CN106461203B

CN106461203B - Pressure storage device and portable steam appliance

Info

Publication number: CN106461203B
Application number: CN201480080168.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 米夏埃尔·荀内瓦尔德; 托比亚斯·恩特莱因
Original assignee: Alfred Kaercher SE and Co KG
Current assignee: Alfred Kaercher SE and Co KG
Priority date: 2014-06-25
Filing date: 2014-06-25
Publication date: 2020-08-07
Anticipated expiration: 2034-06-25
Also published as: CN106461203A; EP3161379A1; WO2015197118A1; EP3161379B1; JP6491681B2; JP2017519178A

Abstract

A pressure accumulator is proposed, comprising a storage container (130) having a first region (132) and a second region (134), and comprising a steam valve (100), wherein a closable opening (80) is formed on the second region (134), which is arranged on the storage container (130), wherein the storage container (130) has a recess (144) between the first region (132) and the second region (134), which is delimited by a first wall (146) of the first region (132) and a second wall (148) of the second region (134), and wherein the steam valve (100) is arranged in the recess (144) on the first region (132).

Description

Pressure storage device and portable steam appliance

Technical Field

The invention relates to a pressure storage device comprising a storage container having a first region and a second region, wherein a closable opening is formed in the second region, and comprising a steam valve which is arranged on the storage container.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a hand-held steam appliance which can be operated in a hand-held manner.

Background

Plants for generating steam are known, for example, from DE 10301450 a1, EP 0509617 a2, EP 0772000 a1, WO 2004/005605A 1, WO 2005/003627 a1, WO 2012/077832 a2, US 2005/0034489, US6,101,316, US6,397,502, JP 2011152256A, JP 04045302A, JP 04051487 a or CN 201524670U.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a pressure accumulator of the type mentioned at the outset, which has a minimum number of components with a small height dimension.

This object is achieved according to the invention in the pressure accumulator mentioned at the outset in that the storage container has a recess between the first region and the second region, the recess is delimited by a first wall of the first region and a second wall of the second region, and the steam valve is arranged in the recess on the first region.

In the solution according to the invention, a free space is provided on the storage vessel, which at least partially accommodates the steam valve. Thereby, the overall height dimension of the pressure storage device can be kept low. The steam valve does not extend completely beyond the storage vessel, but does not extend beyond the storage vessel or at most extends from the storage vessel over a portion of the height of the storage vessel.

The corresponding pressure storage device can be advantageously inserted into the hand-held steam appliance due to the correspondingly minimized height dimension.

Despite the minimized height dimension, the storage container is still able to contain a sufficient amount of fluid for steam formation or steam storage.

The steam valve is arranged directly on the storage vessel. In this way, the pressure accumulator can be handled as a whole, i.e. as a unit, during the production thereof, and the production of a corresponding steam appliance, in particular a hand-held steam appliance, is simplified.

In particular, the first wall portion and the second wall portion are connected to each other. In this way, a recess can be realized in a simple manner for (at least partially) accommodating the steam valve in a simple manner.

For the same reason, it is advantageous if the second wall section is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the first wall section. Thereby, a minimum limitation in the fluid volume holding capacity formed by the storage container is obtained.

For the reasons mentioned above, it is advantageous to form a step on the recess between the first region and the second region. The steam valve can be positioned on the step with a minimized height dimension of the pressure storage device as a combination of the steam valve and the storage container.

Advantageously, the second region has a smaller lateral width than the first region. Thereby, a seat for fixing the steam valve is provided on the first area.

In particular, the steam valve is positioned in the recess on the first wall and in particular spaced apart from the second wall. The steam valve is in particular fixed to the first wall. A combined simple and space-saving construction of the storage vessel and the steam valve is thereby obtained.

In one embodiment, the steam valve has an operating device for opening and closing the steam valve, which operating device is at least approximately parallel to the second wall section. Thereby, a space-saving structure is obtained. Furthermore, the steam valve can be operated in a simple manner for opening and closing and the correspondingly necessary components can be realized in a space-saving manner.

For the same reason, it is advantageous if the steam valve has an operating device for opening and closing the steam valve, which is at least approximately parallel to the opening direction of the opening in the second region. The opening in the second region is in particular a service opening or an opening via which liquid can be filled into the storage container. An optimized space utilization is achieved when the opening direction is oriented at least approximately parallel to the operating direction. In this way, the storage device can be mounted in an advantageous manner in a portable steam appliance.

In one embodiment, the first wall portion is oriented transversely to the opening direction of the opening on the second region. This results in a space-saving construction for the combination of storage vessel and steam valve. In particular, the height dimension can be kept small.

For the same reason, it is advantageous if the second wall section is oriented at least approximately parallel to the opening direction of the opening in the second region. Furthermore, a correspondingly large receiving volume for the fluid in the storage container can thereby be provided.

It is particularly advantageous if the steam valve does not project beyond the top of the second region or if the steam valve projects at most 5cm beyond the top of the second region. Thereby, the height dimension in the pressure storage device, which is a combination consisting of the storage vessel and the steam valve, can be minimized.

Advantageously, in steam operation, the first region of the storage container has a receiving space for liquid and/or is connected to a receiving space for liquid and has a receiving space for steam. Thereby, steam generation and steam output can be optimized.

It is also advantageous if, in steam operation, the second region has a receiving space for steam. In this way, the pressure accumulator can be inserted in an optimized manner into the portable steam appliance.

It is particularly advantageous if the first region has an outlet opening for steam, which is arranged on the first wall and on which the steam valve is arranged. This results in a space-saving design. The steam output can be optimized.

Advantageously, a blocking screen is connected upstream of the outlet opening. A barrier grate is disposed in the interior space of the storage container. The penetration of particles into the outlet opening and the steam valve can be blocked by the blocking screen.

In particular, the barrier grating is arranged on the first area. The blocking screen can thereby be fixed in a simple manner and its function can be optimized.

In one embodiment, a pipe element is arranged in the interior of the storage container at the outlet opening, on which pipe element the blocking screen is arranged, wherein at a first end of the pipe element the outlet opening opens into the pipe element and an opposite second end of the pipe element opens into the second region. Thereby, a lower space is provided, which can be separated via a barrier grid. The penetration of particles into the lower space is prevented by the barrier grid. This prevents particles from penetrating into the outlet opening.

In one embodiment, the continuation of the wall of the pipe element forms at least partially the second wall portion. Thus, a structurally simple structure is obtained.

It is particularly advantageous if a spray protection element is associated with the outlet opening, wherein a steam space is formed between the outlet opening and the spray protection element. The splash guard serves to calm down the surface of the liquid when the pressure storage device (e.g. a hand-held steam appliance) is moved and thereby prevent the liquid from being entrained by the steam flow.

In particular, the splash guard element is arranged in the second region. Thereby, entrainment and intrusion of liquid into the outlet opening can be largely prevented.

In an advantageous embodiment, the splash protection element rests at least partially on the inner side of the storage container and has at least one slot for the steam to pass through. Thereby, steam can be passed through into the space behind the splashproof element and be discharged via the outlet opening. The at least one slit can be realized in a simple manner by abutting against the inner side. When no sealing abutment is provided, the at least one gap is automatically established to some extent.

In particular, at least one slit is formed between the splatter element and the inner side. This results in a simple manufacturability with a structurally simple design. In principle, it is also possible to create a gap in the splatter element itself. When at least one slit is formed between the splatter element and the inner side, then the splatter element itself can be realized fluid-tight and the steam passing through the intermediate space between the splatter element and the inner side is realized.

It is advantageous from a manufacturing standpoint for the splash guard to rest loosely on the inner side.

In particular, the at least one slit has a width in the range between 0.2mm and 1.0 mm. Preferably, the width is between 0.4mm and 0.6 mm.

In an advantageous embodiment, the splash guard has at least one (flow) break-off edge. In this way, the liquid surface can be flattened in a simple manner, so that entrainment of liquid by steam during the steam discharge can be effectively prevented even when the pressure reservoir is tilted with respect to the direction of gravity.

For example, the splash guard has a first region and a second region, wherein the second region is bent with respect to the first region. The break-away edge can be realized in a simple manner by means of the fold.

In particular, the second region of the splash guard element is arranged towards the second region of the reservoir. Thereby, an efficient construction is obtained.

Advantageously, the spacing between the barrier grate and the splatter element is at least 1 mm. In particular, this prevents particles from accumulating in the intermediate region between the barrier screen and the splash guard.

It is furthermore advantageous if the blocking screen is arranged closer to the outlet opening than the splatter element with respect to the steam flow direction when the steam is output, and in particular if the blocking screen is located in the steam space defined by the splatter element. Thereby, the barrier grating does not disturb the liquid surface calming function of the splash element.

In one embodiment, a wall separating the vapor space defined by the splash element is arranged on the second wall portion of the storage container. In particular, the wall can extend into the first region. Thereby, the splatter element can be positioned and its effect optimized in an efficient manner.

In one embodiment, a pin element is arranged in the interior space, on which pin element the splash guard element is fixed, wherein in particular the pin element is connected with the first wall section. Thereby, the splash guard element can be fixed in a simple manner.

In one embodiment, a heating device, and in particular an electric heating device, is provided. The liquid contained in the storage container may generate steam and be stored in the storage container, which is an accumulator.

In one embodiment, the heating device is positioned on a third region of the storage container, wherein the first region and the second region are arranged on the third region of the storage container. For example, the third region is connected to the second region via a flanged connection or similar structure. In this way, for example, a blocking screen or a splash element can be positioned in a simple manner in the interior of the storage container during the production of the pressure accumulator device.

In particular, the opening in the second region is closed by a releasable cover.

According to the present invention there is provided a hand-held steaming appliance comprising a pressure storage device according to the present invention.

Drawings

The following description of the preferred embodiments is provided to illustrate the invention in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a hand-held steaming appliance;

fig. 2 shows the hand-held steaming appliance according to fig. 1 with the housing open (with the housing cover removed);

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the hand-carried steaming appliance according to FIG. 1;

fig. 4 shows a top view of the housing insert according to fig. 1 in the direction a;

fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the housing insert according to fig. 4;

fig. 6 shows a further perspective view of the housing insert according to fig. 4;

fig. 7 shows a side view of the housing insert according to fig. 4;

fig. 8 shows a sectional view of the housing insert according to fig. 4;

fig. 9 shows a perspective view of a pressure storage device of the portable steam appliance according to fig. 1;

fig. 10 shows a side view in the direction B of the pressure storage device according to fig. 9;

fig. 11 shows a sectional view of the pressure storage device according to fig. 9;

fig. 12 shows a further sectional view of the pressure storage device according to fig. 9;

FIG. 13 shows an enlarged view of a section of FIG. 12;

fig. 14 shows a view of the pressure storage device according to fig. 11 in the direction C with the heat supply area of the pressure storage device removed; and

fig. 15 shows a perspective view of the pressure accumulator with the heating region removed.

Detailed Description

The hand-held steaming appliance shown in the drawings and generally designated 10 in figure 1 comprises a housing 12. The housing 12 includes a housing shroud arrangement 14 having a first housing shroud 16 and a second housing shroud 18. The first housing shell 16 and the second housing shell 18 are connected to each other at a connection plane 20 (fig. 1). In particular, the first and

second casing shells

16, 18 are screwed to each other. A seal may be provided at the connection region between the first housing shell 16 and the second housing shell 18.

The second housing shell 18 is placed onto the first housing shell 16 in the connecting direction 22. An interior space 24 is formed in the housing 12. The first housing shell 16 and the second housing shell 18 are of pot-shaped design.

The hand-held steaming appliance 10 has a handle, and in particular an arcuate handle 26. The bow handle 26 comprises a bow 28, which is formed in a second partial region 30a on the first housing shell 16 and in a second partial region 30b on the second housing shell 18.

An opening 34 is formed between the bow 28 and the wall 32 of the housing hood arrangement 14. The user can grip the hand-held steaming appliance 10 at the bow 28, in particular by hand, wherein the user's fingers can then drill through the opening 34.

Opposite the arcuate handle 26, the housing cover means 14 has an opening 36. A steam nozzle 38 or adapter can be releasably positioned over the opening 36.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, steam nozzle 38 is positioned over opening 36 of housing shroud means 14. The steam nozzle 38 has a holding body 40, on which its own nozzle 42 is arranged. The holding body 40 is cylindrically configured. The retaining body is partially submerged into the housing cover means 14 at the opening 36.

One and in particular a plurality of abutment elements 44 are arranged on the outer side of the retaining body 40. The abutment element 44 limits the penetration capability of the holding body 40 into the housing hood arrangement 14. The housing cover means 14 has an annular element 46 over the opening 36. When the steam nozzle 38 is correctly positioned on the housing hood arrangement 14, the abutment element 44 abuts against the annular element 46 and prevents further penetration into the housing hood arrangement 14.

In this corresponding abutting position, the steam nozzle 38 can be releasably locked with the housing hood arrangement 14 via the locking device 48.

The housing cover means 14 has an opening 50. The opening 50 is positioned between the opening 36 for the steam nozzle 38 or adapter and the arcuate handle 26.

The housing cover means 14 of the housing 12 has an underside 52. The underside 52 is configured to enable the hand-held steaming appliance 10 to be placed onto a base. The lower side 52 accordingly has a plane as an envelope. The portable steaming appliance 10 as a whole is constructed in such a manner that the portable steaming appliance 10 does not fall over when the portable steaming appliance 10 stands on a base horizontal with respect to the direction of gravity with the lower side 52.

The opening 50 on the housing hood arrangement 14 is located in the region of the connection plane 22. For this purpose, in the region of the connection plane 20, the first housing shell 16 has a first partial opening 54a and the second housing shell 18 has a second partial opening 54 b. The first partial opening 54a and the second partial opening 54b together form the opening 50. The first partial opening 54a and the second partial opening 54b are formed here by a respective recess 56 in the wall of the first housing shell 16 or the second housing shell 18.

The housing 12 is closed by a housing insert 58, which is positioned over the opening 50. In this case, the insertion direction 60 of the housing insert 58 onto the housing hood 14 is parallel to the height direction of the housing 12 between the underside 52 and the opening 50. The insertion direction 60 is transverse, and preferably at least approximately perpendicular, to the connecting direction 22 between the first housing shell 16 and the second housing shell 18.

The housing hood device 14 is closed in a fluid-tight manner on the opening 50 by the housing insert 58. For this purpose, the housing insert 58 is correspondingly connected to the housing shell arrangement 14, for example by screwing, gluing or the like.

Opening 50 and thus housing insert 58 extend from the area in lock 62 of locking device 48 until into arcuate grip 26.

The housing 12 is composed in particular of a housing shell arrangement 14 with a first housing shell 16 and a second housing shell 18, and a housing insert 58. Thus, no other housing part is provided.

On the housing insert 58, the actuating elements and functional elements of the portable steam appliance 10 are arranged.

The housing insert 58 (fig. 4 to 8) has a first region 64. The first region 64 is used to close the opening 50 at the region closest to the opening 36 or the lock 62. The first region 64 includes a joint 66. The tab 66 is directed into the interior space 24 of the housing 12. A corresponding connection 68 of a pressure accumulator 70 (steam oven device 70) is fastened to the connection 66. The housing insert 58 holds the pressure reservoir 70 via the first region 64. The pressure reservoir 70 is positioned in the interior space 24 of the housing.

A seal 72 is arranged between the connection 66 of the first region 64 of the housing insert 58 and the connection 68 of the pressure accumulator 70. The seal is used to fluid-tightly close the housing 12.

For example, the tab 66 of the housing insert 58 has a raised area 74 with a tab 76 on which the seal 72 is retained.

In the interior 24 of the housing 12, an abutment element 78 for the pressure accumulator 70 is arranged on the first housing shell 16 and/or the second housing shell 18. The pressure accumulator 70 can be inserted between the abutment elements 78. Thereby, a form-fit (Formschluss) is established which prevents the mobility of the pressure reservoir 70 in the interior space 24 and thus secures the pressure reservoir 70 in the housing 12.

The mobility in the opposite direction to the insertion direction 60 is prevented by the housing insert 58 in that the pressure accumulator 70 is held on the housing insert 58. Any movement of the pressure accumulator 70 in the interior 24 is then prevented when the housing insert 58 is placed on the housing shell arrangement 14. The pressure accumulator 70 does not have to be screwed to the housing 12.

During production, for example, housing hood arrangement 14 is produced by connecting first housing hood 16 to second housing hood 18. The pressure accumulator 70 can be introduced through the opening 50 into the interior space 24 of the housing shell arrangement 14. The pressure accumulator bears against the abutment element 78. The positioning of the pressure accumulator 70 in the housing 12 is finally fixed by fixing the pressure accumulator 70 to the housing insert 58 via the connection 68.

In principle, it is also possible, for example, to position the pressure accumulator 70 on the respective first housing shell 16 or second housing shell 18 with the housing shell arrangement 14 open, then to close the housing shell arrangement 14 by connecting the first housing shell 16 to the second housing shell 18, and then to close the opening 50 again by the housing insert 58, wherein the connection 68 is fixed to the housing insert 58.

The pressure reservoir 70 has an opening 80 in the nipple 68. The opening 80 is a maintenance opening for the pressure storage device 70. A cover 82 is positioned over the opening 80. The cover 82 closes the pressure storage device 70. The cover is removable. The cover is in particular designed as a safety closure. The cover 82 is accessible from outside the housing 12 and is removable or insertable from outside the housing. Accordingly, the first region 64 of the housing insert 58 has an opening 84 associated with the opening 80. The opening 84 is particularly of a larger diameter than the opening 80 in the fitting 68. The cap 82 may be placed over the nipple 68 of the pressure reservoir 70 through the opening 84.

In one advantageous embodiment, the housing insert 58 is configured with its opening 84 such that only the pressure accumulator 70 is accessible, while the housing insert 58 has no fastening function for the cover 82. "docking" of the housing insert 58 to the pressure accumulator 70 is accomplished by grasping the joint 68 by the joint 66 of the housing insert 58.

In one exemplary embodiment, housing insert 58 is formed in a basin-like manner in first region 64. A raised edge 86 is provided which surrounds a recess 88. An opening 84 is formed in the recess 88. The tab 66 is seated on the back side of the recess 88.

The cover 82 is positioned at least partially within the recess 88.

A second region 90 is arranged on first region 64 of housing insert 58. The second region 90 is in particular bent or curved relative to the first region 64 (fig. 5 to 8).

When the housing insert 58 is fastened to the housing 12, the second region 90 is arranged in the region of the arcuate grip 26. The second region 90 carries the operating elements of the portable steaming appliance 10.

In the second region 90, a steam output operating element 92 is arranged. The steam output actuating element 92 is in particular designed as a pushbutton switch. The user can then release the steam output by pressing the steam output operating element 92.

The steam output operating element 92 is arranged in particular with respect to the arcuate handle 26 in such a way that the user can act with his thumb on the steam output operating element 92 when holding the hand-held steaming appliance 10 with his hand at the arcuate handle 26.

Furthermore, a child-resistant operating element 94 is arranged on the second region 90. The child-resistant operating element 94 is configured, for example, as a slide switch or as a rocker switch. The child-resistant operating element 94 has a blocking position 96 and a release position 98. In the blocking position 96, the steam output is blocked in such a way that the steam output operating element 92 cannot act to open the steam valve 100. In the release position 98, the steam outlet actuating element 92 can then accordingly be made to act to open the steam valve 100.

A steam valve 100 is provided on the pressure storage device 70. The steam valve 100 includes a valve body 102. The valve body 102 is arranged in a valve housing 106 in a movable manner in a direction/counter-direction 104. The direction/reverse direction 104 is the direction of operation of the steam valve 100.

The direction/counter direction 104 is transverse and in particular perpendicular to the underside 52 of the housing 12. The direction/reverse direction 104 is at least approximately parallel to the insertion direction 60.

In the unloaded position, the valve body 102 prevents vapor from passing through. With corresponding loading, the steam output is released when the valve body 102 moves correspondingly in the valve housing 106. Thus, steam may be supplied from the pressure storage device 70 to the opening 36. For this purpose, a (steam) line is respectively arranged between the valve housing 106 and the opening 36.

A lever element 108 is arranged on the housing insert 58, in particular on the second region 90. The lever element 108 is arranged here on the housing insert 58 in a pivotable manner. Here, the lever element 108 may be pivotable as a whole or only a part of the lever element 108 may be pivotable. The pivotability can be achieved by means of a corresponding hinge device or by the inherent elasticity of the lever element 108.

The valve body 102 has an action region 110 (see also fig. 11 to 13), on which the lever element 108 can act with a (co-operating) action region 112.

The valve body 102 is supported on the valve housing 106 via a spring arrangement 114 (fig. 12, 13).

In this case, the spring device 114 is arranged and designed in such a way that, in the unloaded position of the valve body 102, the valve body 102 is in the closed position and in this case is pressed in the direction of the housing insert 58. The steam valve 100 is opened in such a way that the valve body 102 is lifted from the valve seat 116 against the spring force of the spring device 114. This force is in turn introduced via the steam outlet actuating element 92 and is applied to the active region 110 of the steam valve 100 by means of the lever element 108.

The lever element 108 has a further region of action 118, on which region of action 118 the steam outlet actuating element 92 acts in order to cause a pivoting of the lever element 108 on the region of action 112 for acting on the steam valve 100.

The region of action 118 of the lever element 108 is connected to the child-proof region 120 and in particular is connected in one piece. A child-proof area 120 of the lever element 108 is associated with the child-proof actuating element 94. The child-resistant operating element 94 may be applied to the child-resistant area 120.

The lever element 108 and the child-proof region 120 are configured in such a way that, in the blocking position 96 of the child-proof actuating element 94, the lever element 108 cannot pivot with its region of action 112 or cannot pivot sufficiently to cause an opening movement of the valve body 102. For example, the child-proof area 120 is configured in such a way that the pivot axis of the lever element 108 differs depending on the blocking position 96 or the release position 98, and in the blocking position 96 the force that can be introduced by the steam outlet actuation element 92 is not sufficient to cause sufficient pivoting.

A spring device 122 is arranged between the active region 110 of the steam valve 100 and the active region 112 of the lever element 108. For example, the spring means comprise a single spring, for example a helical spring. The spring is, for example, radially fixed in a groove (and in particular an annular groove) of the active region 110 and correspondingly radially fixed in a groove and in particular an annular groove of the active region 112.

The spring device 122 is correspondingly rigid in order to enable a force transmission from the lever element 108 to the valve body 102.

What can be achieved by the spring device 122 is that the region of action 112 is spaced apart from the region of action 110, i.e. these regions of action do not have to be in direct mechanical contact. This makes it possible to compensate for manufacturing tolerances with the housing insert 58 during the production of the housing 12. The spring arrangement 122 results in tolerance compensation.

In one embodiment, the lever element 108 has a first side 124a and a second side 124 b. The active region 112 is disposed between the first side edge 124a and the second side edge 124 b. The first side 124a and the second side 124b extend laterally away from the active area 112 to the left and right, respectively.

The first side edge 124a and the second side edge 124b each have a contact surface 126 via which they bear against a mating surface 128. A mating surface is formed on the housing insert 58. For example, a mating surface is formed on the first region 64 near the joint 66.

By the contact surface 126 coming into contact with the mating surface 128, guidance for the movability of the lever element 108 in the interior 24 of the housing 12 is provided.

The lever element 108 is associated with a return device which, when the steam outlet actuating element 92 is released, causes the lever element 108 to return. For this purpose, the lever element 108 can be assigned its own retraction device. A spring arrangement formed by means of the lever element 108 may be provided. It can also be provided that the lever element 108 has an inherent elasticity, so that, on the basis of this inherent elasticity, a return is realized after releasing the steam output actuating element 92.

In one embodiment, the spring arrangement 114 of the steam valve 100 is also used for the retraction of the lever element 108. When the user presses the steam output operating element 92 with sufficient force, the active region 112 of the lever element 108 is pressed onto the active region 110 of the steam valve 100 and the steam valve is opened as a result of the valve body 102 being lifted from the valve seat 116. When the corresponding force is withdrawn, the spring device 114 causes the valve body 102 to move back, which is pressed against the valve seat 116. This also moves the region of action 110 and thus the lever element 108 back into the initial position (inoperative position).

The portable steaming appliance 10 operates as follows:

the housing 12 is composed of a first housing shell 16, a second housing shell 18 and a housing insert 58. The housing insert 58 holds all the essential functional components and operating elements of the hand-held steam appliance 10. In particular, a steam outlet operating element 92 and a child-resistant operating element 94 as operating elements are arranged on the housing insert 58. Furthermore, a lever element 108 is arranged on the housing insert 58. These elements (steam output operating element 92, child safety operating element 94 and lever element 108) form a first structural component of the hand-held steaming appliance. The first structural component is arranged completely on the housing insert 58.

The pressure reservoir 70 forms a second structural component of the portable steaming appliance. This second structural component is also held on the housing insert 58.

The housing insert 58 ensures the relative fixing of the first and second components to the housing 12. The housing 12 with the housing hood arrangement 14 is then to some extent only to be regarded as a covering for these structural components. The fastening to the housing 12 is provided by the housing insert 58 (which cooperates with the abutment element 78 for the pressure accumulator 70).

The corresponding hand-held steaming appliance 10 can be manufactured in a simple manner. The first structural component is fixed to the housing insert 58 during production. The second component is fixed to the housing insert 58. The second structural component is introduced into the housing hood arrangement 14. The final fastening of the second assembly to the housing 12 is also achieved by the final fastening of the housing insert 58 to the housing hood arrangement 14.

The opening 50 of the housing shell arrangement 14 is configured in one embodiment with such a size that, in the finished housing shell arrangement 14 with the connected first housing shell 16 and second housing shell 18, the pressure accumulator 70 can be introduced into the interior space 24 through the first opening 50.

In this case, the pressure accumulator 70 can already be held on the housing insert 58, or the housing insert 58 can be fastened to the pressure accumulator 70 and to the housing cover device 14 afterwards.

In principle, it is also possible to insert the pressure accumulator 7 at the first housing shell 16 or at the second housing shell 18 and then to close the housing shell arrangement 14 and then to insert the housing insert 58 in the insertion direction 60.

By means of the solution according to the invention, the number of components can be minimized. The manufacture of the hand-held steaming appliance is simplified.

The spring arrangement 122 enables safe operability of the steam valve 100 even in the event of manufacturing tolerances. This also simplifies the production.

The pressure storage device 70 has a storage container 130 (pressure furnace). The storage container includes a first region 132, a second region 134 disposed on the first region, and a third region 136, the first region 132 being disposed on the third region. In the third region 136, the storage container 130 is fixed via one or more abutment elements 78 on or near the underside 52 in the interior 24 of the housing 12.

In one embodiment, the third region 136 is removable from the first region 132, wherein the first region 132 and the third region 136 are fluidly connected to each other, e.g., via a bolt or a pin.

A heating device 138, and in particular an electric heating device, is arranged on the third region 136. By means of which steam (in particular water vapor) can be generated from a liquid (in particular water) in the storage container 130 and stored there in a retrievable manner.

An electrical coupling 140 is arranged on the housing 12, via which the heating device 138 can be coupled to an electrical network in order to provide the necessary electrical energy to the heating device 138.

In one embodiment, the third region 136 has a flange 142a and the first region 132 has a mating flange 142 b. The first region 132 and the third region 136 are connected to each other via the flange 142a and the mating flange 142 b.

On the second region 134, the joint 68 is formed with an opening 80. Accordingly, a cover is also placed on the second region 134 of the storage container 130, which cover is a closure element for the pressure storage device 70 and thus for the service opening 80.

The steam valve 100 is disposed on the first region 132.

A recess 144 is formed in the storage container 130 between the second region 134 and the first region 132. The recess is bounded by the first wall 146 of the first region 132 and by the first wall 146 of the second region 134. The first wall portion 146 and the second wall portion 148 are disposed laterally and, for example, vertically to each other. They are connected to each other.

The steam valve 100 is arranged on a first wall 146 of the first region 132 and is in this case in particular spaced apart from a second wall 148 of the second region 134.

On the recess 144, the storage container 130 has a step 150. This step is indicated in fig. 11 by reference numeral 150.

The steam valve is oriented at least approximately parallel to the connection 68.

The opening 80 of the pressure reservoir 70 on the second region 134 has an opening direction 152. The opening direction 152 is transverse and in particular perpendicular to the underside 52.

The steam valve 100 is arranged in the recess 144 parallel to the opening direction 152. The direction of movability/counter-direction 104 of valve body 102 in valve housing 106 is at least approximately parallel to opening direction 152 of opening 80.

The parallel direction of extent of the direction/counter-direction 104 and also of the steam valve 100 is oriented, in particular, transversely (and in particular perpendicularly) to the direction of connection between the first region 132 and the third region 136.

The storage container 130 has a top 154 over the opening 80. The respective heights of the pockets 144 with respect to the steam valve 100 are configured in such a way that the steam valve 100 does not project beyond the roof 154 in the opening direction 152 or projects only slightly beyond the roof 154 in the opening direction 152. In particular, the steam valve 100 extends beyond the roof 154 by a value of at most 5 cm.

Thereby, the height dimension (in the height direction parallel to the direction/counter direction 104 or the opening direction 152) of the pressure reservoir 70 can be kept small. This, in turn, makes it possible to keep the corresponding height dimension of the housing 12 small. Thereby, a hand-held steam appliance 10 that can be held by hand can be realized.

The steam valve 100 has a drain interface 156 for steam (see, e.g., fig. 9). The outlet connection 156 is arranged laterally to the valve housing 106 and is oriented transversely and for example perpendicular to the direction/counter direction 104 or the opening direction 152. The outlet port is arranged in particular in the recess 144. The outlet line for the steam is connected to the opening 36 via an outlet connection 156.

On the first wall portion 146, an output opening 160 is formed on the recess 144 (see, for example, fig. 12). A steam valve 100 is arranged on the outlet opening 160. The valve housing 106 surrounds the outlet opening 160 on the outside of the first wall section 146. Steam via the steam valve 100 can be output via the output opening 160. The outlet opening 160 enables a connection to a fluid action (fluidwirksam) in the interior 162 of the storage container 130. In the region of the outlet opening 160, a tube element 164 is arranged in the interior 162. A portion of the wall of the tube element 164 is formed by a corresponding wall 166 of the first region 132 of the storage container 130. A portion 168 of the tube member 164 is connected to the first wall portion 146. In one embodiment, the continuation of the portion 168 into the second region 134 is the second wall portion 148.

By means of the tube element 164, a lower space 170 is formed in the inner space 162 before the outlet opening 160. The lower space 170 is bounded by a barrier grid 172. The barrier grill is secured to the pipe member 164.

Furthermore, a pin element 174 is arranged in the interior space 162. The pin element is in particular fixed to or formed on the wall 166. The pin elements 174 retain the barrier grill.

The blocking grid 172 serves to block particles that may be output through the output opening 160. The output opening 160 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the lower space 170. Blockage or damage to the outlet opening 160 and the steam valve 100 is prevented in particular by the blocking grid 172.

In the interior 162, a wall 176 is arranged, which extends at least approximately parallel to the opening direction 152 and extends from the second region 134 into the first region 132, i.e. projects beyond the first wall 146. The wall 176 bounds a lower space 178 in the first region 132 and the second region 134. The lower space 178 is a steam space during steam operation of the portable steam appliance 10. No liquid should reach the lower space 178 or as little liquid as possible should reach the lower space 178.

The wall 176 has a greater height from the covering wall 158 than the second wall 148 in the continuation of the wall 168.

A splash guard 180 is secured to the pin member 174. A splash guard element 180, in particular a sheet metal piece, separates the lower space 178, including the lower space 170, from the remaining interior space 162.

The splash guard 180 is closed apart from one or more slots 182, which enable steam to pass through. The splash guard 180 should prevent water intrusion into the lower space 178 as much as possible.

In one embodiment, the splash guard 180 is also supported on the barrier grid 172 via standoffs 184.

In one embodiment, the splash guard 180 loosely (toward the lower space 178) abuts the inner side 186 of the wall 176 and/or the wall 166. Where one or more slots 182 may be formed.

The width of the gap is in particular in the range between 0.2mm and 1.0mm, and for example in the range between 0.4mm and 0.6 mm.

In one embodiment, the splash guard 180 has one or more break-away edges 188. The break-off edge 188 serves to "smooth" the liquid flow below the splash guard 180 in order to largely prevent liquid from penetrating into the lower space 178.

In one embodiment, the splash guard 180 has a first region 190 and has a second region 192. The second region 192 is curved or bowed relative to the first region 190. Thus, the break-away edge 188 is formed between the first region 190 and the second region 192.

For example, the second region 192 is directed toward the wall 176 and (in particular, with the gap 182) bears against the wall.

When the portable steam appliance 10 is in operation, the storage container 130 is first filled (and in particular partially filled) with a liquid (in particular water). The liquid is introduced into the storage container 130, in particular via the opening 80. During steam operation, the cover 82 is secured over the opening 80. The liquid is vaporized by operation of the heating device 138. Here, the storage container 130 has a receiving space 194 for liquid. Furthermore, the storage container has a receiving space 196 for steam. The relative size of these receiving

spaces

194, 196 is variable and depends in particular on the liquid consumption. The lower space 178 is ideally a pure steam space. There is no liquid in this lower space, so that there is only steam that can be output waiting for treatment.

There is a certain minimum spacing between the blocking grid 172 and the splatter shield element 180, which is preferably at least 1 mm.

In the storage container 130, in operation, steam is generated from the water via the heating device 138 and is also stored there. Releasing the steam output by pressing the steam output operating element 92; the valve body 102 is lifted from the valve seat 116 and the steam stored in the storage container 130 is discharged under pressure via the outlet opening 160 and can accordingly pass through the steam nozzle 38, for example for cleaning purposes.

With the splash guard 180, the hand-held steaming appliance 10 can be used in different orientations. It is not necessary to orient the opening direction 152 (the height direction of the storage container 130) parallel to the direction of gravity g. An oblique orientation with respect to the direction of gravity g is also possible. The splash guard 180 here largely prevents liquid from penetrating into the lower space 178.

The pressure accumulator 70 is constructed compactly with a minimized height dimension, so that the housing 12 can in turn be minimized in size without having to make a great deal of compromise with regard to liquid holding capacity.

In the production of the portable steam appliance 10, the pressure accumulator 70 with the steam valve 100 arranged thereon can be handled as a unit and held as a whole on the housing insert 58. The number of necessary components can be minimized. This again makes manufacture easy.

In one embodiment, the steam valve 100 or the main parts of the steam valve 100 (valve body 102, valve housing 106, valve seat 116) are made of a plastic material.

When the hand-held steaming appliance 10 is moved, the liquid surface is flattened by the splash guard element 180 and entrainment of liquid in the steam flow is largely prevented.

List of reference numerals

10 hand-held steam appliance

12 casing

14 casing cover device

16 first housing cover

18 second housing cover

20 plane of connection

22 direction of connection

24 inner space

26 arc-shaped handle

28 arc

30a first part-area

30b second part-area

32 wall part

34 opening

36 opening

38 steam nozzle

40 holding body

42 nozzle

44 abutting element

46 annular element

48 locking device

50 opening

52 lower side

54a first partial opening

54b second partial opening

56 recess

58 housing insert

60 insertion direction

62 locking device

64 first region

66 connector (casing embedded member)

68 joint (pressure storage device)

70 pressure storage device

72 seal

74 raised area

76 tab

78 abutting element

80 opening (storage container)

82 cover

84 opening

86 edge

88 recess

90 second area

92 steam output operating element

94 child-resistant operating element

96 blocking position

98 release position

100 steam valve

102 valve body

104 direction/reverse direction

106 valve housing

108 lever element

110 active region (steam valve)

112 region of action (Lever element)

114 spring device

116 valve seat

118 region of action (lever element)

120 child safety zone

122 spring device

124a first side edge

124b second side edge

126 contact surface

128 mating surface

130 storage container

132 first region

134 second region

136 third region

138 heating device

140 electric coupling device

142a flange

142b mating flanges

144 recess

146 first wall portion

148 second wall portion

150 steps

152 direction of opening

154 top

156 discharge interface

158 covering wall section

160 outlet opening

162 inner space

164 pipe element

166 wall portion

168 partial wall

170 lower space

172 blocking grille

174 pin element

176 wall

178 lower space

180 splash-proof element

182 gap

184 steps

186 inside

188 disengaging cover

190 first region

192 second region

194 accommodating space

196 accommodating space

Claims

1. Pressure accumulator comprising a storage container (130) having a first region (132) and a second region (134) and comprising a steam valve (100), wherein a closable opening (80) is formed on the second region (134), which is arranged on the storage container (130), characterized in that the storage container (130) has a recess (144) between the first region (132) and the second region (134), which is delimited by a first wall (146) of the first region (132) and a second wall (148) of the second region (134), and the steam valve (100) is arranged in the recess (144) on the first region (132), wherein the steam valve (100) is oriented parallel to a connection (68) formed on the second region (134) having the opening (80), wherein the first wall portion (146) and the second wall portion (148) are connected to each other, wherein the second wall portion (148) is oriented transversely to the first wall portion (146).

2. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 1, wherein the second wall portion (148) is oriented perpendicular to the first wall portion (146).

3. A pressure storing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a step (150) is formed on the recess (144) between the first region (132) and the second region (134).

4. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second region (134) has a smaller lateral width than the first region (132).

5. Pressure accumulator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the steam valve (100) is positioned on the first wall section (146) in the recess (144).

6. The pressure accumulator of claim 5, wherein the steam valve (100) is positioned spaced apart from the second wall portion (148).

7. Pressure accumulator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the steam valve (100) has an operating direction (104) for opening and closing the steam valve (100), which is at least approximately parallel to the second wall portion (148).

8. Pressure accumulator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the steam valve (100) has an operating direction (104) for opening and closing the steam valve (100), which is at least approximately parallel to the opening direction (152) of the opening (80) on the second region (134).

9. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first wall portion (146) is oriented transversely to an opening direction (152) of the opening (80) in the second region (134).

10. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second wall portion (148) is oriented at least approximately parallel to an opening direction (152) of the opening (80) in the second region (134).

11. A pressure accumulator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the steam valve (100) does not project beyond the roof (154) of the second region (134) or that the steam valve (100) projects at most 5cm beyond the roof (154) of the second region (134).

12. A pressure storage device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, in steam operation, the first region (132) of the storage container (130) has a receiving space for liquid and/or is connected with a receiving space for liquid and has a receiving space for steam.

13. A pressure accumulator as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, in steam operation, the second region (134) has a receiving space for steam.

14. Pressure accumulator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first region (132) has an output opening (160) for steam, which is arranged on the first wall section (146), and the steam valve (100) is seated on the output opening.

15. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 14, wherein a blocking grille (172) is attached before the output opening (160).

16. A pressure storing device according to claim 15, characterized in that the blocking grid (172) is arranged on the first area (132).

17. A pressure accumulator as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that a tube element (164) is arranged in the inner space (162) of the storage container (130) on the outlet opening (160), on which tube element the blocking grating (172) rests, wherein on a first end of the tube element (164) the outlet opening (160) opens into the tube element (164) and an opposite second end of the tube element (164) opens into the second region (134).

18. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 17, wherein a continuation of the wall portion (168) of the pipe element (164) at least partly forms the second wall portion (148).

19. Pressure storage device according to claim 14, characterized in that a splash element (180) is assigned to the output opening (160), wherein a steam space is formed between the output opening (160) and the splash element (180).

20. A pressure storing device according to claim 19, wherein the splash guard element (180) is arranged in the first region (132).

21. A pressure storage device as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that the splashproof element (180) rests at least partially against an inner side (186) of the storage container (130) and has at least one slit (182) for steam to pass through.

22. A pressure storing device according to claim 21, wherein the at least one slit (182) is formed between the splash guard element (180) and the inner side (186).

23. A pressure accumulator as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that the splash guard element (180) bears loosely against the inner side (186).

24. A pressure storing device according to claim 21, wherein said at least one slit (182) has a width in the range between 0.2mm and 1.0 mm.

25. Pressure accumulator according to claim 19, characterized in that the splash guard (180) has at least one flow break-away edge (188).

26. A pressure storing arrangement according to claim 19, characterized in that the splash guard element (180) has a first area (190) and a second area (192), wherein the second area (192) of the splash guard element (180) is bent with respect to the first area (190) of the splash guard element (180).

27. A pressure storing device according to claim 26, characterized in that the second region (192) of the splash guard element (180) is arranged towards the second region (134) of the storage container (130).

28. A pressure storing device according to claim 19, characterized in that the distance between the blocking grille (172) immediately before the output opening (160) and the splash guard (180) is at least 1 mm.

29. A pressure storing device according to claim 28, characterized in that the blocking grille (172) is closer to the output opening (160) than the splash guard element (180) with respect to the steam flow direction at steam output.

30. A pressure storing device according to claim 29, characterized in that the blocking grill (172) is located in a steam space defined by the splashproof element (180).

31. A pressure storing device according to claim 19, characterized in that a wall (176) is arranged on the second area (134) of the storage container (130), which wall separates a vapor space defined by the splashproof element (180).

32. A pressure storing device according to claim 19, characterized in that a pin element (174) is arranged in the inner space (162) of the storage container (130), to which pin element the splashproof element (180) is fixed.

33. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 32, wherein the pin element (174) is connected with the first wall portion (146).

34. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a heating device (138).

35. A pressure storing device according to claim 34, characterized in that the heating device (138) is an electric heating device.

36. A pressure storing device according to claim 34, characterized in that the heating device (138) is positioned on a third region (136) of the storage container (130), wherein the first region (132) and the second region (134) are arranged on the third region (136) of the storage container.

37. A pressure accumulating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the opening (80) in the second area (134) is closed by a releasable cover (82).

38. A hand-held steam appliance comprising a pressure storage device (70) according to any one of claims 1 to 37.