EP2158351B1 - Steam iron device having an anti-drip system - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a steam iron device (2), particularly a steam iron or a steam ironing station, comprising: an ironing bed (4) having steam discharge openings (6); a tank (8) for vaporization fluid (W), particularly water; a steam generation system having a vaporization chamber (10) connected to the steam discharge openings (6) and into which the vaporization fluid (W) can be selectively fed from the tank (8); a heating device (14) for heating the ironing bed (4) and/or the vaporization chamber (10); an iron temperature adjusting element (16); an operating element (22) for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generation system (steam switch); and an anti-drip system (P1) for preventing undesired entry of the vaporization fluid (W) into the vaporization chamber (10) and thus for preventing undesired discharge of (non-vaporized) vaporization fluid (W) from the steam discharge openings (6). The steam ironing device (2) is characterized in that the anti-drip system (P1) is functionally coupled to the iron temperature adjusting element (16) and can be activated and deactivated by or by means of the same.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a steam ironing apparatus, in particular a steam iron or a steam ironing station, according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

STATE OF THE ART

There are the preamble of claim 1 corresponding steam ironing devices known, comprising the following components: a soleplate with steam outlet openings; a container for evaporation liquid, in particular water; a steam generating system having an evaporation chamber communicating with the steam outlets and into which the evaporation liquid from the container is selectively introduced; a heating device for heating the soleplate and / or the evaporation chamber; an ironing temperature adjusting element; an operating element for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generating system; and an anti-dripping system for preventing unwanted entry of the evaporating liquid into the evaporating chamber and thereby preventing accidental leakage of (non-evaporated) evaporating liquid from the steam outlets.

Anti-dripping systems are usually used to prevent the entry of the evaporation liquid in the evaporation chamber, if this (for example, shortly after switching on in a heating phase of the soleplate or the evaporation chamber or even after switching off the steam ironing device or a ironing operation with an ironing temperature lower than a steam ironing temperature) has a temperature insufficient to vaporize evaporation liquid in the evaporation chamber. Thus, it is prevented at the same time that evaporating liquid drops unintentionally escape from the steam outlet openings of the soleplate and fall on an ironing board or to be ironed or just ironed textiles and adversely affect the textiles or the previously achieved ironing results.

Conventional anti-drip systems are usually equipped with a bimetallic element which controls the supply or the entry of the evaporation liquid into the evaporation chamber depending on the temperature in the evaporation chamber or the temperature of the soleplate. This control is carried out by means of a temperature-induced deformation of the bimetallic element, which is used to realize a circuit function. For example, in mechanical anti-drip systems, the bimetallic element is coupled to a valve system which is actuated by the bimetallic element, thus opening or closing an evaporation liquid channel which opens into the vaporization chamber. On the other hand, in steam ironing apparatus equipped with an electric micropump (according to Applicants' internal state of the art) with which the evaporating liquid is injected into the evaporating chamber and in which the micropump additionally acts as an anti-drip system, the bimetallic element serves to To operate an electrical switch that closes or interrupts the electrical circuit of the micropump. Thereby, the supply of the evaporation liquid into the evaporation chamber is controlled by means of the micropump.

In both of the conventional anti-drip systems described above, it has been found that they react quite sluggishly, in particular in the heating phase and during the cooling phase of the evaporation chamber or the soleplate. Particularly critical here is the cooling phase exposed. In the case of a steam ironing device, for example, which is equipped with a micropump, which is to take over an anti-drip function at the same time, it may happen that the micropump still injects evaporation liquid into the evaporation chamber during the cooling phase, even though it no longer has a sufficiently high temperature evaporate the injected liquid. Even with ironing operations that are carried out with an ironing temperature that is below a steam ironing temperature, conventional antidripping systems can not always reliably prevent unwanted ingress of evaporation liquid into the evaporation chamber and thus unwanted dripping.

From the US 6,393,740 B1 For example, a steam iron with an ironing temperature setting element and an anti-dripping system is known in which the amount of water introduced into a steam chamber is dependent on the set ironing temperature.

From the US 5 572 810 A For example, a steam iron with a steam valve and an ironing temperature adjusting element coupled to a thermostat is known, wherein the ironing temperature adjusting element is coupled to the steam valve.

In addition to the steam ironing apparatus types described above, steam ironing apparatus provided with a micropump are also known which do not have an anti-drip system and consequently can not prevent the evaporation of evaporating liquid from the soleplate in certain conditions.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

The invention has the object or the technical problem of providing a steam ironing device with an improved anti-drip system.

This object is achieved by a steam ironing device according to the invention with the features of claim 1.

This steam ironing apparatus, in particular a steam iron or a steam ironing station, comprises: a soleplate with steam outlet openings; a container for evaporation liquid, in particular water; a steam generating system having an evaporation chamber communicating with the steam outlets and into which the evaporation liquid from the container is selectively introduced; a heating device for heating the soleplate and / or the evaporation chamber; an ironing temperature adjusting element; an operating element for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generating system (e.g., a so-called "steam switch"); and an anti-dripping system for preventing unwanted entry of the evaporating liquid into the evaporating chamber and thereby preventing accidental leakage of (non-evaporated) evaporating liquid from the steam outlets operably coupled to and activatable and deactivatable by the ironing temperature adjusting member.

The ironing temperature adjusting element according to the invention has a first temperature setting range for low ironing temperatures, in which the anti-drip system can be activated via or through the ironing temperature setting element.

"Activatable and deactivatable by this" means that the anti-drip system can be activated and deactivated directly by the ironing temperature setting element.

"Disabled via this" means in the context of the present invention that the deactivation function can start from a different control element of the steam ironing device than the ironing temperature setting element, but the ironing temperature setting element must additionally assume a predetermined state, so that the anti-drip system is deactivated and evaporation liquid in the Evaporation chamber can get. In an anti-drip system circuit of an electric anti-drip system, for example, at least two predetermined switching conditions or states (of the operating element AND of the ironing temperature setting element) must be fulfilled so that the anti-drip system is deactivated and evaporation liquid can enter the evaporation chamber.
"Activatable over this" in the context of the present invention further means that even if, in addition to the ironing temperature setting element other operating elements of the steam ironing device are present, the

Deactivation of the anti-drip system are required (see previous paragraph), the activation function can already be triggered by a predetermined state or switching state of at least one of these elements (or more or all).

The inventors of the present steam ironing apparatus have recognized that in conventional anti-drip systems of the type described above, the function of the anti-drip system in a heating phase as well as in particular in a cooling phase of the evaporation chamber or the soleplate directly from the properties and tolerances of the bimetallic element used and the local Temperature, which prevails at the mounting location of the bimetallic element, is influenced. This local temperature in turn depends strongly on the temperature of the components located in the vicinity of the bimetallic element, e.g. the sole plate, which has a comparatively high heat storage capacity compared to the bimetallic element and heats or cools only comparatively slowly. The result is then the sluggish behavior and possible malfunction of conventional anti-drip systems. Furthermore, the local temperature may be affected by accumulation of unevaporated evaporation liquid, which also affects the function of the conventional anti-drip systems.

In the solution according to the invention, a bimetal element assigned to the anti-drip system is completely dispensed with. Instead, the anti-drip system is functionally coupled to the ironing temperature setting element and can be activated or deactivated via or through it. In this way, the influence of the local temperature in the region of the mounting location of the anti-drip system and the associated technical disadvantages can be eliminated. Because, according to the invention, the anti-drip system is controlled by or via the ironing temperature setting element, the function of the anti-drip system can be targeted, precisely and without delays to one by means of the ironing temperature setting element Adjust or adjust the preselected concrete ironing temperature. In particular, in the heating and cooling phase, therefore, the entry of evaporation liquid into the evaporation chamber and the dripping out of non-evaporated evaporation liquid from the soleplate can be reliably prevented. Also, with the solution according to the invention, it is possible to preclude erroneous operation by a user if, for example, he operates the operating element for activating the steam generating system, although due to a preselected low ironing temperature, the temperature in the evaporating chamber is insufficient to evaporate the introduced evaporating liquid. In such a case, the anti-drip system is appropriately activated by or via the ironing temperature setting element and prevents the introduction of evaporation liquid into the evaporation chamber.

On the other hand, with the solution according to the invention, however, special functions can also be easily realized, such as e.g. a car cleaning function of the evaporation chamber for descaling. In this case, it is first necessary to introduce evaporation liquid into the cold evaporation chamber - a process which, as explained above, should just be avoided during normal ironing. However, at the iron temperature setting element, e.g. a setting position "car cleaning" are provided, which corresponds to this cold temperature, so that said function is specifically executable, while for other operating conditions, a reliable anti-drip function is ensured.

Further preferred and advantageous design features of the steam ironing device according to the invention are the subject of the dependent claims, which find their support in the following description and the drawings.

A preferred embodiment of the invention with additional design details and other advantages is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and explained.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1

eine schematische Querschnittsansicht durch eine erfindungsgemäße Dampfbügelvorrichtung, die mit einem Antitropfsystem ausgestattet ist;

Fig. 2

eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines unteren Gehäuseteils der erfindungsgemäßen Dampfbügelvorrichtung;

Fig.3

eine perspektivische Unteransicht eines Bügeltemperatur-Einstellelementes der erfindungsgemäßen Dampfbügelvorrichtung;

Fig.4

eine teilweise geschnittene Perspektivansicht eines wesentlichen Bereiches der erfindungsgemäßen Dampfbügelvorrichtung;

Fig. 5

ein schematisches Blockschaltbild eines wesentlichen Teils des Antitropfsystems der erfindungsgemäßen Dampfbügelvorrichtung; und

Fig. 6a bis e

jeweils eine schematische Draufsicht auf das Bügeltemperatur-Einstellelement der erfindungsgemäßen Dampfbügelvorrichtung in verschiedenen Drehpositionen und Schaltungszuständen.

It shows:

Fig. 1

a schematic cross-sectional view through a steam ironing device according to the invention, which is equipped with an anti-drip system;

Fig. 2

a schematic perspective view of a lower housing part of the steam ironing device according to the invention;

Figure 3

a perspective bottom view of an ironing temperature setting element of the steam ironing device according to the invention;

Figure 4

a partially sectioned perspective view of an essential portion of the steam ironing device according to the invention;

Fig. 5

a schematic block diagram of an essential part of the anti-drip system of the steam ironing device according to the invention; and

Fig. 6a to e

in each case a schematic plan view of the ironing temperature setting element of the steam ironing device according to the invention in different rotational positions and circuit states.

PRESENTATION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

In the following description and in the figures, the same components and components are also identified by the same reference numerals to avoid repetition, unless further differentiation is required.

In the Fig. 1 is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view of a steam ironing device according to the invention, which is designed in this example as a steam iron 2. The steam iron 2 has a first, lower housing part 2a, a soleplate 4 with steam outlet openings 6, a container 8 for evaporation liquid W, in particular water or water with an additive, and a steam generating system, with an evaporation chamber 10, which communicates with the steam outlet openings 6 and in which the evaporation liquid W is selectively introduced from the container 8. An electric micropump P1 serves for the controlled introduction of the evaporation liquid W from the container 8 into the evaporation chamber 10. By means of a steam quantity (rotary) switch 12, which is functionally coupled to the micropump P1, for a steam iron operation, the desired amount of steam can be adjusted or regulated.

Further, the steam iron 2 is equipped with a heater 14 for heating the soleplate 4 and / or the evaporation chamber 10. For the soleplate 4 and the evaporation chamber 10 either the same heating device 14 or different heating devices can be used. Moreover, the steam iron 2 has an ironing temperature adjusting element, which in this case is designed as a rotary knob 16 which is coupled to a rotation axis 18 which is connected to a thermostat 20 which controls the heating device 14. Instead of a knob 16 However, any other suitable for the purpose mentioned adjustment can be used. The knob 16 has a plurality of temperature setting ranges, which will be discussed in more detail below.

The steam iron 2 is equipped with a cleaning and descaling system.

The steam iron 2 has (at least) a first electrical switch S1 (here: an electrical micro-switch), which is assigned to the knob 16 and can be actuated by this directly or indirectly. In other embodiments of the invention, the knob 16 and the ironing temperature setting element may also have two or more switches.

Furthermore, an operating element 22 is provided for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generating system. This operating element 22 is designed in the present case as a so-called steam switch. In principle, however, any other suitable for the purpose mentioned control element can apply. The steam iron 2 has (at least) a second electrical switch S2, which is assigned to the steam switch 22 and can be actuated by it directly or indirectly. The switch S2 is functionally coupled to the micropump P1.

In addition, the steam iron 2 has a steam button 24, which is coupled to a separate from the micropump P1, mechanical pump P2. For the purposes of the invention, a "key" is to be understood, in addition to a key as such, also a switch, knob, etc. By actuating the vapor-fuel button 24, independently of the micropump P1, a predetermined amount of vaporization liquid W can be injected into the vaporization chamber 10 as needed with a key stroke, thus generating a momentary burst of steam.

The steam iron 2 is further equipped with an anti-dripping system for preventing unwanted entry of the evaporating liquid W into the evaporating chamber 10 and thus preventing accidental leakage of (non-evaporated) evaporating liquid W from the steam outlets 6. Furthermore, the steam iron 2 has a central anti-drip control system Z.

The anti-drip system is at least functionally coupled to the rotary knob 16 (ironing temperature setting element) and can be activated or deactivated via or through it. For this purpose, the knob 16 is coupled to the anti-drip control system Z. The anti-drip system may thus be activated and deactivated via or through the first electrical switch S1 associated with the rotary knob 16, as will be described in more detail below. In addition, the steam switch 22 and the steam quantity rotary switch 12 are coupled to the anti-drip control system Z. The knob 16 and the steam switch 22 are on the anti-drip control system Z and the circuit of their switches S1 and S2 (see Fig. 3 ) functionally coupled with each other.

In the present case, the micropump P1 forms the anti-drip system or a substantial part thereof. The knob 16 and the steam switch 22 in this case constitute essential components of an anti-drip system circuit or a micropump circuit system. The separate mechanical pump P2 may have its own anti-drip system.

1. a) sperrt, wenn die Mikropumpe P1 desaktiviert ist bzw. nicht aktiviert werden soll, und
2. b) den Kanal öffnet, wenn die Mikropumpe P1 aktiviert ist bzw. aktiviert werden darf.

Deshalb ist die Mikropumpe P1 funktional mit dem Drehknopf 16 gekoppelt und auf eine nachfolgend noch näher beschriebene, vorbestimmte Art und Weise über oder durch diesen aktivierbar und desaktivierbar.The micropump P1 has at least one shut-off valve V, in particular an integral shut-off valve, which can be arranged, for example, at a pump inlet and / or outlet (evaporation liquid inlet and / or outlet), and a channel or outlet leading to the evaporation chamber 10 for the evaporation liquid W

1. a) blocks if the micropump P1 is deactivated or should not be activated, and
2. b) opens the channel when the micropump P1 is activated or allowed to be activated.

Therefore, the micropump P1 is functionally coupled to the rotary knob 16 and activated and deactivated in a manner to be described in more detail below, by way of or through this.

In the Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the first, lower housing part 2a of the steam iron 2 according to the invention shown. As can be seen in the drawing, this housing part 2a has a region 26 for mounting the rotary knob 16 (see Fig. 1 ), with an opening 28 for the axis of rotation 18 (see Fig. 1 ), a stop 30 for the knob 16 and a receptacle 32 for the switch S1.

In the Fig. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the knob 16 is shown. The knob has a member 34 for establishing a rotationally fixed connection to the axis of rotation 18 of the thermostat 20 (see Fig. 1 ), a stop 30 (see Fig. 2 ) associated stop member 36, a circular segment-shaped large switching element SE1 and a circular segment-shaped small switching element SE2.

Fig. 4 shows a partially sectioned perspective view of a substantial portion of the steam iron 2 according to the invention, with the arrangement of the knob 16 and located in the receptacle 32 switch S1 on the first, lower housing part 2a. Furthermore, this figure shows the arrangement of the first, lower housing part 2a in relation to a second or further lower housing part 2b. As is apparent from the figure, the switch S1 has a contact element 38 for opening and closing a circuit to which the switch S1 is connected. In the illustration according to Fig. 4 is the contact element 38 in an unactuated normal position, ie the circuit is open. The contact element 38 (and Thus, the switch S1) can be actuated by the switching elements SE1 and SE2 when the knob 16 is rotated and the switching element SE1 and SE2 depresses the contact element 38, as will be explained in more detail below.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic block diagram of an essential part of the anti-drip system and its anti-drip system or the corresponding micropump circuit system of the steam iron 2 according to the invention. The reference symbol U denotes the voltage applied to this circuit electrical voltage. As can be seen from the block diagram, the second electrical switch S2 is functionally coupled to the first electrical switch S1. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 are connected in series. The electric micropump P1, which constitutes the anti-drip system or a substantial part thereof, can be activated and deactivated via or via the first switch S1 and the second switch S2, as will be described in more detail below. Since the switch S1 the rotary knob 16 and the switch S2 is assigned to the steam switch 22, and the switches S1, S2 are actuated by these elements, the knob 16 and the steam switch 22 are thus functionally coupled together.

Fig. 6a to 6e each show a schematic plan view of the knob 16 (iron temperature adjustment) of the steam iron 2 according to the invention in different rotational positions and circuit states. The rotation of the knob 16 is in the Fig. 6a indicated by a double arrow. From the drawings, furthermore, the position of the contact element 38 of the switch S1 in relation to the rotary knob 16 and its large switching element SE1 and its small switching element SE2 in dependence on the rotational position of the knob 16 is apparent. This position of the contact element 38 of the located below the knob 16 switch S1 (see Fig. 4 ) is in the illustration according to Fig. 6a indicated by a drawn in the vicinity of the outer periphery of the knob 16 line.

Like in the Fig. 6a is sketched, and as mentioned above, the knob 16 has several temperature setting ranges. In the drawing, these areas and corresponding adjustment marks with respect to a reference position (eg, a zero position) of the rotary knob 16 are shown. The reference position is in the Fig. 6a to 6e indicated by a large arrowhead and the reference numeral 0.

First temperature setting range TB1:

The rotary knob 16 has a first temperature setting range TB1 for low ironing temperatures, in which the anti-drip system can be activated via or by the rotary knob 16. If the anti-drip system is activated, no evaporation liquid W can be introduced into the evaporation chamber 10. "Low ironing temperature" here means that the temperature is not sufficient for steam generation. A setting position for the area TB1 is indicated on the rotary knob 16 by a setting mark in the form of a single dot.

Second temperature setting range TB2:

In addition, the knob 16 has a second temperature setting range TB2 for higher and higher ironing temperatures, ie Dampfbügeltemperaturen sufficient for steam generation. In this setting range TB2, the anti-drip system can be deactivated via or by means of the rotary knob 16. If the anti-drip system is deactivated, evaporation liquid W can be introduced into the evaporation chamber 10. Setting positions for the area TB2 are indicated on the knob 16 by two setting marks. The setting mark for the higher ironing temperature is a mark in the form of two dots. And the setting mark for the high ironing temperature is a mark in the form of three dots.

Cleaning and decalcifying setting position:

In addition, the rotary knob 16 has a function of the cleaning and descaling system of the iron associated cleaning and descaling or a corresponding adjustment range R, in which / which the anti-drip system is deactivated via or by the knob 16. In the deactivated state of the anti-drip system, evaporation liquid W can be introduced into the evaporation chamber 10. A setting mark for the adjustment range R is indicated in this embodiment by a mark C in the form of a small arrowhead.

Taking into account the in Fig. 5 The anti-drip system circuit or the micropump circuit system of the steam iron 2 according to the invention have several different circuit states:

First circuit state:

In the at least one first circuit state, the micropump P1 is turned on and thus the anti-drip system is deactivated when both the steam switch 22 is actuated and the knob 16 is in the second temperature setting range TB2.

Second circuit state:

• K1) der Dampfschalter 22 unbetätigt ist (Schalter S2 ist offen), oder
• K2) sich der Drehknopf 16 in dem ersten Temperatur-Einstellbereich TB1 befindet, oder
• K3) sowohl der Dampfschalter 22 unbetätigt ist (Schalter S2 ist offen) als auch sich der Drehknopf 16 in dem ersten Temperatur-Einstellbereich TB1 befindet.

In the at least one second circuit state, the micropump P1 is turned off and the anti-drip system is activated when

• K1) the steam switch 22 is inactive (switch S2 is open), or
• K2), the knob 16 is located in the first temperature setting range TB1, or
• K3) both the steam switch 22 is inactive (switch S2 is open) and the knob 16 is in the first temperature setting range TB1.

Third circuit state:

In the at least one third circuit state, the micropump P1 is turned on, thus deactivating the anti-drip system when the knob 16 is in the cleaning and descaling setting position C (or region R).

The anti-drip control system Z controls at least the first and second circuit state, in the present case, however, all said circuit states. See also the corresponding connections of the rotary knob 16 with its switch S1 and the steam switch 22 with its switch S2 to the anti-drip control system Z ( Fig. 1 ).

1. a) des Temperatur-Einstellbereichs (TB1, TB2) des Drehknopfes; und/oder
2. b) der Reinigungs- und Entkalkungs-Einstellposition des Drehknopfes 16 aktivierbar und desaktivierbar ist.

The configuration described above thus requires that the micropump P1 is functionally coupled to the steam switch 22 and via or through this in dependence

1. a) the temperature setting range (TB1, TB2) of the rotary knob; and or
2. b) the cleaning and descaling adjustment position of the rotary knob 16 can be activated and deactivated.

In the illustration according to Fig. 6b the knob 16 is rotated to a position that sets a low ironing temperature that is insufficient for steam generation. The knob 16 is located relative to the reference position 0, ie in the first temperature setting range TB1. The switching elements SE1 and SE2 are in the position shown in this drawing relative to the switch S1 or its contact element 38 and do not actuate it. The switch S1 is thus open. In addition, when the steam switch 22 is de-energized, the switch S2 is also open. Taking into account the in Fig. 5 sketched series connection of the switches S1 and S2, the micropump P1 can not be activated even if the steam switch 22 is pressed and the switch S2 is thereby closed, since the switch S1 is still open remains. The anti-drip system formed by the micropump P1 is thus activated because the micropump P1 is deactivated or its shut-off valve V is closed and no evaporation liquid W can enter the evaporation chamber 10.
This corresponds to the second circuit state explained above.

In the illustration according to Fig. 6c the knob 16 is rotated to a position that sets a higher ironing temperature sufficient for steam generation. The knob 16 is located relative to the reference position 0, ie in the second temperature setting range TB2. The switching elements SE1 and SE2 are in the position shown in this drawing relative to the switch S1 and its contact element 38. In this case, the large switching element SE1 presses on the contact element 38 (see also Fig. 4 ), whereby the switch S1 is closed. If now the steam switch 22 is actuated, then the switch S2 is closed. Taking into account the in Fig. 5 sketched series connection then both switches S1 and S2 are closed, and the micropump P1 is activated. The anti-drip system formed by the micropump is consequently deactivated because the pump P1 is activated or its shut-off valve V is opened. And evaporation liquid W can be injected into the evaporation chamber 10 by means of the micropump P1. Thus, a steam ironing operation can be performed at said higher ironing temperature.
This corresponds to the first circuit state explained above.

In the illustration according to Fig. 6d the knob 16 is rotated to a position that sets a high ironing temperature sufficient for steam generation. The knob 16 is located relative to the reference position 0, ie in the second temperature setting range TB2. The switching elements SE1 and SE2 are in the position shown in this drawing relative to the switch S1 and its contact element 38. In this case, the large switching element SE1 continues to press on the contact element 38 (see also FIG. 4 ), whereby the switch S1 is closed. If now the steam switch 22 is actuated, the switch S2 is in turn closed. Taking into account the in Fig. 5 sketched series connection then both switches S1 and S2 are closed, and the micropump P1 is activated. The anti-drip system formed by the micropump is consequently deactivated because the pump P1 is activated or its shut-off valve V is opened. And evaporation liquid W can be injected into the evaporation chamber 10 by means of the micropump P1. Thus, a steam ironing operation can be performed at said high ironing temperature.
This also corresponds to the first circuit state explained above.

In the illustration according to Fig. 6e the knob 16 is rotated to the cleaning and descaling setting position C (area R). The heater 14 is turned off in this knob position. The evaporation chamber 10 is thus cold, ie the temperature is insufficient to produce steam. The switching elements SE1 and SE2 are in the position shown in this drawing relative to the switch S1 and its contact element 38. In this case, the small switching element SE2 presses on the contact element 38, whereby the switch S1 is closed. If now the steam switch 22 is actuated, then the switch S2 is closed. Taking into account the in Fig. 5 sketched series connection then both switches S1 and S2 are closed, and the micropump P1 is activated or their shut-off valve V is opened. The anti-dripping system formed by the micropump P1 is consequently deactivated, and although the evaporation chamber 10 is cold, evaporation liquid W can be introduced into the evaporation chamber 10 by means of the micropump P1.
This corresponds to the previously discussed third circuit state.

Then, the knob 16 is set to a high temperature. The previously introduced cold evaporation liquid W in the evaporation chamber 10 is heated quickly until it boils. Due to the rapid change in temperature, the boiling evaporation liquid W and the resulting steam any limescale deposits are broken in the evaporation chamber 10 and transported through the steam outlet openings 6 from the evaporation chamber 10 and the sole plate 4 or washed out.

Thus, a cleaning and descaling process can be performed.

The invention is not limited to the above embodiment, which is merely illustrative of the gist of the invention. Within the scope of protection, the steam ironing device according to the invention may rather also assume a different form of construction specifically described above. In particular, in addition to the above-described temperature setting ranges, the ironing temperature setting element may have further temperature setting ranges. Also, an embodiment which omits the descaling setting position is possible.

Although the invention has been previously described in the context of a steam ironing apparatus using an electric micropump as an anti-drip system or an essential component thereof, it will be understood that the invention also includes embodiments in which the anti-drip system is mechanically formed, e.g. by means of a mechanical shut-off valve blocks or enables the supply of the evaporation liquid in the evaporation chamber. Such a mechanical anti-drip system may also be coupled (e.g., purely mechanically) to the ironing temperature setting element and may be activatable and deactivatable through or through it.

Instead of a single electrical switch S1, the iron temperature setting element 16 may also be assigned two or more switches. The third circuit state described above can preferably also be independent of a temperature setting range of the knob 16.

Reference signs in the claims, the description and the drawings are only for the better understanding of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

2

Steam ironing device / steam iron

2a

First housing part

2 B

Second housing part

4

soleplate

6

Steam vents

8th

Vessel for evaporation liquid

10

Evaporation chamber

12

Amounts of steam rotary switch

14

heater

16

Flow temperature adjustment element / rotary knob

18

axis of rotation

20

thermostat

22

Steam switch (control element for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generation system)

24

Steam fabric button

26

Area for attachment of 16

28

opening

30

attack

32

Recording for S1

34

Element for making a non-rotatable connection to 18

36

stop element

38

Contact element of S1

C

Marking for cleaning and descaling position

O

reference position

P1

Electric micropump

R

Cleaning and descaling adjustment position / range

S1

Electric switch

S2

Electric switch

SE1

Large switching element SE1

SE2

Small switching element SE2

U

Electrical voltage

W

Evaporating liquid

Z

Anti-drip-control system

Claims (16)

1. Steam ironing device (2), particularly a steam iron or a steam iron station, comprising:

   - a ironing sole (4) with steam outlet openings (8);

   - a container (8) for evaporation liquid (W), particularly water;

   - a steam generating system with an evaporation chamber (10), which is connected with the steam outlet openings (8) and into which chamber (10) the evaporation liquid (W) can be selectably conducted from the container (8);

   - a heating device (14) for heating the ironing sole (4) and/or the evaporation chamber (10);

   - an ironing temperature setting device (16);

   - a control element (22) for selectable activation and deactivation of the steam generating system; and

   - an anti-drip system (P1) for preventing an undesired entry of the evaporation liquid (W) into the evaporation chamber (10) and thus for preventing an undesired issue of evaporation liquid (W) from the steam outlet openings (6), which is functionally coupled with the ironing temperature setting device (16) and activatable and deactivatable by way of or through this;

   characterised in that the ironing temperature setting device (16) has a first temperature setting range (TB1) for low ironing temperatures in which the anti-drip system is activatable by way of or through the ironing temperature setting device (16).
2. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 1, characterised in that the ironing temperature setting device (16) has a second temperature setting range (TB2) for higher and high ironing temperatures (steam ironing temperatures) in which the anti-drip system is deactivatable by way of or through the ironing temperature setting device (16).
3. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that

   - this comprises a cleaning and decalcification system and

   - the ironing temperature setting device (16) has a cleaning and decalcification setting position (C; R) in which the anti-drip system is deactivatable by way of or through the ironing temperature setting device (16).
4. Steam ironing device (2) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that this has at least one first electrical switch (S1) with which the ironing temperature setting device (16) is associated and is directly or indirectly actuable by this, and the anti-drip system is activatable and deactivatable by way of or through the first electrical switch (S1).
5. Steam ironing device (2) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that

   - the control element (22) for activating and deactivating the steam generating system and the ironing temperature setting device (16) are functionally coupled together and form essential components of an anti-drip system circuit, and

   - this anti-drip system circuit has at least one first circuit state in which this deactivates the anti-drip system when not only the control element (22) is actuated, but also the ironing temperature setting device (16) is disposed in the second temperature setting range (TB2), and at least one second circuit state in which this activates the anti-drip system when

   K1) the control element (22) is unactuated or

   K2) the ironing temperature setting device (16) is disposed in the first temperature setting range (TB1) or

   K3) not only the control element (22) is unactuated, but also the ironing temperature setting device (16) is disposed in the first temperature setting range (TB1).
6. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 5, characterised in that the anti-drip system circuit has at least one third circuit state in which this deactivates the anti-drip system when the ironing temperature setting device is disposed in the cleaning and decalcification setting position (C; R).
7. Steam ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterised in that this comprises at least one second electrical switch (S2), which is associated with the control element (22) for activating and deactivating the steam generating system and is directly or indirectly actuable by this; the second electrical switch (S2) is functionally coupled with the first electrical switch (S1); and the anti-drip system (P1) is activatable and deactivatable by way of or through the first and/or second electrical switch (S1, S2).
8. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 7, characterised in that the first and second electrical switches (S1; S2) are connected in series.
9. Steam ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterised in that this comprises a central anti-drip control system (Z) with which the control element (22) for activating and deactivating the steam generating system and the ironing temperature setting device (16) are coupled and which controls at least the first and second circuit states of the anti-drip system circuit.
10. Steam ironing device (2) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that this comprises an electric micropump (P1) for introducing/injecting the evaporation liquid (W) from the container (8) into the evaporation chamber (10).
11. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 10, characterised in that the micropump (P1) forms the anti-drip system or an essential part thereof or of the anti-drip system circuit thereof and is functionally coupled at least with the ironing temperature setting device (16) and activatable and deactivatable by way of or through this.
12. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 11, characterised in that

    - the control element (22) for activating and deactivating the steam generating system and the ironing temperature setting device (16) are functionally coupled together and form essential components of a micropump circuit system functioning as an anti-drip system circuit and

    - this micropump circuit system has at least one first circuit state in which it switches on the micropump (P1) and thereby deactivates the anti-drip system when not only the control element (22) is actuated, but also the ironing temperature setting device (16) is disposed in the second temperature setting range (TB2), and at least one second circuit state in which it switches off the micropump (P1) and thereby activates the anti-drip system when

    K1) the control element (22) is unactuated or

    K2) the ironing temperature setting device (16) is disposed in the first temperature setting range (TB1) or

    K3) not only the control element (22) is unactuated, but also the ironing temperature setting device (16) is disposed in the first temperature setting range (TB1).
13. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 12, characterised in that the micropump (P1) is in addition functionally coupled with the control element (22) for activating and deactivating the steam generating system and the ironing temperature setting device (16) is activatable and deactivatable by way of or through this in dependence on

    a) the temperature setting range (TB1, TB2) and/or

    b) the cleaning and decalcification setting position (C; R).
14. Steam ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterised in that the micropump (P1) forming the anti-drip system or the essential part thereof comprises a blocking valve (V), particularly an integral blocking valve, which

    a) closes an evaporation liquid outlet and/or inlet of the micropump (P1) when the micropump (P1) is in a deactivated state and

    b) opens the evaporation liquid outlet and/or inlet when the micropump (P1) is in an activated state.
15. Steam ironing device (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterised in that this has a steam shot button (24) coupled with a pump (P2) which is separate from the micropump (P1) and by which on actuation of the steam shot button (24) evaporation liquid (UV) is introducible into the evaporation chamber (10) independently of the micropump (P1).
16. Steam ironing device (2) according to claim 15, characterised in that the separate pump (P2) has an own anti-drip system.

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