Sealed peristaltic pump for household electric appliance

Abstract

The invention relates to a peristaltic pump (6) for household appliances comprising a pump body (60) defining a chamber (68) in which there is a deformable pipe (63) intended to contain a liquid to be moved, characterized in that the peristaltic pump (6) includes a sealing device (661, 662, 663) designed to contain the liquid inside the chamber (68) in the event of rupture of the deformable pipe (63).

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of peristaltic pumps used in household appliances and preferably in hairdressing appliances.

[0002] The invention also relates to household appliances, and in particular to hairdressing appliances, containing peristaltic pumps.

[0003] More particularly, the invention relates to a peristaltic pump for household appliances comprising a pump body defining a chamber in which there is a deformable pipe intended to contain a liquid to be moved.

[0004] The invention also relates to a household appliance, and preferably a hair styling appliance, comprising a peristaltic pump as defined above. State of the art

[0005] Peristaltic pumps are known in industrial fields, for example from documents CN203614372U or US3421447.

[0006] It is also known from patent EP 2,449,910 that a peristaltic pump is used in a hair styling device. Specifically, this document describes the use of a peristaltic pump to regulate the fluid flow rate to power a fluid vaporization device. Thus, according to the device described in this document, a peristaltic pump moves a fluid, particularly water, to produce steam. The use of this type of pump results in a hair styling device with numerous advantages, including a sealed fluid circuit. Indeed, in a peristaltic pump, the transported fluid does not come into contact with any moving parts, as it remains contained within the pump's deformable tube. This tube is regularly compressed by one or more rollers mounted on the pump's rotor, which sets the fluid in motion.Thus, the fluid transport circuit is simplified, or even reduced to just one pipe, that of the peristaltic pump.

[0007] Many of the advantages of using a peristaltic pump stem from its flexible tubing. However, and this is also the main drawback of this type of pump, the tubing is a wear part and typically requires periodic replacement. Such replacement is common and doesn't pose any particular problems in industrial or medical settings where peristaltic pumps are frequently found. On the other hand, such replacement is practically impractical for applications in household appliances, especially hair styling tools, particularly given the size of the components, the relatively low overall cost of these devices, and, most importantly, the fact that the user is not technically qualified to perform such a replacement.

[0008] Therefore, in the case of hair styling tools, it is possible, particularly due to hose wear as explained previously, that the hose may deteriorate sufficiently to leak (cracks, holes, etc.) or even break. The fluid transport circuit, although very simple, is then no longer airtight, and the liquid spills into the device.

[0009] However, the presence of liquid, and especially water, inside this type of device is undesirable. These devices are generally electrical, at least insofar as they contain a heating element to electrically heat a hair styling surface, and may also contain various electrical and electronic components. Consequently, the presence of liquid inside these devices risks damaging their electrical and / or electronic components, leading to malfunction or even total failure of the hair styling tool. Furthermore, the risk of electrocution for the user cannot be entirely ruled out, especially since they typically hold these devices in their hand, or even operate them in close proximity to their head, in the case of hair styling tools.

[0010] The same problems and risks can occur if the pump hose is disconnected or torn from a connector, for example as a result of overpressure due to limescale buildup in the device.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need to make this type of device more secure, both for the components of the device itself and for the user, particularly in the event of a rupture of the peristaltic pump hose. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention aims to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0013] One objective of the invention is to provide a peristaltic pump that is particularly safe, especially in the event of a rupture of its tubing.

[0014] Another objective of the invention is to provide a peristaltic pump that is particularly compact.

[0015] Another objective of the invention is to provide a reliable and robust peristaltic pump.

[0016] One objective of the invention is to provide a hairdressing device that is particularly safe, especially in the event of a rupture of the peristaltic pump hose.

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to offer a hair styling device that is particularly compact and ergonomic.

[0018] Another objective of the invention is to offer a hair styling device that is particularly reliable and robust.

[0019] The objectives are achieved using a household appliance, preferably a hair styling device, comprising a peristaltic pump according to claim 1.

[0020] The term "breakage of the flexible hose" refers to any deterioration that could lead to a loss of seal in the hose, i.e., a leak of the liquid contained within it. For example, this could result from a hose bursting, a crack in the hose, a hole in the hose, excessive hose porosity, or accidental disconnection or unplugging of the hose, such as due to overpressure caused by scale buildup in the appliance. The term "chamber" refers to any three-dimensional space designed to house at least one component, in this case, the pump's flexible hose.

[0021] Thus, thanks to the invention, the liquid is contained, that is, held and retained, within the pump chamber and does not spill out of the pump in the event of a rupture of the deformable tube. Consequently, a potential rupture of the peristaltic pump tube has limited consequences since the liquid remains contained inside the pump and does not spill out, as would normally be the case with pumps known in the prior art. It is therefore possible to install a pump as defined by the invention in spaces where the presence of any liquid is normally undesirable, for example, in the immediate vicinity of electrical or electronic components, as will be detailed later.

[0022] It would be easy for a person skilled in the art to verify the results of the invention by means of a simple test. For example, they could pierce or disconnect (i.e., unplug) the deformable tube to simulate a liquid leak inside the chamber. The person skilled in the art would then simply need to manipulate the peristaltic pump (or the appliance) in different positions, as they would during normal use. They could then check if any liquid flows out. The person skilled in the art could also check, for example by disassembling the casing of the appliance containing the pump, whether any electrical or electronic component of the appliance has been touched by the liquid; in other words, whether the liquid came into contact with said component during the manipulation of the appliance.Such a check is simple insofar as the component in question would, in the event of contact with the liquid, suffer significant consequences (burns, corrosion, explosion, etc.).

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the chamber comprises a rotor in contact with the deformable pipe. This rotor is connected to a drive shaft passing through the pump body, and the sealing device includes a first sealing element located between the drive shaft and the pump body. Consequently, in the event of a rupture of the deformable pipe, the liquid cannot escape through the area between the drive shaft, which is a rotating moving part, and the pump body, which is a fixed part. In this preferred embodiment, the first sealing element comprises a lip seal, preferably a double-lip seal.This type of seal, and in particular the double lip seal, ensures a very good seal between a rotating shaft, in this case the drive shaft, against which the lip(s) of the seal press, and a fixed part, in this case the pump body, in which the seal is held.

[0024] According to another preferred embodiment, the peristaltic pump includes a cover cooperating with the pump body, and the sealing device includes a second sealing element disposed between the pump body and the cover. This design makes it possible to provide a peristaltic pump whose assembly and / or maintenance are facilitated by the presence of the cover, while ensuring a seal between the pump body and the cover in the event of a rupture of the deformable tubing. Advantageously, the second sealing element includes a circular gasket disposed at least partially on the periphery of the pump body and the cover.

[0025] It is also conceivable that, instead of passing through the pump body as described previously, the drive shaft passes through the cover and that the first sealing element is located between the drive shaft and the cover.

[0026] According to another preferred embodiment, the peristaltic pump includes an inlet connector for receiving a liquid suction line and an outlet connector for receiving a liquid discharge line, both connected to the deformable tubing. The sealing device preferably includes a third sealing element located between the pump body and at least one of the inlet or outlet connectors. Alternatively, the third sealing element is located between the cover and at least one of the inlet or outlet connectors. Alternatively, the third sealing element is located between the pump body, the cover, and at least one of the inlet or outlet connectors. This design ensures a seal between the chamber and the exterior of the pump at the pump connectors, regardless of the pump's orientation in space.For example, the pump can be positioned with at least one of its connectors, or even both, positioned at the bottom, and, even in the event of a rupture of the deformable pipe, there will be no leakage of liquid at the connectors, i.e. between the connectors and the pump body or the cover for example.

[0027] According to a first variant of the preceding preferred embodiment, the third sealing element comprises a plate, preferably made of silicone, through which each of the inlet and outlet connectors passes. This plate is positioned between the pump body and / or the pump cover and around at least one of the inlet or outlet connectors. Advantageously, the plate has two openings, preferably two holes, each opening accommodating one of the connectors. This design ensures the sealing of the chamber, including at the connectors, even when these connectors are separate components attached to the pump (for example, not molded with the pump body or cover, as is frequently the case with pumps). Furthermore, this solution allows the connectors to be removed without damaging either the connectors or the pump itself.The use of a silicone plate is particularly advantageous and inexpensive when the two connectors are located close to each other and on the same plane, forming a surface of the pump, as will be detailed later.

[0028] According to a second variant of the preceding preferred embodiment, the third sealing element is disposed between the pump body and / or optionally the cover and each of the inlet and outlet connectors, said third sealing element comprising two O-rings. In other words, according to this variant, each connector has its own O-ring disposed between the connector and the pump body and / or the cover so as to ensure the sealing of the chamber at the connectors. This solution is particularly advantageous when the connectors are attached to the pump (for example, are not molded with the pump body or the cover) and are far apart and / or not in the same plane.

[0029] Advantageously, the inlet and outlet connectors are arranged in the same plane on a single external face of the peristaltic pump. This allows for a particularly compact pump with all connections grouped on one face, thus limiting the length of the tubing required for the pump's inlet and outlet.

[0030] Preferably, the inlet and outlet connectors each have an advantageous bend of approximately 90°. Such connectors facilitate pump integration by positioning the pump transversely to the suction and discharge lines, respectively at the pump's inlet and outlet. This allows for a reduction in the overall size of the pump and liquid lines.

[0031] Of course, the embodiments described above are perfectly compatible with each other, and other advantageous embodiments can be derived from their various combinations. In particular, one can envision a peristaltic pump resulting from the combination of the three embodiments described above. This would result in a particularly compact peristaltic pump, easy to manufacture and maintain because it is equipped with a cover, inexpensive, and completely leak-proof, regardless of its orientation in space, in the event of a rupture of its deformable tube. The sealing device would then comprise the aforementioned first, second, and third sealing elements.

[0032] According to another embodiment, which may itself constitute an invention, the peristaltic pump for household appliances comprises a pump body defining a chamber containing a deformable tube for holding a liquid to be moved, and a liquid drainage device designed to, in the event of a rupture of the peristaltic pump's deformable tube, drain the liquid from the chamber to the outside of the peristaltic pump along a controlled path. Advantageously, the liquid drainage device includes at least one hole, which allows the liquid flow path to be controlled very economically and safely. By "controlled path," it is meant that the point through which the liquid will drain, i.e., flow, is defined in advance, chosen by the designers. In other words, it is known precisely where and how the liquid will drain.Advantageously, the diameter of the hole is between 0.5 mm and 4 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 1.5 mm. Preferably, the fluid drainage device comprises two holes, advantageously arranged close to each other, for example, separated by a distance of between 1 mm and 5 mm, which increases the flow rate and therefore the drainage speed. The presence of multiple holes also ensures that the pump can be emptied even if one of the holes becomes blocked. The total drainage area is thus between 2 mm² and 2.5 mm², in order to ensure a sufficient drainage flow rate. Preferably, the drainage device is arranged through the pump body, or through the pump cover, or through both the pump body and the cover.In other words, the draining device can consist of any device passing through the pump body, or the cover or the pump body and the cover, that is to say any device capable of connecting the chamber and the outside of the pump at a place defined in advance by design, that is to say defined by the designer.

[0033] Thus, according to this latter embodiment, in the event of a rupture of the deformable pipe, the objective is not necessarily to retain the liquid inside the chamber but rather to control its trajectory, that is, to control its evacuation, by having chosen and defined in advance, by design, the precise point where the liquid must flow. Thanks to this remarkable embodiment, it is then possible to provide, during the integration of the pump into its environment, a complementary device that communicates with the aforementioned drainage device, for example, to collect and store the liquid (using a reservoir, for example) or to drain and evacuate the liquid (for example, using a pipe or a hole, as will be detailed later).

[0034] Of course, this embodiment is compatible with, and even advantageously complementary to, the embodiments described previously. Moreover, the combination of this drainage device and the sealing device remarkably ensures the safe operation of peristaltic pumps and meets the most stringent standards. Indeed, in the event of a rupture of the pump's deformable tube, two devices work together to, firstly, prevent uncontrolled fluid leakage from the pump, and secondly, control the fluid flow and its trajectory. Thus, regardless of the pump's orientation, the fluid will always flow through the drainage device; that is, the fluid will be safely discharged at a precise location defined in advance during the design phase.Indeed, even if the drain is located at a high point due to the pump's orientation, the liquid will still drain through it after the chamber is completely full. No leakage from an undesired point on the pump (such as the gap between the drive shaft and the pump body, between the pump body and the connectors, or between the pump body and the cover) is possible thanks to the sealing device. In other words, regardless of the pump's orientation, any liquid accidentally present in the chamber will drain only through the drain, to a defined location and along a controlled path, these elements having been defined and selected in advance by design.

[0035] Furthermore, such a design offers a particular advantage when the pump is connected to a relatively large reservoir, at least compared to the amount of liquid the pump's flexible tubing can hold. The draining device prevents water from accumulating in the pump chamber, thus preventing pressure buildup within the chamber. Controlled liquid drainage also ensures that all the fluid in the circuit is drained along a controlled path, thereby bringing the system to a safe, liquid-free state as quickly as possible.

[0036] Furthermore, this design, combining a sealing device and a drain device, ensures the pump's safety should either device fail. For example, if the sealing device were to fail, perhaps due to excessive wear, any liquid accidentally present in the chamber would flow along a path controlled by the drain device, i.e., to a precise and predetermined location. Conversely, if the drain device were to fail, for example, if it were blocked, then any liquid accidentally present in the chamber would remain contained within it. In other words, this design offers a dual safety mechanism: a sealing device and a drain device.

[0037] The invention also relates to a household appliance comprising a peristaltic pump according to any one of the preceding embodiments. Preferably, said household appliance forms a hair styling appliance, in particular a hair styling appliance, such as a straightener or a curling iron.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a first arm and a second arm articulated together by a hinge to form a hair-shaping clamp. The device thus forms a straightening clamp that allows for ease of use and optimal styling results.

[0039] Advantageously, the first arm comprises a reservoir and a first contact hair treatment surface, with the liquid drainage system located between the reservoir and the first treatment surface. This arrangement results in a particularly compact hair styling device. Furthermore, the placement of the drainage system between the reservoir and the first treatment surface prevents the latter from coming into contact with any liquid that might accidentally enter the arm, thus preventing the liquid from contaminating the hair. This is especially useful and safer when the first treatment surface is heated by an electric heating element (e.g., PTC).Preferably, the liquid evacuation device is located at a distance of between 10 mm and 50 mm from the edge of the first treatment surface, preferably between 20 mm and 30 mm. This helps to maintain a safe distance from the first treatment surface and, in particular, from its electric heating element.

[0040] The term "treatment surface" used previously refers to any type of surface, regardless of its shape or dimensions, as long as it comes into contact with the hair at least at one point. The treatment surface can be continuous, for example, formed by a single piece, or discontinuous, for example, formed by multiple pieces. The treatment surface can, by way of illustration and without limitation, be: smooth and flat, for example by being formed by a smoothing plate, smooth and curved, for example by being formed by a mandrel, a roller or a tile, wavy for example by comprising a succession of hollows and bumps, uneven for example by comprising studs or teeth, etc.

[0041] Preferably, said apparatus comprises an electric motor, a reservoir for holding a liquid to be moved to a liquid consumption device, the inlet connector is connected to the reservoir, the outlet connector is connected to the liquid consumption device, the drive shaft is connected to a motor shaft of the electric motor and the peristaltic pump is disposed between the reservoir and the liquid consumption device.

[0042] The peristaltic pump includes a fluid drainage device. Advantageously, the device comprises a housing containing the peristaltic pump and at least one electrical or electronic component. The housing includes a fluid drainage device designed to discharge the fluid outside the housing. The drainage device is arranged so that the fluid cannot come into contact with the electrical or electronic component, and the drainage device communicates with the discharge device.

[0043] Thus, thanks to this embodiment of the invention, in the event of an unexpected or accidental presence of liquid inside the pump, the liquid is rapidly evacuated along a trajectory predetermined by the designers and to a precise location, thereby preventing any accidental contact between the liquid and any electrical or electronic component. More specifically, the liquid is first evacuated from the pump to a precise, predetermined location by means of the liquid draining device, and then evacuated from the device by means of the discharge device, the latter communicating with the pump's draining device. Thus, the draining and discharge devices communicate with each other by any sealed means.For example, the pump draining device can be connected to the appliance's discharge device using a pipe, or the draining device and the discharge device can be placed side by side, for example, one above the other.

[0044] Preferably, the fluid drainage device comprises at least one, and preferably two, orifices passing through the housing. This allows for control, and preferably an increase in the fluid drainage flow rate in a particularly reliable and cost-effective manner. The orifice can have any shape. However, the orifice is preferably a hole with a diameter between 0.5 mm and 4 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 1.5 mm. Considering the plurality of orifices, the drainage cross-section is advantageously between 1 mm² and 4 mm², and preferably between 2 mm² and 2.5 mm².

[0045] Advantageously, the liquid drainage system is permanently open to the environment, in this case, the atmosphere. In other words, the liquid drainage system is free of any plug or other obstruction or sealing element.

[0046] Preferably, the liquid drainage device is arranged through the pump body.

[0047] Advantageously, the peristaltic pump includes a cover mounted on the pump body and the liquid draining device can be arranged through the cover.

[0048] In other words, the draining device can consist of any device passing through the pump body, the cover or the pump body and the cover, that is to say any device capable of connecting the chamber and the outside of the pump at a place defined in advance by design.

[0049] Preferably, the fluid drainage device comprises at least one hole, said at least one orifice, and at least one hole, being arranged opposite each other, that is to say, one facing the other. This arrangement allows for a particularly compact and inexpensive device since the distance between the drainage and discharge devices is minimized.

[0050] Advantageously, a sealing element, preferably an O-ring, is positioned between the drain and discharge devices, ensuring a seal between the pump and the device housing and thus preventing any risk of accidental contact between the liquid and the device's electrical component(s). In other words, with this arrangement, any liquid that might be inside the pump chamber in the event of a rupture of the flexible hose is directly discharged from the pump housing in a deliberate and controlled manner, specifically by defining the precise location where the liquid should be discharged during the design phase.In addition to improving safety, draining the liquid outside the device will alert the user, at least visually, that a malfunction has occurred inside their hair styling device (in this case, that the deformable tube has broken, for example). Brief description of the figures

[0051] The following description of a preferred, but not limiting, embodiment of the hair styling device highlights the features of the present invention. This description is supported by figures, including: there figure 1 illustrates a hair styling device as described by the invention in a perspective view. figure 2 illustrates the device of the figure 1 according to a different approach. The figure 3 illustrates in perspective the first arm of the device of the figure 1 . There figure 4 is a detailed perspective view of area A of the figure 3 There figure 5represents the same detail A as the figure 4 but with certain parts masked to reveal the internal components of the arm. figure 6 is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump as defined by the invention. figure 7 is an exploded view of the pump components of the figure 6 . Detailed description

[0052] As illustrated in the figure 1The household appliance 1, as defined by the invention, is a hair styling tool, and more specifically, a hair straightener equipped with a liquid consumption device 4. More precisely, the liquid consumption device 4 comprises a vaporization means 41, in this case a vaporization chamber, and a diffusion means 42 for the vapor thus produced, directed towards a strand of hair. The diffusion means 42 may, in particular, be formed by a series of orifices, as illustrated, or by a diffusion slot or groove. Such features are well known to those skilled in the art and are, for example, detailed in the applicant's patent EP 2 449 909.

[0053] The household appliance 1 comprises a first arm 11 and a second arm 12 connected to each other by a hinge 13 disposed substantially at the end of each of said first arm 11, and second arm 12. Thus the arms are mobile relative to each other in a rotational movement and more precisely in a clamping motion.

[0054] As can be seen on the figure 3 The first arm 11 comprises a first hair treatment surface 112 by contact, in this case a heating plate. The second arm 12 comprises a second hair treatment surface 122 by contact, which can be seen on the figure 2 , complementary to the first treatment surface 112. Preferably, the second contact treatment surface 122 is also heated.

[0055] As is well known, the hinge 13 allows the user to open the straightening clamp to insert a strand of hair between the processing surfaces 112, 122, and then close the clamp on the strand of hair to perform the shaping, usually a straightening.

[0056] As can be seen on the figure 2 The household appliance 1 also includes a liquid storage device, in this case a reservoir 3. Preferably, the reservoir is intended to store water. However, it could be imagined, without departing from the scope of the invention, that the reservoir could also store a cosmetic product, possibly diluted in water.

[0057] According to the illustrated invention, the reservoir is integrated into the first arm 11. However, it is perfectly possible, without departing from the scope of the invention, for the reservoir to be separate from the first arm 11 and the second arm 12. The reservoir can, in fact, be located at a distance from the first arm 11 and the second arm 12, and be situated, for example, in a remote base (i.e., located at a distance from the gripper) connected to one of the arms by a cord capable of transporting the liquid. Such an arrangement is, for example, described in the applicant's patent EP 2 449 912.

[0058] As can be seen on the figures 3 And 4 The household appliance 1 includes a housing 111 formed by the first base 11. However, although not illustrated, it is perfectly conceivable, without departing from the scope of the invention, that the housing is formed by the previously mentioned offset base.

[0059] The housing 111 thus forms an enclosure, for example made of plastic material, containing at least one electrical or electronic component, such as a heating element (e.g., PTC), an electric motor 5, a temperature sensor, a capacitor, a circuit board, etc. Generally, these components are very sensitive to any contact with liquid, and in particular water, as such contact can cause damage, even destruction, and even lead to a risk of electrocution.

[0060] In order to supply the liquid consumption device 4 with liquid, and preferably water, the household appliance 1 includes a liquid transport device, in this case a peristaltic pump 6. According to the illustrated invention, the peristaltic pump 6 is integrated into the first arm as can be seen in the figure 5, but it is also possible, without departing from the scope of the invention, for the peristaltic pump 6 to be integrated into the remote base mentioned above.

[0061] As can be seen on the Figures 5 And 6The peristaltic pump 6 includes, in particular, a pump body 60. An inlet connector 61 is arranged on the pump body 60 to connect the peristaltic pump 6 to a suction line 32, which is itself connected to the reservoir 3. An outlet connector 62 is arranged on the pump body 60 to connect the peristaltic pump to the liquid consumption device 4, via a discharge line 33. More specifically, each of the inlet connectors 61 and 62 passes through the pump body 60. Thus, a portion of each of the inlet connectors 61 and 62 protrudes outside the pump, and a portion of each of the inlet connectors 61 and 62 protrudes inside the pump, i.e., into a chamber 68.The part of the inlet connector 61 and outlet connector 62 protruding outside the pump is then connected respectively to the suction conduit 32 and the discharge conduit 33, as can be seen on the . figure 5 The part of the inlet connector 61 and outlet connector 62 that protrudes into the chamber 68 is then connected to a deformable pipe 63.

[0062] Advantageously, as can be seen on the Figures 6 and 7Each of the inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62 includes an elbow, preferably oriented at 90°. Preferably, the elbow is located outside the peristaltic pump 6, in contact with the pump body 60. Advantageously, the elbow is rigid, as are the connectors, which ensures good resistance and prevents unwanted bending. The inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62 can then be positioned on the same face of the pump body 60, even if that face is small. Indeed, the inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62 can be positioned side by side, as illustrated, or even in contact with each other, which reduces the overall size of the peristaltic pump 6 and simplifies the routing of the suction ducts 32 and discharge ducts 33.Indeed, thanks to their 90° bend, the inlet connector 61 and outlet connector 62 can be oriented in diametrically opposite directions while remaining side by side, resulting in a particularly simple and compact external fluid circuit. The suction line 32 and the discharge line 33 are practically aligned with each other, that is, in the same plane and along almost the same straight line. Furthermore, each of these lines enters and exits the peristaltic pump 6 from the same side of the pump. This allows the peristaltic pump 6 to be positioned in a particularly confined and difficult-to-access location, as only one side of the pump needs to be accessible to connect the suction line 32 and the discharge line 33.

[0063] As illustrated by the figure 6The pump also includes a cover 64 that cooperates with the pump body 60. More precisely, the cover 64 is mounted on the pump body 60, which makes the pump easy to assemble. In particular, the assembly of the various internal components, such as the components of a rotor 65, is facilitated. Furthermore, the peristaltic pump 6 can be disassembled and reassembled at will, without any damage, for example, to work on the internal components. The peristaltic pump 6 is also connected to an electric motor 5 designed to drive the various moving parts of the peristaltic pump 6 and thus move the liquid from the reservoir 3 to the liquid consumption device 4.

[0064] There figure 7The diagram shows the various components of the peristaltic pump 6. The pump body 60 forms a chamber 68, that is, a space, recess, or housing containing various elements. In this case, the chamber 68 is defined by the pump body 60 and is closed by the cover 64. The chamber contains a deformable tube 63, a rotor 65 comprising one or more pressure elements 651 connected to the rotor by a support 653, and one or more springs 652. The deformable tube 63 is fixed and is connected on one side to the inlet connector 61 and on the other side to the outlet connector 62, forming a loop. The rotor 65 is located in the center of the loop and is driven in rotation by a drive shaft 51 passing through the pump body 60 and connected to the motor shaft of the electric motor 5. The rotor is guided in rotation by a bearing 645 housed in the cover.During the rotation of the drive shaft, the pressure elements 651, such as rollers, intermittently compress the deformable tube 63. Their movement, resulting from the rotation of the rotor 65, creates a suction effect and also displaces the liquid inside the deformable tube 63. Thus, the liquid is drawn in on one side of the pump and expelled on the other. This operation is quite standard and characteristic of peristaltic pumps familiar to those skilled in the art, and therefore is not described in further detail here. The peristaltic pump 6 and the electric motor are both connected to a mounting plate 52, for example, by means of screws 53.

[0065] As can be seen on the figure 7 The peristaltic pump 6 includes a sealing device 661, 662, 663. The latter constitutes a safety device forming an integral part of the pump described in detail below.

[0066] More specifically, the sealing device of the peristaltic pump 6 comprises a first sealing element 661 disposed between the drive shaft 51 and the pump body 60 (or, alternatively, the cover 64). More precisely, the first sealing element 661 is a lip seal, preferably a double-lip seal. Such a seal is indeed very effective in ensuring a perfect seal against any liquid between a rotating part, in this case the drive shaft 51, and a stationary part, in this case the pump body 60 (or possibly the cover 64).Thus, thanks to the presence of this first sealing element 661, any liquid that might be inside the chamber 68, for example in the event of a rupture of the deformable pipe 63 (or accidental disconnection of the inlet and / or outlet connector), could not escape outside the chamber, i.e., outside the peristaltic pump 6, through the gap, i.e., the functional clearance between the drive shaft 51 (rotating part) and the pump body 60 (fixed part). The first sealing element 661 ensures both the proper rotation of the drive shaft 51 relative to the pump body 60 (or possibly the cover) and the sealing between these two parts.

[0067] According to the illustrated embodiment, the peristaltic pump 6 also includes a second sealing element 662 disposed between the pump body 60 and the cover 64, as can be seen in the figure 7 This second sealing element 662 is advantageously formed by a circular cross-section gasket. The second sealing element 662 is then positioned around the chamber 68, near the rim, i.e., the periphery of the pump body 60 and the cover. As can be seen in the figure 7The second sealing element 662 follows the contour of the pump body 60 and the cover 64, thus mirroring their shape. The second sealing element 662 forms an almost complete loop, but it has two edges, meaning it is not fully closed. Therefore, once installed between the pump body and the cover, the second sealing element 662 essentially takes the shape of a horseshoe or even the capital Greek letter Omega. The presence of this second sealing element 662 ensures a seal between the pump body 60 and the cover 64, while also allowing for the removal and reinstallation of the cover 64. However, it should be noted that this second sealing element 662 does not completely encircle the pump body 60.In other words, the second sealing element is not located on the entire periphery of chamber 68 but on at least 60% and preferably 80% of the periphery of chamber 68. The remaining portion of the periphery is then closed by a third sealing element 663, as will be described in more detail below, which ensures a total seal between the pump body 60 and the cover 64, and therefore a seal of chamber 68.

[0068] As can be seen on the figure 7The peristaltic pump also includes a third sealing element 663. This element comprises a plate through which the inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62 pass. Preferably, the plate is made of silicone, or any other material capable of providing a seal. The plate then includes two openings allowing the passage of the inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62. The plate is made of a material sufficiently elastic to ensure a seal around said inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62. The plate is in contact with the inlet connectors 61 and outlet connectors 62, the pump body 60, and also the cover 64, as can be seen in the figure. figure 7 . This plate, in association with the second sealing element 662 previously described, remarkably completes the sealing of the chamber 68, that is to say, completes the sealing between the cover 64 and the pump body 60, by closing the periphery of the chamber.

[0069] Thus, thanks to the combined presence of the sealing elements described above—namely, the first sealing element 661, the second sealing element 662, and the third sealing element 663—the chamber 68 is completely sealed. Consequently, if liquid were to accidentally escape (through rupture or disconnection of the deformable tube 63) from the deformable tube 63 and enter the chamber 68, the liquid, typically water, would be trapped inside the chamber 68 and unable to escape. This results in a particularly safe peristaltic pump because it is completely sealed, meaning that no liquid can escape, even if its deformable tube ruptures. It is therefore possible to use the peristaltic pump of the invention in locations where the presence of any liquid is prohibited, such as in the immediate vicinity of electrical or electronic components.

[0070] However, the invention as illustrated includes another safety device, which may itself constitute an invention. Indeed, the pump illustrated on the Figures 6 and 7 includes a drain device 67 designed to, in the event of a rupture of the deformable tube 63 of the peristaltic pump 6, drain the liquid from the chamber 68 to the outside of the peristaltic pump 6 along a controlled trajectory. This safety device is particularly effective when used in conjunction with a household appliance 1 that includes a liquid drainage device 114, as detailed below.

[0071] As can be seen on the figures 5 to 7The peristaltic pump 6 includes two holes 671 which form a drainage device 67 connecting the chamber 68 to the outside of the pump at a precise location, judiciously selected by the designers. Each hole has a diameter of approximately 1.2 mm, corresponding to a drainage area of ​​2.26 mm². The holes are spaced 2.5 mm apart. Thus, when liquid accidentally enters the chamber 68 (for the reasons mentioned above), it is possible to control the flow path of the liquid at a precise location, carefully considered and selected in advance by the designers. For example, the placement of the drainage device allows the liquid, as it flows, to be diverted away from any electrical or electronic components.

[0072] By combining the drain device 67 with the sealing elements 661, 662, 663 defined previously, as illustrated, controlled drainage of the chamber 68, after a rupture of the deformable pipe 63, solely by the drain device 67, is guaranteed regardless of the pump's orientation in space. Indeed, if the pump is oriented according to the figure 6In this case, the liquid will naturally flow by gravity through the drain device 67, which is located at a low point on the pump body. The presence of the first sealing element 661 and the third sealing element 663 is not necessary for proper flow solely through the drain device, since these elements are located above the drain device 67. However, if the pump is oriented differently, for example, with the inlet connector 61 and outlet connector 62 at the bottom, the drain device 67 will be located at a high point on the pump. If the third sealing element 663 is absent, the liquid could then flow through the gap between the pump body 60 and the inlet connector 61 and outlet connector 62.In the absence of a second sealing element 662, the liquid could also escape through the gap between the drive shaft 51 and the pump body 60, even before reaching the drain device 67. The flow of liquid would then be uncontrolled, as is the case with prior art pumps in the event of rupture of the deformable pipe. Thanks to the sealing elements 661, 662, 663, previously described, the water cannot flow through these gaps and is therefore forced to flow through the drain device 67 and only through the drain device 67. In addition, the presence of said sealing elements 661, 662, 663 makes it possible to prevent any flow of unwanted liquid, that is to say, elsewhere than through the drain device, if the latter were to become blocked or were unable to ensure a sufficient flow rate to drain the chamber quickly enough.

[0073] As can be seen on the figure 4The housing 111 includes a liquid drainage device 114 designed to drain liquid from the housing 111 in the event of a leak from a liquid transport device 32, 6, 33, in this case a peristaltic pump 6 or a conduit 32, 33, and / or a liquid storage device, in this case a reservoir 3. The liquid drainage device 114 is arranged so that the liquid cannot come into contact with the electrical or electronic component. More specifically, the liquid drainage device 114 includes two ports 1141 arranged side by side. Each port 1141 passes through the housing 111, thus connecting the inside of the housing 111 to the outside. Using two separate openings ensures sufficient drainage and guarantees a minimum flow rate should one of the openings 1141 become blocked. As illustrated by the figure 4Each orifice 1141 is a hole with a diameter approximately 1.2 mm. Thus, the possible drainage area is approximately 2.26 mm². The holes are separated by approximately 2.5 mm.

[0074] The liquid drainage device 114 is located at a distance of approximately 25 mm from the edge of the first treatment surface 112, which ensures a safe distance when the water flows through the drainage device 114 and prevents the discharged liquid from coming into contact with the first treatment surface 112. The liquid drainage device 114 is located opposite the second arm 12, which allows it to be concealed when the smoothing clamp is closed, thus improving the overall aesthetics.

[0075] According to the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the draining device 67 of the peristaltic pump 6 communicates with the discharge device 114 of the housing 111. In this case, as can be seen in the Figures 4 and 5 The draining device 67 is located opposite the evacuation device 114. In other words, the draining device 67 is located opposite the evacuation device 114. More precisely, the draining device 67 has two holes 671, the evacuation device 114 also has two orifices 1141, each of the holes 671 belonging to the draining device 67 being arranged opposite, that is to say opposite, an orifice 1141 of the evacuation device 114.

[0076] Advantageously and remarkably, the evacuation section of the drain device 67 and that of the evacuation device 114 are substantially identical and of the order of 2.26 mm 2< which guarantees the total flow of the liquid which may be in the chamber 68 without funneling phenomenon.

[0077] The draining device 67 and the discharge device 114 are then separated by a sealing element 664, in this case an O-ring, which ensures a seal between the draining device and the discharge device 114. The sealing element 664 is held in a housing around the draining device 67 and is thus in contact with the housing 111 and the peristaltic pump 6, and in particular with the pump body 60. Thanks to this embodiment of the invention, in the event of a rupture of the deformable tube 63 of the peristaltic pump 6 of the household appliance 1, the liquid would then be discharged in a controlled manner, defined by design, that is to say, in a deliberate manner, only through the discharge device 114, and via the draining device 67 of the peristaltic pump 6, so that the liquid cannot come into contact with any electrical or electronic component located inside the housing 111.In other words, the inside of the housing 111 is protected from any possible liquid, even in the event of a failure within the peristaltic pump 6, which considerably improves the safety of the household appliance 1, both for the appliance itself (its electrical or electronic components) and for the user (risk of electrocution).

Claims

1. Household appliance (1) comprising a peristaltic pump (6) comprising a pump body (60) defining a chamber (68) in which there is a deformable tube (63) intended to contain a liquid to be displaced, characterized in that the peristaltic pump (6) includes a sealing device (661, 662, 663) designed to retain the liquid within the chamber (68) in case of rupture of the deformable tube (63), and in that it includes a liquid drainage device (67) designed to, in case of rupture of the deformable tube (63) of the peristaltic pump (6), drain the liquid from the chamber (68) to the outside of the peristaltic pump (6) along a controlled path.

2. Household appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, said chamber (68) comprising a rotor (65) in contact with the deformable tube (63), said rotor (65) being connected to a drive shaft (51) passing through the pump body (60), characterized in that the sealing device includes a first sealing element (661) positioned between the drive shaft (51) and the pump body (60).

3. Household appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first sealing element (661) consists of a lip seal, and preferably a double lip seal.

4. Household appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said pump including a cover (64) cooperating with the pump body (60), characterized in that the sealing device includes a second sealing element (662) positioned between the pump body (60) and the cover (64).

5. Household appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said pump comprising an inlet connector (61) intended to receive a liquid suction conduit (32), and an outlet connector (62) intended to receive a liquid discharge conduit (33), connected to the deformable tube (63), characterized in that the sealing device includes a third sealing element (663) positioned between the pump body (60) and at least one of the inlet (61) or outlet (62) connectors.

6. Household appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the third sealing element (663) consists of a plate, preferably silicone, through which each of said inlet (61) and outlet (62) connectors passes.

7. Household appliance (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the third sealing element (663) is positioned between the pump body (60) and each of the inlet (61) and outlet (62) connectors, said third sealing element (663) comprising two O-ring seals.

8. Household appliance (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the inlet connectors (61) and outlet connectors (62) are arranged on the same plane belonging to a single external face of the peristaltic pump (6).

9. Household appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the inlet connectors (61) and outlet connectors (62) each incorporate an elbow of approximately 90°.

10. Household appliance (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid drainage device (67) comprises at least one hole (671).

11. Household appliance (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drainage device (67) is arranged through the pump body (60).

12. Household appliance (1) according to any of the preceding claims, forming a hair styling appliance.

13. Household appliance (1) according to any of the preceding claims and according to claims 2 and 5, said appliance comprising an electric motor (5), a reservoir (3) intended to contain liquid to be displaced towards a liquid consumption device (4), characterized in that the inlet connector (61) is connected to the reservoir (3), the outlet connector (62) is connected to the liquid consumption device (4), the drive shaft (51) is connected to a motor shaft of the electric motor (5), and the peristaltic pump (6) is arranged between the reservoir and the liquid consumption device.

14. Household appliance (1) according to any of the preceding claims, said appliance comprising a casing (111) including the peristaltic pump (6) and at least one electrical or electronic component, characterized in that the casing (111) includes a liquid evacuation device (114) designed to evacuate the liquid to the outside of the casing (111), and in that the said evacuation device (114) is arranged such that the liquid cannot come into contact with the electrical or electronic component, and in that the said drainage device (67) communicates with the said evacuation device (114).

15. Household appliance (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a sealing element (664) is positioned between the said drainage (67) and evacuation (114) devices.

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