EP1095181B1 - Fluid supply device for an iron - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a fluid conveying device for an iron with a Housing having a lower and upper module part, wherein in the housing a Pumping chamber is arranged, a pumping element for changing the pumping chamber volume, wherein the pumping element is designed as a deformable membrane, a supply line and a drain communicating with the pumping chamber with at least one Valve portion of the elastic between a first position in which a respective associated Valve channel is closed and a second position in which the respective valve channel open is, is movable, wherein the at least one valve section has a valve film, wherein the valve film integrally formed with the deformable membrane of the pumping element is and sandwiched between the lower and the upper module part are.

Fluid conveyors are used in irons to extract water from a water storage tank inside the iron via a nozzle in front of the iron on the iron to be ironed To spray laundry or supply to an evaporator, so that a shot of steam z. B. off the bottom of the iron emerges. Such fluid conveyors are becoming common actuated by a substantially cylindrical actuating button, which is out of the housing protrudes from the iron and can be depressed with the thumb. From the GB-A-2103663 discloses an iron whose fluid delivery means is a compressible one Rubber bellows as a pumping chamber, with a cup-shaped printhead can be compressed. However, such fluid conveyors are relatively bulky and have disadvantages in the assembly and in terms of their usability.

From JP 63-203196 a steam iron of the type mentioned is known, the instead of a drip valve, a motor-driven water pump for continuous feeding of water in the steam chamber. The pump motor is at its shaft end provided with an eccentric, which moves a rubber film oscillating up and down. By the up and down movement of the rubber sheet is an over- or within the pumping chamber Vacuum generated so that water from or into the pumping chamber via check valves flows. The check valves are in a body with the oscillating part of the rubber sheet, which is part of the pump. The rubber film is accommodated within a pump housing, which is held together by screwing. One on the pump housing molded inlet communicates with a supply line, which leads to the water tank leads. The outlet of the pump housing is connected to the steam chamber.

The present invention is therefore based on the object, an improved fluid conveying device for irons that create the disadvantages of known fluid conveyors avoids. In particular, a compact and easy-to-use fluid conveyor be created with a simple structure that causes a precise operation and allows a controlled and for the operator little power consuming operation.

According to the invention, this object is achieved in a fluid delivery device having the features of claim 1. The fluid delivery device essentially has a lower module part and an upper module part, between which a flat membrane membrane is sandwiched is clamped, in the integrally both elastically movable valves and an elastic deformable membrane are provided as a pump element. Thus, a very simple one Construction with only three parts (without optional return springs for returning the pump element) given. After in iron usually two pumps, z. B. for the spray function and steam impingement functions can be used by this basic structure, a fluid conveyor with two parallel integrated pumps with also only substantially be provided in three parts. For this purpose, only in all housing module parts and the membrane pumping elements, valves, channels, supply and discharge lines side by side accordingly repeatedly trained. In all cases, preferably takes a single membrane both the valve and the pumping function.

In order to achieve a precise actuation of the fluid delivery device, the membrane is preferably designed such that a deformation resistance of the membrane in a rest position the membrane has an initial high value and after exceeding an initial value Deformation drops to lower values that are lower than the initially high ones Value. The membrane thus has an initially high resistance when pressed in, the further impressions, after the initial high resistance is overcome, then drops to a lower value. The increased, defined pressure point of the membrane with the non-linear, in particular abruptly decreasing deformation resistance after overcoming of the pressure point causes a precise operation and gives the operator the Feeling of a controlled and yet low-power operation. This comfortable Movement characteristic is in clear contrast to the known bellows. The membrane may preferably be remote from the pumping chamber Be formed convex side. The dome-shaped shape of the membrane causes upon actuation a buckling of the membrane in the edge region, resulting in an initially high deformation resistance decreases sharply.

In an advantageous development, the elastic membrane is sandwiched by the sandwich construction the hard plastic parts clamped so that deforms elastic membrane and thus the housing of the fluid delivery device is sealed to the outside. moreover cause the elastic connecting portions of the membrane between the pumping element and the valves, that also within the fluid conveyor no leaks given are. The housing and the pumping element are formed as two separate parts, the one have rigid connection with each other. In particular, the pumping element between be clamped two parts of the housing. the two housing parts can through a Snap connection be connected. Such a connection allows one particularly simple geometry of the pumping element. The edge of the pumping element can be sandwiched circumferentially. According to another embodiment of the invention For example, the pumping element can be connected to the housing by an elastic positive connection be. For this purpose, the membrane has one, preferably a plurality of fastening sections, which cooperate with complementary formed mounting portions of the housing. Advantageously, the elastic membrane acts through this connection with the or in the housing at the edge areas at the same time as a seal, so that no additional sealing clamped O-ring is required. So there are no further sealing means for the fluid conveyor required.

A compact design is also achieved in that all liquid channels already in the housing parts are formed.

The membrane is advantageously a three-dimensionally easy to produce by injection molding Foil.

In order to control the fluid flow generated in the pumping chamber is preferably in a Supply line and a derivative of the pumping chamber in each case a valve, in particular a check valve intended. An advantageous embodiment of the invention is that the Valve is formed by the elastic membrane itself. The membrane of the pumping element or of the actuating part in this case has corresponding valve sections which are connected to a corresponding valve channel are adapted to close the valve channel. At a Actuation of the pumping element and delivery of the fluid with appropriate fluid pressure becomes one of the valve sections by the fluid pressure from its the valve passage closing Moved position so that the valve channel is open while the other Valve section remains sealing. The integral design of the valves by the elastic Membrane itself reduces the number of components of the fluid conveyor, resulting in a cost reduction results. The valves are made of elastic sealing material (possibly integral with the membrane) in the form of flat movable sections which are rigid with Sharing and working against or away from these depending on the under or Overpressure to be moved in the pumping chamber.

Advantageously, the valve film at a valve portion for the outlet of fluid is particularly thin-walled and provided with an opening whose diameter is smaller is as a projecting through the opening pin of the lower module part. It has shown, that this valve closes particularly tight. Other valve sections are considered elastic Lags formed, which are moved by the fluid pressure during suction or suction and release or close an opening in one of the module parts.

The valve intended to prevent backflow of the pumped fluid (or / and also the others), can also be designed as a ball valve, optionally with a spring action be. This allows a simple geometry of the membrane and greater freedom in the arrangement of the valve. The above-described integral design of the valve by However, the membrane allows a more compact construction of the fluid conveyor.

The suction of fluid into the pumping chamber is basically by an elastic Recovery of the membrane after actuation in the initial position causes, by the pump chamber volume is increased. The provision of the membrane is preferably carried out independent due to their elasticity. To support the provision or Shortening the reset time can be used in the invention or alternatively as the only Restoring means a spring means for biasing the pumping element in the position, in which the pumping chamber volume is maximum, be provided. As spring device can basically a separate spring element such as a cylinder spring or be provided a leaf spring. To reduce the number of components and thereby To simplify the assembly, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention the spring element may be integrally formed integrally with a part of the housing. The housing thus has a spring portion, the membrane when deformed from her Rest position applied to this out. The spring shaft of the corresponding housing section can in particular by a corresponding shaping of this section be achieved.

In development of the invention, the membrane itself may have a spring section, which supports the self-supporting portion of the diaphragm to be deformed and upon actuation the membrane is deformed. The spring element can therefore as integral one-piece part be formed of the membrane.

In order to achieve a larger and more stable pressure surface, the membrane in a central Region have a greater thickness than in edge regions. The membrane has in the central area a greater rigidity and an increased displacement surface at Push the membrane into the pumping chamber.

In order to be able to press the membrane more easily with the finger, the membrane can be covered have on an edge region increased pressure surface, which is preferably about fingertip-sized is.

In one variant, an actuating part for actuating the pumping element is deformable Membrane is formed. For actuation, therefore, an elastic membrane is provided which is deformable with finger pressure. The actuator can be free from bulky, out of the Housing the iron be protruding snaps. This has the advantage that the iron housing designed freer and ergonomically adapted to the hand can be. The formation of the operating part as an elastic membrane causes a pleasant wiches and soft operation of the fluid conveyor.

Advantageously, the operation is carried out by deformation of the operating part itself Operating member is preferably stored relative to the housing, in particular with his Edge circumferentially connected to the housing. So there is no linear shift of the whole operating part. Advantageously, between the housing and the actuating part no gap in the dirt could fall, which has advantages in the clean holder the fluid conveyor or the iron arise. The operating part is multidirectional actuated and is not bound to a predetermined direction of movement. One Tilting of the actuating part is excluded. Friction resistance, as in the case of Pressing a linearly displaceable actuating knob between this and the housing occur are avoided.

The actuating part may form part of the housing, that is part of the housing is designed as a deformable membrane. The usual part of the housing can in contrast be rigid.

According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating part is directly as a pumping element educated. The elastic membrane forms the pumping element and limits the pumping chamber, so that by changing the membrane, the pumping chamber Vorlumen changed and a Pumping the liquid can be effected. A finter print of an operator becomes immediate converted into a pumping motion. Compared to conventional fluid conveyors the number of components is reduced, resulting in cost advantages, especially in the Assembly of the fluid conveyor revealed. In addition, the dual function of the elastic membrane a very compact construction of the fluid conveyor, the size of which is reduced thereby.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the pumping element of the actuating part spaced, wherein preferably the pumping element as elastic Membrane is formed. So there are two elastic membranes provided, from each other are spaced, wherein the pumping element provided as a principle membrane may be formed according to the membrane provided as an actuating part. The Both membranes can be made of different materials, the respective Function are adapted. For example, the pumping element membrane from a Silicone, while for the operating part of a soft polyethylene such as TPE can be used, which causes an aesthetic outer surface. The two Membranes can be so closely spaced from each other that a deformation of the operating part is transferred directly to the pumping element, that is, the membrane the actuating part can be deformed such that this the pumping element directly or Indirectly (see next paragraph) touched and also deformed.

Preferably, a transmission device, between the actuating part and the pumping element, in particular a mechanically rigid transmission element provided be that a movement of the operating part transmits to the pumping element. hereby can the pumping element, regardless of the position of the actuating member inside the Ironing be arranged, sinsbesondere, the pumping element directly to or be arranged in the fluid reservoir inside the iron. This will be the Supply line shortened from the fluid reservoir to the pumping element and the pumping chamber. It an immediate response of the fluid delivery device is achieved. For a tight attachment of the module sinter with the top of the fluid storage tray (e.g., by plastic welding both parts) can not only fluid channels through the interaction the fluid storage bottom are formed with the lower module part, it can also be short Discharges to the injection point of the underlying steam channel in the steam generating chamber be provided for the steam and water spray.

In a further development, the pumping element and the housing as a one-piece two-component injection molded part educated. The membrane and the housing are thus materially bonded connected with each other. The integral formation of the membrane with the housing causes a particularly simple structure with few components.

Particular advantages has the formation of the operating part as an elastic membrane in terms of the outer design of the iron housing.

In a particular embodiment, the membrane of the actuating part is substantially placed flush with the outer surface of the iron housing and sets the Exterior surface of the iron housing substantially continuously. The iron housing is also flat in the area of the operating part, e.g. free of protrusions and has a flowing surface. The iron housing can also be used in the Be formed portion of the actuating part as a handle part. Alternatively, ergonomically designed Actuating projections educable. The membrane of the operating part can Part of the iron housing, in particular, the membrane can be integral with the iron housing be designed as a two-component injection-molded.

In a further development of the invention, the housing of the fluid delivery device fixed to the Iron housing, in particular with a handle portion of the iron housing be firmly connected. The compound may preferably be by two-component injection molding, Plastic welding or gluing can be achieved. According to another embodiment is as Connection a snap or press connection, optionally provided with a seal. The housing of the fluid delivery device may optionally of a corresponding formed portion of the iron housing may be at least partially formed.

Figur 1

eine perspektivische Darstellung, eines Bügeleisens mit zwei, Betätigungszeilen einer Fluidfördereinrichtung, die in einem Handgriff des Bügeleisens angeordnet sind, gemäß einer Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 2

eine schematische Funktionsdarstellung der Fluidfördereinrichtung mit einer Pumpkammer, die über eine Zuleitung mit einem Fluidspeicher und mit einer Druckleitung mit einer Sprühdüse verbunden ist,

Figur 3

eine schematische Funktionsdarstellung einer Fluidfördereinrichtung nach einer weiteren Ausführungsform, bei der die Pumpkammer wahlweise mit zwei verschiedenen Druckleitungen verbindbar ist,

Figur 4

eine Darstellung der Verbindung der Membran mit dem Gehäuse im Ausschnitt gemäß einer Ausführungsform, wobei das Gehäuse und die Membran als Zweikomponentenspritzgußteil ausgebildet sind,

Figur 5

eine Darstellung der Verbindung der Membran mit dem Gehäuse gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform, wobei eine Klemmverbindung vorgesehen ist,

Figur 6

eine Darstellung ähnlich den Figuren 4 und 5 einer weiteren Ausführungsform, wobei zwei voneinander beabstandete Membranen vorgesehen sind,

Figur 7

eine Darstellung ähnlich den Figuren 4 bis 6 einer weiteren Ausführungsform, wobei die Fluidfördereinrichtung eine von dem Bügeleisengehäuse separate Baugruppe bildet und die Membran der Fluidfördereinrichtung durch eine Aussparung im Bügeleisengehäuse betätigbar ist,

Figur 8

eine schematische Darstellung der Verbindung der Pumpkammer begrenzenden Gehäuseteile gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 9

eine perspektivische Schnittdarstellung der Verbindung der die Pumpkammer begrenzenden Gehäuseteile gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 10

eine Schnittdarstellung durch die Pumpkammer einer im Handgriff des Bügeleisens angeordneten Fluidfördereinrichtung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 11

eine vergrößerte Darstellung des in Figur 10 mit A bezeichneten Ausschnitts, die die Verbindung der Membran mit dem Pumpkammergehäuse und dessen Verbindung mit dem Pumpkammergehäuse und dessen Verbindung mit dem Handgriff des Bügeleisens zeigt,

Figur 12

einen Querschnitt durch die Pumpkammer einer Fluidfördereinrichtung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführung mit Rückschlagventilen in der Zuleitung und der Druckleitung und einer im zentralen Bereich verdickten Membran,

Figur 13

eine Querschnittsdarstellung durch die Pumpkammer ähnlich Figur 12 gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform, bei der die Membran kuppelförmig ausgebildet ist und einen Niederhalter für das Rückschlagventil der Zuleitung aufweist,

Figur 14

eine Querschnittsdarstellung durch eine Pumpkammer ähnlich den Figuren 12 und 13 einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 15

eine schematische Darstellung eines Bügelseisens in einer Teilschnittansicht, wobei gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung die Pumpkammer der Fluidfördereinrichtung nicht im Handgriff des Bügelseisens, sondern unmittelbar im Wasserspeicher des Bügeleisens angeordnet ist,

Figur 16

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Tankunterteils, auf dem die Fluidfördereinrichtung gemäß der Ausführung nach Figur 15 angeordnet ist,

Figur 17

eine Schnittdarstellung durch das Tankunterteil und die darauf angeordnete Pumpkammer gemäß Figur 16,

Figur 18

eine perspektivische Schnittdarstellung durch die Pumpkammer einer Ausführungsform, bei der die Membran integral angeformte Ventilabschnitte aufweist, die in der Zuleitung und der Druckleitung jeweils als Rückschlagventil wirken,

Figur 19

eine perspektivische Schnittdarstellung durch eine Pumpkammer ähnlich Figur 18, bei der die Membran integral angeformte Ventilabschnitte aufweist, gemäß einer weiteren Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 19a

eine perspektivische Schnittdarstellung durch eine Pumpkammer ähnlich zu der in Figur 18 oder 19, bei der die Membran integral angeformte Ventilabschnitte aufweist, gemäß einer weiteren Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 19b

eine Schnittdarstellung durch das Pumpenmodul nach Fig. 19a,

Figur 19c

eine vergrößerte Schnittdarstellung des Auslaßventils in Fig. 19b,

Figur 20

eine Schnittdarstellung durch die Pumpkammer einer Fluidfördereinrichtung, bei der die Membran angeformte Federelemente zur elastischen Rückstellung der Membran aufweist, gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 21

eine Schnittdarstellung ähnlich Figur 20, wobei das Pumpkammergehäuse ein integral angeformtes Federelement zur Rückstellung der Membran aufweist, gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 22

eine Draufsicht auf das Federelement aus Figur 21 gemäß der Schnittlinie BB in Figur 21,

Figur 23

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Membran mit einer hügelförmigen Verdickung im zentralen Bereich als Druckfläche, gemäß einer Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 24

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Membran mit einer zylindrisch erhöhten Druckfläche gemäß einer Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 25

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Membran mit einer kuppelförmig erhöhten Druckfläche und einem zum Einknicken vorgesehenen Randbereich gemäß einer Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 26

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Membran mit einer kuppelförmig erhöhten Druckfläche ähnlich Figur 25, wobei am Randbereich eine Knickkerbe vorgesehen ist, gemäß einer weiteren Ausführung der Erfindung,

Figur 27

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Membran, die insgesamt kuppelförmig ausgebildet ist,

Figur 28

eine vergrößerte Schnittdarstellung des Randbereichs der Membran gemäß Figur 27, die eine Knickkerbe auf der Unterseite der Membran zeigt, und

Figur 29

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Membran mit zylindrisch erhöhter Druckfläche und einem zum Einknicken vorgesehenen Randbereich, gemäß einer weiteren Ausführung der Erfindung.

These and other features, applications and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the description and drawings. All features described or illustrated alone or in any combination form the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their summary in the claims or their dependency and regardless of their formulation or representation in the drawing. The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to embodiments and associated drawings. In these show:

FIG. 1

a perspective view of an iron with two actuating lines of a fluid conveyor, which are arranged in a handle of the iron, according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 2

1 is a schematic functional representation of the fluid delivery device with a pumping chamber, which is connected via a supply line to a fluid reservoir and to a pressure line with a spray nozzle,

FIG. 3

1 is a schematic functional representation of a fluid delivery device according to a further embodiment, in which the pumping chamber can be optionally connected to two different pressure lines,

FIG. 4

4 is an illustration of the connection of the membrane to the housing in the cutout according to an embodiment, wherein the housing and the membrane are designed as a two-component injection-molded part,

FIG. 5

a representation of the connection of the membrane with the housing according to another embodiment, wherein a clamping connection is provided,

FIG. 6

a representation similar to Figures 4 and 5 of a further embodiment, wherein two spaced-apart membranes are provided,

FIG. 7

a representation similar to Figures 4 to 6 of another embodiment, wherein the fluid conveyor forms a separate from the iron housing assembly and the membrane of the fluid conveyor is actuated by a recess in the iron housing,

FIG. 8

a schematic representation of the connection of the pumping chamber limiting housing parts according to a further embodiment,

FIG. 9

FIG. 2 is a perspective sectional view of the connection of the housing parts bounding the pump chamber according to a further embodiment, FIG.

FIG. 10

a sectional view through the pumping chamber arranged in the handle of the iron fluid conveying device according to another embodiment,

FIG. 11

an enlarged view of the designated in Figure 10 with A section showing the connection of the membrane with the pumping chamber housing and its connection to the pumping chamber housing and its connection to the handle of the iron,

FIG. 12

a cross section through the pumping chamber of a fluid delivery device according to another embodiment with check valves in the supply line and the pressure line and a thickened membrane in the central region,

FIG. 13

12 shows a cross-sectional view through the pumping chamber similar to FIG. 12 according to a further embodiment, in which the membrane is dome-shaped and has a hold-down device for the check valve of the supply line,

FIG. 14

a cross-sectional view through a pumping chamber similar to Figures 12 and 13 of another embodiment,

FIG. 15

a schematic representation of a stirrup iron in a partial sectional view, according to a further embodiment of the invention, the pumping chamber of the fluid conveyor is not located in the handle of the iron, but directly in the water tank of the iron,

FIG. 16

a perspective view of a tank bottom part, on which the fluid conveying device according to the embodiment of FIG. 15 is arranged,

FIG. 17

a sectional view through the tank bottom and the pumping chamber arranged thereon according to Figure 16,

FIG. 18

a perspective sectional view through the pumping chamber of an embodiment in which the membrane has integrally molded valve sections, which act in the supply line and the pressure line in each case as a check valve,

FIG. 19

a perspective sectional view through a pumping chamber similar to Figure 18, in which the membrane integrally molded valve sections, according to a further embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 19a

3 is a perspective sectional view through a pumping chamber similar to that in FIG. 18 or 19, in which the diaphragm has integrally formed valve sections, according to a further embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 19b

a sectional view through the pump module of FIG. 19a,

FIG. 19c

an enlarged sectional view of the exhaust valve in Fig. 19b,

FIG. 20

a sectional view through the pumping chamber of a fluid conveying device, wherein the membrane has molded spring elements for elastic recovery of the membrane, according to another embodiment,

FIG. 21

a sectional view similar to Figure 20, wherein the pumping chamber housing has an integrally molded spring element for returning the membrane, according to another embodiment,

FIG. 22

a top view of the spring element of Figure 21 along the section line BB in Figure 21,

FIG. 23

a sectional view through a membrane with a hill-shaped thickening in the central region as a pressure surface, according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 24

a sectional view through a membrane with a cylindrically increased pressure surface according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 25

a sectional view through a membrane with a dome-shaped elevated pressure surface and a intended for buckling edge region according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 26

a sectional view through a membrane with a dome-shaped raised pressure surface similar to Figure 25, wherein at the edge region of a crease groove is provided, according to another embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 27

a sectional view through a membrane, which is a total dome-shaped,

FIG. 28

an enlarged sectional view of the edge region of the membrane according to Figure 27, which shows a crease groove on the underside of the membrane, and

FIG. 29

a sectional view through a membrane with a cylindrically elevated pressure surface and provided for buckling edge region, according to another embodiment of the invention.

The fluid delivery device has a housing 1, which encloses a pumping chamber 2. The Pumping chamber 2 is in this case of a rigid housing portion 3 and one with this limited elastic membrane 4 bounded, which together form the housing 1 (see. Fig. 2). The housing 1 thus has a rigid portion and a deformable portion on.

The elastic membrane 4 is provided as a pumping element, with which the volume of Pumping chamber 2 changed and thereby a pumping action can be achieved. The pumping chamber 2 is connected via a supply line 5 with a fluid reservoir 6, so that fluid from the fluid reservoir 6 can be sucked into the pumping chamber 2. In the supply line 5 is a Check valve 7 connected that a fluid flow from the fluid reservoir 6 in the Pumping chamber 2 allowed, however, prevents backflow in the opposite direction. On the downstream side, the pumping chamber 2 via a pressure line 8 with an outlet nozzle 9, through which the fluid can be sprayed. The pressure line 8 could also lead to an evaporation device to evaporate the fluid and e.g. to let out as steam before or under the iron.

In the pressure line 8, a check valve 10 is provided which controls the flow of the fluid from the pumping chamber 2 to the outlet device 9 allows a backflow into the pumping chamber 2, however (see Fig. 2).

To promote fluid, the elastic membrane 4 is pressurized according to the arrow F in Figure 2 is pressed into the interior of the pumping chamber 2, so that the pumping chamber volume diminished and possibly already therein fluid through the Pressure line 8 is pressed to the nozzle 9. By completing the pressurization F the diaphragm 4 elastically returns to its initial position, whereby the pumping chamber volume enlarged again. As a result, fluid from the fluid reservoir 6 through the Feed line 5 sucked into the pumping chamber 2. The check valve 7 is here in his the supply line 5 releasing position, while the check valve 10 in his the pressure line 8 closing position is pulled or pressed. By another depression the elastic membrane 4, so that the volume of the pumping chamber 2 decreases again, the sucked fluid in the pumping chamber 2 through the pressure line 8 and the Nozzle 9 ejected. Due to the increased pressure of the fluid in the pumping chamber 2 is the Check valve 10 is pressed, while the check valve 7 in the supply line 5 this closes.

The fluid delivery device shown in Figure 2 is according to an embodiment of Figure 1 in a product of personal need, in this case directly in the handle 11 of a Iron 12 arranged, wherein the fluid reservoir 6 in the lower and the nozzle 9 in the front Area of the iron housing 13, in particular of the handle 11, is arranged, to spray the fluid in front of the iron on the laundry to be ironed.

The elastic membrane 4 is, as Figure 1 shows, flush with the outer surface of the Iron housing 13 embedded in this or merged with this, as later will be explained in more detail, and sets the outer surface of the handle 11 substantially continuously and forms part of the gripping surface on which the iron 12 can be grasped. The provided as a pumping element 14 membrane 4 forms directly at the same time the actuating part 15 of a finger, in particular a Thumb of the iron gripping hand can be actuated to promote fluid to effect. The formation of the actuating part 15 causes directly as a pumping element a reduction in the number of components, which increases the construction and assembly of the fluid conveyor simplified. The formation of the actuating part 15 as an elastic membrane allows it to be provided as part of the gripping surface and the handle 11 free from To make protrusions like snaps. The actuating member 15 may be in the cheapest Position immediately adjacent to the handle 11 encompassing fingers arranged and the handle 11 are ergonomically advantageous. This is also because of it allows, as the fluid delivery device due to the formation of the membrane comparatively flat interpretable and thus in the depth of the iron interior little space is needed at nevertheless ausrechendem fluid delivery.

As Figure 1 shows, 11 two fluid conveyors are provided in the handle, the Operating parts 15 arranged on the right and on the left upper side of the handle 11 are. Here, a fluid conveying device of the spray nozzle 9 is assigned while the other with a steam chamber and steam exhaust vents on the bottom of the Iron 12 is connected.

In order to achieve an even more compact construction, according to another preferred Execution (see Figure 3), the fluid delivery device also formed with a double function be served and a plurality of fluid delivery targets with a fluid conveyor. For this the pumping chamber 2 is connected to a plurality of pressure lines. A switching device 16 is provided, with each one of the pressure lines in fluid communication with the Pumping chamber 2 is switchable. The switching device 16 can be designed differently be, for example, have an externally operable lever. Preferably However, the switching device 16 has a ball 17, which is inside the pumping chamber 2 is movably arranged and in a corresponding position one of the two pressure lines 81 and 82 closes. Here, means are provided which the ball 17 either in the closing the pressure line 81 position or in the pressure line 82 occlusive Force position. Advantageously, for this purpose, as Figure 3 shows, the bottom of Pumping chamber 2 formed in the form of two depressions, at their respective lowest point the Mouth of the pressure lines 81 and 82 are arranged. The valley-shaped depressions the bottom of the pumping chamber 2 are separated by a degree. The ball 17 is pressed by gravity to the lowest point of a sink, where they then the corresponding pressure line closes. To the fluid connection of one of the pressure lines to switch to the other, only needs the iron and thus the fluid conveyor be inclined in accordance with or from the normal horizontal position, so that the ball 17 rolls from the one lower recess in the other recess. In this way, optionally, the pumping chamber 2 with the spray nozzle 9 and the steam blast device be connected on the underside of the iron 12.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the elastic membrane 4 is integrally integral with the Housing 1 is formed (see Fig. 4). A rigid housing section 3 and the elastic membrane 4 thus form an integral unit having a soft deformable portion and having a rigid portion. Preferably, the elastic membrane 4 and the housing 1 formed as a two-component injection molding. Due to the integral execution of Membrane and housing on the one hand reduces the number of components. To the other are Joints in which dirt could collect, or projections and the like avoided. In particular, when the iron housing 13 a part of the pump housing. 1 forms, the elastic membrane 4 as the actuating part 15 flush the surface of the iron housing 13 continuously and as part of the gripping surface of the handle 11 be formed. Due to the two-component injection molding construction is between the Membrane 4 and the housing 1 causes a circumferential and fluid-tight connection, the withstands high loads.

According to a further advantageous embodiment (see Figure 5) form the housing 1 and the elastic membrane 4 two separate parts. The elastic membrane 4 is circumferentially along its edge fluid-tightly connected to the rigid housing portion 3. As FIG. 5 shows, the membrane 4 is sandwiched with its edge between two housing parts 31 and 32 clamped. In a two-part design of membrane and housing is a large Degree of freedom in the combination of materials used for the membrane and the housing can be.

On the one hand an immaculate outer surface and on the other hand the best possible training of the pumping element 14, two diaphragms 41 and 42 may be provided be. A provided as an actuating part 15 membrane 42 on the outside of the housing 1 is preferably as a second-component injection molding, in particular of TPE, einstükkig formed with the housing 1. The interior provided as a pumping element 14 Membrane 41 can be made of a material ideal for this function, such as silicone, for example. be formed. As Figure 6 shows, the conveyor unit with the pumping chamber 2 and the Pumping element 14 independent of the iron housing 13 with the actuating part 15th

In order to decouple the iron housing 13 from the fluid conveyor entirely, can the fluid delivery device with its housing 1 and the elastic membrane 4 under the Iron housing 13 are arranged lying, wherein in the iron housing 13th a recess 18 is provided to make the membrane 4 accessible from the outside. The elastic membrane 4 forms both the pumping element 14 and the actuating part 15th

Conveniently, the housing 1 enclosing the pumping chamber 2 is formed in two parts, wherein the two housing parts are connected to each other fluid-tight. The connection can by welding or gluing or even form-fitting, for example by a snap connection or non-positively effected by a press connection. Optionally, a seal may be provided between the two housing parts.

As Figure 8 shows, an advantageous embodiment is that the elastic membrane 4, forms the actuating part and pumping element, is inserted into the iron housing 13, to the inside of the rigid housing portion 3 of the pumping chamber housing. 1 is set. In this case, the rigid housing section 3 is preferably around the membrane 4 around firmly and fluid-tightly connected to the inside of the iron housing 13. Preferably has the elastic membrane 4 as a seal 19 a circumferential annular Seal section 20 on. As Figure 8 shows, the sealing portion 20 forms a web-shaped in the pumping chamber 2 projecting approach, which has a circumferential sealing surface 21, which cooperates with the inside of the rigid housing section 3. The scope of the Sealing portion 20 is dimensioned based on the inner circumference of the pumping chamber 2 such that the sealing surface 21 against the inside of the rigid housing portion 3 elastic is biased. The embodiment shown in Figure 8 causes a particularly simple Construction of the pump arrangement.

To ensure a secure fit of the two housing parts to each other, they can complementarily formed projections and recesses or depressions have, which engage in the assembly (see Figure 9).

A particularly advantageous embodiment, Figures 10 and 11, wherein the figure 11 shows an enlarged section of the area designated by A in FIG. The Iron housing 13 is made of several parts, wherein in a housing part 13 a, the elastic Diaphragm 4 of the fluid conveyor is used. The elastic membrane 4 has a circumferential closed and projecting into the pumping chamber 2 sealing portion 20th on, with its outside on a seal carrier 13b of the iron housing section Supported 13 a, according to the sealing portion 20 as a circumferential to the housing interior is formed projecting ridge. The sealing portion 20 surrounds it one end of the seal carrier 13b elastic in positive engagement. As Figure 11 shows, is the Sealing portion 20 formed at one of its ends as a U-shaped bead, between the Legs the end of the web-shaped seal carrier 13b inserted. On the outside of the the seal carrier 13b embracing end of the sealing portion 20 is the sealing surface 21st provided, which bears sealingly against the rigid housing section 3 of the pumping chamber 2 (see Figure 11). By the seal carrier 13 b, the elastic bias of the sealing portion 20 are increased against the inside of the pumping chamber housing 1 and a Tightness of the pumping chamber 2 can be ensured.

FIG. 12 shows a further embodiment in which the membrane is separate from the pump housing 1 is executed, with two different ways of membrane attachment are shown. According to the left side, the membrane 4 has an annular to the central Area of the membrane perpendicular projecting fastening web 22, which at its Inside is undercut. The rigid Gehäuseabshnitt 3 of the pump housing. 1 has a membrane holder 23 complementary to the attachment web 22 on, which is also designed as a circumferential to the membrane projecting web. Of the Fixing web 22 of the membrane can be elastically pushed over the membrane holder 23 be so that between the fastening web 22 and the membrane holder 23 has an elastic Clamping connection is effected.

The right half of Figure 12 shows a further attachment for the membrane 4. The disk-shaped edge of the membrane 4 is between two housing sections 31 and 32 of the rigid housing portion 3 sandwiched, wherein the two housing parts 31 and 32 can be locked together in the manner of a snap connection (see Figure 12).

The membrane 4 has an enlarged relative to the edge region in its central region Thickness, causing a larger volume change of the pumping chamber 2 and a Accordingly, more effective pumping action is achieved. The outside of the membrane 4 is in the central region of the membrane convexly curved towards a finger of an operator educated. Such causes relative to the edge of the membrane 4 increased pressure surface a pleasant and effortless operation of the elastic membrane. 4

As Figure 12 shows, is in the supply line 5 and in the pressure line 8 as a check valve. 7 or 10 each provided a ball valve. In particular, the check valve 10 in the Pressure line 8 is spring loaded and biased in its closed position to prevent leakage of the fluid. In order to facilitate assembly, the supply line 5 and the pressure line 8 is formed separately from the housing 1 of the pumping chamber 2, wherein the housing 1 has line projections 24a and 24, to which the supply line 5 or the Pressure line 8 can be plugged. Of course, the housing 1 could also have corresponding recesses into which the lines 5 and 8 are inserted could. However, the mentioned line projections 24a and 24 are particularly advantageous in terms of a secure connection and allow the arrangement of the check valves in the Pump chamber housing 1.

To allow the use of a gravity-controlled check valve and to prevent the valve body from moving away from the associated valve seat, may be provided a valve body stop. As FIG. 13 shows, the membrane 4 as a valve body stop 25 a directed toward the valve body 26 toward the projection the movement of the valve body 26 limited so that this is not from its corresponding Valve seat can be moved away. The valve body 26 is powered by gravity pressed into his valve seat. Upon depression of the elastic membrane 4, the valve body becomes 26 of the supply line 5 associated check valve 7 additionally by the increased Fluid pressure in the pumping chamber 2 and by the elastic valve body stop 25 pressed in its supply line blocking position. The valve body stopper 25 is elastically deformed.

As Figure 13 shows, the membrane is conically formed in the edge region and opposite the central region is reduced in thickness, so that the edge region when pressing the Membrane 4 buckles. This results in a defined pressure point. At first, the Membrane 4 in the rest position a relatively high deformation resistance, which then Overcoming this increased initial resistance, that is, when the edge area of the Membrane 4 is folded, relatively quickly falls to a lower level. This causes a clear and powerful operation of the fluid conveyor.

The embodiment of Figure 14 also has only by gravity or through the Pressure changes in the pumping chamber 2 and the corresponding flow directions of the Fluid controlled check valve. The valve body both check valves 7 and 10th each have only a relatively short valve path, in which they can move. Of the Valve body stopper 25 for the valve body 26 of the check valve 7 is thereby of a portion of the rigid housing portion 3 is formed. As Figure 14 shows, the valve seat formed for the check valve 10 of the pressure line 8 as an insert, in a corresponding Recess of the housing portion 3 can be used. The valve seat insert at the same time has a portion which serves as a valve body stop 25 for the valve body 26 of the supply line 5 associated check valve 7 acts.

The membrane 4 is formed substantially disc-shaped, wherein the thickness of the membrane increases continuously from the edges towards the central region of the membrane 4. The outside of the membrane 4, that is the actuating finger of the iron user associated side of the membrane 4, is convex to a pleasant To achieve handling of the membrane. The essentially disc-shaped training causes in the operation of the membrane stress on this substantially Train. The membrane is thereby to operate evenly. The uniform stress the membrane almost exclusively on train causes a long service life.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. The pumping chamber 2 as well the pumping element 14 are arranged directly in the interior of the fluid reservoir 6. hereby the supply line 5 may be formed very short and an immediate response of the Conveyor can be achieved. The elastic membrane 42 of the operating part 15 is arranged as described above on an upper side of the handle 11 and in one of previously described ways with the iron housing 13 connected. To a movement of the operating part 15 to be transferred to the pumping element 14 is as a transmission device a pressure rod 27 between the actuating part 15 and the pumping element 14th arranged. In a variant, the actuating part 15 in the rigid pressure rod 27 at a End area integrated in one piece. In a further variant, the actuating part 15 is rigid formed, so that the impression resistance mainly through the membrane of the pump is formed. This variant can be applied to all embodiments in which the membrane or the push rod 27 can be covered by a rigid operating part.

As FIG. 16 shows, in each case for the spray nozzle 9 and for the steam impulse function, it is a separate one Fluid conveyor provided, which joined together as a structural unit are. The fluid delivery device is directly on a bottom 28 of the fluid reservoir 6 (see also Fig. 17) arranged in this.

The embodiments described below can both in an arrangement of Fluid conveyor directly in the handle 11 of the iron as well as in an arrangement the fluid delivery device in a lower region of the interior of the iron housing be realized with separate actuator and Pumpenetement.

As FIG. 18 shows, a return spring 29 is preferably inside the pumping chamber 2 provided for returning the pumping element 14 to its initial position. The default the pumping element 14 thus takes place on the one hand due to the elasticity of the membrane 4 and on the other hand due to the restoring force of the return spring 29. By the return spring 29 reached increased restoring force causes a more powerful suction of the fluid the fluid reservoir 6 in the pumping chamber 2 and a faster recovery, which increased Actuating clock allowed. An advantageous embodiment of the return spring 29 is made in that this is designed as a conical helical spring in profile.

As FIG. 18 shows, the check valves 7 and 10 are the fluid flow in the supply line 5 and allow the pressure line 8 in only one direction, directly by the elastic Membrane 4 is formed. The membrane 4 of the pumping element 14 in this case has one Valve section 70 and 100, each elastically between a first position in which the respectively associated fluid line 5 and 8 is closed, and a second position, in the the respective fluid line is open, is movable. The valve sections 70 and 100 are each formed as a self-supporting valve flaps, which at a corresponding pressure of adjacent fluids can bend away. The valve sections 70 and 100 are in their closing the fluid channel position each at a valve portion stop 30th and 30a, each of which deflects the valve sections 70 and 100 in a direction, in prevent a fluid flow to prevent. The stop surfaces of the valve section stops 30 and 30a preferably extend perpendicular to the flow direction through the corresponding fluid line whose fluid flow control the valve sections should.

The embodiment according to Figure 19 also shows check valves 7 and 10, through the Membrane 4 itself are formed directly. The corresponding valve sections 70 and 100 of the membrane 4 are also supported against valve section stops 30 and 31. Preferably, the valve portions have sealing surfaces 71, which are correspondingly complementary trained valve seats on the fluid channel to be closed 5 and 8 cooperate.

Fig. 19a shows a pump module similar to that of Fig. 19, wherein between a lower Module part 200 and an upper module part 201, the membrane 4 is clamped. The membrane 4 is compressed sufficiently at the contact points to the module parts, so that a sealing sandwich structure is created. The entire pump module exists in this embodiment, therefore, only three parts, which in a very simple Assembly methods are plugged on each other. Optionally, a cylindrically shaped spring 29 arranged in the pumping chamber 2. By the spring 29 is a restoring force for the membrane 4, regardless of the dauerleastischen properties of the membrane 4. The Spring 29 is characterized by a smaller diameter cylindrical extension - relative to the inner diameter the spring 29 - held stationary on the membrane 4. Through this sandwich construction and snapping the upper pump module into snap fits to the lower pump module side regions 202, 203, 204 and 205 of the membrane 4 between the two rigid plastic module parts pressed so that no further seals required are. The membrane 4 thus represents in one piece not only the flexible pumping chamber, the inlet and outlet check valves but also the seal to the environment The upper pump module 201 also has a guide portion 206 for guidance of the push rod 27. Adjacent to the guide 206 is a bead 207 in a concentric Circle arranged relative to the guide 206, on the sealing rubbers for the push rod 27th opposite the membrane 4 can be placed.

While the inlet check valve sucks water directly from the liquid storage, is for the outlet check valve 209 an extension 212 on the upper pump module 201th trained, which is connectable to the respective consumer. The inlet valve 208 is as circular elastic flap formed against the abutment surfaces of the upper Pump module 201 is pressed as soon as the membrane 4 is pressed. The exhaust valve 209, by contrast, has a different structure and is enlarged again in FIG. 19c.

The outlet check valve 209 is formed by a portion of the membrane 4, the is formed thin enough against the adjacent sections, so that this can deform accordingly. This thin elastic valve portion of the exhaust valve has a circular opening whose diameter is smaller than the diameter of the Spigot 210, over which the elastic valve portion is slipped. Once in the pump chamber an overpressure is produced by the impressions of the pumping membrane 4, the thin-walled elastic valve section of the outlet valve high, to conically tapered Section 211 of the pin 210 is pressed so that a gap is formed, over the water escapes upwards from the pump module. Conversely, as soon as the pumping membrane 4 moves from the bottom up and thus creates a vacuum in the pump chamber, the Auslaßventilbereich is not opened because the pin 210 in the further course extended downward, or a paragraph is designed as a stop. This valve device 209 has the advantage over other valve devices that a particularly good Sealing effect can be achieved, so that observed at the consumers no dripping is.

The structure described above with lower pump module 200, elastic membrane 4 and Upper pump module 201 is of course also for two side by side Pump modules usable. As a result, even when using two side by side switched pump modules for two consumers only three parts 201, 200 and 4 (apart from the optional spring) are needed because then the lower pump modules and the diaphragms 4 and the upper pump modules 201 each in one piece can be trained.

The embodiment according to FIGS. 19d and 19e is very similar to the one just described Embodiment, so that only the special features of this embodiment to be discribed. FIG. 19d shows a fluid delivery device in a plugged-together state Way, in particular the lower model 300 and the upper module part 301 recognizable are. The membrane 304 is in mated form of the pump from the upper MOdulteil hidden and therefore shown separately with Fig. 19e.

In the lower module part 300 leads and leads are formed. A first supply line 302 is shown in FIG. 19d. A second supply line extends vertically from below in the lower one Module part 300. Both leads receive the water from the fluid reservoir in the extend the ends of the leads. After the fluid conveyor already on the fluid storage floor is fixed, the delivery path from the supply lines is short. Of the Supply lines enters the water to an opening under the flap-like elastic Valve sections 303 and 305. At an upward movement after a depression at least one of the two dome-shaped pumping elements 306, 307 is assigned accordingly Valve section 303, 305 moved by the applied negative pressure upward, so that water via the corresponding supply line into the respective pumping chamber below the In this case, the water flows through one of the upper part of the module 301 integrated flow channels 308 and 309 through the openings 310 and 311 in the respective Channel in the lower module part 300, which is in fluid communication with the pumping chamber. The Valve sections 303 and 305 can be freely upwardly into the flow channels 308, 309 Engage. FIG. 19e shows the U-shaped recesses in the membrane, which surround the valve sections 303, 305 and allow the pivoting movement. To make things easier the elastic pivoting movement of the valve sections 303, 305 are dilutions of material 312, 313 provided in the membrane about the pivot axis.

When one of the pumping elements 306, 307 is pressed, the fluid contained in the pumping chamber flows Water via flow channels in the lower module part 300 to the outlet valve sections 314 and 315, respectively. The outlet valves are formed here as shown in FIG. 19c. A backflow of the water into the supply lines is not possible because the valve sections 303, 305 against a supply opening limiting the bearing surface of the lower module part 300 is pressed. Through the valve sections for the outlet flows Water through discharges / channels 316, 317 through the upper module part and the membrane 304 are formed. Thereafter, the water flows through the openings 318 and 319 in the Membrane in discharges 320 and 321 of the lower module part 300th

Both pumps, which are here parallel to each other in a sandwich construction summarized are, of course, independently operable. The derivative 320 leads directly into the underneath arranged steam chamber for the generation of a steam pulse. The derivative 321 leads to water spray.

In the iron housing is ever an actuating part elastically or rigidly formed over each a push rod passed through the fluid reservoir and its other each End rests on the respective pumping elements, indirectly with the pump in connection stands.

The installation of this fluid pumping device is very simple. In the lower module part 300 First, a spring is inserted into the pumping chamber. Then the membrane is from above with the integrally formed pumping elements 306 and 307 and valve sections 303, 305, 314, 315 attached. The lower module part 300 has vertical attachment pins 322 on the with complementary mounting holes zbw. - recesses in the membrane 304 and mounting holes 324 in the upper also attachable upper module part 301 correspond. Subsequently, the upper module part 301 is placed on the lower module part and pressed against the elasticity of the intermediate membrane 304, wherein simultaneously deformed with hot stamping the mounting pins 322 similar to a rivet be so that the membrane 304 clamped fluid-tight or clamped on all sides is. The insertion of the spring is optional, since the pumping elements 306, 307 already a have restoring spring characteristic.

In order to increase the restoring force of the elastic membrane 4 can as a return spring 29th Be provided spring elements which are integrally formed on the elastic membrane 4. As Figure 20 shows, the spring elements of the return spring 29 are preferably with the central region of the membrane 4 connected to this in deformation of the membrane in to bias its starting position back. Preferably, the spring elements as formed curved webs projecting into the pumping chamber 2, so that this when depressing the membrane 4 at the bottom of the pumping chamber 2 pending and deform. The spring elements are preferably claimed to bending. To a defined To reach pressure point of the membrane 4, the molded spring elements also have a substantially straight profile, so that they have an increased initial resistance have against deformation, the relatively strong after buckling of the spring elements drops.

Another preferred embodiment is also that the return spring 29th is integrally formed integrally with a portion of the housing 1 of the pumping chamber 2. As shown in FIG. 21, the return spring 29 is directly below the diaphragm 4 in the pumping chamber 2 arranged so that the membrane 4 in its rest position on the return spring 29 rests. The return spring 29 has several spring arms 33 a, which in the central Area of the pumping chamber 2 with each other and with their other edges each with the Membrane 4 arranged around edge portions of the housing 1 are connected. The Spring arms 33a are curved, preferably meander-shaped, in particular s-shaped curved formed to cause the elasticity of the spring arms 33a. Preferably, the Connection of the spring arms 33a in the central region of the pumping chamber 2 a substantially plate-shaped membrane support member 33 is provided, which the membrane 4 in her central area supported or biases in deformation to its initial position out.

Optionally, the various embodiments of the return spring 29 with each other be combined to a desired spring characteristic and return characteristic to effect.

A preferred embodiment of the membrane 4 is shown in FIG. The membrane 4 has a substantially disc-shaped edge region 39, with which it on the housing. 1 can be attached or can be integrally formed with this. From the edge area the thickness of the membrane 4 increases continuously toward the center of the membrane so that increases the stiffness of the membrane towards the middle. The top of the membrane, that is their the actuating finger facing side is convex and forms in the central Area an increased pressure surface, which is pleasant and easy to depress. The bottom, that is, the pump chamber 2 facing side of the membrane 4 is substantially flat. When the membrane is pressed down, it becomes predominantly internal Train claimed. Due to the uniform shape of the membrane is this evenly loaded, which increases the life.

The membrane may not be directly on the outer casing of the iron, but to connect below this at its edge region with the pump housing, For example, the membrane 4 may have a greatly increased thickness in its central region.

According to the preferred embodiment of Figure 24, the membrane in its center a in essentially cylindrical or also rectangular step-shaped elevated pressure surface 34 exhibit. The greatly increased pressure surface 34 causes a particularly easy impressions of Membrane 4 and a correspondingly pleasant operation of the fluid delivery device. In the edge region 39, the membrane 4 is formed substantially disc-shaped. The Membrane is stressed mainly at train internally in the elastic range at low pressures.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the membrane as a whole be dome-shaped, preferably a straight extending inclined arranged flank area from a central central area to the edges of Membrane is arranged sloping down. The central central region has an increased thickness, while the flank portion 35 is relatively thin in relation to this, so that this bends away when depressing the membrane bellows. The central middle area forms a substantially flat elevated pressure surface 34. In the region of the flank section 35, the membrane is stressed mainly on bending. By the straight extending and inclined arranged flank portion 35 has the membrane in their initial position a relatively high resistance to deformation after an initial Buckling or bending decreases relatively sharply. The membrane has a defined Pressure point. The dome-shaped formation with the deformation-resistant middle part causes upon deformation of the membrane a large change in volume of the pumping chamber 2 and a correspondingly high pumping power.

Figure 26 shows a similar embodiment of the membrane as Figure 25, in which case the flank section 35 more inclined, that is to the Eindrückrichtung includes a smaller angle, so steeper stands. This results in an even higher initial resistance and Pressure point. In order to achieve a uniform deformation of the flank portion 35, is between the flank portion 35 and the thickened central region of the membrane on the Inside of this a round undercut 36, similar to the embodiment according to Figure 25, provided (see Figure 26).

Another preferred embodiment of a membrane 4 is shown in FIG. The membrane 4 is domed in its central region dome-shaped. The thickness of the membrane is between the Bases of domed curvature substantially uniform and decreases from the Center of the membrane to the foot points of the dome-shaped curvature out slightly. The Disc-shaped edge regions of the membrane are relative to the dome-shaped central region slightly reduced in thickness. The height of the dome-shaped curvature corresponds approximately one fifth of the diameter of the dome-shaped curved portion of the membrane. Around to achieve a total uniform stress on the membrane are in the range the bases of the domed curvature on the underside of the membrane undercuts 36 provided, which are shown in Figure 28 in enlargement. The dome-shaped domed Membrane 4 according to FIG. 27 is subjected to both tensile and flexure when pressed in.

Fig. 29 shows a further embodiment of a membrane 4, which is also a very favorable Einknickverhalten (see claim 9) shows. For this purpose, a part 37 of the membrane below to the edge region 39 and a part 38 of the membrane 4 above the edge region 39 of Diaphragm 4 is arranged. The connection to the edge region 39 to the upper part of the membrane 38 of the membrane 4 is U-shaped in section, so that a given Einknickkerbe given is.

It has since been noted that in addition to the previously described ways of connecting the various Parts to each other, the parts together by plastic welding, bonding or Verklipsen be connected by latching mechanisms.

According to another essential aspect of the present fluid delivery device may also be a particularly advantageous embodiment of the conveyor, that the pumping chamber is formed in the manner of a pad from an elastic membrane, which is arranged between pump chamber shells. By squeezing the pumping chamber shells The membrane is also compressed, increasing the volume reduced the membrane cushion and can achieve a corresponding pumping action.

Claims (16)

1. Fluid-supply device for an iron, having a housing (1) with a bottom and top module part (200, 201), a pumping chamber being arranged in the housing (1), having a pumping element (14) for changing the pumping-chamber volume, the pumping element (14) being designed as a deformable diaphragm (4, 41), having an infeed line (5) and a discharge line (8) which are connected to the pumping chamber, and having at least one valve portion (70, 100, 208, 209) which can be moved elastically between a first position, in which a respectively associated valve channel is closed, and a second position, in which the respective valve channel is open, the at least one valve portion (70, 100, 208, 209) having a valve sheet, the valve sheet being integrally formed with the deformable diaphragm (4, 41) of the pumping element (14), and these being clamped in in a sandwich-like manner between the bottom and the top module parts (200, 201), characterized in that the diaphragm (4, 41) is of convex or cupola-like design.
2. Fluid-supply device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the diaphragm (4, 41) is clamped in between the top and the bottom module parts (200, 201) such that the entire path of the fluid through the fluid-supply device in the outward direction is sealed, apart from the openings through the infeed and the discharge lines (5, 8) and within the fluid-supply device between the valve portions (70, 100, 208, 209) and the pumping chamber.
3. Fluid-supply device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the top and bottom module parts (200, 201) contain the infeed and discharge lines (5, 8) and the associated valve channels.
4. Fluid-supply device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve portions (70, 100, 208, 209) are arranged in space alongside the pumping chamber, with the result that the diaphragm (4, 41) can be injection moulded with the valve portions (70, 100, 208, 209), preferably without undercuts, as a three-dimensional moulding.
5. Fluid-supply device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the valves has a pin formed in the valve channel, and in that the associated valve portion of the valve sheet has a bore with a diameter which is dimensioned such that the valve sheet butts with sealing action around the pin in the closed position and, in the open position, can be elastically deformed by the fluid pressure of the valve portion such that an opening gap is produced between the pin and the sheet.
6. Fluid-supply device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pumping element (14) with the diaphragm (4, 41) and the valve portions (70, 100, 208, 209) are designed as an elastic, rubber-like plastic part and the bottom and the top module parts are designed as rigid-plastic parts.
7. Fluid-supply device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the diaphragm (4; 41, 42) of the pumping element (14) is thicker in a central region, this having a stiffening effect, than in peripheral regions.
8. Fluid-supply device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the diaphragm (4; 41, 42) has a pressure-exerting surface (34) which is raised in relation to a peripheral region.
9. Iron having a fluid-supply device according to one of the preceding claims.
10. Iron according to Claim 9, characterized in that an actuating part (15) is provided for direct or indirect actuation of the pumping element, the actuating part, in particular, being designed as a deformable diaphragm (4, 42).
11. Iron according to Claim 10, characterized in that the diaphragm (4; 42) of the actuating part (15) is arranged essentially flush with an outer surface of an iron housing (13) and carries on the outer surface of the iron housing essentially continuously.
12. Iron according to one of Claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the diaphragm (4; 42) of the actuating part (15) is part of the iron housing (13).
13. Iron according to one of Claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the housing (1) of the fluid-supply device is fixed to the iron housing (13), in particular to a handle portion.
14. Iron according to one of Claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the housing (1) of the fluid-supply device is fixed to a fluid tank (6), in particular to a fluid-tank base part.
15. Iron according to one of Claims 9 to 14, characterized in that the fluid-supply device is arranged within the fluid tank (6).
16. Iron according to one of Claims 9 to 15, characterized in that a connecting rod (27) is arranged between the diaphragm (4, 41, 42) of the pumping element and the actuating part (13), with the result that force introduced into the actuating part (15) is passed on to the diaphragm (4, 41, 42).

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