GB2536912A

GB2536912A - A heating device

Info

Publication number: GB2536912A
Application number: GB1505479.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Oakenfold Smith Paul
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-03-31
Filing date: 2015-03-31
Publication date: 2016-10-05
Anticipated expiration: 2035-03-31
Also published as: GB2536912A8; GB2536912B; GB201505479D0

Abstract

A headed flask or like device comprises a container having an internal volume 101 and an external surface 5, 102 and a rechargeable battery. The internal volume has a heating element. The external surface is spaced from the volume so as to provide a thermally insulating layer and having a control mechanism for the battery. The control mechanism comprises at least one sensor for thermostatic control of fluid 10 temperature within the internal volume. A safety valve may be provided to release steam pressure from the internal volume. A charge point for the rechargeable battery may be provided and the rechargeable battery may be adapted so as to allow the charging of an independent device, for example by the provision of a USB port. The control mechanism may be operated wirelessly or remotely.

Description

A HEATING DEVICE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a heating device, in particular a device for heating fluids on the move; more particularly, but not exclusively a safe and reliable means of ensuring that fluids are at a correct temperature before drinking.

Background

With increased time pressure on work and home life, and a resurgence in outdoor activities, many users increasingly enjoy food or drink outdoors or on the go.

As a consequence many users enjoy hot food where available, for example from street vendors, or locations enroute. It can be highly unsatisfactory for a number of reasons to heat, prepare or provide hot food outdoors or on the go.

Hot fluids however, particularly such hot fluids as drinks or soups, can be highly 20 enjoyable, convenient and satisfactory when outdoors or on the go.

However such hot fluids lose heat over time and when accessed, and consequently have a limited useful life. This can be problematic when in transit and desiring plural stops.

Prior Art

Accordingly a number of patent applications have been filed in an attempt to resolve the problem or similar, including the following: Chinese patent application CN 201 734 516 (BO) discloses a self-heating water cup belongs to containers, which mainly solves the problem that users can not drink hot water with appropriate temperature all the time in cold weather. The water cup comprises a cup body and a cup lid, and is characterized in that a heating body and rechargeable batteries are arranged at the bottom of the cup body; a rechargeable socket is arranged on the side surface of the cup body, and the heating body and the rechargeable socket are electrically connected with the rechargeable batteries; a temperature measuring device is arranged in the cup body, and a temperature display screen is arranged on the outer side surface of the cup body, and is connected with the temperature measuring device. When the cup is used, the temperature of water in the water cup can be visually known through the temperature display screen, if the water temperature is too low, the water in the electrical heating cup is heated by the heating body, so that people can drink hot water convenient, and the waste of water resource can be avoided.

Granted United States patent US 6 864 462 (SANONER et al) discloses an electronic drinking mug comprising:a heating element in thermal communication with said mug for heating a liquid contained in said mug; a temperature sensor in communication with said heating element for monitoring a temperature of said liquid; a controller in communication with said heating element for selectively activating and deactivating said heating element so as to heat said liquid in said mug to a desired temperature, wherein said controller receives temperature signals from said temperature sensor and deactivates said heating element when the monitored temperature of said liquid is greater than or equal to the desired temperature of said liquid; and a user interface attached to said mug and being in communication with said controller for establishing the desired temperature of said liquid United States patent application US 4 959 528 (MALLOY) discloses a self-heating container assembly comprising: an elongated, hand-portable vessel having an outer wall, a chamber therein, and a lower portion including a bottom; a liner in said vessel chamber, said liner being provided with an electric heating element and defining an inner chamber adapted to receive the material to be heated; insulation between said outer wall and said liner sufficient to maintain the temperature of the material to be heated at a desired temperature; first electrical contacts on said bottom with electrical lead means interconnecting said contacts and said heating element; a detachable, tubular base having an open upper end and a closed lower end, and presenting a tubular socket for coaxially and telescopically rotatably receiving a substantial portion of a longitudinal extent of said lower portion of said vessel, with said lower portion spaced apart from an inner wall of said socket of said base when received therein and adapted to provide clearance for said vessel when said vessel is positioned within said socket, said socket having second electrical contacts therein registering with said first electrical contacts when said lower portion of said vessel is received by said socket; means for connecting said second electrical contacts with a power source; and interengageable locking parts on said bottom of said vessel and said base for securing the same together upon said vessel bottom being received in said base and said bottom and said base being rotated coaxially relative to each other, whereby said vessel may be selectively interlocked within said base with said first and second contacts engaged to energize said heating element and maintain the vessel contents in a heated condition.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided a heating device comprising: a container having an internal volume and an external surface; and a rechargeable battery, in which the surface is spaced from the volume so as to provide a thermally insulating layer, said volume having a heating element and said surface having a control mechanism for the battery.

Advantageously the control mechanism comprises at least one sensor for thermostatic control of fluid temperature within the internal volume. Advantageously therefore the internal volume can be heated as appropriate using the control mechanism and wherein the control mechanism allows for heating on demand and as required.

In some embodiments the control mechanism comprises wireless connectivity or 25 intermachine operability such as Bluetooth (RTM) and is configured to correspond wirelessly with remote electronic devices.

In this way a user may advantageously activate the control mechanism remotely, and accordingly the element.

The control mechanism may thereby comprise a remote user interface and user interface software application on independent electronic apparatus such as a smart phone. This software application may also include and enable a user to read the distance to the unit in meter, km etc. and allow the user to control and set a timer too with respect to when the device starts cooking, cooking duration and programs, and for example a hibernation mode holding the device's content at a set temperature.

Other functions made available through the application may include such as real time temperature data of the content of the device, temperature required or the time left before the device reaches this temperature, and also days in the week where the user can set as to when the device start and stops heating and at what desired 5 temperature this is to be done each day. The interface may also tell the user when the battery is low and fully charged, and a projected charging time to reach full capacity. The device may include sensors so that if there is no content in the device to be heated this will be communicated and/or if the heat raises too quickly or exceeds a set level, and for example there is no content the device will turn off. Such 10 sensors may include thermostat, tilt switch a volume sensor to tell how much content there is inside the internal volume.

This safety feature is advantageous for when the device is left unattended for a period of time and the user has set it on full power without content. This information 15 will also be relayed through the remote interface to stream information in real time to the user, telling the status of the flask.

Ideally the insulation maintains the temperature of a fluid held in the internal volume, and when a required top up of heat is desired a user is enabled to activate the 20 heating element to ensure the fluid is at a desired temperature, controlled by the sensor.

The external surface may comprise a flask outer, having a displaceable lid and handle. In this way the device provides a portable insulated flask and is further arranged for heating fluid contained and transported in the internal volume. Advantageously therefore a user is enabled to have hot, heated, or reheated fluid, such as soup or drink, in a plurality of locations and situations.

The layer may comprise gas, fluid or cellular structure solid material; all having a 30 thermal block capability.

The internal volume is defined by an inner, such inner being typically formed in metal or alloy. The external surface comprises a body, which body may be formed in a metal, alloy or plastics, for example having a temperature tolerance of minus -35 degrees Celsius to 135-185 degree Celsius. In this way the surface is advantageously well-configured for outdoor use and the device has a wipeclean robust exterior.

The lid in some embodiments provides a cup for drinking the fluid from the internal 5 volume. Advantageously therefore the device provides an easily portable means of enjoying hot soup and hot drinks.

The lid may be attached in use over a top cover, which cover covers the internal volume and which may be displaced in whole or part so as to access the internal 10 volume and/or constitute an opening or pouring means for the fluid. In addition or the alternative the cover may be removed for cleaning the internal volume.

In some embodiments the device may include a valve, such valve for releasing of pressure within the internal volume, created during heating of the volume's contents. 15 The valve may comprise a displaceable part, displaced to allow exit of fluid or solely gas. The valve may comprise a slidable part or a screw threaded part.

In some embodiments the valve comprises the pouring means, wherein the internal volume may be emptied therethrough.

In some embodiments the heating element is operable by the control mechanism and a safety means. In some embodiments the control mechanism and safety means are combined, wherein two different movements are required from a user to operate the mechanism and means, for example wherein the means requires a control to be turned and the mechanism requires the control to be pushed.

In preferred embodiments the safety means or valve and lid comprise an interrelation wherein the safety means must be activated, or deactivated according to embodiment, or the valve closed in order for the lid to be placed onto the device. In 30 this way the heating element may not be used when the lid is in place.

The safety means may thereby comprise a control which must be operated to allow the control mechanism to operate the heating element. In this way the control mechanism may be advantageously prevented from unauthorised usage of the heating element, and consequently the heating element may not be wastefully or incorrectly used.

In some embodiments the safety means prevents the internal volume being opened during heating, wherein the safety means may act as a lock or pin for locking.

Incorrect or unauthorised heating of the heating element in the internal volume when it is sealed may be liable to cause a dangerous increase in vapour and pressure, which pressure is then capable of being released accidentally and dangerously upon opening of the volume and external surface.

In some embodiments safety means may comprise the valve, such valve requiring opening prior to activation of the element.

Advantageously by this way dangerous build-up of pressure from heating fluid vapours or gases in the volume is limited. For example in some embodiments the 15 valve comprises an electrical circuit, wherein displacement, placement, deactivation or activation of the valve completes the electrical circuit to the control mechanism.

In this way unauthorised or accidental activation of the heating element is also prevented, for example in transit, leading to a dangerous build up of heat and/or 20 pressure.

In some embodiments such safety means may be operable remotely. In this way a user may advantageously activate the control mechanism remotely, and accordingly the element. Advantageously therefore for example the user may prepare heated drinks prior to arrival at a location.

Preferably the battery is rechargeable having a socket for insertion of a charging lead so as to allow charging at a standard mains electrical supply. In some embodiments the charging lead may allow charging at a 12Volt electrical supply, for example in a vehicle. Further embodiments may include a socket for exit of charging current, for example allowing charging of independent devices via a universal serial bus (USB) connection. In some embodiments a secondary energy source such as a detachable battery pack may allow for backup power. Such battery pack may be attached in use to the device bottom.

The device may then function as a charge point for electronic devices on the move.

Ideally the device comprises a displaceable lid and a displaceable handle, such that the external surface before displacement is substantially unbroken, to aid in transport and storage.

Displacement of the lid or handle may comprise further steps in accessing the control mechanism and/or safety means; such that the control mechanism and safety means are better protected from unauthorised access and inadvertent usage of the heating element.

The device may further comprise a lanyard attachment point.

In some embodiments the control mechanism may comprise a thermostat and a mechanism for setting a desired temperature to which the heating of the internal volume is preconfigured. In this way the user may easily set a desired temperature and a warning signal may be provided when the fluid has reached said temperature. The warning signal may comprise an audible and/or visual signal, or may comprise a wirelessly transmitted signal.

Some embodiments may be useful for infant feeding.

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the device with lid removed; Figure 2 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment as shown in Figure 1; Figures 3 show isometric views of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 with lid on and handle in; Figures 4 show plan views of the embodiment as shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows an isometric exploded view of the embodiment as shown in Figures 3; Figures 6 show isometric views of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 with lid on and handle out; Figures 7 show side views of the embodiment as shown in Figure 6 and Figure 3 5 respectively; Figure 8 shows a three-quarter sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 with lid on; and Figure 9 shows a section view of the embodiment as shown in Figures 3.

Detailed Description of Figures

With reference to the figures there is shown a flask device according to the present invention comprising an elongate body 1, displaceable top cover 2, battery pack 4 and handle 3.

The top cover screws into the internal volume to close it on a screw thread 88. A lid screws onto the external surface on a screw thread 8, and is available as a cup when displaced from the body. The lid has a rubberised outer surface. The battery has a rubberised outer surface.

The battery is rechargeable and provides a charging point 7 and a control mechanism 11. The charging point and control mechanism are only available for use when the handle is displaced. The displacement of the handle is accomplished by a sliding base 5 and two hinges 10.

Further embodiments include a charging point for outflow of electrical energy, such as a USB socket.

The internal volume is insulated from the external surface of the body, with an intermediate layer of radon gas 100.

The internal volume 101 is formed in stainless steel and the external surface 102 is thermoplastics.

The valve is situated centrally on the top cover in an indented slot 17, and is on a 5 screwthread.

The valve screws up and clears the lip 22 of the slot so as to slide back to open the pouring opening 16. In addition the valve when wholly displaced fits an electrically connective nub 18 into a lacuna 19 and allows the heating element to be activated by 10 completing a circuit with two terminals 19a.19b.

The electrical resistance heating element 19 is situated at the internal volume's base, wherein the heating element is controlled by the control mechanism to input a controllable amount of heat energy.

A thermostatic sensor for ensuring correct temperature may be installed at a middle point of the volume so as to gain an accurate temperature reading of contents of the internal volume.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention. Firstly it will be understood that any features described in relation to any particular embodiment may be featured in combinations with other embodiments.

With respect to the specification therefore, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention, with variation and implementation obvious and clear on the basis of either 35 common general knowledge or of expert knowledge in the field concerned. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention as set out in the accompanying claims.

Claims

Claims 1. A heating device comprising: a container having an internal volume and an external surface; and a rechargeable battery, wherein the surface is spaced from the volume so as to provide a thermally insulating layer, said volume having a heating element and said surface having a control mechanism for the battery.
2. A heating device according to claim 1 wherein the control mechanism comprises at least one sensor for thermostatic control of fluid temperature within the internal volume.
3. A heating device according to claim 1 or 2 comprising a flask outer, having a displaceable lid and handle.
4. A heating device according to claim 3 wherein the lid provides a cup for drinking the fluid from the internal volume 5. A heating device according to claim 3 or 4 wherein the lid is attached in use over a top cover, which cover covers the internal volume and which may be displaced in whole to access the internal volume.6. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein a top cover is displaced to access the internal volume and constitute an opening or pouring means for the fluid.7. A heating device according to any preceding claim comprising a valve for releasing of pressure within the internal volume, created during heating of the volume's contents.8. A heating device according to claim 7 wherein the valve comprises a part displaced by a user to allow exit of gas.9. A heating device according to claim 8 wherein the valve comprises a slidable part.10. A heating device according to claim 8 or 9 wherein the valve comprises a screw threaded part.11. A heating device according to claim 7, 8, 9 or 10 wherein the valve comprises valve comprises a pouring means.12. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the heating element is operable by the control mechanism and a safety means.13. A heating device according to claim 12 wherein the safety means comprises a valve requiring opening prior to activation of the element.14. A heating device according to claim 13 wherein the valve comprises an electrical circuit.15. A heating device according to any preceding claim comprising a socket for insertion of a charging lead to allow charging at a standard mains electrical supply.16. A heating device according to any preceding claim comprising a socket for insertion of a charging lead to allow charging of an independent device.17. A heating device according to any preceding claim comprising a handle displaced to allow access to the control mechanism and a socket.18. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the layer provides a thermal block capability.19. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the device comprises a thermostat.20. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the device comprises a volume sensor.21. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the control mechanism comprises wireless connectivity.22. A heating device according to claim 21 wherein the wireless connectivity comprises a remote interface.23. A heating device according to claim 22 wherein the remote interface is enabled to monitor volume, temperature and heating time periods with respect to the internal volume.24. A heating device substantially as described herein with reference to the figures.Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows Claims 1. A heating device with a displaceable handle comprising: a container having an internal volume defined by an inner; an external surface; a heating element connected to a rechargeable battery, a socket on the external surface connects to the battery by way of a charging cable; and a valve for releasing pressure created within the internal volume during heating; the external surface is spaced from the inner so as to define a thermal insulating layer, the heating element heats contents contained within the internal volume; the external surface has a control mechanism for operating the heating element wherein the handle is displaced to access the control mechanism and the socket.2. A heating device according to claim1 wherein the handle is displaced by means of a sliding base and two hinges.3. A heating device according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the control mechanism comprises at least one sensor for thermostatic control of fluidCDtemperature within the internal volume.LO4. A heating device according to any preceding claim having a flask outer and a displaceable lid.
5. A heating device according to claim 4 wherein the lid provides a cup for drinking the fluid from the internal volume
6. A heating device according to claim 4 or 5 wherein the lid is attached in use over a top cover, which top cover covers the internal volume and which may be displaced to access the internal volume.
7. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein a top cover is displaced to access the internal volume and define an opening for pouring fluid.
8. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the valve comprises a part displaced by a user to allow exit of gas.
9. A heating device according to claim 8 wherein the valve comprises a slidable part.
10. A heating device according to claim 8 or 9 wherein the valve comprises a screw threaded part.
11. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the device includes a thermostat.
12. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the device comprises a volume sensor.
13. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein the control mechanism comprises wireless connectivity.
14. A heating device according to claim 13 wherein the wireless connectivity comprises a remote interface.
15. A heating device according to claim 14 wherein the remote interface is a) enabled to monitor volume, temperature and heating time periods with respect to the internal volume.LO16. A heating device according to any preceding claim wherein displacement of the valve causes an electrically connective nub to be positioned into a lacuna completing a circuit with two terminals so as to allow the heating element to be activated.17. A heating device substantially as described herein with reference to the figures.