CN218175387U

CN218175387U - Clothes nursing device

Info

Publication number: CN218175387U
Application number: CN202221599150.5U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 庄维安; E·H·H·苏丹; N·K·塔尼盖维尔; P·潘度苒甘; 颜榗卫; 杨扬德
Original assignee: Koninklijke Philips NV
Current assignee: Fansongni Holdings Ltd
Priority date: 2021-06-28
Filing date: 2022-06-24
Publication date: 2022-12-30
Anticipated expiration: 2032-06-24
Also published as: CN115595780A; EP4363659A1; DE202022103489U1; EP4112805A1; KR20240024270A; PL130875U1; WO2023274641A1

Abstract

The utility model relates to a clothing care device (136), include: steam plate (100) comprising steam outlets (110), said steam plate having a given first area (S1) inscribed within a first peripheral border (PB 1) of said steam plate, and an appendage (104) comprising: -a holding means (108) adapted to hold a compound-containing mat (106), said holding means comprising an outer cover (128) extending substantially parallel to the steam plate, said outer cover having a given second area (S2) defined as a simple area inscribed within a second outer peripheral border (PB 2) of the outer cover, said second outer peripheral border being within the first outer peripheral border (PB 1) of the steam plate, wherein the ratio of the second area to the first area is [30; within a range of 80]% by weight.

Description

Clothes nursing device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an accessory for a laundry care device, which accessory is capable of holding a pad containing a compound for treating laundry in the vicinity of a steam plate of the laundry care device.

The utility model discloses still relate to a clothing nursing device including this annex.

The utility model discloses can be used for the clothing nursing field.

Background

The treatment of laundry with one or more compounds, in particular for the removal of odours, is generally carried out via laundry washing using a washing machine.

However, due to the duration of the washing cycle of the washing machine and the time required to subsequently dry the laundry, it often takes time to use the washing machine for this purpose. Washing laundry using a washing machine also involves relatively high water and electricity consumption.

Laundry care apparatuses are known for removing wrinkles from laundry using steam. Such a laundry care device comprises a steam plate for contacting the laundry. The laundry care device may also be used to release compounds for treating laundry.

However, the application of such devices to release such compounds may compromise the laundry steaming function.

CN 207498690U discloses a garment steamer comprising a garment steamer body and a connected iron body, and the head of the iron body is equipped with an accessory frame.

WO 2016/066509 discloses a fabric clip for a garment steamer. The fabric clamp has a first clamp portion through which steam can be discharged. The fabric clamp also has a second clamp portion that is movable relative to the first clamp portion between a closed position and an open position.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

It is an object of the present invention to provide a garment care device which avoids or mitigates the above mentioned problems.

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

To this end, a laundry care device comprising a steam board having a given first area is provided with an accessory comprising holding means adapted to hold a pad containing a compound; the holding means comprises an outer cover extending substantially parallel to the steam plate, the outer cover having a given second area, wherein the ratio of the second area to the first area is [30; within 80% >.

Thus, the outer cover provides a treated surface to help remove wrinkles from the garment and to help secure the liner.

When the ratio is equal to or higher than 30%, a sufficient contact area of the outer cover to slide onto the laundry during use can be provided, and a sufficient pad holding capability can be provided. Further, by ensuring that the ratio is equal to or lower than 80%, it is possible to provide sufficient openings to guide the steam to the laundry for treatment and wrinkle removal.

For example, the steam plate is made of any of the following materials:

-a metal, or

-a plastic.

The first region of the steam board may depend on the type of laundry care device. For example, the steam plate of a garment steamer tends to have a smaller area than the steam plate of an iron, such as a steam iron or a steam generator iron. The first region is preferably between 3000 and 23000mm ² Within the range of (1).

The retaining means are preferably arranged around the periphery of the mat such that the outer cover corresponds to the area of the mat.

The retaining means may comprise or be formed from any suitable heat resistant material. Preferably, the holding device is made of plastic. This may help make the accessory lighter. For example, the holding device is made of nylon or polycarbonate.

The retaining means may take any suitable form as long as the retaining means is capable of retaining the pad. For example, the holding means corresponds to:

-a compartment surrounding or partially surrounding the periphery of the mat; and/or

-one or more retaining members for securing the pad at one or more peripheral portions of the pad.

The compartment at least partially around the periphery of the mat may be implemented in any suitable manner, such as by a retaining means comprising one or more ribs extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the mat to retain the mat in place.

For example, the one or more retaining members include one or more latches and/or hooks for securing the pad at one or more peripheral portions of the pad.

The retaining means may have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, the retaining device has a cross-sectional shape according to any one of the following shapes:

-a square shape,

-a rectangular shape,

-a circular shape;

-an elliptical shape,

-a semi-elliptical shape,

-a half-month,

-crescent moon.

The pad comprises or takes the form of, for example, an envelope, bag, cartridge, pouch, or capsule.

In a non-limiting example, the pad includes a fluid permeable outer layer, e.g., made of paper, fabric, nonwoven, porous plastic, etc., that contains the compound at lower temperatures and/or when no steam is occurring, but allows the compound to be released by the steam during use of the garment care device.

Such a pad may have any suitable shape and may, for example, resemble a "tea bag" formed of a fluid permeable material and contain a compound in the bag.

More generally, the mat preferably has a substantially flat shape and is arranged substantially parallel to the plane of the outer surface of the steam board.

The compounds contained in the pad may be suitable for treating a garment, for example for providing malodor masking, malodor removal and/or sanitizing treatments to a garment.

To this end, the compounds include or consist of, for example,

-an aromatic compound; and/or

-a disinfectant and/or disinfectant compound.

For example, the volatility of the aroma compound may be such that the aroma compound is released from the pad when sufficiently heated by the steam board and/or by steam released from the garment care device.

The compound contained in the pad may take any suitable form, such as a powder or granules.

The holding means enable the mat to be heated by radiation from the steam plate and by convection from the steam plate, whether or not the mat faces the steam outlet defined by the steam plate.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the height of the outer cover to the height of the steam board is [40; within a range of 100]% by weight.

Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the width of the outer cover to the width of the steam plate is [40; within a range of 100]% by weight.

The outer cover may be substantially flat or curved.

The outer cover may be curved in the height and/or width direction. The radius of curvature of the outer cover may range from the height of the outer cover to flat and/or from the width of the outer cover to flat.

In some embodiments, the steam plate has a vertical axis of symmetry, and the outer cover is centered along the vertical axis of symmetry.

In some embodiments, the holding means comprises an inner cover arranged between the steam plate and the outer cover, and the inner cover is air permeable. Thus, the pad may be interposed between the inner and outer covers, in other words, sandwiched between the inner and outer covers.

The term "breathable" may mean that the inner cover is permeable to both steam and air.

Preferably, the area of the inner cover is smaller than the area of the pad. This may help to ensure that the mat is sufficiently exposed to heat and/or steam from the steam board. Nevertheless, the area of the inner cover is still sufficient to help maintain and retain the pad.

In some embodiments, the inner cover is arranged at a distance from the steam board, and the distance is between [1;10] mm. This distance may allow the vapor to circulate in front of the inner cover, thereby assisting in the volatilization of molecules of compounds such as aroma compounds.

It should be noted, however, that in the example where at least a portion of the pad is in direct contact with the steam board, the pad may release the compound, in other words, no gap is provided between the pad and the steam board. This is because the compounds can be released from the pad due to their volatility and the heating provided by the vapor plate.

The area of the inner cover is, for example, 100 to 10000mm ² While being smaller than (or equal to) the second area S2 of the outer cover 128.

This area of the inner cover corresponds to an area inscribed within the outer circumference of the inner cover.

In some embodiments, the retaining means comprises at least one side portion between the inner and outer covers, and at least a portion of each side portion comprises an opening.

The side portions may be on the vertical sides of the left and/or right side of the holding device. Alternatively or additionally, the side portions may be on the horizontal sides of the top and/or bottom of the holding device.

In some embodiments, the distance between the inner and outer covers is in the range of 2 to 10 millimeters. This distance is suitable for creating a slot into which the mat can be inserted.

The steam plate comprises, in other words defines, a steam outlet.

Various possibilities are envisaged for the spatial relationship between the outer cover and the steam outlet. For example, the outer cover:

not overlapping the steam outlet, or

Partially overlapping the steam outlet, or

Completely overlapping the steam outlet.

In case that the outer cover does not overlap the steam outlet, the amount of steam generated/directed toward the laundry without hindrance may be maximized.

In case that the outer cover partially overlaps the steam outlet, a certain amount of steam is allowed to be generated/guided to the laundry without hindrance. In particular, this advantage may be achieved when the holding means is arranged such that at least some of the steam from the steam outlet is allowed to bypass the holding means and the pad to reach the laundry being treated. This may help to minimize or avoid problematic condensation around the steam board.

Furthermore, a certain amount of steam may be allowed to be directed to the mat to release the compound, e.g. for diffusing fragrance from the mat.

In case the outer cover completely overlaps the steam outlet, the release of compounds from the mat, e.g. diffusion of aroma from the mat, may be maximized.

The outer cover may be plain or, alternatively, the outer cover may comprise, e.g. define, at least one opening.

The term "plain" in this context means that the outer cover is impermeable to air and thus also to steam.

In an alternative example where the outer cover comprises at least one opening, the opening may enable the mat to be viewed, but the steam does not necessarily have to be vented through the opening as it is blocked by the mat. However, steam may also pass through the openings, for example if the pad is not aligned with the openings.

In some embodiments, the outer cover includes a recess at its outer periphery. For example, the outer cover comprises a top through which steam from the steam outlet may pass, for example, and a recess is provided in the top.

The recess may facilitate removal of the pad and/or viewing of the pad in the holding device.

The steam outlet may be defined as:

a single steam discharge, or

-a plurality of steam vents.

For example, the single steam discharge opening may be elongated in a horizontal direction, i.e. a transverse direction, extending over at least part of the width of the steam plate.

The plurality of steam discharge ports may form various patterns such as a straight line shape, an arc shape, an oval shape, etc.

The number of the steam discharge ports among the plurality of steam discharge ports is in the range of 2 to 500, preferably 2 to 50.

In some embodiments, the holding means is adapted to be in an open position in which the mat can be inserted into the holding means and in a closed position in which the holding means extends substantially parallel to the steam board. This may facilitate removal of the used pad and insertion of a replacement pad after use.

Preferably, the retaining means comprises a first portion and a second portion, and a pivotal coupling is provided between the first and second portions. The pivotal coupling is adapted to allow the first and second portions to move relative to each other to be able to adopt an open position and a closed position.

For example, the first portion and/or the second portion are made of a plastic such as nylon or Polycarbonate (PC).

For example, the retaining means may comprise a lever for pressing the pad against the outer cover when the accessory is in the closed position. This may ensure fixation of the pad when the user operates the laundry care device, in particular during steam treatment of the laundry.

In some embodiments, the outer cover includes a seal, such as a gasket, at its outer periphery adapted to contact the outer periphery of the steam plate in the second position. The seal may help to minimize or avoid steam and/or condensate collected in the holding means from leaking between the steam plate and the holding means.

In some embodiments, the holding device or a part of the holding device is rotatable around the rotation axis compared to the steam plate. For example, rotation about an axis of rotation enables the open and closed positions to be adopted.

The holding device preferably further comprises a lever for rotating the holding device. For example, a lever may be provided to facilitate rotation of the second portion relative to the first portion to enable the open and closed positions to be adopted.

For example, the above-mentioned pivotal coupling may provide a rotational axis adjacent to the steam plate, in other words flush with the steam plate.

Alternatively, the axis of rotation provided by the pivotal coupling is set back relative to the steam plate. Thus, the rotation axis may be considered to be arranged at a rear distance with respect to the outer surface of the steam plate.

Positioning the pivotal coupling rearwardly relative to the outer surface may, for example, allow the levers described above for facilitating the adoption of the closed and open positions to be positioned closer to a handle area of a housing of the laundry care device for easy access by a user's fingers.

The holding device is preferably spring-mounted around the axis of rotation. This causes the second part to be biased towards the first part such that the retaining means adopts the closed position.

In some embodiments, the accessory is removably mounted on the garment care device, wherein:

the garment care device is a garment steamer, or

The garment care device is a steam iron.

For example, the accessory may be removably mounted to:

a housing of the device, and/or

-a steam plate.

In examples where the garment care device is a garment steamer, the attachment may be attached via one or more fasteners, such as one or more peripheral ribs, adapted to clip onto the periphery of the housing of the garment steamer (e.g. the housing of the steamer head of the garment steamer) and/or onto the periphery of the steam board.

In the example where the garment care device is a steam iron, the accessory may be attached via one or more fasteners, such as one or more peripheral ribs, adapted to clamp the accessory to the periphery of the steam board, in other words the ironing board.

When the accessory comprises the above-described lever, the lever is preferably arranged below the housing when the laundry care device is oriented for use. The term "below" in this context refers to a vertically extending steam board. Due to the rising of steam generated by the laundry care device, it is preferred to position the lever under the housing, e.g. together with an actuator (e.g. steam trigger) of the garment steamer, to avoid direct flow of hot steam to the user's hands/fingers.

An actuator, such as a steam trigger, is preferably included in the laundry care device for triggering the generation of steam by a user. For example, the dimensions of the lever are such that in the closed position described above, the lever reaches the vicinity of the actuator.

More generally, the lever preferably extends in front of the actuator of the laundry care device, so that it can be easily reached by the user's finger to actuate it. This is particularly true in the example where the garment care device is a garment steamer.

Alternatively or additionally, the lever may extend to or close to the handle of the laundry care device so that a user can easily manipulate the lever while holding the handle of the laundry care device.

A detailed explanation and other aspects of the present invention will be given below.

Drawings

Certain aspects of the invention will now be described with reference to the embodiments described below and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which like parts or sub-steps are designated in a like manner:

figure 1 depicts a portion of a garment care device with an accessory attached thereto,

figures 2a to 2c provide views of a laundry care device for illustrating a given first region of a steam board comprised in the laundry care device,

figures 3a to 3c provide views of the garment care device shown in figure 1 for illustrating a given second region of the outer cover included in the accessory,

figures 4a to 4c provide graphs showing the radius of curvature of the outer cover,

figure 5 schematically depicts the release of a compound from a pad held by an accessory of a laundry care device according to an example,

figure 6 depicts a garment care device according to an example in which the outer cover of the pad and the attachment partially obstructs the portion of the steam outlet defined by the steam plate,

figure 7 depicts a garment care device according to another example in which the outer portions of the pad and the attachment partially occlude the portion of the steam outlet defined by the steam plate,

figure 8 depicts a portion of a laundry care device according to an example in which the outer cover of the accessory comprises a seal at its outer periphery for contacting the outer periphery of the steam plate,

figure 9 depicts a garment care device according to an example in which the outer cover of the pad and the accessory completely obstructs the portion of the steam outlet defined by the steam plate,

figure 10 depicts an accessory and a pad according to an example,

figure 11 depicts an accessory according to another example,

figures 12 to 25b provide plate-facing views of a garment care device according to further examples,

figures 26a and 26b depict a garment care device whose accessories do not obstruct the steam outlet defined by the steam plate,

figure 27 depicts a garment care device having an attachment that partially conceals the steam outlet defined by the steam plate,

figure 28 depicts a garment care device having an attachment that completely conceals the steam outlet defined by the steam plate,

figure 29 provides a view of a facing plate of an exemplary garment care device,

fig. 30 provides a panel-facing view of an exemplary garment care device equipped with sensors for measuring the temperature of different areas of the pad adjacent to the steam panel,

figure 31 provides a view of a garment care device without an attachment and a pad (left side) and with an attachment and a pad (right side),

figures 32 and 33 provide views of a portion of an exemplary garment care device having an attachment with a first portion and a second portion movable relative to the first portion,

figures 34 and 35 provide views of exemplary accessories,

figure 36 depicts a portion of an exemplary garment care device whose accessories include left and right side portions between an outer cover and an inner cover,

figure 37 depicts a portion of an exemplary garment care device whose accessories include a top portion and a bottom portion between an outer cover and an inner cover,

figure 38 schematically depicts an exemplary garment care device in the form of a steam iron or steam generator iron and having an accessory that does not obstruct the steam outlet,

FIG. 39 schematically depicts an exemplary garment care device in the form of a steam iron or steam generator iron and having an accessory that partially shields the steam outlet, an

Fig. 40 schematically depicts an exemplary garment care device in the form of a steam iron or steam generator iron and having an accessory that completely shields the steam outlet.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure provides an accessory for a garment care device. The accessory comprises a holding device adapted to hold a pad containing a compound for treating the laundry.

As shown in fig. 1, the laundry care device includes a steam board 100.

Depending on whether the laundry care device steam/steam generator iron or the garment steamer, the steam board 100 may accordingly be regarded as an ironing board or a steaming board, for example.

The steam board 100 has an outer surface 102 for contacting laundry treated with the laundry care device and/or laundry exposed to the accessories 104.

The steam plate 100, in particular the outer surface 102 of the steam plate 100, has a given first area S1. Referring to fig. 2a to 2c, a given first area S1 is inscribed within the first outer circumferential boundary PB1 of the steam plate 100, irrespective of any through-hole/opening or non-through-hole/opening feature, such as a steam discharge port, groove, recess, depression, groove, step, etc., located within the first outer circumferential boundary PB 1.

A plan view of the steam board 100 may be used to determine a given first area S1 (as well as a given second area S2 of the outer cover 128, and other suitable areas described herein). Such plan views are provided, for example, in fig. 12-25 b.

S1 is the plane (surface) area defined by the first peripheral boundary PB1, regardless of any features such as protrusions, ridges, protruding from the surface of the steam plate. In essence, the projection area S1 is defined independent of any features found within the first peripheral boundary PB 1. In the case of the example depicted in fig. 2B and 2C, S1 is the same for each, although the steam plate 100 in the example depicted in fig. 2C further comprises a step 146A, a recess/groove/depression 146B, a protrusion 146C and a blind hole 146D.

The given first region S1 of the steam board 100 may depend on the type of the laundry care device. For example, the steam board 100 of a garment steamer tends to have a smaller area than the steam board 100 of an iron, such as a steam iron or a steam generator iron. The first region S1 is preferably 3000 to 23000mm ² In the presence of a surfactant.

When the laundry care device is a garment steamer, the first area S1 of the steam treatment panel 100 comprising the area occupied by the steam outlet 110 is, for example, about 3300mm ² The steam is ejected from the garment steamer through a steam outlet 110. Herein, the term "about" may mean ± 10%.

When the garment care device is a steam iron or a steam generator iron, the first area S1 of the steam ironing plate 100 is about 21000mm ² 。

The height H1 of the steam board 100 is shown in fig. 2, which may be considered as the maximum height H1. Furthermore, fig. 2a shows the width W1 of the steam plate 100, which may be considered as the maximum width W1. The height H1 and the width W1 of the steam board 100 may be measured from a plan view of the steam board 100 of the laundry care device.

The garment care device 136 shown in fig. 2a to 2c takes the form of a garment steamer and the steam board 100 is a front steam treatment board of the garment steamer. The steam board 100 is attached to a steamer head 138 with a handle portion 140 extending toward the steamer head 138.

The laundry care device 136 shown in fig. 2 a-2 c further comprises an actuator 144, for example in the form of a trigger, for controlling the steam generation of the steam generator. The actuator 144 preferably triggers the generation of steam upon user actuation.

In this non-limiting example, as shown, a plurality of protrusions 146 in the form of ridges protrude from the outer surface 102 of the steam board 100. Such protrusions 146 may help to direct steam away from the steam outlet 110.

More generally, the steam outlet 110 is in fluid communication or fluidly communicable with a steam generator comprised in the laundry care device. Thus, the steam outlet 110 provides an outlet through which steam generated in the steam generator may escape.

Referring again to fig. 1, the steam outlet 110 has a first cumulative cross-sectional area A1 for releasing steam, in particular for releasing steam onto laundry treated using the laundry care device. Note that the term "cumulative" refers to the total cross-sectional area of the vapor outlet 110.

The steam outlet 110 may be defined by:

-a single steam discharge, or

-a plurality of steam vents.

The steam discharge opening may have any suitable shape, such as a circle.

For example, the single steam discharge port may be elongated in a horizontal direction, i.e., a lateral direction, so as to extend over at least a portion of the width W1 of the steam plate 100.

The first cumulative cross-sectional area A1 of the steam outlets 110 may be determined by measuring a cross-sectional area of each steam outlet defining the steam outlet 110, wherein each steam discharge port intersects the outer surface 102, and summing the measured cross-sectional areas.

For example, the steam board 100 may form an overall flat outer surface 102.

The term "generally flat" means that the outer surface 102 is planar but includes discontinuities, particularly due to the presence of the steam outlet 110, and in some non-limiting examples, one or more recesses and/or one or more protrusions 146. The recess is concave relative to the plane of the outer surface 102. The protrusion 146 protrudes relative to the plane of the outer surface 102.

More generally, the attachment 104 comprises a holding means 108, which holding means 108 is adapted to hold the compound containing mat 106 in the vicinity of the steam board 100. Thus, the retaining means 108 may be seen as fixing the mat 106 near the steam board 100 or in some cases against the steam board 100. In addition to exposing the pad 106 to the steam board 100, the retaining means 108 may also help to avoid or minimize movement of the pad 106 during the garment steaming process.

In at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, the retention device 108 includes an outer cover 128 that extends substantially parallel to the steam board 100. The outer cover 128 has a given second region S2 within a given first region S1.

A given second area S2 is defined as a simple area of the outer cover 128 that is inscribed within a second outer perimeter boundary PB2 of the outer cover 128. In other words, the area of any via/opening feature in the outer cover 128 is not calculated in the calculation for a given second region S2.

Second outer circumferential boundary PB2 is limited to an outer circumference inscribed within first outer circumferential boundary PB 1. In other words, the second outer peripheral boundary PB2 is an outer peripheral boundary that is within (or aligned with) the first outer peripheral boundary PB1 of the steam board 100. This means that if the partial areas of the outer cover 128 exceed the first peripheral boundary PB1, those partial areas are not included in the calculation of the given second area S2.

It is noted that a given second area S2 is determined independently of any non-pure pattern of protrusions, such as grooves, recesses, depressions, grooves, steps, etc., which would be arranged on the outer cover 128 and within the second outer perimeter PB 2.

This is illustrated in fig. 3a to 3 c.

In the case of the example depicted in fig. 3B and 3C, S2 is the same for each, although the outer cover 128 in the example shown in fig. 3C comprises a recess/groove/depression 147B, a protrusion 147C and a blind hole 147D in addition to the step 147A which is also present in the example shown in fig. 3B.

The ratio of the second region S2 to the first region S1 is [30;80]% of the total weight of the composition. Preferably 3000 to 23000mm in view of the first region S1 ² In scope, this means that the second region S2 of the outer cover 128 is preferably between 900 and 18400mm ² Within the range. The outer cover 128 thus provides a treated surface to help remove wrinkles from the laundry GA and to help secure the mat 106.

When the ratio is equal to or higher than 30%, a sufficient contact area of the outer cover 128 may be provided to slide onto the laundry GA during use, and a sufficient holding capacity may be provided for the mat 106. In addition, by ensuring that the ratio is equal to or lower than 80%, it is possible to provide a sufficient opening to guide the steam to the laundry GA for treatment and wrinkle removal.

The height H2 of the outer cover 128 (which may be considered the maximum height H2) is shown in fig. 3. Further, fig. 3a shows the width W2 of the outer cover 128 (which may be considered as the maximum width W2). The height H2 and the width W2 of the outer cover 128 may be measured from a plan view of the steam board 100 of the laundry care device.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam board 100 is [40; within a range of 100]% by weight.

Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam board 100 is [40; within a range of 100]% by weight.

The outer cover 128 may be substantially flat or curved.

The outer cover 128 may be curved in the height H2 and/or width W2 direction. The radius of curvature of the outer cover 128 may range from the height H2 of the outer cover to flat and/or from the width W2 of the outer cover to flat, as schematically represented in fig. 4 a.

Preferably, the outer cover is flat, but may be tolerant of bending. When the curvature of the outer cover is relatively large, the distance from the laundry may increase, which in turn may affect the treatment and wrinkle removal, since the steam may travel a longer path. However, this curvature-related effect may not be related to the S2/S1 range of 30% to 80% (see the examples depicted in fig. 4b and 4 c).

In the example in which the outer cover 128 is curved, the outer cover 128 extending substantially parallel to the steam plate 100 is realized by a tangent T2 to a surface of the outer cover 128, said surface of the outer cover 128 extending substantially parallel to the plane T1 of the outer surface 102 of the steam plate 100. This is shown in fig. 4 b.

In some embodiments, the steam panel 100 has a vertical axis of symmetry VA, and the outer cover 128 is centered along the vertical axis of symmetry VA, as best shown in fig. 3 a.

Returning to fig. 1, the retaining means 108 in this non-limiting example comprises an inner cover 120 arranged between the steam board 100 and the outer cover 128 for retaining the mat 106, the inner cover 120 being air permeable. Thus, the pad 106 may be inserted, in other words, sandwiched, between the inner cover 120 and the outer cover 128.

The term "breathable" herein may mean that the inner cover 120 is permeable to both vapor and air.

Breathability of inner cover 120 may be provided through one or more openings 122 defined by inner cover 120. Such one or more openings 122 may provide an outlet for the compound released from the pad 106. Alternatively or additionally, in some cases, the opening 122 may allow for the vapor to contact the pad 106 to be expelled from the vapor outlet 110.

The area of the inner cover 120 is, for example, 100 to 10000mm ² While preferably being smaller than (or equal to) the second area S2 of the outer cover 128.

This region of the inner cap 120 corresponds to a region inscribed in the outer circumference of the inner cap 120.

In some embodiments, the distance D1 between the inner cover 120 and the outer cover 128 is in the range of 2 to 10 millimeters. This distance D1 is suitable for forming a slot into which the pad 106 can be inserted.

Preferably, the area of the inner cover 120 is smaller than the area of the pad 106. This may help to ensure that the pad 106 is sufficiently exposed to heat and/or steam from the steam board 100. However, the area of the inner cover 120 is sufficient to help maintain and retain the pad 106.

In some embodiments, the inner cover 120 is arranged at a distance from the steam board 100, the distance being between [1;10] mm. This distance may allow vapor to circulate in front of the inner cover 120, thereby assisting in the volatilization of molecules of compounds such as aroma compounds.

More generally, the steam board 100 may be made of any suitable material capable of withstanding the steam processing conditions. For example, the steam plate 100 includes or is made of any one selected from among a metal such as aluminum, a metal alloy such as stainless steel, plastic, or ceramic. The plastic is, for example, nylon or Polycarbonate (PC).

In some non-limiting examples, the metal vapor plate 100 comprising a metal or metal alloy is preferably coated with a suitable material (e.g., an oxide layer such as an oxide layer formed via a sol-gel process) to provide an outer surface 102 having suitable properties, such as suitable fabric slip properties.

Although not visible in the drawings, the steam generator included in the laundry care device is equipped with at least one heater that can heat water to generate steam and heat the steam board 100.

In an example where the laundry care device is a garment steamer, the steam board 100 may for example be considered a front steaming board. For example, such a garment steamer may comprise a hand-held unit comprising the front steaming panel 100 and a base unit, the hand-held unit being connected to the base unit via a suitable flexible cord. For example, the base unit may comprise at least a part of the water reservoir and/or the steam generator. The hand held unit may also include a steam chamber or a steam generator.

Alternatively, the garment steamer comprises a hand-held unit without a base unit. In such an example, the steam generator and steam board 100 is included in a hand-held unit of a garment steamer. The water reservoir may also be included in a hand-held unit of the garment steamer.

In an alternative non-limiting example, the steam board 100 may be considered an ironing board of a garment care device. The steam board 100 may correspond to such an ironing board in the example as described before where the garment care device is a steam iron or a steam generator iron.

For example, such a steam generator iron may comprise a handheld unit comprising the steam board 100 and a base unit, the handheld unit being connected to the base unit via a suitable flexible cord. For example, the base unit may comprise at least a part of the water reservoir and/or the steam generator. The hand held unit may also include a steam chamber or a steam generator.

The steam iron may comprise a handheld unit without the need for an additional base unit. In such an example, the steam generator and the steam plate 100 are comprised in a hand-held unit of the steam iron together with the water reservoir.

The retaining device 108 may comprise or be formed from any suitable heat resistant material. Preferably, the retaining means 108 is made of plastic. This may help the accessory 104 to be made lighter. For example, the retaining device 108 is made of nylon or polycarbonate.

The retention device 108 may take any suitable form so long as the retention device 108 is capable of retaining the mat 106. For example, the holding device 108 corresponds to:

a compartment 126 around or partially around the periphery of the mat 106; and/or

One or more retaining members for fixing the mat 106 to one or more peripheral portions of the mat 106.

The compartment 126 at least partially around the periphery of the mat 106 may be implemented in any suitable manner, such as by the retention device 108 including one or more ribs (not visible in fig. 1) extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the mat 106 for retaining the mat 106 in place.

For example, the one or more retaining members include one or more latches and/or hooks (not visible in fig. 1) for securing the pad 106 at one or more peripheral portions of the pad 106.

The retaining device 108 may have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, the retention device 108 has a cross-sectional shape according to any one of the following shapes:

-a square shape,

-a rectangular shape,

-a circular shape,

-an elliptical shape,

-a semi-elliptical shape,

-a half-month,

-crescent moon.

The compartment 126 corresponds to the volume defined between the outer cover 128 and the inner cover 120. This volume is in particular multiplied by the distance D1 times the area of the inner cover 120 (which is between 100 and 10000 mm) ² Within) is used.

For example, when the laundry care device is a garment steamer, the area of the inner cover 120 is 160mm ² Having a half-moon-shaped cross-sectional shape with a diameter of 20mm, and the inner cap 120 having an area of 5700mm ² Having a half-moon cross-sectional shape with a diameter of 120 mm.

Thus, in the example where the garment care device is a garment steamer, the area of the inner cover 120 having a half-moon cross-sectional shape is 160 to 5700mm ² Within the range of (1).

For example, when the laundry care device is a steam iron or a steam generator iron, the area of the inner cover 120 is 160mm ² Having a half-moon-shaped cross-sectional shape with a diameter of 20mm, and the area of the inner cap 120 is 6200mm ² Having a half-moon cross-sectional shape equal to half the length of the steam plate, with a diameter of 125 mm.

Thus, in the example where the garment care device is a steam iron or a steam generator iron, the area of the inner cover 120 having a half-moon cross-sectional shape is 160 to 6200mm ² In the presence of a surfactant.

The compound contained in the pad 106 may be suitable for treating a garment, for example, for providing malodor masking, malodor removal, and/or sanitizing treatments to a garment.

To this end, the compounds include or consist of, for example,

-an aromatic compound; and/or

-a disinfectant and/or disinfectant compound.

Releasing the compound from the pad 106 may be carried out in any suitable manner. The volatility of the aroma compound can, for example, be such that the aroma compound is released from the pad 106 when sufficiently heated by the steam board 100 and/or steam released from the garment care device.

In an embodiment, the garment care device may be configured such that the steam board 100 is heated to a temperature sufficient to release the compound from the pad 106, wherein the pad 106 is arranged such that heat transferred thereto from the steam board 100 causes the compound to be released from the pad 106.

The mat 106 is for example arranged to be heated by radiation from the steam board 100 and convection from the steam board 100.

The heating of the mat 106 by convection can be achieved whether or not steam from the steam outlet 110 is directed towards the mat 106. In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 1, the pad 106 is disposed proximate to a lower end of the steam board 100, in this case, the lower end of the steam board 100 corresponds to a front steam treatment board of the garment steamer when the garment steamer is oriented for use.

In such an example, the air near the heated front steam treatment plate 100 is heated and the hot air rises toward the upper end of the steam plate 100. This is indicated in fig. 1 by arrow 114. The cooler air is then drawn from the ambient environment toward the area of the steam panel 100 near the lower end, as indicated by arrows 116. The repeated cycles of hot and cold air replacement create a convective cycle on the steam board 100.

Compounds such as aroma compounds, disinfectants and/or disinfectant compounds may be released and carried upwardly toward the upper end of the steam board 100 at least partially due to such convective circulation.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 1, the steam outlet 110 is disposed near the upper end of the steam plate 100. Thus, the compounds carried towards the upper end of the steam plate 100 may then be redirected by the steam out of the steam outlet 110, e.g. towards the laundry being treated using the laundry care device, as indicated by arrow 118 in fig. 1.

This is facilitated by the retaining means 108 being configured to provide a gap between the outer surface 102 of the steam board 100 and the mat 106.

It should be noted, however, that in examples where at least a portion of pad 106 is in direct contact with steam plate 100, in other words, in examples where there is no gap between pad 106 and steam plate 100, pad 106 may release the compound. This is because the compound may be released from the mat 106 due to its volatility and the heating provided by the vapor panel 100.

The compound in the pad 106 is preferably released from the pad 106 as a vapor.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound can be released from the pad 106 by contact with the vapor exiting the vapor outlet 110. For example, the compound can be contained in the mat 106 in particulate form entrained in the vapor contact and, for example, into and/or through the mat 106.

More generally, the compound may take any suitable form, such as an oil or a solid such as a solid particle or granules. Particular mention may be made of compounds in powder form, for example powders comprising fragrant compounds, powders comprising disinfectants and/or powders comprising disinfectants.

Pad 106 includes a material for containing (e.g., secreting) a compound. Any suitable material and design for the pad 106 may be considered as long as the pad 106 is capable of holding the compound, thereby releasing the compound during operation of the garment care device, and is sufficiently robust to withstand relatively high temperature and humidity conditions during garment steam treatment.

Such as one or more of paper, fabric, non-woven fabric, porous plastic, etc.

The pad 106 comprises or takes the form of, for example, an envelope, bag, cartridge, pouch, or capsule.

In a non-limiting example, the pad 106 includes a fluid permeable outer layer, such as made of paper, fabric, non-woven fabric, porous plastic, or the like, that contains the compound at lower temperatures and/or when no steam is occurring, but allows the compound to be released by the steam during use of the garment care device.

Such a pad 106 may have any suitable shape and may, for example, resemble a "tea bag" formed of a fluid permeable material and contain a compound therein.

More generally, the mat 106 preferably has a substantially flat shape and is arranged substantially parallel to the plane of the outer surface 102 of the steam board 100, as shown in fig. 1.

Various possibilities are envisaged for the spatial relationship between the outer cover 128 and the steam outlet 110. For example, the outer cover 128:

not overlapping the steam outlet 110, as shown in fig. 1, or

Partially overlapping the steam outlet, or

Completely overlapping the steam outlet.

In examples where the outer cover 128 does not overlap the steam outlet 110, steam exiting the steam outlet 110 may bypass the outer cover 128 to the laundry being treated, as indicated by arrow 112 in fig. 1.

Similar to the example shown in fig. 1, all of the steam exiting the steam outlet 110 bypasses the outer cover 128 and the pad 106 shown in fig. 5. The compound molecules 148 exit the holding device 108 via an opening, such as an upper opening, which allows entry into the compartment 126 as shown. In this example, the upper opening that allows access to the compartment 126 also serves to enable the pad 106 to be lifted from the compartment 126 or inserted down into the compartment 126 when the garment care device is oriented for use.

In examples where the outer cover 128 does not overlap the steam outlet 110 at all, the amount of steam generated/directed may be maximized generally unobstructed by the outer cover, or unobstructed by the accessory 104 and the pad 106

In case that the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, a certain amount of steam is allowed to be generated/guided to the laundry. Thus, the holding arrangement 108 may be arranged such that at least some of the steam from the steam outlet 110 is allowed to bypass the holding arrangement 108 and the pad 106 to reach the laundry being treated. This may help to minimize or avoid problematic condensation between the retaining device 108 and the vapor panel 100. An example of this is depicted in fig. 6, which fig. 6 shows an overlapping area A2 between the steam outlet 110 and the outer cover 108.

In this non-limiting example, a certain amount of steam may also be allowed to be directed to the pad 106 for releasing the compound, e.g., for diffusing the fragrance from the pad 106.

Fig. 7 shows a laundry care device 136 according to a non-limiting example. The garment care device 136 shown in fig. 7 has some similarities to the garment care device 136 shown in fig. 5, particularly where both exemplary devices are garment steamers. However, in the example shown in fig. 7, some of the steam exiting the steam outlet 110 is directed towards the outer cover 128, similar to the example described above with reference to fig. 6.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 7, the steam outlet 110 is defined by a plurality of steam vents 132, 134. Some of the steam vents 132 overlap the fitment 104, and in particular, in this example, the mat 106 and the outer cover 128 of the holding device 108. The steam is thus directed from the steam vents 132 in the direction of the mat 106 and the outer cover 128, as indicated by arrows 130 in fig. 7. Steam from the steam vent 134 bypasses the appendage 104 and the pad 106 as represented by arrow 118.

In some embodiments, such as the example shown in fig. 8, the outer cover 128 includes a seal 158 at its outer periphery, the seal 158 adapted to contact the outer periphery of the steam panel 100. The seal 158 may help to minimize or avoid steam and/or condensate collected in the retaining arrangement 108 from leaking between the steam panel 100 and the retaining arrangement 108.

The seal 158 may take any suitable form. For example, the seal 158 may comprise or be in the form of a gasket, such as a rubber gasket.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 8, the further accessory part 160 is opposite the holding arrangement 108, the steam outlet 110 being arranged such that steam exiting the steam outlet 110 is guided between the holding arrangement 108 and the further accessory part 160 to reach the laundry treated with the device.

In this case, the seal 158 also seals the further accessory portion 160 to the steam board 100. For example, the seal 158 takes the form of a gasket between the further attachment portion 160 and the steam plate 100 and between the retaining means 108 and the steam plate 100.

Fig. 9 depicts an example in which the outer cover 128 completely overlaps the steam outlet 110. In this non-limiting example, steam exiting the steam outlet 110 is directed toward the pad 106 and the outer cover 128, as represented by arrows 130.

This may help to maximize the release of compounds from the pad 106, such as fragrance diffusion from the pad 106.

More generally, the outer cover 128 may be plain, or the outer cover 128 may include, e.g., define, at least one opening. An example of the latter will be described with reference to fig. 20 and 21.

In this context, the term "plain" means that the outer cover 128 is air-impermeable and therefore also vapor-impermeable.

Fig. 10 provides an exploded assembly view of the fitment 104 and the pad 106 according to an example, wherein the inner cover 120 includes or is defined by a plurality of ribs 180 spaced apart from one another to provide the breathability of the inner cover 120 described above.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 10, the compartment 126 has an upper opening that enables the pad 106 to be lifted from the compartment 126 or inserted downward into the compartment 126 when the garment care device is oriented for use as previously described.

Fig. 11 shows a variation of the example depicted in fig. 10, wherein the breathability of inner cover 120 is provided by a plurality of apertures 122A defined by inner cover 120.

Fig. 12-25 provide plate-facing views of a garment care device according to further examples.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 12, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 43%.

Further, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, such that five of the steam discharge ports 132 therein are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining ten steam discharge ports 134 are not shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 5/15= 33%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 13, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 43%.

However, this example differs from the example shown in fig. 12 in that the outer cover 128 does not overlap the steam outlet 110, so that all nine steam discharge ports 134 are not shielded by the outer cover 128.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 14, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 70%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 30%.

Similar to the example shown in fig. 13, the outer cover 128 does not overlap the steam outlet 110, so that all fifteen steam vents 134 are not shielded by the outer cover 128.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 15, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 80%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 80%.

In this case, the outer cover 128 overlaps the entire steam outlet 110, so that all fifteen steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 16, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 50%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 30%.

In this case, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, so that seven of the steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining eight steam discharge ports 134 are not or only partially shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 7/15= 47%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 17, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 66%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 40%.

In this case, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, so that eleven of the steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining four steam discharge ports 134 are not or only partially shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 11/15= 73%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 18, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 50%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 66%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 45%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 19, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 50%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 50%.

In this case, the outer cover 128 overlaps the entire steam outlet 110, so that all fifteen steam vents 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 20, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 80%.

Although the aspect ratio is 100%, since the through hole 129 is defined by the outer cover 128, not counted in the calculation of the second area S2, the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is less than 100%.

Further, in this case, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, so that nine of the steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining six steam discharge ports 134 are not or only partially shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 9/15=60%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 21, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 50%.

Similar to the example shown in fig. 20, although the aspect ratio is 100%, since the through hole 129 is defined by the outer cover 128, not counted in the calculation of the second area S2, the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is less than 100%.

Further, in this case, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, such that five of the steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining ten steam discharge ports 134 are not or only partially shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 5/15= 33%.

More generally, in examples where the outer cover 128 includes at least one opening 129, the opening 129 may enable viewing of the pad, but since steam is blocked by the pad 106, the steam does not necessarily exit through the opening 129. However, steam may also pass through the opening 129, for example, in the event that the pad 106 is not aligned with the opening 129.

The outer cover 128 is not necessarily symmetrically arranged with respect to the steam board 100.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 22, a majority of the outer cover 128 is located to the left of the vertical axis of symmetry VA. In this example, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 50%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 30%.

Also, in this case, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, so that seven of the steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining eight steam discharge ports 134 are not shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 7/15= 47%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 23, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 50%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 50%.

Also, in this case, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110, so that nine of the steam discharge ports 132 are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining six steam discharge ports 134 are not shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 9/15= 60%.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 24, the ratio of the height H2 of the outer cover 128 to the height H1 of the steam plate 100 is 100%, the ratio of the width W2 of the outer cover 128 to the width W1 of the steam plate 100 is 40%, and the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is 40%.

Fig. 25a and 25b show that if some parts of the outer cover 128 protrude or extend beyond the first outer circumferential boundary PB1 of the steam board 100, the ratio of the second area S2 to the first area S1 is not changed. The S2/S1 ratio is 43% for each example shown in FIG. 12, FIG. 25, and FIG. 25 a. As previously mentioned, this is because the second outer peripheral boundary PB2 of the outer cover 128 is within or aligned with the first outer peripheral boundary PB1 of the steam board 100.

In other words, the ratio of S2 (outer cover 128) is within S1 (steam board 100). This means that the area of the outer cover beyond the first peripheral boundary PB1 (see 128B in fig. 25a and 25B) of the steam plate is not taken into account in the calculation of the ratio S2/S1.

Fig. 26a and 26b depict a laundry care device 136 having an external cover 128, the external cover 128 not overlapping the steam outlet 110 defined by the steam board 100. In the example shown in fig. 26a, the steam outlet 110 is defined by a plurality of steam vents, while in the example shown in fig. 26b, the steam outlet 110 is defined by a single elongated steam vent, as shown.

Fig. 27 depicts a laundry care device 136 having an external cover 128, the external cover 128 partially overlapping the steam outlet 110 defined by the steam board 100. Eleven of the steam discharge ports are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining four steam discharge ports are not shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 11/15= 73%.

Fig. 28 depicts a laundry care device having an external cover 128, the external cover 128 completely overlapping the steam outlet 110 defined by the steam board 100.

Fig. 29 shows the steam board 100 and the outer cover 128 of the laundry care device. Fig. 29 also shows two exemplary possibilities as to the size and shape of the pad 106. In one possibility, the pad 106A is larger and has a half-moon cross-sectional shape, and in another possibility, the pad 106B is smaller and has a rectangular cross-sectional shape.

Fig. 30 shows the positions of the steam board 100, the outer cover 128 and four temperature sensors 150 of the laundry care device, which are arranged to measure the temperature of the pad 106 held by the holding device 108.

In the symmetrical arrangement of the temperature sensor 150 shown in fig. 30, the distances L1 and L2 are both 48mm.

It was found that when the temperature of the steam plate 100 is 80 to 100 ℃, the temperature of the pad 106 and thus the compound contained therein is 70 to 100 ℃. In this example, this is believed to be due to the transfer of the thermal energy from the steam board 100 to the mat 106 by convection and radiation as described above.

Thus, the temperature of the vapor plate 100 may be used to release the compounds, e.g., without additionally requiring the vapor contact pad 106 exiting the vapor outlet 110.

Fig. 31 provides a view of the garment care device without the attachment and pad (left side) and with the attachment 104 and pad 106 (right side).

In some embodiments, outer cover 128 includes a recess 174 at its outer periphery. For example, the outer lid 128 includes a top portion 172 over which steam, e.g., from the steam outlet 110, may pass, with a recess 174 disposed in the top portion 172. An example of this is shown in fig. 31 (right side).

The recess 174 may facilitate removal of the pad 106 and/or viewing of the pad 106 in the holder 108.

In some embodiments, such as the example shown in fig. 32, the accessory 104 includes a first portion 164 and a second portion 166, the first portion 164 being attachable to the housing of the laundry care device 136 and/or the steam board 100.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 32 and 33, the compartment 126 is disposed in the second portion 166, and the second portion 166 is movable relative to the first portion 164 to enable an open position P1 and a closed position P2 to be employed.

More generally, the holding means 108 is adapted to be in an open position P1, such that the mat 106 may be inserted into the holding means 108, and to be in a closed position, in which the holding means 108 extends substantially parallel to the steam board 100. This may facilitate removal of the used pad 106 and insertion of a replacement pad 106 after use.

In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 32, the mat 106 can be inserted into the compartment 126 in the direction of arrow 169 when in the open position P1.

First portion 164 and second portion 166 may include or be formed of any suitable material. For example, the first portion and/or the second portion are made of nylon or Polycarbonate (PC).

The second portion 166 preferably includes a seal 158, such as a gasket, around the outer periphery of the second portion. The seal 158 is adapted to contact the outer periphery of the steam panel 100 in the closed position. As previously mentioned, this helps to minimize or avoid leakage of steam and/or condensate at the periphery of the attachment.

Preferably, a pivot coupling 168 is disposed between the first portion 164 and the second portion 166. The pivot coupling 168 thus allows the first and

second portions

164, 166 to move relative to each other to be able to adopt an open position P1 and a closed position P2.

The retaining device 108 preferably also includes a lever 176 for rotating the retaining device. For example, a lever 176 can be provided to facilitate rotation of the second portion 166 relative to the first portion 164 to enable the open position P1 and the closed position P2 to be employed.

When the garment care device 136 is oriented for use, the stem 176 is preferably disposed below the housing. The term "below" herein refers to the vertically extending steam board 100. Since the steam generated by the laundry care device rises at least initially, it is preferable to position the lever 176 below the housing to avoid the steam.

In some embodiments, as previously described, the laundry care device 136 comprises an actuator 144 for generating steam by user activation. In such an example, the garment care device may further include a rod 176, wherein the rod 176 extends to a location proximal of the actuator 144. The term "proximal" means, for example, that the end of the rod 176 is within 20 or 30mm of the portion of the actuator 144 closest to the end of the rod 176.

The stem 176 thus extends to a position, for example, in front of the actuator 144, such that the stem 176 is easily accessible by a user's finger to move the stem 176. This is particularly useful in the example where the garment care device 136 is a garment steamer.

The appendage 104 is preferably configured to be biased to a closed position P2. The appendage 104 is thus configured such that movement of the second portion 166 relative to the first portion 164 overcomes the bias to enable the open position P1 to be employed.

Such biasing may be implemented in any suitable manner. In the non-limiting example shown in fig. 32, the rod 176 is spring-mounted such that when the rod 176 does not move, the second portion 166 exerts a force on the first portion 164. This allows the second portion 166 to return so that the attachment 104 adopts the closed position P2 when the lever 176 is not moved by the user.

Exemplary spring mechanisms

178A, 178B, 178C are shown in fig. 32 and include a torsion spring 178A for biasing the attachment 104 including the lever 176 into the closed position P2, a pin 178B extending along the pivot axis of the pivot coupling 168, and a retaining clip 178C.

In the example shown in fig. 32, the pivot coupling 168 includes an axis of rotation AR that is disposed rearward relative to the outer surface 102 of the steam board 100. Accordingly, the axis of rotation AR may be considered to be disposed at a rear distance D2 relative to the outer surface 102 of the steam board 100.

Positioning the pivot coupling 168 rearwardly relative to the outer surface 102 may, for example, allow the lever 176 to be positioned closer to the elongated handle portion 140 for easy access by the user's fingers.

Fig. 34 and 35 provide views of the accessory 104 according to another non-limiting example. In this example, as best shown in fig. 34, the pivot coupling 168 has an axis of rotation AR adjacent the outer surface 102 of the steam board 100.

Fig. 34 shows the compartment 126 included in the second portion 166. In this example, the inner cover 120 includes or is defined by a plurality of ribs 180, in this example curved ribs 180, that extend through the second portion 166 and have a plurality of openings 122 between the ribs 180.

Preferably, the first portion 164 includes a retaining member 182, such as one or more bars, for pressing the pad 106 against the second portion 166 when the appendage 104 is in the closed position P2. As best shown in fig. 35, such a retaining member 182 in the form of a rod is included in the example shown in fig. 34 and 35.

The holding member 182 may ensure the fixation of the pad 106 when the laundry care device 136 is operated by a user, in particular during a laundry steaming process.

Such retaining members 182 may also be used to maintain a gap between the steam board 100 and the mat 106. As previously mentioned, such gaps may allow compounds to be carried by the convective gas flow towards the steam exiting the steam outlet 110.

More evident in fig. 35 is a fastener 184 adapted to clamp the accessory 104, and in this case the first portion 164, to the outer periphery of the steam board 100. For example, the fasteners 184 may engage complementary holes or recesses provided in the steam board 100.

In some embodiments, the retention device 108 includes at least one

side

190A, 190B between the inner cover 120 and the outer cover 128, at least a portion of each

side

190A, 190B including an opening.

As shown in fig. 36, the side 190A may be located on a vertical side of the left and/or right side of the retention device 108. Alternatively or additionally, as shown in fig. 37, the side 190B may be located on a horizontal side of the top and/or bottom of the retaining device 108.

The arrows in fig. 36 and 37 indicate that steam emerges from the laundry care device when the accessory 104 is attached thereto.

Fig. 38 to 40 schematically depict exemplary laundry care devices 136, each in the form of a steam iron or a steam generator iron.

In the example shown in fig. 38, the outer cover 128 does not overlap the steam outlet 110.

In the example shown in fig. 39, the outer cover 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110. Two of the steam discharge ports are shielded by the outer cover 128, and the remaining seven steam discharge ports are not shielded by the outer cover 128. In other words, the outer cover 128 overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor of 2/9= 22%.

Whereas in the example shown in fig. 40, the outer cover 128 completely overlaps the steam outlet 110.

Based on the previous example, where the outer lid 128 partially overlaps the steam outlet 110 by a factor, it can be generalized to have this factor be in the range of [20; a range of 75% is advantageous.

This range of overlap factor is a good balance between having a sufficient amount of steam directed to (the inner surface of) the outer cover for heating the pad 106 and thus improving the diffusion of the compounds and having a sufficient amount of steam directed to the laundry being treated for an effective de-wrinkling effect.

The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the technical method of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications and equivalents may be made to the technical method of the present invention without departing from the scope of the claims of the present invention. In particular, although the present invention has been described on the basis of a laundry care device, it can be applied to any household device having a steam generator and a steam outlet from which steam is ejected. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the singular forms do not exclude the plural. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A garment care device (136), comprising:

a steam plate (100) comprising steam outlets (110), said steam plate having a given first area (S1) inscribed within a first peripheral boundary (PB 1) of said steam plate, and

an accessory (104) comprising:

a holding device (108) adapted to hold a compound containing mat (106), the holding device comprising an outer cover (128) extending substantially parallel to the steam plate,

said outer cover having a given second area (S2) defined as a simple area inscribed within a second outer perimeter boundary (PB 2) of said outer cover, said second outer perimeter boundary being within said first outer perimeter boundary (PB 1) of said steam board,

wherein the ratio of the second region to the first region is [30; within a range of 80]% by weight.

2. A laundry care device according to claim 1, characterized in that the ratio of the height (H2) of the outer cover to the height (H1) of the steam plate is between [40; within a range of 100]% by weight.

3. A laundry care device according to claim 1, characterized in that the ratio of the width (W2) of the outer cover to the width (W1) of the steam board is between [40; within a range of 100]% by weight.

4. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that:

-the outer cover is substantially flat, or

-the outer cover is curved.

5. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the holding means comprises an inner cover (120) arranged between the steam board and the outer cover for holding the pad (106), the inner cover being breathable.

6. A garment care device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that:

-said inner cover is arranged at a distance [1;10 mm,

-the distance (D1) between the inner and outer covers is between [2;10 mm.

7. A garment care device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that the area of the inner cover is between 100 and 10000mm ² While being less than or equal to the second area (S2) of the external cover (128).

8. A garment care device as claimed in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the retaining means comprises at least one side portion (190A, 190B) between the inner and outer covers, at least a portion of each side portion comprising an opening.

9. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, 6, 7, characterized in that the outer cover is connected to the steam outlet at a connection [20; coefficients in the range of 75% overlap.

10. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, 6, 7, wherein the outer cover:

not overlapping the steam outlet, or

-completely overlapping the steam outlet.

11. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, 6, 7, characterized in that:

-the external cover is simple, or

-the outer cover comprises at least one opening (129).

12. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, 6, 7, characterized in that the holding means are adapted to be in an open position (P1) in which the pad can be inserted into the holding means and in a closed position (P2) in which the holding means extend substantially parallel to the steam board.

13. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, 6, 7, characterized in that the holding means are rotatable about an Axis of Rotation (AR) relative to the steam board.

14. A garment care device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that the holding means further comprises a lever (176) for rotating the holding means.

15. A garment care device as claimed in any one of claims 1-3, 6, 7, 14, wherein the accessory is removably mounted on the garment care device, wherein:

-the garment care device is a garment steamer, or

-the garment care device is a steam iron.