Steam Iron Soleplate Hole Layout for Uniform Steam Without Clogging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irons with numerous small-diameter steam outlet holes on the soleplate require complex and expensive studs for support, and their steam distribution channels are prone to clogging due to scale deposits, limiting efficient steam diffusion and heat transfer.
Innovation Solution
A soleplate with a network of at least 200 steam outlet holes, arranged in a dense mesh with holes less than 4 mm in diameter and a pitch of less than 10 mm, combined with a wide strip devoid of holes for thermal contact and stiffness, simplifying production and reducing clogging risks, and featuring a co-laminated construction for enhanced heat transfer and scratch resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple small-diameter steam outlet holes are uniformly distributed on the soleplate, then homogeneous steam diffusion is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to many studs required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the steam distribution function from the studs and relocates it to a dedicated distribution chamber. This separation allows the soleplate to have simple circular holes without requiring complex studs, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining homogeneous steam diffusion through the distributed hole pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a distribution chamber as an intermediary component between the water reservoir and the steam outlet holes. This chamber receives steam and distributes it uniformly to multiple holes, achieving homogeneous steam diffusion without requiring complex stud structures to support the holes.
2Strength
If many studs are used to support the steam outlet holes, then structural support is provided, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the support function from complex studs and transfers it to the distribution chamber structure. The chamber itself provides structural support for the steam outlet holes, eliminating the need for numerous expensive studs and simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the support function with the distribution chamber structure. Instead of using separate studs for support, the chamber structure itself provides both steam distribution and structural support, reducing component count and manufacturing cost.
3Manufacturing precision
If steam distribution channels are arranged between pads, then steam distribution is achieved, but the channels are prone to clogging by scale deposits
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the steam distribution channels, making them wider and more open compared to narrow channels between pads. This parameter change reduces the likelihood of scale deposits clogging the channels while maintaining effective steam distribution to the outlet holes.
4Manufacturing precision
If a dense network of steam outlet holes is used, then steam diffusion is improved, but heat transfer from the body to the sole may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by creating different zones: a central zone with dense steam outlet holes for steam diffusion, and peripheral zones with larger holes or open areas for heat transfer. This spatial differentiation allows both steam diffusion and heat transfer requirements to be satisfied simultaneously in different regions of the soleplate.
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
This configuration ensures homogeneous steam diffusion, improved heat transfer, and reduced clogging, resulting in efficient ironing and easier maintenance, with the strip providing structural support and facilitating attachment to the heating body.
Implementation Method 1
a co-laminated sole comprising an outer skin of stainless steel and an inner skin of aluminum in contact with the heating body
Implementation Method 2
the network of steam outlet holes being supplied with steam by a distribution chamber extending, on the underside of the body, facing the network of steam outlet holes
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The steam iron, made with a sole (1) of outer stainless steel and inner aluminium layers on a heating body (2), has the sole pierced with a network of at least 200 steam outlets (10), each measuring less than 4 sq mm in section and less than 10 mm apart. The holes are in two zones (11, 12) in the middle and outside of the sole, with a gap (14) more than 10 mm wide between them and covering between 10 and 30 per cent of the sole's surface. The holes are fed with steam from a distribution chamber (26) on the underside of the body.