Portable Iron Base Locking Arch for Secure Handle-Carried Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ironing appliances with portable bases and steam generators have cumbersome straps for immobilizing and transporting the iron, which are awkward and inconvenient, especially when resting on a table for ironing.

Innovation Solution

A compact and effective immobilization system for an ironing appliance, featuring a portable base with a handle-integrated body and a mobile blocking arch that can rotate to lock the iron in place, allowing transport by the iron's handle while supporting the appliance's weight, and includes a stop for lateral immobilization and a flexible plastic arch for secure locking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If straps are used to immobilize the iron on the base, then the iron can be secured during transport, but the device becomes cumbersome and awkward when resting on a table for ironing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimmobilization of ironVSAvoidconvenience during ironing

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The blocking element is designed to be mobile, transitioning between a folded down position for convenient ironing access and an engaged position for secure transport immobilization. This dynamic component allows the system to adapt its function based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The immobilization function is separated from the base structure into a distinct, movable blocking element that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the blocking function to be activated only when needed for transport, leaving the ironing area clear during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the blocking element surrounds the upper front part of the iron body, then secure immobilization is achieved, but access to the handle for transport may be obstructed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimmobilization securityVSAvoidhandle accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The blocking element is positioned to surround only the upper front part of the iron body, specifically avoiding the handle area. This localized blocking approach provides secure immobilization of the iron on the base while leaving the handle completely accessible for transport operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If the iron body integrates the handle, then the handle provides structural support for transport, but the connection points may be strained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle support capabilityVSAvoidconnection strain

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The blocking element is engaged before transport to preliminarily support the iron body and distribute loads. This preliminary action reduces the strain on the connection points between the handle and body during subsequent handling and transport operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7681343B2Ironing appliance comprising an iron and a portable base

Publication Date: 2010.03.23 SEB SA

AI summary

The invention relates to an ironing appliance comprising an iron (1) and a portable base (2) provided with a surface (21) for setting down the iron (1), said iron comprising a soleplate (10) on which a body with an integrated handle (11) is mounted. The invention is characterised in the base (2) comprises means for immobilising the iron (1), said means engaging with the body of the iron (1) upstream and downstream of the handle (11) in such a way that the entire ironing appliance can be transported by the handle (11) of the iron.