GB2482369A - Mounting a liquid heating element plate into a liquid heating vessel - Google Patents

Abstract

A liquid heating vessel 1 having a metal wall and a heating element plate mounted within the vessel by a mounting means 414; the element plate being sealed 400 into the vessel against a surface separate from the mounting means. The mounting means may be located above or below the surface against which the element plate is sealed. The element plate may comprise a peripheral annular member. The element plate is sealed into the vessel by a seal, which may comprise one or more circumferential fins. The mounting means may be attached to the inner surface of the wall, spaced from the lower end of the wall. The mounting means may comprise an annular component, which may be a split ring. Also included is a cordless optical coupling, a spill-inhibiting means, a removable lid assembly, capacitive level sensing, a user interface, turbulence detection, volume-related temperature sensing, overheating prevention means, a multiple action actuator, pumped circulation through a filter, a packable cordless base, a reduced diameter vessel and a cordless electrical and mechanical rotary connector.

Description

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Field of the Invention

[01] The present invention relates to vessels for heated liquid, to electrical appliances and components therefor. Some aspects of the invention are directed to cordless electrical appliances. Other aspects are directed to liquid heating appliances with safety features to reduce or eliminate spillage if the appliance is accidentally tipped or knocked over. Other aspects are directed to liquid level sensors for liquid vessels.

Background of the Invention

[02] In a cordless appliance, the appliance proper includes a cordless connector that is operable to cooperate with a corresponding cordless connector on a power base. Thus, when the appliance proper is mounted on the power base, power may be supplied to the appliance proper. Such arrangements allow a power base to be connected to a domestic power supply (such as by a plug), whilst further allowing the appliance proper to be removed from the base for various operations, such as dispensing heated liquid from a cordless liquid heating appliance. The above types of cordless electrical connectors have also found use on other domestic appliances, such as food processors, blenders and the like. This arrangement provides an advantage that the processed/blended food can be more easily dispensed by a user.

[03] 360° cordless connectors, as described for example in WO-A-94/06185, allow the appliance proper to be rotated freely relative to the power base, so that the appliance proper may be positioned on the power base with any azimuthal orientation.

[04] However, as will be appreciated, appliances such as food processors, blenders and, to a lesser extent kettle jugs, need regular cleaning. In particular, cordless appliances for containing food or liquids other than water require cleaning after each use. Such a task is time consuming and may be difficult to perform manually.

[05J It would be desirable to provide a cordless appliance where the detachable part of the appliance can be washed in a dishwasher, by immersion in water or otherwise easily cleaned. Sealing arrangements for such a washproof appliance are disclosed in WO-A-09/109762.

[06] It would be preferable to minimize the components in the appliance proper that need to be seated, such as electrical components. For example, electrical power switching components may be located in the power base, but this requires some means of signalling the state of the appliance proper to the power base, so that power may be switched in response to the state of the appliance proper.

[07] One way of signalling from the appliance proper to the power base is to provide additional electrical contacts therebetween, for example as disclosed in GB-A-2378818 or in WO-A-01/282294. However, these additional contacts must themselves be sealed if the appliance proper is to be washable. Moreover, any debris on the low voltage contacts may prevent electrical contact from being made, and the debris will not be burnt away as might occur on high-voltage contacts.

[08] WO-A-2008/155538 discloses a cordless appliance with wireless signalling between the appliance proper and the base, for example by means of a circular light guide concentric with a cordless electrical connector. Whilst this arrangement is advantageous in that it allows signalling between the appliance proper and the base while allowing the use of 3600 cordless connectors, the arrangement requires additional optical connecting components which add to the complexity of the arrangement.

[09] With electrical liquid heating appliances, there is a risk of spillage of hot liquid if the appliance is accidentally tipped or knocked over. Since the liquid may be at or close to boiling, such spillage can cause severe scalding to the user or bystanders.

[10] There have been many proposals in the state of the art to reduce or inhibit such spillage, most of which are impractical or at least have never been incorporated into commercial products. The solutions proposed in the state of the art are generally one of two types: automatic types in which liquid can only be poured out when the appliance is in a particular orientation, and manual types in which liquid can only be poured out when an interlock is manually released. The state of the art is mostly directed to domestic water boiling appliances, referred to hereafter as safety kettles.

[11] One particular problem common to both types is the need to allow pressure release, particularly to release steam pressure within the appliance. For example, JP-A-2008212315 discloses a manual type safety kettle with a separate venting outlet for steam. In tests of a Tiger' brand kettle commercially available in Japan and based on the disclosure of that patent application, boiling water spurted vigorously from the venting outlet when the kettle was tipped onto its side. However, if the heating vessel were completely closed by the interlock, as for example in GB-A-2272629, there is a risk that steam pressure will build up inside the vessel until it explodes. GB-A-2305353 discloses a safety kettle with a steam valve that closes when the kettle is tipped over. However, in the case of a corded kettle, the water may continue to boil after the kettle is tipped over, so that steam pressure builds up inside the kettle. In the case of a cordless kettle, the temperature difference between the heating element and the water may cause boiling to continue for a short while after the kettle is knocked over, so that pressure would also build up to some degree.

[12] Automatic-type safety kettles generally do not address the problem of pressure build-up. For example, GB-A-2 189378 discloses a spout flap that closes automatically if the kettle is not orientated correctly for pouring. DE-A-197408261 discloses a kettle lid that can only be opened when the kettle is upright.

[13] Another problem to be addressed in safety kettles and the like is the need to allow easy filling and pouring. In the state of the art, the safety features intended to inhibit spillage also tend to make pouring or filling more difficult.

[14] Another problem to be addressed is the reliable detection and/or indication of liquid level in a vessel when the vessel is at a substantial angle from the vertical, such as when the vessel is tipped forwards or backwards for filling. WO-A-2008/155538 discloses a magnetic float arranged to actuate one or more of a series of reed switches at different heights; alternatively, an array of electrodes or capacitive level sensors may be used. WO-A- 2008/119966 discloses the use of a capacitive level sensor array positioned around the perimeter of a kettle, either within or outside the water reservoir, to measure the water level when the kettle is at an angle.

[15] A problem with liquid heating appliances, particularly ones where the user may control the volume of liquid to be dispensed and/or heated, and the temperature to which the liquid is to be heated, is that the user interface becomes complex and unintuitive, particularly where separate user-actuable controls are required to set the volume and the temperature.

[16] A problem with liquid heating appliances that heat a small quantity of liquid is the need to dispense all the water that has been boiled in a speedy manner to minimise the energy wastage.

[17] Another problem with liquid heating appliances that heat a small quantity of liquid is the difficulties in sensing and controlling the liquid temperature. WO-A-2009/060 192 discloses a method of detecting boiling or simmering in a liquid heating vessel by emitting electromagnetic radiation towards the surface of the liquid and detecting reflection of the radiation from the surface, or transmission of the radiation through the surface, either of which are affected by turbulence in the surface, characteristic of simmering or boiling.

[18] There is a need to implement this method in a manner that is tolerant to the characteristics of the liquid as it is heated and tolerant to different appliance types, particularly where the appliance types are partially or completely manufactured from a transparent or internally reflective material.

[19] In addition, the method should preferably operate across a range of liquid levels and a range of translucency of the liquid, either as an inherent characteristic of the liquid or a transient state of translucency of the liquid, for example due to aeration. The method also needs to be tolerant of the characteristics of components and the effect of usage and aging in the appliance, for example scale build up on the emitters and receivers.

[20] There is a need to save energy when heating liquids for domestic use. It is known that energy can be saved in the following manner: * Heating only the amount of liquid required (e.g. Hot Water on Demand) * Heating the liquid to the required dispensing temperature.

* Quickly dispensing all the liquid heated.

Whereas the above solutions are well known, the practical implementation, particularly for volumes as low as 1 50m1 in high power appliances, is difficult to achieve.

[21] In particular, there are problems to overcome in sensing or controlling the liquid temperature, particularly the temperature lag between the heating means and the liquid to be heated, and the resultant overshoot of the heat into the liquid after the heater has been de-energised.

[22] WO-A-2010/094945 discloses methods to alleviate the overshoot by adding additional liquid into the vessel after the liquid has boiled and also discloses methods to mix cooler liquid with boiled liquid so that the dispensed liquid is at a temperature below boiling.

123] Unpublished application GB 0914191.2 and published application GB-A-2448767 put forward improvements to reduce the overall manufacturing and transport costs of small appliances, but still further improvements need to be made.

[24] Patent publications WO-A-99/17645, WO-A-00/33709 and GB-A-2459 102 disclose examples of arrangements for securing and sealing an element plate in a vessel body.

[25] In the prior art there are various applications that incorporate motor driven functions, for example, food mixers or blenders and coffee grinders, where the appliance is in two parts.

[26] Generally the electrical motor is in the base part which is mechanically connected via a rotatable coupling to, for example, a cutting, shredding or whisking tool in the upper part. The upper part may also act as a removable container so that the food or liquid that has been processed can be easily removed from the appliance, for example, to be poured into a drinking vessel. Whilst removed from the lower base the upper container may then be washed, for example, in a dishwasher.

[27] Generally the mechanical coupling between the base and removable container is in the centre of the removable container so that, for example, the removable container is balanced during the rotating function and the removable container may be rotatably secured to the base via a bayonet fit for example.

[28] More recently appliances, for example heated food mixers and soya makers, have also included electrical functions, for example a heating element within the removable container so that it has been necessary to provide a disconnectable power supply between the base and the removable container.

[29] In the prior art the central portion of the container includes a mechanical connection; therefore it has been necessary to position the electrical connection to one side of the centre in which case it has not been possible to rotatably secure the top container to the base.

Furthermore the connection on the side takes up additional space which can spoil the style or outlook, particularly in smaller appliances and in some cases compact appliances need to be increased in size to accommodate the two functions.

[30] Other prior art appliances incorporate a centrally mounted electrical connector in the base and the motor in the removable container which increases the size and weight of the removable container.

[31] W02008/012506 describes a waterproof or dishwasher proof cordless electric connector suitable for small cordless electric appliances. When installed the said connector enables the electrical appliance to be washed (when separated from the power base) so that liquid does not enter the electrical parts of the appliance through the cordless connector.

[32] W02008/012506 and W02009/109762 disclose means to seal the waterproof connector into the appliance and means to seal other parts of the appliance against water ingress.

[33] The applicant's Easifix (RTM) sealing system, as described for example in WO 99/17645, provides a convenient method of sealing and fixing a heating element plate in a liquid heating vessel, such as a kettle.

[34] One of the solutions provided by the Easifix (RTM) relies upon the Easifix seal being stretched around an element plate to effect the seal between the seal and the plate and then the outwardly facing ribs acting as a resilient seal to effect a seal between the seal and for example, an appliance body, thus effecting a seal without the need to provide addition compression forces.

11351 WO-A-94/06 185 discloses a 3600 cordless electrical connection between the appliance proper and the power base of electrical appliances. WO-A-2001/028294 discloses additional poles or connector means on a 360° cordless electrical connector for example to act as communication means between the appliance proper and the cordless base. WO-A- 08/0 12506 and WO-A-1 1/012891 discloses provisions in a 360° cordless electrical connection to waterproof one or both of the cordless socket and or plug.

[36J One problem with existing systems is the size of the footprint' or cross section of the components which can limit the style and type of appliance in which the cordless connection system is used. This is a particular problem where additional poles or connections are required which tends to make the connector both bulky and unsightly.

11371 One method to reduce the manufacturing costs of metallic-bodied appliances is to provide a system for removably securing elements into metal bodied vessels as part of the assembly line process. Generally, in the prior art, heating elements are installed into metal bodied appliances in a manner that does not easily facilitate removal.

[38] Stainless steel is the most used material for metal bodied water heating appliances, principally kettles and jugs, and these may be provided with different surface coatings or finish for example polished, matt, textured or colour coated stainless steel.

11391 The manufacture of the metallic vessel bodies, including welding and polishing/coating, is a dirty, dusty process such that this process takes place in a segregated area away from the clean environment of the kettle assembly line and in many cases off site' by specialist sub-contractors.

[401 The element is generally installed into the vessel ahead of the polishing/coating which adds an extra journey in the supply chain of the elements and also ties up capital for longer.

[41] There is a general trend to minimise the visibility of the plastic sub-base on stainless steel kettles so that it is necessary for the wall of the vessel body to extend right down to the base of the appliance so that very little of the plastic sub base is visible when the kettle is placed upright.

[42] The element plate is generally welded into place in the vessel which serves to secure the element plate within the vessel and to provide a seal between the element plate and the vessel body. It would be desirable to provide an assembly method whereby the sealing means is not dependant upon the attachment means and vice versa.

1431 It is possible to weld the element into place within the vessel body at a proximal height to the top surface of the plate, however it is difficult to access this area for continuous welding within the vessel body and the continuous weld causes a witness mark on the outside of the vessel that is difficult to remove.

11441 To overcome this, the element plate is generally secured to the vessel around the base of the vessel where it is easier to control the weld quality and to polishlcoat after the welding process.

[451 Generally there is a chamber situated beneath the top part of the element to provide room for the thennal control, and an aperture maybe required into the chamber through the vessel wall, for example for an access for switch actuator, wires or electrical conductors. In the case that the element is sealed at the bottom of the vessel then additional sealing means is required around this aperture.

Statements of the Invention

1461 In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a pressure relieving system for a liquid heating vessel comprising at least two apertures, characterised in that when the vessel is in its upright position the apertures are fluidly connected to atmosphere and when the vessel is in a tipped position one of the apertures is fluidly connected to atmosphere whilst the flow of liquid from the other aperture is impeded.

[47] Preferably when the vessel is in a tipped position, said aperture that is fluidly connected to atmosphere is above a liquid level in the vessel, and said aperture with impeded flow of liquid is below the liquid level in the vessel.

[48] Preferably the apertures are located towards the periphery of the vessel.

[491 Preferably the pressure relieving means comprises two apertures and a chamber therebetween, the chamber having a valve mechanism operating between at least first and second position.

[50] Preferably the chamber comprises at least one vent.

[51] Preferably when the vessel is in its upright position the valve mechanism allows the apertures to be fluidly connected to atmosphere via the chamber and the or each vent, and when the vessel is in a tipped position the valve mechanism allows the aperture that is above the liquid level to be fluidly connected to atmosphere via the chamber and the or each vent, whilst the flow of liquid from the aperture that is below the liquid level is impeded.

[52] Preferably the at least one vent is also fluidly connected to a steam-sensitive control switch.

1531 Preferably the chamber comprises at least two mating surfaces for the or each valve.

11541 Preferably the or each valve is a float valve, a weight-operated valve, a sliding valve, a gate valve or a pendulum valve.

11551 Preferably the or each valve is a float valve further comprises two valve members connected by an intermediate member.

[56] Preferably each valve member comprises a frusto-conical valve or a ball valve.

[57] Preferably each aperture is fluidly connected to an inlet of a conduit, each said conduit having a respective outlet.

11581 Preferably the pressure relieving means comprises two apertures.

11591 Preferably when the vessel is in its upright position the inlets and outlets of the conduits are fluidly connected to atmosphere; and when the vessel is in a tipped position the inlet that is above the liquid level is fluidly connected to atmosphere via its respective conduit and outlet, whilst the flow of liquid from the other conduit is impeded as its inlet is below the liquid level and its outlet remains above the liquid level.

11601 Preferably the outlets are also fluidly connected to a steam-sensitive control switch.

[61] Preferably each conduit comprises a plurality of baffles.

[621 Preferably the baffles are arranged in a staggered arrangement.

[63] Preferably the pressure relieving system is fixed or removably secured to a vessel body.

[641 According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance having a liquid heating chamber, a filter, and means for circulating liquid from the liquid heating chamber through the filter and back into the chamber.

[651 Particles forming within the liquid at elevated temperature may be kept in suspension by the circulation and therefore inhibited from being deposited on or around the heating chamber.

[66] Suspended particles may be filtered out prior to the water re-entering the vessel.

[67] The circulation may be sufficient to prevent the noises normally associated with the heating of static water.

[68] During a heating cycle from ambient, the flow rate of the circulation may be sufficient to filter the volume of liquid contained in the chamber more than once.

[69] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a user interface for a liquid heating appliance, the interface being rotationally actuable to select first and second parameter value settings for the appliance.

[70] The interface may be arranged to cycle through discrete values of the first parameter setting, while changing the value of the second parameter setting on each said cycle, in response to said rotational user actuation.

[71] Alternatively, the user interface may be responsive to a further user actuation by switching between changing the first and second parameter value settings in response to said rotation user actuation.

[72J The user interface may include means for indicating the selected first and second parameter value settings; this may comprise a display located within a rotationally actuable portion of the user interface.

[73] A portion of the user interface may be mechanically rotatable, and/or touch sensitive.

[74] The first parameter may comprise a temperature to which liquid is to be heated. The second parameter may comprise a volume of heated liquid to be dispensed.

175] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a user interface for a liquid heating appliance, having a rotational user actuator to select at least first and second parameter settings for the appliance.

[76] According to another aspect of the invention there is described means to control and dispense small volumes of liquid.

[77] According to another aspects of the invention there is described an appliance that heats and dispenses small volumes of liquid.

[78] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a means to partially or fully prime a liquid heating chamber before the heating means is energised so that the heating means does not overheat.

179] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided means to maintain sufficient liquid in a liquid heating chamber so as to avoid overheating when the heater is switched on.

[80] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided an actuator that serves to inhibit the influx of liquid into the heating chamber during the dispensing operation.

[81] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a spill-inhibiting apparatus for a liquid heating vessel having an outlet for dispensing liquid, the apparatus having a valve through which the liquid can be dispensed, the valve being arranged to close when the vessel is tipped to one side relative to the outlet, and to open when the vessel is tipped towards the outlet. This provides a convenient arrangement for reducing spillage, without requiring the user to manually open the vessel for dispensing. The arrangement may include a valve sealing or operating member that moves to one side or the other under gravity.

[82] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spill-inhibiting apparatus for a liquid heating vessel having a valve through which liquid can be dispensed, the valve being arranged to open under steam pressure within the vessel, and being arranged to close when the vessel is tipped over. In this way, a single valve provides both steam venting and spill prevention from the vessel.

[83] The valve may comprise an overcentre mechanism that closes the valve when the vessel is tipped.

[84] Preferably, the valve is arranged to be normally closed when the vessel is in an upright orientation. In this way, thermal losses through the valve can be reduced. The valve may have first sealing faces that close when the vessel is in an upright orientation, and second sealing faces that close when the vessel is tipped.

[85] The valve may be prevented from closing when the vessel is tipped by a user-actuated mechanism, to allow dispensing of liquid through the valve. Alternatively or additionally, the valve may be prevented from closing when the vessel is tipped in a specific orientation, without the need for user actuation of the valve.

[86] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a spill-inhibiting apparatus for a liquid heating vessel having an outlet for dispensing liquid from the vessel, and a user actuated mechanism arranged to open the dispensing outlet for dispensing when actuated. The user-actuated mechanism may be biased to a closed position so that liquid cannot be dispensed through the dispensing aperture. In one embodiment, in the closed position the dispensing outlet is open to a steam passage that opens towards an opposite side of the vessel from the dispensing outlet. Tn another embodiment, there is provided a separate steam outlet from the dispensing outlet. The separate steam outlet may be closed by a valve that opens under steam pressure, but may close when the vessel is tipped.

[87] According to another aspect of the invention there is described a removable lid assembly that incorporates a hinge lid part.

[88] According to another aspect of the invention there is described a removable lid assembly that incorporates a hinge lid part and spill inhibiting features.

[89] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a 360° cordless base that can be stored within its associated cordless appliance, thus allowing more efficient packing.

[90] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless base comprising a central cordless connector and a plurality of supports extending outwardly from the central portion. One or more of the supports may be retractable, rotatable or otherwise moveable to reduce the dimensions of the cordless base when not in use. A detachable cover may be provided for the supports.

[91] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a cordless base comprising a central cordless connector and a detachable annular portion into which the central portion fits. The central cordless connector may fit within an associated cordless appliance. The annular portion may be folded or disassembled to fit within the associated cordless appliance, or may fit an external part of the appliance, for compact packing.

[92] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless electrical appliance having a cordless base that is substantially hidden from the user when the appliance is located thereon. This may allow a single or standard cordless base to be used with any one of a number of different appliances, without the need to match the appearance of the base to that of the appliance, so reducing material, tool and assembly costs and improving economies of scale. A further advantage is that the appearance of the appliance may be enhanced, since the base is concealed in normal use.

[93] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid vessel having a liquid reservoir and a capacitive liquid level sensor for sensing the liquid level within the reservoir, the sensor comprising a plurality of capacitor plates each extending in a vertical direction of the reservoir and making a capacitive coupling with liquid within the reservoir through a portion of the wall of the reservoir, the capacitor plates being mutually spaced apart around the circumference of the reservoir such that the combined capacitance through the capacitor plates is representative of the volume of liquid within the reservoir, substantially independently of the angle of tipping of the reservoir.

[94] Preferably, the vessel has an outer wall outside the wall of the reservoir.

[95] The vessel may include means for indicating the volume of liquid within the reservoir in response to the liquid level sensor. The means for indicating may be substantially continuously variable, or may be responsive to one or more liquid level thresholds being exceeded.

[96] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless electrical appliance comprising an appliance proper and a power base connectable together by means of respective cordless electrical connectors, the appliance proper having a component sealed therein by means of a seal and being arranged to communicate with the power base by means of electromagnetic radiation conveyed through the seal. Preferably, the electromagnetic radiation comprises light and the seal is arranged to act as a light guide for the light.

[971 Advantageously, this arrangement allows wireless signalling between the appliance proper and the base without the need for an additional light guide, thereby allowing the appliance proper to be made washable with fewer components.

[98] The seal may be concentric with the cordless electrical connector on the appliance proper, and the power base may include optical communication means arranged to interact with the seal when the appliance proper and the power base are connected electrically together, regardless of the relative rotation of the cordless electrical connectors.

Advantageously, this arrangement allows the use of 360° cordless connectors. The seal may be arranged to seal the cordless electrical connector within the appliance proper.

[99] The seal within the appliance proper and/or the power base may include an optical transmitter and/or receiver located within the seal, for example within a pocket in the seal.

This arrangement improves the optical coupling between the seal and the transmitter and/or receiver.

[100] An additional light guide may be positioned in optical communication with the seal and within the power base and/or electrical appliance.

[101] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided sub-assemblies that provide a power supply and single or hi-directional optical communication for waterproof and non-waterproof appliances.

[1021 According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless electrical appliance comprising an appliance proper and a power base, wherein a first, unidirectional signalling link is provided between the appliance proper and the power base, and a second, discrete signalling link is provided between the appliance proper and the power base.

[103] The second signalling link may be unidirectional, in a direction opposite to that of the first signalling link. One of said first and second signalling links may be an optical signalling link, while the other one may be an electrical signalling link. The electrical signalling link may be through one or more power terminals of a cordless electrical connection between the appliance proper and the base.

[104] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided standby means so that optical communication can be maintained when the appliance part is de-energised or disconnected from the base part.

[105] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided means to enhance the optical characteristics of optical light guides.

[106] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a control system for a cordless appliance configured so that the base part provides a low voltage power supply to the appliance to monitor the status of the appliance and a higher voltage supply when there is need to power a high load component, for example an element in the appliance.

[107] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating vessel, comprising: a. an emitter arranged to direct an optical beam towards the surface of liquid within the vessel; b. a receiver aligned with said optical beam to receive said optical beam passing through said surface; and c. a detector for detecting variations in the level of the received optical beam so as to detect simmering or boiling of the liquid; wherein the emitter is arranged above the surface of the liquid and the detector is arranged below the surface of the liquid.

[108] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating vessel, comprising: a. an emitter arranged to direct an optical beam towards the surface of liquid within the vessel; b. a receiver aligned with said optical beam to receive said optical beam passing through said surface; and c. a detector for detecting variations in the level of the received optical beam so as to detect simmering or boiling of the liquid.

wherein the emitter is arranged to direct the beam substantially orthogonally to said surface.

[109] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of detecting simmering or boiling of a liquid in a liquid heating vessel, the method comprising: a. illuminating the surface of the liquid with an optical signal; b. detecting the optical signal as received from the surface; c. determining a normalised level of variation of the received optical signal; and d. comparing the normalised level of variation with a predetermined criterion so as to detect simmering or boiling of the liquid.

[110] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of detecting simmering or boiling of a liquid in a liquid heating vessel, the method comprising: a. illuminating the surface of the liquid with a modulated optical signal; and b. detecting the optical signal as received from the surface, so as to detect simmering or boiling of the liquid; wherein the modulation of the modulated optical signal is adjusted so as to maximize the detected optical signal.

[111] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of detecting simmering or boiling of a liquid in a liquid heating vessel, the method comprising: a. illuminating the surface of the liquid with an optical signal; and b. detecting the optical signal as received from the surface, so as to detect simmering or boiling of the liquid; wherein the level of the received optical signal is adjusted so as to improve detection of simmering or boiling.

[112] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a thermal control having a wire integrated therein for connection to a heating element.

[113] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a water proof or washproof liquid heating appliance including any or all of the other inventions described herein.

[114] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an integrated centrally mounted mechanical and electrical connection means between a power base and a removable container including both an electrical function and rotatable function on the same axis.

[1151 According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an integrated centrally mounted mechanical and electrical connection means between a power base including a motor and a removable container including both an electrical function and motor driven rotatable function on the same axis where that rotational function is motor driven.

[116] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an integrated centrally mounted mechanical and electrical connection means between a power base including a motor and a washable removable container including both an electrical function and motor driven function in which there is two way optical communication between the base and the container.

[117] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an integrated centrally mounted mechanical and electrical connection means between a power base including a motor and a washable removable container including both an electrical function and motor driven function in which there is the provision for one or two way communication between the base and the container.

[118] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an integrated centrally mounted mechanical and electrical connection means between a power base including a motor and a washable removable container including both an electrical function and motor driven function in which there is the provision for one or two way wireless communication between the base and the container.

[119] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an integrated centrally mounted mechanical motor driven and electrical connection means in which the dual functionality enables a bayonet type locking mechanism.

[120] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a compact integrated centrally mounted mechanical motor driven and electrical connection means in which the dual functionality enables more compact appliances to be designed.

[121] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a waterproof cordless connector with improved electrical creepage and clearance distances on the dry side to make provision against leakage through the appliance.

[122] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a seal for a waterproof cordless connector including means to optimise the transfer of light or other electromagnetic radiation through the seal.

[123] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a seal for a waterproof cordless connector in which additional circumferential ribs are provided inboard of the extremities of the seal.

1124] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a 3 or more pole 3600 connection system for electrical appliances in which the spatial requirements are reduced.

Two poles of the connector may be positioned within a central portion so that the cross section or footprint' is narrower than prior art connectors. This arrangement allows all poles to be isolated from access by the user. In the case of a 3 pole connector, only two apertures are required in the base moulding. In the case of a 4 or more pole connector, only three apertures are required in the base moulding.

[125] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a waterproof 3600 connection system for electrical appliances in which the spatial requirements are reduced.

[126] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a resilient seal for a water heating vessel in which the height of the seal is substantially equal to the combined height of an outwardly facing fin or fins on the seal.

[127] The radii of the seals may be substantially equal to the radii of an element plate in the positions in which the seal and the plate are in contact.

[128] The seal may mate with the element plate including a lip at the periphery and the lip protrudes into the seal in the region of one of the fins so that the seal may be retained about the lip.

[129] The seal may mate with the element plate including a lip at the periphery and at least one further radii and the lip protrudes into the seal in the region of one of the fins and the seal protrudes over the at least one further radii so that the seal may be retained about lip and the radii.

[130] The seal may mate with the element plate without a lip at the periphery and the seal may protrude beneath the periphery so that the seal may be retained about the periphery.

11311 The seat may mate with a surface of the heating plate without a lip at the periphery and at least one radii so that the seal protrudes beneath the periphery and over the at least one radii so that the seal may be retained about the periphery and the radii.

[132] The above arrangements may provide savings in material costs of between 15 and 30% over prior art seals, and/or between 5 and 15% over prior art element plates 12.

[133] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a vessel, an element plate sealed within the vessel by a resilient seal and having support means provided between an internal wall of the vessel and the element characterised in that the support means enables the vessel and the element to be disassembled and reassembled without damaging either the vessel and/or the element.

[1341 According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a vessel, an element plate sealed within the vessel by a resilient seal and having support means provided between an internal wall of the vessel and the element characterised in that the support means enables the vessel and the element to be disassembled and reassembled without damaging either the vessel and/or the element and without substantially resulting in blemishes or markings on the exterior of the vessel.

[135] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a vessel, an element plate sealed within the vessel by a resilient seal and having an annular ring provided on an internal wall of the vessel, characterised in that the annular ring having at least one feature for allowing the element plate to be secured to the annular ring.

1136] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a vessel formed from a metallic material and an element plate sealed within the vessel by a resilient seal and having an annular ring provided on an internal wall of the vessel, characterised in that the annular ring having at least one feature for allowing the element plate to be removably secured to the annular ring.

[137] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a vessel formed from a metallic material and an element plate sealed within the vessel by a resilient seal and having an annular ring provided on an internal wall of the vessel, characterised in that the annular ring having at least one feature for allowing the element plate to be removably secured to the annular ring and the element includes at least one feature to make attachment to an additional component of the appliance without the need for screw fixing.

[138] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a vessel and element plate in which the element plate is removably secured to the vessel by a circular ring or other means so that both upward and downward axial movement of the element is prevented.

[139] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless connector including a normally open switching means that may be closed by a downward force applied to a resilient spring and that resilient spring is provided with a second resilient portion that allows over travel after the normally open switching means is closed and the resilient portions are balanced so that the upward force from the combination of the two resilient springs is substantially equal to, at any given travel, the maximum upward force of an equivalent resilient spring without the second resilient portion.

[1401 According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a cordless electrical appliance comprising an appliance proper and a power base removably connectable together by a coupling, in which one part of the coupling is provided with a cover assembly for concealing internal components of said coupling.

[141] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a cordless electrical appliance comprising an appliance proper and a power base removably connectable together by a connector in which the female socket part of the connector prevents user access to live conductors and is provided with a cover assembly that allows access by the male plug to the live conductors within the female socket but prevents the user seeing the live conductors when the male plug is removed.

[142] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a cosmetic cover for a cordless electrical appliance comprising an appliance proper and a power base removably connectable together by a coupling, in which the female socket of the coupling meets the International Safety Approval Standards without the need to include a mechanical cover or shutter and the female socket is provided with the aforementioned cosmetic cover for concealing the apertures to each conductor, without substantially inhibiting the engagement and disengagement of the cooperating male plug.

[143] Cordless appliances, for example kettles and irons are well known and provide convenience for the user so that, for example, there is no need for the kettle to be disconnected from the wall socket prior to, for example, for filling, pouring.

[144] Prior art cordless appliances, for example, as described in the applicants granted patent EP0922426B 1 incorporate a coupling that comprises a first female connecting socket in the cordless base and a second male connecting plug in the cordless appliance so that power from the cordless base can be removably supplied to the cordless appliance.

[145] For clarity throughout the specification, any female connector or connecting part that includes the live electrical parts will be hereon referred to in the description as the socket and any male connector or connecting part that plugs into the socket will be hereon referred to as the plug.

[146] The conductors of electrical connectors are required to meet specific standards, whether National, Regional or International Standards. Earth conductors can be made accessible to users however live conductors should not, therefore, for example, when the appliance is removed from the cordless base, then the apertures in the socket are required to be of specific dimension to prevent the user from touching the live parts.

[147] Alternatively, or additionally, mechanical shutters may be provided in or on the socket to further prevent user access to live parts and also prevent debris entering the apertures, however the provision of a shutter can be problematic, for example, there is the necessity to overcome the pressure acting on the shutter when the appliance docks on the base and also the provision of extra parts that may increase the costs..

[148] Whilst many prior art cordless sockets do meet the National, Regional or International Standards without the need for shutters, it may still cause concern to the user that the electrical conductors are visible through the apertures in the socket when the appliance is removed from the cordless base.

[149] Furthermore the user does not normally differentiate between the requirements for the earth and the requirement for the live parts so that there may be further concern for the user if the earth conductor is positioned in a more visible manner so that, for example, to allow the earth connection to make first.

[150] It is known to provide sockets that incorporate resilient covers including cross shaped apertures for example in the proprietors patent publication WO-A-2011/012891 so that the pins of the cooperating the plug may enter socket; however the cross shape provides a great deal of additional friction and may inhibit the engagement and disengagement of the cooperating plug.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[151] There now follows, by way of example only, a detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the Figures identified below.

Figure 1 is a schematic cross-section of a cordless liquid heating appliance in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2a is a schematic diagram of the electrical and optical components of the cordless liquid heating appliance.

Figure 2b is a schematic diagram of the electrical and optical components of a further cordless liquid heating appliance.

Figure 3a is an isometric view of a waterproof cordless connector for a vessel body in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3b is an exploded view of the underside of the waterproof cordless connector for the vessel body.

Figure 4a is an isometric view of a waterproof cordless connector for a power base in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4b is an isometric view of the underside of the waterproof cordless connector for the power base.

Figure 4c is an exploded view of the waterproof cordless connector for the power base.

Figure 5 is a cross-section of the waterproof cordless connectors for the vessel body and the power base, connected together.

Figure 6 is a side view of a waterproof cordless connector for the vessel body, in an alternative embodiment.

Figure 7 is a side view of a waterproof cordless connector for the vessel body, in another alternative embodiment.

Figure 8a is an exploded view of a male cordless connector sub-assembly in a further embodiment.

Figure 8b is an assembled view of the sub-assembly of Figure 8a.

Figures 8c and 8d are exploded views of female cordless connector subassemblies arranged to connect to the male cordless connector sub-assembly of Figures 8a and 8b.

Figure 9a is a schematic cross-section of a liquid heating appliance with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in an embodiment of the invention.

Figures 9b to 9e show details of the safety feature, respectively in rest, boiling, pouring and tipping positions.

Figures 1 Oa to 1 Oc show details of an alternative safety feature, respectively in boiling, pouring and tipping positions.

Figures 11 a to 11 c show details of another alternative safety feature, respectively in boiling, pouring and tipping positions.

Figure 12a is a schematic cross-section of a liquid heating appliance with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 1 2b is a cut-away perspective view of a lid chamber arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 12a.

Figures 12c and 12d are schematic cross-sections of a venting arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 1 2a, with the user actuator in a normal position and actuated position respectively.

Figures 12e and 12f are schematic cross-sections of an alternative venting arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 12a, with the user actuator in a normal position and actuated position respectively.

Figures 12g and 12h are schematic cross-sections of another alternative venting arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 12a, with the user actuator in a normal position and actuated position respectively.

Figures 12i, 12j and 12k are schematic cross-sections of yet another alternative venting arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 12a, in upright, pouring and tipping configurations respectively.

Figures 121 and 1 2m are schematic cross-sections of another alternative venting arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 12a, with the user actuator in a normal position and actuated position respectively.

Figure 12n is a schematic isometric cutaway view of an actuator assembly; Figures 12o and l2p are schematic front views of the actuator assembly on a kettle that is resting on its side.

Figures 12q and 12r are schematic front views of a second embodiment of the actuator assembly on the kettle that is resting on its side.

Figures 1 2s and 1 2t are schematic front views of further embodiments of the actuator assembly on the kettle that is resting on its side.

Figure 12u is a schematic plan view of a third embodiment of the actuator assembly.

Figure 12v is a schematic front view of the actuator assembly of the third embodiment on the kettle that is resting on its side.

Figures 12w and 12x are schematic front views of a pressure relieving means on the kettle that is resting on its side.

Figures l2y and 12z are schematic front views of a second embodiment of the pressure relieving means on the kettle that is resting on its side.

Figure 13a is a schematic cross-section of a liquid heating appliance with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 1 3b is a perspective view of a lid chamber arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 13a, with the upper part of the lid removed.

Figures 13c and 13d are schematic cross-sections of the pouring aperture of the embodiment of Figure 13a, respectively in open and closed configurations.

Figures 13 e and 13 f are schematic top views of a second embodiment of the pressure relieving means of 13a on the kettle that is resting on its side.

Figure 13g is schematic cross-section views of a liquid heating vessel with pressure relieving means, wherein the liquid heating vessel is in its closed state.

Figure 13h is schematic cross-section views of the liquid heating vessel with pressure relieving means, wherein the liquid heating vessel is in its pouring state.

Figure 13i is schematic cross-section views of the liquid heating vessel with pressure relieving means, wherein the liquid heating vessel is in its filling state.

Figure 1 3j is schematic cross-section views of the liquid heating vessel with pressure relieving means, wherein the liquid heating vessel is in its closing state.

Figure 13k is schematic cross-section views of an embodiment of the liquid heating vessel with pressure relieving means, wherein the liquid heating vessel is in its closed state.

Figure 131 is schematic plan views of an embodiment of the liquid heating vessel shown in Figure 13k.

Figure 13 m is a schematic detail of the baffle means in Figure 131.

Figure 13 n is a schematic top view of the vessel of Figure 13k, that is resting on its side.

Figure 1 4a is a schematic cross-section of a liquid heating appliance with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 14b is a perspective cut-away view of the pouring aperture of the embodiment of Figure 14a.

Figure 1 4c and 1 4d are schematic cross-sections of the valve arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 14a, respectively in rest and pouring configurations.

Figures 14e to 14g are schematic cross-sections of an alternative valve arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 14a, respectively in rest position, pouring position and tilted to one side, viewed from the rear of the appliance.

Figure iSa is an exploded diagram of a lid with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure lSb is a perspective view of the lid in a pouring position.

Figure lSc is a perspective view of the lid when tipped over on one side.

Figure 16a is an exploded diagram of a lid with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 16b is a close-up perspective view of a pendulum of the lid.

Figure 1 6c is a cut-away cross-section of the lid in pouring position.

Figure 16d is a cut-away cross-section of the lid when tipped over on one side.

Figures 17a and 17b are plan views of a lid in another embodiment of the invention, including a venting feature.

Figure 18 is an exploded diagram of a lid with a spill-inhibiting safety feature in another embodiment of the invention.

Figures 19a and 19b are plan views of the lid of Figure 18, in pouring and tipped over positions respectively.

Figures 20a and 20b are cut-away isometric views corresponding to Figures 19a and 19b respectively.

Figures 21a and 21b are respectively exploded and cut-away isometric views of a spill-inhibiting lid in another embodiment of the invention.

Figures 21 c and 21 d are respectively cut-away schematic front and plan views of a vertically mounted pendulum on the lid with the lid in its pouring or upright positions.

Figures 21 e and 21 f are respectively cut-away schematic front and plan views of the vertically mounted pendulum on the lid with the lid in its first tilted position.

Figures 21 e and 21 f are respectively cut-away schematic front and plan views of the vertically mounted pendulum on the lid with the lid in its second tilted position.

Figures 22a and 22b are respectively a perspective and a cross-sectional view of a waterproof appliance with a removable lid, in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of a waterproof appliance with a removable lid, in another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 24a is a schematic diagram of a liquid vessel with a single strip capacitance level sensor.

Figure 24b is a graph showing the capacitance of the double strip capacitance sensor with fill level.

Figure 25a is a schematic diagram of a liquid vessel with a double strip capacitance level sensor.

Figure 25b is a graph showing the capacitance of the double strip capacitance sensor with fill level.

Figure 25c is a schematic diagram showing the effect of tilt on the double strip capacitance level sensor.

Figure 25d is a graph showing the effect of tilt on the capacitance of single strip and double strip capacitance level sensors.

Figure 26 is a circuit diagram of a circuit for generating a frequency as a function of the capacitance of the level sensor.

Figure 27 is a circuit diagram of a circuit for detecting electronically whether the capacitance of the level sensor is above a first or a second threshold.

Figure 28 shows a rotationally actuable user interface component in an embodiment of the invention.

Figures 29a to 29d illustrate display states of the component with varying selected temperatures.

Figures 30a to 30d illustrate display states of the component with varying selected volumes.

Figures 31 a and 3 lb are graphs of detected optical signal amplitude in a turbulence detection method, respectively without and with scale deposit.

Figure 32 is a graph of the gain and phase response of typical band-pass filter.

Figure 33 is a graph of a transmitted signal (square wave) at centre frequency of a band-pass filter.

Figure 34 is a graph of the transmitted signal (square wave) at 95% of centre frequency of a band-pass filter.

Figure 35 is a graph of the transmitted signal (square wave) at 105% of centre frequency of a band-pass filter.

Figure 36 is a graph illustrating a quadrature measurement method.

Figure 37 is a graph illustrating a fixed phase measurement method.

Figure 38a is an isometric cross-section of a vessel including a turbulence detector.

Figure 38b is an isometric view of the underside of the vessel of Figure 38a.

Figure 38c is an isometric view of the vessel of Figure 38a with the top part of the handle removed.

Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of a vessel for heating and dispensing small volumes of water, in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 40a is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment to that of Figure 38.

Figures 40b and 40c are cross-sectional views of alternative sealing arrangements in the embodiments of Figure 39 or 40a.

Figure 40d and 40e are cross-sectional views of optional support means in the embodiments of Figure 39 or 40a.

Figure 41 is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment to that of Figure 39 or40a.

Figure 42a, 42b, 43a and 43b are cross sectional views of further alternative embodiments.

Figure 42c is a perspective view of an intermediate part of the embodiment of Figure 42b.

Figure 44 is a cross sectional schematic view of an embodiment incorporating means to prime the heating chamber with liquid.

Figures 45a to 45d are cross sectional schematic views of an embodiment incorporating user actuated pivoting lever.

Figures 46 and 47 are respectively elevation and perspective views of an appliance incorporating one or more of the embodiments described herein.

Figures 48a is a side elevation of another appliance incorporating one or more of the embodiments described herein.

Figure 48b is a perspective view of the appliance of Figure 48a, with the reservoir separated.

Figures 49a and 49b are plan views of a cordless base with a moveable appliance support, respectively in deployed and stowed positions.

Figures 49c and 49d are perspective views corresponding to Figures 49a and 49b respectively.

Figure 49e is a schematic cross-section of a cordless kettle, with the cordless base of Figures 49a to 49d in stowed position, stored within the reservoir of the kettle.

Figures 49f and 49g are plan views of an alternative cordless base with more than one rotatable appliance support, respectively in deployed and stowed positions.

Figures 49h and 49i are plan views of another alternative cordless base with rotatable appliance supports that nest within the perimeter of the base, shown respectively in deployed and stowed positions.

Figures 49j and 49k are perspective views corresponding to Figures 49h and 49i respectively.

Figure 491 is an exploded view of a cordless kettle with a cordless base and a base cover in a first embodiment.

Figure 49m is an exploded view of a cordless kettle with a cordless base and a base cover in second embodiment.

Figure 49n is a perspective view of a two-part base cover in a third embodiment.

Figure 49o is a perspective view of a hinged base cover in a fourth embodiment.

Figure 49p is a schematic cross-section of a cordless kettle, with a cordless base and the hinged base cover of the fourth embodiment, stored within the reservoir of the kettle.

Figure 49q is a schematic cross-section of a cordless kettle, with a cordless base stored within the reservoir.

Figure 49r is a schematic cross-section of the top of the cordless kettle, with a single-part base cover of a fifth embodiment stored on top of the kettle.

Figure 49s is a schematic cross-section of the top of the cordless kettle, with a single-part base cover of a sixth embodiment stored on top of the kettle.

Figures 49t and 49u are perspective views of a cordless base with cable storage features.

Figure 49v is a cross-section of a base with a base cover fitted thereto.

Figure 49w is a plan view of a kettle stored within a box.

Figure 49x is a schematic plan view of a kettle with a lid and handle assembly stored within.

Figure 49y and 49z are isometric views of a further embodiment of a cordless base and corresponding cover, respectively separated from and connected to the cordless base..

Figure 49za is an isometric view of a cordless base cover and appliance in the stowed position.

Figure 49zb is an isometric view of a reduced size cordless base connector.

Figure 49zc is a cross sectional view of the connector of 49zb within an appliance.

Figure 49zd is a schematic plan view of the relationship between the cordless base connector of 49zb and an appliance.

Figure 50a is a cross-section of an element plate sealing system of the prior art.

Figure SOb is a cross-section of an element plate sealing system in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50c is a partial cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 50b, installed in a liquid heating vessel.

Figure SOd is a cutaway view of a sub-base component shown in Figure 50c.

Figure SOe is a cross-section of an element plate and seal in a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50f is a detail of Figure 50e showing the flange portion and associated seal of the further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOga to SOgc are detailed cross-sections of variants of the embodiment of SOe.

Figure 50h is a cross-section of an element plate and seal in a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50i is a detail of Figure 50h showing the flange portion and associated seal of the further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50j to 501 are detailed cross-sections of variants of the embodiment of Figure 50e.

Figure SOm is an exploded isometric section of the prior art metallic-bodied appliance.

Figure SOn is a cross-section of the prior art metallic-bodied appliance of Figure 50m in an assembled position.

Figure 50o is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOp is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 50o in an assembled position.

Figure SOq is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50r is an isometric view of mounting means of Figure 50q.

Figure SOs is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 50q in an assembled position.

Figure SOt is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50u is an isometric view of an element of Figure SOt.

Figure SOy is a cross-section view of the embodiment of Figure 50t in an assembled position.

Figure SOw is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 50x is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 50w in an assembled position.

Figure SOy is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOz is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 5Oy in an assembled position with tabs disengaged.

Figure SOaa is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOy in an assembled position with tabs engaging the element plate.

Figure SOab is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOac is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOab in an assembled position.

Figure SOad is an isometric view of the annular ring in the embodiment of Figure Oab.

Figure SOae is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOaf is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOae in an assembled position.

Figure SOag is an isometric view of the annular ring in the embodiment of Figure SOae in a preformed state.

Figures SOah and SOai are isometric views of the annular ring in the embodiment of Figure SOae in a post-formed state.

Figure SOaj is a cross-section of a further embodiment of Figure SOae in an assembled position.

Figure SOak is an isometric view of the annular ring in the embodiment of Figure SOaj in a post formed state.

Figure SOal is an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOam is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 50a1 in an assembled position.

Figures 5Oan and 5Oao are detail views of a securing means of the embodiment of Figure 50a1 in a pre-assembly position.

Figure 5Oap is a detail view of the securing means of the embodiment of Figure 50a1 in a post-assembly position.

Figures 5Oaq and 5Oar are detail views from the base of the appliance of the embodiment of Figure 50a1 showing the securing means in pre-assembly and post-assembly positions.

Figure SOas is an isometric view of a sub base of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 5Oat is an exploded isometric view of the sub base and an element plate of the embodiment of Figure SOat.

Figure 5Oau is a preassembled isometric view of the further embodiment of the invention.

Figure SOav is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOau in an assembled position.

Figures SOaw and SOax are cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOau in an assembled position with securing means disengaging and engaging the sub base.

Figure SOay is a cross-section of a further embodiment of Figure SOau in an assembled position.

Figure SOaz is an isometric cross-section of a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 5Oba is a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOaz in an assembled position.

Figure 5Obb is a cross-section of a further embodiment of the invention in an assembled position.

Figure 51 a is a perspective view of bus bar connections to element cold tails in the

prior art.

Figure 5 lb is a perspective view of a control in the prior art, showing the positions of contact plates.

Figure 51 c is a perspective view of a contact plate in the prior art.

Figure 5 ld is a perspective view of a spring connector attached to the contact plate

in the prior art.

Figure 51 e is a perspective view of a wire attached to a contact plate in a first embodiment.

Figure 51 f is a perspective view of a wire attached to a contact plate in a second embodiment.

Figure 51 g is a perspective view of a wire in a third embodiment.

Figure 51 h is a perspective view of the wire of Figure 51 g, attached to a contact plate.

Figure 51 i is a plan view of the attachment of Figure 51 h. Figure 5 lj is a cross-section of a first variant of the attachment of Figure 51g.

Figure 51k is a cross-section of a second variant of the attachment of Figure 51g.

Figure Sills a perspective view of an end of a wire in a fourth embodiment.

Figure 51 m is a perspective view of the wire of Figure 511, attached to a contact plate.

Figure Sin is a perspective view of a variant of the fourth embodiment.

Figure Sb is a perspective view of a wire in a fifth embodiment.

Figure Sip is a perspective view of a control having wires attached to its contact plates by any of the embodiments of Figures Sie to Sb.

Figure Sir is an isometric view of a prior art waterproof connector.

Figure Sis is a plan view of a new embodiment of the invention prior to conductors and sealing means being provided.

Figure Sit is an isometric view of the new embodiment of the invention prior to the sealing means being provided Figure 5 bu is an isometric view of the new embodiment of the invention after the sealing means have been provided Figures Sly and 51w are isometric views of further embodiments of the invention with alternative conductors.

Figure Six is a schematic cross-sectional view of an appliance including a seal and an appliance moulding in an embodiment.

Figure Sly is a detailed view of a first sealing arrangement of Figure Six.

Figure Siz is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative seal.

Figure 51 za is a cross-sectional view of a third alternative seal.

Figure Sizb is a cross-sectional view of a fourth alternative seal.

Figure Si zc is a cross-sectional view of a fifth alternative seal.

Figure 51 zd is a detailed view of the sealing arrangement of the second alternative seal.

Figure 51 ze is a detailed view of the sealing arrangement of the first or fourth alternative with an appliance moulding including circumferential recesses.

Figure 5lzf is a detailed view of the sealing arrangement of the first sealing arrangement with an appliance moulding including circumferential ribs or protrusions.

Figure 52a shows a prior art filter kettle arrangement with two vessels.

Figure 52b shows a details of a prior art spout filter arrangement.

Figure 52c shows a pumped filter water heating appliance in the first embodiment.

Figure 52d shows an alternative filter arrangement for the two filters of the first embodiment Figure 52e shows an alternative embodiment with the fitter positioned within the handle of the appliance.

Figure 52f shows an alternative filter type to the filter of the first embodiment.

Figure 52g shows a further filter arrangement for a pumped filter water heating appliance.

Figure 52 h shows an alternative to the pump to circulate water in the first embodiment.

Figure 53a is isometric view of an integrated mechanical and electrical connector.

Figure 53b is a cut-away schematic front view of an appliance with the integrated mechanical and electrical connector.

Figures 53c and 53d are respectively cut-away schematic front views of an alternative embodiment of the integrated mechanical and electrical connector in non-mating and mating positions respectively.

Figure 53e is a schematic exploded view of a 3 pin cordless plug and socket of a first embodiment of a reduced footprint cordless connection system.

Figure 53f is a bi-section of an isometric view of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment.

Figure 53g illustrates the cross section view through A -A for Figures 53i, 53k and 531.

Figure 53h illustrates the cross section view through B -B for Figures 53j and 53m.

Figure 53i and 53j are cross section views of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment prior to engagement.

Figure 53k is a cross section view of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment in the first phase of engagement.

Figure 531 is a cross section view of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment in the second phase of engagement.

Figure 53m is a cross section view of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment in the third phase of engagement.

Figure 53rna is a cross section through B-B of a further embodiment prior to the third phase of engagement.

Figure 53mb is a cross section through B-B of the embodiment of Figure 53ma in the third phase of engagement.

Figure S3mc is a cross section through B-B of the embodiment of Figure 53ma in the fourth phase of engagement.

Figures 53md and 53me are isometric views of a resilient spring of the embodiment of Figure 53ma.

Figure 53n is a schematic exploded view of a 5 pole cordless plug and socket of a second embodiment of a reduced footprint cordless connection system.

Figure 53o is cross section views of a cordless plug and socket of the second embodiment prior to engagement.

Figure 53p is a cross section view of a cordless plug and socket of the second embodiment in a corresponding engagement to second phase of engagement of the first embodiment.

Figure 53q is a cross section view of a cordless plug and socket of the second embodiment in a corresponding engagement to the third phase of engagement of the first embodiment.

Figure 54a is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 54b is an isometric front view of the cover according to the embodiment of Figure 54a.

Figure 54c is an isometric rear view of the cover according to the embodiment of Figure 54a.

Figure 54d is a cutaway view of the cover according to the embodiment of Figure 54a.

Figure 54e is a cross section of the coupling in accordance to the embodiment of Figure 54a in a disengaged position.

Figure 54f is a cross section of the coupling in accordance to the embodiment of Figure 54a in an engaged position.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[152] In the following description, functionally similar parts carry the same reference numerals between different embodiments. The drawings are intended to be schematic, and dimensions and angles may not be determined accurately from them unless otherwise stated.

Cordless Electrical Appliance with Optical Coupling [153] Figure 1 shows schematically a jug kettle with an electronic control, as an example of an appliance to which embodiments of the invention may be applied. In this example, the kettle is a cordless kettle comprising a vessel body 1 and a power base 2 having respective body and base cordless connectors 3 and 4, such as 3600 cordless connectors of the type described in patent publication WO-A-94/06285 and/or as sold by Otter Controls Ltd. under the CS4/CS7 (power base socket) and CP7 or CP8 (appliance plug) references. The power base is connectable by a power cord 13 to an electrical power outlet (not shown).

[154] The vessel body 1 comprises a reservoir 5 for containing liquid to be heated, and a base section 6 having a sub-base 19, which forms the bottom surface of the vessel body 1.

The vessel body 1 is formed as a jug kettle and therefore has a spout 7, a lid 8 and a handle 9. Liquid is heated by an element plate 12 forming the base of the reservoir 5, and including a heating element on the underside (i.e. facing towards the base section 6), connected to receive electrical power from the body cordless connector 3. The element plate 12 may be fitted into the vessel body using the Easifix (RTM) fitting as described in WO-A-99/17645.

The element may comprise a sheathed element and/or a thick film element. Preferably, the element plate is composed of stainless steel. Most preferably, the element plate is substantially as described in WO-A-06/83 162. However, at least some embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating vessels having an immersed heating element, rather than an element plate.

[155] A sensor 14 is arranged to sense the state of liquid in the reservoir 5. The sensor 14 is connected to an appliance control 15 which communicates with a base control 10 by means of an optical signal which is conveyed (as shown by a dashed line) through the cordless connectors 3 and 4. A user interface 11 allows the user to operate the vessel, and may provide a display of the operational state of the vessel. The user interface may be provided in the vessel body 1 and/or in the power base 2.

[156] The operational state of the vessel is controlled in response to the sensor 14 and the user interface 1 1, by means of communication between the appliance control 15 and the base control 10. One example will now be described with reference with Figure 2a.

[157] The optical communication link between the vessel body 1 and the base 2 comprises an optical emitter and/or detector 31 in the base 2, which communicate respectively with an optical emitter and/or detector 31 in the vessel body 1, by means of an optically transmissive seal 21 which allows 3600 of relative rotation between the base 2 and the body 1.

[158] A power control 18 is provided in the vessel body 1 and is arranged to switch the supply of electrical power to the element plate 12, under the control of the vessel control 15.

A vessel PSU (power supply unit) 17 provides a low voltage power supply to the vessel control 15, which may be a microcontroller. A base PSU 16 provides a low voltage power supply to the base control 10, which may be a microcontroller.

1159] The user interface 11 may be divided between the base 2 and the vessel body 1 as follows. The base 2 includes LED status indicators ha, user input means 1 lb (such as push buttons or switches) and/or audible output means 11 c, such as a piezoelectric sounder. The vessel body 1 may include lighting means 11 d arranged to illuminate a part of the vessel body 1 and/or the contents of the reservoir 5, so as to indicate the state of the vessel and/or to provide an aesthetic effect.

[160] Hence, in this embodiment it is necessary for the base control 10 to communicate with the vessel control 15, for example to switch the power to the element plate 12 in response to a user input at the user input means 1 lb. This communication is provided by means of the optical communications link.

1161] In other embodiments, the power control 18 may be provided in the base 2, so that it is necessary for the vessel control 15 to communicate with the base control 10 in order to switch power in response to an input from the sensor 14. In this embodiment, the optical communication may be unidirectional from the body 1 to the base 2, which is advantageous in that the optical communications link is simplified. However, the optical communication between the vessel body 1 and the base 2 may be unidirectional or bi-directional, depending on what information needs to be communicated. The same optical communications link may be used to support multiple functions between the power base 2 and the vessel body 1.

[162] In embodiments, for example, where the power control 18 is situated in the power base 2 then it will be advantageous for some form of standby power is made available in for example the sub base 19 of the vessel 1. The standby power will enable data from the vessel 1, for example, liquid temperature to be communicated to the base control 10 during periods in which the power to the vessel 1 is disconnected.

[163] The standby power could take the form of a battery, rechargeable battery, capacitor, thermocouple or preferably a renewable or green' energy source, for example a photovoltaic cell.

[164] In further embodiments the state of the standby mode may be communicated to the base control 10 so that, for example, the user may be warned that the standby power is reduced below the minimum requirements of the system.

[165] The standby power source may also be used for additional features, for example level sensing (as later described), in the case that power is required when the appliance is removed from the base.

[166] In some cases, it may be preferable to implement unidirectional optical communication rather than bidirectional communication through a particular communications link. Hence, where bidirectional communication is required between the power base 2 and the vessel body 1, an optical coupling as described above may be used for communication in one direction, and an alternative method of communication may be used in the other direction. The alternative method may comprise electrical signalling through the power terminals of the cordless connectors 3 and 4, for example as described in WO-A- 07/10 1998, or through additional electrical signalling terminals.

[167] In one preferred embodiment, optical signalling is used for communication from the vessel body 1 to the base 2, while electrical signalling is used for communication in the opposite direction. This is advantageous particularly for signalling over the power terminals, which is more easily implemented at the power supply side.

[168] In an alternative embodiment as illustrated in Figure 2b, the control circuit is further optimised so that the power is provided to the vessel body 1 with full voltage when the element 12 needs to be energised and a lower voltage when the element 12 is in a standby or keep warm mode so that the status of the vessel body 1 may be communicated with the base 2. This arrangement is particularly suitable where the base 2 controls the power to the element 12 and would normally require the element 12 to be cycled at full power or additional stand by power in the vessel body 1 in order for the status of the appliance to be communicated with the base 2.

[169] In the embodiment as shown the power base unit 2 incorporates a microprocessor control unit (MCU) 750 that may also include the user interface 11, a voltage regulator circuit (VRC) 751 to provide power to MCU 750, a second voltage regulator circuit including for example a Silicon Control Rectifier or Triac VRC 752 to provide lower voltage, a changeover relay 753 which is configured so the lower voltage side (LV) from the VRC 752 is normally closed and the higher voltage side (HV) from the line is normally open. The base 2 is connected to the vessel body 1 via power connectors 3 and 4 and optical communication means 21 which may be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[170] The vessel body 1 incorporates a heating element 12, a second MCU 755 which includes means to communicate with sensors or other functions including user interface 11 and a third VRC 754 to power the MCU 755.

[171] In use, the base MCU 750 communicates with the appliance MCU 755 through the optical communication means 21. The MCU controls the relay 753 to provide higher voltage HV to the appliance 1 when the element 12 needs to be energised and lower voltage LV from the VRC 752 when in standby mode. The MCU also controls the VRC 752 s� that the low voltage supply LV can be switched off in the case that the heating cycle is complete or, if in keep warm or standby mode, can be pulsed on for a short period long enough for the components to stabilise, such as 1 second, at periodic intervals, for example one minute intervals, to enable the status of the vessel body to be communicated from the MCU 755 to the MCU 750.

[172] The VRC 754 in the appliance may be tolerant of a range of voltages, for example from 10 volts AC through to 240 volts AC. The VRC 752 may be calibrated to reduce the supply to a level that is suitable for the individual requirements of the vessel loading and control circuit.

[1731 In the above example, during the on' pulse the element 12 will draw power at a reduced rate compared to cycling at full power: in the case of a 3 kW element this will equate to approximately 0.1 watts average power. In the case that the vessel is in a keep warm mode then this energy will not be wasted as it will be help to slow down the cooling cycle rate of the vessel body 1. It is expected that reducing the power to the element 12 will reduce the audible noise being generated, relative to full power, and/or the audible and electrical noise generated by a relay or triac cycling a full power element.

[174] In other embodiments the cycle time may be reduced so as to use less energy and in other embodiments the MCU 750 may match the power output and or cycle rate of the VRC 752 with the cooling rate of the vessel so that for example the water temperature is always kept at the desired temperature without the need to reenergise at the higher voltage..

1175] In an alternative embodiment, the vessel control 15 may simply communicate the output of the sensor 14 optically to the base control 10. In yet another embodiment, the vessel control 15 may be dispensed with altogether, and the sensor 14 may provide a direct optical output. For example, the sensor 14 may be arranged to detect light reflected off or passing through the surface of liquid in the reservoir 5, as described for example in WO-A- 2009/060 192, or in further embodiments described hereafter. Light may also be conveyed to the surface of the liquid through the optical interface between the vessel body 1 and the base 2. In this embodiment, the sensor 14 may simply comprise a light guide, which therefore provides a very simple sensing arrangement within the vessel body 1.

[176] It will be apparent from the above discussion that control, power switching, user interface and sensing functions may be distributed in many different ways between the body 1 and the base 2, any of which may require unidirectional or bidirectional optical communication between the body 1 and the base 2. Each of the previously described optical communication means may be used on non-360° waterproof and non-waterproof connector.

11771 Where reference is made herein to 360° (cordless) connectors, it will be understood that the term also covers substantially 360° (cordless) connectors, where connection is only prevented over the full 360° of relative axial rotation by means designed to limit the relative positions of the connectors and/or by other features that obstruct relative rotation.

Cordless Electrical Connectors with Optical Communication [178] The cordless connector 3 of the vessel body 1 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3a, 3b and 5. The cordless connector 3 is attachable to the sub-base 19 by attachment means such as bosses 3a. A seal 21 is provided around the circumference of the connector 3 for sealing against the sub-base 19 to prevent liquid entering the base portion 6. The seal 21 preferably comprises a main body 22 that fits against the outer side wall of the connector 3, and one or more circumferential protrusions or fins 23 extending between the connector 3 and the sub-base 19. As shown in Figure 5, the fins 23 deform against a side wall of the sub-base 19 and thereby seal the gap between the connector 3 and the sub-base 19, which gap may be variable in size depending on the tolerances and/or thermal expansion of the components.

[179] In the present embodiment, at least the main body 22 of the seal 21 comprises a material that is both resilient and optically transmissive, such as a translucent silicone material. One possible material is disclosed in JP-A-2008291 124, in the context of a light conductive plate for illuminating the keypad of a mobile phone. The fins 23 need not be optically transmissive and may be made of a different material selected for resilience, for

example.

[180] The seal 21 may be a preformed seal that is assembled onto the connector 3, alternatively, the seal may be formed in the gap between the connector 3 and the sub-base 19, for example using a liquid sealant that sets within the gap. Alternatively, the seal 21 could be formed as part of the sidewall of the connector 3, such as a twin-shot seal.

[181] The main moulding of the connector 3 includes one or more light emitter/receiver housings 32, each of which may hold a respective light emitting and/or receiving device 31, such as an LED or a photosensor. The wavelength of light that is transmitted and received may be in the visible range, or infrared for example. The wires of the or each device 31 are preferably held in place by wire supports 34 forming part of the main moulding. The wires are connected to the vessel controller 15.

[182] As best shown in Figure 3b, the cordless connector 3 also includes live, neutral and earth terminals for connection to the element power control 18 and/or directly to the heating element.

[183] The cordless connector 3 may be provided as a discrete component together with the seal 21 and optionally with the device(s) 31, for assembly into any suitable form of sub-base 19.

[184] The cordless connector 4 of the power base 2 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 4a, 4b and 5. The cordless connector 4 includes an outer moulding 53 that fits within the cordless connector 3 of the vessel body 1. The live and neutral terminals of the cordless connector 4 are protected by a shutter seal 54 that is displaced by the cordless connector 3.

[1851 The cordless connector 4 includes an annular light transmitter 41 that is fitted onto an outer moulding 53, for example by means of corresponding click or bayonet fittings 43, 56. The annular light transmitter 41 is made from optically transparent or translucent material. Light emitting and/or receiving optical devices 31 are received in pockets or housings 42 in the annular light transmitter 41, to ensure good optical coupling between the devices 31 and the annular light transmitter 41. The housings 42 extend through apertures in the outer moulding 53 and the devices 31 are held in place against housing abutments 57 in the outer moulding 53 when the light transmitter 41 is fitted onto the outer moulding 53. A seal 44 is also held between the annular light transmitter 41 and the outer moulding 53, to prevent liquid ingress to the devices 31. The seal 44 in this case is not arranged to conduct light between the devices 31 and the light transmitter 41.

[186] In an alternative embodiment, the annular light transmitter 41 may be integrated with the outer moulding 53, for example by means of a twin shot process, or the outer moulding maybe substantially or entirely composed of optically transmissive material.

[187] When the cordless connectors 3 and 4 are connected together as shown in Figure 5, light is conducted between the devices 31 of the power base 2 and of the vessel body 1 through the seal 21 and the annular light transmitter 41, regardless of the relative rotation of the cordless connectors 3 and 4. Precise alignment is not required between the optical devices 31 of the power base 2 and of the vessel body 1, because the seal 21 and/or the annular light transmitter 41 act as light guides or diffusers.

[188] In order to provide a 360° optical coupling, it is not essential that both the optical connections on the power base 2 and the vessel body 1 subtend 3600; only one or neither of the connections may do so, provided that there is always some optical coupling between them, for example as a result of overlap between them. For example, in an alternative embodiment, each of the three emitters acting through the seal 21 in the appliance may have an effective range or spread of 120° in which case the sensor 31 in the base 2 can be positioned at any point beneath the seal 21, and there would be no need for an annular light transmitter 41 in the base 2.

[189] In other embodiments, in which there are an equal number of symmetrically positioned transmitters 31 and receivers 31, for example three sensors 31 separated by 120°, there will be a relative rotational position at which each receiver 31 is at the point of weakest transmission. This can be alleviated by positioning one set of receivers 31 or transmitters 31 asymmetrically, such as three separated by 70° such that there is a spacing of 220° between the outside ones, so that at least one of the corresponding sensors is opposite to a hotspot' where the transmitted signal is enhanced. In this case the appliance control 15 or base control 10 may be programmed to search for the strongest signal received. This arrangement may work equally well with any number of sensors 31 and also with single or two-way communication.

[190] In other embodiments additional optical receivers 31 or transmitters 31 may be installed in the vessel body 1 or particularly the base 2 to provide redundancy in case, for example, one of the devices 31 is damaged.

[191] Figure 6 shows a variant of the cordless connector 3 of the vessel body 1, in which the seal 21 includes a pocket 24 into which the optical device 31 fits, so as to improve the optical coupling between the device 31 and the seal 21.

[192] Figure 7 shows another variant of the cordless connector 3 of the vessel body 1, in which an annular light transmitter 46 is disposed between the optical device 31 and the main body 22 of the seal 21, so as to improve the optical coupling between the device 31 and the main body 22 of the seal 21. The annular light transmitter 46 has a housing 45 into which the optical device 31 fits, so as to improve the optical coupling between the device 31 and the annular light transmitter 46.

[193J In each embodiment, the optical device(s) 31 and any housing 45 or pocket 24 therefor may be arranged at an angle to the annular light transmitter 41, 46 or the seal 21 respectively, to improve the optical coupling thereto, or to enhance the light guiding effect of the annular light transmitter 41, 46 or the seal 21 [194] In the above embodiments, the cordless connectors 3 and 4 could be reversed, so as to be provided respectively in the power base 2 and the vessel body 1. Alternatively, the power base 2 and the vessel body 1 may both have cordless connectors in which a seal is used to provide an optical coupling.

[195] In an alternative embodiment, a seal other than that around the cordless connector may be used to provide an optical coupling between the power base 2 and the vessel body 1: for example, a seal between the sub-base 19 and the side wall of the vessel 1.

[196] As an alternative to optical communication through the seal, the main moulded part of the connectors 3 and 4 may be made of optically transparent material, so as to form an optical coupling therebetween. Hence, as with the optical coupling through the seal, no additional parts are required to provide the optical coupling.

[1971 Some of the light generated by the optical device(s) 31 may be diffused in such a way as to be visible to the user when the vessel 1 is connected to the power base 2, for example to indicate to the user that optical communication is taking place, or for aesthetic effect.

[198] One or more pigments or dyes may be included in the light guide and/or seal 41, 44 and 46, so that the light guide and or seal 41, 44 and 46 better match the colour of the surrounding parts, for example the sub base 19 or cordless base top moulding 52.

Advantageously, particularly with IR or other non-visible light sources, certain pigments such as red organic pigments and non-carbon black pigments do not adversely affect the optical transmission and in some cases the addition of reflective pigments, for example titanium dioxide, may enhance the light transmission [199] Figures 8a to 8d illustrate an embodiment comprising a corresponding pair of 360° cordless connector system sub-assemblies configured to enable power supply and bi-directional optical communications between an appliance power base and an appliance. The subassemblies minimise the assembly line wiring procedures and enable a quick and easy connection of the subassemblies to the respective appliance and base controls.

[200] Figures 8a and 8b illustrate the male part of the cordless connector sub assembly 324 which is situated in, or mountable in, the power base 2.

[201] Figure 8c and 8d illustrate the female part of the cordless connector subassembly 325 which is situated in, or mountable in, the vessel 1.

[202] The male subassembly 324 includes an annular light guide 41 which may incorporate click fittings, pockets and/or wire guides (not shown) so that the wiring harness 322 including the emitters 320, receiver 321 and connector 323 may be fitted to the light guide 41 before being assembled to the cover 53. The cover 53 may include corresponding housings 32 and click fit features or apertures 48 with an optional seal 21 acting to prevent moisture entering the electrical parts through the aperture 50 in the light guide 41. The cover 53 may enhance the cosmetic appearance of the sub-assembly 324.

[203] The light guide 41 may also include combined wiring inlet and water shedding 49 for the wiring harness 322 and the live, neutral and earth conductors (not shown). The cordless connector parts 58 may be assembled to the cover 53 before or after the light guide 41 is assembled to cover 53.

[204] Preferably, the emitters 320 emit infra-red signals which may be in the form of a carrier wave with a frequency of 36-40 KHz, modulated with a digital signal. The receiver 321 is preferably a discrete module or integrated circuit incorporating an infra-red receiver and including features to optimize the received signal (as described below in the Turbulence Detection section), for example a band pass filter. Alternatively or additionally, the optimizing of the signal may take place in the power base supply unit 2.

[205] The entire male subassembly 324 can then be assembled into the appliance power base 2 with the wiring harness 322 being plugged into a corresponding socket in the base power supply unit 2.

[206] In the female subassembly 325, the light transmitter housing 47 may include an integral annular light transmitter 51 along with sensor and emitter housings 32, click fittings 43 and wire guides 34. The wiring harness 322, including emitters 320, receiver 321 (as previously described) and connector 323, is then secured onto a mating female cordless connector 3 using the click fittings 43 and reciprocal features 48.

1207] The light transmitter housing 47 is designed such that the same moulding will interface with different cordless connectors 3, for example the applicant's CP range of 360° cordless plugs, as illustrated in Figure 8c, or the Al 1 range of integrated 360° dry boil protectors, as illustrated in Figure 8d, in which case there may be additional click fittings 43 added that may be redundant depending upon the mating connector 3. II is expected that alternative housings 47 and annular light transmitters 51 may be designed for alternative S applications, including single direction optical communications and/or non 360° appliances.

[208] Both or either of the light housings 47 and annular light transmitters 51 may be waterproof or non-waterproof and may be moulded in rigid or elastomeric materials, or twin-shot, so that for example the housing part is rigid and non-light-transmitting and the sealing part and/or light transmitting part is elastomeric.

[209] Both or either of the light housings 47 and annular light transmitters 51 may include pigment(s) or dye(s) to match the appliance mouldings and/or improve the light transmission properties.

Applications [210] Additional example appliances may include any appliance that requires a water proof assembly and/or communication form the appliance proper to the cordless base for example food processors, blenders, irons, wasserkoehers, coffee and espresso makers, juicers, smoothie makers, pans, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, slow cookers, vacuum pots and milk frothers. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

Safety Kettle [211] There is a need to provide safety features in kettles and other water heaters so that boiling liquid does not come into contact with the user when an appliance is tipped over.

[212] Very often the provisions to make the appliance safe are counterproductive; for example, preventing water spilling out may also create an over pressure issue if the heater continues to be energised after the appliance has been tipped over. Very often the provisions to make the appliance safe may also inhibit the easy use of the appliance.

[213] Each of the following embodiments, identified with reference to the drawings, may be used in isolation or in conjunction with other embodiments to provide solutions to the above problems and the inventors have illustrated embodiments of such combinations: Figures 9 to 11 include spill inhibiting features positioned towards the spout that require user actuation at the pouring stage.

Figures 12 to 14 include user actuated spill inhibiting features with integral and/or additional features to provide pressure relief and pressure equalisation means. The additional features may be used with any of the other embodiments and may be used to improve prior art spill inhibiting features.

Figure 15 includes spill inhibiting features positioned towards the spout that may not require user actuation at either the filling or the pouring stage.

Figures 15 to 21 illustrate pendulum operated spill inhibiting features positioned towards the spout that may not require user actuation at either the filling or the pouring stage.

[214] It is evident that the full scope and combination of embodiments is extensive; however it is envisaged that the skilled person, having read the description herein, will be able to transfer solutions between the embodiments to meet the specific problems of individual appliances within the scope of the present invention.

[215] For example Figures 9a to 9e illustrate a spill-inhibiting safety feature in an embodiment of the invention, in a twin wall cordless electric kettle. However, the safety feature is also applicable to single wall electric kettles and other liquid heating appliances.

All the embodiments of the spill-inhibiting safety feature are shown within a removable or openable lid assembly but are equally applicable in portable liquid heating appliances without removable lids. Furthermore aspects of the embodiments may be incorporated as part of the vessel instead of, or in conjunction with lid assemblies.

[216] In some embodiments the lid assembly may include a complete pouring mechanism so that the vessel body 1 in which it is installed would not require a spout, which may advantageously improve the sealing of the lid into the vessel.

[217] As shown in Figure 9a, the lid 8 comprises a lid chamber 71, the floor of which comprises a lower lid surface 66 that is removably sealed against the upper end of the reservoir 5 by a reservoir seal 63. The lid 8 including the lid chamber 71 can be removed from the reservoir 5, to allow filling or cleaning of the reservoir 5. Alternatively or additionally the lid 8 may be attached to the vessel body 1 by a hinge.

[218] The lid chamber 71 acts as a passage for liquid from the reservoir 5, which enters the lid chamber 71 through an aperture 86 in the lower lid surface 66. Liquid may then be poured out from the lid chamber 71 through the spout 7. Optionally, a spout filter 65 is arranged between the lid chamber 71 and the spout 7. Optionally the reservoir 5 can be filled through the spout 7. Optionally, there may be a flap (not shown) arranged in the spout 7 to assist with heat retention; the flap may open both inwardly and outwardly to allow filling and pouring. The flap may also be arranged to be opened by the user operated actuator 75.

[219] The lid chamber 71 also acts as a passage for steam from the reservoir 5. When liquid boils in the reservoir 5, steam passes through the aperture 86 into the lid chamber 71.

Some of the steam then passes through a steam tube 70 from the lid chamber 71 to a steam-sensitive control 60 arranged to switch off or reduce heating when steam is detected. In this case, the control 60 is an integrated cordless connector and control. The steam sensitive control 60 may include a thermally sensitive actuator, such as a snap-acting bimetallic actuator, onto which steam is directed from the steam tube 70 when the liquid in the reservoir 5 boils. The outer surface of the steam tube 70 is removably sealed against the lower lid surface 66 by a seal 67.

[220] Alternatively, the steam-sensitive control 60 may be mounted in or adjacent to the lid chamber 71, in which case no steam tube 70 is necessary, but a connection of some type then needs to be made from the control 60 to the heater.

[221] In this specific embodiment, the vessel body 1 has an outer wall 61 spaced apart from an inner wall 62, the latter forming the wall of the reservoir 5. The steam tube 70 passes through the space between the inner wall 62 and the outer wall 61, for example as described and claimed in the applicant's granted patents GB-B-2365752 and CN-C-1239116.

[222] The flow of liquid through the aperture 86 is governed by at least one flow management means 80, to prevent liquid from escaping from the reservoir 5 when the vessel body 1 is tipped over. Additional flow management means are described below.

1223] The flow management means 80 incorporates both pressure relief and pressure equalisation means; in other cases the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means may be provided independently to the flow management means.

[224] In this and other embodiments, the flow management means 80 allows liquid to escape from the reservoir 5 when actuated by a user-operable actuator 75. In this embodiment the actuator 75 is normally biased away from the flow management means 80 so that the actuator does not interfere with the function of the flow management means 80.

In further embodiments the actuator 75 may be normally biased towards the flow management means 80 and in still further embodiments the actuator 75 may form part of the flow management means.

1225] The user-operable actuator 75 may be a spring-biased pusher rod slidably mounted in the handle 9, and projecting beyond the handle 9 to present a portion for pushing by the user so as to engage the flow management means 80. Alternatively, the user actuable portion of the actuator 75 may be arranged to be pulled so that another part of the actuator 75 engages the flow management means. The user-actuable portion may be connected to the engaging portion by one or more gears. The user-actuable portion may comprise a trigger or squeeze-action member and may be integrated in the handle. In alternative embodiments the user actuator may be situated in the lid or between the lid and the handle or any combination of positions.

[226] In some embodiments there may be two actuating means, one to close the flow management means and one to open the flow management means so that for example the flow management means may close automatically when the appliance is energised and then be opened by user actuation when the liquid is poured from the appliance.

[227] In other embodiments the flow management means may be interlocked with the power switch so that the power switch can only be actuated if the pouring aperture is closed.

[228] In further embodiments the flow management means may be associated with an actuator on the side or underside of the vessel so that the flow management means closes whenever the vessel is positioned on a horizontal surface, for example, a worktop or cordless base and then must be mechanically re-opened by the user for pouring.

[229] In further embodiments the actuator for the flow management means may be a hinged handle as described in GB-B-2363056 so that, for example, the flow management means closes when the handle is folded and is opened when the handle is unfolded. The handle may be resiliently mounted so that the handle returns to a folded position when the user places the vessel back on the base.

1230] A first embodiment of the flow management means 80 is illustrated in Figures 9b-9e, which also show the sealing arrangement between the outer wall 61 and inner wall 62 by means of seal 64 and between lower lid surface 66 and inner wall 62 by seal 63.

[231] At the upper side of the aperture 86 is located an upper lid sealing face 82, forming a valve seat in which sits an upper part 89 of a valve member 81, having an upper valve sealing face 83 which seals against the upper lid sealing face 82. Both the upper lid sealing face 82 and the upper valve sealing face 83 are upwardly diverging frustums, and preferably conical frustums so that the valve member 81 may be positioned in the aperture 86 with any azimuthal orientation; other shapes such as pyramidal frustums may be used, however. The lower lid sealing face 82 diverges upwardly at a greater angle than the upper valve sealing face 83, so that in the rest position of Figure 9b, with the lower lid surface 66 horizontal, the upper lid sealing face 82 seals against the upper valve sealing face 83 only at the lower ends thereof.

[232] In the rest position of Figure 9b, the aperture 86 is substantially closed, to prevent thermal losses through the aperture 86. Optionally, one or more ventilation apertures 87 may be located between the upper lid sealing face 82 and the floor 66, to allow pressure equalization between the reservoir 5 and the lid chamber 71.

[233J The valve member 81 has a lower part 90 that extends below the aperture 86 and has an upwardly facing lower valve sealing face 85 for sealing against a lower lid sealing face 84, as will be described below. The lower part 90 in this embodiment has the form of an inverted shallow cup or dome.

[234] In the boiling position of Figure 9c, liquid steam pressure in the reservoir 5 lifts the valve member 81 so that upper valve sealing face 83 moves apart from upper lid sealing face 82 and allows steam to escape into the lid chamber 71 and thence through the spout 7 or steam tube 70. The steam pressure is insufficient to bring the lower valve sealing face 85 into contact with the lower lid sealing face 84.

[235] In the pouring position of Figure 9d, the upper valve part 89 tends to pivot about a contact point A on the upper lid sealing face 82. However, the user actuates the actuator 75 so as to limit to movement of the upper valve part 89 so that the upper and lower valve sealing faces 83, 85 seal against the respective upper and lower lid sealing faces 82, 84 at one side only, leaving a crescent-shaped passage for the liquid to pass the valve member 81 at the other side.

[2361 If the vessel body 1 is tipped without the actuator 75 being actuated, as shown in Figure 9e, the valve member 81 rotates so that the upper valve sealing face 83 lies flat against the upper lid sealing face 82, on the side towards which the vessel body 1 is tipped.

This brings the lower valve sealing face 85 completely into contact with the lower lid sealing face 84, thus sealing the aperture 86 and preventing spillage of liquid therethrough.

In other words, the valve member 81 acts as an overcentre mechanism that closes the valve if tipped.

[237] The lower valve part 90, though wider than the aperture 86, may be sufficiently flexible to be forced through the aperture 86 if steam pressure builds up sufficiently, thus releasing the pressure. In this way, the valve member 81 acts as a safety valve. However, as an alternative or additional feature, a separate pressure relief valve may be provided in the lower lid surface 66, for relieving excess pressure in the reservoir 5 into the lid chamber 71.

In either case and in other embodiments, it may be advantageous to provide some means for directing steam and/or liquid exhausted through the pressure relief valve away from the spout 7, for example by means of a baffle or shroud in the lid area, or the pressure relief valve may exhaust via the steam tube 70 to the control 60. The means for directing exhausted steam and/or liquid may form part of the valve member 81, and may be formed by the shape of the lower valve part 90 and/or the aperture 86.

[238] The ability to pass the lower valve part 90 through the aperture 86 also allows easy fitting and replacement of the valve member 81. Alternatively, the upper and lower valve parts 89, 90 may be fitted or clicked together from either side of the aperture 86 to facilitate assembly.

[239] In the specific embodiment, the aperture 86 is positioned towards the spout 7, while the steam tube 70 is positioned away from the spout 7 and opens towards the upper part of the lid chamber 71, as described and claimed in the applicant's granted patent GB-B- 2332095. As a result, any liquid leaking through the aperture 86 will tend not to enter the steam tube 70 if the vessel body 1 is knocked over and lies on one side, resting on the handle 9 or spout 7. This is because either the steam tube 70 or the spout 7 will be above a horizontal plane through the centre of the vessel body. Furthermore the hollow lid assembly may act as an additional reservoir for any liquid that enters through the aperture 86 before the liquid level reaches the steam tube 70.

[240] An alternative embodiment of the flow management means 80 is shown in Figures lOa to lOc. In this embodiment, the upper valve part 89 is connected through the aperture 86 to the lower valve part 90 by a pivoting joint 88, which is preferably a universal joint enabling the upper valve part 89 to pivot about any horizontal axis. The lower valve part 89 is constrained to move perpendicularly to the lower lid surface 66 by guides 91.

[241] In the boiling position as shown in Figure lOa, as in the embodiment of Figure lOc, upper valve sealing face 83 moves apart from upper lid sealing face 82 and allows steam to escape into the lid chamber 71, [242] In the pouring position of Figure 1 Ob, the upper valve part 89 pivots about a contact point B on the upper lid sealing face 82, on a side opposite to the actuator 75. However, the actuator 75 limits the extent to which the upper valve part 89 can rise up and thereby lift the lower valve part 90, so that liquid is able to flow around the lower valve part 90 and the upper valve part 89, through the aperture 86.

[243] In the tipped position of Figure 1 Oc, the upper valve part 89 is not constrained by the actuator 75, which is not actuated and is biased away from the valve member 91. The upper valve part 89 is able to pivot further about the contact point B, thereby lifting the lower valve part 90 so that the lower valve sealing face 85 seals against the lower lid sealing face 84 and closes the aperture 86, thus preventing leakage of liquid.

[244] Another alternative embodiment of the flow management means 80 is shown in Figures 11 a to 11 c, which show respectively the boiling, pouring and tipped positions. Tn this embodiment, the upper valve part 89 and lower valve part 90 are spherical, but the valve member 91 functions similarly to that of the embodiment of Figures 8a to 8e. The upper and lower valve parts 89 and 90 may be joined by a universal joint as illustrated in the embodiment of Figures lOato lOc.

[245] Figure 1 2a shows an alternative embodiment in which the lid chamber 71 may be separated into a front chamber 94 and a back chamber 95, as shown in more detail in Figure 12b, and/or may include a venting arrangement as shown in Figures 12c to 12z.

[246] As shown in more detail in Figure 12b, the front chamber 94 includes the aperture 86, which in this embodiment is used for dispensing liquid from the reservoir 5. Steam and/or air are vented through a steam vent 92 in the lower lid surface 66, into the back chamber 95. The front chamber 94 is thermally insulated from the back chamber 95 by a moveable flap 93 that is normally closed, but opens under sufficient pressure from steam in the back chamber 95, to release the steam pressure into the front chamber 94 and through the spout 7.

[247] The aperture 86 is normally closed and needs to be opened for filling and pouring by user actuation. This embodiment is particularly suited to filling through the spout 7 as the flap 93 would help prevent the liquid entering the back chamber 95. In alternative embodiments the partition between the front chamber 94 and the back chamber 95 may be fixed, in which case the pressure relief means, as later described, may exhaust through a permanent vent between the back and the front lid chamber and this vent may be positioned to exhaust in a position towards the spout.

[248] In further embodiments a pressure relief valve may exhaust via the steam tube 70 to the control 60.

[249] The aperture 86 is normally closed by the actuator 75, which in this embodiment is biased towards the spout 7. When a trigger 99 is pulled by the user, the actuator 75 is pulled back towards the handle 9 and opens the aperture 86 to allow pouring or filling through the spout 7. The actuator 75 may be slidably mounted in the lid chamber 71, for example by means of one or more slots in the lower lid surface 66, so as to make a seal against the lower lid surface. Tf the vessel body 1 is tipped over, liquid is substantially prevented from leaking through the aperture 86 by the sealing of the actuator 75 against the lower lid surface 66.

[250] In the venting arrangement of Figures 12c and 12d, the steam vent 92 is always open, even when the actuator 75 is pulled back. Hence, the steam vent 92 allows air to enter the reservoir 5 as liquid is poured out, thereby equalising the pressure within the reservoir 5.

If the vessel body 1 is tipped over, liquid may leak from the reservoir 5 into the back chamber 95 but may be partially retained within the back chamber 95. If liquid enters the steam tube 70, it can be drained away from a steam sensor by the use of a steam chamber as disclosed for example in the applicant's granted UK patent GB-B-23 18452 and its Chinese equivalent CN-C-1 149046.

[251] In the alternative venting arrangement of Figures 12e and 12f, the steam vent 92 has an aperture seal 96, for example comprising silicone flaps, that opens under steam pressure from within the reservoir 5 and seals when the steam pressure is reduced. When the vessel body 1 is tipped over, the aperture seal 96 inhibits leakage of liquid through the steam vent 92. The aperture seal 96 will also open inwardly to equalise pressure as the interior of the reservoir 5 cools, and may allow pressure equalisation during pouring.

[252] In the further alternative venting arrangement of Figure 1 2g and 1 2h, the steam vent 92 has an aperture flap 97 that opens under steam pressure from within the reservoir 5 and seals when the steam pressure is reduced. The aperture flap 97 allows pressure equalisation during cooling of the reservoir 5 and pouring, but may only be partially effective in preventing liquid leakage when the vessel body 1 is tipped over.

[253] In the further alternative venting arrangement of Figures 12i to 12k, the steam vent 92 is closed by a valve arrangement in a similar manner to the embodiment of Figures 11 a to lic. The actuator 75, in the pulled back position of Figure 12j, prevents the valve member 81 from rising up, and therefore prevents the lower valve part 90 from sealing completely against the lower lid sealing face 84. Alternatively, a valve arrangement as disclosed in Figures lOa to lOc or 9b to 9e may be used.

[254] In a further alternative venting arrangement shown in Figures 121 and 1 2m, a conical valve member 98 is seated against a lower lid sealing face 84 when the vessel body 1 is horizontal. Steam pressure forces the valve member 98 upwardly so as to release steam pressure through the steam vent 92. When the vessel body is tipped, as shown in Figure 12m, the upper face of the valve member 98 seals against the steam vent 92 and thereby prevents liquid leakage. One or more small, permanently open vents may be provided around the steam vent 92, to allow a degree of permanent venting.

[255] In further pressure relief and pressure equalisation arrangements shown in Figures 121 to 12z at least one vent from the vessel 1 is always open ensuring adequate pressure equalisation for pouring.

[256] In these embodiments the actuator 75 may need to be raised or positioned to one side to avoid interference with the pressure relief and equalisation means.

[257] Figures 12 n to 12z illustrate further pressure relief and pressure equalisation means that may be used with any spill inhibiting means. Each of the embodiments includes at least two apertures 92 that are spaced apart on opposite sides of the vessel 1. In the tipped position at least one aperture will be above the liquid level in the vessel 1 whilst liquid is prevented from exiting the vessel 1 from any apertures 92 below the water level, so providing a permanent vent from the void 222 to atmosphere irrespective of the orientation of the appliance.

1258] Figure 1 2n shows a schematic isometric cutaway view of an actuator assembly 600 in its upright position. In Figure 12n, the actuator assembly 600 is located in the back chamber 95 of the lid 8 and is secured to the lower lid surface. The lid 8 may be further fixed or removably secured to the vessel body 1.

[259] In alternative embodiments, the actuator assembly 600 may be fixed or removably secured to the vessel body.

[260] The actuator assembly 600 comprises first and second inlets 601, 602 which are fluidly connected to the reservoir 5 of the vessel body 1 via apertures 92 provided on the lower lid surface 66 and a chamber 603 there between. As illustrated the first and second inlets 601, 602 are arranged in an opposed position on the periphery of the back chamber 95 of the lid 8.

[261] The chamber 603 contains a float valve 604 which comprises two valves 605, 606 facing inwardly that are connected by an intermediate member 607. In this embodiment, the valves 605, 606 are frusto-conical valves. With the vessel body 1 in its upright position, the intermediate member 607 of the float valve 604 rests in the chamber 603 allowing the first and second inlets 601, 602 to be fluidly connected to the chamber 603.

[262] At least two vents 608, 609 are provided, with their inlets fluidly connected to the chamber 603. The outlet of the first vent 608 is directly or indirectly fluidly connected to the steam-sensitive control switch 60 located in the base section 6 (not shown) via the steam tube 70, and the outlet of the second vent 609 is directly or indirectly fluidly connected to a position in the location of the spout 7 of the vessel body 1 so that it may vent to the outside of the vessel 1. In an alternative embodiment, the steam-sensitive control switch 60 may be located away from the base section 6, for example, in the handle 9 or in the lid 8.

[263] In its upright position, as the water of the vessel body 1 boils the steam enters the chamber 603 via the first and second inlets 601, 602 and apertures 92 and exits the chamber 603 via the two vents 608, 609. In its upright position, the two vents 608, 609 are used to relieve the steam pressure generated by the boiling water. The steam exits the first vent 608 and passes through the steam tube 70, where heat from the excess steam triggers the steam-sensitive control switch 60 and cuts the power from being supplied to the element plate 12 when the water has reached a desired temperature. For venting purposes, the excess steam also exits the vessel body 1 in the proximity of the spout 7 that is directly or indirectly fluidly connected to the second vent 609.

[264] Advantageously the first vent 608 is indirectly connected to the second vent 609 via the chamber 603 which allows cool air to be drawn over the steam-sensitive control switch through the steam tube 70 and exits the chamber 603 via the second vent 609. This chimney effect may be enhanced by the heat of the vapour exiting the vessel body 1 via inlets 601 and 602 and apertures 92 via the chamber 603.

[265] Figures 12o and l2p show schematic top views of the actuator assembly 600 in situ in its tipped position with the spout 7 facing upwardly and downwardly. As shown in Figure 12o, when the vessel body 1 is resting on one side, the first inlet 601 is positioned within the void 222 and above the maximum water level 225. In this tipped position, the water enters the second inlet 602 and moves the float valve 604 upwardly. The second valve 606 abuts a sealing surface 612 of the chamber 603 causing it to seal against the sealing surface 612 and prevents the water entering the chamber 603 and subsequently exiting the first and second vents 608, 609. Simultaneously, the first valve 605 is lifted away from its sealing surface 611 allowing the first inlet 601 to be fluidly connected to the steam in the void 222. In its tipped position, steam pressure is relieved as it exits the reservoir 5 via the first inlet 601 and chamber 603. The steam exits the chamber 603 through the two vents 608, 609. In the case that power is still being supplied to the appliance then the excess steam triggers the steam-sensitive control switch 60 and cuts the power from being supplied to the element plate 12.

[266] Figure i2p illustrates the actuator assembly 600 in-situ in its tipped position with the spout 7 facing downwardly, in which case it can be seen that the first valve 605 seals whilst the second valve 606 is open. As such it can be seen that in any orientation the lower of the two valves 605 and 606 is closed and consequently the upper of the two valves 605 and 606 is open, thus providing redundancy and safety factor within one assembly.

[267] In the case that the valve actuator 604 fails to return to the central position when upright at least one of the first or second valves 605 and 606 and the appliance may be used safely, thus the actuator assembly 600 provides redundancy and safety factor in both the upright and tipped position.

[268] Figures 12q and 12r show schematic top views of an embodiment of the actuator assembly 600 in situ in its tipped positions with the spout 7 facing respectively upwardly and downwardly. In this embodiment, the valves 605, 606 are ball valves. As with the previous embodiment, in the tipped position the lower of the valves 605, 606 will seal against its respective seat 611 or 612 and in each case, the steam will be vented from the void 222 through the higher of the two valves 605 and 606 whilst the water remains in the reservoirS.

[269] Figure 12s shows a further embodiment, whereby a weighted ball valve 617 is incorporated in place of the previously described float valves. When the vessel body 1 is in its upright position, the weighted ball valve 617 will rest in a recess 618 provided in the central region on the floor of the chamber 603 and allow the steam in the headroom 222 to be vented via the inlets 601, 602 and vents 608, 609. When the vessel body 1 is tipped on its side, the weighted valve 617 will roll out of a recess 618 and rest on the sealing surface 612 to create a seal as shown in Figure 12u. When the vessel body 1 is resting on the other side, the weighted valve 617 will roll out of the recess and rest on the other sealing surface 611 to create a seal. In such case, the steam will be vented from the void 222 via the vents 608, 609 whilst the water will remain in the reservoir 5. Typically the weighted ball valve 617 may be metal, for example, a ball bearing or may be a plastic or rubber material or rubber coated bearing, for example, as found in a ball-operated computer mouse or the like.

[270] Figure 12t shows a further embodiment, whereby the ball valve 617 is replaced by a sliding weighted block valve 625 which acts in a similar manner as described above.

[271] Inclined surfaces 626 and 627 may be provided to assist in returning the block valve 625 to a central position after the vessel 1 has been returned to the upright position.

[272] In alternative embodiments the ball valve 617 or block valve 625 may remain in one or other of the closed positions when the appliance is replaced in an upright position relying on the remaining open aperture 92 to vent the vessel during normal use.

[273] In additional embodiments the chamber 603 and conduits 601 and 602 may be removed so that vents 92 may communicate directly with the void in the lid 8 which would provide the chamber to communicate with the steam tube 70 and vent in the region of the spout, in which case individual ball, float or gate valves would be required for each vent 92.

[274] Figures 1 2u and 1 2v show a further embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, individual resilient sprung gate valves 620 are provided below each of the inlets 92. When the vessel body 1 is in an upright position as shown in Figure 12s, the gate valves 620 are biased open by, for example, a spring biasing means 151 allowing the steam in the void to be vented via the inlets 92.

[275] Figure 12v shows a top view of the vessel 1 in a tipped position in which the mass of the lower gate valve 620 causes it to pivot against the spring biasing means and close the second inlet 602 to create a seal to prevent water from leaking out of the reservoir 5, whilst the upper gate valve 620 which may be held in position by a boss 622 will remain open to allow the steam in the void 222 to be vented.

[276] It can be seen that whichever orientation the vessel is tipped then the lower valve 620 seals whilst the other valve 620 vents.

1277] As illustrated the vents 92 are connected to a chamber 603 with vents 609 and 608 acting in a similar manner to the previous embodiment.

[278] In additional embodiments the chamber 603 and conduits 601 and 602 may be removed so that vents 92 may communicate directly with the void in the lid 8, which would provide a chamber to communicate with the steam path 72 and vent in the region of the spout, in which case the valves 620 may be positioned on the top side of the lid base.

[279] In each of the previous embodiments the chamber 603 may include one vent only which may communicate directly or indirectly with one or more outlets.

[280] Figures 12w and 12x illustrate a further embodiment that provides similar pressure relief and equalisation means as the above embodiments without the need for moving parts.

1281] The pressure relief means 640 comprises two conduits 641, 642, whereby the first conduit 641 comprises an inlet 601 that is fluidly connected to the reservoir 5 of the vessel body 1 via the aperture 92, and an outlet 645 that is fluidly connected to the back chamber of the lid 8 via the vent 609. The second conduit 642 has an inlet 602 that is fluidly connected to the reservoir 5 of the vessel body 1 via the aperture 92, and an outlet 646 that is fluidly connected to the back chamber 95 of the lid 8 via the vent 609. Both outlets 645, 646 are indirectly or directly fluidly connected to the front chamber 94, where the steam is vented to the spout and also to the steam tube 70. The inlets 643, 644 are positioned opposite each other towards the perimeter of the vessel, and the outlets 645, 646 are positioned opposite of each other towards the perimeter of the vessel, such that the inlets 643, 644 and outlets 645, 646 are arranged in a manner similar to snorkel' tubes in an opposed arrangement. The conduits 641 and 642 vent without obstruction when the vessel 1 is in the upright position.

[282] As illusfrated when vessel 1 is tipped the inlet 601 is above the water level 225 so no water can flow through the inlet 601. At the same time water is able to enter the inlet 602.

Since the outlet 646 is above the water level 225, there is insufficient head' of pressure to raise the water level in the conduit as high as the outlet 646. Excess steam pressure generated in the void 222 is relieved into the back chamber 95 via the inlet 601 and through the outlet 645.

[283] Each of the conduits 641 and 642 may be provided with a plurality of baffles 647 in a staggered arrangement so that any water entering the conduits as the vessel 1 is tipped over is restricted thus helping prevent water spurting through the outlets 645 or 646 as the water inside the vessel settles into equilibrium. The baffles may also act to cool the liquid down in the case that water is at boiling point.

[284] Other methods or materials to reduce the velocity of the water, the temperature of the water and/or act as a tortuous path, for example gauze, may be placed in the conduit instead of or in addition to the baffles.

[285] It can be seen that whichever orientation the vessel is tipped the pressure relieving means acts in a similar manner.

[286] As illustrated the inlets 601 and 602 are staggered so that they are not diametrically opposite each other and therefore one of the inlets may be comparatively proportionally higher above the water level than the other when in the tipped position. This may be alleviated by placing the conduits above each other rather than side by side.

1287] At least one part of the conduits may be formed as part of the lid or vessel moulding with a separate lid moulding (not shown).

[288] Figures 12y and 12z illustrate an alternative embodiment whereby the conduits 641, 642 are preformed tubes.

[289] Each of the previously described pressure relief and pressure equalisation means may be placed in the vessel body and/or the lid assembly.

[290] In each of the previously described pressure relief and pressure equalisation systems the inlets 92 may be positioned at the lowest part of the assembly so that any water that enters the chamber during the tipped position may drain back into the vessel 1 when the vessel 1 is returned to the upright position.

[291] In all embodiments, over-boil that occurs after power to the appliance has been switched off can be reduced by the use of low mass elements, for example, thick film or printed elements.

[292] Another method to reduce overboil is to incorporate some form of turbulence detection means (as later described) so that power to the element can be terminated or reduced as the turbulence increases close to boiling. Additionally the detection means may be used to sense that the appliance has been tipped over and may disconnect the power.

[293] Figures 13a to 13f show a further embodiment of the invention, in which a steam path is integrated within a hollow moulding 100 of the actuator 75. The steam tube 70 is in communication with the hollow interior of the moulding 100, with a cap 101 also forming part of the moulding 100. The lid base beneath the hollow moulding 100 may be sloped towards the aperture 86 so that water or condensed steam will flow back into the vessel 1 when the vessel 1 is upright. The cap 101 enables the steam tube 70 to be positioned above the floor of the lid so that water or condensed steam does not run down the steam tube. The lid base beneath the hollow moulding 100 may be sloped towards the aperture 86 so that water or condensed steam will flow back into the vessel 1 when the vessel 1 is upright. The moulding 100 includes one or more vents 102 at an end towards the handle 9.

[294] In the normally closed position of the actuator 75, the aperture 86 is connected to the hollow interior 100, so that steam escaping from the aperture 86 passes into the steam tube 70 or through the vents 102.

[295] If the vessel body 1 is tipped over onto its side with the spout upwards then the aperture 86 is higher than the water level 225c and no liquid will exit the vessel 1. Any water that may enter the aperture 86 due to excess pressure of the heated water will be initially contained within the lid 8 and will only exit the lid 8 if the level becomes higher than the steam tube 70.

[296] If the vessel body 1 is tipped over onto its side with the spout downwards then water will exit through the aperture 86 into the hollow moulding 100 but will be retained within this moulding as the outlets 102 are above the water level 225c.

[297] As with previous embodiments the hollow tube 100 may incorporate baffles or other means to restrict the flow of water during the initial stages of the vessel being tipped over and the water in the vessel reaching a state of equilibrium.

[298] In all the embodiments that rely upon the level of the water in the tipped position being below an open vent, then the maximum water level in the appliance will need to be tuned to suit the position of the vents.

[299] When the user actuates the actuator 75 by pulling the trigger 99, the aperture 86 is opened to the lid chamber 71, allowing liquid to be poured out through the spout 7.

[300] Figures l3g to 13j illustrate a lid mechanism in its closed, pouring, filling and closing positions.

[301] The lid 8 is mounted pivotally on the vessel body 1 and comprises a spring 106 that biases the lid 8 towards an open position and a portion 109 that interfaces with the actuator 75.

[302] The actuator 75 comprises two support portions the first being a raised lip 115 that extends upwardly from the actuator 75 and the second a lip 107 that extends outwardly away from the handle 9. The actuator 75 has at least three positions. In the first position as illustrated in Figure 13g, the lid 8 is held closed by the top part of the actuator 115. In the second position as illustrated Figure 13h, the lid is held partially open by the lip 107 such that there is a sufficient gap to allow the liquid to be poured out of the vessel 1 through the spout 7. In the third position as illustrated in 1 3i the actuator 75 is fully withdrawn and the lid 8 is able to open fully, for example, for refilling or for rapidly emptying the vessel.

[303] The actuator 75 can be operated by either one of two triggers. As illustrated the first trigger 108 may be attached directly to the actuator 75 and can be pulled back backwards from the first position to the second and third positions. The actuator 75 may be spring biased so that it returns automatically to the first position when released.

[304] The second trigger 99 may be provided in the handle 9 and slidably attached to the actuator 75. The trigger 99 is configured so that it can pull the actuator 75 from the first position to the second position but is prevented from moving to the third position by the boss 117. The trigger 99 may pivot about a point 118 and may be spring biased so that it returns automatically to the first position when released.

[305] This two trigger arrangement ensures that the lid cannot be accidentally opened fully when the user is gripping the handle.

[306] The actuator 75 incorporates a sloping potion 113 to act against the lid portion 109 so that the actuator 75 is pushed backwards when the lid is manually closed from the fully open position. The lid can then be fully closed and latched in the first position of the actuator 75.

[307] The actuator 75 includes a second sloping portion 114 that acts to push against the lid portion 109 between the second and first position and acts to assist in closing the lid from the pouring position to the closed position. Advantageously, providing the combined spring biasing means 155 are greater than the downward moment of the lid 8, then the lid 8 will close automatically after the user has released the actuator 75 from the second position.

[308] The lid 8 includes a peripheral resilient seal 110 to seal against the vessel 1 and so prevent water spilling from the vessel when tipped over. In other embodiments a lip may be provided on one or both of the vessel 1 or lid 8 to further support the sealing means.

[309] As illustrated the portion 109 may be situated in a dry chamber 119 to one side of the steam chamber 116 to segregate the actuator from the lid chamber 71 and the steam chamber 116. In further embodiments, not shown, the actuator may interface directly with an internal part of the lid chamber 71 in which case some form of sealing means, for example a grommet, may be provided around the actuator 75 to prevent leakage.

[310] In addition Figures 13g to 13j illustrate the lid 8 with the pressure relieving means 600 (schematically shown in dotted lines) as described above and illustrated in Figures 12i to l2p, located in the chamber 71 of the lid 8, and fluidly connected with the venting means and also to the steam tube 70 via a steam chamber 116.

[311] In alternative embodiments any of the previously described pressure relieving systems may be incorporated.

[312] Figure 13k illustrates a further embodiment of the lid 8 in which the user can intuitively fill the vessel without opening the lid 8.

[313] This embodiment includes a variant of the pressure relieving means illustrated in Figures 12w and 12x, whereby the front aperture 86 of the pressure relieving means is enlarged so that it can be used as combined vent and aperture for filling the vessel 1.

[3141 The user is able fill up the vessel 1 when the lid is closed, via the aperture 155 provided on the lid 8. The base 66 of the lid 8 is inclined such that the liquid is directed towards the aperture 92 via the conduit 641. The aperture 92 between the back of the lid 8 and the steam chamber 116 is positioned above the base 66 of the lid such that liquid does not enter the steam chamber 116 when the vessel 1 is being filled.

[315] Figure 131 illustrates a plan view of the embodiment shown in Figure 13k. The conduit 641 and its aperture 86 that is located nearest to the spout 7 are substantially larger than the conduit 64 land its respective aperture 86 in the previous embodiments. The conduits 641 and 642 will be arranged as previously described so that either will act as a vent if the vessel 1 is tipped on its side. The apertures 86 and 92 are illustrated as circular; however the shape can be optimised so that the apertures are closer to the periphery of the vessel. Furthermore the conduits 641 and 642 may also include baffles that may be configured to extend along the top and partially down the side of the conduit to restrict the flow of water when the appliance is on its side but still leave the base of the lid 66 free from restriction for filling when the vessel 1 is upright.

[316] Baffles 647, for example as illustrated in Figure 13m, may also be provided on the wet side of the apertures 86 and 92 so that they inhibit turbulent and standing liquid entering the aperture 86 and 92 when the vessel 1 is tipped on its side without inhibiting the depressurising means and the flow of liquid when the appliance is stood upright. It can be seen in Figure 13n that the level of the standing water 225a and 225b can be increased significantly when a baffle 647 as described is introduced.

[317] The lid aperture 155 may include a skirt 120 or other baffling means which may restrict water exiting the lid when the vessel is in a tipped position.

[318] This embodiment may be provided with the previously described actuator mechanism for pouring, and full opening of the lid, if required, as illustrated in Figures 1 3g to 13j.

[319] In further embodiments the actuator mechanism may only include one trigger and as previously described this trigger may be positioned on any suitable part of the appliance including the lid [320] In further embodiments there may be more than one latching means for each of the first and second positions for example positioned at the front or side of the lid 8.

[321] In further embodiments either or any of the actuator and/or mechanism and or trigger and/or latching means may be positioned in the lid 8.

[322] As illustrated the lid 75 incorporates a pivot point towards the centre of the vessel however the opening, closing and latching means may be modified to accommodate a hinge or pivot point towards the rear part of the lid 8.

[323] In further embodiments the lid may be biased shut and the user may manually open the lid 8 sufficiently for pouring, in which case ramps or the like (not illustrated) may be provided on the lid 8 so that the lid 8 opens when the actuator 75 is pushed against it.

[324] Figures 14a to 14d show a further embodiment of the invention, in which the aperture 86 acts as an outlet for both liquid and steam, and includes a valve arrangement similar to that of Figures 121 and 12m. In this embodiment, no user actuation is required to allow pouring. Instead, the valve seat includes an inwardly projecting portion 103 located towards the spout side of a lower lid valve wall 104, which prevents the conical valve member 98 from sliding upwards and closing the aperture 86 when the vessel body 1 is tipped forwards for pouring. However, if the vessel body 1 is tipped forward suddenly, the valve member 98 will jump past the projecting portion 103 and seal against the upper lid sealing face 82. If the vessel body 1 is tipped sideways or backwards, the valve member 98 will not be engaged by the projecting portion 103 but will seal against the upper lid sealing face 82, thereby closing the aperture 86. At the upper end of the lower lid valve wall 104 are provided one or more venting slots 87, which allow venting of the reservoir 5 when the valve member 98 is in its rest position, towards the bottom of the lower lid valve wall 104.

For improved thermal insulation, the spout 7 may include a spout flap (not shown) that opens when the vessel body 1 is tipped forward for pouring; additionally the spout flap may open inwards to allow filling via the spout 7.

[325] Figures 14e to 14g show an alternative embodiment of the valve arrangement, in which the inwardly projecting portion is located towards the lower end of the wall 104, and engages with a circumferential groove 105 towards the lower end of the valve member 98.

13261 In each of the previously described flow management and venting arrangements, surfaces to be sealed may have their sealing properties improved by one or both of the surfaces including a localised portion or layer of sealing material, for example a silicone or rubber compound.

[327] Figure iSa shows an exploded view of a lid 8 comprising a lid chamber 71, in another embodiment. The lid 8 comprises an inner lid moulding 158 which has an aperture 86 through the lower lid surface 66, an aperture 155 in a side that cooperates with the spout (not shown), and a projecting portion 156 that acts as a spout baffle. A top lid portion 157 covers the inner lid moulding 158 and the baffle 156.

[328] Within the inner lid moulding 158, a pendulum 159 is pivotally mounted about a substantially vertical axis Y-Y, and supported by pendulum supports 154. The pendulum 159 is acted on from opposite sides by respective springs 151 so as to centre the pendulum 159 when the vessel body 1 is upright or tipped forward towards the spout 7. The force of the springs 151 is sufficient to overcome any friction between the pendulum 159 and the pendulum supports 154 so that the pendulum 159 is in equilibrium. A central recess 160 in the pendulum 159 allows liquid through the aperture 86 into the lid chamber 71, and subsequently through the aperture 155 into the spout 7, when the vessel body 1 is tipped towards the spout 7 for pouring.

[329] The pendulum 159 may be manufactured in a heavy material such as brass or diecast or a specialist plastic and or may have additional weights added to the pendulum 159 so that the pendulum 159 rotates swiftly under gravity and assists in acting to counter the force of the liquid against the pendulum 159 when in the tipped position.

[330] In other embodiments where for example the pendulum 159 is moulded in plastic, metal or other resilient material, then the pendulum 159 may incorporate the springs 151 as part of the moulding of the pendulum 159. The springs 151 may be coil springs. In other embodiments the springs 151 may be bistable so that the pendulum 159 resists small forces but reacts quickly to larger forces.

[331] As in the previous embodiments, the lid 8 may be hinged or removed for filling the reservoir 5 and fitted or locked into place for the liquid heating process.

[332] Figure 15b shows the lid 8 in the pouring position. The force of the liquid may centre the pendulum 159 around the aperture 86 if the vessel body 1 is tipped at a slight angle to one side. The recess 160 or the aperture 86 may be shaped or dimensioned to facilitate this effect.

[333] As shown in Figure 1 Sc, if the vessel body 1 including the lid 8 is tipped over, then the pendulum 159 rotates so that the central recess 160 is not aligned with the aperture 86 and the front part of the pendulum 159 covers and seals against the upper lid sealing face 82.

Hence, in this embodiment the pendulum 159 acts as a valve. The weight of the pendulum 159 is sufficient to overcome the upward spring force of the spring 151, shown as arrow X. Dependent upon the material of the pendulum 159, additional weights (not shown) may need to be added to the pendulum 159 to achieve this effect.

[334] The pendulum 159 may incorporate a built-in filter above or around the front part to filter liquid as it is poured out. Either the filter or the pendulum 159 may be arranged to be removable easily for cleaning.

[3351 When the vessel body 1 is replaced upright or tipped forward towards the spout 7, then the forces of the springs 151 will be sufficient to return the pendulum 159 back to the centre position of equilibrium.

[336] The pendulum 159 is symmetrical about a plane passing through the pivotal axis Y-Y and the central recess 160, so acts to seal the aperture 86 irrespective of which side the vessel body 1 falls onto.

[337] The pendulum 159 may be slidably held against the aperture 86 to enhance the sealing effect, for example by a slot or groove to one or both sides of the aperture 86.

[338] Figure 16a show an exploded view of a lid 8 comprising a lid chamber 71, in another embodiment. The assembly includes a pendulum 159 and springs 151 as in the embodiment of Figures lSa-c, but the pendulum 159 cooperates with a conical valve 98. The conical valve 98 is similar to that shown in Figures 121 and 12m, but is prevented from closing in a pouring configuration by interaction with the pendulum 159, in a manner similar to the actuator 75 in the embodiments of Figures 9a to lie and 12i to 12k, but without the need for user actuation.

[339] The radially outer end of the pendulum 159 includes a cross member 161 extending at a low level across a central recess 160. The conical valve 98 includes an upwardly extending portion 98a that extends through the aperture 86. When the vessel body 1 is in the pouring position as shown in Figure 1 6c, the cross member 161 abuts the upwardly extending portion 98a and prevents the valve 98 from lifting fully, so that liquid can pass through the aperture 86 and central recess 160 into the spout 7.

[340] The radially outer end of the pendulum 159 includes a ramp portion 163 at either side of the central recess 160 which lead onto raised portions 162. If the vessel body 1 is tipped over as shown in Figure 16d, then the pendulum 159 rotates so that either of the raised portions 162 is positioned above the valve 98, and do not restrict the upwardly extending portion 98a, so that the valve 98 can rise up and seal the aperture 86.

[341] It can be seen that the pendulum 159 acts in a similar manner to the actuator 75, but the function of restricting the valve 98 whilst pouring is carried out automatically rather than by the user. In this embodiment, the upwardly extending portion 98a is narrow so that the liquid is less restricted, and the upwardly extending portion 98a does not include a sealing face. However, any of the valves disclosed in Figures 9a to lic and 12i to 12k may be modified to interface with the pendulum 159 rather than the user actuator 75.

[342] In a variant of embodiment of Figures 16a to 16d, the pendulum supports 154 may form camming surfaces that rise up at either side of the equilibrium position, so that the distance between the pendulum 159 and the lower lid surface 66 increases as the pendulum 159 rotates away from the equilibrium position. In this case, the radially outer end of the pendulum 159 may have a lower profile. The embodiments of Figures 15 and 16 may include means in the lid 8 to centre the pendulum 159 when the lid 8 is placed on the reservoir 5, so that the aperture 86 is opened and pressure caused by placing the lid 8 on the reservoir 5 is released. However in some instances the appliance may be energised whilst the vessel body 1 is tipped over, or the user does not take the lid 8 off before re-energisation, so that some form of venting or pressure relief as previously described will be necessary.

[343] Figures 17a and 17b show an additional venting feature that may be applied to the embodiments of Figures 15 and 16, in which the pendulum 159 blocks one or more vents when the aperture 86 is open, for example in pouring configuration, and opens the one or more vents when the aperture 86 is sealed, for example when the vessel body 1 is tipped to one side.

[344] In this embodiment, the lower lid surface 66 has two vents 165 that open into the reservoir 5. An extension 167 of the pendulum 159 covers the vents 165 when the aperture 86 is exposed. However, when the vessel body 1 is tipped over one or the other of the vents are exposed through a corresponding of the apertures 166 in the pendulum extension 167. This arrangement is particularly advantageous as the vent 165 that is exposed is higher than the centre plane of the vessel body 1 when tipped on one side, so that the risk of leakage is reduced and may be avoided altogether if the kettle is overfilled. Figure 1 7a shows one of the vents 165 and 166 corresponding when the appliance is tipped; in an alternative embodiment both the vents 165 could be covered by the pendulum 159 and then one or other may become completely exposed as the pendulum rotates.

[345] Figures 18 to 20b show a further embodiment that differs from that of Figures 1 7a and 17b in that the pendulum 159 is suspended below the lower lid surface 66. This is advantageous in that when the vessel body 1 is tipped over, the pressure of the liquid within the vessel body 1 acts to push the pendulum 159 against the lid base 66 so as to improve the liquid sealing capabilities. An additional sub base 164 may be placed beneath the pendulum 159 which supports the pendulum 159 against the lid base 66 and also protects the mechanism, for example the springs 151, from damage when the lid assembly 150 is removed from the vessel body 1. The pendulum 159 may include small pips' or protrusions on the underside to reduce friction against the sub base 164. Alternatively the pendulum 159 or sub base 164 may include a camming means so that the pendulum 159 is free to rotate until it reaches the extreme of movement. The sub base 164 may be manufactured in a material, such as stainless steel, that will capable of constant use above boiling liquid with the minimum of distortion. The sub base 164 preferably incorporates apertures 171 and 172 that correspond with the apertures 86, 165 and 166 in the sub base 66 and the pendulum 159. The aperture 171 may include a mesh or filter.

[346] This embodiment may also include a steam path moulding 100 as described in previous embodiments and may also include a flap 93 or moulding (not shown) so that the front chamber 94 and the back chamber 95 are partitioned.

[347] The steam path moulding 100 may be formed as a separate moulding and/or may be part of the lid inner moulding 158 or the lid cover moulding 157.

[348] Figures 1 9a and 1 9b show how the pouring, ventilation, steam path and pressure relief aspects are achieved in this embodiment. Figures 20a and 20b are corresponding isometric cut-away views.

[349] Figure 19a illustrates the lid assembly 150 in the heating and pouring mode (seen from below, with the sub base 164 removed). The pendulum 59 is recessed so that the front part of the aperture 86 is not restricted. Furthermore the apertures 165 and 166 in the lid base 66 and the pendulum 159 are lined up in the position shown in this Figure so that they act to allow steam into the rear part of the steam path moulding 100 and they also allow pressure to equalise in reservoir 5 when the vessel body 1 is in the filling or pouring mode.

In the case that the steam moulding 100 is partitioned, then one or more of the apertures 165 may be positioned towards the rear of the steam path moulding 100.

[350] Figure 19b illustrates the lid assembly 150 in tipped mode (seen from below, with the sub base 164 removed) when the vessel body 1 is laid on its side. The pendulum 159 has rotated so that it now covers the aperture 86. For safety purposes, the pendulum 159 incorporates two pressure relief valves 170 so that, whichever side the appliance is tipped, one of the pressure relief valves 170 is positioned above the rear part of the aperture 86, thus ensuring the reservoir 5 can be vented if for example the element 12 continues to heat the liquid after the vessel body 1 has tipped over. In this embodiment the pressure relief valves are illustrated as self-sealing diaphragms, but any pressure relief valve including those already described may be employed. In other embodiments the pressure relief valve(s) 170 could be situated directly in the lid base 66 as previously described. If this were the case then the lid sub base 164 would require corresponding apertures.

[351] Figures 21 a and 2 lb show a further embodiment in which a single spring 151 acts on the pendulum 159. The pendulum 159 is positioned over a boss 153 on the lid bottom moulding 291. One end of the rear part of the spring 151 incorporates a flat sided aperture which sits over a corresponding flat at the end of the boss 153. The spring 151 may include a twist at the point 290 so that the plane of the front part of the spring 151 is 90° to the plane of the rear part, so the front part can be positioned in a corresponding slot 286 in the pendulum. Alternatively the spring 151 may have a flat profile and be keyed in an upright position into the boss 153.

[352] The pendulum and spring assembly is secured by a screw 297 and washer 285 tightened against the boss 153. The pendulum 159 is then free to rotate about the boss 153 when the kettle is tipped over and the spring bias will return the pendulum 159 to the centre position when the kettle is upright. An optional spacer 287 may be incorporated between the pendulum 159 and the washer 285. The apertures 86, 165 and 293 in the lid bottom moulding 291 have raised edges to provide a flat surface for sealing. The raised portions around the apertures 86, 165 and 293 along with raised portions between the apertures also help to reduce the friction between the pendulum 159 and the lid 291.

[353] The lid assembly consisting of a lid cover 157, lid inner moulding 158, steam guide 100, lid bottom moulding/pendulum subassembly and an (optional) sub base 164 may be clamped together with screws 288 or other suitable clamping means. Each of the mouldings may include spacer bosses for example 282 to provide further integrity to the lid assembly.

Each of the functional plastic parts may be separate mouldings or may be integral with adjacent mouldings for example the lid cover 157 and the steam guide 100 may be all part of one moulding. During the assembly a near water tight seal is achieved between the steam moulding 100 and the bottom lid moulding 291 which may form one or more isolated or segregated chambers 294 within in the lid assembly. The lid assembly is attached to the hinge support 296 and as with previous embodiments the whole assembly including an optional seal 64 can then be placed onto a suitable vessel of any material for example, plastic, glass, ceramic or stainless steel. Tn this embodiment the spout (not shown) is formed within the vessel, however as with previous alternative embodiments the spout may be formed as part of one of the lid assembly mouldings, for example the sub base 164, or alternatively as a separate moulding or part and clamped into position during the lid assembly procedure.

[354] This embodiment differs over previous embodiments in the manner in which the steam and liquid is managed.

[355] Figure 21b shows a cut away view of the lid assembly in the boiling and pouring position without the sub base 164. The pendulum is centralised, which allows liquid to pour through the aperture 86. Apertures 165 and 166 are also aligned to vent into the steam path moulding 100. The aligned apertures 165 and 166 may be separated by a feature for example a partition moulding 295 or a flap 93 (not shown) so that the rear portion 95 acts to provide steam to the steam sensor and both sets of apertures act to provide pressure equalisation in the vessel when pouring. The moulding 295 may provide complete or partial segregation so as to minimise water from the spout area entering the rear portion 95. Any water that does enter the rear portion of 95 will subsequently drain through aperture 165 into the vessel. The rear portion 95 may also include additional features to prevent any water that enters this area from entering the steam tube (not shown).

[356] In a tipped position the pendulum, which may be weighted, rotates and covers the apertures 86, 165 and the lower of the two apertures 293. Tt is expected that, providing the kettle is not overfilled, the higher of the two apertures 293 will be above the level of the water when the vessel is on its side. Any water that does splash out of the aperture 293 will be contained in the segregated areas 294. This segregated area will also act to contain additional boiling water (after boil) and steam that may be emitted through the aperture 293 during or shortly after the appliance has been overturned. Any water that does enter the segregated area 294 will subsequently drain through aperture 293 into the vessel when the vessel is up righted.

[357J The optional sub base 164 includes apertures 171, 172, 292 for venting and pressure equalisation when pouring and may include apertures 284 for screw attachment.

[358] As with previous embodiments the lid assembly need not incorporate a hinge, furthermore in all embodiments the lid assembly can be appropriately shaped to suit the vessel aperture.

13591 As a further feature of the embodiments of Figures 15 to 21, the springs 151 may be arranged to bias the pendulum 159 to one side of the centre line when the vessel body 1 is in an upright position, thereby closing the aperture 86, for greater thermal efficiency. In the embodiment of Figure 17, the reservoir 5 would then be vented through one of the vents 165. When the vessel body 1 is tipped forward towards the spout 7, the gravitational force on the pendulum 159 overcomes the bias of the springs 151 so that the aperture 86 is uncovered, thereby allowing liquid to be poured out.

[360] In an alternative embodiment, the pivoting pendulum 159 is replaced by a member that slides from one side to another under gravity, but is biased towards a central equilibrium position by springs 151. In this case, the sliding member may uncover an upper one of the vents 165 as it slides downwards.

13611 Figures 21c to 21g illustrate further embodiments in which the pendulum 159 pivots about a substantially horizontal axis. The pendulum 159 may be suspended from a boss 153 positioned above the aperture 86. As illustrated, for example, the boss 153 may be positioned on the underside of the lid top 8 or alternatively may by suspended from a boss or gantry attached to the same moulding as the aperture 86 so as to ensure that the relative position of the pendulum 159 and the aperture 86 are better controlled. The pendulum 159 may include a central recess 160 that exposes an aperture 86 when the pendulum is vertical.

When the vessel is tipped over to one side, the aperture 86 will be closed off by either one of the outer edges of the pendulum 159. The lid 8 may need to be made deeper to accommodate the movement required by the vertical pendulum 159 and guides 154 and bosses 622 added to control and/or limit the swing of the pendulum 159. Separate pressure relief and equalisation means and vents (as previously described) may be provided in the lid.

[362] In each of the previously described pendulum arrangements, surfaces to be sealed may have their sealing properties improved by one or both of the surfaces including a localised portion or layer of sealing material, for example a silicone or rubber compound.

[363] Furthermore each of the previously described embodiments may include an alarm to warn the user that the vessel body 1 has tipped over. In its simplest form this alarm may cooperate mechanically with the pendulum 159, such as a bell. Alternatively, the alarm may be an electronic or electromechanical warning system triggered by the flow management mechanism 80 or a tilt switch and powered by a rechargeable battery, capacitor, thermocouple or preferably a green' power source for example a photovoltaic cell.

[364] Alternatively or additionally, each of the previously described embodiments may include, for example, a tilt switch that disconnects power to the heater 12 and/or other electrically powered components when the vessel body 1 is tipped over.

1365] In each of the embodiments having the pendulum 159 or its equivalent, there may be provided means to lock the pendulum 159 in its closed valve position, the lock being releasable by user actuation, for example of the actuator 75. In this way, the valve stays securely closed as the vessel body 1 is picked up after being tipped over, until the user needs to fill or pour from the vessel body 1.

[366] In all the embodiments the relationship between the lid assembly 150, the spout 7 and the flow management means 80 and 159 may assist in preventing liquid splashing out of the spout 7 as the liquid boils, thus allowing for the height of the vessel body 1 to be reduced.

[3671 In other embodiments the flow management means 80 may be positioned within the spout, which may assist in reducing the overall height of the vessel body 1.

[368] In further embodiments the design of the vessel 1 may be such that the spout 7 always rests in the upright position when the vessel 1 is tipped over.

[369] Any of the previously described flow management means and pressure relief means may be provided to the appliance manufacturer as discrete components and fixed into the appliance as part of the assembly procedure.

[370] In further embodiments, not shown, the flow management means and pressure relief means may be provided with threads, flanges, bayonet fits or the like so that they can be easily installed by the appliance manufacturer in the vessel. In further embodiments the flow management means and pressure relief means may be supplied to the appliance manufacturer as part of other functional parts of the vessel, for example, the spout, lid, actuator, handle or steam control.

[371] In further embodiments the flow management means and pressure relief means may include a bimetal or other actuator so that the function is dependent upon temperature.

[372] In further embodiments other parts of the appliance such as the handle, sub base or the void between the outer and inner walls may be used as means to acts as a buffer' or overflow' area for liquid or vapour that would otherwise be expelled from the spout.

[373] In each of the previously described pressure relief and pressure equalisation systems the inlets 92 may be positioned at the lowest part of the assembly so that any water that enters the chamber during the tipped position may drain back into the vessel 1 when the vessel 1 is returned to the upright position.

[374] In all cases the diagrams are schematic and the sizes and dimensions of, for example, the vents, apertures, inlets and outlets will need to be determined according to the requirements of the appliance.

Applications [375] Traditionally safety lids have been used in electrical portable water heating appliances such as kettles or heated vacuum flasks and pots. Additional example appliances may include any appliance that requires some form of protection from heated liquid; therefore the Safety Kettle embodiments described above are applicable to any heated liquid appliance that is susceptible to spillage and or being knocked over. However the pressure relieving means described may also be applicable to non-electrical appliances for containing hot liquid, such as pans and microwavable containers, so that the food or liquid being heated can vent safely during and immediately after the cooking process without excess pressure build up and spillage during normal use and to prevent excessive spillage if the container is dropped or tipped over. Safety Kettle embodiments with venting arrangements which require no moving parts, such as those of Figures 12w to 12z and 13k to 13n, are particular suitable for food and/or microwaveable vessel applications.

Removable Lid Assembly [376] The concept of a removable and/or replaceable lid assembly that incorporates a hinged lid and optionally a spout and/or filter is in itself novel and can be incorporated with or without the safety lid mechanism into many vessel types. This arrangement is particularly suitable for vessels in which, for various reasons, push fit lids are employed, for example, stainless steel kettles or for vessels where spouts are difficult to form, for example glass: in which case the whole lid assembly may be a watertight (but removable) fit and the opening lid part is, for example, more convenient for filling. The lid assembly may include seals, latches and catches for attaching onto the vessel and the lid part may incorporate any of the standard or proprietary lid opening mechanisms including sprung and slow acting mechanisms.

[377] The ability to remove the complete hinged lid assembly would also be particularly useful for vessels that require access for example for internal cleaning or for example vessels that are to be placed upside down for drainage or for placing in a dishwasher.

[378] Figures 22a, 22b and 23 illustrate specific waterproof appliance embodiments in which a removable hinged lid assembly 150 is incorporated, the removable assembly incorporating the hinge.

[379] Figure 22a illustrates a cross section of water proof stainless steel kettle operated from a user interface 11 in the cordless base 2. The hinged lid assembly 150 includes attachment features (not shown) to secure the assembly onto the vessel body during use and is removable for cleaning purposes. Tn this embodiment the sealing means 248 remains attached to the vessel 1; however as previously described the sealing means may be a part of the lid assembly 150.

[380] The lid assembly includes a user actuable lid release 251 and may also include a damping means so the lid opens in a more controlled manner.

[381] In this embodiment the spout 7 is part of the vessel 1 but as previously described the spout 7 may be an integral part of the lid assembly 150.

[382] The cordless connector 3 is sealed into the sub base 243 using Easifix® type sealing means 21 and the sub base 243 is sealed against the inside wall of the vessel 1 with a similar Easifix® type sealing means 242, so that the complete water heating vessel part is waterproof Tn other embodiments the vessel body could be plastic, or any suitable material and the components may be sealed into the vessel by alternative sealing means.

[383] The 360° cordless connector system 3 and 4 may include optical communication means, for example optical emitter/detector 31 and annular light transmitter 41 as previously described and suitable electronics in the kettle base 6 and cordless base 2 SO that the kettle responds to the user interface 11. In this embodiment the water temperature is sensed by a thermistor or NTC 249 which may be mounted as part of a printed circuit board 250, however as previously described the appliance may be controlled by alternative means, for example the Turbulence detection means.

1384] As illustrated in Figure 222a the user interface is in the cordless base but in other embodiments part or all of the user interface and/or indication of the status of the kettle may be positioned on any part of the kettle including the handle, the vertical wall, a skirt around the kettle and/or the lid. In the case that the user interface and/or indication of the status of the kettle is in the lid and that lid is removable then some form of cordless' electrical connection will be required from the lid to the kettle. This could take the form of an electro mechanical connection or alternatively an additional optical or other wireless communication means.

[385J In further embodiment the user interface may take the form of a remote control' with provision made for storage or housing of the control on either of the kettle or base.

[386] In other embodiments the communication from the base 2 to the vessel 1 may be via other means for example additional pins on the cordless connector.

[387] Figure 23 illustrates a waterproof appliance in another embodiment, incorporating the previously described lid assembly 150, in which the user interface 253 is in the vessel part and there is no requirement for communication between the vessel 1 and the base 2.

[388] In this embodiment the kettle is controlled by an electromechanical thermostat 244 positioned in a moulding 252 in the top part of the vessel 1. The moulding 252 has a wet side 252a and a dry side 252b. The sensing part of the thermostat 244 is sealed into the wet side 252a by sealing means 245. The wet side 252a may communicate with the outside of the vessel to assist with air circulation so that the thermostat may reset quicker.

[389] The user actuator 253 may be part of the lid assembly 150 and interfaces or may be joined onto push rod 246 which in turn interfaces with the thermostat 244. The pushrod 246 is sealed (not shown) as it enters the dry side of the moulding 252b. There may more than one actuator and linkage, for example one for one and one for off [390] A tube 240 for electrical wiring (not shown) communicates through the element plate 12 into the dry side of the moulding 252a. Alternatively, this tube 240 may be a moulded component. In a double-walled appliance, the wiring could pass between the inner and outer walls.

[391] In this embodiment there is no requirement for optical communications and the cordless connector 3 is sealed into the sub base 243 using Easifix® type sealing means 21 and the sub base 243 is sealed against the inside wall of the vessel 1 with a similar Easifix® type sealing means 242, so that the complete water heating vessel part is waterproof [392] Alternatively, the thermostat 244 may be positioned in the base 2, or in a recess in the handle 9.

1393] In both embodiments of Figures 22 and 23, the sub base 243 may be attached to the vessel 1 by screws 241 or by alternative means for example a click fit.

[394] Additional features and components such as illumination means are preferably sealed so that they can be immersed in water.

[395] It is preferred that the handle 9 is moulded, for example as a solid part, so that there is no opportunity for water ingress when submerged in water, or as a hollow part with means to allow drainage of water from the interior. The handle 9 may be foldable against the vessel body or removable to allow easier placement into a dishwasher.

[396J In further embodiments the handle 9 may be manufactured as part of the lid assembly 150 and the whole assembly may be removably attached to the kettle by, for example, a bayonet fix method or alternatively or additionally as described in GB-A- 2448767A. In further embodiments the lid may be provided with a 180° hinge, so that it may be positioned adjacent to and connected to the appliance in the dishwasher. The 180° hinge may be the primary hinge which in use provides access to the interior of the vessel, or may be a secondary hinge specifically provided to allow the appliance and lid to be placed in a dishwasher. Tn yet further embodiments the 180° hinge may be provided on the side of the vessel so that it will be more convenient to position the open appliance in a dishwasher.

Applications [397] Additional example appliances may include any appliance that requires a water proof assembly and/or communication from the appliance proper to the cordless base for example food processors, blenders, irons, wasserkochers, coffee and espresso makers, juicers, smoothie makers, pans, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, slow cookers, vacuum pots and milk frothers. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

Capacitive Level Sensing [398] Figures 24a, 24b and 25a-25d illustrate capacitive level sensors for the reservoir 5 of a liquid vessel 1; this may be a liquid heating vessel, but the application of this embodiment is not restricted to liquid heating vessels.

[399] In the example of Figures 24a and 24b, a single electrically conductive strip 110 is positioned outside the wall of the reservoir, and an electrical connection is made through the electrically conductive element plate 12 at the bottom of the reservoir 5 to the liquid in the reservoir 5, which liquid is itself electrically conductive. The electrically insulating wall of the reservoir 5 then acts as the dielectric in a capacitor in the overlap area between the liquid and the electrically conductive strip.

[400] However, as shown in Figure 24b, the capacitance of this capacitor varies by as much as 40% when the vessel body is tilted up to 200 forward and backward i.e. away from and towards the strip 110. A tilt of 20° is normal during filling of the vessel, but it is at this time that an indication of fill volume is most needed. Hence, the arrangement with a single strip 110 is not suitable for capacitive detection of fill volume in these circumstances.

[401] In the embodiment of Figures 25a-25d, the effects of tilt are substantially avoided by having a plurality of conductive strips mutually spaced apart, and measuring the capacitance between conductive strips rather than between the conductive strip 110 and the element plate 12.

[402] First and second electrically conductive strips 1 lOa, liOb are positioned at opposite sides of the reservoir 5, on the outside of the wall of the reservoir 5. The vessel body 1 advantageously have a double walled construction as in the embodiment of Figure 9a or 1 2a for example, in which case the conductive strips 1 lOa, 1 lOb are located on the outside of the inner wall 62 and are protected and/or obscured by the outer wall 61. The use of capacitive level sensing is particularly advantageous for double-walled vessels, since otherwise a liquid window might be needed to view the level within the reservoir 5, which reduces the advantage of thermal insulation of the double walled construction.

[403] The capacitance is measured between the conductive strips llOa, liOb. The walls of the reservoir 5 are electrically insulating and act as a dielectric, while the liquid within the reservoir 5 acts as an electrical conductor between the walls of the reservoir 5. Hence, the capacitance between the first and second conductive strips 11 Oa, 11 Ob is that of two capacitances in series: CTotal = (C1 X C2)/(C1 + C2) (1) where Ci, C2 are the capacitances between the first and second conductive strips 1 lOa, 1 lOb respectively and the liquid in the reservoir 5, through the dielectric wall.

[404] The capacitances C1, C2 depend on the liquid level adjacent the corresponding conductive strips llOa, liOb, as follows: C = CrC0A/d (2) where Cr is the permittivity of free space ( 8.85 x 1012 Fm') Co is the relative permittivity of the reservoir wall (typically 2.25) d is the thickness of the reservoir wall (typically 2.6 mm) A is the area of overlap between the conductive strip 11 Oa, 11 Ob and the liquid adjacent the conductive strip 1 lOa, 1 lOb within the reservoir 5.

[405] The variation of capacitance with fill level of a cylindrical reservoir 5 in an example is shown in Figure 25b, in which the reservoir 5 is kept upright. The capacitance increases linearly with fill level, and is proportional to A. [406] When the vessel body 1 is tilted, as shown in Figure 25c, the liquid level increases at one conductive strip 11 Oa, and decreases at the other conductive strip 11 Ob. The changes in capacitance at each strip 11 Oa, 11 Ob do not cancel out, because the total capacitance is not the sum of the individual capacitances, as shown in equation 1 above. However, as shown in the example of Figure 25d, the variation of the capacitance due to tilting up to 18° either forwards or backwards is less than 5%, compared to a 40% variation in the case of a single conductive strip.

[407] During filling, the liquid in the reservoir 5 may be turbulent, which can cause further uncertainty in the detected fill level. However, by using two or more conductive strips 1 lOa 1 lOb at different locations, the variations in fill level caused by turbulence are averaged out.

[408] The detected capacitance may be used to indicate a fill level, either to a control within the vessel body 1 or to a user. The indication may represent a substantially continuously variable fill level, or merely that the fill level has exceeded one or more thresholds.

[409] A simple oscillator circuit for indicating the fill level as a frequency signal is shown in Figure 26, in which the capacitance C is the total capacitance CTotal of the conductive strips llOa, 1 lOb as given by equation 1 above. The frequency f of the frequency signal is given by f= 1/(RC) (3) where R is the (constant) resistance of the resistor in the oscillator circuit.

The frequency f is inversely proportional to the capacitance C (=CT01a1), from which the fill level can be calculated.

[410] The frequency signal may be output to a microcontroller or dedicated circuit which calculates and displays or otherwise indicates the fill level, for example as a digital display of the number of cups or volume. Alternatively, the frequency signal f may be amplified and output directly to a speaker, so that the user can judge the fill level from the pitch of the sound.

[411] Figure 27 shows an alternative circuit in which the capacitance is measured by one or more threshold detectors Dl, D2, providing respective outputs to a microcontroller MC which generates an indication (such as a sound and/or light effect) of the thresholds being exceeded; for example, a low beep or when crossing a low fill level threshold, and a high beep when crossing a high fill level threshold. This arrangement is particularly advantageous when filling a kettle, as the user does not need to watch the level of liquid in the reservoir 5, but simply fills until the relevant indication is given.

[412] Preferably, the vessel body includes a power supply such as a battery rechargeable battery, capacitor, thermocouple or preferably a green' power source for example a photovoltaic cell for powering the level sensing circuitry while the vessel body 1 is separated from the base 2 for filling.

User Interface [413] Figure 28 illustrates an intuitive rotational user interface component 280 for the user interface 11, or for another liquid heating appliance, for example an Eco' kettle as described in WO-A-2008/139173, a flow through heater as described in WO-A- 2008/139205 or a liquid heater as described in PCT/GB2O1O/050135, or any type of liquid heating or processing appliance including but not limited to of coffee or tea makers, coffee makers, soup makers, milk frothers, food processors, vending machines. The intuitive actuator may also find applications in other appliance types where more than one criterion is chosen for example -a toaster. The user interface component 180 includes a portion rotatable by a user, preferably comprising an outer portion 181 and an intermediate portion 182. The outer portion 181 may have a knurled edge so that it is easy to turn. Alternatively or additionally, the intermediate portion 182 may be raised to assist rotation. In another alternative, the component 180 is not mechanically rotatable, but is sensitive to a rotational actuation by the user; for example, the outer portion 181 and/or intermediate portion 182 may be touch sensitive.

[414] A centre portion 183 of the user interface component 180 includes an indicator, preferably comprising a liquid temperature indicator 184 and a liquid level indicator 185, 186.

[415] Rotational actuation of the component 180 is converted, for example by user interface electronics, to control signals for controlling the operation of the liquid heating appliance, particularly the temperature to which the liquid is to be heated and/or the volume of liquid to be heated and/or dispensed. Hence, two parameters may be controlled by a single user actuation. This may be achieved by cycling through each of a plurality of discrete values for the first parameters, and progressively changing the value of the second parameter for each cycle of the first parameter. The selected values of the first and second parameters may be displayed in the centre portion 183.

[416] Alternatively, a further, distinct user actuation of the component 180 may be used to switch the effect of the rotational actuation between the first and second parameters. For example, the centre portion 183 may be touch sensitive, such that touching the centre portion switches between adjustment of the first and second parameters. The parameter being adjusted may be indicated in the centre portion 183, for example by a flashing indication.

[417j In one specific embodiment, the user rotationally actuates the user interface component 180 to choose the temperature of a fixed volume of liquid to be dispensed, while the selected temperature and the volume of liquid to be heated and dispensed are displayed, as shown in Figures 29a to 29d. Alternatively, the selection may be of a discrete value of the volume to be dispensed for a fixed temperature, as illustrated in Figures 30a to 30d. If for example the liquid dispensing is available in four different volumes and four different temperatures then there would be 16 options that the user could intuitively choose by a simple rotation of the user interface.

[418] In the illustrated embodiment, volume is indicated by level markings 186 in an image 185 of a cup, and temperature is indicated numerically 184. In alternative embodiments the temperature indicator 184 and volume indicator(s) 185, 186 could be indicated by different images; for example volume may be indicated by varying sizes of cup. Lighting effects may be incorporated in the portions 181, 182 and/or 183 to indicate different volumes and temperatures. The display or lighting effects may include animated images. It is also known that water boils at different temperatures due to, for example, variation in atmospheric pressure; therefore it may be advantageous to replace the numerical indication of 100° with an image or the word Boil' for example.

[419] The portions 181, 182 may rotate about the central portion 183, and may include a transparent or translucent cover over the central portion 183. The portions 181, 182 may themselves be transparent or translucent, for example so that illumination effects may be seen through them. Alternatively, there need not be separate portions 181, 182 and 183; instead, the display and the user actuable portions may be completely integrated, for example by providing a touch-sensitive screen over or around the display.

[420] As an alternative to a rotationally actuable portion, the component 180 may include a two-dimensional touchpad arranged so that movement by the user in one orthogonal direction controls the setting of one parameter value, and movement in the other orthogonal direction controls the setting of the other parameter value.

[421] The component 180 may be used to control the setting of more than two parameter values, using analogous methods to those described above. For example, the component may be used to control brew strength in a tea or coffee maker, in addition to liquid volume and temperature.

[422] An additional indication or display may be used to indicate, for example, that the liquid is already warm enough to dispense or alternatively to show that there is no (or not enough) liquid to dispense.

[423] The user interface 11 may be programmed to return to a preset temperature and/or volume setting once the liquid has been dispensed or alternatively return to the previously chosen option. A memory may be provided to store one or more favourite setting, whether set by the user or determined from previous settings, and, in a selected favourites mode, rotational actuation may cycle through the favourite settings rather than all possible settings.

1424] In the alternative embodiment in which the user interface component 180 is touch sensitive, the user may choose the option required by keeping a finger on a touch-sensitive portion as the display cycles through different options, and removing the finger when the required setting is displayed, or alternatively by moving the finger on the touch-sensitive portion, for example the intermediate portion 182, until the desired setting is displayed.

[425] The diameter of the user interface component 180 may range from 25 to 75 mm dependent upon the appliance for which the component 180 is to be used.

[426] The user interface component 180 may include an Eco' or sleep' setting to reduce the power drawn by the component when not in use, for example by dimming illumination of the display. The component 180 may leave this mode in response to an initial user actuation, such as a touch or rotation. When leaving the sleep' mode, the user interface component may revert to the previous parameter settings.

User Interface Applications: [427] As previous describes the user interface can be incorporated onto flow through heaters, water heaters and also onto any type of liquid heating or processing appliance including but not limited to tea makers, coffee makers, soup makers, milk frothers, food processors, vending machines. The intuitive actuator may also find applications in other appliance types where more than one variable user actuated choice is offered, for example -a toaster for type of bread and colour, a heater for temperature and air flow heated food processors for temperature and consistency.

Turbulence Detection 14281 The following embodiments are concerned with methods of detecting boiling or simmering in a liquid heating vessel by emitting electromagnetic radiation towards the surface of the liquid and detecting reflection of the radiation from the surface, or transmission of the radiation through the surface, either of which are affected by turbulence in the surface, characteristic of simmering or boiling. In the preferred embodiment, an optical beam is transmitted substantially perpendicularly through the liquid surface and is detected by a detector substantially aligned with the beam.

[429] Preferably, there is provided a least one pair of an optical transmitter and optical receiver, each of which is coupled with a lens. It is preferred that the lens has a flat top which is finished flush with or just above the surface in which the lens is provided, such as the element plate. The lens is preferably tubular so that the transmitter is held firmly, and may have a rounded, pointed or preferably flat end as shown in Figure 31 a. Preferably, the lens is sealed against ingress of water or condensation to prevent moisture inside the lens interfering with the direction and strength of the optical signal.

[430] The optical transmitter(s) can be installed below or above the liquid surface, with the corresponding optical receiver(s) being installed respectively above or below the liquid surface. The present inventors have found that optical receivers are less tolerant than optical transmitters to beads of condensation or splashed water when fitted above the liquid surface, so it is preferred that the optical receiver(s) is positioned below the liquid surface and the corresponding optical transmitter(s) above the surface. To further alleviate the effect of splashes of liquid, it is preferred that the optical transmitter is situated as high as possible above the maximum liquid level.

[431] In a specific embodiment, suitable for small domestic water heating appliances in use in normal kitchen environments, the preferred transmission frequencies are in the range of 800 nm to 950 nm peak wavelength and with a preferred transmission beam angle of 15 - 40°, preferably approximately 30°. The transmitter may be a narrow bandwidth source such as an encapsulated LED. It has been found that this transmitter type is tolerant of beads of condensation or splashed water that may accumulate on the outside of downwardly facing lens installed above the water level. Nevertheless, turbulence can be sensed across a range of electromagnetic frequencies and the principles described herein are applicable to all suitable frequencies and suitable liquid types.

1432] The preferred receiver(s) are in the same range of wavelengths as the transmitter: 800 nm to 950 nm peak wavelength. Tt is preferred to broadly match the wavelength of peak sensitivity to the dominant wavelength of the transmitter, with a total angle of sensitivity of 4O0.

[433] The optical transmitter(s) and receiver(s) cooperate with an electronic control system and enable the system to assess the level of turbulence and optionally other data, for example the ambient illumination level, at different stages of the heating process.

[434] The ambient illumination level provides an indication of the saturation of the chosen bandwidth that the optical receiver is experiencing. The ambient illumination level within the reservoir 5 is dependent upon the type of appliance, and in particular on the material of the vessel wall, for example stainless steel, plastic or glass. The detected ambient illumination level is also dependent upon the size and type of water windows and on the proportion of the ambient illumination level within the bandwidth of the receiver(s). In extreme cases the receiver can become blinded' or saturated if the ambient illumination is too high, hence the importance of specifying the correct bandwidth for each application type. The ambient illumination level is measured so as to calculate the level of turbulence, but may alternatively or additionally be measured for other purposes, for example to determine whether to inhibit heating if the ambient illumination level is above a predetermined threshold and/or to detect whether the lid is open.

[435] The control system should detect a flat or gradually increasing fluctuation or turbulence signal during the pre-boil stages of the heating process and a rapid increase in the signal as the liquid approaches boiling point. In preferred embodiments it is expected that the level of turbulence at boiling will be a minimum of five times the level of turbulence of the liquid at the beginning of the heating cycle.

1436] In its simplest form, the method of turbulence detection comprises the comparison of minimum and maximum amplitudes of the received optical signal, until these amplitudes have reached a level at which the liquid is determined to be boiling. However, given the erratic nature of turbulence in that liquid that is being heated, then it is desirable during the heating process to compensate for at least some known and predictable variables such as: 1) liquid level 2) opacity of the liquid 3) expected external sources of electromagnetic radiation 4) scale build up on components in contact with water 5) tolerance of the electronic components 6) aging of the components 7) time since last boil 8) length of boil required 9) heat loss for a keep warm' process 10) overboil of liquid due to heat build-up in heating elements, particular sheathed heating elements.

[437] It is also desirable to compensate for transient variables and anomalies such as: 1) formation and movements of bubbles 2) movement caused by heat conduction 3) the appliance being knocked accidentally in use 4) unexpected external source of electromagnetic radiation 5) aeration of the liquid 6) tolerance of the components [438] In order to compensate for the variables in a controlled manner the collection and analysis of the data is broken down into analysis segments of duration Ti. Each segment's time or analysis method can be modified during programming and/or operation to improve iS the performance of the appliance at different stages of the heating cycle. An analysis period (AP) of duration T2 is made up of two or more analysis segments Ti.

[439] For every analysis segment of duration Ti, the amplitude is measured using one or more methods, including the quadrature amplitude method as described in WO-A- 2009/060192, or a fixed phase method. Following the analysis period (AP) of duration T2, it is possible to determine the following data: * The maximum amplitude measured during the analysis period of all segments.

* The minimum amplitude measured during the analysis period of all segments.

* The average or mean amplitude measured during the analysis period of all segments.

[440] The difference between the maximum and the minimum is stored as Raw Turbulence (RT) and this indicates how much the amplitude is seen to vary during the analysis period.

The raw turbulence tends to increase as the liquid temperature increases. A predetermined threshold level may be set, above which the liquid is considered to be boiling and the appliance is switched off or into a keep warm mode.

[441] As previously described, the measurement on which the raw turbulence is derived is dependent upon a number of variables which can significantly affect the data, so much so that the raw turbulence seen in 1.7 litres of water at boiling when the appliance is new (without scale) may be a factor of i 0 higher than in the same appliance on minimum water level with lenses being subjected to scale. Therefore it is not preferred to set a standard threshold across a range of conditions based on the raw turbulence signal as measured.

Instead, it is preferable to normalise the raw turbulence measurements so that the data is proportional across the whole range of conditions on a day-to-day basis and over the lifetime of the appliance.

[442] Figures 31 a and 3 lb illustrate how the amplitude may degrade if for example, a lens becomes dirty or scaled. Each graph shows the same early stage of the heating process over an arbitrary period, but in Figure 31 a the lens is clean whereas in Figure 31 b it has become scaled, such that the level of amplitude is considerably lower. The centre portion of the graph is truncated for illustration purposes.

[443] In Figure 31a: Mini =3100 Maxi = 3200 Meanl = 3150 In Figure 31b: Min2=1033 Max2 = 1067 Mean2 = 1050 If we compare the Raw Turbulence (i.e. Max -Mm) for each example then RT1 = 100 and RT2=34 RT1 is 300% larger than RT2 and this will be proportional across the heating process, thus causing difficulties in setting a threshold that would be suitable across both conditions.

1444] One method of normalising' the raw turbulence is by calculating the ratio of the raw turbulence and mean amplitude during the analysis period, in which case Norml = RT1 / Meani = 0.032 Norm2 = RT2 / Mean2 = 0.032 Norml and Norm2 may then be multiplied by a predetermined constant based on the average of the expected Mm and Max over the length of the boil and over all the expected conditions, for example 2,000, so that the Normalised Turbulence is in the same numerical range as the Raw Turbulence e.g. Normi = 64 Norm2 64 The normalised data is again proportional across the heating process and thus allows one predetermined threshold to be set for most conditions.

[445] It has been found that during the heating process it is quite likely that a spike' may occur in which the normalised turbulence in one or more analysis periods reaches a higher level than the preset threshold. These spikes may be caused by a large bubble forming on the heating element or the appliance being accidentally knocked and it is important that this does not cause the appliance to be switched off prematurely.

[446] Given these conditions, it is desirable that the appliance should not be programmed to switch off each time the normalised turbulence reaches the threshold in any individual analysis period; instead, it is preferred to look for a succession of occasions when the normalised turbulence reaches the threshold, which is stored as a Boil Count'.

[447] To calculate the target boil count it will be desirable to identify the characteristics of the water heating appliance and the required performance.

[448] The following example is based on a Turkish teamaker with a mechanical (i.e. sheathed) element where it is expected that the appliance will switch off after three seconds on first boil and after one and half seconds on subsequent boils or in the keep warm mode.

[449] The above criteria have been used as a basis for a significant amount of test work where each individual segment' has been optimised for consistency, tolerance and accuracy over all water levels and voltage ranges and to ensure the required distinct change is present in the normalised turbulence when the appliance reaches boiling point.

[450] It is preferred that the amplitude is measured using a combination of the quadrature amplitude method as described in WO-A-2009/060 192 and a fixed phase method. The preferred range for segment Ti is 5 ms to 15 ms. The preferred range for segment T2 is 25 to 75 times Ti. A preferred range for the analysis period (AP) is 0.25 to 0.75 seconds for a Ti of lOmS.

[451] If for example the analysis period is set at 0.5 seconds, then to achieve a three second first boil, the boil count would be need to hit a target of six and to achieve a one and a half second reboil or keep warm, then the boil count target would be three.

[452] In some conditions there may be more than one spike' during a heating cycle which may cause nuisance tripping of the appliance if the cumulative number of spikes was greater than the target boil count; therefore it is desirable for the method to differentiate between a number of separate spikes not indicative of boiling and the pattern of normalised spikes seen at boiling. This can be achieved by giving a positive value to counts above the threshold and a negative value to any subsequent analysis periods that are below the threshold, so that the boil count would revert to nought immediately after a single spike, and therefore the boil counts above the threshold would need to be successive, not just cumulative, in order for the appliance to switch off.

[453] One example would be to give equal values of boil count increment and decrement for each analysis period that results in a normalised turbulence above and below the threshold respectively. However it has been found that if an appliance is reboiled continuously, then the turbulence can become even less predictable (slower but larger amplitude "macro" turbulence as opposed to rapid but lower amplitude "micro" turbulence) and the normalised turbulence can fluctuate above and below the threshold. In that case, it is desirable to allocate a larger increment value than decrement value, for example plus 1.0 and minus 0.2 respectively, so that providing there was at least 1 normalised turbulence measurement above the threshold for every 5 normalised turbulence measurements below the threshold, then the boil count value would still have a net increase and eventually reach the target value.

[454] It has also been found, particularly with large mass elements, that the turbulence continues for a short while after the appliance has switched off; however it is desired by some users that a jug kettle should be able to be manually resettable (i.e. switched on) immediately if desired. In order that the user is able to reboil immediately, irrespective of the state of the appliance, the boil count may revert to nil when the heater is reenergised.

[455] It is also proposed that the method recognises an immediate reboil and reduces the target boil count in response thereto, to save energy. Recognition of an immediate reboil could be based on the time lapse since the last boil event and providing the reboil was within the preset time limit then the target boil count would be reduced.

[456] Keep warm may be achieved by reenergising the appliance a set time after the boil event, and the target boil count can be reduced relative to that for initial boil, according to requirements. The keep warm method may also include a time limit, such as two hours, after which the appliance would be de-energised.

[457] It is expected that this method of optimising the data will work for periods outside the preferred ranges for Ti, T2, and the Analysis Period, in particular, if the vessel shape or volume of the liquid is different.

[458] The user may have two selectable options: the first option is to allow the water to reach a predetermined state of turbulence and then de-energise the heating element 39; with the second option the element 39 will de-energise after the first predetermined state of turbulence has been reached and then re-energise periodically until a second predetermined state of turbulence has been reached. Tn this embodiment the re-energisation will take place on a timed basis, for example, every minute so that the system acts as an energy regulator.

The element may be reenergised at full power or reduced power, or alternatively a separate heating element (not shown) may be utilised to for re-energisation. In an alternative embodiment a thermistor (not shown) may be utilised to act a lower temperature indicator and trigger the element to reenergise.

[459] In other embodiments only one of the above two options may be made available.

[4601 In addition to the above there are hardware and software tolerance issues to be aware of which can be overcome as follows.

Phase Locking [461] The receiver is programmed to deduce the optimum instances at which the amplitude of the received signal is to be sampled (for example, at the peaks of a filtered sinusoid). This has a large benefit in reducing the influence of external changing light sources such as that from artificial lighting whilst maximising the measurement resolution. The timing of the sampling is kept at a precise phase with respect to the transmitted infrared signal.

Receiver sensitivity to modulation frequency [462] It is preferable to implement a band-pass filter, or phase-locked-loop filter in the receiver to minimise the influence of other light sources and to improve signal-to-noise ratio. A suitable band-pass filter however can be subject to a typical tolerance of ±10% for its centre frequency. Over time, that tolerance can be as wide as ±20%. To ensure optimum performance, maximum measurement resolution, maximum signal-to-noise ratio and minimum influence from external light sources, the modulation frequency of the transmitted signal can be adjusted by the method. The frequency is automatically adjusted continuously to obtain the maximum possible received amplitude, thereby ensuring the intended signal is a close as possible to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter.

[463] In one embodiment, the transmitted infra-red signal is modulated, at a typical frequency of 2.5 kHz. The system will be more tolerant to external light sources if the band width of the receiver (band-pass filter) is narrow, for example 2.5 kHz ±5%. However the tolerances of electronic components, together with the effects of temperature and ageing can yield an overall tolerance of centre frequency of ±20%. This can result in the frequency of the transmitted signal being outside the bandwidth of the band-pass filter, resulting in a poor received signal amplitude.

[464] The inventors overcome this by adjusting the transmitted modulation frequency to ensure that the transmission frequency matches as closely as possible to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter in the receiver. This results in a working frequency that is dynamic' as opposed to preset. The frequency is adjusted in small steps (approximately 1% steps) every 500mS, ensuring that the optimum frequency is maintained even during rapid temperature changes or other influences on band-pass performance.

Band-Pass Filter Behaviour [465] In one preferred embodiment, a band-pass filter is used to reduce the influence of external light sources and to maximise signal-to-noise ratio of the received signal. The centre frequency is chosen to match the frequency of modulation of the transmitted signal.

Figure 32 illustrates how the filter's gain is maximum when the signal frequency is at the centre of the response curve. Additionally, the phase relationship is plotted on the same Figure and shows that the phase of the input signal to the output signal is 00 (in phase). This is illustrated also in Figure 33.

[466] If the signal frequency is slightly low (-5%) compared to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter, the filtered signal amplitude is significantly reduced and its phase relative to the input signal is no longer 0°.

[467] Similarly, if the signal frequency is slightly high (+5%) compared to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter, the filtered signal amplitude is significantly reduced and its phase relative to the input signal is no longer 00.

[468] To maximise the received signal-to-noise ratio, it is preferable to use a transmitted frequency which is as close as possible to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter.

Fixed Phase Amplitude Measurement [469] The fixed phase measurement method offers improved rejection of external influences such as artificial lighting. This method is only effective however if the precise phase relationship between the transmitted infra-red modulation and the received signal from the band-pass filter is known. The phase relationship is known precisely when the frequency of modulation is the same as the centre frequency of the band-pass filter. When the modulation frequency is not very close to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter, the phase of the received signal shifts considerably with respect to the phase of the transmitted signal.

[470] The principle of fixed phase measurement is shown in Figure 37. Samples of the signal's amplitude are captured at the precise instances that the signal is at a positive and negative peak. The amplitude is simply the value of one peak subtracted from the other peak. This is only valid if the times at which the samples are taken is very precisely on the peaks of the sinusoid.

Quadrature Amplitude Measurement [471] The quadrature method can provide an amplitude measurement irrespective of the relative phase between the transmitted signal and the received signal. Quadrature measurement relies on 3 samples per sinusoidal cycle, each separated by 90° (1/4 cycle).

The absolute phase of the 3 samples however is completely unimportant. Figure 36 illustrates the principle of operation for quadrature amplitude measurement. Quadrature measurement however is a little less immune to influence from external light sources.

[472] For one preferred embodiment, the quadrature method is used to assess the received amplitude over a span of modulation frequencies (where the relative phase between received and transmitted signals is unknown). The highest amplitude then relates to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter.

[473] The fixed phase measurement method, which measures the amplitude by precisely sampling at the positive and negative peaks of the received signal, is then used to determine turbulence measurements.

[474] In order to assess the best frequency to use during the appliance operation, the response of the filter can be determined by sweeping the transmitted frequency from 20% to +20% of the nominal centre frequency of the band-pass filter. The amplitude of the received signal however cannot be reliably measured using the fixed phase method if the transmitted frequency is not very close to the centre frequency of the band-pass filter, so quadrature measurement is used.

[475] When the best operating frequency is determined, the system uses fixed phase measurement for assessment of turbulence.

Optical gain [476] The optical measurement system comprises a series of filters and amplifiers which can be optimised to each appliance type at the programming stage, with the receiver amplification being increased if the received IR level is too low; this is known as optical gain. Alternatively or additionally, the intensity of the emitted light may be adjusted.

[477] The inventors recognise that this aspect could also be dynamic, for example monitored over the life of the appliance and/or certain light conditions and the gain and/or intensity increased or decreased as required if the mean amplitude of the received signal falls outside a certain level.

Threshold [478] Given the capability of the method to recognise and diagnose problems, the threshold could also become dynamic. For example the method could self-calibrate on first use, so that the threshold is set at the optimum point. Throughout the life of the appliance, the method could analyse the average levels of turbulence at known points, for example switch on' and switch off, and compare against the current threshold, at which time the method could then modify the threshold up or down as required to maintain optimum performance.

[479] Alternatively the threshold could be calibrated separately for each boiling cycle, based on a running average of the mean or raw turbulence so that the boil count starts if the measured threshold is say 100% (determinable for each appliance type) higher than the average of the previous three analysis periods. The average of these three periods then becomes the base line for the boil count which would continue to count upwards providing the turbulence either increased continued at this level. This same base level could then be used as the base level for keep warm and reboil. The base level would be reset if the appliance was not energised for say 5 minutes or if removed from the appliance base for filling or pouring.

Computer program [480] The above turbulence detection and boiling/keep warm control methods may be implemented in hardware, software and/or firmware, and may be implemented as a computer program comprising program steps for implementing the method. The computer program may be designed for execution in a microcontroller, such as the microcontrollers 10 and/or 15. The computer program may be stored on a carrier for loading into an appliance at the time of manufacture, or as an upgrade or modification. The computer program may be transmitted as a wireless or wired signal over a suitable communications link.

Emitter and Receiver Installation 1481] Figure 38a illustrates an isometric cross section of a vessel 1 which includes an optical emitter 190 at the top of the vessel 1 and an optical receiver 191 positioned at the bottom of the vessel 1. Each of the emitter 190 and the receiver 191 is mounted in a lens 192 which makes a waterproof seal flush with, or slightly protruding through, the respective water proof housing 26 and element plate 12. The emitter 190 and receiver 191 are aligned vertically and are positioned to one side of the water window 25. The appliance includes a power supply 17 for the electronic control 60 positioned beneath the element plate 12 and a user interface 11 positioned in the handle 7. The vessel 1 includes an integrated 3600 control/connector 60, for example an Otter Al 1 which interfaces with a corresponding connector in the base 2. In alternative embodiments the power supply 17 and user interface 11 may be in the base 2 in which case the cordless connector 60 may be optically coupled thereto, for example as described in the Cordless' section above or may employ an alternative method to communicate between the vessel 1 and the base 2. The vessel 1 may be waterproof or dishwasher proof.

14821 The vessel 1 is designed for use with a lid (not shown) or alternatively may be used in conjunction with a separate teapot positioned in the aperture 20, for example for use as a Turkish teamaker.

[483] For a 1.7 litre jug kettle it has been found that the optimum position for the emitter and the receiver 191 are as follows: the transmitter 190 is positioned as high as possible above the maximum water level facing downwards at 90° to the water level in still conditions and the receiver 191 is positioned on the base of vessel 1 facing upwardly at 90° to the water level, with the transmitter 190 immediately above the receiver 191.

[484] Figure 38b illustrates the underside of vessel 1 in this embodiment. The element plate 12 is provided with a sheathed heating element 39 in which the cold tails 40 have been spaced apart so that there is sufficient space for the power supply unit 17; however in other embodiments the heating element 39 may be a thick film printed element, a diecast element or other suitable heating means. The power supply mounting points 37 share the same mounting points 36 as the control 60. The triac 38 is separate to the power supply and can be mounted (as illustrated) onto the mounting point 36 or alternatively onto the element plate 12, either of which mounting points will act as the required heatsink.

[485] The lower part of the lens 192 and receiver 191 may be attached to the power supply 17 or alternatively these may be supported by other means, for example the appliance base 2. If supported by another means, the power supply 17 may still provide interim or temporary support for the lens 192 and/or receiver 191 during assembly.

14861 Figure 38c is an isometric view of a vessel 1 with the top part of the handle 7 removed to illustrate the user interface 11 and the user input means 1 lb. [487] Identifying the turbulence at or close to boil may have further benefits; for example it may be possible to reduce the headroom in the kettle that is required to generate a head of steam for mechanical controls and the headroom that is normally required to prevent turbulent water splashing through the spout.

Additional functions 1488] The vessels disclosed above may, where applicable, have one or more additional features, such as a keep warm' feature, in which the liquid is maintained around a predetermined temperature, preferably after boiling; this may be done by intermittent activation of the main heating element, or by intermittent or continuous activation of a secondary heating element (not shown). The predetermined temperature may be just below boiling point, or a lower temperature such as 80°C, and may be selectable by the user.

14891 Another heating feature is a sub-boil feature, in which the liquid is heated up to a predetermined temperature below boiling, such as 80°C for making coffee, and the heating power is then switched off or reduced, for example to activate a keep warm mode. The predetermined temperature may be selectable by the user.

[490] Another heating feature is a prolonged boil feature, whereby the liquid is heated to boiling and then boiled for at least a predetermined time, such as 30 seconds to 2 minutes, to sterilize the liquid.

[491] The vessels described above may be designed for heating liquids such as milk, soup and/or sauces instead of or as well as water. The vessel may form part of an appliance including additional functions or components, for example an electrical motor for pumping, blending, chopping or frothing the contents of the vessel. The functions may include a user interface.

[492] Additional example appliances may include food processors, blenders, irons, wasserkochers, coffee and espresso makers, juicers, smoothie makers, pans, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, slow cookers and milk frothers. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

Heating, Controlling and Dispensing Small Volumes of Liquid [493] The following embodiments improve the functionality of appliances when heating small volumes of liquid. The specific embodiments show a metal pot arrangement with a sheathed element attached to, or die cast into the pot; however this is schematic only and the embodiments are also applicable to plastic, glass or ceramic vessels incorporating underfloor or immersed elements of any type and fixture method.

Volume Related Temperature Sensing [494] In a vessel of 150mm diameter, the liquid height for a volume of 50m1 is only 10mm and it has been found that there can be a temperature differential of up to 20°C across the volume of the liquid. This temperature differential makes it more difficult to ascertain the average (or dispensed) temperature of the liquid.

[495] One method to improve this differential is to provide a more uniform heat distribution across the element in the base of the vessel. In the case of a mechanical element this can be achieved by elongating the sheath so that the sheath covers a greater surface area of the surface to be heated.

1496] Another method to improve the differential is to utilise a highly conductive material for the pot, for example aluminium.

[497] Another method to improve the differential is to create a flow in the liquid so that it is mixed as it is heated. This can be achieved by a pump to circulate the liquid or an impellor to stir the liquid. Alternatively or additionally the liquid can be introduced into the heating chamber at different stages throughout the heating cycle so as to agitate the water.

Furthermore the liquid inlet may be positioned horizontally towards the bottom of the heating vessel so that introduction of the liquid may encourage circulation.

[498] The above methods will assist in providing a constant temperature across the liquid to be heated, but there are further issues to overcome in sensing or controlling the liquid temperature particularly the temperature lag between the heating means and the liquid to be heated, and the resultant overshoot of the heat into the liquid after the heater has been de-energised.

[499] It has been found that improved performance can be achieved by the use of one or more thermistors attached to, or through, the element so that the required temperature can be accurately controlled by measuring a combination of temperature reached and time elapsed.

[500] Figure 39 illustrates an underfloor element with five thermistor positions: 214a which passes, in a sealed arrangement, through the substrate into the liquid, 214b which is close to the top surface of the substrate, 214c which is close to the bottom surface, 214d which is on the bottom surface and 21 4e which is on a raised portion below the bottom surface. The thermistors furthest away from the water are influenced more by the temperature of the sheath and vice versa. Experimentation has shown that each thermistor position is subjected to a finite range of temperatures over a given time when the element is energised in different conditions.

[501] For example, when the element is energised without liquid each thermistor on the dry side reaches its peak temperature faster than when liquid is present. When energised with, for example, 300m1 of liquid the rate of rise of the thermistor closest to the liquid (214b) is slower than the rate of rise of the thermistor furthest away (215e). When energised with 150rn1 of liquid the rate of rise at 214b will be faster than when energised with 300rn1 of liquid. When refilled and reenergised immediately after boiling, the heatsink effect of the added liquid will be greater at 214b than 215e and both will have a higher start point than when heating from cold.

[502] So it can be seen that it is possible to compile a sequence of temperatures related to the different thermocouple positions, the volume of liquid and the length of time since the heater has been energised. This data can be compiled from a combination of empirical measurements in known conditions and extrapolations based on the empirical measurements so that a database is available for all conditions, in which case an algorithm can be configured to control the liquid temperature in the appliance to a user requested value dependent upon the relative temperatures of the thermistors during different stages of the heating process.

[503] The above embodiment can be optimised by a production line or software check on the resistance of the element or the current drawn during the heating process.

[504] The above embodiment can be further optimised by the control software measuring the voltage of the electrical supply so that any variance in power can be factored into the control sequence.

[SOS] The above embodiment can be further optimised so that the final part of the heating process will utilise the heat stored in the element.

[506] The inventors understand that installing five thermistors is unlikely to offer a cost effective solution. However it has been found that an acceptable results can be achieved using either two or three thermistors.

[507] In appliances as described in WO 20 10/09495, where a known volume of liquid is heated, then the number of thermistors could be reduced to one providing that the thermistor can provide data to show the starting temperature of the element before the liquid is added and also a rate of rise influenced by liquid being heated.

[508] In embodiments where the volume and start temperature of the liquid are known, then the control sequence may be a simple matter of a timed energisation based on some or all of the following six criteria: * Start temperature of the liquid * Volume of liquid * Start temperature of the element * Resistance of element * Voltage * Volume of liquid [509] In embodiments where liquid is pumped from a reservoir 187 into a heating chamber, the heating chamber may include a liquid level sensor for example as previously described in or around the heating chamber or the reservoir 187 so that the pump is de-energised when the preset volume is reached.

Quickly Dispensing the Heated Liquid [510] Upon the liquid reaching the required temperature it is important that the liquid is dispensed quickly without any of the heated liquid being retained in either the heating part or the dispensing part of the liquid heating vessel. For optimum energy efficiency all vessels, sumps or tubes used in the liquid heating process should be completely purged during the dispensing cycle.

[511] It is also important to ensure that there are no unheated areas of liquid in the system at the end of the heating process (for example isolated between the heating chamber and dispensing valve), otherwise it will not be possible to dispense liquid at or near to boiling point.

[512] It should also be understood that in a wide diameter heating vessel, for example 150mm, small volumes of liquid require an outlet diameter of a minimum 15mm and preferably 22mm to achieve an acceptable flow rate due to the reduced head of pressure. A separate dispensing valve of this size, either manual or electromechanically activated, is bulky and more likely to provide a slug of unheated water between the vessel and the valve.

[513] In a first embodiment schematically illustrated in Figure 39 there is provided a heating vessel 1, which may be utilised in an appliance designed to supply Hot Water on Demand as described in WO 2010/094945. The heating vessel 1 is provided with a separate lid 226, which may be removable. The base part includes a heating plate 12 and element means 39.

[514] The base part of the vessel incorporates an integral outlet 216 which may be formed or moulded as part of the vessel or as part of or attached to a separate heating element. The top of the outlet 217 forms a sealing face against a conical sealing means 21 8. The sealing face of the outlet 217, which may include an additional localised portion of sealing material (not shown), is level with or marginally lower than the vessel base and there is no cold slug of liquid formed, so that all the liquid is dispensed from the vessel under gravity when the sealing means 218 is removed.

[515] The sealing means 218 can be manually activated or preferably is electro-mechanically activated via a mechanical connector, such as a pushrod 212 through the lid of the vessel. In the preferred embodiment the pushrod 212 is attached or part of a solenoid actuator 211 with a solenoid coil (not shown) provided in a removable housing 210 attached to the lid 226. The pushrod 212 is preferably of a food grade material and is positioned through a lid aperture which may include seals 230 to help prevent heated liquids and gases entering the solenoid coil.

[516] The entire lid 226 or the solenoid housing 210 may be removable so that the sealing means and sealing face 217 and 218 may be cleaned if required.

[517] Figures 40b and 40c show alternative sealing arrangements where the sealing means 218 may be profiled or flat, respectively. The sealing means 218 may be located substantially within the chamber, or the pushrod 212 may extend partly or completely through the outlet 216 so as to seal against the sides and/or lower end of the outlet 216. It should also be understood that any suitable sealing means, for example a ball shaped seal, may be employed.

[518] In some cases for example if the distance between the solenoid and the sealing means is too long then support means 220 and or 221 as illustrated in Figures 40d and 40e may be provided for the pushrod 212 and the sealing means 218. The support means 220 may be a tube in which the pushrod passes through and may be used to prevent water splashing through the lid 226 into the solenoid housing 210. The sealing means supports 221 should be discontinuous so that they do not prevent the liquid from discharging through the outlet 216 [519] A void 222 is provided above the maximum water level 225 for expansion during the heating process and a vent 215 with optional baffle 227 is provided for venting any gases produced during the heating process. The vent 215 will act as an over flow if the vessel is overfilled and also to act as a depressurisation means when the liquid is being dispensed.

[520] The vent 215 may discharge into a reservoir 187 within the appliance or preferably discharges through the outlet 2 6 so that any steam can be utilised to preheat the user's vessel 219 for example a cup or mug. Additionally the user would be made aware immediately a fault condition occurs and the heating vessel overflows. The vent may communicate with outlet 216 outside the vessel 215a or through the vessel 215b as illustrated in Figure 41.

[521J Any of the vent arrangements may also act to provide steam to a steam sensor (not shown) for example to switch off the appliance when the liquid has boiled.

[522] In alternative embodiments the vessel 1 may be sealed so that the liquid is dispensed though the outlet by the force of the build-up of pressure. The vessel may include an additional one way valve (not shown) to act as depressurising means and should include a pressure relief valve (not shown). A pressure activated valve may be used as the means to activate the solenoid valve [523] Figures 40a and 41 show alternative lid arrangements 226 where the void 222 is reduced in volume and/or the void 222 is provided around the solenoid housing 210.

[524] Figure 42a shows an alternative embodiment where the void 222 communicates directly to the outlet 216 through a hollow pushrod 228 and sealing means 218. Excess liquid and gas can be evacuated through an aperture 224 in the pushrod and during the dispensing mode air can enter the heating vessel in the opposite direction. The aperture 224 may be protected by a baffle (not shown) to prevent liquid splashing through the aperture 224 during the heating cycle.

[5251 Figure 42b shows an alternative arrangement to Figure 42a where a combined pushrod and sealing means 234 is formed from the same material, which will enable a larger volume of air or water to pass through the centre. The combined pushrod and seal 234 may incorporate an aperture 224 or a series of apertures 224 or may incorporate an intermediate part 232, as shown in Figure 42c, that acts to attach the combined push rod and sealing means 234 to the actuator 224 through an aperture 229.

[526] As an additional feature (not shown), means for stirring or agitating the liquid during heating may be provided around or associated with the pushrod 228, and may be connected to a motor for driving the means for stirring or agitating. For example, the motor may drive a rotatable hollow shaft provided around the pushrod 228, the shaft having an impeller for stirring the liquid. Alternatively, there may be a reciprocable member mounted on the pushrod 228, reciprocally driven by the motor. The motor may be provided on or in the lid 226. Alternatively, the solenoid may be coupled to the agitator/stirrer. Alternatively, the push rod 226 may be rotatable relative to the sealing means 218, with agitating or stirring means attached to the push rod 228.

[527] Figures 43a and 43b show alternative embodiments where the valve housing 231 is moulded as part of a plastic vessel.

[528] In Figure 43a an aperture 233 is formed in the side of the vessel and is sealed by a horizontal acting sealing means activated by a manual (not shown) or electro mechanical actuator for example a solenoid 210 or motor (not shown). The vent tube 215c also communicates through the side of the vessel 1 either alongside or above the aperture 233 with any overflow of liquid or gas exiting around the pushrod 212 through into the outlet 216.

[529] Figure 43b illustrates an alternative to Figure 43a in which the sealing means 218 is slidable across an aperture 233 in the bottom of the vessel 1. In this embodiment the vent tube 215d communicates through the bottom of the vessel alongside the aperture 233.

[530] Each of the above embodiments integrates the function of the heating vessel 1 and the dispensing valve housing so that the overall height of the appliance is optimised, the liquid flow rate is increased and cold slugs are avoided in comparison to a separate vessel and dispensing valve housing.

[5311 In alternative embodiments the liquid temperature may be regulated by turbulence detection as described herein, in which case for temperatures lower than boiling additional liquid will need to be mixed with the boiling liquid to provide the required temperature.

[532] In alternative embodiments there may be a need to transfer liquid into the heating chamber in readiness for the next heating cycle.

1533] In further embodiments there may be a need transfer sufficient liquid to provide a minimum dispense quantity and/or ensure there is an adequate amount of liquid in the vessel 1 to prevent overheating of the heating means in a subsequent operation.

[534] The provision of adequate liquid to prevent overheating may be achieved by, for example, the provision of a lip or protrusion (not shown) around the inner end of the outlet 216; however, this would be inefficient as not all the heated liquid is dispensed.

[535] Another method to prevent overheating may be to direct the incoming water directly towards the heating means -for example immediately above the heating means 39 or in the case of an immersed heating element (not shown), the supply pipe could be positioned so that the liquid is directed to flow over the sheath of the heating element.

[536] In the case of the previously described appliances that include a pump, then the pump can be energised for a predetermined period of time after the heated liquid has been dispensed and thereby prime or pre-fill the vessel 1 for the subsequent heating cycle.

[537] In the case that the liquid supply is gravity-fed to the heating chamber, as described for example in WO-A-2008/139173, then a float valve may be employed, or an alternative means such as a liquid level sensor (for example as described herein) may be incorporated, to control the provision of liquid into the vessel 1.

Liquid Supply to Prevent Overheating [538] Figure 44 illustrates an embodiment where there are two gravity fed water supply pipes 301 and 302, both of which are connected to a reservoir 187 situated above the vessel body 1. The first supply pipe 301 is controlled by a valve 300, for example, a float valve which may be situated towards the bottom of the vessel body 1 and is configured so that the valve 300 will switch off the flow of liquid when a predetermined water level 225a has been reached, for example sufficient to prevent the vessel overheating in a subsequent operation.

[539] The second supply pipe 302 is controlled by a mechanical or electro mechanical valve 303, which may be automatically or user operable to provide a predetermined or user operated volume of liquid into the vessel body 1.

[540] By providing two supply means it is possible to separate the two functions so that, for example, there is always sufficient liquid in the vessel 1 as a safeguard against overheating and the user or device is still able to independently control the amount of liquid to be heated.

1541] The float valve 300 may be configured so that only a very slow flow of liquid is achieved, in order that any liquid added whilst the sealing means 218 is open will not substantially reduce the temperature of the liquid being dispensed. Alternatively or additionally the outlet of the supply pipe 301 may be situated above the heating means 39 SO that any liquid added after the heating means 39 has been de-energised is warmed by any stored heat in the region of the heating means 39.

[542] In the embodiment as illustrated, the two supply inlets 301 and 302 are connected separately to the reservoir 187; however in an alternative embodiment there may be a single connection from the reservoir 187 to the vessel body 1, the connection then having a first outlet to the valve 303, which may be positioned within or part of the vessel 1, and a second outlet comprising the supply pipe 301.

[543] In further alternative embodiments the function, position and relationship of the valve 300, and sealing means 218 may be combined so that for instance either or both of the supply pipes 301 and 302 is prevented from opening while the sealing means 218 is open.

[544] Alternatively or additionally the actuation of the valve 303 may energise the heating means and cut off the flow through the supply pipe(s) 301 and/or 302 until the heating cycle is complete and the liquid has been dispensed.

Multiple Action Actuator [545] Figures 45a to 45d show a simple schematic illustration of a further embodiment in which the valve 303 between the reservoir 187 and the vessel 1 is closed while the dispensing valve 307 is open.

[546] This embodiment includes a user-operable lever 305 that pivots about a point 306 and interfaces with the thermostat 244, a first valve 303 and a second valve 307. The lever 305 may include some form of lost movement' mechanism, for example a spring loaded hinge (not shown) between the pivot point 306 and either or both of the valves 303 and 307, such that the first valve 303 closes before the second valve 307 is opened. Alternatively or additionally, the opening of the first valve 303 may be delayed, for example by a damping mechanism.

[547] The first valve 303 is a float valve that serves to close the aperture 304 between the reservoir 187 and the vessel 1 when the water level 225c reaches a predetermined level. The float valve 303 may include a vertical portion that enters the reservoir 187 so that overall the valve is more stable and less likely to be disrupted during the boiling process. Either the reservoir 187 or vessel 1 may provide support for the float valve 303.

[548] The second valve 307 is a dispensing valve that is manually actuable to open and may include some form of return or bias mechanism for example a spring 308 to return it to the default closed position. As schematically illustrated the spring 308 is shown within the liquid however it is expected that the spring 308 or other mechanism can equally be positioned outside the liquid.

[549] The thermostat 244 may be any mechanical or electro mechanical temperature sensitive control, for example the applicant's Z5 series steam sensitive switch. The thermostat 244 is actuable to energise the heating means 39.

[550] The vessel 1 and reservoir 187 may also include other features (not shown) such as headroom above the water level, facility for expansion as the liquid is heated and some form of communication between the vessel 1 and the thermostat 244.

[551] Figure 45a shows the position of the components after the heated water has been dispensed and the user has released the manual actuator 305. The spring actuated valve 307 pushes against the user actuator 305 which pivots about a point 306 and the actuator rests in a central position. Tn reaching the central position the valve 303 is allowed to open and liquid enters the vessel 1 through the aperture 304.

[552] The valve 303 closes automatically when the liquid has reached the predetermined level 225c and the appliance is primed now ready for use.

[553] To energise the heating means 39, the user moves the actuator 305 upwards which activates the thermostat 244 to energise the heating means 39. The actuator 305 may be held by the thermostat 244 in this position until the liquid has reached the set temperature and then released although the user may deactivate the thermostat 244 by returning the actuator 305 to the central position. In alternative embodiments the actuator 305 may automatically return to the central position after the thermostat 244 has been activated and the appliance may be provided with an alternative means (not shown) to deactivate the thermostat 244. Tn the present embodiment, for immediate reuse, the thermostat 244 may be activated as the liquid is entering the vessel 1 and the vessel 1 may include one or more of the previously described features that pre-fihl or prime the vessel 1 with liquid.

[554] To dispense liquid from the vessel 1, for example after the liquid has reached the preset temperature and the thermostat has de-energised the heating means 39, the user may push the actuator downwards as illustrated in Figure 45d so that one portion of the actuator 305 is urged against the valve 303, ensuring that no further liquid may enter the vessel 1, and a second portion depresses the valve 307 allowing the heated liquid to flow through the aperture 309. As previously described some form of lost movement' mechanism, for example a spring loaded hinge may be provided in one or more portions of the actuator 305 so that the timing and amount of pressure placed by the actuator 305 upon the valves 303 and 307 can be tuned to meet the requirements of the appliance.

[555] As previously described, once the actuator 305 is released then the valve 307 urges the actuator 305 back into the central position and the vessel 1 is automatically primed with liquid for subsequent use. For immediate reuse, the thermostat 244 may be activated as the liquid is entering the vessel 1 and the vessel 1 may include one or more of the previously described features that help to prevent overheating of the heating means.

[556] Figures 46 and 47 illustrate the outward appearance of an On Demand' hot water appliance 200 that includes a water heating generator as described above. The appliance 1 includes a wrap-around reservoir 187 that may include markings 201 to indicate the water available for use.

[557] The appliance as illustrated includes an on-off user actuator 11, a rotatable temperature indicator 180 and a slidable cup volume selector 202 and may include a lighting sequence to show which option has been chosen.

[558] In operation the user selects the temperature and volume of water required and places a cup 219 onto the drip tray 188. The appliance may incorporate a sensor or switch 189 so that a cup 219 needs to be in place before the heated water is dispensed. Once selected and actuated the pump (not shown) fills the heating chamber 1 to the required level from the reservoir 187 and the heating cycle commences. Once the heated water has been dispensed the user selected options may remain in place for subsequent use without the need to reset.

15591 In its simplest form the appliance 200 may be controlled by a steam sensor (not shown) linked to the solenoid 210 so that when the sensor is switched on the sealing means 218 is activated and the heating means 12 is energised. On sensing boiling the steam sensor would de-energise both the heating means 12 and the solenoid coil 210 so the heated water is dispensed.

[560] Figures 48a and 48b show a further embodiment of an On Demand' hot water appliance 200 that includes a water heating generator, temperature control, and dispensing and/or actuating means, for example as described herein. The appliance includes a wrap-around reservoir 187 that is removable for filling. A pump (not shown) delivers the required amount of water from the removable reservoir 187 into the heating chamber (not shown) through an outlet 193, optionally through a filter. The pump and/or filter may be integrated with the removable reservoir 187 or with the main body of the appliance.

[561] The reservoir 187 also includes an inlet to receive an overflow pipe from the heating chamber. Both the inlet 194 and outlet 193 are positioned above the water level in the reservoir 187 SO that no additional sealing means are required when the reservoir is removed from the main appliance. Power is supplied to the removable reservoir via a cordless connector 3 from the main appliance part.

[562] In other embodiments the pump may be positioned in the main appliance in which case there will be no need for the cordless connector 3.

[563] In this embodiment the user interface 11 comprises a series of buttons but this and other embodiments may utilise any of the previously described user interface arrangements including the rotational user interface 180 may include all the functions required to select and operate the appliance 200.

[564] In the appliances of Figures 46 to 48, the main appliance body including the reservoir 187 may be rotatably mounted about a substantially vertical axis, to facilitate access to the reservoir 187 for removal and/or replacement. The rotatable mounting may comprise a 360° connector, or alternatively a turntable without a power connection.

Pumped Filter Kettle [565] It is known to provide filtered liquid heating appliances 650 in which there are two vessels as illustrated in Figure 52a. The first vessel 658 acts as a hopper or reservoir for the water to be filtered and the second vessel 1 acts to heat the filtered liquid. Generally the filters incorporated in these vessels are proprietary cartridge filters, for example provided by Brita GmbH, and are designed to reduce scale particles and improve the taste for drinking.

[566] WO-A-03/01 1088 discloses a filtered water liquid heating appliance where there are two vessels interconnected by a pump and a filter. The first vessel acts as a hopper or reservoir for the water to be filtered and the second acts to heat the water.

[567] The above appliances have disadvantages in that there is a delay between filling the hopper with liquid and starting the heating process. Furthermore the dual vessel assembly takes additional space so that appliances, for example, kettles designed to heat 1.7 litres of water, are considerably larger, more unwieldy and heavier than a comparable 1.7 litre kettle without the hopper.

[568] Alternatively dual vessel filter kettles can be designed to be the same size and/or weight as non-filter kettles; however the water capacity is proportionally reduced so that the maximum amount of filter water that can be heated is typically around 1 litre.

[569] Additionally with the prior art filter appliances the user has to replace the cartridge filter 651 after a certain period of time or number of boil cycles, which significantly increases the ongoing running costs.

[570] It is also known, to fit a mesh filter 652 within the spout area 7 of a heating vessel 1, as illustrated in Figure 52b. The mesh filter 652 does not purify the water or prevent scale building up in the kettle: however it does prevent larger particles of scale exiting the vessel 1 when water is poured from the vessel. As such, the scale tends to stay within the vessel and in certain conditions can accumulate very quickly, particularly in the hotter areas upon and adjacent to the heating element 12.

[571] The following embodiment seeks to overcome the above problems and provide a more cost effective and smaller filter heating appliance so that a filter kettle is comparable in size and style with a non-filter kettle and easier to clean than the prior art filter kettles.

[572] Figure 52c illustrates a water boiling or heating filter appliance 650, for example a kettle, in which water is stored in the heating vessel 1 and is circulated from the lower part of the vessel 1 through a conduit 654 into a filter and, by gravity, back into the heating vessel 1, so that the water in the heating vessel 1 is filtered. Preferably, there is provided a pump 671 for circulating the water through the conduit 654 from the bottom of the vessel 1 towards the filter 655.

[573] In the simplest embodiment the pump 671 is positioned beneath or adjacent to the heating element 12. The pump 671 may be energised and de-energised at the same time as the heating element 12 and will commence to pump the water into the filter 651 once there is sufficient water in the heating vessel 1 to prime the system.

[574] It is known that scale build up increases as the temperature of the water increases.

Advantageously with the present embodiment the filtering process continues throughout the heating cycle. It has been found that the continuous circulation of the water as it is heated will encourage the particles within the water to remain suspended, so less likely to build up deposits on the internal kettle components and in some cases may prevent the need to descale the vessel.

[575] Additionally the water circulation may help prevent the kettling' or cavitation' noise normally associated with boiling water and a particular problem in stainless steel kettles in hard water areas.

1576] As illustrated in the preferred embodiment of Figure 52c, the filter 655 may be a small open' funnel or hopper type arrangement that is positioned towards the top of the heating vessel 1 with, for example, a screen mesh 659 or other filtering means provided to filter out particles, for example scale, with the water re-entering the heating vessel 1 under gravity. The filter 670 may be similar in design and function to a spout filter 652, and may include a frame 657 that is removably secured to the vessel 1. It is intended that the filter 655 will be easily accessible for cleaning and/or replacement and may include a flange 660 to assist removal. The filter 655, by virtue of being open, may overflow into the reservoir S if the mesh 659 or other filtering means becomes blocked.

[577] In the preferred embodiment the conduit 654 is provided in the handle 9 or alternatively the conduit 654 may be moulded as part of the vessel or may take the form of a tube (not shown) that may be positioned within the vessel 1 and may pass through the element 12. The conduit may be positioned alongside a steam tube (not shown).

[578] Figure 52c illustrates a further optional secondary filter 670 that may be installed at the inlet 665 to the conduit 654 to prevent any larger particles or debris, that may be present in the vessel 1, from entering the conduit 654 and damaging the pump 671. In the case that this second filter 670 is installed then the mesh 659 or other filtering means of the second filter 670 would need to be coarser than the top filter 655 so that suspended particles do not clog the secondary filter 670.

[579] In an alternative embodiment as illustrated in Figure 52d the filter 655 and the secondary filter 670 are conjoined by a moulding 657 so that both filters can be removed and replaced at the same time. As with the previous embodiments the mesh 659 of the secondary filter 670 will need be coarser than that of the filter 655 and suitable mating details (not shown) will need to be provided to removably secure the conjoined filters 655, 670 within the vessel 1.

[580] As illustrated, the circuit is open,' with the water pouring into a filter 655 positioned at the top of the appliance, and then relying on gravity for the filtering process and subsequent return of the water back into the vessel 1. In alternative embodiments the filtering circuit may be closed' so that the system relies entirely on the pump 671 to force the water through an in line' filter, in which case the filter may be positioned in any suitable position within the appliance. For the closed' systems the outlet 666 for the conduit 654 into the heating vessel may be towards the top or the bottom of the vessel and may include a one way or non-return valve 664.

[581] In more complex embodiments the filter may be a compartment that is fillable with a filtering agent or other means suitable for specific application; the compartment may be removable from the vessel. In still further embodiments the filter may be a cartridge that can be replaced when required.

[582] Figure 52e illustrates a further embodiment where the filter 655 is positioned within the handle at the top of the appliance with a separate lid 667 to access the filter 655. In this embodiment the filter 655 may an open filter as shown or may be an in line' filter.

Alternatively the filter 655 may be a compartment filled by the user with a filtering agent suitable for specific applications. In each case an overflow 668, for example a gap above the filter 655, may be provided in the case that the filter 655 becomes blocked.

1583] In a further embodiment as illustrated in Figure 52f the filter may be a disposable cartridge type filter 652 that can be replaced when required. In a still further embodiment as illustrated in Figure 52g the pumped fitter arrangement may be incorporated in a prior art hopper type appliance.

[584] In still further arrangements a spout filter 652 may also be incorporated.

[585] In still further embodiments the filter may include an anti-bacterial agent.

[586] The filter 655, pump 671 and/or the conduit 654 may be positioned in the handle, in the sub base beneath the heating vessel, or towards the top of the heating vessel. In further embodiments the filter may bc formed as part of the lid or appliance cover. The pump 671 may be low voltage or mains voltage and may be positioned within the heating vessel.

[587] In its simplest form the pump 671 would circulate water whenever a steam control (not shown) is energised.

[588] In more complex appliances there may be a mechanical or electronic control, a timer or a level sensor that prevents the pump from running until sufficient water is in the heating vessel and/or that continues to circulate and filter the water after the heating cycle has ended or alternatively and additionally the control may turn off the pump just before boiling to reduce the opportunity for steam to be expelled out of the outlet pipe.

[589] Advantageously the circulating water will provide a more constant heat distribution over the volume of water so that control of the water temperature by electronic means may be more accurate. A thermistor or NTC may be positioned in the conduit 654 as illustrated or alternatively within the vessel.

[590] The inlet 665 may be spaced above the heating element 12 such that a predetermined minimum amount of water will be present above the element 12 before priming the pump.

[5911 The pump speed and flow rate may be balanced to match the filtering capabilities of the specific filter and in some cases the flow rate may be such that the water is filtered a number of times during a single heating process.

[592] In further embodiments the water may be circulated by pressure generated by the heating of the water, for example using a one-way valve and a heated pressure vessel or conduit, or natural convection circulation. As illustrated in Figure 52h the conduit may be attached directly onto the heating element plate 12 and/or conjoined with the element sheath 39. An inlet 665 may be provided through the element plate and a one way valve 664 may be positioned in the conduit either after a part in which water is heated, as illustrated, or alternatively between the conduit inlet 665 and the heated part so that the heated water may percolate through the conduit 654 and into the filter 655.

[593] The pumped filtered water system may be used on any water heating appliance that may suffer from scale build up including vending machines, urns or wall hung water heaters.

Cordless Appliance Packing [594] It is known that in immersed element kettles and jugs, the packaging or gift box may be reduced in size by placing the complete cordless base within the appliance, thus enabling more gift boxes to be loaded in a container, and resulting in a lower per unit' transport cost.

[595] With 360° cordless appliances, the cordless base generally has the same, or larger diameter than the appliance, in which case the complete cordless base is too large to fit within the appliance and is subsequently packaged outside the appliance, with the result that the packaging or gift box is made larger to accommodate this.

1596] The overall height of a typical 360° cordless base, including the height of the connector, is generally between 30 and 40 mm, with the base moulding part typically being between 15 and 25 mm deep. The minimum height of the base moulding towards the perimeter can be as low as 10 mm (dictated by the thickness of the cable and cable inlet in the moulding); however the moulding will still tend to increase in height towards the centre to accommodate the connection of electrical conductors, drainage features etc. Therefore, for all practical purposes, 15 mm can be regarded as the minimum overall depth of the moulding.

[597] In the prior art methods of packaging, the cordless base may be positioned below the appliance with the mating plug and socket fully engaged, in which case the gift box height is increased by the height of the base moulding. In other instances the cordless base may be positioned above the appliance, where the full height of the cordless base and connector needs adding to the box height. Therefore, if it were possible to position the cordless base within the appliance, then this would reduce the height of the gift box by between 15 and 40 mm.

[598] Typically a gift box with the cordless base packaged above or below the appliance would have dimensions of 250 mm high by 190 mm wide by 170 mm deep and reducing the height by 15 to 40 mm would reduce the volume of the box by between 6% and 15%.

[599] Alternatively, in the prior art, the cordless base may be packaged at an angle across a corner of the gift box (i.e. to one side of the appliance) and, to accommodate this, the gift box will need to be made broader or wider or both.

[600] Typically a gift box, with the cordless base packaged at an angle across a corner of the box, would have dimensions of 220 mm high by 220 mm wide by 170 mm deep and reducing the width by 15 to 30 mm would reduce the volume of the box by between 7% and 14%.

[601] The following embodiments include improvements to the packaging of a cordless base within the appliance, whereby the volume of the gift box is reduced significantly and typically between 6 and 15 %. These embodiments are applicable to any of the cordless appliance embodiments described herein, except where obviously incompatible.

[602] Figures 49a to 49k illustrate embodiments in which two or more appliance supports 330 and 331 are positioned around the perimeter of a small diameter cordless base 2. As illustrated, the centre part of the cordless base 2 is circular however in other embodiments the cordless base 2 may take other shapes, for example, ovoid or triangular. The actual dimensions of the cordless base 2 and appliance supports 330 and 331 cannot be determined in isolation from the appliance body. What has been determined, however, is that the minimum cross section dimension X' of the plan view of the cordless base 2 needs to be less than the minimum dimension Z' of an aperture 350 in the appliance body 1.

Furthermore the maximum dimension Y' between the extremities of the supports 330 and 331 should not impede the cordless base 2 fitting inside the appliance body 1. It is likely that the relationship between the shape and size of the appliance body 1 and the cordless base 2 will be complex, particularly as the cordless base 2, including the appliance supports, may be presented or positioned at an angle, so that specifying a position for a minimum internal dimension of the appliance will be not be possible. However, for example, in its simplest form, it may be specified that the maximum dimension X', when the cordless base 2 is tilted or at an angle in the appliance 1, would need to less than the internal height of the appliance and the maximum dimension Y' of the cordless base 2 when tilted at the same angle will need to be less than the internal width of the appliance, such as of the reservoir 5.

[603] The cordless base 2 may include one or more additional appliance supports 351 which may be positioned opposite the appliance supports 330 and 331 on the surface of the central part of the base moulding so that the appliance 1 may be better supported. The cordless base 2 may also include additional feet 345 to assist in supporting the weight of the appliance in use. The feet 345 may also provide a gap below the base 2 so that, in conjunction with drainage holes 346 for example, they may enable any water spilled on the connector 4 or base 2 to be safely drained away from beneath the base 2.

[604] In the embodiment shown in Figure 49a it can be seen that the footprint' area of a base 2, including three supports 330 and 331 in their extended position, is considerably less than the footprint 332 of a standard 360° cordless base in which case the base 2 may fit inside an appliance without the need for any of the appliance supports to be movable or rotatable. However where the appliance body 1 is smaller as illustrated in Figure 49e, then it may be necessary to provide at least one movable or rotatable appliance support 331. In other appliances it may be necessary to provide a base 2 with more than one movable or rotatable appliance support 331 as illustrated in Figures 49f and 49g.

[605] For the purposes of clarification stowed' may be used as a term to describe any part or component that is positioned within a package or gift box and deployed' may be used to describe any part or component that has been assembled or positioned for use after unpacking from the package or gift box.

1606] Figures 49h to 49k illustrate a further embodiment where two or more movable supports 331 are connected via legs 334 which rotate about pivot points 335. The supports may fit within nests 333 SO that when in the stowed position they fit within the outside dimension of the cordless base 2, SO optimising the minimum dimension Y' required within the appliance body 1.

[607] The movable supports 331 and/or legs 334 may be mechanically interconnected so that rotating one appliance support 331 would automatically rotate the other supports 331.

Each of the movable supports 331 and or base 2 may also include some form of locking mechanism, not shown, so that the supports 331 and 333 do not move during use when deployed.

1608] In a further embodiment, the supports 331 and/or legs 334 may be detachable from the cordless base 2, for separate storage within or around the appliance or alternatively may slide out from beneath the base 2 and may optionally include click fits or other locking means for releasably locking in the deployed position.

[609] In a further embodiment, the base 2 may be made smaller in diameter than the vessel body 1, without the need for any additional support or cover, and an aperture in the vessel body 1 may be made large enough for the base 2 to pass into the vessel body 1 for storage.

However, this embodiment would be less stable than the embodiments described above, and may require the vessel body 1 to have a tapered sub-base 9 so that the bottom of the vessel body 1 matches the size of the base 2.

1610] The cordless base 2 may be provided with cable storage features 340, for example, as illustrated in Figures 49t and 49u, that may act as an aid for storage of a cable 336 in transit and/or in use. In alternative embodiments there may be provided for example a disposable cardboard or plastic frame (not shown) about which the cable 336 may be wrapped for transit.

[611] In other embodiments the base 2 and a proportion of the cable 336 may be packaged within the appliance 1 with the remainder of the cable 336 and the plug 337 passing through the spout (not shown) and packaged on the outside of the jug in, for example, the space 348b shown in Figure 49w. Advantageously this may help prevent either the plug 336 or the inside of the appliance 1 becoming damaged during transit and it will also indicate to the user that the cordless base 2 is positioned within the jug body 1.

[612] Furthermore, as an alternative, with each of the above embodiments it may be possible to position the cordless base 2 within the spaces 348a or 348b for transit.

[613] In additional embodiments there may be provided additional mouldings 338, 343 or 344 that may act as either functional or cosmetic covers for the supports 330, 331. These may be for example provided as two separate parts 338 or one folding part 344 so that they fit within the appliance 1 or the space 348a or 348b for transit.

[614] Alternatively the cover may be supplied as one part 343 and packaged either above or below the appliance in the gift box for fransit as shown schematically in Figures 49q, 49r and 49s. It is expected that around 4mm would need to be added to the height of the box to accommodate the cover 343 being packaged either above or below the appliance position and this height may be reduced if the cross sectional profile of the cover 343 mirrored the cross sectional profile of the appliance 1 so that the two parts nest' or fit together. In the embodiment as illustrated in Figure 49s the aperture 349 in the cover 343 is larger than the top of the appliance, so that the cover 343 may sit over the appliance and there would be no requirement to increase the height of the gift box.

[615] The two part cover assembly 338 may include click fit or assembly features 339, as shown in Figure 49v, and the folding cover 344 may include some form of hinge 342 which may be a living hinge formed as part of the moulding process in order that the user can assemble the parts prior to use.

[616] The cover 338, 343 and 344 or cordless base 2 may include, for example, click fits 339 or alternatively bayonets or threads so that the cover may be attached to the base 2. The cover 338, 343, 344 may itself act as a support for the cordless base 2, such that the supports 330, 331 are not required.

[617] Each of the fixture methods may be permanent i.e. intended for one time single fix', or alternatively removable so that for example the cover may be removed for cleaning, which is a particular advantage for appliances where the liquid to be heated can easily boil over, for example milk or soup.

[618] In embodiments such as illustrated in Figure 491 the aperture 349 may interface with the perimeter of the base 2 and in other embodiments such as illustrated in Figure 49m the aperture may interface with the connector 4 or some other profile or detail, not shown, on the surface of the base 2.

[619J Alternatively the covers 338, 343 and 344 may just be placed over the base 2 or connector 4 without any fixture, so that they can more easily be removed for cleaning.

[620] Where it is likely that the covers may be removed and, for some reason not refitted, then consideration should be made in the interface between the base 2 and the appliance 1 SO that the plug 3 and socket 4 always mate sufficiently so that the correct electrical and mechanical connection is achieved.

[621] Figures 49y, 49z and 49za illustrate a further embodiment of the two piece cordless base where the cover 343, or surround, interfaces with the perimeter of the base 2. The form of the cover 343 includes three extensions parts that extend downwardly and may sit level with the work surface. The interface includes a multi-use locking system, such as a click fit, push fit or interference fit, so that the cover 343 is removably secured to the base 2; when the cover 343 is removed from the base 2, the complete appliance can be repackaged if required. In alternative embodiments this locking system may be a one-time fit and in other embodiments the cover 343 may rest on the base 2 without locking or securing means. The base 2 may be assembled into the cover 343 from above or from below. The assembly between the base 2 and the cover 343 may take place after the power cord 13 has been attached.

[622] As illustrated in Figure 49za the cross sectional form of the cover 343 is a mirror image of the appliance base moulding 6 so that base moulding 6 nests within cover 343 in the stowed position for packaging, for example as previously described.

[623] In further embodiments, the previously described removable lid or hinged lid assembly 150 may be transported within the vessel body to reduce the height and volume of the gift box.

[624] In a further embodiment as illustrated in Figures 49zb to 49zc the interface between the vessel 1 and a reduced size cordless base 2 is configured so that additional cover 343 is not required and as such no part of the cordless base 2, other than the power cord 13, would be visible to the user.

[625] It is desirable for the power cord 13 to extend outwardly from underneath the vessel 1 without substantially impeding the 3600 docking of the vessel 1 with the base 2: this may be achieved by the provision of a skirt 133 acting to support the vessel 1 and in turn this skirt being supported by a plurality of feet 345 that are marginally higher than the cross sectional of the power lead 13.

[626] As an example, if a vessel 1 with a circumference of 440 mm (approximately 140mm diameter) and skirt 133 was provided with three feet 345 of approximately 3mm width then the docking of the vessel 1 would be unimpeded for approximately 97% of the circumference. Furthermore the feet 345 may be chamfered so that they would tend to be deflected off the power cord 13 in the case that the vessel 1 was presented to the base 2 with the feet 345 in line with the power cord 13.

16271 As illustrated the vessel 1, skirt 133 and feet 345 are integral; for example, the skirt 133 and/or feet 345 may form part of the base moulding of the vessel 1. However in further embodiments they may be manufactured from separate parts and assembled together. Tn another embodiment the feet 345 may be separately mounted radially inwardly of the skirt 133.

[628] In alternative embodiments the power cord 13 may be configured in a manner that reduces the cross sectional area in one plane so that the height of the feet 345 may be reduced.

[629] In the embodiment as illustrated when docked the vessel 1 may be fully supported by the feet 345 and the base 2 may include some form of vertical spring bias so that the mating connectors 3 and 4 are always fully engaged.

1630] The cordless base 2 may also include means to prevent its vertical and/or lateral movement when docking and undocking, for example at least one circumferential suction pad 125 or alternatively at least one suction cup or alternatively and/or additionally some form of high friction surface material, for example, textured rubber, to interface with the surface on which the cordless base 2 is placed. The means to prevent vertical and/or lateral movement and the vertical spring biasing may be provided by the same components, for example the circumferential suction pad 125 or the high friction surface material may also provide vertical resilience.

[631] In further embodiments the docked position may be so that the vessel 1 rests on the base 4 and is stabilised by one or more of the feet 345.

1632] The cordless base may include a skirt 134 with access for the power cable 13 in order to shroud the electrical connections and may also include a base cover and cord grip (not shown). The skirt 133 may be a separate component or be integral to the base connector 4 in which case there may be no requirement for the appliance manufacturer to tool up any additional components with the resultant saving in tooling, material and assembly costs.

Furthermore as the base 2 is not seen there may not be a need to coordinate the base 2 with the vessel 1, as such a standard base 2 may now be used across a full range of colours and types of appliances, so reducing the need for inventory and improving economies of scale.

[633J The ability to supply a standard base 2 for many different applications opens up the opportunity to introduce a more cost effective and/or automatic assembly method between the connector 4 and the power lead 13; for example welding, soldering or crimping which may negate the need for mechanical electrical connections, for example, tab terminals. The standard base 2 assembly may also include a power plug 337.

16341 The standard base 2 as described above may be used in conjunction with the previous described cover 343 for manufacturers who may wish to follow the teachings of previous embodiments.

[635] The standard base 2 as described above may be used in any appliance that requires a removable cordless connection means and may be provided with optical communication means and/or wireless remote control as previously described.

[636] In further embodiments the power lead 13 and or the power plug 337 may incorporate some form of indicator that the connectors 3 and 4 have fully docked, and may alternatively or additionally incorporate some form of onloff switch.

[637] In further embodiments the mating connectors 3 and 4 may be magnetically coupled.

[6381 In further embodiments as illustrated in Figure 49x the entire lid and handle assembly 347 or the previously described removable hinged lid and handle assembly may also be transported within the appliance either independently or alongside the previously described cordless base 2 so as to reduce both the height and the width of the gift box.

[639] In additional embodiments it is envisaged that the appliance can be designed and manufactured in such a manner that each of the lid and handle 150, the cordless base 2 and the covers 338, 343 or 344 may be removably mounted or incorporate removably mounted or rotating parts, so that the size of the gift box is optimised still further.

Reduced Diameter Vessel [640] One method to reduce the manufacturing costs of an appliance is simply to reduce the size of the appliance. It is possible to reduce the height of the appliance without reducing the element diameter, but this has a limiting effect on the design and may not provide the cost savings required. Reducing the size of a critical component such as the diameter of the element may have negative knock-on effects on the other standard components and may negate any savings.

[641] One such component is the sealing sub-assembly in plastic-bodied appliances, in which it is an advantage to incorporate a well-proven industry standard sealing system, for example the applicant's Easifix® sealing system.

[642J The Easifix® sealing system, as described in WO-A-99/1 7645 overcomes particular problems related to sealing heating elements into plastic-bodied vessels including assembly issues, rework, differences in coefficients of expansion and problems with hot parts melting the plastics, both in normal use and in overheat or abuse conditions.

[643] The diameter of an Easifix® mechanical element is a product of the size of the control, the width of the element sheath for a given power output, the diameter of the heat transfer plate, and the element plate form between the sheath and the seal. Typically, with the proprietor's Al series of control and a 3kW power rated element, the smallest outside diameter of an element plate is approximately 120mm which, when taking into consideration the Easifix® seal and the vessel wall extrapolates to an outside diameter of the appliance vessel body of approximately 130mm.

[644] The following embodiments incorporate improvements to the design of the element plate form and the assembly of the element and seal into the appliance so that the proprietor's Al series of controls with a 3kW sheath can be installed into a vessel with an outside diameter of 121 mm, which is a reduction in the outside diameter of a standard Easifix® type appliance of 9 mm. It is also expected that the improvements can be applied to any control type and element power rating so that the minimum element size for each control type and power rating can be reduced by a similar measurement.

[645] Figure 50a illustrates a cross section of the prior art Easifix® assembly with the element plate having, progressing radially outwardly from a planar central section 12, an upwardly extending section 12a, an outwardly extending section 12b, a downwardly extending section 12c and an outwardly extending section 12d forming a lip 406. The element shape creates an elongated heat path which helps to prevent or reduce heat from the element sheath 39 being transferred into the area in which the seal 400 and any circlip, element support or support rib (not shown) is positioned. Additionally the lip 406 helps to position the seal during assembly.

1646] Figure SOb illustrates a cross section of a first embodiment of a sealing arrangement in which the element plate 12, which is typically 0.5m mm thick, is modified relative to the prior art arrangement of Figure 50a so that that there are only two folds 12a and 12b. The absence of the additional two planes 12c and 12d, evident in the prior art, may cause a rigidity problem in which case the planar part of the plate 12 may include a circumferential step or jiggle' (not shown) or other detail to provide additional rigidity in the top surface.

[647] The length of the plate section between 12a and 12b is elongated so that the dimension E is typically 20 mmin this embodiment.

[6481 The lip 406 is now positioned towards the top of the element plate 12, but advantageously in this embodiment a standard Easifix® seal 400 can be placed upside down around the periphery of the element plate 12, allowing a standard component to be used.

Other standard components, such as the circlip or element support or support rib, may also be used with this embodiment.

[649] Figures SOc to SOd illustrate the embodiment of Figure SOb installed in an appliance 1, complete with 360° connectors 3 and 4. Figure SOc shows a detail of the installation of the embodiment of Figure SOb, in which it can be seen that the appliance sub base 19 is attached to the appliance body 1 by elongate ribs 403 interfacing with slots 405 within the appliance body 1 as described in WO-A-99/17645. Figure SOd shows the sub-base component 9 used for this installation.

[650] Support ribs 401 moulded as part of the sub base 19 act to support the seal 400 which in turn acts to support the element plate 12. Advantageously the seal 400 provides insulation so as to help to prevent heat from the element plate 12 melting and/or distorting the support ribs 401 and/or annular rib 402 and/or over-insertion ribs or fins (not shown).

[6511 The ribs 401 and 403 maybe offset from each other for ease of moulding and draw of the tool.

[652] In further embodiments the ribs 403 may be part of the ribs 401 and interface with the slots 405 from inside the jug, for example by projecting radially outwardly rather than inwardly.

[653] In further embodiments the ribs 401 may be formed towards the top part of the sub base 19, for example adjacent to the slots 405.

[654] In further embodiments a clamped annular support ring (not shown) may be provided around the outside of the appliance 1 to provide support for the element plate 12 and the sub base 19, so negating the need for slots 405 extending through the appliance 1.

[655] There may be provided an annular rib 402 moulded into the appliance 1, which acts to prevent the seal 400 and element plate 12 being pushed too far into the appliance 1 during assembly. The annular rib 402 also helps to hide the seal 400 from view when the lid 8 is open. In other embodiments the appliance may be provided with over-insertion ribs as described in WO-A-99/17645.

[656] In further embodiments there may be provided a circular ring of thermally insulating material provided between the element plate 12 and the support ribs 401 so that the support ribs 401 may act on the element more directly without melting or distorting. Alternatively, for a similar purpose, each individual support rib 401 may be provided with a thermally insulated portion, such as a tip or sleeve, made for example from ceramic.

[657] In further embodiments the ribs 403 may be elongated so that they directly support the seal 400 and/or the element plate 12 and/or the circular ring, as described above.

[658] In further embodiments a circlip or circular clip as described in WO-A-99/17645 may be employed to support the element seal 400. The circlip or circular clip may assist in keeping the plastic vessel body 1 circular.

[659] In further embodiments there may be provided an insulating circlip or circular clip that supports the element directly. The circlip may be manufactured in a high temperature plastic so as not to distort when in contact with the element plate 12, or alternatively may be manufactured from a metal with low thermal conductivity properties, for example stainless steel.

[660] Alternatively there may be provided an insulating ring as described above between the circlip or circular ring and the element plate 12. Alternatively there may be provided a series of individual insulating components between the circlip and the element plate 12.

[661] Although described above in relation to mechanical elements with 5 mm thick plates, advantageously the simplified form of the element plate 12 in embodiments of the invention may be particularly suitable for elements with thicker plates for example thick film or printed elements which may have plates up to 1.2 mm thick. In the case of the thicker material, which will have greater insulating properties, and the later described improvements to the seal 400, it may be possible to reduce the dimension E from 20 mm down to 10 mm or below.

[662] The element plate 12 and seal 400 may be inserted from above or below and the annular rib 402 may be provided as a separate part and installed for example as described in WO-A-99/17645.

[663] The embodiments of Figures 50 to SOd are described in relation to plastic bodied liquid heating vessels however at least one embodiment as described above may also be used for appliances such as liquid heating vessels of any material including glass, ceramic, and metal.

Reduced Height Seal [664] A further method to reduce costs associated with the element plate 12 and the seal 400 is to reduce material in one or both of the element plate and the seal.

[665] In the prior art, Easifix ® type seals as illustrated in Figure 50a may include features for securing the seal 400 to the plate 12 that may increase the height of the seal 400 and so increase the mass and material content of the seal 400.

[666] In the prior art, Easifix ® type seals as illustrated in Figure 50a may include material above and below the fins that may increase the height of the seal 400 and so increase the mass and material content of the seal 400.

[667] Any increase in the length of the seal 400 will also necessitate an increase in the mating surface of the plate 12 with the resultant increase in the material content of the plate 12.

16681 In the prior art, Easifix ® type seals 400 may include a complex multi surface interface with the element plate, so increasing the mass of the seal 400 and the complexity of the tooling and manufacture of both the seal 400 and the plate 12.

[669] Therefore there is a need to develop a seal 400 and corresponding plate 12 in which the height of the seal 400 and the length and complexity of the mating surface between the seal 400 and the plate 12 is minimised so that the material, tooling and manufacturing costs of the seal 400 and plate 12 may be reduced.

[670] Where it is not possible to reduce the diameter of the element plates then the material costs may be reduced by optimising the size and shape of the heating plate 12 and the cooperating seal 400.

16711 One way to optimise the components is to limit the height of the seal to the combined height of the sealing means of the seal; for example in the case of Easifix ® the circumferential fin or fins. Figures 50e to 501 illustrate embodiments in which the height of the seal 400 has been reduced so that height of the seal 400 is limited to the width of two circumferential fins in the axial direction, including any gap that there may be between the fins.

[672] A second way to achieve this is to minimise the size of the element plate and the complexity of the tooling in the area of the mating surface with the seal.

[673] Figures SOc to SOn illustrate seals with two circumferential fins. In further embodiments (not shown) it can be envisaged the seal may include a single fin or alternatively more than two fins. For clarity, Figures SOe to SOn illustrate the seals in an uncompressed state prior to installation into the vessel.

[674] Figure 50f details: Dimension H is the straight portion of the plate 12 supporting the seal 400.

Portion 470 is an internal circumferential bend or curve of the plate 12 towards the top of the single mating surface.

Portion 471 is an internal circumferential bend or curve of the plate 12 towards the bottom of the single mating surface.

Dimension F is the total height of the element plate 12 defined by the height of the straight portion (Dimension H) plus the cross sectional height any circumferential bend or curve 470 or 471 that is adjacent to the straight portion (Dimension K) Dimension G is the height of the seal 400 which is defined by the combined height of each fin 23 (Dimension J) plus, in the case of a plurality of fins 23, the distance between the fins 23 (Dimension L) 16751 Dimensions G, H and K as detailed in Figure 50f will be used as reference points in the determining and comparing between dimension F in the prior art dimension F in the embodiments of Figures 50e to SOgc. For the purposes of the comparison the thickness of the plate 12 is ignored.

[676] The drawings are not to scale, however, by way of example, for the illustrated mechanical sheathed element assemblies incorporated in a 100mm to 200mm diameter jug kettle then it expected that dimension G would be approximately 5mm, the plate 1 would be approximately 0.5 mm thick and Dimesion K portion 470 would be approximately 1.2mm.

[677] The plate thickness and the dimension K of the portions 470, 471 may vary in other embodiments for example for a thick film element.

16781 It is expected that any savings in material made between the described embodiments and the prior art will be pro rata to the dimensions and specifications of the prior art.

[679] In the first embodiment illustrated in Figure SOc there is provided a heating element incorporating a plate 12, a heat transfer plate 410 and a sheathed element 39. The heating plate 12 incorporates an upwardly extending face 12a and an outwardly extending face 12b, a downwardly facing flange 12c and an outwardly facing lip 12d.

[680] The length of the lip 12d is substantially equal to or marginally greater than Dimension K of portion 470 between 12c and 12d so that the element material is minimised, whilst the seal 400 can be supported by and against the lip 1 2d during assembly and is fully supported against the flange 12c during use.

16811 The seal 400 is substantially equal in height to the distance between the outer extremities of two fins 23 of the seal 400 as defined by dimension G. The seal 400 comprises a matching circumferential curve at the bottom to the portion 471 so that the seal sits snugly within the portion 471.

[682] In this embodiment the seal 400 rests against a single surface comprising the substantially straight flange 1 2c and the portion 471.

[683] Dimension F is equal to Dimension G plus the dimension K of portion 471, in which case Dimension F is substantially shorter than in the previously described prior art.

[6841 The saving in percentage terms for the seal 400 over a seal 400 with the same diameter will be substantially directly proportional to the cross sectional area of the seal 400, however it is estimated that the saving on the plate 12 will be dependant on the diameter and the form of the plate 12.

[685] Compared with the known prior art arrangements and based upon the previously suggested dimensions (assuming a 1 5Ommm plate) then the following material savings have been estimated: Seal-between 15 and 30% Element plate -between 5 and 15% [686] It is also expected that, given the less complex forms of the seal 400 and the plate 12 that there will be additional savings on both the tooling and processing costs for each of the said components.

[687] Figure 5Oga illustrates a further embodiment in which the element plate 12 dimension F is reduced still further by reducing the dimension H so that the distance between the extremities of the portions 470 and 471 is substantially equal to the height of the seal 400.

1688] The bottom part of the seal 400 corresponds to the portions 47 land the top part of the seal is widened to correspond with the portion 470.

[689] It is expected that the saving in the plate 12 will be greater than the additional material of the seal 400.

[690] Figure 50gb illustrates a further embodiment in which the element plate dimension F is reduced still further by reducing the dimension H so that the distance between the extremities of the portions 470 and 471 is less than the height of the seal 400.

[691] The lip 12d protrudes into the seal 400 in the area behind the lower fin 23 so that the seal 400 is retained around the both the portion 470 and the lip 12d which advantageously provide additional security for the seal 400 during assembly.

1692] The embodiment of Figure 50gb provides savings in materials of both seal 400 and plate 12 over that of Figure SOga.

[693] Figure SOgc illustrates a further embodiment in which the portion 470 is absent.

Dimension F is marginally longer than in Figure 50gb, but overall there is less material in the plate 12. The seal 400 however is still retained around the top portion 471 and the bottom of the plate 12.

[694] Figures 50h to 501 illustrate the previously described inverted plate in which the heating plate 12 is simplified and incorporates an upwardly extending face 12a and an outwardly facing lip 1 2b. As previously described, in the case of plates of thinner material the absence of the additional two planes 1 2c and 1 2d, evident in the previous embodiment, may cause a rigidity problem in which case it is preferred that the planar part of the plate 12 may include a circumferential step (not shown) or other detail to provide additional rigidity in the top surface.

[695] The length of the lip 1 2b is substantially equal to or marginally greater than the Dimension K of portion 470 so that the element material is minimised whilst the seal 400 can be supported against the lip 12b during assembly and is fully supported against the flange 12a during use.

[696] The height of the seal 400 is substantially equal to the distance between the outer extremities of two fins 23 of the seal 400 as defined in dimension G. The seal 400 has a circumferential curve at the top, matching the portion 470 so that the seal sits snugly within the portion 470.

[697] In this embodiment the seal 400 rests against a single continuous surface comprising the substantially straight flange 12a and the portion 470.

[6981 It can be seen that the plate details 12a to 12b and seal 400 in Figures 50h to 501 are mirror images of the plate details 12c to 12d and seal 400 in Figures 50e to SOgc; in which case the savings estimated for the plate 12 and seal 400 will be substantially similar to those of the corresponding previous embodiments.

[699] In plastic bodied vessel the options outlined in Figures 50e to 501 are particularly advantageous where the heating means, for example the sheath 39 and the heat transfer plate 410 are suitably isolated from the vessel 1, or alternatively in the case that the previously described thick film element on a thicker plate is employed.

[700] In the case that there is a risk that the heat from the element 12 may damage parts of the appliance then the previously described insulating means of embodiments 50a to SOd may be employed.

[701] Alternatively if the vessel 1 is manufactured in a higher melting point material, for example stainless steel, ceramic or glass, then any reduction in the mass of the seal 400 or length of the plate 12 may not result in excess heat from the element 12 damaging the vessel 1.

Metal Walled Vessels [702] Figure 50m illustrates an exploded isometric section of a prior art metallic-bodied appliance. Figure SOn is a cross-section of the prior art metallic-bodied appliance in an assembled position showing the position of the welds 413. The prior art heating element 12 may include a step 12c and 12d or other circumferential detail formed on the top surface for rigidity. The prior art heating element 12 includes a downwardly extending section 1 2e which, combined with steps 1 2c and 1 2d, extends from the active part of the element to the bottom rim of the vessel 1 and is then sealed circumferentially in the position 413, for example, by a welding process. The vessel 1 and element portion 12e may both include an aperture 414 to provide access, for example, for a user actuator which will also require a sealing means 413.

[703] The total height from the top surface of the element plate 12 to the bottom rim of the vessel may be up to 35 mm and given the element plate 12 is stamped or drawn from a flat plate then the portion 1 2e accounts for a substantial proportion of the material cost of the plate. Therefore there is a need to provide a method of installing an element plate 12 into vessel 1 without (or reducing) the material normally required for forming the part 1 2e.

[704] In other embodiments the plate 12 may, for example, be folded or rolled together with the bottom part of the vessel 1 in which case additional material is required for this process which adds further costs to the element assembly.

1705] Whichever prior art joining method is employed then the process is permanent and it is not possible to rework the appliance without significantly damaging either or both of the element plate 12 or the vessel 1; both of which are expensive items. Therefore there is a need to provide means for removal of the element 12 from the vessel 1 without damaging either component, in the case of rework.

[706] The aperture 414 for the control actuator in Figure 50m will add further problems for the rework process.

[707] Due to the dirty nature of the element assembly and the polishing process then any rework would have to be carried out away from the production line which would add considerably to the costs of rework.

[708] Therefore there is a need to provide an element assembly method that enables the assembly to take place after the vessel has been polished/coated and ideally as part of the production line process.

[709] Furthermore with the prior art if, for example, the assembled appliance is found to be leaking then there would be a need to remove all the associated parts from the vessel 1 and the plate 12 for example, the handles and/or controls, prior to rework. Therefore, there is a need to provide an element assembly process that does not necessitate any rework to the associated parts of the vessel and/or element if either the vessel and/or element is not being replaced.

[710] Furthermore, with the prior art assembly, the different element electrical ratings are required to suit different markets. Once the element plate 12 is fixably attached to the vessel 1 the electrical rating of the appliance is fixed. In the case that one vessel design may be sold into three regions with different power requirements then each of the vessels must be pre ordered with a suitable element. Tt would be far more flexible, and also ease stocking/capital problems, if the vessels 1 can be supplied to the final assembly without elements plates 12 already installed.

[711] Furthermore, in the prior art, there is a need to provide means to provide a sealingly attached annular ring in a vessel to support and seal against an element plate that is smaller than the internal diameter of the vessel, for example a thick film printed element. It is known that continuously securing an annular support ring by welding may distort the support ring so that there is a need to provide a means to provide a sealingly attached annular ring without distorting the annular ring in the process.

1712] One method of enabling the element to be installed as part of the appliance assembly (and also allow rework) in metallic-bodied appliances is to incorporate the applicant's Easifix® sealing system, in order to seal the element plate 12 into the vessel 1 and provide additional means to secure the element plate 12 into the vessel 1.

[713] The embodiments below describe methods to improve upon Easifix® type sealing methods, for example, by the provision of an circumferential annular support member and modifications to the design of the element plate 12 so that the element plate 12 can be removably installed into metallic-bodied appliances.

[714] The element plate 12 may comprise a central, generally planar portion and a peripheral flange 12c extending transversely downwards from the element plate 12. The lower portion of the peripheral flange 12d may extend radially outwards to form a platform, in which the platform provides support for the resilient seal 400. The platform may be a lip, in which the resilient seal 400 include an annular groove into which the lip fits. The element plate may include additional features as later described.

[715] Many of the embodiments rely upon an annular ring 411 which may be formed from or attached to the vessel 1 to co-operate with the element 12 and or additional components, so that the element 12 can be removably assembled into the vessel 1.

[716] The annular ring 411 may be formed from a separate component that is mounted to the internal wall 412 of the vessel 1 by suitable known securing methods, including welding, fusion bonding, brazing, clamping, snap-fit, friction fit, screwing or soldering etc. [717] The ring 411 may be manufactured from metal, plastic or any suitable material or a combination of suitable materials.

[718] The annular ring 411 need not act as a sealing means therefore the securing means does not need to be continuous; in which case intermittent securing means for example spot welds may be employed. The annular ring 411 being of hollow form may allow easy access into the connection area for connections means, for example welding heads that may otherwise be inaccessible if the there was a planar portion as with for example an heating element.

[719] Once installed, then the annular ring 411 will act as an indexing means, datum point, guide or platform for all components attached to or via the annular ring, therefore it is preferred that the assembly method of the annular ring 411 into the vessel 1 will employ some form of jigging' means to ensure axial and radial compatibility with the cooperating components.

[7201 In the case that the securing means may cause cosmetic damage or discolouration to the vessel 1 then it is preferred that the annular ring 411 is attached to the vessel 1 before the polishing/coating process.

[721] If the securing means does not cause any cosmetic damage or discolouration to the vessel 1 for example if secured by a laser welding or gluing process then the annular ring 411 may be attached to the vessel 1 after the polishing/coating process.

[722] The annular ring 411 may be, for example, stamped, rolled, extruded or drawn from a flat piece of material, and preferably the outer surface of the annular ring 411 matches the angle and shape of the internal wall surface 412 of the vessel 1.

[723] In other embodiments as shown in Figures SOag, SOah and SOai the annular ring 411 may be formed by bending a straight pre-formed strip of material to form a substantially circular annular ring 411. The ends of the annular ring 411 may be joined (e.g. welded, fusion bonded, brazed, clamped, snap-fitted, friction fit or soldered) together to maintain a substantially circular form.

[724] The pre-forming of the strip may include a rolling and or folding and or pressing and or stamping and or extrusion process so that features for example the aperture 414 and tabs 415 are formed. The pre forming may also include a bending process so that the strip may be formed into a coil or roll from which the annular rings may be formed. Alternatively the process may also cut the pre formed strips to length prior to or after the bending process so that a substantially circular shape is formed. This substantially circular shaped annular ring 411 may be resilient so that it can be compressed prior to insertion into the vessel and the resilience may help to maintain the annular ring's 411 position with the vessel 1 or assembly jig prior to attachment to the vessel 1.

[725] In some cases the internal surface of the vessel 1 will be complex and there may be a wide tolerance/variance for the internal diameter of the vessel 1 in the area of the annular ring in which case the annular ring 411 may be split so that it can be expanded to match the internal diameter precisely. The annular ring 411 may be provided with a slidable grommet 421 between the ends to maintain the circular shape prior to and during the attachment process. The grommet and may also be employed as a cosmetic cover for the gap between the ends of the annular ring 411.

[726] Alternatively the annular ring 411 and the vessel 1 may be constructed from a unitary material, whereby the annular ring 411 may be formed by folding the base of the vessel 1 to form a flange as illustrated in Figure Sot. In addition, the flange may extend upwardly or downwardly from the base of the vessel 1 such that the flange is substantially parallel to the internal wall 412 of the vessel 1. In another embodiment (not shown) the flange may extend radially inwards or outwards relative to the central axis of the vessel 1, such that the flange is substantially perpendicular to the vessel 1.

[727] Where the annular ring 411 includes features, for example apertures 414, which the seal 400 passes over during the assembly or disassembly procedure then it is preferred that the feature includes a soft radius or smooth edge 426 that may allow the resilient seal 400 to pass over the feature with minimal obstruction. Additionally each leading edge of the annular ring 411 may be configured to prevent obstruction when the resilient seal 400 passes over the annular ring 411.

[728] Once installed the annular ring 411 may add rigidity to the vessel body.

1729] To save material, attachment features of the annular ring 411, for example horizontal aperture 414 or tabs 415, may be formed as part of an individual component which then acts as an attachment means and a plurality of individual attachment means are attached separately, for example, to the internal wall of the vessel 1.

[730] In other embodiments features within the vessel, for example a water window moulding (not shown), may be used as the means to support the annular ring 411 or individual attachment means.

[731] Figure 50o shows an exploded isometric section of a first to third embodiments of the invention which includes a vessel 1, a seal 400, optional tabs 415 and an element plate 12 having a planar central section, a downwardly extending section 1 2c, an outwardly extending section 12d and downwardly extending section 12e.

[732] A resilient seal 400 is supported by the outwardly extending portion 12d. The resilient seal may have inwardly or outwardly extending fins (as in the applicant's well known Easifix® system) and serves to seal the element plate 12 within the vessel body 1.

1733] Advantageously metal bodied appliances are less susceptible to problems relating the overheating and overshoot temperatures than plastic vessels, therefore the previously described seal 400 and reduced size element plates 12 as illustrated in Figures SUe to 501 are particularly suitable for these and following embodiments.

[734] In all embodiments a suitable jig and/or indexing means (not shown) may need to be provided to ensure that the element 12, annular ring 411 and/or other attachment means is correctly positioned within the vessel 1 during the assembly.

[735] Features within the vessel 1, for example a water window moulding (not shown), may be used as the means for indexing.

[7361 In the first embodiment, after the element 12 and the seal 400 are correctly positioned then the portion 12e may be attached directly to the internal wall surface 412 of the vessel 1 by a series of laser welds or other attachment techniques that does not leave blemishes or markings on the exterior of the vessel 1.

[737] As previously described the weld or other securing means is only required for attachment purposes therefore there is no necessity for a continuous circumferential seal in this area. This embodiment may reduce the length of the portion 1 2e compared to the prior art and so reduce material costs and also allow space for the previously described apertures 414 between the element plate 12 and the bottom of the vessel 1, for example for the control actuator, without additional sealing means; however it may not be easy to access the attached portion for disassembly and it is likely that the vessel body 1 and/or element plate 12 may be damaged during the process.

[738] To overcome this issue it is preferred that the element plate 12 is provided with a series of tabs 4115 to secure the element plate 12 to the vessel 11. The tabs may be provided from the plate portion 12e or may be separately provided and for example welded onto the internal surface of the plate 1 2e or alternatively 1 2c (not shown).

[739] Preferably the tabs 415 are elongate and may include a fold or form so that the faces for attachment 413 are parallel to the cooperating vessel 1 and or element 12. The assembly of the element 12 and seal 400 into the vessel 1 may then follow the previously described procedure and the tabs 415 may be attached (laser welded, for example) directly onto the internal wall surface 412 of the vessel 1.

[740] The tabs 415 may include an indexing feature, for example a lateral flange (not shown) that, for example, interfaces with the bottom rim of the vessel 1. The indexing means may be removed after assembly or alternatively may be employed as a means to support the sub base 19.

[741] In the case that rework is required then each of the tabs may partially or entirely removed or cut so that the element plate 12 and seal 400 may be withdrawn from the vessel 1.

[742] Preferably the removal or cutting of the tab 415 will be such that any remaining portion attached to the vessel 1 does not inhibit the reassembly.

[743] For re-assembly it may be possible to provide an additional tab 415 (not shown) to bridge the gap in the original severed tabs 415 or alternatively additional tabs 415 (not shown) may be provided and attached, to one side of the original tabs.

[7441 In alternative embodiments the plate or tab may be intermittently or selectively attached to the bottom rim of the vessel in a similar position to the weld position as shown in 50m -so that the parts to be attached are more accessible for assembly and disassembly and any witness from the attachment means may be hidden by the sub base 19.

[745] In a further embodiment as illustrated in Figure Sop an annular ring 411 may be formed by inwardly folding the base of vessel 1 and the tabs 415 are attached to this annular ring 411; in which case additional attachment means may be employed, for example spot welding or brazing or screwing, without the risk of substantially resulting in blemishes or markings on the vessel 1.

[746] Other attachment means for the tabs 415 may include clamping, snap-fit, friction fit, or soldering and in the case of screws for example it may be possible to remove the tabs 415 without the need to cut the tabs 415 in which case the tabs 415 could be reused.

[747] In further embodiments (not shown), portions of the annular ring 411 may be provided to fold back through 900 after the element 12 and seal 400 have been inserted and used as a flange to provide support for the tabs 415. In the case of rework then the tabs would need to be folded back through to their original position. Additional portions may be provided for subsequent assembly if there is concern that the original portions have been weakened by the folding and unfolding, [748] As illustrated the tabs 415 are shown as flat material however in further embodiments the tabs could have other forms for example round wire.

[749] Figures SOq to SOaa illustrate embodiments in which there is provided a separate annular ring 411 attached to the internal wall 412 of the vessel 1 below the position of the seal.

[750] In all embodiments the inside surface of the annular ring 411 will fit flat against the vessel wall 412. As previously described it is important that any feature for example an aperture 414 that protrudes from the annular ring 414 includes a soft radius or smooth edge, or other means, so that the seal 400 is not damaged as it passes over the annular ring 411 during assembly.

[751] A suitable jig (not shown) or features (not shown) within the vessel may need to be provided to ensure that the annular ring 411 is correctly positioned within the vessel 1 during the assembly.

[752] In all embodiments, unless otherwise stated, the annular ring 411 may be attached as previously described.

[7531 In all the embodiments, unless otherwise stated, the assembly procedure for the element 12 and seal 400 into the vessel 1 will be similar.

[754] Figure 50q shows an exploded isometric section of a further embodiment of the invention in which the element plate 12 is secured to the annular ring 411 via tabs 415.

[755] Figures 50q and SOs (a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure 50q) show the annular ring 411 being a separate component and is secured to an internal wall 412 of the appliance 1 as previously described.

[756] The annular ring 411 incorporates a series of apertures 414 which preferably are provided with soft lead-in edges 426 to prevent the sharps corners of the apertures from damaging the seal 400 during assembly. The series of discrete apertures 414 may be equally or unequally spaced around the annular ring 411 and advantageously being discrete may provide less resistance to the seal 400 on insertion and therefore the apertures 414 may be deeper than a continuous circumferential slot 414.

[757] Figure 50r shows an isometric view of the tab according the embodiment of Figure 50q, the tab 45 having at its upper end two circumferentially extending flanges that form attachment areas 413 and an outwardly extending flange 419 at its lower end.

[758] The tab 415 may be secured to the section 12c of the element plate 12 via at least one of the weld areas 413. During assembly the outwardly extending flange 419 engages with their respective aperture 414 so that the element plate 12 is secured to the vessel body 1. An outwardly extending section 12d may be provided on the element plate to provide support for the seal 400 during assembly.

[759] Reworking may be achieved as in the previous embodiment. Alternatively redundancy may be provided by securing with only one weld area 413 to the element 12 during the assembly so that it is only this one weld area 413 that needs to be removed in the case of rework and the other weld area 413 may be used for reassembly.

1760] Disassembly may also take place by bending back the tab 415 so disengaging the flange 419 from the aperture 414 so that the element plate 12 may be removed. At least one of the tabs 415 may include a resilient portion 436 (as illustrated in Figure 50x) so that it or they may be more easily disengaged from the aperture 414 in the annular ring 411.

[761] In other embodiments the tabs 415 may be resilient so that they can be easily engaged or disengaged for assembly and disassembly and a separate tool may be provided for this purpose.

In the case where the tabs 415, or any other attachment means, are resilient then means may be provided, for example, as part of the sub base as later described, so that the attachment means are held in place during use.

1762] Figures 50t to SOy illustrate a further embodiment in which a variable diameter locking element or circlip 418 may be used to secure the element plate 12 to the annular ring 411. In this embodiment the apertures 414 in the annular ring 411 are circumferentially wider than the previous embodiment, which may provide an increased annular tolerance than the previous embodiment. However as previously described this may cause greater resistance against the seal during assembly, in which case the aperture may need to be shallower than the previously described discrete apertures 414; however being wider will provide the means for a wider engagement which should offset the limitations in depth.

[763] A portion 1 2c of the element plate extends transversely downwards from the element plate 12 and may be truncated so that portions 12d are folded outwardly to provide support for the seal 400. Further portions extend below the seal 400 so that a series of downwardly facing flanges are formed from portion 1 2c with a least one aperture 414 provided in each downwardly facing flange.

[764] Figure 50u shows an isometric view of the element plate 12 according to the embodiment of Figure SOt, and Figure SOy shows a cross-section of the embodiment of Figure SOt in an assembled position.

[765] The circlip 418 comprises a series of peripheral flanges 419 which correspond to respective apertures 414 provided on the annular ring 411 and to respective apertures 414 provided on a series of flanges extending transversely downwards from the element plate 12. During assembly the apertures 414 on the annular ring 411 and element plate 12 are aligned and the circlip 418 is inserted so that its flanges 419 pass through the apertures 414 of the element plate 12 and engage the apertures 414 of the annular ring 411, such that movement of the element plate 12 is restricted in both axial and radial directions.

1766] Reworking may be achieved by disengaging the circlip 418 from the annular ring 411 so that the element plate 12 may be removed.

[767] The circlip 418 may be a continuous or split ring and may be resilient so that it can be deformed for assembly and disassembly and may be manufactured from a metal or plastic material.

[768] The circular clip 418 may include means to support the sub base 19.

[769] As with previous embodiments space is provided beneath the annular ring 411 within the vessel 1 for an aperture 414, for example, for a user actuator (not shown).

[770] Figures SOw and 50x illustrate a variant of the previous embodiments in which each tab 415 may be secured to the element plate 12 via matching female threaded bosses 427 or male threaded bosses (not shown) positioned on the element t12.

[771] The tabs 415 may, for example, be fixed by screws (not shown) into the threaded bosses 427 or alternatively stand off pillars 417 may be utilized so that provision is made for attaching the cordless base (not shown) onto the vessel 1.

[772] Each tab 415 includes an outwardly extending flange 419 which engages with respective apertures 414 on the annular ring 411.

[773] Rework may be achieved by unscrewing the screws or stand off pillars 417 from the boss 427 or by disengaging the flange 419 from the aperture 414.

[774] At least one of the tabs 415 may include a resilient portion 436 so that it or they may be more easily disengaged from the aperture 414 in the annular ring 411.

1775] Figures SOy, 50z, SOaa illustrate an alternative embodiment in which the annular ring 411 comprises a series of deformable tabs 415 stamped as part of and from the annular ring 411. The deformable tabs 415 correspond to a series of apertures 414 provided on the peripheral flange 2e of the element plate U. [776] The element plate 12 may be secured to annular ring 411 by aligning the apertures 414 to the deformable tabs 415 and deforming the tabs 415 such that they engage with the apertures 414 of the element plate 12.

[777] The deformable tabs 415 are arranged in alternate clockwise and anticlockwise manner to restrict rotational movement of the element plate 12 after assembly.

[778] Reworking may be achieved by disengaging the tabs 418 from the annular ring 411 so that the element plate 12 may be removed.

[779] Additional deformable tabs 415 and apertures 414 may be provided for redundancy in the case that any of the tabs 415 are damaged during the assembly or disassembly.

17801 In an alternate embodiment (not shown) the tabs 415 may be provided on the element plate 12 and engage with apertures provided on the annular ring 411.

[781] In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the tabs 415 may be stamped or formed on the peripheral flange 1 2c extending transversely downwards from the element plate and the tabs 415 may be folded to engage with apertures 414 provided on the annular ring 411.

[782] The next embodiments detail arrangements whereby the annular ring 411 is positioned above the seal. In these arrangements there is no need to provide soft radii 426 to protect the seal; however this part of the appliance may be accessed by the user, for example, for cleaning purposes, therefore it is important that no sharp edges are present on the flange 419 and or 438.

[7831 It should also be noted that the annular ring 411 will be in contact with the water so that the material in which the annular ring is manufactured and the attachment means should be food grade approved and should not deteriorate over life, for example by oxidation.

[784] As illustrated in Figures SOab to 5ad the annular ring 411 is attached within the vessel for mutually engaging with a flange 12b that may extend radially outwards from the element plate 12.

[785] The annular ring 411 has a substantially inverted L-shaped cross section with an upper flange 419 and the series of resilient tabs 415 facing radially inwards at an angle [786] The annular ring may be manufactured in a stamping or pressing process and as previously described may be formed by bending a straight pre formed strip of material to form a substantially circular annular ring 411. The ends of the annular ring 411 may be welded, fusion bonded, brazed, clamped, snap-fitted, friction fit or soldered together to maintain a substantially circular form.

[787] During assembly the element plate 12 is inserted up to the annular ring 411 where the outwardly extending section 1 2b of the element plate 12 passes over the tabs 4115 to allow the outwardly extending section 12b to rest between the tabs 415 and the upper flanges 419. The upper flange 431 limits further upward movement of the element plate 12.

The tabs 415 have resilience so they return to their original shape after assembly.

[788] As previously described the annular ring 411 will act to index the axial position of the element plate 12 and associated components in which case provision (not shown) may be provided in the annular ring to index the radial position.

[789] It is preferred that the seal 400 is assembled onto the element plate during assembly and a support ring (not shown) may be provided to support the seal 400 during assembly, for example raised edges on the annular ring 411 that may index with cooperating forms on the element plate 12.

[790] Reworking may be achieved by removing the seal 400 and using a tool (not shown) inserted from the underside of the vessel to temporarily disengage the tabs 415 and so allow space for the element plate 12 to be lowered.

[791] Figures SOae to SOai illustrate a variant of the previous embodiment where at least one substantially horizontal aperture 414 is provided on the annular ring 411 for mutually engaging with a series of flanges 1 2b that may extend radially outwards from the element plate 12. The annular ring 411 may be a substantially P shaped cross section and may comprise of upper and lower radial walls 431, 430, and at least one vertical aperture 428 is provided in the lower wall 430 so that the flange 12b may engage the aperture 414.

[7921 During assembly the flange 12b of element plate 12 may be inserted through the aperture 414 and the element plate 12 may be rotated such that the upper and lower radial walls 43 land 430 prohibit axial movement of the element plate 12 -effectively a bayonet type configuration.

[793] In this embodiment the substantially horizontal aperture 414 may incorporate a lead in (not shown) and the aperture 414 may become narrower towards the final part of the rotational movement so that the flange 1 2b is more securely attached between the top 431 and bottom 430 flanges.

[794] Reworking may be achieved by rotating the element plate 12 in the opposite direction so that the element plate 12 may be removed.

[795] In this embodiment the element plate 12 is provided with an annular portion 429 which is attached to the element plate 12 to secure the seal 400 in place during assembly as an alternative to the previously described temporary seal support. The annular portion 429 may be an annular ring or may be discrete parts attached separately around the circumference of the plate 12.

[796] As with previous embodiments space is provided below the seal for an aperture 414 in the vessel wall 1 for example for a user actuator (not shown).

[797] Figures SOai to SOak illustrate an alternative annular ring 411 which is essentially an F -shaped cross section which may be formed from an extruded material as opposed to the previously described stamped or pressed material. The annular ring 411 extrusion will be formed by bending the extruded material to form a substantially circular shape which may be joined and installed into the vessel as previously described.

[798] The following embodiments rely upon the teachings of the proprietors granted patent GB2342685B to further improve the assembly of appliances including the means to attach appliance components, for example a sub base 19 onto an element plate 12 and/or annular ring 411 without the need for additional attachment means for example screws or rivets.

[799] Figures SOal to SOay illustrate two separate embodiments with twist tabs 424 provided on the element plate 12 to secure the element to bosses 432 provided on the sub base 19 of the appliance 1. The bosses 432 have slots 433 to allow the twist tabs 424 to pass through.

[800] Recesses 423 may be provided on the underside of the sub base 19 to allow access for tools to engage the twist tabs 424. The twist tabs 424 may have a weakened section so they can be easily deformed and engage with anchoring points 435 provided on the boss 432.

[8011 Figures SOal to SOar illustrates an arrangement for sealing and attaching the element whereby the annular ring 411 is positioned below the seal and additional features are provided for attachment of further components. The element plate 12 may comprise a series of flanges extending downwardly formed from the peripheral flange 12c, in which the mid-point portion of the flange of 12c may extend radially outwards to form a further flange 419.

[802] In this embodiment said flange 419 may mutually engage with a series of apertures 428 and 414 provided on the annular ring 411, such that the element plate 12 may be secured to the vessel 1 and restricted in both axial and radial directions as previously described.

[803] The distal end of the flange of 12c may further comprise a series of twist tabs 424 for mutually engaging with anchoring points 435 provided on a further component of the appliance for example a sub base 19. The twist tabs 424 may be twisted or deformed so that, for example, the sub base 19 may be removably secured to the element plate 12 and in doing so secure the sub base 19 to the vessel 1.

[804] Figure 50a1, 5Oan and 5Oao show pre assembled views of the twist tabs 424 lined up with the apertures 433 in the boss 432 of the sub base 19 prior to assembly.

[805] Figure SOam and 5Oaq show part assembled views of the embodiment of Figure 50a1 of the twist tabs 424 after entry into the recess 433 of the boss 432 and prior to the twist tabs 424 being secured.

[806] Figures SOap and SOar show assembled views of the twist tabs 424 after they have been turned through 90° to secure the twist tabs 424 against the anchoring points 435.

[807] The surface of the anchor point 435 may include a gradient (not shown) so that, as the tab 424 is being twisted, then the attachment becomes progressively tighter. In the case that the anchor point 435 is made from a soft material, for example, polypropylene then an additional means, for example a metal washer may be provided to distribute the pressure of the end surface of the twist tabs 424 across the anchor point 435.

[808] As illustrated each flange of 12c includes two twist tabs 424 both of which are activated (i.e. twisted). In further embodiments only one may be activated to provide redundancy against subsequent assembly and disassembly.

[809] In other embodiments the form of the tabs and the angle of twist may be modified to suit the specific requirements.

[810] A specialist tool may be provided for twisting the tabs 424 and rework may be achieved by reversing the assembly process.

[8111 The method of using twist tabs 424 to secure appliance components, for example, the sub base 19 to the element 12 is applicable to any of the previously described element sealing and securing embodiments.

[812] Figures SOas to SOay illustrate a development of the previous embodiment in which the sub base 19 is secured to the annular ring 19 and the element plate 12 is secured to the sub base by twist tabs 424.

[813] To explain this embodiment more fully it is necessary to illustrate in two cross sectional planes X-X and Y-Y.

[814] As illustrated in Figure SOav (the X-X plane), the sub base 19 may be provided with a series of attachment means, for example, snap fittings 425, for mutually engaging with the annular ring 411 and provide support against the sub base moving downwardly.

[815] As illustrated in Figures SOaw-ay (the Y-Y plane), a flange 432 is provided on the underside of the sub base 19 to interface with the bottom rim of the vessel 1 preventing any axial movement between the sub base 19 and the vessel 1 once the attachment means, for example snap fittings 425, are engaged.

[816] As illustrated the annular ring 411, is formed as a unitary part of the vessel 1 however in further embodiments the annular ring 411 may be formed as a separate component and attached to the vessel body 1 as previously described.

[817] The sub base 19 then provides a platform for securing the element plate 12 to the vessel 1.

[818] The element plate 12 may be sealed into the vessel using any of the previously described sealing arrangement.

[819] As illustrated in the Y-Y plane the element 12 may comprise a series of tabs 415 extending transversely downwards from the element plate 12 and including a series of outwardly or inwardly projecting flanges 437 which sit above the boss 432 of the sub base 19 and prevent downward movement of the element plate within the vessel 1.

[820] The tabs 415 also incorporate a series of twist tabs 424 for mutually engaging with anchoring points 435 provided on the sub base 19 so preventing any upward movement of the element plate 12 within the vessel 1.

[821] As previously described the twist tabs 424 may then be used to anchor the element plate 12 to the sub base 19 through the boss 432 so that the anchor point 435 is trapped between the flange 437 and the twist tabs 423 and so prevent any movement of the element 12 withinthe vessel 1.

[822] The tabs 415 which form the twist tabs 424 and the flange 437 or the twist tabs 424 may be separate components suitably attached to the plate 12 or may be formed as part of the plate 12.

[823] As with previous embodiments space is provided below the seal for an aperture 414 in the vessel wall 1 for example for a user actuator (not shown).

[824] Rework may be achieved by reversing the assembly process.

[825] Figure SOay is a further embodiment of Figure SOau where a series of retainers 434 are provided adjacent to the snap-fitting means 425 for additional security in preventing the snap-fitting 425 arrangement from disengaging from the annular ring 411. Rework may be achieved by inserting a tool (not shown) through apertures 414 in the sub base 19 to push the retainers 434 backwards so that the snap-fitting means 425 may disengage the annular ring 411.

[826] In further embodiments illustrated in Figures SOaz to SObb the part that is to be supported by the annular ring 411 may be an intermediate annular ring 438 that is sealed against the internal vessel wall 412 by a resilient seal 400 and the intermediate annular ring 438 also acts to sealingly support an element 12 that would otherwise, for example, be too small to fit within the vessel. The element 12 may be secured into the intermediate annular ring 438 with a side acting seal 440 or by other means for example the previously described Easifix ®type seal. The intermediate annular ring 438 may be manufactured from metal, plastic or any suitable material or a combination of suitable materials.

[827J The intermediate annular ring 438 may include other features, for example, a steam tube 439 which may be separately attached to, or part of, the intermediate annular ring 438 and may provide attachment means for the sub base 19.

[828] The annular ring 411 illustrated is similar to the previously described embodiment illustrated in figure 5Oab with resilient tab 415 that acts to support the outwardly facing flange 444 of the annular ring 411. The intermediate annular ring 438 will be inserted over the resilient tab 415 for assembly and may include a camming means 442 for disengagement, in which the intermediate annular ring 438 may be rotated radially so that the camming means 442 depress the tabs 415 and the flange 444 may be withdrawn past the depressed tabs 415. The sub base 19 may be provided with supports 429 for the seal 400.

[829] In further embodiments the function of the annular ring 411 and the intermediate annular ring 411 may be combined so that only one part is required for the two functions.

[830] Alternative embodiments of the invention, which may occur to the skilled person on reading the above description, may nevertheless fall within the scope of the inventions as defined by the claims. For example, in any one of the above embodiments that describe the annular ring 411 being a separate component secured to the internal wall 412 of the vessel body, the annular ring 411 may be formed from an extending section of the vessel body 1 and vice versa.

[831] Although the above embodiments describe the means of removably securing the element plate 12 to metallic-bodied appliances, such means may also be applicable to removably securing the element plate 12 to plastic-bodied, glass-bodied or ceramic-bodied appliances.

[832] The previous described fixing means are not limited to heating elements and may be used to attach or install any planar portion that is required to be sealingly assembled into a vessel 1. These planar portions may otherwise be sealingly attached or formed by alternative means, for example the base of an immersed plastic kettle. In immersed plastic kettles in which the vessel bases are normally formed as part of the main body moulding, then main body mould tooling may be withdrawn from above to accommodate this. Withdrawing the mould tool from above is very limiting on design freedom, so the facility to easily attach a base by other means may then allow the use of a mould tool drawn from below; so opening up new design opportunities for this appliance type.

[833] The previously described fixing means may be used to sealingly attach sub base 19 mouldings into or onto water proof appliances so that, for example, there is no requirement to penetrate, or make apertures in the sub base 19 for alternative fixing means for example screws.

[834] Figure SObb illustrates a further embodiment where the sub base 19 and the element plate 12 and the intermediate annular ring 438 and waterproof connector means (not shown) may be formed as a sealed sub assembly so that the sub assembly may be attached to the annular ring 411 within the vessel 1 as previously described. As illustrated one seal 400 is used to seal both the sub base 19 and intermediate annular ring 438 into the vessel 1.

[835] In further embodiments the element 12 may be sealed directly against the vessel 1 therefore no requirement for the intermediate annular ring 438.

[836] In further embodiments individual seals 400 may be used to seal the sub base 19 and element plate 12 or the intermediate annular ring 438 Simplified Wiring [837] Another method to reduce the manufacturing costs of an appliance is to simplify the internal wiring of the appliance and in particular the method in which an integrated control and cordless connector, for example the Otter Al series, as described in WO-A- 2004/062455, is connected to the cold tails of a mechanical sheathed underfloor element.

[838] It is known in the prior art for integrated controls to be connected to the element cold tails via a wiring harness including a combination of sheathed wire tab terminals and receptacles. This method involves problems, such as the overheating of the crimps between the wires and the receptacles, and it is common for the these harnesses to be backed up by an additional welding, brazing or soldering process, if it is possible to gain access for the additional process.

[839] For higher power elements, it is known to provide so-called bus bars' which are electrical conductors stamped and folded out of strip material. The bus bars are provided as an integral part of the control and extend outside the control to be attached, usually by a welding process, onto the element cold tails. Figure 51a shows a typical prior art application in which strip material bus bars 519 make connections between an element cold tail 40 and a control 60.

[840] The prior art bus bars 519 are effective in overcoming the overheating problem and also simplify the assembly of the appliance; however there are a number of disadvantages.

First, the stamping and folding process generates a large amount of waste material (e.g. as a function of press width versus pitch) and is therefore expensive. Furthermore, for economies of scale, it is necessary to make one size fits all' bus bars 519, which are made longer than is necessary for many applications and are preformed into an arc shape to suit different cold tail positions, both of which add further to the waste and increase the cost. Bus bars 519 are generally manufactured from plain material without insulation, and therefore need to be positioned away from other metal parts so that creepage and clearance distance can be met.

Finally the size and shape of the bus bars 519 add complexity to the packaging and generally reduce the number of controls 60 that can be packaged per box.

[841] It is known in the prior art to manufacture a stamped bus bar component incorporating a female connector to connect between control 60 and the element cold tails 40; however this is a complex additional component that relies on a mechanical connection between the bus bar 519 and the control 60 and may be susceptible to overheating if, for example, the connector becomes out of tolerance.

[842] It is also known in the prior art to provide low cost bare wire conductors between thermostats and elements; however this is only possible where there is sufficient space and material on the electrical connectors of the control to gain access for the welding process.

[843] Typically the electrical connector of an integrated control 60 is either shrouded within, or mounted close to the control main moulding, so it is not practical to gain access for a weld head or other attachment process. It may be possible to extend the conductors to a position outside the control 60, as later described herein; however this would add additional material and may negate a proportion of the cost saving over a bus bar 519 made from strip material.

[844] Furthermore there are risks in allowing the appliance manufacturer to weld a wire 512 onto a conductor in close proximity to the control, particularly as it may be difficult to jig' the process correctly. There may be excess heat from the weld (or other attachment method) during the attachment process, which may damage the control and alternatively or additionally a poorly made connection may cause overheating if the joint becomes resistive during use. Additionally it would be difficult to rework if for example the weld process became out of control which may result in the scrapping of an expensive control, or worse still, damaging the safety critical control during the rework process.

[845] In the following embodiments, a bare wire conductor can be incorporated into an integrated control 60 as part of the control assembly procedure and in so doing provide a fully capable integrated control 520 complete with wire conductors 512 for connection onto the element cold tails 40.

[846] Figures 51 a to 51 d illustrate the connection means of the prior art Al series control in which there are provided two fixed contact plates 501 in the position of the hatched circles 500.

[847] The fixed contact plate 501 includes a contact support plate 508 at on end which, dependent upon the power rating of the appliance, may incorporate a silver (or other low resistance material) contact 510 on the underside. The contact support plate 508 or contact 510 interfaces with a mating resilient spring terminal (not shown) within the control 60 and the contact support plate 508 and resilient spring pair act as a switch to disconnect the power to the element cold tails 40 in response to the bimetal (not shown) and/or trip lever (not shown).

[848] The plate 501 incorporates a male tab terminal connector 507,including an aperture 504 which acts as a retention feature with a mating female receptacle (not shown) for connecting the control 60 to the element cold tails 40 or other part of the appliance 1.

[849] The plate 501 also includes an addition male cleat 505 which allows the assembly of a resilient spring connector 506 for variants of the Al series intended for use with printed elements. The resilient springs 506 include a mating female clench feature 511 enabling a low resistance joint between the two parts. The spring 506 may be plated in a low resistance material, for example, silver and/or may include a low resistance contact 509.

1850] The plate 501 includes cleats 502 which are post formed 503 during assembly so that the cleats 503 act to secure the plate 501 permanently within the control housing.

[851] In its simplest form, an integrated control 60 with wire type conductors connectors 512 can be manufactured by mechanically attaching a wire 512 onto a standard part within the control 60, for example a contact plate 501.

[852] Figures 5 le to 5 lm illustrate embodiments wherein conductive wire 512 is mechanically attached to the contact plate 501 prior to assembly into the control 60 so that the assembled part may be installed without any modification to the plate 501 and the moulding of the control 60.

[853] The material for the wire conductor 512 may be drawn wire for malleability and also low resistance to avoid self heating; it would also be preferable to avoid dissimilar metals wherever possible. n the case of the Al series the contact plate 501 is made from brass typically in the range of CVZN 30 to CVZN37. The element cold tails 40 are typically made from plated mild steel or stainless steel. Therefore for this combination of materials the most suitable material for the wire conductor 512 would be brass in the range of CVZN 30 to CVZN37.

[854] Other materials suitable for the wire conductor 512 may include, but are not limited to, brass outside the range of CVZN3O to CVZN37, phosphor bronze, stainless steel, copper, nickel plated mild steel aiid copper plated mild steel.

[855] The wire conductor 512 may be resilient, so as to bias the distal end thereof against the cold tail 40, and thereby assist with the security of the welding process. Alternatively, the wire conductor 512 may be sufficiently malleable to be wrapped or bent around the cold tail 40, thereby assisting with the security of the welding process.

18561 The wire conductor 512 may be bare, or may be provided with electrical insulation (not shown) such as a plastic sleeve for use in appliances in which there are particular creepage and clearance requirements. The insulated sleeving may be attached to the wire conductor 512 before or after the control assembly and may be added as part of the appliance assembly.

[857] The drawn wire conductor may be circular, square or rectangular or generally polygonal in cross section, but is preferably circular with a diameter of between 1 and 2 mm.

[858] The present embodiments do not preclude the use of strip material for the conductor 512; however it is expected that this will be less malleable in the flat plane and more expensive than drawn wire.

[859] The present embodiments illustrate components from the Otter Al series but do not preclude the use of similar arrangements in other control types.

[860] Figure 51 e schematically illustrates a conductor 512 joined by a spot weld 513 along the wide edge of the tab terminal 507.

[861] For this, and all other embodiments that rely upon a weld 513, only one weld is shown; however additional welds 513 can be used for extra security, and the length of contact of the conductor 512 with the plate 501 can be increased or decreased as required.

[862] Other methods of attachment may be used place of the weld 513, including but not limited to friction welding, brazing and soldering.

[863] The embodiment of Figure Sle is a variant of that of Figure 51d in which the conductor wire is attached to the contact support plate 508.

[864] In this and other embodiments the wire 512 may be profiled so that it runs alongside the tab terminal 507 within the housing or shroud 521 of the control 520. This will help support the wire and protect the weld 513 if, for example, the wire conductor 512 is to be bent or formed as part of the assembly onto the cold tails 40.

[865] Figure 51 g to 51 i show a variant of the previous embodiments wherein the wire conductor 512 is preformed so that is can be threaded through the retention aperture 504 in the tab terminal part 507 of the contact plate 508 prior to attachment 513. In this case, the retention aperture 504 acts as a jig to support the wire conductor prior to attachment to the contact plate 508 and will act to support the wire conductor 512 during use.

[866] Figure 51j and 51k illustrate cross sections of variants of the above embodiments where the wire conductor 512 is swaged or planished 514 after being threaded through the retention aperture 504 in order to provide additional mechanical strength to the connection.

In the case of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5 lj, both sides 514 of the wire conductor 512 may be planished. In the case of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 51k the end of the wire conductor 512 is cropped short and a rivet 515 is formed during the planishing process.

In both embodiments it may be possible to rely entirely on the planish 514 or rivet 515 to provide the electrical integrity but a further attachment 513 may also be employed.

[867] Figures 511 and 5 im illustrate a further embodiment in which the end of the wire conductor 512 is flattened and a female clench feature 511 is formed so that the wire conductor can be attached to the male clench feature 505 in the same manner as the previously described resilient prior art resilient spring 506. The wire conductor may then be supported and/or attached along the top of or side of the contact plate 501.

1868] Figure Sin shows a further variant of the previous embodiment where an additional weld platform 516 is provided on the contact plate 501. It is preferred that the conductor wire 512 is attached to the plate 516 before assembly into the control 520, however alternatively the conductor wires 512 may be added during the assembly of the appliance 1.

[869] Figure 510 illustrates a preferred low cost implementation of a wire conductor 512.

In this embodiment the combined plate 508 and conductor wire 512 are replaced by one wire conductor 512 in which the control end is planished 518 so that a contact 508 can be welded or otherwise fixed on the lower surface. One or more mouldings 517 and/or 5 17b may be provided in the control 520 to secure the end of the wire conductor 512 so that the wire conductor 512 interfaces with the previously described resilient spring (not shown) and acts to disconnect the power to the appliance in response to a bimetal or other switch actuator (not shown). Alternatively, the planished or otherwise flattened end 518 may act as the resilient spring terminal within the control 60.

[870] It is preferred that at least one of the support mouldings includes some form of clamping means 51 7a, so that the wire conductor 512 is held firmly against the upward force of the resilient spring (not shown). The wire conductor 512 may be profiled and at least one of the supports 517 profiled in a corresponding manner so that the wire conductor 512 is prevented from rotating.

[871] The embodiment illustrated in Figure Sb may provide a very cost effective complete conductor assembly with little or no waste material, so that the overall cost of an integrated control, for example control 520, is optimised.

[872] In appliances where additional components such as a steam control may be connected in series between the control 520 and the element cold tails 40 it may be possible to weld or connect additional conductors to a standard wire conductor 512 or in alternative embodiments the end of the wire conductor 512 may be stamped to form for example a standard male tab terminal or may be provided with a female connector or other connector type attached to the wire conductor 512.

[873] In appliances that require additional electrical connections in parallel with the heating element, for example internal lighting, then additional conductors may be welded onto the wire conductor 512 between the control 520 and the cold tails 40.

[874] Figure Sip illustrates a control 520 complete with wire conductors 512 attached to the control at at least one point within the shroud 521. The wire conductors 512 may be in an arc form in readiness for attaching to the cold tails 40. For ease of packaging the wire conductors may be supplied folded, bent or formed around the control 520, so as to take up less space in the package or box.

Waterproof Connector [875] Figure Sir illustrates a prior art method of providing electrical connections 507 and 127 on the dry side of a cordless connector 3 whereby the connector moulding is divided into three cavities 526 that are defined by the walls 522, as disclosed in Figure bOa of WO-A-2008/012506.

[876] The tab terminals 507 are formed as part of contact plates (not shown) positioned at the bottom of the cavity 526. The contact plates are connected via a weld or other means to the live and neutral conductors (not shown) which pass through the bottom of the cavity 526 from the wet side of the connector 3.

[877] The earth terminal 127 is part of a contact plate 508 which is connected directly to the top of the central conductor 525 which passes through the bottom of the cavity 526 into the wet side of the connector.

[878] The cavities 526 are then filled with a sealing means 523, for example silicone, so that liquid cannot pass from the wet side to the dry side.

[879] The finished level of the sealant 523 is lower than the walls 522 which increases the creepage distance between the conductors 507.

[880] The prior art arrangement functions admirably to prevent water entering the appliance through the connector 3 and also provides sufficient creepage between the tab terminals 507 and the contact plate 508 in case that small amounts of liquid enter the dry side, for example through a poor seal on the appliance. To achieve this, the conductors are spaced apart by a sufficient distance and the materials for the sealant and moulding have a suitable Comparative Tracking Index (CTT).

[881] However in some applications, for example where the liquid to be heated includes foodstuffs or suspended solids, then, if there is a poor seal in a part of the appliance, the liquid may leak and gather and/or solidify in the cavities 526 and provide a tracking means between the terminals 507 and/or the earth contact plate 508.

[882] The present embodiment provides a waterproof cordless connector with improved electrical creepage and clearance distances on the dry side to make provision against such leakage.

[883] This is achieved by replacing the tab terminals 507 with electrically sheathed conductors 524 which extend from the contact plates 508a through the sealant 523 and into a position above the cavities 526.

[884] Figure 51s illustrates a plan view of a cordless connector 3 prior to the sealant 523 and conductors 524 being added. In this view it can be seen that the contact plates 508a include welds or other connecting means 513 which attach the plates 508a onto the conductors (not shown) on the dry side of the connector 3.

[885] Figure Sit illustrates the sheathed conductors 524 with the conductor 512 attached by welding or other means 513 onto the contact plates 508a and Figure Slu illustrates a similar view after the sealant 523 has been added.

[886] After the sealant has cured, the effective tracking distance between the live parts, and from each of the live parts to earth is increased by the length of the sheathing on the conductor 524. The height of the insulated conductors 524 will be determined by the tracking index of the liquid that may leak onto the connector 3.

[887] In Figures 5 it and 51u each of the sheathed conductors 524 are shown as round wire, however alternative forms and materials, for example flat wire, may be employed.

[888] As illustrated in Figures 51t and 51u the conductors 512 have bare ends suitable to be welded for example, direct to the electrical load in the appliance or alternatively may have terminals or connectors (not shown) welded or crimped on the bare conductor 512.

[889] As illustrated in Figure 5 lv the sheathed conductors 524 are of a flat profile with male tab terminals 507 stamped from the flat profile.

[890] The electrical sheathing for the wire conductors 512 may be integral, for example sheathed wire or the sheathing may be added during or after the assembly for example by heat shrinking an insulating sleeve onto the conductor.

[891] Figure 51w illustrates an alternative embodiment in which resilient springs 506 are formed from or attached to the sheathed conductors 524 so that the connector 3 may make direct electrical connection onto reciprocal contact means in the appliance. The resilient springs 506 may include additional low conductivity contacts 509.

[892] The sheathed conductors may be malleable so that they can be easily post formed' for ease of packaging and/or assembly.

[893] The sheath conductor may be supplied in a non malleable material but may be pre-formed or folded so that, for example, tab terminals may be directed at 90° to the axis of the connector 3.

[894] The sheathed conductors may be formed, attached or assembled as previously described in the Simplified Wiring' section of this application.

[8951 As previously described the prior art connector has been designed to meet the normal creepage requirements and the sheathed conductors have been added to enhance the electrical creepage properties in extreme conditions. Alternatively, the sheathed conductors may be used to enhance the electrical creepage properties of other types of connector, such as disclosed in other embodiments of WO-A-2008/0 12506 in which a single seal is provided around the current-carrying components.

[896] For further embodiments which utitise sheathed conductors from the outset, then the size, shape and material of the connector may be optimised to reduce manufacturing costs,

for example:

* The cavities may be made smaller so that less sealant is used.

* The earth contact plate may be modified so that is it is positioned at the base of the cavity and provided with a sheathed conductor in a similar manner to the live and neutral.

* The connector moulding may be made from a lower cost material.

Each of to the above may reduce the component costs.

[897] In further embodiments the waterproof connector 3 may be formed as part of a thermo-mechanical or electronic control.

Sealing Arrangement for Waterproof Connector 1898] The sealing arrangement of a waterproof connector may have at least two distinct functions: 1) to seal a waterproof connector into an appliance sub base and 2) to act as a means to transmit optical signals to/from the appliance and base, as disclosed in the applicant's earlier application PCT/GB 11/000231.

[899] It is known that sealing against an advanced engineering polymer of which a cordless connector may be manufactured provides problems not encountered with sealing against an element plate, for example distortion of the moulding and smoothness of the surface. Furthermore it is more difficult to create the required amount of seal pressure against a connector which is typically 30 to 40mm diameter rather than an element plate that is typically 130 to 150mm diameter.

[900] It has been found that stretching an optically transmissive seal too tightly around the waterproof connector may inhibit the transparency and may distort the upper and lower ends. Additives may be added to the seal to improve its light transmitting properties but this adds costs to the seal; therefore the present inventors have developed means to modify the shape and form of the seal to maximize transmission properties without compromising the sealing capabilities.

[901] It is advantageous that an optical emitter or receiver is in contact with the seal to maximize the signal. However it is not always possible to position an emitter or detector immediately above or below a narrow seal; therefore it is advantageous to ensure the seal is as wide as possible at the upper and/or lower ends.

[902] Figure Six and Sly illustrate a first sealing arrangement in which the width of the upper and lower ends 28 of the seal 21 are substantially equal to the width of the gap between the outside wall 29 of the connector 3 and the mating wall of the sub base 19, marked as A on Figure Sly.

[903] The width A is predetermined by the characteristics of the seal 21 for example material type, hardness, fin length etc., with the relationship between the fins 23 and the upper/lower ends 28 such that the upper/lower ends 28 do not compromise or impede the integrity of the seal 21.

[904] The internal diameter of seal 21 may be a marginally smaller diameter than that of the cordless connector, in which case the transmission width of the seal is maximised without excessive distortion of the upper/lower ends, yet there is still sufficient force for the seal 21 to remain in place on the cordless connector 3 during the assembly procedure.

[905J It can be seen in this embodiment that the wall 29 of the cordless connector 3 prevents the transmitter/receiver 31 sitting centrally above the seal 21; however the wider upper/lower ends 28 of the seal 21 overcome this problem and the transmitter/receiver 31 is still able to make tangential contact with wider upper/lower ends 28 of the seal 21.

[906] Reducing the tightness of the seal 21 at the upper/lower ends 28 may compromise the integrity of the seal at each extremity however there is still a sufficient margin between the tightness required to achieve a seal and a seal being stretched too much so as to distort the seal.

[907] For example, in the case of a cordless connector 3 with a 34 mm outside diameter it has been found that a seal diameter of 32 mm provides a stretch' of approximately 6% without substantially compromising the integrity of the light transmission qualities.

[908] One way to further improve the integrity of the seal 21 is to provide additional circumferential material or ribs 27 between the upper/lower ends 28 which may provide some or all of the following advantages: 1) Any force generated by the fins 23 across the seal 21 during the assembly will be directed through the circumferential ribs as opposed to across the surface of a flat seal, therefore locally increasing the seal pressure in the area of the ribs 28.

2) The circumferential ribs 28 will locally increase the tightness of the seal in the area of the ribs 28. For example in the case of a 34mm connector detailed above, a 1mm rib will increase the stretch from 6% to 12% in the area of the ribs and a 2mm rib from 6% to 18%.

3) Increasing the local sealing pressure may make the seal more tolerant to any blemishes in the surface of the connector 3.

4) Increasing the local sealing pressure will act to prevent or impede capillary action.

[909] In Figures Six, 51 y and 5 lzd the socket wall 29 is intended to be smooth.

[910] As illustrated in Figures Siz to Sizb the ribs 27 may be positioned towards the end of the seal 21 or alternatively and/or additionally the ribs may positioned towards the centre.

[911] Figure 51z illustrates the ribs 27 at the same vertical position as the fins 23 and it is expected that additional pressure will be generated by the fins 23 against the ribs 28 during the assembly.

[912] As illustrated in Figures Slza to Slzb the ribs 28 may be circular or triangular or may take the form of small fins (not shown).

[913] As illustrated in Figures 51z to 5 lzb the seals 21 are symmetrical about the vertical centre with sufficient space either side of each fin 23 to prevent interference with the upper/lower ends 28 so that the seals may be assembled in either direction.

[914] Figure 5 lzc illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the seal 21 is shortened to improve the optical transmission characteristics however there is insufficient space below the bottom fin 23 for the seal to be inserted in both directions and this embodiment can only be assembled in the direction as indicated by the arrow.

[915] Figure Slzd shows a schematic cross section view of the seal of the second embodiment installed into an appliance assembly. The circumferential ribs 27 have been stretched further than the surrounding seal 21 and as such create an increased sealing force in the area of the ribs 27 which improves the seal against a smooth mating surface.

Additionally the smaller sealing surface and increased pressure may make the seal more tolerant to indentations and blemishes that may be present on the mating surface.

[916] Another method to improve the integrity between a seal 21 and socket wall 29 is to provide circumferential ribs and/or recesses 30 in or on the surface of the wall 29.

Alternatively or additionally, similar ribs and/or recesses may be provided in the wall 19.

[9171 Figure Slze shows an embodiment with a wall 29 which includes one or more circumferential recesses 30 SO that the resilient seal 21 of the first alternative is forced into the recess 30 as the seal 21 is stretched over the connector wall 29 and the assembly is inserted into the base 19.

[918] Advantageously the interface of the seal 21 and the recess 30 improve the sealing means in the area of the recess 30.

[919] In further embodiments a seal 21 with reciprocal circumferential ribs 27, for example of the second or fourth embodiment, may be employed so the ribs 27 may fit directly into the recess 30. In this embodiment the additional force of the rib 27 may improve the sealing means. The ribs 27 may be slightly larger than the corresponding recess so as to improve the sealing pressure therein.

1920] Figure Slzf illustrates a further embodiment in which the wall 29 includes one or more circumferential ribs 30 which act to increase the pressure between the seal 21 and the wall 29 in the area of the ribs 30. As previously described each additional 1mm of rib will increase the stretch' in the area of the rib by approximately 6%.

[921] Further embodiments may include variants of the described embodiments; for example the fins 23 may extend inwardly and the ribs 27 may extend outwardly.

Cordless Connector with Integral Rotating Shaft [922] The following embodiments provide an integrated centrally mounted mechanical and electrical connection means between a power base and a container with a rotatable mechanism.

[923] Figures 53a and 53b illustrate the first embodiment in which there is provided a base 2 incorporating a first shaft 128 and a drive means for the first shaft 128, for example an electrical motor 126. The base 2 also includes a 360° electrical connector means 136 that has provision for the first shaft 128 through a central portion on the same axis shaft 128.

[924] The shaft 128, which includes the female part of the first coupling means 129, is shown below the top cover of the base connector housing 136; however in further embodiments the shaft may protrude above the top cover of the base connector 2.

[925] The drive means 128 maybe separate to the base connector 136 and assembled to the base connector 136 during the assembly process of the base 2 or alternatively the motor may be integral to the base connector 136 in which case the base connector 136 may be supplied as a standard' base connector complete with power cord as previously described.

[926] The base 2 may also comprise of a cosmetic cover 343 as previously described and the connector 136 may include light transmitting means 41 and sensor 33 (not shown) for optical communications means as previously described.

[927] The electrical 360° electrical connection means and control means for the base 2 and the vessel 1 are not shown, but may follow the principles of the proprietor's current production 360° electrical connection and control means, for example the A1/CS7 series and/or the Triax series.

[928] The appliance connector 135 includes the male coupling means 129, a second shaft 128 and the mating 360° electrical connection means (not shown). The second shaft 128 is sealable, mounted through the top part of the appliance connector 135. The motor driven rotary tool 131 may be connected directly to the second shaft 128 or advantageously may incorporate a third shaft which is then connected to the second shaft 128 via a second coupling 130, so that for example a standard appliance connector 135 may interface with different rotary tools 131 in different appliances.

[929] For water proof appliances the appliance connector 135 may include a lens 33 and be sealed into the base 6 with a sealing means 44 which may act as a light transmitting means for optical communications, as previously described. In further embodiments a separate light transmitting means may be provided in the base 6.

[930] The rotary tools 131 and shaft 128 are sealably mounted into the appliance base 12 which may incorporate a heating means 39 or other electrical function.

[931J Each of the previously described seals 44 may be for example lip' seals, dynamic 0' ring' seals, flat' seals, grommet' seals, Easifix ® seals or any combination of each seal. Where the seals 44 are sealing rotating shafts 129 there may be provided additional support means or bearings (not shown) so that the rotating shaft 129 does not distort the sealing means 44.

[932] As illustrated the male coupling 129 is part of the appliance connector 125 and the female coupling 129 is part of the base connector 136 however this may be reversed in other embodiments.

[933] It is preferred that the coupling meansl29 are mutually coupling and provided within the same diameter as the shaft 129 so that they are easily installed through the apertures in the connector assemblies 135 and 136. In further embodiments the coupling means 129 may be larger diameter than the apertures in which case coupling means may be secured to the shaft 129 after the shaft 129 has been passed through the aperture in the connectors 135 and 136.

[934] Additional support means or bearings (not shown) may be provided around the apertures in the connecting means 135 and 136 so that the rotating shaft 129 does not distort the apertures.

[935] Where a larger diameter coupling 129 is incorporated it is preferred that this is concealed from view, for example within the shroud of the appliance connector 135 or preferably below the top moulding of the base connector 136.

[936] The mutually coupling means may a gear/cog type as illustrated or nay be other types including, opposite lock', friction lock' or ball lock' or thread lock' or any other suitable mutual coupling means.

[937] Each of the motor 126 or shaft 128 may include vertical resilience to assist with the engagement or disengagement of the coupling means 129. Furthermore the motor may be configured to reverse at the end of each cycle and/or the second shaft may be resistive to the reverse rotation to assist with the disengagement of the coupling means 129.

[938] Additional support means or bearings (not shown) may be provided around the apertures in the connecting means 135 and 136 so that the rotating shaft 129 does not distort the apertures.

[939] The shaft 128 may drive one rotary tool exclusively or may drive more than one tool via a series of gears.

[940] In additional embodiments that incorporate pumped filters, as previously described, the shaft 128 may be configured to provide drive' to the pump 671 so saving space and the need for additional electrical connections. This would be particularly beneficial if the pump 671 was housed within the heating vessel 1. The shaft 128 may drive the pump exclusively or as previously described the shaft may drive other rotary tools.

[941] Figure 53c and 53d schematically illustrate an alternative embodiment of the mechanical and electrical connection means where there is provided a hollow earth connector 127 within which the second shaft 128 and the male part of the first coupling 129 are positioned. The hollow earth pin 127 may act to support the second shaft 128 and may also include one or more seals 44 positioned within the earth pin 127.

[942] The base connector 136 includes motor 126, the first shaft 128 and the female part of the coupling 129 about which is spaced at least one but preferably two resilient springs 137.

[943] As illustrated as the appliance connector 135 docks with the base connector 136 the first shaft 128 enters the hollow earth tube 127. As the docking process continues the hollow earth tube 127 then makes contact with resilient spring(s) 137 and thirdly the first shaft 129 mutually couples with the second shaft 128 via the couplings 129.

[9441 As with previously described embodiments, the diagrams are schematic and do not show any additional electrical connections that may be part of the connectors 135 and 136 and how the resilient springs are supported. Such details will be readily supplied by the

skilled person on reading the description herein.

[945] In a further embodiment the electrical connection may be to power means to communicate the status of the upper container 1 back to the base 2. For example there may be a thermostat in a glass cafetière that senses when hot water has been added to the grounds and after a given time may signal the motor 126 to drive the plunger to the bottom of the vessel.

[946] In further embodiments of the cafetière there may be an element for heating the water and/or keeping the coffee warm. The heater may be a thick film heater and may be glued to the base of the glass. The element may be powered via the electrical connection to the base.

[947] Additional example appliances may include any appliance that requires a rotational or motor driven tool and electrical load in the upper container where the container may be washproof and and/or communication from the upper container to the cordless base for example food processors, blenders, coffee and espresso makers, juicers, smoothie makers, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, milk frothers and cafetières. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

Reduced Footprint Cordless Connector [948] To assist with the explanation of the following, each connection means or pole within the drawings is nominated as live, neutral, earth, switch 1 and switch 2; however it is envisaged that in further embodiments the designation for each pole may differ.

Furthermore although in the embodiments as described below the fixed contacts are in the appliance connector 3 and the moving contacts are in the base connector 4 it is envisaged that this may be reversed or alternatively there may be both fixed and moving contacts in both connectors.

[949] Figure 53e illustrates a first embodiment of a 3 pole 360° connector system in which two poles of the connector are positioned within the central portion so that the cross section or footprint' is narrower than prior art connectors. This arrangement allows all three poles to be isolated from access by the user whilst only two apertures are required in the base moulding.

[950] The appliance connector 3 comprises a main moulding 535, a central live pin 530, a hollow earth ring 127 and at least one intermediate sleeve 531 to act as a spacer and insulator between the live pin 530 and the hollow earth ring 127 with a neutral ring 534 spaced apart and around the central pin assembly. Each of the fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 includes a lateral part 539 that acts to position, and assists in securing, the fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 within the main moulding 535 and may form means to attach a previously described connection means, for example, sheathed or un-sheathed conductors (not shown).

The distal end of the lateral part 539 may include for example a male tab terminal connection 532 or female tab terminal and/or resilient springs (not shown). Each of the three fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 may be stamped, folded and formed from a flat material such as brass and/or copper alloy and may be plated with a low conductivity material such as silver.

1951] The lateral parts 539 and connection means 532 may be post formed or folded after being inserted through the apertures 545 in the top part of the main moulding 535 or may be separate parts attached to the fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 during the assembly. At least one of the lateral parts 539 may be positioned on the underside of the top part of the moulding 535 in which case just the terminal part 532 may pass through the top part of the main moulding 535.

[952] As illustrated the sleeve 531, which may be manufactured from any suitable insulating material for example plastic or ceramic, is positioned towards the bottom and seals the central cavity 540 formed between the live pin 530 and the earth ring 127. In addition to or instead of the sleeve 531, a liquid insulator, for example silicone, may be poured or applied under pressure into the cavity. The liquid insulator may be self-setting or may be cured by other means for example by an additive or heat.

[953] In the case that the connector 3 needs to be waterproof then the cavity 526 formed by the wall 522 may be also be filled with an insulating sealant, for example, silicone as previously described.

[954] In further embodiments the sealant may alternatively and/or additionally be applied from the underside of the moulding 535.

[955] In further embodiments the sleeve 531 may be provided as part of the moulding 535 and alternatively or additionally walls (not shown) may be provided between the contacts 127, 530 and 534, lateral parts 539 and connections 532 on either or both of the top side or bottom side of the moulding 535.

[956] As illustrated the lateral parts 539 are on the same plane; however, in alternative embodiments for example, the live pin 530 and sleeve 531 and/or sealant may extend above the earth 127 so that there is additional electrical creepage and clearance between metal parts.

[957] In further embodiments the fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534, lateral parts 539 and/or connections 532 may be insert moulded as part of the main moulding 535.

[958] The base connector 4 comprises a main moulding 536 in which two channelled apertures 541 and 542 are formed by the walls 546 and 547 and may include walls 522 on the underside to act as insulating means for the metal parts. The assembly also includes three moving contacts 137E (earth), 137L (live) and 137N (neutral) which interface with the respective fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 when the appliance connector 3 is inserted into the base connector 4.

[959] As illustrated the moving parts are resilient springs which may be manufactured from beryllium copper or more preferably from a beryllium free material, for example, Olin (ref C7025) and may include low resistance contact portions 544 and 548. In further embodiments the resilience for the moving contact parts may be provided by other means or additional parts, for example, coiled springs.

[960] The resilient springs 137E and 137N include lateral parts 539 with fixtures 533 for assembly into the main moulding 536 and connection means 532. The resilient spring 137N is positioned within the outer channelled aperture 542 and the resilient spring 1 37E within the central aperture 541.

[961J The live connection means comprises two parts: a resilient spring 137E and a fixed contact plate 508L which combine to form a normally open switching means.

[962] The live resilient spring 137E includes a lateral part 539 and fixture 533 for assembly into the main moulding 536 with a further lateral part 543 positioned beneath the central aperture 541 and the other end of the resilient spring 137E may include a low conductivity contact portion 548.

[963] The fixed contact plate 508L is provided with a mating contact portion 544 along with fixing means 533 and connection means 532.

[964] Figure 53f illustrates the relative positions of the fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 within the main moulding 535 and the resilient springs 137E, 137L and 137N within the main moulding 536 and shows the inner wall 546 and outer wall 547 which, during both engagement and disengagement, act to respectively insulate the live and earth parts from the neutral part, and the neutral part from the user.

[965] Figures 51 i and 53j illustrate a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment prior to engagement and show the relative positions of the fixed contacts 127, 530 and 534 within the main moulding 535 and the resilient springs 137E, 137L and 137N within the main moulding 536 through cross sections A -A and B -B respectively.

[966] Figure 53k is a cross section view through A -A of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment in the first phase of engagement in which the resilient spring 137E engages the respective fixed earth contact 127 so that the earth is always the first pole to make contact during engagement and the last to break contact during the disengagement.

The sleeve 531 may act to guide the resilient spring 137E prior to contact with the fixed earth contact 127.

[967] Figure 531 is a cross section view through A -A of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment in a second phase of engagement in which resilient springs 137L and 137N make contact respectively with the fixed contacts 530 and 534. It is preferred that the resilient spring 137N makes contact marginally ahead of the resilient spring 137L; however as the normally open contacts 548 are not yet closed then it is acceptable that the resilient springs 137L and 137N make contact in the reverse order providing that they make contact before the normally open contact 548 are closed.

[968] Figure 53m is a cross section view through B -B of a cordless plug and socket of the first embodiment in a third phase of engagement in which resilient springs 137L and 1 37N are engaged and the centre pin 530 has made contact and pushed against the lateral portion 543 of the resilient spring 137L so that the normally open contacts 548 are closed and the electrical circuit is complete.

[969] The additional switching means 548 ensures that the live and neutral connections are engaged sufficiently ahead of power being applied and decreases the potential for arcing during the slidable contact between moving and fixed contacts within the body of the connector system. This may also preclude the need to apply a low resistive contact and/or coating in the area of slidable contact between the moving and fixed contacts within the body of the connector system.

[970] In a further embodiment, redundancy' may be added to the resilient spring 137L so the plug 3 is free to travel further, for example 3 mm, after the normally open switching means 548 is closed, so that the mating connection with the socket 4 is tolerant to outside conditions such oversized appliance mouldings.

[971] Figures SOma to 5Omc illustrate, in a cross-section through plane B -B, a further embodiment in which the resilient spring 13 7L includes a means 553 to provide over travel after the previously described third phase of engagement in which case a fourth phase of engagement is achieved in which the plug may travel further into the socket while maintaining the electrical contacts therebetween.

1972] Figures 53md and 53me further illustrate the resilient spring 1 37L in which there may be provided a second resilient portion 553 that is formed as a single piece from the lateral part 539 of the spring 137L. The spring 137L may also include silver contacts 548 and mounting means 533.

[973] The portion 554 of the second resilient portion 553 makes contact with central pin 530 prior to the third phase of engagement with Figure 53ma showing this just ahead of contact being made.

[974] Figure 53mb illustrates the third phase of engagement in which the central pin 530 has engaged with the second resilient portion 553 and pushed the resilient spring 137L downwards so that the normally open contacts 548 are closed and the electrical circuit is complete.

[975] Figure 53mc illustrates the fourth phase of engagement in which second resilient portion 553 allows the plug 4 to continue to travel a further distance, for example 3 mm, whilst the resilient spring 137L maintains the contact pressure so that the normally open contacts 548 remain engaged. The geometry of the connector pair 3 and 4 may be such that the female plug moulding 535 will abut against male plug moulding 536 to limit the over-travel to the desired distance.

[976] The aperture 555 that is formed from the second resilient portion 553, and other apertures 555 that may be provided in the lateral portion 539, may help to balance the resilience of the spring 137L against the additional force of the second resilient portion 553 during the over-travel, so that the upward force against the central pin 530 is not excessive and preferably the combined upward force on 137L and 553 is substantially the same as a resilient spring 553 without the second resilient portion 1 37L at any given distance of travel so that the connector pair 3 and 4 will remain in the full over travel position until the appliance 1 is removed from the base 2.

[977] Additionally or alternatively the contact plate 508L may be resilient so that the plug 3 is free to travel further after the normally open contact 548 is closed.

[978] Additional features (not shown), for example folds, apertures or channels may be added to the resilient spring 137L and or the second resilient portion 553 and or the contact plate 508L that may assist with the balance of forces between the plug 3 and the socket 4.

[979] Additionally or alternatively the contact plate 508L may be resilient so that the plug 3 is free to travel further after the normally open contact 548 is closed.

[9801 Alternatively in a further embodiment (not shown) the normally open switching means 548 may cooperate with resilient spring 1 37N so that it is the fixed contact 534 that acts to close the normally open switch.

[981] In further embodiments there may two normally open switching means 548 so that the resilient springs 137N and 137N within the socket 4 are at neutral potential prior to engagement with the plug 3.

[982] In further embodiments the normally open switching means 548 may cooperate with a part of the moulding 535.

[983] In further embodiments an separate electronic or electro mechanical switch may be provided in the appliance 1 and or the base 2 or associated components for example the plug 3 and or socket 4 in additional to or an alternative to the previously described normally open switching means.

[984] In other embodiments further insulation 549 (as denoted by a dotted line in Figure 511) may be provided in the socket 4 between resilient springs 1 37L and 1 37E.

[985] The second embodiment is a development of the first embodiment and provides a multi pole 3600 connector system for electrical appliances in which two poles of the connector are positioned within the central portion and further poles are provided on the outside wall so that the cross section or footprint' is narrower than prior art connectors.

This arrangement allows more than three poles to be isolated from being accessed by the user whilst only three apertures are required in the base moulding.

[986] The appliance plug 3 of the second embodiments is provided with at least one circumferential fixed contacts 537 and 538 that are spaced around the outside wall 550 of the main moulding 535 which act as additional poles, for example, to be used as signalling means between the appliance proper and the base. The fixed contacts may be manufactured from similar materials to the previously described fixed contacts. The fixed contacts 537 and 538 may include lateral parts 539 and connector parts 532 and may be assembled and sealed in a similar manner as the fixed contacts in the first embodiment; note however that the connector part 532 of the fixed contact 538 extends through and passes upwardly inside the outside wall 550, to avoid contacting the fixed contact 537. More than two fixed contacts may be provided on the outer wall 550, with their connector parts passing through the outside wall at different circumferential positions.

[987] The outside wall 550 may include details or indentations (not shown) to act as fixture for the circumferential fixed contacts 537. The circumferential fixed contacts 537 may be mounted in indentations within the surface of the outer wall 550 so that the circumferential fixed contacts 537 finish substantially level with the outer wall 550 so that the resilient springs 137S1 and 137S2 have a substantially smooth surface over which to slide.

[988] The base socket is provided with reciprocating resilient springs 137S1 and 137S2 each manufactured in similar materials and with similar features as the previously described resilient springs and each dimensioned to make contact with the respective circumferential fixed contacts during the engagement process and preferably prior to the third phase of the engagement.

[989] A further wall 536 is provided which acts to insulate and protect the resilient springs 137S1 and 137S2 prior to and during engagement.

1990] The live, neutral and earth connections function in a similar manner as the first embodiments therefore there is no need to explain this function further. Figures S3p and 53q illustrate the relationship of the further switch contacts 537, 538 137S1 and 137S2 at positions corresponding to the second and third phases of the first embodiment as illustrated in Figures 531 and 53m.

[991] Resilient spring 137S1 is longer than resilient spring 137S2 and it is preferable that it passes over the fixed circumferential contact 538 prior to the resilient spring 137S2 making contact with 538. It is also preferable that there is sufficient gap between the fixed contacts 537 and 538 so the resilient spring cannot make contact with both 537 and 538 simultaneously.

[992] It is possible that the appliance may include some form of standby mode that is in circuit with the fixed circumferential contacts 537 and 538 as such it is preferable that the resilient spring passes over the fixed contact 538 prior to the second phase of engagement so that erroneous signals cannot pass between the various poles.

1993] Figure 53q illustrates that, at the time of the second phase the resilient spring 1 37S 1 has passed over the fixed contact 538 and neither the resilient spring 137S1 or the resilient spring 1 37S2 have reached the position of their reciprocal mating fixed circumferential contacts 537 and 538.

[994] Figure 53q shows that at the time of the third phase and both the resilient spring 137S1 and resilient spring 137S2 are both in contact with their reciprocal mating fixed contacts 537 and 538 and the switch circuit is in place.

[995] It is intended that the width of the fixed contacts 537 and 538 will enable a corresponding additional movement after the third phase if a resilient contact plate 508L, as previously described, is provided.

1996] As described, the second embodiment incorporated two poles for signalling/switching but it is envisaged that the same arrangement can be provided for single or alternatively 3 signalling/switching poles.

[997] As described, the first and second embodiments comprise discrete components however in further embodiments the discrete components may be integrated as part of an electromechanical and/or fully electronic control system.

Cover Moulding [998] A cordless connecting coupling for a cordless appliance 1 in accordance to the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 54a to 54f.

[999] Figure 54a illustrates an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the cordless connector assembly 724 which comprises plug 3 and corresponding socket 4. The socket 4 may be provided on the power base 2 and the plug 3 may be provided on the appliance 1.

[1000] Suitable securing means, for example a mounting flange 720 may be provided on the plug 3 to secure the plug 3 into the appliance 1. Suitable securing means (not shown) may be provided on the socket 4 to secure the socket 4 into to the power base 2. In cases where mounting details are provided to secure the plug 3 and socket 4 to the appliance 1 or power base 2, then mutually cooperating details (not shown) are provided on the appliance 1 or power base 2. Alternative suitable securing means, for example snap-fitting, screwing, gluing or bonding methods, may be used to secure the plug 3 and sockets 4 to their respective parts.

110011 The socket 4 may comprise a main moulding 716 and a cover moulding 717 and a resilient cover assembly 719 disposed therebetween, in which the cover assembly 719 is provided for concealing internal electrical conductors of the plug 4. The cover moulding 717 may comprise at least one aperture 721 for receiving at least one electrical conducting pin 711 of the plug 3. The cover assembly 719 may further comprise at least one resilient flap 710 for concealing the at least one aperture 721.

[1002] Figures 54a to 54f show a preferred embodiment where the cover moulding 717 comprises three apertures for receiving three electrical pins 711 and 725 of the cordless plug 3 in which the pins 711 may be live and neutral and the central pin 725 may be earth.

[1003] The earth conductor 527 in the socket 4 may comprise twin side-acting resilient springs which may engage with both sides of the cooperating earth pin 725 in the plug 3.

The twin side acting resilient springs may be spaced apart at one end and may be in contact with each other at the other end to form a clamping mechanism, in which each arm comprises a lead-in to allow the spring loaded earth connector 527 to receive the mating pin 725. Alternatively, the spring loaded earth connector 527 may comprise one resilient arm where the free end bows inwards and having a lead-in to form a spring to receive the mating pin 711.

[1004] The twin side-acting springs of the earth 527 are employed to provide a very robust connection means specifically required for earth conductors; however the side pressure acting pins may also add to the forces required for engaging and disengaging the plug 3 and socket 4, in which case the design of the interface between the plug 3 and the socket 4 may need to compensate for the additional pressure.

[1005] The live and neutral and conductors 137 in the socket 4 may comprise forward acting resilient springs 137 for engaging with the respective mating pins 711 provided in the plug 3.

[1006] Terminals 507, for example male tab terminals, may be provided on the conductors 137, 527 and pins 711 and 725 for electrical connection to cooperating conductors within the base 2 and the appliance 1. Alternative electrical terminals 507 may be used, for example bus bars or connecting rods. Soldering, friction fittings or welding may also be employed for electrical connection to cooperating conductors within the base 2 and the appliance 1 [1007] Each of the conductors 137 and 527 or pins 711 and 725 may be provided with a silver contact 509 or other low resistance coating or plating including tin or tin alloy.

[10081 Figures 54e and 54f show cross sections of the cordless connector in accordance to the embodiment of Figure 54a in disengaged and engaged positions respectively. The distal end of the earth conductor 527 may be positioned beyond the distal ends of the live and neutral connectors 137, so that for example when the plug 3 engages the socket 4 the earth connection will make first and on disengagement will break last. Additionally or alternatively in further embodiments (not shown), the distal end of the earth pin 725 may be positioned beyond the distal ends of the other electrical mating pins 711.

[1009] In further embodiments where, for example, only live and neutral connections are required then the connector may comprise only two connecting means and in further embodiments the connector may be provided with additional connecting means if required.

[10101 In each embodiment it is preferred that the spatial arrangements of the conductors within the socket 4 and the relationship between the conductors and the apertures 721 enable the socket 4 to meet the previously described National, Regional or International Approval Standards without the need for an additional mechanical shutter.

[1011] The socket 4 is provided with a cover assembly 719 that may act to prevent the user seeing the conductors 137 and 527 when the plug 3 is disengaged from the socket 4 and may be provided with resilient flaps 710 that correspond to the apertures 721 provide on the cover moulding 721.

[1012] In Figures 54b to 54d it is seen that the cover assembly 719 and the resilient flap 710 may be formed from a unitary material to reduce the number of components and for ease of assembly. The unitary material may be any one or a combination of the following material, a polymeric material, an elastomeric material, a thermoset or a thermoplastic material or any other resilient material.

[1013] Each resilient flap 710 must be provided with sufficient flexibility to allow the electrical pin 72 to pass therethrough with relative ease and sufficient resilience to close with relative ease when the electrical pin is 721 is removed; furthermore each flap requires sufficient rigidity to return to its original shape after use and/or not to become permanently or plastically deformed or degrade after continual use.

[1014] Each resilient flap 710 may have one side 722 connected or fixed to the body of the cover assembly 719 and the other three sides fl-ce from the body of the cover assembly 719, effectively forming a C shaped slot 723 such that during engagement and disengagement the flap 710 only acts on one surface of the pins 711 and 725 and exerts substantially less pressure on the pins 711 and 725 than the prior art cross shaped apertures. This reduced pressure is particularly important when the more robust twin side acting springs 527 are employed for the earth conductors, in which case this reduced pressure may help compensate for the increased force exerted by the twin side acting springs 527.

[1015] Another improvement of this new embodiment over the prior art cross shaped slots is that the flaps 710 may be larger than the apertures 721 and be positioned immediately behind and completely cover the apertures 721 so that the conductors are substantially not visible through the apertures 721.

[1016] Another improvement of this new embodiment over the prior art is that the flaps 710 may be larger than the apertures 721 and be positioned immediately behind and completely cover the apertures 721 and may be in contact with surface immediately surrounding the apertures 721 so that the flaps prevent or substantially prevent liquid entering the socket 4.

[10171 As shown in Figures 54b to 54f the cover assembly 719 is assembled between the cover moulding 717 and main moulding 716. The cover assembly 719 may comprise at least one flange 712, 713 that may mate with recesses 714, 715 provided on one or both the base 716 and cover moulding 719. The cover assembly 719 may also comprise an inboard flange 713 to mate with a recess 715 that may be provided on the base 716 and may also comprise an outboard flange 714 to mate with a recess 714 that may be provided on the cover moulding 717.

[1018] The previously described mating flanges and recesses act to temporarily hold the cover assembly 719 in place during assembly and may also help to keep the body of the cover assembly 719 in tension so that the cover assembly 719 is less likely to deform over life and as such provide a consistent support for the flaps 710.

[1019] Figures 54a to 54f show the apertures 721 being elongate and the flap 710 being an elongate rectangular shape but alternative shapes for both the apertures 721 and matching flaps 710 may be employed, for example arc, triangular or square shaped.

[1020] In further embodiments the cover assembly 719 may be provided in front of the cover moulding 721.

[1021] In alternative embodiments the cover assembly 719 and the resilient flap 710 may be formed from separate components.

[1022] Alternative embodiments of the connector, which may occur to the skilled person on reading the above description, may nevertheless fall within the scope of the inventions as defined by the claims. For example, whilst the Figures 54a to 54f as herein described above show the base 716 of the socket 4 being a separate component, the base moulding 716 may be an integral part of the body of the appliance 1.

[1023] In a further embodiments, the twin spring earth connector 527 may be substituted with a conventional a resilient spring connector 137 and vice versa.

[1024] In further embodiments the cover assembly 719 and flaps 710 may be arranged so as substantially to prevent liquid from entering the socket 4.

[1025J In further embodiments the cover assembly 719 and associated flap 710 may be employed in a wall socket or other connecting means.

Alternative Embodiments [1026] The embodiments described above are illustrative of rather than limiting to the present invention. Alternative embodiments apparent on reading the above description may nevertheless fall within the scope of the invention.