Portable steam generator base for iron
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art steam generators are bulky and heavy due to large water reservoirs, making them less portable despite the need for greater steam capacity and weight distribution during use.
Innovation Solution
A portable steam generator system with a steam generator base featuring a water reservoir and an operatively connected steam generation unit, along with a flexible hose and multiple ergonomic handles on the base for easy movement and weight distribution, allowing the iron to be used independently without a latching mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the water reservoir is made larger to increase steam capacity, then steam production increases, but the weight of the unit increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The steam generator is divided into two separate components: a stationary base unit containing the large water reservoir and steam generation system, and a separate handheld iron. This segmentation allows the bulk of the system (base) to remain stationary while only the lightweight iron needs to be portable, resolving the contradiction between large water capacity and portability.
2Quantity of substance
If the steam generator base unit is made larger to accommodate a bigger water reservoir, then water capacity increases, but the portability of the unit decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the system into a stationary base with large water capacity and a portable iron, the invention allows the base to be optimally sized for water storage without compromising the portability of the handheld component. The base remains fixed in one location while the iron can be easily moved and used independently.
3Ease of operation
If a latching mechanism is used to connect the iron and base unit, then the combination can be moved together, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the latching mechanism entirely from the design. The iron and base unit are designed to function independently without any mechanical connection system, thereby eliminating the complexity associated with latching mechanisms while maintaining the ability to use either component separately.
4Ease of operation
If the iron is designed like a conventional iron with a handle, then manipulation during use is facilitated, but the base unit cannot be moved independently without the iron
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of the iron and base unit allows each to be optimized independently. The iron retains its conventional handle design for easy manipulation during use, while the base unit, being stationary, does not require portability features. This segmentation enables both the iron to be easily handled and the base to remain in a fixed optimal position.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables greater steam production while maintaining portability by distributing weight and allowing the iron to be used freely, enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a steam generation base (12) including a water reservoir (18) and a steam generation unit (21) operatively fluidly connected with the water reservoir for water supply to the steam generation unit
Implementation Method 2
a steam generation base (12) including a water reservoir (18) and a steam generation unit (21) operatively fluidly connected with the water reservoir for water supply to the steam generation unit
Data Source
AI summary
A portable steam generator includes a steam generator base including a water reservoir and a steam generation unit that is operatively fluidly connected with the water reservoir for water supply to the steam generation unit. The portable steam generator also includes an iron including a sole plate with openings so that steam can pass through the sole plate. The portable steam generator also includes a flexible hose between the steam generation base and the iron including a steam conduit that is operatively fluidly connected with both the steam generation unit and an internal cavity of the iron for supply steam to the iron. A plurality of handles allow grasping and provide portability to the steam generator.