DE102020100727A1 - Liquid heating device - Google Patents

Abstract

A liquid heating device has a liquid reservoir (2) which has a first chamber (24a) which is arranged below a second chamber (24b) and is separated by a partition (22) therebetween. A heating arrangement (14) heats the liquid in the first chamber (24a). A first valve (26) and a second valve (26) selectively allow liquid to flow between the chambers (24a, 24b). Each valve (26) has a floating valve member (34) that is arranged to engage a corresponding valve seat (58) to prevent the flow of liquid. A fluid outlet (30) in the first chamber that is in fluid communication with a dispensing outlet (60; 106) allows fluid to be dispensed from the first chamber (24a) when the valves (26) are closed. A valve actuation arrangement (25) can be moved between a first position in which the valve components (34) can float freely so that they engage in the valve seats (58) and a second position in which the valves (34) are kept open become.

Description

The present invention relates to liquid heating devices, particularly to a liquid heating device capable of selectively heating a small amount of liquid.

Liquid heating devices, e.g. Kettles are common in many households. Kettles can often boil up to 1.7 liters of water. Often, however, users only need to bring a relatively small amount of water to a boil, for example when preparing a single hot beverage. Depending on the kettle, it can be difficult to fill the kettle with just the right amount of water for a single drink, so that the kettles are regularly overfilled. This overfilling means that more energy is required to heat the water to the desired temperature. Since kettles typically have a fixed power output, this ultimately means that the user has to wait a long time until the water has reached the desired temperature. In addition, this not only means that the user has to wait longer, but also that the additional energy required to heat the excess amount of water is often wasted, since the excess water normally has to cool down in the kettle. Kettles are typically used several times a day by millions of people worldwide, which is why the amount of energy that is wasted heating up unused water is considerable.

An attempt to address the problems described above is in the WO 2010/094945 to see. This discloses an apparatus having a water heating chamber which is separated into a first and a second heating chamber separated by a partition. A user operated valve selectively opens and closes fluid communication between the first and second heating chambers. The first chamber is heated directly by a heating element. Depending on the amount of water that a user wants to heat, he can control the valve to be operated by the user so that either the first, lower chamber is closed so that only the water in the first chamber is heated, or that the valve is opened , so that the water is heated in both the first and the second chamber. As in the 2c and 2d As can be seen in WO '945, the user actuable valve has a series of openings arranged in a circular shape on one side of the partition. The openings are selectively closed by a valve plate operated by the user.

As understood by those skilled in the art, in order to operate the device described in WO '945, the user must first fill the reservoir with water. Depending on the desired operating mode, he must then actuate the valve to be operated by the user. If he wants to dispense a smaller volume by heating only the water in the first chamber, he must first open the valve to be operated by the user, allow water to fill the first chamber and then close the valve to be operated by the user when the first chamber is full. If, after operation, after the water in the first chamber has been heated and dispensed, a user wishes to operate the device again in order to heat only water in the first chamber, he must open the valve to be actuated by the user again, water which enables fill the first chamber and then close the valve to be operated by the user. Having to open and close the valve each time an amount of heated liquid is required is inconvenient, especially when a user expects to be able to heat a small amount of liquid for quick operation.

• ein Flüssigkeitsreservoir, das eine erste Kammer aufweist, die unter einer zweiten Kammer angeordnet und durch eine sich dazwischen erstreckende Trennwand getrennt ist,
• eine Erwärmungsanordnung, die so angeordnet ist, dass sie im Betrieb in der ersten Kammer enthaltene Flüssigkeit erwärmt;
• ein erstes Ventil und ein zweites Ventil, die in der Trennwand angeordnet sind, um selektiv Flüssigkeit zwischen der ersten und der zweiten Kammer strömen zu lassen, und wobei jedes Ventil ein schwimmendes Ventilbauteil aufweist, das so angeordnet ist, dass es schwimmt und in einen jeweiligen Ventilsitz eingreift und dadurch das Ventil schließt, um den Flüssigkeitsstrom durch das Ventil zu verhindern;
• einem Flüssigkeitsauslass in der ersten Kammer, der in Fluidkommunikation mit einem an der Vorrichtung vorgesehenen Abgabeauslass steht, so dass bei geschlossenem ersten und zweiten Ventil Flüssigkeit aus der ersten Kammer abgegeben werden kann, und
• eine Ventilbetätigungsanordnung zum selektiven Halten jedes schwimmenden Ventilbauteils beabstandet vom Ventilsitz, um jedes Ventil offen zu halten, wobei die Ventilbetätigungsanordnung so angeordnet ist, dass sie zwischen einer ersten Position, in der die schwimmenden Ventilbauteile frei schwimmen können, um in die jeweiligen Ventilsitze einzugreifen, und einer zweiten Position bewegt werden kann, in der die Ventilbetätigungsanordnung verhindert, dass die schwimmenden Ventilbauteile schwimmen, wodurch die Ventile offen gehalten werden.

The present invention aims at an improved device, and from a first point of view, the present invention provides a liquid heating device comprising:

• a liquid reservoir which has a first chamber which is arranged under a second chamber and is separated by a partition wall extending therebetween,
• a heating arrangement arranged to heat liquid contained in the first chamber during operation;
• a first valve and a second valve disposed in the bulkhead to selectively flow liquid between the first and second chambers, and each valve having a floating valve member arranged to float and into a respective one Engages valve seat and thereby closes the valve to prevent fluid flow through the valve;
• a liquid outlet in the first chamber which is in fluid communication with a dispensing outlet provided on the device, so that liquid can be dispensed from the first chamber when the first and second valves are closed, and
• a valve actuation assembly for selectively holding each floating valve member spaced from the valve seat to hold each valve open, the valve actuation assembly being arranged to be between a first position in which the floating valve components can float freely to engage the respective valve seats and a second position in which the valve actuation arrangement prevents the floating valve components from floating, thereby keeping the valves open.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the liquid heating device can effectively operate in two different modes. It can be operated in a first mode of operation in which the valve actuator is in the first position in which it is used to dispense a fixed amount of liquid directly from the first chamber, i.e. in a "hot cup" mode. As a result, the device can quickly heat up a smaller amount of liquid if required. The device can also operate in a second mode of operation in which the valve actuator is in the second position so that the floating valve components cannot engage their respective valve seats. In this mode of operation, liquid will flow between the first and second chambers while the liquid in the first chamber is heated by the heating arrangement. The valve actuation assembly in this second position can be considered to correspond to a "kettle" mode. The user can select the mode of operation by controlling the position of the valve actuation assembly depending on the amount of heated liquid required.

In operation, since the liquid reservoir is filled with liquid, the liquid can flow freely from the second chamber through the first and second valve into the first chamber due to the floating valve components in the first and second valve. When the reservoir is filled with a sufficient amount of liquid, when the first chamber becomes full of liquid and the valve actuation assembly is in its first position, the liquid in the first chamber will cause the floating valve components to float and engage their respective valve seats. Once all of the floating valve components are engaged with their respective seats, the first chamber is closed, thereby preventing further liquid from entering or leaving the first chamber. The heating arrangement can then be operated to heat the amount of liquid in the first chamber.

Due to the arrangement of the floating valve components, the liquid heating device in the hot-cup mode, due to the arrangement of the floating valve components, automatically closes the first chamber when it is filled with the predefined quantity of liquid and does not require any user interaction. This is in contrast to the user operated valve seen in WO '945 and described above, which requires user interaction to close the user operated valve. This makes it easier for the user to operate the device.

When the first and second valves are closed, the temperature of the liquid in the first chamber is increased in the hot cup mode when the heater is operating. Since the liquid in the first chamber cannot escape, its temperature will continue to rise. When the temperature rises and finally reaches the boiling point, the pressure in the first chamber rises. This pressure can be used as a means to force the liquid from the first chamber through the liquid outlet towards the dispensing outlet. Of course, additional or alternative means of delivery can be provided, e.g. a pump that draws the heated water from the first chamber. Regardless of the means for dispensing, the increased pressure in the first chamber holds the floating valve components due to the increased pressure created by the heated liquid so that they engage their respective seats and thereby keep at least the first and second valves closed.

When all of the liquid has been dispensed from the first chamber and the vapor pressure drops, there is a pressure differential between the first and second chambers, forcing the floating valves away from their respective valve seats, allowing the liquid to refill the first chamber. Once again, when the first chamber is filled, the floating valve components float again and engage the respective valve seats, closing the first and second valves, closing the first chamber. The liquid heating device is then immediately ready for the hot cup mode again. Accordingly, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the liquid warming device of the present invention is configured to automatically refill and close the first chamber so that it can be quickly and easily operated in the hot cup mode again.

In the second position of the valve actuation arrangement, that is to say when the device is operating in the kettle mode, when the heating arrangement is operating, for example when supplying electrical energy, liquid is heated in the first chamber and convection currents arise which lead to heated water from the first Chamber flows into the second chamber and thereby the liquid in the second chamber is heated, while cooler water flows from the second chamber into the first chamber to be heated there. After a sufficient time, the entire volume of liquid in the liquid reservoir reaches the boiling point.

The applicant has recognized that at least the first and second valves promote the development of convection currents that can improve the heating efficiency in this mode. Applicant has found that a single valve can restrict the flow of liquid between the first and second heating chambers, which can result in inadequate mixing of the liquid in each of the chambers. This can lead to overheating of the liquid in the first chamber without the liquid in the second chamber heating up. In addition, overheating of the liquid in the first chamber can lead to vapor build-up in the first chamber. In addition, if the device has a suitable controller with a dry cook detection, which is arranged such that the power supply of the heating arrangement is switched off in the case where dry cooking is detected, the applicant has determined that it can become one with only a single valve Overheating can occur, which leads to this dry cooking detection being triggered, whereby the further operation of the device is stopped. This risk of overheating can be avoided by providing the first and second valves to promote the development of convection currents. The applicant has also found that the stronger the convection currents between the first and second chambers, the faster the liquid in the chambers is heated.

The liquid heating device may have a further heating arrangement which, for. B. is arranged within the second chamber to additionally heat the liquid content. However, the applicant has recognized that the arrangement of the first and second chambers with the intermediate partition having the first and second valves means that the heating arrangement arranged to heat the contents of the first chamber can be sufficient to hold liquid both in to heat the first as well as in the second chamber. Therefore, in a number of embodiments, the heating arrangement arranged to heat the liquid in the first chamber is the only heating arrangement in the liquid heating device. Using a single heater assembly instead of a separate heater assembly for each of the first and second chambers can reduce the overall cost and complexity of the liquid heater.

The first and second valves alone can generate enough convection currents in kettle operation to heat the liquid in the second chamber in a reasonable time. In a number of embodiments, however, the liquid heating device has one or more further valves arranged in the partition to selectively allow liquid to flow between the first and second chambers. The liquid heating device can e.g. have a third valve, optionally also a fourth valve, optionally also a fifth valve. Of course, any number of valves can be provided. Each of the further valves may also include a floating valve member that is arranged to float and engage a corresponding valve seat, thereby closing the valve to prevent fluid flow through the valve. In embodiments with further valves, e.g. five valves, the valves can be arranged in the partition in any arrangement. In the case of a substantially circular partition wall, in which five valves are provided, a valve can be arranged in the middle of the partition wall, while the remaining four valves are evenly distributed over the circumference of the partition wall.

The inclusion of additional valves in the bulkhead can further promote fluid flow between the first and second compartments, further enhancing the speed and efficiency with which the fluid is heated in the first and second compartments when the device is in the "kettle" mode. is operated. In addition, by installing additional valves, the first chamber can be filled more quickly when the liquid reservoir is filled for the first time and after a dispensing process. The applicant has also recognized that increasing the number of valves in the partition can advantageously reduce the amount of air that can be trapped in the first chamber when the valves are closed. Trapping air can e.g. due to the shape of the partition and the arrangement of the device on a surface.

The partition between the first and second chambers can be substantially horizontal at least when the liquid heating device is arranged on a flat surface. Alternatively, the partition can be arranged obliquely to the horizontal, for example at an angle between 0-10 ° to the horizontal. In a number of embodiments, however, the partition has an arched shape. In a number of such embodiments, the partition is symmetrical so that the highest point is essentially in the middle of the partition. In a further series of embodiments, one of the valves is arranged at the highest point of the curvature. The arrangement of one of the Valves in this position help release the air trapped in the first chamber when the first chamber is filled with liquid.

The valve actuation assembly is in the second position, i.e. the device is in the kettle mode, after heating the liquid in the first and second chambers, the liquid can simply be poured out of the liquid reservoir. In a number of embodiments, however, the liquid reservoir has a spout which is arranged such that liquid can be poured out of the device. The spout can be arranged on / on the second chamber. A spout may allow more controlled pouring of the liquid out of the liquid heating device. This can be particularly important, for example when pouring boiling water.

In embodiments with a spout, one of the first or second valve or a further valve, if provided, is preferably arranged in the partition substantially below the spout. Such positioning of a valve means that when the device is used in the kettle mode, when the device is tilted to pour the liquid from the pouring spout, there is a possibility of substantially completely draining the liquid from the first chamber. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, without a valve under the spout, some of the liquid can be trapped in the first chamber when the device is tilted. This can e.g. then be undesirable if the entire contents of the liquid container are required.

In a number of embodiments, the liquid heating device further includes a handle and one of the first or second valve or another valve, where provided, is disposed in the bulkhead substantially opposite the handle. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the handle is normally the part of the device on which it is tilted when the user empties the contents of the device. Accordingly, the arrangement of a valve opposite the handle ensures that a maximum amount of liquid can be poured out of the liquid reservoir in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the spout.

When operating the device with the valve actuation assembly in the first position, i.e. in the hot-cup mode, if the liquid in the first chamber is sufficiently heated, the liquid can be dispensed from the liquid outlet directly to the dispensing outlet. As discussed above, the liquid in the first chamber can be under pressure, e.g. Vapor pressure, which increases in the first chamber with the heating of the liquid, are expelled from the first chamber. If the dispensing of the liquid is driven by vapor pressure, steam can escape when the liquid is dispensed, which can lead to irregular dispensing of steam and liquid from the dispensing outlet. This can be dangerous because the release of steam can injure the user. In a number of embodiments, therefore, the liquid heating device further comprises a dispensing chamber which is arranged between the liquid outlet and the dispensing outlet in such a way that the liquid first passes through the dispensing chamber before it comes out of the dispensing outlet. The applicant has recognized that by providing a dispensing chamber, when the heated liquid passes through the dispensing chamber, the heated liquid and steam can separate, making the heated liquid less irregular to dispense. This can be safer and allow a more laminar flow of liquid from the dispensing outlet.

The dispensing chamber may be located within the second chamber, preferably in an upper portion thereof. In a number of embodiments, the dispensing chamber has a fluid inlet that is in communication with the fluid outlet of the first chamber, a first fluid outlet that is in communication with the dispensing outlet, and a second fluid outlet that is in fluid communication with the second chamber. so that water not released can flow back into the second chamber. In a further series of embodiments, the dispensing chamber has a valve element which is arranged in such a way that it selectively or selectively closes the first or second liquid outlet. In a further series of embodiments, the valve actuation arrangement is further arranged such that in the first position the valve actuation arrangement acts on the valve element to close the second outlet, and in a second position the valve actuation arrangement acts on the valve element to close the first outlet . Accordingly, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, in the first position of the valve actuation assembly, ie in the hot cup mode, the valve element is also acted upon to close the second outlet so that the liquid only enters the dispensing outlet through the first outlet can exit the dispensing chamber. When the valve actuation assembly is in the second position, ie, in the kettle mode, it acts on the valve element to close the first outlet so that heated liquid cannot exit through the dispensing outlet. This helps against the inadvertent dispensing of heated liquid from the dispensing outlet if this what is otherwise undesirable, as can be understood, is undesirable.

The liquid heating device can be any suitable arrangement for stopping the operation of the heating arrangement, e.g. B. to turn off the power supply, when the temperature of the liquid in the first or second chamber reaches a desired temperature. The liquid heating device can e.g. have an electronic controller connected to a thermistor that is sensitive to the temperature of the liquid in one or both of the first and second chambers. When the electronic control detects that a certain condition has been reached, e.g. when boiling is reached, the electronic control can switch off the electrical supply to the heating element to stop the heating. However, in a number of embodiments, the liquid heating device includes a thermomechanical element that is arranged to be sensitive to the temperature within the device and is arranged to turn off power to the heating arrangement when the thermomechanical element detects a predefined temperature . The specified temperature can e.g. correspond to a typical minimum temperature of steam. A separate thermomechanical element can be provided for each of the first and the second chamber, but in a number of embodiments the thermomechanical element is arranged such that it can be used for both the first and the second chamber. The applicant has recognized that the use of a single thermoelectric element can reduce the manufacturing cost of the device. The thermomechanical element can have a bimetal sensor.

In embodiments with a dispensing chamber, the thermomechanical element is preferably arranged in the dispensing chamber, and furthermore the dispensing chamber has a steam inlet which is arranged such that it allows steam to enter the second chamber. Accordingly, in such a series of embodiments in which the thermomechanical element is disposed in the dispensing chamber, the thermomechanical element will be able to detect vapor entering the dispensing chamber and indicating that liquid has been heated and dispensed from the first chamber , ie in the hot cup mode. In addition, the steam in the second chamber can freely flow into the discharge chamber via the steam inlet, and thus the thermomechanical element is also able to detect the boiling of the liquid in the second chamber, i.e. when the device is operated in the kettle mode.

The valve actuation assembly can be inherently stable in its first and second positions, e.g. B. due to gravity and / or the intrinsic friction within the arrangement that prevents movement of the valve actuation arrangement without user interaction. However, in a number of embodiments, the valve actuation assembly includes an elastic member that is arranged to hold the valve actuation assembly in the first or second position. The elastic element can have the shape of a bistable spring. Such an elastic element enables the user to select the operating mode and to release the valve actuation arrangement. The use of an elastic member can any movement of the valve actuation assembly z. B. is driven by the floating valve components that try to swim in the first chamber when the first chamber is filled with liquid, counteract advantageously.

In a number of embodiments, the dispensing outlet is movable between a dispensing position and a non-dispensing position and is coupled to the valve actuation assembly such that when the dispensing outlet is moved to the dispensing position, the valve actuation assembly is in its first position and when the dispensing outlet is moved to the non-dispensing position, the valve actuation assembly is in its second position is moved. For example, the dispensing position may correspond to the dispensing outlet protruding from the device and the non-dispensing position may correspond to the dispensing outlet retracted into the device. Therefore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the user can use the dispensing outlet itself as a means of controlling the mode of operation of the device, which, as the applicant has recognized, can be a particularly intuitive means of selecting the mode of operation. Since the dispensing outlet can be immediately visible to the user, the user can also quickly and easily determine the configuration of the device, for example by observing the position of the dispensing outlet. The dispensing outlet can be movably arranged in a suitable manner. For example, the discharge outlet can have a rotatable or pivotable arrangement that comes out of a housing of the device. In a number of potentially overlapping embodiments, the dispensing outlet is movable between a dispensing position and a non-dispensing position and is coupled to the valve actuation assembly such that when the valve actuation assembly is moved to its first position, the dispensing outlet is moved to its dispensing position and when the valve actuation assembly is in its second position is moved, the dispensing outlet is moved to its non-dispensing position. Accordingly, the valve actuation assembly can also be used to control the dispensing outlet between the dispensing and the Move non-dispensing position so that the user no longer has to operate the dispensing outlet and valve actuation assembly separately.

The distance between the first and second valves in the partition wall can influence the strength of the convection currents that form. In a number of embodiments, the partition has a maximum lateral dimension and the first and second valves are separated by at least 50% of the maximum lateral dimension or side dimension, preferably by at least 70% of the maximum side dimension. The applicant has recognized that the separation of the first and second valves according to this embodiment promotes the development of convection currents when the valve actuation assembly is in the second position and the liquid heating device is operating effectively in the kettle mode. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the greater the separation of the valves, the greater the convection flow since the warmer water is less likely to escape from the first chamber through the same valve than cooler water attempts to enter the first chamber reach. As previously mentioned, improving the likelihood that stronger convection currents will form can increase the speed and efficiency at which the liquid in the liquid reservoir can be heated.

The heating arrangement can e.g. a floor heating arrangement e.g. have in the form of a covered electric heating element. Such a covered electric heating element can e.g. be horseshoe-shaped, with its electrical connections at each end of the horseshoe. As can be understood, in such a horseshoe-shaped heating element which is arranged on the underside of the first chamber, the part of the first chamber which is proximal to the space between the two ends of the horseshoe-shaped heating element is not directly heated by the heating element while the rest of the first chamber, in particular the section immediately next to the heating element, is heated more directly and thus to a higher temperature. This leads to a temperature differential across the liquid in the first chamber. In a number of embodiments, at least one of the valves is arranged directly over an area between two terminations of the heating element. In a valve arrangement according to this series of embodiments, the temperature of the liquid around the other valve or valves during operation will be higher than the temperature of the liquid around the valve above the closures. As a result, convection currents can form, so that heated liquid tends to leave the first chamber via the first valve and liquid enters the first chamber via the second valve. The separation of water outlet and inlet from and into the first chamber further contributes to the generation of a strong convection flow and thus contributes to a more efficient heating of the liquid.

The floating valve member of each valve can be arranged to float independently of the other valves. However, in a number of embodiments, the floating valve components of the first and second valves and, if provided, each additional valve are connected together. The floating valve components can e.g. be connected to each other by a series of connecting arms. The link arms are allowed to swim themselves. In such a series of embodiments, the floating valve components can be buoyed by the connecting arms and not by the floating valve components themselves. When the floating valves are connected together in this manner, a distributed valve arrangement is created which can cause each of the floating valve components to move simultaneously with the others. The applicant has recognized that the simultaneous closing and opening of the valves can be advantageous in certain situations. The connection of the floating valves to each other can also mean that the valve actuation arrangement only applies to e.g. one of the valves must act to keep all floating valves open. As will be understood, this can simplify the valve actuation arrangement provided in the second heating chamber.

The liquid heating device may include a heating arrangement within the first heating chamber, e.g. B. in the form of an immersed heating element to directly heat the liquid contained therein. In a number of embodiments, however, the liquid heating device has a floor heating arrangement that is arranged to heat the floor of the first chamber. In a further embodiment variant, the liquid heating device has a covered electrical heating element.

The size of the device, in particular the volume of the first and second chambers, can depend on the particular intended use of the device. In a number of embodiments, the first chamber has a volume between 50 ml and 500 ml, for example 350 ml. Such a volume can correspond to a dispensed volume, e.g. B. is suitable for a vessel such as a cup. This allows a user to heat just enough water for a single cup of heated liquid. As already mentioned, this accelerates both the heating process and the amount of wasted energy reduced. If a first chamber with a volume of, for example, 350 ml is provided, 250 ml of heated liquid can be dispensed when operating in the hot cup mode. The discharge amount from the first chamber in the hot cup mode can be variable and controlled in various ways, for example by blocking the liquid flow after the discharge of a certain volume or by a height-variable weir arrangement.

The liquid heating device can be of the cable type, i.e. a power cord is either integrated or can be connected directly to the device. In a number of embodiments, however, the liquid heater is a wireless heater. In a further series of embodiments, the liquid reservoir is arranged in such a way that it fits with a corresponding power supply lower part. The fluid reservoir can include a wireless electrical connector and the power supply base can include a corresponding wireless electrical adapter. The wireless electrical adapter and the corresponding wireless electrical connecting member on the lower part can be designed such that the liquid reservoir can be placed on the lower part of the power supply substantially irrespective of its relative angular orientation.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the liquid heating device can be used to heat any suitable liquid, e.g. Water.

• 1 eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung entsprechend einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt;
• 2 eine perspektivische Ansicht der Unterseite der Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung aus 1 zeigt;
• 3 einen Teilschnittansicht der in 1 gezeigten Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung zeigt;
• 4 die in 1 gezeigte Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung mit abgenommener Reservoirwand zeigt;
• 5 eine Ansicht von oben auf die Anordnung der Ventile in der Trennwand zwischen der ersten und zweiten Kammer zeigt;
• 6 eine Unterseitenansicht der Komponenten innerhalb der ersten Kammer zeigt;
• 7 eine Detailansicht einer Trennwandanordnung auf der Trennwand zeigt;
• 8 einen Schnittansicht der ersten Kammer mit der Ventilbetätigungsanordnung in der zweiten Position zeigt;
• 9 die Abgabekammer mit abgenommener oberer Abdeckung zeigt;
• 10 die Ventilbetätigungsanordnung und die zugehörigen Komponenten zeigt;
• 11 einen Teil der Ventilbetätigungsanordnung zeigt;
• 12 eine Unterseitenansicht der Abgabekammer zeigt;
• 13 eine Unterseitenansicht des Unterteils der Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung mit der relativen Position der einzelnen Ventile zeigt;
• 14 eine perspektivische Ansicht der in 1 gezeigten Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung mit dem Abgabeauslass zeigt, der so angeordnet ist, dass Flüssigkeit in ein Gefäß abgegeben wird;
• 15 eine Schnittansicht der ersten Erwärmungskammer mit der Ventilbetätigungsanordnung in der ersten Position zeigt;
• 16a die Abgabekammer mit abgenommener oberer Abdeckung zeigt, um die inneren Komponenten freizulegen, mit der Ventilbetätigungsanordnung in der ersten Position;
• 16b einen Teil der Ventilbetätigungsanordnung und die zugehörige bistabile Feder zeigt;
• 17 eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung entsprechend einer zweiten Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung zeigt, deren Abgabeauslass sich in einer Nichtabgabeposition befindet;
• 18A-18B den Abgabeauslass in der in 17 zu sehenden Position zeigt;
• 19 die in 17 gezeigte Flüssigkeitserwärmungsvorrichtung mit dem Abgabeauslass in einer Abgabeposition zeigt;
• 20A-20B den Abgabeauslass in der in 19 dargestellten Position zeigen;
• 21 einen Querschnitt durch die Trennwand zeigt;
• 22 eine perspektivische Sicht auf ein Stromversorgungsunterteil zeigt; und
• 23 eine perspektivische Ansicht der in den 1-16b dargestellten Vorrichtung zeigt, die auf dem in 22 dargestellten Unterteil platziert ist.

Some preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

• 1 Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a liquid heating device according to an embodiment of the invention;
• 2nd a perspective view of the underside of the liquid heating device from 1 shows;
• 3rd a partial sectional view of the in 1 liquid heater shown;
• 4th in the 1 shows the liquid heating device shown with the reservoir wall removed;
• 5 a top view of the arrangement of the valves in the partition between the first and second chambers;
• 6 shows a bottom view of the components within the first chamber;
• 7 shows a detailed view of a partition arrangement on the partition;
• 8th a sectional view of the first chamber with the valve actuation assembly in the second position;
• 9 shows the dispenser with the top cover removed;
• 10th shows the valve actuation assembly and associated components;
• 11 shows part of the valve actuation assembly;
• 12th shows a bottom view of the dispensing chamber;
• 13 an underside view of the lower part of the liquid heating device with the relative position of the individual valves;
• 14 a perspective view of the in 1 shows the liquid heating device shown with the dispensing outlet, which is arranged so that liquid is dispensed into a vessel;
• 15 Figure 3 shows a sectional view of the first heating chamber with the valve actuation assembly in the first position;
• 16a shows the dispensing chamber with the top cover removed to expose the internal components with the valve actuation assembly in the first position;
• 16b shows part of the valve actuation assembly and the associated bistable spring;
• 17th Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a liquid heating device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing outlet of which is in a non-dispensing position;
• 18A-18B the delivery outlet in the in 17th position to be seen;
• 19th in the 17th shows the liquid heater shown with the dispensing outlet in a dispensing position;
• 20A-20B the delivery outlet in the in 19th show position shown;
• 21 shows a cross section through the partition;
• 22 shows a perspective view of a power supply base; and
• 23 a perspective view of the in the 1-16b shows device shown on the in 22 shown lower part is placed.

The 1 to 13 show a liquid heating device or components thereof according to an embodiment of the invention. In these views, the valve actuation assembly of the device is in a "second" position, which corresponds to a "kettle" mode. 1 shows a perspective view of the liquid heating device, hereinafter the device. In the in 1 shown view, the outer cover of the device has been removed. The device has a liquid reservoir 2nd , a spout 4th , a delivery outlet 6 as well as a handle 8th to lift the device up. At the top of the liquid reservoir 2nd is a tax chamber 10th arranged, which is described in more detail in the later figures. The device also has a water window 12th from an at least partially transparent material that enables the user to determine the water level in the liquid reservoir 2nd to determine visually.

2nd shows a perspective view of the bottom of the device. As can be seen, the device has a covered electrical heating element 14 on that for heating the lower part 16 of the liquid reservoir 2nd is arranged. This covered electric heating element 14 that on the lower part 16 is arranged, forms a floor heating arrangement. In the middle of the covered electric heating element 14 defined space is a wireless controller 18th arranged, which has a 360 ° wireless adapter 20. This wireless control 18th enables the device to be engaged with a corresponding base connector on a power supply base (not shown) and thus to power the device.

3rd shows a partial sectional view of the device showing the interior of the liquid reservoir 2nd shows. A curved partition 22 divides the liquid reservoir 2nd into a first chamber 24a and a second chamber 24b . In the partition 22 are five valves 26 provided, three of which can be seen in this figure. A valve actuation arrangement can also be seen 25th , which is described in more detail with reference to the later figures. The curvature of the partition 22 is in 21 recognizable more clearly.

4th shows a perspective view of the device, wherein the outer wall that the liquid reservoir 2nd is removed to expose the internal components of the device. Inside and above the second chamber 24b is the tax chamber 10th arranged. A first line 28 establishes a fluid connection between a liquid outlet 30th the first chamber 24a and the tax chamber 10th forth. In this embodiment, the liquid outlet is in the partition 22 intended. The delivery outlet 6 is on a second line 32 in fluid communication with the dispensing chamber 10th connected. The tax chamber 10th itself is described in more detail with reference to the later figures. The valve actuation assembly 25th exhibits an elongated rod 42 on that through the tax chamber 10th extends upwards and with an actuating component 44 is in operative connection. With the actuator 44 can change the position of the valve actuator 25th being controlled. On the lower part of the elongated rod 42 is a cross-shaped component 46 arranged, which makes up five valve actuators 48 extend. This valve actuation arrangement 25th is in 10th to see more closely.

5 shows a plan view of the partition 22 and shows the relative arrangement of the valves 26 . As shown in this figure, there are five valves 26 arranged in a cross shape, with one of the valves 26 in the middle of the partition 22 and the other four valves 26 on the circumference of the partition 22 are arranged. This in 4th shown cross-shaped component 46 and the in 4th shown valve actuators 48 have a complementary arrangement to the valves shown in this figure 26 .

6 shows a view from the bottom of the first chamber 24a , with the lower part 16 was removed. As can be seen in this figure, each of the valves has 26 a floating valve component 34 on that through a tour 36 is held. Every tour 36 has a star-shaped lower part 38 on, of which there are four posts 40 extend. The star-shaped lower part 38 and four posts 40 together limit the movement of the floating valve component 34 . The restriction of the movement of the floating valve components 34 can help the floating valve components 34 the valves if necessary 26 close reliably. If they were not clamped accordingly, the floating valve component could 34 rotate or move away from the respective valve seats and the valves 26 can no longer close. If the first chamber 24a the floating valve components float with liquid, eg water 34 in the guides 36 up.

7 shows a close-up of a partition arrangement 51 that one of the in the partition 22 arranged valves 26 assigned. In this particular embodiment, the valves 26 and the associated partition arrangements 51 each identical. The partition arrangement 51 assigns one cylindrical projection 50 on that from the partition 22 protrudes. The cylindrical projection 50 has a hole in its face 52 which is used to hold the valve actuator 48 the valve actuation assembly 25th is dimensioned. The cylindrical projection also has a series of liquid openings 54 on that around the lead 50 are arranged around the liquid flow through the valve 26 to enable. The partition arrangement 51 still has a variety of raised walls 56 on, which is also about the lead 50 are arranged. Each upright wall is spaced from the ledge 50 on one of the openings 54 aligned. The partition arrangement 51 can be integral with the partition 22 be trained. The purpose of the partition arrangement 51 is to keep the fluid flow through the valves 26 regulate while the first chamber 24a is refilled. As already mentioned, after the liquid has been dispensed from the first chamber 24a a sudden pressure difference between the first chamber 24a and the second chamber 24b , and liquid from the second chamber 24b is quickly through the valves 26 sucked. The partition arrangement 51 throttles the flow of liquid through the valves 26 and thus enables a more controlled and therefore quieter refilling of the first chamber 24a .

8th shows a partial sectional view through the first chamber 24a . In the 1-8 is the valve actuation assembly 25th in a second position, in which the valves 26 be kept open for the "kettle" mode. As can be seen in this figure, the valve actuation assembly is located 25th in the second position, in which the valve actuators 48 with the floating valve components 34 are in contact and thus from the valve seats 58 keep away. If the valve actuator 25th is in this position, the jacketed heating element 14 (please refer 2nd ) when the device is supplied with electrical energy in the first chamber 24a Warm up the liquid it contains. If the temperature of the water in the first chamber 24a rises, the water between the first chamber 24a and the second chamber 24b about the valves 26 circulate when convection currents arise.

9 shows a perspective view of the dispensing chamber 10th with the top cover removed. As will be described later, the water enters when the valve actuation assembly turns 25th in the first position, ie when the device is in the “hot cup” mode, via the line 28 that with the first chamber 24a is in fluid communication into the dispensing chamber 10th a. With the valve actuation arrangement 25th however, in the second position shown in this figure, as can also be seen in previous figures, the device operates effectively in the kettle mode, with heated water between the first chamber 24a and the second chamber 24b circulates. As a result, the heated water will not flow through the pipe 28 get to the top because the vapor pressure is not sufficient to drive this liquid movement. Nevertheless, the dispensing chamber has a number of features that make it undesirable to dispense from the dispensing outlet 6 to which it is connected. The tax chamber 10th has a dispensing outlet 60 and a drain outlet 62 on. The tax chamber 10th also has a dispensing valve member 64 on that a first closure element 66 to close the dispensing outlet 60 and a second closure element 68 to close the drain outlet 62 having. The dispensing valve element 64 can be swiveled in the dispensing chamber 10th assembled. The actuator 44 is with the dispensing valve element 64 in operative connection, so that the actuating component 44 in the in shown position, ie in the kettle mode, also the dispensing valve element 64 moved to a position in which the first closure element 66 closes the dispensing outlet while at the same time closing the second closure element 68 from the drain outlet 62 moved away.

In this mode, while liquid is unlikely to be the conduit 28 added, even if this should happen, or if there is liquid in the dispensing chamber 10th Should, for example due to a previously interrupted dispensing process, the liquid would be prevented from entering the dispensing chamber 10th through the delivery outlet 60 to leave and would instead through the drain outlet 62 to the second chamber 24b flow back.

10th shows a perspective view of the valve actuation assembly 25th in isolation. As can be seen, the valve actuation arrangement has 25th the actuator 44 that with the dispensing valve element 64 is connected to.

The dispensing valve element 64 is also with a shortcut 70 connected that to the elongated rod 42 connected is. The elongated bar 42 is with the cross-shaped component 46 connected, from which the valve actuators 48 extend. Accordingly, the movement of the operating member causes 44 movement of both the dispensing valve member 64 as well as the valve actuator 48 .

11 shows a perspective view of the underside of the dispensing valve element 64 with the actuator 44 and the link 70 . As can be seen in this figure, the dispensing valve member has 64 a first axis 74 and a second axis 75 to assemble or connect the link 70 and the actuator 44 on. The Delivery valve element 64 also has a pivot axis 76 to which the dispensing valve element 64 in the tax chamber 10th is mounted.

12th shows a bottom view of the dispensing chamber 10th with the top cover removed. The tax chamber 10th points next to the delivery outlet 60 and the drain outlet 62 a steam inlet 78 in the form of an opening in the lower part 80 the tax chamber 10th on. A cylindrical tube 82 , inside the tax chamber 10th , extends from the steam inlet 78 up to a switch 84 . The desk 84 has a thermomechanical element in the form of a bimetal sensor 86 on. The desk 84 is electrical with the covered heating element 14 connected, although it is not shown. The bimetal sensor 86 is arranged so that it reaches a certain, predefined temperature within the switch 84 causes the power to the device to be cut off. The desk 84 can belong to the applicant's R48 series. The bimetal sensor switches accordingly 86 the device as soon as enough steam has been generated, which indicates, for example, that the water boils. The pipe 82 ensures that in the second chamber 24b generated steam on the bimetal sensor 86 is directed so that the bimetal sensor 86 triggers reliably when the predefined temperature is detected. The expansion of the pipe 82 to the dispenser 10th also prevents liquid from the first chamber 24a to the tax office 10th and immediately back to the second chamber 24b flows back.

13 shows a view of the lower part 16 of the liquid reservoir 2nd with the covered heating element attached to it 14 , with other components removed for clarity, along the side of the partition 22 viewed from below. Each of the valves 26 is in the partition 22 to see. The partition wall defines how the experts understand it 22 the topmost extent of the first chamber 24a and is in the view shown in this figure from the lower part 16 separately while it is actually intended over this. The dashed lines with arrows show the relative positions of the individual valves 26 in terms of the lower part 16 on.

The covered heating element 14 has the shape of a horseshoe, the ends of which are by the cold ends 86a , 86b are defined, the electrical connection to the covered heating element 14 enable. As you can see, it is on the lower part 16 , between these two cold ends 86a , 86b a section 88 where the encased heating element 14 does not extend. As a result, this section 88 of the lower part 16 typically have a lower temperature than the rest of the base, and as a result, an amount of fluid becomes proximal to that section 88 typically heated more slowly than the rest of the liquid within the first chamber 24a that are directly above the jacketed heating element 14 located. As can be seen from the dashed arrow lines, one of the valves is located directly above the section 88 between the cold ends 86a , 86b , and at least three of the other valves 26 are located above the covered heating element 14 itself. Accordingly, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, when the liquid is heated in the first chamber 24a a temperature difference between the liquid over the section 88 and that over the covered heating element 14 consist. As a result, by arranging a valve 26 proximal to this section 88 , This valve will help to promote the formation of a convection flow, as through the valve 26 above the section 88 cooler liquid is attracted and hotter water through the valves 26 above the covered heating element 14 is expelled. As previously mentioned, the applicant has found that this can help the heating process of the entire reservoir contents 2nd to accelerate.

The operation of the device in the operating mode kettle is now based on the 1 to 13 described. If not already in the position shown in these figures, the valve actuation arrangement can 25th first by actuating the actuating component 44 can be moved to the second position shown. By acting on the actuating component 44 to the valve actuation assembly 25th moving to the second position moves the actuator 44 also the dispensing valve element 64 so that the first locking component 66 is moved so that the delivery outlet 60 is closed, and so that the second closure member 68 is moved away so that the drain outlet 62 is opened. This causes liquid to flow that is already in the dispensing chamber 10th is, for example, by a previously interrupted dispensing process in the second chamber 24b back.

The valve actuation assembly is located 25th in this second position, the covered heating element can 14 be supplied with electrical energy. This can be done by pressing the switch 84 can be achieved. Preferably, the valve actuation arrangement 25th brought into the second position before the covered heating element 14 is supplied with electrical energy to prevent accidental dispensing of heated liquid from the dispensing outlet 6 to avoid. Of course, the switch can also 84 actuated and the valve actuation assembly 25th can be moved to the second position after a short time, for example before the liquid in the first chamber 24a gets too hot.

If the temperature of the liquid in the first chamber 24a increases because the liquid in the second chamber 24b is not heated directly, it will typically have a lower temperature, at least at the beginning of the heating process. Accordingly, by keeping the valves open 26 through the valve actuation arrangement 25th heated water from the first chamber 24a to the second chamber 24b and cooler water from the second chamber 24b in the first chamber 24a stream. As described above, the arrangement of the valves supports 26 in the partition relative to the element help to form a convection flow within the liquid reservoir 2nd to promote.

Liquid continues to flow between the first chamber 24a and the second chamber 24b circulate until the total temperature of the liquid is sufficient to generate enough steam to pass through the steam inlet 78 in the tax chamber 10th up to the bimetal sensor 86 at the counter 84 to get. As soon as enough steam has been generated, this releases the bimetal sensor 86 out of that inside the switch 84 will cause the power supply to the jacketed heating element 14 is interrupted. A user can then handle the device 8th lift and the heated liquid out of the liquid reservoir 2nd over the spout 4th pour out.

14 shows a perspective view of the device in the hot cup mode with the valve actuation arrangement 25th (not visible in this figure) in a first position, ie when it is used to heat and dispense an amount of water from the first chamber 24a is used. As can be seen, the delivery outlet was 6 moved out to a dispensing position and rotated to place in a cup-shaped vessel 90 to deliver. The device is not shown, but can have a support on which the cup 90 can be placed so that it is in a suitable position to dispense liquid from the dispensing outlet 6 to record. The delivery outlet 6 can be pulled out manually by the user.

15 shows a partial sectional view through the first chamber 24a that the valve actuation assembly 25th shows in the first position. The valve actuators are in this position 48 from the floating valve components 34 lifted off so that the floating valve components 34 can swim freely. If the first chamber 24a is filled with liquid, the floating valve members float 34 up into the in 15 shown position, which means that they are in the respective valve seat 58 intervene to every valve 26 to close and another flow of liquid into the first chamber 24a to prevent.

16a shows the delivery chamber 10th with the top cover removed to expose the internal components with the valve actuation assembly 25th in their first position. In this position the dispensing valve element 64 moved so that the first closure component 66 from the delivery outlet 60 away and the second closure element 68 to the drain outlet 62 is moved there. As a result, the drain outlet 62 closed to a flow of liquid from the dispensing chamber 10th back to the second chamber 24b to prevent and the discharge outlet 60 opened to allow liquid to flow through the dispensing outlet 6 is delivered. The administration 28 that differ from the first chamber 24a extends is with the dispensing chamber 10th so connected that in the first chamber 24a heated water into the dispensing chamber 10th can reach.

16b shows a perspective view of the dispensing valve member 64 together with the actuator 44 and the link 70 . A bistable spring is also shown 45 . This bistable feather 45 has been omitted from earlier figures for clarity. The bistable feather 45 is arranged so that it is on the actuator 44 so acts that the actuator 44 is held in one of two positions, either the position of the valve actuation assembly 25th corresponds in its first position, as in 16a is seen, or the position of the valve actuation assembly 25th corresponds in its second position, as in 9 is seen to the valve actuation assembly 25th to keep in their relative position. As understood by experts, the bistable spring can 45 be arranged so that they are on each part of the valve actuation assembly 25th acts to keep them in the first or second position.

The operation of the device in this second operating mode is now based on the 14 to 16 described. If not already in the first position, the valve actuation assembly can 25th by depressing the actuating component 44 be moved to the first position. This movement also makes the first closure element 66 from the delivery outlet 60 away and the second closure element 68 towards the drain outlet 62 moved as described above. If the valve actuation assembly 25th in the first position as in is shown when the liquid reservoir 2nd is filled with a liquid, for example water, liquid into the first chamber 24a stream. If the first chamber 24a fills with liquid, the floating valve components float 34 in the guides 36 , in the 6 can be seen up until they fit into their respective valve seats 58 intervene and thereby the valves 26 conclude. If the valve actuation assembly 25th in the first Position and the valves 26 are closed because the first chamber 24a is filled with liquid, the covered heating element begins 14 when powered, the volume of liquid in the first heating chamber 24a to warm up.

As the amount of liquid warms up, the pressure in the first chamber 24a gradually increase. When the liquid reaches the boiling point, there will be enough vapor pressure in the first chamber to line the heated liquid 28 high into the dispensing chamber 10th to press. The covered heating element 14 heats the liquid in the first chamber 24a until the entire liquid is under steam pressure 28 up to the delivery chamber 10th was pressed. While in the first chamber 24a still liquid, is generated by the pressure generated by the steam of each of the floating valve components 34 against the respective seat 58 held even when it was no longer on the liquid in the first chamber 24a swim. This prevents refilling the first chamber 24a and thus ensures that only the amount from the first chamber 24a is delivered. After the liquid from the first chamber 24a to the tax office 10th has been emptied, a lot of steam follows, which is sufficient to switch the steam switch 84 trigger and switch off the heating element. The pressure in the first chamber 24a then falls off and the floating valve components 34 drop, leaving water in the second chamber 24b the first chamber 24a can refill.

The water in the dispenser 10th through the delivery outlet 60 through the second line 32 directed and through the delivery outlet 6 in the cup 90 submitted. The tax chamber 10th advantageously offers a space for the separation of the heated liquid and the associated steam, so that predominantly the heated liquid through the discharge outlet 6 and not heated liquid and steam, which can cause the liquid to atomize when dispensing. As previously mentioned, this can result in a more laminar flow of liquid from the exhaust outlet 6 and reduce the amount of steam emitted that can be dangerous.

17th shows a perspective view of a liquid heating device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The liquid heating device shown is similar to that in FIGS 1-16 Liquid heater shown, except that there is a dispensing arrangement 172 with a discharge outlet, not shown in this figure, which is configured to control the valve actuation arrangement (not shown). As in 17th can be seen, the dispensing order is 172 in a non-dispensing position, that is, a position that corresponds to the use of the liquid heating device in a kettle mode.

18A shows a perspective view of the dispensing assembly 172 , isolated from the remaining components of the liquid heating device, seen from the rear when it is in the non-dispensing position. The dispensing order 172 has a main body 174 on which their components are mounted. A front panel accessible to the user on the outside of the device 176 , from which the dispensing outlet extends, is in the housing 174 swivel mounted and over arms 180 with a shortcut 178 pivotally connected. The link 178 is also pivotable on a bracket 182 on the main body 174 assembled. The link 178 is not shown, but is operatively connected to the valve actuation arrangement in the device so that the valve actuation arrangement can be moved between its first and second positions, whereby the floating valve components can be controlled. The dispensing assembly stops in the position shown in this figure 172 the valve actuator assembly in its second position, thereby keeping the valves open to operate in the kettle mode.

18B shows a side view of the dispensing arrangement 172 in the non-delivery position and is referenced for later comparison purposes 20B provided.

19th shows a perspective view of the liquid heating device according to the second embodiment of the present invention with the dispensing arrangement 172 in the delivery position.

20A shows a perspective view of the dispensing assembly 172 , isolated from the remaining components of the liquid heating device, seen from the rear when it is in the dispensing position. As can be seen in this figure, the front panel 176 pulled out to the dispensing outlet 106 to expose. The delivery outlet 106 is not shown, but is connected to a line that is in fluid communication with the first chamber in the device. Because the front panel 176 has been swung out due to the connection between the poor 180 and the link 178 and the fact that the shortcut 178 is pivotally mounted, a distal end 184 the link 178 has been pivoted upwards. The link 178 is suitably coupled to the valve actuation assembly so that this movement is sufficient to move the valve actuation assembly from its second to its first position.

20B shows a side view of the dispensing arrangement 172 in the delivery position. If you compare this figure with 19B , you can see how the distal end 184 the link 178 was pivoted upwards.

21 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view through the partition 22 . Here you can see that the partition 22 is arched and a point in the middle 22a Has. One of the valves 26 is on this top 22a . If the first chamber 24a filled with liquid will become in the top 22a Collect air and through the valve 26 to the second chamber 24b reach. This arrangement will therefore help reduce the amount in the first chamber 24a to minimize trapped air.

22 shows a perspective view of a power supply lower part 92 on which the device, as shown in previous figures, can be placed to connect the device to a power supply. The lower part of the power supply 92 has a wireless electrical connector 94 on that in the wireless adapter located on the device 20 intervenes. The wireless electrical connector 94 is electrical with a power cord 96 connected that with a plug 98 connected is. The plug 98 can be of any suitable type for connection to an electrical power supply.

23 shows a perspective view of the device on the power supply lower part 92 is set to power the device. In this view, an outer cover of the device is removed to show how the device with the power supply base 92 is coupled.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is only included for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• WO 2010/094945 [0003]

Claims (25)

A liquid heating device with: a liquid reservoir which has a first chamber which is arranged under a second chamber and is separated by a partition wall extending therebetween, a heating arrangement arranged to heat liquid contained in the first chamber during operation; a first valve and a second valve disposed in the partition to selectively flow liquid between the first and second chambers, and each valve having a floating valve member arranged to float and into a respective one Engages valve seat and thereby closes the valve to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a liquid outlet in the first chamber which is in fluid communication with a dispensing outlet provided on the device, so that liquid can be dispensed from the first chamber when the first and second valves are closed, and a valve actuator assembly for selectively holding each floating valve member spaced from the valve seat to hold each valve open, the valve actuator assembly being arranged to move between a first position in which the floating valve members can float freely to engage the respective valve seats and a second position in which the valve actuation assembly prevents the floating valve components from floating, thereby keeping the valves open. Liquid heating device after Claim 1 , wherein the heating arrangement arranged for heating liquid in the first chamber is the only heating arrangement in the liquid heating device. A liquid heating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid heating device comprises one or more further valves arranged in the partition to selectively flow liquid between the first and second chambers. A liquid heating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the partition has an arched shape, the partition optionally being symmetrical so that the highest point is substantially at the center of the partition. Liquid heating device after Claim 4 , where one of the valves is located at the highest point of the curvature. Liquid heating device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid reservoir has a spout which is arranged such that liquid can be poured out of the device, optionally one of the valves in the partition being arranged substantially below the spout. A liquid heating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the liquid heating device further comprises a handle. Liquid heating device after Claim 7 , in which one of the valves in the partition is arranged substantially opposite the handle. A liquid heating device of any preceding claim, wherein the liquid heating device further comprises a dispensing chamber disposed between the liquid outlet and the dispensing outlet so that the liquid first passes through the dispensing chamber before it exits the dispensing outlet. Liquid heating device after Claim 9 wherein the dispensing chamber has a fluid inlet in communication with the fluid outlet of the first chamber, a first fluid outlet in communication with the dispensing outlet and a second fluid outlet in communication with the second chamber to return undelivered water to the second chamber. Liquid heating device after Claim 10 wherein the dispensing chamber has a valve element that is arranged to selectively close the first or second fluid outlet. Liquid heating device after Claim 11 , wherein the valve actuation arrangement is further arranged such that in the first position the valve actuation arrangement acts on the valve element to close the second liquid outlet, and in a second position the valve actuation arrangement acts on the valve element to close the first liquid outlet. A liquid heating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the liquid heating device comprises a thermomechanical element that is arranged to be sensitive to a temperature within the device and is arranged to turn off a power supply to the heating arrangement when the thermomechanical element is at a predefined temperature detected. Liquid heating device after Claim 13 , in which the thermomechanical element is arranged in such a way that it is sensitive to temperature in both the first and the second chamber. Liquid heating device according to one of the Claims 9 - 12th , wherein: the liquid heating device includes a thermomechanical element that is arranged to turn off a power supply to the heating arrangement when the thermomechanical element detects a predefined temperature; and the thermomechanical element is disposed in the dispensing chamber and the dispensing chamber has a steam inlet arranged to allow steam to enter the second chamber. A liquid heating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the valve actuation assembly includes an elastic member that is arranged to hold the valve actuation assembly in the first or second position. A liquid heating device of any preceding claim, wherein the dispensing outlet is movable between a dispensing position and a non-dispensing position and is coupled to the valve actuation assembly such that when the dispensing outlet is moved to the dispensing position, the valve actuation assembly is moved to its first position and when the dispensing outlet is moved into the Non-dispensing position is moved, the valve actuation assembly is moved to its second position. A liquid heating device of any preceding claim, wherein the dispensing outlet is movable between a dispensing position and a non-dispensing position and is coupled to the valve actuator assembly such that when the valve actuator assembly is moved to its first position, the dispensing outlet is moved to its dispensing position and when the valve actuator assembly is in its second position is moved, the dispensing outlet is moved to its non-dispensing position. Liquid heating device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the partition has a maximum lateral dimension or side dimension and the first and second valve are separated by at least 50% of the maximum side dimension, preferably by at least 70% of the maximum side dimension. A liquid heating device according to any preceding claim, in which the floating valve components of the first and second valves and, if provided, any further valve are interconnected. A liquid heating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the liquid heating device comprises an underfloor heating arrangement arranged to heat the lower part of the first chamber. Liquid heating device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating arrangement comprises a jacketed electrical heating arrangement. Liquid heating device after Claim 22 , wherein at least one of the valves is arranged directly over an area between two terminations of the heating arrangement. The liquid heater of any preceding claim, wherein the liquid heater is a wireless heater. Liquid heating device after Claim 24 , wherein the liquid reservoir is arranged so that it mates with a corresponding power supply lower part.

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