EP3757279B1 - Iron comprising a device for retaining scale particles carried by steam - Google Patents

Iron comprising a device for retaining scale particles carried by steam Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3757279B1
EP3757279B1 EP20181696.4A EP20181696A EP3757279B1 EP 3757279 B1 EP3757279 B1 EP 3757279B1 EP 20181696 A EP20181696 A EP 20181696A EP 3757279 B1 EP3757279 B1 EP 3757279B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
iron
steam
heating body
exhaust channel
retention device
Prior art date
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EP20181696.4A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3757279A1 (en
Inventor
Frédéric COLLET
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SEB SA
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SEB SA
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Publication of EP3757279A1 publication Critical patent/EP3757279A1/en
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    • 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
    • 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
    • D06F75/14—Hand irons internally heated by electricity with means for supplying steam to the article being ironed the steam being produced from water in a reservoir carried by the iron
    • 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
    • D06F34/00—Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/14—Arrangements for detecting or measuring specific parameters
    • D06F34/20—Parameters relating to constructional components, e.g. door sensors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an iron comprising an ironing plate provided with at least one steam outlet hole, a heating body comprising a lower face in thermal contact with the ironing plate and an upper face at the level of which a vaporization chamber for the production of a stream of steam is arranged, and a distribution circuit making it possible to route the stream of steam towards the steam outlet hole(s) of the ironing plate.
  • the invention relates more particularly to an iron in which the steam distribution circuit comprises a cavity in which is arranged a device for retaining scale particles transported by the steam flow, the cavity having, on one side , one end closed by a removable plug, accessible from outside the device, by which the retention device can be extracted from the device for cleaning and, on the other side, an end communicating with an opening provided in a partition delimiting the rear end of the vaporization chamber and through which the flow of vapor enters the cavity.
  • the steam distribution circuit comprises a cavity comprising a scale collector container comprising a filtration grid intended to retain the particles of scale transported by the steam flow, the scale collector container being removable by an orifice made on the the heel of the iron.
  • Such an iron has the advantage of retaining, upstream of the filtration grid, the largest particles of tartar preventing the latter from being emitted by the steam outlet holes of the ironing plate and do not stain the laundry.
  • Such an iron also has the advantage of comprising a heating body having a compact construction, in particular in the height direction.
  • this construction comprises a duct for receiving the tartar collector container which is partially introduced into the vaporization chamber and limits the useful surface of the latter.
  • the steam distribution circuit arranged downstream of the filtration grid comprises channels which extend to the periphery of the vaporization chamber and which therefore reduce the space available for the latter.
  • an object of the present invention is to provide an iron remedying these drawbacks.
  • an object of the invention is to provide an iron comprising a steam distribution circuit associated with a scale particle retention device, having a compact construction and making it possible to produce a high steam output.
  • the invention relates to an iron comprising an ironing plate provided with at least one steam outlet hole, a heating body comprising a lower face thermally connected with the ironing plate and an upper face at the level of which a vaporization chamber for the production of a stream of steam is provided, and a steam distribution circuit making it possible to convey the stream of steam to the said at least one steam outlet hole of the ironing plate, the circuit comprising at least one outlet orifice, an exhaust channel, a steam distribution chamber formed between the underside of the heating body and the ironing plate, a cavity in which is placed a retention device comprising a filtration grid intended to retain scale particles transported by the steam flow, the outlet orifice communicating with the exhaust channel, the exhaust channel opening into the chamber re for distributing steam, the cavity having, on one side, an end provided with an orifice closed by an accessible removable plug from the exterior of the appliance, by which the retention device can be extracted from the iron for cleaning and, on the other side, an end communicating with an opening made in a partition delimiting the rear
  • the iron thus produced has the advantage of presenting a greater compactness of the distribution circuit thanks to the orientation of the exhaust channel in the direction of the ironing plate at the level of the rear of the heating body.
  • the volume available for the vaporization chamber in the central zone of the heating body is greater.
  • the exhaust channel opens out at the rear end of the steam distribution chamber.
  • the exhaust channel opens into the steam distribution chamber in a zone located near the rear end of the vaporization chamber.
  • the exhaust channel is provided in a rear part of the heating body arranged laterally to the vaporization chamber and the outlet orifice is arranged laterally to the retention device.
  • the exhaust channel has a downwardly angled shape.
  • the outlet channel has a length of less than 5 cm.
  • the iron comprises two outlet orifices arranged laterally on either side of the retention device, each outlet orifice communicating with an exhaust channel.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to obtain a homogeneous and symmetrical distribution of the flow of vapor in the vapor diffusion chamber.
  • the iron comprises a pump making it possible to inject pressurized water into the vaporization chamber.
  • Such a characteristic makes it possible to supply the vaporization chamber with a regular flow of water independently of the rise in pressure which may occur in the vaporization chamber.
  • the cavity is provided, at least in part, in a part which is attached to the heating body, the part comprising a main opening communicating with the opening made in the partition, the orifice outlet of the cavity being arranged parallel to the main opening.
  • the part is fixed on a fixing interface arranged at a rear end of the heating body, the fixing interface comprising a steam supply conduit comprising a first end passing through the partition to emerge in the vaporization chamber and a second end facing the main opening of the room.
  • the attachment interface comprises at least one outlet orifice.
  • the retention device comprises a scale collecting receptacle introduced into the cavity through the scale evacuation orifice, the receptacle being arranged upstream of the filtration grid with respect to in the direction of flow of the steam stream.
  • Such a feature has the advantage of allowing the removal of scale from the iron by simply removing the scale collection container through the hole.
  • the scale recovery container has a storage volume greater than 4 cm3.
  • Such a feature makes it possible to collect the scale particles accumulated between two interviews, as well as the non-vaporized water in the vaporization chamber, without soiling the filtration grid.
  • the retention device has an open front end and a closed rear end, the retention device comprising a side window, receiving the filtration grid, through which the flow of vapor escapes from the retention device.
  • the retention device comprises a seal on either side of the window.
  • the retention device is secured to the stopper.
  • Such a feature makes it possible to have a retention device which is automatically extracted from the device when the plug is removed, allowing systematic inspection of the state of the filtration grid by the user when a cleaning operation is carried out. .
  • Such a characteristic also makes it possible to reduce the number of manipulations that the user must perform to access the filtration grid and thus to prevent the user from forgetting to replace the filtration grid after cleaning it.
  • the iron comprises a casing which surmounts the heating body, the casing incorporating a reservoir which supplies the vaporization chamber with liquid.
  • the openings of the filtration grid have a maximum side size of 0.5 mm.
  • the vaporization chamber is a instant vaporization chamber.
  • the iron has a heel on which it can rest during inactive ironing phases.
  • the scale evacuation orifice opens at the level of the heel of the iron.
  • Such a characteristic has the advantage of offering excellent access to the scale evacuation orifice when the iron rests on its ironing plate.
  • the figure 1 illustrates a steam iron 1 comprising an ironing plate 10 provided with a set of steam outlet holes 10A, visible on the figures 7 and 8 , the ironing plate 10 being surmounted by a plastic casing comprising a gripping handle 11 extending longitudinally to the iron.
  • the handle 11 has a rear end extending by a heel 12 on which the iron can rest substantially vertically during the inactive phases of ironing, the heel 12 comprising two arms defining between them a space receiving a removable plug 13 giving access to a orifice 50 for removing scale.
  • the cap 13 is fixed on a rear surface 12A of the housing, inscribed inside the heel 12, by a bayonet-type fixing similar to that described in more detail in the patent application FR 2 981 371 filed by the applicant, the rear surface of the case being slightly inclined forwards to provide easier access when the iron rests horizontally on its ironing plate 10.
  • the ironing plate 10 is thermally and mechanically linked to a heating body 2 integrated in the lower part of the housing, the heating body 2 comprising an aluminum casting conventionally comprising a resistive element 20 curved in a horseshoe and a boss 21 provided for receive a thermostat for regulating the temperature of the ironing plate 10.
  • the ironing plate 10 comprises, in a manner known per se, a pointed front end and has a width which gradually increases from the pointed front end to a rounded rear end.
  • the heating body 2 comprises a peripheral wall 22 which laterally delimits a vaporization chamber 3 of the instantaneous vaporization type, comprising a bottom advantageously having a multitude of pyramidal pads making it possible to increase the heat exchange surface.
  • the vaporization chamber 3 is arranged in the center of the heating body 2 and is connected to the steam outlet holes 10A of the ironing plate 10 by a steam distribution circuit.
  • the heating body 2 also comprises a closing plate 24 which comes to rest on the upper edge of the peripheral wall 22, this closing plate 24 being surmounted by a water reservoir, not shown in the figures, integrated in the casing iron.
  • the tank is connected to an electric pump 9, visible on the picture 3 , advantageously arranged at the rear of the iron, the operation of which is controlled by means of a trigger 15 arranged under the handle 11 of the iron.
  • the pump 9 supplies water to the vaporization chamber 3 with a pressure greater than 500 Pa, the water being diffused through an injection nozzle 29 arranged on the closure plate 24, the assembly being adapted to allow the production of a steam flow higher than 60 gr/min according to the standardized cycle of 5 sec of vaporization followed by 15 sec of stop.
  • the peripheral wall 22 has a planar partition 22A delimiting the rear end of the vaporization chamber 3, the partition 22A being attached to a rear block of the heating body 2 at the level of which the two ends of the resistive element 20 emerge.
  • rear block forms a fixing flange 23 on which is fixed a collector 5, the partition 22A having an opening 22B through which the steam produced in the vaporization chamber 3 can escape in the direction of the collector 5.
  • the rear block of the heating body 2 comprises a steam supply duct 25 comprising a front end which is connected to the opening 22B, and comprising a rear end connected in leaktight manner to a connecting piece 53 defining the front end of the manifold 5, the duct 25 being advantageously inclined in the order of 15° parallel to the plane of the ironing plate 10.
  • the duct 25 and the opening 22B have a passage section greater than 200 mm 2 and preferably of the order of 300 mm 2 , such a passage section making it possible to prevent the duct 25 and the opening 22B cannot be quickly blocked by scale.
  • the collector 5 advantageously has an envelope of oblong passage section comprising a front end connected to the fixing flange 23 via the connecting piece 53, and a rear end comprising the orifice 50 receiving the plug 13 removable.
  • the connecting piece 53 comprises a main opening 54 coming in the extension of the duct 25 and placing the duct 25 in communication with a receiving cavity 51 arranged inside the collector 5 in which is arranged, in a manner known per se, a cavity of a retention device 8 for scale particles, the latter being able to be extracted or introduced into the cavity 51 through the orifice 50.
  • the collector 5 extends obliquely relative to the plane of the ironing plate 10, making an angle of the order of 10°, and it is cantilevered behind the ironing plate 10 when the iron 1 rests flat on its ironing plate 10.
  • the connecting piece 53 and the casing of the collector 5 are advantageously made by molding in plastic material, for example in material of the PPS (polyphenylene sulphide) type.
  • the connecting piece 53 is attached to the aluminum heating body 2 while being connected in a sealed manner to the latter, the main opening 54 advantageously having a rectangular shape and being delimited laterally by a projecting rib 55, visible on the figure 6 , which fits into a shoulder formed at the end of the conduit 25.
  • the device 8 for retaining scale particles comprises a container 6 for collecting scale, advantageously made of plastic material, of the PA 6-6 polyamide type reinforced with 30% fiberglass.
  • the container 6 has a mouthpiece 60 comprising an axial opening through which the flow of vapor emitted by the vaporization chamber 3 is admitted into the container 6, and a closed rear end fixed to the cap 13.
  • the receptacle 6 supports a first seal 61 made of silicone carried by the endpiece 60 which engages in the connecting piece 53 to establish a substantially leaktight connection with the latter when the stopper 13 occupies a closed position in which it is locked on the rear surface 12A of the iron 1.
  • the container 6 also includes a second silicone seal 62 which comes into contact with the interior wall of the cavity 51, at the edge of the orifice 50, to prevent the emission of steam through the orifice 50 when the cap 13 occupies the closed position.
  • the container 6 comprises, between the two seals 61, 62, two windows 63 open both on the side face and the upper face of the container 6, the two windows 63 being arranged on either side of a longitudinal bar 63A arranged at the top of the container 6.
  • the container 6 comprises a filtration grid 7 which extends through the windows 63 and over their entire surface.
  • the grid 7 has calibrated openings to retain the largest scale particles while providing a passage section sufficient for the required steam flow.
  • the filtration grid 7 is made of stainless steel wire with a diameter of between 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm, or of glass fabric made from a braided wire 1 mm in diameter , and has square openings less than 0.5 mm square, and preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.5 mm.
  • the container 6 comprises a hollow lower part, preferably having a volume of the order of 4 to 15 cm3, in which the scale particles can be stored, the front end of the hollow part having a step 6A making it possible to prevent the scale collected in the container 6 from returning by gravity into the vaporization chamber 3 when the iron 1 is placed on its ironing plate 10.
  • the connecting piece 53 comprises two outlet orifices 56 arranged laterally on either side of the main opening 54, these two outlet orifices 56 communicating with exhaust channels 26 passing through the heating body 2, extending towards the underside of the heating body 2, to open into a steam distribution chamber 27 located between the heating body 2 and the ironing plate 10.
  • the outlet orifices 56 have a reduced passage section which facilitates their installation on either side of the main opening 54 without increasing the height of the heating body 2.
  • these exhaust channels 26 are advantageously formed in the rear part of the heating body 2, laterally to the vaporization chamber 3, the exhaust channels 26 extending laterally to the conduit 25 and having a downwardly bent shape.
  • the exhaust channels 26 open out at the height of the rear end of the vaporization chamber 3 and at the level of the rear end of the steam distribution chamber 27, so that the exhaust channels 26 have a short length, preferably less than 5 cm.
  • the underside of the heating body 2 comprises flat surfaces 28 which protrude into the steam distribution chamber 27 and come into contact with the ironing plate 10 at the level of areas of the ironing plate 10 without steam outlet holes. , when the latter is assembled to the heating body 2, so as to produce heat transfer zones by conduction between the ironing plate 10 and the heating body 2.
  • the electric pump 9 When the trigger 15 of the iron 1 is actuated by the user, the electric pump 9 is put into operation and water is sent through the nozzle 29.
  • the evaporation of the water creates the formation of a layer of calcium carbonate in the bottom of the vaporization chamber 3 which gradually disintegrates into small particles of tartar under the effect in particular of the expansion of the heating body 2 during cooling phases between two ironing sessions.
  • the scale particles are driven by the flow of steam in the direction of the opening 22B and are, in part, sent by their inertia into the bottom of the container 6 scale collector where they are trapped, and, in part, sent towards the filtration grid 7.
  • This inertial separation of the scale particles is carried out in particular thanks to the turn of the order of 90° that the flow of steam makes at the inlet of the grid 7.
  • the displacement of the scale particles towards the container 6 is also carried out by gravity each time the iron 1 is placed on its heel 12, the storage volume provided in the hollow part of the container 6 being adapted to receive the particles scale, accompanied by any drops of water, without the latter coming into contact with the grid 7, thus avoiding its soiling.
  • the user can easily extract the receptacle 6 collecting the cavity 51 by unlocking the stopper 13 and moving it backwards so as to cause the container 6 to slide axially through the orifice 50 for removing the scale.
  • container 6 can then be emptied and container 6 can be run under tap water for cleaning. If the user deems it necessary, he can also clean the grid 7 by rubbing it under water with a brush or by immersing it in a descaling liquid.
  • the iron thus produced comprises a steam distribution circuit, associated with a particle retention device, which have the advantage of being extremely compact, which makes it possible to propose an iron of small size and weight. reduced.
  • the short path of the exhaust ducts at the outlet of the particle retention device makes it possible to reduce the bulk, which contributes to obtaining a compact heating body.
  • the use of a pump injecting pressurized water into the vaporization chamber makes it possible to obtain a high steam flow rate.
  • the tartar collector container may not be fixed to the stopper but may comprise at its rear end a handle allowing it to be gripped manually by the user after the stopper has been removed.
  • the filtration grid can be removably mounted on the scale collector container so that the filtration grid can be changed if necessary.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne un fer à repasser comportant une plaque de repassage munie d'au moins un trou de sortie de vapeur,
un corps chauffant comprenant une face inférieure en contact thermique avec la plaque de repassage et une face supérieure au niveau de laquelle une chambre de vaporisation pour la production d'un flux de vapeur est ménagée, et un circuit de distribution permettant d'acheminer le flux de vapeur vers le ou les trous de sortie de vapeur de la plaque de repassage.The present invention relates to an iron comprising an ironing plate provided with at least one steam outlet hole,
a heating body comprising a lower face in thermal contact with the ironing plate and an upper face at the level of which a vaporization chamber for the production of a stream of steam is arranged, and a distribution circuit making it possible to route the stream of steam towards the steam outlet hole(s) of the ironing plate.

L'invention se rapporte plus particulièrement à un fer à repasser dans lequel le circuit de distribution de vapeur comprend une cavité dans laquelle est disposée un dispositif de rétention des particules de tartre transportées par le flux de vapeur, la cavité présentant, d'un côté, une extrémité fermée par un bouchon amovible, accessible depuis l'extérieur de l'appareil, par laquelle le dispositif de rétention peut être extrait de l'appareil pour son nettoyage et, de l'autre côté, une extrémité communicant avec une ouverture ménagée dans une cloison délimitant l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de vaporisation et par laquelle le flux de vapeur pénètre dans la cavité.The invention relates more particularly to an iron in which the steam distribution circuit comprises a cavity in which is arranged a device for retaining scale particles transported by the steam flow, the cavity having, on one side , one end closed by a removable plug, accessible from outside the device, by which the retention device can be extracted from the device for cleaning and, on the other side, an end communicating with an opening provided in a partition delimiting the rear end of the vaporization chamber and through which the flow of vapor enters the cavity.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Il est connu, de la demande de brevet FR3062857 déposée par la demanderesse, un fer à repasser comprenant un circuit de distribution de vapeur reliant une chambre de vaporisation instantanée à des trous de sortie de vapeur ménagés dans la plaque de repassage du fer à repasser. Dans ce document, le circuit de distribution de vapeur comporte une cavité comportant un récipient récupérateur de tartre comprenant une grille de filtration destinée à retenir les particules de tartre transportées par le flux de vapeur, le récipient récupérateur de tartre étant amovible par un orifice ménagé sur le talon du fer à repasser.It is known, from the patent application FR3062857 filed by the applicant, an iron comprising a steam distribution circuit connecting an instantaneous vaporization chamber to steam outlet holes formed in the ironing plate of the iron. In this document, the steam distribution circuit comprises a cavity comprising a scale collector container comprising a filtration grid intended to retain the particles of scale transported by the steam flow, the scale collector container being removable by an orifice made on the the heel of the iron.

Un tel fer à repasser présente l'avantage de retenir, en amont de la grille de filtration, les plus grosses particules de tartre évitant que ces dernières ne soient émises par les trous de sortie de vapeur de la plaque de repassage et ne viennent tacher le linge. Un tel fer à repasser a également l'avantage de comporter un corps chauffant présentant une construction compacte, notamment dans le sens de la hauteur.Such an iron has the advantage of retaining, upstream of the filtration grid, the largest particles of tartar preventing the latter from being emitted by the steam outlet holes of the ironing plate and do not stain the laundry. Such an iron also has the advantage of comprising a heating body having a compact construction, in particular in the height direction.

Cependant, cette construction comporte un conduit de réception du récipient récupérateur de tartre qui est introduit partiellement dans la chambre de vaporisation et vient limiter la surface utile de cette dernière. De plus, le circuit de distribution de vapeur disposé en aval de la grille de filtration comprend des canaux qui s'étendent à la périphérie de la chambre de vaporisation et qui viennent donc réduire l'espace disponible pour cette dernière.However, this construction comprises a duct for receiving the tartar collector container which is partially introduced into the vaporization chamber and limits the useful surface of the latter. In addition, the steam distribution circuit arranged downstream of the filtration grid comprises channels which extend to the periphery of the vaporization chamber and which therefore reduce the space available for the latter.

Il est également connu des documents US2014/298693 , DE10200403261 un fer à repasser comprenant un circuit de distribution de vapeur comportant un dispositif de rétention des particules de tartre transportées par le flux de vapeur. Le document WO 2018/216046 divulgue quant à lui un fer à repasser comprenant un circuit de distribution de vapeur comprenant une cavité fermée par un bouchon amovible accessible depuis l'extérieur de l'appareil.It is also known from documents US2014/298693 , DE10200403261 an iron comprising a steam distribution circuit comprising a device for retaining scale particles transported by the steam flow. The document WO 2018/216046 discloses an iron comprising a steam distribution circuit comprising a cavity closed by a removable plug accessible from outside the appliance.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

Aussi, un but de la présente invention est de proposer un fer à repasser remédiant à ces inconvénients. En particulier, un but de l'invention est de proposer un fer à repasser comportant un circuit de distribution de vapeur associé à un dispositif de rétention des particules de tartre, présentant une construction compacte et permettant de produire un débit de vapeur élevé.Also, an object of the present invention is to provide an iron remedying these drawbacks. In particular, an object of the invention is to provide an iron comprising a steam distribution circuit associated with a scale particle retention device, having a compact construction and making it possible to produce a high steam output.

A cet effet, l'invention se rapporte à un fer à repasser comportant une plaque de repassage munie d'au moins un trou de sortie vapeur, un corps chauffant comprenant une face inférieure reliée thermiquement avec la plaque de repassage et une face supérieure au niveau de laquelle une chambre de vaporisation pour la production d'un flux de vapeur est ménagée, et un circuit de distribution de vapeur permettant d'acheminer le flux de vapeur vers ledit au moins un trou de sortie de vapeur de la plaque de repassage, le circuit comprenant au moins un orifice de sortie, un canal d'échappement, une chambre de distribution de vapeur ménagée entre la face inférieure du corps chauffant et la plaque de repassage, une cavité dans laquelle est disposé un dispositif de rétention comprenant une grille de filtration destinée à retenir des particules de tartre transportées par le flux de vapeur, , l'orifice de sortie communiquant avec le canal d'échappement, le canal d'échappement débouchant dans la chambre de distribution de vapeur, la cavité présentant, d'un côté, une extrémité munie d'un orifice fermé par un bouchon amovible accessible depuis l'extérieur de l'appareil, par lequel le dispositif de rétention peut être extrait du fer à repasser pour son nettoyage et, de l'autre côté, une extrémité communicant avec une ouverture ménagée dans une cloison délimitant l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de vaporisation et par laquelle le flux de vapeur pénètre dans la cavité, pendant l'utilisation le flux de vapeur s'échappant de la cavité, après avoir traversé la grille de filtration, en passant par au moins l'orifice de sortie, caractérisé en ce que la chambre de vaporisation est délimitée latéralement par une paroi périphérique faisant saillie sur la face supérieure du corps chauffant et est fermée dans sa partie supérieure par une plaque de fermeture reposant sur la paroi périphérique, et en ce que le canal d'échappement s'étend à l'extérieur du volume délimité par la paroi périphérique et la plaque de fermeture, le canal d'échappement s'étendant en direction de la face inférieure du corps chauffant en passant sur le côté et/ou sous la chambre de vaporisation.To this end, the invention relates to an iron comprising an ironing plate provided with at least one steam outlet hole, a heating body comprising a lower face thermally connected with the ironing plate and an upper face at the level of which a vaporization chamber for the production of a stream of steam is provided, and a steam distribution circuit making it possible to convey the stream of steam to the said at least one steam outlet hole of the ironing plate, the circuit comprising at least one outlet orifice, an exhaust channel, a steam distribution chamber formed between the underside of the heating body and the ironing plate, a cavity in which is placed a retention device comprising a filtration grid intended to retain scale particles transported by the steam flow, the outlet orifice communicating with the exhaust channel, the exhaust channel opening into the chamber re for distributing steam, the cavity having, on one side, an end provided with an orifice closed by an accessible removable plug from the exterior of the appliance, by which the retention device can be extracted from the iron for cleaning and, on the other side, an end communicating with an opening made in a partition delimiting the rear end of the vaporization chamber and through which the flow of steam enters the cavity, during use the flow of steam escaping from the cavity, after having passed through the filtration grid, passing through at least the outlet orifice, characterized in that the vaporization chamber is delimited laterally by a peripheral wall projecting from the upper face of the heating body and is closed in its upper part by a closure plate resting on the peripheral wall, and in that the exhaust channel extends outside the volume delimited by the peripheral wall and the closing plate, the exhaust channel extending in the direction of the underside of the heating body passing to the side and/or under the vaporization chamber.

Le fer à repasser ainsi réalisé a l'avantage de présenter une plus grande compacité du circuit de distribution grâce à l'orientation du canal d'échappement en direction de la plaque de repassage au niveau de l'arrière du corps chauffant. Ainsi, le volume disponible pour la chambre de vaporisation dans la zone centrale du corps chauffant est plus important.The iron thus produced has the advantage of presenting a greater compactness of the distribution circuit thanks to the orientation of the exhaust channel in the direction of the ironing plate at the level of the rear of the heating body. Thus, the volume available for the vaporization chamber in the central zone of the heating body is greater.

Selon une caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le canal d'échappement débouche au niveau de l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de distribution de vapeur.According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the exhaust channel opens out at the rear end of the steam distribution chamber.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le canal d'échappement débouche dans la chambre de distribution de vapeur dans une zone située au voisinage de l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de vaporisation.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the exhaust channel opens into the steam distribution chamber in a zone located near the rear end of the vaporization chamber.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le canal d'échappement est ménagé dans une partie arrière du corps chauffant disposée latéralement à la chambre de vaporisation et l'orifice de sortie est disposé latéralement au dispositif de rétention.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the exhaust channel is provided in a rear part of the heating body arranged laterally to the vaporization chamber and the outlet orifice is arranged laterally to the retention device.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le canal d'échappement présente une forme coudée vers le bas.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the exhaust channel has a downwardly angled shape.

Une telle caractéristique permet de limiter la longueur du canal d'échappement et donc son encombrement.Such a characteristic makes it possible to limit the length of the exhaust channel and therefore its size.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le canal de sortie présente une longueur inférieure à 5 cm.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the outlet channel has a length of less than 5 cm.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le fer à repasser comporte deux orifices de sortie disposés latéralement de part et d'autre du dispositif de rétention, chaque orifice de sortie communiquant avec un canal d'échappement.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the iron comprises two outlet orifices arranged laterally on either side of the retention device, each outlet orifice communicating with an exhaust channel.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'obtenir une répartition homogène et symétrique du flux de vapeur dans la chambre de diffusion de vapeur.Such a characteristic makes it possible to obtain a homogeneous and symmetrical distribution of the flow of vapor in the vapor diffusion chamber.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le fer à repasser comporte une pompe permettant d'injecter de l'eau sous pression dans la chambre de vaporisation.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the iron comprises a pump making it possible to inject pressurized water into the vaporization chamber.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'alimenter la chambre de vaporisation avec un débit d'eau régulier indépendamment de l'élévation de la pression pouvant se produire dans la chambre de vaporisation.Such a characteristic makes it possible to supply the vaporization chamber with a regular flow of water independently of the rise in pressure which may occur in the vaporization chamber.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, la cavité est ménagée, au moins en partie, dans une pièce qui est rapportée sur le corps chauffant, la pièce comprenant une ouverture principale communiquant avec l'ouverture ménagée dans la cloison, l'orifice de sortie de la cavité étant disposé parallèlement à l'ouverture principale.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the cavity is provided, at least in part, in a part which is attached to the heating body, the part comprising a main opening communicating with the opening made in the partition, the orifice outlet of the cavity being arranged parallel to the main opening.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, la pièce est fixée sur une interface de fixation disposée à une extrémité arrière du corps chauffant, l'interface de fixation comportant un conduit d'amenée de vapeur comprenant une première extrémité traversant la cloison pour déboucher dans la chambre de vaporisation et une deuxième extrémité venant en regard de l'ouverture principale de la pièce.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the part is fixed on a fixing interface arranged at a rear end of the heating body, the fixing interface comprising a steam supply conduit comprising a first end passing through the partition to emerge in the vaporization chamber and a second end facing the main opening of the room.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, l'interface de fixation comporte l'au moins un orifice de sortie.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the attachment interface comprises at least one outlet orifice.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le dispositif de rétention comporte un récipient récupérateur de tartre s'introduisant dans la cavité par l'orifice d'évacuation du tartre, le récipient étant disposé en amont de la grille de filtration par rapport au sens d'écoulement du flux de vapeur.According to yet another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the retention device comprises a scale collecting receptacle introduced into the cavity through the scale evacuation orifice, the receptacle being arranged upstream of the filtration grid with respect to in the direction of flow of the steam stream.

Une telle caractéristique présente l'avantage de permettre l'évacuation du tartre du fer à repasser en retirant simplement le récipient récupérateur de tartre par l'orifice.Such a feature has the advantage of allowing the removal of scale from the iron by simply removing the scale collection container through the hole.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le récipient récupérateur de tartre présente un volume de stockage supérieur à 4 cm3.According to another characteristic of the invention, the scale recovery container has a storage volume greater than 4 cm3.

Une telle caractéristique permet de recueillir les particules de tartre accumulées entre deux entretiens, ainsi que l'eau non vaporisée dans la chambre de vaporisation, sans venir souiller la grille de filtration.Such a feature makes it possible to collect the scale particles accumulated between two interviews, as well as the non-vaporized water in the vaporization chamber, without soiling the filtration grid.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le dispositif de rétention présente une extrémité avant ouverte et une extrémité postérieure fermée, le dispositif de rétention comportant une fenêtre latérale, recevant la grille de filtration, par laquelle le flux de vapeur s'échappe du dispositif de rétention.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the retention device has an open front end and a closed rear end, the retention device comprising a side window, receiving the filtration grid, through which the flow of vapor escapes from the retention device.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le dispositif de rétention comporte un joint d'étanchéité de part et d'autre de la fenêtre.According to another characteristic of the invention, the retention device comprises a seal on either side of the window.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le dispositif de rétention est solidaire du bouchon.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the retention device is secured to the stopper.

Une telle caractéristique permet d'avoir un dispositif de rétention qui est extrait automatiquement de l'appareil lors du retrait du bouchon, permettant une inspection systématique de l'état de la grille de filtration par l'utilisateur lorsqu'une opération de nettoyage est effectuée.Such a feature makes it possible to have a retention device which is automatically extracted from the device when the plug is removed, allowing systematic inspection of the state of the filtration grid by the user when a cleaning operation is carried out. .

Une telle caractéristique permet également de réduire le nombre de manipulations que doit effectuer l'utilisateur pour accéder à la grille de filtration et d'éviter ainsi que l'utilisateur oublie de remettre la grille de filtration après son nettoyage.Such a characteristic also makes it possible to reduce the number of manipulations that the user must perform to access the filtration grid and thus to prevent the user from forgetting to replace the filtration grid after cleaning it.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le fer à repasser comporte un boîtier qui surmonte le corps chauffant, le boîtier intégrant un réservoir qui alimente en liquide la chambre de vaporisation.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the iron comprises a casing which surmounts the heating body, the casing incorporating a reservoir which supplies the vaporization chamber with liquid.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les ouvertures de la grille filtration présentent au maximum une taille de 0,5 mm de côté.According to another characteristic of the invention, the openings of the filtration grid have a maximum side size of 0.5 mm.

Une telle caractéristique permet de ne laisser passer que des particules de tartre sensiblement invisibles vers les trous de sortie de vapeur.Such a characteristic makes it possible to allow only substantially invisible scale particles to pass towards the steam outlet holes.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, la chambre de vaporisation est une chambre de vaporisation instantanée.According to another characteristic of the invention, the vaporization chamber is a instant vaporization chamber.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le fer à repasser comporte un talon sur lequel il peut reposer lors des phases inactives de repassage.According to yet another feature of the invention, the iron has a heel on which it can rest during inactive ironing phases.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, l'orifice d'évacuation du tartre débouche au niveau du talon du fer à repasser.According to another characteristic of the invention, the scale evacuation orifice opens at the level of the heel of the iron.

Une telle caractéristique présente l'avantage d'offrir un excellent accès à l'orifice d'évacuation du tartre lorsque le fer à repasser repose sur sa plaque de repassage.Such a characteristic has the advantage of offering excellent access to the scale evacuation orifice when the iron rests on its ironing plate.

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 :

  • [Fig. 1] La figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'un fer à repasser selon un mode particulier de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • [Fig. 2] La figure 2 est une vue en coupe longitudinale du corps chauffant et de la plaque de repassage équipant le fer à repasser de la figure 1 ;
  • [Fig. 3] La figure 3 est une vue en perspective du corps chauffant de la figure 2 ;
  • [Fig. 4] La figure 4 est une vue de dessus du corps chauffant de la figure 3 démuni de sa plaque de fermeture ;
  • [Fig. 5] La figure 5 est une vue en perspective du corps chauffant de la figure 4 ;
  • [Fig. 6] La figure 6 est une vue en perspective éclatée du dessous du corps chauffant et de la pièce définissant la cavité de réception du dispositif de rétention du tartre ;
  • [Fig. 7] La figure 7 est une vue en perspective éclatée du corps chauffant et de la plaque de repassage ;
  • [Fig. 8] La figure 8 est une autre vue en perspective éclatée du corps chauffant et de la plaque de repassage sur laquelle l'enveloppe du collecteur n'est pas représentée ;
  • [Fig. 9] La figure 9 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne IX-IX de la figure 4 ;
  • [Fig. 10] La figure 10 est une vue en perspective du récipient récupérateur de tartre fixé sur le bouchon équipant le fer à repasser de la figure 1 ;
The aims, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the description given below of a particular embodiment of the invention presented by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings in which :
  • [ Fig. 1 ] The figure 1 is a perspective view of an iron according to a particular embodiment of the invention;
  • [ Fig. 2 ] The figure 2 is a view in longitudinal section of the heating body and of the ironing plate equipping the iron of the figure 1 ;
  • [ Fig. 3 ] The picture 3 is a perspective view of the heating body of the figure 2 ;
  • [ Fig. 4 ] The figure 4 is a top view of the heating element of the picture 3 devoid of its closing plate;
  • [ Fig. 5 ] The figure 5 is a perspective view of the heating body of the figure 4 ;
  • [ Fig. 6 ] The figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the underside of the heating body and of the part defining the cavity for receiving the tartar retention device;
  • [ Fig. 7 ] The figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the heating body and ironing plate;
  • [ Fig. 8 ] The figure 8 is another exploded perspective view of the heating body and of the ironing plate on which the casing of the collector is not shown;
  • [ Fig. 9 ] The figure 9 is a sectional view along the line IX-IX of the figure 4 ;
  • [ Fig. 10 ] The figure 10 is a perspective view of the scale collection container attached to the cap fitted to the iron of the figure 1 ;

Seuls les éléments nécessaires à la compréhension de l'invention ont été représentés. Pour faciliter la lecture des dessins les mêmes éléments portent les mêmes références d'une figure à l'autre.Only the elements necessary for understanding the invention have been represented. To facilitate reading of the drawings, the same elements bear the same references from one figure to another.

On notera que dans ce document, les termes "horizontal", "vertical", "inférieur", "supérieur", "avant", "arrière" employés pour décrire le fer à repasser font référence à cet appareil lorsqu'il repose à plat sur sa plaque de repassage.It will be noted that in this document, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", "lower", "upper", "front", "rear" used to describe the iron refer to this appliance when it lies flat. on his ironing board.

La figure 1 illustre un fer à repasser 1 à vapeur comportant une plaque de repassage 10 munie d'un ensemble de trous de sortie de vapeur 10A, visibles sur les figures 7 et 8, la plaque de repassage 10 étant surmontée d'un boîtier en matière plastique comprenant une poignée 11 de préhension s'étendant longitudinalement au fer à repasser.The figure 1 illustrates a steam iron 1 comprising an ironing plate 10 provided with a set of steam outlet holes 10A, visible on the figures 7 and 8 , the ironing plate 10 being surmounted by a plastic casing comprising a gripping handle 11 extending longitudinally to the iron.

La poignée 11 présente une extrémité arrière se prolongeant par un talon 12 sur lequel le fer à repasser peut reposer sensiblement verticalement lors des phases inactives de repassage, le talon 12 comportant deux bras délimitant entre eux un espace recevant un bouchon 13 amovible donnant accès à un orifice 50 d'évacuation du tartre.The handle 11 has a rear end extending by a heel 12 on which the iron can rest substantially vertically during the inactive phases of ironing, the heel 12 comprising two arms defining between them a space receiving a removable plug 13 giving access to a orifice 50 for removing scale.

Le bouchon 13 est fixé sur une surface postérieure 12A du boîtier, inscrite à l'intérieur du talon 12, par une fixation de type baïonnette semblable à celle décrite plus en détails dans la demande de brevet FR 2 981 371 déposée par la demanderesse, la surface postérieure du boîtier étant légèrement inclinée vers l'avant pour offrir un accès plus aisé lorsque le fer à repasser repose horizontalement sur sa plaque de repassage 10.The cap 13 is fixed on a rear surface 12A of the housing, inscribed inside the heel 12, by a bayonet-type fixing similar to that described in more detail in the patent application FR 2 981 371 filed by the applicant, the rear surface of the case being slightly inclined forwards to provide easier access when the iron rests horizontally on its ironing plate 10.

Conformément aux figures 2 à 9, la plaque de repassage 10 est liée thermiquement et mécaniquement à un corps chauffant 2 intégré dans la partie basse du boîtier, le corps chauffant 2 comportant une fonderie en aluminium comprenant classiquement un élément résistif 20 cintré en fer à cheval et un bossage 21 prévu pour recevoir un thermostat de régulation de la température de la plaque de repassage 10.In accordance with figures 2 to 9 , the ironing plate 10 is thermally and mechanically linked to a heating body 2 integrated in the lower part of the housing, the heating body 2 comprising an aluminum casting conventionally comprising a resistive element 20 curved in a horseshoe and a boss 21 provided for receive a thermostat for regulating the temperature of the ironing plate 10.

La plaque de repassage 10 comporte, de manière connue en soi, une extrémité avant pointue et présente une largeur augmentant progressivement depuis l'extrémité avant pointue jusqu'à une extrémité arrière arrondie.The ironing plate 10 comprises, in a manner known per se, a pointed front end and has a width which gradually increases from the pointed front end to a rounded rear end.

Le corps chauffant 2 comporte une paroi périphérique 22 qui délimite latéralement une chambre de vaporisation 3 de type à vaporisation instantanée, comportant un fond présentant avantageusement une multitude de plots pyramidaux permettant d'augmenter la surface d'échange thermique.The heating body 2 comprises a peripheral wall 22 which laterally delimits a vaporization chamber 3 of the instantaneous vaporization type, comprising a bottom advantageously having a multitude of pyramidal pads making it possible to increase the heat exchange surface.

La chambre de vaporisation 3 est disposée au centre du corps chauffant 2 et est reliée aux trous de sortie de vapeur 10A de la plaque de repassage 10 par un circuit de distribution de vapeur.The vaporization chamber 3 is arranged in the center of the heating body 2 and is connected to the steam outlet holes 10A of the ironing plate 10 by a steam distribution circuit.

Conformément aux figures 2 et 5, le corps chauffant 2 comporte également une plaque de fermeture 24 qui vient reposer sur le bord supérieur de la paroi périphérique 22, cette plaque de fermeture 24 étant surmontée d'un réservoir d'eau, non représenté sur les figures, intégré dans le boîtier du fer à repasser. Le réservoir est relié à une pompe 9 électrique, visible sur la figure 3, avantageusement disposée à l'arrière du fer à repasser, dont le fonctionnement est piloté au moyen d'une gâchette 15 disposée sous la poignée 11 du fer à repasser. La pompe 9 alimente en eau la chambre de vaporisation 3 avec une pression supérieure à 500 Pa, l'eau étant diffusée au travers d'une buse 29 d'injection disposée sur la plaque de fermeture 24, l'ensemble étant adapté pour permettre la production d'un débit de vapeur supérieur à 60 gr/min selon le cycle normalisé de 5 sec de vaporisation suivi de 15 sec d'arrêt.In accordance with figure 2 and 5 , the heating body 2 also comprises a closing plate 24 which comes to rest on the upper edge of the peripheral wall 22, this closing plate 24 being surmounted by a water reservoir, not shown in the figures, integrated in the casing iron. The tank is connected to an electric pump 9, visible on the picture 3 , advantageously arranged at the rear of the iron, the operation of which is controlled by means of a trigger 15 arranged under the handle 11 of the iron. The pump 9 supplies water to the vaporization chamber 3 with a pressure greater than 500 Pa, the water being diffused through an injection nozzle 29 arranged on the closure plate 24, the assembly being adapted to allow the production of a steam flow higher than 60 gr/min according to the standardized cycle of 5 sec of vaporization followed by 15 sec of stop.

Conformément aux figures 4 et 5, la paroi périphérique 22 présente une cloison 22A plane délimitant l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de vaporisation 3, la cloison 22A étant accolée à un bloc arrière du corps chauffant 2 au niveau duquel débouche les deux extrémités de l'élément résistif 20. Le bloc arrière forme une bride de fixation 23 sur laquelle est fixé un collecteur 5, la cloison 22A comportant une ouverture 22B par laquelle la vapeur produite dans la chambre de vaporisation 3 peut s'échapper en direction du collecteur 5.In accordance with figure 4 and 5 , the peripheral wall 22 has a planar partition 22A delimiting the rear end of the vaporization chamber 3, the partition 22A being attached to a rear block of the heating body 2 at the level of which the two ends of the resistive element 20 emerge. rear block forms a fixing flange 23 on which is fixed a collector 5, the partition 22A having an opening 22B through which the steam produced in the vaporization chamber 3 can escape in the direction of the collector 5.

Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 2, le bloc arrière du corps chauffant 2 comporte un conduit 25 d'amenée de vapeur comprenant une extrémité avant qui est raccordée à l'ouverture 22B, et comprenant une extrémité arrière reliée de manière étanche à une pièce de liaison 53 définissant l'extrémité avant du collecteur 5, le conduit 25 étant avantageusement incliné de l'ordre de 15° parallèlement au plan de la plaque de repassage 10.As can be seen on the figure 2 , the rear block of the heating body 2 comprises a steam supply duct 25 comprising a front end which is connected to the opening 22B, and comprising a rear end connected in leaktight manner to a connecting piece 53 defining the front end of the manifold 5, the duct 25 being advantageously inclined in the order of 15° parallel to the plane of the ironing plate 10.

De manière avantageuse, le conduit 25 et l'ouverture 22B présentent une section de passage supérieure à 200 mm2 et préférentiellement de l'ordre de 300 mm2, une telle section de passage permettant d'éviter que le conduit 25 et l'ouverture 22B ne puissent être rapidement obstrués par le tartre.Advantageously, the duct 25 and the opening 22B have a passage section greater than 200 mm 2 and preferably of the order of 300 mm 2 , such a passage section making it possible to prevent the duct 25 and the opening 22B cannot be quickly blocked by scale.

Le collecteur 5 présente avantageusement une enveloppe de section de passage oblongue comprenant une extrémité avant raccordée à la bride de fixation 23 par l'intermédiaire de la pièce de liaison 53, et une extrémité arrière comprenant l'orifice 50 recevant le bouchon 13 amovible.The collector 5 advantageously has an envelope of oblong passage section comprising a front end connected to the fixing flange 23 via the connecting piece 53, and a rear end comprising the orifice 50 receiving the plug 13 removable.

La pièce de liaison 53 comprend une ouverture principale 54 venant dans le prolongement du conduit 25 et mettant en communication le conduit 25 avec une cavité 51 de réception ménagée à l'intérieur du collecteur 5 dans laquelle est disposée, de manière connue en soi, une cavité d'un dispositif de rétention 8 des particules de tartre, ce dernier pouvant être extrait ou introduit dans la cavité 51 par l'orifice 50.The connecting piece 53 comprises a main opening 54 coming in the extension of the duct 25 and placing the duct 25 in communication with a receiving cavity 51 arranged inside the collector 5 in which is arranged, in a manner known per se, a cavity of a retention device 8 for scale particles, the latter being able to be extracted or introduced into the cavity 51 through the orifice 50.

De manière préférentielle, le collecteur 5 s'étend obliquement par rapport au plan de la plaque de repassage 10, en faisant un angle de l'ordre de 10°, et il se trouve en porte-à-faux derrière la plaque de repassage 10 lorsque le fer à repasser 1 repose à plat sur sa plaque de repassage 10. La pièce de liaison 53 et l'enveloppe du collecteur 5 sont avantageusement réalisées par moulage en matière plastique, par exemple en matériau de type PPS (Polysulfure de phénylène).Preferably, the collector 5 extends obliquely relative to the plane of the ironing plate 10, making an angle of the order of 10°, and it is cantilevered behind the ironing plate 10 when the iron 1 rests flat on its ironing plate 10. The connecting piece 53 and the casing of the collector 5 are advantageously made by molding in plastic material, for example in material of the PPS (polyphenylene sulphide) type.

La pièce de liaison 53 est rapportée sur le corps chauffant 2 en aluminium en étant raccordée de manière étanche à cette dernière, l'ouverture principale 54 présentant avantageusement une forme rectangulaire et étant délimitée latéralement par une nervure 55 en saillie, visible sur la figure 6, qui vient s'emmancher dans un épaulement ménagé à l'extrémité du conduit 25.The connecting piece 53 is attached to the aluminum heating body 2 while being connected in a sealed manner to the latter, the main opening 54 advantageously having a rectangular shape and being delimited laterally by a projecting rib 55, visible on the figure 6 , which fits into a shoulder formed at the end of the conduit 25.

Conformément aux figures 8 et 10, le dispositif de rétention 8 des particules de tartre comprend un récipient 6 récupérateur de tartre avantageusement réalisé en matériau plastique, du type polyamide PA 6-6 renforcé de fibre de verre à 30%. Le récipient 6 comporte un embout 60 comprenant une ouverture axiale par laquelle le flux de vapeur émis par la chambre de vaporisation 3 est admis dans le récipient 6, et une extrémité arrière fermée fixée au bouchon 13.In accordance with figure 8 and 10 , the device 8 for retaining scale particles comprises a container 6 for collecting scale, advantageously made of plastic material, of the PA 6-6 polyamide type reinforced with 30% fiberglass. The container 6 has a mouthpiece 60 comprising an axial opening through which the flow of vapor emitted by the vaporization chamber 3 is admitted into the container 6, and a closed rear end fixed to the cap 13.

Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 10, le récipient 6 supporte un premier joint d'étanchéité 61 en silicone porté par l'embout 60 qui vient s'engager dans la pièce de liaison 53 pour établir une liaison sensiblement étanche avec cette dernière lorsque le bouchon 13 occupe une position fermée dans laquelle il est verrouillé sur la surface postérieure 12A du fer à repasser 1.As can be seen on the figure 10 , the receptacle 6 supports a first seal 61 made of silicone carried by the endpiece 60 which engages in the connecting piece 53 to establish a substantially leaktight connection with the latter when the stopper 13 occupies a closed position in which it is locked on the rear surface 12A of the iron 1.

Le récipient 6 comporte également un second joint d'étanchéité 62 en silicone qui vient au contact de la paroi intérieure de la cavité 51, en bordure de l'orifice 50, pour éviter l'émission de vapeur au travers de l'orifice 50 lorsque le bouchon 13 occupe la position fermée.The container 6 also includes a second silicone seal 62 which comes into contact with the interior wall of the cavity 51, at the edge of the orifice 50, to prevent the emission of steam through the orifice 50 when the cap 13 occupies the closed position.

Le récipient 6 comporte, entre les deux joints d'étanchéité 61, 62, deux fenêtres 63 ouvertes à la fois sur la face latérale et la face supérieure du récipient 6, les deux fenêtres 63 étant disposées de part et d'autre d'un barreau 63A longitudinal disposé au sommet du récipient 6.The container 6 comprises, between the two seals 61, 62, two windows 63 open both on the side face and the upper face of the container 6, the two windows 63 being arranged on either side of a longitudinal bar 63A arranged at the top of the container 6.

Le récipient 6 comprend une grille 7 de filtration qui s'étend au travers des fenêtres 63 et sur toute leur surface.The container 6 comprises a filtration grid 7 which extends through the windows 63 and over their entire surface.

La grille 7 présente des ouvertures calibrées pour retenir les particules de tartre les plus grosses tout en offrant une section de passage suffisante pour le débit de vapeur requis. A titre d'exemple, la grille 7 de filtration est réalisée en fil d'inox de diamètre compris entre 0,05 mm et 0,1 mm, ou en tissu de verre réalisé à partir d'un fil tressé de 1 mm de diamètre, et comporte des ouvertures carrées de moins de 0,5 mm de côté, et préférentiellement comprises entre 0,05 mm et 0,5 mm.The grid 7 has calibrated openings to retain the largest scale particles while providing a passage section sufficient for the required steam flow. By way of example, the filtration grid 7 is made of stainless steel wire with a diameter of between 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm, or of glass fabric made from a braided wire 1 mm in diameter , and has square openings less than 0.5 mm square, and preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.5 mm.

Le récipient 6 comporte une partie inférieure creuse, présentant préférentiellement un volume de l'ordre de 4 à 15 cm3, dans laquelle les particules de tartre peuvent être stockées, l'extrémité avant de la partie creuse présentant une marche 6A permettant d'éviter que le tartre récupéré dans le récipient 6 ne retourne par gravité dans la chambre de vaporisation 3 lorsque le fer à repasser 1 est disposé sur sa plaque de repassage 10.The container 6 comprises a hollow lower part, preferably having a volume of the order of 4 to 15 cm3, in which the scale particles can be stored, the front end of the hollow part having a step 6A making it possible to prevent the scale collected in the container 6 from returning by gravity into the vaporization chamber 3 when the iron 1 is placed on its ironing plate 10.

Comme on peut le voir sur la figure 6, la pièce de liaison 53 comporte deux orifices de sortie 56 disposés latéralement de part et d'autre de l'ouverture principale 54, ces deux orifices de sortie 56 communiquant avec des canaux d'échappement 26 traversant le corps chauffant 2, en s'étendant en direction de la face inférieure du corps chauffant 2, pour déboucher dans une chambre de distribution de vapeur 27 située entre le corps chauffant 2 et la plaque de repassage 10.As can be seen on the figure 6 , the connecting piece 53 comprises two outlet orifices 56 arranged laterally on either side of the main opening 54, these two outlet orifices 56 communicating with exhaust channels 26 passing through the heating body 2, extending towards the underside of the heating body 2, to open into a steam distribution chamber 27 located between the heating body 2 and the ironing plate 10.

De manière préférentielle, les orifices de sortie 56 présentent une section de passage réduite qui permet de faciliter leur implantation de part et d'autre de l'ouverture principale 54 sans augmenter la hauteur du corps chauffant 2.Preferably, the outlet orifices 56 have a reduced passage section which facilitates their installation on either side of the main opening 54 without increasing the height of the heating body 2.

Conformément aux figures 6, 7 et 9, ces canaux d'échappement 26 sont avantageusement ménagés dans la partie arrière du corps chauffant 2, latéralement à la chambre de vaporisation 3, les canaux d'échappement 26 s'étendant latéralement au conduit 25 et présentant une forme coudée vers le bas.In accordance with figure 6 , 7 and 9 , these exhaust channels 26 are advantageously formed in the rear part of the heating body 2, laterally to the vaporization chamber 3, the exhaust channels 26 extending laterally to the conduit 25 and having a downwardly bent shape.

De manière avantageuse, les canaux d'échappement 26 débouchent à hauteur de l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de vaporisation 3 et au niveau de l'extrémité arrière de la chambre de distribution de vapeur 27, de sorte que les canaux d'échappement 26 présentent une faible longueur, de préférence inférieure à 5 cm.Advantageously, the exhaust channels 26 open out at the height of the rear end of the vaporization chamber 3 and at the level of the rear end of the steam distribution chamber 27, so that the exhaust channels 26 have a short length, preferably less than 5 cm.

La face inférieure du corps chauffant 2 comporte des surfaces planes 28 qui font saillie dans la chambre de distribution de vapeur 27 et viennent au contact de la plaque de repassage 10 au niveau de zones de la plaque de repassage 10 démunies de trous de sortie de vapeur, lorsque cette dernière est assemblée au corps chauffant 2, de manière à réaliser des zones de transfert thermique par conduction entre la plaque de repassage 10 et le corps chauffant 2.The underside of the heating body 2 comprises flat surfaces 28 which protrude into the steam distribution chamber 27 and come into contact with the ironing plate 10 at the level of areas of the ironing plate 10 without steam outlet holes. , when the latter is assembled to the heating body 2, so as to produce heat transfer zones by conduction between the ironing plate 10 and the heating body 2.

L'écoulement du flux de vapeur dans le fer à repasser 1 ainsi réalisé va maintenant être décrit.The flow of the steam flow in the iron 1 thus produced will now be described.

Lorsque la gâchette 15 du fer à repasser 1 est actionnée par l'utilisateur, la pompe 9 électrique est mise en fonctionnement et de l'eau est envoyée au travers de la buse 29. L'eau parvenant au contact de la surface de la chambre de vaporisation 3, située à l'aplomb de la buse 29, se vaporise instantanément et le flux de vapeur s'échappe ensuite successivement, au travers du conduit 25, de l'ouverture principale 54, du récipient 6, de la grille 7 de filtration, des orifices de sortie 56 et des canaux d'échappement 26, puis se diffuse dans la chambre de distribution de vapeur 27 avant de s'échapper par les trous de sortie 10A de la plaque de repassage 10.When the trigger 15 of the iron 1 is actuated by the user, the electric pump 9 is put into operation and water is sent through the nozzle 29. The water coming into contact with the surface of the vaporization chamber 3, located directly above the nozzle 29, vaporizes instantaneously and the flow of vapor then escapes successively, through the duct 25, from the main opening 54, of the container 6, of the filtration grid 7, of the outlet orifices 56 and of the exhaust channels 26, then diffuses into the steam distribution chamber 27 before escaping through the holes of output 10A of the ironing plate 10.

L'évaporation de l'eau crée la formation d'une couche de carbonate de calcium dans le fond de la chambre de vaporisation 3 qui se désagrège progressivement en petites particules de tartre sous l'effet notamment de la dilatation du corps chauffant 2 lors des phases de refroidissement entre deux séances de repassage.The evaporation of the water creates the formation of a layer of calcium carbonate in the bottom of the vaporization chamber 3 which gradually disintegrates into small particles of tartar under the effect in particular of the expansion of the heating body 2 during cooling phases between two ironing sessions.

Les particules de tartre sont entrainées par le flux de vapeur en direction de l'ouverture 22B et se trouvent, pour partie, envoyées par leur inertie dans le fond du récipient 6 récupérateur de tartre où elles se trouvent piégées, et, pour partie, envoyées vers la grille de filtration 7. Cette séparation inertielle des particules de tartre s'effectue notamment grâce au virage de l'ordre de 90° qu'effectue le flux de vapeur à l'entrée de la grille 7.The scale particles are driven by the flow of steam in the direction of the opening 22B and are, in part, sent by their inertia into the bottom of the container 6 scale collector where they are trapped, and, in part, sent towards the filtration grid 7. This inertial separation of the scale particles is carried out in particular thanks to the turn of the order of 90° that the flow of steam makes at the inlet of the grid 7.

Le déplacement des particules de tartre vers le récipient 6 s'effectue également par gravité à chaque fois que le fer à repasser 1 est placé sur son talon 12, le volume de stockage ménagé dans la partie creuse du récipient 6 étant adapté pour recevoir les particules de tartre, accompagnées d'éventuelles gouttes d'eau, sans que ces dernières ne viennent au contact de la grille 7, évitant ainsi son souillage.The displacement of the scale particles towards the container 6 is also carried out by gravity each time the iron 1 is placed on its heel 12, the storage volume provided in the hollow part of the container 6 being adapted to receive the particles scale, accompanied by any drops of water, without the latter coming into contact with the grid 7, thus avoiding its soiling.

Lors de l'arrêt de la vapeur, la plupart des particules piégées par la grille 7 retombent par gravité dans la partie creuse du récipient 6, quelques particules pouvant toutefois rester collées sur la grille 7 et contribuer au colmatage progressif de cette dernière, la grille 7 s'entartrant également du fait de l'évaporation des éventuelles gouttelettes d'eau parvenant au contact de la grille 7.When the steam stops, most of the particles trapped by the grid 7 fall back by gravity into the hollow part of the receptacle 6, some particles being able however to remain stuck on the grid 7 and contribute to the progressive clogging of the latter, the grid 7 also scaling due to the evaporation of any water droplets coming into contact with the grid 7.

Lorsqu'un nettoyage du fer à repasser 1 est nécessaire, c'est-à-dire après plusieurs séances de repassage à la vapeur, ou lorsqu'un témoin d'alerte est activé sur le fer à repasser, l'utilisateur peut aisément extraire le récipient 6 récupérateur de la cavité 51 en déverrouillant le bouchon 13 et en le déplaçant vers l'arrière de manière à faire coulisser axialement le récipient 6 au travers de l'orifice 50 d'évacuation du tartre.When cleaning of the iron 1 is necessary, that is to say after several steam ironing sessions, or when a warning lamp is activated on the iron, the user can easily extract the receptacle 6 collecting the cavity 51 by unlocking the stopper 13 and moving it backwards so as to cause the container 6 to slide axially through the orifice 50 for removing the scale.

Le contenu du récipient 6 peut alors être vidé et le récipient 6 peut être passé sous l'eau du robinet pour son nettoyage. Si l'utilisateur le juge nécessaire, il peut également effectuer un nettoyage de la grille 7 en la frottant sous l'eau avec une brosse ou en la plongeant dans un liquide détartrant.The contents of container 6 can then be emptied and container 6 can be run under tap water for cleaning. If the user deems it necessary, he can also clean the grid 7 by rubbing it under water with a brush or by immersing it in a descaling liquid.

Le fer à repasser ainsi réalisé comporte un circuit de distribution de la vapeur, associé à un dispositif de rétention des particules, qui présentent l'avantage d'être extrêmement compacts, ce qui permet de proposer un fer à repasser de faible encombrement et de poids réduit. En particulier, le trajet court des conduits d'échappement à la sortie du dispositif de rétention des particules permet de réduire l'encombrement, ce qui contribue à l'obtention d'un corps chauffant compact. L'utilisation d'une pompe injectant l'eau sous pression dans la chambre de vaporisation permet, quant à elle, d'obtenir un débit de vapeur élevé.The iron thus produced comprises a steam distribution circuit, associated with a particle retention device, which have the advantage of being extremely compact, which makes it possible to propose an iron of small size and weight. reduced. In particular, the short path of the exhaust ducts at the outlet of the particle retention device makes it possible to reduce the bulk, which contributes to obtaining a compact heating body. The use of a pump injecting pressurized water into the vaporization chamber makes it possible to obtain a high steam flow rate.

Bien entendu, l'invention est définie par les revendications et n'est nullement limitée au mode de réalisation précédemment 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 , sans sortir pour autant du domaine de protection de l'invention.Of course, the invention is defined by the claims and is in no way limited to the embodiment previously described and illustrated which has been given only by way of example. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Ainsi dans une variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée, le récipient récupérateur de tartre pourra ne pas être fixé sur le bouchon mais comporter à son extrémité postérieure une poignée lui permettant d'être saisi manuellement par l'utilisateur après le retrait du bouchon.Thus, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown, the tartar collector container may not be fixed to the stopper but may comprise at its rear end a handle allowing it to be gripped manually by the user after the stopper has been removed. .

Ainsi, dans une autre variante de réalisation non représentée, la grille de filtration pourra être montée de manière amovible sur le récipient récupérateur de tartre de sorte que la grille de filtration puisse être changée en cas de besoin.Thus, in another variant embodiment not shown, the filtration grid can be removably mounted on the scale collector container so that the filtration grid can be changed if necessary.

Claims (11)

  1. Iron (1) comprising an ironing plate (10) provided with at least one steam outlet hole (10A), a heating body (2) comprising a lower face thermally connected with the ironing plate (10) and an upper face on which a steaming chamber (3) for producing a steam flow is provided, and a steam distribution circuit for conveying the steam flow to said at least one steam outlet hole (10A) of the ironing plate (10), said circuit comprising at least one outlet port (56), an exhaust channel (26), a steam distribution chamber (27) provided between the lower face of the heating body (2) and the ironing plate (10), and a cavity (51) in which is arranged a retention device (8) comprising a filtering grid (7) intended to retain scale particles transported by the steam flow, said outlet port (56) communicating with the exhaust channel (26), said exhaust channel (26) opening into the steam distribution chamber (27), said cavity (51) having, on one side, an end provided with a port (50) closed by a removable plug (13) which is accessible from the outside of the apparatus and through which the retention device (8) can be extracted from the iron (1) to be cleaned and, on the other side, an end communicating with an opening (22B) provided in a partition (22A) which delimits the rear end of the steaming chamber (3) and through which the steam flow enters the cavity (51), during use the steam flow escaping from the cavity (51), after having passed through the filtering grid (7), passing through at least the outlet port (56), characterised in that the steaming chamber (3) is laterally delimited by a peripheral wall (22) projecting from the upper face of the heating body (2) and is closed in its upper part by a closure plate (24) resting on the peripheral wall (22), and in that the exhaust channel (26) extends outside the space delimited by the peripheral wall (22) and the closure plate (24), the exhaust channel extending towards the lower face of the heating body (2), passing to the side and/or under the vaporisation chamber (3).
  2. Iron according to claim 1, characterised in that the exhaust channel (26) opens out at the rear end of the steam distribution chamber (27).
  3. Iron according to any of claims 1 to 2, characterised in that the exhaust channel (26) opens into the steam distribution chamber (27) in a region in the vicinity of the rear end of the steaming chamber (3).
  4. Iron according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the exhaust channel (26) has a downwardly angled shape.
  5. Iron according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that it comprises two outlet ports (56) arranged laterally on either side of the retention device (8), each outlet port (56) communicating with an exhaust channel (26).
  6. Iron according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that it comprises a pump (9) for injecting pressurised water into the steaming chamber (3).
  7. Iron according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the cavity (51) is provided, at least in part, in a component (5) which is attached to the heating body (2), said component (5) comprising a main opening (54) communicating with the opening (22B) provided in the partition (22A), said at least one outlet port (56) being arranged parallel to the main opening (54).
  8. Iron according to claim 7, characterised in that the component (5) is secured to a securing interface (23) arranged at a rear end of the heating body (2), said securing interface (23) comprising a steam supply duct (25) comprising a first end passing through the partition (22A) to open into the steaming chamber (3) and a second end facing the main opening (54) of the component (5).
  9. Iron (1) according to claim 8, characterised in that the securing interface (23) comprises said at least one outlet port (56).
  10. Iron (1) according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the retention device (8) comprises a scale-recovery container (6) which enters the cavity (51) through the scale discharge port (50), the container (6) being arranged upstream of the filtering grid (7) relative to the direction of the steam flow.
  11. Iron (1) according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the retention device (8) has an open front end and a closed rear end, the retention device (8) comprising a lateral window (63) which laterally receives the filtering grid (7) and through which the steam flow escapes from the retention device (8).
EP20181696.4A 2019-06-28 2020-06-23 Iron comprising a device for retaining scale particles carried by steam Active EP3757279B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1907106A FR3097883B1 (en) 2019-06-28 2019-06-28 Iron with a device for retaining scale particles transported by steam.

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3757279A1 EP3757279A1 (en) 2020-12-30
EP3757279B1 true EP3757279B1 (en) 2022-08-10

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20181696.4A Active EP3757279B1 (en) 2019-06-28 2020-06-23 Iron comprising a device for retaining scale particles carried by steam

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EP (1) EP3757279B1 (en)
CN (1) CN112144255B (en)
FR (1) FR3097883B1 (en)

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102004032361B4 (en) * 2004-07-03 2009-12-10 Braun Gmbh Method of providing steam and corresponding steam iron
FR2979924B1 (en) * 2011-09-09 2013-10-11 Seb Sa HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A STEAM DISTRIBUTION CIRCUIT
FR2981371B1 (en) 2011-10-18 2015-02-06 Seb Sa IRON IRON COMPRISING A VAPORIZING CHAMBER CONNECTED TO A TARTAR RECOVERY CAVITY COMPRISING A DESCALING ORIFICE
US9365969B2 (en) * 2011-11-08 2016-06-14 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Steam generator iron
FR3010420B1 (en) * 2013-09-10 2015-09-25 Seb Sa IRONING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A FILTER FOR RETAINING VAPOR TRANSPARENT TARTRE PARTICLES
FR3033338B1 (en) * 2015-03-03 2017-02-24 Seb Sa IRONING HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE COMPRISING A FILTER FOR RETAINING VAPOR TRANSPARENT TARTRE PARTICLES
BR112018071749B1 (en) * 2016-04-26 2022-09-27 Koninklijke Philips N.V STEAM IRON
FR3062857B1 (en) 2017-02-10 2019-03-15 Seb S.A. IRON FOR IRON COMPRISING A DEVICE FOR RETAINING PARTICLES OF THE TARTRE PARTICLES TRANSPORTED BY STEAM
FR3063747B1 (en) * 2017-03-13 2019-03-15 Seb S.A. STEAM APPARATUS WITH REMOVABLE FILTRATION ELEMENT
IT201700057760A1 (en) * 2017-05-26 2018-11-26 De Longhi Appliances Srl IRON

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN112144255A (en) 2020-12-29
FR3097883B1 (en) 2021-05-28
CN112144255B (en) 2024-01-26
EP3757279A1 (en) 2020-12-30
FR3097883A1 (en) 2021-01-01

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