Textured Iron Soleplate Layout for Wider Steam Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Domestic steam irons have limited steam distribution, leading to incomplete steam coverage on the soleplate, and high friction coefficients that hinder smooth movement over garments.
Innovation Solution
The soleplate features a centrally disposed elongated steam channel connected to multiple steam exit holes, arranged in a 'tree-like' configuration to ensure steam reaches the center and edges, combined with shallow dimples to reduce friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a conventional soleplate design is used, then the structure is simple, but steam distribution is limited and doesn't reach all areas of the soleplate
Solution Approach 1:
The soleplate is segmented into multiple functional zones with a centrally disposed elongated steam channel extending from the rear to the front, branching into lateral steam channels that distribute steam to different areas. This segmentation allows steam to reach all regions of the soleplate effectively while maintaining a structured organizational system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the soleplate are provided with different qualities: the central region has an elongated steam channel for primary steam distribution, while lateral regions have branching steam channels. Additionally, the soleplate surface has varied textures including smooth regions and textured regions with dimples, creating local quality differences that optimize both steam delivery and friction characteristics in different areas.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional soleplate material is used, then manufacturing is simple, but the coefficient of friction is high making it difficult to move over the garment
Solution Approach 1:
The soleplate incorporates localized textured regions with dimples in specific areas where friction reduction is most needed during gliding motion, while other regions maintain smoother surfaces. This selective texturing reduces overall friction without requiring complete redesign of the entire soleplate structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The soleplate includes rounded edges and curved transitions between different surface regions, eliminating sharp corners that could increase friction. The elongated central steam channel and branching lateral channels also feature smooth curved pathways that reduce resistance to steam flow and contribute to overall movement smoothness.
Data Source
AI summary
An iron is provided including a soleplate having a first surface configured to press a fabric and deliver wrinkle releasing steam, a first plurality of steam exit holes formed in the soleplate, each of the first plurality of steam exit holes connected to an associated first steam channel formed in the first surface and connected to a centrally disposed steam channel formed in the first surface, a second plurality of steam exit holes formed in the soleplate connected to an associated second steam channel formed in the first surface connected to the centrally disposed steam channel, each of the second plurality of steam exit holes disposed symmetrically to an associated one of the first plurality of steam exit holes on an opposite side of the centrally disposed steam channel, and the centrally disposed steam channel extending substantially an elongated length of the soleplate, The soleplate further includes dimples over the majority of the soleplate not covered by the steam channels.