EP4347943A1 - Dispositif d'entretien de vêtement doté d'une pompe pour pomper de l'eau après la détection d'une mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtement - Google Patents

Dispositif d'entretien de vêtement doté d'une pompe pour pomper de l'eau après la détection d'une mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtement

Info

Publication number
EP4347943A1
EP4347943A1 EP22798360.8A EP22798360A EP4347943A1 EP 4347943 A1 EP4347943 A1 EP 4347943A1 EP 22798360 A EP22798360 A EP 22798360A EP 4347943 A1 EP4347943 A1 EP 4347943A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
care device
pump
garment care
water
steam
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.)
Pending
Application number
EP22798360.8A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Kannan Udayappan PRAVEEN
Sivakami ANNAMALAI
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.)
Versuni Holding BV
Original Assignee
Versuni Holding BV
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 Versuni Holding BV filed Critical Versuni Holding BV
Publication of EP4347943A1 publication Critical patent/EP4347943A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • 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

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a garment care device having a water tank and a steam generator, and in particular to controlling a pump which pumps water from the water tank to the steam generator.
  • the invention may be used in the field of garment care.
  • An example of such a garment care device is a so-called pressurized steam generator (PSG) iron having a hand unit connected to a separate base comprising the water tank.
  • the steam generator is included in the hand unit. By pumping water from the water tank in the base to the steam generator in the hand unit, pressurized steam can be generated. This pressurized steam can assist to make ironing of garments quicker.
  • PSG pressurized steam generator
  • Including the water tank in the base can enable prolonged ironing sessions involving relatively large ironing loads. This is because the water tank can have a greater capacity than if the water tank were to be included in the hand unit. As well as requiring less frequent refilling, arranging the water tank in the base can avoid that the weight of the water in the water tank hampers handling of the hand unit.
  • a high pressure pump in the base pumps water towards the hand unit via a hose.
  • the water is thus transported to the steam generator in the hand unit where the steam is generated nearly instantaneously.
  • This can allow users to enjoy powerful steam delivery akin to that provided by a boiler system, but via a design which is more compact than such a boiler system.
  • enhancing the responsiveness of such types of garment care device remains a challenge.
  • a key goal is to minimize the lag between steam trigger actuation and steam delivery.
  • DE 10 2020 129002 Al discloses a steam iron comprising an ironing unit, a water supply unit, and a control unit in communication with the ironing unit and the water supply unit.
  • the steam iron also comprises a steam switch that is activated by the control unit when the ironing unit is heated to a temperature of 180°C or more, and runs a first use mode when the activated steam switch is pressed for the first time.
  • the first use mode includes a high flow stage in which a water pump included in the water supply unit pumps water at a high flow rate of 150 to 300 g/minute for a high flow period of 1 to 15 seconds.
  • EP 3 266 926 Al discloses a method of heating water in a household appliance comprising pumping water from a water supply to a heater through a conduit at a lower power level depending on a condition corresponding to air being in the pump, and pumping water from the water supply to the heater at a higher power level.
  • the garment care device comprises: a water tank for storing water, a steam generator, a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator to generate steam, a water fluid transport volume being defined between the water tank and the steam generator, said water fluid transport volume being in the range 5 to 30 milliliters, preferably 10 to 30 milliliters, the pump being arranged to pump the water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to reach the steam generator, a steam trigger, and a control unit adapted to: i) detect a power-up of the garment care device, ii) generate an actuation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after the power-up of the garment care device is detected, and iii) actuate the pump with a first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for a first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range [0.2;5] seconds, in response to said actuation signal.
  • pumping water with such a relatively high flow rate for such a relatively short duration can allow relatively rapid filling of the water fluid transport volume. In this manner, delay in steam generation can be shortened, thereby improving user experience and performance of garment steaming.
  • the power-up of the garment care device corresponds to a power-up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device.
  • the power-up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device may correspond to a first power-up of the garment care device from its factory power setting.
  • the first predetermined flow rate is preferably in the range [150;250] g/minute and the first predetermined duration is in the range [2;5] seconds.
  • the first predetermined flow rate is 200 g/minute for the first predetermined duration of 3.6 seconds.
  • the power-up of the garment care device corresponds to a subsequent power-up occurring after a power-up having occurred for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device.
  • the subsequent power-up(s) may correspond to the power-up(s) taking place after the power- up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device and a first powerdown.
  • the subsequent power-up(s) correspond to power-up(s) the garment care device for subsequent ironing session(s) occurring hours/days/weeks after the completion of a prior ironing session.
  • the first predetermined flow rate is preferably in the range [ 150;250] g/minute and the first predetermined duration is in the range [0.2;2] seconds.
  • the first predetermined flow rate is 200 g/minute for the first predetermined duration of 1 second.
  • the first predetermined duration is a cumulated time duration when the steam trigger is actuated repeatedly.
  • the pump is actuated with the first predetermined flow rate as a result of one or a plurality of repeated (i.e. successive) actuations of the steam trigger, with the cumulated time duration of the one or plurality of repeated actuations corresponding to the first predetermined duration.
  • control unit after actuating the pump with said first predetermined flow rate during said first predetermined duration, is further adapted to: iv) actuate the pump with a second predetermined flow rate in the range [30;60] g/minute for a second duration, said second duration having a value larger than (or equal to) the difference between a predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration, in response to said actuation signal.
  • the risk of oversupplying water to the steam generator when the water fluid transport volume is closer to being filled with water may be lessened. This may assist to minimize undesirable “spitting” of liquid water from the garment care device.
  • the second duration is a cumulated time duration when the steam trigger is actuated repeatedly.
  • the garment care device preferably comprises a user interface adapted to enable user selection of one or more steaming modes, wherein the control unit is further adapted to, following actuating the pump with said second predetermined flow rate for the second duration, control the pump based on said user selection.
  • the one or more steaming modes preferably comprise a higher steam rate mode in which the pump is controlled by the control unit to pump the water at a higher flow rate, and a lower steam rate mode in which the pump is controlled by the control unit to pump the water at a lower flow rate.
  • the higher steam rate mode can be regarded as a “MAX” mode
  • the lower steam rate mode can be regarded as an “ECO” mode.
  • control unit can be further adapted to, following actuating the pump with said first predetermined flow rate for the first predetermined duration and actuating the pump with said second predetermined flow rate for the second duration, control the pump based on said user selection.
  • the garment care device comprises: a base comprising the water tank, a hand unit comprising the steam generator, and a hose for carrying water from the base to the hand unit, wherein said hose is made of silicone rubber material or EPDM material.
  • the internal volume of the hose may account for at least a portion of the above-mentioned water fluid transport volume.
  • the first predetermined flow rate and the first predetermined duration in particular when the power-up is the subsequent power-up, can be selected according to the material used to make the hose. For example, silicone rubber has been found to result in more water evaporation in the hose between uses than EPDM. For this reason, the first predetermined flow rate and the first predetermined duration when the subsequent power-up is detected may be selected such that the volume of water pumped towards the steam generator compensates for this greater evaporation in the case of the hose being made of silicone rubber.
  • a method of controlling a garment care device comprising: a water tank for storing water, a steam generator, a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator to generate steam, a water fluid transport volume being defined between the water tank and the steam generator, the pump being arranged to pump the water from the water tank through the fluid transport volume to reach the steam generator, and a steam trigger
  • the method comprising the steps of: i) detecting a power-up of the garment care device, ii) generating an actuation signal when the steam trigger is actuated for the first time after the power-up of the garment care device is detected, and iii) actuating the pump with a first predetermined flow rate in the range
  • the detecting comprises: detecting the power-up of the garment care device corresponding to a power-up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device.
  • said actuating preferably comprises: actuating the pump with the first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for the first predetermined duration in the range [2;5] seconds.
  • the detecting comprises: detecting the power-up of the garment care device corresponding to a subsequent power-up occurring after a power-up having occurred for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device.
  • said actuating preferably comprises: actuating the pump with the first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for the first predetermined duration in the range [0.2;2] seconds.
  • the method further comprises, after actuating the pump with said first predetermined flow rate during said first predetermined duration, actuating the pump, in response to the actuation signal, with a second predetermined flow rate in the range [30;60] g/minute for a second duration, the second duration having a value larger than (or equal to) the difference between:
  • the garment care device further comprises a user interface adapted to enable user selection of one or more steaming modes, and the method further comprises, following actuating the pump with said second predetermined flow rate for said second duration, controlling the pump based on said user selection.
  • the one or more steaming modes preferably comprise a higher steam rate mode in which the pump is controlled to pump the water at a higher flow rate, and a lower steam rate mode in which the pump is controlled to pump the water at a lower flow rate.
  • the garment care device controlled by the method preferably comprises a base comprising the water tank, a hand unit comprising the steam generator, and a hose for carrying water from the base to the hand unit, wherein said hose is made of silicone rubber material or EPDM material.
  • a computer program product comprises instructions codes which, when executed by the control unit of the garment care device defined above, cause the garment care device to implement the method as defined above.
  • Embodiments described herein in relation to the garment care device are applicable to the method and computer program product, and embodiments described herein in relation to the method and computer program product, for example the control logic used in such a computer program product, are applicable to the garment care device. Detailed explanations and other aspects of the invention will be given below.
  • Fig. l schematically depicts an example of a garment care device according to the invention
  • Fig.2 provides a block diagram of a garment care device according to an example of the invention
  • Fig.3 provides a simplified flowchart of a method of controlling a garment care device according to the invention
  • Figs.4A and 4B provide a flowchart of control logic used to control a garment care device according to the invention.
  • Figs.5 to 8 provide graphs of water flow rate and steam trigger actuation along the time.
  • Fig.l depicts a garment care device 100 according to a non-limiting example.
  • the garment care device 100 comprises a water tank 102 for storing water, and a steam generator 104.
  • the garment care device comprises a pump 106 for pumping water from the water tank 102 to the steam generator 104 to generate steam.
  • a water fluid transport volume FV is defined between the outlet 01 of water tank 102 and the inlet INI of the steam generator 104.
  • the pump 106 is arranged to pump the water from the water tank 102 through the water fluid transport volume FV to reach the steam generator 102.
  • the garment care device 100 comprises a treatment plate 108 in which at least one steam outlet 110 is provided.
  • the steam generated by the steam generator 104 is released from the garment care device 100 via the at least one steam outlet 110.
  • the garment care device 100 comprises a base 112 comprising the water tank 102, and a hand unit 114 comprising the steam generator 104.
  • the garment care device 100 further comprises a hose 116 for carrying water from the base 112 to the hand unit 114.
  • the internal volume of the hose 116 may account for at least a portion of the above-mentioned water fluid transport volume F V, as shown in Fig.1. This aspect will further described in the following.
  • the hose 116 is preferably made of silicone rubber material or EPDM material. The significance of the selection of the material for the hose 116 in relation to control of the pump 106 after power-up of the garment care device 100 will be discussed in more detail herein below.
  • the garment care device 100 comprises a control unit 120, 130, and a steam trigger 124.
  • the steam trigger 124 is actuatable by the user in order to control the garment care device 100, and in particular to control the garment care device’s 100 steam generation.
  • the steam trigger 124 is preferably included in the hand unit 114 of the garment care device 100 such that the user can control operation of the garment care device 100 via the steam trigger 124 while applying the steam generated by the steam generator 104 to a garment (not shown).
  • the steam trigger 124 is, for instance, arranged under a handle 126 of the hand unit 114, as shown in Fig.1.
  • the garment care device 100 comprises a user interface 128 adapted to enable user selection of one or more steaming modes.
  • the user interface 128 as depicted in Fig.l is located on the hand unit 114. Alternatively, the user interface 128 may be located on the base 112.
  • the one or more steaming modes preferably comprise a higher steam rate mode in which the pump 106 is controlled by the control unit 120, 130 to pump the water at a higher flow rate, and a lower steam rate mode in which the pump 106 is controlled by the control unit 120, 130 to pump the water at a lower flow rate.
  • the higher steam rate mode can be regarded as a “MAX” mode
  • the lower steam rate mode can be regarded as an “ECO” mode.
  • the so-called “MAX” steam mode corresponds to successive steps of decreasing water flow rates when the steam trigger is continuously actuated, such as:
  • ECO steam mode
  • MAX water flow rates
  • the control unit 120, 130 is arranged in the base 112.
  • electrical wiring 132 is provided between the hand unit 114 and the base 112.
  • the electrical wiring 132 can connect the steam trigger 124 in the hand unit 114 to the control unit 120, 130 in the base 112.
  • the electrical wiring 132 can connect the user interface 128 to the control unit 120, 130.
  • the various components of the garment care device are each included in the hand unit. Accordingly, the water tank, the steam generator, the pump, the steam trigger and the control unit are included in the hand unit, e.g. together with the treatment plate.
  • control unit 120, 130 is adapted to: i) detect a power-up of the garment care device 100, ii) generate an actuation signal when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after the power-up of the garment care device 100 is detected, and iii) actuate the pump 106 with a first predetermined flow rate in the range
  • control over the pump 106 differs from certain known garment care devices in which, after power-up, water is pumped at a relatively low flow rate to avoid flooding the steam generator, which may not have yet reached a temperature sufficient to vaporize water.
  • an opposite approach is taken in which water is pumped at a relatively high flow rate first (but for a limited duration) when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after the power-up of the garment care device 100, so that water can reach the steam generator 104 more quickly.
  • the water fluid transport volume FV is defined as the sum of the following volumes of water: a first volume of water between the outlet 01 of water tank 102 and the inlet IN0 of the hose 116.
  • the inlet IN0 corresponds to the point of connection of the hose 116 on the base 112.
  • the first volume of water corresponds to the volume of water inside the base 112, between the outlet 01 of water tank 102 and the inlet IN0.
  • a second volume of water between the inlet IN0 of the hose 116 and the inlet INI of the steam generator 104.
  • the water fluid transport volume FV is in the range 5 to 30 milliliters, preferably 10 to 30 milliliters, more preferably 10 to 25 milliliters, more preferably 15 to 17 milliliters, such as about 16 milliliters.
  • the first volume of water is in the range 2.5 to 5 milliliters.
  • a pressure relief valve for looping back the flow of water to the water tank 102 in case of unexpected increase of pressure in the water flow path
  • An electrically-controllable valve (not shown) to close the water flow path.
  • the second volume of water is in the range 2.5 to 25 milliliters.
  • the second volume of water is about to 3 milliliters.
  • the water volume FV is about 20 milliliters.
  • the first predetermined flow rate being in the range [ 150;250] g/minute combined with the first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range [0.2;5] seconds can assist to provide efficient filling of such a water fluid transport volume FV, whilst minimizing the risk of flooding of the steam generator 104.
  • the control unit 120, 130 comprises a controller 120, e.g. a microcontroller 120, and a pump control circuit 130.
  • the controller 120 detects power-up of the garment care device 100, and generates the actuation signal when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after the power-up of the garment care device 100 is detected.
  • the controller 120 in combination with the pump control circuit 130 then actuates the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate for the first predetermined duration in response to the actuation signal.
  • control unit 120 and the pump control circuit 130 are included in the same printed circuit board assembly 134.
  • the printed circuit board assembly 134 is arranged in the base 112 of the garment care device 100.
  • the garment care device 100 preferably comprises a power switch 136, which power switch 136 is actuatable by the user of the garment care device 100 to cause said power-up of the garment care device 100.
  • the power switch 136 is included in the base 112, although it is also conceivable that the power switch is provided in the hand unit (not shown).
  • detection of the power-up of the garment care device 100 can comprise detection of the power-up caused by actuation of the power switch 136.
  • the power switch 136 is connected to the control unit 120, 130.
  • the power switch 136 is connected to the controller 120 included in the control unit 120, 130.
  • the garment care device 100 can be powered in any suitable manner.
  • the garment care device 100 is connectable to a mains supply of electricity delivered via an AC power socket 138.
  • the garment care device 100 also comprises a power supply 140 for converting the mains AC power to voltage-regulated DC power for the various components of the garment steamer 100.
  • the power-up of the garment care device 100 is implemented by the user actuating the power switch 136 following connection of the garment care device 100 to the AC power socket 138.
  • Fig.2 also shows a heater 142 included in the steam generator 104.
  • the heater 142 heats the steam generator 104 in order to vaporize the water pumped thereto from the water tank 102.
  • the steam generator 104 can also include a suitable temperature sensor 144, e.g. a thermistor, for sensing the temperature of the steam generator 104.
  • the steam trigger 124 and the temperature sensor 144 are mounted on a further printed circuit board assembly 146 included in the hand unit 114, with the temperature sensor 144, e.g. thermistor, being connected to a temperature sensor control circuit 148 included in the printed circuit board assembly 134 arranged in the base 112.
  • the temperature sensor 144 e.g. thermistor
  • control unit 120, 130 is preferably connected to the temperature sensor 144 and the heater 142.
  • control unit 120, 130 can control the pump 106 and/or control the heater 142 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 144.
  • the controller 120 of the control unit 120, 130 is connected to a heater control circuit 150.
  • the combination of the controller 120 and the heater control circuit 150 controls the heater 142.
  • Fig.3 provides a simplified flowchart of a method 200 of controlling the garment care device 100.
  • the method 200 comprises the steps of: i) detecting 202 a power-up of the garment care device 100, ii) generating 204 an actuation signal when the steam trigger 124 is actuated for the first time after the power-up of the garment care device 100 is detected, and iii) actuating 206 the pump 106 with a first predetermined flow rate in the range [150;250] g/minute for a first predetermined duration not exceeding a value in the range [0.2;5] seconds, in response to said actuation signal.
  • the detecting 202 comprises: detecting the power-up of the garment care device 100 corresponding to a power-up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device 100.
  • the power-up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device 100 may correspond to a first power-up of the garment care device 100 from its factory power setting.
  • said actuating 206 preferably comprises: actuating the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for the first predetermined duration in the range [2;5] seconds.
  • said actuating 206 comprises actuating the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate being 200 g/minute for a first predetermined duration of 3.6 seconds.
  • the detecting 202 comprises: detecting the power-up of the garment care device 100 corresponding to a subsequent power-up occurring after a power-up having occurred for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device 100.
  • the subsequent power-up(s) may correspond to the power-up(s) taking place after the power- up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device 100 and a first powerdown.
  • the subsequent power-up(s) correspond to power-up(s) the garment care device for subsequent ironing session(s) occurring hours/days/weeks after the completion of a prior ironing session.
  • said actuating 206 preferably comprises: actuating the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for the first predetermined duration in the range [0.2;2] seconds.
  • said actuating 206 comprises actuating the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate being 200 g/minute for the first predetermined duration of 1 second.
  • the first predetermined flow rate and the first predetermined duration following detection of the subsequent power-up are preferably set according to the material used to make the hose 116.
  • silicone rubber has been found to result in more water evaporation in the hose 116 between uses than EPDM.
  • silicone rubber and EPDM can be regarded as fluid non-permeable materials, they are actually porous at microscopic level, resulting in water inside the hose evaporating over time when the garment care device 100 is not being used, particularly over relatively long periods of non-use.
  • the first predetermined flow rate and the first predetermined duration when the subsequent power-up is detected may be selected such that the volume of water pumped towards the steam generator 104 compensates for this greater evaporation in the case of a hose made of silicone rubber.
  • the first predetermined flow rate may be relatively high to ensure that this greater filling required for the hose 116 made of silicone rubber takes place sufficiently quickly.
  • the method 200 further comprises, after actuating 206 the pump 106 with said first predetermined flow rate during said first predetermined duration, actuating 208 the pump, in response to the actuation signal, with a second predetermined flow rate in the range [30;60] g/minute for a second duration, the second duration having a value larger than (or equal to) the difference between:
  • the risk of oversupplying water to the steam generator 104 when the water fluid transport volume FV is closer to being filled with water may be lessened. This may assist to minimize undesirable “spitting” of liquid water from the garment care device 100.
  • the second predetermined flow rate is lower than the first predetermined flow rate so that it fills up the remaining of the water fluid transport volume FV that is not fully filled by the first predetermined flow rate for first predetermined duration while avoiding flooding the steam generator,
  • the treatment plate 108 needs to be thermally stabilized for a certain period of time by dosing water with a lower flow rate before dosing water with a larger flow rate (such as in MAX” mode or “ECO” mode).
  • the method 200 can further comprise, following actuating the pump 106 with said second predetermined flow rate for the second duration, controlling 210 the pump 106 based on said user selection.
  • the pump 106 may be controlled in step 210 according to the above-described higher steam rate (“MAX”) mode or according to the above-described lower steam rate (“ECO”) mode.
  • MAX higher steam rate
  • ECO lower steam rate
  • the pump 106 is controlled in step 210 based on said user selection.
  • Figs.4A and 4B provide a flowchart 300 of control logic used to control a garment care device 100.
  • the start 302 of the control logic is shown in Fig.4A.
  • the garment care device 100 is initially in a standby state, as denoted by operation box 304.
  • Decision box 306 questions whether or not a power-up of the garment care device 100 is detected. If such a power-up is detected, the control logic proceeds to decision box 308.
  • Decision box 308 questions whether or not the temperature of the steam generator 104, e.g. as determined by the above-described temperature sensor 144, is lower than 90°C.
  • control logic proceeds to operation box 310 in which the heater 142 is controlled to heat the steam generator 104 to 165°C. The control logic then proceeds to decision box 312.
  • Decision box 312 questions whether or not the steam trigger 124 is actuated. If the steam trigger 124 is actuated, the control logic proceeds to decision box 314. Decision box 314 questions whether or not the temperature of the steam generator 104 is greater than or equal to 165°C. If the temperature of the steam generator 104 is lower than 165°C, the control logic reverts to operation box 310 and the heater 142 is controlled to heat the steam generator 104 to 165°C.
  • control logic proceeds to operation box 316 in which the heater 142 is controlled to heat the steam generator 104 for 2 minutes. The control logic then proceeds to decision box 318.
  • Decision box 318 questions whether or not the steam trigger 124 is actuated. If the answer to decision box 318 is “yes” (abbreviated in “Y” in the flow chart), the control logic proceeds to decision box 320. Decision box 320 questions whether or not the above-mentioned 2 minutes period of heating the steam generator 104 has been reached or exceeded. If the answer to decision box 320 is “no” (abbreviated in “N” in the flow chart), the control logic reverts to the operation box 316. If the answer to decision box 320 is “yes”, the control logic proceeds to decision box 322.
  • the power-up detected in 306 can be regarded as a “cold start”, meaning that the garment care device 100 is being powered up after a relatively long rest time.
  • the steam generator 104 temperature is higher, in this case greater than or equal to 90°C, the garment care device 100 is treated as having been powered- down, e.g. being off or in the standby state, only a relatively short while ago and subsequently restarted.
  • the temperature of the steam generator 104 can thus indicate a relatively short “rest time” of the garment care device 100.
  • the garment care device 100 preferably comprises the above-described temperature sensor 144 for sensing the temperature of the steam generator 104.
  • the control unit 120, 130 is adapted to actuate the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate for the first predetermined duration in response to the actuation signal and the sensed temperature of the steam generator 104 being greater than or equal to a predetermined temperature threshold.
  • the predetermined temperature threshold is between 70°C and 95°C, preferably between 75°C and 95°C, such as about 80°C or about 90°C.
  • the predetermined temperature threshold being set in such a range may permit the above-described “cold start” to be distinguished from the above-described “rest time”.
  • the control unit 120, 130, 150 is preferably adapted to control the heater 142 to heat the steam generator 104 in response to the power-up.
  • the control unit 120, 130, 150 can include the above-mentioned heater control circuit 150.
  • control unit 120, 130, 150 is preferably adapted to control the heater 142 to heat the steam generator 104 for a predetermined heating duration and/or to a given temperature prior to actuating the pump 106 with the first predetermined flow rate for the first predetermined duration. This may assist to lessen the risk of flooding of the steam generator 104.
  • control unit 120, 130, 150 is adapted to control the heater 142 to heat the steam generator 104 for the predetermined heating duration and/or to the given temperature in response to the power-up and the sensed temperature of the steam generator 104 being greater than or equal to the above-mentioned predetermined temperature threshold.
  • decision box 322 questions whether or not a flag value is equal to a first value, for example “1”. If the answer is “yes”, the power-up corresponds to the abovedescribed power-up occurring for the first time in the lifetime of the garment care device 100. In this scenario, the control logic proceeds to operation box 324 in which the pump 106 is actuated with the first predetermined for the first predetermined duration.
  • the pump 106 when the flag value is equal to “1”, the pump 106 is actuated with the first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for the first predetermined duration in the range [2; 5] seconds, as previously described.
  • the first value of the flag is set during manufacturing.
  • control logic then proceeds from operation box 324 to operation box 326.
  • the flag value is set to a second value, for example “0”. Changing the flag value from “1” to “0” in this manner means that when the power-up corresponds to the above-described subsequent power-up, the answer to the decision box 322 will be “no”.
  • control logic proceeds to operation box 328 in which the pump 106 is actuated, in response to the actuation signal, with the above-described second predetermined flow rate in the range [30;60] g/minute for the second duration having a value larger than (or equal to) the difference between:
  • control logic then proceeds to (1) in Fig.4B, which will be described herein below.
  • the control logic proceeds to operation box 330 in which the pump 106 is actuated with the first predetermined flow rate for the first predetermined duration.
  • the pump 106 is actuated with the first predetermined flow rate in the range [ 150;250] g/minute for the first predetermined duration in the range [0.2;2] seconds, as previously described.
  • control logic proceeds to operation box 332 in which the pump 106 is actuated, in response to the actuation signal, with the above-described second predetermined flow rate in the range [30;60] g/minute for the second duration having a value larger than (or equal to) the difference between:
  • control logic proceeds to (1) in Fig.4B.
  • the pump 106 is controlled based on predefined flow control logic of a user selected steaming mode.
  • the pump 106 is controlled by the control unit 120, 130 to pump the water according to the steam mode which has been selected by the user via the user interface 128.
  • the pump 106 is controlled according to the above-described higher steam rate (“MAX”) mode or the above-described lower steam rate (“ECO”) mode.
  • Decision box 336 questions whether or not the steam trigger 124 is released. If the steam trigger 124 is not released, the control logic reverts to operation box 334. If the steam trigger 124 is released, the control logic proceeds to operation box 338. In operation box 338, the pump is in an “off state” in which the pump 106 does not pump water.
  • Decision box 340 questions whether or not the garment care device 100 is powered down or is idle. If the answer to decision box 340 is “no”, the control logic proceeds to decision box 342.
  • Decision box 342 questions whether or not the steam trigger 124 is actuated. If the answer to decision box 342 is “yes”, the control logic reverts to operation box 334 in which the pump 106 is controlled based on predefined flow control logic of the user selected steaming mode. If the answer to decision box 342 is “no”, the control logic reverts to decision box 340.
  • the above-mentioned second duration is based on a predetermined duration threshold in the range [8; 25] seconds.
  • the value of the second duration is preferably larger than (or equal to) the difference between the predetermined duration threshold and the first predetermined duration.
  • Fig.5 provides a graphical representation of a first scenario in which the steam trigger 124 is actuated continuously for 25 seconds.
  • the water fluid transport volume FV is partially filled by the first predetermined flow rate (200 g/minute) for the first predetermined duration (3 seconds) during stage 500.
  • the remainder of the water fluid transport volume FV is filled at stage 502 and stage 504, with a relatively lower flow rate of 45 g/minute. This relatively lower flow rate corresponds to the second predetermined flow rate.
  • the fluid transport volume FV could already be fully filled-in with water. In this case, this means that additional water pumped into the fluid transport volume FV would cause water to reach the inside of the steam generator. As a result, at the start of stage 504, some steam may be generated by the steam generator.
  • the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.
  • the vertical dotted line 508 shows the time at which the cumulated duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration have already reached the value of the predetermined threshold duration.
  • the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, in this example from 25 seconds to 28 seconds.
  • steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting a flow rate profile associated to the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”, and no more using the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate.
  • a flow rate profile associated to the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”
  • Fig.6 provides a graphical representation of a second scenario in which the steam trigger 124 is actuated continuously for 20 seconds.
  • the water fluid transport volume FV is partially filled by the first predetermined flow rate (200 g/minute) for the first predetermined duration (3 seconds) during stage 500.
  • the remainder of the water fluid transport volume FV is filled at stage 502 and stage 504, with a relatively lower flow rate of 45 g/minute. This relatively lower flow rate corresponds to the second predetermined flow rate.
  • the fluid transport volume FV could already be fully filled-in with water. In this case, this means that additional water pumped into the fluid transport volume FV would cause water to reach the inside of the steam generator. As a result, at the start of stage 504, some steam may be generated by the steam generator.
  • the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.
  • the vertical dotted line 508 shows the time at which the cumulated duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration have already reached the value of the predetermined threshold duration.
  • the steam trigger 124 is released for 8 seconds, in this example from 20 seconds to 28 seconds.
  • steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting a flow rate profile associated to the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”, and no more using the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate.
  • a flow rate profile associated to the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”
  • Fig.7 provides a graphical representation of a third scenario in which the steam trigger 124 is initially actuated continuously for 6 seconds.
  • the water fluid transport volume FV is partially filled by the first predetermined flow rate (200 g/minute) for the first predetermined duration (3 seconds) during stage 500.
  • the second predetermined flow rate (45 g/minute) is then implemented at the start of stage 502A for a duration of 3 seconds until the steam trigger 124 is released at time 6 seconds.
  • the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, in this example from time 6 seconds to 9 seconds.
  • the steam trigger 124 is then actuated again for another continuous 16 seconds, between time 9 seconds and 25 seconds, corresponding to stages 502B and 504.
  • the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.
  • the vertical dotted line 508 shows the time at which the cumulated duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration have already reached the value of the predetermined threshold duration.
  • the cumulated duration of the steam trigger during stage 502A is 3 seconds, so smaller than the above-calculated 17 seconds.
  • the pump is actuated with the second predetermined flow rate (45 g/minute), and not as per the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”.
  • the fluid transport volume FV could already be fully filled-in with water. In this case, this means that additional water pumped into the fluid transport volume FV would cause water to reach the inside of the steam generator. As a result, at the start of stage 504, some steam may be generated by the steam generator.
  • the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, in this example from time 25 seconds to 28 seconds.
  • steam is generated at stage 510 by selecting a flow rate profile associated to the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”, and no more using the first predetermined flow rate nor the second predetermined flow rate.
  • a flow rate profile associated to the user selected steam mode, e.g. “MAX” or “ECO”
  • the first predetermined duration is a cumulated time duration when the steam trigger 124 is actuated repeatedly.
  • the pump 106 is actuated with the first predetermined flow rate as a result of one or a plurality of discrete actuations of the steam trigger 124, with the cumulated time duration of the one or plurality of discrete actuations corresponding to the first predetermined duration.
  • Fig.8 provides a graphical representation of a fourth scenario in which the respective durations of each of a plurality of, in this case two, comprise a discrete actuations 500A (for 1 second) and 500B (for 2 seconds) of the steam trigger 124.
  • the first predetermined flow rate is discontinued as soon as the cumulated time duration of 3 seconds is reached. This happens at time 512, 4 seconds in this example.
  • the predetermined duration threshold is 20 seconds.
  • the vertical dotted line 508 shows the time at which the cumulated duration of the first predetermined duration and the second duration have already reached the value of the predetermined threshold duration.
  • the steam trigger 124 is released for 3 seconds, in this example from 25 seconds to 28 seconds.
  • the invention has been described based on a garment care device, it can be applied to any household device having a steam generator, a water tank, and a pump for pumping water from the water tank to the steam generator.
  • the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Irons (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention se rapporte à un dispositif d'entretien de vêtement (100) comprenant un réservoir d'eau (102) pour stocker de l'eau, un générateur de vapeur (104) et une pompe (106) pour pomper l'eau du réservoir d'eau et la fournir au générateur de vapeur pour générer de la vapeur. Un volume de transport de fluide aqueux (FV) est défini entre la sortie (O1) du réservoir d'eau et l'entrée (IN1) du générateur de vapeur. Le volume de transport de fluide aqueux est dans la plage de 5 à 30 millilitres, de préférence de 10 à 30 millilitres. La pompe est agencée pour pomper l'eau du réservoir d'eau à travers le volume de transport de fluide pour atteindre le générateur de vapeur. Le dispositif d'entretien de vêtement comprend également un déclencheur de vapeur (124) et une unité de commande (120, 130). L'unité de commande est conçue i) pour détecter une mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtement, et ii) pour générer un signal d'actionnement lorsque le déclencheur de vapeur est actionné pour la première fois après que la mise sous tension du dispositif de d'entretien de vêtement est détectée. L'unité de commande est en outre conçue iii) pour actionner la pompe avec un premier débit prédéterminé dans la plage [150 ; 250] g/minute pendant une première durée prédéterminée ne dépassant pas une valeur dans la plage [0,2 ; 5] secondes en réponse audit signal d'actionnement.
EP22798360.8A 2021-11-08 2022-10-14 Dispositif d'entretien de vêtement doté d'une pompe pour pomper de l'eau après la détection d'une mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtement Pending EP4347943A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP21206906.6A EP4177394A1 (fr) 2021-11-08 2021-11-08 Dispositif d'entretien de vêtements comportant une pompe pour pomper l'eau après avoir détecté la mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtements
PCT/EP2022/078639 WO2023078657A1 (fr) 2021-11-08 2022-10-14 Dispositif d'entretien de vêtement doté d'une pompe pour pomper de l'eau après la détection d'une mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtement

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4347943A1 true EP4347943A1 (fr) 2024-04-10

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Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP21206906.6A Withdrawn EP4177394A1 (fr) 2021-11-08 2021-11-08 Dispositif d'entretien de vêtements comportant une pompe pour pomper l'eau après avoir détecté la mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtements
EP22798360.8A Pending EP4347943A1 (fr) 2021-11-08 2022-10-14 Dispositif d'entretien de vêtement doté d'une pompe pour pomper de l'eau après la détection d'une mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtement

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EP21206906.6A Withdrawn EP4177394A1 (fr) 2021-11-08 2021-11-08 Dispositif d'entretien de vêtements comportant une pompe pour pomper l'eau après avoir détecté la mise sous tension du dispositif d'entretien de vêtements

Country Status (3)

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EP (2) EP4177394A1 (fr)
CN (1) CN117836481A (fr)
WO (1) WO2023078657A1 (fr)

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2899247B1 (fr) * 2006-03-31 2008-05-09 Rowenta Werke Gmbh Fer a vapeur comportant un indicateur d'entartrage
ES2656508B1 (es) * 2016-07-06 2018-12-11 Bsh Electrodomésticos España, S.A. Método de generar vapor y aparato doméstico de generación de vapor
FR3067724B1 (fr) * 2017-06-14 2019-07-05 Seb S.A. Appareil de repassage equipe d'une cuve chauffee par des premiere et deuxieme resistances electriques
CN112779748B (zh) * 2019-11-08 2022-06-28 漳州灿坤实业有限公司 即开式蒸汽熨烫装置

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CN117836481A (zh) 2024-04-05
WO2023078657A1 (fr) 2023-05-11

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