BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION An iron'is widely defined as a device used to press fabrics. Irons essentially either utilize dry heat or steam to achieve the end result, depending on the type of iron being used. It is common practice to iron garments using an iron and an ironing board on which the garment to be ironed is placed. Each garment must be ironed one at a time, which inevitably is time consuming and tedious.

Typically, different designs of iron are used for household use and industrial use. Household irons are usually small electrically heated devices with a handle and a weighted flat bottom. Numerous types of household iron are known in the art, which include, electrical irons, non-electrical irons, steam irons, non-steam irons and lightweight irons. The disadvantages of the available household irons, and method of ironing include the following. Firstly, the method of ironing involves intense physical effort. Secondly, the method is

time consuming and thirdly, due to the physical posture adopted in the process, ironing is a cause of problems in the lower back and spine.

Examples of industrial irons include complex ironing machines are well known in the art. The ironing machines press garments individually, using pressure. The industrial irons do not lend themselves for home use, due to their complexity. In addition, the aforementioned disadvantages associated with household irons are also applicable to the industrial designs.

The majority of today's household appliances work automatically and are activated by a switch. Examples of such automated appliances include, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, kettles etc. It would be highly advantageous to have a time-efficient, automated ironing device, which functioned to iron several garments without the need for physical exertion, such as described in the present invention.

Automated fabric washing devices and automated fabric drying devices are well known in the art. Examples of combined fabric washing and fabric drying devices are available. The advantages of such devices are obvious and include, time-saving and space-saving of a multi-function machine. However, with these types of combined devices known in the art, the method of ironing must still be manually performed. As such the aforementioned disadvantages associated with irons of the background art are still relevant. The background art does not disclose a combined device, which can alternatively be used as a fabric dry-cleaning device, a fabric drying device and a fabric ironing device, such as is described in the present invention. It would be highly advantageous

to have such a device, which could optionally function as a comprehensive fabric treatment system, configured to optionally dry clean the fabric, dry the fabric and iron the fabric.

There is therefore a need for an automated system and method, such as is disclosed in the present invention, to provide a solution to the aforementioned problems and to be more efficient and cost-effective than known ironing or fabric treatment devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is a system for treating fabric. Preferably, the invention provides a combined automated system for performing any combination of cleaning fabric, drying fabric and ironing fabric. More preferably, the present invention provides an automated ironing system. The treatment system is configured to effect optionally internal, treatment, external treatment or a combination of internal and external treatment. Preferably the treatment system is configured to effect optionally internal ironing, external ironing or a combination of internal and external ironing.

The present invention provides in a first embodiment an automated system for treating at least one fabric item, the system comprising: (a) at least one treatment unit, the treatment unit being configured to treat the fabric item with a treatment agent, wherein the at least one treatment unit comprises: (i) at least one pipe for supplying the treatment agent, (ii) at least one outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is connected at one extreme to the pipe, the outlet

expelling from a second extreme the treatment agent to treat the at least one fabric item, (b) at least one suspension system for suspending the at least one fnbriss item in the treatment unit; and (c) at least one netivation element for activating the treatment unit.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one treatment unit is an ironing unit.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one treatment unit is selected from the group consisting of a combined dry-cleaning unit and ironing unit and a combined drying unit and ironing unit and a combined dry-cleaning unit and drying unit and ironing unit.

In a preferred embodiment the treatment agent is selected from the group consisting of hot air, cold air, steam, vapor, chemical agent, gas and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the fabric item effecting internal treatment of the fabric item.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the microenvironment of the treatment unit effecting external treatment of the fabric item.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the microenvironment of the treatment unit, and at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the fabric item effecting a combination of external treatment and internal treatment of the fabric item.

In a preferred embodiment the treatment unit further comprises at least one pipe for supplying a treatment additive agent.

In a preferred embodiment the treatment additive agent is selected from at least one of the group consisting of fabric softener, fabric fragrance, anti- static material, bleach, ironing aid agent and any combination thereof Preferably, the ironing agent is starch.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one suspension system is a resilient suspension device.

In a preferred embodiment the resilient suspension device is a hanger.

In a further preferred embodiment the resilient suspension device comprises: (a) a resilient hanging support configured to the shape of the fabric item, the fabric item being hung on the resilient hanging support; (b) at least one outlet connected to the resilient suspension device configured to internally distribute at least one treatment agent to the treatment unit; and (c) at least one outlet connected to the fabric treatment system for externally distributing at least one treatment agent to the treatment unit.

In a further preferred embodiment the resilient suspension device further comprises at least one securing element for securing the fabric item on the resilient hanging support and impeding displacement of the fabric item in the treatment unit.

In a further preferred embodiment the resilient suspension device further comprises a button configured to effect quick release of the treatment agent to the resilient suspension device.

In a further preferred embodiment the resilient suspension device further comprises a control unit associated with the treatment unit and configured to control the function of the treatment unit.

In a second embodiment the present invention provides an automated system for ironing at least one fabric item, the system comprising: (a) at least one ironing unit, the ironing unit being configured to iron the fabric item with a treatment agent wherein the at least one ironing unit comprises: (i) at least one pipe for supplying the treatment agent, (ii) at least one outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is connected at one extreme to the pipe, the outlet expelling the treatment agent to effect ironing of the at least one fabric item; (b) at least one suspension system for suspending the at least one fabric item in the ironing unit; and at least one activation element for activating the ironing unit.

In a preferred embodiment of the automated ironing system the treatment agent is selected from the group consisting of hot air, cold air, steam, vapor, chemical agent, gas and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the automated ironing system the at least one suspension system is a resilient suspension device.

In a preferred embodiment of the automated ironing system the resilient suspension device is a hanger.

In a preferred embodiment of the automated ironing system the resilient suspension device comprises: (a) a resilient hanging support configured to the shape of the fabric item, the fabric item being hung on the resilient hanging support ; (b) at least one outlet connected to the resilient suspension device

configured to internally distribute at least one ironing treatment agent to the ironing unit ; and (c) at least one outlet connected to the fabric ironing system for externally distributing at least one ironing treatment agent to the ironing unit.

The present invention provides in a third embodiment an automated combined system for treatment of at least one fabric item, wherein the treatment is selected from the group consisting of dry cleaning, drying and ironing or a combination thereof, the system comprising: (a) at least one treatment unit, the treatment unit being configured to treat the fabric item with a treatment agent wherein the at least one treatment unit comprises: (i) at least one pipe for supplying the treatment agent, (ii) at least one outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is connected at one extreme to the pipe, the outlet expelling the treatment agent to treat the at least one fabric item; (b) a control element configured to control the function of the treatment unit, the function selected from the group consisting of dry-cleaning, drying and ironing or a combination thereof ; (c) at least one suspension system for suspending the at least one fabric item in the treatment unit ; and (d) at least one activation element-for activating the treatment function.

The present invention provides in a fourth embodiment a method of automated ironing comprising the steps of : (a) providing an automated system for ironing at least one fabric item, the system comprising: (i) at least one ironing unit, the ironing unit being configured to treat the fabric item with a treatment agent, wherein the at least one ironing unit comprises: a. at least one

pipe for supplying the treatment agent, b. at least one outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is connected at one extreme to the pipe, the outlet expelling the treatment agent to effect ironing of the at least one fabric item ; (ii) at least one suspension system for suspending the at least one fabric item in the ironing unit; and (iii) at least one activation element for activating the ironing unit ; (b) providing at least one fabric item to be ironed; securing the fabric item on the at least one suspension system; expelling the treatment agent to the fabric item suspended in the ironing unit; and (e) uncreasing and ironing the fabric unit with the expelled treatment agent.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the treatment agent is selected from the group consisting of hot air, cold air, steam, vapor, chemical agent, gas and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the at least one suspension system is a resilient suspension device.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the resilient suspension device is a hanger.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the resilient suspension device comprises: (a) a resilient hanging support configured to the shape of the fabric item, the fabric item being hung on the resilient hanging support; (b) at least one outlet connected to the resilient suspension device configured to internally distribute at least one ironing treatment agent to the ironing unit; and (c) at least one outlet connected to the

fabric ironing system for externally distributing at least one ironing treatment agent to the ironing unit.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme directly to the fabric item effecting internal ironing of the fabric item.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the microenvironment of the ironing unit effecting external ironing of the fabric item.

In a preferred embodiment of the method of automated ironing the at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the microenvironment of the ironing unit, and at least one outlet is connected at a second extreme to the microenvironment of the ironing unit effecting a combination of external ironing and internal ironing of the fabric item.

As used herein the term'fabric'refers to any material that can be dry- cleaned or dried or ironed.

As used herein the term'automated system'includes semi-automated and fully automated systems.

As used herein the term'treatment unit'refers to the space in which the treatment is carried out. The unit may be a closed space, semi-closed space or open space. Preferably the treatment unit is a closed space.

As used herein the term'treatment agent'refers to a substance used to effect a treatment, such as but not limited to hot air, cold air, steam, vapor, chemical agent and dry-cleaning chemical. The treatment agent is preferably in

a gaseous state or a mixture of liquid and gas or in the liquid state. The treatment agent can optionally include any material in a powdered solid state or a combination of powder and liquid, gas or vapor.

As used herein the term'treatment additive'refers to a non-essential substance used to enhance a treatment, such as, but not limited to fragrance, anti-static substance, starch and softener.

As used herein the term'activation element'refers to a means of starting the treatment.

As used herein the term'suspension system'refers to any means for hanging or suspending the item of fabric in the treatment system.

As used herein the term'hanger'refers to any support on or by which something may be hung.

As used herein the term'internal treatment'refers to treatment of the inside of the fabric item, which is not exposed to the treatment microenvironment, such as the inside of the trouser leg of a pair of trousers.

Internal treatment is preferably effected by action of the treatment agent, which is employed directly to the fabric suspension device.

As used herein the term'external treatment'refers to treatment of the external surface of the treated fabric item, which is exposed to the treatment microenvironment. External treatment is preferably effected by action of treatment agent, which is expelled into the treatment unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a schematic structure of one embodiment of the fabric treatment system of the present invention; FIG. 2a shows a schematic structure of one embodiment of a resilient shirt suspension device optionally used in the present invention; FIG. 2b shows a schematic structure of one embodiment of a resilient trouser suspension device optionally employed in the present invention; and FIG. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the fabric treatment system of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention is a system for treating a fabric item. The present invention provides in one embodiment an automated system for treating at least one fabric item, the system comprising: (a) at least one treatment unit, the treatment unit being configured to treat the fabric item with a treatment agent, wherein the at least one treatment unit comprises: (i) at least one pipe for supplying the treatment agent, (ii) at least one outlet, wherein the at least one outlet is connected at one extreme to the pipe, the outlet expelling from a second extreme the treatment agent to treat the at least one fabric item, (b) at least one suspension system for suspending the at least one fabric item in the treatment unit; and (c) at least one activation element for activating the treatment unit. Preferably, the invention provides a combined automated system for performing any combination of treatments, which include cleaning fabric, drying fabric and ironing fabric. More preferably, the present invention

provides an automated ironing system. The present invention further provides methods of effecting internal treatment and external treatment or a combination of internal and external treatment, by employing supply of treatment agent internally ancl exiernally.

The main components of the system according to the present invention include the activation and working mechanism of the treatment unit and the structure of the treatment unit/s in which the fabric item to be treated is optillOlly placed. In simplistic terms the working mechanism of the treatment unit is effected by expeuing treatment agent to a secured fabric item either internally, externally or using a combination of both. The treatment unit is ol) tionally at least one closed unit, semi-open unit, or open unit. Preferabty the treatment unit is a closed unit. The fabric treatment system can optionaHy be a drying machine, a washing machine, an ironing machine or any combination of these machines. The washing machine is preferably a dry cleaning machine.

The treatment agent is optionally any suitable agent, which can effect the desired treatment of the fabric item. Treatment agents include, but are nut limited to hot air, steam, cold air, vapor, chemical agents, starch. The treatment agent may optionally be in a gaseous state, semi-gaseous state, mixture of a liquid and gas, or liquid. Hot air, dries fabric. Treatment agents such as steam and vapor and hot air have an ironing effect. Dry cleaning uses chemical agent treatment agents and steam, hot air and vapor.

In one embodiment of the present invention the fabric treatment system is optionally an ironing system. The ironing system includes a body, which

optionally comprises top and bottom panels, front and back panels and side panels. The front panel is optionally configured to contain in any suitable position, preferably at one extremity, the control panel. The control panel optionally contains, the ironing program control button, which controls the type of ironing to be used depending on the fabric item to be ironed, such as whether steam should be added and optimal temperature for the fabric. In addition, the control panel optionally contains the start/stop button and the safety handle for opening and locking the door. It is envisioned that the control button and start/stop button can optionally be any suitable button, dial or switch, such as but not limited to push buttons, turn dials, manual buttons, electronic digital displayed and controlled touch pad buttons, manual switches and dial gauges.

Preferably, when the door is opened by a user, the system automatically stops working. Preferably, the door of the system is positioned below the control panel, but can optionally be configured in any suitable position. In an alternative embodiment, the system is a top loader, wherein the device is configured to contain a door, situated on the top panel.

Optionally, at a second extremity of the front panel is located a thermometer for monitoring the temperature of the treatment agent, which is optionally hot air, steam or vapor, a generator of a flow of the gaseous treatment agent, such as, but not limited to hot air, steam or vapor and a container for the treatment agent, which is optionally hot air, steam or vapor.

Any suitable configuration of the thermometer, flow generator and the treatment agent container is envisioned.

Preferably, there is configured on either of the side panels, attachment elements for attaching the ironed items. Any suitable number of suitable al ; tachment eleinents can optionally be used in the system of the present invention. Examples of attachment elements include but are not limited to hooks, extended bars, handles, knobs, shelves, baskets, trays, clothe horses and hangers.

The interior of one embodiment of the system of the present invention, comprises at least one treatment unit. Preferably, there are multiple treatment units. In one embodiment of the present invention the treatment unit contains resilient suspension devices. Resilient suspension devices include, resilient hanging supports configured to the shape of any type of garment or fabric which need ironing, such as, but not limited to, upper torso resilient suspension devices, trouser resilient suspension devices, skirt resilient suspension devices, dress resilient suspension devices and tablecloth resilient suspension devices.

The garment or fabric item is manually hung by a user on a sectioned flexible, resilient, hanging support. In the event that the length of the fabric item is too long to fit in the treatment unit, the sectioned flexible resilient hanging support is rotated so that the length of the fabric item is converted to the width of the fabric item and in this way can fit in the treatment unit. The rotation function of the resilient hanging support can optionally be used for any fabric item, which does not fit in the treatment unit of the system of the present invention. The fabric suspension device includes securing elements for securing the fabric item in place. The fabric suspension device further includes an outlet which is

optionally configured for distributing treatment agent, such as but not limited to hot air, steam or vapor, and which is preferably, but not limited to being permanently connected to the fabric suspension device. In this way the treatment unit effects internal treatment of the fabric item. In addition, the fabric suspension device comprises an outlet for distributing treatment agent, such as, but not limited to hot air, which is preferably permanently connected to the fabric treatment system. The hot air is therefore internally supplied to the fabric suspension device. Preferably, configured to the fabric suspension device is a button for quick release of the treatment agent, such as hot air to the fabric suspension device. The expelled treatment agent, such as but not limited to hot air, steam or vapor acts to uncrease and consequently iron the fabric item attached to the fabric suspension device. Optionally, the treatment unit contains a creasing function element, which acts to clamp the fabric item in a suitable position, in order that the expelled steam acts to form a crease in the clamped position.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention at least one treatment unit is configured to include a treatment agent outlet pipe, such as hot air outlet pipe, which preferably runs along the inside of the treatment unit.

There is preferably an opening in the treatment agent outlet pipe for expelling the treatment agent to the fabric suspension device (internal treatment agent supply). The treatment agent outlet pipe also preferably includes at least one opening for expelling the treatment agent to the treatment unit (external treatment agent supply). Any suitable number of openings is possible. The

expelled treatment agent, which is essentially the external treatment agent supply source, acts to treat a fabric item secured in the treatment unit, such as but not limited to iron and uncrease the fabric item. Optionally, the treatment unit includes at least one treatment additive supply pipe, which supplies to the treatment unit a treatment additive, such as but not limited to a fabric softener, fabric fragrance and an ironing aid substance, such as but not limited to starch or a combination thereof. The treatment additive supply pipe includes at least one treatment additive outlet through which the treatment additive is expelled to the treatment unit and in this way to the fabric item secured in the treatment unit. The treatment additive supply pipe is optionally configured to run along at least one of the side panels of the treatment unit.

Preferably, the treatment unit includes at least one other outlet pipe for supplying at least one treatment agent. The additional outlet pipe is optionally configured, but is not limited, to run along at least one of the side panels of the treatment unit. Attached to one extremity of the at least one outlet pipe is at least one outlet for releasing at least one treatment agent to the treatment unit.

Treatment agents include but are not limited to hot air, cold air, steam, vapor, chemical agent, gas and combinations thereof. The external air flow of steam and hot air or vapor act to uncrease the fabric item secured in the treatment unit and consequently iron the item. In this embodiment the fabric item to be treated is secured in at least one treatment unit optionally by a hanger, or by the fabric suspension device described above or a combination thereof.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the fabric treatment system is a combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system. The combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system functions by utilizing at least one of the three possible treatments. Optionally, the combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system employs two or all of the possible treatment functions. The combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system is preferably configured in the same way as described for the ironing system. The combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system includes a body, which optionally comprises top and bottom panels, front and back panels and side panels. The front panel is optionally configured to contain in any suitable position, preferably at one extremity, the control panel. The control panel optionally contains, the treatment program control button, which controls which type of treatment, cleaning, drying or iron is to be used. Optionally, each of the treatment functions can have separate control functions for separate treatment control. In addition, the control panel optionally contains the start/stop button and the safety handle for opening and locking the door. It is envisioned that the control button and start/stop button can optionally be any suitable button, dial or switch, such as but not limited to push buttons, turn dials, manual buttons, electronic digital displayed and controlled touch pad buttons, manual switches and dial gauges. Preferably, when the door is opened by a user, the system automatically stops working. Preferably, the door of the system is positioned below the control panel, but can optionally be configured in any suitable

position. In an alternative embodiment, the system is a top loader, wherein the device is configured to contain a door, situated on the top panel.

Optionally, at a second extremity of the front panel is located a thermometer for monitoring the temperature of the treatment agent, which is optionally hot air, steam or vapor, a generator of a flow of the gaseous treatment agent, such as, but not limited to hot air, steam or vapor and a container for the treatment agent, which is optionally hot air, steam or vapor.

Any suitable configuration of the thermometer, flow generator and the treatment agent container is envisioned.

Preferably, there is configured on either of the side panels, attachment elements for attaching the cleaned, dried and ironed items. Any suitable number of suitable attachment elements can optionally be used in the system of the present invention. Examples of attachment elements include but are not limited to hooks, extended bars, handles, knobs, shelves, baskets, trays, clothe horses and hangers.

The interior of one embodiment of the combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system of the present invention, comprises at least one treatment unit.

Preferably, there are multiple treatment units. In one embodiment of the present invention the treatment unit contains fabric suspension devices. Fabric suspension devices include, resilient hanging supports configured to any type of garment or fabric which need ironing, such as, but not limited to, upper torso resilient suspension devices, trouser resilient suspension devices, skirt resilient suspension devices, dress resilient suspension devices and tablecloth resilient

suspension devices. The garment is manually hung by a user on a sectioned flexible, resilient, hanging support. In the event that the length of the fabric item is too long to fit in the treatment unit, the sectioned flexible resilient hanging support is rotated so that the length of the fabric item is converted to the width of the fabric item and in this way can fit in the treatment unit. The rotation function of the resilient hanging support can optionally be used for any fabric item, which does not fit in the treatment unit of the system of the present invention. The fabric suspension device includes securing elements for securing the fabric item in place. The fabric suspension device further includes an outlet which is optionally configured for distributing at least one treatment agent and which is preferably, but not limited to being permanently connected to the fabric suspension device. Treatment agents include but are not limited to hot air, cold air, steam, vapor, chemical agent, gas and combinations thereof. In addition, the fabric suspension device comprises an outlet for distributing a treatment agent such as hot air, which is preferably permanently connected to the fabric treatment system. The treatment agent is therefore internally supplied to the fabric suspension device. Preferably, configured to the fabric suspension device is a button for quick release of the treatment agent to the fabric suspension device. The expelled treatment agent, such as hot air, steam, dry cleaning chemical agent or vapor acts to optionally dry clean, dry or uncrease and consequently iron the fabric item attached to the fabric suspension device.

In an alternative embodiment of the combined dry-cleaning, dryer and ironing system of the present invention at least one treatment unit is configured

to include a treatment agent outlet pipe, such as but not limited to a hot air outlet pipe, which preferably runs along the inside of the treatment unit. There is preferably an opening in the treatment agent outlet pipe for expelling the treatment agent to the fabric suspension device (internal treatment agent supply). The treatment agent outlet pipe also preferably includes at least one opening for expelling the treatment agent to the treatment unit (external treatment agent supply). Any suitable number of openings is possible. The expelled treatment agent, which is essentially the external treatment agent supply source, acts to dry clean, clean or iron and uncrease a fabric item secured in the treatment unit, depending on the treatment function which is working. Optionally, the treatment unit includes at least one treatment additive supply pipe, which supplies to the treatment unit a treatment additive, such as but not limited to a fabric softener, fabric fragrance and an ironing aid substance, such as but not limited to starch or a combination thereof. The treatment additive supply pipe includes at least one treatment additive outlet through which the treatment additive is expelled to the treatment unit and in this way to the fabric item secured in the treatment unit. The treatment additive supply pipe is optionally configured to run along at least one of the side panels of the treatment unit.

Preferably, the treatment unit includes at least one other treatment agent outlet pipe for supplying optionally steam or hot air or vapor or a gaseous chemical treatment agent or a combination thereof to the system of the invention. The outlet pipe is optionally configured, but is not limited, to run

along at least one of the side panels of the treatment unit. Attached to one extremity of the at least one outlet pipe is at least one outlet for releasing a treatment agent, optionally steam or hot air or vapor or gaseous chemical agent or a combination thereof to the treatment unit. The external air flow of steam and hot air or vapor or chemical agent act to clean, dry or uncrease the fabric item secured in the treatment unit. In this embodiment the fabric item to be treated is secured in at least one treatment unit optionally by a hanger, or by the fabric suspension device described above or a combination thereof.

The interior of the system of the invention is preferably made fi-om any suitable heat resistant and rust resistant material, such as but not limited to stainless steel, galvanized metals, Plastics and carbon fiber reinforced materials. The exterior of the device is preferably made from any suitable heat resistant and rust proof material, such as but not limited to stainless steel, galvanized metals, Plastics and carbon fiber reinforced materials. The exterior of the device is optionally coated with a ceramic, acrylic, Teflon or any heat and rust resistant coating and is optionally of any suitable color and shape. The outlet pipes are optionally made from any suitable material, such as but not limited to rubber, resilient materials and standard hosing.

The principles and operation of systems according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the figures. The figures show one embodiment of the present invention and are not limiting.

Figure I shows one embodiment of the fabric treatment system of the present invention 10. The fabric treatment system 10 can optionally be a drying

machine, a washing machine, an ironing machine or any combination of these machines.

For description purposes only the system of the invention is referred to in the figures as an ironing system, which is in no way limiting. The figures can equally be described as combined or separate dry-cleaning-dryer-ironing systems.

As shown in Figure 1, the fabric treatment system 10 includes the body of the system 11. The body of the system 11 optionally comprises a top panel 23, a bottom panel 26, a front panel 27, a back panel 28, and side panels 24 and 25. The front panel 27 is configured to contain preferably at one extremity the control panel 13. The control panel 13 optionally contains, but is not limited to the ironing program control button 14, the start/stop button 16 and the safety handle for opening and locking the door 15. The control button 14 and start/stop button 16 can optionally be any suitable button, dial or switch, such as but not limited to push buttons, turn dials, manual buttons, electronic digital displayed and controlled touch pad buttons, manual switch and dial gauge.

When the door 12 is opened, the system 10 automatically stops working.

Preferably, the door 12 of the system 10 is positioned below the control panel 13. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the system 10 is a top loader, wherein the device is configured to contain a door 12, situated on the top panel 23. In the case of a top loader the fabric items to be treated are placed in the system of the present invention from an opening in the top panel 23.

Optionally, at a second extremity of the front panel 27 is located a thermometer for monitoring the temperature of the hot treatment agent 19, a generator 20 of a flow of the gaseous treatment agent, such as, but not limited to hot air, steam or vapor and a container 21 for the gaseous treatment agent, such as steam, hot air, and vaporized materials. In the present invention it is envisioned that any suitable configuration of the thermometer 19, treatment agent flow generator 20 and the treatment agent container 21 is possible.

The interior of the system of the present invention 10, comprises at least one treatment unit 22. Preferably, there are multiple units, such as but not limited to 3 treatment units as shown in Figure 1 as 22a, 22b and 22c. Each unit may optionally be configured to execute a different treatment or the same treatment. In addition, each treatment unit may optionally employ a different or the same resilient suspension device. Preferably, there is configured on either of the side panels 24 and 25, attachment elements 18 for attaching the ironed items. Any suitable number of suitable attachment elements 18 can optionally be used in the system of the present invention 10. Examples of attachment elements 18 include but are not limited to hooks, extended bars, handles, knobs, shelves, baskets, trays, clothe horses and hangers.

Preferably, attachment elements 18 are readily collapsible or foldable into side panel 25.

The interior of the system 13 is preferably made from any suitable heat resistant and rust resistant material, such as but not limited to stainless steel, galvanized metals, Plastics and carbon fiber reinforced materials. The exterior

of the device 13 is preferably made from any suitable heat resistant and rust proof material, such as but not limited to stainless steel, galvanized metals, Plastics and carbon fiber reinforced materials. The exterior material is optionally coated with a ceramic, acrylic, Teflon or any heat and rust resistant coating and is optionally of any suitable color and shape.

FIG. 2a shows a schematic structure of one embodiment of a shirt resilient suspension device used in the present invention 30. The shirt resilient suspension device 30 can be used to secure any type of upper torso garment, such as but not limited to jackets, shirts, jumpers, waistcoats, sweaters and cardigans. For the purposes of description of Fig 2a only, which is in no way limiting, the upper torso garment will be referred to as a shirt. The shirt resilient suspension device 30 is optionally employed in the treatment unit of the system described in Figure 1 (not shown in figure 2) and or the treatment unit described in figure 3 (not shown in figure 2).

As shown in Figure 2a the shirt resilient suspension device 30 includes preferably a flexible, sectioned, resilient shirt hanging support 35 for hanging the shirt. The shirt securing device 30 element further includes at least one shirt securing element 37, preferably configured to hold an extremity of the body of the shirt in place and at least one sleeve securing element 36, preferably configured to hold the sleeve of the shirt in place. The shirt suspension device further includes an outlet for distributing a treatment agent such as hot air 33, which is preferably, but not limited to being permanently connected to flexible shirt suspension device 30.

Preferably, flexible shirt suspension device 30 is readily expandable to be tightly accommodated by any garment being processed, either by a user prior to processing or automatically according to the dimensions of the garment.

In addition, the shirt suspension device 30 includes an outlet for distributing a treatment agent such as hot air 31, resulting in an internal treatment agent supply, the outlet 31 preferably permanently connected to the fabric treatment system (not shown). Configured to the shirt suspension device 30 is a button for quick release of the treatment agent such as hot air 32 to the shirt suspension device 30. The expelled treatment agent such as hot air, steam or vapor from outlets 33 and 31 act to uncrease and consequently iron the shirt attached to the shirt suspension device.

Preferably a neck/collar securing element 34 is provided for securing and uncresing the neck/collar portion of a shirt, blouse or any other upper garment.

More preferably, Preferably, shirt suspension device incorporates a quick release mechanism for readily replacing and exchanging between alternate suspension devices 30.

FIG. 2b shows a schematic structure of one embodiment of a trouser suspension device employed in the present invention. The trouser suspension device 30a can be used to secure any type of trouser garments, such as but not limited to shorts, swimming trunks, Bermuda shorts long johns, boxer shorts, tights and culottes.

Preferably, flexible shirt suspension device 30a is readily expandable to be tightly accommodated by any garment being processed, either by a user prior to processing or automatically according to the dimensions of the garment.

For the purposes of description of Fig 2b only, which is in no way limiting, the trouser garment will be referred to as trousers. The trouser suspension device 30a is optionally employed in the treatment unit of the system described in Figure 1 (not shown in figure 2) and or the treatment unit described in figure 3 (not shown in figure 2).

As shown in Figure 2b, the trouser suspension device 30a preferably includes a sectioned flexible trouser hanging support 35a for hanging the trousers. The trouser suspension device 30a further includes at least one trouser securing element 38, preferably configured to hold the seat of the trousers in place. The trouser suspension device 30a further includes an outlet for distributing a treatment agent, such as hot air 33a, which is preferably, but not limited to being permanently connected to the trouser suspension device 30a.

Preferably, trouser suspension device 30a is substantially flexible, for readily facilitating processing trousers and under garments of a variety of lengths and sizes.

In addition, the trouser suspension device 30a comprises an outlet for distributing a treatment agent such as hot air 31, which is preferably permanently connected to the fabric treatment system (not shown). Configured to the trouser suspension device 30a is a button for quick release of the

treatment agent, such as hot air 32 to the trouser suspension device expelled treatment agent such as hot air, steam or vapor from outlets 33a and 31 act to uncrease and consequently iron the trousers attached to the trouser suspension device.

Preferably a neclc/collar securing element 34 is provided for securing and uncresing the neck/collar portion of a shirt, blouse or any other upper garment.

More preferably, Preferably, shirt suspension device incorporates a quick release mechanism for readily replacing and exchanging between alternate suspension devices 30.

I-lG. 3 shows one embodiment of the treatment unit of the fabric treatment system of the present invention. As shown in figure 3, the treatment unit 41 is configured to include a treatment agent outlet pipe, such as hot air outlet pipe 42, which preferably runs along the inside of the treatment unit 41.

There is preferably an opening 43 in the treatment agent outlet pipe, such as hot air outlet pipe 42 for expelling the treatment : agent, such as hot air (internal treatment agent suppiy) to the fabric item suspension device (not shown) as described in figures 2a and 2b. The fabric item suspension device (not shown) is secured in the treatment unit by a fast release suspension element 44. which connects the fabric item suspension device to the opening 43 in the treatment agent outlet pipe, optionally a hot air outlet pipe 42. In addition, the treatment agent outlet pipe, optionally a hot air outlet pipe 42 includes at ! east one opening for expelling the treatment agent such as hot air opening 45 to the

treatment unit 41. Figure 3 shows one embodiment with two openings 45 for expelling the treatment agent such as hot air to the treatment unit 41, but optionally any suitable number of openings is possible. The expelled treatment agent such as hot air, steam or vapor, from opening 45 (external treatment agent supply) acts to uncrease and consequently iron the fabric item secured in the treatment unit.

Preferably any of openings 45 is readily displaceable, along any garment being processed, for increased efficiency in processing.

More preferably, the distance between any openings 45 and the garment being processed is readily controllable for enhanced processing.

Optionally, the treatment unit 41 includes at least one treatment additive supply pipe 46, which supplies to the treatment unit 41 a treatment additive, such as but not limited to a fabric softener, fabric fragrance and an ironing aid substance, such as but not limited to starch. The treatment additive supply pipe includes at least one treatment additive outlet 47 through which the treatment additive is expelled to the treatment unit 41. The treatment additive supply pipe 46 is optionally configured to run along at least one of the side panels of the treatment unit. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the treatment unit with two treatment additive supply pipes 46. Preferably the treatment unit 41 includes at least one additional outlet pipe 48 for supplying a treatment agent optionally steam or hot air or vapor or gaseous chemical agent or a combination thereof (external treatment agent supply) to the ironing microenvironment 50 of the system of the invention.

Preferably, any and all sub-elements of micro environment 50 as described herein are readily controllable by a user, including but not limited to, facilitating a unidirectional flow of heat, steam, treatment elements and the lilce.

The outlet pipe 48 is optionally configured to run along at least one of the side panels of the treatment unit. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the treatment unit with two outlet pipes 48. Configured to one extremity of the at least one outlet pipe 48 is at least one outlet 49 for releasing optionally a treatment agent such as steam or hot air or vapor or gaseous chemical agent or a combination thereof to the ironing microenvironment 50 of the treatment unit 41. The expelled treatment agent, which is optionally hot air, steam or vapor from outlet 49 acts to uncrease and consequently iron the shirt attached to the shirt suspension device. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the treatment unit with two outlets 49.

Preferably, a first heating element 52 is attached to, or integrally formed with, each outlet 49 for readily controlling the temperature of air, steam, gas and treatment materials.

Preferably, a second heating element 54 is attached to, or integrally formed with, opening 43 for readily controlling the temperature of air, steam, gas and treatment materials.

More preferably, a first filter 56 is attached to, or integrally formed with each outlet 49, for filtering air, steam, gas and treatment materials passing through each outlet 49.

More preferably, a second filter 58 is attached to, or integrally formed with opening 43, for filtering air, steam, gas and treatment materials passing through opening 43.

Advantages of various embodiments of the present invention include, time saving, due to the high speed of ironing, highly reduced physical exertion, due to elimination of manual operation of the iron and reduced back problems due to no need to adopt ironing pose for any length of time. In addition, the combined treatment system, which includes any combination of fabric cleaning action, fabric drying action and fabric ironing action, saves space and money by eliminating the need for multiple cumbersome automated machinery.

While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many variations, modifications and other applications of the invention may be made.