Abstract: An ironing machine is provided which includes an iron 1 and a stand 2. The iron 1 includes a steam generator 11 in the sole plate 15 of the iron 1. The stand 2 includes a reservoir 21, which is connected to the steam generator 11 by a duct 3. The ironing machine further includes a pump 22 in the duct 3, which pump 22 can be driven by an electric current, and flow-rate adjustment device 41. The flow-rate adjustment device 41 has at least three settings corresponding to different flow-rates of water into the steam generator 11 and includes a control unit 41 and a driver 45 to control the electric current supplied to the pump 22 in dependence on the setting. The control unit 41 has a manually adjustable selector 42 for selecting a setting and a trigger 43 for activating the pump 22. During use the user can depress the trigger 43 when steam operation is required.

Abstract: There is provided a hot water production apparatus comprising a container for water and a heat pump including a motor-compressor unit disposed in a sealed casing containing the heating fluid. The heat generated in the motor-compressor unit is transferred to the water by way of a heat pipe insulated over its portion extending between the water container and the sealed casing. The heat pipe is charged with an inert gas and an operating medium which in the range of 20.degree. to 100.degree. C. has a vapor pressure such that, at a temperature within this range, the front between the inert gas and the operating medium is situated in the portion of the heat pipe present in the water container.

Abstract: A wobble plate drive mechanism for machines having axial pistons or the like clustered about a shaft. The moving parts are dynamically balanced over a range of wobble plate tilt angles by a balance ring arranged outboard of the wobble plate. The wobble plate restraint has balanced gimbal rings.