EP0875194A1 - Portable device for steam cleaning hard or flexible surfaces - Google Patents

Portable device for steam cleaning hard or flexible surfaces Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0875194A1
EP0875194A1 EP98401033A EP98401033A EP0875194A1 EP 0875194 A1 EP0875194 A1 EP 0875194A1 EP 98401033 A EP98401033 A EP 98401033A EP 98401033 A EP98401033 A EP 98401033A EP 0875194 A1 EP0875194 A1 EP 0875194A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
armored
steam
thermal
elbow
resistor
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP98401033A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0875194B1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Marc Burr
Nicolas Schmitz
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DOMENA
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Superba SAS
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/40—Parts or details of machines not provided for in groups A47L11/02 - A47L11/38, or not restricted to one of these groups, e.g. handles, arrangements of switches, skirts, buffers, levers
    • A47L11/408—Means for supplying cleaning or surface treating agents
    • A47L11/4086—Arrangements for steam generation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L1/00—Cleaning windows
    • A47L1/06—Hand implements
    • A47L1/08—Hand implements with provision for supplying liquids, e.g. cleaning agents
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L11/00—Machines for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
    • A47L11/34—Machines for treating carpets in position by liquid, foam, or vapour, e.g. by steam
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F22—STEAM GENERATION
    • F22B—METHODS OF STEAM GENERATION; STEAM BOILERS
    • F22B1/00—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method
    • F22B1/28—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically
    • F22B1/284—Methods of steam generation characterised by form of heating method in boilers heated electrically with water in reservoirs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a portable device omnidirectional for steam cleaning of hard surfaces as well that flexible, comprising a housing provided with a handle, an orifice water supply, an electrical power cord, a cleaning, a steam generator integrated in the housing and comprising means for storing a water reserve and electrical means for heating of this water reserve to produce water vapor, and means for selectively distributing water vapor to the head of cleaning.
  • these portable devices are generally low power, designed to provide a jet of steam through a distributor, and fitted with a squeegee, so that these devices are not well only suitable for cleaning smooth and hard surfaces, such as windows or tiles.
  • Another steam production system is to use a labyrinth.
  • the water powered by a pump the suction of a tank flows in a long heated path below the heating point where gradually it turns into vapor.
  • Such a system has the disadvantage of scaling easily and quickly, and being relatively bulky, heavy and expensive.
  • Capillary-type steam generators have also been proposed which ensure the storage of water in a porous body brought into contact with a electric heater which ensures production instant steam.
  • Such a type of steam generator is light, good market and relatively insensitive to scaling, which gives it good autonomy in the context of a portable device.
  • the present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks and to provide a portable steam cleaning device that is suitable for smooth and hard surfaces as well as for flexible surfaces, such as that the covering surfaces of textile material, and in particular delivers significant power with a significant vapor flow while being light, inexpensive, quick to set up, easy to use in all positions, with high operational safety and a reduced maintenance.
  • a portable device omnidirectional for steam cleaning of hard surfaces as well that flexible, comprising a housing provided with a handle, an orifice water supply, an electrical power cord, a cleaning, a steam generator integrated in the housing and comprising means for storing a water reserve and electrical means for heating of this water reserve to produce water vapor, and means for selectively distributing water vapor to the head of cleaning, characterized in that it comprises a steam generator instantaneous with low thermal inertia working at atmospheric pressure and comprising a capillary body for storage in divided form, of the entire water reserve to be evaporated, the capillary body being compressed around electrical heating means which include a resistor shielded overmolded in a metallic material good conductor of heat to form a heating body, with which is associated at least one element of thermal transmission which is connected to the hottest part of the body and is fitted with a thermal sensor to optimize the control of the supply of the shielded resistance and its safety regardless of the spatial orientation of the steam generator.
  • the armored resistance has the shape of a U with two straight branches and a connecting elbow of the two straight branches.
  • a transmission element may be provided rectilinear thermal connected to the heating body in the vicinity of the part inside of the elbow of the U-shaped armored resistor, fitted with a sensor or a thermal transmission element connected to the body of heats in the vicinity of the external part of the armored resistance elbow U-shaped, and provided with a thermal sensor, or two elements of different thermal transmission connected to the heater respectively in the vicinity of the internal part and the external part of the elbow of the U-shaped armored resistor.
  • the first and second thermal sensors associated with the elements of thermal transmission connected in the vicinity of the internal and external parts of the armored resistance elbow have setpoints different.
  • the body of heater includes ribs arranged in the vicinity of the elbow of the armored resistor, between the straight branches of this armored resistor.
  • the body storage capillary comprises a first layer of fibers oriented in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the armored resistance and perpendicular to the two straight branches of this resistance armored, in a zone close to the elbow of the armored resistance.
  • the capillary storage body comprises a second layer of fibers oriented perpendicular to the plane defined by the armored resistor, in areas near the two straight branches and away from the elbow of the armored resistance.
  • the first ply of the capillary body of storage located in an area near the elbow of the resistance includes greater compression or volume than the second ply.
  • each element of thermal transmission is surrounded by a thermally insulating material, in its portion in contact with the porous capillary body.
  • the generator steam includes a first waterproof and removable enclosure in which opens the water supply opening, in which a primary water vapor distribution duct and inside which finds a second enclosure provided with perforations and ensuring compression of the storage capillary body around the heating body.
  • the body of heater has a plate located in a mean plane defined by the armored resistor with a V shape flaring outward at level of the free ends of the straight branches of the armored resistor.
  • the thermal sensor associated with a transmission element thermal may consist of one of the following: thermostat, thermal probe, thermal limiter, fuse.
  • a resistance shielded with a power between 1000 and 1500 Watts it is possible to use a resistance shielded with a power between 1000 and 1500 Watts.
  • Setting low-cost armored resistor reduces costs and avoids problem of large current spikes that can be induced in the case where ceramic resistors of higher power are used a few hundred Watts. Indeed, for a portable device, it is necessary that the intensity of the current does not exceed 10 Ampere, that is to say approximately 2300 Watts in the case of an electrical supply network having a voltage of 220 V or 240 V.
  • heating can be safely controlled in the hottest area of the heating body so that even if the body dries up storage capillary due to operation in a position safety, security is ensured as soon as the supply to the armored resistance can be effectively regulated using information delivered by the thermal sensor (s) associated with one or two elements of thermal transmission connected to the hottest part of the body of heated.
  • the specific provisions concerning the capillary body aim to delay the drying of the capillary body in the hottest part of the heater.
  • the cleaning device according to the invention is designed to clean irregular and soft surfaces, such as a carpet or a seat cover for example, this device not only is capable to provide a high vapor flow rate, but also is adapted to allow a complementary mechanical action, incorporating in the head of cleaning a brush-shaped organ in the center of which is distributed the water vapor produced by the integrated steam generator.
  • the device further includes a reservoir of liquid or powder additive product incorporated in the housing and connected by a pipe to a Venturi system for introducing the additive product into steam produced in the generator steam to apply a mixture of steam and additive product.
  • an additive product which can be simply water, but also advantageously a detergent product, reinforces the cleaning action of irregular surfaces, while retaining the purest vapor possible when cleaning smooth and rigid surfaces.
  • the cleaning device comprises a housing having a lower face substantially flat, a rear face forming a heel, an upper face provided with an opening defining a handle in the form of a handle and a front end of reduced section to which the head of the cleaning.
  • the reservoir of additive product is placed inside the case behind the handle in the shape of a handle, the system Venturi is placed in the housing in the vicinity of the cleaning head, the connecting line between the additive product reservoir and the Venturi system crosses the handle in the form of a handle and a control means selective feed of additive product is arranged in the handle handle shape.
  • the connecting pipe between the additive reservoir and the Venturi system is made up of a flexible material such as rubber and the control means selective feed of additive product includes a device for pinching of said pipe and a manual release trigger temporary clamping device.
  • the additive product transport pipe leads to the center of the Venturi system in such a way that the additive product is sucked in by the water vapor that has been introduced into the Venturi system so concentric upstream of a converging part.
  • Such a apparatus 100 includes a housing 101 inside which is disposed a removable modular assembly 103 which constitutes a steam generator and includes a sealed enclosure 10 in which a conduit arises primary 12 for water vapor distribution, which is preferably located in an elevated central part of the enclosure 10.
  • the enclosure 10 comprises besides on its front part an opening 11 allowing the introduction of water to from an external orifice 13 fitted with a plug 133 and connected to the opening 11 of the enclosure 10 by a conduit 13A.
  • the housing 101 which can have the shape shown on the Figures 1 to 3, which is particularly compact, allows good grip and allows to easily orient the cleaning head 107 in all directions.
  • the housing 101 thus has a lower face 106 substantially flat, which allows the device to be stably installed when is not used, or for filling with water the orifice 13 located on the above the housing 101, a rear face 108 forming a heel which allows also if necessary place the device at rest vertically with the cleaning head 107 facing upwards, an upper face provided with a opening 102 defining an integrated handle in the form of a handle 102A, and a front end of reduced section to which the head of the cleaning 107.
  • the Venturi system 15 is arranged in the housing 101 in the vicinity of the cleaning head 107.
  • Line 16 for connection between the reservoir 19 of additive product and the system Venturi 15 passes through the handle 102A which incorporates a means 31, 32 of selective supply control of additive product.
  • Line 16 connected to reservoir 19 by a socket connection 18 may consist of a flexible material such as rubber.
  • Line 16 passes over a support 17 at which it is pinched by a leaf spring 31.
  • a trigger 32 located at the level of the handle 102A allows, by manual action, to unlock the blade spring 31 and consequently to release and open the pipe 16.
  • Such a system is simple and effective to selectively supply additive liquid to the Venturi 15 device, an example of which is illustrated on a larger scale scale on the figure 9.
  • the Venturi device 15 comprises a body 150 defining in its rear part an annular chamber 153 into which opens a nozzle 151 connected by a pipe 14 to the outlet 12 of the steam generator 103, to receive pure water vapor.
  • a nozzle 152 also located at the rear of the Venturi 15 device allows the connection of the flexible pipe 16 for the supply of additive product and the application of this additive product to a central duct 155.
  • a central part 156 comprising a part convergent for example frustoconical is arranged in the body 150 and allows the passage of steam from the annular chamber 153 in a converging annular space defined between the central part 156 and a external part of complementary shape 157.
  • a central channel 155A is formed in the central part 156 in the extension of the central duct 155 to apply the additive to the center of the Venturi system in an area where the additive is sucked in by the steam introduced concentric upstream of the central part 156 forming a convergent.
  • the steam arriving in the chamber annular 153 creates, at the exit of the converging space created by the part central 156, a depression at the right of the arrival of additive liquid by the channel 155A, which allows this additive liquid to be sucked in and mixed with the steam at the outlet 158 of the head 159 of the Venturi device 15.
  • the mixture is then propelled onto the surface to be cleaned through the cleaning head 107 which may include a brush 171 around the mixing dispenser in which opens the Venturi device 15.
  • O-rings 154, 160 ensure the seal between the body 150 and the conduit 155 on the one hand and the central part 156 and complementary part 157 on the other hand.
  • the additive liquid can be pure water serving both bomb the surface to be cleaned and entrain dirt removed by the combined action of steam and water, heated and projected by steam.
  • the additive liquid can also be a detergent product, a perfume, a product bactericide or anticaricide.
  • control mechanism 31, 32 selective feed of additive product allows the user to determine the cases where he wishes to obtain steam from the appliance alone, without additive, for example for cleaning smooth surfaces, and cases where it wishes to obtain a mixture of vapor and a liquid additive product or even powdery so as to increase the cleaning capacities.
  • the device according to the invention makes it possible to combine the action of heat at will produced by water vapor with the action of an additive such as a product chemical detergent or pure water, which action is itself enhanced by the heat and the fact that the steam jet can bring the additive as close as possible particles to be cleaned.
  • the user can also easily add according to the mechanical action required by the brush 171.
  • the apparatus according to the invention is thus essentially an apparatus consumer for household use suitable for cleaning surfaces hard and smooth such as windows, glass, tiles, ceramics, glass-ceramics, oven or sink walls, melamine furniture, than that of flexible and irregular surfaces such as textile seat coverings furniture or car or carpets or draperies.
  • the cleaning device according to the invention has an efficiency increased compared to portable devices of the prior art, by the fact that it can, while remaining light, handy and inexpensive, produce instantaneous a significant flow of steam (for example 30 g of steam per minute), safely, whatever the position of the device, and without scaling problems do not affect the operating capabilities of the device.
  • An important aspect of the invention lies in the realization particularity of the steam generator 103 which, while being light, can provide a power greater than 1000 Watts.
  • FIGS. 3, 4, 6, 7, the space 3 has been identified in which finds the capillary body for storing, in divided form, the water reserve to evaporate, without representing this capillary body, for the clarity of the drawing.
  • the Figure 10 shows an example of implementation of capillary body 3 constituted, for example, by rock wool fibers resistant to high temperatures. The fibers of the capillary body 3 are compressed by the perforated box 6, 7 around the heater 20 and provide a role at a time for storing water to evaporate and thermal insulation between the heating body 20 and the plastic elements such as the housing 6, 7 itself.
  • the steam generator 103 constitutes a generator of instantaneous production of steam, working at atmospheric pressure and includes a heating body 20 constituted by an armored resistor 2 overmolded in a metallic material which conducts heat well, such as of aluminum, to promote the heat dissipation of the resistance 2.
  • the armored resistor 2 has the shape of a U with two straight branches 21, 22 and an elbow 23 for connecting the two rectilinear branches 21, 22.
  • the body heater 20 has a plate 25 located in a mean plane defined by armored resistor 2 and having a V shape flaring outward at the free ends of the straight branches 21, 22 of the armored resistance 2.
  • This plate 25 which promotes the diffusion of heat and forms a unit with the semi-cylindrical metal parts overmolded on the armored resistor 2, may include an appendage 24, located for example in the vicinity of the curved part 23 of the resistor 2, for positioning in the housing 6, 7.
  • the heating body 20 comprises ribs 26 (FIG. 8) arranged in the vicinity of the elbow 23 of the resistor 2, between the rectilinear branches 21, 22 of the resistor 2, in a zone 4 adjacent to the elbow 23 which constitutes the zone of greatest power density, in which warms up the fastest in case of drying of the body capillary 3.
  • zone 4 is strongly exposed to premature drying due to the downward flow of water by gravity, by the action of the vapor formed below this zone and rising towards the steam outlet 12 by taking water in transit or by heating the water of the capillary body 3 coating this part 4.
  • the capillary body of storage 3 may include a first layer 131 of oriented fibers in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the armored resistance 2 and perpendicular to the two straight branches 21, 22 of this resistor armored 2 in the zone 4 near the elbow 23 of the resistor 2 and corresponding to the presence of the ribs 26 of FIG. 8. This contributes to limit drying by simply flowing water from top to bottom.
  • the capillary body 3 advantageously comprises a second sheet 132 of fibers oriented perpendicular to the plane defined by the resistance 2, in areas close to the two straight branches 21, 22 and away from the elbow 23 of the armored resistance.
  • the shape of the two half-housings 6, 7 is complementary to that of the heating body 20 surrounded by the capillary body 3. It can thus be seen that the case 6, 7 flares outwards on the side opposite the elbow 23, to hold account of the widening of the plate 25 in the form of V.
  • an element of rectilinear thermal transmission 51 is connected to the heating body 20 at vicinity of the internal part of the elbow 23 of the resistor 2, and ends by an end provided with a housing 53 in which a sensor is disposed thermal 55, which has been shown in Figure 7 but has been omitted in Figure 4 and FIG. 8.
  • the thermal sensor has two pins 59 for connection for connection to regulating elements of the power supply resistance 2, which can be arranged in a separate compartment 104 adjacent to the sealed enclosure 10 of the steam generator 103.
  • An elbow heat transfer element 52 is connected to the heating body 20 in the vicinity of the external part of the elbow 23 of the shielded resistor 2 and ends, outside the sealed enclosure 10, by one end provided with a housing 54 in which a sensor is disposed thermal 56, provided with two connection pins 58 for connection to elements for regulating the supply of resistor 2, placed in compartment 104, into which the power cord opens cleaning appliance (not shown in the drawings).
  • the thermal sensor 56 has not been shown in FIG. 8.
  • the thermal transmission elements 51, 52 constitute appendages which arise closest to the elbow 23 and may be produced by overmolding in the same material as the plate 25, as for example aluminum.
  • the thermal sensors 55 and 56 such as thermostats, have different setpoints for better regulate the supply of the heating resistor 2 whose temperature increases rapidly as soon as the capillary body dries up in the zone 4 near the elbow 23.
  • At least the rectilinear thermal transmission element 51, and the if necessary also the angled thermal transmission element 52 is advantageously thermally insulated by an outer sheath made of a material thermally insulating, such as silicone, to avoid cooling by water not evaporated in the lower part possibly contained in the body capillary surrounding this thermal transmission element 51.
  • the rectilinear branches 21, 22 of the resistor 2 cross the wall of the enclosure 10 in a sealed manner using seals such as the seal 84, illustrated in FIG. 7, in a material such as vitton or silicone.
  • the compartment cover 104 can be ultrasonically welded to enclosure 10, once assembly is complete.
  • the thermal sensors 55, 56 can be constituted by for example by thermostats, thermal probes, limiters or fuses.
  • thermal sensors 55, 56 and elements of thermal transmission 51, 52 associated with a simple regulation circuit supply allows the implementation of a shielded resistance in 2 U current type and of a power for example of 1200 Watts, without it an excessive risk of overheating ensues, even if in operation a part of the capillary body 3 dries up.
  • the whole of the waterproof enclosure 10 and of the separate compartment 104 which constitutes the steam generator 103 is removable and allows easy replacement. Electrical connections within compartment 104 are well separated from the enclosure 10 where the water is stored in the body capillary 3 compressed by the perforated housing 6, 7 around the heater 20.
  • Tap water is introduced by the input 13 which with the channel 13A is integral with the enclosure 10. Water permeates the capillary body 3 disposed in the perforated housing 6, 7 and excess water can be discharged through inlet 13 by re-knocking and shaking the device. After closing the plug 13B and connecting the electrical cord, the appliance is ready to operate.
  • the regulation of resistor 2 can be supplied automatically so safe without operator intervention, thanks to the measures explained more high.
  • the operator After pressing the on-off button allowing regulated power supply of resistor 2 and therefore the production of steam, the operator simply has to decide whether or not to press the trigger 32, whether or not it wishes to have a mixture of steam and the product optional additive desired placed in tank 19 which may be transparent to check its contents and removable to facilitate its replacement.
  • the user can at any time cut off the emission of steam by interrupting the power supply to resistor 2 using the button On Off.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
  • Cleaning In General (AREA)

Abstract

A moulded casing (101), with a hand-grip hole (102), houses a detergent tank (19) and steam generator (103), connected to an applicator head near the water filler (13A). The detergent, controlled by a trigger in the hand-hole, is injected through a venturi tube in the steam nozzle. The vapour generator is based on U-shaped sheathed, resistive 1200 Watts element (2), thermostatically controlled, embedded in a finned aluminium plate overlaid with capillary fibres. Theses form part of a larger body of rock-wool fibres, compressed within a moulded, perforated (61,71) case (6,7), in turn enclosed by a sealed outer case (10) connected (12) to the steam nozzle. The capillary storage system thus constituted allows steam to be generated at atmospheric pressure at any given attitude.

Description

La présente invention a pour objet un appareil portable omnidirectionnel pour le nettoyage à la vapeur de surfaces aussi bien dures que souples, comprenant un boítier muni d'une poignée, un orifice d'alimentation en eau, un cordon d'alimentation électrique, une tête de nettoyage, un générateur de vapeur intégré dans le boítier et comportant des moyens de stockage d'une réserve d'eau et des moyens électriques de chauffage de cette réserve d'eau pour produire de la vapeur d'eau, et des moyens pour distribuer sélectivement de la vapeur d'eau à la tête de nettoyage.The present invention relates to a portable device omnidirectional for steam cleaning of hard surfaces as well that flexible, comprising a housing provided with a handle, an orifice water supply, an electrical power cord, a cleaning, a steam generator integrated in the housing and comprising means for storing a water reserve and electrical means for heating of this water reserve to produce water vapor, and means for selectively distributing water vapor to the head of cleaning.

On a déjà proposé divers appareils portables de nettoyage à la vapeur de surfaces lisses telles que des vitres.Various portable cleaning devices have already been proposed. vapor from smooth surfaces such as glass.

Ces appareils portables sont toutefois en général des appareils de faible puissance, prévus pour fournir un jet de vapeur à travers un distributeur, et munis d'une raclette, de sorte que ces appareils ne sont bien adaptés qu'au nettoyage de surfaces lisses et dures, telles que des vitres ou des carrelages.However, these portable devices are generally low power, designed to provide a jet of steam through a distributor, and fitted with a squeegee, so that these devices are not well only suitable for cleaning smooth and hard surfaces, such as windows or tiles.

On connaít également des chaudières de production de vapeur qui permettent d'obtenir de la vapeur en quantité suffisante pour un nettoyage poussé, mais comportent la formation de vapeur dans une enceinte qui contient également l'eau servant à produire la vapeur, de sorte que cette chaudière doit être maintenue dans une position debout bien déterminée, ce qui empêche de l'intégrer dans un nettoyeur portable.We also know steam production boilers which provide sufficient steam for cleaning pushed, but involve the formation of vapor in an enclosure which also contains the water used to produce the steam, so this boiler must be kept in a well-defined standing position, this which prevents it from being integrated into a portable cleaner.

Un autre système de production de vapeur consiste à utiliser un labyrinthe. L'eau propulsée par une pompe l'aspirant d'un réservoir chemine dans un long chemin chauffé sous le point de calefaction où progressivement elle se transforme en vapeur. Un tel système présente l'inconvénient de s'entartrer facilement et rapidement, et d'être relativement encombrant, lourd et cher. Dans les appareils existants de ce type, il n'est pas non plus possible de limiter ou accroítre dans des proportions significatives la quantité de gouttelettes d'eau présentes à la sortie avec la vapeur.Another steam production system is to use a labyrinth. The water powered by a pump the suction of a tank flows in a long heated path below the heating point where gradually it turns into vapor. Such a system has the disadvantage of scaling easily and quickly, and being relatively bulky, heavy and expensive. In existing devices of this type, it is also not possible limit or significantly increase the amount of water droplets present at the outlet with steam.

On a encore proposé des générateurs de vapeur de type capillaire qui assurent le stockage d'eau dans un corps poreux mis en contact avec un organe de chauffage électrique qui permet d'assurer une production instantanée de vapeur. Un tel type de générateur de vapeur est léger, bon marché et relativement insensible à l'entartrage, ce qui lui confère une bonne autonomie dans le cadre d'un appareil portable.Capillary-type steam generators have also been proposed which ensure the storage of water in a porous body brought into contact with a electric heater which ensures production instant steam. Such a type of steam generator is light, good market and relatively insensitive to scaling, which gives it good autonomy in the context of a portable device.

Ce type de générateur n'a toutefois été utilisé jusqu'à présent que dans le cadre d'un appareil de faible puissance, compte tenu des difficultés liées au contrôle de l'échauffement, notamment dans le cas où l'appareil doit être utilisé dans différentes positions. On a ainsi proposé des appareils de nettoyage à la vapeur dont la puissance ne dépasse pas 300 Watts et qui utilisent comme organe de chauffage électrique une résistance céramique. De tels appareils peuvent servir au nettoyage de vitres par exemple, mais ne permettent pas d'assurer efficacement le nettoyage de surfaces souples, telles que des surfaces en matériau textile par exemple pour des sièges, canapés, tapis, sièges de voitures, tentures.However, this type of generator has only been used so far. as part of a low power device, given the difficulties related to the control of the heating, in particular in the case where the device must be used in different positions. We have therefore proposed steam cleaning whose power does not exceed 300 Watts and which use a ceramic resistor as an electric heating element. Of such devices can be used for window cleaning for example, but do not not allow effective cleaning of flexible surfaces, such as surfaces made of textile material, for example for seats, sofas, carpets, car seats, draperies.

La présente invention vise à remédier aux inconvénients précités et à permettre de réaliser un appareil portable de nettoyage à la vapeur qui soit adapté aussi bien aux surfaces lisses et dures, qu'aux surfaces souples, telles que les surfaces de revêtements en matériau textile, et en particulier délivre une puissance significative avec un débit de vapeur important tout en étant léger, bon marché, rapide à mettre en route, capable d'être utilisé facilement dans toutes les positions, avec une grande sécurité de fonctionnement et un entretien réduit.The present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks and to provide a portable steam cleaning device that is suitable for smooth and hard surfaces as well as for flexible surfaces, such as that the covering surfaces of textile material, and in particular delivers significant power with a significant vapor flow while being light, inexpensive, quick to set up, easy to use in all positions, with high operational safety and a reduced maintenance.

Ces buts sont atteints grâce à un appareil portable omnidirectionnel pour le nettoyage à la vapeur de surfaces aussi bien dures que souples, comprenant un boítier muni d'une poignée, un orifice d'alimentation en eau, un cordon d'alimentation électrique, une tête de nettoyage, un générateur de vapeur intégré dans le boítier et comportant des moyens de stockage d'une réserve d'eau et des moyens électriques de chauffage de cette réserve d'eau pour produire de la vapeur d'eau, et des moyens pour distribuer sélectivement de la vapeur d'eau à la tête de nettoyage, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un générateur de vapeur instantanée à faible inertie thermique travaillant à la pression atmosphérique et comprenant un corps capillaire de stockage sous forme divisée, de la totalité de la réserve d'eau à évaporer, le corps capillaire étant comprimé autour des moyens électriques de chauffage qui comprennent une résistance blindée surmoulée dans un matériau métallique bon conducteur de la chaleur pour former un corps de chauffe, auquel est associé au moins un élément de transmission thermique qui est raccordé à la partie la plus chaude du corps de chauffe et est muni d'un capteur thermique permettant d'optimiser le pilotage de l'alimentation de la résistance blindée et sa mise en sécurité quelle que soit l'orientation dans l'espace du générateur de vapeur.These goals are achieved with a portable device omnidirectional for steam cleaning of hard surfaces as well that flexible, comprising a housing provided with a handle, an orifice water supply, an electrical power cord, a cleaning, a steam generator integrated in the housing and comprising means for storing a water reserve and electrical means for heating of this water reserve to produce water vapor, and means for selectively distributing water vapor to the head of cleaning, characterized in that it comprises a steam generator instantaneous with low thermal inertia working at atmospheric pressure and comprising a capillary body for storage in divided form, of the entire water reserve to be evaporated, the capillary body being compressed around electrical heating means which include a resistor shielded overmolded in a metallic material good conductor of heat to form a heating body, with which is associated at least one element of thermal transmission which is connected to the hottest part of the body and is fitted with a thermal sensor to optimize the control of the supply of the shielded resistance and its safety regardless of the spatial orientation of the steam generator.

Avantageusement, la résistance blindée présente la forme d'un U avec deux branches rectilignes et un coude de raccordement des deux branches rectilignes.Advantageously, the armored resistance has the shape of a U with two straight branches and a connecting elbow of the two straight branches.

Dans ce cas, il peut être prévu un élément de transmission thermique rectiligne raccordé au corps de chauffe au voisinage de la partie inteme du coude de la résistance blindée en forme de U, et muni d'un capteur thermique, ou un élément de transmission thermique raccordé au corps de chauffe au voisinage de la partie externe du coude de la résistance blindée en forme de U, et muni d'un capteur thermique, ou encore deux éléments de transmission thermique différents raccordés au corps de chauffe respectivement au voisinage de la partie interne et de la partie externe du coude de la résistance blindée en forme de U. Dans ce dernier cas, les premier et deuxième capteurs thermiques associés aux éléments de transmission thermique raccordés au voisinage des parties interne et externe du coude de la résistance blindée présentent des valeurs de consigne différentes.In this case, a transmission element may be provided rectilinear thermal connected to the heating body in the vicinity of the part inside of the elbow of the U-shaped armored resistor, fitted with a sensor or a thermal transmission element connected to the body of heats in the vicinity of the external part of the armored resistance elbow U-shaped, and provided with a thermal sensor, or two elements of different thermal transmission connected to the heater respectively in the vicinity of the internal part and the external part of the elbow of the U-shaped armored resistor. In the latter case, the first and second thermal sensors associated with the elements of thermal transmission connected in the vicinity of the internal and external parts of the armored resistance elbow have setpoints different.

Selon une caractéristique particulière de l'invention, le corps de chauffe comprend des nervures disposées au voisinage du coude de la résistance blindée, entre les branches rectilignes de cette résistance blindée.According to a particular characteristic of the invention, the body of heater includes ribs arranged in the vicinity of the elbow of the armored resistor, between the straight branches of this armored resistor.

Selon une autre caractéristique particulière de l'invention, le corps capillaire de stockage comprend une première nappe de fibres orientées dans un plan parallèle au plan défini par la résistance blindée et perpendiculairement aux deux branches rectilignes de cette résistance blindée, dans une zone voisine du coude de la résistance blindée.According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the body storage capillary comprises a first layer of fibers oriented in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the armored resistance and perpendicular to the two straight branches of this resistance armored, in a zone close to the elbow of the armored resistance.

Le corps capillaire de stockage comprend une deuxième nappe de fibres orientées perpendiculairement au plan défini par la résistance blindée, dans des zones proches des deux branches rectilignes et éloignées du coude de la résistance blindée.The capillary storage body comprises a second layer of fibers oriented perpendicular to the plane defined by the armored resistor, in areas near the two straight branches and away from the elbow of the armored resistance.

Avantageusement, la première nappe du corps capillaire de stockage située dans une zone voisine du coude de la résistance comprend une compression ou un volume plus importants que la deuxième nappe. Advantageously, the first ply of the capillary body of storage located in an area near the elbow of the resistance includes greater compression or volume than the second ply.

De préférence, chaque élément de transmission thermique est entouré d'un matériau isolant thermiquement, dans sa portion en contact avec le corps poreux capillaire.Preferably, each element of thermal transmission is surrounded by a thermally insulating material, in its portion in contact with the porous capillary body.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le générateur de vapeur comprend une première enceinte étanche et amovible dans laquelle débouche l'orifice d'alimentation en eau, dans laquelle prend naissance un conduit primaire de distribution de vapeur d'eau et à l'intérieur de laquelle se trouve une deuxième enceinte munie de perforations et assurant une compression du corps capillaire de stockage autour du corps de chauffe.According to another characteristic of the invention, the generator steam includes a first waterproof and removable enclosure in which opens the water supply opening, in which a primary water vapor distribution duct and inside which finds a second enclosure provided with perforations and ensuring compression of the storage capillary body around the heating body.

Conformément à un mode particulier de réalisation, le corps de chauffe comporte une plaque située dans un plan moyen défini par la résistance blindée et présentant une forme de V s'évasant vers l'extérieur au niveau des extrémités libres des branches rectilignes de la résistance blindée.According to a particular embodiment, the body of heater has a plate located in a mean plane defined by the armored resistor with a V shape flaring outward at level of the free ends of the straight branches of the armored resistor.

Le capteur thermique associé à un élément de transmission thermique peut être constitué par l'un des éléments suivants : thermostat, sonde thermique, limiteur thermique, fusible.The thermal sensor associated with a transmission element thermal may consist of one of the following: thermostat, thermal probe, thermal limiter, fuse.

Conformément à l'invention, il est possible d'utiliser une résistance blindée d'une puissance comprise entre 1000 et 1500 Watts. La mise en oeuvre d'une résistance blindée bon marché réduit les coûts et évite le problème des pointes de courant importantes qui peuvent être induites dans le cas où l'on utilise des résistances céramiques d'une puissance supérieure à quelques centaines de Watts. En effet, pour un appareil portable, il est nécessaire que l'intensité du courant ne dépasse pas 10 Ampère, soit environ 2300 Watts dans le cas d'un réseau d'alimentation électrique présentant une tension de 220 V ou 240 V.According to the invention, it is possible to use a resistance shielded with a power between 1000 and 1500 Watts. Setting low-cost armored resistor reduces costs and avoids problem of large current spikes that can be induced in the case where ceramic resistors of higher power are used a few hundred Watts. Indeed, for a portable device, it is necessary that the intensity of the current does not exceed 10 Ampere, that is to say approximately 2300 Watts in the case of an electrical supply network having a voltage of 220 V or 240 V.

Grâce aux mesures préconisées par la présente invention, l'échauffement peut être contrôlé de façon sûre dans la zone la plus chaude du corps de chauffe de sorte que, même en cas d'assèchement du corps capillaire de stockage du fait du fonctionnement dans une position défavorable, la sécurité est assurée dès lors que l'alimentation de la résistance blindée peut être régulée efficacement grâce aux informations délivrées par le ou les capteurs thermiques associés à un ou deux éléments de transmission thermique raccordés à la partie la plus chaude du corps de chauffe.Thanks to the measures recommended by the present invention, heating can be safely controlled in the hottest area of the heating body so that even if the body dries up storage capillary due to operation in a position safety, security is ensured as soon as the supply to the armored resistance can be effectively regulated using information delivered by the thermal sensor (s) associated with one or two elements of thermal transmission connected to the hottest part of the body of heated.

La présence de nervures au niveau de cette partie la plus chaude permet d'accroítre la distance entre le surmoulage de la résistance blindée et le corps capillaire de manière à conserver une mesure fiable de la température de cette partie la plus chaude.The presence of ribs at this hottest part increases the distance between the overmolding of the armored resistance and the capillary body so as to maintain a reliable measurement of the temperature of this hottest part.

Les dispositions particulières concernant le corps capillaire visent à retarder l'assèchement du corps capillaire dans la partie la plus chaude du corps de chauffe.The specific provisions concerning the capillary body aim to delay the drying of the capillary body in the hottest part of the heater.

Dans la mesure où l'appareil de nettoyage selon l'invention est conçu pour nettoyer des surfaces irrégulières et souples, comme un tapis ou un revêtement de siège par exemple, cet appareil non seulement est capable de fournir un fort débit de vapeur, mais également est adapté pour permettre une action mécanique complémentaire, en incorporant dans la tête de nettoyage un organe en forme de brosse au centre duquel est distribuée la vapeur d'eau produite par le générateur de vapeur intégré.Insofar as the cleaning device according to the invention is designed to clean irregular and soft surfaces, such as a carpet or a seat cover for example, this device not only is capable to provide a high vapor flow rate, but also is adapted to allow a complementary mechanical action, incorporating in the head of cleaning a brush-shaped organ in the center of which is distributed the water vapor produced by the integrated steam generator.

Selon une autre caractéristique importante de l'invention, l'appareil comprend en outre un réservoir de produit additif liquide ou pulvérulent incorporé dans le boítier et relié par une conduite à un système Venturi d'introduction du produit additif dans de la vapeur produite dans le générateur de vapeur pour appliquer à la tête de nettoyage un mélange de vapeur et de produit additif.According to another important characteristic of the invention, the device further includes a reservoir of liquid or powder additive product incorporated in the housing and connected by a pipe to a Venturi system for introducing the additive product into steam produced in the generator steam to apply a mixture of steam and additive product.

La présence optionnelle d'un produit additif, qui peut être simplement de l'eau, mais aussi avantageusement un produit détergent, permet de renforcer l'action de nettoyage des surfaces irrégulières, tout en conservant une vapeur la plus pure possible dans le cas du nettoyage de surfaces lisses et rigides.The optional presence of an additive product, which can be simply water, but also advantageously a detergent product, reinforces the cleaning action of irregular surfaces, while retaining the purest vapor possible when cleaning smooth and rigid surfaces.

Selon un mode particulier de réalisation, l'appareil de nettoyage selon l'invention comprend un boítier présentant une face inférieure sensiblement plane, une face arrière formant talon, une face supérieure munie d'une ouverture définissant une poignée en forme d'anse et une extrémité avant de section réduite à laquelle est raccordée la tête de nettoyage.According to a particular embodiment, the cleaning device according to the invention comprises a housing having a lower face substantially flat, a rear face forming a heel, an upper face provided with an opening defining a handle in the form of a handle and a front end of reduced section to which the head of the cleaning.

Dans ce cas, avantageusement, le réservoir de produit additif est placé à l'intérieur du boítier derrière la poignée en forme d'anse, le système Venturi est disposé dans le boítier au voisinage de la tête de nettoyage, la conduite de liaison entre le réservoir de produit additif et le système Venturi traverse la poignée en forme d'anse et un moyen de commande d'alimentation sélective en produit additif est disposé dans la poignée en forme d'anse. In this case, advantageously, the reservoir of additive product is placed inside the case behind the handle in the shape of a handle, the system Venturi is placed in the housing in the vicinity of the cleaning head, the connecting line between the additive product reservoir and the Venturi system crosses the handle in the form of a handle and a control means selective feed of additive product is arranged in the handle handle shape.

Selon un mode particulier de réalisation, la conduite de liaison entre le réservoir de produit additif et le système Venturi est constituée en une matière souple telle que du caoutchouc et le moyen de commande d'alimentation sélective en produit additif comprend un dispositif de pincement de ladite conduite et une gâchette manuelle de déblocage temporaire du dispositif de pincement.According to a particular embodiment, the connecting pipe between the additive reservoir and the Venturi system is made up of a flexible material such as rubber and the control means selective feed of additive product includes a device for pinching of said pipe and a manual release trigger temporary clamping device.

La conduite de transport de produit additif débouche au centre du système Venturi de telle manière que le produit additif soit aspiré par la vapeur d'eau qui a été introduite dans le système Venturi de façon concentrique en amont d'une pièce formant convergent.The additive product transport pipe leads to the center of the Venturi system in such a way that the additive product is sucked in by the water vapor that has been introduced into the Venturi system so concentric upstream of a converging part.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description suivante de modes particuliers de réalisation, donnés à titre d'exemple, en référence aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue d'ensemble, avec coupe partielle et une partie du boítier ôté, d'un exemple d'appareil portable de nettoyage à la vapeur selon l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une vue de face de l'appareil de la figure 1, la tête de nettoyage ayant été ôtée, ainsi qu'une moitié du boítier pour laisser apparaítre le générateur de vapeur,
  • la figure 3 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne III-III de la figure 2,
  • la figure 4 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne IV-IV de la figure 3,
  • la figure 5 est une vue de face du seul générateur de vapeur incorporé dans l'appareil des figures 1 à 4,
  • la figure 6 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne VI-VI de la figure 5,
  • la figure 7 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne VII-VII de la figure 6,
  • la figure 8 est une vue en perspective d'un corps de chauffe selon l'invention adapté au générateur de vapeur des figures 5 à 7 et à l'appareil de nettoyage des figures 1 à 4,
  • la figure 9 est une vue en coupe d'un système Venturi pouvant être incorporé dans un appareil de nettoyage selon l'invention et permettant d'assurer le mélange d'un produit additif avec de la vapeur, et
  • la figure 10 est une vue schématique de dessus, montrant un exemple d'agencement possible d'un corps capillaire autour d'un corps de chauffe dans un générateur de vapeur instantanée incorporé dans un appareil de nettoyage portable omnidirectionnel selon l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description of particular embodiments, given by way of example, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • FIG. 1 is an overall view, with partial section and part of the housing removed, of an example of a portable steam cleaning device according to the invention,
  • FIG. 2 is a front view of the appliance of FIG. 1, the cleaning head having been removed, as well as half of the casing to allow the steam generator to appear,
  • FIG. 3 is a sectional view along line III-III of FIG. 2,
  • FIG. 4 is a sectional view along the line IV-IV of FIG. 3,
  • FIG. 5 is a front view of the single steam generator incorporated in the apparatus of FIGS. 1 to 4,
  • FIG. 6 is a sectional view along line VI-VI of FIG. 5,
  • FIG. 7 is a sectional view along line VII-VII of FIG. 6,
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a heating body according to the invention adapted to the steam generator of FIGS. 5 to 7 and to the cleaning apparatus of FIGS. 1 to 4,
  • FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a Venturi system which can be incorporated into a cleaning device according to the invention and which makes it possible to ensure the mixing of an additive product with steam, and
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic view from above, showing an example of possible arrangement of a capillary body around a heating body in an instant steam generator incorporated in a portable omnidirectional cleaning device according to the invention.

Un exemple d'appareil portable omnidirectionnel 100 de nettoyage à la vapeur selon l'invention est représenté sur les figures 1 à 4. Un tel appareil 100 comprend un boítier 101 à l'intérieur duquel est disposé un ensemble modulaire amovible 103 qui constitue un générateur de vapeur et comporte une enceinte 10 étanche dans laquelle prend naissance un conduit primaire 12 de distribution de vapeur d'eau, qui est de préférence situé dans une partie centrale surélevée de l'enceinte 10. L'enceinte 10 comporte en outre sur sa partie avant une ouverture 11 permettant l'introduction d'eau à partir d'un orifice extérieur 13 équipé d'un bouchon 133 et relié à l'ouverture 11 de l'enceinte 10 par un conduit 13A.An example of an omnidirectional portable cleaning device 100 steamed according to the invention is shown in Figures 1 to 4. Such a apparatus 100 includes a housing 101 inside which is disposed a removable modular assembly 103 which constitutes a steam generator and includes a sealed enclosure 10 in which a conduit arises primary 12 for water vapor distribution, which is preferably located in an elevated central part of the enclosure 10. The enclosure 10 comprises besides on its front part an opening 11 allowing the introduction of water to from an external orifice 13 fitted with a plug 133 and connected to the opening 11 of the enclosure 10 by a conduit 13A.

Le boítier 101 qui peut présenter la forme représentée sur les figures 1 à 3, laquelle est particulièrement compacte, permet une bonne préhension et permet d'orienter facilement la tête de nettoyage 107 dans toutes les directions. Le boítier 101 présente ainsi une face inférieure 106 sensiblement plane, qui permet de poser l'appareil de façon stable lorsqu'il n'est pas utilisé, ou pour le remplissage en eau de l'orifice 13 situé sur le dessus du boítier 101, une face arrière 108 formant talon qui permet également le cas échéant de placer l'appareil au repos à la verticale avec la tête de nettoyage 107 orientée vers le haut, une face supérieure munie d'une ouverture 102 définissant une poignée intégrée en forme d'anse 102A, et une extrémité avant de section réduite à laquelle est raccordée la tête de nettoyage 107.The housing 101 which can have the shape shown on the Figures 1 to 3, which is particularly compact, allows good grip and allows to easily orient the cleaning head 107 in all directions. The housing 101 thus has a lower face 106 substantially flat, which allows the device to be stably installed when is not used, or for filling with water the orifice 13 located on the above the housing 101, a rear face 108 forming a heel which allows also if necessary place the device at rest vertically with the cleaning head 107 facing upwards, an upper face provided with a opening 102 defining an integrated handle in the form of a handle 102A, and a front end of reduced section to which the head of the cleaning 107.

On voit également sur la figure 1 un réservoir 19 de produit additif liquide ou pulvérulent incorporé dans le boítier 101, par exemple de façon amovible, derrière la poignée 102A en forme d'anse, et relié par une conduite 16 à un système Venturi 15 d'introduction du produit additif dans de la vapeur produite dans le générateur de vapeur 103 pour appliquer à la tête de nettoyage 107 un mélange de vapeur et de produit additif. Le système Venturi 15 est disposé dans le boítier 101 au voisinage de la tête de nettoyage 107. La conduite 16 de liaison entre le réservoir 19 de produit additif et le système Venturi 15 traverse la poignée 102A qui incorpore un moyen 31, 32 de commande d'alimentation sélective en produit additif.We also see in Figure 1 a tank 19 of additive product liquid or powder incorporated in the housing 101, for example so removable, behind the handle 102A in the shape of a handle, and connected by a pipe 16 to a Venturi system 15 for introducing the additive product into steam produced in steam generator 103 to apply to the head of cleaning 107 a mixture of steam and additive product. The Venturi system 15 is arranged in the housing 101 in the vicinity of the cleaning head 107. Line 16 for connection between the reservoir 19 of additive product and the system Venturi 15 passes through the handle 102A which incorporates a means 31, 32 of selective supply control of additive product.

La conduite 16 raccordée au réservoir 19 par une prise de raccordement 18 peut être constituée par une matière souple telle que du caoutchouc. La conduite 16 passe sur un appui 17 au niveau duquel il est pincé par une lame de ressort 31. Une gâchette 32 située au niveau de la poignée 102A permet, par une action manuelle, de débloquer la lame de ressort 31 et par suite de libérer et ouvrir la conduite 16. Un tel système est simple et efficace pour alimenter de façon sélective en liquide additif le dispositif Venturi 15 dont un exemple de réalisation est illustré à plus grande échelle sur la figure 9.Line 16 connected to reservoir 19 by a socket connection 18 may consist of a flexible material such as rubber. Line 16 passes over a support 17 at which it is pinched by a leaf spring 31. A trigger 32 located at the level of the handle 102A allows, by manual action, to unlock the blade spring 31 and consequently to release and open the pipe 16. Such a system is simple and effective to selectively supply additive liquid to the Venturi 15 device, an example of which is illustrated on a larger scale scale on the figure 9.

Le dispositif Venturi 15 comprend un corps 150 définissant dans sa partie arrière une chambre annulaire 153 dans laquelle débouche un ajutage 151 relié par une conduite 14 à la sortie 12 du générateur de vapeur 103, pour recevoir de la vapeur d'eau pure. Un ajutage 152 situé également à l'arrière du dispositif Venturi 15 permet le raccordement de la conduite souple 16 d'alimentation en produit additif et l'application de ce produit additif à un conduit central 155. Une pièce centrale 156 comportant une partie convergente par exemple tronconique est disposée dans le corps 150 et permet le passage de la vapeur provenant de la chambre annulaire 153 dans un espace annulaire convergent défini entre la pièce centrale 156 et une pièce extérieure de forme complémentaire 157. Un canal central 155A est formé dans la pièce centrale 156 dans le prolongement du conduit central 155 pour appliquer le produit additif au centre du système Venturi dans une zone où le produit additif est aspiré par la vapeur d'eau introduite de façon concentrique en amont de la pièce centrale 156 formant convergent. Lorsque le circuit de liquide additif est ouvert, la vapeur arrivant dans la chambre annulaire 153 crée, à la sortie de l'espace convergent créé par la pièce centrale 156, une dépression au droit de l'arrivée de liquide additif par le canal 155A, ce qui permet d'aspirer ce liquide additif et de le mélanger avec la vapeur à la sortie 158 de la tête 159 du dispositif Venturi 15. Le mélange est alors propulsé sur la surface à nettoyer à travers la tête de nettoyage 107 qui peut comporter une brosse 171 autour du distributeur de mélange dans lequel débouche le dispositif Venturi 15. Des joints toriques 154, 160 assurent l'étanchéité entre le corps 150 et le conduit 155 d'une part et la pièce centrale 156 et la pièce complémentaire 157 d'autre part.The Venturi device 15 comprises a body 150 defining in its rear part an annular chamber 153 into which opens a nozzle 151 connected by a pipe 14 to the outlet 12 of the steam generator 103, to receive pure water vapor. A nozzle 152 also located at the rear of the Venturi 15 device allows the connection of the flexible pipe 16 for the supply of additive product and the application of this additive product to a central duct 155. A central part 156 comprising a part convergent for example frustoconical is arranged in the body 150 and allows the passage of steam from the annular chamber 153 in a converging annular space defined between the central part 156 and a external part of complementary shape 157. A central channel 155A is formed in the central part 156 in the extension of the central duct 155 to apply the additive to the center of the Venturi system in an area where the additive is sucked in by the steam introduced concentric upstream of the central part 156 forming a convergent. When the additive liquid circuit is open, the steam arriving in the chamber annular 153 creates, at the exit of the converging space created by the part central 156, a depression at the right of the arrival of additive liquid by the channel 155A, which allows this additive liquid to be sucked in and mixed with the steam at the outlet 158 of the head 159 of the Venturi device 15. The mixture is then propelled onto the surface to be cleaned through the cleaning head 107 which may include a brush 171 around the mixing dispenser in which opens the Venturi device 15. O-rings 154, 160 ensure the seal between the body 150 and the conduit 155 on the one hand and the central part 156 and complementary part 157 on the other hand.

Le liquide additif peut être de l'eau pure servant à la fois à bombarder la surface à nettoyer et à entraíner les saletés décollées par l'action conjuguée de la vapeur et de l'eau, chauffée et projetée par la vapeur. Le liquide additif peut aussi être un produit détergent, un parfum, un produit bactéricide ou anticaricide. The additive liquid can be pure water serving both bomb the surface to be cleaned and entrain dirt removed by the combined action of steam and water, heated and projected by steam. The additive liquid can also be a detergent product, a perfume, a product bactericide or anticaricide.

Il est important de noter que le mécanisme 31, 32 de commande d'alimentation sélective en produit additif permet à l'utilisateur de déterminer les cas où il souhaite obtenir en sortie de l'appareil de la vapeur seule, sans additif, par exemple pour le nettoyage de surfaces lisses, et les cas où il souhaite obtenir en sortie un mélange de vapeur et d'un produit additif liquide voire pulvérulent de manière à augmenter les capacités de nettoyage. Ainsi, l'appareil selon l'invention permet de combiner à volonté l'action de la chaleur produite par la vapeur d'eau avec l'action d'un additif tel qu'un produit détergent chimique ou de l'eau pure, laquelle action est elle-même renforcée par la chaleur et le fait que le jet de vapeur peut entraíner l'additif au plus près des particules à nettoyer. L'utilisateur peut en outre facilement rajouter selon les besoins l'action mécanique nécessaire grâce à la brosse 171.It is important to note that the control mechanism 31, 32 selective feed of additive product allows the user to determine the cases where he wishes to obtain steam from the appliance alone, without additive, for example for cleaning smooth surfaces, and cases where it wishes to obtain a mixture of vapor and a liquid additive product or even powdery so as to increase the cleaning capacities. So, the device according to the invention makes it possible to combine the action of heat at will produced by water vapor with the action of an additive such as a product chemical detergent or pure water, which action is itself enhanced by the heat and the fact that the steam jet can bring the additive as close as possible particles to be cleaned. The user can also easily add according to the mechanical action required by the brush 171.

L'appareil selon l'invention est ainsi essentiellement un appareil grand public à usage domestique adapté aussi bien au nettoyage de surfaces dures et lisses telles que vitres, glaces, carrelages, céramiques, vitrocéramiques, parois de four ou d'évier, meubles mélaminés, qu'à celui de surfaces souples et irrégulières telles que des revêtements textiles de sièges d'ameublement ou de voiture ou des tapis ou tentures.The apparatus according to the invention is thus essentially an apparatus consumer for household use suitable for cleaning surfaces hard and smooth such as windows, glass, tiles, ceramics, glass-ceramics, oven or sink walls, melamine furniture, than that of flexible and irregular surfaces such as textile seat coverings furniture or car or carpets or draperies.

L'appareil de nettoyage selon l'invention présente une efficacité accrue par rapport aux dispositifs portables de l'art antérieur, par le fait qu'il peut, tout en restant léger, maniable et bon marché, produire de façon instantanée un débit de vapeur important (par exemple 30 g de vapeur par minute), en toute sécurité, quelle que soit la position de l'appareil, et sans que les problèmes d'entartrage n'obèrent les capacités de fonctionnement de l'appareil.The cleaning device according to the invention has an efficiency increased compared to portable devices of the prior art, by the fact that it can, while remaining light, handy and inexpensive, produce instantaneous a significant flow of steam (for example 30 g of steam per minute), safely, whatever the position of the device, and without scaling problems do not affect the operating capabilities of the device.

Un aspect important de l'invention réside dans la réalisation particulière du générateur de vapeur 103 qui, tout en étant léger, peut foumir une puissance supérieure à 1000 Watts.An important aspect of the invention lies in the realization particularity of the steam generator 103 which, while being light, can provide a power greater than 1000 Watts.

Si l'on se réfère aux figures 2 à 8, on voit qu'à l'intérieur de l'enceinte étanche 10 du générateur de vapeur 103, se trouve une deuxième enceinte constituée d'un boítier en deux parties 6, 7 munies chacune de perforations 61, 71 et assurant, lorsque les deux parties 6, 7 sont refermées et attachées l'une à l'autre par des éléments de clipsage 62, 72, une compression d'un corps capillaire de stockage 3 disposé autour d'un corps de chauffe 20. Sur les figures 3, 4, 6, 7 on a repéré l'espace 3 dans lequel se trouve le corps capillaire de stockage, sous forme divisée, de la réserve d'eau à évaporer, sans représenter ce corps capillaire, pour la clarté du dessin. La figure 10 montre un exemple de mise en oeuvre de corps capillaire 3 constitué à titre d'exemple par des fibres de laine de roche résistante aux hautes températures. Les fibres du corps capillaire 3 sont comprimées par le boítier perforé 6, 7 autour du corps de chauffe 20 et assurent un rôle à la fois de stockage d'eau à évaporer et d'isolant thermique entre le corps de chauffe 20 et les éléments en matière plastique tels que le boítier 6, 7 lui-même.If we refer to Figures 2 to 8, we see that inside the sealed enclosure 10 of the steam generator 103, there is a second enclosure consisting of a housing in two parts 6, 7 each provided with perforations 61, 71 and ensuring, when the two parts 6, 7 are closed and attached to each other by clip elements 62, 72, a compression of a storage capillary body 3 disposed around a body of heater 20. In FIGS. 3, 4, 6, 7, the space 3 has been identified in which finds the capillary body for storing, in divided form, the water reserve to evaporate, without representing this capillary body, for the clarity of the drawing. The Figure 10 shows an example of implementation of capillary body 3 constituted, for example, by rock wool fibers resistant to high temperatures. The fibers of the capillary body 3 are compressed by the perforated box 6, 7 around the heater 20 and provide a role at a time for storing water to evaporate and thermal insulation between the heating body 20 and the plastic elements such as the housing 6, 7 itself.

Le générateur de vapeur 103 constitue un générateur de production instantanée de vapeur, travaillant à la pression atmosphérique et comprend un corps de chauffe 20 constitué par une résistance blindée 2 surmoulée dans un matériau métallique bon conducteur de la chaleur, tel que de l'aluminium, pour favoriser la dissipation thermique de la résistance 2. La résistance blindée 2 présente la forme d'un U avec deux branches rectilignes 21, 22 et un coude 23 de raccordement des deux branches rectilignes 21, 22.The steam generator 103 constitutes a generator of instantaneous production of steam, working at atmospheric pressure and includes a heating body 20 constituted by an armored resistor 2 overmolded in a metallic material which conducts heat well, such as of aluminum, to promote the heat dissipation of the resistance 2. The armored resistor 2 has the shape of a U with two straight branches 21, 22 and an elbow 23 for connecting the two rectilinear branches 21, 22.

Comme on peut le voir notamment sur les figures 4, 7 et 8, le corps de chauffe 20 comporte une plaque 25 située dans un plan moyen défini par la résistance blindée 2 et présentant une forme de V s'évasant vers l'extérieur au niveau des extrémités libres des branches rectilignes 21, 22 de la résistance blindée 2. Cette plaque 25 qui favorise la diffusion de la chaleur et forme une unité avec les parties métalliques semi-cylindriques surmoulées sur la résistance blindée 2, peut comprendre un appendice 24, situé par exemple au voisinage de la partie courbe 23 de la résistance 2, pour le positionnement dans le boítier 6, 7.As can be seen in particular in Figures 4, 7 and 8, the body heater 20 has a plate 25 located in a mean plane defined by armored resistor 2 and having a V shape flaring outward at the free ends of the straight branches 21, 22 of the armored resistance 2. This plate 25 which promotes the diffusion of heat and forms a unit with the semi-cylindrical metal parts overmolded on the armored resistor 2, may include an appendage 24, located for example in the vicinity of the curved part 23 of the resistor 2, for positioning in the housing 6, 7.

Avantageusement, le corps de chauffe 20 comprend des nervures 26 (figure 8) disposées au voisinage du coude 23 de la résistance 2, entre les branches rectilignes 21, 22 de la résistance 2, dans une zone 4 voisine du coude 23 qui constitue la zone de plus grande densité de puissance, dans laquelle l'échauffement est le plus rapide en cas d'assèchement du corps capillaire 3.Advantageously, the heating body 20 comprises ribs 26 (FIG. 8) arranged in the vicinity of the elbow 23 of the resistor 2, between the rectilinear branches 21, 22 of the resistor 2, in a zone 4 adjacent to the elbow 23 which constitutes the zone of greatest power density, in which warms up the fastest in case of drying of the body capillary 3.

Dès lors que l'appareil 100 de nettoyage peut et doit fonctionner dans toutes les directions, et peut notamment reposer sur la face inférieure 106, ou le talon 108 du boítier, la zone 4 est fortement exposée à l'assèchement prématuré dû à l'écoulement de l'eau vers le bas par gravité, par l'action de la vapeur formée en-dessous de cette zone et remontant vers la sortie de vapeur 12 en prélevant de l'eau au passage ou en chauffant l'eau du corps capillaire 3 enrobant cette partie 4. Since the cleaning apparatus 100 can and must operate in all directions, and can in particular rest on the underside 106, or the heel 108 of the case, zone 4 is strongly exposed to premature drying due to the downward flow of water by gravity, by the action of the vapor formed below this zone and rising towards the steam outlet 12 by taking water in transit or by heating the water of the capillary body 3 coating this part 4.

Conformément à l'invention, différents moyens sont mis en oeuvre pour réduire l'échauffement de cette zone 4 voisine du coude 23 et pallier les effets de l'échauffement de cette zone 4 relativement plus important que le reste du corps capillaire 3.In accordance with the invention, various means are used to reduce the heating of this zone 4 adjacent to the elbow 23 and alleviate the effects of the heating of this zone 4 relatively more important than the rest of capillary body 3.

Ainsi, comme cela est illustré sur la figure 10, le corps capillaire de stockage 3 peut comprendre une première nappe 131 de fibres orientées dans un plan parallèle au plan défini par la résistance blindée 2 et perpendiculairement aux deux branches rectilignes 21, 22 de cette résistance blindée 2 dans la zone 4 voisine du coude 23 de la résistance 2 et correspondant à la présence des nervures 26 de la figure 8. Ceci contribue à limiter l'assèchement par simple écoulement de l'eau du haut vers le bas. De même, il est avantageux de renforcer la quantité de corps capillaire dans la première nappe 131, par rapport au reste du volume du boítier 6, 7 par exemple par une double épaisseur de manière à accroítre la compression du corps capillaire dans la zone 4 voisine du coude 23 et augmenter ainsi la quantité d'eau retenue lors du remplissage en eau du corps capillaire 3 par l'orifice 13.Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the capillary body of storage 3 may include a first layer 131 of oriented fibers in a plane parallel to the plane defined by the armored resistance 2 and perpendicular to the two straight branches 21, 22 of this resistor armored 2 in the zone 4 near the elbow 23 of the resistor 2 and corresponding to the presence of the ribs 26 of FIG. 8. This contributes to limit drying by simply flowing water from top to bottom. Of even, it is advantageous to strengthen the quantity of capillary body in the first layer 131, relative to the rest of the volume of the housing 6, 7 by example by a double thickness so as to increase the compression of the capillary body in the zone 4 adjacent to the elbow 23 and thus increase the quantity of water retained when filling the capillary body 3 with orifice 13.

Le corps capillaire 3 comprend avantageusement une deuxième nappe 132 de fibres orientées perpendiculairement au plan défini par la résistance 2, dans des zones proches des deux branches rectilignes 21, 22 et éloignées du coude 23 de la résistance blindée.The capillary body 3 advantageously comprises a second sheet 132 of fibers oriented perpendicular to the plane defined by the resistance 2, in areas close to the two straight branches 21, 22 and away from the elbow 23 of the armored resistance.

La forme des deux demi-boítiers 6, 7 est complémentaire de celle du corps de chauffe 20 entouré du corps capillaire 3. On voit ainsi que le boítier 6, 7 s'évase vers l'extérieur du côté opposé au coude 23, pour tenir compte de l'élargissement de la plaque 25 en forme de V.The shape of the two half-housings 6, 7 is complementary to that of the heating body 20 surrounded by the capillary body 3. It can thus be seen that the case 6, 7 flares outwards on the side opposite the elbow 23, to hold account of the widening of the plate 25 in the form of V.

Selon une caractéristique importante de l'invention, un élément de transmission thermique rectiligne 51 est raccordé au corps de chauffe 20 au voisinage de la partie interne du coude 23 de la résistance 2, et se termine par une extrémité munie d'un logement 53 dans lequel est disposé un capteur thermique 55, qui a été représenté sur la figure 7 mais a été omis sur la figure 4 et la figure 8. Le capteur thermique possède deux broches 59 de connexion pour un raccordement à des éléments de régulation de l'alimentation de la résistance 2, qui peuvent être disposés dans un compartiment séparé 104 adjacent à l'enceinte étanche 10 du générateur de vapeur 103.According to an important characteristic of the invention, an element of rectilinear thermal transmission 51 is connected to the heating body 20 at vicinity of the internal part of the elbow 23 of the resistor 2, and ends by an end provided with a housing 53 in which a sensor is disposed thermal 55, which has been shown in Figure 7 but has been omitted in Figure 4 and FIG. 8. The thermal sensor has two pins 59 for connection for connection to regulating elements of the power supply resistance 2, which can be arranged in a separate compartment 104 adjacent to the sealed enclosure 10 of the steam generator 103.

Un élément de transmission thermique coudé 52 est raccordé au corps de chauffe 20 au voisinage de la partie externe du coude 23 de la résistance blindée 2 et se termine, à l'extérieur de l'enceinte étanche 10, par une extrémité munie d'un logement 54 dans lequel est disposé un capteur thermique 56, muni de deux broches 58 de connexion pour un raccordement à des éléments de régulation de l'alimentation de la résistance 2, placés dans le compartiment 104, au sein duquel débouche le cordon d'alimentation électrique de l'appareil de nettoyage (non représenté sur les dessins). Le capteur thermique 56 n'a pas été représenté sur la figure 8.An elbow heat transfer element 52 is connected to the heating body 20 in the vicinity of the external part of the elbow 23 of the shielded resistor 2 and ends, outside the sealed enclosure 10, by one end provided with a housing 54 in which a sensor is disposed thermal 56, provided with two connection pins 58 for connection to elements for regulating the supply of resistor 2, placed in compartment 104, into which the power cord opens cleaning appliance (not shown in the drawings). The thermal sensor 56 has not been shown in FIG. 8.

Les éléments de transmission thermique 51, 52 constituent des appendices qui prennent naissance au plus près du coude 23 et peuvent être réalisés par surmoulage dans le même matériau que la plaque 25, comme par exemple l'aluminium.The thermal transmission elements 51, 52 constitute appendages which arise closest to the elbow 23 and may be produced by overmolding in the same material as the plate 25, as for example aluminum.

De préférence, les capteurs thermiques 55 et 56, tels que des thermostats, présentent des valeurs de consigne différentes pour mieux réguler l'alimentation de la résistance chauffante 2 dont la température augmente vite dès que l'assèchement du corps capillaire se produit dans la zone 4 voisine du coude 23.Preferably, the thermal sensors 55 and 56, such as thermostats, have different setpoints for better regulate the supply of the heating resistor 2 whose temperature increases rapidly as soon as the capillary body dries up in the zone 4 near the elbow 23.

Au moins l'élément de transmission thermique rectiligne 51, et le cas échéant également l'élément de transmission thermique coudé 52, est avantageusement isolé thermiquement par une gaine exteme en un matériau isolant thermiquement, tel que du silicone, pour éviter un refroidissement par l'eau non évaporée en partie basse éventuellement contenue dans le corps capillaire entourant cet élément de transmission thermique 51.At least the rectilinear thermal transmission element 51, and the if necessary also the angled thermal transmission element 52 is advantageously thermally insulated by an outer sheath made of a material thermally insulating, such as silicone, to avoid cooling by water not evaporated in the lower part possibly contained in the body capillary surrounding this thermal transmission element 51.

Les branches rectilignes 21, 22 de la résistance 2 traversent la paroi de l'enceinte 10 de façon étanche grâce à des joints tel que le joint 84, illustré sur la figure 7, en un matériau tel que le vitton ou le silicone.The rectilinear branches 21, 22 of the resistor 2 cross the wall of the enclosure 10 in a sealed manner using seals such as the seal 84, illustrated in FIG. 7, in a material such as vitton or silicone.

De la même façon les protubérances constituant les éléments de transmission thermique 51, 52 traversent de façon étanche la paroi de l'enceinte 10 grâce à des joints 90, 85 par exemple en vitton ou en silicone (figure 7).In the same way the protuberances constituting the elements of heat transmission 51, 52 pass tightly through the wall of enclosure 10 thanks to seals 90, 85 for example in vitton or silicone (figure 7).

Le couvercle du compartiment 104 peut être soudé par ultrasons à l'enceinte 10, une fois le montage terminé.The compartment cover 104 can be ultrasonically welded to enclosure 10, once assembly is complete.

Les capteurs thermiques 55, 56 peuvent être constitués par exemple par des thermostats, des sondes thermiques, des limiteurs thermiques ou des fusibles.The thermal sensors 55, 56 can be constituted by for example by thermostats, thermal probes, limiters or fuses.

La présence des capteurs thermiques 55, 56 et des éléments de transmission thermique 51, 52 associés à un circuit simple de régulation d'alimentation permet de mettre en oeuvre une résistance blindée 2 en U de type courant et d'une puissance par exemple de 1200 Watts, sans qu'il s'ensuive un risque d'échauffement exagéré, même si en fonctionnement une partie du corps capillaire 3 vient à s'assécher.The presence of thermal sensors 55, 56 and elements of thermal transmission 51, 52 associated with a simple regulation circuit supply allows the implementation of a shielded resistance in 2 U current type and of a power for example of 1200 Watts, without it an excessive risk of overheating ensues, even if in operation a part of the capillary body 3 dries up.

L'ensemble de l'enceinte étanche 10 et du compartiment séparé 104 qui constitue le générateur de vapeur 103 est amovible et permet un remplacement aisé. Les connexions électriques au sein du compartiment 104 sont bien séparées de l'enceinte 10 où se trouve stockée l'eau dans le corps capillaire 3 comprimé par le boítier perforé 6, 7 autour du corps de chauffe 20.The whole of the waterproof enclosure 10 and of the separate compartment 104 which constitutes the steam generator 103 is removable and allows easy replacement. Electrical connections within compartment 104 are well separated from the enclosure 10 where the water is stored in the body capillary 3 compressed by the perforated housing 6, 7 around the heater 20.

L'utilisation de l'appareil est très simple. De l'eau du robinet est introduite par l'entrée 13 qui avec le canal 13A fait corps avec l'enceinte 10. L'eau imprègne le corps capillaire 3 disposé dans le boítier perforé 6, 7 et l'eau en excès peut être évacuée par l'orifice d'entrée 13 en retoumant et secouant l'appareil. Après fermeture du bouchon 13B et branchement du cordon électrique, l'appareil est prêt à fonctionner. La régulation de l'alimentation de la résistance 2 peut s'effectuer automatiquement de façon sûre sans intervention de l'opérateur, grâce aux mesures explicitées plus haut. Après avoir appuyé sur le bouton de marche-arrêt permettant l'alimentation électrique régulée de la résistance 2 et donc la production de vapeur, l'opérateur doit simplement décider, en appuyant ou non sur la gâchette 32, s'il désire ou non disposer d'un mélange de vapeur et du produit additif optionnel désiré placé dans le réservoir 19 qui peut être transparent pour vérifier son contenu et amovible pour faciliter son remplacement.Using the device is very simple. Tap water is introduced by the input 13 which with the channel 13A is integral with the enclosure 10. Water permeates the capillary body 3 disposed in the perforated housing 6, 7 and excess water can be discharged through inlet 13 by re-knocking and shaking the device. After closing the plug 13B and connecting the electrical cord, the appliance is ready to operate. The regulation of resistor 2 can be supplied automatically so safe without operator intervention, thanks to the measures explained more high. After pressing the on-off button allowing regulated power supply of resistor 2 and therefore the production of steam, the operator simply has to decide whether or not to press the trigger 32, whether or not it wishes to have a mixture of steam and the product optional additive desired placed in tank 19 which may be transparent to check its contents and removable to facilitate its replacement.

L'utilisateur peut à tout moment couper l'émission de vapeur en interrompant l'alimentation électrique de la résistance 2 à l'aide du bouton de marche-arrêt.The user can at any time cut off the emission of steam by interrupting the power supply to resistor 2 using the button On Off.

Claims (25)

Appareil portable omnidirectionnel pour le nettoyage à la vapeur de surfaces aussi bien dures que souples, comprenant un boítier (101) muni d'une poignée (102), un orifice (13) d'alimentation en eau, un cordon d'alimentation électrique, une tête de nettoyage (107), un générateur de vapeur (103) intégré dans le boítier (101) et comportant des moyens (3) de stockage d'une réserve d'eau et des moyens électriques (2) de chauffage de cette réserve d'eau (3) pour produire de la vapeur d'eau, et des moyens (14, 15) pour distribuer sélectivement de la vapeur d'eau à la tête de nettoyage (107),
   caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un générateur (103) de vapeur instantanée à faible inertie thermique travaillant à la pression atmosphérique et comprenant un corps capillaire (3) de stockage sous forme divisée, de la totalité de la réserve d'eau à évaporer, le corps capillaire (3) étant comprimé autour des moyens électriques de chauffage qui comprennent une résistance blindée (2) surmoulée dans un matériau métallique bon conducteur de la chaleur pour former un corps de chauffe (20), auquel est associé au moins un élément de transmission thermique (51, 52) qui est raccordé à la partie la plus chaude (23) du corps de chauffe (20) et est muni d'un capteur thermique (55, 56) permettant d'optimiser le pilotage de l'alimentation de la résistance blindée (2) et sa mise en sécurité quelle que soit l'orientation dans l'espace du générateur de vapeur (103).Omnidirectional portable device for steam cleaning of both hard and flexible surfaces, comprising a housing (101) provided with a handle (102), a water supply opening (13), an electrical supply cord, a cleaning head (107), a steam generator (103) integrated in the housing (101) and comprising means (3) for storing a reserve of water and electrical means (2) for heating this reserve water (3) to produce water vapor, and means (14, 15) for selectively distributing water vapor to the cleaning head (107),
characterized in that it comprises an instantaneous steam generator (103) with low thermal inertia working at atmospheric pressure and comprising a capillary body (3) for storing in divided form, all of the water reserve to be evaporated, the capillary body (3) being compressed around the electrical heating means which comprise an armored resistor (2) overmolded in a metallic material which is a good conductor of heat to form a heating body (20), with which is associated at least one element of thermal transmission (51, 52) which is connected to the hottest part (23) of the heating body (20) and is provided with a thermal sensor (55, 56) making it possible to optimize the control of the supply of the armored resistor (2) and its safety whatever the orientation in space of the steam generator (103). Appareil selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la résistance blindée (2) présente la forme d'un U avec deux branches rectilignes (21, 22) et un coude (23) de raccordement des deux branches rectilignes (21, 22).Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the armored resistor (2) has the shape of a U with two branches rectilinear (21, 22) and an elbow (23) connecting the two branches rectilinear (21, 22). Appareil selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un élément de transmission thermique (51) rectiligne raccordé au corps de chauffe (20) au voisinage de la partie inteme du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2) en forme de U, et muni d'un capteur thermique (55).Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises a rectilinear thermal transmission element (51) connected to the heating body (20) in the vicinity of the inner part of the elbow (23) of the armored resistor (2) U-shaped, and provided with a thermal sensor (55). Appareil selon la revendication 2 ou la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un élément de transmission thermique (52) raccordé au corps de chauffe (20) au voisinage de la partie externe du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2) en forme de U, et muni d'un capteur thermique (56). Apparatus according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterized in that it comprises a thermal transmission element (52) connected to the heating body (20) in the vicinity of the external part of the elbow (23) of the shielded resistor (2) in the shape of a U, and fitted with a sensor thermal (56). Appareil selon les revendications 3 et 4, caractérisé en ce que les premier et deuxième capteurs thermiques (55, 56) associés aux éléments de transmission thermique (51, 52) raccordés au voisinage des parties interne et externe du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2) présentent des valeurs de consigne différentes.Apparatus according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that the first and second thermal sensors (55, 56) associated with the elements of thermal transmission (51, 52) connected in the vicinity of the internal parts and external of the elbow (23) of the armored resistance (2) have values different set points. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 5, caractérisé en ce que le corps de chauffe (20) comprend des nervures (26) disposées au voisinage du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2), entre les branches rectilignes (21, 22) de cette résistance blindée (2).Apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the heating body (20) comprises ribs (26) arranged in the vicinity of the elbow (23) of the armored resistor (2), between the rectilinear branches (21, 22) of this armored resistor (2). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 6, caractérisé en ce que le corps capillaire de stockage (3) comprend une première nappe (131) de fibres orientées dans un plan parallèle au plan défini par la résistance blindée (2) et perpendiculairement aux deux branches rectilignes (21, 22) de cette résistance blindée (2), dans une zone (4) voisine du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2).Apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the capillary storage body (3) comprises a first layer (131) of fibers oriented in a plane parallel to the defined plane by the armored resistor (2) and perpendicular to the two branches rectilinear (21, 22) of this armored resistance (2), in a neighboring zone (4) of the elbow (23) of the armored resistance (2). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 7, caractérisé en ce que le corps capillaire de stockage (3) comprend une deuxième nappe (132) de fibres orientées perpendiculairement au plan défini par la résistance blindée (2), dans des zones proches des deux branches rectilignes (21, 22) et éloignées du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2).Apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the capillary storage body (3) comprises a second layer (132) of fibers oriented perpendicular to the defined plane by the armored resistor (2), in areas close to the two branches rectilinear (21, 22) and distant from the elbow (23) of the armored resistance (2). Appareil selon les revendications 7 et 8, caractérisé en ce que la première nappe (131) du corps capillaire de stockage (3) située dans une zone (4) voisine du coude (23) de la résistance (2) comprend une compression ou un volume plus importants que la deuxième nappe (132).Apparatus according to claims 7 and 8, characterized in that the first ply (131) of the capillary storage body (3) located in a zone (4) adjacent to the elbow (23) of the resistance (2) comprises a greater compression or volume than the second ply (132). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 9, caractérisé en ce que chaque élément de transmission thermique (51, 52) est entouré d'un matériau isolant thermiquement, dans sa portion en contact avec le corps poreux capillaire.Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that each thermal transmission element (51, 52) is surrounded by a thermally insulating material, in its portion in contact with the porous capillary body. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisé en ce que la résistance blindée (2) présente une puissance comprise entre 1000 et 1500 Watts.Apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the armored resistor (2) has a power between 1000 and 1500 Watts. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 11, caractérisé en ce que le générateur de vapeur (103) comprend une première enceinte (10) étanche et amovible dans laquelle débouche l'orifice (13) d'alimentation en eau, dans laquelle prend naissance un conduit primaire (12) de distribution de vapeur d'eau et à l'intérieur de laquelle se trouve une deuxième enceinte (6, 7) munie de perforations (61, 71) et assurant une compression du corps capillaire de stockage (3) autour du corps de chauffe (20).Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the steam generator (103) comprises a first sealed and removable enclosure (10) into which the orifice (13) opens water supply, in which a primary conduit (12) arises of steam distribution and inside which there is a second enclosure (6, 7) provided with perforations (61, 71) and ensuring a compression of the storage capillary body (3) around the heating body (20). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce que le matériau métallique bon conducteur de la chaleur dans lequel est surmoulée la résistance blindée (2) est constitué par de l'aluminium.Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the metallic material good conductor of heat in which the armored resistance (2) is overmolded consists of aluminum. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que le capteur thermique (55, 56) associé à un élément de transmission thermique (51, 52) est constitué par l'un des éléments suivants : thermostat, sonde thermique, limiteur thermique, fusible.Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the thermal sensor (55, 56) associated with an element of thermal transmission (51, 52) consists of one of the following: thermostat, thermal probe, thermal limiter, fuse. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 14, caractérisé en ce que le corps capillaire (3) de stockage est constitué par des fibres de laine de roche.Apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the capillary storage body (3) consists of rock wool fibers. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 9, caractérisé en ce que le corps de chauffe (20) comporte une plaque (25) située dans un plan moyen défini par la résistance blindée (2) et présentant une forme de V s'évasant vers l'extérieur au niveau des extrémités libres des branches rectilignes (21, 22) de la résistance blindée (2).Apparatus according to any one of Claims 2 to 9, characterized in that the heating body (20) has a plate (25) located in a mean plane defined by the armored resistance (2) and having a V shape widening outwards at the free ends of the straight branches (21, 22) of the armored resistor (2). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 16, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un boítier (101) présentant une face inférieure (106) sensiblement plane, une face arrière (108) formant talon, une face supérieure munie d'une ouverture (102) définissant une poignée en forme d'anse (102A) et une extrémité avant de section réduite à laquelle est raccordée la tête de nettoyage (107).Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that it comprises a housing (101) having a face lower (106) substantially flat, a rear face (108) forming a heel, a upper face provided with an opening (102) defining a handle in handle shape (102A) and a front end of reduced section which is connected the cleaning head (107). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 17, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre un réservoir (19) de produit additif liquide ou pulvérulent incorporé dans le boítier (101) et relié par une conduite (16) à un système Venturi (15) d'introduction du produit additif dans de la vapeur produite dans le générateur de vapeur (103) pour appliquer à la tête de nettoyage (107) un mélange de vapeur et de produit additif.Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that it further comprises a reservoir (19) of additive product liquid or powder incorporated in the housing (101) and connected by a pipe (16) to a Venturi system (15) for introducing the additive product into steam produced in the steam generator (103) to apply to the head cleaning (107) a mixture of steam and additive product. Appareil selon les revendications 17 et 18, caractérisé en ce que le réservoir (19) de produit additif est placé à l'intérieur du boítier (101) derrière la poignée en forme d'anse (102A), en ce que le système Venturi (15) est disposé dans le boítier (101) au voisinage de la tête de nettoyage (107), en ce que la conduite (16) de liaison entre le réservoir (19) de produit additif et le système Venturi (15) traverse la poignée (102A) en forme d'anse et en ce qu'un moyen (31, 32) de commande d'alimentation sélective en produit additif est disposé dans la poignée (102A) en forme d'anse.Apparatus according to claims 17 and 18, characterized in that that the reservoir (19) of additive product is placed inside the housing (101) behind the handle in the form of a handle (102A), in that the Venturi system (15) is arranged in the housing (101) in the vicinity of the cleaning head (107), in that the pipe (16) connecting the reservoir (19) of additive product and the Venturi system (15) passes through the handle (102A) in the form of a handle and in what a means (31, 32) for controlling selective supply of product additive is placed in the handle (102A) in the form of a handle. Appareil selon la revendication 19, caractérisé en ce que la conduite (16) de liaison entre le réservoir (19) de produit additif et le système Venturi (15) est constituée en une matière souple telle que du caoutchouc et en ce que le moyen de commande d'alimentation sélective en produit additif comprend un dispositif (31) de pincement de ladite conduite (16) et une gâchette manuelle (32) de déblocage temporaire du dispositif (31) de pincement.Apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the pipe (16) connecting the reservoir (19) of additive product and the system Venturi (15) is made of a flexible material such as rubber and in that the means for controlling the selective supply of additive product comprises a device (31) for clamping said pipe (16) and a manual trigger (32) for temporarily unlocking the device (31) pinching. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 18 à 20, caractérisé en ce que la conduite (16) de transport de produit additif débouche au centre du système Venturi (15) de telle manière que le produit additif soit aspiré par la vapeur d'eau qui a été introduite dans le système Venturi (15) de façon concentrique en amont d'une pièce (156) formant convergent.Apparatus according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that the pipe (16) for transporting additive product opens out in the center of the Venturi system (15) so that the product additive is sucked in by the water vapor that has been introduced into the system Venturi (15) concentrically upstream of a part (156) forming converge. Appareil selon les revendications 2 et 12, caractérisé en ce que le générateur de vapeur (103) présente un orifice (13) d'alimentation en eau qui débouche au voisinage du coude (23) de la résistance blindée (2), et un conduit primaire (12) de distribution de vapeur situé dans une partie centrale surélevée de la première enceinte (10).Apparatus according to claims 2 and 12, characterized in that the steam generator (103) has a water supply orifice (13) which opens in the vicinity of the elbow (23) of the armored resistor (2), and a primary vapor distribution duct (12) located in a central part raised from the first enclosure (10). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 22, caractérisé en ce que la tête de nettoyage comprend un organe (171) en forme de brosse au centre duquel est distribuée la vapeur d'eau produite par le générateur de vapeur intégré (103).Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the cleaning head comprises a member (171) in brush shape in the center of which the water vapor produced by the integrated steam generator (103). Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 23, caractérisé en ce qu'il constitue un appareil d'utilisation domestique appliqué au nettoyage de surfaces dures telles que vitres, glaces, carrelages, céramiques, vitrocéramiques aussi bien que de surfaces souples telles que des revêtements textiles de sièges d'ameublement ou de voiture, ou des tapis.Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that it constitutes an appliance for domestic use applied cleaning hard surfaces such as windows, glass, tiles, ceramics, vitroceramics as well as flexible surfaces such as textile coverings for furniture or car seats, or carpet. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 18 à 21, caractérisé en ce que le produit additif est sous forme liquide et comprend l'un des produits constitués par de l'eau pure, un produit détergent, un parfum, un produit bactéricide ou un produit anticaricide.Apparatus according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that the additive product is in liquid form and comprises one products consisting of pure water, a detergent, a perfume, a bactericide or anticaricide product.
EP98401033A 1997-04-28 1998-04-28 Portable device for steam cleaning hard or flexible surfaces Expired - Lifetime EP0875194B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9705226 1997-04-28
FR9705226A FR2762531B1 (en) 1997-04-28 1997-04-28 OMNIDIRECTIONAL PORTABLE VAPOR CLEANING DEVICE FOR HARD OR SOFT SURFACES

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EP0875194A1 true EP0875194A1 (en) 1998-11-04
EP0875194B1 EP0875194B1 (en) 2003-03-19

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US (1) US6031969A (en)
EP (1) EP0875194B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69812212T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2196509T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2762531B1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0875194B1 (en) 2003-03-19
FR2762531B1 (en) 1999-08-13
DE69812212D1 (en) 2003-04-24
ES2196509T3 (en) 2003-12-16
FR2762531A1 (en) 1998-10-30
DE69812212T2 (en) 2003-12-11
US6031969A (en) 2000-02-29

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