 As shown.

[0032] If the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP) is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis hh of the handle, then the steam plate (SP) is said to be in a "lateral orientation". Figure 13 As shown.

[0033] The steam generator (SG) also includes a steam channel located below the steam plate (SP), rather than along the side of the unit. This effectively increases the steam generation area available for generating more steam instantaneously. This location of the steam channel (SG) prevents hot spots from forming around the steam plate.

[0034] Preferably, the steam generator (SG) further includes a generally U-shaped heating element (HE) that transfers heat with the steam plate (SP). This is in Figure 8 As shown in the image.

[0035] In addition, the heat from the steam plate (SP) is transferred to the ironing plate (IP) via a transverse thermal bridge arranged between the two.

[0036] Preferably, at least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) includes a first water injection point (WDP1) and a second water injection point (WDP2).

[0037] The first water injection point WDP1 and the second water injection point WDP2 divide the steam plate (SP) into two interconnected heating zones Z1 and Z2 to enhance water distribution and steam generation, such as Figure 10 As shown. The so-called separation refers to the area where the water flowing out from the first water injection point (WDP1) reaches and vaporizes, which is called the first heating zone (Z1); while the area where the water flowing out from the second water injection point (WDP2) reaches and vaporizes is called the second heating zone (Z2).

[0038] In other words, the steam generating surface has two hot steam generation zones to achieve dual-point water injection, resulting in faster steam generation, lower hot spots, longer scale-related lifespan, and higher steam rate, without splashing.

[0039] By simultaneously supplying water to both zones Z1 and Z2, the system generates more powerful, faster, and larger volumes of steam. In other words, a large amount of steam is generated instantaneously. This configuration also extends product lifespan by providing a larger surface area for scale buildup, reducing the frequency of descaling. Water is injected into both zones simultaneously.

[0040] At the side water tank, excess water will be trapped by the partition wall / rib, while the body needs time to transfer heat to evaporate the water vapor.

[0041] Preferably, the garment care device (GCD) further includes a temperature sensor (TS) mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP) and arranged between the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2).

[0042] The temperature sensor (TS) is designed to measure and regulate the temperature of the steam plate (SP). It can be in the form of a thermistor, as shown in the attached diagram above.

[0043] Preferably, the temperature sensor (TS) is arranged along the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP). In other words, the temperature sensor (TS) is arranged between the two water injection points WDP1 / WDP2 in order to better sense the presence of water in the two zones Z1 / Z2.

[0044] Preferably, the temperature sensor (TS) is arranged at an intermediate distance between the first wall W1 and the opposite top of the steam plate (SP) along the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP).

[0045] It should be noted that the distance between each of the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) and the temperature sensor (TS) can be different, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0046] Preferably, when the heating element (HE) includes an integrally U-shaped neck portion (NP), such as Figure 8 As shown, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned slightly offset relative to the neck portion (NP). This helps to better sense whether the heating element (HE) is energized or de-energized, and to sense the presence of water on the steam plate (SP), by balancing the energy input and output of the steam generator (SG).

[0047] Preferably, the steam plate (SP) has a surface comprising a first grid pattern of protruding truncated pyramids.

[0048] In the main steam generation areas of the steam plate (SP), particularly zones Z1 and Z2, a truncated square pyramidal grid of 1x1 mm in size, 0.5 mm in height, and 1 mm in spacing is used to better diffuse water horizontally and vertically. Figure 11As shown. The truncated square pyramids are also oriented in such a way that they are symmetrical in both the transverse and longitudinal orientations of the rectangular steam plate (SP), ensuring optimal water diffusion regardless of the orientation of the steam plate (SP). The square pyramids are oriented at a 45-degree angle relative to the axis xx. The truncated square pyramids also help to diffuse water injected from the injection points (WDP1, WDP2) on the steam plate (SP) without it falling too quickly when the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP) is in both longitudinal and transverse orientations. The small size of the pyramids also helps to make it easier to remove scale that may form on the steam plate (SP).

[0049] Preferably, the garment care device (GCD) further includes a second region (A2) having a surface comprising a second grid pattern of protruding square pyramids. Compared to a flat surface, the increased contact area of ​​the non-truncated pyramids facilitates scale buildup in this second region A2. The second region A2 acts as a scale buildup area. In other words, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned closer to the water inlet point WDP1 so that it can still sense the water temperature when the steam generator (SG) is longitudinally (i.e., vertically oriented).

[0050] In some embodiments, the water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset relative to each other along at least one of the axes (xx, yy).

[0051] In some embodiments, the water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset relative to each other along two axes (xx, yy).

[0052] Preferably, the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2):

[0053] Align with the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP), or

[0054] They are offset from each other relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0055] If the garment care device (GCD) is designed solely for oriented the steam plate (SP) in a longitudinal orientation (rather than a transverse orientation), then the two water injection points WDP1 and WDP2 extend along the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP).

[0056] Preferably, the two water injection points WDP1 and WDP2 are offset relative to the temperature sensor (TS) along the x-axis because gravity will play a role in water diffusion and steam generation. This means that the temperature sensor (TS) is not located in the middle of the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2).

[0057] If the garment care device (GCD) is dedicated solely to a steam plate (SP) oriented longitudinally, then the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset by a value OFF2 within the range of 0 to 9 mm in the x direction. In other words, the centers of the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) separated by a value X are offset relative to the center of the temperature sensor (TS).

[0058] If the garment care device (GCD) is specifically designed for a steam plate (SP) that can be oriented both longitudinally and laterally, then preferably, one of the two water injection points WDP1 and WDP2 is laterally offset relative to the x-direction (i.e., offset along the yy-axis perpendicular to the x-axis). This means that the two water injection points WDP1 and WDP2 are not aligned along the x-axis.

[0059] If the garment care swivel (GCD) is specifically designed for the steam plate (SP) and can be oriented both longitudinally and laterally, then the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset by >0 mm, up to 9 mm, in the x direction, and the rear water injection point WDP1 is also offset by a value OFF1 within the range of 0 to 9 mm in the y direction. This is as follows: Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown.

[0060] Preferably, the garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention further includes:

[0061] Water tank (WT)

[0062] A water pump (WP) delivers water from a water tank (WT) to a first water injection point (WDP1) and a second water injection point (WDP2) via a T-type or Y-type connector (CON). The connector has a fluid inlet (EN1) and two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2). The fluid inlet (EN1) is connected to the water pump (WP), and the two fluid outlets are connected to the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) via two water injection connectors (C1, C2).

[0063] The connector (CON) is arranged in the garment care device (GCD) such that the two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) have the same height (H1) relative to the horizontal plane (HP) when:

[0064] The steam plate (SP) is horizontally oriented, and

[0065] The steam plate (SP) is oriented vertically, and the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is vertical.

[0066] This is like Figure 7 As shown in the figure, a T-type connector is illustrated.

[0067] Diaphragm pumps (maximum pressure <0.5 bar), typically used in handheld devices, often generate small air bubbles, especially during pipe connection and disconnection. These air bubbles can impede water flow within the system, potentially leading to uneven moisture distribution.

[0068] Preferably, the water pump (WP) is a piston pump. In fact, piston pumps capable of generating higher pressures (maximum pressure >= 1 bar) are more suitable for this application because they can effectively expel air bubbles and ensure consistent water flow.

[0069] Use either a T-type or Y-type connector to evenly distribute water from the water pump (WP) into two separate paths. While both configurations achieve this, the Y-type connector exhibits superior performance due to its hydrodynamic design, minimizing pressure loss and ensuring equal flow distribution at both outlets. On the other hand, the T-type connector causes a sharp turn in the water flow, leading to increased energy consumption and potentially causing flow imbalances.

[0070] However, the performance of Y-type connectors is highly sensitive to manufacturing deviations, as even slight defects can disrupt water flow and affect water distribution.

[0071] In contrast, although T-joints cause greater pressure loss due to the 90-degree turn in water flow, they are less susceptible to flow inconsistencies caused by manufacturing tolerances.

[0072] To counteract the effect of gravity on water distribution, T-type or Y-type connectors are strategically positioned to maintain equal outlet distances H1, regardless of the orientation of the steam iron.

[0073] Preferably, the diameter of the fluid inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) should be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the pipe from the water pump (WP).

[0074] Preferably, the diameter of the fluid outlet EX1 / EX2 of the connector (CON) should be approximately 70% of the diameter of the fluid inlet (EN1) to prevent bubble formation and maintain flow balance.

[0075] In some embodiments, the garment care device (GCD) further includes: a first conduit (PP1) leading from the connector (CON) to a first water injection point (WDP1), a second conduit (PP2) leading from the connector (CON) to a second water injection point (WDP2), and a third conduit (PP3) leading from the water pump (WP) to the connector (CON). The cross-sectional area of ​​the first conduit (PP1) is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the second conduit (PP2). The outlet of the second water injection point (WDP2) has a larger or equal cross-sectional area than the outlet of the first water injection point (WDP1). When the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is vertically oriented, the second water injection point (WDP2) is located at a position higher than the first water injection point (WDP1).

[0076] By arranging the cross-sectional areas of the pipes and outlets in this way, the overall flow path from the pump (WP) to the injection point outlet exhibits gradually equalizing flow resistance. This configuration promotes a continuous and stable water flow, reduces the likelihood of flow interruptions or pressure drops, and helps ensure more consistent steam generation across the two injection points, especially when the unit is operating in different orientations. Another advantage is the prevention of air bubble trapping.

[0077] Preferably, the T-connector is placed in the handle, with the two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) facing laterally toward the handle HAN, as shown below. Figure 20 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown.

[0078] At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is fluidly connected to the connector (CON) via two water injection connectors (C1, C2), which are preferably made of plastic. To maintain optimal water flow, the inner diameter of each water injection connector should be equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) of the connector (CON).

[0079] In addition, the combined cross-sectional area of ​​the two water inlet connectors (C1, C2) should not exceed the inlet cross-sectional area of ​​the T-type or Y-type connector.

[0080] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet of the water pump (WP) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the third pipe (PP3).

[0081] This dimensional design ensures that the connector (CON) inlet does not create a bottleneck in the water supply path, allowing water to flow into the connector (CON) at a rate that matches or is slightly restricted by the pump output. This control helps stabilize water pressure, reduce turbulence, and improve the filling accuracy at the filling points WDP1 and WDP2. Another advantage provided in this way is the prevention of air bubble trapping.

[0082] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the two outlets (EX1, EX2) of the connector (CON).

[0083] This dimensional relationship allows the incoming water to be evenly distributed between the two connector (CON) outlets without causing a significant pressure drop, thus maintaining a balanced supply to the two water injection points and ensuring consistent steam output from multiple heating zones (Z1, Z2). Another advantage is the prevention of bubble trapping.

[0084] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of a pair of water-filling connectors (C1, C2) attached to the inlet side of the water-filling points (WDP1, WDP2).

[0085] By designing the connector (CON) inlet size to be equal to or greater than the combined cross-sectional area of ​​the water inlet connectors (C1, C2), this design avoids unnecessary flow restriction at this connection, enabling efficient water delivery to both inlet points and facilitating rapid steam generation, even under demanding operating conditions. Another advantage provided in this way is the prevention of air bubble trapping.

[0086] In some embodiments, the connector (CON) is positioned near the water pump (WP) such that the third pipe (PP3) extending between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially shorter than each of the first pipe (PP1) and the second pipe (PP2).

[0087] Positioning the connector (CON) close to the water pump minimizes the length of the third pipe (PP3), reducing pressure loss and potential flow disturbances in the supply line. This configuration improves pump efficiency and ensures a more stable and responsive flow to the injection point. Another advantage provided by this approach is improved flow distribution, and better water flow between the two outlets of the connector is also possible due to the higher pressure location of the diversion point when closer to the pump.

[0088] In some embodiments, the connector (CON) is positioned near the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) such that the third pipe (PP3) extending between the pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially longer than each of the first pipe (PP1) and the second pipe (PP2).

[0089] Positioning the connector (CON) close to the water injection point, and increasing the length of the third pipe (PP3), helps suppress pressure fluctuations generated by the water pump (WP). This arrangement contributes to smoother water delivery and reduces water hammer effects, extending the lifespan of the water injection components. Another advantage provided by this invention is improved flow consistency, and the shorter lengths of pipes 1 and 2 reduce the impact of differences in flow resistance between pipes 1 and 2 on the water flow at the two outlets of the connector.

[0090] It should be noted that the various features of the present invention can also be combined in different ways or used individually.

[0091] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the invention without departing from the scope of the claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A garment care device (GCD), comprising: A steam generator (SG) includes an ironing plate (IP) with a steam vent (SV), a heated bottom steam plate (SP), an outer peripheral wall (PW) protruding from the periphery of the steam plate (SP), and a cover (CC) disposed on top of the outer peripheral wall (PW). The steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (W) above the central region (CA) of the steam plate (SP) without restricting the steam path. A first water injection point (WDP1) and a second water injection point (WDP2) are arranged to supply water to the steam plate (SP). as well as A temperature sensor (TS) is mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP) and is arranged between the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2).

2. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The temperature sensor (TS) is mounted on a protrusion that extends from the steam plate (SP).

3. The garment care device (GCD) as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) divide the steam plate (SP) into two interconnected heating zones (Z1, Z2).

4. The garment care device (GCD) as described in claim 3, wherein, The temperature sensor (TS) is located between the two heating zones (Z1, Z2).

5. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising a heating element (HE) including a neck portion (NP) having an integral U-shape, and the temperature sensor (TS) being arranged to be biased relative to the neck portion (NP).

6. The garment care device (GCD) as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset relative to each other along at least one of the axes (xx, yy).

7. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset relative to each other along two axes (xx, yy).

8. The garment care device (GCD) as described in any of the preceding claims further comprises: Water tank (WT); A water pump (WP) delivers water from the water tank (WT) to the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) via a T-type or Y-type connector (CON). The connector has one fluid inlet (EN1) and two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2). The fluid inlet (EN1) is connected to the water pump (WP), and the two fluid outlets are connected to the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) via two water injection connectors (C1, C2). The connector (CON) is arranged in the garment care device (GCD) such that the two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) have the same height (H1) relative to the horizontal plane (HP) when: The steam plate (SP) is horizontally oriented, and The steam plate (SP) is oriented vertically, and the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is vertical.

9. The garment care device (GCD) of claim 8, further comprising a first conduit (PP1) leading from the connector (CON) to the first water injection point (WDP1), a second conduit (PP2) leading from the connector (CON) to the second water injection point (WDP2), and a third conduit (PP3) leading from the water pump (WP) to the connector (CON). in, The cross-sectional area of ​​the first pipe (PP1) is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the second pipe (PP2); Wherein, the outlet of the second water injection point (WDP2) has a cross-sectional area greater than or equal to that of the outlet of the first water injection point (WDP1), and When the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is in a vertical orientation, the second water injection point (WDP2) is a water injection point located at a position higher than the first water injection point (WDP1).

10. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet of the water pump (WP) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the third pipe (PP3).

11. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the two outlets (EX1, EX2) of the connector (CON).

12. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, The cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of a pair of water-filling connectors (C1, C2) attached to the inlet side of the water-filling points (WDP1, WDP2).

13. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, The connector (CON) is positioned near the water pump (WP) such that the third pipe (PP3), which extends between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON), is substantially shorter than each of the first pipe (PP1) and the second pipe (PP2).

14. The garment care device (GCD) as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, The connector (CON) is positioned near the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) such that the third pipe (PP3) extending between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially longer than each of the first pipe (PP1) and the second pipe (PP2).

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