Vacuum steamer

Abstract

A handheld vacuum garment steamer includes: a front portion including a steam outlet at a first surface at the lower part of the front portion and an air inlet for a suction system at a second surface at the upper part of the front portion; a steam generator for selectively generating steam and delivering steam to the steam outlet via a steam flow path, wherein the suction system includes a fan motor operably connected to a power supply circuit to selectively drive a fan, the fan generating an air flow path that fluidly connects the air inlet to the air outlet via the air flow path, and the air outlet is located on one or more sides of the head near the rear portion, such that air is laterally ejected from the suction system during operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to garment steamers, and more specifically, to electric handheld garment steamers. Background Technology

[0002] A garment steamer can be a handheld, electrically heated device that holds water in its reservoir and heats the water into steam in a kettle or steam generator as needed, for application to items such as clothes and fabrics. An iron can generate steam, but it is used horizontally and relies primarily on a heated metal soleplate to smooth fabrics. In contrast, a handheld garment steamer is typically operated upright or vertically for use on items such as hanging clothes, and can or may not be in direct contact with the item being heated during operation. During steaming operation, a stream of steam is expelled from such a garment steamer.

[0003] Portable handheld garment steamers can be equipped with an onboard water reservoir, unlike steam tables which can have a garment steamer head connected to a large base via a hose, and the base includes operable steam-generating features such as a water heater and a water reservoir. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The aspects of the invention described herein relate to a handheld garment steamer housed in a portable integrated unit. The invention introduces an improved garment steamer operation by employing a suction function utilizing an inlet located near the steam outlet. This results in a suction force generated on the item to be steamed, opposing the force of the expelled steam. The improved portable garment steamer also, for example, exhausts air generated by the suction feature laterally and away from the user through a vent located on the side of the rear of the steamer.

[0005] The present invention also provides an air-moving fan with a shroud, which is operable to cause air from a suction system to surround and pass through the shroud of the fan before being caused to leave laterally from the airflow path of the suction system via a side outlet.

[0006] The result is a compact and portable handheld garment steamer with operational advantages (such as the suction effect that counteracts the proximity repulsion caused by steam output and further improves airflow and the direction of air ejected from the steamer head during operation), producing a more convenient and enjoyable steaming experience.

[0007] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a handheld vacuum garment steamer is disclosed. According to the first embodiment, the handheld vacuum garment steamer includes a housing comprising a base and a head connected to each other by a grippable handle. Still according to the first embodiment, the head includes a front portion, a rear portion, and one or more sides, the front portion including a steam outlet at a first surface at the lower part of the front portion and an air inlet at a second surface at the upper part of the front portion. The handheld vacuum garment steamer also includes a steam delivery system comprising an internal water reservoir fluidly connected via a water flow path to a steam generator disposed within the housing, the water flow path including a water pump operably connected to a power supply circuit to move water along the water flow path from the internal water reservoir to the steam generator, the steam generator being operably connected to the power supply circuit to selectively generate steam and deliver the steam to a steam outlet via a steam flow path. The handheld vacuum garment steamer also includes a suction system comprising a fan motor operably connected to a power circuit to selectively drive a fan that generates an airflow path fluidly connecting an air inlet to an air outlet, wherein the air outlet is located on one or more sides of the head near the rear, such that air is laterally ejected from the suction system during operation. Still according to the first embodiment, the water pump, steam generator, and fan motor can be selectively operated by one or more control devices to operate the vacuum garment steamer, thereby delivering steam from the front of the head below the suction generated at the air inlet.

[0008] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, a method for using a handheld vacuum garment steamer is disclosed. According to the second embodiment, the method includes moving water along a water flow path from an internal water reservoir to a steam generator. The method also includes using the steam generator to generate steam from the water. The method further includes delivering the generated steam through a steam flow path to a steam outlet at the front of the garment steamer head. The method also includes using a fan motor driving a fan to generate suction at an air inlet at the upper part of the front of the garment steamer head using an air flow path that fluidly connects the air inlet to an air outlet, wherein the air outlet is located on one or more sides of the head, such that air is ejected laterally from the head during operation. Finally, the method includes positioning and / or moving the garment steamer head near the item to be steamed.

[0009] These and various other features and advantages will become clear by reading the following detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The invention will be further explained with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same structures are indicated by the same reference numerals throughout the several views, and in the drawings:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of a handheld garment steamer according to various embodiments.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of a handheld garment steamer.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of the front of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A side sectional view of the various components of the base of a handheld garment steamer.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A side sectional view of the various components of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded side view of the various components of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded perspective view of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded front perspective view of the various components of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0019] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the motor of a handheld garment steamer.

[0020] Figure 10A yes Figure 1 A three-quarter view of the steam chamber of a handheld garment steamer.

[0021] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A three-quarter view of the steam chamber, with some parts removed.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of a handheld garment steamer.

[0023] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Rear perspective view of a handheld garment steamer.

[0024] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 A close-up view of the front of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0025] Figure 14 yes Figure 11 A side sectional view of the various components of the base of a handheld garment steamer.

[0026] Figure 15 yes Figure 11 A side sectional view of the various components of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0027] Figure 16 yes Figure 11 A partial exploded side view of the various components of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0028] Figure 17 yes Figure 11 A partial exploded perspective view of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0029] Figure 18 yes Figure 11 A partial exploded front perspective view of the various components of the head of a handheld garment steamer.

[0030] Figure 19 yes Figure 11 Bottom perspective view of a handheld garment steamer.

[0031] Figure 20 This is a block diagram of various operable features according to various embodiments of this document. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The various aspects of the invention described herein relate to a handheld garment steamer, which is preferably configured as a portable integrated unit.

[0033] refer to Figures 1 to 10B A first example embodiment of a handheld vacuum garment steamer 10 is shown. The handheld vacuum garment steamer 10 generally comprises a head 12, a handle 14, and a base 16, and includes an operable steam delivery system and related aspects, as well as an operable suction system and related aspects. The head 12 of the garment steamer 10 is provided with airflow, waterflow, and steamflow paths and features, as shown below and described. The head 12 may include a head housing 18 having a front portion 22, a rear portion 23, and sides 30 for forming an outer shell. The front portion 22 of the housing 18 may include a first surface 24, which may include a plate (e.g., a metal plate) provided with one or more steam outlets (e.g., output openings) 26, sized and arranged according to various steaming aspects. As shown, the front portion 22 of the housing 18 also preferably includes a second surface 25 provided with an air inlet slot 28. In various embodiments, both the first surface 24 and the second surface 25 are located at the front portion 22 and may together form an operable front steaming surface. Optionally, the first surface 24 and the second surface 25 are substantially coplanar. One or more air outlets 32 are located at or near the rear portion 23 of the housing 18, preferably near one or more sides 30 of the housing 18 near the rear portion 23.

[0034] like Figure 1As shown, the handle 14 is preferably attached between the head 12 and the base 16, and is preferably configured to be gripped by the user for steaming operations. One or more control devices 20 may be provided, as shown. A power supply circuit and / or control devices 20 connected thereto (e.g., ...) may be included. Figure 20 The controller 212 may optionally include a power control device, a temperature control device, a steam control device, a water pump control device, and / or any other suitable control device. Optionally, the base 16, positioned below the handle 14, preferably includes, either integrally formed or formed from various separate components (e.g., plastic or other materials), as shown in the image. Figure 4 The storage tank 34, located within the base 16, is shown for holding water and providing an operable power connection 36. The power connection 36 can be a wired connection to a mains power source, a battery inside the garment steamer 10, or any other suitable power source. Also preferably included in the base 16 is a water pump 40 for pumping stored water from the storage tank 34 (see, for example, [link to image]). Figure 4 The water is moved to the heating steam generator or water heater unit 51, for example, including, preferably, a... Figure 5 The electrically heated steam chamber 42 shown inside the head 12 of the water heater unit 51 is detailed in the [details of the steam chamber 42]. Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown in the diagram. Steam can be generated by the steam chamber 42, for example, on demand by the user using the control device 20. The steam chamber 42 may be provided with an electric heating element 45 optionally integrated therewith (see, for example, see...). Figure 10A and Figure 10B For example, a resistance heating element is configured to heat the steam chamber 42 and thus heat and / or boil the water in the steam chamber 42 of the water heater unit 51 to generate steam.

[0035] More in detail, such as Figure 5 As shown, the garment steamer 10 can be configured with various fluid paths, including an air flow path 48 for the suction system, a steam flow path 46 for the steam delivery system, and a water flow path 44 for the steam delivery system. Each path may include one or more sub-paths or path branches within a portion of the corresponding path.

[0036] like Figure 5 As best shown, the airflow path 48 may be at least partially contained within an airflow chamber 49 (or a series of chambers) within an optional conical airflow housing 50 in the head 12 of the garment steamer 10. The airflow path 48 may begin at the air inlet 28, and air may be drawn through a channel behind the surface 25 and then reach the fan assembly 61 operatively connected to the motor assembly 60 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 7 and Figure 9As shown, the airflow housing 50 may be tapered to have a smaller cross-sectional area when passing through the rear portion 23, preferably closer to the head 12. Finally, the airflow path 48 may terminate near the rear portion 23 because air preferably enters the rear air chamber pressure chamber 53 before exiting laterally, for example, into the surrounding environment, via one or more air outlets 32. Preferably, the opening 32 is configured to laterally exhaust air to the side 30 of the head 12, thus directing the exhaust air from the airflow path 48 away from the user.

[0037] Turn now Figure 9 The airflow path 48 can pass through a portion of the fan shroud within the head 12, as may be provided by the motor housing 70 and / or the airflow housing 50, and can then proceed to the rear 23 of the garment steamer head 12 (see also...). Figure 7 The shroud may surround the airflow path 48 of the fan assembly 61 (e.g., optionally forming an axial impeller). Still refer to Figure 9 One or more fan blades 62 of the fan assembly 61 may define or provide one or more rotating openings through which the airflow path 48 may pass.

[0038] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 The water flow path 44 is best shown in the figure, which can preferably consist of a pre-pump section 44A and a post-pump section 44B (collectively referred to as water flow path 44). As shown, water flow path 44 can form part of a steam delivery system and can begin at the internal water reservoir 34 shown in the base 16 of the garment steamer 10. The internal water reservoir 34 is shown in the base 16, but can be located anywhere within the garment steamer 10. A tubular water inlet 41 can be provided in the reservoir 34, and an electric pump 40 can be connected to a power circuit and can selectively cause water to flow upward from the base 16 through water flow path 44, through handle 14, and finally to the head 12 of the garment steamer 10 and the heating steam chamber 42 of the water heater unit 51 within the housing 18. Preferably, the pump 40 selectively causes water, preferably according to user demand and / or when all the water in the steam chamber 42 has been converted into gaseous steam, via its water inlet 47 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 10A The water flows from water path 44 to steam chamber 42.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the steam flow path 46 of the steam delivery system can be initiated once the water from the reservoir 34 follows the water flow path 44 and is converted into steam. In other words, in various embodiments, the water flow path 44 and the steam flow path 46 may form a single flow path loop. In the steam chamber 42, a steam flow can be generated since the water is preferably converted into gaseous steam, allowing steam to exit from the steam outlet 26 on the surface 24 at the front portion 22 of the head 12. Therefore, during operation, for example, selectively initiated by a user via the control device 20, steam can be expelled from the front portion 22 of the garment steamer 10 to apply steam to items, such as hanging garments. During operation (e.g., positioning and / or moving the garment steamer near the items to be steamed), in various examples, at least some repulsive force can be applied by the steam to the items to be steamed as the steam exits from the front portion 22. The steam repulsive force can be at least partially offset by a suction force relative to the items.

[0040] The size of the outlet 26 for the steam outlet can be configured to be larger or smaller in diameter, for example, to provide higher or lower steam pressure. For example, outlet 26 can be configured to allow steam to exit the flow, preventing unsuitable steam from being drawn into the airflow path 48. In various preferred embodiments, the airflow path 48 and the steamflow path 46 are fluidly separated. Also as shown in the first embodiment, outlet 26 is disposed in a generally horizontally extending channel or recess in the first surface 24 of the front portion 22 of the head 12. Optionally, the first surface 24 can be heated, for example by resistance heating and / or by steam flowing through and / or in contact with it. Thus, the first surface 24 may optionally be a heating plate, which can be configured to contact the article to be steamed and / or compressed.

[0041] As described above, the localized negative pressure suction effect is preferably generated by an airflow path 48 having an inlet 28 at the surface 25 of the front portion 22 of the garment steamer head 12. Also as shown in the figure, the air inlet 28 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 1The suction generated can be positioned on the upper part of the front portion 22 of the garment steamer head, and the steam outlet 26 can be located on the lower part of the front portion 22 of the garment steamer head. As described above, the suction can generate a force on the article, which at least partially counteracts the force exerted on the article by the discharged steam. As shown, the air inlet 28 and steam outlet 26 of the first surface 24 can therefore be very close, resulting in an easy-to-use steaming experience, wherein the steam repulsion (pushing) effect can be at least partially counteracted by the corresponding suction (pulling) effect at the air inlet at one or more operable front portions 22 surfaces of the handheld garment steamer unit 10. In various alternative embodiments, steam is therefore provided to the article through the outlet 26 of the heated first surface 24, which may also optionally contact or press against the article to be steamed. The suction aspect is preferably optimized in terms of position and surface area, such that balanced suction and airflow preferably prevent steam / water buildup and / or condensation in or on the various parts of the garment steamer unit 10.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the air and steam flow paths (48, 46) are also optimized to achieve optimal pressure (suction) for steaming, for example, clothing or articles. For example, with respect to preferred motor assembly 60 aspects, such as nominal motor RPM, load, etc., the flow path and the resulting flow, such as the volume and velocity of the fluid flow, including volume measurement, can be further optimized.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment (e.g., garment steamer 10), steam is preferably supplied or discharged from the garment steamer 10 at a pressure (or vacuum, e.g., in mmHg) higher than the corresponding air suction or negative pressure amplitude. The benefit of a greater force and quantity of steam output relative to air input is that it increases the chance that a certain amount of steam supplied exceeds the amount that could be drawn in and removed by the air inlet, thus ensuring sufficient remaining steam for operable smoothing of the item to be steamed. Therefore, preferably, the steam flow is selected to be a higher flow than the corresponding air suction flow, such that the steam flow reaches the item to be steamed even when suction is initiated.

[0044] refer to Figures 6 to 8 This shows some partial exploded views of various components of the head 12 of the handheld garment steamer 10. (See attached image.) Figure 6 As shown, for example, housing 18 may include an upper portion 18A, a lower portion 18B, and a rear portion 18C, which may optionally be connected together to form at least a portion of housing 18. Figure 7 The image shows a portion of the airflow path 48 as it passes through the motor assembly 60. (See image for details.) Figure 8 As shown, the size and shape of the air inlet slot 28 (generally vertical orientation, as shown) can be designed to optimize pressure / suction. Figure 8An optional air inlet filter 54, which can be configured at the air inlet of the airflow path 48, is also shown. This filter 54 is preferably configured to protect internal components within the airflow path 48 (e.g., motor assembly 60) from dust, debris, and lint that may be drawn into or pulled into the garment steamer 10 during suction operation. It should be understood that some steam may be drawn in through the airflow path 48 during operation. Furthermore, as shown, an inlet ring 52, preferably including a slot 28, can be selectively attached and detached from the head 12 at the front 22, for example, to assemble, clean, or remove various components, such as the filter 54 (or optionally its elements). The filter 54 is optionally removably supported in and by the housing 18. Alternatively, the inlet ring 52 can be retained to the head 12 by a snap-fit ​​attachment, friction fit, magnet, or any other suitable attachment mechanism.

[0045] Further details of the first embodiment are also included. Figure 9 , Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown in the image. Figure 9 As shown in more detail, motor assembly 60 may include a waterproof or water-resistant brushless direct current (BLDC) electric motor. Motor assembly 60 preferably also includes a motor housing 70, a motor shaft 72 having a rotor 80, bearings 74, and a motor frame 76 holding the stator 78. As shown, BLDC motor assembly 60 preferably includes a rear seal 66, which is configured to provide a watertight seal to prevent water and / or steam from entering the live parts of motor assembly 60. Therefore, the rear of motor assembly 60 is preferably sealed with seal 66 so that steam does not penetrate motor assembly 60. A front seal 68 is also shown in this embodiment. Front seal 68 and / or rear seal 66 are preferably configured to prevent water or condensate from entering any live parts, such as the live parts of motor assembly 60. Also as shown, a gap 64 is preferably provided to keep the metal parts of motor assembly 60 separated from the plastic parts. Figure 7 As shown, the motor assembly 60 may be provided with an operable connecting conduit 55, for example, for connecting the motor assembly 60 to various operable control devices. The motor assembly 60 may optionally include an alternating current (AC), direct current (DC), or any other suitable type of electric motor. When power is supplied to the motor assembly 60, the rotor 80 rotates relative to the stator 78, thereby rotating the shaft 72 and the fan blades 62 of the fan assembly 61, and causing air to flow according to the airflow path 48.

[0046] Figure 10A and Figure 10BAn example water heater unit 51 with a steam chamber 42 is shown in more detail, separate from other components of the garment steamer 10. The heating element 45, as shown, is optionally at least partially integrated into the steam chamber 42, for example, for operably heating and steaming water. The steam chamber 42 and the heating element 45 can be operably connected to the power circuit of the garment steamer 10. Similarly, as... Figure 10B As shown, the steam flow path 46 can follow the water flow path (44, see also) Figure 5 The water flow path makes various twists and turns between the water flow paths 44 and 42, entering the steam chamber 42 at the steam chamber water connection 47 (see...). Figure 10A The liquid water is converted into steam more completely within the steam chamber 42, and exits the steam chamber 42 via the steam outlet 26.

[0047] Figures 11 to 19 A second embodiment of a handheld vacuum garment steamer 110, similar to garment steamer 10, is shown.

[0048] Similar to garment steamer 10, handheld vacuum garment steamer 110 typically comprises a head 112, a handle 114, and a base 116, and includes an operable steam delivery system and related aspects, and an operable suction system and related aspects. The head 112 of garment steamer 110 is provided with airflow, waterflow, and steamflow paths and features, as shown and described below. The head 112 may include a head housing 118 having a front portion 122, a rear portion 123, and a side portion 130 for forming an outer shell. The front portion 122 of housing 118 may include a first surface 124, which may include a plate (e.g., a metal plate) provided with one or more steam outlets (e.g., output openings) 126, sized and arranged according to various steaming aspects. As shown, the front portion 122 of housing 118 also preferably includes a second surface 125 provided with an air inlet slot 128. In various embodiments, both the first surface 124 and the second surface 125 are located at the front portion 122 and may together form an operable front steaming surface. Optionally, the first surface 124 and the second surface 125 are substantially coplanar. One or more air outlets 132 are located at or near the rear portion 123 of the housing 118, preferably near one or more sides 130 of the rear portion 123 of the housing 118. Optionally, the first surface 124 can be heated, for example by resistance heating and / or by steam flowing through and / or in contact with it. Thus, the first surface 124 may optionally be a heating plate, which can be configured to contact the article to be steamed and / or compressed.

[0049] like Figure 11As shown, the handle 114 is preferably attached between the head 112 and the base 116, and is preferably configured for the user to grip for steaming operations, and may be provided with one or more control devices 120, as shown. As shown on the garment steamer 110, a gripping texture 119 may be provided on its handle 114. Additionally, also as shown, a slotted gripping portion 121 on the water reservoir 134 housing of the base 116 is used for gripping, for example, removing the garment using the user's fingernail.

[0050] According to a second embodiment of the garment steamer 110, a control device 120 is provided, which may include a power supply circuit (not shown) and / or be connected thereto, and may optionally include a power control device, a temperature control device, a steam control device, a water pump control device, and / or any other suitable control device. The control device 120 preferably includes two or more buttons disposed on the handle 114. As shown, the top button of the control device 120 is configured to release steam as needed. In some configurations, the user can briefly press or hold the top button of the control device 120 for an extended period. A brief press of the top button provides an on / off switch for continuous steaming operation (until pressed again, etc.), and a press-and-hold action results in steaming on demand until the user releases the button. Various settings for the operation of the garment steamer 110 can be provided. For example, the garment steamer 10 of the first embodiment can provide a single setting for suction, while the garment steamer 110 of the second embodiment can provide two or more options for suction levels (e.g., in mmHg measured at the front 122). The steam provided by garment steamer 110 preferably offers consistent (single-stage) steam, while suction can preferably be set to various levels and settings, such as off, low, or high. In various configurations and settings, the user can use garment steamer 110 for steam only or alternatively for steam plus vacuum settings. Each setting can be configured for low, high, or any variation thereof. As shown, a top button on control device 120 allows for sliding operation. As shown, a slide switch is provided at control device 120 to select the suction level for operation in the second embodiment of garment steamer 110. For example, sliding the button can move the setting from low to high to off. Other variations and combinations are also contemplated, and any of the aforementioned control aspects of control device 120 can be applied to garment steamer 10 where applicable, and vice versa.

[0051] Optionally, the base 116, which is integrally formed or formed from various separate components (e.g., plastic or other materials) and positioned below the handle 114, preferably includes, for example, Figure 14The illustrated reservoir 134, located within the base 116, serves to hold water and provide an operable power connection 136. The power connection 136 can be a wired connection to a mains power source, a battery inside the garment steamer 110, or any other suitable power source. Also preferably included in the base 116 is a water pump 140 for drawing stored water from the reservoir 134 (see, for example, [link to image]). Figure 14 Moved to the heating steam generator or water heater unit 151, preferably similar to Figure 10A and Figure 10B The water heater unit 151 is shown. As described above, steam can be generated by the water heater unit 151, for example, by the user using the control device 120 on demand.

[0052] More specifically, the garment steamer 110 can be configured with various fluid paths, including an airflow path 148 for the suction system, a steam flow path 146 for the steam delivery system, and a water flow path 144 for the steam delivery system. Each path may include one or more sub-paths or path branches within a portion of the corresponding path. See, for example... Figure 15 .

[0053] like Figure 15 As best shown, the airflow path 148 may be at least partially contained within an airflow chamber 149 (or a series of chambers) within an optional smooth conical airflow housing 150 in the head 112 of the garment steamer 110. The airflow path 148 may begin at the air inlet 128, and air may be drawn through a channel behind the surface 125, then to the motor assembly 160 and fan assembly 161 (see, for example...). Figure 9 The motor assembly 60 and fan assembly 61) and the surrounding shroud of the motor assembly 160 (e.g., optionally forming an axial impeller). As shown, the airflow path 148 may pass through a portion of the fan shroud within the head 112, such as that which may be formed by the motor housing (e.g., see...). Figure 9 The motor housing 70 and / or airflow housing 150 are provided, and can then proceed to the rear 123 of the garment steamer head 112. As shown, the airflow housing 150 may be tapered to have a smaller cross-sectional area when it passes through the rear 123 of the head 112, preferably closer to it. The motor assembly 160 may be similar to or the same as the motor assembly 60, which includes the aspects described above. Finally, the airflow path 148 may terminate near the rear 123, as the air preferably enters the rear air chamber pressure chamber 153 before laterally exiting through one or more air outlets 132, for example, into the surrounding environment. Preferably, the opening 132 is configured to exhaust air to the side 130 of the head 112, so that the exhaust air from the airflow path 148 can be directed away from the user.

[0054] As shown in the figure, the garment steamer 110 can advantageously provide an alternative configuration that provides an alternative airflow chamber 149 configured for smooth, conical, laminar flow of air passing internally through the airflow path 148 during operation. The disclosed airflow chamber 149 minimizes abrupt and sharp turns (e.g., rises and falls) in the airflow path 148 and provides a gradual curvature for the air flowing through it. Improved effective laminar flow within the airflow chamber 149 can reduce various pressures during operation and thus reduce sound and noise generated during operation (e.g., from the motor assembly 160). Due to the lower noise compared to existing configurations, the disclosed embodiment provides relatively higher power and higher suction per sound output. Therefore, for a given sound level, a greater motor speed and / or suction can be achieved.

[0055] exist Figure 14 and Figure 15 The water flow path 144 is best shown in the figure, which can preferably consist of a pre-pump section 144A and a post-pump section 144B (collectively referred to as water flow path 144). As shown, water flow path 144 can form part of a steam delivery system and can begin at the internal water reservoir 134 shown in the base 116 of the garment steamer 110. The internal water reservoir 134 is shown in the base 116, but can be located anywhere within the garment steamer 110. A tubular water inlet 141 can be provided in the reservoir 134, and an electric pump 140 can be connected to a power circuit, and water can optionally flow upward from the base 116 through water flow path 144, through handle 114, and finally to the head 112 of the garment steamer 110 and the heating element unit 151 (preferably including a steam generator therein) within the housing 118. Preferably, pump 140 causes water to flow from water flow path 144 to water heater unit 151 via its water inlet 143, preferably according to user demand and / or when all the water in the water heater unit 151 has been converted into gaseous steam.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the steam flow path 146 of the steam delivery system can be initiated once the water from the reservoir 134 follows the water flow path 144 and is converted into steam. In other words, in various embodiments, the water flow path 144 and the steam flow path 146 may form a single flow path loop. In the water heater unit 151, since the water is preferably converted into gaseous steam, a steam flow can be generated so that steam can flow out from the steam outlet 126 of the surface 124 at the front 122 of the head 112. Thus, during operation, for example, selectively initiated by the user via the control device 120, steam can be expelled from the front 122 of the garment steamer 110 to apply steam to hanging clothes, etc. During operation, in various examples, some repulsive force can be applied by the steam to the item to be steamed as the steam exits from the front 122. The size of the outlet 126 for the steam can be configured to be larger or smaller in diameter, for example, to provide higher or lower steam pressure. For example, the outlet 126 can be configured to prevent inappropriate steam from being drawn into the air flow path 148. In various preferred embodiments, the air flow path 148 and the steam flow path 146 are fluidly separated.

[0057] A second embodiment of the garment steamer 110 has an alternative front portion 122 structure (as shown) and other variations. For example... Figure 13 As shown, the S-shaped slotted outlet 126 is primarily vertically oriented. The horizontal orientation of the orifice 128 in the second embodiment also provides for a reduced size of the orifice 128, which advantageously reduces pressure inconsistencies among the various suction holes, thereby reducing water / steam lines, etc., on clothing.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment (e.g., garment steamer 110), steam is preferably supplied or discharged from the garment steamer 110 at a higher pressure than the corresponding air suction. The benefit of the greater force and quantity of steam output relative to air input is that it increases the chance that a certain amount of steam supplied exceeds the steam drawn in and removed by the air inlet, thus ensuring that sufficient steam remains to operably smooth the items to be steamed. Therefore, it is preferable to supply the steam flow at a higher rate than suction, so that an operable steam flow is maintained even when the suction function is activated.

[0059] As described above, the localized negative pressure suction effect is preferably generated by an airflow path 148 having an inlet 128 at the surface 125 of the front portion 122 of the garment steamer head 112. Also as shown in the figure, the air inlet 128 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 11The suction generated can be positioned on the upper part of the front portion 122 of the garment steamer head, and the steam outlet 126 can be located on the lower part of the front portion 122 of the garment steamer head. The suction can generate a force on the article, which at least partially counteracts the force exerted on the article by the discharged steam. As shown, the air inlet 128 and the steam outlet 126 can therefore be very close, and an easy-to-use steaming experience can be produced, wherein the steam repulsion (pushing) effect can be at least partially counteracted by the corresponding air inlet suction (pulling) effect at one or more operable front portions 122 surfaces of the handheld garment steamer unit 110. In various alternative embodiments, steam is therefore provided to the article through the outlet 126 of the heated first surface 124, which may also optionally contact or press against the article to be steamed. The suction aspect is preferably optimized in terms of location and surface area, such that balanced suction and airflow preferably prevent steam / water buildup and / or condensation in or on the various parts of the garment steamer unit 110.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the air and steam flow paths (148, 146) are optimized to achieve the optimal pressure (suction) for steaming, for example, clothing or articles. For example, with respect to the preferred motor assembly 160, such as nominal motor RPM, load, etc., the flow path and the resulting flow, such as the volume and velocity of the fluid flow, including volume measurement, can be further optimized.

[0061] refer to Figures 16 to 18 This shows some partial exploded views of various components of the head 112 of a handheld garment steamer 110. (See attached image.) Figure 16 As shown, for example, housing 118 may include an upper portion 118A, a lower portion 118B, and a rear portion 118C, which may optionally be connected together to form at least a portion of housing 118. Figure 17 The image shows a portion of the airflow path 148 as it passes through the motor assembly 160. (See image for details.) Figure 18 As shown, the size and shape of the air inlet slot 128 (generally horizontal orientation, as shown) can be designed to optimize pressure / suction. Figure 18An optional air inlet filter 154, which can be configured at the air inlet of the airflow path 148, is also shown. This filter 154 is preferably configured to protect internal components within the airflow path 148 (e.g., motor assembly 160) from dust, debris, and lint that may be drawn into or pulled into the garment steamer 110 during suction operation. It should be understood that some steam may be drawn in through the airflow path 148 during operation. Furthermore, as shown, an inlet ring 152, preferably including a slot 128, can be selectively attached and detached from the head 112 at the front 122, for example, to assemble, clean, or remove various components, such as the filter 154 (or optionally its elements). The filter 154 is optionally removably supported in and by the housing 118. Alternatively, the inlet ring 152 can be retained to the head 112 by a snap-fit ​​attachment, friction engagement, one or more magnets, or any other suitable removable attachment mechanism.

[0062] As shown on garment steamer 110, and with special reference Figure 19 Integrated brush holder 156 and brush 157 are optionally disposed on the base 116 of the garment steamer 110. As shown, a brush holder 156 with a complementary shape having a notch for receiving a user's fingers is disposed on the base 116 of the garment steamer 110. The brush 157 may be configured to allow the user to clean the filter 154 when the inlet ring 152 of the front 122 is removed. The brush 157 may be held to the base 116 using opposing snap-fit ​​features 159 as shown or any other attachment method. The brush 157 may be provided with bristles 158 configured to clean the filter 154 or any other feature of the garment steamer 110. The inlet ring 152 is preferably held magnetically to the unit, and magnetic features (e.g., one or more permanent magnets; not shown) may be disposed on the front 122 and / or the unit for attachment to the inlet ring 152. Other non-magnetic methods of attaching the inlet ring 152 to the main unit are also contemplated.

[0063] Figure 20 This is a block diagram 200 illustrating various operational features of various embodiments of the handheld garment steamer described herein, such as the handheld garment steamer 10 or handheld garment steamer 110 described above.

[0064] As shown, a power supply 210 can be provided, and a controller 212 can be connected to the power supply 210. The controller 212, which may further include power supply circuitry, may include a processor and memory operatively connected. The controller 212 can be operatively connected to a steam / water system 214 and an air / suction system 224.

[0065] The steam / water system 214 preferably includes a steam generator 216, a water reservoir 218, a water pump 220, and a steam outlet 222. As shown, the steam outlet 222 can be operatively associated with an operable vacuum steamer surface 232. The air / suction system 224 preferably includes a shrouded fan 226, an air outlet 228, and an air inlet 230. As shown, the air inlet 230 can also be operatively associated with the operable vacuum steamer surface 232, optionally above, below, and / or near the steam outlet 222. As described herein, the operable vacuum steamer surface 232 can be used to apply steam to fabrics (e.g., clothing, textiles, etc.), advantageously facilitating ease of use.

[0066] The invention has now been described with reference to several embodiments thereof. The detailed descriptions and examples above are provided for clarity only and should not be construed as any unnecessary limitations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. The above-described implementations and other implementations are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A handheld vacuum garment steamer, characterized in that, include: A housing comprising a base and a head connected to each other via a grippable handle; The head includes a front portion, a rear portion and one or more side portions, the front portion including a steam outlet at a first surface at the lower part of the front portion and an air inlet at a second surface at the upper part of the front portion; A steam delivery system includes an internal water reservoir fluidly connected via a water flow path to a steam generator disposed within a housing. The water flow path includes a water pump operably connected to a power supply circuit to move water along the water flow path from the internal water reservoir to the steam generator. The steam generator is operably connected to the power supply circuit to selectively generate steam and deliver the steam to a steam outlet via a steam flow path. A suction system includes a fan motor operably connected to a power supply circuit to selectively drive a fan, the fan generating an airflow path through which an air inlet and an air outlet are fluidly connected, wherein the air outlet is located on one or more sides of the head near the rear, such that air is laterally ejected from the suction system during operation. The water pump, the steam generator, and the fan motor can be selectively operated by one or more control devices to operate the vacuum garment steamer, thereby delivering steam from the front of the head through a suction generated below the front of the head at the air inlet.

2. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one or more control devices are located on the griptable handle portion.

3. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a controller operably connected to a power source, the controller being configured to operably supply power to the fan motor and the water pump of the suction system, and also being configured to operably supply power to the heating element of the steam generator.

4. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam generator is located inside the head, and the water reservoir is located inside the base.

5. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air outlet includes two air outlets, wherein the first air outlet is located at a first side of the head, and the second air outlet is located at a second side of the head opposite to the first side.

6. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first surface of the head includes a heated metal plate.

7. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first surface and the second surface are substantially coplanar.

8. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air inlet includes multiple openings.

9. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam outlet includes multiple openings.

10. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of openings are S-shaped.

11. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fan motor is equipped with a watertight seal.

12. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air flow path and the steam flow path are fluid-separated.

13. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam delivery system is configured to generate steam to be applied to an article while providing suction at the air inlet to pull the article toward the front of the head.

14. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 13, characterized in that, The steam generated by the steam delivery system applies a repulsive force to the article.

15. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 14, characterized in that, The suction system generates suction on the article, such that at least some of the repulsive forces on the article are counteracted.

16. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first surface of the head includes a heated metal plate, and the heated metal plate is configured to contact the article during operation.

17. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air inlet includes a filter that is supported to the head.

18. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 17, characterized in that, The front portion of the head is provided with an attachment feature configured to removably retain the inlet ring in place unless removed by the user to access the filter.

19. The handheld vacuum garment steamer according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a cleaning brush, which is removably attached to the base for storage, wherein the cleaning brush is configured to clean the filter of the head.

20. A method for using a handheld vacuum garment steamer, characterized in that, include: This allows water to move along the water flow path from the internal water tank to the steam generator; The steam generator is used to generate steam from water; The generated steam is delivered to the steam outlet at the front of the garment steamer head via the steam flow path. A fan motor that drives the fan creates suction at an air inlet at the upper part of the front of the garment steamer head using an airflow path that fluidly connects the air inlet to an air outlet, wherein the air outlet is located on one or more sides of the head such that air is ejected laterally from the head during operation. as well as Position and / or move the garment steamer head near the item to be steamed.

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