Patent Description:
The invention may be used in the field of garment care.

Garment care devices are known to be used for removing creases from garments through the use of heat and moisture from steam. One type of garment care device comprises a base that houses a water tank and a hand unit, the hand unit comprising a steam generator and a treatment surface for treating a garment. Water from the water tank is supplied to the steam generator via a flexible hose between the base and the hand unit. Steam from the steam generator is supplied to the garment via steam vents delimited by the treatment surface.

A different type of garment care device comprises a hand unit which comprises the steam generator, the treatment surface, and the water tank. In such a design, the garment care device may not include a base separate from the hand unit.

Controlling the temperature of the steam generator is a key consideration in such garment care devices. The steam generator is generally heated by an electrical heater. The water supplied to the steam generator has a cooling effect on the steam generator. The temperature of steam generator is sensed by a temperature sensing element. Enhancing the responsiveness of the temperature sensing element (i.e. its capacity to detect quick variations of temperature) to the cooling provided by the water on the steaming surface, as well as the heating provided by the electrical heater, remains a challenge. In addition, maintaining overall uniform temperature distribution in the steam generator via good spreading of water also remains a challenge.

<CIT> discloses an iron having a base plate with a top surface, the plate also having through openings from which water vapour is released; an iron body attached to the base plate and covering the top surface; a water tank in the body; a water vapour container which is delimited by a channel which lies above a heating element; and a water dispenser for dispensing water to a predetermined, generally flat location.

It is an object of the invention to propose a garment care device that addresses the above-mentioned challenge.

To this end, the garment care device according to the invention comprises.

The inclined bottom surface of the main groove means that water flows faster away from the dosing point in the direction of the central area when the treatment surface is horizontally orientated, e.g. by being placed on the horizontal surface of an ironing board.

Since the temperature sensor, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor, is arranged in the central area, and the main groove is arranged for carrying water to the central area, the arrangement can assist the temperature control to respond faster to the water supplied to the steam generator.

Moreover, the main groove and the first groove assist to guide and distribute water in the steam generator, and in particular guide water towards the first rear area. This can assist to reduce "hot spots" within the steam generator. The correspondingly more uniform temperature in the steam generator can assist in providing responsive and reliable temperature control. The more even temperature in the steam generator can, for example, facilitate the use of control logic for smart temperature control, thereby enabling enhanced steaming performance.

In some embodiments, the bottom surface of main groove is inclined compared to the treatment surface at an angle in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] degrees, such as [<NUM>; <NUM>] degrees, for example <NUM> degrees. This can assist water to flow relatively rapidly towards the central area.

The main groove is, for example, arranged parallel to, and preferably extends along, a longitudinal axis of the steaming surface.

Alternatively, or additionally, the temperature sensor, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor, is arranged on the longitudinal axis of the steaming surface.

The first rear area can be the left area or the right area of the steaming surface, compared to the longitudinal axis.

The main groove has, for example, a depth, e.g. a maximum depth, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres and a width in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

This "maximum depth" reflects the fact that in some examples the main groove can have more than one depth, such as when, for instance, the bottom surface of the main groove is inclined relative to the treatment surface while the steaming surface remains parallel to the treatment surface. In such an example, the main groove becomes progressively deeper towards the central area.

Preferably, the first rear area is closed by a first lateral rib, with the first groove extending along the first lateral rib. This first lateral rib can assist to reduce the risk of spitting, in other words the release of water from the steam generator, in spite of the first groove guiding water towards the rear of the steam generator where steam can be released downstream towards steam vents.

In some embodiments, the garment care device further comprises a second groove arranged in the steaming surface, which second groove extends towards a second rear area of the steaming surface, with the main groove, the first groove and the second groove being fluidly connected at the second extremity.

Preferably, the second rear area is opposite to the first rear area compared to the longitudinal axis of the steaming surface. Thus, the first and second grooves can define a pair of diverging grooves which outwardly extend from the second extremity.

Each of the first and second grooves can extend towards a respective part of a heating element, included in the electrical heater, which is proximal to one of the electrical connections connecting to the heating element. Thus, the first and second grooves assist to transport water to, and thereby cool down, "hot spots" which align with the parts of the heating element proximal to the electrical connections.

The first groove and/or the second groove each can have, for instance, a depth, e.g. a maximum depth, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres, such as [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres; and a width, e.g. a maximum width, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres, such as [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

Preferably, the second rear area is closed by a second lateral rib, with the second groove extending along the second lateral rib. This second lateral rib can assist to reduce the risk of spitting, in other words the release of liquid water from the steam generator, in spite of the second groove guiding water towards the rear of the steam generator where steam can be released downstream towards steam vents.

In an embodiment, the first rear area is closed by the first lateral rib, and the second rear area is closed by the second lateral rib, with the first groove extending along the first lateral rib, and the second groove extending along the second lateral rib.

The first lateral rib preferably comprises a first rear part proximal to the rear of the garment care device, which first rear part extends to contact a cover of the steam generator. Alternatively, or additionally, the second lateral rib can comprise a second rear part proximal to the rear of the garment care device, which second rear part extends to contact the cover of the steam generator. In such an example, the first and second rear parts assist to retain liquid water in the main steaming area, e.g. even during relatively vigorous forward and backward ironing strokes.

In some embodiments, the garment care device comprises protrusions protruding from the steaming surface. Such protrusions can assist to minimize deleterious effects of flaking of steam promoter from the steaming surface.

Preferably, the protrusions are arranged with a circular symmetry around the first extremity. This can assist water to spread more evenly around the dosing point.

Such protrusions can have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, each of the protrusions are shaped according to preferably, but not limited to, any one of the following three-dimensional shapes.

Such shapes can permit water to flow more easily compared to protrusions with edges, for example cubic, cuboidal, or pyramidal protrusions. In principle, any shape without defined corners or edges can be considered.

The base of the conical or dome-shaped protrusions can, for example, be elliptical instead of circular.

Preferably, the distance between two adjacent protrusions along a radial direction of the protrusions is in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

This spacing can assist to guide and spread water effectively, without too much obstruction, around the dosing point. The spacing between the protrusions can assist water to vaporize around the protrusions, even when scale is present. Scale has been found to adhere to protrusion-steaming surface interfaces. Water droplets may be held at such interfaces for sufficient time to vaporize.

Preferably, the angle of the steaming surface is such that it extends parallel to the bottom surface of the main groove. This further helps to more efficiently divert water towards the rear of the garment care device, particularly when water dosed in the steam generator cannot be fully accommodated within the first groove and/or the second groove (when the second groove is present).

Preferably, the steaming surface is inclined compared to the treatment surface between a higher point and a lower point, with the temperature sensing element being arranged at a height between the higher point and the lower point.

By positioning the temperature sensing element between the higher point and the lower point of the steaming surface, the garment care device can exhibit improved responsiveness to the cooling provided by the water on the steaming surface as well as the heating provided by the electrical heater.

The term "between the higher point and the lower point" as used herein is intended to encompass the height aligning with the higher point or with the lower point.

The higher point, the lower point, and the height can be determined from the distance of their projection from the treatment surface.

In some embodiments, the temperature sensing element is arranged at a location such that its vertical projection coincides with an area in which a heating element of the electrical heater does not extend. This better enables the temperature control to be guided more by the temperature inside the steam generator than the temperature of the electrical heater.

The garment care device preferably further comprises a protruding element arranged in the steam generator for mounting the temperature sensor.

The temperature sensor is, for example, detachably mounted to the protruding element.

Preferably, the protruding element comprises a cavity for mounting the temperature sensing element therein.

In some embodiments, the electrical heater comprises a heating element having an overall U-shape, which heating element comprises a pair of curved portions which arch inwardly towards each other in the direction of a longitudinal central axis of the steam generator. In such embodiments, the protruding element protrudes away from the steaming surface at a position between the pair of curved portions.

The pair of curved portions are, for example, arranged in the central area of the steam generator. This can assist to make the temperature control more robust to sideways tilting during steaming.

The garment care device preferably comprises a control unit configured to receive the temperature signal in order to start or stop the electrical heater based on a given temperature threshold.

The supply of electric current to the electrical heater can, for example, be stopped when temperature signal is indicative of a temperature which is equal to or higher than the given temperature threshold, and turned on when the temperature signal is indicative of a temperature which is below the given temperature threshold.

In a set of embodiments, the garment care device comprises:.

Water is carried by a pump arranged either in the base or alternatively in the hand unit.

In another set of embodiments, the garment care device comprises:.

In yet another set of embodiments, the garment care device comprises:.

Particular aspects of the invention will now be explained with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which identical parts or sub-steps are designated in the same manner:.

<FIG> depicts a garment care device 100A according to a non-limiting example.

The device 100A comprises a treatment surface <NUM> for treating a garment (the garment being not shown). For example, treating a garment consists in de-wrinkling or steaming.

The device 100A also comprises a steam generator <NUM> being in thermal contact with the treatment surface. The steam generator <NUM> is heated by an electrical heater <NUM>. The heating provided by the electrical heater enables the steam generator <NUM> to vaporize the water pumped thereto by the pump <NUM>.

The steam generator <NUM> comprises a steaming surface receiving water for generating steam via vaporization. The device 100A also comprises a temperature sensor having a temperature sensing element for generating a signal for controlling the electrical heater <NUM>. Those technical aspects will be further detailed in the following.

The exemplary garment care device 100A comprises a water tank <NUM> for containing water, and from which the steam generator <NUM> receives water.

The garment care device 100A further comprises a pump <NUM> arranged between the water tank <NUM> and the steam generator <NUM>. The pump <NUM> is adapted to pump the water from the water tank <NUM> to the steam generator <NUM>.

The pump <NUM> can be arranged either in the base <NUM> (as illustrated), or alternatively (not shown in <FIG>) in the hand unit <NUM>.

The treatment surface <NUM> corresponds to the external surface of a soleplate <NUM> and is intended to get into contact with the garment.

As shown in <FIG>, the soleplate <NUM> delimits a plurality of steam vents <NUM>. The steam vents <NUM> are fluidly communicable with the steam generator <NUM>. Fluid communication between the steam generator <NUM> and the steam vents <NUM> permits the steam generated in the steam generator <NUM> to be supplied to the garment adjacent, and in some cases contacting, the soleplate <NUM>.

The treatment surface <NUM> is preferably an overall flat surface, meaning that it forms a surface inscribing in a plane (with or without small discontinuities, such as recesses around the steam vents <NUM>).

For example, the steam vents <NUM> are arranged in such a way as to distribute the steam to different portions of the garment.

The steam vents <NUM> are in fluid communication with the steam generator <NUM>. This permits the steam generated in the steam generator <NUM> to be supplied to the fabric being treated using the garment care device 100A.

Although <FIG> shows a garment care device 100A having six steam vents, the number of steam vents could be larger or smaller.

The device 100A comprises a base <NUM> and a hand unit <NUM>. The base <NUM> comprises the water tank <NUM> and the pump <NUM>, and the hand unit <NUM> comprises the steam generator <NUM> and the soleplate <NUM>.

A hose cord <NUM> comprises a water tube (not visible) for carrying the water from the water tank <NUM> to the steam generator <NUM>. The hose cord <NUM> is preferably flexible in order to facilitate movement of the hand unit <NUM> whilst maintaining supply of water to the steam generator <NUM>.

A control unit <NUM>, for example a micro controller, is used to control (via an intermediate thyristor or other power electronics) the water flow rate of pump <NUM>, which in turn allows controlling the flow of steam exiting the steam vents <NUM>. The water flow rate of pump <NUM> can be varied by changing the duty cycle of its power supply.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the garment care device 100A comprises a button <NUM>. The button <NUM> is actuatable by a user of the garment care device 100A. Any suitable design of button <NUM> may be considered, such as a push button, slider button, a steam trigger, capacitive sensor, or other types of sensors.

Preferably, the garment care device 100A comprises a handle <NUM> for grasping by the user in order to assist the user to move the treatment surface <NUM> relative to the garment to be treated. The handle <NUM> may thus be included in the hand unit <NUM>.

The button <NUM> is preferably arranged proximal to the handle <NUM> such that the button <NUM> is actuatable while the user is grasping the handle <NUM>, e.g. by action of a finger.

For example, the button <NUM> takes the form of a steam trigger, such as a micro switch, arranged in the hand unit <NUM> and connected to a micro-controller included in the control unit <NUM> to receive a switching signal from the switch and control the pump <NUM> based on the switching signal.

The exemplary garment care device 100A comprises, in addition to the button <NUM>, a sensing unit <NUM> configured to detect whether or not the user is holding the garment care device 100A. The button <NUM> and/or the sensing unit <NUM> can be used to control operation parameters of the garment care device 100A, resulting in steam delivery by the steam generator <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the control unit <NUM> is connected (not shown) to the button <NUM> and to the sensing unit <NUM> such that the delivery of steam from the steam generator <NUM> is responsive to actuation of the button and/or a sensor signal received from the sensing unit <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically depicts another exemplary garment care device 100B. <FIG> is based on <FIG>. Similar to the example shown in <FIG>, the garment care device 100B comprises a water tank <NUM> and a pump <NUM> for pumping water from the water tank <NUM> to a steam generator <NUM>.

Water is carried from the water tank <NUM> to the steam generator <NUM> in the hand unit <NUM> via a water tube <NUM>. The water tube <NUM> is included in the hose cord <NUM>, as previously described.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the garment care device 100B comprises a pressure relief valve arrangement <NUM> between the pump <NUM> and the steam generator <NUM>. The pressure relief valve arrangement <NUM> is configured to relieve excess pressure in the garment care device 100B by directing water around a loop back to the water tank <NUM>, rather than to the steam generator <NUM>.

As schematically shown in <FIG>, water is pumped from the water tank <NUM> to the steam generator <NUM> via a dosing head <NUM>. The dosing head <NUM> is sealed onto a cover <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM> by a dosing seal <NUM>.

The steam generator <NUM> is preferably formed by a casting process using a suitable metal or metal alloy. The steam generator <NUM> can, for instance, be cast in aluminium.

Similarly, the cover <NUM> is preferably formed by a casting process using a suitable metal or metal alloy. The cover <NUM> can, for instance, be cast in aluminium. Thus, in some non-limiting examples, both the steam generator <NUM> and the cover <NUM> are cast in aluminium.

The design of the steam generator <NUM> and the cover <NUM> will be described in more detail herein below.

The soleplate <NUM> can also be cast from a suitable metal or metal alloy, such as aluminium. Such a metallic soleplate <NUM> is nonetheless preferably coated with a suitable material in order to provide a treatment surface <NUM> having suitable fabric glide properties.

The steam generator <NUM> is heated by an electrical heater <NUM>. The electrical heater <NUM> comprises a pair of electrical connections 144B for receiving power supply. The heat provided by the electrical heater <NUM> causes the water dosed into the steam generator <NUM> via the dosing head <NUM> to be vaporized. The resulting steam is supplied to the garment being treated via the steam vents <NUM> provided in the soleplate <NUM>, as previously described.

As shown in <FIG>, power is supplied to the garment care device 100B via a power cord <NUM>. In this particular example, the power cord <NUM> extends from the base <NUM> rather than from the hand unit <NUM>. Power is nonetheless supplied to the hand unit <NUM>, and in particular to the electrical heater <NUM>, via electrical wiring provided in the hose cord <NUM>, as previously described.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> comprises a first printed circuit board assembly <NUM>. The pump <NUM> is controlled by control electronics included in the first printed circuit board assembly <NUM>. At least part of the above-described control unit <NUM> can, for example, be provided by such control electronics included in the first printed circuit board assembly <NUM>.

More generally, the garment care device 100A, 100B comprises a temperature sensor <NUM> for generating a signal used for controlling the electrical heater <NUM>. The arrangement of the temperature sensor <NUM> in relation to the steam generator <NUM> will be described in more detail in the following.

Controlling the electrical heater <NUM> based on the signal generated by the temperature sensor <NUM> can be implemented in any suitable manner. Preferably, a relay (not visible) is configured to switch the electrical heater <NUM> on and off based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor <NUM>.

In a non-limiting example, the temperature sensor <NUM> comprises a temperature sensing element (not visible in <FIG>), and the temperature of the steam generator <NUM> is sensed by a change in resistance of the temperature sensing element.

More generally, the control unit <NUM> can, for example, receive a temperature signal from the temperature sensor <NUM> in order to start or stop the electrical heater <NUM> based on a given temperature threshold.

The supply of electric current to the electrical heater <NUM> can, for example, be stopped when temperature signal is indicative of a temperature which is equal to or higher than the given temperature threshold, and turned on when the temperature signal is indicative of a temperature which is below the given temperature threshold.

For example, the exemplary hand unit <NUM> shown in <FIG> comprises a second printed circuit board assembly <NUM> which can also be regarded as a power printed circuit board assembly <NUM>. A change in resistance signal from the thermistor element can, for example, be received by control circuitry included in the power printed circuit board assembly <NUM> to control the switching on and off of the relay, and thus the heating provided by the electrical heater <NUM>. Such temperature feedback control over the electrical heater <NUM> can, for instance, be based on the predefined firmware temperature settings.

In some non-limiting examples, a relay (not visible) is used to control the pump <NUM>, and switching the relay on and off in order to control the supply of water to the steam generator <NUM> is based on the change in the resistance signal from the temperature sensing element. This feedback control over the pump <NUM> can, for example, be based on predefined firmware pump duty cycle settings.

The exemplary garment care device 100B shown in <FIG> also comprises a thermal fuse assembly <NUM>. The thermal fuse assembly <NUM> is in thermal contact with the steam generator <NUM>, as shown, and prevents the electrical heater <NUM> from heating the steam generator <NUM> above a given temperature limit. When the temperature exceeds this given temperature limit, blowing of the thermal fuse assembly results in an open circuit which prevents operation of the electrical heater <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the garment care device 100B comprises an indicator <NUM>, for example comprising or in the form of a light emitting diode. The indicator <NUM> may be controlled, for example by the control circuitry included in the power printed circuit board assembly <NUM>, to indicate a selected, for example user-selected, operating mode of the garment care device 100B. The indicator <NUM> may also be used to indicate the status of the device 100B for example to indicate the device has heated up and is ready during start up.

<FIG> shows yet another exemplary garment care device 100C having some similarities with the exemplary garment care devices 100A, 100B described above in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>. However, in the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the various components of the garment care device 100C are each included in the hand unit <NUM>. In other words, the garment care device 100C does not have a base. Accordingly, the water tank <NUM>, the steam generator <NUM>, the control unit <NUM> and the pump <NUM> are included in the hand unit <NUM>, together with the soleplate <NUM>, the button <NUM>, and the sensing unit <NUM>.

Alternatively (not shown), in the garment care device 100C, instead of using a pump <NUM> to carry water from the water tank to the steam generator, water can be carried from the water tank to the steam generator by gravity in arranging the water tank higher than the steam generator. A valve is arranged along the flow path between the water tank and the steam generator <NUM>. If the valve is electrically controllable, it can be controlled by the control unit <NUM> for opening or closing the water path.

The garment care device 100C shown in <FIG> takes the form of a steam iron. It may necessitate a smaller water tank <NUM> due to the water tank <NUM> being incorporated in the hand unit <NUM> rather than in a base, although the garment care device 100C may nonetheless benefit from portability and have space-saving advantages due to not requiring such a base. The responsiveness of the steam delivery to the user inputs received via (at least) the button <NUM> and the sensing unit <NUM> may also be relatively rapid due to the proximity of the water tank <NUM> with respect to the steam generator <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> provide planar views of the steam generator <NUM> of an exemplary garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C.

<FIG> provides a top view showing the steam generator <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and <FIG> with a cover <NUM>. The cover <NUM> closes the steam generator <NUM>. <FIG> also depicts the soleplate <NUM>, the temperature sensor <NUM> and thermal fuse assembly <NUM>, seen from outside.

The cover <NUM> is preferably cast in a suitable metal alloy or metal, such as aluminium, as previously described.

The garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C comprises the electrical heater <NUM>. The electrical heater <NUM> in this non-limiting example comprises, or is defined by, a heating element embedded in a lower region of the steam generator <NUM>.

The steam generator <NUM> is generally elongated along a longitudinal axis <NUM>. The longitudinal axis <NUM> extends along a centreline which notionally divides the steam generator <NUM> into two halves. The steam generator <NUM> also has a wider back end <NUM> and a sharper front end <NUM>.

The electrical connections 144B are preferably both disposed proximal to the back end <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM> but are spaced apart from each other so that the electrical connections 144B are positioned on either side of the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The heating element <NUM> extends in a loop from one of the electrical connections 144B located proximal to the back end <NUM> to a turning point <NUM> proximal to the front end <NUM>, and from the turning point <NUM> towards the other of the electrical connections 144B. The heating element <NUM> may thus be regarded as having an overall U-shape.

The loop formed by the heating element <NUM> is preferably symmetrical such that the longitudinal axis <NUM> defines an axis of symmetry for the heating element <NUM>. This assists the heating element <NUM> to provide a relatively uniform heating of the steam generator <NUM>.

The garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C preferably comprises a protruding element <NUM> arranged in the steam generator <NUM> for mounting the temperature sensor <NUM>.

The protruding element <NUM> can be alternatively be referred to as a "boss" or "mounting feature" which receives the temperature sensing element, for example thermistor element, of the temperature sensor <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the protruding element <NUM> delimits a cavity <NUM>, e.g. in the form of a pin hole, in which the temperature sensing element can be received.

More generally, the steam generator <NUM> comprises a steaming surface <NUM> with a water dosing point DP receiving water for generating steam.

In the example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM> also corresponds to a longitudinal axis of the steaming surface <NUM>.

The water dosing point DP defines the position in the steaming surface <NUM> which initially receives water dosed into the steam generator <NUM>. This water is, for instance, dosed via the dosing head <NUM> described above in relation to <FIG>.

The temperature sensor <NUM>, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor <NUM>, is arranged in a central area CA of the steaming surface <NUM>.

For example the temperature sensor <NUM>, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor <NUM>, is arranged on the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the steaming surface <NUM>.

The central area CA can correspond to the centre of a rectangle R inscribing the heating element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Arranging the temperature sensor <NUM> in the central area CA may assist to enhance responsiveness to both heating by the electrical heater <NUM>, e.g. when the above-described relay switches-on the electrical heater <NUM>, and the cooling by the water supplied into the steam generator <NUM>.

A main groove <NUM> is arranged in the steaming surface <NUM>. In other words, the main groove <NUM> is recessed relative to the steaming surface <NUM>.

The main groove <NUM> has a first extremity <NUM> arranged at proximity of the water dosing point DP, and a second extremity <NUM> arranged at proximity of the central area CA, as best shown in <FIG>. Thus, the main groove <NUM> is arranged for carrying water between the water dosing point DP and the central area CA.

To this end, the main groove <NUM> has a bottom surface which is inclined compared to the treatment surface <NUM>. This means that water flows on the bottom surface of the main groove <NUM> away from the dosing point DP in the direction of the central area CA when the treatment surface <NUM> is horizontally orientated, e.g. by being placed on the horizontal surface of an ironing board (not shown).

In some embodiments, the bottom surface of main groove <NUM> is inclined compared to the treatment surface <NUM> at an angle in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] degrees, for example <NUM> degrees.

This can assist water to flow relatively rapidly towards the central area CA, and helps to more efficiently divert water towards the back end <NUM> of the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C, thereby to assist reduction in hot spots towards the rear of the steaming surface <NUM>.

Since the temperature sensor <NUM>, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor <NUM>, is arranged in the central area CA, and the main groove <NUM> is arranged for carrying water to the central area CA, the arrangement can assist the temperature control to respond faster to the water supplied to the steam generator <NUM>.

The main groove <NUM> has, for example, a depth, e.g. a maximum depth, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres and a width, e.g. a maximum width, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

The depth of the main groove <NUM> can correspond to a height of the main groove <NUM> between the bottom surface of the main groove <NUM> and the steaming surface <NUM> at a given point along the main groove <NUM>.

The width of the main groove <NUM> can be measured transverse to the direction of extension of the main groove <NUM> towards the central area CA between opposing points at which the main groove <NUM> meets the steaming surface <NUM> at a given point along the main groove <NUM>.

The main groove <NUM> is, for example, arranged parallel to, and preferably extends along, the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the steaming surface <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the main groove <NUM> extends along the longitudinal axis <NUM> from the water dosing point DP to the protruding element <NUM> which receives the temperature sensing element. This can assist the feedback control over the electrical heater <NUM> to be more responsive to water present in the steam generator <NUM>.

More generally, a first groove 180A is also arranged in the steaming surface <NUM>. The first groove 180A extends towards a first rear area RA1 of the steaming surface <NUM>, in other words in the direction of the back end <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The main groove <NUM> and the first groove 180A are fluidly connected at the second extremity <NUM>.

The main groove <NUM> and the first groove 180A assist to guide water into various regions of the steam generator <NUM>. This can assist to reduce "hot spots" within the steam generator <NUM>.

The first rear area RA1 can be a rear left area or a rear right area, compared to the longitudinal axis <NUM>. In such an example, as well as the water being guided towards the back end <NUM>, the water may also be guided towards a side of the steaming surface <NUM>. This can assist to cool down a "hot spot" which, for example, aligns with the parts of the heating element <NUM> proximal to the electrical connections 144B.

Preferably, the first rear area RA1 is closed by a first lateral rib LR1, with the first groove 180A extending along the first lateral rib LR1. This first lateral rib LR1 can assist to reduce the risk of spitting, in other words the release of liquid water from the steam generator <NUM>, in spite of the first groove 180A guiding water towards the back end <NUM> where steam is released downstream towards the steam vents <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C further comprises a second groove 180B arranged in the steaming surface <NUM>, with the second groove 180B extending towards a second rear area RA2 of the steaming surface <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In such embodiments, the main groove <NUM>, the first groove 180A and the second groove 180B are fluidly connected at the second extremity <NUM>.

Preferably, the second rear area RA2 is opposite to the first rear area RA1 compared to the longitudinal axis <NUM> of the steaming surface. By opposite, it generally refers to an arrangement where the first rear area RA1 and the second rear area RA2 are arranged on different sides compared to the longitudinal axis <NUM>, either arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically compared to the longitudinal axis <NUM>. Thus, the first and second grooves 180A, 180B can define a pair of diverging grooves which outwardly extend from the second extremity <NUM>.

Each of the first and second grooves 180A, 180B can extend towards a respective part of the heating element <NUM> which is proximal to one of the electrical connections 144B, as best shown in <FIG>. Thus, the first and second grooves 180A, 180B assist to transport water to, and thereby cool down, "hot spots" which align with the parts of the heating element <NUM> proximal to the electrical connections 144B.

The first groove 180A and/or the second groove 180B can (each) have, for instance, a depth, e.g. a maximum depth, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres, such as [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

Alternatively or additionally, the first groove 180A and/or the second groove 180B can (each) have a width, e.g. a maximum width, in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres, such as [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

The depth of the first groove 180A can correspond to a height of the first groove 180A between a bottom surface of the first groove 180A and the steaming surface <NUM> at a given point along the first groove 180A. The depth of the second groove 180B can be analogously measured.

The width of the first groove 180A can be measured transverse to the direction of extension of the first groove 180A towards the first rear area RA1 between opposing points at which the first groove 180A meets the steaming surface <NUM> at a given point along the first groove 180A. The width of the second groove 180B can be analogously measured.

Preferably, the second rear area LR2 is closed by a second lateral rib LR2, with the second groove 180B extending along the second lateral rib LR2. This second lateral rib LR2 can assist to reduce the risk of spitting, in other words the release of liquid water from the steam generator <NUM>, in spite of the second groove 180B guiding water towards the back end <NUM> where steam is released downstream towards the steam vents <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first rear area RA1 is closed by the first lateral rib LR1, and the second rear area RA2 is closed by the second lateral rib LR2, with the first groove 180A extending along the first lateral rib LR1, and the second groove 180B extending along the second lateral rib LR2. Thus, the lateral ribs LR1, LR2 both function to reduce the risk of spitting, in spite of the first and second grooves 180A, 180B guiding water towards the back end <NUM>.

Coming back to <FIG> and <FIG>, the protruding element <NUM> extends away from the steaming surface <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> is arranged such that the temperature sensing element, when received in the cavity <NUM>, is in thermal contact with the interior of the steam generator <NUM>.

The protruding element <NUM> is preferably positioned on the longitudinal axis <NUM>. Such central positioning of the protruding element <NUM> can assist the feedback control over the electrical heater <NUM> because the centre of the steam generator <NUM> provides a representative location at which to sense the temperature. The positioning of the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor <NUM> will be described in more detail in the following.

The loop formed by the heating element <NUM> preferably comprises a pair of curved portions 174A, 174B which arch inwardly towards each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the pair of curved portions 174A, 174B are arranged to heat faster the central area CA of the steam generator <NUM>.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> elevates away from the steaming surface <NUM> at a position between the pair of curved portions 174A, 174B. This can assist to make the temperature sensing element more responsive to the heating provided by the electrical heater <NUM>.

This proximity of the curved portions 174A, 174B relative to the protruding element <NUM>, and in particular the temperature sensing element received therein, may enhance the responsiveness to the feedback control over the electrical heater <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the protruding element <NUM> is arranged at a position along the longitudinal axis <NUM> at which the pair of curved portions 174A, 174B are closest to each other.

More generally, the temperature sensing element is positioned between opposing portions of the heating element <NUM>, and the lateral distance between the temperature sensing element and one of the opposing portions is preferably the same as, or substantially the same as, the lateral distance between the temperature sensing element and the other of the opposing portions.

In order to enable water to spread easily on the steaming surface <NUM>, a smooth steaming surface <NUM>, without any obstructions to the water, may be desirable. However, due to the different coefficients of expansion of the material whose surface defines the steaming surface <NUM>, for example aluminium, and scale, such a smooth steaming surface <NUM> can increase the risk of flaking of steam promoter coating on the steaming surface <NUM>. Moreover, there is an increased risk of spitting due to flaking of steam promoter from a relatively large area of the steaming surface <NUM>, particular for a relatively high steam rate system.

Accordingly, in some embodiments the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C comprises protrusions 188A, for example a pattern of protrusions 188A, protruding from the steaming surface <NUM>.

<FIG> provides an enlarged perspective view of the steaming surface <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> which shows the protrusions 188A. <FIG> provides a plan view of a single protrusion 188A, and <FIG> provides a plan view of nearest neighbour protrusions 188A.

Such protrusions 188A can assist relatively rapid spread of water on the steaming surface <NUM>, thereby promoting steam response, and also assist to minimize deleterious effects of flaking of steam promoter from the steaming surface <NUM>.

Preferably, the protrusions 188A are arranged with a circular symmetry around the first extremity <NUM>. This circular symmetry is represented in <FIG> by the concentric circles <NUM> of protrusions 188A surrounding the first extremity <NUM>. This can assist water to spread more evenly around the water dosing point DP, as represented by the arrows in <FIG>.

Such protrusions 188A can have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, each of the protrusions 188A are shaped according to any one of the following three-dimensional shapes:.

Such shapes can permit water to flow more easily compared to protrusions 188A with edges, for example cubic, cuboidal, or pyramidal protrusions. In principle, any shape without defined corners or edges can be considered.

The base of the conical or dome-shaped protrusions 188A can, for example, be elliptical instead of circular.

Preferably, the distance D1 between two adjacent, in other words nearest neighbour, protrusions 188A along a radial direction of the protrusions 188A, when measured at the base of the protrusions 188A where they meet the steaming surface <NUM>, is in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres, for example <NUM> millimetres.

This spacing D, as shown in <FIG>, can assist to guide and spread water effectively, without too much obstruction, around the water dosing point DP. The spacing D between the protrusions 188A can assist water to vaporize around the protrusions 188A, even when scale is present. Scale has been found to adhere to protrusion-steaming surface interfaces. Water droplets may be held at such interfaces for sufficient time to vaporize.

The protrusions 188A themselves can have any suitable dimensions. Referring to <FIG>, the diameter D2 of the base of each protrusion 188A where the protrusion 188A meets the steaming surface <NUM> is, for example, in the range of [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres. Such a diameter D2 may balance performance in the steam generator with manufacturability, for example by casting. D2 is <NUM> millimetre in the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>.

Alternatively or additionally, the height of each of the protrusions 188A is in the range [<NUM>; <NUM>] millimetres.

When conical protrusions 188A are employed, any suitable (acute) angle between the steaming surface <NUM> and the side surface of the protrusion 188A can be used. For example, the angle is in the range of [<NUM>; <NUM>] degrees, preferably <NUM> degrees, with the base of the protrusion having a width of <NUM> and a height of <NUM>.

The steam generator <NUM> preferably comprises a main steaming area <NUM> (delimited by large dotted line in <FIG>), a secondary steaming area <NUM> (delimited by small dotted line in <FIG>), and a steam channel <NUM> to distribute steam towards the steam vents. Most of the steam generation takes place in the main steaming area <NUM>.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the steaming surface <NUM> is located in the main steaming area <NUM>.

The steam channel <NUM> is for guiding the steam downstream towards the steam vents <NUM>. The secondary steaming area <NUM> provides an intermediate chamber between the main steaming area <NUM> and the steam channel <NUM> which can assist to mitigate the risk of liquid water being passed downstream towards the steam vents <NUM>.

Preferably, further protrusions 188B, e.g. a pattern of further protrusions 188B, are provided in the secondary steaming area <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM>. The further protrusions 188B project in the direction of the cover <NUM>. The further protrusions 188B can have any suitable shape and dimensions, such as the shapes and dimensions described above in relation to the protrusions 188A.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, nearest neighbour further protrusions 188B are more closely spaced to each other than in the case of the nearest neighbour protrusions 188A in the main steaming area <NUM>. This partly reflects the fact that water spreading is a lesser concern in the secondary steaming area <NUM> because the main steaming area <NUM> is arranged such that most of the water evaporation takes place upstream of the secondary steaming area <NUM>, as previously described.

Additional protrusions 188C, e.g. a pattern of additional protrusions 188C, are preferably provided in the steam channel <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM>. The additional protrusions 188C protrude in the direction of the cover <NUM>. The additional protrusions 188C can have any suitable shape and dimensions, such as the shapes and dimensions described above in relation to the protrusions 188A.

In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, nearest neighbour additional protrusions 188C are more closely spaced to each other than in the case of the nearest neighbour protrusions 188A in the main steaming area <NUM>. The nearest neighbour spacing of the additional protrusions 188C can, for example, be substantially the same as, or smaller or larger than, the nearest neighbour spacing of the further protrusions 188B in the secondary steaming area <NUM>.

In the case of the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the main steaming area <NUM>, the secondary steaming area <NUM>, and the steam channel <NUM> are closed by the cover <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is secured to the steam generator <NUM>.

Such securing of the cover <NUM> to the steam generator <NUM> can be implemented in any suitable manner. In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the steam generator <NUM> delimits apertures <NUM> which receive fasteners (not visible in <FIG> and <FIG>), such as screws, in order to secure the cover <NUM> to the steam generator <NUM>.

Whilst not visible in <FIG> and <FIG>, the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C preferably comprises a housing for enclosing components of the hand unit <NUM>. Such a housing can, for instance, be secured to the soleplate <NUM>.

Such securement of the housing to the soleplate <NUM> can be achieved in any suitable manner. In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, fastening elements, such as screws, received in holes <NUM> are used for this purpose.

The thermal fuse assembly <NUM> described above in relation to <FIG> is preferably secured to the protruding element <NUM>. To this end, the protruding element <NUM> delimits a recess <NUM> for receiving a suitable fixing element (not visible in <FIG> and <FIG>), such as a screw, in order to secure the thermal fuse assembly <NUM> to the protruding element <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a perspective view of the steam generator <NUM> shown in <FIG>. A wall <NUM> extends around the steam generator <NUM> and partitions different parts of the steam generator <NUM>. Most of the wall <NUM> engages the cover <NUM> in order to retain steam within the steam generator <NUM>.

The first lateral rib LR1 preferably comprises a first rear part 198A proximal to the rear of the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C, which first rear part 198A extends to contact the cover <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM>. Alternatively or additionally, the second lateral rib LR2 can comprise a second rear part 199A proximal to the rear of the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C, which second rear part 199A extends to contact the cover <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

The first and second rear parts 198A, 199A assist to retain liquid water in the main steaming area <NUM>, e.g. even during relatively vigorous forward and backward ironing strokes.

As shown in <FIG>, the first lateral rib LR1 further comprises a first anterior part 198B which is further from the rear of the garment care device than the first rear part 198A. The first anterior part 198B extends away from the steaming surface <NUM> towards the cover <NUM> but terminates short of the cover <NUM> in order to permit steam in the main steaming area <NUM> to pass into the secondary steaming area <NUM>.

Similarly, the second lateral rib LR2 further comprises a second anterior part 199B which is further from the rear of the garment care device than the second rear part 199A. The second anterior part 199B extends away from the steaming surface <NUM> towards the cover <NUM> but terminates short of the cover <NUM> in order to permit steam in the main steaming area <NUM> to pass into the secondary steaming area <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the cover <NUM> comprises a dosing hole <NUM> through which water can be dosed to the water dosing point DP. The dosing head <NUM> can, for instance, be sealed onto the cover <NUM> via a dosing seal <NUM> provided around the dosing hole <NUM>, as previously described in relation to <FIG>.

The cover <NUM> is secured to the steam generator <NUM> via fasteners <NUM>. In this particular example, the fasteners <NUM> take the form of screws which screw into the above-described apertures <NUM> provided in the steam generator <NUM>.

The garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C preferably comprises a thermal fuse assembly <NUM>, as previously described. In the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the thermal fuse assembly <NUM> is secured to the steam generator <NUM> via a fixing element <NUM>. In this example, the fixing element <NUM> takes the form of a screw which screws into the recess <NUM> provided in the protruding element <NUM>.

The temperature sensor <NUM> included in the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C can be affixed to the steam generator <NUM> via a further fixing element <NUM>. In this non-limiting example, the further fixing element <NUM> is a screw which screws into an aperture (not visible in <FIG>) provided in the cover <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view of the steam generator <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the steaming surface <NUM> on which the water is received for generating steam is preferably inclined compared to the treatment surface <NUM> between a higher point <NUM> and a lower point <NUM>.

In other words, the steaming surface <NUM> preferably slopes downwardly in the direction of the wider back end <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM>. This means that water flows on the steaming surface <NUM> away from the water dosing point DP and towards the back end <NUM> when the treatment surface <NUM> is horizontally orientated, e.g. by being placed on the horizontal surface of an ironing board (not shown).

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view of the steam generator <NUM> which shows the inclined steaming surface <NUM> and the temperature sensor <NUM> its temperature sensing element <NUM> (illustrated by a black dot).

<FIG> provides a magnified view of part of the cross-sectional view of the steam generator <NUM> shown in <FIG>, where the temperature sensing element <NUM> is illustrated by a black dot.

Any suitable angle of incline Θ, as shown in <FIG>, may be selected in order to control the flow of water. Preferably, the steaming surface <NUM> is inclined by an angle θ in the range <NUM> to <NUM> degrees, such as about <NUM>°, compared to the treatment surface <NUM>.

This angle θ can, for example, be determined by measuring, at the lower point <NUM>, the angle θ between a horizontal drawn parallel to the treatment surface <NUM> and the steaming surface <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

In the depicted non-limiting example, the higher point <NUM> of the steaming surface <NUM> extends from a point at which the steaming surface <NUM> meets a sidewall surface <NUM> of the steam generator <NUM>. This point can be identified by the shallower depth of the steaming surface <NUM> relative to that of the sidewall surface <NUM>.

It is also noted that the higher point <NUM> and the lower point <NUM> are points on the steaming surface <NUM> itself, independently whether the steaming surface <NUM> has some protrusions or recesses at its surface.

The temperature sensing element <NUM> of the temperature sensor <NUM> is preferably arranged at a height H which is between the higher point <NUM> and the lower point <NUM>. This position has the advantage that the signal generated by the temperature sensor is sensitive both to the heating provided by the electrical heater <NUM> and the heat loss due to presence of water within the steam generator <NUM>.

The higher point <NUM>, the lower point <NUM>, and the height H can be determined from the distance of their protrusion from the treatment surface <NUM>.

The term "between the higher point and the lower point" as used herein is intended to encompass the height H aligning with the higher point <NUM> or with the lower point <NUM>.

The hashed line <NUM> in <FIG> aligns with the higher point <NUM> and is parallel with the plane of the treatment surface <NUM>. Similarly, the hashed line <NUM> in <FIG> aligns with the lower point <NUM> and is parallel with the plane of the treatment surface <NUM>.

The temperature sensor <NUM> is, in the non-limiting example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a pin-type thermistor comprising a temperature sensing element <NUM> in the form of a thermistor element. In this case, it is the sensing point of the thermistor element which is arranged at the height H which is between the higher point <NUM> and the lower point <NUM>.

In this particular example, the cavity <NUM> is in the form of a pin hole which is dimensioned to receive the thermistor element of the pin-type thermistor.

The temperature sensor <NUM> comprising or being in the form of thermistor, such as a pin-type thermistor, should not, however, be regarded as being limiting. Any suitable type of temperature sensor <NUM> can be considered, such as a thermo diode or a miniaturized mechanical thermostat.

The thermo diode can be regarded as a thermally operated semiconductor switch. The miniaturized mechanical thermostat comprises a small internal thermally operated switch.

Returning to the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the temperature sensing element <NUM>, in this case in the form of a thermistor element, is received in the cavity <NUM> delimited by the protruding element <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> extends sufficiently far in the direction of the treatment plate <NUM> that the above-described height H criterion is satisfied, as shown.

As best shown in <FIG>, the temperature sensor <NUM> included in the exemplary garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C is affixed to the steam generator <NUM> via a further fixing element <NUM> taking the form of a screw which screws for example into the aperture <NUM> provided in the cover <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a cross-sectional view along axis AA of <FIG>, and shows the heating element <NUM> at the position of the curved portions 174A, 174B.

More generally, the (central area of the) heating element <NUM> is, for instance, arranged at a height H1 which is lower than the lower point <NUM> of the steaming surface <NUM>.

It has been found that the above-described design provides enhanced temperature control at least partly as a consequence of positioning the temperature sensor <NUM>, and in particular the temperature sensing element <NUM> of the temperature sensor <NUM>, proximal to the second extremity <NUM> of the main groove <NUM>. This helps the water to reach and cool the central area CA in which the temperature sensing element <NUM> is located faster. In this manner, the temperature sensing element <NUM>, e.g. thermistor element, can effectively respond to the heat delivered by the electrical heater <NUM>, and heat extracted by the water, which can make the whole system very responsive during dry and steam cycles.

Moreover, cooling of the hot spots of the steam generator <NUM> is improved because of the effective water spreading provided by the first and/or second grooves 180A, 180B extending from the second extremity <NUM> of the main groove <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the positioning of the temperature sensing element <NUM> between the higher point <NUM> and the lower point <NUM> of the steaming surface <NUM> also contributes to providing more responsiveness to the cooling provided by the water on the steaming surface <NUM> as well as the heating provided by the electrical heater <NUM>.

In the above-described example depicted in <FIG> the steaming surface <NUM> is inclined relative to the treatment surface <NUM>. In such an example, it is preferable that the angle θ of the steaming surface <NUM> is such that it extends parallel to the bottom surface of the main groove <NUM>. This further helps to more efficiently divert water towards the rear of the garment care device 100A, 100B, 100C, particularly when water dosed in the steam generator <NUM> cannot be fully accommodated within the first groove 180A and/or the second groove 180B (when the second groove 180B is present).

<FIG> schematically depicts an alternative example in which the steaming surface <NUM> remains parallel to the treatment surface <NUM> while the bottom surface <NUM> of the main groove <NUM> is inclined relative to the treatment surface <NUM>.

In such an example, the main groove <NUM> becomes progressively deeper towards the second extremity <NUM>. Hence, in the non-limiting example shown in <FIG>, the maximum depth <NUM> may be used as a measure of the depth of the main groove <NUM>.

Irrespective of whether or not the steaming surface <NUM> is inclined relative to the treatment surface <NUM>, <FIG> shows that the angle ø at which the bottom surface <NUM> of the main groove <NUM> is inclined relative to the treatment surface <NUM> can be determined by measuring, at the second extremity <NUM>, the angle ø between a horizontal drawn parallel to the treatment surface <NUM> and the bottom surface <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A garment care device (100A, 100B, 100C) comprising:
- a treatment surface (<NUM>) for treating a garment,
- a steam generator (<NUM>) being in thermal contact with the treatment surface, wherein the steam generator is configured to be heated by an electrical heater (<NUM>), the steam generator comprising a steaming surface (<NUM>) with a water dosing point (DP) being arranged to receive water for generating steam,
- a temperature sensor (<NUM>) having a temperature sensing element (<NUM>) for generating a signal for controlling the electrical heater, the temperature sensor being arranged in a central area (CA) of the steaming surface,
- a main groove (<NUM>) arranged in the steaming surface, the main groove having a first extremity arranged at proximity of the water dosing point and a second extremity arranged at proximity of the central area, for carrying water between the water dosing point and the central area,
- a first groove (180A) arranged in the steaming surface, and characterized in that
the main groove (<NUM>) has a bottom surface (<NUM>) being inclined compared to the treatment surface (<NUM>), and that first groove extends towards a first rear area (RA1) of the steaming surface, wherein the main groove and the first groove are fluidly connected at said second extremity.