Ironing system comprising two-way data transmission between the base and iron
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ironing systems require multiple conductive wires and a steam tube, making the cord bulky, cumbersome, and difficult to handle, with user settings requiring manual manipulation that can be dangerous.
Innovation Solution
A household appliance system with a cord that combines two electrical lines for high voltage heating and low voltage supply, and a third line for bidirectional data transmission using the same set of conductive wires, modulated by a modulator to reduce cord bulk and rigidity, allowing digital data transmission and remote control of the base from the appliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a microprocessor-controlled system with multiple sensors and display components is integrated into the iron, then the user experience and functionality are improved, but the weight and complexity of the iron increase
Solution Approach 1:
The iron is divided into distinct functional modules: a base unit containing power supply and communication components, and a handheld iron unit containing sensors and display. This segmentation allows the heavy electronic components to remain in the base while the iron remains lightweight.
Solution Approach 2:
A wireless communication system acts as an intermediary between the base and the iron, transmitting data and control signals without requiring physical connection or heavy wiring in the iron handle, thus maintaining lightweight design while enabling sophisticated control.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors (temperature, humidity, force, vibration) and communication components are integrated into the iron, then the functionality and control precision are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor types (temperature, humidity, force, vibration) and communication functions (wireless data transmission, bidirectional communication) are merged into an integrated control system that operates through a unified microprocessor architecture, reducing overall system complexity despite increased functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit serves multiple functions: power supply, data reception, data processing, communication hub, and control center. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate components in the iron, reducing device complexity.
3Productivity
If the iron automatically adjusts temperature and power based on sensor feedback, then the ironing efficiency and fabric care are improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors fabric properties through sensors and automatically adjusts temperature and power output based on real-time feedback. This prevents energy waste by applying only the necessary heating power for each specific fabric type and condition, improving efficiency while controlling overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The iron transitions from static temperature control to dynamic adjustment, continuously adapting power output based on real-time sensor data about fabric type, moisture content, and contact pressure. This dynamic control optimizes energy usage by matching power delivery exactly to the ironing requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a household electrical system, for example for ironing, comprising an appliance, such as an iron, connected to a base by a cord made up of at least: - a first electrical line formed by a first set of conductive wires for high-voltage (HV) transmission of a heating power, - a second electrical line formed by a second set of conductive wires for the low-voltage (LV) power supply of an electronic board arranged in the appliance, - a third electrical line for providing two-way data transmission between the base and the appliance; characterised in that the third electrical line is formed by the second set of conductive wires; the system also comprising a modulator suitable for modulating the voltage and/or the current circulating in the second set of conductive wires, so as to activate the second electrical line and the third electrical line or the third electrical line exclusively.