EP2423581B1 - Household device including a steam generator - Google Patents

Household device including a steam generator Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2423581B1
EP2423581B1 EP10305722.0A EP10305722A EP2423581B1 EP 2423581 B1 EP2423581 B1 EP 2423581B1 EP 10305722 A EP10305722 A EP 10305722A EP 2423581 B1 EP2423581 B1 EP 2423581B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
steam
steam generator
return valve
household appliance
pressure
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP10305722.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2423581A3 (en
EP2423581A2 (en
Inventor
Bertrand Couet
François Sulpice
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SEB SA
Original Assignee
SEB SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by SEB SA filed Critical SEB SA
Publication of EP2423581A2 publication Critical patent/EP2423581A2/en
Publication of EP2423581A3 publication Critical patent/EP2423581A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2423581B1 publication Critical patent/EP2423581B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
    • F22B1/28—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically
    • F22B1/282—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically with water or steam circulating in tubes or ducts
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F75/00—Hand irons
    • D06F75/02—Externally-heated hand irons; Hand irons internally heated by means other than electricity, e.g. by solid fuel, by steam
    • D06F75/06—Externally-heated hand irons; Hand irons internally heated by means other than electricity, e.g. by solid fuel, by steam with means for supplying steam or liquid to the article being ironed
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F75/00—Hand irons
    • D06F75/08—Hand irons internally heated by electricity
    • D06F75/10—Hand irons internally heated by electricity with means for supplying steam to the article being ironed
    • D06F75/12—Hand irons internally heated by electricity with means for supplying steam to the article being ironed the steam being produced from water supplied to the iron from an external source
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
    • F22B1/28—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically
    • F22B1/284—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically with water in reservoirs
    • F22B1/285—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically with water in reservoirs the water being fed by a pump to the reservoirs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a household appliance comprising a steam generator and more particularly to a household appliance in which the steam produced by the steam generator is conveyed towards a steam diffusion member such as an iron. or a steam brush.
  • a steam diffusion member such as an iron. or a steam brush.
  • an appliance comprising a steam vapor generator in which the steam produced is conveyed in the direction of an iron.
  • the iron is equipped with a trigger controlling a solenoid valve disposed downstream of the steam generator to stop or allow the diffusion of steam towards the iron.
  • the apparatus is also provided with a pressure switch downstream of the steam generator which controls the operation of the pump according to the vapor pressure measured at the outlet of the steam generator.
  • Such an apparatus has the advantage of producing pressurized steam by means of a flash vapor steam generator which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture.
  • a flash vapor steam generator which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture.
  • such a device has the disadvantage of include a solenoid valve and a pressure switch, with its associated electronics, which are still relatively expensive.
  • the pressure of the vapor output of such a device fluctuates greatly depending on the triggering of the trigger so that the performance of the device is not constant.
  • the period during which such an apparatus can produce continuous steam depends directly on the thermal energy stored in the aluminum mass associated with the steam generator, the iron starting to flow (appearance of water droplets at through the sole outlet steam holes) when all the heat stored in the metal mass is consumed.
  • it is necessary to have a large mass of aluminum for storing energy, which has the disadvantage of increasing the weight, the bulk and the cost of the apparatus, and also leads to a longer heating time of the apparatus.
  • an object of the present invention is to provide a household appliance producing steam under pressure which is very economical to manufacture and which has performance close to household appliances equipped with a steam generator, of boiling type, in which water is heated under pressure in a tank closed by a solenoid valve.
  • the subject of the invention is an appliance comprising a steam generator fed by a tank, the steam generator being connected to a steam distribution circuit through which steam produced by the steam generator is conveyed.
  • the steam distribution circuit comprising a pressurization check valve of a dispensing duct connected to the accessory for the treatment of laundry, the flap pressurizing anti-return device having a set pressure adapted to allow steam to pass to the laundry-treating accessory only when the pressure in the distribution duct is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, characterized in that that the steam generator is instantaneous and that the accessory for the treatment of the laundry comprises a manually operated valve to interrupt, on command, the diffusion of steam through the accessory for the treatment of laundry.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to obtain pressurized steam by means of an apparatus equipped with an economic steam generator to be manufactured.
  • Obtaining steam under pressure in the steam generator has the advantage of increasing the energy storage capacity of the steam generator, the energy is then stored in the form of enthalpy energy in the steam.
  • a pump is interposed between the reservoir and the steam generator, the pump for supplying liquid to the steam generator with a pressure greater than the calibration pressure of the pressurization check valve.
  • the calibration pressure of the pressurization check valve of the steam distribution duct is between 1 and 4 bars.
  • the apparatus comprises a depressurization check valve opening automatically when the pressure in the steam generator is below a predetermined threshold.
  • Such a feature ensures the venting of the steam generator when a depression occurs in the latter and especially during cooling.
  • the pressure threshold of the depressurization check valve is between 30 and 100 mbar.
  • the steam distribution circuit comprises a safety non-return valve having a set pressure greater than the pressurization check valve, the safety non-return valve being arranged downstream of the pressurizing check valve and upstream of the vapor diffusion member.
  • the calibration pressure of the safety nonreturn valve is between 4 and 5 bars.
  • the safety non-return valve is disposed on a bypass duct connecting the steam distribution duct to the tank.
  • the vaporization steam generator comprises a spiraling vaporization channel, one end of which is supplied with liquid by the reservoir, the other end being connected to the steam distribution conduit.
  • Such a spiral-shaped steam generator has the advantage of providing very good vaporization performance by providing a large heating length.
  • a steam generator comprises a constant section vaporization channel which has the advantage of not trapping scale, the scale particles being removed progressively by the steam flow.
  • the accessory is a steam iron.
  • the figure 1 represents an appliance for ironing comprising an iron 1 comprising a heating soleplate 2, provided with steam outlet holes, surmounted by a plastic housing incorporating a handle 3.
  • the iron is connected by a cord 4 to a separate base 10, the cord 4 for transporting steam and comprising, in a manner known per se, several electric cables for the electric supply of the iron 1.
  • the base 10 comprises a water reservoir 11 provided with a filling opening 11A and a steam generator 12 with instantaneous vaporization.
  • tank 11 being connected to the steam generator 12 by a supply duct 13 comprising a solenoid-type low-pressure pump 14 for injecting water into the instantaneous steam generator 12 under a pressure of order of 5 to 6 bars.
  • the pump 14 is preferably controlled by a trigger 5 carried by the handle 3 of the iron, the pump 14 being started when the user presses on the trigger 5.
  • the instantaneous steam generator 12 comprises an aluminum mass 120, of the order of 300 g, enclosing a spiraling channel 121 in the form of a spiral and a heated heating resistor 122 whose electrical supply is conventionally regulated by a mechanical thermostat, not shown in the figures, for maintaining the mass of aluminum 120 at a set temperature.
  • the heating resistor 122 may have a power of the order of 1 kW and the set temperature will be of the order of 140 ° C.
  • the spiral-shaped vaporization channel 121 comprises a central end connected to the supply duct 13 through which the water coming from the tank 11 is injected into the vaporization channel 121 so as to be instantly vaporized therein.
  • the vapor thus produced travels along the vaporization channel 121 to be superheated therein, in particular causing vaporization of any water droplets carried by the steam, the vaporization channel 121 having a peripheral end provided with an outlet orifice 121A. through which steam escapes to a steam distribution circuit.
  • the steam distribution circuit comprises a steam distribution duct 15, one end of which is connected to the cord 4 of the iron 1 and the other end is connected to the outlet orifice 121A of the vaporization channel 121, the duct Steam dispenser 15 having a pressurizing check valve 150 having a set pressure of the order of 3 bar, said pressurizing check valve 150 providing pressurization of the steam distribution conduit.
  • the vapor present in the steam distribution duct 15 at the outlet of the steam generator 12 can pass towards the iron 1 only when the vapor pressure upstream of the pressurization check valve 150 is greater than or equal to 3 bars.
  • the pressurizing check valve 150 may consist of a calibrated spring which is attached to a silicone shutter from closing an orifice.
  • Such a pressurizing valve 150 of the steam generator has the advantage of allowing the steam generator 12 to be put under pressure and thus the storage of a greater quantity of energy in the steam generator 12.
  • energy is stored both in the aluminum mass 120 but also in the form of enthalpy energy, in the steam under pressure.
  • this greater amount of stored energy is obtained by keeping a small mass of aluminum, which allows to keep a small footprint and a low cost .
  • the flow rate of the pump 14 will be adapted to the vaporization capacities of the instantaneous steam generator 12 and will be chosen so that a continuous operation of the pump 14 does not lead rapidly to the injection of a quantity more water than the vaporization capacity of the steam generator 12 and thus the emission of water droplets in the steam distribution duct.
  • the operation of the pump 14 may also be capped in time so as to avoid prolonged operation of the pump. For example, in the case of a continuous support of more than 10 seconds on the trigger 5, it may be provided to stop the pump 14 for a predefined period.
  • the steam distribution circuit also comprises a safety non-return valve 160 mounted on a bypass duct 16 connected on the one hand to the water tank 11 and on the other hand to the steam distribution duct 15, at a connection point disposed downstream of the pressurization check valve 150.
  • This check valve safety return 160 has a set pressure, for example of the order of 4 bars, which is higher than the calibration pressure of the pressurization check valve 150.
  • Such a safety non-return valve 160 makes it possible to limit the pressure in the steam generator 12, as well as in the cord 4 of the iron, by diverting the steam towards the water tank 11 of the device when the pressure becomes excessive.
  • the steam generator 12 also comprises a depressurization check valve 170 ensuring the venting of the steam generator 12 when a depression appears inside the latter, such a phenomenon occurring. especially during the cooling of the steam generator 12.
  • This depressurization check valve 170 is advantageously disposed at the end of a pipe 17 connected to the steam distribution pipe 15, upstream of the pressurization check valve 150.
  • the depressurization check valve 170 is calibrated to open and ensure the venting of the steam generator 12 when the pressure in the pipe 17 is less than 50 mbar.
  • the steam generator 12 When starting the device, the steam generator 12 is cold and the thermostat controls the start of the heating resistor 122, a light then possibly being lit on the device to signal the heating phase to the user.
  • the user can press the trigger 5 of the iron to cause the start of the pump 14 and thus the injection of water in the steam generator 12 to vaporization instant.
  • the injected water is then immediately vaporized in the vaporization channel 121 thanks to the thermal energy stored in the aluminum mass 120.
  • the vapor produced can not escape either direction of the tank 11, because of the presence of the pump 14 and the water in the conduit 13, nor in the direction of the iron 1, because of the presence of pressurizing check valve 150 which prevents the release of steam to the iron 1, so that the pressure increases rapidly in the steam generator 12.
  • the pressurization check valve 150 opens and the pressurized vapor flows through the cord 4 and is diffused through the steam outlet holes the sole 2 of the iron 1, to obtain very good ironing performance.
  • the iron 1 may also include a valve-type stop valve, not shown in the figures, so as to interrupt on command the diffusion of steam through the holes of the sole 2 iron.
  • This shut-off valve will preferably be actuated by the trigger 5 of the iron 1 so as to occupy an open position when the trigger is actuated, and will be automatically returned to a closed rest position when the trigger is released, by example by means of a spring or by the pressure of the steam.
  • Such an apparatus therefore has the advantage of being economical to manufacture and to provide performance similar to that of appliances equipped with a boiling-type steam generator, in which water is heated under pressure in a closed vessel. by a solenoid valve.
  • the apparatus according to the invention comprises only one or more check valves and is controlled by a simple mechanical thermostat so that it is much cheaper to manufacture than devices equipped with solenoid valves and a probe of temperature associated with electronics.
  • the steam generator instant vaporization may include a screen-printed heating element in place of the shielded resistor, the steam generator may for example be in accordance with the spiral-shaped steam generator as described in the patent application WO 2005118944 .
  • a non-return valve upstream of the steam generator to prevent the rise of steam under pressure to the tank.
  • Such a variant may be useful when the apparatus does not include a pump providing this function.
  • the direction of flow in the spiral vaporization channel of the steam generator can be reversed, the vaporization channel being then connected by its peripheral end to the tank and by its end. central to the steam distribution duct.
  • the steam vapor generator may be replaced by a mini-stainless steel tank in which water is brought to boiling.
  • the mechanical control thermostat of the steam generator may be replaced by a thermistor thermistor type negative temperature coefficient (NTC).
  • NTC thermistor thermistor type negative temperature coefficient
  • This last embodiment has the advantage of allowing a finer adjustment of the temperature to use vaporization systems, stainless steel mini-tank type, and to limit the pressure peaks.
  • the flow rate of the pump can be controlled by the temperature of the steam generator to avoid any risk of water saturation and eliminate the risk of spitting in the iron.
  • the steam generator may be connected to a steam brush or a steam cleaner in place of the iron.
  • the appliance according to the invention may be an espresso coffee machine incorporating a nozzle for vapor diffusion fed by a steam generator.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Irons (AREA)
  • Treatment Of Fiber Materials (AREA)
  • Reciprocating Pumps (AREA)
  • Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)

Description

La présente invention se rapporte à un appareil électroménager comportant un générateur de vapeur et plus particulièrement à un appareil électroménager dans lequel la vapeur produite par le générateur de vapeur est acheminée en direction d'un organe de diffusion de la vapeur, tel un fer à repasser ou une brosse de défroissage.The present invention relates to a household appliance comprising a steam generator and more particularly to a household appliance in which the steam produced by the steam generator is conveyed towards a steam diffusion member such as an iron. or a steam brush.

Il est connu, des documents FR2544054 et DE102007054457 , un appareil comportant un générateur de vapeur, de type bouilleur, alimenté par un réservoir, le générateur comportant une résistance chauffante et étant relié à un circuit de distribution de la vapeur comportant une valve de contrôle de pression ne laissant passer la vapeur que lorsque la pression dans le générateur a atteint une pression prédéterminée.It is known, documents FR2544054 and DE102007054457 , an apparatus comprising a steam generator, boiler type, fed by a tank, the generator comprising a heating resistor and being connected to a steam distribution circuit comprising a pressure control valve allowing the vapor to pass only when the pressure in the generator has reached a predetermined pressure.

Il est connu du document WO03/057974 un appareil de repassage comprenant un générateur de vapeur de type bouilleur muni d'une électrovanne commandée par un bouton disposé sur le fer à repasser.It is known from the document WO03 / 057974 an ironing apparatus comprising a boiler type steam generator provided with a solenoid valve controlled by a button disposed on the iron.

De tels générateurs de vapeur de type bouilleur présentent cependant l'inconvénient d'être encombrant et relativement couteux à fabriquer.Such boiler type steam generators, however, have the disadvantage of being bulky and relatively expensive to manufacture.

Il est connu, du document WO2004/005605 , un appareil électroménager comportant un générateur de vapeur à vaporisation instantanée dans lequel la vapeur produite est acheminée en direction d'un fer à repasser. Dans ce document, le fer à repasser est muni d'une gâchette commandant une électrovanne disposée en aval du générateur de vapeur pour stopper ou permettre la diffusion de vapeur en direction du fer à repasser. L'appareil est également muni d'un pressostat en aval du générateur de vapeur qui commande le fonctionnement de la pompe en fonction de la pression de vapeur mesurée en sortie du générateur de vapeur.It is known from the document WO2004 / 005605 , an appliance comprising a steam vapor generator in which the steam produced is conveyed in the direction of an iron. In this document, the iron is equipped with a trigger controlling a solenoid valve disposed downstream of the steam generator to stop or allow the diffusion of steam towards the iron. The apparatus is also provided with a pressure switch downstream of the steam generator which controls the operation of the pump according to the vapor pressure measured at the outlet of the steam generator.

Un tel appareil présente l'avantage de produire de la vapeur sous pression au moyen d'un générateur de vapeur à vaporisation instantanée qui est simple et peu coûteux à fabriquer. Cependant, un tel appareil présente l'inconvénient de comporter une électrovanne et un pressostat, avec son électronique associée, qui sont encore relativement onéreux. De plus, la pression de la vapeur en sortie d'un tel appareil fluctue grandement en fonction de la sollicitation de la gâchette de sorte que la performance de l'appareil n'est pas constante. Enfin, le délai pendant lequel un tel appareil peut produire de la vapeur en continu dépend directement de l'énergie thermique stockée dans la masse d'aluminium associée au générateur de vapeur, le fer se mettant à couler (apparition de gouttelettes d'eau au travers des trous de sortie de vapeur de la semelle) lorsque toute la chaleur stockée dans la masse métallique est consommée. Ainsi, pour obtenir une bonne capacité de production de vapeur, il est nécessaire d'avoir une masse importante d'aluminium pour le stockage de l'énergie, ce qui présente l'inconvénient d'augmenter le poids, l'encombrement et le coût de l'appareil, et conduit également à un temps de chauffe de l'appareil plus important.Such an apparatus has the advantage of producing pressurized steam by means of a flash vapor steam generator which is simple and inexpensive to manufacture. However, such a device has the disadvantage of include a solenoid valve and a pressure switch, with its associated electronics, which are still relatively expensive. In addition, the pressure of the vapor output of such a device fluctuates greatly depending on the triggering of the trigger so that the performance of the device is not constant. Finally, the period during which such an apparatus can produce continuous steam depends directly on the thermal energy stored in the aluminum mass associated with the steam generator, the iron starting to flow (appearance of water droplets at through the sole outlet steam holes) when all the heat stored in the metal mass is consumed. Thus, to obtain a good steam production capacity, it is necessary to have a large mass of aluminum for storing energy, which has the disadvantage of increasing the weight, the bulk and the cost of the apparatus, and also leads to a longer heating time of the apparatus.

Aussi, un but de la présente invention est de proposer un appareil électroménager produisant de la vapeur sous pression qui soit très économique à fabriquer et qui présente des performances proches des appareils électroménagers munis d'un générateur de vapeur, de type à ébullition, dans lequel de l'eau est chauffée sous pression dans une cuve fermée par une électrovanne.Also, an object of the present invention is to provide a household appliance producing steam under pressure which is very economical to manufacture and which has performance close to household appliances equipped with a steam generator, of boiling type, in which water is heated under pressure in a tank closed by a solenoid valve.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un appareil électroménager comprenant un générateur de vapeur à vaporisation alimenté par un réservoir, le générateur de vapeur étant relié à un circuit de distribution de vapeur par lequel la vapeur produite par le générateur de vapeur est acheminée en direction d'un accessoire pour le traitement du linge diffusant de la vapeur, le circuit de distribution de la vapeur comportant un clapet anti-retour de pressurisation d'un conduit de distribution relié à l'accessoire pour le traitement du linge, le clapet anti-retour de pressurisation possédant une pression de tarage adaptée de manière à laisser passer la vapeur en direction de l'accessoire pour le traitement du linge uniquement lorsque la pression dans le conduit de distribution est supérieure ou égale à un seuil prédéterminé, caractérisé en ce que le générateur de vapeur est à vaporisation instantanée et en ce que l'accessoire pour le traitement du linge comporte une vanne à commande manuelle permettant d'interrompre, sur commande, la diffusion de la vapeur au travers de l'accessoire pour le traitement du linge.For this purpose, the subject of the invention is an appliance comprising a steam generator fed by a tank, the steam generator being connected to a steam distribution circuit through which steam produced by the steam generator is conveyed. in the direction of an accessory for the treatment of steam-diffusing laundry, the steam distribution circuit comprising a pressurization check valve of a dispensing duct connected to the accessory for the treatment of laundry, the flap pressurizing anti-return device having a set pressure adapted to allow steam to pass to the laundry-treating accessory only when the pressure in the distribution duct is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, characterized in that that the steam generator is instantaneous and that the accessory for the treatment of the laundry comprises a manually operated valve to interrupt, on command, the diffusion of steam through the accessory for the treatment of laundry.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'obtenir de la vapeur sous pression au moyen d'un appareil muni d'un générateur de vapeur économique à fabriquer. L'obtention de vapeur sous pression dans le générateur de vapeur présente l'avantage d'augmenter la capacité de stockage énergétique du générateur de vapeur, l'énergie étant alors stockée sous la forme d'énergie enthalpique dans la vapeur.Such a characteristic makes it possible to obtain pressurized steam by means of an apparatus equipped with an economic steam generator to be manufactured. Obtaining steam under pressure in the steam generator has the advantage of increasing the energy storage capacity of the steam generator, the energy is then stored in the form of enthalpy energy in the steam.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, une pompe est interposée entre le réservoir et le générateur de vapeur, la pompe permettant d'alimenter en liquide le générateur de vapeur avec une pression supérieure à la pression de tarage du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation.According to another characteristic of the invention, a pump is interposed between the reservoir and the steam generator, the pump for supplying liquid to the steam generator with a pressure greater than the calibration pressure of the pressurization check valve. .

Une telle caractéristique permet un fonctionnement de l'appareil à performance constante indépendamment de la hauteur de colonne d'eau dans le réservoir.Such a characteristic allows operation of the apparatus with constant performance regardless of the height of the water column in the tank.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, la pression de tarage du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation du conduit de distribution de la vapeur est comprise entre 1 et 4 bars.According to another characteristic of the invention, the calibration pressure of the pressurization check valve of the steam distribution duct is between 1 and 4 bars.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'appareil comporte un clapet anti-retour de dépressurisation s'ouvrant automatiquement lorsque la pression dans le générateur de vapeur est inférieure à un seuil prédéterminé.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the apparatus comprises a depressurization check valve opening automatically when the pressure in the steam generator is below a predetermined threshold.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'assurer la mise à l'air libre du générateur de vapeur lorsque qu'une dépression se produit dans ce dernier et notamment lors du refroidissement.Such a feature ensures the venting of the steam generator when a depression occurs in the latter and especially during cooling.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le seuil de pression du clapet anti-retour de dépressurisation est compris entre 30 et 100 mbars.According to another characteristic of the invention, the pressure threshold of the depressurization check valve is between 30 and 100 mbar.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le circuit de distribution de la vapeur comporte un clapet anti-retour de sécurité possédant une pression de tarage supérieure au clapet anti-retour de pressurisation, le clapet anti-retour de sécurité étant disposé en aval du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation et en amont de l'organe de diffusion de la vapeur.According to another characteristic of the invention, the steam distribution circuit comprises a safety non-return valve having a set pressure greater than the pressurization check valve, the safety non-return valve being arranged downstream of the pressurizing check valve and upstream of the vapor diffusion member.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'éviter une élévation excessive de la pression dans l'appareil et dans l'organe de diffusion de vapeur lorsque, pour une raison quelconque (pincement du cordon, etc...), la vapeur ne parvient pas à s'échapper au travers de l'organe de diffusion de vapeur.Such a characteristic makes it possible to avoid an excessive rise in the pressure in the apparatus and in the steam diffusion member when, for any reason (pinching of the cord, etc.), the steam fails to reach its position. escape through the vapor diffusion member.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, la pression de tarage du clapet anti-retour de sécurité est comprise entre 4 et 5 bars.According to another characteristic of the invention, the calibration pressure of the safety nonreturn valve is between 4 and 5 bars.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le clapet anti-retour de sécurité est disposé sur un conduit de dérivation reliant le conduit de distribution de vapeur au réservoir.According to another characteristic of the invention, the safety non-return valve is disposed on a bypass duct connecting the steam distribution duct to the tank.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le générateur de vapeur à vaporisation instantanée comporte un canal de vaporisation en forme spirale dont une extrémité est alimentée en liquide par le réservoir, l'autre extrémité étant reliée au conduit de distribution de vapeur.According to another characteristic of the invention, the vaporization steam generator comprises a spiraling vaporization channel, one end of which is supplied with liquid by the reservoir, the other end being connected to the steam distribution conduit.

Un tel générateur de vapeur en forme de spirale présente l'avantage de procurer de très bonnes performances de vaporisation en offrant une longueur de chauffage importante. De plus, un tel générateur de vapeur comporte un canal de vaporisation de section constante qui présente l'avantage de ne pas piéger le tartre, les particules de tartre étant évacuées progressivement par le flux de vapeur.Such a spiral-shaped steam generator has the advantage of providing very good vaporization performance by providing a large heating length. In addition, such a steam generator comprises a constant section vaporization channel which has the advantage of not trapping scale, the scale particles being removed progressively by the steam flow.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'accessoire est un fer à repasser à vapeur.According to another characteristic of the invention, the accessory is a steam iron.

On comprendra mieux les buts, aspects et avantages de la présente invention, d'après la description donnée ci-après d'un mode particulier de réalisation de l'invention, présenté à titre d'exemple non limitatif, en se référant aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une représentation schématique des principaux équipements de l'appareil électroménager selon un mode particulier de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 est un diagramme du circuit de production de vapeur de l'appareil de la figure 1.
The aims, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following description of a particular embodiment of the invention, presented by way of nonlimiting example, with reference to the appended drawings. wherein :
  • the figure 1 is a schematic representation of the main equipment of the household appliance according to a particular embodiment of the invention;
  • the figure 2 is a diagram of the steam production circuit of the apparatus of the figure 1 .

La figure 1 représente un appareil électroménager pour le repassage comprenant un fer à repasser 1 comportant une semelle 2 chauffante, munie de trous de sortie de vapeur, surmontée par un boîtier en matière plastique intégrant une poignée 3. Le fer à repasser est relié par un cordon 4 à une base 10 séparée, le cordon 4 permettant le transport de la vapeur et comportant, de manière connue en soi, plusieurs câbles électriques pour l'alimentation électrique du fer à repasser 1.The figure 1 represents an appliance for ironing comprising an iron 1 comprising a heating soleplate 2, provided with steam outlet holes, surmounted by a plastic housing incorporating a handle 3. The iron is connected by a cord 4 to a separate base 10, the cord 4 for transporting steam and comprising, in a manner known per se, several electric cables for the electric supply of the iron 1.

La base 10 comporte un réservoir d'eau 11 muni d'une ouverture de remplissage 11A et un générateur de vapeur 12 à vaporisation instantanée, le réservoir 11 étant relié au générateur de vapeur 12 par un conduit d'alimentation 13 comportant une pompe 14 basse pression, de type à solénoïde, permettant l'injection d'eau dans le générateur de vapeur 12 à vaporisation instantanée sous une pression de l'ordre de 5 à 6 bars.The base 10 comprises a water reservoir 11 provided with a filling opening 11A and a steam generator 12 with instantaneous vaporization. tank 11 being connected to the steam generator 12 by a supply duct 13 comprising a solenoid-type low-pressure pump 14 for injecting water into the instantaneous steam generator 12 under a pressure of order of 5 to 6 bars.

La pompe 14 est préférentiellement commandée par une gâchette 5 portée par la poignée 3 du fer à repasser, la pompe 14 étant mise en marche lorsque l'utilisateur presse sur la gâchette 5.The pump 14 is preferably controlled by a trigger 5 carried by the handle 3 of the iron, the pump 14 being started when the user presses on the trigger 5.

Le générateur de vapeur 12 à vaporisation instantanée comporte une masse d'aluminium 120, de l'ordre de 300 g, renfermant un canal de vaporisation 121 en forme de spirale et une résistance chauffante 122 blindée dont l'alimentation électrique est régulée classiquement par un thermostat mécanique, non représenté sur les figures, permettant de maintenir la masse d'aluminium 120 à une température de consigne.The instantaneous steam generator 12 comprises an aluminum mass 120, of the order of 300 g, enclosing a spiraling channel 121 in the form of a spiral and a heated heating resistor 122 whose electrical supply is conventionally regulated by a mechanical thermostat, not shown in the figures, for maintaining the mass of aluminum 120 at a set temperature.

A titre d'exemple la résistance chauffante 122 pourra présenter une puissance de l'ordre de 1 kW et la température de consigne sera de l'ordre de 140°C.By way of example, the heating resistor 122 may have a power of the order of 1 kW and the set temperature will be of the order of 140 ° C.

Le canal de vaporisation 121 en forme de spirale comporte une extrémité centrale reliée au conduit d'alimentation 13 par laquelle l'eau issue du réservoir 11 est injectée dans le canal de vaporisation 121 pour y être instantanément vaporisée. La vapeur ainsi produite chemine le long du canal de vaporisation 121 pour y être surchauffée, en entraînant notamment la vaporisation des éventuelles gouttelettes d'eau transportées par la vapeur, le canal de vaporisation 121 comportant une extrémité périphérique munie d'un orifice de sortie 121A par lequel la vapeur s'échappe vers un circuit de distribution de la vapeur.The spiral-shaped vaporization channel 121 comprises a central end connected to the supply duct 13 through which the water coming from the tank 11 is injected into the vaporization channel 121 so as to be instantly vaporized therein. The vapor thus produced travels along the vaporization channel 121 to be superheated therein, in particular causing vaporization of any water droplets carried by the steam, the vaporization channel 121 having a peripheral end provided with an outlet orifice 121A. through which steam escapes to a steam distribution circuit.

Plus particulièrement selon l'invention, et conformément aux figures 1 et 2, le circuit de distribution de vapeur comporte un conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur dont une extrémité est reliée au cordon 4 du fer à repasser 1 et l'autre extrémité est reliée à l'orifice de sortie 121A du canal de vaporisation 121, le conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur comportant un clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150 possédant une pression de tarage de l'ordre de 3 bars, ce clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150 assurant une mise sous pression du conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur. De cette manière, la vapeur présente dans le conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur à la sortie du générateur de vapeur 12 ne peut passer en direction du fer à repasser 1 que lorsque la pression de vapeur en amont du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150 est supérieure ou égale à 3 bars.More particularly according to the invention, and in accordance with Figures 1 and 2 the steam distribution circuit comprises a steam distribution duct 15, one end of which is connected to the cord 4 of the iron 1 and the other end is connected to the outlet orifice 121A of the vaporization channel 121, the duct Steam dispenser 15 having a pressurizing check valve 150 having a set pressure of the order of 3 bar, said pressurizing check valve 150 providing pressurization of the steam distribution conduit. In this way, the vapor present in the steam distribution duct 15 at the outlet of the steam generator 12 can pass towards the iron 1 only when the vapor pressure upstream of the pressurization check valve 150 is greater than or equal to 3 bars.

A titre d'exemple, le clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150 peut être constitué d'un ressort calibré auquel est fixé un obturateur en silicone venant obturer un orifice.For example, the pressurizing check valve 150 may consist of a calibrated spring which is attached to a silicone shutter from closing an orifice.

Un tel clapet de pressurisation 150 du générateur de vapeur présente l'avantage de permettre la mise en pression du générateur de vapeur 12 et donc le stockage d'une plus grande quantité d'énergie dans le générateur de vapeur 12. En effet, l'énergie est stockée à la fois dans la masse d'aluminium 120 mais également sous forme d'énergie enthalpique, dans la vapeur sous pression. On obtient ainsi un appareil pouvant stocker une plus grande quantité d'énergie, permettant ainsi de retarder l'instant où le fer à repasser 1 se met à couler, c'est-à-dire lorsque le générateur de vapeur 12 n'a plus la capacité énergétique pour vaporiser l'eau qui est envoyée par la pompe 14. De plus, cette plus grande quantité d'énergie stockée est obtenue en conservant une faible masse d'aluminium, ce qui permet de conserver un faible encombrement et un faible coût.Such a pressurizing valve 150 of the steam generator has the advantage of allowing the steam generator 12 to be put under pressure and thus the storage of a greater quantity of energy in the steam generator 12. energy is stored both in the aluminum mass 120 but also in the form of enthalpy energy, in the steam under pressure. This produces an apparatus that can store a larger amount of energy, thereby delaying the instant when the iron 1 begins to flow, that is to say when the steam generator 12 no longer has the energy capacity to vaporize the water that is sent by the pump 14. In addition, this greater amount of stored energy is obtained by keeping a small mass of aluminum, which allows to keep a small footprint and a low cost .

Bien entendu, le débit de la pompe 14 sera adapté aux capacités de vaporisation du générateur de vapeur 12 à vaporisation instantanée et sera choisi de telle sorte qu'un fonctionnement continu de la pompe 14 ne conduise pas rapidement à l'injection d'une quantité d'eau supérieure à la capacité de vaporisation du générateur de vapeur 12 et donc à l'émission de gouttelettes d'eau dans le conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur.Of course, the flow rate of the pump 14 will be adapted to the vaporization capacities of the instantaneous steam generator 12 and will be chosen so that a continuous operation of the pump 14 does not lead rapidly to the injection of a quantity more water than the vaporization capacity of the steam generator 12 and thus the emission of water droplets in the steam distribution duct.

Le fonctionnement de la pompe 14 pourra également être plafonné dans le temps de manière à éviter un fonctionnement prolongé de la pompe. A titre d'exemple, dans le cas d'un appui de plus de 10 secondes en continu sur la gâchette 5, il pourra être prévu d'arrêter la pompe 14 pendant un délai prédéfini.The operation of the pump 14 may also be capped in time so as to avoid prolonged operation of the pump. For example, in the case of a continuous support of more than 10 seconds on the trigger 5, it may be provided to stop the pump 14 for a predefined period.

Dans un mode de réalisation préférentiel de l'invention, le circuit de distribution de la vapeur comporte également un clapet anti-retour de sécurité 160 monté sur un conduit de dérivation 16 connecté d'une part au réservoir d'eau 11 et d'autre part au conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur, en un point de raccordement disposé en aval du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150. Ce clapet anti-retour de sécurité 160 possède une pression de tarage, par exemple de l'ordre de 4 bars, qui est plus élevée que la pression de tarage du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150. Un tel clapet anti-retour de sécurité 160 permet de limiter la pression dans le générateur de vapeur 12, ainsi que dans le cordon 4 du fer à repasser, en détournant la vapeur en direction du réservoir d'eau 11 de l'appareil lorsque la pression devient excessive.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the steam distribution circuit also comprises a safety non-return valve 160 mounted on a bypass duct 16 connected on the one hand to the water tank 11 and on the other hand to the steam distribution duct 15, at a connection point disposed downstream of the pressurization check valve 150. This check valve safety return 160 has a set pressure, for example of the order of 4 bars, which is higher than the calibration pressure of the pressurization check valve 150. Such a safety non-return valve 160 makes it possible to limit the pressure in the steam generator 12, as well as in the cord 4 of the iron, by diverting the steam towards the water tank 11 of the device when the pressure becomes excessive.

De manière préférentielle, le générateur de vapeur 12 comporte également un clapet anti-retour de dépressurisation 170 assurant la mise à l'air libre du générateur de vapeur 12 lorsqu'une dépression apparaît à l'intérieur de ce dernier, un tel phénomène se produisant notamment lors du refroidissement du générateur de vapeur 12. Ce clapet anti-retour de dépressurisation 170 est avantageusement disposé à l'extrémité d'une canalisation 17 reliée au conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur, en amont du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150. A titre d'exemple, le clapet anti-retour de dépressurisation 170 est calibré pour s'ouvrir et assurer la mise à l'air libre du générateur de vapeur 12 lorsque la pression dans la canalisation 17 est inférieure à 50 mbars.Preferably, the steam generator 12 also comprises a depressurization check valve 170 ensuring the venting of the steam generator 12 when a depression appears inside the latter, such a phenomenon occurring. especially during the cooling of the steam generator 12. This depressurization check valve 170 is advantageously disposed at the end of a pipe 17 connected to the steam distribution pipe 15, upstream of the pressurization check valve 150. For example, the depressurization check valve 170 is calibrated to open and ensure the venting of the steam generator 12 when the pressure in the pipe 17 is less than 50 mbar.

Le fonctionnement de l'appareil ainsi réalisé va maintenant être décrit.The operation of the apparatus thus produced will now be described.

Lors du démarrage de l'appareil, le générateur de vapeur 12 est froid et le thermostat commande la mise en marche de la résistance chauffante 122, un voyant étant alors éventuellement allumé sur l'appareil pour signaler la phase de chauffage à l'utilisateur.When starting the device, the steam generator 12 is cold and the thermostat controls the start of the heating resistor 122, a light then possibly being lit on the device to signal the heating phase to the user.

Lorsque le voyant signalant la phase de chauffage est éteint, l'utilisateur peut appuyer sur la gâchette 5 du fer à repasser pour provoquer la mise en marche de la pompe 14 et donc l'injection d'eau dans le générateur de vapeur 12 à vaporisation instantanée. L'eau injectée est alors immédiatement vaporisée dans le canal de vaporisation 121 grâce à l'énergie thermique emmagasinée dans la masse d'aluminium 120. Lors de cette phase initiale de production de vapeur, la vapeur produite ne peut pas s'échapper ni en direction du réservoir 11, du fait de la présence de la pompe 14 et de l'eau dans le conduit d'alimentation 13, ni en direction du fer à repasser 1, du fait de la présence du clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150 qui empêche la sortie de la vapeur vers le fer à repasser 1, de sorte que la pression augmente rapidement dans le générateur de vapeur 12.When the lamp signaling the heating phase is off, the user can press the trigger 5 of the iron to cause the start of the pump 14 and thus the injection of water in the steam generator 12 to vaporization instant. The injected water is then immediately vaporized in the vaporization channel 121 thanks to the thermal energy stored in the aluminum mass 120. During this initial phase of steam production, the vapor produced can not escape either direction of the tank 11, because of the presence of the pump 14 and the water in the conduit 13, nor in the direction of the iron 1, because of the presence of pressurizing check valve 150 which prevents the release of steam to the iron 1, so that the pressure increases rapidly in the steam generator 12.

Lorsque la pression dans le conduit de distribution 15 de vapeur atteint 3 bars, le clapet anti-retour de pressurisation 150 s'ouvre et la vapeur sous pression circule au travers du cordon 4, puis est diffusée au travers des trous de sortie de vapeur de la semelle 2 du fer à repasser 1, permettant d'obtenir de très bonnes performances de repassage.When the pressure in the steam distribution duct reaches 3 bar, the pressurization check valve 150 opens and the pressurized vapor flows through the cord 4 and is diffused through the steam outlet holes the sole 2 of the iron 1, to obtain very good ironing performance.

Dans une variante avantageuse de l'invention, le fer à repasser 1 pourra également comporter une vanne d'arrêt de type robinet, non représentée sur les figures, de manière à interrompre sur commande la diffusion de vapeur au travers des trous de la semelle 2 du fer. Cette vanne d'arrêt sera préférentiellement actionnée par la gâchette 5 du fer à repasser 1 de manière à occuper une position d'ouverture lorsque la gâchette est actionnée, et sera ramenée automatiquement dans une position de repos de fermeture lorsque la gâchette est relâchée, par exemple au moyen d'un ressort ou par la pression de la vapeur.In an advantageous variant of the invention, the iron 1 may also include a valve-type stop valve, not shown in the figures, so as to interrupt on command the diffusion of steam through the holes of the sole 2 iron. This shut-off valve will preferably be actuated by the trigger 5 of the iron 1 so as to occupy an open position when the trigger is actuated, and will be automatically returned to a closed rest position when the trigger is released, by example by means of a spring or by the pressure of the steam.

Un tel appareil présente donc l'avantage d'être économique à fabriquer et de procurer des performances proches de celles des appareils munis d'un générateur de vapeur de type à ébullition, dans lequel de l'eau est chauffée sous pression dans une cuve fermée par une électrovanne. En effet, l'appareil selon l'invention comporte seulement un ou plusieurs clapets anti-retour et est contrôlé par un simple thermostat mécanique de sorte qu'il est bien moins cher à fabriquer que les appareils munis d'électrovannes et d'une sonde de température associée à de l'électronique.Such an apparatus therefore has the advantage of being economical to manufacture and to provide performance similar to that of appliances equipped with a boiling-type steam generator, in which water is heated under pressure in a closed vessel. by a solenoid valve. Indeed, the apparatus according to the invention comprises only one or more check valves and is controlled by a simple mechanical thermostat so that it is much cheaper to manufacture than devices equipped with solenoid valves and a probe of temperature associated with electronics.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est nullement limitée au mode de réalisation décrit et illustré qui n'a été donné qu'à titre d'exemple. Des modifications restent possibles, notamment du point de vue de la constitution des divers éléments ou par substitution d'équivalents techniques, sans sortir pour autant du domaine de protection de l'invention.Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and illustrated which has been given by way of example. Modifications are possible, particularly from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Ainsi, dans une variante de réalisation de l'invention, le générateur de vapeur à vaporisation instantanée pourra comporter un élément chauffant plat sérigraphié à la place de la résistance blindée, le générateur de vapeur pouvant par exemple être conforme au générateur de vapeur en forme de spirale tel que décrit dans la demande de brevet WO 2005118944 .Thus, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the steam generator instant vaporization may include a screen-printed heating element in place of the shielded resistor, the steam generator may for example be in accordance with the spiral-shaped steam generator as described in the patent application WO 2005118944 .

Ainsi, dans une variante de réalisation, il pourra être envisagé de disposer un clapet anti-retour en amont du générateur de vapeur pour éviter la remontée de vapeur sous pression vers le réservoir. Une telle variante peut être utile lorsque l'appareil ne comporte pas de pompe assurant cette fonction.Thus, in an alternative embodiment, it may be envisaged to have a non-return valve upstream of the steam generator to prevent the rise of steam under pressure to the tank. Such a variant may be useful when the apparatus does not include a pump providing this function.

Dans une autre variante de réalisation de l'invention, le sens de circulation dans le canal de vaporisation en forme de spirale du générateur de vapeur pourra être inversé, le canal de vaporisation se trouvant alors relié par son extrémité périphérique au réservoir et par son extrémité centrale au conduit de distribution de vapeur.In another embodiment of the invention, the direction of flow in the spiral vaporization channel of the steam generator can be reversed, the vaporization channel being then connected by its peripheral end to the tank and by its end. central to the steam distribution duct.

Dans une variante de réalisation de l'invention, le générateur de vapeur à vaporisation instantanée pourra être remplacé par une mini-cuve en inox dans laquelle de l'eau est amenée à ébullition.In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the steam vapor generator may be replaced by a mini-stainless steel tank in which water is brought to boiling.

Dans une variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée, le thermostat mécanique de régulation du générateur de vapeur pourra être remplacé par une sonde thermique de type thermistance à coefficient de température négative (CTN).In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown, the mechanical control thermostat of the steam generator may be replaced by a thermistor thermistor type negative temperature coefficient (NTC).

Cette dernière variante de réalisation présente l'avantage de permettre un réglage plus fin de la température permettant d'utiliser des systèmes de vaporisation, de type mini-cuve en inox, et de limiter les pics de pression. De plus, avec une telle variante de réalisation, le débit de la pompe peut être asservi à la température du générateur de vapeur pour éviter tout risque de saturation en eau et éliminer les risques de crachements au niveau du fer.This last embodiment has the advantage of allowing a finer adjustment of the temperature to use vaporization systems, stainless steel mini-tank type, and to limit the pressure peaks. In addition, with such an alternative embodiment, the flow rate of the pump can be controlled by the temperature of the steam generator to avoid any risk of water saturation and eliminate the risk of spitting in the iron.

Dans une variante de réalisation, le générateur de vapeur pourra être relié à une brosse de défroissage ou à un nettoyeur vapeur à la place du fer à repasser.In an alternative embodiment, the steam generator may be connected to a steam brush or a steam cleaner in place of the iron.

Dans une autre variante de réalisation, l'appareil électroménager selon l'invention pourra être une machine à café expresso intégrant une buse pour la diffusion de vapeur alimentée par un générateur de vapeur.In another variant embodiment, the appliance according to the invention may be an espresso coffee machine incorporating a nozzle for vapor diffusion fed by a steam generator.

Claims (10)

  1. Household appliance comprising a steam generator (12) with vaporisation supplied by a reservoir and an accessory (1) for the treatment of laundry, said steam generator (12) being connected to a steam distribution circuit through which the steam produced by the steam generator (12) is conveyed in the direction of said accessory (1) for the treatment of the laundry diffusing steam, said steam distribution circuit comprising an anti-return valve for the pressurisation (150) of a distribution duct (15) connected to said accessory (1) for the treatment of the laundry, said anti-return valve for pressurisation (150) having a calibration pressure adapted in such a way as to allow steam to pass in the direction of said accessory (1) for the treatment of the laundry only when the pressure in the distribution duct (15) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, characterised in that the steam generator (12) is with instantaneous vaporisation and in that said accessory for the treatment of the laundry comprises a manual control valve that makes it possible to interrupt, via control, the diffusion of the steam through said accessory (1) for the treatment of the laundry.
  2. Household appliance according to claim 1, characterised in that a pump (14) is inserted between the reservoir (11) and said steam generator (12), with said pump (14) making it possible to supply said steam generator (12) with liquid with a pressure greater than the calibration pressure of said anti-return valve for pressurisation (150).
  3. Household appliance according to claim 2, characterised in that said calibration pressure of the anti-return valve for pressurisation (150) of the steam distribution duct (15) is between 1 and 4 bars.
  4. Household appliance according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that it comprises an anti-return valve for depressurisation (170) that is automatically opened when the pressure in the steam generator (12) is less than a predetermined threshold.
  5. Household appliance according to claim 4, characterised in that said pressure threshold of the anti-return valve for depressurisation (170) is between 30 and 100 mbars.
  6. Household appliance according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the steam distribution circuit comprises a safety anti-return valve (160) that has a calibration pressure greater than said anti-return valve for pressurisation (150), said safety anti-return valve (160) being arranged downstream of the anti-return valve for pressurisation (150) and upstream of the accessory (1) for the treatment of the laundry.
  7. Household appliance according to claim 6, characterised in that the calibration pressure of the safety anti-return valve (160) is between 4 and 5 bars.
  8. Household appliance according to any of claims 6 to 7, characterised in that the safety anti-return valve (160) is arranged on a derivation duct (16) that connects the steam distribution duct (15) to the reservoir (11).
  9. Household appliance according to claim 1, characterised in that said steam generator (12) with instantaneous vaporisation comprises a vaporisation channel (121) in spiral shape of which one end is supplied with liquid by the reservoir (11), with the other end being connected to the steam distribution duct (15).
  10. Household appliance according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that said accessory (1) is a steam iron.
EP10305722.0A 2009-07-10 2010-07-02 Household device including a steam generator Active EP2423581B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0903411A FR2947892B1 (en) 2009-07-10 2009-07-10 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A STEAM GENERATOR

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2423581A2 EP2423581A2 (en) 2012-02-29
EP2423581A3 EP2423581A3 (en) 2014-07-02
EP2423581B1 true EP2423581B1 (en) 2019-09-18

Family

ID=42136174

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP10305722.0A Active EP2423581B1 (en) 2009-07-10 2010-07-02 Household device including a steam generator

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2423581B1 (en)
CN (1) CN101949090B (en)
FR (1) FR2947892B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2540782C2 (en)

Families Citing this family (20)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ITGE20120006A1 (en) * 2012-01-19 2013-07-20 Longhi Appliances S R L Divi Sione Commerci De " IRON "
JP2013208251A (en) * 2012-03-30 2013-10-10 Panasonic Corp Clothing processing device
CN103776010B (en) * 2014-01-17 2015-09-30 青岛云路新能源科技有限公司 Helicoidal stream generator
CN104545712A (en) * 2015-01-12 2015-04-29 余姚市吉佳电器有限公司 Steam cleaner steam control device
EP3142797B1 (en) * 2015-02-17 2019-04-10 Koninklijke Philips N.V. A spray nozzle
CN105202511B (en) * 2015-10-26 2017-10-13 中国船舶重工集团公司第七一八研究所 Confined space vapor continuous generator
CN107237112B (en) * 2016-03-28 2019-02-22 佛山市顺德区美的电热电器制造有限公司 A kind of Garment Steamer Machine automatic steam control method and Garment Steamer Machine
WO2017186507A1 (en) * 2016-04-26 2017-11-02 Koninklijke Philips N.V. System to pressurize water in a garment care device
FR3067725B1 (en) * 2017-06-19 2019-07-05 Seb S.A. APPARATUS FOR THE TREATMENT OF LAUNDRY COMPRISING AN INSTANTANEOUS VAPORIZATION STEAM GENERATOR
US11083328B2 (en) * 2017-06-22 2021-08-10 Starbucks Corporation Apparatus and method for foaming a beverage
EP3977010B1 (en) * 2019-06-03 2023-12-20 Swisslogo AG Device for generating steam
CN110205789A (en) * 2019-07-03 2019-09-06 深圳汉明威智能设备有限公司 A kind of steam iron and its heating device
CN113123104B (en) * 2019-12-31 2022-06-21 莱克电气绿能科技(苏州)有限公司 Steam ironing machine
CN111636179B (en) * 2020-05-31 2022-05-17 宁波凯波智能熨烫电器制造有限公司 Clothes care steam device, appliance and steam control method
CN111839195B (en) * 2020-07-13 2022-01-28 广东美的厨房电器制造有限公司 Steam household electrical appliance
CN111974467B (en) * 2020-09-01 2022-03-25 上海搏旅仪器有限公司 Humidifier of programmable damp-heat alternating test box
IT202200011180A1 (en) * 2022-05-27 2023-11-27 Polti Spa Steam generation system including a small-sized “instant steam technology” boiler
IT202200011141A1 (en) * 2022-05-27 2023-11-27 Polti Spa Steam iron with instant steam delivery "instant steam technology"
WO2023227762A1 (en) * 2022-05-27 2023-11-30 Polti S.P.A. Steam iron with instant steam technology
FR3141191A1 (en) * 2022-10-20 2024-04-26 Seb S.A. Kit for a steam diffusion accessory

Family Cites Families (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT8321475V0 (en) * 1983-04-08 1983-04-08 Cavalli Alfredo EQUIPMENT FOR THE PRODUCTION OF STEAM FOR DOMESTIC USE, IN PARTICULAR FOR STEAM IRON.
EP0696706A1 (en) * 1994-08-08 1996-02-14 Giuseppe Giannelli Safety device for vapour generator
IT1288957B1 (en) * 1996-07-26 1998-09-25 Esse 85 Srl STEAM GENERATOR FOR IRON OR SIMILAR
US6061935A (en) * 1998-10-16 2000-05-16 Chiaphua Industries Limited Appliance for treating garment with steamer and iron
US6212332B1 (en) * 1998-12-15 2001-04-03 John C. K. Sham Steam iron station
IT1311200B1 (en) * 1999-02-01 2002-03-04 Euro Star Srl STEAM GENERATOR FOR CLEANING MACHINES, IRON, MACHINES FOR COFFEE AND SIMILAR.
DE10201186A1 (en) * 2002-01-14 2003-07-24 Reinhard Cordes steam iron
AU2002319908A1 (en) * 2002-07-05 2004-01-23 Polti S.P.A. Equipment for steam generation for household appliance
WO2005118944A1 (en) 2004-06-02 2005-12-15 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Steam generator having at least one spiral-shaped steam channel and at least one flat resistive heating element
BRPI0612836B1 (en) * 2005-07-11 2019-09-17 Koninklijke Philips N.V METHOD FOR RESTRICTING A BOILER SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A STEAM DEVICE
FR2889210B1 (en) * 2005-07-26 2007-09-07 Seb Sa HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A STEAM GENERATOR CONNECTED BY SEVERAL CORDS WITH DIFFERENT ACCESSORIES
CN100414032C (en) * 2006-02-09 2008-08-27 徐建群 Improved structure of steam electric iron
FR2898612B1 (en) * 2006-03-16 2008-08-01 Domena Soc Par Actions Simplif IRONING APPARATUS
DE102007054457A1 (en) * 2006-11-13 2008-05-29 Förster Technik GmbH Steam producing method for heating and/or cleaning animal feeding device and its accessories, involves initially extracting steam that is produced in steam generator from steam generator by opening valve after reaching selectable pressure
FR2913696B1 (en) * 2007-03-14 2009-04-17 Rowenta Werke Gmbh STEAM IRON COMPRISING A RESERVOIR HAVING A SAFETY DEVICE AGAINST SURPRISES

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2947892A1 (en) 2011-01-14
FR2947892B1 (en) 2012-08-10
RU2010128567A (en) 2012-01-20
EP2423581A3 (en) 2014-07-02
CN101949090A (en) 2011-01-19
RU2540782C2 (en) 2015-02-10
CN101949090B (en) 2013-10-23
EP2423581A2 (en) 2012-02-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2423581B1 (en) Household device including a steam generator
EP3640395B1 (en) Steam crease removal device
EP2705190B1 (en) Ironing appliance comprising a cordless clothes iron and a recharging base
EP3558070B1 (en) Improved steamer accessory for steam-heating and/or steam-cooking food in a container
EP3868952B1 (en) Portable crease removal device
FR2889212A1 (en) IRONING APPARATUS COMPRISING A STEAM GENERATOR CONNECTED TO AN IRON AND A DEFROSTING BRUSH
EP3418440B1 (en) Laundry treating apparatus comprising a flash steam generator
WO2007012721A2 (en) Household appliance comprising a steam generator connected by several cords to different accessories
EP2578743A1 (en) Household appliance comprising a steam distribution circuit
EP3336240B1 (en) Iron comprising a device for retention and vaporisation of condensates
EP2705189B1 (en) Clothes iron including a button for controlling the steam
FR3081887A1 (en) IRONING APPARATUS HAVING A STEAM CONTROL MEMBER
EP3336245B1 (en) Steam ironing appliance comprising a steam-generating base and an iron connected to one another by a conduit
EP3868953B1 (en) Portable crease removal device
FR2853671A1 (en) Domestic steam iron for ironing fabric, has steam generator with vaporization chamber heated by heating unit at specific temperature to transform cold water under pressure introduced into chamber into steam
FR2691233A1 (en) Domestic and industrial steam generator with immediate response - has intermediate chamber connected to storage tank during demand periods only, and to boiler only when idling.
EP2126189A1 (en) Steam iron with tank including overpressure safety device
FR2940981A1 (en) STEAM IRON COMPRISING A HEATING BODY HAVING AN INSERT
EP3575486B1 (en) Ironing device provided with a steam control unit
FR2739919A1 (en) Hand=held hair=drier with humidified hot air output
EP3985167A1 (en) Portable crease removal device comprising a device for distributing an additive
WO2023089283A1 (en) Steam laundry treatment apparatus

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME RS

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

PUAL Search report despatched

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A3

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME RS

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: F22B 1/28 20060101AFI20140526BHEP

Ipc: D06F 75/12 20060101ALI20140526BHEP

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20141124

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK SM TR

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: SEB S.A.

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R079

Ref document number: 602010061082

Country of ref document: DE

Free format text: PREVIOUS MAIN CLASS: F22B0001280000

Ipc: D06F0075060000

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: F22B 1/28 20060101ALI20190327BHEP

Ipc: D06F 75/12 20060101ALI20190327BHEP

Ipc: D06F 75/06 20060101AFI20190327BHEP

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20190417

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602010061082

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1181430

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20191015

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20190918

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20191218

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20191218

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20191219

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1181430

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20190918

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200120

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200224

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602010061082

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG2D Information on lapse in contracting state deleted

Ref country code: IS

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200119

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20200619

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20200702

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20200731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200731

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200702

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200731

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200702

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200702

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20200702

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20210729

Year of fee payment: 12

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20210712

Year of fee payment: 12

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190918

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602010061082

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230201