A FABRIC CLAMP

Abstract

The present application relates to a fabric clamp (9) for a garment steamer (1). The fabric clamp (9) has a first clamp portion (10) through which steam is emittable. The fabric clamp (9) also has a second clamp portion (12) which is movable relative to the first clamp portion (10) between a closed position and an open position. The second clamp portion (12) has a steam vent (40) through which steam from the first clamp portion (10) is emittable, and a heater for heating the second clamp portion (12). The present application also relates to a garment steamer (1) and an accessory for a garment steamer (1). This fabric clamp enables a user to remove creases and create pleats from fabric more effectively, and the integrated heater also helps to prevent condensation.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a fabric clamp for a garment steamer. The present invention also relates to a garment steamer and an accessory for a garment steamer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Garment steamers are used to remove creases from fabric, such as clothing. Garments steamers typically include a base unit with a water reservoir and a steam generator, which supplies a steamer head held by a user with steam through a hose. Steam exits the steamer head and is used to heat up and momentarily moisten the fabric in an attempt to obtain effective removal of creases from the fabric being treated.

Garment steamers can be used for removing creases from fabric, such as clothing, when it is freely hanging from a hanger. Therefore, using a garment steamer does not require the set up of an ironing board. However, garment steamers are not effective in reproducing or generating creases on certain garments, such as shirts and trousers.

In garment steamers, as described above, it is known to provide a clamp which can be used to generate creases in fabrics, such as clothing, especially in areas where it is difficult to remove creases from, such as the sides. However, such clamps may promote the formation of condensation, causing damp patches on fabric. Furthermore, it is necessary to remove the clamp from the steamer head to use the steamer head without clamping fabric.

OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a fabric clamp for a garment steamer, a garment steamer and/or an accessory for a garment steamer which substantially alleviates or overcomes the problems mentioned above.

The invention is defined by the independent claims; the dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

According to the present invention, there is provided a fabric clamp for a garment steamer, the fabric clamp comprising a first clamp portion through which steam is emittable, and a second clamp portion movable relative to the first clamp portion between a closed position and an open position, wherein the second clamp portion has a steam vent through which steam from the first clamp portion is emittable, and a heater for heating the second clamp portion.

The heated fabric clamp enables a user to remove creases and create pleats from fabric more effectively. Furthermore, the heater also helps to prevent condensation occurring in the second clamp portion. This helps the fabric clamp avoid creating wet spots on the fabric being treated and also helps to prevent hot water dripping onto the user.

The second clamp portion may be rotatable relative to the first clamp portion between the closed position and the open position.

Therefore, the user can easily manoeuvre the second clamp portion. This enables the user to quickly switch between steaming modes

The second clamp portion may be biased towards the closed position.

Therefore, the fabric clamp returns to the closed position. This enables the fabric clamp to clamp the fabric to be treated without the user having to hold the fabric clamp closed. The user does not have to hold the fabric clamp closed when using the fabric clamp to do normal steaming.

The fabric clamp may further comprise a lever configured to urge the second clamp portion away from the first clamp portion into the open position.

Therefore, only a small force needs to be applied by the user to urge the second clamp portion away from the first clamp portion to enable the fabric to be received between them. Furthermore, the users fingers are further from the hot steam and steaming of a fabric can be performed with one hand.

The second clamp portion may comprise a first fabric contact surface and a second fabric contact surface on opposite sides of the second clamp portion.

Therefore, the fabric clamp can be used in two different ways. Firstly, the fabric clamp can be used in a standard steamer mode in which the first fabric contact surface is placed proximate to the fabric. Secondly, the fabric clamp can be used in a clamp steamer mode in which fabric is received between the second fabric contact surface and the first clamp portion.

The steam vent may communicate between the first fabric contact surface and the second fabric contact surface.

Therefore, steam can pass through the second clamp portion to enable the fabric clamp to be used like a conventional steamer.

The first fabric contact surface may be spaced from, and may extend at least substantially parallel to, the second fabric contact surface.

Therefore, there is room in the second clamp portion to receive the heater.

The heater may be between the first fabric contact surface and the second fabric contact surface.

Therefore, the heater is able to heat the fabric contact surfaces evenly to help prevent steam condensing as it flows through the second clamp portion of the fabric clamp. The heater is also unable to contact and damage delicate fabrics

The first clamp portion may comprise a third fabric contact surface facing said second fabric contact surface.

Therefore, the fabric clamp can be used to clamp fabric between the first and second clamp portions and remove or create creases in the fabric.

The first clamp portion may comprise a steam aperture through which steam is emittable.

Therefore, steam discharged from the garment steamer is able to enter the fabric clamp and can be used to treat the fabric.

The steam vent may be aligned with a steam aperture.

This helps to reduce the resistance to the steam flow. Therefore, steam is able to flow through the fabric clamp more easily. This reduces turbulence in the fabric clamp and helps to prevent steam becoming trapped in the fabric clamp and condensing.

A garment steamer comprising the fabric clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

The garment steamer with the heated fabric clamp enables a user to remove creases and create pleats from fabric more effectively. Furthermore, the heater also helps to prevent condensation occurring in the second clamp portion. This helps the fabric clamp avoid creating wet spots on the fabric being treated and also helps to prevent hot water dripping onto the user.

An accessory for a garment steamer comprising a fabric clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

Therefore, the fabric clamp may be attached and removed as necessary for the removal and/or creation of creases.

The first clamp portion may comprise a mount for mounting the accessory to a garment steamer head.

Therefore, the fabric clamp comprises fewer parts and so is less complex.

The fabric clamp may further comprise electrical contacts to electrically connect the heater with a power supply of a garment steamer.

Therefore, the fabric clamp does not have to comprise its own power source which reduces the weight and complexity of the fabric clamp.

These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a garment steamer having a garment steamer head;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a garment steamer head shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of the garment steamer head shown in FIG. 2 with a fabric clamp attached;

FIG. 4 shows a detailed schematic view of an embodiment of a first clamp portion of the fabric clamp shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of the fabric clamp and garment steamer head shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of the fabric clamp shown in FIG. 3 attached to the garment steamer head in an open position; and

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of the fabric clamp shown in FIG. 3 attached to the garment steamer head in a closed position with fabric received in the fabric clamp.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a garment steamer 1. The garment steamer 1 generates steam which is used to heat and moisten a fabric (not shown in FIG. 1) to aid the removal of creases from the fabric. Fabrics to be treated include, but are not limited to, clothing.

The garment steamer 1 comprises a steamer base 2 and a garment steamer head 4. The garment steamer head 4 communicates with the steamer base 2 via a hose 3. The steamer base 2 has a water reservoir (not shown) and a steam generator (not shown). The water reservoir stores water which is fed into the steam generator. Water fed to the steam generator is evaporated into steam and fed to the steamer head 4 via the hose 3. The steam is then emitted from the garment steamer head 4 via a steam outlet 8.

Although in the present embodiment steam is generated in the steamer base 2 and fed to the garment steamer head 4 via the hose 3, it will be understood that alternative arrangements are possible. For example, in another embodiment the steam generator is in the garment steamer head 4 and water is fed from the water reservoir in the steamer base 2 to the garment steamer head 4 via the hose 3. In a further embodiment, the steamer base 2 is omitted and the steam generator and water reservoir are in the garment steamer head 4.

The steamer head 4 is manoeuvrable relative to the steamer base 2. Steam generated in the steamer base 2 flows through the hose 3 to the garment steamer head 4. The garment steamer head 4 is held by a user and is positionable against a fabric to be treated.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the garment steamer head 4 of the garment steamer 1 is shown in more detail. The garment steamer head 4 has a body 5. The garment steamer head 4 comprises a handle portion 6. The handle portion 6 is configured to allow a user to hold the garment steamer head 4. The garment steamer head 4 further comprises a steamer surface 7. The steamer surface 7 is formed by a steamer plate at one end of the garment steamer head 4. The steamer surface 7 is configured to be positioned against, or proximate to, the fabric to be treated. The handle portion 6 and the steamer surface 7 are at opposing ends of the garment steamer head 4.

The garment steamer head 4 further comprises the steam outlet 8. Steam provided to the garment steamer head 4 is emitted through the steam outlet 8. The steam outlet 8 is formed in the steamer surface 7. The steam outlet 8 comprises a plurality of steam apertures 8a. It will be understood that the number of steam apertures 8a may vary. For example, in one embodiment the steam outlet 8 comprises a single steam aperture. The steam outlet 8 is configured to direct steam from the garment steamer head 4 towards a fabric to be treated when the steamer surface 7 is positioned against, or proximate to, the fabric to be treated. The or each steam aperture 8a may be, for example, but not limited to, circular, elliptical, or rectangular.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a perspective view of the garment steamer head 4, shown in FIG. 2, with a fabric clamp 9 attached. In the present embodiment, the fabric clamp 9 is separable from the garment steamer head 4, however in an alternative embodiment the fabric clamp 9 is an integral part of the garment steamer head 4, as will become apparent hereinafter.

The fabric clamp 9 comprises a first clamp portion 10 and a second clamp portion 12. The second clamp portion 12 extends from the first clamp portion 10. The second clamp portion 12 is hingedly attached to the first clamp portion 10. Therefore, the second clamp portion 12 is movable relative to the first clamp portion 10. The first and second clamp portions 10, 12 are attached by a hinge 13. The hinge 13 allows the second clamp portion 12 to be rotated relative to the first clamp portion 10. The fabric clamp 9 further comprises a biasing arrangement 14 to bias the first and second clamp portions 10, 12 from an open position, in which the second clamp portion 12 is spaced apart from the first clamp portion 10, to a closed position, in which the second clamp portion 12 abuts the first clamp portion 10.

The fabric clamp 9 has a mount 11. The mount 11 releasably mounts the fabric clamp 9 to the garment steamer head 4. In the present embodiment, the mount 11 is on the first clamp portion 10. The mount 11 allows the first clamp portion 10 to mount to the garment steamer head 4. The fabric clamp 9 is configured to mount over the steamer surface 7 of the garment steamer head 4. When the fabric clamp 9 is mounted to the garment steamer head 4, the second clamp portion 12 is movable relative to the steamer surface 7. A lever 15 extends from the second clamp portion 12 to allow the second clamp portion 12 to be urged to move relative to the first clamp portion 12.

The second clamp portion 12 defines a first fabric contact surface 16 and a second fabric contact surface 17. The first and second fabric contact surfaces 16, 17 are on opposite sides of the second clamp portion 12. The first fabric contact surface 16 is on an outer side of the second clamp portion 12. The second fabric contact surface 17 is on an inner side of the second clamp portion 12. The first clamp portion 10 defines a third fabric contact surface 18. The third fabric contact surface 18 faces the second fabric contact surface 17 on the second clamp portion 12. The second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18 act as clamping surfaces. That is, the second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18 are brought together in the closed position, and are moved away from each other in the open position.

Referring in particular to FIG. 4, the first clamp portion 10 of the fabric clamp 9 is shown with the remainder of the fabric clamp 9 omitted. The first clamp portion 10 comprises a first fabric pressing part 19 and the mount 11. The first fabric pressing part 19 acts as a fabric contact plate.

The first fabric pressing part 19 defines the third fabric contact surface 18. The mount 11 extends from an opposing side of the first fabric pressing part 19 to the third fabric contact surface 18. The first fabric pressing part 19 has a steamer surface contact surface 20 configured to abut the steamer surface 7, as shown in FIG. 2, when the fabric clamp 9 is mounted to the garment steamer head 4, as shown in FIG. 3.

The first fabric pressing part 19 is generally disc shaped. However, it will be understood, that the shape of the first fabric contact plate may differ. The first fabric pressing part 19 may be adapted to correspond with the shape of the steamer surface 7 end of the garment steamer head 4.

The first fabric pressing part 19 has a steam aperture 21. The steam aperture 21 is defined through the first fabric pressing part 19. The steam aperture 21 extends between the steamer plate contact surface 20 and the third fabric contact surface 18. The steam aperture 21 allows steam flowing out of the steam outlet 8 of the garment steamer head 4, shown in FIG. 2, to flow through the first clamp portion 10. However, it will be understood that the first fabric pressing part 19 may comprise a plurality of steam apertures 21. The or each steam aperture 21 is aligned with the steam outlet 8 of the garment steamer head 4 to help provide unrestricted steam flow through the first fabric pressing part 19.

The mount 11 is configured to attach the first clamp portion 10, and therefore the fabric clamp 9, to the garment steamer head 4, as shown in FIG. 3. In the present embodiment the mount 11 is formed as a releasable clip arrangement, although other mounting arrangements are envisaged. The mount 11 comprises a first mounting wall 22. The first mounting wall 22 extends partially around the periphery of one end of the first fabric pressing part 19. The first mounting wall 22 converges inwardly towards a free end 23 of the first mounting wall. The alignment of the first mounting wall 22 relative to the first fabric pressing part 19 corresponds to the arrangement of the steamer surface 7 end of the garment steamer head 4. The first mounting wall 22 is configured to extend around a portion of the garment steamer head 4 at the steamer surface 7 end, as shown in FIG. 3.

The mount 11 further comprises a second mounting wall 24. The second mounting wall 24 extends at an opposing end of the periphery of the first fabric pressing part 19. The second mounting wall 24 is configured to contact a portion of the garment steamer head 4 at the steamer surface 7 end, as shown in FIG. 3.

In the present embodiment, the mount 11 is a push fit on the body 5 of the garment steamer head 4 so that the fabric clamp 9 is retained on the garment steamer head 4. However, alternative arrangements are envisaged, for example, the first and second mounting walls 22, 24 may comprise resilient, flexible tabs (not shown) that locate in apertures (not shown) in the body 5 of the garment steamer head 4. Any suitable mount arrangement may be used to attach the fabric clamp 9 to the garment steamer head 4. In the present arrangement, the mount 11 is integrally formed with the first fabric pressing part 19.

The first clamp portion 10 also has a first hinge portion 25 of the hinge 13. The first hinge portion 25 of the hinge 13 extends from the first fabric pressing part 19. The first hinge portion 25 is configured to hingedly connect the first clamp portion 10 with the second clamp portion 12 of the fabric clamp 9 as will be described hereinafter. The first hinge portion 25 comprises two spaced flange portions 26, each with a shaft hole 27 for receiving a shaft 28 (refer to FIG. 5).

The first clamp portion 10 is formed from a plastic, although other suitable materials may be used. In the present embodiment, the first clamp portion 10 is formed from a heat insulating material, however in an alternative embodiment, the first clamp portion 10 may be formed from a material with a high thermal conductivity.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown an exploded perspective view of the second clamp portion 12, with the remainder of the fabric clamp 9 omitted. The second clamp portion 12 comprises a second fabric pressing part 29 and the lever 15. A heater 30 is in the second fabric pressing part 29. The second fabric pressing part 29 is generally disc shaped and corresponds to the shape of the first fabric pressing part 19.

The second fabric pressing part 29 has an outer surface defining the first fabric contact surface 16 and an inner surface defining the second fabric contact surface 17. The first and second fabric contact surfaces 16, 17 form opposing sides of the second fabric pressing part 29. The second fabric contact surface 17 faces the third fabric contact surface 18 as shown in FIG. 6. The second fabric contact surface 17 is configured to abut the third fabric contact surface 18 when the fabric clamp 9 is in its closed position, as shown in FIG. 3.

The second fabric pressing part 29 comprises a frame 31, an inner contact plate 32 and an outer contact plate 33. The frame 31 comprises a peripheral side wall 34. The peripheral side wall 34 forms the outer edge of the second fabric pressing part 29. The peripheral side wall 34 defines a heater receiving space 35 therebetween. The heater 30 is received in the heater receiving space 35. The inner contact plate 32 and outer contact plate 33 are mounted on opposing sides of the frame 31. The inner contact plate 32 and outer contact plate 33 are spaced from each other. The inner contact plate 32 and outer contact plate 33 locate against a shoulder 36 formed on an inner side of the peripheral side wall 34 of the frame 31. It will be understood that alternative arrangements are possible, for example the inner contact plate 32 and outer contact plate 33 may be integrally formed.

The first fabric contact surface 16 is formed by the outer contact plate 33. The second fabric contact surface 17 is formed by the inner contact plate 32.

The inner contact plate 32 is partially received in the frame 31. Therefore, the second fabric contact surface 17 protrudes from the frame 31. The second fabric contact surface 17 defines an exterior surface of the inner contact plate 32. The opposing side of the inner contact plate 32 defines an inner contact plate interior surface 37. An inner contact plate recess 38 is defined by the inner contact plate interior surface 37. The inner contact plate recess 38 is configured to partially receive the heater 30.

The thickness of the inner contact plate 32 is less than or equal to 1 mm in the present embodiment. Inner contact plate steam holes 39 are formed through the inner contact plate 32. The inner contact plate steam holes 39 communicate between the second fabric contact surface 17 and the inner contact plate interior surface 37. Although seven inner contact plate steam holes 39 are shown, it will be understood that the number of steam holes may vary. The inner contact plate steam holes 39 form part of a steam vent 40 through the second fabric pressing part 29. The inner contact plate steam holes 39 align with the steam aperture 21 of the first fabric pressing part 19 in the closed position.

The outer contact plate 33 is partially received in the frame 31. The shape of the outer contact plate 33 corresponds to the inner contact plate 32. The first fabric contact surface 16 defines an exterior surface of the outer contact plate 33. The opposing side of the outer contact plate 33 defines an outer contact plate interior surface 41. An outer contact plate recess (not shown) is defined by the outer contact plate interior surface 41. The outer contact plate recess is configured to partially receive the heater 30.

The thickness of the outer contact plate 33 is less than or equal to 1 mm in the present embodiment. Outer contact plate steam holes 42 are formed through the outer contact plate 33. The outer contact plate steam holes 42 communicate between the first fabric contact surface 16 and the interior surface 42. Although seven outer contact plate steam holes 42 are shown, it will be understood that the number of steam holes may vary. The outer contact plate steam holes 42 align with the inner contact plate steam holes 39. The outer contact plate steam holes 42 form part of a steam vent 40 through the second fabric pressing part 29.

The first fabric contact surface 16 is configured to contact, or locate proximate to, fabric when the fabric clamp 9 is in the closed position and is placed against a fabric instead of the fabric being clamped between the first and second fabric pressing parts 19, 29.

The inner and outer contact plates 32, 33, and therefore the first and second fabric contact surfaces 16, 17, have a high thermal conductivity. The high thermal conductivity helps to increase the heat distribution across the first and second fabric contact surfaces 16, 17 and increases the heat transferred to the fabric in order to help prevent condensation and aid the removal of crease from the fabric. The first inner and outer contact plates 32, 33 may be formed from materials including, for example, but not limited to aluminium.

The steam vent 40 allows steam that has passed through the first fabric pressing part 19 to flow through the second fabric pressing part 29, and so flow from the fabric clamp 9 when the fabric clamp 9 is in its closed position. The steam vent 40 defines a pathway through the second fabric pressing part 29. Steam flowing through the steam vent 40 passes through the heater receiving space 35. However, it will be understood that the steam vent 40 may be distinct from the heater receiving space 35.

The heater 30 is configured to heat the second fabric pressing part 29. The heater 30 is received in the second pressing part 29 between the inner and outer contact plates 32, 33, however the heater 30 may be integrally formed therewith. The heater 30 may be formed of two or more heater elements. In the present embodiment, the heater 30 is an electrical heating device. The heater 30 extends in the heater receiving space 35.

The heater 30 is configured to control the temperature of the inner and outer contact plates 32, 33. The heater 30 is configured to maintain the temperature of the first and second fabric contact surfaces 16, 17 within the range of 120-145 degrees Celsius (° C.). By heating the second fabric pressing part 29, condensation of steam passing through the second fabric pressing part 29 is restricted, and any condensation in the steam may be evaporated. This helps to prevent wet spots on the fabric being treated and hot water dripping on the user's hands. At the same time, the temperature is low enough to protect delicate fabrics from damage.

The heater 30 is a light-weight heater. The light-weight heater 30 helps to keep the weight of the fabric clamp 9 down. Therefore, the fabric clamp 9 is a light-weigth fabric clamp. As the heater 30 is only used to re-heat steam generated by the steam generator (not shown) having a light-weight, and therefore, smaller, heater 30 does not affect the steam rate. Having the light-weight heater 30 proximate to the fabric helps to ensure that steam does not condense when passing through the second clamp portion 12.

Electrical contacts (not shown) are on the fabric clamp 9 and communicate with corresponding electrical contacts (not shown) on the garment steamer head 4 when the fabric clamp 9 is mounted to the garment steamer head 4. That is, the electrical contacts on each of the fabric clamp 9 and the garment steamer head 4 align with and abut against each other when the fabric clamp 9 is mounted to the garment steamer head 4. The electrical contacts (not shown) on the fabric clamp 9 electrically communicate with the heater 30. The electrical contacts (not shown) on the garment steamer head 4 electrically communicate with the power supply (not shown). Therefore, the heater may be operated.

The lever 15 extends from the frame 31 of the second fabric pressing part 29. The lever 15 is elongate. The lever 15 has a generally rectangular cross-section extending away from the second fabric pressing part 29. The lever 15 extends at an acute angle to the plane of the first and second fabric contact surfaces 16, 17. The lever 15 allows a user to manoeuvre the second clamp portion 12. The lever 15 and frame 31 of the second fabric pressing part 29 are formed from a plastic, although other suitable materials may be used. In the present embodiment, the frame 31 is formed from a heat insulating material.

The second clamp portion 12 has a second hinge portion 43 of the hinge 13. The second hinge portion 43 of the hinge 13 is disposed at a base end 44 of the lever 15. The second hinge portion 43 is therefore between the lever 15 and the second fabric pressing part 29. The second hinge portion 43 is configured to hingedly connect with the first hinge portion 25, such that the first clamp portion 10 hinges with the second clamp portion 12 of the fabric clamp 9 as will be described hereinafter. The second hinge portion 43 is configured to be received between the two spaced flange portions 26 of the first hinge portion 25. A shaft aperture 45 for receiving the shaft 28 is formed through the second hinge portion 43. The shaft aperture 45 is configured to align with the shaft holes 27 formed in the first hinge portion 25.

The shaft 28 pivotably mounts the first and second clamp portions 10, 12. The shaft 28 connects the first hinge portion 25 with the second hinge portion 43. The shaft 28 is a cylindrical pin. The shaft 28 extends through the shaft holes 27 and shaft aperture 44. The shaft 28 is fixedly mounted to the first clamp portion 10, and the second clamp portion 12 is rotatable thereabout. However, it will be understood that alternative arrangements are possible. The shaft 28 defines a pivot axis of the fabric clamp 9.

The biasing arrangement 14 biases the first and second clamp portions 10, 12 from the open position, in which the second clamp portion 12 is spaced apart from the first clamp portion 10, to the closed position, in which the second clamp portion 12 abuts the first clamp portion 10.

In the present embodiment, the biasing arrangement 14 of the fabric clamp 9 comprises a torsional spring 47, as shown in FIG. 5. The torsional spring 47 is a helical torsional spring. The coil of the torsional spring 47 locates around the shaft 28, between the two spaced flange portions 26 of the first hinge portion 25. At each end of the coiled portion of the torsional spring 47 is an arm. The arms extend tangentially from the coiled portion. In the present embodiment, one arm of the torsional spring 47 abuts the first clamp portion 10 and the opposing arm of the torsional spring 47 abuts the second clamp portion 12.

The torsional spring 47 is configured to bias the fabric clamp 9 into the closed position in which the second clamp portion 12 abuts the first clamp portion 10 when no fabric is placed between the second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18. The user may easily overcome the force provided by the torsional spring 47 by urging the lever 15 towards the body 5 of the steamer head 4, as shown in FIG. 6. The lever 15 pivots about the hinge 13.

Referring now to FIG. 6, the fabric clamp 9 is shown assembled and mounted to the steamer head 4. The electrical contacts (not shown) on the fabric clamp 9 electrically communicate with the electrical contacts (not shown) on the fabric clamp 9, so that power is supplied to the heater 30. A user applies an urging force to the lever 15 to move the fabric clamp 9 into its open position. That is, the second fabric contact surface 17 and the third fabric contact surface 18 are separated and moved away from each other.

When the fabric clamp 9 is mounted to the garment steamer head 4 via the mount 11, the steamer surface 7 of the garment steamer head 4 is enclosed by the first clamp portion 10. The first clamp portion 10 is fixedly located relative to the steamer surface 7. The second clamp portion 12 is pivotable relative to the first clamp portion 10 and the garment steamer head 4. The force biasing the first and second clamp portions 10, 12 together, provided by the torsional spring 47 may be overcome by the user drawing the lever 15 towards the steamer head 4. Therefore, one-handed usage is possible.

When the garment steamer 1 is operated, steam flows to the garment steamer head 4 via the hose 3. Steam flows through the garment steamer head 4 and is emitted from the garment steamer head 4 via the steam outlet 8 (refer to FIG. 2). Power is also supplied to the heater 30, such that the heater 30 is operated.

Steam flowing through the steam outlet 8 in the steamer surface 7 of the garment steamer head 4 flows to the steam aperture 21 in the first fabric pressing part 19 of the first clamp portion 10. Steam is therefore, able to flow through the first clamp portion 10. When the fabric clamp 9 is in the closed position, steam flowing through the first clamp portion 10, via the steam aperture 21, flows to the second clamp portion 12.

The fabric clamp 9 can be used in a clamp steaming mode or in a standard steaming mode. The fabric clamp 9 being used in the clamp steaming mode is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The fabric clamp 9 can be used in the clamp steaming mode to remove creases from areas of the fabric which are difficult to de-wrinkle. The fabric clamp 9 can also be used as a clamp steamer to create or renew pleats in the fabric enabling the user to style the fabric.

The user initially moves the fabric clamp 9 into the open position. The user then places a fabric to be treated between the first and second fabric pressing parts 19, 29. The user then releases the lever 15 of the second clamp portion 12 and the biasing arrangement 14 urges the second fabric pressing part 29 towards the first fabric pressing part 19, such that the fabric clamp 9 moves to its closed position. The fabric is then clamped between the second fabric contact surface 17 and the third fabric contact surface 18.

Steam flows from the garment steamer head 4 through the steam outlet 8, shown in FIG. 2, in the steamer surface 7 towards the fabric. The steam temporarily heats and moistens the fabric to help the removal of creases and the pressure of the fabric clamp 9 applied by opposing second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18 helps to flatten the fabric. Therefore, creases can be removed or pleats created along fold lines in the fabric. The second fabric contact surface 17 is heated by the heater 30, and so heat is applied to the fabric by the heater. This helps to heat the fabric and also reheat the steam. This helps to prevent steam condensing on the fabric causing wet spots. It also helps to prevent steam condensing and dripping onto the user's hands. The steam is able to flow from between the second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18 and from edges of the fabric clamp 9. Steam flowing through the fabric received between the first and second fabric pressing parts 19, 29 is also able to pass through the steam vent 40 in the second fabric pressing part 29. Steam passing through the steam vent 40 is heated by heat energy from the heater 30. This helps to remove any condensation in the steam. Therefore, condensation is prevented from forming and dripping.

The user can either reposition the garment steamer head 4 with the fabric clamp 9 attached to remove creases and/or create pleats along a piece of fabric or the garment steamer head 4 with the fabric clamp 9 attached can be pulled along the fabric. When the fabric has been treated, the fabric clamp 9 is moved into its open position and the fabric removed.

When the fabric clamp 9 is used in the standard steaming mode, the fabric clamp 9 is in the closed position. Fabric is not received between the second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18. The biasing arrangement 14 maintains the fabric clamp 9 in the closed position. In such use, the garment steamer 1 is operated, and steam flows from the garment steamer head 4 through the steam outlet 8. The steam passes to the steam aperture 21 in the first fabric pressing part 16 of the first clamp portion 10 which is aligned with the steam outlet 8. Steam therefore flows through the first clamp portion 10 to the second clamp portion 12.

The steam is able to flow through the steam vent 40 in the second fabric pressing part 29. The steam vent 40 is aligned with the steam aperture 21 in the first fabric pressing part 19. Therefore, a steam path is defined through the fabric clamp 9. The second fabric contact surface 17 is heated, and so steam at the second fabric contact surface 17 is heated by the second fabric contact surface 17 and restricted from condensing. Steam then passes through the steam vent 40. As the steam passes along the steam vent 40, the steam is reheated by heat from the heater 30. The heat helps to prevent steam condensing as it flows through the fabric clamp 9. The steam is then emitted from the first fabric contact surface 16. The first fabric contact surface 16 is also heated by the heater 30.

The first fabric contact surface 16 is placed against, or proximate to, a fabric to be treated. Therefore, steam flowing out of the steam vent 40 is emitted towards the fabric. The user manoeuvres the fabric clamp 9 across the fabric to remove the creases. The heated first fabric contact surface 16 and reheated steam due to flowing through the steam vent 40 helps to maximise the efficiency of the garment steamer 1. The heated first fabric contact surface 16 and reheated steam also helps to prevent condensation forming due to the steam path formed through the fabric clamp 9.

In the presently described embodiments, the fabric clamp 9 is detachable from the garment steamer head 4 so that the fabric clamp 9 can be attached and removed by the user to suit their needs. When attached, the second and third fabric contact surfaces 17, 18 can be used to clamp and steam the fabric in the clamp steaming mode. Alternatively, in standard steaming mode the first contact surface 16 can be used for steaming. The standard steaming mode benefits from the heater 30 preventing condensation between the first and second contact surfaces 16, 17 of the second clamp portion 12.

However, it will be understood that in an alternative embodiment, the aspects of the fabric clamp 9 are integrally formed with the steamer head 4. In such an arrangement, the third fabric contact surface 18 may be the steamer surface 7 of the garment steamer head 4, such that the garment steamer head 4 defines the first clamp portion. In another such arrangement, the first clamp portion 10 may be integrally formed with the steamer surface 7 of the garment steamer head 4.

Alternatively, the first fabric pressing part 19 may be omitted, such that the second fabric pressing part 29 is mounted directly to the steamer head 4 via a hinge. In such an arrangement, the third fabric contact surface 18 may be the steamer surface 7 of the garment steamer head 4. Therefore, fabric would be clamped between the steamer surface 7, acting as a fabric contact surface, and the second fabric contact surface 17, such that the garment steamer head 4 defines the first clamp portion.

It will be understood that the fabric clamp 9 is suitable for a garment steamer head 4 which forms part of a garment steamer 1. The garment steamer 1 may be of, for example, but not limited to, the stand garment steamer type comprising a base unit (not shown) and a fabric positioning element (not shown).

It will be appreciated that the term “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps and that the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A single processor may fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

Although claims have been formulated in this application to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel features or any novel combinations of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the parent invention. The applicants hereby give notice that new claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom.

Claims

1. A fabric clamp for a garment steamer, the fabric clamp comprising:

a first clamp portion through which steam is emittable, and

a second clamp portion movable relative to the first clamp portion between a closed position and an open position, the second clamp portion comprising a steam vent through which steam from the first clamp portion is emittable, wherein the fabric clamp also comprises:

a heater for heating the second clamp portion to prevent steam emitted from the first clamp portion from condensing in the second clamp portion.

2. The fabric clamp according to claim 1, wherein the second clamp portion is rotatable relative to the first clamp portion between the closed position and the open position.

3. The fabric clamp according to claim 1, wherein the second clamp portion is biased towards the closed position.

4. The fabric clamp according to claim 3, further comprising a lever configured to urge the second clamp portion away from first clamp portion into the open position.

5. The fabric clamp according to claim 1, wherein the second clamp portion comprises a first fabric contact surface and a second fabric contact surface on opposite sides of the second clamp portion.

6. The fabric clamp according to claim 5, wherein the steam vent communicates between the first fabric contact surface and the second fabric contact surface.

7. The fabric clamp according to claim 5, wherein the first fabric contact surface is spaced from, and extends at least substantially parallel to, the second fabric contact surface.

8. The fabric clamp according to claim 5, wherein the heater is between the first fabric contact surface and the second fabric contact surface.

9. The fabric clamp according to claim 5, wherein the first clamp portion comprises a third fabric contact surface facing said second fabric contact surface.

10. The fabric clamp according to claim 1, wherein the first clamp portion comprises a steam aperture through which steam is emittable.

11. The fabric clamp according to claim 10, wherein the steam vent is aligned with the steam aperture.

12. A garment steamer comprising: wherein the garment steamer comprises the fabric clamp according to claim 1.

a garment steamer head having a steamer surface; and

a steam outlet formed in the steamer surface;

13. An accessory for a garment steamer comprising the fabric clamp according to claim 1, wherein the first clamp portion comprises a mount for mounting the accessory to a garment steamer head.

14. (canceled)

15. The accessory according to claim 14, wherein the fabric clamp further comprises electrical contacts to electrically connect the heater with a power supply of a garment steamer.

16. A garment steamer according to claim 12, wherein the fabric clamp is configured to mount over the steamer surface of the garment steamer head.