FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a garment care device having a steam generator whose temperature is controlled using a temperature sensing signal.

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

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

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.

DE 692 25 205 T2 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. OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

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

The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

To this end, the garment care device according to the invention comprises a treatment surface for treating a garment, a steam generator being in thermal contact with the treatment surface, the steam generator being heated by an electrical heater, the steam generator comprising a steaming surface with a water dosing point receiving water for generating steam, a temperature sensor having a temperature sensing element for generating a signal for controlling the electrical heater, the temperature sensor being arranged in a central area of the steaming surface, a main groove 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, the main groove having a bottom surface being inclined compared to the treatment surface, a first groove arranged in the steaming surface, the first groove extending towards a first rear area of the steaming surface, wherein the main groove and the first groove are fluidly connected at said second extremity.

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 [2; 10] degrees, such as [3; 8] degrees, for example 7 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 [0.5; 8] millimetres and a width in the range [2; 10] 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 [0.5; 5] millimetres, such as [1.5; 3] millimetres; and a width, e.g. a maximum width, in the range [1.0; 7.0] millimetres, such as [2.0; 5.0] 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 conical shape, truncated conical shape, dome shape, cylindrical shape.

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 comers 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 [3; 8] 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: a base comprising a water tank, a hand unit containing the steam generator, and a hose cord for carrying water from the water tank to the steam generator.

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: a hand unit, a water tank, and a pump for supplying water from the water tank to the steam generator, wherein the steam generator, the water tank, and the pump are contained in the hand unit.

In yet another set of embodiments, the garment care device comprises: a hand unit, a water tank arranged higher than the steam generator, and a valve arranged between the water tank and the steam generator, for supplying water from the water tank to the steam generator, wherein the steam generator, the water tank, and the valve are contained in the hand unit.

Detailed explanations and other aspects of the invention will be given below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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.1 schematically depicts a garment care device according to an example,

Fig.2 schematically depicts a garment care device according to another example,

Fig.3 schematically depicts a garment care device according to a further example,

Fig.4A provides a planar view of a steam generator of a garment care device,

Fig.4B provides the planar view shown in Fig.4A together with a portion representing the arrangement of the heating element,

Fig.4C provides the planar view shown in Fig.4A together with an area representing the location of a hot spot in the steam chamber,

Fig.4D provides the planar view shown in Fig.4A together with two areas representing the locations of two hot spots in the steam chamber,

Fig.4E provides the planar view shown in Fig.4A together with hashed circles showing an arrangement of protrusions protruding from a steaming surface of the steam chamber,

Fig.4F provides an enlarged perspective view of the steaming surface of the steam generator showing the protrusions,

Fig.4G provides a plan view of a single protrusion,

Fig.4H provides a plan view of nearest neighbour protrusions,

Fig.41 provides a perspective view of the steam generator shown in Fig.4A,

Fig.5 provides a top view of a steam generator as shown in Figs.4A to 4F and 41 with a cover mounted on the steam generator, Fig.6 provides a cross-sectional view of the steam generator shown in Figs.4A to 4F and 41 which shows an inclined steaming surface,

Fig.7 provides a cross-sectional view of the steam generator shown in Fig.5 which shows the inclined steaming surface,

Fig.8 provides a magnified view of part of the cross-sectional view shown in Fig.7,

Fig.9 provides a further cross-sectional view of the steam generator shown in Fig.5, and Fig.10 provides a schematic cross-sectional view of a steam generator having a steaming surface extending parallel with the treatment plate, and an inclined main groove.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Fig.l depicts a garment care device 100A according to a non-limiting example.

The device 100A comprises a treatment surface 109 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 104 being in thermal contact with the treatment surface. The steam generator 104 is heated by an electrical heater 144. The heating provided by the electrical heater enables the steam generator 104 to vaporize the water pumped thereto by the pump 106.

The steam generator 104 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 144. Those technical aspects will be further detailed in the following.

The exemplary garment care device 100A comprises a water tank 102 for containing water, and from which the steam generator 104 receives water.

The garment care device 100A further comprises a pump 106 arranged between the water tank 102 and the steam generator 104. The pump 106 is adapted to pump the water from the water tank 102 to the steam generator 104.

The pump 106 can be arranged either in the base 112 (as illustrated), or alternatively (not shown in Fig.1) in the hand unit 114.

The treatment surface 109 corresponds to the external surface of a soleplate 108 and is intended to get into contact with the garment. As shown in Fig.l, the soleplate 108 delimits a plurality of steam vents 110. The steam vents 110 are fluidly communicable with the steam generator 104. Fluid communication between the steam generator 104 and the steam vents 110 permits the steam generated in the steam generator 104 to be supplied to the garment adjacent, and in some cases contacting, the soleplate 108.

The treatment surface 109 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 110).

For example, the steam vents 110 are arranged in such a way as to distribute the steam to different portions of the garment.

The steam vents 110 are in fluid communication with the steam generator 104. This permits the steam generated in the steam generator 104 to be supplied to the fabric being treated using the garment care device 100A.

Although Fig.l 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 112 and a hand unit 114. The base 112 comprises the water tank 102 and the pump 106, and the hand unit 114 comprises the steam generator 104 and the soleplate 108.

A hose cord 116 comprises a water tube (not visible) for carrying the water from the water tank 102 to the steam generator 104. The hose cord 116 is preferably flexible in order to facilitate movement of the hand unit 114 whilst maintaining supply of water to the steam generator 104.

A control unit 120, for example a micro controller, is used to control (via an intermediate thyristor or other power electronics) the water flow rate of pump 106, which in turn allows controlling the flow of steam exiting the steam vents 110. The water flow rate of pump 106 can be varied by changing the duty cycle of its power supply.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.l, the garment care device 100A comprises a button 124. The button 124 is actuatable by a user of the garment care device 100A. Any suitable design of button 124 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 126 for grasping by the user in order to assist the user to move the treatment surface 109 relative to the garment to be treated. The handle 126 may thus be included in the hand unit 114.

The button 124 is preferably arranged proximal to the handle 126 such that the button 124 is actuatable while the user is grasping the handle 126, e.g. by action of a finger.

For example, the button 124 takes the form of a steam trigger, such as a micro switch, arranged in the hand unit 114 and connected to a micro-controller included in the control unit 120 to receive a switching signal from the switch and control the pump 106 based on the switching signal.

The exemplary garment care device 100A comprises, in addition to the button 124, a sensing unit 128 configured to detect whether or not the user is holding the garment care device 100A. The button 124 and/or the sensing unit 128 can be used to control operation parameters of the garment care device 100A, resulting in steam delivery by the steam generator 104.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.l, the control unit 120 is connected (not shown) to the button 124 and to the sensing unit 128 such that the delivery of steam from the steam generator 104 is responsive to actuation of the button and/or a sensor signal received from the sensing unit 128.

Fig.2 schematically depicts another exemplary garment care device 100B. Fig.2 is based on Fig.l. Similar to the example shown in Fig.l, the garment care device 100B comprises a water tank 102 and a pump 106 for pumping water from the water tank 102 to a steam generator 104.

Water is carried from the water tank 102 to the steam generator 104 in the hand unit 114 via a water tube 135. The watertube 135 is included in the hose cord 116, as previously described.

In the non -limiting example shown in Fig.2, the garment care device 100B comprises a pressure relief valve arrangement 136 between the pump 106 and the steam generator 104. The pressure relief valve arrangement 136 is configured to relieve excess pressure in the garment care device 100B by directing water around a loop back to the water tank 102, rather than to the steam generator 104.

As schematically shown in Fig.2, water is pumped from the water tank 102 to the steam generator 104 via a dosing head 138. The dosing head 138 is sealed onto a cover 140 of the steam generator 104 by a dosing seal 142. The steam generator 104 is preferably formed by a casting process using a suitable metal or metal alloy. The steam generator 104 can, for instance, be cast in aluminium.

Similarly, the cover 140 is preferably formed by a casting process using a suitable metal or metal alloy. The cover 140 can, for instance, be cast in aluminium. Thus, in some non-limiting examples, both the steam generator 104 and the cover 140 are cast in aluminium.

The design of the steam generator 104 and the cover 140 will be described in more detail herein below.

The soleplate 108 can also be cast from a suitable metal or metal alloy, such as aluminium. Such a metallic soleplate 108 is nonetheless preferably coated with a suitable material in order to provide a treatment surface 109 having suitable fabric glide properties.

The steam generator 104 is heated by an electrical heater 144. The electrical heater 144 comprises a pair of electrical connections 144B for receiving power supply. The heat provided by the electrical heater 144 causes the water dosed into the steam generator 104 via the dosing head 138 to be vaporized. The resulting steam is supplied to the garment being treated via the steam vents 110 provided in the soleplate 108, as previously described.

As shown in Fig.2, power is supplied to the garment care device 100B via a power cord 148. In this particular example, the power cord 148 extends from the base 112 rather than from the hand unit 114. Power is nonetheless supplied to the hand unit 114, and in particular to the electrical heater 144, via electrical wiring provided in the hose cord 116, as previously described.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.2, the base 112 comprises a first printed circuit board assembly 150. The pump 106 is controlled by control electronics included in the first printed circuit board assembly 150. At least part of the above-described control unit 120 can, for example, be provided by such control electronics included in the first printed circuit board assembly 150.

More generally, the garment care device 100A, 100B comprises a temperature sensor 152 for generating a signal used for controlling the electrical heater 144. The arrangement of the temperature sensor 152 in relation to the steam generator 104 will be described in more detail in the following.

Controlling the electrical heater 144 based on the signal generated by the temperature sensor 152 can be implemented in any suitable manner. Preferably, a relay (not visible) is configured to switch the electrical heater 144 on and off based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 152. In a non-limiting example, the temperature sensor 152 comprises a temperature sensing element (not visible in Fig.2), and the temperature of the steam generator 104 is sensed by a change in resistance of the temperature sensing element.

More generally, the control unit 120 can, for example, receive a temperature signal from the temperature sensor 152 in order to start or stop the electrical heater 144 based on a given temperature threshold.

The supply of electric current to the electrical heater 144 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 114 shown in Fig.2 comprises a second printed circuit board assembly 154 which can also be regarded as a power printed circuit board assembly 154. 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 154 to control the switching on and off of the relay, and thus the heating provided by the electrical heater 144. Such temperature feedback control over the electrical heater 144 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 106, and switching the relay on and off in order to control the supply of water to the steam generator 104 is based on the change in the resistance signal from the temperature sensing element. This feedback control over the pump 106 can, for example, be based on predefined firmware pump duty cycle settings.

The exemplary garment care device 100B shown in Fig.2 also comprises a thermal fuse assembly 156. The thermal fuse assembly 156 is in thermal contact with the steam generator 104, as shown, and prevents the electrical heater 144 from heating the steam generator 104 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 144.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.2, the garment care device 100B comprises an indicator 158, for example comprising or in the form of a light emitting diode. The indicator 158 may be controlled, for example by the control circuitry included in the power printed circuit board assembly 154, to indicate a selected, for example user-selected, operating mode of the garment care device 100B. The indicator 158 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.3 shows yet another exemplary garment care device lOOC having some similarities with the exemplary garment care devices 100A, 100B described above in relation to Figs.l and 2. However, in the non-limiting example shown in Fig.3, the various components of the garment care device lOOC are each included in the hand unit 114. In other words, the garment care device lOOC does not have a base. Accordingly, the water tank 102, the steam generator 104, the control unit 120 and the pump 106 are included in the hand unit 114, together with the soleplate 108, the button 124, and the sensing unit 128.

Alternatively (not shown), in the garment care device lOOC, instead of using a pump 106 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 104. If the valve is electrically controllable, it can be controlled by the control unit 120 for opening or closing the water path.

The garment care device lOOC shown in Fig.3 takes the form of a steam iron. It may necessitate a smaller water tank 102 due to the water tank 102 being incorporated in the hand unit 114 rather than in a base, although the garment care device lOOC 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 124 and the sensing unit 128 may also be relatively rapid due to the proximity of the water tank 102 with respect to the steam generator 104.

Figs.4A to 4E and 41 provide planar views of the steam generator 104 of an exemplary garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC.

Fig.5 provides a top view showing the steam generator 104 as shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41 with a cover 140. The cover 140 closes the steam generator 104. Fig.5 also depicts the soleplate 108, the temperature sensor 152 and thermal fuse assembly 156, seen from outside.

The cover 140 is preferably cast in a suitable metal alloy or metal, such as aluminium, as previously described.

The garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC comprises the electrical heater 144. The electrical heater 144 in this non-limiting example comprises, or is defined by, a heating element embedded in a lower region of the steam generator 104. The steam generator 104 is generally elongated along a longitudinal axis 160. The longitudinal axis 160 extends along a centreline which notionally divides the steam generator 104 into two halves. The steam generator 104 also has a wider back end 162 and a sharper front end 164.

The electrical connections 144B are preferably both disposed proximal to the back end 162 of the steam generator 104 but are spaced apart from each other so that the electrical connections 144B are positioned on either side of the longitudinal axis 160. The heating element 144 extends in a loop from one of the electrical connections 144B located proximal to the back end 162 to a turning point 166 proximal to the front end 164, and from the turning point 166 towards the other of the electrical connections 144B. The heating element 144 may thus be regarded as having an overall U-shape.

The loop formed by the heating element 144 is preferably symmetrical such that the longitudinal axis 160 defines an axis of symmetry for the heating element 144. This assists the heating element 144 to provide a relatively uniform heating of the steam generator 104.

The garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC preferably comprises a protruding element 168 arranged in the steam generator 104 for mounting the temperature sensor 152.

The protruding element 168 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 152.

In the non-limiting example shown in Figs.4A and 4B, the protruding element 168 delimits a cavity 170, e.g. in the form of a pin hole, in which the temperature sensing element can be received.

More generally, the steam generator 104 comprises a steaming surface 172 with a water dosing point DP receiving water for generating steam.

In the example shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41, the longitudinal axis 160 of the steam generator 104 also corresponds to a longitudinal axis of the steaming surface 172.

The water dosing point DP defines the position in the steaming surface 172 which initially receives water dosed into the steam generator 104. This water is, for instance, dosed via the dosing head 138 described above in relation to Fig.2.

The temperature sensor 152, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor 152, is arranged in a central area CA of the steaming surface 172. For example the temperature sensor 152, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor 152, is arranged on the longitudinal axis 160 of the steaming surface 172.

The central area CA can correspond to the centre of a rectangle R inscribing the heating element 144, as shown in Fig.4B.

Arranging the temperature sensor 152 in the central area CA may assist to enhance responsiveness to both heating by the electrical heater 144, e.g. when the above-described relay switches-on the electrical heater 144, and the cooling by the water supplied into the steam generator 104.

A main groove 176 is arranged in the steaming surface 172. In other words, the main groove 176 is recessed relative to the steaming surface 172.

The main groove 176 has a first extremity 178 arranged at proximity of the water dosing point DP, and a second extremity 179 arranged at proximity of the central area CA, as best shown in Fig.4B. Thus, the main groove 176 is arranged for carrying water between the water dosing point DP and the central area CA.

To this end, the main groove 176 has a bottom surface which is inclined compared to the treatment surface 109. This means that water flows on the bottom surface of the main groove 176 away from the dosing point DP in the direction of the central area CA when the treatment surface 109 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 176 is inclined compared to the treatment surface 109 at an angle in the range [2; 10] degrees, for example 7 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 162 of the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC, thereby to assist reduction in hot spots towards the rear of the steaming surface 172.

Since the temperature sensor 152, and in particular the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor 152, is arranged in the central area CA, and the main groove 176 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 104.

The main groove 176 has, for example, a depth, e.g. a maximum depth, in the range [0.5; 8] millimetres and a width, e.g. a maximum width, in the range [2; 10] millimetres. The depth of the main groove 176 can correspond to a height of the main groove 176 between the bottom surface of the main groove 176 and the steaming surface 172 at a given point along the main groove 176.

The width of the main groove 176 can be measured transverse to the direction of extension of the main groove 176 towards the central area CA between opposing points at which the main groove 176 meets the steaming surface 172 at a given point along the main groove 176.

The main groove 176 is, for example, arranged parallel to, and preferably extends along, the longitudinal axis 160 of the steaming surface 172.

In the non-limiting example shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41, the main groove 176 extends along the longitudinal axis 160 from the water dosing point DP to the protruding element 168 which receives the temperature sensing element. This can assist the feedback control over the electrical heater 144 to be more responsive to water present in the steam generator 104.

More generally, a first groove 180A is also arranged in the steaming surface 172. The first groove 180A extends towards a first rear area RA1 of the steaming surface 172, in other words in the direction of the back end 162, as shown in Fig.4C. The main groove 176 and the first groove 180A are fluidly connected at the second extremity 179.

The main groove 176 and the first groove 180A assist to guide water into various regions of the steam generator 104. This can assist to reduce “hot spots” within the steam generator 104.

The first rear area RA1 can be a rear left area or a rear right area, compared to the longitudinal axis 160. In such an example, as well as the water being guided towards the back end 162, the water may also be guided towards a side of the steaming surface 172. This can assist to cool down a “hot spot” which, for example, aligns with the parts of the heating element 144 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 104, in spite of the first groove 180A guiding water towards the back end 162 where steam is released downstream towards the steam vents 110

In some embodiments, the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC further comprises a second groove 180B arranged in the steaming surface 172, with the second groove 180B extending towards a second rear area RA2 of the steaming surface 172, as shown in Fig.4D. In such embodiments, the main groove 176, the first groove 180A and the second groove 180B are fluidly connected at the second extremity 179.

Preferably, the second rear area RA2 is opposite to the first rear area RAl compared to the longitudinal axis 160 of the steaming surface. By opposite, it generally refers to an arrangement where the first rear area RAl and the second rear area RA2 are arranged on different sides compared to the longitudinal axis 160, either arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically compared to the longitudinal axis 160. Thus, the first and second grooves 180A, 180B can define a pair of diverging grooves which outwardly extend from the second extremity 179.

Each of the first and second grooves 180A, 180B can extend towards a respective part of the heating element 144 which is proximal to one of the electrical connections 144B, as best shown in Fig.4D. 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 144 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 [0.5; 5] millimetres, such as [1.5; 3] 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 [1.0; 5.0] millimetres, such as [2.0; 5.0] 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 172 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 RAl between opposing points at which the first groove 180A meets the steaming surface 172 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 104, in spite of the second groove 180B guiding water towards the back end 162 where steam is released downstream towards the steam vents 110. In the non-limiting example shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41, 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 162.

Coming back to Figs.4A and 4B, the protruding element 168 extends away from the steaming surface 172. The cavity 170 is arranged such that the temperature sensing element, when received in the cavity 170, is in thermal contact with the interior of the steam generator 104.

The protruding element 168 is preferably positioned on the longitudinal axis 160. Such central positioning of the protruding element 168 can assist the feedback control over the electrical heater 144 because the centre of the steam generator 104 provides a representative location at which to sense the temperature. The positioning of the temperature sensing element of the temperature sensor 152 will be described in more detail in the following.

The loop formed by the heating element 144 preferably comprises a pair of curved portions 174A, 174B which arch inwardly towards each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis 160.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.4B, the pair of curved portions 174A, 174B are arranged to heat faster the central area CA of the steam generator 104.

Preferably, the protruding element 168 elevates away from the steaming surface 172 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 144.

This proximity of the curved portions 174A, 174B relative to the protruding element 168, and in particular the temperature sensing element received therein, may enhance the responsiveness to the feedback control over the electrical heater 144.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.4B, the protruding element 168 is arranged at a position along the longitudinal axis 160 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 144, 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 172, a smooth steaming surface 172, 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 172, for example aluminium, and scale, such a smooth steaming surface 172 can increase the risk of flaking of steam promoter coating on the steaming surface 172. Moreover, there is an increased risk of spitting due to flaking of steam promoter from a relatively large area of the steaming surface 172, particular for a relatively high steam rate system.

Accordingly, in some embodiments the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC comprises protrusions 188A, for example a pattern of protrusions 188A, protruding from the steaming surface 172.

Fig.4F provides an enlarged perspective view of the steaming surface 172 of the steam generator 104 shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41 which shows the protrusions 188A. Fig.4G provides a plan view of a single protrusion 188A, and Fig.4H provides a plan view of nearest neighbour protrusions 188A.

Such protrusions 188A can assist relatively rapid spread of water on the steaming surface 172, thereby promoting steam response, and also assist to minimize deleterious effects of flaking of steam promoter from the steaming surface 172.

Preferably, the protrusions 188A are arranged with a circular symmetry around the first extremity 178. This circular symmetry is represented in Fig.4E by the concentric circles 189 of protrusions 188A surrounding the first extremity 178. This can assist water to spread more evenly around the water dosing point DP, as represented by the arrows in Fig.4E.

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: conical shape, truncated conical shape, dome shape.

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 comers 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 172, is in the range [3; 8] millimetres, for example 3.5 millimetres.

This spacing D, as shown in Figs.4F and 4H, 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 Figs.4G and 4H, the diameter D2 of the base of each protrusion 188A where the protrusion 188A meets the steaming surface 172 is, for example, in the range of [1; 3] millimetres. Such a diameter D2 may balance performance in the steam generator with manufacturability, for example by casting. D2 is 1 millimetre in the non -limiting example shown in Figs.4G and 4H.

Alternatively or additionally, the height of each of the protrusions 188A is in the range [0.5; 2] millimetres.

When conical protrusions 188A are employed, any suitable (acute) angle between the steaming surface 172 and the side surface of the protrusion 188A can be used. For example, the angle is in the range of [14; 88] degrees, preferably 70 degrees, with the base of the protrusion having a width of 1mm and a height of 0.8 mm.

The steam generator 104 preferably comprises a main steaming area 182 (delimited by large dotted line in Fig.4A), a secondary steaming area 184 (delimited by small dotted line in Fig.4A), and a steam channel 186 to distribute steam towards the steam vents. Most of the steam generation takes place in the main steaming area 182.

In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.4A, the steaming surface 172 is located in the main steaming area 182.

The steam channel 186 is for guiding the steam downstream towards the steam vents 110. The secondary steaming area 184 provides an intermediate chamber between the main steaming area 182 and the steam channel 186 which can assist to mitigate the risk of liquid water being passed downstream towards the steam vents 110. Preferably, further protrusions 188B, e.g. a pattern of further protrusions 188B, are provided in the secondary steaming area 184 of the steam generator 104. The further protrusions 188B project in the direction of the cover 140. 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 Figs.4A to 4E and 41, 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 182. This partly reflects the fact that water spreading is a lesser concern in the secondary steaming area 184 because the main steaming area 182 is arranged such that most of the water evaporation takes place upstream of the secondary steaming area 184, as previously described.

Additional protrusions 188C, e.g. a pattern of additional protrusions 188C, are preferably provided in the steam channel 186 of the steam generator 104. The additional protrusions 188C protrude in the direction of the cover 140. 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 Figs.4A to 4E and 41, 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 182. 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 184.

In the case of the non -limiting example shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41, the main steaming area 182, the secondary steaming area 184, and the steam channel 186 are closed by the cover 140 when the cover 140 is secured to the steam generator 104.

Such securing of the cover 140 to the steam generator 104 can be implemented in any suitable manner. In the non-limiting example shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41, the steam generator 104 delimits apertures 190 which receive fasteners (not visible in Figs.4A and 4B), such as screws, in order to secure the cover 140 to the steam generator 104.

Whilst not visible in Figs.4Ato 4E and 41, the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC preferably comprises a housing for enclosing components of the hand unit 114. Such a housing can, for instance, be secured to the soleplate 108. Such securement of the housing to the soleplate 108 can be achieved in any suitable manner. In the non- limiting example shown in Figs.4A to 4E and 41, fastening elements, such as screws, received in holes 192 are used for this purpose.

The thermal fuse assembly 156 described above in relation to Fig.2 is preferably secured to the protruding element 168. To this end, the protruding element 168 delimits a recess 194 for receiving a suitable fixing element (not visible in Figs.4A and 4B), such as a screw, in order to secure the thermal fuse assembly 156 to the protruding element 168.

Fig.4I provides a perspective view of the steam generator 104 shown in Fig.4A. A wall 196 extends around the steam generator 104 and partitions different parts of the steam generator 104. Most of the wall 196 engages the cover 140 in order to retain steam within the steam generator 104.

The first lateral rib LR1 preferably comprises a first rear part 198A proximal to the rear of the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC, which first rear part 198A extends to contact the cover 140 of the steam generator 104. 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, lOOC, which second rear part 199A extends to contact the cover 140 of the steam generator 104, as shown in Fig.41.

The first and second rear parts 198A, 199A assist to retain liquid water in the main steaming area 182, e.g. even during relatively vigorous forward and backward ironing strokes.

As shown in Fig.4I, 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 172 towards the cover 140 but terminates short of the cover 140 in order to permit steam in the main steaming area 182 to pass into the secondary steaming area 184.

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 172 towards the cover 140 but terminates short of the cover 140 in order to permit steam in the main steaming area 182 to pass into the secondary steaming area 184.

As shown in Fig.5, the cover 140 comprises a dosing hole 202 through which water can be dosed to the water dosing point DP. The dosing head 138 can, for instance, be sealed onto the cover 140 via a dosing seal 142 provided around the dosing hole 202, as previously described in relation to Fig.2. The cover 140 is secured to the steam generator 104 via fasteners 204. In this particular example, the fasteners 204 take the form of screws which screw into the above-described apertures 190 provided in the steam generator 104.

The garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC preferably comprises a thermal fuse assembly 156, as previously described. In the non-limiting example shown in Fig.5, the thermal fuse assembly 156 is secured to the steam generator 104 via a fixing element 206. In this example, the fixing element 206 takes the form of a screw which screws into the recess 194 provided in the protruding element 168.

The temperature sensor 152 included in the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC can be affixed to the steam generator 104 via a further fixing element 208. In this non-limiting example, the further fixing element 208 is a screw which screws into an aperture (not visible in Fig.5) provided in the cover 140.

Fig.6 provides a cross-sectional view of the steam generator 104. As shown in Fig.6, the steaming surface 172 on which the water is received for generating steam is preferably inclined compared to the treatment surface 109 between a higher point 210 and a lower point 212.

In other words, the steaming surface 172 preferably slopes downwardly in the direction of the wider back end 162 of the steam generator 104. This means that water flows on the steaming surface 172 away from the water dosing point DP and towards the back end 162 when the treatment surface 109 is horizontally orientated, e.g. by being placed on the horizontal surface of an ironing board (not shown).

Fig.7 provides a cross-sectional view of the steam generator 104 which shows the inclined steaming surface 172 and the temperature sensor 152 its temperature sensing element 216 (illustrated by a black dot).

Fig.8 provides a magnified view of part of the cross-sectional view of the steam generator 104 shown in Fig.7, where the temperature sensing element 216 is illustrated by a black dot.

Any suitable angle of incline Q, as shown in Fig.8, may be selected in order to control the flow of water. Preferably, the steaming surface 172 is inclined by an angle Q in the range 2 to 10 degrees, such as about 5°, compared to the treatment surface 109.

This angle Q can, for example, be determined by measuring, at the lower point 212, the angle Q between a horizontal drawn parallel to the treatment surface 109 and the steaming surface 172, as shown in Fig.8. In the depicted non-limiting example, the higher point 210 of the steaming surface 172 extends from a point at which the steaming surface 172 meets a sidewall surface 214 of the steam generator 104. This point can be identified by the shallower depth of the steaming surface 172 relative to that of the sidewall surface 214.

It is also noted that the higher point 210 and the lower point 212 are points on the steaming surface 172 itself, independently whether the steaming surface 172 has some protrusions or recesses at its surface.

The temperature sensing element 216 of the temperature sensor 152 is preferably arranged at a height H which is between the higher point 210 and the lower point 212. This position has the advantage that the signal generated by the temperature sensor is sensitive both to the heating provided by the electrical heater 144 and the heat loss due to presence of water within the steam generator 104.

The higher point 210, the lower point 212, and the height H can be determined from the distance of their protrusion from the treatment surface 109.

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 210 or with the lower point 212.

The hashed line 218 in Figs.6 to 8 aligns with the higher point 210 and is parallel with the plane of the treatment surface 109. Similarly, the hashed line 220 in Figs.6 to 8 aligns with the lower point 212 and is parallel with the plane of the treatment surface 109.

The temperature sensor 152 is, in the non-limiting example shown in Figs.7 and 8, a pin-type thermistor comprising a temperature sensing element 216 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 210 and the lower point 212.

In this particular example, the cavity 170 is in the form of a pin hole which is dimensioned to receive the thermistor element of the pin-type thermistor.

The temperature sensor 152 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 152 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 Figs.6 to 8, the temperature sensing element 216, in this case in the form of a thermistor element, is received in the cavity 170 delimited by the protruding element 168. The cavity 170 extends sufficiently far in the direction of the treatment plate 109 that the above- described height H criterion is satisfied, as shown.

As best shown in Fig.8, the temperature sensor 152 included in the exemplary garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC is affixed to the steam generator 104 via a further fixing element 208 taking the form of a screw which screws for example into the aperture 222 provided in the cover 140.

Fig.9 provides a cross-sectional view along axis AA of Fig.4B, and shows the heating element 144 at the position of the curved portions 174A, 174B.

More generally, the (central area of the) heating element 144 is, for instance, arranged at a height HI which is lower than the lower point 212 of the steaming surface 172.

It has been found that the above-described design provides enhanced temperature control at least partly as a consequence of positioning the temperature sensor 152, and in particular the temperature sensing element 216 of the temperature sensor 152, proximal to the second extremity 179 of the main groove 176. This helps the water to reach and cool the central area CA in which the temperature sensing element 216 is located faster. In this manner, the temperature sensing element 216, e.g. thermistor element, can effectively respond to the heat delivered by the electrical heater 144, 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 104 is improved because of the effective water spreading provided by the first and/or second grooves 180A, 180B extending from the second extremity 179 of the main groove 176.

In some embodiments, the positioning of the temperature sensing element 216 between the higher point 210 and the lower point 212 of the steaming surface 172 also contributes to providing more responsiveness to the cooling provided by the water on the steaming surface 172 as well as the heating provided by the electrical heater 144.

In the above -described example depicted in Figs.4A to 9 the steaming surface 172 is inclined relative to the treatment surface 109. In such an example, it is preferable that the angle Q of the steaming surface 172 is such that it extends parallel to the bottom surface of the main groove 176. This further helps to more efficiently divert water towards the rear of the garment care device 100A, 100B, lOOC, particularly when water dosed in the steam generator 104 cannot be fully accommodated within the first groove 180A and/or the second groove 180B (when the second groove 180B is present).

Fig.10 schematically depicts an alternative example in which the steaming surface 172 remains parallel to the treatment surface 109 while the bottom surface 230 of the main groove 176 is inclined relative to the treatment surface 109.

In such an example, the main groove 176 becomes progressively deeper towards the second extremity 179. Hence, in the non-limiting example shown in Fig.10, the maximum depth 232 may be used as a measure of the depth of the main groove 176.

Irrespective of whether or not the steaming surface 172 is inclined relative to the treatment surface 109, Fig.10 shows that the angle ø at which the bottom surface 230 of the main groove 176 is inclined relative to the treatment surface 109 can be determined by measuring, at the second extremity 179, the angle ø between a horizontal drawn parallel to the treatment surface 109 and the bottom surface 230.

The above embodiments as described are only illustrative, and not intended to limit the technique approaches of the present invention. Although the present invention is described in details referring to the preferable embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the technique approaches of the present invention can be modified or equally displaced without departing from the protective scope of the claims of the present invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.