Steam generation kit for home appliance

Abstract

The present invention relates to a steam generating assembly (1) for a domestic appliance, comprising a vaporization device for transforming liquid into steam by the action of a heating element (10), the vaporization device comprising a casing (2) with an interior cavity forming a vaporization chamber (21), the casing (2) having at least one opening intended to be closed by a plug (3), characterized in that the plug (3) comprises a functional portion (31) extending inside the vaporization chamber (21) and comprising a scale management element. Figure for abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Steam generation assembly for domestic appliance Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the general field of domestic steam appliances, and particularly to the vaporization chambers of portable appliances. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Various portable domestic appliances are used to produce steam. They generally comprise a steam generating assembly, having a vaporization device delimiting a vaporization chamber, in which a liquid, for example water, is transformed into steam under the action of a heating element. The steam thus formed is then distributed by the domestic appliance, for example to a treatment surface which can also be heated.

[0003] A first example of such a domestic steam appliance is found in the field of laundry care appliances, such as steam straighteners. Such portable appliances generally include steam distribution orifices directly onto a treatment surface. By sliding the treatment surface over clothing or fabric, the projection of steam makes it possible to remove crease marks and to have a cleaning, anti-odor effect and to eliminate bacteria, for example. These devices offer an alternative to conventional irons by allowing vertical steaming of a fabric. They are designed so as to be easily transported in luggage, and in particular to be used to quickly iron a garment when a user is traveling.

[0004] A second example is found in the field of personal care appliances, in particular hair care appliances, such as steam straighteners or steam brushes. Such appliances also comprise a heated treatment surface which will be applied to the hair, and at which steam is distributed. The vaporization chamber communicates with steam distribution orifices, allowing, during use, steam to be projected towards a lock of hair at the treatment surface. The projection of steam makes it easier for a user to style their hair and improves the shaping of the hair.

[0005] These examples of domestic appliances are intended to be carried by the user in one hand, for several minutes. To make their use practical and attractive, they must therefore be light, compact and ergonomic.

[0006] In order to improve the compactness of such steam appliances, it may be relevant to Reduce the volume of the steam generating unit. However, reducing the volume of the steam chamber has a negative impact on the lifespan of the appliance, as it will therefore be subject to scaling more quickly. This is because the rapid change in water temperature in the steam chamber causes solid limescale particles to deposit. Excessive scaling leads to blockages in the water inlet or steam outlet openings and causes the appliance to malfunction.

[0007] The problem of scaling is all the more relevant for such devices intended to be used outside the home, as it is too restrictive for users to use only demineralized water as is generally recommended.

[0008] A solution proposed by WO2020127851Al was to design vaporization chambers with an internal wall covered by a hydrophobic layer at the water inlet orifice into the chamber. This prevents limescale deposits at this location. It was also proposed to place a baffle at the internal wall of the vaporization chamber, in order to capture solid particles upstream of the distribution system.

[0009] However, these two solutions generally require forming the vaporization chamber by assembling two molded parts. In particular, the coating is generally applied to a wall of a first molded shell, which is then assembled to a second shell, the vaporization chamber being formed between two shells. The assembly of the parts obtained by molding requires providing fixing zones and therefore limits the gain in compactness of the vaporization chamber. Statement of the invention

[0010] An aim of the present disclosure is to propose a steam generation assembly for a domestic appliance, making it possible to present different functionalities for reducing limescale deposits and therefore increasing the lifespan of the domestic appliance.

[0011] This object is achieved by a steam generation assembly for a domestic appliance, comprising a vaporization device for transforming liquid into steam by the action of a heating element, the vaporization device comprising a casing with an interior cavity forming a vaporization chamber, the casing having at least one opening intended to be closed by a cap, characterized in that the cap comprises a functional portion extending inside the vaporization chamber and comprising a scale management element.

[0012] Indeed, the vaporization chamber of the assembly as claimed comprises at least one functional cap integrating anti-scaling protection functions usually present in molded vaporization chambers. Thus, the Scale management elements usually present in the molded shells forming the vaporization chamber are now carried by the functional cap. This makes it easy to modify the functionalities according to the use of the domestic appliance in which the steam generation assembly will be integrated, while maintaining an identical housing geometry.

[0013] The presence of the functional cap also makes it possible to avoid the need for a specific coating to be applied to the internal walls of the vaporization chamber, and therefore in particular to offer the possibility of forming a vaporization chamber in a single piece and therefore more compact, in particular a vaporization chamber formed by extrusion. Thus, the vaporization chamber benefits from the compactness while retaining the structural advantages of resistance to scaling of a manufacture with two molded shells. This makes it possible, after integration of the assembly into a steam appliance, to obtain a more compact and lighter appliance, without compromising the lifespan or performance of the appliance.

[0014] The proposed steam generation assembly is advantageously completed by the following characteristics, taken individually or in any of their technically possible combinations: - the scale management element of the functional portion is chosen from a hydrophobic layer, a hydrophilic layer, a solid particle filter, or a wall forming a baffle; - the functional portion of the plug is intended to extend by forming contact with an internal surface of the vaporization chamber, preferably with two internal surfaces of the vaporization chamber; - the functional portion of the plug extends in a longitudinal direction, and comprises a wall extending in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, so as to divide the vaporization chamber; - the cap is obtained by molding a metal alloy, preferably an aluminum alloy; - the steam generation assembly comprises a heating element arranged to cover a wall of the housing, so as to heat the vaporization chamber; - the cap comprises a portion delimiting an inlet channel for the entry of liquid inside the vaporization chamber; - the casing is obtained by extrusion; - the plug is arranged at one longitudinal end of the casing; - the steam generation assembly comprises a first plug arranged at a first longitudinal end of the casing and a second plug disposed at a second longitudinal end of the casing, opposite the first longitudinal end; - the first stopper comprises a hydrophobic layer, preferably made of polytetrafluoroethylene; - the second cap comprises a solid particle filter and / or a wall forming a baffle; - the first stopper and / or the second stopper comprises a hydrophilic layer; - the housing comprises an additional interior cavity forming a distribution chamber, the distribution chamber being in steam communication with the vaporization chamber via an outlet channel, and comprising one or more steam distribution orifices; - the vaporization chamber is an instantaneous type vaporization chamber.

[0015] According to a second aspect, there is provided a domestic appliance comprising - a liquid reservoir, intended to contain a liquid, - a vapor generation assembly, wherein the interior cavity forming the vaporization chamber is in liquid communication with the liquid reservoir, such that the vapor generation assembly is configured to vaporize the liquid from the liquid reservoir.

[0016] The proposed home appliance may further comprise a treatment surface, and the steam generating assembly may be configured to deliver steam from the same side as the treatment surface.

[0017] The proposed domestic appliance may, for illustration purposes, be chosen from - a laundry care appliance, in particular a portable steam iron, - a personal care device, in particular a steam straightener or a brush steam. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0018] Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting, and which must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings in which:

[0019] [Fig.l] represents a perspective view of a section of a steam generation assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0020] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of a first type of stopper, allowing the arrival of liquid in the embodiment of [Fig.l].

[0021] [Fig. 3] is a perspective view of a second type of plug in the embodiment of [Fig. 1].

[0022] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a section of the extruded profile forming the vaporization chamber in the embodiment of [Fig.l].

[0023] [Fig.5] is an exploded view of a domestic steam appliance assembly including the steam generating assembly of [Fig.l].

[0024] [Fig.6] is a schematic view showing the integration of a steam generating assembly according to the present invention, in a hair care appliance of the steam straightener type.

[0025] [Fig.7] is a schematic view showing the integration of a steam generating assembly according to the present invention, in a steam brush type hair care appliance.

[0026] [Fig.8] is a schematic view showing the integration of a steam generating assembly according to the present invention, in a steamer type laundry care steamer.

[0027] Throughout the figures, similar elements bear identical references. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The steam generation assembly 1 according to the present invention comprises a vaporization device having a casing 2 having an interior cavity forming a vaporization chamber 21. The casing 2 has at least one opening 4 intended to be closed by a plug 3.

[0029] A liquid is intended to be injected into the vaporization chamber 21 and to transform into vapor during its circulation in the vaporization chamber 21, under the action of a heating element. The vaporization of the liquid in the vaporization chamber can lead to progressive scaling of the vaporization device.

[0030] The steam generation assembly 1 according to the present invention has the particularity that the cap 3 comprises a functional portion extending inside the vaporization chamber 21 and comprising a scale management element.

[0031] By scale management element, it is meant an element for managing a possible limescale deposit in the vaporization chamber 21, whether to reduce the limescale deposit, or to manage the location of the limescale deposit in the vaporization chamber 21, for example by moving the liquid from areas where it might tend to accumulate naturally, to areas in which a limescale deposit would less hinder the operation of the vaporization device.

[0032] The scale management element of the functional portion may for example be chosen from a hydrophobic layer, a hydrophilic layer, a solid particle filter, and a wall forming a baffle.

[0033] The presence of the plug 3 comprising a functional portion makes it possible to modify the anti-scale functionalities of the steam generation assembly 1 without modifying the structure of the casing 2. Indeed, it is sufficient in this respect to modify the plug 3 by using different scale management elements. This can also be useful for removing any limescale deposits retained by the scale management element.

[0034] The functional portion 31 is intended to extend inside the vaporization chamber 21 in a longitudinal direction Y.

[0035] Preferably, the functional portion 31 of the plug 3 is intended to extend by forming contact with an internal surface of the vaporization chamber 21, preferably with two internal surfaces of the vaporization chamber 21.

[0036] For example, the functional portion 31 of the plug 3 may form a protruding plate comprising a face oriented towards the inside of the vaporization chamber 21, and a face forming contact with an internal surface of the vaporization chamber 21. This advantageously makes it possible to center and maintain the plug 3 in position in the vaporization chamber 21.

[0037] The functional portion 31 can allow the liquid to be in contact with the casing 2 at a more central injection point of the vaporization chamber 21. The injection point is advantageously placed in an area of ​​the vaporization chamber 21 where a maximum temperature prevails and far from the internal walls of the casing 2, in order to improve the vaporization of the liquid.

[0038] The functional portion 31 may comprise a portion 34 delimiting an inlet channel 41 for the liquid in the vaporization chamber 21, for the inlet of liquid inside the vaporization chamber 21. In this case, the plug 3 may be described as a liquid inlet plug.

[0039] In an embodiment not shown, the plug 3 may comprise a functional portion extending the portion 34 inside the vaporization chamber 21 in order to form an injection pipe, having for example a beveled end at the injection point.

[0040] The plug 3 makes it possible to improve the resistance to scaling of the steam generation assembly 1. In particular, the functional portion of the plug 3 can make it possible to limit a deposit of limescale at the opening 4.

[0041] Preferably, the functional portion 31 of the plug 3 makes it possible to avoid generating evaporation at the liquid injection point by pushing the evaporation further into the vaporization chamber 21, so as to limit scaling at the injection point.

[0042] To this end, the functional portion 31 of the plug 3 may comprise a scale management element which is a hydrophobic layer. For example, the functional portion 31 may be covered before assembly on the casing 2 by a coating comprising a material to which scale adheres poorly.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally, the functional portion 31 can serve as a support for an added element. The added element can be a plate of hy material drophobe 50, covering the face of the functional portion 31 facing the inside of the vaporization chamber 21.

[0044] Typically, the hydrophobic layer is made with a hydrophobic material, such as a silicone or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, also known under the registered trademark Teflon®) for example. Polytetrafluoroethylene has the advantage of having excellent non-stick properties while being very heat resistant.

[0045] With reference to [Fig. 2], the functional portion 31 may comprise a groove 35 forming a gutter intended to extend in the longitudinal direction Y from the portion 34 towards the interior of the vaporization chamber 21. The groove 35 may also make it possible to hold in position the added element, assembled on the plug 3 before insertion into the vaporization chamber 21. The added element may be for example an injection pipe or the hydrophobic layer 50.

[0046] Advantageously, the plug 3, or at least the functional portion 31 of the plug 3, comprises a scale management element which is a hydrophilic layer. The presence of a hydrophilic layer having an anti-calefaction effect allows the liquid to spread and diffuse easily in the vaporization chamber 21 at the walls of the casing 2. This prevents liquid from splashing outside the steam generation assembly 1. This also contributes to managing the scaling of the casing 2 by controlling the location of the limescale deposit.

[0047] The anti-calefaction effect can be obtained by treating the functional portion 31, in particular by spraying an anti-calefaction coating or by applying it with a brush. For example, application WO9502787A1 mentions anti-calefaction coatings comprising sodium silicate or solutions of ceramics, silicate or silica. Alternatively, the anti-calefaction effect can be obtained by a fabric of mineral or synthetic fibers placed on the functional portion 31.

[0048] In an embodiment not shown, the functional portion 31 of the plug 3 may extend in the longitudinal direction Y, and comprise a scale management element which is a separating wall extending in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction Y, so as to divide the vaporization chamber 21.

[0049] This means that the separating wall can delimit several distinct vaporization chambers in fluid communication within the casing 2. This makes it possible to effectively retain an undesirable limescale deposit, and to improve the resistance to scaling of the device and therefore its lifespan.

[0050] For example, the separating wall of the functional portion 31 of the cap 3 can separate a first vaporization chamber, located on the side of the opening 4 corresponding to a liquid inlet orifice 4, from a second vaporization chamber. The volume occupied by the first vaporization chamber can be greater than the volume occupied by the second vaporization chamber, or even at least twice as large, so as to admit a quantity of a possible deposit of scale greater in the first vaporization chamber, without reducing the compactness of the steam generation assembly 1.

[0051] Once inserted into the opening of the casing 2, the plug 3 is intended to be held in position by any fixing means, for example a screw. In the embodiment shown, the plug 3 comprises an external portion 32 intended to extend outside the vaporization chamber 21, and comprising one or more orifices 33, 37, allowing the passage of screws 83, 84.

[0052] The external portion 32 may have a solid shape in order to come into abutment against an external surface of the casing 2, and have a hollow portion 34 coinciding with the opening 4 of the casing 2.

[0053] Advantageously, the external portion 32 of the plug 3 may comprise a recess at a wall intended to abut against an external wall of the casing 2 at the opening of the casing 2. The recess is intended to receive a seal 36, guaranteeing a sealed obstruction of the opening 4. For example, the plug 3 may prevent the passage of liquid elsewhere than through the inlet channel 4L.

[0054] Preferably, the plug 3 is obtained by molding. This makes it possible to obtain complex shapes by hot injection of a solidifying liquid material.

[0055] The cap 3 can be made of a light and resistant material. The functional portion 31 must in particular withstand a high temperature prevailing in the vaporization chamber 21.

[0056] Preferably, the material making up the plug 3 may be a metal alloy, for example an aluminum alloy. The use of a metal alloy allows good conduction of heat between the walls of the casing 2 and the interior of the vaporization chamber 21. Thus, the presence of the functional portion 31 of the plug 3 does not prevent heat transfer from the heating element 10 to the vaporization chamber 21. This also allows the functional portion 31 not to degrade inside the vaporization chamber 21 under the effect of heat.

[0057] Preferably, the heating element 10 is arranged opposite a wall of the casing 2 outside the vaporization chamber 21, preferably covering this wall of the casing 2. The heating element is configured to maintain an adequate temperature inside the vaporization chamber 21, typically a temperature greater than 100°C, and preferably 120°C.

[0058] Advantageously, the casing 2 is made of a material resistant to high temperatures and allowing good thermal conduction. For example, the material used may be a metal alloy, and in particular an aluminum alloy.

[0059] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 21 is an instantaneous type vaporization chamber. This means that the liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 21 is intended to be vaporized almost instantly, for example by coming into contact with a wall of the casing 2 or the functional portion 31 of the plug 3. The vaporization chamber 21 is thus not intended to contain a significant quantity of liquid.

[0060] Preferably, the steam generation assembly 1 may further comprise a distribution chamber 22, in steam communication with the vaporization chamber 21. For example, the casing 2 may comprise an additional interior cavity forming the distribution chamber 22. The steam formed by vaporization of the liquid in the vaporization chamber 21 is then intended to be distributed to the outside of the steam generation assembly 1 through distribution orifices present in the distribution chamber 22.

[0061] Advantageously, the casing 2 can be monobloc, that is to say made as a single piece. Thus, the vaporization device is not formed by the assembly of two shells and does not require additional fixing zones. This makes it possible to increase the compactness of the steam generation assembly 1.

[0062] The casing 2 can in particular be obtained by extrusion, and take the form of a profile extending in the longitudinal direction Y.

[0063] The vaporization chamber 21 may be formed between a lower wall 20 and an upper wall 29 of the profile of the extruded casing 2. The walls of the extruded casing 2 may be thin in order to increase the compactness of the steam generation assembly 1.

[0064] The vaporization chamber 21 may be separated from the distribution chamber 22 by a wall. For example, the wall may comprise orifices allowing the passage of steam from the vaporization chamber 21 to the distribution chamber 22.

[0065] In the embodiment of [Fig.4], the vaporization chamber 21 and the distribution chamber 22 are delimited by the profile of the casing 2.

[0066] The distribution chamber 22 may comprise as distribution orifice a slot 23 forming a linear nozzle extending in the longitudinal direction Y, for example on the upper wall 29 of the casing 2.

[0067] Advantageously, the casing 2 may comprise a wall extending towards the outside of the casing 2 from the upper wall 29, in a direction orthogonal to the plane of the upper wall 29. This advantageously makes it possible to delimit a receiving surface 28 for the heating element 10. In [Fig. 4], the receiving surface 28 is formed between two facing walls.

[0068] Preferably, the casing 2 may comprise a wall extending towards the outside of the casing 2 from the upper wall 29 forming a hook 24. More precisely, in the embodiment shown in the figures, the casing 2 comprises a first hook 24 and a second hook 25.

[0069] Preferably, the wall of the casing 2 may comprise at least one hollow shape intended to receive the means for fixing the plug 3 to the casing 2, for example the screws 83, 84, 85, 86.

[0070] In the extruded casing section 2 illustrated in [Fig.4], the wall of the casing 2 may comprise a lower fixing zone 27 located at the level of the lower wall 20, and a lateral fixing zone 26. The fixing zones 26, 27 may be U-shaped.

[0071] In the embodiment shown in [Fig.l], the casing 2 extends substantially in the longitudinal direction Y between a first end and a second end, and comprises a liquid inlet orifice 4 at the first end, and a vapor outlet orifice 7 at the second end.

[0072] Although it appears from reading the above that the presence of the single plug 3 makes it possible to solve the technical problem, the steam generation assembly 1 shown in the figures for illustrative purposes may further comprise a second plug, in particular a functional plug.

[0073] More specifically, the steam generation assembly 1 may comprise a first plug 3 arranged at a first longitudinal end of the casing 2 and a second plug 6 arranged at a second longitudinal end of the casing 2, opposite the first longitudinal end.

[0074] The second cap 6 and the first cap 3 may have characteristics as described above. The second cap 6 preferably comprises a functional portion 61 extending inside the vaporization chamber 21 and a scale management element.

[0075] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.l], the first plug 3 comprises a scale management element which is a hydrophobic insert plate 50, and the second plug 6 comprises a scale management element which is a filtration grid 51 for solid limestone particles.

[0076] The second plug 6 may comprise an external portion 62 intended to extend outside the casing 2.

[0077] For example, the second plug 6 has a portion delimiting an outlet channel allowing the steam formed in the vaporization chamber 21 to exit the vaporization chamber 21. In this case, the second plug 6 can be referred to as a steam outlet plug. The outlet channel could however be provided directly on the casing 2, the second plug 6 then being provided to completely close the second end of the casing 2.

[0078] When the casing 2 is obtained by extrusion, the vaporization chamber 21 and the distribution chamber 22 extend over the entire length of the casing 2, and the wall separating the vaporization chamber 21 from the distribution chamber 22 does not have an orifice.

[0079] With reference to Figures 1 and 3, the external portion 62 can make it possible to cover the second end of the casing 2 in a sealed manner, while delimiting the steam outlet channel outside the vaporization chamber 21. For this purpose, the external portion 62 of the second plug 6 can comprise a recess at the level of a wall intended to come into abutment against the second end of the casing 2. The recess is intended to receive a seal 66, guaranteeing a sealed obstruction of the outlet orifice 7, that is to say preventing the passage of liquid through the second end of the casing 2.

[0080] Once inserted into the vaporization chamber 21, the second plug 6 is intended to be held in position by any fixing means, for example screws 85, 86. Preferably, the external portion 62 of the second plug 6 comprises one or more orifices 63, 64, allowing the passage of a screw.

[0081] Advantageously, the face of the functional portion 61 of the second plug 6 oriented towards the inside of the vaporization chamber 21 may comprise a scale management element making it possible to limit the scaling of the steam generation assembly 1, in particular at the outlet channel.

[0082] The functional portion 61 may comprise a lug 65 extending in the longitudinal direction Y towards the inside of the vaporization chamber 21. In the embodiment shown, the lug 65 may make it possible to hold in position a scale management element having for example an anti-limescale function. For example, the filtration grid 51 of solid particles of limestone may be inserted on the lug 65 before assembly of the second cap 6 with the vaporization device.

[0083] Like the first cap 3, the second cap 6 may comprise a scale management element which is a hydrophilic layer. For example, the second cap 6, or only the functional portion 61 of the second cap 6 may be covered with an anti-calefaction coating after manufacture of the second cap 6 and before its assembly with the vaporization device.

[0084] Preferably, the functional portion 31 of the first plug 3 and the functional portion 61 of the second plug 6 may have complementary lengths so as to extend over the entire length of the vaporization chamber 21. This makes it possible to have several scale management elements distributed throughout the volume of the vaporization chamber 21.

[0085] In an embodiment not shown, the functional portion 61 of the second cap 6 may comprise scale management elements in the form of walls extending into the vaporization zone so as to form a baffle inside the vaporization chamber 21. A baffle is any obstacle creating uneven movements of the steam, for example in a zigzag.

[0086] Advantageously, the functional portion 61 of the second plug 6 can comprise several walls arranged in parallel, in a staggered manner.

[0087] The presence of a baffle increases the distance traveled by the steam in the vaporization chamber 21 and therefore its passage time in the casing 2. Thus, any remaining drops of liquid are completely vaporized before reaching the outlet channel.

[0088] In addition, this advantageously makes it possible to retain solid particles in the baffle by trapping the scale homogeneously in the vaporization chamber 21, and to prevent the solid particles from blocking the outlet channel.

[0089] In an embodiment in which the steam generation assembly 1 comprises only one cap 3, the cap 3 may have a functional portion having all of the aforementioned scale management elements, individually or in combination.

[0090] Assembly of the steam generation assembly 1

[0091] As explained previously, the steam generation assembly 1 is intended to be integrated into a domestic steam appliance, in particular a portable appliance.

[0092] [Fig.5] represents an exploded view of an assembly 100 comprising the steam generation assembly 1 according to the embodiment represented in [Fig.1], intended to be integrated into a steam straightener jaw.

[0093] The assembly 100 comprises a plate 9 having a treatment surface 92 fulfilling a specific function, as illustrated in the following examples. Those skilled in the art will understand that the treatment surface 92 is not limited to a rectangular planar surface, and may have different geometries depending on the function fulfilled.

[0094] The plate 9 can be heated by the heating element 10 used to heat the vaporization device with the vaporization chamber 21, which makes it possible to reduce the size of the steam generation assembly 1. The heating element 10 can be arranged between the plate 9 and the casing 2, and can extend along the longitudinal axis Y over the entire length of the casing 2.

[0095] Alternatively, the plate 9 and the casing 2 can be heated by separate heating elements.

[0096] As illustrated in [Fig.5], the hook 24 makes it possible to assemble the casing 2 with the plate 9 by hooking. The plate 9 comprises a first portion intended to be in direct engagement with the first hook 24, and a second portion intended to be in engagement with the second hook 25 by means of a spring blade 91. Screws 85, 86 make it possible to hold the second plug 6 on the casing 2 at the level of the area of U-shaped attachment. Such a hook system allows simple assembly and disassembly of the assembly 100.

[0097] The domestic appliance preferably comprises a liquid reservoir 12, capable of containing the liquid intended to be vaporized in the vaporization chamber 21 of the steam generation assembly 1.

[0098] The domestic appliance may comprise a pump, in particular a peristaltic pump, and at least one pipe, intended to allow the liquid to be conveyed from the liquid reservoir 12 to the interior of the vaporization chamber 21.

[0099] The steam is then intended to be distributed from the steam generation assembly 1 to the treatment surface 92. For example, the steam can pass through steam distribution orifices 23 arranged in the vaporization chamber 21 or in the possible distribution chamber 22. Alternatively, the steam can pass through the outlet channel arranged in the second plug 6.

[0100] The plug 3 can be connected to a nozzle 43 making it possible to connect the interior of the casing 2 to the liquid reservoir 12. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir 12 can be in liquid communication with the interior of the vaporization chamber 21 without passing through the plug 3.

[0101] The heating element 10 is used to heat the liquid contained in the vaporization chamber 21, so that the liquid transforms into vapor. Typically, the heating element 10 may be a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) electrical resistor or a metal ceramic heating element (MCH).

[0102] Advantageously, the heating element 10 can be arranged between an outer surface of the upper wall 29 of the vaporization chamber 21, and a surface of the plate 9 opposite the treatment surface 92. This allows the heating element 10 to simultaneously heat the plate 9 and the vaporization chamber 21, and to reduce the size of the apparatus in which the assembly is integrated.

[0103] The heating element 10 may be regulated by a temperature controller comprising a temperature sensor 11 for measuring a temperature of the heating element 10. The temperature sensor 11 may be a passive sensor or a thermistor, for example with a negative temperature coefficient (NTC).

[0104] The temperature sensor 11 may be arranged near the heating element 10, and preferably arranged above the plug 3, for example near the point of injection of liquid into the vaporization chamber 21.

[0105] The presence of the temperature controller makes it possible to advantageously achieve a control of the temperature inside the vaporization chamber 21. This makes it possible to guarantee safe use of the device, and to prevent the water from not being completely vaporized and consequently to limit a risk of burns by projection of hot liquid. This can also make it possible to block an inlet of liquid in special conditions, for example if the measured temperature is too high. Alternatively, this makes it possible to block the arrival of liquid if the temperature of the vaporization chamber 21 is below a threshold temperature allowing vaporization, in particular during preheating of the device.

[0106] Integration of the assembly into a hair care device

[0107] The steam generation assembly 1 can advantageously be integrated into a personal care appliance producing steam, particularly in a hair care appliance such as a hairdressing appliance.

[0108] A first example of such a hairdressing appliance is a steam straightener 101. For illustration purposes, [Fig.6] is a schematic representation of such a appliance.

[0109] The steam straightener 101 comprises two jaws arranged opposite each other and articulated so as to form a clamp, in which a lock of hair to be styled can be placed. The assembly 100 is integrated into the jaw M, also comprising the liquid reservoir 12. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir 12 can be offset from the hairdressing appliance 101.

[0110] The liquid contained in the liquid reservoir 12 may be composed solely of water or include a cosmetic agent for example.

[0111] When using the device, the liquid is intended to enter the casing 2 by passing through the inlet channel delimited by the first plug 3. The liquid is intended to transform into vapor under the action of the heating element 10 inside the vaporization chamber 21.

[0112] Typically, the heating element 10 can reach a temperature suitable for obtaining a temperature in the vaporization chamber 21 of between 100°C and 150°C, or else according to a reduced temperature range, of between 120°C and 140°C.

[0113] The steam is then intended to escape from the vaporization chamber 21 through distribution orifices (not shown), in order to be distributed at the level of the treatment surface 92. This means that the steam escapes from the same side as the treatment surface 92, close to the treatment surface 92, or through orifices passing through the treatment surface 92 for example.

[0114] For example, in the assembly 100 of the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.5], the steam is intended to escape along the plate 9 through the slot-shaped distribution orifice 23.

[0115] Typically, the steam generation assembly 1 intended to be integrated into a hairdressing appliance 101 of the straightener type can generate a steam flow rate of between 0.4g / min and 2.2g / min, preferably 0.4g / min and 1.2g / min. The steam flow rate depends on the size of the vaporization chamber 21 and the power of the heating element 10.

[0116] The anti-heating function of the plug 3,6 is particularly advantageous. It makes it possible to obtain better vaporization of the liquid, resulting in a reduction of undesirable projections of liquid at the treatment surface 9.

[0117] In the embodiment shown schematically in [Fig.6], the steam generation assembly 1 comprises the second plug 6, the functional portion of which has a wall 52 delimiting two distinct spaces in the vaporization chamber 21.

[0118] A second example of such a hairdressing appliance is a steam brush 102 shown schematically in [Fig.7].

[0119] The steam brush 102 comprises a liquid reservoir 12 and a steam generating assembly 1 according to the present invention. The heating element 10 and the temperature sensor 11 are arranged between the housing 2 and the plate 9.

[0120] The treatment surface 92 of the plate 9 may comprise a plurality of teeth, bristles or spikes for brushing, combing, or shaping the hair. The teeth may have dispensing orifices at their base, in communication with the interior of the vaporization chamber 21. Alternatively, the dispensing orifices may be arranged between the teeth.

[0121] In the embodiment shown schematically, the steam generation assembly 1 comprises the second plug 6, the functional portion of which has several walls 53 forming a baffle.

[0122] Integration of the assembly into a laundry care appliance

[0123] The steam generation assembly 1 can also be advantageously integrated into a laundry care appliance, for example a handheld steamer. [Fig.8] is a schematic representation of such a household appliance.

[0124] The steam iron 103 comprises the plate 9 having the treatment surface 92, intended to be applied to, or directed towards, a fabric during use of the apparatus. The treatment surface 92 can have several geometries, for example a circular, oval, triangular, or rectangular shape, with rounded edges.

[0125] According to a preferred embodiment, the steam generation assembly 1 is integrated into the steam straightener 103 so that the vaporization chamber 21 extends substantially parallel to the plate 9 having the treatment surface 92. Such an assembly makes it possible to make the device more compact, in particular in that it is possible to use a common heating element 10 to heat the steam generation assembly 1 and the plate 9.

[0126] When the steam generation assembly 1 is integrated into the steam straightener 103, the temperatures reached by the heating element 10 and the vaporization chamber 21 may be lower than when integrated into a hairdressing appliance. as previously described. For example, a temperature of the vaporization chamber 21 when the apparatus is in operation is between 100°C and 180°C, preferably between 110°C and 150°C.

[0127] Consequently, the stopper 3,6 can be made of a material other than a metal alloy, for example plastic.

[0128] The steam straightener 103 also comprises a liquid reservoir 12, intended to contain a liquid, for example water or preferably demineralized water. A pump can allow the liquid to be conveyed from the liquid reservoir 12 to the vaporization chamber 21.

[0129] In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid reservoir 12 communicates with the vapor generation assembly 1 through the first plug 3. The second plug 6 obstructs the outlet orifice of the vaporization chamber, but the vaporization chamber 21 and the distribution chamber 22 are in fluid communication thanks to the outlet channel delimited by the second plug 6.

[0130] The steam is intended to be distributed at the treatment surface 92 through a plurality of distribution orifices 23, passing through the plate 9 and opening onto the treatment surface 92.

[0131] Typically, the steam generation assembly 1 integrated into the portable steam straightener 103 can provide in operation a steam flow rate of between 5 g / min and 40 g / min, preferably between 20 g / min and 35 g / min.

Claims

Claims

1. Steam generating assembly (1) for a domestic appliance, comprising a vaporization device for transforming liquid into vapor by the action of a heating element (10), the vaporization device comprising a housing (2) with an interior cavity forming a vaporization chamber (21), the housing (2) having at least one opening intended to be closed by a plug (3), characterized in that the plug (3) comprises a functional portion (31) extending inside the vaporization chamber (21) and comprising a scale management element.

2. Steam generation assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the scale management element of the functional portion (31) is chosen from: - a hydrophobic layer (50), - a hydrophilic layer, - a solid particle filter (51), - a wall forming a baffle (53).

3. A vapor generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the functional portion (31) of the plug (3) is intended to extend into contact with an internal surface of the vaporization chamber (21), preferably with two internal surfaces of the vaporization chamber (21).

4. A steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the functional portion (31) of the cap (3) extends in a longitudinal direction, and comprises a wall extending in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, so as to divide the vaporization chamber (21).

5. Steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cap (3) is obtained by casting a metal alloy, preferably an aluminum alloy.

6. Steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a heating element (10) arranged to cover a wall of the casing (2), so as to heat the vaporization chamber (21).

7. A steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of the claims- indications 1 to 6, wherein the plug (3) comprises a portion delimiting an inlet channel (41) for an inlet of liquid inside the vaporization chamber (21).

8. Steam generation assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the casing (2) is obtained by extrusion.

9. Steam generation assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a first plug (3) arranged at a first longitudinal end of the casing (2) and a second plug (6) arranged at a second longitudinal end of the casing (2), opposite the first longitudinal end.

10. A steam generating assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein the second cap (6) comprises a solid particle filter (51) and / or a baffle-forming wall (53).

11. A steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the first plug (3) comprises a hydrophobic layer (50), preferably made of polytetrafluoroethylene.

12. A steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the first plug (3) and / or the second plug (6) comprises a hydrophilic layer.

13. A steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the housing (2) comprises an additional interior cavity forming a distribution chamber (22), the distribution chamber (22) being in steam communication with the vaporization chamber (21) via an outlet channel, and comprising one or more steam distribution orifices (23).

14. A steam generating assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the vaporization chamber (21) is an instantaneous type vaporization chamber.

15. Domestic appliance comprising - a liquid reservoir (12), intended to contain a liquid, - a vapor generation assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the interior cavity forming the vaporization chamber (21) is in liquid communication with the liquid reservoir (12), so that the vapor generation assembly (1) is configured to vaporize the liquid from the liquid reservoir (12).

16. A domestic appliance according to claim 15, comprising a treatment surface (92), and wherein the steam generating assembly (1) is configured to deliver steam on the same side as the treatment surface (92).

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