Clothing steamer with improved steaming performance and features

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clothing care device comprising a steam generator having improved steaming performance and function.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothing steamer with improved steam performance.

[0002] The present invention can be used in the field of clothing care. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, steam generators used in irons and some steamer products generate steam using flash boiling, thereby causing water applied to a hot steaming surface at one point or, in some cases, two points to instantaneously evaporate into steam (steam off).

[0004] In some other steam generators, particularly steamer products, a labyrinth design is used to limit water diffusion and improve steam generation. However, water diffusion onto the main steaming surface is affected by the labyrinth design and protrusions on the steaming surface.

[0005] The so-called "open" steam generator design concept can be used to address issues related to limited steam rate and scaling life to some extent. The term "open" refers to a flat steaming surface without a labyrinth extending over the steaming surface.

[0006] As illustrated in FIG. 1, a known open steam generator design generates steam using an open steaming surface, through one or more side steam channels before being discharged from the steam outlet. However, the side steam channels require significant space in the steam generator, which could otherwise be used to generate more steam. Additionally, there is a problem with the generation of hot spots, which occurs because water cannot reach the hot spots around the steam channels, as illustrated by the dashed line in FIG. 2.

[0007] As shown in FIG. 3, when the steaming orientation is a lateral direction, particularly toward the right, the effective steam area is significantly reduced due to the orientation and the area occupied by the steam channel.

[0008] This means that when the steam generator is used in such an unfavorable orientation, the steam volume must be significantly reduced; otherwise, it will lead to unwanted water spitting during use.

[0009] Due to the step down, users may perceive that the steam output is inconsistent.

[0010] To detect the usage orientation, an orientation sensor for angle detection will also be required, which leads to increased manufacturing costs.

[0011] In other words, the currently known labyrinth steam generator design as illustrated in Fig. 4 has the following limitations:

[0012] - Blockage of the Labyrinth steam generator path due to limescale accumulation,

[0013] - Limitation of the instantaneous steaming area. It depends on the water moving through the labyrinth path. This results in reduced steam volume and weakened steam perception.

[0014] - In labyrinth designs with different orientations, steam detection may be poor and there may be a high possibility of water leakage. This will lead to poor steam detection and discharge.

[0015] The disadvantages of current handheld steamer products are already known, and this is why products currently on the market are sometimes weak, have a short limescale life, and have low steaming performance.

[0016] The objective of the present invention is, above all, to propose a garment care device that avoids or alleviates the aforementioned problems by generating more powerful steam at any angle.

[0017] The present invention is limited by independent claims. Dependent claims limit advantageous embodiments.

[0018] The garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention comprises the following:

[0019] - A steam generator (SG) comprising an ironing board (IP) having steam outlets (SV), a lower steam plate (SP) to be heated, a periphery wall (PW) protruding from the periphery of the steam plate, and a cover (CC) disposed on the upper portion of the periphery wall, wherein the steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) without restricted steam paths over a central region (CA) of the steam plate;

[0020] - At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) placed within the cover (CC) to provide water onto the steam plate so that the water is vaporized by the steam plate.

[0021] A garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention comprises a steam generator (SG) having an ironing plate (IP) having steam outlets (SV), a lower steam plate (SP) heated, a main wall (PW) protruding from the main wall (SP), and a cover (CC) disposed on the upper part of the main wall (PW), wherein the steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) without restricted steam paths over a central area (CA) of the steam plate (SP), a first water injection point (WDP1) and a second water injection point (WDP2) disposed to supply water on the steam plate (SP), and a temperature sensor (TS) mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP), wherein the temperature sensor (TS) is disposed between the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2).

[0022] This solution enables not only an increase in steam volume but also an extension of product life by using an open steaming chamber structure in small steamer products.

[0023] A detailed description and other aspects of the present invention will be given below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0024] Now, specific aspects of the present invention will be described with reference to embodiments described and considered below in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which the same parts or sub-steps are indicated in the same manner. FIG. 1 illustrates a known steam generator having a side steam channel. FIG. 2 illustrates a known steam generator having a side steam channel, wherein a hot spot is generated along the side steam channel. FIG. 3 illustrates a known steam generator having a side steam channel when tilted toward the side steam channel. FIG. 4 illustrates a known steam generator having two lateral steam channels equipped with a labyrinth steam path. FIGS. 5 to 20 illustrate various embodiments according to the present invention. FIG. 21 illustrates a case where the steam plate is oriented vertically and the T-joint is positioned on the handle. FIG. 22 illustrates a case where the steam plate is oriented horizontally and the T-joint is positioned on the handle. FIG. 23 illustrates a case where the steam plate is oriented vertically and the T-joint is placed on the steam plate. FIG. 24 illustrates a case where the steam plate is oriented horizontally and the T-joint is placed on the steam plate. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0025] The garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention comprises the following:

[0026] - A steam generator (SG) comprising an ironing board (IP) having steam outlets (SV), a lower steam plate (SP) to be heated, a periphery wall (PW) protruding from the periphery of the steam plate (SP), and a cover (CC) disposed on the upper part of the periphery wall, wherein the steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) without restricted steam paths over a central region (CA) of the steam plate (SP), the steam generator (SG).

[0027] - At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) placed within the cover (CC) to supply water onto the steam plate (SP) so that the water is vaporized by the steam plate (SP).

[0028] In one embodiment, the garment care device (GCD) comprises an ironing plate (IP) having a steam outlet (SV), a heated lower steam plate (SP), a peripheral wall (PW) protruding from the peripheral of the steam plate (SP), and a cover (CC) disposed on top of the peripheral wall (PW). The steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) without a restricted steam path over the central region (CA) of the steam plate (SP). The garment care device (GCD) further comprises a first water dispensing point (WDP1) and a second water dispensing point (WDP2), each of which is disposed to provide water onto the steam plate (SP). A temperature sensor (TS) is mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP) and is disposed between the first water dispensing point (WDP1) and the second water dispensing point (WDP2). In some embodiments, the temperature sensor (TS) is mounted on a protrusion protruding from the steam plate (SP).

[0029] By positioning the temperature sensor (TS) between two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2), the temperature sensor can more accurately detect temperature changes caused by water injection events, and by mounting the temperature sensor on a protrusion, thermal contact with ambient steam or the heated plate surface is improved. This combination results in faster and more accurate temperature measurements, enabling precise control of the heating element (HE) and steam generation, thereby improving garment care efficiency and reducing the risk of overheating or under-steaming.

[0030] The steam plate (SP) defines a flat surface free of any structures that force the steam to follow a given path (i.e., free of labyrinths, paths, channels, etc.). In other words, the internal volume (VV) is generally not blocked.

[0031] The main benefit of the improved design configuration is the inclusion of a larger available steaming surface that effectively increases the steam volume and lime deposit-related lifespan of the steam generator (SG). The steam generator (SG) also operates at a lower peak temperature because heat is extracted more effectively from the larger steaming surface.

[0032] The ironing board (IP) is preferably parallel to the steam board (SP) and has a substantially similar appearance.

[0033] The ironing board (IP) is rectangular, as illustrated for example. It may also have different shapes, such as elliptical or any other shape.

[0034] The garment care device (GCD) may include a handle (HAN) for moving the device toward the garment to be treated by steam.

[0035] When the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis (hh) of the handle, the steam plate (SP) is said to be oriented in a "portrait orientation" as shown in FIG. 5.

[0036] When the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (hh) of the handle, the steam plate (SP) is said to be oriented in a "landscape orientation" as shown in FIG. 13.

[0037] The steam generator (SG) includes additional steam channels located below the steam plate (SP) instead of being positioned along the side of the engine body. This effectively increases the steaming area that can be used to generate more steam instantaneously. The positioning of these steam channels (SC) prevents hot spots from being located at the periphery of the steam plate.

[0038] Preferably, the steam generator (SG) further comprises a substantially "U" shaped heating element (HE) in a heat transfer state with the steam plate (SP). This is illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0039] Additionally, heat from the steam plate (SP) is transferred to the ironing plate (IP) through a lateral thermal bridge placed between the plates.

[0040] Preferably, at least one water administration point (WDP1, WDP2) includes a first water administration point (WDP1) and a second water administration point (WDP2).

[0041] The first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) separate the steam plate (SP) into two interconnected heating zones (Z1, Z2) to improve water distribution and steam generation as illustrated in FIG. 10. Separation means that water exiting the first water injection point (WDP1) reaches the area where the water is vaporized (called the first heating zone (Z1)) and water exiting the second water injection point (WDP2) reaches the area where the water is vaporized (called the second heating zone (Z2)).

[0042] In other words, the steaming surface is provided with two high-temperature steaming zones to enable dual dosing, which results in faster steam generation, fewer hot spots, a longer lifespan related to lime deposits, and a higher amount of steam without discharge.

[0043] By supplying water to both zones (Z1 and Z2) simultaneously, the system generates more powerful, rapid, and large amounts of steam. In other words, a large amount of steam is generated instantaneously. This configuration also provides a larger surface area for scale accumulation, thereby extending product life by reducing the frequency of scale removal. Water is supplied to the two zones simultaneously.

[0044] In the side water retention pockets, excess water will be captured by the partition walls / ribs during the time the engine transfers heat to evaporate the water into steam.

[0045] Preferably, the garment care device (GCD) further includes a temperature sensor (TS) mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP), and the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned between a first water dispensing point (WDP1) and a second water dispensing point (WDP2).

[0046] The temperature sensor (TS) aims to measure and control the temperature of the steam plate (SP). As illustrated in the drawings mentioned above, the temperature sensor may take the form of a thermistor.

[0047] Preferably, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned along the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP). In other words, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned between the two water supply devices (WDP1 / WDP2) to better detect whether water is present in both zones (Z1 / Z2).

[0048] Preferably, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned along the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP) at an intermediate distance between the first wall (W1) and the opposite end of the steam plate (SP).

[0049] Note that the distance between each of the two water administration points (WDP1, WDP2) and the temperature sensor (TS) may differ, and this will be explained in more detail below.

[0050] Preferably, when the heating element (HE) includes a neck portion (NP) of the overall U-shape as shown in FIG. 8, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned slightly offset from this neck portion (NP). This helps to detect whether the power of the heating element (HE) is ON or OFF and to detect whether water is present on the steam plate (SP) by balancing the energy within the steam generator (SG).

[0051] Preferably, the steam plate (SP) forms a surface comprising a first grid pattern consisting of protruding truncated square pyramids.

[0052] In the main steaming areas of the steam plate (SP), particularly zones Z1 and Z2, as shown in Fig. 11, 1x1 millimeter truncated square pyramid grids with a height of 0.5 mm are used at 1 mm intervals for better water diffusion in both horizontal and vertical orientations. The truncated square pyramids are also oriented symmetrically in both the horizontal and vertical orientations of the rectangular steam plate (SP) for optimal water diffusion regardless of the orientation of the steam plate (SP). The square pyramids are oriented at 45 degrees with respect to the xx axis. The truncated square pyramids also help water administered by the water dosing points (WDP1, WDP2) to diffuse throughout the steam plate (SP) without falling too quickly when the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP) is perpendicular in both vertical and horizontal orientations. The small size of the pyramids also helps scale that may have accumulated on the steam plate (SP) to be peeled off more easily.

[0053] Preferably, the garment care device (GCD) further includes a second region (A2), and the second region (A2) forms a surface comprising a second grid pattern consisting of protruding square pyramids.

[0054] Non-truncated pyramids have an increased contact surface area compared to flat surfaces, so this will facilitate the accumulation of scale in this second region A2. The second region A2 acts as a scale accumulation area.

[0055] In other words, the temperature sensor (TS) is positioned closer to the lower injection point (WDP1) so that it can still detect the water temperature even when the steam generator (SG) is oriented vertically.

[0056] In some embodiments, the administration points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset from each other along at least one of the axes (xx, yy).

[0057] In some embodiments, the administration points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset from each other along both axes (xx, yy).

[0058] Preferably, the first water administration point (WDP1) and the second water administration point (WDP2) are

[0059] - Aligned along the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP), or

[0060] - They are offset from each other relative to the above longitudinal axis.

[0061] When the garment care device (GCD) is dedicated to oriented the steam plate (SP) in a longitudinal direction (rather than a transverse direction), the two water dosing points (WDP1, WDP2) extend along the longitudinal axis xx of the steam plate (SP).

[0062] Preferably, since gravity contributes to the diffusion of water and steam generation, the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset along the xx direction relative to the temperature sensor (TS). This means that the temperature sensor (TS) is not located in the middle of the two water injection points (WDP1, WDP2).

[0063] When the garment care device (GCD) is dedicated to oriented the steam plate (SP) in a longitudinal orientation, both water dispensing points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset by a value OFF2 in the xx direction, ranging from 0 to 9 mm. In other words, the centers of the two water dispensing points (WDP1, WDP2) separated by a value X are offset relative to the center of the temperature sensor (TS).

[0064] When the garment care device (GCD) is dedicated to oriented the steam plate (SP) in a vertical orientation as well as a horizontal orientation, it is desirable that at least one of the two water dosing points (WDP1, WDP2) has a lateral offset with respect to the xx direction (i.e., an offset along the yy axis perpendicular to the xx axis). This means that the two water dosing points (WDP1, WDP2) are not aligned along the xx axis.

[0065] When the garment care device (GCD) is dedicated to oriented the steam plate (SP) in a horizontal orientation as well as a vertical orientation, both of the two water dosing points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset from >0 mm to 9 mm in the xx direction, and the rear dosing point (WDP1) is also offset by a value OFF1 in the range of 0 to 9 mm in the YY direction.

[0066] This is illustrated in Figs. 13, 14, and 15.

[0067] Preferably, the garment care device (GCD) according to the present invention further comprises the following:

[0068] - Water tank (WT),

[0069] A water pump (WP) that transports water from a water tank (WT) to a first water administration point (WDP1) and a second water administration point (WDP2) through a T-shaped or Y-shaped connector (CON) having two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) connected to first and second water administration points (WDP1, WDP2) via one fluid inlet (EN1) connected to the water pump (WP) and two administration connectors (C1, C2).

[0070] A connector (CON) is positioned in the garment care device (GCD) such that two fluid outlets have the same height (H1) with respect to the horizontal plane (HP) in the following cases:

[0071] - When the steam plate (SP) is oriented horizontally, and

[0072] - When the steam plate (SP) is oriented vertically so that the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is perpendicular.

[0073] This is shown in Fig. 7, which illustrates a T-joint.

[0074] Diaphragm pumps commonly used in handheld devices (maximum pressure: <0.5 bar) frequently generate small bubbles, particularly during tube connection and disconnection. These bubbles can obstruct water flow within the system, potentially leading to uneven water distribution.

[0075] Preferably, the water pump (WP) is a piston pump. In practice, a piston pump capable of generating higher pressure (maximum pressure: >= 1 bar) is more suitable for this application because it can effectively discharge air bubbles to ensure a consistent water flow.

[0076] T-joints or Y-joints are used to distribute water evenly from a water pump (WP) into two separate paths. While both configurations can achieve this, Y-joints exhibit superior performance due to their hydrodynamic design, which minimizes pressure loss and ensures even flow distribution to two outlets. On the other hand, T-joints cause a more abrupt change in the direction of the water, leading to increased energy consumption and potential flow imbalance.

[0077] However, the performance of Y-joints is highly sensitive to manufacturing variations, as even minor defects can hinder flow and affect water distribution.

[0078] In contrast, T-joints experience greater pressure loss due to a 90-degree change in water direction, but are less sensitive to flow mismatches caused by manufacturing tolerances.

[0079] To offset the effect of gravity on water distribution, T-joints or Y-joints are strategically positioned to maintain the same outlet distance H1 regardless of the orientation of the steamer.

[0080] Preferably, the diameter of the fluid inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) should be equal to or smaller than the tube coming from the water pump (WP).

[0081] Preferably, to prevent bubble formation and maintain flow balance, the diameter of the fluid outlet EX1 / EX2 of the connector (CON) should be approximately 70% of the fluid inlet (EN1).

[0082] In some embodiments, the garment care device (GCD) further comprises a first pipe (PP1) leading from a connector (CON) to a first water dispensing point (WDP1) among the water dispensing points, a second pipe (PP2) leading from the connector (CON) to a second water dispensing point (WDP2) among the water dispensing points, and a third pipe (PP3) leading from a water pump (WP) to the connector (CON). The cross-sectional area of ​​the first pipe (PP1) is smaller than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the second pipe (PP2). The outlet of the second water dispensing point (WDP2) has a cross-sectional area larger than or equal to the outlet of the first water dispensing point (WDP1). The second water dispensing point (WDP2) is a dispensing point located at a higher position than the first water dispensing point (WDP1) when the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is oriented vertically.

[0083] By arranging the cross-sectional areas of the pipes and outlets in this manner, the entire flow path from the water pump (WP) to the outlet at the dosing point exhibits progressively balanced flow resistance. This configuration promotes continuous and stable water flow, reduces the possibility of flow interruptions or pressure drops, and helps ensure more consistent steam generation across both dosing points, particularly when the device is operated in different orientations. Another advantage is that bubble trapping is prevented.

[0084] Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 20, 21 and 22, the T-joint is positioned on the handle such that two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) face the side of the handle (HAN).

[0085] At least one water injection point (WDP1, WDP2) is fluidly connected to the connector (CON) through two injection connectors (C1, C2) preferably made of plastic material. To maintain optimal water flow, the inner diameter of each injection connector must be equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) of the connector (CON).

[0086] In addition, the combined cross-sectional area of ​​the two administration connectors (C1, C2) must not exceed the inlet cross-sectional area of ​​the T-joint or Y-joint.

[0087] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet of the water pump (WP) and the third tube (PP3).

[0088] These sizing settings ensure that the connector (CON) inlet does not cause a bottleneck in the water supply path, allowing water to flow into the connector (CON) at a rate that matches or slightly limits the pump output. Such control can help stabilize water pressure, reduce turbulence, and improve dosing accuracy at water dosing points (WDP1, WDP2). Another benefit provided by this is that air bubble trapping is prevented.

[0089] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the two outlets (EX1, EX2) of the connector (CON).

[0090] This dimensional relationship allows the incoming water to be distributed evenly to the two connector (CON) outlets without causing a significant pressure drop, thereby maintaining a balanced supply to both injection points and ensuring consistent steam output from multiple heating zones (Z1, Z2). Another advantage is that bubble capture is prevented.

[0091] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of a pair of administration connectors (C1, C2) attached to the inlet side of the administration points (WDP1, WDP2).

[0092] By sizing the connector (CON) inlet to meet or exceed the combined cross-sectional area of ​​the injection connectors (C1, C2), this design avoids unnecessary flow resistance at the junction, enabling efficient water supply to both injection points and contributing to rapid steam generation even during high-demand operating conditions. Another advantage provided by this is that bubble capture is prevented.

[0093] In some embodiments, the connector (CON) is positioned adjacent to the water pump (WP), so that the third pipe (PP3) extending between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially shorter than each of the first and second pipes (PP1, PP2).

[0094] By placing the connector (CON) close to the water pump (WP), the length of the third pipe (PP3) is minimized, thereby reducing pressure loss and potential flow disturbances in the supply line. This configuration improves pump efficiency and ensures more stable and responsive water flow to the dosing points. Another benefit provided by this is improved flow distribution, which also enables better water splitting across the two outlets of the connector due to splitting occurring at higher pressure when located closer to the pump.

[0095] In some embodiments, the connector (CON) is positioned adjacent to the first and second water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) so that the third pipe (PP3) extending between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially longer than each of the first and second pipes (PP1, PP2).

[0096] By placing the connector (CON) adjacent to the dosing points, the length of the third pipe (PP3) is increased, which can help mitigate pressure fluctuations caused by the water pump (WP). This setup contributes to smoother water supply and can reduce the water hammer effect, thereby improving the lifespan of the dosing components. Another advantage provided by the present invention is the improvement of flow consistency, which also reduces the impact of manufacturing variations between the flow resistance of pipe 1 and pipe 2 on the water splitting across the two outlets of the connector as the lengths of pipe 1 and pipe 2 are shortened.

[0097] It is noted that the various features of the present invention may be combined differently from one another or used separately.

[0098] The above embodiments as described are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical approach of the present invention. Although the present invention is described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the technical approach of the present invention may be modified or equivalently substituted without departing from the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the singular form (the indefinite article “a” or “an”) does not exclude the plural. Any reference numerals within the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

Claim 1 A garment care device (GCD) comprising: a steam generator (SG) comprising an ironing plate (IP) having steam outlets (SV), a heated lower steam plate (SP), a main wall (PW) protruding from the main wall (SP), and a cover (CC) disposed on the upper portion of the main wall (PW), wherein the steam generator (SG) forms an internal volume (VV) without restricted steam paths over a central area (CA) of the steam plate (SP); a first water supply point (WDP1) and a second water supply point (WDP2) disposed to provide water on the steam plate (SP); and a temperature sensor (TS) mounted to protrude from the steam plate (SP), wherein the temperature sensor (TS) is disposed between the first water supply point (WDP1) and the second water supply point (WDP2). Claim 2 In claim 1, the temperature sensor (TS) is mounted on a protrusion protruding from the steam plate (SP), and the garment care device (GCD) is mounted thereon. Claim 3 A garment care device (GCD) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2) separate the steam plate (SP) into two interconnected heating zones (Z1, Z2). Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the temperature sensor (TS) is a garment care device (GCD) located between the two heating zones (Z1, Z2). Claim 5 A garment care device (GCD) comprising, in any one of claims 1 to 4, a heating element (HE) including a neck portion (NP) having an overall U-shape, and a temperature sensor (TS) positioned offset from the neck portion (NP). Claim 6 A garment care device (GCD) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the administration points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset from each other along at least one axis (xx, yy). Claim 7 In claim 6, the above administration points (WDP1, WDP2) are offset relative to each other along both axes (xx, yy), a garment care device (GCD). Claim 8 In any one of claims 1 to 7, the water tank (WT) and the water pump (WP) further comprises a T-shaped or Y-shaped connector (CON) having two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) connected to the first and second water injection points (WDP1, WDP2) via one fluid inlet (EN1) connected to the water pump (WP) and two injection connectors (C1, C2) for transporting water from the water tank (WT) to the first water injection point (WDP1) and the second water injection point (WDP2), wherein the connector (CON) is positioned in the garment care device (GCD) such that the two fluid outlets (EX1, EX2) have the same height (H1) with respect to the horizontal plane (HP) in the following cases: - when the steam plate (SP) is oriented horizontally, and - when the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is perpendicular When the steam plate (SP) is oriented vertically. Claim 9 In claim 8, the garment care device (GCD) further comprises a first pipe (PP1) leading from the connector (CON) to a first water administration point (WDP1) among the water administration points, a second pipe (PP2) leading from the connector (CON) to a second water administration point (WDP2) among the water administration points, and a third pipe (PP3) leading from the water pump (WP) to the connector (CON), wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the first pipe (PP1) is smaller than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the second pipe (PP2), the outlet of the second water administration point (WDP2) has a cross-sectional area larger than or equal to the outlet of the first water administration point (WDP1), and the second water administration point (WDP2) is an administration point located at a higher position than the first water administration point (WDP1) when the longitudinal axis (xx) of the steam plate (SP) is oriented vertically. Claim 10 In claim 9, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet of the water pump (WP) and the cross-sectional area of ​​the third tube (PP3), in a garment care device (GCD). Claim 11 A garment care device (GCD) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the two outlets (EX1, EX2) of the connector (CON). Claim 12 A garment care device (GCD) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet (EN1) of the connector (CON) is equal to or greater than the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the pair of administration connectors (C1, C2) attached to the inlet side of the administration points (WDP1, WDP2). Claim 13 A garment care device (GCD) according to any one of claims 9 through 12, wherein the connector (CON) is located adjacent to the water pump (WP), and the third pipe (PP3) extending between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially shorter than each of the first and second pipes (PP1, PP2). Claim 14 A garment care device (GCD) according to any one of claims 9 through 12, wherein the connector (CON) is positioned adjacent to the first and second water injection points (WDP1, WDP2), and the third pipe (PP3) extending between the water pump (WP) and the connector (CON) is substantially longer than each of the first and second pipes (PP1, PP2).

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