HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE

Description

DOMAINE TECHNIQUE

[0001] This presentation concerns the field of household appliances. More specifically, this presentation focuses on a steam-diffusion appliance and a method for controlling such an appliance, including a steam-diffusion base and a steam-diffusion accessory. ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUE

[0002] Some household appliances use steam. Such appliances may include a base that generates steam and is connected to an accessory designed to project the steam generated by the base. Some accessories may be removable from the base, allowing the appliance to be adapted for different uses, such as ironing or steaming (see, for example, document EP 3 263 236 B1). However, the operation of the base is not always compatible with the structure and function of each accessory, which can limit the appliance's uses and performance. EXPOSE GENERAL

[0003] One aim of this presentation is to propose a suitable household appliance for different types of use.

[0004] Another aim of this presentation is to propose a household appliance that is economically and reliably constructed, and which is simple and quick to use.

[0005] For this purpose, according to one aspect of this presentation, a household appliance is proposed comprising: a steam diffusion base comprising a steam generator, a sensor and a processor; and a steam diffusion accessory comprising a connecting member configured to connect the steam diffusion accessory to the steam diffusion base in a removable manner, the connecting member comprising an electronic component; wherein the sensor is configured to measure a value of the electrical resistance of the electronic component once the steam diffusion accessory is connected to the steam diffusion base by means of the connecting member and the processor is configured to control an operation of the steam diffusion base based on a measurement of the value of the electrical resistance recorded by the sensor.

[0006] Measuring electrical resistance is a simple, inexpensive, and effective way to detect the vapor diffusion accessory. Furthermore, incorporating an electrical component within the connecting element allows for rapid detection when the accessory is connected to the vapor diffusion base. Finally, maintenance of the electrical component is simplified, as only the connecting element needs to be removed, rather than the entire accessory.

[0007] The processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by changing the temperature within the steam generator, and / or changing the pressure within the steam generator, and / or changing the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory, and / or changing the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory, and / or changing the electrical current supply to be circulated from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory.

[0008] The processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by changing the temperature within the steam generator according to a time sequence including temperature steps.

[0009] The processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by modifying the flow rate of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory by modifying the temperature within the steam generator.

[0010] The processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by changing the flow rate of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory so as to place the flow rate within one of three different flow ranges.

[0011] The first of the three flow ranges can extend from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, the second of the three flow ranges can extend from 120 g / min to 180 g / min and the third of the three flow ranges can extend from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

[0012] The steam diffusion accessory can be an ironing accessory including a heated soleplate and the processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by modifying the electrical current flowing from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory in order to change the temperature of the heated soleplate.

[0013] The steam diffusion accessory can be an ironing accessory and the processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by modifying the steam flow rate from the steam diffusion base to the ironing accessory so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min.

[0014] The steam diffusion accessory can be a garment steamer accessory and the processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by modifying the steam flow rate from the steam diffusion base to the garment steamer accessory so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

[0015] The steam diffusion accessory can be a cleaning accessory, the processor can be configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base by modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the cleaning accessory so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min and the connecting element includes a mechanical restriction element configured to reduce the flow rate so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, once the cleaning accessory is connected to the steam diffusion base by means of the connecting element.

[0016] According to another aspect of this presentation, a method is proposed for controlling a household appliance comprising a steam diffusion base and a steam diffusion accessory, the steam diffusion base comprising a steam generator and the steam diffusion accessory comprising a connecting member configured to removably connect the steam diffusion accessory to the steam diffusion base, the connecting member comprising an electronic component, the method comprising: the measurement of an electrical resistance value of the electronic component once the steam diffusion accessory is connected to the steam diffusion base by means of the connecting element; and the control of the operation of the steam diffusion base according to a result of the measurement.

[0017] The control may include at least one of the following: changing the temperature within the steam generator, changing the pressure within the steam generator, changing the flow rate of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory, changing the velocity of steam flow to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory, changing the electrical current supply to be circulated from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory.

[0018] The control may include modifying the temperature within the steam generator according to a time sequence including temperature plateaus.

[0019] The control may include modifying the flow rate of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory by modifying the temperature within the steam generator.

[0020] The control may include modifying the flow rate of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory so as to place the flow rate within one of three different flow rate ranges.

[0021] The first of the three flow ranges can extend from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, the second of the three flow ranges can extend from 120 g / min to 180 g / min and the third of the three flow ranges can extend from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

[0022] The steam diffusion accessory can be an ironing accessory including a heated soleplate and the control includes modifying the electrical current supply to be circulated from the steam diffusion base to the steam diffusion accessory in order to modify the temperature of the heated soleplate.

[0023] The steam diffusion accessory can be an ironing accessory including a heated soleplate and the control includes modifying the steam flow rate from the steam diffusion base to the ironing accessory so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min.

[0024] The steam diffusion accessory can be a garment steamer accessory and the control includes modifying the steam flow rate from the steam diffusion base to the garment steamer accessory so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

[0025] The steam diffusion accessory may be a cleaning accessory and the control may include modifying the flow rate of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base to the cleaning accessory so as to place the flow rate in a range of 120 g / min to 180 g / min, the method may include arranging a restriction element within the connecting member, the mechanical restriction element being configured to reduce the flow rate so as to place the flow rate in a range of 30 g / min to 55 g / min, once the cleaning accessory is connected to the steam diffusion base by means of the connecting member. DESCRIPTION DES FIGURES

[0026] Other features, purposes, and advantages will become apparent from the following description, which is purely illustrative and not exhaustive, and should be read in conjunction with the attached drawings on which: There figure 1 illustrates a household appliance. The figure 2 illustrates a household appliance including a steam diffuser accessory designed for ironing, arranged in a storage space. figure 3 illustrates a household appliance including a steam diffuser accessory for ironing, stored in a compartment. figure 4 This illustrates a household appliance including a steam diffuser accessory for garment steaming, stored in a compartment. figure 5 illustrates a household appliance including a steam diffuser accessory designed for garment steaming while suspended in a storage space. figure 6 illustrates a household appliance including a steam diffuser accessory designed for cleaning while suspended in a storage space. figure 7 is an enlarged view of a retaining device and a fastening element designed to cooperate. figure 8 illustrates a steam generator arranged inside a steam diffusion base of the household appliance. figure 1 The base is partially represented in this figure to allow visualization of certain internal elements of the base. figure 9 is a cross-sectional view, along a vertical plane, of the upper part of the steam diffusion base of the device. figure 1 . There figure 10 is a cross-sectional view, similar to that of the figure 9 , from the vapor diffusion base cooperating with a connecting element. The figure 11 is another cross-sectional view, in a cutting plane parallel to the cutting plane of the figures 9 And 10, from the upper part of the vapor diffusion base cooperating with the connecting element. The figure 12 This illustrates a steam diffuser accessory designed for ironing and intended to be connected to a steam diffuser base. figure 13 illustrates part of the steam diffusion accessory intended for ironing shown on the figure 12 . There figure 14 illustrates different cleaning heads that can be coupled alternately to a base connected to the steam diffusion base to form different steam diffusion units. figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the steam diffusion accessory when the base is coupled to a cleaning head for window washing. figure 16 This is another cross-sectional view of the steam diffusion unit when the base is coupled to the cleaning head intended for window washing. figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning head designed for window washing. figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of the window cleaning head mounted on the base of the steam diffuser. figure 19 This is another exploded perspective view of the window cleaning head mounted on the base of the steam diffuser. figure 20 is yet another exploded perspective view of the window cleaning head mounted on the base of the steam diffuser. figure 21 is a perspective view of part of a connecting element in two different configurations. figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of the connecting organ partially illustrated on the figure 21 . There figure 23 is another exploded perspective view of the connecting organ of the figure 21 . There figure 24 is a perspective view of part of a connecting element according to a variant embodiment. figure 25 is an exploded perspective view of the connecting organ partially illustrated on the figure 24 . There figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting organ of the figure 21 . There figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the end cap of a vapor diffusion duct fitted to the connection unit of the figure 21 .

[0027] Across all figures, similar elements bear identical references. DESCRIPTION DETAILLEE Appareil électroménager

[0028] There figure 1 illustrates a household appliance 1, that is to say an appliance that runs on electricity and is intended to meet domestic needs.

[0029] Appliance 1 is capable of performing various functions such as laundry processing, typically ironing and / or steaming clothes, and / or cleaning surfaces, such as a window. To perform these functions, appliance 1 is configured to diffuse steam, preferably water vapor.

[0030] Appliance 1 is portable, in that it is designed to be easily carried by a user.

[0031] The household appliance 1 includes a steam diffusion base 2 and a steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 removable from the steam diffusion base 2. Base de diffusion de vapeur

[0032] As illustrated in the figure 1 to the figure 7 The vapor diffusion base generally takes the form of a box, with a roughly truncated cone shape, although this is of course not limiting, any form of vapor diffusion base 2, such as a parallelepiped, can be considered.

[0033] The vapor diffusion base 2 includes a support face 200 intended for placing the vapor diffusion base 2 on a substantially horizontal and flat surface, typically on the ground, and a plurality of lateral faces 201, 202 extending from the support face 200.

[0034] In this description, the terms "horizontal" and "vertical" refer to the operating position of the appliance 1, in which the support face 200 rests flat on a plane. An element is horizontal when it extends substantially parallel to the plane and vertical when it extends substantially orthogonally to the plane. Similarly, the terms "lower" (or "bottom") and "upper" (or "top") refer, respectively, to an area of ​​the appliance that is closer to, or further from, the plane on which the support face 200 rests.

[0035] Furthermore, the vapor diffusion base 2 is advantageously portable and may, for this purpose, include a carrying handle 22 positioned at an upper end of the vapor diffusion base 2, i.e., an end that is opposite the support face 200, the carrying handle 22 being intended for transporting the vapor diffusion base 2. The carrying handle 22 may have any suitable shape and dimensions, and may even be provided with gripping components 220, such as a surface with a higher roughness than the rest of the carrying handle 22, the surface extending from the carrying handle 22, in order to facilitate its gripping by a user, typically by preventing the user's hand from slipping on the carrying handle 22.

[0036] At least one of the lateral faces 201, 202 of the vapor diffusion base 2 extends substantially perpendicularly to the support face 200 and defines a storage space 2010 intended to accommodate the vapor diffusion element 6 of the vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, which vapor diffusion element 6 is described in more detail below. By substantially perpendicularly, it is understood that the angle between the lateral face 201 and the support face 200 is between 80° and 100°. Thus, the steam diffusion base 2 offers a storage space 2010 in which the steam diffusion element 6 extends in a substantially vertical position, which facilitates the transport of the household appliance 1, in particular as the grip of the carrying handle 22 of the steam diffusion base 2 is not obstructed by the presence of the steam diffusion element 6.This side face 201, equipped with the storage space 2010, can be formed from a plate 2012, advantageously comprising a material resistant to a temperature exceeding 250°C. The plate 2012 is attached and fixed to the vapor diffusion base 2. As visible from the... figure 2 to the figure 7 The storage space 2010 is intended to accommodate the steam diffusion element 6, whether or not it is connected to the steam diffusion base 2. The storage of the steam diffusion element 6 of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 on the steam diffusion base 2 can, for example, be used between two successive uses of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 or to transport the household appliance 1.

[0037] To secure the steam diffuser 6 on the steam diffuser base 2, particularly during the transport of the appliance 1, a retaining device 2011 is positioned on the side face 201 of the steam diffuser base 2, which is equipped with the storage compartment 2010. Preferably, this position is located at the upper end of the side face 201, i.e., the end opposite the support face 200. This prevents the retaining device 2011 from being obstructed by the floor when the steam diffuser base 2 is placed on the floor and the steam diffuser 6 is positioned within the storage compartment 2010. The retaining device 2011 is movable relative to the steam diffuser base 2 between a retracted position, visible on the figure 1 and on the figure 2 , in which the retaining device 2011 allows the removal of the vapor diffusion device 6 from the storage space 2010, and a deployed position, illustrated by the figure 3 to the figure 7 in which the retaining element 2011 holds the steam diffuser 6 fixed within the storage space 2010. This allows for simple and convenient handling of the appliance 1, facilitating its transport and storage. The retaining element 2011 is preferably rotatable relative to the steam diffuser base 2 and advantageously takes the form of an arch. This mobility and construction of the retaining element 2011 are indeed simple to use and inexpensive to manufacture. The retaining element 2011 can, in its deployed position, cooperate with various portions of the steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, 5, as can be seen from the figure 3 to the figure 7 , in particular with a 674 attachment element of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4 described in more detail below.

[0038] There figure 7 further illustrates that the retaining element 2011 may include a suspension element 20111 extending from, preferably projecting from, the retaining element 2011 and intended to hold the vapor diffusion element 6 fixed in a suspended position, visible on the figure 5 and on the figure 6 , when the retaining device 2011 is in the deployed position. This suspension element 20111 can advantageously take the form of a hook extending out from the retaining device 2011, preferably out from the free end of the hoop 2011 when the hoop 2011 is in the deployed position. The suspension element 20111 is particularly useful when the vapor diffuser 6 is temporarily arranged within the storage space 2010, typically between two successive uses of the vapor diffuser accessory 3, 4, 5. In this respect, the figure 5 illustrates the steam diffusion element 6 of a garment steamer accessory 5 in a suspended position, while the figure 6 The illustration shows the steam diffusion element 6 of a cleaning accessory 4 in a suspended position. This facilitates handling of the household appliance 1.

[0039] To stabilize the vapor diffusion element 6 of the vapor diffusion accessory 4, 5 when it is in a suspended position, the retaining element 2011 may include, as shown in the figure 7 A locking element 20112 configured to prevent lateral tilting, relative to the vertical, of the vapor diffuser 6 when it is in the suspended position. This locking element 20112 may be in the form of a rib extending outward from the retaining element 2011, for example, from a surface of the retaining element 2011 intended to be opposite the vapor diffuser base 2 when the retaining element 2011 is in the retracted position. The locking element 20112 may, in the deployed position of the retaining element 2011, cooperate with different portions of the vapor diffuser 6 of the vapor diffuser accessory 3, 4, 5, as seen from the figure 2 to the figure 7 , in particular with a guide element 675 of the vapor diffusion element 6 described in more detail below.

[0040] There figure 2 , there figure 3 and the figure 4 illustrate that the vapor diffusion base 2 can further include a stop 2013 extending from the side face 201 equipped with the storage space 2010. The stop 2013 is designed to cooperate with a mounting recess 676 complementary to the vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, described in more detail below, when the vapor diffusion element 6 is arranged within the storage space 2010. As can be seen more precisely on the figure 2 The stop 2013 can be particularly useful for temporarily positioning the steam diffuser 6 within the storage space 2010, typically to rest the steam diffuser 6 of an ironing accessory 3 on the steam diffuser base 2 between uses. The stop 2013 can also be useful for improving the stability of the steam diffuser 6 within the storage space 2010, as illustrated by the figure 4 , where the steam diffusion element 6 of a garment steamer accessory 5 is arranged inside the storage space 2010 and includes a gripping handle 67, a portion of which cooperates with the retaining element 2011, and in which the hook recess 676, formed in a steam diffusion head 61 of the steam diffusion element 6 of the garment steamer accessory 5, cooperates with the stop 2013. Advantageously, the stop 2013 takes the form of an appendage projecting from the lateral face 201 provided with the storage space 2010, as particularly visible on the figure 4 Furthermore, the stop 2013 is positioned closer to the support face 200 than the retaining element 2011. In other words, the retaining element 2011 extends to a certain distance from the support face 200, and the stop 2013 extends to a certain distance from the support face 200, the second distance being less than the first. In this way, the steam diffuser 6 has two attachment points to be held within the storage space 2010, thus securing the appliance 1 during transport.

[0041] There figure 1 It further illustrates that the steam diffusion base 2 may include a retaining member 251 extending from the steam diffusion base 2, and advantageously taking the form of a flexible tab having through openings provided to cooperate with a retaining nipple 252 extending projecting from the steam diffusion base 2. The retaining member 251 is provided to hook a cord 7 of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, described in more detail below, particularly when the steam diffusion member 6 is arranged within the storage space 2010.

[0042] The vapor diffusion base 2 further comprises a housing 20 forming an enclosure that provides liquid-splash protection for the various components of the vapor diffusion base 2. The housing 20 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic or metal. If necessary, the plate 2012, within which the storage space 2010 is provided, is attached to and fixed onto the housing 20. Alternatively, the housing 20 may include the side face 201, within which the storage space 2010 is provided. Similarly, the support face 200 may be formed by one of the faces of the housing 20 or, as shown in the figure 1 , be at least partly formed by the external surface of the pads 2000 extending outwards from the housing 20, being attached and fixed to the housing 20, or being one piece with the housing 20. Also, the carrying handle 22 of the vapor diffusion base 2 can extend outwards from the upper end of the housing 20, i.e. opposite the support face 200, being one piece with the housing 20 or attached and fixed to the housing 20.

[0043] The steam diffusion base 2 is designed to supply steam to a steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5.

[0044] To do this, as seen on the figure 8 The steam diffusion base 2 includes a steam generator 21, arranged inside the housing 20. The steam generator 21 can have various structures and typically includes a tank 210 for producing pressurized steam. The tank 210 is supplied with liquid, preferably water, via a reservoir 211, typically removable from the steam diffusion base 2. The tank 210 can be made of steel, typically stainless steel, and be equipped with an electric heating element for producing pressurized steam. The liquid can flow from the reservoir 211 to the tank 210 via a supply circuit 212 comprising a pump 213, typically a high-pressure electromagnetic pump 213.

[0045] As illustrated on the figure 9 , on the figure 10 and on the figure 11 The lateral face 202 of the vapor diffusion base 2 is defined by a face of the housing 20 which includes the face 202 through which a connection opening 2021 is provided. The connection opening 2021 is designed to cooperate with a connection element 8 of the vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 in a removable manner, as can be seen in particular on the figure 3 , on the figure 10 and on the figure 11 , in which the connecting member 8 is inserted into the connection opening 2021 in order to connect the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 to the steam diffusion base 2 to diffuse steam from the steam generator 21 to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, or removed from the connection opening 2021 to uncouple the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 from the steam diffusion base 2.

[0046] To achieve this, a supply conduit 214 is advantageously connected to the steam generator 21 and is provided to diffuse steam from the steam generator 21 to the connection opening 2021. The steam diffusion base 2 may, in this respect, include a solenoid valve 215 arranged at one end of the tank 210 and whose operation controls the diffusion of steam from the tank 210 to the supply conduit 214.

[0047] Furthermore, as can be seen on the figure 9 , on the figure 10 and on the figure 11 A connection channel 2022 can extend from the connection opening 2021 into the housing 20, be connected to the supply conduit 214, and be designed to cooperate with the connection member 8. On the side of the connection channel 2022 opposite the connection opening 2021, connection elements 2023 can be arranged to, on the one hand, connect an end 75 of a vapor diffusion conduit 74 housed in the connection member 8 to the supply conduit 214 and, on the other hand, connect the ends of electrical wires 730 housed in the connection member 8 to a power supply (not shown) and / or to electronic components, such as an electronic board 232 described in more detail below, arranged inside the housing 20. Thus, the supply conduit 214 has a first end 2141 connected to the steam generator 21 and a second end 2142 opening into the connection channel 2022 and suitable for being connected to the nozzle 75.Advantageously, the connection channel 2022 extends along a longitudinal axis X1-X1 substantially parallel to the support face 200, which facilitates the introduction of the connection element 8 through the connection opening 2021.

[0048] To prevent steam from accidentally escaping from the steam diffuser base 2 through the connection opening 2021 when the steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, or 5 is not connected to the base, and also to prevent liquid from entering the steam diffuser base 2 through the connection opening 2021, a sealing panel 241 is pivotally mounted on the steam diffuser base 2 between an extended position, in which the panel seals the connection opening 2021, and a retracted position, in which the panel extends into the housing 20. The pivoting assembly can, for example, be arranged on the housing 20 or inside the housing 20, typically on the wall delimiting the connection channel 2022. In this respect, in the retracted position, the sealing panel 241 can advantageously disappear within the 2022 connection channel.The transition from the deployed to the retracted position is generally triggered by the insertion of the connecting member 8 into the connection opening 2021. Providing that, in the retracted position, the sealing panel 241 extends inside, and not outside, the housing 20 offers additional safety in case of accidental removal of the connecting member 8. Indeed, when the connecting member 8 is withdrawn from the connection opening 2021, the sealing panel 241 moves from the retracted to the deployed position, and as this transition occurs, the possibility of steam escaping through the connection opening 2021 decreases. Furthermore, the... figure 9 This illustrates that the shutter panel 241 comprises a first portion 2411 designed to allow the shutter panel 241 to pivot, and a second portion 2412 opposite the first portion 2411, the second portion 2412 being free. In the deployed position, the first portion 2411 is advantageously closer to the support face 200 than the second portion 2412. In other words, the panel retracts inside the housing 20 towards the support face 200 and not towards the carrying handle 22, which facilitates the insertion of the connecting member 8 into the connection opening 2021, since the resistance offered by the shutter panel 241 is lower. This is not limiting, however, since it could very well be envisaged that the panel disappears inside the casing 20 so that the second portion 2412 moves away from the support face 200.This latter configuration can in particular be used when the transition from retracted position to deployed position of the shutter panel 241 is not controlled by a return element 242, described in more detail below, but simply by gravity.

[0049] Advantageously, in the deployed position, the sealing panel 241 seals the connection opening 2021 tightly, ensuring that the steam produced within the steam diffusion base 2 remains confined inside the housing 20.

[0050] There figure 9 This illustrates the presence of an advantageous retaining element 243 designed to hold the sealing panel 241 in the deployed position. In this way, the panel is not at risk of accidentally extending outside the housing 20 in the deployed position, which would compromise the sealing of the vapor diffusion base 2. Preferably, the retaining element 243 is formed by a rib extending projecting inside the connection channel 2022 and positioned at the connection opening 2021.

[0051] Furthermore, the vapor diffusion base 2 may include a return element 242 configured to strain the shutter panel 241 towards the deployed position and against which the connecting element 8 acts by being introduced inside the connection opening 2021. The return element 242 acts as a safety device to ensure that, in the absence of strain by the connecting element 8, the vapor diffusion base 2 remains substantially sealed against any escape of vapor through the connection opening 2021, the shutter panel 241 being held in the deployed position.

[0052] Furthermore, the figure 9 and the figure 11 illustrate that the steam diffusion base 2 may include a first locking element 261 intended to cooperate with a second locking element 8220 of the connecting member 8, described in more detail below, so as to prevent the connecting member 8 from being withdrawn from the steam diffusion base 2, typically by preventing the connecting member 8 from moving relative to the base along the longitudinal axis X1-X1 of the connecting channel 2022. The cooperation of the first locking element 261 with the second locking element 8220 also provides a guarantee of correct connection of the connecting member 8 with the steam diffusion base 2, typically by providing a haptic sensation, such as a click, for the user handling the appliance 1.The first locking element 261 is preferably movable between a deployed position in which a locking portion 2610 of the first locking element 261, intended to cooperate with the second locking element 8220, extends inside the connecting channel 2022, and a retracted position in which the locking portion 2610 extends outside the connecting channel 2022. The first locking element 261 is advantageously movable by pivoting relative to the vapor diffusion base 2, a return element 263 advantageously bringing the first locking element 261 towards the deployed position. Furthermore, the first locking element 261 may include an actuator 262 provided for operation by a user to move the first locking element 261 from the deployed position to the retracted position, and thus allow the removal of the connecting member 8 from the vapor diffusion base 2. figure 9 , there figure 10 and the figure 11 illustrate that at least a portion of the actuator 262 can extend outwards from the housing 20 to facilitate its handling by the user.

[0053] There figure 8 illustrates that the wall delimiting the connection opening 2021 and on which the sealing panel 241 and the actuator 262 are mounted can be made up of a part which is attached to the housing 20, which facilitates the manufacture of the vapor diffusion base 2.

[0054] With reference to the figure 3 The steam diffusion base 2 is advantageously supplied with electrical power via an electrical cable 271, connected to the base and intended for connection to a domestic electrical network. To facilitate the transport and storage of the appliance 1, the steam diffusion base 2 can be equipped with a reel 272 on which the electrical cable 271 is mounted. The reel 272 can be passive, as illustrated in the figure 3 That is to say, it may consist only of a hook around which the cable can be wound, or, in a manner known per se to be active, with a device for automatically winding the cable into a cavity provided for this purpose in the steam diffusion base 2. The power supply to the steam diffusion base 2 via the electrical cable 271 enables, in particular, the operation of the electric heating element of the tank 210, the pump 213 of the power supply circuit 212, the electronic board 232, and / or the steam diffusion element 6, as described in more detail below. Furthermore, the steam diffusion base 2 may advantageously be equipped with a switch (not shown) for controlling the switching on or off of the appliance 1.

[0055] The vapor diffusion base 2 may further include a processor, typically integrated within the electronic board 232 visible on the figure 9 , which is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base 2 and to operate using the power supply of the steam diffusion base 2, via the power cable 271.

[0056] For example, the processor can control the operation of the pump 213 of the supply circuit 212 connecting the tank 210 to the reservoir 211 of the steam generator 21, or even the opening of the solenoid valve which controls the diffusion of steam from the steam generator 21 to the supply line 214. The control of the solenoid valve can typically be controlled by means of a switch, located on the steam diffusion base 2, or formed by a trigger 671 disposed on the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, as described in more detail below.

[0057] Furthermore, the processor can modify the temperature and / or pressure within the steam generator 21, and more specifically within the tank 210, typically by controlling the behavior of the heating element. The processor can also advantageously control various parameters of the steam supply to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 from the steam diffusion base 2, including the steam flow rate, the steam flow velocity, and / or the electrical current supply to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5.Regulating the electrical current supplying the steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, 5 can be particularly useful when the steam diffuser accessory is an ironing accessory, typically an iron 3, because this electrical current controls the temperature of the iron's heated soleplate 65, which may be equipped with a thermostat for this purpose. It is also useful when the steam diffuser accessory is a garment steamer accessory 5, which may also advantageously include an electrically powered heating element. Therefore, the processor is able to control the temperature of the heated soleplate 65, taking into account the effects of thermal inertia.The processor can modify the temperature within the steam generator 21 according to a time sequence including temperature steps, in order to prevent excessively high steam flow rates from being abruptly diffused towards the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5. Moreover, by modifying the temperature within the steam generator 21, the processor is configured to modify the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5.

[0058] Modifying the steam flow rate from the steam diffuser base 2 to the steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, or 5 can be critical depending on which steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, or 5 is connected to the steam diffuser base 2. Therefore, the processor is preferably configured to place this flow rate within one of three different flow ranges. The first range extends from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, corresponding to the flow rates consumed by a cleaning accessory 4; the second range extends from 120 g / min to 180 g / min, corresponding to the flow rates consumed by an ironing accessory 3; and the third range extends from 120 g / min to 170 g / min, corresponding to the flow rates consumed by a garment steamer accessory 5. Advantageously, this flow rate adjustment can also be achieved using a restriction element 76, described in more detail below.

[0059] Thanks to the processor, it is possible to adapt the operation of the vapor diffusion base 2 according to the vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 that is connected to the vapor diffusion base 2. To do this, the vapor diffusion base 2 includes a sensor (not shown), typically arranged inside the housing 20, for example on the side of the connection channel 2022 opposite the connection opening 2021. The sensor is configured to measure the electrical resistance value of an electronic component 82251 housed within the connection element 8, described in more detail below. This measurement is performed by the sensor once the vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 is connected to the vapor diffusion base 2 by means of the connection element 8. The processor is then configured to control the operation of the vapor diffusion base 2 according to the electrical resistance value measured by the sensor.In this respect, the sensor is designed to communicate with the processor either via wired means or remotely, typically through an electromagnetic network such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Thus, in a simple, inexpensive, secure, and fast manner, it is possible to use various types of vapor diffusion accessories with the same vapor diffusion base. Accessoire de diffusion de vapeur

[0060] As seen on the figure 1 , the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 includes a steam diffusion element 6, a cord 7 and a connection element 8. Organe de diffusion de vapeur

[0061] The steam diffusion element 6 is designed to project the steam produced by the steam diffusion base 2. In this respect, the steam passes through the cord 7, once it is connected to the steam diffusion base 2 by means of the connection element 8.

[0062] To adapt the steam flow produced within the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion elements 6 of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, a restrictor element 76 may be provided in the connection element 8 of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, as described in more detail below. Where applicable, the appliance 1 may include a plurality of steam diffusion accessories 3, 4, 5, at least one of which is equipped with such a restrictor element 76 and at least one of which is not, or more precisely, whose nozzle 75, described in more detail below, is not equipped with such a restrictor element.

[0063] The steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, 5 is removable, as the connecting element 8 is designed to be attached to or detached from the steam diffuser base 2. This is particularly useful for adapting the appliance 1 to various intended uses. Indeed, the use of a steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, 5 is determined by its steam diffuser element 6.

[0064] In general, the vapor diffusion element 6 includes a gripping handle 67 from which extends a vapor diffusion head 61. The gripping handle 67 may be one piece with the vapor diffusion head 61, or may be assembled and fixed to the vapor diffusion head 61 by means of any suitable fastener, for example screws.

[0065] The gripping handle 67 allows a user to manipulate the steam diffusion element 6, and also to transport the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 if applicable. In this regard, the gripping handle 67 can be fitted with attachment elements 6770, visible on the figure 5 and the figure 6 but also on the figure 13 such as a surface with a higher roughness than the rest of the gripping handle 67, the surface extending from the gripping handle 67, and this to facilitate its gripping by a user, typically by preventing the user's hand from slipping on the gripping handle 67.

[0066] The grip handle 67 can connect the cord 7 to the steam head 61 and, in some cases, such as for the cleaning accessory 4 and the steaming accessory 5, allows steam to be diffused from the cord 7 to the steam head 61. This is not limiting since the cord 7 can be connected to any part of the steam diffusion element 6 other than the grip handle 67, typically to the main body in the case of the iron 3.

[0067] In addition, the gripping handle 67 can be equipped with a switch, typically a trigger 671, controlling the opening of the solenoid valve of the steam diffusion base 2, to allow steam diffusion from the steam generator 21 to the steam diffusion element 6, through the cord 7. The trigger 671 is movable, for example by pivoting, on the gripping handle 67 and is connected to electronic components enabling the transmission of a trigger 671 command by a user, via electrical wires 730 extending inside the cord 7, to the processor of the steam diffusion base 2. If applicable, the trigger 671 can be monostable, i.e., it can be manually brought into a depressed position actuating the opening of the solenoid valve and automatically return to a rest position when no pressure is exerted on it.

[0068] As can be seen in particular on the figure 7 The gripping handle 67 can be provided with a latching element 674 and a guiding element 675, which are respectively intended to cooperate with the retaining member 2011 and the immobilizing element 20112 arranged in the storage space 2010 of the vapor diffusion base 2. The latching element 674 generally takes the form of a loop extending from the end of the gripping handle 67 opposite the vapor diffusion head 61, thus preventing any collision between the vapor diffusion head 61 and the retaining member 2011, and facilitating the storage of the vapor diffusion member 6 on the vapor diffusion base 2. In addition, the guiding element 675 can take the form of a groove formed within the loop to cooperate with the rib of the immobilizing element. 20112. These are indeed simple, safe, and inexpensive means to manufacture. The figure 5 and the figure 6 typically illustrate a vapor diffusion element 6 in the suspension position in which the retaining element 2011 and the immobilizing element 20112 of the vapor diffusion base 2 cooperate, respectively, with the hooking element 674 and the immobilizing element 20112 of the gripping handle 67 of the vapor diffusion element 6.

[0069] The steam diffusion head 61 is designed to project the steam produced by the steam diffusion base 2, its structure being adapted to the desired use, for example, ironing or steaming laundry, or cleaning surfaces. figure 1 , there figure 4 , there figure 5 illustrate a steam diffusion device 6 when the steam diffusion accessory is a garment steaming accessory 5 intended for steaming laundry. figure 2 , there figure 3 , there figure 12 and the figure 13 illustrate a steam diffusion device 6 when the steam diffusion accessory is an iron 3. The figure 6 , there figure 14 , there figure 15 , there figure 16 , there figure 17 , there figure 18 , there figure 19 and the figure 20 illustrate a steam diffusion device 6 when the steam diffusion accessory is a surface cleaning accessory 4.

[0070] Where applicable, as notably visible on the figure 2 and the figure 4 The steam diffusion head 61 can be fitted with a mounting recess 676 that complements the stop 2013 of the steam diffusion base 2. figure 4 illustrates that, in the case of a steam diffusion element 6 of a steaming accessory 5, the attachment recess 676 takes the form of a groove made at the level of the surface of the steam diffusion head 61 which is opposite the gripping handle 67, the storage space 2010 providing a sub-space 20100, at the level of the lower end of the storage space 2010, that is to say the end closest to the support face 200 of the steam diffusion base 2, adapted to accommodate a portion of the steam diffusion head 61 in order to limit its bulk.

[0071] There figure 2 , there figure 3 , there figure 12 and the figure 13 illustrate that a steam diffusion element 6 of an ironing accessory 3 comprises a main body forming a steam diffusion head 61, and a gripping handle 67 connected to the main body.

[0072] The steam diffusion head 61 includes a heated soleplate 65 intended to come into contact with the fabric to be treated, typically a garment to be ironed. The heated soleplate 65 comprises a thermally conductive material, such as metal, and may further comprise a coating positioned on its surface intended to come into contact with the fabric, the coating being configured to improve glide over the fabric and / or prevent damage to the fabric. A plurality of steam diffusion orifices (not visible on the figure 12 ) is provided through the heated sole 65. In this respect, the steam diffusion head 61 includes a diffusion circuit adapted to supply the steam diffusion orifices with steam produced within the steam diffusion base 2 and passing through the cord 7.

[0073] There figure 12 It also illustrates that the steam diffusion head 61 includes a housing 66 defining an internal cavity 660, the heated soleplate 65 being mounted on the steam diffusion head 61 so as to define, with the housing 66, a communication passage 6600 between the internal cavity 660 and the exterior of the steam diffusion head 61. The housing 66 is intended to protect the components of the steam diffusion element 6. Typically, the figure 12 illustrates that a heating element 6630, 6631, 661 can be arranged within the internal cavity 660 and configured to heat the heated sole 65. The heating element 6630, 6631, 661 is embedded in the base 65 and comprises a tubular metal element 6630, typically made of copper-clad steel, defining the outer wall of the heating element 6630, 6631, 661, and an electrically conductive element, typically in the form of a resistive wire 661, extending inside the tubular element 6630. The tubular element 6630 is also filled with magnesium oxide 6631, which provides both electrical insulation of the tubular element 6630 from the resistive wire 661 and good thermal conduction to the base 65. Furthermore, as can be seen on the figure 12 , at least a portion of the resistive electric wire 661 extends outside the tubular element 6630 and has a free end 6610 allowing its electrical connection to a power cable extending through the cord 7.

[0074] There figure 12 This also illustrates the attachment recess 676 formed within the steam diffuser 6, and more specifically within the steam diffuser head 61, and intended to cooperate with the stop 2013 of the steam diffuser base 2. The attachment recess 676 is located on a portion of the steam diffuser head 61 designed to extend towards the ground when the steam diffuser 6 is in a vertical position. This is not, however, a limitation, since the attachment recess 676 could be formed on other portions of the steam diffuser head 61.

[0075] Furthermore, as can be seen on the figure 3 , the portion of the vapor diffusion head 61 which is opposite the attachment recess 676 forms a retaining portion 610 adapted to cooperate with the retaining member 2011 of the vapor diffusion base 2. The shape of this retaining portion 610 is in fact designed to fit the shape of an internal surface of the retaining member 2011 in the deployed position of the retaining member 2011, the locking of the vapor diffusion member 6 in a vertical position within the storage space 2010 resulting from the inclination, with respect to the vertical, of the external surface of the vapor diffusion head 61 at the level of this retaining portion 610.

[0076] As seen on the figure 13 The grip handle 67 is hollow. In other words, the grip handle 67 includes a wall delimiting an internal cavity 678 that extends inside the grip handle 67. The internal cavity 678 is specifically designed to house the mechanical and / or electronic components that transmit the trigger signals 671 to the steam diffusion base processor 2, via the cord 7. This internal cavity 678 is closed by a cover 677 designed to cooperate with the wall delimiting the internal cavity 678. As seen in the figure 13 , the cover 677 can be fitted with the 6770 hook elements facilitating the gripping of the 67 gripping handle by a user.

[0077] There figure 13 It also illustrates that, due in particular to the structural fragility that may result from the presence of the internal cavity 678 within the gripping handle 67, reinforcing ribs 673 may be provided, which extend inside the internal cavity 678 and connect different portions of the wall delimiting the internal cavity 678 to reinforce the structure of the gripping handle 67. The reinforcing ribs 673 may also serve to hold all or part of the mechanical and / or electronic elements enabling the transmission of the stresses from the trigger 671 movably mounted on the gripping handle 67 to the processor of the vapor diffusion base 2.

[0078] When the iron 3 is arranged within the storage space 2010 while another steam diffusion accessory 4, 5 is connected to the steam diffusion base 2 and happens to be in operation, steam may be projected onto the iron 3, condense, and penetrate it, jeopardizing its lifespan.

[0079] For example, liquid may enter the internal cavity 660 of the vapor diffusion head 61, through the communication passage 6600 between the internal cavity 660 and the exterior of the main body. Therefore, as can be seen on the figure 12 Specifically, an insulating sheath 662 surrounds at least a portion of the free end of the resistive wire 661 extending beyond the tubular element 6630. In this way, the free end 6610 of the resistive wire 661 is electrically insulated from the tubular element 6630. Thus, if liquid happens to flow at the free end 6610 of the resistive wire 661, a drop of liquid is unlikely to establish an electric arc between the free end 6610 and the tubular element 6630, made of conductive material, which defines the outer wall of the heating element 6630, 6631, 661. The insulating sheath 662 can be made of any electrically suitable insulating material, such as plastic.In addition, the insulation sheath 662 can have any shape and dimensions suitable for insulating the resistive electric wire 661 and thus preventing the establishment of an electric arc with liquid accidentally circulating within the internal cavity 660.

[0080] Furthermore, a drainage system can be provided to evacuate liquid by gravity from the internal cavity 660 to the outside of the vapor diffuser head 61 when the vapor diffuser 6 is arranged within the storage space 2010, or more generally when the vapor diffuser 6 is in a vertical position, i.e., in a position where the vapor diffuser head 61 extends substantially perpendicularly to the ground. This drainage system offers additional safety by preventing a large quantity of liquid from accumulating in the vapor diffuser 6 when it is stored in the storage space 2010.

[0081] Similarly, liquid can enter the internal cavity 678 of the grip 67, for example through the gaps separating the cover 677 from the rest of the grip 67, or through the gaps separating the trigger 671 from the rest of the grip 67. Therefore, the service life of the moisture-sensitive components located within the internal cavity 678 is critical. This is why, as can be seen on the figure 13 , the gripping handle 67 includes a drainage system 672 configured to drain a liquid by gravity from inside the gripping handle 67 to outside the gripping handle 67 when the vapor diffusion element 6 is arranged within the storage space 2010 or, more generally, when the vapor diffusion element 6 is in a vertical position, i.e. in a position where the gripping handle 67 extends substantially perpendicularly to the ground.

[0082] As seen on the figure 13 The drainage system 672 for the gripping handle 67 can include various components. First, the drainage system 672 for the gripping handle 67 can include at least one drainage port 6720, preferably two drainage ports 6720, provided through a drainage wall 6721 of the gripping handle 67 intended to extend opposite the support face 200 when the vapor diffusion element 6 is arranged within the storage space 2010. Liquid accumulated within the internal cavity 678 can thus advantageously drain from it as soon as the gripping handle 67 is positioned vertically. In addition, as also illustrated in the figure 13 at least one passage recess 6730 can be provided through at least one of the reinforcing ribs 673, so as to permit fluid to flow through the reinforcing rib 673. Thus, fluid cannot accumulate in the various compartments formed within the internal cavity 678, between the reinforcing ribs 673.

[0083] There figure 14 , there figure 15 and the figure 16 illustrate a steam diffusion element 6 of a cleaning accessory 4 intended for cleaning surfaces. However, what is described below with reference to these figures could be applied to a steam diffusion element 6 of a garment-sweeping accessory 5, such as the one illustrated on the figure 1 , there figure 4 and the figure 5 .

[0084] There figure 15 and the figure 16 show that a steam transmission orifice 670 is provided at one end of the gripping handle 67, allowing steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam transmission orifice 670 once the steam diffusion accessory 4 is connected to the steam diffusion base 2. In fact, the gripping handle 67, in this case, constitutes an extension of the cord 7 to transmit the steam produced within the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion head 61. The steam transmission orifice 670 is thus typically formed by the end of the steam diffusion duct 74 extending within the cord 7 and described in more detail below, the gripping handle 67 being designed to hold this end of the steam diffusion duct 74. As can be seen more precisely from the figure 17 to the figure 20 , the steam transmission orifice 670 is further provided at the end of the gripping handle 67 which is opposite the hooking element 674.

[0085] There figure 14 , there figure 15 and the figure 16 They further illustrate that the steam diffusion head 61, which extends from the end of the gripping handle 67 equipped with the steam transmission orifice 670, comprises a base 62 and a steam diffusion part 64 advantageously made up of different types of cleaning heads.

[0086] As can be seen in particular on the figure 15 and on the figure 16 , the base 62 extends from the gripping handle 67 to the end of the gripping handle 67 which is provided with the steam transmission orifice 670.

[0087] There figure 14 shows that the base 62 further comprises a coupling face 6310, a main orifice 6311 and two secondary orifices 6312 being provided within the coupling face 6310, the secondary orifices 6312 being provided on either side of the main orifice 6311. On the figure 14 The main orifice 6311 and the secondary orifices 6312 are preferably aligned along an axis transverse to the gripping handle 67, or even aligned in a plane transverse to the gripping handle 67. This is not, however, a limitation, since the secondary orifices 6312 could also be aligned in a first plane transverse to the gripping handle 67, with the main orifice 6311 extending in a second plane transverse to the handle, the second plane being further from the gripping handle 67 than the first plane. As described in more detail below, the relative positioning of the main orifice 6311 and the secondary orifices 6312 is designed to prevent incorrect assembly of the cleaning head 64 with the base 62.

[0088] There figure 15 illustrates that a main channel 6321 extends from the main port 6311 into the base 62 and is connected to the steam transmission port 670. It is through the main channel 6321 that steam can be diffused from the steam transmission port 670 to the main port 6311. Advantageously, as can be seen in the figure 16 The main channel 6321 has a frustoconical section 63211 positioned at the main orifice 6311, the section 63211 flaring out towards the main orifice 6311. As described in more detail below, this flaring helps to stabilize the attachment of the cleaning head 64 to the base 62.

[0089] In addition, two secondary channels 6322 extend, respectively, from the two secondary ports 6312 into the interior of the base 62. The main channel 6321 and the secondary channels 6312 extend in the same axial direction corresponding to the mating / unmating direction of the cleaning head 64 on the base 62. The secondary channels 6322 serve to prevent incorrect alignment during the mounting of the cleaning head 64, but also ensure mechanical consistency, as will be described in more detail below. In this regard, the figure 14 shows that an anti-rotation groove 63221 opens into at least one secondary channel 6322 and, as described in more detail below, is also useful for the mechanical consistency of the vapor diffusion head 61.

[0090] There figure 15 and the figure 16 show that the base 62 can include an intermediate coupling piece 63, which can be removable relative to the base 62, and which includes the coupling face 6310 and a plurality of walls delimiting the main channel 6321 and the secondary channels 6322. The figure 16 It also illustrates that the main channel 6321 of the coupling intermediate piece 63 extends into a hollow connecting nipple 63212 intended to be inserted into the end of the steam diffusion conduit 74. At least one sealing gasket 63210 can be arranged at the interface between the steam diffusion conduit 74 and the connecting nipple 63212, preferably an O-ring surrounding the connecting nipple 63212. The end of the connecting nipple 63212 may be provided with projections intended to cooperate with the inner surface of the steam diffusion conduit 74, once the connecting nipple 63212 is inserted into the steam diffusion conduit 74, so as to prevent the coupling intermediate piece 63 from being pulled away from the base 62. Providing a coupling intermediate piece 63 reduces the manufacturing complexity of the steam diffusion head 61, without increasing the complexity of the assembly of the vapor diffusion device 6.This is not exhaustive, however, since the main channel 6321 and the secondary channels 6322 can be single units with the base 62.

[0091] On the figure 15 and the figure 16 It can be more precisely seen that the intermediate coupling piece 63 advantageously comprises a plate 631 forming the coupling face 6310 and three protrusions 632 extending from the plate 631, each protrusion 632 comprising, respectively, a wall delimiting one of the main channel 6321 and the secondary channels 6322. The figure 15 It even illustrates that the protrusions 632 forming the secondary channels 6322 can be provided to fix the intermediate coupling piece 63 to the base 62. In this regard, attachment holes 6322 can be provided at the end of each of the protrusions 632 forming the secondary channels 6322 which are opposite the plate 631, and be provided to be opposite other attachment holes 633 of the base 62 in order to accommodate attachment means (not shown), such as screws.

[0092] There figure 14 illustrates that various cleaning heads 64 are designed to be removably coupled to the base 62, depending on the cleaning function required and / or the surface to be cleaned. The leftmost cleaning head 64 shown on the figure 14 is intended for cleaning a window or mirror, and is described in more detail below. The cleaning head 64 illustrated in the center of the figure 14 is designed for cleaning any type of flat surface, such as an induction hob or a worktop. The cleaning head 64 is shown on the far right of the image. figure 14 is intended for cleaning grooves such as tile joints or tap surrounds, and includes a brush for this purpose. In any case, the cleaning head 64 includes a connecting element 641 and at least two pins 642.

[0093] The connecting element 641 forms a channel for steam diffusion and extends outward from the cleaning head 64. Furthermore, the connecting element 641 is intended to be inserted into the main channel 6321 to allow steam diffusion from the main orifice 6311 through the cleaning head 64. In this regard, as can also be seen on the figure 14 It may be advantageous to provide at least one sealing gasket 640 arranged between the connecting element 641 and the main channel wall 6321, preferably an O-ring surrounding the connecting element 641. Furthermore, as can be seen on the figure 16 The connecting element 641 has a cross-section at its extension axis X2-X2 that is wider at the connection between the connecting element 641 and the cleaning head 64. This widening is designed to cooperate in a complementary manner with the flared, frustoconical section 63211 of the main channel 6321. In this way, the torque stresses that may be exerted at this point of cooperation, due to the use of the cleaning head 64, are better absorbed, which improves the strength of the cleaning head 64.

[0094] Each of the two pins 642 extends outward from the cleaning head 64 on either side of the connecting element 641 and is intended to be inserted, respectively, into the two secondary channels 6322 to prevent rotation of the cleaning head 64 relative to the base 62 once the cleaning head 64 is coupled to the base 62. In this way, the pins 642 ensure mechanical cohesion of the cleaning head 64 on the base 62. Furthermore, once assembled, the pins 642 ensure the mechanical cohesion of the steam diffusion element 6. Preferably, the pins 642 are designed to prevent rotation of the cleaning head 64 relative to the base 62 around the main channel 6321, once the cleaning head 64 is coupled to the base 62.In this regard, the pin intended to be inserted into the secondary channel 6322, which has an anti-rotation groove 63221, is itself advantageously provided with an anti-rotation rib 6422 designed to cooperate with the anti-rotation groove 63221 so as to prevent this rotation of the cleaning head 64 relative to the base 62 around the main channel 6321, once the pin is inserted into the secondary channel 6322. Furthermore, as illustrated in the... figure 14 at least one of the pins 642, if not both pins 642, comprises at least one anchoring element 6421, for example longitudinal ribs extending radially from the pin 642, intended to cooperate with a wall delimiting the secondary channel 6322 into which the pin 642 is intended to be inserted, so as to prevent accidental withdrawal of the cleaning head 64 from the base 62, by uncoupling of the cleaning head 64 and the base 62, along the secondary channel 6322, preferably by friction against the wall of the secondary channel 6322. Preferably, each of the two pins 642 has an external shape that is not complementary to a shape of the secondary channel 6322 into which the pin 642 is intended to be inserted, so as to allow forceful insertion of the pin 642 into the secondary channel 6322.In other words, the external transverse dimensions of the pin 642 are greater than the internal transverse dimensions of the secondary channel 6322, the notion of transverse here being understood as a plane orthogonal to the main extension direction of the pins 642. The pins 642 are thus intended to be inserted by force inside the secondary channels 6322, which reinforces the mechanical coherence and the solidity of the steam diffusion element 6, despite the plurality of parts which compose it.

[0095] The respective bases of the connecting element 641 and the pins 642 are preferably aligned along a transverse axis with the cleaning head 64. However, since each of the connecting element 641 and the pins 642 has a free end 6410, 6420 opposite its base, the free end 6410 of the connecting element 641 advantageously extends beyond the free ends 6420 of the pins 642, relative to the cleaning head 64. This, combined with the relative positioning of the main orifice 6311 and the secondary orifices 6312, already described, ensures that, when the cleaning head 64 is mounted on the base 62, the connecting element 641 comes into contact with the main channel 6321 before the pins 642 come into contact with the secondary channels. 6322. In this way, the mechanical cohesion of the cleaning head 64 on the base 62 is achieved progressively with the help of the pins 642, which facilitates the assembly of the steam diffusion element 6.

[0096] From the figure 17 to the figure 20 is illustrated in more detail the steam diffusion organ 6 of a steam diffusion accessory 4 equipped with a cleaning head 64 intended for cleaning surfaces, and more specifically windows.

[0097] As illustrated in particular by the figure 17 , the cleaning head 64 intended for window washing includes a scraping element 643, a cleaning element 644 and a diffusion channel 645.

[0098] The scraping element 643 is designed to extend from one end of the cleaning head 64 opposite the gripping handle 67 and allows for scraping a surface to be cleaned. Furthermore, the scraping element 643 extends from one end of the steam diffuser 6 opposite the end of the gripping handle 67 that is designed to be connected to the cord 7. As shown in the figure 17 The scraping element 643 comprises at least one rigid support blade 6431, preferably made of metal and advantageously of aluminum, and a flexible blade 6432 advantageously comprising silicone. The support blade 6431 preferably surrounds at least a portion of the flexible blade 6432 according to the arrangement illustrated in the figure 17 in which it can be seen that a portion of the flexible blade 6432 opposite its end intended for scraping the surface can take the form of a bulb 64320. The bulb 64320 is designed to fix the flexible blade 6432 to the support blade 6431 by being press-fitted into a fixing groove 64310 formed by an end portion of the support blade 6431 that is fixed to the cleaning head 64. This arrangement improves scraping efficiency by allowing the flexible blade 6432 to offer greater resistance to bending, due to its support by the support blade 6431, while also presenting a simple and practical design. figure 18 illustrates that the support blade 6431, the flexible blade 6432, the bulb 64320 and the fixing groove 64310 are designed to extend substantially transversely relative to the gripping handle 67 and along the entire length of the cleaning head 64, in order to maximize the scraped area.

[0099] The cleaning element 644, designed to come into contact with the surface to be cleaned, is suitable for use with moisture. The steam projected by the cleaning head 64 onto the surface condenses upon contact. The scraping element 643 then scrapes away the resulting liquid, and the cleaning element 644 absorbs this liquid while simultaneously scrubbing the surface to clean it. This process improves surface cleaning. To this end, the cleaning element 644 is made of microfiber fabric, which is effective, inexpensive, and lightweight.

[0100] As shown by figure 17 The diffusion channel 645 is connected to the steam transmission orifice 670 and opens only between the scraping element 643 and the cleaning element 644. The diffusion channel 645 is designed to diffuse steam from the transmission orifice to the surface to be cleaned, without projecting steam through the cleaning element 644. Thus, during operation, the cleaning element 644 is only moistened by the liquid condensed on the glass and not by the projected steam, which improves its absorption efficiency.

[0101] From the figure 18 to the figure 20 is illustrated that the cleaning head 64 advantageously comprises a transverse body 646 and a support 647, which facilitates the manufacture and assembly of the cleaning head 64.

[0102] The transverse body 646 extends from the gripping handle 67, and more precisely from the base 62, preferably transversely to a main extension direction of the gripping handle 67 in order to maximize the cleaned surface area. The transverse body 646 may be a single piece with the gripping handle 67 or form a separate, removable part from the gripping handle 67, typically via the base 62. Typically, it is the transverse body 646 that includes the connecting element 641 and the pins 642 described previously. Furthermore, as illustrated by the figure 18 The transverse body 646 advantageously comprises a wall 6460 delimiting a first part of the diffusion channel 645 and surrounding the end of the connecting element 641 opening into the steam diffusion head 61. This first part of the diffusion channel 645 extends straight from the connecting element 641 into the cleaning head 64. The figure 18 and the figure 19 This also illustrates that the scraping element 643 is removable on the steam diffuser head 61; that is, the scraping element 643 is configured to be attached to and fixed on the cross member 646. Preferably, a fastening member 6463, for example, spring clips molded with the cross member 646, allows the scraping element 643, and more specifically the support blade 6431, to be fixed to the steam diffuser head 61, in order to withstand the stresses to which the scraping element 643 is subjected during operation. If necessary, the support 647 can be configured to cooperate with the fastening member 6463 so as to contribute to fixing the scraping element 643 to the steam diffuser head 61.

[0103] The bracket 647 is configured to be removably mounted on the cross member 646. For this purpose, a locking component 6471 may be provided, the locking component 6471 being configured to secure the bracket 647 to the cross member 646. As can be seen from the figure 19 The locking component 6471 preferably includes an elastic tab with a hook. The cross body 646 may include a complementary component 6461, such as a snap groove, designed to be coupled to the locking component 6471 to hold the support 647 fixed relative to the cross body 646 once they are coupled to each other. Furthermore, the support 647 is designed to hold the cleaning element 644. More specifically, the cleaning element 644 is preferably removable and configured to be attached to and fixed onto the support 647, advantageously by means of an elastic component (not shown) disposed around the periphery of the cleaning element 644. In this regard, as particularly visible on the figure 16 and on the figure 17 The cleaning element 644 is designed to be fixed to the support 647 so as to isolate the diffusion channel 645 from the outside of the cleaning head 64. More specifically, the cleaning element 644 and the support 647 are designed so that the diffusion opening 649, described in more detail below, is the only vapor escape route, all other gaps in the cleaning head 64, and in particular the interfaces between the cleaning element 644 and the support 647, being vapor-tight. In this way, liquid resulting from vapor condensation inside the cleaning head 64 cannot be projected out of the cleaning head 64, particularly during handling of the vapor diffusion member 6. Furthermore, as illustrated by the figure 20 The support 647 advantageously includes a wall 6470 delimiting a second part of the diffusion channel 645, the wall 6460 being provided to butt the wall 6470 once the support 647 is coupled to the transverse body 646. This wall 6470 is advantageously arranged so that steam circulating within the diffusion channel 645 is diffused over substantially the entire length of the cleaning head 64 in a principal extension direction of the cleaning head 64, that is to say a direction transverse to the gripping handle 67 once the cleaning head 64 is assembled to the gripping handle 67, preferably between 60% and 90% of this length, for example 80% of this length.Thus, once the support 647 is mounted on the transverse body 646, the transverse body 646 and the support 647 define a diffusion chamber 648 and a diffusion opening 649, which define a terminal part of the diffusion channel 645, the diffusion opening 649 allowing communication between the diffusion chamber 648 and the outside of the cleaning head 64 so as to diffuse steam from the transmission orifice to the diffusion opening 649. Cordon

[0104] From the figure 1 to the figure 7 It is illustrated that the cord 7 takes the form of a tube, preferably flexible. The cross-section of cord 7, in a plane transverse to the principal extension direction of cord 7 at rest, can be of any suitable shape, such as a circle or an oval, the shape of cord 7 being adapted to the elements that cord 7 is intended to house.

[0105] Cord 7 may be made of any suitable material, preferably impermeable to liquids and gases, such as plastic. However, this is not limiting, as cord 7 may also be made of a textile material, preferably woven, braided and / or knitted.

[0106] As seen on the figure 1 The cord 7 comprises a first end 71 intended to be connected to the steam diffusion element 6 and a second end 72 intended to be connected to the connection element 8. In this regard, the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 may be provided with a fastening element 78 designed to prevent the cord 7 from being pulled away from the steam diffusion element 6. This fastening element 78 is also designed so as not to restrict the movement of the cord 7 relative to the steam diffusion element 6, in order to facilitate handling of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 by a user. As visible from the figure 1 to the figure 7 , and on the figure 12 , this attachment element 78 can take the form of a flexible sleeve surrounding the first end 71 of the cord 7, one end of the flexible sleeve being inserted into the vapor diffusion element 6, by means of a ball joint, the other remaining free, the wall of the flexible sleeve being provided with a plurality of through openings to increase the flexibility of the flexible sleeve.

[0107] In addition, the cord 7 is hollow and designed to house at least one electrical sheath 73 and at least one steam diffusion conduit 74.

[0108] The electrical sheath 73, preferably flexible, is designed to surround and hold at least one electrical wire 730 extending within the cord 7, so as to insulate it from the rest of the cord 7, in particular to provide electrical insulation and a liquid- and gas-tight seal. For this purpose, the electrical sheath 73 may be made of plastic. The electrical sheath 73 is preferably flexible, with a flexibility substantially similar to that of the cord 7, to accommodate the movement of the cord 7 during handling of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5. The electrical sheath 73 also allows for holding together, where necessary, a plurality of electrical wires 730 within the cord 7. The electrical wires 730 are designed to carry an electric current between the steam diffusion base 2 and the steam diffusion element 6. The electrical wires 730 may also be surrounded by an insulating sheath, in particular an electrically insulating one.The electric current flowing through the electric wires 730 can be associated with a control signal, typically from the trigger 671 to control the opening of the solenoid valve, or with electrical power, typically from the steam diffusion base 2 to the electrically conductive element 661 to electrically power the heating sole 65.

[0109] The steam diffusion conduit 74 is intended to circulate steam produced within the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion member 6, via the connecting member 8. In this respect, the steam diffusion conduit 74 has a first end 741 intended to be connected to the steam diffusion member 6. The steam diffusion conduit 74 may take the form of a flexible tube, with a flexibility substantially identical to that of the cord 7 to accommodate the movements of the cord 7 during the handling of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, and comprising a material that is impermeable to liquids and gases, and in particular impermeable to vapor, typically plastic.

[0110] As seen from the figure 21 to the figure 27 A nozzle 75 is provided to be coupled to a second end 742 of the steam diffusion duct 74, which is opposite the first end 741, in order to connect the steam diffusion duct 74 to the steam diffusion base 2 in a removable manner. In this way, the steam diffusion duct 74 allows steam to be diffused from the steam generator 21 to the steam diffusion element 6. More precisely, as can be seen in the figure 12 The nozzle 75 is designed to extend within the connection channel 2022 when the cord 7 is connected to the steam diffusion base 2 via the connection element 8. Furthermore, in this configuration of inserting the nozzle 75 into the steam diffusion base 2, through the connection opening 2021, the nozzle 75 is designed to be coupled to the connection elements 2023 arranged on the side of the connection channel 2022 opposite the connection opening 2021, in order to receive steam produced by the steam generator 21, via the supply conduit 214. In this regard, as can be seen in particular on the figure 10 at least one sealing ring 753, preferably toroidal, can be arranged around the nozzle 75, preferably housed in a groove 750 provided on an external surface of the nozzle 75, the sealing ring 753 being intended to cooperate with one of the connecting elements 2023 in the insertion configuration of the nozzle 75 within the vapor diffusion base 2, and this to prevent vapor leakage within the connection channel 2022.

[0111] The nozzle 75 extends substantially along a longitudinal axis X3-X3, typically taking on an external cylindrical shape, for example, a cylindrical shape of revolution centered on the longitudinal axis X3-X3. Furthermore, the nozzle 75 is hollow to allow steam to flow from the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion conduit 74. More precisely, the nozzle 75 includes a wall defining a steam passage channel 763, which extends along a longitudinal axis X5-X5, passing completely through the nozzle 75. The figure 27 illustrates that the passage channel 763 extends from a first end 751 of the nozzle 75 intended to be connected to the vapor diffusion base 2 to a second end 752 of the nozzle 75 intended to be connected to the cord 7. The passage channel 763 has along its entire length, with the exception of a restriction element 76 described in more detail below, a circular cross-section whose diameter is preferably greater than 4.2 millimeters and advantageously between 4.2 and 5.2 millimeters.

[0112] In accordance with the figure 26 and to the figure 27 The nozzle 75 includes a restrictor element 76, preferably mechanical, configured to reduce the flow rate and / or modify the velocity of steam from the steam diffusion base 2. A mechanical restrictor element 76 has the advantage of being simple and inexpensive to manufacture. However, this is not a limitation, as the restrictor element 76 could just as easily be electrical or electronic, for example, in the form of an electrically controlled variable aperture diaphragm. The restrictor element 76 allows the flow rate and / or velocity of steam produced by the steam generator 21 to be adapted according to the steam diffusion device 6, which is connected to the steam diffusion base 2. More specifically, the restrictor element 76 is configured to reduce the steam flow rate from between 150 and 200 g / min to between 30 and 55 g / min.In this respect, the cleaning accessory 4, whose nozzle 75 includes a restrictor element 76, is advantageous. Indeed, in this way, it is not necessarily required to modify the steam flow rate from the steam generator 21 to the connection opening 2021 when the processor detects a change in the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, or 5, thus simplifying the assembly, manufacture, and operation of the steam diffusion base 2. Furthermore, providing that the restrictor element 76 is positioned at the nozzle 75, i.e., at the second end 742 of the steam diffusion duct 74, rather than at the first end 741 of the steam diffusion duct 74, or within the steam diffusion unit 6, helps to limit overpressures within the steam diffusion duct 74. In any case, this restrictor element 76 also improves the safety of the user.

[0113] Advantageously, as can be seen in particular on the figure 26 and on the figure 27 The restrictor element 76 extends within the passage channel 763 and has an external shape complementary to the passage channel 763. More specifically, the restrictor element 76 may have a first frustoconical portion 761 extending and flaring towards the first end 751 of the nozzle 75 and a second straight portion 762 extending towards the second end 752 of the nozzle 75. This shape is simple and inexpensive to manufacture, while allowing for effective flow reduction. The restrictor element 76 is advantageously one-piece with the nozzle 75, the wall of the passage channel 763 then forming the external shape of the restrictor element 76, which simplifies the manufacture of the nozzle 75 and limits the risk of the restrictor element 76 being evacuated from the nozzle 75 under vapor diffusion pressure.This is not limiting, however, since the restriction element 76 could just as well be brought into the passage channel 763, typically taking the form of a ring with an external shape complementary to that of the passage channel 763, and be intended to be brought into and fixed there, typically by gluing.

[0114] To ensure the reduction of the flow through the restriction element 76, a steam passage orifice 760 is advantageously provided through the restriction element 76, preferably by passing through the restriction element 76, so as to be in communication with the passage channel 763. This passage orifice 760 extends along a longitudinal axis X4-X4, which is preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis X5-X5 of the passage channel 763, and opens on one side into an opening at the level of the first frustoconical portion 761 and on the other side into an opening at the level of the second straight portion 762. Furthermore, the passage orifice 760 has a cross-section to the longitudinal axis X4-X4 of the passage orifice 760 which is less than the cross-section of the passage channel 763. More precisely, the cross-section of the passage orifice 760 has the shape of a disc with a diameter between 1.2 and 1.7 millimeters.

[0115] There figure 27 This further illustrates that the restrictor element 76 is preferably positioned equidistant from the first end 751 of the nozzle 75 and the second end 752 of the nozzle 75. This facilitates the manufacturing of the nozzle 75 by molding, limiting the risk of the mold, which does indeed have a weakness in the restrictor element 76, bending. Moreover, once the connecting member 8 is connected to the vapor diffusion base 2, the restrictor element 76 is preferably positioned inside the vapor diffusion base 2, typically within the connection channel 2022, ensuring vapor containment in the event of rupture of the restrictor element 76.

[0116] From the figure 21 to the figure 23 but also on the figure 26 It is illustrated that a reinforcing element 77 can be provided to be arranged around the second end 72 of the cord 7. The presence of a reinforcing element 77 is, of course, not always mandatory, and generally depends on the type of vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5. The reinforcing element 77 is particularly useful for preventing the connecting element 8 from being pulled away from the second end 72. As can be seen in particular on the figure 21 and the figure 26 The reinforcing member 77 extends along a longitudinal axis X6-X6 and has at least one first anti-pull-out extension 7710 extending radially outwards from the reinforcing member 77. The first anti-pull-out extension 7710 is preferably metallic for structural reasons of pull-out resistance. The first anti-pull-out extension 7710 is intended to cooperate with a second anti-pull-out extension 81102 complementary to the connecting member 8, as described in more detail below. Furthermore, as visible on the figure 21 The reinforcing element 77 comprises at least one turn, preferably a plurality of turns connected together in a spiral 771 extending along the longitudinal axis X6-X6 of the reinforcing element 77. In this case, at least a portion of the turn forms the first anti-pull-out extension 7710. The spiral 771 offers the advantage of providing, in a single piece, a plurality of turns 7710, i.e., first anti-pull-out extensions, distributed along the extension axis of the spiral 771. The reinforcing element 77 is preferably in the form of a tube designed to be fitted, typically by press-fitting, around the second end 72. If necessary, the reinforcing element 77 comprises a sleeve 772, preferably made of plastic, which surrounds and retains the entire turn 7710. Organe de connexion

[0117] The connecting element 8 is illustrated in more detail in the figure 21 to the figure 26 The connecting element 8 allows the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 to be connected to the steam diffusion base 2 in a removable manner so as to allow steam diffusion from the steam generator 21 to the steam diffusion element 6 through the cord 7, preferably by inserting the connecting element 8 through the connection opening 2021 of the steam diffusion base 2.

[0118] In this regard, the connecting member 8 may include a second locking element 8220 intended to cooperate with the first locking element 261 of the vapor diffusion base 2, already described with reference to the figure 9 As illustrated on the figure 11 , the second locking element 8220 can typically take the form of a groove formed on an external surface of the connecting member 8 intended to extend opposite the first locking element 261 once the connecting member 8 is inserted into the connecting opening 2021.

[0119] The connecting member 8 comprises a coupling element 81 and, preferably, a linking element 821, 822.

[0120] The coupling element 81 is intended to connect the connecting member 8 to the cord 7, preferably by tightening the second end 72 of the cord 7.

[0121] In one variant (not shown) the coupling element 81 is further provided to connect the connecting member 8 to the vapor diffusion base 2, typically by insertion through the connection opening 2021. Where applicable, it is the coupling element 81 which includes the second locking element 8220.

[0122] In general, the coupling element 81 has an elongated shape and extends along a longitudinal axis X7-X7, X8-X8. Furthermore, as can be seen in particular on the figure 22 and on the figure 25 , the coupling element 81 advantageously comprises a clamping piece 811 and a sleeve 812.

[0123] The clamping piece 811 comprises at least two complementary portions 8110, forming jaws, designed to clamp at least one portion of the cord 7 at the second end 72. The complementary portions 8110 are elongated and extend along a longitudinal axis X7-X7. In this respect, at least one of the complementary portions 8110 advantageously comprises at least one projection 81101, such as a stud 81101 or a clamping rib 81101 visible on the figure 24 , to reinforce the tightening of cord 7, the protrusion 81101 extends from its active surface intended to come into contact with cord 7. Preferably, as also visible on the figure 21 and on the figure 24 The clamping element 811 further comprises at least one hinge element 8111, with at least two of the complementary portions 8110 being connected by the hinge element 8111. In this way, the clamping element 811 is easier to handle. The hinge element 8111 and the at least two of the complementary portions 8110 are advantageously one-piece, which is easier to manufacture. figure 21 illustrates that, in one embodiment, the clamping part 811 comprises three complementary portions 8110, while the figure 24 illustrates that, in an alternative embodiment, the clamping part 811 comprises two complementary portions 8110.

[0124] There figure 21 further illustrates that the clamping piece 811 can be provided to clamp the reinforcing member 77. To do this, the active surface of at least one of the complementary portions 8110, which is intended to extend in relation to the reinforcing member 77, includes at least a second anti-pull-out extension 81102 extending outward from the active surface. The second anti-pull-out extension 81102 of the clamping part 811 is intended to cooperate with the first anti-pull-out extension 7710 of the reinforcing member 77, already described, when the additional portions 8110 clamp the reinforcing member 77. This prevents translation of the coupling element 81 relative to the reinforcing member 77 along the longitudinal axis X6-X6 of the reinforcing member 77, once the clamping part 811 is attached to the reinforcing member 77.The second anti-pull-out extension can advantageously take the form of a locking rib 81102, which can extend along or transversely to the longitudinal axis X7-X7 of the complementary portions 8110. The . figure 21 This illustrates that the clamping element 811 can comprise a plurality of locking ribs 81102 distributed along the complementary portions 8110, some of which are transverse locking ribs 81102 extending transversely to the longitudinal axis X7-X7 of the complementary portions 8110 and intended to prevent translation of the clamping element 811 relative to the reinforcing member 77, and others are longitudinal locking ribs 81102 extending along this longitudinal axis X7-X7 and intended to prevent rotation of the clamping element 811 relative to the reinforcing member 77, which, given the presence of the spiral 771 on the reinforcing member 77, also prevents translation of the clamping element 811 relative to the reinforcing member 77. The locking ribs 81102 advantageously have dimensions adapted to the dimensions of the spiral 771. and this in order to effectively prevent the connection element 8 from being torn off the cord 7.Thus, the transverse locking ribs 81102 have a radial height substantially identical to the radial depth of the spaces between two successive turns 7710 of the spiral 771, while the longitudinal locking ribs 81102 have a longitudinal length greater than or equal to the longitudinal spacing between two successive turns 7710 of the spiral 771. In this way, once the complementary portions 8110 are in the clamping position of the reinforcing member 77, the turns 7710 of the spiral 771 are in abutment 2013 against the locking ribs 81102.

[0125] There figure 21 This also illustrates that the clamping piece 811 can further include a retaining portion 8112 extending from at least one of the complementary portions 8110 along the longitudinal axis X7-X7 of that complementary portion 8110. The retaining portion 8112 is designed to retain the electrical sheath 73, and more specifically the end of the electrical sheath 73 designed to extend opposite the vapor diffusion base 2 when the connecting member 8 is coupled to the vapor diffusion base 2. In addition, the retaining portion 8112 is designed to leave the vapor diffusion conduit 74, and more specifically the nozzle 75, free. In this way, the sealing of the connecting member 8 is improved. Furthermore, in the event of the connection element 8 being torn from the cord 7, the retaining portion 8112 contributes to the preservation of the electrical sheath 73 and, consequently, of the electrical wires 730 housed within it. As can be seen on the figure 21 The retaining portion 8112 preferably includes a wall defining a retaining channel 81120 within which a portion of the electrical sheath 73 is designed to extend. Furthermore, the retaining channel 81120 advantageously includes an elbow 81121 designed to hold the electrical sheath 73 fixed relative to the clamping piece 811, particularly in the event of the connection element 8 being pulled away from the cord 7.

[0126] There figure 25 This illustrates that the clamping piece 811 may further include a first fastening element 81103 designed to cooperate with a second fastening element 8121 of the sleeve 812, described in more detail below, to hold the sleeve 812 fixed to the clamping piece 811. The first locking element 261 may be in the form of a lug projecting from an external surface of the clamping piece 811, i.e., the surface opposite the active surface of the complementary portions 8110 of the clamping piece 811, to cooperate by snapping with the second fastening element 8121. In this respect, the second fastening element 8121, as seen in the figure 25 , can take the form of a flexible tongue extending from an external surface of the sleeve 812, i.e. a surface radially opposite to the surface of the sleeve 812 intended to come into contact with the clamping part 811, the tongue being intended to cooperate with the lug of the clamping part 811 by snapping.

[0127] As illustrated on the figure 22 , there figure 23 and the figure 25 , the sleeve 812 is designed to be fitted onto the clamping piece 811 so as to surround the clamping piece 811 by tightening it and to hold fixed the complementary portions 8110 on the portion of the cord 7. Therefore, the sleeve 812 has a substantially elongated shape along a longitudinal axis X8-X8.

[0128] As seen on the figure 22 and the figure 23 Alternatively or in addition to snap-on fastening, the sleeve 812 can be designed to be press-fitted around the clamping piece 811 so as to be held fixed relative to the clamping piece 811. In this case, the sleeve 812 and the clamping piece 811 can then advantageously be without the fastening elements 81103, 8121.

[0129] As seen from the figure 9 to the figure 11 , the connecting element 821, 822 is intended to cooperate with the connection opening 2021 and to extend within the connection channel 2022 so as to couple the connecting organ 8 to the vapor diffusion base 2.

[0130] In this regard, the connecting element 821, 822 is intended to be assembled to the coupling element 81 so as to surround the sleeve 812 and to be removably connected to the vapor diffusion base 2. Thus, the connecting element 821, 822 is a substantially elongated piece extending along a longitudinal axis X9-X9, X10-X10.

[0131] There figure 22 , there figure 23 and the figure 24 illustrate that the connecting element 821, 822 can be in several parts and include a longitudinal body 821 and a cover 822. This is not limiting, however, since the connecting element 821, 822 could very well be formed from a single piece.

[0132] The longitudinal body 821 has a first end 8211 through which the cord 7 passes at a passage opening 8210. Furthermore, the longitudinal body 821 is designed to be assembled to the coupling element 81 by press-fitting, preferably by force along the longitudinal axis X7-X7, X8-X8 of the coupling element 81, so as to surround at least partially, and preferably completely, the coupling element 81, and more specifically at least partially, and preferably completely, the sleeve 812, and to extend beyond the coupling element 81 in a direction opposite to the cord 7. More precisely, the longitudinal body 821 has an elongated shape and extends along a longitudinal axis X9-X9. In this way, the coupling element 81 is held fixed to the cord 7 and is protected by the longitudinal body 821 from any external projection.

[0133] Furthermore, the longitudinal body 821 may include a sealing flange 8214 positioned at the first end 8211 of the longitudinal body 821. The sealing flange 8214 extends radially towards the longitudinal axis X9-X9 and is designed to cooperate with a sealing flange 8120 of the sleeve 812, once the longitudinal body 821 is fitted around the coupling element 81 so as to form a seal between the coupling element 81 and the longitudinal body 821. In this way, liquid and / or gas cannot enter the connecting member 8 through the interface between the longitudinal body 821 and the sleeve 812. As shown in the figure 26 , the sealing rim 8120 is positioned at the end of the coupling element 81 closest to the vapor diffusion member 6 once the coupling element 81 is tightened around the second end 72.

[0134] Furthermore, as illustrated on the figure 26 The longitudinal body 821 includes a second end 8212, opposite the first end 8211, comprising a sealing lip 8213 extending around the entire circumference of the longitudinal body 821, projecting from a radially external rim of the longitudinal body 821. Several sealing lips may be provided on the external rim. The sealing lip 8213 is designed to cooperate with at least one additional sealing groove 8222, formed in the cover 822, as described in more detail below.

[0135] As seen from the figure 9 to the figure 11 The cover 822 is designed to connect the connecting element 8 to the vapor diffusion base 2, i.e., to be removably connected to the vapor diffusion base 2, typically by cooperation with the connecting channel 2022 after insertion through the connecting opening 2021. In this regard, the cover 822 is designed to be assembled to the longitudinal body 821 by fitting it along the longitudinal axis X9-X9 of the longitudinal body 821, such that at least a portion of the cover 822 surrounds at least a portion of the longitudinal body 821. Furthermore, the cover 822 has an elongated shape and extends along a longitudinal axis X10-X10. Furthermore, where applicable, it is the cover 822 that includes the second locking element 8220 intended to cooperate with the first locking element 261 of the vapor diffusion base 2, in the manner illustrated in the figure 11 .

[0136] There figure 26 illustrates that the cover 822 comprises an outer wall 8221 having an end that comes into contact with the sealing lip 8213 in which a sealing groove 8222 is formed. The sealing groove 8222, also visible on the figure 23 and the figure 25 , extends around the entire circumference of the cover 822 and is designed to cooperate with the sealing lip 8213 once the cover 822 is fitted onto the longitudinal body 821 so as to form a seal between the cover 822 and the longitudinal body 821. In this way, liquid and / or gas cannot enter the connecting member 8 through the interface between the longitudinal body 821 and the cover 822. If necessary, a plurality of sealing grooves may be provided.

[0137] There figure 25 and the figure 26 They further illustrate that the cover 822 can include a partition wall 8223 delimiting a steam chamber 8224 and an electrical chamber 8225.

[0138] The vapor chamber 8224 is designed to house one end of the vapor diffusion duct 74, specifically the nozzle 75, which is intended to extend within the vapor chamber 8224 when the connecting member 8 is connected to the second end 72. Thus, the connecting member 8, and more precisely the cover 822, is designed to retain the nozzle 75 when the connecting member 8 is inserted into the connection opening 2021 of the vapor diffusion base 2. In this respect, the figure 26 illustrates that a retaining orifice 82240 can be provided passing through a wall of the cover 822 intended to extend alongside the connecting elements 2023 arranged in the bottom of the connecting channel 2022. Furthermore, the nozzle 75 is provided to extend through the retaining orifice 82240 in order to cooperate with at least one of the connecting elements 2023 to link the steam diffusion conduit 74 to the supply conduit 214 of the steam diffusion base 2. The figure 10 illustrates that at least one sealing ring 82241, for example an O-ring, can surround the nozzle 75 at the portion of the nozzle 75 intended to extend opposite the retaining orifice 82240. The sealing ring 82241 has the advantage of allowing both a slight transverse movement of the nozzle 75 in the retaining orifice 82240, which allows automatic alignment of the nozzle 75 in the connecting element 2023 connected to the steam conduit 74, and of forming an additional sealing barrier which notably prevents steam from entering the connecting member 8 in the event of leaks appearing at the sealing rings 753 when the connecting member 8 is connected to the steam diffusion base 2.

[0139] Similarly, the electrical chamber 8225 is designed to house at least one end of an electrical wire 730 extending outward from one end of the electrical sheath 73, in the manner, for example, visible on the figure 24 The end of each electrical wire 730 is designed to extend inside the electrical chamber 8225 when the connecting member 8 is connected to the second end 72. Furthermore, the electrical chamber 8225 is designed to house a lug 82250 for securing the electrical wires 730, visible from the figure 21 to the figure 23 , and on the figure 25 and the figure 26 From the figure 21 to the figure 23 It is further illustrated that the electronic component 82251, whose resistance is measured by the sensor of the steam diffusion base 2 to determine which type of steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 is connected to the steam diffusion base 2, can typically be arranged at the lug 82250. In addition, a sealing sleeve (not shown) can also be housed within the electrical chamber 8225, positioned between the lug 82250 and the end of the electrical sheath 73. The sealing sleeve can surround the electrical wires 730 and rest against the cover 822 so as to keep the electrical wires 730 together, but also to prevent contact between the electrical wires 730 and any steam that may have entered the connection element 8.Furthermore, retaining holes 82240 may be provided passing through the cover 822, and more specifically through a wall of the cover 822 intended to extend opposite the connecting elements 2023 arranged in the bottom of the connecting channel 2022, the ends of the electrical wires 730 being provided to extend through the retaining holes 82240 in order to be able to cooperate with at least one of the connecting elements 2023 to connect the electrical wires 730 to the electrical circuit of the steam diffusion base 2.

[0140] To ensure the mechanical consistency of the connecting member 8, and also to improve its sealing, a fastening system is provided to align the longitudinal axis X7-X7, X8-X8 of the coupling element 81, the longitudinal axis X9-X9 of the longitudinal body 821, and the longitudinal axis X10-X10 of the cover 822 during the assembly of the coupling element 81, the longitudinal body 821, and the cover 822. In this way, the only supports between the different components of the connecting member 8 are axial, which limits the risk of radial penetration of liquid and / or gas into the connecting member 8. The fastening system is also designed to hold the coupling element 81, the longitudinal body 821, and the cover 822 fixed relative to each other once the coupling element 81, the longitudinal body 821, and the cover 822 are assembled.

[0141] In this regard, the fastening system may include a support element 831, visible on the figure 22 , on the figure 23 and on the figure 26 The support element 831 extends projecting from the cover 822 in a direction opposite to one end of the cover 822 intended to cooperate with the vapor diffusion base 2. Preferably, the support element 831 extends the separating wall 8223 of the cover 822. In addition, the support element 831 is intended to cooperate with the sleeve 812, so as to ensure axial support of the cover 822 on the coupling element 81 once the coupling element 81, the longitudinal body 821 and the cover 822 are assembled.The support element 831 can thus comprise two lugs 831, which are provided to exert an axial force on the sleeve 812 and / or the clamping piece 811, once the connecting member 8 is assembled, which axial force is transmitted to the longitudinal body 821 via the sealing rim 8120 of the sleeve 812 and the sealing flange 8214 of the longitudinal body 821, then returns to the cover 822 via the sealing lip 8213 and the sealing groove 8222. This stress circuit improves the mechanical consistency and sealing of the connecting member 8.

[0142] There figure 26 It further illustrates that the fixing system can comprise a plurality of rods 832 extending outward from the longitudinal body 821 in a direction opposite to the passage opening 8210. Each rod is preferably one piece with the longitudinal body 821 and is provided to cooperate with one of the steam conduit end 75 and the electrical wire retaining lug 82250 730, so as to hold the end 75 and / or the lug 82250 in position relative to the longitudinal body 821. The structural coherence of the connecting member 8 is thus reinforced.

[0143] Furthermore, as can be seen on the figure 23 The fastening system may further include a first screw support 8341, for example in the form of a hollow cylinder having a screw thread, extending projecting from the longitudinal body 821 towards the cover 822, so as to be positioned opposite a first hole provided in the cover 822, the first screw support 8341 receiving a first fastening screw 835, visible on the figure 25 , intended to fix the cover 822 onto the longitudinal body 821. Similarly, a second screw support 8342 can extend projecting from the longitudinal body 821, towards the cover 822, so as to be positioned opposite a second hole provided in the cover 822, the second screw support 8342 receiving a second fixing screw 835 intended to fix the cover 822 onto the longitudinal body 821. The figure 26 It even illustrates that a third opening 8333 can be provided through the cover 822 and connect the electrical chamber 8225 with the outside of the cover 822. A third screw support 8343 can also be provided within the lug 82250 so as to be positioned opposite a third opening 8333 provided in the cover 822, the third screw support 8343 receiving a third fixing screw 835, illustrated in the figure 25 , intended to fix the 82250 lug to the 822 cover. Assemblage de l'organe de connexion

[0144] From the figure 21 to the figure 25 is illustrated a method of assembling the different components of the connecting element 8.

[0145] As seen from the figure 21 to the figure 23 , when present, the reinforcing member 77 is first fitted at the second end 72 opposite the vapor diffusion member 6.

[0146] Whether the reinforcing element 77 is present, or not, as visible on the figure 21 and on the figure 24 The steam diffusion duct 74 and the electrical sheath 73 are arranged within the cord 7 so as to present one end extending beyond the second end 72. The electrical wires 730 are previously housed within the electrical sheath 73.

[0147] The longitudinal body 821 is fitted onto the second end 72 of the cord 7, then shifted towards the first end 71 of the cord 7 pending further assembly. The same procedure is then followed for the sleeve 812, as shown in the figure 22 and the figure 25 Indeed, these parts 821, 812 must be arranged first on the cord 7 because, once the end piece 75 and the lug 82250 are assembled, respectively, to the steam conduit and the electrical wires 730, it is no longer possible, given their size, to arrange the longitudinal body 821 and the sleeve 812 around the steam diffusion conduit 74 and the electrical sheath 73.

[0148] Once the longitudinal body 821 and the sleeve 812 are arranged around the cord 7, the end piece 75 is fixed at the end of the steam diffusion conduit 74 which extends beyond the second end 72, and each of the ends of the electrical wires 730 is fixed to the lug 82250.

[0149] The clamping piece 811 is mounted on the second end 72 of the cord 7 and, where applicable, on the reinforcing member 77. To do this, the additional jaw-like portions 8110 are brought to the level of the second end 72 and then manipulated so as to clamp the second end 72. As can be seen in the figure 21 , when the retaining portion 8112 is present, the free end of the electrical sheath 73 is arranged within the retaining portion 8112 so as to be retained, and this before the complementary portions 8110 are manipulated to enclose the second end 72.

[0150] As illustrated on the figure 23 , the sleeve 812 is then slid along the cord 7 to fit around the clamping piece 811, so as to hold it fixed, either by force fitting or by snapping the locking elements.

[0151] Subsequently, as notably visible on the figure 25 , the longitudinal body 821 and the cover 822 are manipulated to come into face and contact with each other along their respective longitudinal axes X9-X9, X10-X10, the rods 832 of the longitudinal body 821 cooperating with the lug 82250, the end piece 75 and the cover 822, the sealing lip 8213 cooperating with the sealing groove 8222 and the sealing flange 8214 cooperating with the sealing rim 8120.

[0152] The fixing screws 835 are finally inserted through the cover 822 and all the components of the connecting member 8 are fixed to each other by tightening the fixing screws 835 in each of their screw support 8341, 8342, 8343. Fonctionnement de l'appareil électroménager

[0153] Once assembled on one side the steam diffusion base 2, and on the other the various parts of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, the household appliance 1 is ready to operate.

[0154] To do this, the steam diffusion base 2 is connected, via its electrical cable 271, to an electrical power source, typically the household electrical supply. The reservoir 211 is filled with water by the user.

[0155] The steam diffusion base 2 is powered on, typically by actuation of the switch, and steam is produced within the tank 210.

[0156] Prior to, or even before, the steam diffusion base 2 is powered on, the connecting member 8 is inserted through the connection opening 2021 until the user feels that the first locking element 261 and the second locking element 8220 have properly cooperated to secure the connecting member 8 within the connection channel 2022 and connect the tip 75 and the electrical wires 730 to the connecting elements 2023 arranged at the bottom of the connection channel 2022. In this way, the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 is connected to the electrical circuit and the supply conduit 214 of the steam diffusion base 2.

[0157] If necessary, the type of steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 is detected by the steam diffusion base 2 in order to adapt its operation accordingly.

[0158] To achieve this, once the vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 is connected to the vapor diffusion base 2 via the connecting element 8, the electrical resistance value of the electronic component 82251 is measured. This measurement is advantageously performed by the sensor on the vapor diffusion base 2, which transmits the measurement result to the processor. From there, the processor controls the operation of the vapor diffusion base 2 based on the measurement result.

[0159] The control system primarily allows for adjusting the flow rate and / or velocity of the steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion element 6. In this respect, the control system advantageously includes modifying the steam flow rate from the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, or 5 so as to place the flow rate within one of three different flow ranges. The first of the three flow ranges extends from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, the second from 120 g / min to 180 g / min, and the third from 120 g / min to 170 g / min. Thus, when the detected accessory is an iron 3, the control includes the regulation of the steam flow diffused from the steam diffusion base 2 so as to place the flow in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min.Furthermore, when the detected accessory is a steaming accessory 5, the control system includes regulating the steam flow rate from the steam diffuser base 2 to set the flow rate within a range of 120 g / min to 170 g / min. When the detected accessory is the steam diffuser accessory 4 intended for cleaning, the control system may include regulating the steam flow rate from the steam diffuser base 2 to set the flow rate within a range of 30 g / min to 55 g / min. However, and preferably, the regulation of the steam flow is not modified when the cleaning accessory 4 is detected, the restriction element 76 present in the connection member 8 ensuring, by itself, the modification of the steam flow to be diffused from the steam diffusion base 2 to the cleaning accessory 4 so as to place the flow in a range extending from 30 g / min to 55 g / min.In this way, the operation of the steam diffusion base 2 is simplified and the cleaning accessory 4 is available immediately after it is connected, without having to wait for the tank 210 to cool down.

[0160] To implement this modification of the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base 2 to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, it may be necessary to modify the pressure and / or temperature parameters within the steam generator 21, and more specifically within the tank 210. This modification of the steam flow rate and / or pressure is achieved, in a manner known per se, by controlling the electrical supply to the electric resistance of the tank 210. Furthermore, in order to prevent excessively high steam flow rates from being suddenly diffused towards the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, the control may include modifying the temperature within the steam generator 21 according to a time sequence comprising temperature plateaus.

[0161] As a subsidiary measure, the control allows the behavior of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, and more specifically of the steam diffusion element 6, to be adapted.

[0162] In this regard, the control may include the modification of the electrical current supply to the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5. In fact, the electrical current flowing through the electrical wires 730 to supply the resistive electrical wire 661 may be interrupted or not depending on the signal emitted by a temperature sensor carried by the sole 65 so as to regulate the temperature of the sole 65 around a setpoint temperature.

[0163] Between two successive uses of the steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5, or prior to removing the connecting element 8 from the steam diffusion base 2, the steam diffusion element 6 can be arranged within the storage space 2010. In this respect, the steam diffusion element 6 can be suspended from the retaining element 2011, as shown in the figure 5 for the steaming accessory 5 or on the figure 6 for the cleaning accessory 4. Similarly, the steam diffusion element 6 can cooperate with the stop 2013 and extend substantially vertically, as visible on the figure 2 for the iron 3. In this position, if liquid is splashed on the iron 3 and enters it, the drainage systems 672 ensure that the liquid will not stagnate inside the iron 3, and in particular not inside the grip handle 67, so that the proper functioning of the iron 3 is preserved.

[0164] As seen on the figure 3 and on the figure 4 , the steam diffusion element 6 can be more firmly held within the storage space 2010, in particular by cooperation, on the one hand, of the hooking recess 676 of the steam diffusion element 6 and the stop 2013 of the base of the steam diffusion element, and on the other hand, by deployment of the retaining element 2011.

[0165] Of course, once the connecting element 8 is detached from the steam diffuser base 2, the steam diffuser 6 can be kept within the storage space 2010, even if another steam diffuser accessory 3, 4, or 5 is connected to the steam diffuser base 2, or if the appliance 1 is being transported. To prevent the cord 7 from obstructing transport, it can be folded and stored on the steam diffuser base 2 using the tab 251.

[0166] To decouple the connecting element 8 from the vapor diffusion base 2, by removing the connection opening 2021, the first locking element 261 is manipulated so that the user perceives that the connecting element 8 is no longer firmly held within the connection channel 2022, and can remove the connecting element 8 from the vapor diffusion base 2. The sealing panel 241 is then deployed to close the connection opening 2021 and maintain the seal of the vapor diffusion base 2. From then on, another vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 can be connected to the vapor diffusion base 2, via its connecting element 8, this other vapor diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 can be detected and the operation of the vapor diffusion base 2 adapted by the processor accordingly.

[0167] The steam diffusion accessory 3, 4, 5 is activated by pressing the trigger 671, so as to project steam onto the item to be treated (cloth or surface to be cleaned). In the case of a surface, such as a window, the steam is projected evenly along the entire cleaning head 64, condenses, is scraped by the scraping element 643 and then wiped away by the cleaning element 644.

Claims

1. Household appliance (1) comprising: a steam diffusion base (2) comprising a steam generator (21), a sensor and a processor; and a steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) comprising a connection member (8) configured to connect the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) removably to the steam diffusion base (2), the connection member (8) comprising an electronic component (82251); wherein the sensor is configured to measure a value of the electrical resistance of the electronic component (82251) once the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is connected to the steam diffusion base (2) by means of the connection member (8) and the processor is configured to control an operation of the steam diffusion base (2) as a function of a measurement of the value of the electrical resistance detected by the sensor.

2. Household appliance (1) according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying the temperature within the steam generator (21), and / or by modifying the pressure within the steam generator (21), and / or by modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5), and / or by modifying a flow velocity of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) and / or by modifying a supply of electric current to be made to flow from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5).

3. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying the temperature within the steam generator (21) according to a time sequence comprising temperature plateaus.

4. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) by modifying the temperature within the steam generator (21).

5. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) so as to place the flow rate within one of three different flow rate ranges.

6. Household appliance (1) according to claim 5, wherein a first of the three flow rate ranges extends from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, a second of the three flow rate ranges extends from 120 g / min to 180 g / min and a third of the three flow rate ranges extends from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

7. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is an ironing accessory (3) comprising a heating soleplate (65) and the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying the supply of electric current to be made to flow from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) so as to modify a temperature of the heating soleplate (65).

8. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is an ironing accessory (3) and the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the ironing accessory (3) so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min.

9. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is a smoothing accessory (5) and the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the smoothing accessory (5) so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

10. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is a cleaning accessory (4), the processor is configured to control the operation of the steam diffusion base (2) by modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the cleaning accessory (4) so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min and the connection member (8) comprises a mechanical restriction element (76) configured to reduce the flow rate so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, once the cleaning accessory (4) is connected to the steam diffusion base (2) by means of the connection member (8).

11. Method for controlling a household appliance (1) comprising a steam diffusion base (2) and a steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5), the steam diffusion base (2) comprising a steam generator (21) and the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) comprising a connection member (8) configured to connect the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) removably to the steam diffusion base (2), the connection member (8) comprising an electronic component (82251), the method comprising: measuring a value of an electrical resistance of the electronic component (82251) once the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is connected to the steam diffusion base (2) by means of the connection member (8); and controlling an operation of the steam diffusion base (2) as a function of a result of the measurement.

12. Method according to claim 11, wherein the controlling comprises at least one among: modifying the temperature within the steam generator (21), modifying the pressure within the steam generator (21), modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5), modifying a flow velocity of steam to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5), modifying a supply of electric current to be made to flow from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5).

13. Method according to any one of claims 11 and 12, wherein the controlling comprises modifying the temperature within the steam generator (21) according to a time sequence comprising temperature plateaus.

14. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the controlling comprises modifying the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) by modifying the temperature within the steam generator (21).

15. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the controlling comprises modifying the steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) so as to place the flow rate within one of three different flow rate ranges.

16. Method according to claim 15, wherein a first of the three flow rate ranges extends from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, a second of the three flow rate ranges extends from 120 g / min to 180 g / min and a third of the three flow rate ranges extends from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

17. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is an ironing accessory (3) comprising a heating soleplate (65) and the controlling comprises modifying the supply of electric current to be made to flow from the steam diffusion base (2) to the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) so as to modify a temperature of the heating soleplate (65).

18. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is an ironing accessory (3) comprising a heating soleplate (65) and the controlling comprises modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the ironing accessory (3) so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min.

19. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is a smoothing accessory (5) and the controlling comprises modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the smoothing accessory (5) so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 170 g / min.

20. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the steam diffusion accessory (3, 4, 5) is a cleaning accessory (4) and the controlling comprises modifying a steam flow rate to be diffused from the steam diffusion base (2) to the cleaning accessory (4) so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 120 g / min to 180 g / min, wherein the method comprises arranging a restriction element (76) within the connection member (8), the mechanical restriction element (76) being configured to reduce the flow rate so as to place the flow rate in a range extending from 30 g / min to 55 g / min, once the cleaning accessory (4) is connected to the steam diffusion base (2) by means of the connection member (8).