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

[0003] 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.

[0004] 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.

[0005] 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.

[0006] 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, there is also the problem of hot spots, which is attributed to the low or slow heat transfer rate in the area around the steam passage, making it difficult for the metered water supply to reach these areas.

[0007] 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.

[0008] 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.

[0009] Due to this reduction, users may also experience inconsistent steam output.

[0010] In order to detect the orientation, an orientation sensor is also needed for angle detection, which will increase manufacturing costs.

[0011] In other words, in the currently known labyrinth steam generator designs, such as Figure 4 The limitation shown stems 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.

[0012] - 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.

[0013] 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

[0014] 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.

[0015] This invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0016] The garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention includes: 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 forms an internal volume (VV) above the central area (CA) of the steam plate without restricting the steam path. At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is arranged in the cover to supply water to the steam plate, thereby causing the water to be vaporized by the steam plate. A hollow chimney (CH) protrudes from a steam plate and is positioned near the outer peripheral wall to convey steam generated by the steam plate toward a steam channel (SC) arranged below the steam plate, which is in fluid communication with a steam discharge hole.

[0017] This solution allows for increased steam rates and extended product lifespan by employing an open steam processing chamber structure for small steam irons.

[0018] The following will provide a detailed description of the invention and other aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0019] 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: Figure 1 A known steam generator with a side steam passage is depicted. Figure 2 A known steam generator with a side steam passage and hot spots generated along the side steam passage is described. Figure 3 A known steam generator with a side steam passage is depicted when tilted towards the side steam passage. Figure 4 A known steam generator with two side steam passages and a labyrinthine steam path is depicted. Figures 5 to 20 Various embodiments according to the present invention are described. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Figures 5 to 20 Various embodiments according to the present invention are described.

[0021] The garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention includes: 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 forms an internal volume (VV) above the central area (CA) of the steam plate without restricting the steam path. At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is arranged in the cover to supply water to the steam plate, thereby causing the water to be vaporized by the steam plate. A hollow chimney (CH) protrudes from a steam plate and is positioned near the outer peripheral wall to direct steam generated by the steam plate toward a steam channel (SC) located below the steam plate, which is in fluid communication with a steam discharge port.

[0022] This core structure addresses the issues of limited steam generation area and hotspots in existing side-channel designs. By moving the steam channel below the steam plate, the entire top surface is freed up for efficient steam generation. The hollow chimney provides a dedicated collection point for this steam, resulting in higher steam rates, more uniform heat distribution, and a more compact overall design.

[0023] The steam plate defines a flat surface, which does not contain any structure that forces the steam along a given path (i.e., there is no maze / path / channel...). In other words, the internal volume is essentially unobstructed.

[0024] In this solution, the steam channel is designed to be located below the steam plate, and the wall and chimney structure at the steam channel inlet are used to prevent water droplets that have not been vaporized by the steam plate from splashing during dynamic steam ironing.

[0025] The main advantage of the improved design is the inclusion of a larger usable steam processing area, which effectively increases the steam rate and scale-related lifespan of the steam generator. Because heat is extracted more efficiently from the larger steam generation surface, the steam generator can also operate at lower peak temperatures.

[0026] The steam generated by the steam plate flows to the chimney and through the steam passage, and then is discharged through the steam exhaust hole.

[0027] Some excess water flowing towards the scale deposit area at the bottom of the chimney will also get trapped at the bottom of the chimney.

[0028] The height of the chimney prevents excess water (water that has not been vaporized by the steam plates) from entering the steam passage inlet.

[0029] The large opening in the chimney can also prevent scale buildup, thus extending the product's lifespan.

[0030] The ironing board is preferably parallel to the steam board and has a substantially similar external shape.

[0031] The 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.

[0032] Garment care devices may include a handle (HAN) to abut against a moving device for garments to be steam-treated.

[0033] If the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis hh of the handle, or the axis yy of the steam plate is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis hh of the handle, then the steam plate is said to be in a "longitudinal orientation". Figure 5 , Figure 16 and Figure 18 As shown.

[0034] If the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis hh of the handle, or the axis yy of the steam plate is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis hh of the handle, then the steam plate is said to be in a "lateral orientation". Figure 8 , Figure 15 and Figure 19A As shown.

[0035] The handle is indirectly connected to the steam plate through the housing of the device.

[0036] The steam passage is located below the steam plate, rather than along the side of the machine body. This effectively increases the steam generation area available for generating more steam instantaneously. This location of the steam passage also prevents hot spots from forming around it.

[0037] The front half of the steam passage includes a curved top surface to increase the steam velocity from the chimney.

[0038] Preferably, the steam generator further includes a generally U-shaped heating element (HE) that transfers heat to the steam plate, wherein the chimney is arranged near the two open ends (T1, T2) of the U-shaped heating element. This in Figure 8 As shown in the image.

[0039] In another embodiment, the heat from the steam plate is transferred to the ironing board IP via a transverse thermal bridge positioned between the two. In such embodiments, the transverse thermal bridge is located between the bottom steam plate and the ironing board. This thermal bridge efficiently transfers heat, ensuring the ironing board heats up faster and maintains a stable ironing temperature during use. This feature adds a dry ironing function to the steam iron. The thermal bridge provides a dedicated and efficient conduction path to transfer heat from the directly heated steam plate to the ironing board, ensuring the ironing board reaches and maintains the temperature to effectively flatten wrinkles without burning the fabric.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, a baffle (WS) is provided in the form of at least one rib extending downward from the lower surface of the cover. This baffle prevents water droplets from entering the chimney, thereby reducing the risk of water spray and ensuring a drier, more consistent steam output. Preferably, the baffle is in the form of a protruding rib extending downward from the lower surface of the cover to prevent steam-carried water droplets from directly entering the chimney. This in… Figure 9 As shown in, and also in Figure 11 The diagram shows the cover inverted. The baffle acts as a baffle to improve steam quality. It forces turbulent steam along a more complex path before entering the chimney. This causes heavier, unvaporized water droplets to impact the baffle and fall back onto the hot plate, preventing them from being ejected through the steam vents and causing splashing. The baffle is greater than 2.4 mm in height to overcome capillary effects. In a preferred embodiment, this height is between 2.4 mm and 7 mm, but more preferably between 2.4 mm and 5 mm.

[0041] Preferably, a first wall (W1) is arranged between the at least one water injection point and the chimney, the first wall extending vertically between the steam plate and the cover.

[0042] The first wall is positioned in front of the chimney to prevent water droplets from entering. This wall provides primary splash protection. When water is first poured onto the hot plate, it may splash. The first wall provides a direct physical barrier, preventing these initial large water droplets from being thrown directly into the hollow chimney entrance; this is the first line of defense against water spray. This is in Figure 9 As shown in the image.

[0043] Preferably, the garment care device further includes at least one second wall (W2_P1, W2_P2) arranged adjacent to the first wall, the at least one second wall extending vertically at a height lower than that of the first wall. This creates a two-stage labyrinth or weir system for separating steam from the water. While the first wall blocks the initial splash, the lower second wall allows light steam to flow through it easily, while still blocking any low-lying water that might cross the first wall. This provides a more complex and effective separation, further improving steam quality.

[0044] The second wall is designed to partially block water droplets from entering the chimney while allowing steam generated by the steam plates to flow towards the chimney inlet. This is in Figure 9 As shown in the image.

[0045] Preferably, the second wall has a first portion (W2_P1) located to the left of the first wall and a second portion (W2_P2) located to the right of the first wall. In a preferred embodiment, the height of at least one second wall is between 2.4 mm and 7 mm, but more preferably between 2.4 mm and 6 mm, and even more preferably between 2.4 mm and 5.2 mm. The height of at least one second wall must be greater than 2.4 mm to overcome the capillary effect of water.

[0046] Preferably, the garment care device further includes a first region (A1) recessed relative to the steam plate, the first region being disposed between the at least one second wall and the at least one water injection point. This recessed region acts as a local water reservoir or sump. It is designed to trap any excess water injected onto the plate that does not immediately vaporize. By retaining the water in this hot recessed region, it gives the system more time to convert the water into steam, improving efficiency and preventing uncontrolled flow of liquid water into the chimney.

[0047] The first zone is designed to trap water that has not fully vaporized, thus preventing it from flowing towards the chimney. Figure 9 As shown in the image.

[0048] Preferably, the first region can be divided into two sub-regions, which are respectively arranged in front of the first part and the second part of the second wall.

[0049] Preferably, the garment care device further includes a second area (A2) recessed relative to the steam plate and arranged around the bottom of the chimney. This feature provides two distinct advantages. First, it acts as a final interception device for any water droplets that have already passed through the steam plate, preventing them from entering the chimney. Second, as described in the specification, it serves as a dedicated collection area for scale particles flaking off from the plate, preventing clogging of the steam passages and making regular descaling easier. Furthermore, descaling can be delayed, thus improving the user experience.

[0050] Preferably, at least one water injection point includes a first water injection point and a second water injection point.

[0051] The first and second water injection points divide the steam plate into two interconnected heating zones (Z1, Z2) to enhance water distribution and steam generation, such as Figure 12 As shown.

[0052] In other words, the steam generating surface has two hot steam treatment zones to enable dual-point water injection, resulting in faster steam generation, lower hot spots, longer scale-related lifespan, and higher steam rate, without splashing.

[0053] By simultaneously delivering water to two zones, 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.

[0054] Water is injected into both areas simultaneously. Excess water is expected to flow into both areas.

[0055] At the side water tank, excess water will be trapped by the partition wall / rib, while the heating element needs time to transfer heat to evaporate the water vapor.

[0056] Preferably, in the case where the heating element includes a neck portion (NP) in an integral U-shape, such as Figure 8 As shown, the temperature sensor is positioned slightly offset relative to the neck section. This helps to better sense whether the heating element is energized or de-energized, and to sense the presence of water on the steam plate, by balancing the energy input and output of the steam generator.

[0057] Preferably, the steam plate has a surface comprising a first grid pattern of protruding truncated square pyramids. This surface texture addresses two issues: it improves heat transfer and controls water flow. The pyramids increase the total surface area for faster vaporization and create microchannels that promote uniform water diffusion. They also act as baffles, slowing the water flow when the device is used vertically, ensuring sufficient time for the water to convert into steam.

[0058] In the main steam generation areas of the steam plate, particularly in areas Z1 and Z2, a truncated pyramidal grid of 1x1 mm in diameter, 0.5 mm in height, and 1 mm in spacing is used to better diffuse water both horizontally and vertically. Figure 13As 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, thus achieving optimal water diffusion regardless of the orientation of the steam plate. In the transverse and longitudinal orientations of the device, the pyramids are oriented at an angle between 40° and 50° relative to the vertical axis, but more preferably at 45°. In this way, water diffuses effectively in both orientations. The truncated square pyramids also help to diffuse water injected from the injection point on the steam plate without it falling too quickly when the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate is oriented vertically. The small size of the pyramids also helps to make it easier to remove scale that may accumulate on the steam plate.

[0059] Preferably, there is a first distance (D1) of less than 1.9 mm between adjacent cones. At this distance, water will rise to the top of the truncated cone using its capillary action. In the most preferred embodiment, the first distance is between 0.75 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0060] Preferably, the second region has a surface comprising a second grid pattern of protruding square pyramids. This specific texture makes the second region more effective in its operation. The rough, high-surface-area pyramids excel at "capturing" and retaining solid scale particles. They also help to rapidly vaporize any final spilled water droplets that reach this region before the chimney inlet. A first distance also applies to the square pyramids. That is, the first distance between adjacent pyramids is between 0.75 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0061] In the second area surrounding the chimney, use full-height square-bottomed cones (i.e., non-truncated cones) with the same density as the steam plates, such as... Figure 14 As shown.

[0062] Because the non-truncated cone is taller than the truncated cone, water accumulating in the second zone has difficulty climbing up and is directed towards the chimney. Furthermore, due to its larger contact surface area compared to the truncated cone, the non-truncated cone facilitates scale buildup in this second zone. The second zone thus acts as a scale accumulation area.

[0063] Preferably, the garment care device according to the invention includes a pump (WP). Preferably, the pump is a piston pump. In fact, piston pumps (with a maximum pressure greater than or equal to 1 bar) are capable of generating higher pressures and are more suitable for this application because they can effectively expel air bubbles and ensure a consistent water flow.

[0064] In one embodiment, the second distance (D2) between the chimney and the cap or outer peripheral wall is between 2.4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 2.4 mm and 5.5 mm. The lower limit of 2.4 mm is crucial because it represents the minimum spacing required to overcome the capillary effect of water, thus preventing water from climbing between these components.

[0065] It should be noted that the various features of the present invention can also be combined in different ways or used individually.

[0066] 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, and a cover (CC) disposed on top of the outer peripheral wall. The steam generator forms an internal volume (VV) above the central region (CA) of the steam plate without restricting the steam path. At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is arranged in the cover to supply water to the steam plate, causing the water to be vaporized by the steam plate; A hollow chimney (CH) protrudes from the steam plate and is arranged near the outer peripheral wall to convey steam generated by the steam plate toward a steam passage (SC) arranged below the steam plate, the steam passage being in fluid communication with the steam discharge hole.

2. The garment care device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The steam generator also includes a generally U-shaped heating element (HE) that transfers heat to the steam plate, wherein the chimney is arranged near the two open ends (T1, T2) of the U-shaped heating element.

3. The garment care device as claimed in any of the preceding claims further includes a transverse thermal bridge disposed between the bottom steam plate and the ironing plate, the transverse thermal bridge being configured to transfer heat between the two.

4. The garment care device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The steam plate has a surface that includes a first grid pattern composed of protruding truncated pyramids.

5. The garment care device as claimed in claim 4, wherein, In the transverse and longitudinal orientation of the device, the protruding truncated pyramid is oriented at an angle between 40° and 50° relative to the vertical axis, more preferably 45°.

6. The garment care device as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein, The first distance (D1) between adjacent cones is less than 1.9 mm, more preferably between 0.75 mm and 1.5 mm.

7. The garment care device as claimed in any of the preceding claims further includes a water deflector (WS) in the form of at least one rib extending downward from the lower surface of the cover, the water deflector being configured to prevent water droplets from entering the hollow chimney.

8. The garment care device as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The height of the water baffle is between 2.4 mm and 7 mm, more preferably between 2.4 mm and 5 mm.

9. The garment care device as claimed in any of the preceding claims further includes a first wall (W1) disposed between at least one water injection point and the chimney, the first wall extending vertically between the steam plate and the cover.

10. The garment care device of claim 9, further comprising at least one second wall (W2_P1, W2_P2), said at least one second wall being arranged adjacent to the first wall, said at least one second wall extending vertically at a height lower than that of the first wall.

11. The garment care device as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The height of the at least one second wall (W2_P1, W2_P2) is between 2.4 mm and 7 mm, but preferably between 2.4 mm and 6 mm, but more preferably between 2.4 mm and 5.2 mm.

12. The garment care device of claim 10 or 11, further comprising a first region (A1) recessed relative to the steam plate, the first region being disposed between the at least one second wall and the at least one water injection point.

13. The garment care device as claimed in any of the preceding claims further includes a second region (A2) recessed relative to the steam plate and disposed around the bottom of the chimney.

14. The garment care device as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The second region has a surface that includes a second grid pattern composed of protruding square pyramids.

15. The garment care device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The second distance (D2) between the chimney and the cover or outer peripheral wall is between 2.4 mm and 8 mm, but more preferably between 2.4 mm and 5.5 mm.

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