Garment-steaming apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a garment-steaming apparatus having a portable housing (3) comprising a steamer head (2), a portion to be gripped, an air suction circuit (24), a steam generating system, and a treatment face positioned in the front part of the steamer head (2), comprising a treatment plate (20) having at least one steam delivery opening (22) connected to the steam generating system, the treatment face comprising air suction openings (24) connected to the air suction circuit; wherein the treatment plate (20) is triangular, the treatment plate (20) comprising a first side and a second side which meet at an apex oriented towards the gripping portion, and having, opposite said apex, a main side that is normal to a sagittal plane of the steamer head (2).

Description

Garment steamer FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of household laundry care appliances, more specifically steam ironing appliances. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] To iron or clean fabric, a portable garment steamer, commonly called a "steamer," can be used. These portable devices typically include a treatment surface that is applied to the garment. This surface is heated and, ideally, has vents to distribute steam generated by an internal steam system. By gliding the treatment surface over clothing or fabric, the steam helps remove creases and provides a cleaning, odor-removing, and even antibacterial effect. These devices offer an alternative to traditional irons by allowing for vertical steaming of fabric.

[0003] To further improve the efficiency of garment steamers, models have been developed that incorporate a suction system on the treatment surface. This ensures that the fabric is held firmly against the heated surface, resulting in better steaming without altering how the device is used.

[0004] However, these garment steamers have drawbacks in their use. In particular, they are only suitable for steaming fabric using unidirectional movements.

[0005] One aim of the invention is to provide a portable steaming device that allows for efficient steaming of the entire surface of the fabric, with fewer constraints for the user.

[0006] To this end, the invention relates to a garment steamer comprising a steaming head and a gripping portion, the garment steamer further comprising

[0007] - an air intake circuit comprising a fan and a motor configured to drive the fan in rotation;

[0008] - a steam generation system; and

[0009] - a treatment face positioned in the front part of the steaming head, and intended to come into contact with a piece of textile to be steamed, the treatment face comprising a treatment plate having at least one steam distribution orifice connected to the steam generation system, the treatment face also comprising one or more air suction orifices connected to the air suction circuit.

[0010] The garment steamer may also have the following advantageous and non-limiting characteristics, taken alone or in any technically possible combination:

[0011] - The treatment plate is triangular in shape.

[0012] - The treatment plate comprises a first side and a second side which meet at a vertex oriented towards the gripping portion, and has, opposite said vertex, a main side normal to a sagittal plane of the steaming head.

[0013] Thus, the triangular shape, with two sides meeting at a point facing the gripping portion—that is, downwards in the preferred direction of use—allows for optimal wrinkle removal when the user moves the device up and down. Furthermore, the garment steamer can be moved in all directions, including laterally. The presence of points helps to break up creases and improves the quality of the steaming.

[0014] - The steaming head extends between a front part and a rear part along an application axis (M), the gripping portion extends between the steaming head and a lower end along a gripping axis (P) transverse to the application axis (M).

[0015] - The fan and motor are arranged in the gripping portion.

[0016] - The steam generation system is arranged in the steamer head.

[0017] - The main side is normal to a sagittal plane of the steamer head containing the application axis and the gripping axis, and a vertex opposite to the main side, the vertex being closer to the lower end of the gripping portion than the main side.

[0018] - The air suction orifice(s) are arranged around the periphery of the treatment plate. The air suctioned from the periphery keeps the tissue pressed against the treatment plate regardless of the device's movement.

[0019] - The garment steamer includes an air cooling circuit for the motor extending between at least one cooling air inlet and at least one cooling air outlet, the cooling circuit being separate and distinct from the air intake circuit.

[0020] - The main side of the processing plate has a length between 100 mm and 120 mm.

[0021] - The height of the processing plate connecting the main side to the opposite top has a length between 60 mm and 70 mm.

[0022] - The treatment face includes a main air intake port extending along the main side of the treatment plate, for at least 50% of a length of the main side.

[0023] - The treatment face includes a first secondary air intake port and a second secondary air intake port, the first secondary air intake port extending along the first side of the treatment plate, and the second secondary air intake port extending along the second side of the treatment plate.

[0024] - The first secondary air intake port extends over at least 50% of a length of the first side, and in which the second secondary air intake port extends over at least 50% of a length of the second side.

[0025] - The treatment face further includes a support piece through which the air aspiration orifice(s) pass, the support piece including a wall preventing air aspiration at the level of at least two vertices of the treatment plate.

[0026] - The support piece includes a wall preventing air from being drawn in at the three corners of the treatment plate.

[0027] - The garment steamer also includes a filter grid overmolded onto the support piece and arranged opposite the air intake orifice(s), to filter a flow of air drawn through the air intake orifice(s).

[0028] - The filter grid includes filtration orifices with a cross-section between 0.04 mm 2 and 0.09 mm 2 .

[0029] - The filtration grid is a flush grid, or a protruding grid, arranged so as to be in contact with the textile piece to be steamed when the steaming device is used.

[0030] - The garment steamer also includes a heating element configured to heat the treatment plate to a temperature between 120°C and 150°C when the garment steamer is in use.

[0031] - The steam generation system is arranged in the steaming head and includes a vaporization chamber in steam communication with at least one steam distribution orifice, and in which the vaporization chamber and the treatment plate are one piece and integrate the heating element so as to simultaneously heat the vaporization chamber and the treatment plate.

[0032] - The portable unit forms a superior air circulation channel at the steaming head, allowing air to circulate around the steam generation system when the fan is rotating.

[0033] - The portable unit includes a one-piece shell forming the grip portion and at least part of the steaming head.

[0034] - The garment steamer further includes an air cooling circuit for the motor extending between at least one cooling air inlet and at least one cooling air outlet, the cooling circuit being separate and distinct from the air intake circuit.

[0035] - The gripping portion comprises a handle and a base, the base being opposite the steamer head relative to the handle and having a lower surface on which the steamer is intended to be placed in a resting position, and in which the air suction circuit comprises one or more air exhaust ports allowing the expulsion outside the steamer of an airflow flowing from the air suction port(s) when the fan is rotating, said air exhaust port(s) all being arranged on the lower surface of the base. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0036] Other features, purposes and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is purely illustrative and not limiting, and which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings on which:

[0037] This is a perspective view of a garment steamer according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0038] This is a cross-sectional view of the garment steamer.

[0039] This is a perspective view of the garment steamer before assembly.

[0040] This is a front view of the steaming head of the steaming device in another embodiment.

[0041] Across all figures, similar elements bear identical references. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] With reference to the figure, the garment steamer has a portable unit 3 comprising a steaming head 2 and a gripping portion. The steaming head 2 extends along an application axis M between a front part and a rear part. The gripping portion extends between the steaming head 2 and a lower end along a gripping axis P transverse to the application axis M of the steaming head 2. By "transverse," it is understood that the steaming head 2 extends in a direction along the application axis M that is not parallel to the principal direction along the gripping axis P, along which the gripping portion extends. Thus, the application axis M forms a non-zero angle with the gripping axis P, the application axis M being able to be orthogonal to the gripping axis P, or presenting a non-right angle with the gripping axis P, as in the illustrated embodiment.The application axis M and the gripping axis P define, that is to say are contained in, a sagittal plane of the steaming device 1.

[0043] Typically, the gripping portion includes a handle 31 enabling the user to grasp the steamer 1.

[0044] The lower end of the gripping portion can be formed by the free end of the handle 31. According to another preferred embodiment described below, the gripping portion further comprises a base 4 coupled to the handle 31 and positioned opposite the steaming head 2 with respect to the handle 31. The base 4 typically has a flared shape, i.e., it is wider than the handle 31.

[0045] When the garment steamer is in use, the handheld unit 3 is designed to be gripped by the user at the designated gripping area, specifically at the handle 31. It is intended for one-handed operation. The handle 31 is then held by the user, with the steaming head 2 oriented towards the garment to be steamed. The handle 31 preferably has an ergonomic surface and shape to improve user comfort.

[0046] The garment steamer includes a treatment surface positioned at the front of the steaming head 2. This surface is designed to be placed against the garment to be steamed, and more specifically, to be pressed against the garment, typically hung on a hanger. The treatment surface is considered to correspond to the "front" end of the steaming head 2. The garment steamer 1 is then held approximately vertically. "Vertically" means that the steaming head 2 is above the grip portion of the handheld unit 3, or that the base 4 is below the handle 31.

[0047] When not in use, the garment steamer 1 can be placed on the base 4 in its resting position. As illustrated in the sagittal plane cross-section of the device, the base of the portable unit 3 may include a flat underside, allowing the garment steamer 1 to be positioned vertically on the surface S. Preferably, the base 4 includes a lower surface that forms a support, allowing the user to place the garment steamer 1 vertically on a flat surface, such as a table or shelf, in its resting position when not in use. The flared shape of the base 4 advantageously provides stability for the device in its resting position.

[0048] With reference to the figure, when the garment steamer 1 is in its resting position, the gripping axis P of the handle 31 is preferably slightly inclined forward, i.e., towards the surface being treated. For example, the handheld unit 3 is configured so that the gripping axis P makes a non-zero angle with the application axis M orthogonal to the outer face (corresponding to the flat surface S), for example, an angle of approximately 15°. In another embodiment, the gripping axis P of the handle 31 is perpendicular to the underside of the garment steamer 1.

[0049] With reference to the, the steaming head 2 has a slender shape extending transversely to the handle 31, preferably forming an angle between 65° and 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis P of the handle 31. The front end of the steaming head 2 lies in a plane in front of the lower portion of the portable housing 3 forming the base 4. This ensures that the base 4 does not interfere with the application of the treatment face to the textile piece to be steamed.

[0050] Treatment face

[0051] The treatment face comprises a treatment plate 20. Both the treatment face and the treatment plate are triangular in shape. The triangular shape is oriented towards the gripping portion, i.e., downwards when the device is used vertically or in its resting position. In other words, the treatment plate 20 comprises a principal side perpendicular to the sagittal plane containing the application axis M and the gripping axis P. Typically, the principal side extends in the plane of the treatment face parallel to the lower surface of the handheld unit 3. The treatment plate 20 comprises a vertex opposite the principal side, closer to the lower end of the gripping portion than the principal side.The opposite apex is below the main side when the steamer 1 is in its rest position; that is, it is closer to the lower surface than the main side. This distance is measured along a direction orthogonal to the lower surface and / or the main side, or along a direction parallel to the gripping axis P. The height passing through the opposite apex and perpendicular to the main side extends in the plane of the treatment face, along a vertical direction orthogonal to the main side. The apex is at a shorter distance from the gripping portion and the base 4 than the main side.

[0052] The triangular shape allows the garment steamer to be moved in three directions during use, as the vertices of the triangle, forming the treatment plate 20, can cut through any creases. In particular, the orientation of the treatment plate 20 is especially suited to vertical use of the appliance, for example, when steaming a piece of linen or a garment hanging on a hanger.

[0053] Preferably, the triangular shape is an isosceles triangle, and the base of this isosceles triangle, having a different length than the two sides of equal length, is the aforementioned main side. The height then forms an axis of symmetry for the processing plate 20.

[0054] The treatment surface is large enough to allow for effective steaming of various textile items, and limited in size to obtain a compact and easily transportable steaming device.

[0055] Preferably, the main side of the processing plate 20 has a length between 100 mm and 120 mm. In this direction, the processing face has a total length between 120 mm and 140 mm.

[0056] The height of the treatment plate 20 preferably has a length between 60 mm and 70 mm. Along the transverse direction, the treatment face has a total length between 75 mm and 85 mm.

[0057] The treatment plate 20 can be a heating plate, typically metallic, for example made of aluminum. Applying a surface heated to a suitable temperature to the textile improves the wrinkle removal process. Such a heated treatment plate 20 can be heated by one or more heating elements 23 arranged in the steaming head 2 near the treatment plate 20.

[0058] The garment steamer 1 includes an air suction circuit, the arrangement and functional elements of which will be described in detail later. The air suction circuit is adapted to allow air to be drawn in at the level of the surface being treated.

[0059] To achieve this, the treatment face has a set of air suction orifices 24 formed by one or more air suction orifices connected to the air suction circuit and arranged around the periphery of the treatment plate 20. "Arranged around the periphery" means that the orifice(s) of the set of air suction orifices 24 do not pass through the treatment plate 20, but allow air to be drawn in around the treatment plate 20. This allows outside air to be drawn in to the steamer 1 when it is in use, in order to press the textile item to be steamed against the treatment plate 20 and improve the quality of the steaming.

[0060] The air intake orifices 24 extend around the perimeter of the treatment plate 20. Preferably, the air intake orifices 24 extend over at least 50% of the perimeter of the triangular shape. Preferably, the treatment face comprises a plurality of air intake orifices 24a, 24b, 24c arranged around the treatment plate 20, for example, around the entire circumference of the treatment plate 20. Alternatively, the air intake orifices 24a, 24b, 24c may extend over several sides of the treatment plate 20 without completely covering the periphery.

[0061] For example, the treatment face includes a main orifice 24a extending along the main side of the treatment plate 20, over at least 50% of the length of the main side, preferably over at least 80% of the length of the main side.

[0062] In a first embodiment, the treatment face further includes a secondary air intake port 24b. The secondary air intake port 24b extends on either side of the apex, forming a bend. Preferably, the secondary air intake port 24b extends over more than 50% of the length of the two sides adjacent to the main side.

[0063] In another embodiment, the treatment face includes two air intake ports 24b, 24c extending along each of the two sides adjacent to the main side. More specifically, the treatment face includes a first secondary air intake port 24b and a second secondary air intake port 24c, the first secondary air intake port 24b extending along a first side of the treatment plate 20 adjacent to the main side, and the second secondary air intake port 24c extending along a second side of the treatment plate 20 adjacent to the main side. In particular, there is no air intake at the level, i.e., at the periphery, of the vertices of the triangular shape.This helps to avoid deforming the fabric during vertical steaming and creating additional creases, as a stress is exerted on the fabric in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of movement of the treatment plate 20 in use.

[0064] Preferably, the first secondary air intake port 24b extends over at least 50% of a length of the first side, and the second secondary air intake port 24c extends over at least 50% of a length of the second side.

[0065] The treatment face may further include a third air suction port 24a, corresponding to the main air suction port, extending along the main side. Each air suction port 24a, 24b, 24c extends along one side of the treatment plate 20. The fabric is then held in place by the air suction on all three sides, without constraint at the vertices of the triangle, so as to facilitate the movement of the treatment face over the fabric and to prevent the formation of creases.

[0066] Preferably, all or part of the plurality of air intake ports 24a, 24b, 24c extends over at least 50% of the length of its respective side, and preferably over at least 80% of the length of its respective side. This increases the maximum airflow that can be drawn in by the device 1 and allows the textile piece to be properly pressed against the treatment plate 20 by applying tension around the treatment plate 20.

[0067] For example, the third air intake port 24a extends over at least 50% of the length of the main side, preferably over at least 80% of the length of the main side, or even over the entire length of the main side. Preferably, several of the air intake ports in the air intake port assembly 24 are arranged along the main side.

[0068] Preferably, the garment steamer also includes a filter grid 9 covering the entire set of air intake orifices 24 to filter an airflow drawn through the air intake orifice 24.

[0069] The filter grid can then cover all the air intake openings 24. Preferably, it is not placed in a cavity, but is in contact with the fabric during the use of the appliance. This ensures that the filter grid 9 is in contact with the fabric to be steamed when the garment steamer 1 is used and prevents it from quickly becoming clogged with particles, as the filter grid 9 can self-clean by rubbing against the fabric.

[0070] The filter grid 9 can be formed by a single piece covering the periphery of the treatment plate 20. Alternatively, the filter grid 9 can comprise several independent grids, each filter grid 9 covering one or more air intake ports 24.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the steamer 1 further comprises a modular unit forming the treatment face and configured to support the treatment plate 20. The modular unit includes a nozzle 26 for insertion into the front part of the steamer head 2. The treatment face includes a support piece 27 carried by the nozzle 26. The support piece 27 is traversed by at least one orifice of the air intake orifice assembly 24. It is positioned at the periphery of the treatment plate 20 and allows the treatment plate 20 and the nozzle 26 to be connected.

[0072] Typically, the support piece 27 prevents airflow at the vertices of the treatment plate 20. For example, the support piece 27 includes a wall preventing air from being drawn in at at least two vertices of the treatment plate 20, typically the vertices adjacent to the main side. Preferably, the support piece 27 includes a wall preventing air from being drawn in at all three vertices of the treatment plate 20.

[0073] Preferably, the filter grid 9 can be an overmolded grid on the support piece 27. The support piece 27 is, for example, made of plastic. The filter grid 9 can be formed by overmolding plastic onto the support piece 27. Typically, the filter grid 9 is a metal grid overmolded in thermoplastic. This facilitates the manufacturing process of the garment steamer. For example, the grid is overmolded onto the support piece 27 before the treatment plate 20 is attached to the nozzle 26, and the nozzle 26 is inserted into the handheld unit 3 at the steaming head 2, as illustrated in the figure.

[0074] Preferably, the filter grid 9 is a woven metal mesh or a laser-perforated metal plate. Using a metal filter grid 9 allows for finer filtration of solid particles on the surface of the textile by reducing the size of the grid's pores. Laser perforation allows for easy adaptation of the filter grid 9 to the desired particle sizes.

[0075] Preferably, the filter grid 9 includes filter holes. The filter holes have a cross-section between 0.04 mm 2 and 0.09 mm 2 , preferably less than 0.06 mm 2The through-section of the filter grid 9 must be sufficient to allow an airflow to pass through, while sufficiently obstructing the air intake orifices 24 to prevent any textile fibers or particles from entering the air intake circuit.

[0076] In the embodiment illustrated in the figure, the third air intake port 24a comprises two portions separated by a partition wall from the support piece 27. This reduces the stress exerted on the filter grid 9 and prevents its deformation. Furthermore, in the case of an overmolded filter grid, this reduces the length in the mold during overinjection.

[0077] Preferably, the support piece 27 includes at least one reinforcing wall or rib for the filter grid 9. The reinforcing wall extends below the filter grid 9, towards the inside of the steaming head 2, i.e., the steaming unit 1. For example, the reinforcing wall extends in a plane set back from the plane formed by the treatment face, in a direction substantially orthogonal to the direction of the application axis M along which the air intake orifice 24 extends, or diagonally between two opposite sides of the air intake orifice 24. The reinforcing wall is configured to divide the air intake orifice 24, so as to support the filter grid 9, particularly when air is drawn in through the air intake circuit.This reduces the stresses to which the filter grid 9 is subjected, and prevents it from deforming, in particular from bending towards the inside of the steaming head 2. Preferably, the support piece 27 includes a plurality of reinforcing walls, so as to divide the set of air suction orifices 24 into a plurality of suction zones of reduced cross-section.

[0078] Steam generation system

[0079] The garment steamer includes a steam generation system arranged in the steaming head 2. The steam generation system is adapted to allow steam to be emitted at the treatment surface. To this end, the treatment surface has at least one steam distribution orifice 22 connected to the steam generation system, and designed to vent the steam formed in the steaming head 2 onto the garment being steamed.

[0080] The treatment plate 20 is traversed by the steam distribution orifice 22. Preferably, the treatment plate 20 comprises a plurality of steam distribution orifices 22 distributed over its surface. The steam distribution orifices 22 may be in the form of holes or slots.

[0081] Typically, the steam generation system includes a vaporization chamber 21, in steam communication with at least one steam distribution port 22. The vaporization chamber 21 is heated by a heating element 23. The heating element 23 is configured to heat the walls of the vaporization chamber 21, so that a liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 21 is vaporized. The vaporization chamber 21 is in steam communication with the exterior of the garment steamer at the treatment face, via the steam distribution port 22.

[0082] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 21 is in thermal contact with the treatment plate 20. This advantageously allows the treatment plate 20 to be heated via the vaporization chamber 21, which is brought to a temperature above 100°C, preferably between 140°C and 150°C. Thus, the garment steamer can be more compact and lighter. Alternatively or in addition, the heating element 23 of the steam generation system can be positioned near the treatment plate 20.

[0083] Preferably, the vaporization chamber 21 and the treatment plate 20 are a single unit, incorporating the heating element 23. In other words, the treatment plate 20 can be integral with the vaporization chamber 21; that is, the treatment plate 20 and the walls of the vaporization chamber 21 are made as a single piece, preferably from a conductive material such as a metal alloy, typically aluminum. This allows the treatment plate 20 and the vaporization chamber 21 to be heated simultaneously, further increasing the compactness of the garment steamer 1. Of course, in an alternative embodiment not shown, the treatment plate 20 may include its own heating element, independent of the heating element 23 of the steam generation system.

[0084] Preferably, the walls of the vaporization chamber 21 are made of a metal alloy, for example, aluminum. The heating element 23 can be a heating resistor located near the vaporization chamber 21, preferably inside the walls of the vaporization chamber 21. Preferably, the heating element 23 has a power rating of 2000 W or less, preferably between 1200 and 1400 W. This allows the walls of the vaporization chamber 21 to be heated efficiently to the appropriate temperature for vaporizing a liquid injected into the vaporization chamber 21, while simultaneously heating the processing plate 20.

[0085] The heating element 23 is typically configured so that the treatment plate 20 reaches a temperature between 120°C and 150°C when the garment steamer 1 is in use. Preferably, the garment steamer 1 includes a thermostat or temperature sensor connected to power electronics to regulate the temperature of the treatment plate 20. This ensures a uniform temperature of the treatment plate 20 and improves the quality of the steaming.

[0086] The steam generation system is connected via a fluid connection to a liquid reservoir 5, in order to generate steam from the liquid stored in the reservoir 5, typically water or a cleaning solution diluted in water. This fluid connection can be achieved conventionally via a tube from the portable unit 3 connecting the vaporization chamber 21 to the reservoir 5.

[0087] Preferably, the reservoir 5 forms the rear part of the steaming head 2. It can be mounted on the portable case 3 against a rear face of the steaming head 2 opposite the treatment face.

[0088] Since the reservoir 5 is located outside the portable unit 3, it is not necessary to disassemble the device to refill the reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 preferably has a capacity of approximately 100 ml. The reservoir 5 may include a filling opening closed by a cap. The reservoir 5 preferably includes a transparent casing, defining the outer wall of the reservoir 5, fitted with a removable cap for refilling the reservoir 5. Alternatively, the reservoir 5 may be removably mounted on the portable unit 3. This allows for easy refilling of the garment steamer with liquid.

[0089] The reservoir 5 preferably includes a ball valve, configured to close when the reservoir 5 is disconnected from the portable housing 3, to prevent water from flowing out of the reservoir 5. Preferably, the reservoir 5 includes a vent configured to allow air to enter when the water level drops in the reservoir 5 and to prevent the reservoir 5 from becoming under negative pressure. Advantageously, the vent is also configured to allow air contained in the reservoir 5 to be expelled when the pressure in the reservoir 5 increases.

[0090] Typically, the liquid is injected into the vaporization chamber 21 via a pump 25. The pump 25 is arranged to circulate the liquid contained in the reservoir 5 to the vaporization chamber 21. The pump 25 is preferably located near the vaporization chamber 21, in the steaming head 2, for example in a central area of ​​the upper portion of the portable housing 3, between the steam generation system and the reservoir 5.

[0091] The liquid reservoir 5 is preferably an added part to the vaporization head 2. For example, it is fixed to a rear face of the steaming head 2, on a face opposite to the treatment plate 20. Preferably, the reservoir 5 is removably mounted on the portable housing 3.

[0092] Preferably, the steam generation system includes electrical safety and thermal control elements. For example, the steam control system should include a thermostat configured to cut off the power supply to the heating element 23 if the temperature exceeds a setpoint temperature value.

[0093] Air intake system

[0094] The air intake system comprises a fan 40 and a motor 41 configured to rotate the fan 40 around a shaft 42. The fan 40 and the motor 41 are advantageously arranged in the gripping portion. The fan 40, forming part of the air intake system, draws air from the air intake ports 24 at the surface being treated. Preferably, the fan 40 and the motor 41 are arranged in the base 4.

[0095] Preferably, the portable unit 3 forms an upper airflow channel at the steaming head 2, allowing air to circulate around the steam generation system when the fan 40 is rotating. This improves the cooling of the portable unit 3, as the intake air circulates around the entire periphery of the steam generation system.

[0096] The upper air circulation channel is visible in the cross-sectional view. Typically, an upper wall of the portable unit 3 forms a duct allowing air circulation around the perimeter of the steam generation system. This air circulation allows heat to be dissipated from around the steam generation system, particularly from the high-temperature vaporization chamber 21. This helps to limit the risk of burns to a user, as the portable unit 3 is thus considerably cooled.

[0097] Preferably, the pump 25 is also located in the upper air circulation duct. Typically, the pump 25 is positioned between the reservoir 5 and the steam generation system. This also results in air circulation around the pump 25 when the fan 40 is rotating. This helps to cool the pump 25, which can be subjected to high temperatures if located near the vaporization chamber 21.

[0098] Preferably, the air intake system is configured to allow an air intake flow rate greater than 10 m 3 / h and less than 60 m 3 / h and, preferably, an air intake flow rate greater than 20 m 3 / h and less than 50 m 3 / h.

[0099] Preferably, the modular unit is also configured to support the steam generation system, and the portable case 3 includes a top wall extending at the level of the steaming head 2 around the entire periphery of the steam generation system.

[0100] For example, the upper wall of the portable housing 3 can be substantially cylindrical and extend around the entire periphery of the steam generation system, with an open front end corresponding to the base of the cylinder, the steam generation system being arranged inside the cylindrical wall. More generally, the upper wall forms a cavity into which the modular unit is intended to be at least partially inserted, a portion of the upper air circulation channel being delimited between the upper wall and the modular unit. Preferably, the upper air circulation channel thus extends all the way around the steam generation system.

[0101] For example, the nozzle 26 is fixed to the open front end of the upper wall of the handheld unit 3, i.e., in the front part of the steaming head 2, and is further configured to support the steam generation system. Preferably, the upper airflow channel is delimited by the cylindrical wall and the nozzle 26.

[0102] Alternatively, the modular unit can be formed by the treatment plate 20 and the vaporization chamber 21 formed from the same monobloc conductive material and incorporating a heating element 23, typically a heating resistance integrated into the conductive material.

[0103] Preferably, the steaming head 2 includes a sealing gasket located between the upper wall and the modular unit. Typically, the sealing gasket is arranged between the open front end of the upper wall and the nozzle 26. The sealing gasket is configured to prevent air from escaping outside the upper air circulation channel, particularly at the open front end. Thus, all the air drawn through the air intake orifices 24 circulates within the air intake circuit around the steam generation system. The sealing gasket is preferably also watertight. The space provided between the nozzle 26 supporting the treatment plate 20 and the upper wall of the portable housing 3 is visible in the exploded view.

[0104] Preferably, the gripping portion includes a hollow volume defining an intermediate air circulation channel in fluid communication with the upper air circulation channel. For example, the air suction circuit extends into the handle 31 of the garment steamer 1. The intermediate air circulation channel allows air to circulate from the steamer head 2 to the gripping portion in which the fan 40 is arranged.

[0105] Alternatively or complementarily, the intermediate air circulation channel can be formed by an added duct 32 inside the gripping portion, for example over the entire height of the handle 31.

[0106] Typically, the connecting duct 32 is connected to the upper air circulation channel at its upper end. Preferably, the garment steamer includes a sealing gasket on the upper end of the connecting duct 32 to prevent air from escaping outside the air intake circuit, particularly at the upper end of the connecting duct 32. The airflow from the air intake orifices 24 in the upper air circulation channel thus passes through the intermediate air circulation channel without escaping from the garment steamer 1. This limits pressure losses and improves suction efficiency, thereby enhancing the quality of the steaming. Furthermore, the sealing gasket is configured to ensure a tight connection between the intermediate air circulation channel and the upper air circulation channel. It is also preferably watertight.This prevents condensate from flowing towards the steaming head 2, which could cause short circuits.

[0107] Preferably, the base 4 includes a hollow volume defining a lower air circulation channel in fluid communication with the intermediate air circulation channel. The fan 40 and the motor 41 are typically arranged within the hollow volume to allow circulation of the air drawn in through the set of air intake ports 24.

[0108] The lower air channel is typically formed as an extension of the added duct 32. The lower air channel can be offset from the intermediate air circulation channel, i.e. the channels can extend along distinct axes, a bent portion being able to connect the two channels for example.

[0109] The garment steamer 1 includes at least one air exhaust port in fluid communication with the air intake circuit, allowing the air drawn in by the air intake ports 24 to be discharged from the appliance after circulating around the periphery of the steam generation system. At least one air exhaust port is typically connected to the lower air circulation channel.

[0110] Preferably, all the air exhaust vents are located on the underside of the base 4. The air exhaust vents allow the airflow drawn in at the air intake vents 24 to be expelled from the device when the fan 40 is rotating. This ensures that no airflow is directed towards the user when the garment steamer 1 is held vertically. User comfort is thus improved. In this embodiment, the garment steamer 1 does not include any air exhaust vents on the sides of the handheld unit 3.

[0111] Preferably, the lower face is formed by a cover 45 comprising at least one air exhaust orifice, i.e., through which at least one air exhaust orifice passes. The presence of a separate cover 45 advantageously allows for cleaning of the lower air circulation channel, for example, to remove particles or lint that may have been drawn into the device and could obstruct the rotation of the motor 41 around its shaft 42.

[0112] Preferably, the base 4 further includes a hollow volume defining a secondary lower air circulation channel, in which the motor 41 is arranged, which is separate from and distinct from the lower air circulation channel. For example, the secondary lower air channel may be concentric with the lower air channel, but of smaller diameter. Preferably, the majority of the air from the air intake ports 24 flows from the intermediate air circulation channel to the lower air circulation channel, and then escapes through the air exhaust ports provided on the underside of the base 4. The secondary lower air circulation channel creates an air cooling circuit for the motor 41 that is separate from and distinct from the air intake circuit. This allows the motor 41 to be cooled while preventing damage from the circulation of vapor-laden air (risk of oxidation, short circuit, etc.).

[0113] Advantageously, the garment steamer has at the base 4 a peripheral wall comprising at least one cooling air inlet 44. The peripheral wall may correspond to a lateral wall extending transversely relative to the flat lower face on which the garment steamer 1 can be placed in a rest position, and may include at least one air exhaust orifice connected to the lower air circulation channel.

[0114] In this embodiment, the base 4 may include a cooling fan 43 arranged in the secondary lower airflow channel. The cooling fan 43 is configured to be driven in rotation by the motor 41, so as to draw airflow into the secondary lower airflow channel towards the motor 41 when the cooling fan 43 is rotating. Typically, the cooling fan 43 is arranged around the shaft 42, below the motor 41, that is, between the motor 41 and the flat underside of the portable housing 3.

[0115] The portable unit 3 includes at least one cooling air outlet. The cooling air outlet is connected to the secondary lower air circulation channel. Air drawn in through the cooling air inlet 44 when the cooling fan 43 is rotating is expelled from the steamer 1 through the cooling air outlet. The cooling air outlet is preferably located on the lower portion of the portable unit 3. It typically passes through the lower face, or through the cover 45 closing the lower end of the lower air circulation channel, if the cover 45 also covers the secondary lower air circulation channel.

[0116] Preferably, the portable unit 3 includes a protruding portion that partially obstructs the cooling air outlet. Typically, the protruding portion is located upstream of the cooling air outlet, inside the cover 45. The term "upstream" refers to the direction of airflow from the air intake orifices 24. In other words, the protruding portion is opposite the cooling air outlet, with the airflow being deflected by the protruding portion before exiting the garment steamer 1 through the cooling air outlet.

[0117] The protruding portion is arranged to form a baffle just upstream of the central airflow duct outlet. A "baffle" is defined as a flat portion extending in a plane substantially parallel to the lower surface covering the cooling air outlet. The cooling airflow then escapes through the gap between the two planes. The airflow deflection and the presence of the protruding portion reduce noise at the motor 41 outlet, thus improving user comfort. Furthermore, the protruding portion, by partially blocking the cooling air outlet, helps protect the functional components of the portable unit 3 from liquid splashes originating from outside the device.

[0118] Power supply and device control

[0119] The garment steamer 1 can be powered by a power cord 6, designed to be plugged into a standard electrical outlet to connect the garment steamer 1 to a household electrical network. The power cord 6 operates the components of the steam generation system and the air suction circuit.

[0120] Preferably, the power cord 6 can be attached to the handheld unit 3, for example at the base, near the underside. This improves the balance and ergonomics of the device. The power cord 6 can also be detachable. Preferably, the power cord 6 is longer than 200 cm. This allows a user to advantageously apply the treatment plate 20 to a garment hanging on a hanger at a height of more than 1.5 meters from the floor. The power cord 6 preferably has a mass of approximately 150 grams when the steamer 1 is held by the user at a height of about 1.5 meters from the floor.

[0121] The portable unit 3 preferably includes control means configured to control steam emission and air intake. These control means are preferably located on the handle 31 so that they can be operated by the user with the hand used to hold the garment steamer 1. Preferably, the garment steamer 1 may include control means for selecting a temperature for the treatment plate 20. This allows the garment steamer 1 to be adapted to different types of fabrics to be steamed.

[0122] The garment steamer 1 may include, for example, a power button 74. The power button 74 allows the garment steamer 1 to be switched on and off. It may be located on one face of the handheld unit 3, forming an upper face of the base 4, opposite the lower face, as illustrated in the figure. Alternatively, it may be located on a side wall of the handheld unit 3, preferably at the handle 31.

[0123] The garment steamer 1 may include, for example, a steam trigger 72. The steam trigger 72 is configured to allow for targeted steam distribution from at least one steam outlet 22. For example, pressing the steam trigger 72 by the user can activate the pump 25 and inject liquid from the reservoir 5 into the steaming chamber 21. Water in liquid and / or vapor form can then be sprayed onto the garment to be steamed opposite the treatment side, thus improving steaming efficiency. Preferably, steam is projected outside the garment 1 as long as the steam trigger 72 is held down by the user.Pressing the vaporization trigger 72 can also activate the motor 41, thus rotating the fan 40 so that an airflow is drawn in through the air intake orifices 24 when the device is in suction operating mode.

[0124] Preferably, pump 25 is configured to supply the steam generation system with a flow rate of 35 ml / min or less. This flow rate is sufficient to distribute steam to the garment being steamed. The flow rate must be limited to reduce the risk of liquid splashing outside the appliance, which could cause burns or damage the garment.

[0125] The garment steamer 1 may include, for example, a suction control button 73. The suction control button 73 typically allows the user to select an operating mode for the garment steamer 1. Typically, the suction control button 73 can drive the motor 41 to modulate the rotational speed of the fan 40 and / or the cooling fan 43 around the shaft 42. Preferably, the garment steamer 1 can also operate in a mode without suction. This allows the device to be adapted to the type of textile item being steamed.

[0126] Assembling the device

[0127] Preferably, the handheld unit 3 comprises a one-piece casing forming the grip and at least part of the steaming head 2. Preferably, the one-piece casing is made of a plastic material. For example, the handheld unit 3 can be made of polypropylene or polycarbonate. Thus, the outer surface of the steamer 1 is a single piece. This increases the device's impact resistance, for example, in case of a fall, and therefore its lifespan.

[0128] Typically, the components of the base 4 are inserted into the portable housing 3 through the lower end of the lower air circulation channel, at the level of the base 4. The modular unit carrying the steam generation system can be arranged in the steaming head 2, i.e. assembled on the upper wall of the portable housing 3. The tank 5 can then be mounted on the rear face of the steaming head 2, in fluid connection with the steam generation system.

[0129] The garment steamer 1 is designed for easy handling and is therefore intended to have a balanced mass distribution between the steaming head 2 and the base 4. Advantageously, the garment steamer 1 has its center of gravity located in the handle 31, regardless of the fill level of the reservoir 5. Preferably, the mass of the steaming head 2 and the mass of the base 4 are each at least 40% of the total mass of the garment steamer 1, typically less than or equal to 1.4 kg. The garment steamer 1 is thus easy to handle and ergonomic, as the masses of the steaming head 2 and the base 4 are substantially equivalent.

[0130] Using the garment steamer 1

[0131] The operation of the garment steamer 1 will now be described. When the user wishes to use the garment steamer 1, they fill the reservoir 5 with liquid, typically water. They connect the garment steamer 1 to the household electrical supply using the power cord 6 and then switch the garment steamer 1 on by pressing the power button 74.

[0132] The heating element 23 of the steam generation system is then supplied with electrical current to reach its operating temperature. Preferably, the treatment plate 20 is also heated.

[0133] When the user wishes to use the device 1 in a vertical steaming position, he brings the treatment plate 20 vertically opposite the piece of textile to be steamed and then presses on the control means, for example on the vaporization trigger 72, which has the effect of operating the pump 25 and allowing the flow of liquid from the reservoir 5 to the vaporization chamber 21.

[0134] The steam produced in the vaporization chamber 21 then escapes through the steam distribution orifices 22. The steam is then diffused onto the textile piece which, combined with the heating and drying action of the treatment plate 20, allows for effective wrinkle removal.

[0135] Simultaneously, the control means can be provided to activate an air intake in conjunction with the steam distribution. Typically, the pressure of the steam trigger 72 drives the motor 41. Consequently, the fan 40 rotates around the shaft 42, drawing air in through the air intake 24. This intake presses the textile piece against the treatment surface. The steam emission combined with the intake thus optimizes the wrinkle removal. Furthermore, the air intake also promotes drying of the portion of the textile piece that has just been steamed. It has been observed that this particular process allows the wrinkle removal effect to be maintained for a longer period after the textile piece has been treated.Advantageously, the suction control button 73 can be used to change the rotation speed of the motor 41, and thus adapt the suction airflow to the textile item to be steamed.

[0136] In another embodiment, the control means allow the user to control the suction independently of the steam distribution control. Thus, the user could control the steam distribution alone or in combination with the suction.

[0137] During treatment, the user can move the steamer 1 vertically, for example, from top to bottom, to treat all or part of the garment. The steamer 1 can also be used occasionally in a horizontal steaming position, for example, to steam a horizontally placed garment by bringing the treatment surface horizontally above the garment. For example, the garment might be placed against a table, such as a tablecloth, or be part of a piece of furniture, such as an armchair.

[0138] The invention is not limited to the embodiment described and shown in the accompanying figures. Modifications remain possible, particularly with regard to the constitution of the various technical features or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the general principles of the invention.

Claims

A garment steamer having a portable case (3) comprising a steaming head (2), and a gripping portion, the garment steamer (1) further comprising: - an air suction circuit (24) comprising a fan (40) and a motor (41) configured to drive the fan (40) in rotation; and - a steam generation system; - a treatment face positioned in the front part of the steaming head (2), and intended to come into contact with a piece of textile to be steamed, the treatment face comprising a treatment plate (20) having at least one steam distribution orifice (22) connected to the steam generation system, the treatment face further comprising one or more air suction orifices (24) connected to the air suction circuit;in which the treatment plate (20) is triangular in shape, the treatment plate (20) comprising a first side and a second side which meet at a vertex oriented towards the side of the gripping portion, and having, opposite said vertex, a principal side normal to a sagittal plane of the steaming head (2). Garment steaming device according to claim 1, wherein the main side of the treatment plate (20) has a length between 100 mm and 120 mm. Wrinkle-removing device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein a height of the treatment plate (20) connecting the main side to the opposite top has a length between 60 mm and 70 mm. Wrinkle-removing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the treatment face includes a main air intake orifice (24a) extending along the main side of the treatment plate (20), over at least 50% of a length of the main side. A garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the treatment face comprises a first secondary air suction orifice (24b) and a second secondary air suction orifice (24c), the first secondary air suction orifice (24b) extending along the first side of the treatment plate (20), and the second secondary air suction orifice (24c) extending along the second side of the treatment plate (20). Garment steaming device according to claim 5, wherein the first secondary air intake orifice (24b) extends over at least 50% of a length of the first side, and wherein the second secondary air intake orifice (24c) extends over at least 50% of a length of the second side. Wrinkle-removing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the treatment face further comprises a support piece (27) through which the air suction orifice(s) (24) are passed, the support piece (27) comprising a wall preventing air suction at the level of at least two vertices of the treatment plate (20). Wrinkle-removing device according to claim 7, in which the support piece (27) includes a wall preventing the aspiration of air at the level of the three vertices of the treatment plate (20). A garment steamer according to any one of claims 7 and 8, further comprising a filter grid (9) overmolded onto the support piece (27) and arranged opposite the air intake orifice(s) (24), for filtering an airflow drawn through the air intake orifice(s) (24). A garment steamer according to claim 9, wherein the filter grid (9) comprises filter orifices with a cross-section between 0.04 mm 2 and 0.09 mm 2 . A garment steaming device according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the filter grid (9) is a flush grid, or a protruding grid, arranged so as to be in contact with the textile piece to be steamed when the garment steaming device (1) is used. A garment steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a heating element (23) configured to heat the treatment plate (20) to a temperature between 120°C and 150°C, when the garment steamer (1) is in use. A steaming device according to claim 12, in which the steam generation system is arranged in the steaming head and includes a vaporization chamber (21) in steam communication with at least one steam distribution orifice (22), and in which the vaporization chamber (21) and the treatment plate (20) are one piece and integrate the heating element (23) so as to simultaneously heat the vaporization chamber (21) and the treatment plate (20). Garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the portable housing (3) forms at the level of the steaming head (2) an upper air circulation channel allowing air circulation around the steam generation system, when the fan (40) is rotating. Garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the handheld unit (3) comprises a one-piece shell forming the gripping portion and at least part of the steaming head (2). A garment steaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising an air cooling circuit for the motor (41) extending between at least one cooling air inlet orifice and at least one cooling air outlet orifice, the cooling circuit being separate and distinct from the air intake circuit. A garment steamer according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the gripping portion comprises a handle (31) and a base (4), the base (4) being opposite the steamer head (2) with respect to the handle (31) and having a lower surface on which the garment steamer (1) is intended to be placed in the rest position, and wherein the air intake circuit comprises one or more air exhaust ports allowing the expulsion outside the garment steamer (1) of an airflow flowing from the air intake port(s) (24) when the fan (40) is rotating, said air exhaust port(s) all being disposed on the lower surface of the base (4).

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