Ironing board posture adjusting mechanism and garment steamer

Abstract

The utility model discloses an ironing board posture adjusting mechanism and a garment steamer, belongs to clothes ironing equipment, and aims to solve the problem that the length and the height of an ironing board of an existing garment steamer are difficult to meet ironing requirements of all postures, and the posture of the ironing board is adjusted by an angle adjusting mechanism arranged between the ironing board and a supporting piece. The ironing plate is locked and fixed in a required posture through the locking mechanism, the locking mechanism is unlocked through the handle to adjust the posture of the ironing plate, the length of the ironing plate is 800 + / -150 mm, and the height difference between the upper surface of the ironing plate and the bottom face of the base is 930 + / -50 mm when the ironing plate is in a horizontal posture. And the height difference between the upper end of the ironing plate and the bottom surface of the base is 1550 + / -100mm when the ironing plate is adjusted from the horizontal posture to the vertical posture. The ironing plate is adjusted to a horizontal posture during flat ironing, the ironing plate is adjusted to a vertical posture during hanging ironing, and the ironing plate is between the horizontal posture and the vertical posture during inclination. Therefore, the ironing requirements of all postures are met.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model pertains to garment ironing equipment, specifically an ironing board posture adjustment mechanism and a garment steamer. Background Technology

[0002] Adjustable ironing boards can typically be adjusted to lie flat, stand upright, or tilt to suit various ironing needs. However, the length and height of existing adjustable ironing boards often fail to meet the ironing requirements of all positions. Specifically, while the height of the ironing board may be sufficient when lying flat, it may be insufficient when tilted or / and upright. Conversely, while the height may be sufficient when upright, it may be insufficient when tilted or / and lying flat.

[0003] Furthermore, patent document CN117449077A discloses a steam garment steamer with an adjustable ironing board tilt angle, and patent document CN117845594A discloses an ironing board and garment steamer with an adjustable posture. The ironing boards disclosed in these two patent documents use a quadrilateral structure to achieve posture changes and fix the ironing board in the desired posture. They have a relatively simple structure and convenient operation. However, the quadrilateral structure requires more parts and has poorer stability. Utility Model Content

[0004] The technical objective of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing adjustable ironing boards, whose length and height are insufficient to accommodate ironing needs in all postures. It provides an ironing board posture adjustment mechanism and garment steamer that optimizes the size configuration to accommodate ironing needs in all postures. Furthermore, it overcomes the drawbacks of quadrilateral structures, such as numerous components and poor stability, by reducing the number of components, increasing the stability and reliability of the ironing board support, and improving operational convenience.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the ironing board posture adjustment mechanism of this utility model includes:

[0006] A support structure, comprising a base and support components;

[0007] Ironing board;

[0008] An angle adjustment mechanism is configured between the ironing board and the support to adjust the posture of the ironing board;

[0009] A locking mechanism is used to lock and fix the ironing board in the desired position.

[0010] The handle is used to unlock the locking mechanism to adjust the posture of the ironing board. The handle is located at one end of the ironing board.

[0011] Its features are: the length of the ironing board is 800±150mm, the height difference between the upper surface of the ironing board and the bottom surface of the base is 930±50mm when the ironing board is in a flat position, and the handle is located at the lower end of the ironing board and the height difference between the upper end of the ironing board and the bottom surface of the base is 1550±100mm when the ironing board is adjusted from the flat position to the upright position.

[0012] Accordingly, when ironing flat, the ironing board is adjusted to a horizontal position, with a height of 930±50mm and a length of 800±150mm; when ironing hanging, the ironing board is adjusted from the horizontal position to an upright position, with the upper end of the ironing board at a height of 1550±100mm and a length of 800±150mm; and when tilted, the ironing board is positioned between the horizontal and upright positions. This accommodates ironing needs in all positions.

[0013] Preferably, the ironing board has a sliding structure extending along its length;

[0014] The angle adjustment mechanism includes a base frame and a connecting rod. The base frame is rotatably connected to the ironing board via a first axis, and the base frame is rotatably connected to the first end of the connecting rod via a second axis. The second end of the connecting rod is slidably connected to the sliding structure of the ironing board via a third axis. The axial projection points of the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis are respectively located at the vertices of a triangle. The ironing board rotates around the first axis to adjust its tilt angle, and the rotation of the ironing board around the first axis causes the connecting rod to rotate around the second axis and the third axis to slide along the sliding structure to change the shape of the triangle.

[0015] The locking mechanism includes an adjustable length rod, which includes a first component, a second component, and a locking assembly. The rod is located on the back side of the ironing board and one end is connected to the ironing board, while the other end is connected to a third axis and moves together with the third axis.

[0016] The first component has a cavity;

[0017] The first end of the second component is inserted into the cavity of the first component;

[0018] The locking assembly includes a squeezing member, an expanding member, an elastic member, and an unlocking member. The squeezing member is located in the cavity of the first component and attached to the first end of the second component, allowing the squeezing member to move within the cavity of the first component along with the first end of the second component. The expanding member radially expands the squeezing member using the elastic force of the elastic member, causing the squeezing member to directly or indirectly press against the inner wall of the cavity to achieve locking. When locked, the second component is prohibited from moving relative to the first component, the length of the rod is fixed, and the ironing board is locked in the desired posture, preventing the ironing board from flipping. The handle is connected to the unlocking member, which is connected to the expanding member. Operating the handle actuates the expanding member through the unlocking member to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member, thereby weakening or eliminating the radial expansion of the squeezing member by the expanding member and the direct or indirect pressing of the squeezing member against the inner wall of the cavity to achieve unlocking. When unlocked, the second component is allowed to move relative to the first component, allowing the ironing board to flip, and the rod changes length as the ironing board flips.

[0019] The ironing board is supported by a triangular structure consisting of a base frame, connecting rods, and the ironing board itself. The shape of the triangle changes as the ironing board is adjusted. Once the desired tilt angle is reached, a locking mechanism secures the triangle, providing greater stability. This ironing board adjustment mechanism has few parts and a simple structure. To adjust the ironing board, simply operate the handle to release the locking mechanism from the triangle, allowing the ironing board to rotate around its primary axis; operation is convenient.

[0020] This locking mechanism uses the elastic force of the elastic member to radially expand the extrusion member, causing the extrusion member to directly or indirectly press against the inner wall of the tube. When the second component moves relative to the first component, static friction is generated to prevent the movement, thus achieving locking and prohibiting the second component from moving relative to the first component. The mechanism is flexible and the locking is reliable.

[0021] The locking mechanism has a locking component hidden in the cavity of the first component. It has a compact structure, occupies little space, and is lightweight, which helps to reduce product manufacturing costs.

[0022] This locking mechanism, without the need for gear settings, can lock the expansion member at any position on the inner wall of the tube, achieving stepless adjustment.

[0023] This locking mechanism uses the elastic force of an elastic element to lock, and unlocks by operating the handle in conjunction with the unlocking element, making it easy to operate.

[0024] Preferably, the extrusion member includes circumferentially distributed extrusion flaps, and the expansion member is located inside the extrusion flaps and engages with the extrusion flaps via an inclined surface. The expansion member radially expands the extrusion flaps using the elastic force of the elastic member, causing the extrusion flaps to directly or indirectly press against the inner wall of the cavity to achieve locking. The unlocking member actuates the expansion member to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member, thereby weakening or eliminating the radial expansion of the extrusion flaps by the expansion member and the direct or indirect pressing of the extrusion flaps against the inner wall of the cavity to achieve unlocking. Because the extrusion flaps have a large radial deformation capacity, they can reliably press against the inner wall of the cavity to achieve locking, and can also sufficiently weaken or eliminate the pressing against the inner wall of the cavity to achieve unlocking, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking, and avoiding incomplete locking and unlocking due to insufficient deformation capacity of the extrusion member.

[0025] Preferably, the compression valve has its own elasticity. When locking, the expansion member overcomes the elasticity of the compression valve, causing the compression valve to directly or indirectly press against the inner wall of the tube to achieve locking. When unlocking, the compression valve uses its own elasticity to reduce or eliminate the direct or indirect pressure on the inner wall of the tube. This ensures smooth unlocking and avoids jamming.

[0026] The root of the compression flap is designed as a weak point to promote radial elastic deformation. Therefore, while ensuring sufficient self-elasticity of the compression flap, its radial elastic deformation is guaranteed to prevent inadequate locking and unlocking due to insufficient deformation capacity.

[0027] Preferably, the squeezing flap is covered with a tightening member. When locked, the expanding member overcomes the tightening force of the tightening member. When unlocked, the squeezing flap reduces or eliminates direct or indirect squeezing of the inner wall of the tube by means of the tightening force of the tightening member. This ensures smooth unlocking and avoids jamming.

[0028] Preferably, the fastening element acts as a friction element. When locked, the fastening element is pressed against the inner wall of the cavity by the compression flap; when unlocked, the compression of the compression flap against the inner wall of the cavity is reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, reliable locking is ensured by increasing friction by pressing the fastening element against the inner wall of the cavity when locked. When unlocked, the fastening element contacts the inner wall of the cavity, generating damping as the second component moves, allowing the second component to move in a controlled manner. Furthermore, the fastening element is given the dual functions of preventing jamming during unlocking and increasing friction during locking, resulting in a compact structure.

[0029] Preferably, the compression flap is covered with a friction element. When locked, the friction element is pressed against the inner wall of the cavity by the compression flap; when unlocked, the pressure of the friction element on the inner wall of the cavity is reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, when locked, the friction element is pressed against the inner wall of the cavity to increase friction, ensuring reliable locking. When unlocked, the friction element contacts the inner wall of the cavity, generating damping as the second component moves, allowing the second component to move in a controlled manner.

[0030] Preferably, the friction element is ring-shaped, with a constraint groove on the outer side of the extrusion flap, and the friction element is located within the constraint groove. This prevents the friction element from being dislodged due to friction.

[0031] Preferably, the compression flap is provided with friction features on its outer surface. When locked, the friction features are pressed against the inner wall of the lumen by the compression flap; when unlocked, the pressing of the friction features against the inner wall of the lumen is reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, when locked, reliable locking is ensured by increasing friction by pressing the friction features against the inner wall of the lumen. When unlocked, the friction features contact the inner wall of the lumen, generating damping as the second member moves, allowing the second member to move in a controlled manner.

[0032] Preferably, the unlocking element is configured to actuate the expansion element and overcome the elastic force of the elastic element by being pulled by the handle. Accordingly, the unlocking element is easy to operate, can be made of steel wire rope, and occupies little space.

[0033] Preferably, the unlocking element extends from the second component. The structure is compact.

[0034] Preferably, a support base is fixed to the first end of the second component, the extrusion member is connected to the support base, the elastic member is a helical compression spring supported between the expansion member and the support base, and the unlocking member passes through the support base and the elastic member. The support base not only provides support for the elastic force generated by the elastic member, but also simplifies the structure and ensures the assembly strength of the extrusion member.

[0035] Preferably, the first end of the second component is inserted into the cavity of the first component via the second end of the first component, and the second end of the first component is provided with a bushing, which is located between the outer wall of the second component and the inner wall of the first component. The bushing can both guide the movement of the second component during unlocking to prevent friction with the first component, and support the second component to prevent it from shaking, thus ensuring the stability of the rod.

[0036] Preferably, the sliding structure consists of guide grooves located on both sides of the ironing board and extending along the length of the ironing board, with the two ends of the third shaft located within the corresponding guide grooves. This provides reliable support for the ironing board and allows for flexible sliding between the connecting rod and the ironing board.

[0037] Preferably, the distance between the first axis and the third axis gradually increases as the ironing board changes from upright to horizontal, with the first axis located below the third axis when the ironing board is upright. Therefore, the distance between the first axis and the third axis is greater when the ironing board is horizontal than when it is upright, which maintains stable support for the ironing board and allows it to withstand greater pressure generated during ironing of clothes laid flat on the ironing board.

[0038] Preferably, when the ironing board is upright, the third axis is located at one end of the sliding structure, and when the ironing board is flat, the third axis is located at the other end of the sliding structure. Accordingly, the sliding structure can limit the range of motion of the third axis, and when the third axis is located at one end of the sliding structure, the ironing board is upright, and when the third axis is located at the other end of the sliding structure, the ironing board is flat, thus accurately placing the ironing board in either a flat or upright position.

[0039] Preferably, the base frame has a support portion, a first extension portion, and a second extension portion. The first extension portion extends forward from the support portion, and the second extension portion extends rearward from the support portion. A first axis is located in the first extension portion, and a second axis is located in the second extension portion. When the ironing board is placed flat, the first axis is located in front of the support portion, and the third axis is located in front of the support portion. Accordingly, sufficient space is provided for the angle change of the ironing board, avoiding obstruction when the ironing board changes angle.

[0040] Preferably, the first extension is higher than the second extension, the connecting rod has a clearance portion, and the upper end of the support portion is located in the clearance portion when the ironing board is upright. This provides sufficient space for the angle change of the ironing board and avoids obstruction when the ironing board changes angle.

[0041] Preferably, both the first and third axes are connected to the back of the ironing board, which ensures that the front of the ironing board is flat and that the ironing board can rotate smoothly. When the ironing board is upright, its front faces forward for hanging clothes on the ironing board for ironing, and when the ironing board is flat, its front faces upward for laying clothes flat on the ironing board for ironing.

[0042] Preferably, the distance between the first axis and the end of the ironing board with the handle is 205±50mm, the lateral distance between the first axis and the second axis is 150±50mm, and the height difference between the first axis and the second axis is 155±50mm. When the ironing board is switched between a flat and an upright position, the height of the end with the handle does not change much. The user does not need to deliberately change the range of motion of their body (such as bending over). Generally, the posture of the ironing board can be adjusted naturally by the range of motion of the arm, making the adjustment operation convenient.

[0043] The garment steamer of this utility model includes a main unit and an ironing terminal, characterized in that: it also includes an ironing board posture adjustment mechanism of this utility model, the base frame and the support are integrated or the base frame is assembled on the support, the main unit serves as a base or the main unit is attached to the base or the base is attached to the main unit.

[0044] This utility model specifies the length of the ironing board as 800±150mm. When the ironing board is in a flat position, the height difference between its upper surface and the bottom surface of the base is 930±50mm. When the ironing board is adjusted from a flat to an upright position, the height difference between its upper end and the bottom surface of the base is 1550±100mm. For flat ironing, the ironing board is adjusted to a flat position; for hanging ironing, it is adjusted to an upright position; and when tilted, the ironing board is positioned between a flat and an upright position. Regardless of the ironing board's position, its front surface is at a suitable height for comfortable ironing.

[0045] Furthermore, given the aforementioned size configuration, the height of the end with the handle does not change significantly when the ironing board is switched between a flat and upright position. Users do not need to deliberately change the range of motion of their body (such as bending over). Generally, the ironing board can be adjusted naturally by the range of motion of the arm, making the adjustment operation convenient. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a side orthographic projection of the garment steamer of this utility model;

[0047] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the tilting and tilting adjustment of the ironing board.

[0048] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A diagram illustrating how to flip and adjust the ironing board to an upright position;

[0049] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the triangle formed by the axial projection points of the first, second, and third axes;

[0050] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the triangle formed by the axial projection points of the first, second, and third axes;

[0051] Figure 6 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the triangle formed by the axial projection points of the first, second, and third axes;

[0052] Figure 7 for Figure 1 An axonometric view of the ironing board, angle adjustment mechanism, and support components.

[0053] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The diagram shows a schematic projection of the structure from one end of the ironing board to the other.

[0054] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Sectional view along axis AA;

[0055] Figure 10 for Figure 7 An exploded view of the structure shown;

[0056] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the mid-angle adjustment mechanism and support components from another perspective;

[0057] Figure 12 for Figure 10A schematic diagram of the mid-angle adjustment mechanism and support components from a third-person perspective;

[0058] Figure 13 for Figure 9 Enlarged schematic diagram of the central locking assembly;

[0059] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the extrusion part and friction part of this utility model;

[0060] Explanation of the labels in the diagram:

[0061] 100 Support structure, 110 Base, 120 Support component;

[0062] 200 ironing board, 210 sliding structure;

[0063] 300° angle adjustment mechanism

[0064] 310 Base frame, 311 Support section, 312 First extension section, 313 Second extension section

[0065] 320 linkage, 321 clearance mechanism.

[0066] a is the first axis, b is the second axis, c is the third axis, and the axial projection point of the first axis is the axial projection point of the second axis is the axial projection point of the third axis is the axial projection point of the third axis.

[0067] 400 locking mechanism,

[0068] 410 rods,

[0069] 420 First component, 421 Lumen, 422 Inner wall, 423 Bushing;

[0070] 430 Second component,

[0071] 440 Locking assembly, 441 Extrusion piece, 4411 Extrusion flap, 4412 Weak part, 4413 Constraint groove, 442 Expansion piece, 4421 Inclined surface, 443 Elastic piece, 444 Unlocking piece, 445 Friction piece, 446 Support base, 447 Fastener.

[0072] 500 handles;

[0073] 600 host;

[0074] 700 ironing terminal. Detailed Implementation

[0075] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0076] The terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification and claims of this utility model are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such as a method or product that includes a series of technical features, not limited to those technical features explicitly listed, but also including other technical features that may be included in the method or product but not explicitly listed.

[0077] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "front," "rear," "upper," and "lower," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. Among them, "front" and "rear," and "upper" and "lower" are opposite directions.

[0078] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the technical features defined by terms such as "first" and "second" which have a sequential concept are only for the purpose of clearly describing the defined technical features and making the defined technical features clearly distinguishable from other technical features, and do not represent that they are named in this way in actual implementation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0079] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0080] The ironing board posture adjustment mechanism of this utility model is embodied in: Figure 1-3 The garment steamer shown. Among them, Figure 1 The ironing board 200 is shown in a flat position. Figure 2 The tilted position of the ironing board 200 is shown. Figure 3 The ironing board 200 is shown in an upright position. Figure 3 The image also uses dashed lines to indicate whether the ironing board is flat or tilted.

[0081] like Figure 1-3 , Figure 4-6 , Figure 7-12As shown, the ironing board posture adjustment mechanism includes: a support structure 100, an ironing board 200, an angle adjustment mechanism 300, a locking mechanism 400, and a handle 500. The support structure 100 includes a base 110 and a support member 120 extending upward from the base. The ironing board 200 is generally plate-shaped and preferably made of plastic. To increase the strength of the ironing board and reduce its weight, the ironing board has through holes, ribs on its back, and side edges. The through holes increase steam permeability. A cloth cover can be placed on the ironing board during ironing. The angle adjustment mechanism 300 is disposed between the ironing board 200 and the support member 120 for adjusting the posture of the ironing board. The locking mechanism 400 is used to lock and fix the ironing board 200 in the desired posture. The handle 500 is used to unlock the locking mechanism 400 to adjust the posture of the ironing board, and the handle 500 is located... Figure 1 The front end of the ironing board 100 shown.

[0082] Among them, such as Figure 1-3 As shown, the length L of the ironing board 200 is 800±150mm. (As indicated...) Figure 1 As shown, when the ironing board 200 is in a flat position, the height difference H1 between its upper surface and the bottom surface of the base 110 is 930±50mm. The ironing board 200... Figure 1 The shown horizontal orientation was adjusted to... Figure 2 When in the upright position shown, its front end becomes the lower end, its rear end becomes the upper end, the handle 500 is located at the lower end of the ironing board 200, and the height difference H2 between the upper end of the ironing board 200 and the bottom surface of the base 110 is 1550±100mm. Figure 1-3 As can be seen, the rear end of the ironing board is at its highest position when the ironing board is upright and at its lowest position when the ironing board is flat, while the front end of the ironing board is at its lowest position when the ironing board is upright and at its highest position when the ironing board is flat. Regardless of the ironing board's position, its front end is at a suitable height for comfortable ironing.

[0083] It is particularly important to note that, since the ironing board is supported by the support structure 100, the height of the ironing board is determined by the height of the support structure 100. When the height of the support structure 100 is fixed, the height difference H1 when the ironing board is in a horizontal position and the height difference H2 when it is in an upright position are both fixed and will not change. When the height of the support structure 100 is adjustable, the height difference H1 when the ironing board is in a flat position and the height difference H2 when it is in an upright position will change with the height of the support structure 100. In this case, the height difference H1 and height difference H2 refer to the height difference H1 between the upper surface of the ironing board 200 and the bottom surface of the base 110 when the ironing board 200 is in a flat position, which is 930±50mm. Under this premise, if the height of the support structure 100 is not adjusted, and the ironing board is only adjusted from a flat position to an upright position, the height difference H2 between the upper end of the ironing board 200 and the bottom surface of the base 110 is 1550±100mm.

[0084] In particular, the distance L2 between the first shaft a and the end of the ironing board 200 with the handle (front end) is 205±50mm, the lateral distance L3 between the first shaft a and the second shaft b is 150±50mm, and the height difference H3 between the first shaft a and the second shaft b is 155±50mm. Figure 3 As can be seen, the height change H4 of the front end of the ironing board is not significant as the ironing board posture changes. Therefore, when holding the front end of the handle 500 and the ironing board 200 to flip and adjust the posture of the ironing board, there is no need to deliberately change the range of motion of the body (such as bending over). Generally, the posture adjustment of the ironing board can be achieved naturally by the range of motion of the arm, making the adjustment operation convenient.

[0085] In the illustrated structure, the ironing board 200 has a sliding structure 210 extending along its length. The sliding structure 210 is a guide groove provided on both sides of the ironing board and extending along its length. When the ironing board is flipped and adjusted, the sliding structure acts as a track and bears friction; therefore, it is usually assembled to the ironing board as a separate component.

[0086] The angle adjustment mechanism 300 includes a base frame 310 and a connecting rod 320. The base frame 310 is rotatably connected to the ironing board via a first shaft a. The base frame 310 is rotatably connected to the first end of the connecting rod 320 via a second shaft b. The second end of the connecting rod 320 is slidably connected to the sliding structure 210 of the ironing board via a third shaft c. The axial projection point A of the first shaft a, the axial projection point B of the second shaft b, and the axial projection point C of the third shaft c are respectively located at the vertices of a triangle ABC. The ironing board 200 rotates around the first shaft a to adjust its tilt angle, and the rotation of the ironing board around the first shaft a causes the connecting rod 320 to rotate around the second shaft b and the third shaft c to slide along the sliding structure 210 to change the shape of the triangle ABC.

[0087] Based on this structure, the first side AB of the triangle defined by the first axis a and the second axis b has a fixed position and an unchanged length; the second side BC of the triangle defined by the second axis b and the third axis c (i.e., link 320) has a fixed length but its position can change; the length and position of the third side AC of the triangle defined by the first axis a and the third axis c can both change. For example... Figure 2 , Figure 5 As shown, the ironing board 200 is tilted. From Figure 2 , Figure 5 As shown, the ironing board 200 can rotate clockwise around the first axis a to achieve the desired state. Figure 1 , Figure 4 As shown in the flat position, the ironing board 200 can rotate counterclockwise around the first axis a to achieve... Figure 3 , Figure 6 The ironing board is shown in an upright position. Furthermore, the shape of the triangle varies, with the ironing board positioned upright, horizontal, or at any tilt angle between upright and horizontal. The distance between the first axis a and the third axis c, i.e., the side AC of triangle ABC, gradually increases as the ironing board changes from upright to horizontal. When the ironing board is upright, the first axis a is below the third axis c. Therefore, the distance between the first and third axes is greater when the ironing board is horizontal than when it is upright, maintaining stable support for the ironing board and allowing it to withstand greater pressure when ironing clothes laid flat on it.

[0088] The illustrated structure consists of a base frame 310, a connecting rod 320, and an ironing board 200, forming a triangular structure that supports the ironing board. The shape of the triangle changes as the ironing board is adjusted. After the ironing board is adjusted to the desired tilt angle, a locking mechanism 400 locks the triangle in place, providing stable support for the ironing board. This ironing board adjustment mechanism has few parts and a simple structure. To adjust the ironing board, simply release the locking mechanism 400 from locking the triangle ABC by operating the handle 500, allowing the ironing board to rotate around the first axis a, making operation convenient.

[0089] To increase the sliding flexibility between the third shaft c and the sliding structure 210, bearings are installed at both ends of the third shaft c, and the bearings are located in the guide grooves that serve as the sliding structure. Furthermore, the length of the guide grooves is configured such that when the ironing board 200 is upright, the third shaft c is located at one end of the sliding structure. Figure 3 (As shown at the lower end), when the ironing board is flat, the third axis c is located at the other end of the sliding structure. Figure 1 (As shown on the right end). Accordingly, the range of motion of the third axis can be limited by the sliding structure, and when the third axis is at one end of the sliding structure, the ironing board is upright, and when the third axis is at the other end of the sliding structure, the ironing board is flat, thus accurately placing the ironing board in a flat or upright position.

[0090] Furthermore, the base frame 310 has a support portion 311, a first extension portion 312, and a second extension portion 313. The first extension portion 312 extends forward from the support portion 311, and the second extension portion 313 extends backward from the support portion 312. A first axis a is located in the first extension portion 312, and a second axis b is located in the second extension portion 313. When the ironing board is flat, the first axis a is located in front of the support portion 311, and the third axis c is located behind the support portion 311. This ensures that the center of gravity of the ironing board is as close as possible to the support portion 311, making the ironing board stable and providing sufficient space for the angle change of the ironing board, avoiding obstruction when the ironing board changes angle. The first extension portion 312 is higher than the second extension portion 313. The connecting rod 320 is trapezoidal and hollow in the middle. The middle part serves as a clearance portion 321. When the ironing board 200 is upright, the upper end of the support portion 311 is located in the clearance portion 321, providing sufficient space for the angle change of the ironing board and avoiding obstruction when the ironing board changes angle. Both the first axis a and the third axis c are connected to the back of the ironing board 200, ensuring that the front of the ironing board is flat and that the ironing board can rotate smoothly. When the ironing board is upright, its front faces forward for hanging clothes on the ironing board for ironing; when the ironing board is flat, its front faces upward for laying clothes flat on the ironing board for ironing. Figure 1 Center, left is front, right is back. Thus, the ironing board is positioned... Figure 2 The tilt shown Figure 1 As shown, flat and Figure 3 When changing between upright and other postures, the ironing board can move smoothly without interference. With the horizontal plane as the reference, the tilt angle of the ironing board when it is flat is 0 degrees, and the tilt angle of the ironing board when it is upright is 90 degrees. The tilt angle of the ironing board can be adjusted at any time between 0 and 90 degrees.

[0091] The locking mechanism 400 includes an adjustable length rod 410, which includes a first component 420, a second component 430, and a locking assembly 440. The rod 410 is located on the back side of the ironing board 200, with one end connected to the ironing board 200 and the other end connected to a third axis c and moving together with the third axis.

[0092] The first component 420 has a cavity 421.

[0093] The first end of the second component 430 is inserted into the cavity 421 of the first component.

[0094] The locking assembly 400 includes a pressing member 441, an expanding member 420, an elastic member 430, and an unlocking member 440. The pressing member 441 is located in the cavity 421 of the first member and attached to the first end of the second member 430, allowing the pressing member to move within the cavity of the first member along with the first end of the second member. The expanding member 420 radially expands the pressing member 441 by the elastic force of the elastic member 430, causing the pressing member to directly or indirectly press against the inner wall 422 of the cavity to achieve locking. When locked, the second member 430 is prohibited from moving relative to the first member 420, the length of the rod 410 is fixed, and the ironing board 200 is locked in the desired posture, preventing the ironing board from flipping. The handle 500 is connected to the unlocking member 444, which is connected to the expansion member 442. The operating handle 500 actuates the expansion member 442 through the unlocking member 444 to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member 443, thereby weakening or eliminating the radial expansion of the extrusion member 441 by the expansion member 442 and the direct or indirect extrusion of the extrusion member 441 on the inner wall 422 of the tube cavity to achieve unlocking. When unlocking, the second member 430 is allowed to move relative to the first member 420, allowing the ironing board 200 to flip, and the rod 410 changes length as the ironing board flips.

[0095] This locking mechanism uses the expansion member 442 to radially expand the extrusion member 441 through the elastic force of the elastic member 443, causing the extrusion member to directly or indirectly press against the inner wall 422 of the tube cavity. When the second member 430 moves relative to the first member 420, static friction is generated to prevent the movement, thus achieving locking and prohibiting the second member from moving relative to the first member. The mechanism is flexible and the locking is reliable. The locking component 440 is hidden within the tube cavity 421 of the first member, resulting in a compact structure, small footprint, and light weight, which helps reduce manufacturing costs. This locking mechanism eliminates the need for gear settings, allowing the expansion member to be locked at any position on the inner wall of the tube cavity, achieving stepless adjustment. The locking mechanism utilizes the elastic force of the elastic member to achieve locking, and unlocking is achieved by operating the handle in conjunction with the unlocking member, making operation convenient.

[0096] like Figure 13As shown, the squeezing member 441 includes circumferentially distributed squeezing flaps 4411. The expanding member 442 is located inside the squeezing flaps 4411 and cooperates with the squeezing flaps 4411 through an inclined surface 4421. The inclined surface is shown on the expanding member 442, and the squeezing flaps 4411 also have a corresponding inclined surface. In other embodiments, the inclined surface may be provided only on the expanding member or the squeezing flaps. When the expanding member 442 moves downward by the elastic force of the elastic member 443, it radially expands the squeezing flaps 4411, causing the squeezing flaps 4411 to directly or indirectly squeeze against the inner wall 422 of the cavity to achieve locking. When the unlocking member 444 actuates the expanding member 442 to move to the left, it overcomes the elastic force of the elastic member 443, thereby weakening or eliminating the radial expansion of the squeezing flaps 4411 by the expanding member 442 and the direct or indirect squeezing of the squeezing flaps 4411 against the inner wall 442 of the cavity to achieve unlocking. Because the extrusion flap 4411 has a large radial deformation capacity, it can reliably press against the inner wall of the tube to achieve locking, and can also sufficiently reduce or eliminate the extrusion on the inner wall of the tube to achieve unlocking, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking, and avoiding inadequate locking and unlocking due to insufficient deformation capacity of the extrusion part.

[0097] Furthermore, the compression flap 4411 possesses its own elasticity. When locking, the expansion member 442 overcomes the self-elasticity of the compression flap 4411, causing the compression flap to directly or indirectly compress against the inner wall of the lumen to achieve locking. When unlocking, the compression flap 4411 uses its own elasticity to weaken or eliminate the direct or indirect compression against the inner wall of the lumen. This ensures smooth unlocking and avoids jamming. The root of the compression flap 4411 is designed as a weak point 4412 to promote radial elastic deformation of the compression flap. Therefore, while ensuring sufficient self-elasticity of the compression flap, its radial elastic deformation is guaranteed to prevent insufficient deformation capacity of the compression flap from causing incomplete locking and unlocking.

[0098] Preferably, the extrusion 441 is made of a flexible material such as metal or engineering plastic.

[0099] In the structure shown in Figures 13-14, the compression flap 4411 is covered by a friction element 445. If the friction element 445 is made of silicone, the silicone can generate sufficiently large static friction when compressed against the inner wall of the tubular first member, for example, made of aluminum alloy. During locking, the friction element 445 is pressed against the inner wall 442 of the tube by the compression flap 4411; that is, locking is achieved by the compression element indirectly pressing against the inner wall of the tube. During unlocking, the compression of the friction element 445 against the inner wall 442 of the tube is reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, during locking, reliable locking is ensured by increasing friction by pressing the friction element 445 against the inner wall 442 of the tube. During unlocking, the friction element 445 contacts the inner wall 442 of the tube, generating damping as the second member 430 moves, allowing the second member to move in a controlled manner.

[0100] In the structure shown in Figure 14, the friction element 445 is ring-shaped, and a constraint groove 4413 is provided on the outer side of the extrusion petal 4411. The friction element 445 is located within the constraint groove 4413. This prevents the friction element from being dislodged due to friction.

[0101] In other embodiments, the compression flap may lack elasticity and only possess the ability to deform radially, such as by making the weakest part of the compression member a continuous skin or a structure similar to a shaft connection. In this case, the compression flap is covered by a clamping member, which overcomes the clamping force of the clamping member when locking, and reduces or eliminates the direct or indirect compression of the inner wall of the lumen when unlocking by using the clamping force of the clamping member. Accordingly, the unlocking action is ensured to be smooth and jamming is avoided.

[0102] Furthermore, the clamping element acts as a friction component. When locked, it is pressed against the inner wall of the cavity by the compression flap. When unlocked, the compression of the compression flap against the inner wall of the cavity is reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, reliable locking is ensured by increasing friction by pressing the clamping element against the inner wall of the cavity during locking. During unlocking, the clamping element contacts the inner wall of the cavity, generating damping as the second component moves, allowing the second component to move in a controlled manner. This design provides the clamping element with both the ability to prevent jamming during unlocking and the ability to increase friction during locking, resulting in a compact structure.

[0103] In other embodiments, locking is achieved by directly pressing the squeeze flap against the inner wall of the lumen. A friction feature, which may be an integrally formed friction material, can be disposed on the outer surface of the squeeze flap. During locking, the friction feature is pressed against the inner wall of the lumen by the squeeze flap. During unlocking, the pressure of the friction feature on the inner wall of the lumen is reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, reliable locking is ensured by increasing friction by pressing the friction feature against the inner wall of the lumen during locking. During unlocking, the friction feature contacts the inner wall of the lumen, generating damping as the second member moves, allowing the second member to move in a controlled manner.

[0104] Since locking is achieved by the squeezing valve directly or indirectly pressing against the inner wall of the lumen, whether the squeezing valve has its own elasticity is optional. Whether a clamping element is needed around the squeezing valve is also optional. When the squeezing valve itself can generate sufficiently high friction, friction elements and friction features are not necessary.

[0105] In the structure shown in Figure 13, the unlocking element 444 extends from the second member 430 and is configured to actuate the expansion member 442 and overcome the elastic force of the elastic member 443 by being pulled by the handle. Accordingly, the unlocking element is easy to operate, can be made of steel wire rope, occupies little space, and has a compact structure. Specifically, the unlocking element 444 can be a steel wire rope or a rod.

[0106] In the structure shown in Figure 13, a support base 446 is fixed to the first end of the second component 430, such as by a radial fastener 447. The support base 446 is fixed to the first end of the second component 430. The extrusion member 441 is connected to the support base 446 by threads, and the elastic member 443 is a helical compression spring supported between the expansion member 442 and the support base 446. The unlocking member 444 passes through the support base 446 and the elastic member 443. The support base not only provides support for the elastic force generated by the elastic member, but also simplifies the structure and ensures the assembly strength of the extrusion member.

[0107] Moreover, the first end of the second component 430 ( Figure 13 The right end shown) passes through the second end of the first component 420 ( Figure 13 The left end shown is inserted into the cavity 421 of the first component, and the second end of the first component 420 ( Figure 13 The left end (as shown) is equipped with a bushing 423, which is located between the outer wall of the second component 430 and the inner wall of the first component 420. The bushing 423 guides the movement of the second component during unlocking, isolating it from the first component to prevent direct contact and friction, and also supports the second component to prevent wobbling and ensure the stability of the rod. Accordingly, the first end of the first component 420 serves as the first end of the rod, and the second end of the second component 430 serves as the second end of the rod. The tubular first and second components can save material and reduce weight while ensuring strength.

[0108] Figure 1-3 The garment steamer shown also includes a main unit 600 and an ironing terminal 700. During operation, the main unit generates steam and delivers it to the ironing terminal 700 via piping, which then irons the garments attached to the ironing board. A base frame 310 is mounted on a support member 120. In other embodiments, the base frame and support member are integrated. The main unit is placed on and attached to the base; in other embodiments, the main unit serves as the base or the base is attached to the main unit.

[0109] Figure 1-3 In the middle, the support component 120 of the support structure is a telescopic rod, which is used to reduce the volume occupied when storing and packaging products.

Claims

1. An ironing board posture adjusting mechanism, comprising: a support structure (100) comprising a base (110) and a support (120); an ironing board (200); an angle adjusting mechanism (300) configured between the ironing board (200) and the support (120) for adjusting the posture of the ironing board; a locking mechanism (400) for locking the ironing board at a desired posture; a handle (500) for unlocking the locking mechanism (400) to adjust the posture of the ironing board, the handle being located at one end of the ironing board (200); characterized in that the length (L) of the ironing board is 800±150mm, the height difference (H1) between the upper surface of the ironing board and the bottom surface of the base (110) when the ironing board is in a flat posture is 930±50mm, and when the ironing board (200) is adjusted from the flat posture to an upright posture, the handle (500) is located at the lower end of the ironing board (200) and the height difference (H2) between the upper end of the ironing board (200) and the bottom surface of the base (110) is 1550±100mm.

2. The ironing board posture adjusting mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: the ironing board (200) has a sliding structure (210) extending along the length thereof; the angle adjusting mechanism (300) comprises a base frame (310) and a connecting rod (320), the base frame (310) is rotatably connected to the ironing board (200) via a first shaft (a), the base frame (310) is rotatably connected to the first end of the connecting rod (320) via a second shaft (b), the second end of the connecting rod (320) is slidably connected to the sliding structure (210) of the ironing board via a third shaft (c), the axial projection points (A) of the first shaft (a), the axial projection points (B) of the second shaft (b) and the axial projection points (C) of the third shaft (c) are located at the vertices of a triangle (ABC) respectively, wherein the rotation of the ironing board (200) about the first shaft (a) is used to adjust the inclination angle thereof, and the rotation of the ironing board about the first shaft promotes the rotation of the connecting rod (320) about the second shaft (b) and the sliding of the third shaft (c) along the sliding structure (210) to change the shape of the triangle; the locking mechanism (400) comprises a rod (410) with adjustable length, the rod (410) comprises a first member (420), a second member (430) and a locking assembly (440), the rod (410) is located at the back side of the ironing board (200) and one end thereof is connected to the ironing board (200) and the other end thereof is connected to the third shaft (c) and moves together with the third shaft; the first member (420) has a lumen (421); the first end of the second member (430) is inserted into the lumen (421) of the first member; The locking assembly (440) comprises a pressing member (441), an expanding member (442), an elastic member (443) and an unlocking member (444). The pressing member (441) is located in the lumen (421) of the first member and is attached to the first end of the second member (430) so that the pressing member can move with the first end of the second member in the lumen of the first member. The expanding member (442) radially expands the pressing member (441) by the elastic force of the elastic member (443) to directly or indirectly press the pressing member against the inner wall (422) of the lumen to achieve locking. When locked, the second member (430) is prohibited from moving relative to the first member (420), the length of the rod member (410) is fixed, the ironing board (200) is locked in the desired posture, and the ironing board is prohibited from being turned over. The handle (500) is connected to the unlocking member (444), and the unlocking member (444) is connected to the expanding member (442). Operating the handle (500) drives the expanding member (442) through the unlocking member (444) to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member (443) to weaken or eliminate the radial expansion of the expanding member (442) to the pressing member (441) and the direct or indirect pressing of the pressing member (441) against the inner wall (422) of the lumen to achieve unlocking. When unlocked, the second member (430) is allowed to move relative to the first member (420), the ironing board (200) is allowed to be turned over, and the length of the rod member (410) changes with the turning of the ironing board.

3. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2, characterized in that: The pressing member (441) comprises circumferentially distributed pressing petals (4411), and the expanding member (442) is located inside the pressing petals (4411) and cooperates with the pressing petals (4411) through inclined surfaces (4421). The expanding member (442) radially expands the pressing petals (4411) by the elastic force of the elastic member (443) to directly or indirectly press the pressing petals (4411) against the inner wall (422) of the lumen to achieve locking. The unlocking member (444) drives the expanding member (442) to overcome the elastic force of the elastic member (443) to weaken or eliminate the radial expansion of the expanding member (442) to the pressing petals (4411) and the direct or indirect pressing of the pressing petals (4411) against the inner wall (422) of the lumen to achieve unlocking.

4. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 3, characterized by: The pressing petals (4411) have their own elastic force. When locked, the expanding member (442) overcomes the elastic force of the pressing petals (4411) to directly or indirectly press the pressing petals (4411) against the inner wall (422) of the lumen to achieve locking. When unlocked, the pressing petals (4411) weaken or eliminate the direct or indirect pressing against the inner wall (422) of the lumen by their own elastic force.

5. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 4, characterized by: The root of the pressing petals (4411) is made into a weak part (4412) to facilitate the radial elastic deformation of the pressing petals.

6. An ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 3 to 5 wherein: The pressing petals (4411) are sheathed with a tightening member. When locked, the expanding member (442) overcomes the tightening force of the tightening member. When unlocked, the pressing petals (4411) weaken or eliminate the direct or indirect pressing against the inner wall (422) of the lumen by the tightening force of the tightening member.

7. An ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism according to claim 6, characterised in that: The tightening member serves as a friction member (445). When locked, the tightening member is pressed against the inner wall (422) of the lumen by the pressing petals (4411). When unlocked, the pressing of the pressing petals (4411) against the inner wall (422) of the lumen is weakened or eliminated.

8. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 3, wherein: The extrusion petal (4411) is provided with a friction member (445), which is extruded by the extrusion petal on the inner wall (422) of the lumen when locked, and the extrusion of the friction member on the inner wall (422) of the lumen is weakened or eliminated when unlocked.

9. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 8, characterized by: The friction member (445) is in the form of a ring, and the extrusion petal (4411) is provided with a constraint groove (4413) outside, and the friction member (445) is located in the constraint groove (4413).

10. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 3, characterized by: The extrusion petal (4411) is provided with a friction feature outside, which is extruded by the extrusion petal (4411) on the inner wall (422) of the lumen when locked, and the extrusion of the friction feature on the inner wall (422) of the lumen is weakened or eliminated when unlocked.

11. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2, characterized by: The unlocking member (444) is configured to be actuated by being pulled by the handle (500) to actuate the expansion member (442) and overcome the elastic force of the elastic member (443).

12. A board attitude adjustment mechanism according to claim 2 or 11, characterized in that: The unlocking member (444) is led out of the second component (430).

13. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2, characterized by: The first end of the second component (430) is fixed with a support seat (446), the extrusion member (441) is connected with the support seat (446), the elastic member (443) is a spiral compression spring supported between the expansion member (442) and the support seat (446), and the unlocking member (444) is provided in the support seat (446) and the elastic member (443).

14. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2, characterized by: The first end of the second component (430) is inserted into the lumen (421) of the first component (420) through the second end of the first component (420), and the second end of the first component (420) is provided with a bushing (423), which is located between the outer wall of the second component (430) and the inner wall of the first component (420).

15. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2, characterized by: The sliding structure (210) is a guide groove provided on both sides of the ironing board (200) and extending along the length direction of the ironing board, and the two ends of the third shaft (c) are located in the corresponding guide grooves respectively.

16. A board attitude adjustment mechanism according to claim 2 or 15, characterized in that: The distance between the first shaft (a) and the third shaft (c) gradually increases as the ironing board changes from standing to lying, and the first shaft (a) is located below the third shaft (c) when the ironing board is standing.

17. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 16, characterized by: The third shaft (c) is located at one end of the sliding structure (210) when the ironing board (200) is standing, and the third shaft (c) is located at the other end of the sliding structure (210) when the ironing board (200) is lying.

18. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 16, characterized by: The base frame (310) has a support part (311), a first extension part (312) and a second extension part (313), the first extension part (312) extends forward from the support part (311), the second extension part (313) extends backward from the support part (311), the first shaft (a) is located in the first extension part (312), and the second shaft (b) is located in the second extension part (313); when the ironing board is lying, the first shaft (a) is located in front of the support part (311), and the third shaft (c) is located in back of the support part (311).

19. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 18, wherein: The first extension part (312) is higher than the second extension part (313), the connecting rod (320) has an avoiding part (321), and the upper end of the support part (311) is located in the avoiding part (321) when the ironing board is standing.

20. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2 or 15, characterized by: The first shaft (a) and the third shaft (c) are both connected to the back of the ironing board (200), the front face of the ironing board faces forward when the ironing board is standing, and the front face of the ironing board faces upward when the ironing board is lying.

21. The ironing board attitude adjustment mechanism of claim 2, wherein: The distance (L2) between the first shaft (a) and the end of the ironing board provided with the handle is 205±50mm, the transverse distance (L3) between the first shaft (a) and the second shaft (b) is 150±50mm, and the height difference (H3) between the first shaft (a) and the second shaft (b) is 155±50mm.

22. Garment steamer comprising a main unit (600) and a steaming terminal (700), characterized in that: The ironing board posture adjusting mechanism also comprises the base frame (310) and the supporting member, and the base frame (310) is integrated with the supporting member or the base frame (310) is assembled on the supporting member; the main machine (600) is used as the base or the main machine (600) is attached to the base or the base is attached to the main machine (600).

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