Steam treatment apparatus comprising switch assembly for controlling steam treatment apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a steam treatment apparatus including a switch assembly for controlling the steam treatment apparatus. The present disclosure provides a steam treatment apparatus (100) comprising a garment steamer ironing head (102). The ironing head of the garment steamer comprises a handle (120), a main body (122) and a connector (124) connecting the handle and the main body. The steam treatment apparatus further comprises a switch assembly (130) for controlling at least one operating parameter of the steam treatment apparatus. The switch assembly includes a rotatable collar member (132) rotatable by a user about and relative to the joint to control at least one operating parameter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a steam treatment apparatus, which includes a switching assembly for controlling the steam treatment apparatus.

[0002] This disclosure can be applied to the field of garment care. Background Technology

[0003] As is well known, various types of steam treatment equipment use the heat and moisture provided by steam to treat clothing and remove wrinkles. One type of steam treatment equipment is the steam iron. A steam iron is an appliance used for ironing clothing.

[0004] Typically, pushbuttons or slide switches are included in steam handling equipment to control the on / off state of the power supply to the steam handling equipment.

[0005] To meet usage requirements, consumers often expect small size and user-friendly features. Integrating user interfaces (such as the aforementioned buttons or slide switches) into steam handling equipment in a space-saving and user-friendly manner, while minimizing the risk of accidental user actuation, remains a challenge. Utility Model Content

[0006] One object of this disclosure is to provide a steam treatment apparatus having a switching assembly that is spatially efficient in its integration into the steam treatment apparatus and is easy for user operation and / or not easily affected by user error.

[0007] Therefore, the steam treatment equipment according to this disclosure includes a garment steamer head, which comprises:

[0008] handle;

[0009] main body;

[0010] A connector that connects the handle and the body; and

[0011] A switching assembly for controlling at least one operating parameter of a steam treatment device, the switching assembly including a rotatable collar member capable of rotating about a rotation axis around a connector to control at least one operating parameter, the rotation axis extending from a handle through the connector to the body.

[0012] The rotatable collar component's rotation around the connector provides the user with a convenient way to control operating parameters. It should be noted that the rotatable collar component is positioned near where the user grips the garment steamer head (in other words, the handle). Nevertheless, this convenient positioning of the rotatable collar component also helps minimize the risk of the user accidentally actuating the user-operable parts of the switch assembly.

[0013] Furthermore, by arranging the rotatable collar component around the connector between the handle and the body, this design provides an efficient arrangement of space for the user-actuable portion of the switch assembly.

[0014] Steam treatment equipment may include a steam generator and a heater arranged to heat the steam generator. In some embodiments, the steam generator is arranged in the ironing head of a garment steamer.

[0015] In some embodiments, the switching assembly is arranged such that a user can control the steam treatment equipment in a first manner by rotating the rotatable collar member in a first direction, for example, shutting off one or more electrical components of the steam treatment equipment, and control the steam treatment equipment in a second manner different from the first manner by rotating the rotatable collar member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, for example, turning on one or more electrical components of the steam treatment equipment.

[0016] In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member can be rotated by a user about a rotation axis to control the power supply to the steam treatment equipment.

[0017] In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member can be rotated by a user about a rotation axis between a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation, in which the switching assembly activates the power supply to the steam treatment equipment and in the second angular orientation deactivates the power supply to the steam treatment equipment.

[0018] In such an embodiment, the switching assembly can be considered to be arranged to control the on and off of all circuit signals of the steam treatment equipment via the rotation of the rotatable collar member.

[0019] In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member can be rotated by a user about a rotation axis to control the power supply to (at least) the heater.

[0020] In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member can be rotated by a user about a rotation axis between a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation, in which the switching assembly causes the power supply to the heater to be activated, and in the second angular orientation, the power supply to the heater to be deactivated.

[0021] The rotatable mounting of the rotatable collar member can be achieved in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the connector includes a cylindrical portion about which the rotatable collar member is rotatable about an axis of rotation. In such embodiments, contact between the inner cylindrical surface of the rotatable collar member and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion can help hold the rotatable collar member in its mounted position while allowing the rotatable collar member to rotate about an axis of rotation.

[0022] In some embodiments, the cylindrical portion is part of a handle that protrudes toward the body. This provides a relatively simple and manufacturable method for rotatably mounting the rotatable collar component.

[0023] The electrical switching function of the switching assembly can be implemented in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the switching assembly includes a microswitch capable of being activated to control operating parameters. For example, the microswitch is capable of being activated to start / stop the power supply to the heater of (at least) a steam treatment device.

[0024] In some embodiments, a microswitch is used to generate an on / off electrical signal, which is used by the control circuitry of the steam treatment equipment to start / stop a relay, wherein the output connector of the relay is electrically connected in series with the heater (and / or other circuitry).

[0025] The microswitch preferably has, for example, a fixed position relative to the body, such that a rotatable collar member can rotate relative to the microswitch about a rotation axis, wherein the rotatable collar member includes a protrusion arranged to abut against and actuate the microswitch during rotation of the rotatable collar member about the rotation axis.

[0026] This can provide a relatively simple and robust way to arrange the switching assembly so that the rotation of the rotatable collar component actuates the micro switch.

[0027] In such an embodiment, when the rotatable collar member is in a first angular orientation, the protrusion can abut against and thus actuate the microswitch, for example, to initiate the power supply to the heater of (at least) the steam treatment equipment. When the rotatable collar member is in a second angular orientation, the protrusion can be spatially removed from the microswitch, for example, causing the power supply to (at least) the heater of the steam treatment equipment to be stopped.

[0028] In some embodiments, the switch assembly includes a rotation limiting mechanism adapted to restrict the rotation of the rotatable collar member about the connector to an angle range of less than 180 degrees, preferably less than 90 degrees. Such a rotation limiting mechanism can help the user control operating parameters because it reduces the degree of manipulation of the rotatable collar member required for user control of operating parameters.

[0029] The rotation limiting mechanism can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, the rotation limiting mechanism includes one or more arcuate slots defined in one of the joint and the rotatable collar member, wherein each arcuate slot is curved in an arc about the axis of rotation between a first end and a second end of the respective arcuate slot. One or more protruding members disposed in the other of the joint and the rotatable collar member project into the slots and are arranged to slide between the first and second ends under the guidance of the respective slots, wherein the first and second ends each define a rotation limit for the rotatable collar member.

[0030] Such an arrangement of the arc-shaped slot-protruding member can provide a relatively robust and simple way to implement the rotation restriction mechanism.

[0031] In some embodiments, the switch assembly includes a fixing mechanism adapted to releasably fix a rotatable collar member in one or more angular orientations, such as a first orientation and / or a second orientation, which are selectable by rotation of the rotatable collar member about a rotation axis.

[0032] In addition to helping prevent accidental rotation of the rotatable collar component from deviating from the intended angular orientation, the fixing mechanism can also provide the user with auditory and / or tactile feedback to confirm the adoption of the intended angular orientation, such as a first orientation and / or a second orientation.

[0033] The fixing mechanism can be implemented in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the fixing mechanism includes at least one recess defined in one of the joint and the rotatable collar member, and at least one spring-loaded pin member disposed in the other of the joint and the rotatable collar member, wherein the at least one spring-loaded pin member can be received in the at least one recess when the rotatable collar member is rotated about a rotation axis to reach one or more angular orientations. Such an arrangement of recess and spring-loaded pin member can provide a relatively simple way to implement the fixing mechanism.

[0034] The rotatable collar member can have any suitable outer surface, as long as the rotatable collar member can be actuated / rotated by a user. In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member includes a convex (e.g., partially spherical) outer surface.

[0035] When the rotatable collar component is rotated, such a convex / partially spherical outer surface can provide the user with a convenient and comfortable contact profile.

[0036] In some embodiments, the garment steamer head includes a steam trigger for controlling the delivery of steam from the garment steamer head. Such a steam trigger can provide a convenient and intuitive way to control the delivery of steam.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, steam treatment equipment may include a water tank and a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator.

[0038] In some embodiments, the steam treatment device includes a base unit in which a water tank is included. In such embodiments, the steam treatment device includes a hose for fluidly connecting the base unit to the garment steamer head.

[0039] In some embodiments, a water tank is included in a base unit, wherein a steam generator is arranged in the garment steamer head. In such embodiments, a pump can pump water from the water tank in the base unit to the steam generator in the garment steamer head via a hose line.

[0040] In some embodiments, the base unit includes a docking bracket for docking a garment steamer head. The docking bracket provides a convenient place to safely position the garment steamer head when it is not being held by the user.

[0041] The following will provide a detailed explanation of this disclosure and other aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Specific aspects of this disclosure will now be explained with reference to embodiments described below and considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same portions or sub-steps are specified in the same manner:

[0043] Figures 1A to 1C A view of the steam treatment equipment based on the example is provided;

[0044] Figure 2A It shows Figures 1A to 1C The steam iron head of the steam treatment equipment shown is for garment steamers.

[0045] Figure 2B Provided Figure 2A An exploded view of the garment steamer head shown.

[0046] Figure 3 An internal view of the switch assembly of the steam handling equipment is provided;

[0047] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Provided included Figure 3 A view of the rotatable collar component in the switch assembly shown;

[0048] Figure 5 Provided Figure 3 Another view of the switch assembly shown; and

[0049] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2A and Figure 2B The image shows a portion of the garment steamer head. Detailed Implementation

[0050] A steam treatment device including a garment steamer head is provided. The garment steamer head includes a handle, a body, and a connector connecting the handle and the body. The steam treatment device further includes a switching assembly for controlling at least one operating parameter of the steam treatment device. The switching assembly includes a rotatable collar member that can be rotated by a user around and relative to the connector to control the at least one operating parameter.

[0051] Figures 1A to 1C A steam treatment device 100 is depicted according to an example. The steam treatment device 100 is suitable for treating or ironing clothing with steam.

[0052] The steam treatment device 100 includes a garment steamer head 102. The garment steamer head 102 can be moved over garments that are being treated or ironed using the steam treatment device 100.

[0053] The garment steamer head 102 may include a treatment plate 103 defining at least one steam outlet through which steam can be delivered from the steam treatment device 100.

[0054] The processing plate 103 can be formed from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the processing plate 103 comprises a metal alloy and / or a metal, such as aluminum. For example, the processing plate 103 containing a metal alloy and / or a metal can be coated with a coating, such as a metal oxide coating.

[0055] The garment steamer head 102 is, for example, in the form of an ironing head for ironing garments. In such an embodiment, the treatment plate 103 of the garment steamer head 102 can be pressed onto the garment, and steam can also be delivered to the garment via at least one steam outlet.

[0056] More generally, refer to Figure 1C A steam generator 104 included in a steam treatment device 100 (e.g., included in a garment steamer head 102) can generate steam supplied by the steam treatment device 100. In such an embodiment, a heater 106 is arranged to heat the steam generator 104, thereby causing the water in the steam generator 104 to evaporate.

[0057] For example, heater 106 is arranged to heat the steam chamber included in steam generator 104.

[0058] Preferably, the heater 106 is arranged as a heat treatment plate 103 and as a heated steam generator 104, for example, its steam chamber.

[0059] Heater 106 can have any suitable design. In at least some embodiments, heater 106 includes a tubular heating element. For example, heater 106 includes a tubular heating element arranged to heat steam generator 104 and to heat treatment plate 103.

[0060] In some embodiments, still refer to Figure 1C The steam processing equipment 100 includes a pump 108 for pumping water to a steam generator 104, for example to a steam chamber included in the steam generator 104.

[0061] Controlling how much water is pumped from pump 108 to steam generator 104 provides a convenient way to control how much steam is generated, and thus controls the amount of steam delivered by steam processing equipment 100, such as the rate of steam delivery.

[0062] In some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 1C The garment steamer head 102 includes a steam trigger 109 for controlling the steam delivery from the garment steamer head 102. Therefore, user actuation of the steam trigger 109 allows a user to adjust the steam delivery from the garment steamer head 102.

[0063] Such a steam trigger 109 can provide users with a convenient and intuitive way to control the steam delivery of the steam treatment equipment 100.

[0064] In embodiments where the steam treatment apparatus 100 includes a pump 108, a steam trigger 109 may be arranged to control the pump 108. For example, the steam trigger 109 is actuable to control the flow rate of water toward the steam generator 104, and thus control the steam delivery rate from the garment steamer head 102.

[0065] Without considering the precise manner in which the pump 108 is controlled, the pump 108 can be arranged to pump water from the water tank 110 to the steam generator 104.

[0066] The water tank 110 can therefore store water for generating steam. When steam delivery is required, the pump 108 can be controlled, for example via a user-activated steam trigger 109, to pump water from the water tank 110 to the steam generator 104.

[0067] It should be noted that the water tank 110 can be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the water tank 110 is formed of a plastic material.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, the water tank 110 may be at least partially transparent or translucent so that the user can observe the water level inside the water tank 110.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1A to 1C As shown, the steam treatment device 100 includes a base unit 111, which includes a water tank 110 and a hose 112 for fluidly connecting the base unit 111 to a garment steamer head 102. By integrating the water tank 110 into the base unit 111, rather than into the garment steamer head 102, the capacity of the water tank 110 can be increased without compromising the maneuverability of the garment steamer head 102. Such a larger capacity water tank 110 allows the user to operate the steam treatment device 100 for a longer period of time before the water tank 110 needs to be refilled.

[0070] In some embodiments, the water tank 110 is detachably mounted to the base unit 111.

[0071] In such an embodiment, the water tank 110 can be removed from the base unit 111 when it is to be (re)filled or emptied.

[0072] For this purpose, the water tank 110 may include, for example, a handle member HA, such as a strap handle member HA, which can be gripped by a user to help the user remove the water tank 110 from the base unit 111.

[0073] In some embodiments, the base unit 111 includes a handle element 113 that can be gripped by a user to operate the base unit 111 as a whole, such as including a water tank 110.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, the base unit 111 may include a support foot 114 for allowing the base unit 111 to rest on a horizontal surface, such as a floor surface or the surface of a horizontally oriented ironing board.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1A to 1C As shown, the base unit 111 includes a docking bracket 116 for docking the garment steamer head 102. When the garment steamer head 102 is not held by the user, the docking bracket 116 provides a convenient place to safely place the garment steamer head 102.

[0076] The docking bracket 116 can be arranged in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, such as... Figures 1A to 1C As shown, the docking bracket 116 is provided at least in part by a recessed portion defined in the base unit 111.

[0077] When the garment steamer head 102 is docked in / on the docking bracket 116, this can help to make the steam treatment equipment 100 more compact.

[0078] refer to Figure 1CIt is generally noted that the steam treatment apparatus 100 may include control circuits 117, 118, which are controllable to determine at least one operating parameter of the steam treatment apparatus 100. The control circuits 117, 118 may be controlled, for example, to operate the heater 106 and / or the pump 108.

[0079] Control circuits 117 and 118 can be configured in any suitable manner to determine the operating parameters of the steam treatment apparatus 100. In at least some embodiments, control circuits 117 and 118 include one or more processors, such as microcontrollers, configured to determine the operating parameters of the steam treatment apparatus 100.

[0080] Control circuits 117 and 118 may be included in the garment steamer head 102 and / or base unit 111. It should be noted that... Figure 1C In the non-limiting example shown, control circuits 117 and 118 include a garment steamer head control circuit 117 arranged in the garment steamer head 102 and a base unit control circuit 118 arranged in the base unit 111.

[0081] The housing of the base unit 111 (e.g., a plastic housing) can accommodate components included in the base unit 111, such as the pump 108, the base unit control circuit 118, etc.

[0082] Moving on to the design of garment steamer head 102, now referring to... Figure 1C , Figure 2A and Figure 2B The garment steamer head 102 includes a handle 120, a body 122, and a connector 124 connecting the handle 120 and the body 122. The processing plate 103 may be included in the body 122 of the garment steamer head 102.

[0083] refer to Figure 2B The handle 120 may include handle housings 120A and 120B. In some embodiments, the handle housings 120A and 120B include a first (e.g., upper) handle housing portion 120A and a second (e.g., lower) handle housing portion 120B.

[0084] In such an embodiment, components of the steam treatment device 100 may be housed in the handle 120 between the first handle housing portion 120A and the second handle housing portion 120B. For example, at least a portion of the control circuits 117, 118 (e.g., at least a portion of the garment steamer head control circuit 117) may be housed in the handle 120 between the first handle housing portion 120A and the second handle housing portion 120B.

[0085] It should be noted that the steam trigger 109 can be arranged to be actuated by the user when the user is gripping the handle 120, and preferably can be actuated by the same hand that the user is gripping the handle 120.

[0086] In some embodiments, the steam trigger 109 protrudes from the handle 120, for example from the lower handle housing portion 120B toward the body 122.

[0087] Continue to refer to Figure 2B For example, in addition to the processing board 103, the main body 122 may also include main body shells 122A, 122B, and 122C.

[0088] The main body shells 122A, 122B, and 122C preferably include an upper cover portion 122A disposed distally relative to the processing plate 103, and a lower main body portion 122B disposed between the upper cover portion 122A and the processing plate 103. It should be noted that the upper cover portion 122A of the main body shells 122A, 122B, and 122C can be considered, for example, a decorative cover.

[0089] In some embodiments, still refer to Figure 2B The main body shells 122A, 122B, and 122C include a skirt-shaped portion 122C arranged between the lower main body portion 122B and the processing plate 103.

[0090] For example, a sealing member 125 (e.g., a silicone sealing member 125) may be arranged between the lower main body portion 122B and the skirt-shaped portion 122C.

[0091] The handle housings 120A, 120B and the main body housings 122A, 122B, 122C can all be formed from any suitable material, such as plastic.

[0092] exist Figure 2B The components of the steam generator 104 are also clearly visible in the view provided. Figure 2B In the non-limiting example shown, the steam generator 104 includes a steam generator body 104A and a cover member 104B. In this non-limiting example, the steam chamber is provided by an internal space defined in the steam generator body 104A; the internal space is closed by the cover member 104B.

[0093] In addition to the steam generator body 104A and the cover member 104B, the steam generator 104 may also include a base plate 104C. The base plate 104C is arranged adjacent to the processing plate 103.

[0094] More generally, the steam treatment equipment 100 includes a switching assembly 130 for controlling the operating parameters of the steam treatment equipment 100. For example, the switching assembly 130 is arranged to control control circuits 117, 118 to determine the operating parameters of the steam treatment equipment 100.

[0095] refer to Figure 1C , Figure 2A and Figure 2B The switch assembly 130 includes a rotatable collar member 132, which can be rotated by a user around and relative to the connector 124 to control operating parameters.

[0096] The rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 around the connector 124 provides the user with a convenient way to control operating parameters. It should be noted that the rotatable collar member 132 is positioned near the location where the user grips the garment steamer head 102 (in other words, the handle 120). Nevertheless, this convenient positioning of the rotatable collar member 132 also helps to minimize the risk of the user accidentally actuating the user-operable part of the switch assembly 130.

[0097] Furthermore, by arranging the rotatable collar member 132 around the connector 124 between the handle 120 and the body 122, this design provides efficient space arrangement for the user-actuable portion of the switch assembly 130.

[0098] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 1C The rotatable collar component 132 (arranged around the connector 124) can rotate about a rotation axis A1 extending from the handle 120 through the connector 124 to the body 122.

[0099] In some embodiments, reference Figure 1C and Figure 2B The handle 120 is connected to the upper cover portion / decorative cover 122A, wherein the rotatable collar member 132 is arranged to extend from the handle 120 to the upper cover portion 122A around the connector 124.

[0100] Operating parameters that can be controlled by user actuation (in other words, user rotation) via the rotatable collar member 132 are not particularly limited. In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member 132 can be rotated by the user about the rotation axis A1 to control the power supply to the heater 106.

[0101] In some embodiments, the switch assembly 130 is arranged such that the steam treatment device 100 can be controlled in a first manner by a user rotating the rotatable collar member 132 in a first direction, for example, shutting off one or more electrical components of the steam treatment device 100, and the steam treatment device 100 can be controlled in a second manner, different from the first manner, by rotating the rotatable collar member 132 in a second direction opposite to the first direction, for example, turning on one or more electrical components of the steam treatment device 100.

[0102] In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member 132 can be rotated by a user about a rotation axis A1 between a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation, in which the switching assembly 130 causes the power supply to the heater 106 to be activated, and in the second angular orientation, the power supply to the heater 106 to be deactivated.

[0103] In such an embodiment, the switch assembly 130 is arranged, for example, such that the rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 from a first angular orientation to a second angular orientation is in a first direction, and the rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 from a second angular orientation to a first angular orientation is in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0104] This can help users avoid unintentionally controlling the steam treatment equipment 100 by helping to avoid confusion about how the rotatable collar component 132 should be rotated in order to control the steam treatment equipment 100 in the desired way.

[0105] In some embodiments, the rotatable collar member 132 can be rotated by a user about a rotation axis A1 between a first angular orientation and a second angular orientation, in which the switching assembly 130 causes the power supply to the steam treatment device 100 to be activated, and in the second angular orientation, the power supply to the steam treatment device 100 to be deactivated.

[0106] In such an embodiment, the switching assembly 130 can be considered to be arranged to control the on and off of all circuit signals of the steam treatment equipment 100 via rotation of the rotatable collar member 132.

[0107] Therefore, for example, when the rotatable collar member 132 is in the first angular orientation, the power supply to the heater 106 can be started together with the rest of the steam processing equipment 100, and when the rotatable collar member 132 is in the second angular orientation, the power supply to the heater 106 can be stopped together with the rest of the steam processing equipment 100 accordingly.

[0108] The rotatable collar member 132 can be rotatably mounted in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 1C , Figure 2B and Figure 3 The connector 124 includes a cylindrical portion 124A, about which a rotatable collar member 132 is rotatable about a rotation axis A1. In such an embodiment, the contact between the cylindrical inner surface 133 of the rotatable collar member 132 and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion 124A can help hold the rotatable collar member 132 in its installed position while allowing the rotatable collar member 132 to rotate about the rotation axis A1.

[0109] It should be noted that the cylindrical inner surface 133 can define an opening that, in addition to receiving the cylindrical portion 124A, extends through the rotatable collar member 132.

[0110] In some embodiments, still refer to Figure 2B The cylindrical portion 124A is a portion of the handle 120 that protrudes toward the body 122. This provides a relatively simple manufacturable method for rotatably mounting the rotatable collar member 132. For example, the cylindrical portion 124A and the handle 120 can be molded (e.g., injection molded) as a single piece.

[0111] In some embodiments, the connector 124 includes one or more attachment members 124B, 124C extending from the handle 120 toward the body 122 and being secured to a corresponding attachment element included in the body 122. For example, a plurality of attachment members 124B, 124C may be arranged around the cylindrical portion 124A.

[0112] Attachment components 124B and 124C are, for example, part of handle 120, together with cylindrical portion 124A.

[0113] In some embodiments, regardless of how precisely the connector 124 is constructed, the connector 124 is arranged to connect the handle 120 to the body 122 such that the handle 120 and the body 122 do not move relative to each other.

[0114] Fixing the handle 120 and the body 122 relative to each other in this way can help provide a robust construction for the garment steamer head 100.

[0115] The electrical switching function of the switch assembly 130 can be implemented in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 3 The switching assembly 130 includes a microswitch 134 that can be actuated to control operating parameters. For example, the microswitch 134 is actuated to start / stop the power supply to (at least) the heater 106.

[0116] In some embodiments, the microswitch 134 is actuable to start / stop the power supply to the steam treatment equipment 100. In such embodiments, the microswitch 134 can control the on and off of all circuit signals of the steam treatment equipment 100.

[0117] For example, micro switch 134 is used to generate an on / off electrical signal, which is used by control circuits 117, 118 of steam treatment equipment 100 to start / stop a relay, wherein the output connector of the relay is electrically connected in series with heater 106 (and / or other circuits).

[0118] In some embodiments, the microswitch 134 has a fixed position relative to the body 122, such that the rotatable collar member 132 can rotate relative to the microswitch 134 about the rotation axis A1.

[0119] Now for reference Figure 4A The rotatable collar member 132 preferably includes a protrusion 136 arranged to abut against and actuate the microswitch 134 during rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 about the axis of rotation A1. The protrusion 136 is, for example, a projection that protrudes from the underside of the base portion 137 of the rotatable collar member 132 facing the body 122.

[0120] In such an embodiment, when the rotatable collar member 132 is in a first angular orientation, the protrusion 136 can abut against and thus actuate the microswitch 134, for example, to initiate the power supply to the steam treatment apparatus 100 or at least the heater 106 of the steam treatment apparatus 100. When the rotatable collar member 132 is in a second angular orientation, the protrusion 136 can be spatially removed from the microswitch 134, for example, causing the power supply to the steam treatment apparatus 100 or at least the heater 106 to be stopped.

[0121] It should be noted that when the micro switch 134 is actuated, the micro switch 134 can move relative to the micro switch body 135, which is movably mounted in or on the micro switch body.

[0122] In some embodiments, the switch assembly 130 includes a rotation limiting mechanism adapted to limit the rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 about the connector 124 to an angle range of less than 180 degrees, preferably less than 90 degrees. Such a rotation limiting mechanism can help the user control operating parameters because it reduces the degree of manipulation of the rotatable collar member 132 required for the user to control the operating parameters.

[0123] The rotation limiting mechanism can have any suitable design. In some embodiments, reference is made to… Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5and Figure 6 The rotation limiting mechanism includes one or more arcuate slots 140A, 140B, 140C defined in one of the joint 124 and the rotatable collar member 132, wherein each arcuate slot 140A, 140B, 140C is curved in an arc centered on the axis of rotation A1 between a first end 142A, 142B, 142C and a second end 144A, 144B, 144C of the respective arcuate slot 140A, 140B, 140C. One or more protruding members 146A, 146B, 146C, disposed in one of the joint 124 and the rotatable collar member 132, protrude into slots 140A, 140B, 140C and are arranged to slide between first ends 142A, 142B, 142C and second ends 144A, 144B, 144C under the guidance of the respective slots 140A, 140B, 140C, wherein the first ends 142A, 142B, 142C and the second ends 144A, 144B, 144C each define the rotation limit of the rotatable collar member 132.

[0124] Such an arrangement of the arc-shaped slot-protruding member can provide a relatively robust and simple way to implement the rotation restriction mechanism.

[0125] It should be noted that, in Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the non-limiting example shown, the arcuate slots 140A, 140B, 140C (in this case, three arcuate slots 140A, 140B, 140C) are defined in the rotatable collar member 132, and more specifically in the base portion 137 of the rotatable collar member 132. In this case, the protruding members 146A, 146B, 146C protrude from the body 122, for example, from the upper cover portion / decorative cover 122A into the slots 140A, 140B, 140C.

[0126] In other examples (not shown in the figures), an arcuate slot is defined in the connector 124, for example, in a portion of the upper cover portion / decorative cover 122A, and a protruding member is included in the rotatable collar member 132, for example, protruding from the base portion 137 of the rotatable collar member 132 toward the body 122.

[0127] In some embodiments, the switch assembly 130 includes a fixing mechanism adapted to releasably fix the rotatable collar member 132 in one or more angular orientations, such as a first orientation and / or a second orientation, which are selectable by rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 about a rotation axis A1.

[0128] In addition to helping to prevent accidental rotation of the rotatable collar member 132 from deviating from the intended angular orientation, the fixing mechanism can provide the user with auditory and / or tactile feedback to confirm the adoption of the intended angular orientation, such as a first orientation and / or a second orientation.

[0129] The fixing mechanism can be implemented in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, such as... Figure 4A and Figure 5 As best shown, the fixing mechanism includes at least one recess 152A, 152B defined in one of the connector 124 and the rotatable collar member 132, and at least one spring-loaded pin member 150 disposed in the other of the connector 124 and the rotatable collar member 132, wherein at least one spring-loaded pin member 150 can be received in at least one recess 152A, 152B when the rotatable collar member 132 is rotated about the axis of rotation A1 to reach one or more angular orientations.

[0130] Such an arrangement of recessed-spring-loaded pin components can provide a relatively simple way to achieve a fixing mechanism.

[0131] In some embodiments, still refer to Figure 4A and Figure 5 The first recess 152A of at least one recess 152A, 152B corresponds to a first orientation, and the second recess 152B of at least one recess 152A, 152B corresponds to a second orientation.

[0132] It should be noted that the spring-loaded pin member 150 can be biased / springed up to engage with the recesses 152A, 152B in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the spring-loaded pin member 150 is biased to engage with the recesses 152A, 152B via a spring 154 (e.g., a coil spring 154).

[0133] In some embodiments, the spring-loaded pin member 150 and the recesses 152A, 152B are arranged such that the spring-loaded pin member 150 can be released from the recesses 152A, 152B when the user applies sufficient force to rotate the rotatable collar member 132.

[0134] For example, the end of the spring-loaded pin member 150 and the recesses 152A, 152B that receive the end can each have a rounded shape, such that when the user applies sufficient force to rotate the rotatable collar member 132, the spring-loaded pin member 150 can overcome the bias of the spring-loaded pin member 150 and slide out of the recesses 152A, 152B.

[0135] In some embodiments, recesses 152A, 152B are defined in a rotatable collar member 132, for example, in a base portion 137 of the rotatable collar member 132, wherein a spring-loaded pin member 150 is arranged in a connector 124. In such embodiments, the spring-loaded pin member 150 may, for example, protrude through an upper cover portion / decorative cover 122A.

[0136] The rotatable collar member 132 can have any suitable outer surface 158, as long as the rotatable collar member 132 can be actuated / rotated by a user. In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4B and Figure 5 As best shown, the rotatable collar member 132 includes a convex (e.g., partially spherical) outer surface 158. When the rotatable collar member 132 is rotated, such a convex / partially spherical outer surface provides a convenient and comfortable contact profile for the user.

[0137] The above embodiments are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the technical methods of this disclosure. Although this disclosure has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the technical methods of this disclosure can be modified or equivalently substituted without departing from the scope of protection of the claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a / an" does not exclude a plural. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A steam treatment apparatus (100) characterized by, The steam treatment apparatus comprises a garment steamer head (102) comprising: a handle (120); a main body (122); a joint (124) connecting the handle and the main body; and a switch assembly (130) for controlling at least one operating parameter of the steam treatment apparatus, the switch assembly comprising a rotatable collar member (132) rotatable about the joint about a rotation axis (A1) extending from the handle through the joint to the main body to control the at least one operating parameter.

2. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that The steam treatment apparatus comprises a steam generator (104) and a heater (106) arranged to heat the steam generator, the rotatable collar member (132) being rotatable by a user about the rotation axis (A1) to control a power supply to the heater.

3. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that The rotatable collar member (132) is rotatable by the user about the rotation axis (A1) between a first angular orientation in which the switch assembly (130) causes the power supply to the heater (106) to be activated and a second angular orientation in which the power supply to the heater is deactivated.

4. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The joint (124) comprises a cylindrical portion (124A) about which the rotatable collar member (132) is rotatable about the rotation axis (A1).

5. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that The cylindrical portion (124A) is a portion of the handle (120) projecting towards the main body (122).

6. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the switch assembly (130) comprises a microswitch (134) actuatable to control the at least one operating parameter, the microswitch has a fixed position relative to the main body (122) such that the rotatable collar member (132) is rotatable about the rotation axis (A1) relative to the microswitch, and the rotatable collar member comprises a protrusion (136) arranged to abut against and actuate the microswitch during rotation of the rotatable collar member about the rotation axis.

7. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The switch assembly (130) comprises a rotation limiting mechanism adapted to limit rotation of the rotatable collar member (132) about the joint (124) to an angular range of less than 180 degrees.

8. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that The rotation limiting mechanism comprises: one or more arcuate slots (140A, 140B, 140C) defined in one of the joint (124) and the rotatable collar member (132), each of the arcuate slots being curved between a first end (142A, 142B, 142C) and a second end (144A, 144B, 144C) of the respective arcuate slot in a circular arc centered on the rotation axis (A1), and the first end of each of the arcuate slots is arranged to abut against the second end of the other of the arcuate slots when the rotatable collar member is rotated to the angular range of less than 180 degrees. One or more protruding members (146A, 146B, 146C) disposed in one of the joint (124) and the rotatable collar member (132), each of the one or more protruding members protruding into one of the slots and being arranged to slide under guidance of the respective slot between a first end and a second end, the first and second ends each defining a rotational limit of the rotatable collar member (132).

9. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The switch assembly (130) comprises a securing mechanism adapted to releasably secure the rotatable collar member (132) in one or more angular orientations selectable via rotation of the rotatable collar member about the rotation axis (Al).

10. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that The securing mechanism comprises: at least one recess (152A, 152B) defined in one of the joint (124) and the rotatable collar member (132); and at least one spring-loaded pin member (150) disposed in the other of the joint (124) and the rotatable collar member (132), the at least one spring-loaded pin member being receivable in the at least one recess when the rotatable collar member is rotated about the rotation axis (Al) to reach the one or more angular orientations.

11. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The rotatable collar member (132) comprises a convex outer surface (158).

12. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The garment steamer head (102) comprises a steam trigger (109) for controlling steam delivery from the garment steamer head.

13. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The steam treatment apparatus comprises: a base unit (111) comprising a water tank (110); and a hose line (112) for fluidly connecting the base unit to the garment steamer head (102).

14. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that The steam generator (104) is arranged in the garment steamer head (102), the steam treatment apparatus comprising a pump (108) for pumping water from the base unit (111) to the steam generator via the hose line (112).

15. The steam treatment apparatus (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that The base unit (111) comprises a docking cradle (116) for docking the garment steamer head (102).

Images