WO2009027257A1

WO2009027257A1 - Steam iron apparatus having a micropump with a controllable multiway output valve

Info

Publication number: WO2009027257A1
Application number: PCT/EP2008/060796
Authority: WO
Inventors: Horst Jürgen Duschek
Original assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH
Priority date: 2007-08-24
Filing date: 2008-08-18
Publication date: 2009-03-05
Also published as: ES2336519B1; DE112008002290A5; ES2336519A1

Abstract

Steam iron apparatus having a micropump (8). The micropump (8) has a controllable multiway output valve (12) with a plurality of outputs (A, B), each of which has at least one associated evaporation liquid-related steam iron apparatus function.

Description

Steam ironing device with micro-pump with controllable multiway outlet valve

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a steam ironing device according to the preamble of claim 1, a special valve for such a steam ironing device and a steam iron micro-pump having such a valve.

STATE OF THE ART

There are steam ironing devices, in particular steam irons or steam ironing stations, known, comprising: a sole plate with steam outlet openings; a container for evaporation liquid, in particular water; a micro-pump, in particular a micro-electric pump whose pump input is connected to the container; a steam generating system having an evaporation chamber communicating with the steam outlets, and into which the evaporation liquid from the container can be selectively introduced through the micro-pump; a heating device for heating the soleplate and / or the evaporation chamber; and a plurality of user operable controls for selectively enabling and disabling different vaporization fluid related steam ironing device functions, such as e.g. Generating steam for normal steam ironing, generating a steam burst or spraying evaporative liquid.

For normal steam ironing, the evaporation liquid (eg water) is introduced into the evaporation chamber heated to a suitable evaporation temperature and evaporated there. The introduction of the evaporation liquid in the evaporation chamber is, for example, realized by allowing the evaporation liquid under the action of gravity through an opening in the Drip evaporation chamber. However, such a conventional system requires a very complex valve or metering system, especially if an anti-drip function is to be realized at the same time, which prevents evaporation fluid from entering the vaporization chamber and then dripping through the vapor outlets when the ironing device is at a low ironing temperature is operated, which is not sufficient to evaporate the liquid.

In steam ironing apparatuses having a micro electric pump, the evaporating liquid is introduced into the evaporation chamber by means of this pump. Such a micro-pump can also perform an anti-drip function.

The previously described prior art steam ironing devices are also usually equipped with a steam jet button, the operation of which generates a so-called "steam blast." The steam ironing device has for this purpose a separate line for the evaporating liquid (eg water) coming from a steam jet Water line, which is usually used to supply the evaporation chamber with water during a normal steam ironing operation, is different, so bypassing or bypassing the normal water supply to the evaporation chamber is also necessary because the steam jet button functions with When the steam blast button is pressed, this water pump is actuated and a (compared to the normal steam ironing process) usually larger amount of water is pumped into said separate water line and injected into the vaporization chamber The injected water is then rapidly evaporated to produce a large amount of steam for a short time and ejected from the soleplate. The injected and thus evaporated amount of water depends very much on the force with which a user presses the steam jet button; it therefore varies greatly from user to user. Even with identical steam ironing devices can be therefore hardly produce a uniform or reproducible steam burst of the same intensity.

In steam ironing devices, the positions at which the evaporative liquid is introduced into the vaporization chamber during a normal steam ironing operation and during a steam burst are usually different. The position at which the vaporization liquid is introduced into the vaporization chamber during a burst of steam is preferably in the vicinity of the hottest part of the heating means, which is mostly in the vicinity of the tip of the soleplate. On the other hand, the position at which the vaporization liquid is introduced into the vaporization chamber during a normal steam ironing operation is mostly spaced from the first position and is usually located in a region of the vaporization chamber farther from the tip of the soleplate. Within the steam ironing device, therefore, quite complicated piping systems are required in order to be able to introduce the evaporation liquid at the said different positions. This requires complex and expensive molds and high material usage in the manufacture of the steam ironing apparatus, resulting in relatively high production costs.

Moreover, in conventional steam ironing devices of the type described above, the mechanical parts, components and mechanisms (in particular the mechanism of the mechanically or manually operated pump) associated with the steam blast function are quite complex and require a large number of moving parts. Also, the molds or injection molds used to make these parts / components and the housing portions of the steam ironing apparatus containing these parts / components are very complex and expensive. Consequently, these constructions are also very expensive.

Because, as explained, in conventional steam ironing apparatuses, the steam blast system bypasses that evaporative liquid supply which is responsible for the normal steam ironing operation is used, the steam blast system can be activated at any time and regardless of the prevailing temperature in the vaporization chamber (which substantially corresponds to the temperature of the soleplate itself). This means that evaporation liquid can be introduced into the evaporation chamber at any time by pressing the steam-burst button, even if the evaporation chamber is cold or does not have sufficient temperature to evaporate the liquid introduced. For this reason, evaporation liquid may unintentionally come out through the steam outlet openings which connect the steam chamber with the outside of the ironing device and the underside of the soleplate. This can lead to dripping on an ironing pad and on textiles to be ironed and adversely affect both the textiles and the ironing result.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

The invention has for its object or the technical problem of providing a simple and effective steam ironing device with improved evaporation liquid-related components, in particular with an improved steam injection system; Furthermore, a particularly suitable for such a steam ironing device special valve and a particularly suitable Dampfbügelvorrichtungs micro-pump is to be provided.

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

This steam ironing apparatus, in particular a steam iron or a steam ironing station, comprises: a soleplate with steam outlet openings; a container for evaporation liquid, in particular water; a micro-pump, in particular an electric or electronic micro-pump whose pump input is connected to the container; a steam generating system, with an evaporation chamber, which communicates with the steam outlets and in which the evaporation liquid from the container through the micro-pump can be selectively introduced; a heating device for heating the soleplate and / or the evaporation chamber; a plurality of user operable controls for selectively enabling and disabling different vaporization fluid related steam ironing device functions. The steam ironing apparatus is characterized in that the micro pump has a multi-port controllable multiway outlet valve, each of which is associated with at least one evaporative liquid related steam ironing device function.

"Evaporative fluid-related steam ironing device functions" herein means that functions of the steam ironing device which directly or indirectly relate to manipulation and / or use of the evaporative liquid storable in the container and to be used for ironing purposes, in particular, however not limited to, generating steam for normal steam ironing (normal steam ironing function), generating a steam blast, or spraying evaporative liquid In the multi-way output valve, preferably at least one of these steam ironing device functions is always the "normal" steam ironing Function.

With the steam ironing device of the present invention, the mechanical pump, which in conventional steam ironing devices is operatively coupled to and most directly connected to the steam blast button, can be completely eliminated. Likewise, can be dispensed with essential parts of this mechanical pump normally associated separate water line, which bypasses or bypasses the normal water supply for the evaporation chamber. This eliminates a large number of mechanical parts, mechanisms and voluminous components. And the construction of the housing of the steam ironing device and the design and arrangement of evaporation liquid lines leading can be considerably simplified. This in turn allows molds or injection molds to be used for production the housing or housing areas are used, which now no longer contain the aforementioned conventional components, considerably simpler and material and cost. Due to the properties explained above, more space is available in the solution according to the invention in the interior of the housing. This either makes it possible to reduce the size of the steam ironing device and to save weight, or to use the available space for other purposes, for example to enlarge the container for the evaporation liquid.

In the steam ironing device according to the invention, the micro-pump due to the controllable multi-way output valve, the pump function of the conventional separate steam impulse pump and other evaporative fluid-related additional functions, such as the pumping of evaporation liquid for the purpose of spraying the same take over.

For example, to introduce the vaporization liquid into the vaporization chamber for steam ironing and for a steam pulse at different positions, only the outputs of the multi-way output valve need be connected by means of lines to corresponding inlet openings of the vaporization chamber. This can be done, for example, with the help of hoses or flexible pipes that move freely and almost within the housing of the steam ironing device and can be easily adapted to different shapes of the interior of the housing. The piping for the evaporation liquid can therefore be considerably simplified.

The control of the multi-way output valve can then be decided or controlled depending on the desired (steam) ironing function, where the evaporation liquid drains off or where it is introduced. The micropump and controllable multiway outlet valve form a compact, multifunctional unit that allows easy and effective control and execution of a wide range of evaporative fluid related steam ironing device functions. For example, to perform a normal steam ironing operation, to generate a steam pulse or to spray the evaporation liquid, it is only necessary to switch between the respective outputs of the multi-way output valve and to activate the micro-pump, which is control technology very easy to implement. A control or control of the respective evaporation liquid-related

Steam ironing device functions may be implemented in the steam ironing apparatus of the present invention by, for example, electrical or electronic controls and / or electrical or electronic control functions (e.g., electrical, electronic, opto-electronic switches, or the like). These controls and / or switches in turn require only thin, preferably flexible control and / or control lines, e.g. can be configured as electrical cables or fiber optic lines and in the housing of the steam ironing device free and almost arbitrary can be laid. The electrical power supply of these components may be e.g. take place via the electrical power supply of the micro-pump and / or an associated control device with which these components are preferably coupled directly or indirectly.

As a result, not only can the entire construction of the steam ironing apparatus according to the invention be considerably simplified and production costs considerably reduced, but also the handling, operation and ergonomic properties of the steam ironing apparatus can be improved.

In a steam jet generated with the steam ironing device according to the invention, the amount of liquid injected and thus also of the vaporized liquid no longer depends on the force with which a user releases the steam jet. Button press, since the micro-pump can basically promote and inject an always equal amount of evaporation liquid. Thus, regardless of the force or constitution of the respective user always a uniform or reproducible steam burst of the same intensity can be generated. Of course, the micro-pump in conjunction with a suitable control element, however, could also be designed so that the injection quantity, for example, varies depending on a position of the operating element (light or strong steam pulse) or even varied steplessly. Similar effects and advantages can be achieved with the optional spraying of the evaporation liquid.

Overall, thus, a simple and effective steam ironing apparatus with improved evaporation liquid-related components, in particular with an improved steam injection and / or spraying system, can be provided.

The technical problem underlying the invention is solved according to a second aspect by a special valve with the features of claim 33. This valve is a controllable steam ironing device micro-pump multiway outlet valve. This valve may have the preferred features explained below in connection with the description of the embodiments.

The technical problem underlying the invention is solved according to a second aspect by a special micro-pump having the features of claim 34. This micro-pump is a steam iron micro-pump with at least one controllable steam iron micro-pumps - Multi-way output valve. This micro-pump may have the preferred features explained below in connection with the description of the embodiments.

With the valve according to the invention and the micro-pump according to the invention, which are preferably used in a steam ironing device according to the invention are substantially the same advantages can be achieved, which have already been explained above in connection with the steam ironing device according to the invention.

Further preferred and advantageous design features of the abovementioned solutions according to the invention are in each case the subject matter of the associated dependent claims, which find their support in the following description and the drawings.

Preferred embodiments of the invention with additional design details and other advantages are described and explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It shows:

1 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam ironing device according to the invention according to a first embodiment;

2 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam ironing device according to the invention according to a second embodiment;

3 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam ironing device according to the invention according to a third embodiment; 4 shows a schematic representation of a first variant of a multifunctional operating element of the steam ironing device according to the invention from FIG. 3;

5 shows a schematic representation of a second variant of a multifunctional operating element of the steam ironing device according to the invention from FIG. 3;

Fig. 6 is a schematic block diagram of a Mikro¬ invention

Pump of the steam ironing device according to the invention;

7 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam ironing device according to the invention according to a fourth embodiment;

8 is a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam ironing apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; and

9 shows an example of an essential part of an electrical circuit for the steam ironing device according to the invention according to FIG. 2.

PRESENTATION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

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

1 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam ironing device according to the invention according to a first embodiment of the invention. This steam ironing device is as a steam iron designed. The steam iron has a soleplate 2 with steam outlet openings 4, a container 6 for evaporation liquid (here: water) and an electric or electronic micro-pump 8, the pump input E is connected to the container 6. The iron is further equipped with a steam generating system and has an evaporation chamber 10 communicating with the steam outlets 4. By means of the micro-pump 8, the water from the container 6 is selectively or if necessary introduced into the evaporation chamber 10. In addition, a heating means (not shown) for heating the sole plate 2 and the evaporation chamber 10 to a suitable ironing or steam ironing temperature is provided.

In addition, the iron is provided with a plurality of user-operable controls BT1, BT2 for selectively activating and deactivating different evaporative-liquid-related steam ironing device functions. In the present example, the controls are a steam switch BT1 for selectively enabling and disabling the steam generation system; and a steam burst button BT2 for triggering a steam blast. Both the steam switch BT1 and the steam blast button BT2 are designed as electrical or electronic switches or have at least such components, in the latter case e.g. can be combined with mechanical elements.

The micro-pump 8 of this steam iron has a controllable multi-way outlet valve 12, ie in this example a 2-way outlet valve 12, with two outlets A, B, each of which is associated with a vaporization liquid related steam ironing device function , The 2-way output valve 12 is formed as a separate component, which is connected to the micro-pump 8 to form a structural unit. The input 12a of the 2-way output valve 12 is in this case connected to the output 8a of the micro-pump 8. The first output A of the 2-way output valve 12 is connected via a first water line 14 with an inlet opening of the evaporation chamber 10 located at a first position P1. The second outlet B, however, is connected via a second water line 16 to a second inlet opening of the vaporization chamber 10 located at a second position P2. The positions P1 and P2 may correspond to the positions of ordinary water entry ports of conventional soleplates or vaporization chamber designs. This means that structural changes do not necessarily have to be made to the soleplate 2 or the evaporation chamber 10 and conventional ironing soles or vaporization chambers can be used for steam irons according to the invention.

The exits A and B are connected to the inlet ports located at positions P1 and P2 via flexible hoses or pipes forming the first and second water conduits 14, 16. Appropriate connections for these hoses or pipes are provided at the inlet openings. Instead of flexible hoses or pipes, substantially rigid pipes, e.g. preformed plastic pipes, used. However, the flexible elements are preferred because they can be installed almost anywhere and largely independent of the inner shape of the iron housing (not shown) and the components arranged therein to save space. The services 14 and 14 may each have a single wiring harness or even multiple strands of wire. For example, For example, the power 14 could have an additional wiring harness 14n leading to an additional position P1n, as indicated by a dashed line in FIG.

The function of the micro-pump 8 is directly coupled to the function of the controllable 2-way output valve 12, as will be explained in more detail below. Both the 2-way output valve 12 and the micro-pump 8 are controllable or controllable in this embodiment by the controls BT1 and BT2. For this purpose, the controls BT1 and BT2 are connected via electrical or electronic control lines or control lines L1, L2 functionally connected to the unit formed from the micro-pump 8 and its 2-way output valve 12. These control lines L1, L2 can be made very thin and flexible (eg as a thin cable), which in turn makes it possible to save these components almost arbitrary and largely independent of the inner shape of the iron housing and the components arranged therein to save space.

In an inoperative or off state of the iron, or in a state ready for steam ironing ("stand-by"), both outputs A, B of the 2-way output valve 12 are preferably closed (neutral position). This can be realized, for example, with the aid of a return device for automatically resetting the 2-way output valve 12 into a closed neutral position The restoring device can have, for example, a return spring or another suitable return element The two-way output valve 12 functions in FIG An undesired entry of the water into the evaporation chamber 10 and thus an undesired escape of non-evaporated water from the steam outlet openings 4 can therefore be avoided. Output valve 12 Although in principle also the output A (or B ), but then the aforementioned anti-drip function can not be realized by means of the 2-way output valve 12 (unless modifications are made). For this, other systems, e.g. on or in the micro-pump 8 itself, required.

To perform a normal steam ironing operation, the steam switch BT1 is operated. As a result, the 2-way output valve 12 opens only the output A, the Micro-pump 8 is activated, and water from the water tank 6 is fed into the inlet E of the micro-pump 8 and then through the outlet 8a into the inlet 12a of the 2-way outlet valve 12 and expelled through its outlet A. Thereby, the water is injected into the evaporation chamber 10 via the water pipe 14 at the position P1, so that a normal steam generation and steam ironing operation can be realized. If the steam switch BT1 is released again, the micro-pump 8 is turned off, and the 2-way output valve 12 closes the output A again.

If, however, the steam pulse button BT2 is actuated, the 2-way output valve 12 switches over and opens only the output B, the micro-pump 8 is activated, and water from the water tank 6 is in the input E of the micro- Suction pump 8 and then conveyed through the output 8a in the input 12a of the 2-way output valve 12 and discharged through the output B. Thereby, the water is injected via the water pipe 16 at the position P2 in the evaporation chamber 10 and rapidly evaporated there, whereby a steam pulse is generated. If the steam pulse button BT2 is released, the micro-pump 8 is turned off, and the 2-way output valve 12 closes the output B again.

The switching of the 2-way output valve 12 and the activation or deactivation of the micro-pump 8 takes place synchronized in this example and electrically or electronically by the steam switch BT1 and the steam pulse button BT2. Although it is basically conceivable to open both the output A and the output B completely or at least partially by simultaneous actuation of the steam switch BT1 and the steam pulse button BT2, this variant is less preferred because it could cause operating errors. It should therefore always be possible to open only one output of the 2-way output valve 12 whenever possible. This can be achieved by appropriate circuit logic, either in the 2-way output valve 12 itself, in the controls BT1, BT2 or in a separate system, which is functionally coupled with these components integrated.

2 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam iron according to the invention according to a second embodiment. Baggage parts and components that correspond to those of FIG. 1 are identified by the same reference numerals. Only the essential differences from the variant according to FIG. 1 will be described.

In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the 2-way output valve 12 is integrated directly into the micro-pump 8, so that the outputs A, B of the multi-way output valve 12 form corresponding pump outputs of the micro-pump 8.

In order to exclude the possible collision of several steam ironing functions previously described in connection with the steam iron of FIG. 1 while simultaneously operating the operating elements BT1 and BT2, the steam iron according to FIG. 2 is further provided with a control device 18 for controlling the functions of the two Way output valve 12 and / or the micro-pump 8 equipped. Among other things, this control device 18 ensures that only one steam ironing function (in this case: normal steam ironing or steam steaming) can be performed simultaneously, and that the micro-pump 8 does not switch on until one of the outlets A, B is already open, which is a Overload the pump 8 or excessive energy consumption prevented the same.

As can be seen in FIG. 2, the steam switch BT1 and the steam pulse button are connected directly to the control device 18 via their control lines L1 and L2. This in turn is coupled via a control line LK functionally with the micro-pump 8 and the 2-way output valve 12. The operation of the steam iron and in particular the 2-way output valve 12 and the micro-pump 8 upon actuation of the steam switch BT1 or the steam pulse button is the same as previously described in connection with FIG. In the variant 2, however, the control device 18 via the control line LK provides the corresponding control or control signals for operation or circuit of the micro-pump 8 and the 2-way output valve 12th

The steam iron of Fig. 2 is also provided with a time switching system T for a) predetermining a delivery time of the micro-pump 8 and activating the micro-pump 8 over the predetermined delivery time; and / or b) for predetermining an opening duration of an output of the multi-way output valve 12 and for opening the respective output over the predetermined opening duration; and / or c) for performing a combination of the functions a) and b). This time switching system T is integrated in the present example in the control device 18 and functionally coupled to the steam pulse button BT2 and activated by this. In addition, the timer system T is operatively connected to the micro-pump 8 and the 2-way output valve 12 via the controller 18 and the control line LK.

Upon actuation of the steam pulse button BT2, the time-switching system T is activated and triggered via the control device 18 a steam pulse. For this purpose, the time-switching system T supplies, via the control device 18, a precisely predetermined control signal to the micro-pump 8 and the 2-way output valve 12, so that the output B is opened only over a predetermined period of time and the micro-pump 8 only During this predetermined period of time, and thus only during a certain delivery period, water is injected into the evaporation chamber 10 at the position P2. Thereafter, the corresponding control signal via the timing system T and the control device 18 is interrupted or canceled, whereby the micro-pump 8 turns off and the 2-way output valve 12 closes the output B again. In this way, a steam pulse over a precisely predetermined period of time is generated by means of a precisely predetermined amount of water. This steam blast is thus independent of the duration of operation of the steam blast button BT2 by a user himself - and compared to conventional steam irons, the one mechanical, to be operated by the steam shock button steam injection pump, also completely independent of the intensity of the operation of the steam pulse button BT2. In this way, excellent reproducibility and precision of each shot of steam can be realized. Further, in this way, a user can be prevented from injecting an excessive amount of water into the vaporization chamber 10 by pressing the steam jet button BT2 too long.

The steam iron according to the invention according to FIG. 2 is further equipped with an ironing temperature setting element BH, which is coupled to the heating device, not shown, by a separate control line LH1, as indicated in FIG. 2 by a dashed line. In addition, the ironing temperature setting element BH is connected via a control line LH2 to the control device 18 and indirectly coupled thereto indirectly with the micro-pump 8 and its 2-way output valve 12. In another suitable circuit design or wiring, the iron temperature setting element BH could also be coupled directly to the micro-pump 8 and / or its 2-way output valve 12. Or the lines LH1 and LH2 could be integrated in another embodiment of the circuit logic in a single line or a wiring harness, which is connected to the control device 18, which then (18) supplies the corresponding control signals to the respective components.

The ironing temperature setting element BH or its setting allows an activation of the micro-pump 8 (here: by means of the steam switch BT1 or the steam blast button BT2) when the ironing temperature setting element BH to one for evaporating the water in the evaporation chamber 10 is set according to sufficient ironing temperature. Furthermore, the ironing temperature setting element BH or its setting prevents activation of the micro-pump 8 (here: by means of the steam switch BT1 or the steam blast button BT2) when the ironing temperature setting element BH to one for evaporating the water in the evaporation chamber 10 insufficient ironing temperature is set. The control signals or circuit operations, which ultimately allow the corresponding activation or deactivation of the micro-pump 8, are realized by the control device 18 in this example.

Although the control device 18 is formed with the integrated timer system T in the embodiment of FIG. 2 as a separate component, but in at least one embodiment according to the invention also partially or completely in the micro-pump 8 and its multi-way output valve 12th or another, with these components functionally related component of the steam iron, eg in one or more of the controls BT1, BT2 itself, be integrated. The circuit layout must then be adapted accordingly.

3 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam iron according to the invention according to a third embodiment. In order to simplify the handling of the steam iron and to improve its ergonomics, this is equipped with a single, uniform multifunction control element BM (as far as the evaporation liquid-related steam ironing device functions are concerned). In this multifunction control element BM, the controls or their functions are integrated, by which the 2-way output valve 12 is controllable. In the present example, the multifunction control element BM includes the steam switch and the steam blast button (BT1 and BT2 in Figs. 1 and 2). The multifunction control element BM makes it possible to carry out the functions of BT1 and BT2, and thus in particular the switching of the 2-way output valve 12 (including a synchronization with the operating state of the pump 12) integrally in a simple and effective manner. The steam iron according to FIG. 3 therefore also requires only a single control and / or control line L from the multifunction control element BM to the micro-pump 8 and its 2-way outlet valve 12.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a first variant of such a multifunction control element BM of the steam iron of FIG. 3 Multifunction control element BM is designed as a toggle switch, more precisely as a double toggle switch, which is pivotable about a pivot axis X. In Fig. 4, the toggle switch BM is shown by a solid black line in a neutral position. By elastic biasing elements, not shown, for example, one or more springs, the toggle switch BM is held in the neutral position. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the toggle switch BM has two lever arms BMa and BMb located on different sides of the pivot axis X. In this example, the lever arms BMa and BMb have a different length. The longer lever arm BMa is provided for a function as a steam switch and the shorter lever arm BMb for a function as a steam shock button.

When the longer lever arm BMa of the toggle switch BM is depressed starting from the neutral position (see dashed line in FIG. 4), a first switch S1 of an associated electrical circuit 20 or circuit, to which the micro-pump 8 and the 2-way switch Output valve 12 (see, for example, Fig. 3) are connected, closed. The 2-way output valve 12 opens the output A, the micro-pump 8 is activated, and a normal steam generating function is performed, in which water is injected into the evaporation chamber 10 at the position P1. By releasing the lever arm BMa, the toggle switch BM returns to its neutral position, the switch

51 opens again and the circuit 20 is thereby interrupted, the micro-pump 8 is deactivated and the output A is closed.

On the other hand, when the shorter lever arm BMb is depressed from the neutral position (see dotted line in FIG. 4), a second switch becomes

52 of the circuit 20 is closed. The 2-way output valve 12 opens the output B, the micro-pump 8 is activated, and water is injected at the position P2 in the evaporation chamber 10 and rapidly evaporated there. As a result, a steam pulse is generated. By releasing the lever arm BMb the multifunctional toggle switch BM returns to its neutral position, the switch S2 opens again and the circuit 20 is thereby interrupted, the micro-pump is deactivated and the output B is closed.

In the neutral position of the toggle switch BM, both switches S1, S2 are open in this example, and both outputs A and B of the 2-way output valve 12 are closed, so that no water from the valve 12 can drip into the evaporation chamber 10.

5 shows a schematic representation of a second variant of a multi-function operating element BM of the steam iron of FIG. 3, which is designed as a toggle switch. Unlike in the variant according to FIG. 4, this toggle switch BM has only a single lever arm BMc, which is only on a single side the pivot axis X is located. In Fig. 5, the toggle switch BM is shown by means of a solid black line in a neutral position.

From this neutral position, the lever arm BMc can be depressed to a first and a second position. In other words, the toggle switch BM can therefore be pressed down less or more. In the first toggle switch position (dashed line), an actuating part 22 of the toggle switch BM closes the first switch S1 of the associated electrical circuit 20 or circuit, at which the micro-pump 8 and the 2-way output valve 12 (see, eg Fig. 3) are connected. Thereby, the 2-way output valve 12 opens the output A, the micro-pump 8 is activated, and a normal steam generating function is performed, in which water at the position P1 is injected into the evaporation chamber 10. By releasing the lever arm BMc the toggle switch BM returns to its neutral position, the switch S1 opens again and the circuit 20 is thereby interrupted, the micro-pump 8 is deactivated and the output A is closed.

In the second toggle switch position in which the multifunctional toggle switch BM or the lever arm BMs is substantially completely depressed (see dashed lines). dotted line), the first switch S1 is open, and the operating part 22 closes the second switch S2. Thus, the 2-way output valve 12 opens the output B, the micro-pump 8 is activated, and water is injected at the position P2 in the evaporation chamber 10 and rapidly evaporated there. As a result, a steam pulse is generated. By releasing the lever arm BMc the toggle switch BM returns to its neutral position over the first position, the switch S2 being opened again and the circuit 20 thereby interrupted and the micro-pump 8 being deactivated and the output B being closed.

When returning from the second position over the first position away in the neutral position, the actuating member 22 may briefly close the first switch S1, unless special constructive measures are taken to prevent this. Basically, this short-term activation of the switch S1, and thus the triggering of a very short normal steam generation, completely harmless and is at most perceived by the user only as a cessation of the steam burst function.

However, the multifunctional toggle switch BM may, of course, also be designed to prevent the temporary closing of the switch S1 when returning from the second position to the neutral position. This can be prevented, for example, by a guideway, in particular a loop-like guideway, in which the actuating part 22 or a region thereof runs and through which the actuating part 22 is guided on the way back to the neutral position on the switch S1 and consequently not actuated.

By a suitable spring element can be opposed to the user upon depression of the toggle switch BM from the first to the second position increased resistance, which prevents unintentionally in the second position (steam shot) is switched or the toggle switch BM too long without major effort in the second position can be held. In addition to the two switch positions described above, the multifunctional toggle switch BM of FIG. 5 may have further switch positions associated with other functions of the steam iron, such as a spray function. It is also possible to realize a mixed construction of the variants according to FIGS. 4 and 5 for a toggle switch BM. Here, the double toggle switch of Figure 4 could, for example, on one or both sides of the lever several switching position and consequently several switching functions have (similar to Fig. 5); thereby it is possible by means of a single control element to perform a variety of functions.

6 shows a schematic block diagram of a micro pump 8 according to the invention of a steam iron according to the invention.

In this example, the micro-pump 8 is equipped with a 2-way output valve 12, as previously described. This 2-way output valve has a valve housing 24 with a piston 26 movably disposed therein, or other suitable movable valve member which is movable against the biasing force of a biasing member 28 (here, a spring 28). The piston 26 has a magnet 30 and is movably arranged in a guide 32. The guide 32 is surrounded by (or is provided with) an electrical coil 34 and has an inlet opening 36 and two outlet openings communicating with the outside of the housing 24, which form an outlet A and an outlet B of the valve housing 24. The micro-pump 8 further has an inlet E, through which water from a water tank (not shown) of the steam iron in the micro-pump 8 can be promoted. Further, the micro-pump 8 has a pump element P communicating with the inlet E, which has an outlet port 36 leading to an inlet port 36 in the guide. The piston 26 further has a through hole 38. In the sketched in Fig. 6 neutral position of the piston 26 in which this is pressed by the spring 28 in a lowermost position (neutral position), the piston 26 closes (or this associated closing and / or sealing element) the outputs A and B, so that no water can escape from the 2-way outlet valve 12.

For example, in the embodiment of Fig. 3 (which may include such a micro-pump 8), if the toggle switch BM is pushed into the steam-ironing position, the coil 34 is activated and electrically energized, and in cooperation with the magnet 30 therethrough generated electromagnetic forces pull the piston 26 against the biasing force of the spring 28 in a first position in which the passage opening 38, the inlet port 36 and the output A connects. Thus, by means of the pump element P water from the water tank through the output A of the micro-pump 8 are ejected.

On the other hand, in the embodiment of Fig. 3, when the toggle switch BM is pushed to the steam blast position, the spool 34 is more excited, and the plunger 26 is pulled to its uppermost position. Through the passage opening 38 connects the inlet opening 36 to the outlet B, and by means of the pump element P, water can be discharged from the water tank through the outlet B of the micro-pump 8.

If the toggle switch BM is released, the excitation of the coil 34 is released, and the piston 26 is pressed by the spring 28 back to its neutral position, in which both outputs A, B are closed. Consequently, in the neutral position, an anti-drip function can be realized.

As already mentioned above, the 2-way output valve 12 may either be integrated directly into the micro-pump 8, or be designed as a separate, connectable with the micro-pump 8 component. Although in the example of FIG. 6, a translationally movable piston 26 has been used, in principle, other suitable for the purpose described valve elements can be used, which may also be rotatory or translational-rotationally movable or elastically deformable. 7 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam iron according to the invention according to a fourth embodiment. This variant is similar in construction and functions to that of FIG. 2, so that only essential differences from this variant will be described below. The steam iron of Fig. 7 is additionally equipped with a spraying device. And the multi-way output valve 12 is a 3-way output valve 12 whose third output C is assigned to the spray function of this spray device. The spray device has a spray button BT3, which is coupled via a control line L3 to the control device 18 and via this functionally connected to the micro-pump 8 and its 3-way output valve 12. The sprayer has a spray nozzle 40 for spraying water from the water tank 6.

The third output C of the 3-way output valve is connected via a suitable water conduit 42, e.g. a flexible hose, connected to an inlet opening of the spray nozzle 40. By pressing the spray button BT3, the third output C can be opened, the micro-pump 8 is activated and thus water is ejected through the outlet C and sprayed out of the spray nozzle 40. By releasing the spray button BT3, the micro-pump 8 is deactivated again and the output C is closed.

Similar to the steam pulse button BT2 of the variant according to FIG. 2, in the variant according to FIG. 7 optionally also the spray button BT3 can be functionally coupled to the time switching system T and trigger it on actuation, so that with the aid of the time switch Systems can be sprayed only over a predetermined period of time. Thus, e.g. either only a constant amount of water sprayed or limited the maximum amount of water sprayed.

Also in the embodiment of Fig. 7 is only one single output to be opened by the outputs A, B and C of the 3-way output valve 12, while the other outputs are closed in this case. Although it is preferred for cost reasons that the delivery volume or the delivery rate or the delivery rate of the micro-pump 8 is constant, in each steam iron according to the invention also a pump variant (eg an adjusting pump or a pump, the pump speed or pump clock frequency is adjustable) is provided in which the aforementioned pump parameters are adjustable in response to a predetermined steam ironing function. Then, for example, in a normal steam ironing function (steam switch BT1 pressed), the micro-pump 8 may have a low capacity, a higher capacity for carrying out a steam blast (steam impulse button BT2 pressed), and for spraying water (spray button BT3 pressed) the highest flow rate.

Although in the embodiment of Fig. 7 separate controls BT1, BT2 and BT3 were used for the steam switch, the steam shot button and the spray button, they can basically analogous to the variant of FIG. 3 in a single uniform multifunction control BM integrated. Likewise, e.g. a variant is possible in which the multifunction control element BM has the steam switch and steam push button function, and further a separate spray button BT3 is present.

Moreover, the steam iron according to FIG. 7 is optionally equipped with a temperature sensor ST for directly or indirectly detecting a temperature of the evaporation chamber 10. The temperature sensor ST is coupled via a sensor line 44 to the control device 18 and via this functionally connected to the micro-pump 8 and / or the 3-way output valve 12. The temperature sensor ST allows activation of the micro-pump 8 (and / or opening of the outputs A, B) via a corresponding control signal to the control device 18, when the evaporation chamber 10 has sufficient temperature to evaporate the water. In addition, the temperature sensor ST prevents activation of the micro-pump 8 (and / or opening the Exits A, B) when the vaporization chamber 10 has insufficient temperature to vaporize the vaporization liquid. In this way, it can be avoided, for example, that upon actuation of the steam switch BT1 or the steam shock button BT2, and if the temperature in the evaporation chamber 10 for evaporating water is insufficient, water drips from the steam outlet openings 4 of the sole plate 2.

As outlined in FIG. 7, the steam iron according to the invention can furthermore optionally be equipped with a fill level sensor SW, which monitors the fill level of the water tank 6 and is connected to the control device 18 via a sensor line 48. The fill level sensor SW allows activation of the micro-pump 8 (and / or opening of the outputs A, B) via a corresponding control signal to the control device 18 when water or a sufficient amount of water is present in the water tank 6. In addition, the level sensor SW prevents activation of the micro-pump 8 (and / or opening of the outputs A, B) when the water tank 6 is empty or there is insufficient water in the water tank 6. In this way, dry running of the micro-pump 8 and damage or excessive wear thereof can be prevented.

For example, the control device 18, the functions of the level sensor SW, the temperature sensor ST and the ironing temperature adjustment element BH (see Fig. 2) can be combined. In this case, it is preferred that the control device 18 polls the sensor data according to a predetermined order of priority, eg first the fill level in the water tank 6 and only then the temperature (s). If there is no water in the container 6, the query of the temperatures is unnecessary, since the micro-pump 8 should then be activated in any case. In principle, of course, the temperature could first be controlled. Such a determination of priorities may be integrated in the control device 18, for example, in terms of hardware or software. The above-mentioned temperature sensor ST and the level sensor SW are each an internal, not directly operable by the user functional element of the iron, through which the micro-pump 8 (and / or at least one valve function of the controllable 3-way output valve 12, ie Here, for example, the opening and closing of the outputs A, B) can be controlled or controlled.

8 shows a schematic block diagram of essential components of a steam iron according to the invention according to a fifth embodiment. This variant is similar to that of Fig. 1. In the steam iron of Fig. 7, however, the controllable multiway outlet valve 12 has one coupled to the micro pump 8 via a control or control line LS, one or more of the controls (here: BT1, BT2) controllable switching device 46, which also serves to activate and deactivate the micro-pump 8 in addition to the control of the multi-way output valve 12. The switching device 46 can be designed as a control device 18 and in other embodiments of the invention also be assigned directly to the micro-pump.

Fig. 9 shows an example of an essential part of a simple electric circuit such as e.g. for a steam ironing device according to the invention according to FIG. 2 can be used. With this circuit can be prevented that the micro-pump 8 can be activated or the multi-way output valve 12 can be controlled when the ironing temperature setting element BH is not set to an appropriate for evaporating the water in the evaporation chamber 10 sufficient ironing temperature is.

The ironing temperature setting element BH is configured here as a rotary knob, to which a switch S3 is assigned. When the ironing temperature setting element BH is set to a sufficient ironing temperature for evaporating the water in the evaporation chamber, BH closes the switch S3. On the other hand, if the ironing temperature setting element BH is not at a temperature suitable for evaporating the water in the evaporation chamber 10, the ironing temperature is not sufficient set, the switch S3 is open. The steam switch BT1 is assigned the switch S1, and the steam impulse button BT2 the switch S2. If BT1 is pressed, switch S1 is closed, otherwise it is open. If BT2 is pressed, the switch S2 is closed, otherwise it is open. In order for the circuit to be closed for a normal steam ironing operation and the micro-pump 8 to be activated via the steam switch BT1 and the multi-way output valve 12 to be driven, at least two conditions must be met: both the switch S3 and the switch S1 be closed. Similarly, to trigger a burst of steam, both switch S3 and switch S2 must be closed. The closing of the switch S3 is linked to the previously explained conditions. A circuit collision of the switches S2 and S1 is prevented via suitable circuit logic in the control device 18. Optional additional elements can be connected to the control device and further switching conditions can be predetermined.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the circuit of FIG. 9 could be further simplified to implement a corresponding function by omitting the controller 18. The lines L1 and L2 could then be directly connected to the micro-pump 8 and its multi-way output valve 12. However, this requires minor modifications to the electrical connections as well as the internal circuitry of these components.

The invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of the appended claims, the steam iron according to the invention, the steam iron multi-way outlet valve according to the invention and the steam iron micro-pump according to the invention may also take on different forms than those concretely described above. The detail elements of the invention described in the above embodiments are not limited to an application or arrangement in the respective embodiment, but may be used in another embodiment or in another combination, depending on the application. Further is Of course it is also possible to omit optional components, such as the sensors ST and SW.

The function and control of the micro-pump should preferably always be matched to the function and control of the multi-way output valve, and vice versa. The controls of the steam iron according to the invention are preferably selected from a group of controls comprising: a steam switch for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generating system; a steam burst button for triggering a steam blast by means of the steam generating system; a spray button for triggering a spray function; a non-evaporation fluid-related control element, in particular an ironing temperature setting element; each in particular in the form of a mechanical, electronic, electrical, electromechanical, electromagnetic, electro-optical component, or a mixed form thereof. It should be noted that the terms "switch" and "key" used herein in the context of the invention should not be understood as limited to such specific elements, but merely serve the simpler linguistic differentiation. In principle, all control elements suitable for the operation of the respective steam iron function can be used, i. For example, also buttons, switches, buttons, rotatable controls, translationally movable controls (e.g., slider), rotary-translationally movable controls, touch-control elements, touch-slide elements, multifunction controls, non-contact controls, e.g. Voice control elements, and the like, as well as hybrid forms thereof.

Moreover, the evaporation liquid lines leading from the outlets of the multi-way outlet valve to the evaporation chamber can each have or branch into a plurality of strands, so that the evaporation liquid is also at a plurality of positions (eg a position Pia, P1b, ... P1n) can be introduced into the evaporation chamber. The timing system T may also be integrated into the switching device (see FIG. 8) and / or other components of the steam iron or may constitute a separate component.

Although in the above embodiments, a multi-way output valve has been described, which is electrically or electronically controllable, it is also possible in principle, this example. mechanically or electro-mechanically or electro-magnetically, electro-optically or in any other suitable manner to control or operate. A mechanical control or actuation can be done for example by means of one or more Bowden cables, which are connected on the one hand to the multi-way output valve and on the other hand to the relevant control element (here: BT1, BT2, BT3.

If the micro-pump itself is equipped with several inputs (eg Ea, Eb, Ec) and several corresponding outputs (eg A ', B', C), it would basically also be possible to use a instead of the controllable multi-way output valve to use controllable multi-way input valve, and to operate this in an analogous manner to the previously described multi-way output valve. The multiple inputs of the multi-way input valve are connected to the multiple inputs of the micro-pump or form these inputs. However, this solution is far more complex and expensive and therefore less preferred.

In particular, the operating elements, the micro-pump, the controllable multi-way output valve, the control device may have suitable interface adapter or elements, which allow these components in a suitable manner with each other and / or with a power supply, in particular an electrical Power supply, connect. Control or control lines can also be grouped into trunk groups. Depending on the type of line, one line can also function as control or control lines for several operating elements. Reference signs in the claims, the description and the drawings are only for the better understanding of the invention and are not intended to limit the scope.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

2 iron sole

4 steam outlets

6 Evaporating liquid / water tank

8 micro-pump

8a output of 8

10 evaporation chamber

12 Controllable multi-way output valve

12a entrance of 12

14 First water pipe

14n Additional wiring harness 14n

16 Second water pipe

18 Control unit 0 Electrical circuit 2 Operating part of BM 4 Valve body 6 Piston 8 Preload element / spring 0 Magnet 2 Guide 4 Electrical coil 6 Inlet opening 8 Through opening 0 Spray nozzle 2 Water line to spray nozzle 40 4 Sensor line 6 Switching device 8 Sensor line A first exit of 12

B Second exit of 12

BH ironing temperature adjustment element

BM multifunction control / toggle switch

BMa Longer lever arm by BM

BMb Shorter lever arm from BM

BMc single lever arm from BM

BT1 steam switch

BT2 steam shock button

BT3 spray button

C Third exit from 12

E pump input

L Control and / or control line

L1 first control line

L2 Second control line

L3 Third control line

LH1 control line

LH2 control line

LK control line

LS control or control line

N neutral position

P pump element

P1 First position for water entry

P1n Additional position

P2 Second position for water entry

51 First switch

52 second switch

53 Third switch ST Temperature sensor T Time switch system

X swivel axle from BM

Claims

claims

A steam ironing apparatus, in particular a steam iron or a steam ironing station, comprising: a soleplate (2) with steam outlet openings (4); a container (6) for evaporation liquid, in particular water; a micro-pump (8), in particular an electric micro-pump whose pump inlet (E) is connected to the container (6); a steam generating system having an evaporation chamber (10) communicating with the steam outlets (4) and into which the evaporation liquid from the tank (6) is selectively introduced through the micro pump (8); a heating device for heating the soleplate (2) and / or the evaporation chamber (10); a plurality of user operable controls for selectively enabling and disabling different vaporization fluid related steam ironing device functions; characterized in that the micro-pump (8) has a controllable multi-port output valve (12) having a plurality of outputs (A, B, C), each of which is associated with at least one vaporization fluid-related steam ironing device function.

2. steam ironing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the function of the micro-pump (8) is directly coupled to the function of the controllable multi-way output valve (12).

3. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the controllable multi-way output valve (12) by at least one (BM), in particular by a plurality of the operating elements (BT1, BT2, BT2) is controllable.

4. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one valve function of the controllable multi-way output valve (12) by at least one not directly operable by the user, internal functional element (ST, SW) of the steam ironing device is controllable.

5. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by the at least one control element (BM), in particular by a plurality of operating elements (BT1, BT2, BT3), both the multi-way output valve (12) and the micro- Pump (8) are controllable or controllable.

6. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the controllable multi-way output valve (12) coupled to the micro-pump (8), by one or more of the controls (BT1, BT2) controllable switching device (46 ) for activating and deactivating the micro-pump (8).

A steam ironing apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the controls are controls selected from a group of controls comprising: a steam switch (BT1; BM) for selectively activating and deactivating the steam generating system; a steam button (BT2, BM) to trigger a steam blast by means the steam generation system; a spray button (BT3, BM) for triggering a spray function; a non-evaporation-liquid-related control element, in particular an ironing temperature setting element (BH); each in particular in the form of a mechanical, electronic, electrical, electromechanical, electro-magnetic, electro-optical component, or a mixed form thereof.

8. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one (BM), in particular a plurality (BT1, BT2, BT3), in particular all, the control elements via control lines (L, L1, L2, L3, LK, LS) , In particular electrical or electronic control lines, is connected to the multi-way output valve (12) and / or the micro-pump (8) / are.

9. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the multi-way output valve (12) in the micro-pump (8) is integrated and the outputs (A, B, C) of the multi-way output valve ( 12) Make pump outlets (A, B, C) of the micro-pump (8).

10. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the multi-way output valve (12) is connected to the micro-pump (8) connected separate component, and the input (12 a) of the multi-way output valve (12) is connected to the output (8a) of the micro-pump (8).

11. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the multi-way output valve (12) is at least a 2-way output valve.

12. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the multi-way output valve (12) is at least a 3-way output valve.

13. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that of the outputs (A, B, C) of the multi-way output valve (12) only one single output is to open, while the other outputs are closed in this case ,

14. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first output (A) of the multi-way output valve (12) is connected to a at a first position (P1) located first input port of the evaporation chamber (10); and that this first output (A) is to be opened and closed by the steam switch (BT1; BM).

15. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second output (B) of the multi-way output valve (12) with a second position (P2) located second input port of the evaporation chamber (10) is connected; and that this second outlet (A) is to be opened and closed by the steam impulse button (BT2; BM).

16. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a spraying device with a spray nozzle (40) for spraying (non-evaporated) evaporating liquid; and a third output (C) of the multi-path output valve (12) is connected to an input port of the spray nozzle (40); and the third exit (C) is to be opened and closed by the spray button (BT3, BM).

17. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the delivery rate of the micro-pump (8) is adjustable.

18. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that of the control elements, by which the multi-way output valve (12) is controllable, at least two control elements (BT1, BT2, BT3) in a single multifunction control element (BM ) are integrated.

19. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the uniform multifunction control element (BM) comprises the steam switch and the steam shock button.

20. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the uniform multifunction control element (BM) comprises the steam switch, the steam shock button and the spray button.

21. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the uniform multifunction control element (BM) is designed as a toggle switch, in particular as a double toggle switch.

22. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a control device (18) for controlling and / or controlling the functions of the multi-way output valve (12) and / or the micro-pump (8).

23. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a timer system (T) for predetermining a delivery time of the micro-pump (8) and for activating the micro-pump (8) over the predetermined delivery time ,

24. Steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a time switching system (T) for predetermining an opening duration of an output (B, C) of the multi-way output valve (12) and for opening the relevant output ( B, C) is provided over the predetermined opening period.

25. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the time switching system (T) in the switching device (46) and / or the control device (18) and / or the micro-pump (8) and / or the multipath Output valve (12) is integrated.

26. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the time-switching system (T) is functionally coupled to the steam pulse button (BT2, BM) and / or the spray button (BT3, BM) and activated by this ,

27. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ironing temperature setting element (BM) is directly or indirectly (18) functionally coupled at least with the micro-pump (8) and a) activation of the micro-pump (8 ), when the ironing temperature setting element (BH) is set to an appropriate ironing temperature for vaporizing the evaporation liquid in the evaporation chamber (10); and b) prevents activation of the micro-pump (8) when the ironing temperature setting element (BH) is set to an ironing temperature which is insufficient to vaporize the evaporating liquid in the evaporation chamber (10).

28. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a temperature sensor (ST) for directly or indirectly detecting a temperature of the evaporation chamber (10), which sensor forms a non-operable by the user, internal functional element; and the temperature sensor (TS) is operatively coupled via the control device (18) at least to the micro-pump (8) and directly or indirectly (18) a) allows activation of the micro-pump (8) when the evaporation chamber (10) has a temperature sufficient to evaporate the evaporation liquid; and b) preventing activation of the micro-pump (8) when the vaporization chamber (10) has insufficient temperature to vaporize the vaporization fluid.

29. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is equipped with a level sensor (SW) for directly or indirectly detecting a level of the container (6), which sensor forms a non-operable by the user, internal functional element; and the level sensor (SW) is operatively coupled via the control means (18) at least to the micro-pump (8) and directly or indirectly (18) a) allows activation of the micro-pump (8) when in the container (6) evaporating liquid, or a sufficient amount of evaporating liquid, is present; and b) preventing activation of the micro-pump (8) when the container (6) is empty or contains an insufficient amount of evaporative liquid.

30. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the micro-pump (8) is equipped with an anti-drip system (12).

31. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the multi-way output valve (12) forms the anti-drip system.

32. steam ironing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the multi-way output valve (12) has a return device for automatically resetting the multi-way output valve (12) in a closed neutral position.

33. Controllable steam iron micro-pump multiway outlet valve (12).

34. A steam iron micro-pump (8) having at least one controllable steam iron micro-pump multiway outlet valve (12).