Steam pressing host structure with sewage tank

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of steam garment steamer mainframe structure with sewage water tank, it is related to steam garment steamer technical field, including boiler body, total water tank body, water storage tank body, sewage tank body, water pump one, water pump two, chip microcomputer and shell;Water storage tank body is equipped with water storage pipe, the input end of water pump one is communicated with total water tank body by total water tank pump water pipe, the output end of water pump one is communicated with water storage tank body by water storage tank pump water pipe, water storage tank body is communicated with the water inlet end of boiler body by water storage pipe;The input end of water pump two is communicated with the sewage end of boiler body by cleaning water suction pipe, the output end of water pump two is communicated with sewage tank body by sewage tank pump water pipe.The utility model solves the problem that scale is difficult to remove, sewage is inconvenient to lead to short service life of machine;And the problem that water pipe connected with water tank and heater is easy to block, leading to machine use abnormality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of steam garment steamer technology, specifically to a steam garment steamer main unit structure with a wastewater tank. Background Technology

[0002] Garment steamers, as a common fabric care device in modern households, are becoming increasingly popular. However, several technical defects have gradually emerged during long-term use, seriously affecting user experience and product lifespan. Currently, most mainstream traditional garment steamers use a built-in heating element structure, using liquid level and one standard atmosphere of pressure to transport water from the tank to the heating element and convert it into steam. However, since tap water is commonly used directly in daily use, the calcium and magnesium ions in the water easily form scale after repeated heating inside the heating element. Over time, scale accumulates and adheres to the inner wall of the heating element and the connecting pipes. Existing models lack efficient internal drainage designs, making it difficult to completely remove scale. This not only reduces heating efficiency and increases energy consumption but also accelerates the aging of the heating element due to poor heat conduction, significantly shortening the machine's lifespan. On the other hand, the water circulation system of garment steamers has structural defects. After some tap water evaporates in the heating element, the concentration of impurities in the remaining water increases sharply, forming high-hardness wastewater. Impurities easily deposit in narrow sections of the inlet pipe, gradually causing blockages. Conventional pumps lack anti-clogging design and cannot effectively handle solid particles in high-concentration wastewater, ultimately leading to water flow interruptions, abnormal steam output, or even pump burnout. This problem is particularly prominent in hard water areas, severely limiting the reliability and applicability of the products. Utility Model Content

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide a steam ironing host structure with a sewage tank, which solves the problems of difficult scale removal and inconvenient sewage discharge leading to short machine lifespan; as well as the problem of easy blockage of the water pipe connecting the water tank and the heater, leading to abnormal machine operation.

[0004] To solve the above problems, the technical solution provided by this utility model is as follows:

[0005] A steam ironing main unit structure with a wastewater discharge tank includes a boiler body, a main water tank body, a storage tank body, a wastewater tank body, a first water pump, a second water pump, a microcomputer chip, and a housing. The storage tank body is equipped with a water storage pipe. The input end of the first water pump is connected to the main water tank body via a main water tank pump pipe, and the output end of the first water pump is connected to the storage tank body via a storage tank pump pipe. The storage tank body is connected to the water inlet end of the boiler body via a storage pipe. The input end of the second water pump is connected to the wastewater discharge end of the boiler body via a cleaning pump pipe, and the output end of the second water pump is connected to the wastewater tank body via a wastewater tank pump pipe. The microcomputer chip, boiler body, main water tank body, storage tank body, wastewater tank body, first water pump, and second water pump are all fixedly installed inside the housing.

[0006] A dedicated sewage tank is added: its function is to independently collect and store high-concentration sewage and scale particles discharged from the boiler, realizing the physical separation of sewage and water, avoiding the repeated heating and extraction of sewage, thereby breaking the vicious cycle of scale accumulation and pipe blockage.

[0007] The system employs a dual-pump (pump one and pump two) split system: this structure plays a crucial role in "dedicated pumps for specific purposes." Pump one is responsible for supplying water from the main water tank to the storage tank, ensuring a smooth water supply path for steam generation; while pump two is specifically responsible for reverse-flowing concentrated wastewater from the boiler and pumping it into the wastewater tank, forming an independent and efficient active wastewater discharge channel, replacing the ineffective wastewater discharge methods of traditional models that rely on natural gravity or simple flushing.

[0008] The water storage tank itself is designed as a buffer: its function is to act as an intermediate transition tank, receiving and temporarily storing clean water from the main water tank before stably supplying water to the boiler. This design not only ensures the stability of the boiler's water intake, but more importantly, it clearly separates the "water supply path" and the "sewage discharge path" in physical space, avoiding cross-contamination and enabling the second water pump to accurately extract the dirtiest sewage from the bottom of the boiler.

[0009] The integrated control system of the chip microcomputer intelligently coordinates the workflow of the entire system. It can precisely control the start and stop of water pump two according to preset programs or user commands, achieving timed, quantitative, or one-click cleaning and sewage discharge functions. This maximizes the efficiency and automates the aforementioned hardware structure, enhancing the user experience.

[0010] Optionally, the water pump is a diaphragm pump with a rated operating pressure of 0.3-0.5 MPa.

[0011] Providing a stable high-pressure water supply: Its core function is to generate sufficient pressure (0.3-0.5MPa) to reliably pump water from the main water tank into a higher storage tank, or to overcome pipeline resistance for long-distance transport, ensuring a continuous and sufficient water supply for the boiler, which is the basis for stable steam generation.

[0012] Enhanced system anti-clogging capability: Higher output pressure gives the water flow stronger kinetic energy, which can effectively flush the water supply pipeline (such as the water tank pump pipe and water storage pipe), remove any possible small impurities, and prevent them from depositing in the pipeline. This reduces the risk of blockage in the water supply pipeline from the source, and directly addresses and solves problem two in the background technology.

[0013] Achieving compact size and high efficiency: Diaphragm pumps are characterized by their compact structure, strong self-priming capability, and high efficiency. Choosing this pump type allows for more flexible system layout, making it suitable for installation within the limited space of a household garment steamer while ensuring efficient water supply.

[0014] Optionally, the second water pump is a centrifugal pump with an impeller clearance of 0.8-1.2 mm.

[0015] Core Functions: High-Efficiency Sewage Discharge and Anti-Clogging: Its core function is to efficiently and reliably extract high-concentration sewage containing scale particles from the bottom of boilers. The specially widened impeller clearance (0.8-1.2mm) provides a larger flow channel, allowing tiny solid particles (such as scale debris) to pass smoothly through the pump body without getting stuck. This fundamentally prevents the pump itself from clogging due to sewage extraction, ensuring unobstructed sewage discharge.

[0016] Achieving high-flow-rate suction: The characteristics of centrifugal pumps dictate their ability to provide large liquid flows. This capability enables them to quickly extract large quantities of sludge from boilers, rapidly emptying them and significantly improving blowdown efficiency and reducing cleaning time. This is superior to other pump types that may be damaged or inefficient due to particulate matter.

[0017] Dedicated pumps for specific purposes enhance system reliability: This design clearly defines the division of labor, with "Pump 1 (diaphragm pump) responsible for supplying clean water and Pump 2 (centrifugal pump) responsible for discharging wastewater." The optimal pump type was selected for this specific task of wastewater discharge, significantly improving the reliability and durability of the entire wastewater discharge subsystem, thereby ensuring the long-term service life of the entire unit.

[0018] Optionally, the boiler body is also equipped with a pressure sensor, which is connected to a chip microelectromechanical system (MEMS).

[0019] Core safety monitoring function: As a critical safety sensor, the pressure sensor's primary function is to continuously monitor the steam pressure inside the boiler, providing the system with the most direct pressure data. Once it detects that the pressure exceeds the safety threshold (such as a sudden pressure rise caused by water circuit blockage or abnormal heating), it can immediately send a signal to the chip microcomputer, thereby triggering the overpressure protection mechanism (such as automatically cutting off the heater power supply), effectively preventing the boiler from being damaged or even bursting due to overpressure, and greatly improving the safety of the equipment.

[0020] Optimized User Experience and Steam Performance: This architecture enables the chip-based microcomputer to precisely control steam output based on real-time pressure. The microcomputer can intelligently adjust the heater power or the water pump's water supply rate based on pressure feedback, stabilizing the boiler pressure within an optimal setting range. This ensures that the steam from the nozzle outlet remains stable, strong, and dry, avoiding fluctuations in steam volume or water retention caused by pressure volatility, thereby improving ironing results and user experience.

[0021] Providing decision-making basis for intelligent control: Pressure signals are a key input for the system to achieve automated operation. For example, when the pressure sensor shows that the pressure is too low, the PCB can determine that water needs to be added and start the water pump; when the cleaning program starts, the PCB can also judge the sewage discharge progress based on pressure changes. This transforms the entire machine's operation from open-loop to closed-loop control, making it more intelligent and efficient.

[0022] Optionally, the chip microcomputer integrates a water level detection module and a water scale concentration detection module, with the detection probe of the water level detection module extending into the main water tank, the storage tank, and the sewage tank respectively.

[0023] Ensuring water supply safety and preventing dry burning (for the main water tank and storage tank): The primary function of water level monitoring in both the main water tank and storage tank is to prevent the system from operating with empty water. When a low water level is detected, a water shortage alarm can be promptly issued to the user (such as a buzzer or flashing indicator light), and the chip microcomputer can be instructed to cut off the power supply to the heater, effectively preventing dry burning accidents caused by boiler water shortage. This is the most crucial safety protection function.

[0024] Optimizing system operating logic to achieve automated control: This structure is the foundation for the entire machine to achieve intelligent and automated operation. For example, the microprocessor can intelligently start and stop the water pump to replenish water based on the real-time water level in the storage tank, ensuring a continuous and stable water supply to the boiler. Simultaneously, monitoring the main water tank level can remind the user to add purified water in a timely manner, ensuring uninterrupted machine operation.

[0025] To prevent wastewater overflow and prompt users to clean the wastewater tank: The system monitors the water level in the wastewater tank to prevent backflow of wastewater into the machine, which could cause secondary pollution or short circuits. When the tank is nearly full, the system proactively prompts the user to clean it, cultivating a habit of regular wastewater discharge and maintaining the long-term effectiveness of the system, indirectly addressing the root cause of scale buildup. Additionally, the microcomputer in this machine detects the scale concentration inside the heater, effectively flushing out high-concentration wastewater.

[0026] Optionally, a three-way connector is provided between the water inlet end of the boiler body and the water storage pipe of the water storage tank body. The third interface of the three-way connector is connected to the end of the cleaning pump pipe near the second water pump through a pipe.

[0027] Core Function: Achieving Backflushing and Efficient Descaling: The core function of this structure is to change the traditional single flow direction and create a new flow path. It allows the system to inject water from the storage tank back into the boiler body's inlet, using the impact force of the water flow to loosen and flush away the scale adhering to the boiler's inner wall and inlet pipes, thereby greatly improving the cleaning effect of the blowdown process and directly addressing and solving the fundamental problem of "difficulty in removing scale" in the background technology.

[0028] Simplified piping design and improved system reliability: A cleverly designed tee connector enables the convergence of three pipes (water supply, inlet, and drain), replacing the flow path switching function that might otherwise require multiple valves. This structure simplifies the system architecture, reduces potential leak points and failure points, and improves the overall reliability of the unit.

[0029] Assisting in sewage discharge and improving sewage discharge efficiency: During routine sewage pumping and discharge, a small amount of water flowing in from the T-joint can guide and dilute the suction of the second water pump, which helps to discharge particulate dirt more smoothly and prevents local blockage of the sewage pipe outlet.

[0030] Optionally, the sewage tank body is equipped with a full water alarm device, which is connected to a microelectromechanical chip, and the water level in the sewage tank body is preset.

[0031] Core safety protection function: Its primary function is to prevent sewage overflow. When the water level in the sewage tank reaches the preset capacity threshold, the device can be triggered in time to effectively prevent backflow caused by excessive sewage. Once sewage flows back, it may contaminate the clean water circuits and electrical components inside the machine, leading to short circuits, malfunctions, or secondary pollution. This function fundamentally eliminates this risk.

[0032] Proactive user reminder function: This structure translates the machine's internal status into clear external prompts. When the wastewater tank is nearly full, it proactively reminds the user to clean it promptly via sound (buzzer), light (indicator light), or screen display, cultivating a habit of regular maintenance. This ensures the continuous unobstructed flow of wastewater, indirectly guaranteeing the long-term effectiveness of backwashing and proactive wastewater discharge functions, and solving the problem of machine performance degradation caused by users "forgetting to clean."

[0033] System linkage control function: As part of the integrated intelligent control system, it not only alerts users but also links with actuators. Simultaneously or subsequently, the chip microcomputer can automatically command water pump two to stop working, forcibly interrupting the sewage discharge process. This is a double-insurance mechanism, ensuring that even if the user does not respond to the alarm in time, operation can be forcibly stopped, absolutely guaranteeing no leakage.

[0034] Optionally, the core heating component of the boiler body is a copper or aluminum heater, the inner wall of which is polished and has a surface roughness Ra≤0.8μm.

[0035] Core anti-scaling function: Its primary function is to actively inhibit the adhesion and accumulation of scale. The extremely smooth inner wall, after high-precision polishing, greatly reduces the adhesion points and nucleation sites required for calcium and magnesium ion crystallization. Scale is difficult to adhere firmly to a smooth surface, and even if it does form, it is mostly loose and easily washed away by water flow. This alleviates the rate and intensity of scale accumulation at its source, directly addressing and solving the root cause problem of "difficult-to-remove scale" in the background technology.

[0036] Improved heat transfer efficiency and energy efficiency: Copper itself has excellent thermal conductivity, ensuring that heat energy can be efficiently transferred to water. The smooth inner wall reduces the formation of limescale, which acts as an "insulation layer," allowing heat to be continuously and efficiently transferred to the water. This reduces energy loss caused by limescale insulation, maintains the high efficiency of the heater, and improves the overall energy efficiency of the unit.

[0037] Auxiliary cleaning function: When the sewage discharge program is started, the smooth inner wall allows the scale particles that have been washed away by the water flow or detached by themselves to be carried away more smoothly by the water flow. They are less likely to stick to the wall or block the pipes again during the flow, which greatly improves the efficiency and thoroughness of the water pump's backwashing and sewage discharge.

[0038] Optionally, the bottom of the housing is also provided with casters, which are omnidirectional wheels, and each omnidirectional wheel is provided with a braking mechanism; the diameter of the omnidirectional wheel is 50-70mm, and the wheel body is made of wear-resistant rubber.

[0039] Core mobility feature: Its primary function is to provide excellent mobility for a device that is typically heavy and connected to a power cord and steam hose. Users can easily move the garment steamer between ironing areas (such as the living room or bedroom) or push it into a corner for storage without having to carry it, greatly reducing the user's workload.

[0040] Safety and stability features: An independent braking mechanism on each caster wheel provides crucial safety assurance. When the garment steamer moves to the predetermined position, pressing the brake will lock the wheels, preventing the machine from accidentally moving or sliding during operation due to uneven ground, steam pipe pulling, or slight contact. This ensures absolute stability during ironing operations and avoids the risk of scalding the user or tipping over.

[0041] Environmental adaptability and protection features: The 50-70mm wheel diameter ensures sufficient ground clearance, allowing it to easily traverse low obstacles such as carpet edges, door thresholds, or floor wires. The wear-resistant rubber wheels also serve to absorb shock, reduce noise, and protect the floor: they effectively absorb vibrations during movement, protecting the delicate components inside the machine; their soft texture will not scratch wooden floors or tiles, while providing sufficient quiet rolling and grip.

[0042] Optionally, both the main water tank and the storage tank have an anti-scaling coating on their inner walls. The coating is a nano-silica coating with a thickness of 3-5 μm.

[0043] Core anti-scaling function: The most fundamental function of this structure is to significantly reduce the adhesion and formation rate of scale on the inner wall of the water tank. The nano-silica coating, through its extremely low surface energy and non-stick properties, alters the interfacial interaction between water and the container wall, making it difficult for calcium and magnesium ions in the water to find stable attachment points to form hard scale, thereby reducing the total amount of scale in the entire water circulation system from the source.

[0044] Maintaining clean water quality and extending component lifespan: By preventing scale buildup inside the water tank, this coating effectively prevents the tank from becoming a new source of contamination. This not only ensures relatively clean water supplied to the boiler, reducing the scaling pressure on the water pump and boiler, but also prevents detached old scale particles from entering the water pump or pipes with the water flow, causing blockage risks. This indirectly protects downstream critical components such as the water pump, pipes, and heater, extending their service life.

[0045] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution provided by this utility model has the following advantages:

[0046] The technical solution provided by this utility model effectively solves the problems of difficult-to-remove internal scale buildup, inconvenient drainage, and water circuit blockage in traditional garment steamers by adopting a dual-pump branch system (diaphragm pump for water supply and centrifugal pump for sewage discharge), a boiler inlet three-way backflushing structure, a built-in intelligent control chip microcomputer for water level, scale detection and alarm, and combining nano anti-scaling coating, high-gloss copper heating element and large-diameter universal wheels. It significantly improves steam stability, safety and mobility, and fundamentally extends the service life of the machine. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 An exploded view of a steam ironing host structure with a wastewater tank, as proposed in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0048] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a steam ironing host with a wastewater tank, as proposed in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0049] Figure 3A schematic diagram of a shell-removing structure for a steam ironing host with a wastewater tank, as proposed in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0050] 1. Boiler body; 2. Main water tank body; 3. Storage tank body; 31. Storage pipe; 4. Sewage tank body; 5. Pump 1; 51. Main water tank pump pipe; 52. Storage tank pump pipe; 6. Pump 2; 61. Sewage tank pump pipe; 62. Cleaning pump pipe; 7. Microcomputer chip; 8. Outer casing; 9. Wheels. Detailed Implementation

[0051] To further understand the content of this utility model, a detailed description of this utility model will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0052] Example 1

[0053] Combined with appendix Figure 1-3 A steam ironing main unit structure with a sewage tank includes a boiler body 1, a main water tank body 2, a water storage tank body 3, a sewage tank body 4, a first water pump 5, a second water pump 6, a microcomputer chip 7, and a housing 8. The water storage tank body 3 is equipped with a water storage pipe 31. The input end of the first water pump 5 is connected to the main water tank body 2 through the main water tank pump pipe 51, and the output end of the first water pump 5 is connected to the water storage tank body 3 through the water storage tank pump pipe 52. The water storage tank body 3 is connected to the water inlet end of the boiler body 1 through the water storage pipe 31. The input end of the second water pump 6 is connected to the sewage outlet end of the boiler body 1 through a cleaning pump pipe 62, and the output end of the second water pump 6 is connected to the sewage tank body 4 through the sewage tank pump pipe 61. The microcomputer chip 7, the boiler body 1, the main water tank body 2, the water storage tank body 3, the sewage tank body 4, the first water pump 5, and the second water pump 6 are all fixedly installed inside the housing 8.

[0054] The operating principle is based on a separate closed-loop management of "clean water-steam-sewage", and its workflow is as follows:

[0055] Water supply stage: After the machine is started, under the control of the chip microcomputer 7, the water pump 5 starts working, drawing water from the main water tank 2 through the main water tank pump pipe 51 to the storage tank 3 for temporary storage. Subsequently, the water flows through the storage pipe 31 by gravity or pressure and enters the boiler body 1 to be heated and converted into steam for ironing.

[0056] Concentration and scale buildup stage: During the continuous operation of the boiler, water evaporates continuously, and the minerals (scale) and impurities that fail to evaporate are continuously concentrated and remain at the bottom and inner wall of the boiler.

[0057] Active sewage discharge stage (key innovation): When cleaning is required (such as after each use or according to a preset cycle), the chip microcomputer 7 starts water pump 6. Water pump 6 is directly connected to the boiler's sewage discharge end through the cleaning pump pipe 62, actively and powerfully sucking out the high-concentration sewage accumulated in the boiler and the scale particles that have been flushed off, and then transporting them all to the dedicated sewage tank body 4 for centralized storage through the sewage tank pump pipe 61.

[0058] Cleaning and Maintenance: Users only need to periodically clean the wastewater tank body 4 to easily remove most of the scale and impurities generated inside the machine. The main water tank and storage tank, being constantly in contact with water, do not require frequent deep cleaning. The entire process utilizes dual water pumps to achieve parallel and controllable operation of two independent paths for water supply and wastewater discharge, effectively extending the machine's lifespan and ensuring operational stability.

[0059] Pump 5 is a diaphragm pump with a rated working pressure of 0.3-0.5 MPa.

[0060] Electric reciprocating motion: Under the control of the microcomputer 7, the electromagnet or motor in the pump drives a flexible diaphragm to perform high-speed reciprocating motion.

[0061] Pressure pulse generation and suction: When the diaphragm is pulled back, the volume inside the pump chamber increases, creating negative pressure (vacuum). The one-way valve at the inlet opens, drawing water from the main tank into the pump chamber. Subsequently, the diaphragm is pushed back, reducing the volume of the pump chamber and causing a rapid increase in internal pressure. At this point, the inlet valve closes, and the one-way valve at the outlet is opened under pressure.

[0062] High-pressure output and pressure stabilization: Compressed water is pulsed out of the outlet at a rated pressure of 0.3-0.5 MPa and injected into the water storage tank through pump pipe 52. Although the output is pulsed, the piping system and the water storage tank itself act as a buffer and stabilizer, ultimately forming a stable high-pressure water flow towards the boiler. This specific pressure range ensures that the water flow has sufficient force to complete the lifting and conveying task, while preventing damage to subsequent piping or boiler structure due to excessive pressure.

[0063] Pump 26 is a centrifugal pump with an impeller clearance of 0.8-1.2mm.

[0064] The impeller rotates at high speed and generates centrifugal force: When the microcomputer 7 starts the water pump 6, the impeller inside it is driven by the motor to start rotating at high speed.

[0065] Pressure differential and suction: The rotating impeller throws the liquid at high speed from the center (inlet) of the impeller to the edge. This process creates a low pressure or even a vacuum in the central region of the impeller, thereby generating a strong suction force that continuously "draws" the sewage from the bottom of the boiler into the pump through the cleaning pump pipe 62; on the other hand, the liquid thrown to the edge of the impeller gains extremely high kinetic energy and pressure.

[0066] Wide clearance for particulate matter discharge: The clearance between the impeller and the pump casing is specifically designed to be 0.8-1.2mm, a size much larger than the diameter of common scale particles. Therefore, sewage and its contained solid particles drawn into the pump chamber can pass through this loose flow channel without obstruction, without being crushed or blocked in narrow gaps.

[0067] Kinetic energy is converted into pressure output: Sewage containing particulate matter enters the volute channel of the pump casing under the drive of the impeller. Here, the kinetic energy of the liquid is effectively converted into pressure energy, and finally a water flow with stable pressure is formed. It is forcefully "pressed" into the sewage tank body 4 through the sewage tank pump pipe 61, completing the entire sewage discharge process.

[0068] A pressure sensor is also installed on the boiler body 1, and the pressure sensor is electrically connected to the chip microcomputer 7.

[0069] Pressure detection and signal conversion: The sensitive element inside the pressure sensor (such as a Bourdon tube, diaphragm, or piezoresistive sensor) directly senses the steam pressure inside the boiler and converts it into a measurable physical quantity (such as deformation or resistance change). The conversion circuit built into the pressure sensor further converts this physical quantity into a standard electrical signal (such as an analog voltage signal or a digital signal).

[0070] Signal transmission and processing: This electrical signal, representing the real-time pressure value, is transmitted via wires to the microprocessor unit (MCU) on the chip microcomputer 7. The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) inside the MCU converts the analog signal into a digital signal, which is then processed and analyzed in real time by a preset program algorithm.

[0071] Logical judgment and output execution: The microcomputer 7 compares the processed real-time pressure value with the safe pressure range and working pressure target value set in the program, and issues control commands based on the results.

[0072] Pressure stabilization control: If the pressure is lower than the set working value, the heating power will be increased or the water pump will be started to replenish water to increase the pressure; if the pressure is too high, the heating power will be reduced or the water supply will be stopped to stabilize the pressure.

[0073] Safety protection: If the pressure continues to rise and exceeds the safety limit, the chip microcomputer 7 will immediately cut off the power supply to the heater and may trigger an audible and visual alarm, thereby implementing overvoltage protection.

[0074] Process judgment: In specific working modes such as sewage discharge, pressure changes can be used as a basis for judging process switching.

[0075] The chip microcomputer 7 integrates a water level and scale detection module and a water scale concentration detection module. The detection probes of the water level and scale detection modules extend into the main water tank 2, the water storage tank 3, and the sewage tank 4, respectively.

[0076] Water Level Sensing and Signal Conversion: The detection probe inserted into each water tank is essentially a sensor. Taking a common capacitive probe as an example, its working principle is to detect the water level by utilizing the difference in dielectric constant between water and air. The probe and the tank wall form a capacitor; when the water level rises or falls, the capacitance value of this capacitor changes accordingly. The circuitry inside the probe converts this capacitance change into a corresponding electrical signal (such as a signal of a specific frequency or voltage).

[0077] Signal transmission and processing: This electrical signal representing the water level status is transmitted in real time back to the water level and scale detection module integrated on the microcontroller 7 chip (which typically includes a signal processing chip and a microcontroller MCU). The MCU processes and analyzes the received signal, comparing it with preset thresholds (such as low water level warning value and high water level full value) to accurately determine the current water level status of each water tank.

[0078] Logical judgment and output execution: The microcomputer 7 executes the predetermined control strategy based on the judgment result.

[0079] Alarm prompts: If the main water tank level is low, a "Please add water" prompt will be triggered; if the wastewater tank level is high, a "Please clean" prompt will be triggered.

[0080] Equipment linkage control: If the water level in the storage tank is low, water pump 5 will automatically start to draw water from the main water tank to replenish it; if the sewage tank is about to overflow during the sewage discharge process, water pump 6 will automatically stop to prevent overflow.

[0081] Safety protection: If the water tank cannot be replenished with water during operation (i.e., continuous water shortage), the heater will eventually be forcibly shut down and enter the dry-burn protection state.

[0082] A three-way connector is also provided between the water inlet end of the boiler body 1 and the water storage pipe 31 of the water storage tank body 3. The third interface of the three-way connector is connected to the end of the cleaning pump pipe 62 near the water pump 6 through a pipe.

[0083] Normal operating principle (steam mode): When steam is being generated normally, water pump 5 supplies water to the water storage tank. The water in the tank flows through the water storage pipe 31 to the three-way connector under the action of gravity or pressure. At this time, since water pump 6 is not started, the cleaning water pumping pipe 62 is empty and without pressure. Therefore, the water flows smoothly into the water inlet of the boiler body 1 through the "straight-through" path of the three-way connector (i.e., from interface one to interface two) with almost no resistance, without leakage or incorrect flow direction.

[0084] Backwashing (cleaning mode) principle: When the microcomputer 7 starts the sewage discharge program, water pump 6 begins to work powerfully. It generates a huge negative pressure (suction) in the cleaning water pipe 62. This powerful suction is transmitted to the boiler's water inlet pipe through the third interface of the three-way connector.

[0085] A reverse flow is created: this suction overcomes the resistance of the forward flow of water, "hijacking" the water that was originally going to enter the boiler. It first draws back the water remaining in the boiler inlet pipe, and then forcefully draws back the water transported from the storage tank via the storage pipe 31. At this time, the water flow direction is opposite to that during normal operation: water flows from the storage tank → storage pipe 31 → tee joint → third interface → cleaning pump pipe 62 → water pump 2 6 → sewage tank.

[0086] Flushing complete: The high-speed water flow generated by pump 6, flowing in the opposite direction, effectively flushes the boiler's inlet pipes and inner walls, carrying away loose scale and impurities, which are then pumped into the wastewater tank, achieving efficient cleaning. The entire process is automatically controlled by the chip microcomputer 7, requiring no manual intervention from the user.

[0087] The sewage tank body 4 is equipped with a full water alarm device, which is electrically connected to the chip microcomputer 7. The water level in the sewage tank body 4 is set with a preset threshold.

[0088] Water level detection and signal generation: The wastewater tank is equipped with a water level sensor (such as a float switch, optical sensor, or capacitive sensing probe), whose detection point is preset at a physical height representing "full" (i.e., a preset threshold). When the wastewater level rises to this threshold position, the sensor's operating state changes abruptly (such as the float switch turning on, the optical transmission path being blocked by liquid, or a specific change in capacitance value), and an electrical signal change is generated accordingly.

[0089] Signal transmission and logic judgment: The electrical signal representing the "full water" state is immediately transmitted to the microcontroller 7 chip. The microcontroller (MCU) on the microcontroller 7 chip continuously monitors the signal and uses an internally preset program algorithm to determine in real time whether the signal has effectively triggered the full water condition.

[0090] Output Response and Execution: Once the MCU confirms that the water full condition has been met, it immediately executes the preset two-layer response:

[0091] First layer: Alarm activation. The microcomputer chip drives the connected peripheral circuits to activate the audible and visual alarm devices (such as making the buzzer sound and the indicator light flash), providing a clear and intuitive reminder to the user.

[0092] The second layer: system linkage. The chip microcomputer 7 simultaneously sends a command to the circuit controlling water pump 6 to immediately stop the power supply to water pump 6, forcing it to shut down and thus stopping the continued pumping of sewage into the already full sewage tank, completely cutting off the risk from the execution end.

[0093] The core heating component of the boiler body 1 is a copper or aluminum heater. The inner wall of the copper or aluminum heater is polished, and the surface roughness Ra≤0.8μm.

[0094] Material Principle (Copper): Copper was chosen due to its excellent metallic properties. Its extremely high thermal conductivity (approximately 400 W / m·K) is far higher than that of materials such as stainless steel, enabling the heater to respond quickly to heating commands and efficiently and evenly transfer heat to the water, reducing local overheating (scale tends to form rapidly on overheated surfaces), and thermodynamically lowering the conditions for scale formation.

[0095] Surface Principles (Polishing and Roughness): The surface roughness Ra value (arithmetic mean deviation of the profile) is a key indicator for measuring surface smoothness. Ra≤0.8μm means that the microscopic unevenness of the inner wall surface has been processed to be very small, achieving a "mirror-like" effect.

[0096] Reduce adhesion points: Scale formation requires microscopic pits, cracks, and other defects. Smooth surfaces greatly reduce these defects, making it impossible for crystalline substances in the water to "take root," just as water droplets cannot stay on the smooth surface of a lotus leaf (similar to the lotus leaf effect).

[0097] Reduced flow resistance: Smooth surfaces offer less resistance to fluid flow, allowing water to flow more smoothly over the inner wall of the heater. This not only reduces the probability of impurities depositing during flow but also, during drainage, the faster water flow and greater shear force more effectively flush away and carry away loosened scale particles, which are then smoothly discharged by water pump 6 through the cleaning pipe 62.

[0098] The bottom of the outer shell 8 is also equipped with casters 9, which are omnidirectional wheels, and each omnidirectional wheel is equipped with a brake mechanism; the diameter of the omnidirectional wheel is 50-70mm, and the wheel body is made of wear-resistant rubber.

[0099] Omnidirectional movement principle: The core structure of an omnidirectional wheel (also known as a caster wheel) consists of a horizontal axis of rotation located above the wheel frame and a vertical axis of rotation connecting the wheel. This dual-axis design gives the wheel two degrees of freedom of movement. When the user applies a horizontal push, the wheel will rotate freely around the vertical axis (changing direction) while simultaneously rolling around the horizontal axis (forward / backward). This allows the device to move smoothly in any direction effortlessly, including straight-line movement and turning on the spot, perfectly adapting to movement needs in confined spaces.

[0100] Braking principle: Braking mechanisms typically employ a downward-pressing brake pad structure. When the user presses the brake pedal, a linkage mechanism is activated, forcefully pressing a friction brake pad (usually rubber or metal) against the tire or wheel hub. By increasing friction, the rolling and rotational movements of the wheel are suppressed, thus transforming the swivel wheel from a "free-moving" state to a "fixed" state, essentially turning it into a temporary, fixed support leg, ensuring the machine's stable parking.

[0101] Material Performance Principle: The wear-resistant rubber material functions through its physical properties. Its high elastic modulus effectively absorbs and cushions impacts and vibrations from the ground during movement. Its high coefficient of friction provides excellent grip when in contact with the ground, and generates greater static friction with the brake pads during braking, enhancing the locking effect. Simultaneously, the rubber's softness avoids the noise and scratches that hard wheels (such as plastic) might produce. The optimized diameter of 50-70mm ensures agility while providing optimal obstacle-crossing ability and effortless propulsion.

[0102] Both the main water tank body 2 and the storage tank body 3 have an anti-scaling coating on their inner walls. The coating is a nano-silica coating with a thickness of 3-5μm.

[0103] Superhydrophobicity and low surface energy principle: Nano-silica coatings, through special nanostructures (or composite modifications), endow their surface with superhydrophobic properties (or extremely low surface energy). Water has a very large contact angle on this surface, forming droplets that are difficult to spread and wet. This physical state greatly reduces the effective contact area between water and the inner wall, thereby directly inhibiting the interaction and crystallization process of minerals in the water with the inner wall.

[0104] Physical Barrier and Smoothing Effect: A uniform and dense 3-5μm nano-coating forms an extremely smooth physical barrier on the inner wall. This microscopically smooth surface reduces the rough anchor points required for crystal nucleation and growth. Even if scale molecules begin to precipitate, they exist only in a loose form and cannot firmly "grip" the inner wall, making them easily washed away by the flowing water and discharged through the drainage system.

[0105] Chemical inert protection: The nano-silica material itself is chemically stable and corrosion-resistant. It does not react chemically with ions in the water, forming an inert protective layer that isolates the water from direct contact with the tank body material (usually plastic or metal). This protects the tank body from corrosion and avoids the potential impact of the tank material on water quality.

[0106] When the garment steamer is in use, the tap water in the heating element produces steam. The evaporated water is pure water, leaving behind a high concentration of limescale. Each time the steamer is turned on, the high-concentration limescale is first pumped into the wastewater tank by pump two, and then tap water is pumped back into the storage tank from the main water tank by pump one. This ensures that fresh tap water is used in the heating element each time, reducing the chance of the high-concentration limescale crystallizing and forming limescale.

[0107] The present invention and its embodiments have been described above illustratively. This description is not restrictive, and the figures shown are only one embodiment of the present invention; the actual structure is not limited thereto. Therefore, if those skilled in the art are inspired by this description and design similar structures and embodiments without departing from the inventive spirit of the present invention, such designs should fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steam press main structure with a drain water tank, characterized in that, The system includes a boiler body, a main water tank body, a storage tank body, a sewage tank body, a first water pump, a second water pump, a microcomputer chip, and a housing. The storage tank body is equipped with a water storage pipe. The input end of the first water pump is connected to the main water tank body via a main water tank pump pipe, and the output end of the first water pump is connected to the storage tank body via a storage tank pump pipe. The storage tank body is connected to the water inlet end of the boiler body via a storage pipe. The input end of the second water pump is connected to the sewage outlet end of the boiler body via a cleaning pump pipe, and the output end of the second water pump is connected to the sewage tank body via a sewage tank pump pipe. The microcomputer chip, boiler body, main water tank body, storage tank body, sewage tank body, first water pump, and second water pump are all fixedly installed inside the housing.

2. A structure of a steam press main unit with a drain tank according to claim 1, wherein The water pump is a diaphragm pump with a rated operating pressure of 0.3-0.5 MPa.

3. A structure of a steam press main unit with a drain tank according to claim 1, wherein The second water pump is a centrifugal pump, and the impeller clearance of the centrifugal pump is 0.8-1.2mm.

4. A structure of a steam press main unit with a drain tank according to claim 1, wherein The boiler body is also equipped with a pressure sensor, which is connected to a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) chip.

5. A steam press main unit structure with a drain tank according to claim 4, wherein The chip microcomputer integrates a water level detection module and a water scale concentration detection module. The detection probe of the water level detection module extends into the main water tank, the storage tank, and the sewage tank, respectively.

6. A structure of a steam press main unit with a drain tank according to claim 1, wherein A three-way connector is provided between the water inlet end of the boiler body and the water storage pipe of the water storage tank body. The third interface of the three-way connector is connected to the end of the cleaning water pump pipe near the second water pump through a pipe.

7. A structure of a steam press main unit with a drain tank according to claim 1, wherein The sewage tank is equipped with a full water alarm device, which is connected to a microelectromechanical chip. The water level inside the sewage tank is set with a preset threshold.

8. A structure of a steam press main unit with a drain tank according to claim 1, wherein The core heating component of the boiler body is a copper or aluminum heater. The inner wall of the copper or aluminum heater is polished, and the surface roughness Ra≤0.8μm.

9. A steam press main structure with a drain water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The bottom of the outer casing is also provided with casters, which are omnidirectional wheels, and each omnidirectional wheel is equipped with a braking mechanism; the diameter of the omnidirectional wheel is 50-70mm, and the wheel body is made of wear-resistant rubber.

10. A steam press main structure with a drain water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Both the main water tank and the storage tank have an anti-scaling coating on their inner walls. The coating is a nano-silica coating with a thickness of 3-5 μm.

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