WO2012110825A2

WO2012110825A2 - Appliances and components therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2012110825A2
Application number: PCT/GB2012/050358
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simon Whiteley; Robin Moore; Robert Hadfield; Antonio Gaeta; David Smith; Paul Boundy; Ian White; Peter Wright; Richard So
Original assignee: Otter Controls Limited
Priority date: 2011-02-18
Filing date: 2012-02-17
Publication date: 2012-08-23
Also published as: GB201112936D0; CN202695826U; GB2483745A; GB2484571B; WO2012110825A3; GB2484571A; EP2675326A2; GB201116404D0; GB201104819D0; GB201114267D0; GB201500440D0; GB2518786B; CN202691026U; GB2489288A; CN103561615B; GB2518786A; CN103561615A; GB201107507D0; GB2489257A; JP2014505567A

Abstract

The invention relates to domestic and commercial appliances, such as electrical appliances, and components therefor. Some aspects of the invention are directed to safety features, spill inhibiting means, sealing means, optical communication means, and electrical and mechanical connection systems.

Description

Appliances and Components Therefor

Field of the Invention

[01] The present invention relates to domestic and commercial appliances, such as electrical appliances, and components therefor. Some aspects of the invention are directed to safety features, spill inhibiting means, sealing means, optical communication means, and electrical and mechanical connection systems.

Background of the Invention

[02] There is a constant pressure in the domestic appliance industry to innovate; see for example the applicant's 360° cordless connector as disclosed in WO-A- 199406185. In the past, innovation may have been very specific and directed to one appliance type only. However, from experience, the applicant understands that this is not always the case so that, for example, the 360° cordless connector which was primarily expected to be used with known appliances is now found across a variety of domestic and commercial appliance types and in combination with a multitude of associated innovations that could not have been foreseen in 1992, at the priority date of WO-A- 199406185.

[03] Each of the embodiments in this patent application may be considered as discrete ideas in their own right or may be considered to be used in combination with at least one other embodiment as may become clear upon reading the description.

Statement of Invention

[04] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spill inhibiting system for a portable vessel, the system comprising at least two channels arranged such that when the vessel is in an upright position at least one of the channels vents the vessel and when the vessel is tipped on its side, at least one of the channels vents the vessel whilst the flow of liquid from the vessel through the said channels is impeded.

[05] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spill inhibiting system for a vessel, comprising a manifold through which the vessel can be filled and liquid can be poured out, the manifold acting to vent the vessel when tipped on its side.

[06] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a steam chamber for a liquid heating vessel, the steam chamber comprising an inlet aperture opening into the vessel and an outlet aperture for connection to a steam sensor, the steam chamber being arranged to impede liquid flow through the outlet aperture when the vessel is tipped on its side. [07] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vessel comprising a spout and a spill inhibiting system arranged to inhibit spillage from the spout when the vessel is tipped over, the vessel being predisposed to rest, when tipped over, with the spout substantially horizontal.

[08] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vessel comprising a spout and a spill inhibiting system arranged to inhibit spillage from the spout when the vessel is tipped over, is the vessel being predisposed to rest, when tipped over, with the spout substantially facing upward.

[09] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a safety kettle that can be filled through, and dispensed from the spout, and provide spill inhibiting and primary venting means without the requirement for moving parts or user actuation.

[10] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a pressure relieving and venting system for a liquid heating vessel comprising at least two apertures in fluid communication with atmosphere, characterised in that when the vessel is in its upright or filling or pouring position at least one of the apertures is fluidly connected to atmosphere and when the vessel is in a tipped position at least one of the apertures is fluidly connected to atmosphere whilst the flow of liquid from the appliance is impeded from both the apertures.

[11] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a pressure relieving, venting, filling and pouring system for a liquid heating vessel comprising a manifold with at least two channels in fluid communication with the spout, the channels having respective apertures, characterised in that when the vessel is in its upright or filling or pouring position at least one of the apertures is fluidly connected to the spout and when the vessel is in a tipped position at least one of the apertures is fluidly connected to atmosphere via the spout whilst the flow of liquid from the reservoir to the spout is impeded.

[12] Preferably the manifold comprises a plurality of baffles and apertures.

[13] Preferably the at least two apertures are arranged in an opposite arrangement within the manifold.

[14] Preferably the baffles are arranged in a staggered arrangement to provide conduits or channels between the apertures.

[15] Preferably the manifold contains no moving parts

[16] Preferably the manifold requires no user actuation to switch from normal use to a spill inhibiting mode or vice versa.

[17] Preferably the manifold is fixed or removably secured to at least one part of the appliance to provide liquid communication with the spout. [18] Preferably when the vessel is in a tipped position, an aperture that is fluidly connected to atmosphere is located above a liquid level within the vessel, and an aperture of the said channel with impeded flow of liquid is located below the liquid level in the vessel.

[19] Preferably when the vessel is in its upright position at least one of the channels is fluidly connected to atmosphere; and when the vessel is in a tipped position the aperture that is above the liquid level is fluidly connected to atmosphere via its respective channel, whilst the flow of liquid from the other channel is impeded by a least one baffle within the channel that remains above the liquid level.

[20] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a spill-inhibiting, venting, pouring and filling arrangement for a liquid heating vessel comprising a manifold arranged to inhibit the flow of liquid when the vessel is tipped to one side relative to the outlet.

[21] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a removable lid assembly that incorporates a manifold as described above.

[22] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a manifold that incorporates the appliance spout.

[23] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a baffle external to the manifold that inhibits liquid entering the manifold when the appliance is in a tipped position.

[24] In an embodiment of the invention, the function of a channel within the manifold may alter from a filling, dispensing, spill inhibiting and/or primary venting means dependent upon the orientation of the appliance.

[25] An embodiment of the present invention comprises a safety kettle in which the shape is predisposed to ensure that the spout points in at least a horizontal position and preferably in an upright position when the appliance is tipped on its side.

[26] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an improved Easifix type sealing system without substantially increasing the mass of material of the seal.

[27] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a sealing means for sealing the periphery of a heating element plate to a liquid heating vessel, the sealing means having first and second opposing sealing surfaces, the first sealing surface comprising at least one radially extending circumferential fin and the second sealing surface being substantially flat and comprising at least one circumferential rib for locally increasing the sealing pressure in the region of the rib.

[28] The circumferential ribs may be provided on the seal and may make the seal more tolerant to blemishes and/or an uneven surface on the components to be sealed, for example by increasing the local sealing pressure. The ribs may provide additional redundancy without significantly increasing, and potentially reducing, the overall size or mass of the seal.

[29] Alternatively the rib(s) may be provided on a sealing surface of a wall of the component to be sealed, in this case, the rib(s) may assist in applying an axial force to the seal in the region of the ribs.

[30] 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.

[31] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a cordless electrical connector for an appliance, comprising at least one sheathed conductor for supplying power to the appliance, and sealing means for sealing said at least one sheathed conductor within the connector such that a sheathed portion of the conductor extends externally from the sealing means.

[32] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of forming a cordless electrical connector for an appliance, the cordless connector comprising at least one conductor for supplying power to the appliance, the method comprising providing a respective insulating sheath around each said conductor, and sealing said at least one conductor within the connector, such that a sheathed portion of the conductor extends externally from the seal.

[33] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a sealing means for sealing the periphery of a component to an appliance, the sealing means having first and second opposing sealing surfaces, the first sealing surface comprising at least one radially extending circumferential fin and the second sealing surface being substantially flat and comprising at least one circumferential rib for locally increasing the sealing pressure in the region of the rib.

[34] 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.

[35] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a sealing means for sealing the periphery of a component to an appliance, the sealing means having first and second opposing sealing surfaces, and an axial end that is wider than a portion of the sealing means intermediate to the axial ends thereof. [36] 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 wider axial end portions.

[37] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance to a power base, the system comprising a plug and a corresponding socket configured for providing both an electrical connection and a non-electrical connection between the power base and the appliance over substantially 360 degrees of relative rotation therebetween, the non-electrical connection being provided by a centrally located component.

[38] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rotatable mechanical shaft as part of a 360° electrical plug and socket, without compromising the electrical safety, where the mechanical shaft is concentric with the plug and socket.

[39] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance to a power base, the system comprising an electrical plug and a corresponding electrical socket configured for substantially 360° of relative rotation therebetween, the plug comprising at least one centrally located hollow electrical connector for electrical connection to a corresponding socket pole of the socket, and a component passing through the at least one hollow electrical connector to provide a non-electrical function between the power base and the appliance.

[40] In a further aspect of the invention, the non electrical function may be a rotary or motor driven function.

[41] In a further aspect of the invention the non electrical function may be a mechanical actuator.

[42] In a further aspect of the invention, the non electrical function may be a fluid connection. The fluid connection may be provided as part of a 360° electrical plug and socket without compromising the full rotation of the appliance docking with the base.

[43] In a further aspect if the invention, there is provided a mechanical connection as part of a 360° electrical plug and socket so that the mechanical link is reduced in size and protected from damage.

[44] 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 non electrical function on the same axis.

[45] 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.

[46] 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 washable removable container in which there is a one or two way optical communication between the base and the container/appliance.

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

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

[49] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a cordless electrical socket having a cover for concealing internal components of the socket, the cover having at least one aperture for receiving at least one respective electrical pin of a corresponding plug, wherein at least one said aperture has a respective single resilient flap for closing the aperture when the pin is absent.

[50] 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.

[51] 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.

[52] 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. Brief Description of the Drawings

[53] 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 9a is a schematic cross-section of a prior art liquid heating appliance with a user actuated spill-inhibiting safety feature.

Figures 12w and 12x are schematic front views of an automatic weir type pressure relieving means with the vessel lying on its side.

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

Figure 13k is a schematic cross-section view 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 a schematic plan view of an embodiment of the liquid heating vessel shown in Figure 13k.

Figures 13m to 13mb are schematic isometric views of baffle means for an embodiment of Figure 131.

Figure 13mc is cross section view of an additional baffle means an embodiment of Figure 131.

Figure 13n is a schematic top view of the vessel of Figure 13k, when resting on its side including the additional baffle means of Figure 13ma.

Figure 13o is a schematic cross-section view of a liquid heating vessel with a combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly.

Figure 13p is an isometric section view of Figure 13o illustrating a combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly.

Figure 13q is an exploded isometric view of Figure 13o illustrating the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly.

Figure 13r is a schematic cross section of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13o to 13q in an upright position.

Figure 13s is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q.

Figure 13t is an assembly view of a further embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q. Figure 13ta is an assembly view of a third alternative assembly arrangement of the combined spill inhibiting and pressure relieving means of Figure 13q.

Figure 13tb is an assembly view of a fourth alternative assembly arrangement of the combined spill inhibiting and pressure relieving means of Figure 13q.

Figure 13tc is an assembly view of an alternative assembly arrangement of the spill inhibiting and pressure relieving means of Figure 13o.

Figure 13td is an assembly view of a second alternative assembly arrangement of the spill inhibiting and pressure relieving means of Figure 13tc.

Figure 13tda is an assembly view of a third alternative assembly arrangement of the spill inhibiting and pressure relieving means of Figure 13tc.

Figure 13u is a perspective rear sectional view of Figure 13o illustrating a steam chamber.

Figure 13v is an exploded isometric view of the steam chamber of Figure 13u.

Figure 13w is a schematic plan view of the steam chamber of Figure 13 v.

Figure 13wa is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of the steam chamber of

Figure 13w.

Figure 13wb is a schematic plan view of a further embodiment of the steam chamber of Figure 13w.

Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf are schematic front views of the vessel of Figures 13o to 13r in four different tipped positions.

Figures 13xa, 13xc, 13xe and 13xg are schematic front views of the combined spill inhibiting and pressure relieving means of Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf respectively illustrating the water level and venting of the vessel.

Figure 13xh is a schematic front view of an embodiment of Figure 13xb, wherein the vessel is in a tipped position.

Figure 13xi is a schematic front view of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13xh illustrating the water level and venting of the vessel.

Figure 13xj is an exploded isometric view of a further embodiment the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q.

Figure 13xk is a schematic front view of the vessel with the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13xj in a tipped position. Figure 13x1 is a schematic front view of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13xj and 13xk illustrating the water level and venting of the vessel.

Figure 13xm is an assembly view of a fifth embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q.

Figure 13xn is an exploded isometric view of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13xm.

Figure 13xo is a schematic section view along line X-X of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13xm and 13xu.

Figures 13xp to 13xs are schematic front views of the vessel with the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13xm in four different tipped positions, in which Figures 13xr and 13xs illustrate a primary venting means via the steam chamber.

Figure 13xt is a schematic front view of an embodiment of Figure 13xq, wherein the vessel is in a tipped position.

Figure 13xu is an assembly view of an embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q.

Figure 13xv is a schematic section view along line Y-Y of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13xu.

Figures 13xw to 13xza are schematic front views of the combined spill inhibiting means and pressure relieving means of Figure 13xu in four different tipped positions.

Figure 13y is an exploded isometric view of a further embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q.

Figure 13ya is an isometric view of the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13y.

Figures 13yb and 13yd are schematic plan views illustrating the flow path of the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13y and 13ya.

Figures 13yc and 13ye are schematic front views illustrating the flow path of the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13yb and 13yd respectively.

Figures 13yf to 13yi are schematic front views of the combined spill inhibiting means and pressure relieving means of Figure 13y in four different tipped positions. Figure 13yia is a bottom schematic view of an embodiment of the lid of Figure 13y having a ramp on the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly.

Figure 13yib is an exploded schematic section through the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yia and the liquid heating appliance.

Figure 13yic is a schematic section through the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yia and the liquid heating appliance.

Figure 13yid is an embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yib.

Figures 13yie and 13yif are respectively schematic plan and cut-away front views of an alternative spill inhibiting arrangement.

Figures 13yig and 13yih are respectively schematic plan and cut-away side views of an alternative spill inhibiting arrangement.

Figure 13yj and 13yl are schematic front views of an embodiment of the vessel of Figures 13x and 13xd with flat side wall in two different tipped positions.

Figures 13yk and 13ym are schematic front views of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13yj and 13yl respectively illustrating the water level and venting of the vessel.

Figures 13yn and 13yp are schematic front views of an embodiment of the vessel of Figures 13yj and 13yl with 'tear drop shaped' side wall in two different tipped positions.

Figures 13yo and 13yq are schematic front views of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving means, filling and dispensing assembly of Figures 13yn and 13yp respectively illustrating the water level and venting of the vessel.

Figure 13yr is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13q.

Figure 13ys is a schematic front view of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yr.

Figure 13yt is a further schematic plan view of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yd.

Figure 13yu is a schematic plan view of a first variant of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yt. Figure 13yv is a schematic plan view of a second variant of the combined spill inhibiting, pressure relieving, filling and dispensing assembly of Figure 13yt.

Figure 5 lq is a schematic cross-sectional view of an appliance including a seal in an embodiment.

Figure 51qa is a cross-sectional view of the seal of Figure 51q in an uncompressed state.

Figure 51qb is a cross-sectional view of a variant of Figure 51qa in an uncompressed state.

Figure 51qc is a cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of the seal in an uncompressed state.

Figure 51qd is a schematic cross-sectional view of an appliance including a further embodiment of the seal.

Figure 5 lr is an isometric view of a prior art waterproof connector.

Figure 51s is a plan view of a new embodiment of the invention prior to conductors and sealing means being provided.

Figure 5 It is an isometric view of the new embodiment of the invention prior to the sealing means being provided

Figure 51u is an isometric view of the new embodiment of the invention after the sealing means have been provided

Figures 51v and 51w are isometric views of further embodiments of the invention with alternative conductors.

Figure 51x is a schematic cross-sectional view of an appliance including a seal and an appliance moulding in an embodiment.

Figure 51y is a detailed view of a first sealing arrangement of Figure 51x.

Figure 51z is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative seal.

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

Figure 51zb is a cross-sectional view of a fourth alternative seal.

Figure 51zc is a cross-sectional view of a fifth alternative seal.

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

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

Figure 51zf is a detailed view of the sealing arrangement of the first sealing arrangement with an appliance moulding including circumferential ribs or protrusions. Figure 53a is isometric view of an integrated mechanical and electrical connector in an embodiment.

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

Figure 53ba is a schematic front view of a test probe as per IEC 61032.

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

Figure 53d is a cut-away schematic front view of the integrated mechanical and electrical connector of Figure 53c during engagement.

Figure 53 da is a cut-away schematic front view of a further embodiment and application of an integrated mechanical and electrical connector.

Figures 53db to 53dd are cut-away schematic front views of further embodiments and applications of an integrated liquid and electrical connector.

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

[54] The following description discloses innovations that individually, or in combination, with will impact upon very specific appliance designs and may also find use in alternative domestic and commercial appliances.

[55] The embodiments are presented in separate sections of this document and each of these sections will include a brief introduction to the specific problem.

[56] At least some of the embodiments are improvements to the applicant's previously applied for and/or concurrent patent applications, in which case, an appropriate patent number may be provided to reference specific cases. The relevant features of the referenced patent applications are thereby incorporated by reference herein.

[57] 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.

[58] At least some of the embodiments may rely on, or refer to, the features of Figure 1 by reference to the figure reference numerals in Figure 1.

[59] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms liquid and water are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[60] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms safety kettle, appliance, vessel and reservoir may have equivalent meaning.

[61] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms part and portion are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[62] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, when describing electrical connections the terms discrete contact, contact portion and contact area are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[63] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the safety kettle, appliance and vessel may function as a reservoir without the need for a separate reservoir, such as a filtering or dispensing reservoir.

[64] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the upward and downward directions refer to the orientation of a vessel when placed upright on a horizontal surface. Axial refers to the principal, normally substantially vertical axis of the vessel. Radial refers to a direction substantially orthogonal to the axial direction, but does not necessarily imply that the vessel is circular cylindrical.

[65] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, 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.

[66] Figure 1 illustrates schematically a jug kettle with a mechanical actuator, as an example of a liquid heating 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 360° cordless connectors of the type described in the applicant's own patent publication WO94/06285 and/or as sold by Otter Controls Ltd under, for example, the CS4/CS7 Series (power base socket) and the Al, CP7 or CP8 (appliance plug) references. The power base 2 is connectable by a power cord 13 to an electrical power outlet (not shown). Each of the vessel 1 and/or base 2 and/or cordless connector 3 and/or cordless connector 4 may be provided with emitters and/or detectors 31, annular seals 21 which may be optically transmissive and/or annular optically transmissive rings 41.

[67] The jug kettle may include an electro mechanical control 60, for example the applicant's own Al series integrated 360° control, or an electronic control 15. The electro mechanical control 60 may include an integral steam switch 73 or alternatively a discrete steam switch 73 a may be provided, within, for example, the handle 9. The appliance may be provided with a switch actuator 305 or 305a which interacts with the control 60, for example through a known over-centre trip lever mechanism (not shown in Figure 1), to toggle between operating states of the appliance. Alternatively an electronic control 15 may employ an alternative user interface 11. Either or both of the electronic control 15 and/or user interface 11 may be situated in one or both of the vessel 1 and or base 2.

[68] The vessel body 1 comprises a reservoir 5 for containing liquid to be heated, lid 8, spout 7, handle 9 and a base section 6 having a sub-base portion 19, which forms the bottom surface of the vessel body 1. The spout may provide primary venting and/or pressure equalisation. The lid 8 may be operable to open and close with a user actuator and may be secured to the vessel with a hinge, latch or other means. The lid may be securably sealed to the vessel so that the lid remains in place and does not leak liquid in the case that the appliance is tipped over.

[69] A steam tube 70 and steam cap 101 may be provided. The steam tube communicates from the area above the water level 225 to the steam switch 73 or 73a. The steam tube may be formed, for example as part of the handle 9 or reservoir wall 5 or as illustrated as a separate tube. In the case that the steam tube passes through the element then a suitable seal 584 and additional steam guide 599 may be provided. The vessel body 1 may be any shape and formed, for example, from plastic, metal, glass or ceramic. The vessel body may comprise a single wall as illustrated or alternatively a twin wall so that, for example, the vessel may be better insulated against heat loss or to render the wall cool to the touch.

[70] Liquid is heated by an element plate 12 which may form the base of the reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 of the appliance 1 may be provided with water level markings and/or other features that indicate the state of the appliance 1. The element plate 12 includes a heating means and is connected to receive electrical power via the connector 3. The heating means may comprise a sheathed element 39 as illustrated or may comprise a thick film element and/or diecast element arrangement. There may be provided a heat transfer means 410 and the plate 12 may be composed of stainless steel and/or other suitable substrate. As illustrated the element plate 12 may be sealed into the vessel body 1 using the Easifix (RTM) sealing arrangement as described in WO-A-99/ 17645 or alternative sealing means may be employed, for example gluing, welding or clamping.

[71] At least some embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating vessels having a heating element immersed in the water, rather than an element on the underside of the vessel.

[72] At least some embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating vessels connectable directly by a power cord rather than a cordless connector.

[73] At least some of the embodiments in the invention are applicable to kettles or heated vacuum flasks and pots, blenders, irons, wasserkochers, coffee and espresso makers, juicers, smoothie makers, pans, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, slow cookers, food processors, blenders, vacuum pots, milk frothers, cable reels, refrigerators, water coolers, water dispensers, hot water on demand appliances, hinge arrangements, and or slot-in appliances. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

[74] At least some of the embodiments in the invention are applicable to non-electrical appliances for containing hot liquid, such as pans and microwavable containers

[75] At least some of the embodiments of the invention are applicable to outdoor applications or areas of extreme dampness.

[76] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms liquid and water are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[77] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms safety kettle, appliance, vessel and reservoir may have equivalent meaning.

[78] Within the statement of invention, description and claims the safety kettle, appliance and vessel may function as a reservoir without the need for a separate reservoir, such as a filtering or dispensing reservoir.

Spill Inhibiting System for Vessels

[79] 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. [80] There have been many proposals in the state of the art to reduce or inhibit such spillage. These solutions 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, each of which rely on either a user actuation and/or moving parts. The state of the art is mostly directed to domestic water boiling appliances, referred to hereafter as safety kettles.

[81] One particular problem common to all kettles is the need to provide pressure relief and/or venting from the appliance both in normal use (during filling and pouring and heating and cooling cycles) and in abnormal conditions, for example if the appliance is tipped over. Generally the spout of the kettle acts as the primary pressure relief and venting means for steam and to accommodate expansion and contraction. In the case that the spout is sealed or partially sealed, a separate primary venting means is usually provided.

[82] Another venting requirement for safety kettles is the need for pressure equalization between the reservoir and atmosphere so that for example, the water may pour freely from the reservoir.

[83] For kettles that incorporate a temperature control (for example a steam switch) mounted remote from the reservoir, a steam tube may communicate between the reservoir and the steam switch and this steam tube may provide secondary venting and/or pressure equalization for the appliance.

[84] In safety kettles, the primary venting or secondary venting means may be inhibited by the spill inhibiting features and alternatively or additionally excessive water pressure may result in the primary or secondary venting means ejecting heated water.

[85] 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 may also continue to build up to some degree even after the power has been disconnected.

[86] For example, JP-A-2008212315 discloses a manual type safety kettle with a separate venting outlet for steam. In tests of commercially available safety kettles in Japan and based on the disclosure of that patent application, boiling water spurted vigorously from the venting outlet after the kettle had been tipped onto its side.

[87] In addition, the steam pressure may force the heated water into the handle and/or the sub base via the steam tube so that there is a risk of the user accidentally contacting a heated surface and/or liquid when attempting to pick up the appliance after being tipped over. Furthermore, there is the risk of excessive water contacting any electrical components that may also be housed in the handle and/or sub base.

[88] However if the heating vessel were completely closed by an interlock, as for example in GB-A-2272629, there is a risk that steam pressure will build up inside the vessel until it explodes.

[89] Another problem to be addressed in safety kettles and the like is the need to allow easy filling and pouring

[90] The applicant's patent publication WO-A-2010/128334 discloses a number of means to overcome the above problems including a commercially available system based on a moving pendulum arrangement which enables the user to pour from the safety kettle without user actuation and to provide spill inhibiting and primary venting means.

[91] However there is still a need for a safety kettle that can be filled through, and dispensed from, the spout, and provide spill inhibiting and primary venting means in all practical orientations without the requirement for moving parts or user actuation.

[92] 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.

[93] 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.

[94] 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 the spillage of heated liquid; in which case the safety kettle embodiments subsequently described are applicable to any heated liquid appliance that is susceptible to spillage and/or being knocked over. This may include 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 arrangements which require no moving parts are particularly suitable for food and/or microwaveable vessel applications.

[95] It is known that a water heating vessel requires head room or a void 222 above the water level to accommodate the turbulence and/or expansion that may occur when the water boils. The water level 225 d in the following Figures is a typical maximum level for a water heating appliance including a steam operated control and the equivalent volume is used to schematically illustrate the level of water when the appliance 1 is in a tipped position. Each of the spill inhibiting embodiments are illustrated with reference to the water level 225 d however the level 225 d is not limiting and arrangements may be configured for appliances with alternative maximum water levels.

[96] 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.

[97] Embodiments will now be described using corresponding reference numerals to those of preceding Figure 1 where appropriate for corresponding elements.

[98] Figure 9a illustrates a prior art safety kettle, as described in WO-A-2010/128334, in which the lid 8 comprises a lid chamber 71, the floor of which comprises a lower lid surface 66. The lid 8 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.

[99] 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.

[100] In each embodiment, the vessel body may have 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. This steam tube may act as a secondary vent as previously described.

[101] The flow of liquid through the aperture 86 is governed by at least one mechanical flow management means 80, to prevent liquid from escaping from the reservoir 5 when the vessel body 1 is tipped over. The mechanical flow management means may comprise a user actuator 75 or may be automatic. Weir Type Pressure Relief Means

[102] Figures 12w to 12z and 13k to 13m illustrate a primary type 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, without the need for moving parts.

[103] As illustrated and described the primary pressure relieving means 640 may be provided within a back chamber 95 of a lid 8 of a safety kettle but is equally applicable to other arrangements.

[104] The back chamber 95 may be fluidly connected to the front chamber 94 by, for example, apertures 92d or 92e in the wall 693 so that any steam or pressure in the back chamber 95 is vented into the front chamber 94 and subsequently vented to the spout 7. In other embodiments the wall 693 may be truncated so that an aperture (not shown) is formed between the top of the wall 693 and the top of the vessel (not shown). The back portion 95 may also communicate directly to the steam tube 70.

[105] The pressure relief means 640 comprises two conduits or channels 641, 642 that may act as weirs, whereby the first conduit or channel 641 is fluidly connected to the reservoir 5 of the vessel body 1 via the aperture 92a, whilst the other end 645 of the conduit or channel

641 is fluidly connected to the back chamber 95 of the lid 8. The second conduit or channel

642 is fluidly connected to the reservoir 5 of the vessel body 1 via the aperture 92b, whilst the other end 646 of the conduit or channel 642 is fluidly connected to the back chamber 95 of the lid 8.

[106] The apertures 92a and 92b are positioned opposite each other towards the perimeter of the vessel, and the apertures 645, 646 are also positioned opposite of each other towards the perimeter of the vessel, such that conduits or channels 641 , 642 are arranged in a manner similar to 'snorkel' tubes in an opposed arrangement.

[107] The conduits or channels 641 and 642 vent without obstruction when the vessel 1 is in the upright position.

[108] As illustrated in Figures 12w and 12x, with the vessel 1 tipped with the spout facing upwards and downwards respectively, the aperture 92a is above the water level 225 d so no water can flow through the aperture 92a. At the same time water is able to enter the aperture 92b, however the aperture 646 is above the water level 225d, and there is insufficient 'head' of pressure to raise the water level in the conduit or channel 642 as high as the aperture 646.

[109] Any excess steam pressure generated in the void 222 whilst the vessel 1 is in the tipped position enters the conduit or channel 641 via the aperture 92a and is relieved into the back chamber 95 via the aperture 645 as indicated by the arrow 634. As previously described the pressure may then vent into the front chamber 94 and out of the spout 7 or other exit to atmosphere.

[110] Conversely the venting means 640 functions in a similar manner if the vessel 1 is tipped facing the other way so that the aperture 92a is below the water level 225 d and the aperture 92b is above the water level 225 d.

[Ill] Each of the conduits or channels 641 and 642 may be provided with a plurality of baffles 6471 in a staggered arrangement so that any water entering the conduits or channels 641, 642 as the vessel 1 is tipped over is restricted thus helping prevent water spurting through the apertures 645 or 646 as the water inside the vessel 1 settles into equilibrium. The baffles may also act to cool the liquid down in the case that water is at boiling point.

[112] 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 conduits or channels 641, 642 instead of, or in addition to, the baffles 6471.

[113] As illustrated the inlets 92a and 92b 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 in other embodiments by placing the conduits or channels 641, 642 above each other rather than side by side.

[114] At least one part of the conduits or channels 641, 642 may be formed as part of the lid or vessel moulding with a separate lid moulding (not shown).

[115] Figures 12y and 12z illustrate an alternative embodiment whereby the conduits 641, 642 are preformed tubes that function in a similar manner to the previously described embodiments.

[116] Each of the conduits or preformed tubes 641, 642 and or walls 693 may be arranged substantially straight as illustrated in Figures 12w and 12x or substantially arcuate as illustrated in Figures 12y and 12z . The preformed tubes 641, 642 may be positioned side by side or substantially one above the other.

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

[118] 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. [119] This and subsequent embodiments may be used in conjunction with any liquid heating appliance that may require venting in different orientations and/or with any mechanical and/or automatic spill inhibiting pouring and filling means as previously described in WO-A-2010/128334. Weir Type Filling and Pressure Relief Means

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

[121] This embodiment includes a variant of the pressure relieving means illustrated in Figures 12w and 12x, whereby the front aperture 92a of the pressure relieving means is enlarged so that it can be used as combined vent and aperture for filling the vessel 1.

[122] The user is able to fill up the vessel 1 when the lid is closed, via the aperture 155 provided on the lid 8. The base 66 in the front portion 94 of the lid 8 is inclined such that the liquid is directed towards the back portion 95. An aperture 92d is provided between the front and back portions 94, 95 so that water may flow towards the aperture 92a via the conduit or channel 641. The aperture 92c between the back chamber 95 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.

[123] Figure 131 illustrates a plan view of the embodiment shown in Figure 13k. The conduit or channel 641 and its aperture 92a that is located nearest to the spout 7 are substantially larger than the conduit or channel 641 and its respective aperture 92a in the previous embodiments. The conduits or channels 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 92a and 92b 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 or channels 641 and 642 may also include baffles 6471 as previously illustrated that may be configured to extend along the top and partially down the side of the conduit or channel 641 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.

[124] Baffles 647k, for example as illustrated in Figure 13m to 13mb, may also be provided on the reservoir side of the apertures 92a and 92b so that they may inhibit turbulent and standing liquid entering the aperture 92a, 92b 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 and/or in the filling and pouring positions. The baffles 647k may comprise an elongate rib or wall 691 which may substantially surround each of the apertures 92a, 92b and may include a gap 692 on the side closest to the perimeter of the reservoir 5 as illustrated in Figure 13m. This arrangement may prevent turbulent water entering the apertures 92a, 92b from the side when the appliance is in a tipped position. Alternatively as illustrated in the plan view of Figure 13mb the rib 691 may extend substantially towards the perimeter of the reservoir 5 which may help prevent turbulent water entering the apertures 92a, 92b from above the level of the apertures 92a, 92b. The baffles 647k as illustrated in Figures 13ma and 13mb may be provided with an end cap 690 which may prevent turbulent water entering the apertures 92a, 92b through the end of the baffles 647k. Advantageously the aperture 92f formed as part of this arrangement may provide a substantially equivalent cross sectional area as the aperture 92a so that the flow of the aperture 92a is not restricted. Additionally as illustrated in Figure 13mb, the end cap 690 in conjunction with rib 691 may form a further channel with the edge 689 acting as a weir when the appliance is in a tipped position so that the apertures 92f, 92g are closer to the perimeter of the reservoir 5 than the apertures 92a, 92b (as indicated by the arrow 634). As illustrated in 13n this arrangement provides a greater margin between the water level 225 d and the resultant apertures 92f, 92g than the previous apertures 92a, 92b. In additional embodiments alternative forms and/or shapes of baffles 647k and end caps 690 may be employed that fall within the scope of the invention. For example, the edge 689 of the lid 690 may be parallel to the level of the water 225d when in a tipped position so that the margin between the water level 225 d and apertures 92f, 92g may be further improved.

[125] The baffles 647k may also provide the opportunity to increase the water level 225d in the appliance 1, for example for appliances with a lower volume void 222.

[126] 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.

[127] This embodiment may be provided with an actuator mechanism for pouring from, and opening of the lid, if required, as previously described in WO-A-2010/128334.

Weir Type Filling, Pouring and Pressure Relief Means

[128] In the prior art, it has been counter intuitive to propose primary venting through the spout 7 of a safety kettle during the tipped position however the inventors have challenged the pre conception and have discovered that this is the key to solving the problem of providing spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving and/or venting means, dispensing means and filling means without the need for moving parts and/or user actuation of the appliance 1. [129] The innovative spill inhibiting system including the above features may be provided as a kit of parts or preferably within a discrete manifold. For the purposes of the description the term manifold will be used to cover both the manifold and/or the kit of parts.

[130] Figures 13o to 13yih show further embodiments of the invention, in which each of the spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving and/or venting means, dispensing means and filling means may be provided within a manifold type assembly 635.

[131] The manifold 635 is provided with at least one liquid communication means 633 between the reservoir 5 and the spout 7 that may act to fill, dispense from and/or vent the reservoir 5 depending upon the state of the appliance 1.

[132] The liquid communication means indicated by an arrow 633 may take the form of horizontal, vertical or inclined channels or conduits 682 with apertures 632 located within the manifold 635 and may be formed from a series of baffles 647.

[133] Advantageously the manifold 635 may provide each of the spill inhibiting means, pressure relieving means, dispensing means and filling means, as demanded in each state of the appliance 1, without the need for user actuation or moving parts; so that the appliance 1 may be filled, emptied and vented through the spout 7 in normal use and the manifold is able to inhibit the flow of liquid through the spout 7 and is able provide sufficient pressure relief and/or venting when the appliance 1 is tipped over and/or when resting on its side.

[134] As previously disclosed, a water heating vessel would require head room or void 222 above the water level to accommodate the turbulence that occurs when the water boils. The water level 225 d is a typical maximum level for a water heating appliance of this type and the equivalent volume is used to schematically illustrate the level of water when the appliance 1 is in a tipped position.

[135] As previously described a key area for consideration in a liquid heating appliance is the provision of pressure relief and/or venting from the void 222 both in normal use during heating and cooling and in each orientation of the tipped position, if for example excessive heat in the element causes overboil when tipped. In the description of Figures 13o to 13yv this pressure relief and/or venting of the appliance will be referred to as primary venting and may be indicated by an arrow 634 in the Figures.

[136] Figure 13o illustrates a schematic cross-section view of the liquid heating appliance 1 including a manifold 635, which is positioned within the envelope of the appliance 1 between the liquid to be heated and the spout 7. The manifold 635 may comprise a first part 678 which includes a plurality of baffles 647 which in cooperation with the second part 679 provide a plurality of liquid channels 682, accessed by apertures 632, within the manifold 635 to communicate between the reservoir 5 and the spout 7.

[137] Preferably at least the inlet aperture 632 to one of the channels 682 is provided towards the front of the appliance 1 so that the corresponding channel 682 may substantially empty the reservoir 5 during the dispensing process.

[138] Preferably at least one aperture 632 to one of the channels 682 is substantially coplanar to the spout at the extreme of the pouring process so that the channel 682 may substantially empty the reservoir 5 during the dispensing process.

[139] Preferably at least one of the apertures 632 to one of the channels 682 may be positioned below the spout 7 so that all the water entering the spout 7 during the filling process enters the reservoir 5 during the filling process.

[140] The following Figures 13q to 13tda are illustrated with reference to manifold 635i however each of the described assembly and/or securing arrangements may be applicable to alternative manifolds, for example, the later described manifolds 635ii and 635iii.

[141] Figure 13p is a schematic isometric cutaway section view of Figure 13o illustrating the first part 678 of a manifold 635i. The manifold 635i includes apertures 632a (towards the bottom) and a further aperture 632b (towards the top) each of which communicate, via the respective channels 682a and 682b, with the aperture 698 (towards the centre) so that the reservoir 5 may have liquid communication with the spout 7.

[142] Preferably the apertures 632a, 632b may be respectively positioned at lower and upper corners of the manifold 635i in an opposed arrangement and may be formed from either or a combination of both the first and second parts 678 and 679. As previously described the aperture 698 is located substantially towards the central portion of the first part 678 in line with at least the lower portion of the spout 7. Baffles 647a to 647e are formed on the first part 678 and are arranged in a staggered arrangement. The baffles 647a and 647b are positioned above the aperture 698, whilst the baffles 647c, 647d and 647e are positioned below the aperture 698.

[143] In normal use the reservoir 5 may be filled and emptied, via the channel 682a as illustrated by the arrow 633 and during the heating process the excess pressure and/or steam may vent along the flow path 634. The aperture 632b may also provide the primary pressure relief and venting 634 for the reservoir during the filling and dispensing process and, advantageously, as the appliance 1 is tipped forward, and the dispensing angle increases, the top aperture 632b and associated channel 682b may also act as an additional means to empty the reservoir 5. [144] In each of the embodiments the apertures 632 may be positioned in the most appropriate place to suit the appliance type for example, at the back to improve the flow of water during the dispensing means and/or at the side to improve the spill inhibiting means and it is expected that in some case there will be conflict and so a compromise position may be chosen. The position of the apertures may also vary from appliance to appliance for example the aperture 632 position for a flat fronted appliance 1 may have different considerations than for a circular vessel 1.

[145] Examples of various aperture 632 positions and appliance types are illustrated and unless otherwise stated are not limiting to the invention.

[146] Figure 13q is an exploded isometric view of Figure 13o illustrating the assembly of the manifold 635i.

[147] The manifold 635i may comprise of first and second parts 678 and 679 secured together, such that channels 682a and 682b are formed.

[148] The manifold 635i may be manufactured from any suitable material, for example plastic, metal or a combination of both.

[149] The manifold 635i may be discrete and may be secured to the appliance 1 preassembled or alternatively the components of the manifold 635i may be secured sequentially as the appliance 1 is assembled. Securing means/methods for the assembly of the manifold 635i and/or for attaching the manifold 635i to the appliance 1 may include (but is not limited to) any or a combination of gluing, snap-fittings, frictional fittings, welding, brazing, clamping, riveting and/or screw fixing. Securing means may be provided on each or any parts of the appliance 1 and/or manifold 635i, for example reciprocal ribs 401 may be provided on the appliance 1 to secure or index the manifold 635i within the appliance 1. In further arrangements (not shown) selective overlapping baffles and/or reciprocating ribs (not shown) may be formed on either or both of the first and second parts 678 and 679. In arrangements where there is liquid communication between adjacent parts for example the aperture 698 of the manifold 635 and the spout 7 then a sealing means 685 for example a gasket may be provided. Alternatively or additionally, the manifold 635 may be sealingly secured.

[150] Figure 13s illustrates an exploded isometric view of an alternative arrangement of an embodiment in which the baffles 647a to 647e are formed on the second part 679 whilst the aperture 698 is provided on the first part 678. The manifold 635i may then be secured to the appliance 1 by a similar method as previously described. [151] Alternatively, as illustrated in figures 13t to 13tda the manifold 635i may be provided as part of, or in combination with, other parts of the appliance including, but not limited to, the reservoir 5, spout 7, or lid 8.

[152] As shown in Figure 13t the reservoir 5 or appliance 1 wall may act as the first part 678 and the baffles 647a to 647e may be formed on either the appliance 1 or the second part 679. The second part 679 may then be directly secured to the appliance 1 by any of the previously described securing means. Reciprocating ribs and/or securing means 401 may be provided on the inner wall of appliance 1 as previously described and illustrated.

[153] Figure 13ta illustrates a further variant in which the manifold 635i is provided with a full or partial spout 677 which may then nest within the spout 7 of the appliance 1. Advantageously this may improve the flow of liquid from the manifold 635 in normal use; additionally the spout 677 may act as an indexing or fixture means and may be sealed or secured against the spout 7.

[154] Figure 13tb illustrates a further variant in which the appliance spout 7 is provided entirely as part of the manifold 635i. A corresponding aperture 684 may be provided within the appliance 1. A slotted rib or other corresponding securing means (not shown) may be provided in either and/or both of the manifold 635i and the spout aperture 684 to assist with the assembly, securing and/or sealing in this area.

[155] Either of the arrangements of Figures 13ta and 13tb may be particularly suitable for metal vessels whereby the spout 7 of manifold 653i may be secured to the appliance 1 by known techniques including brazing.

[156] Figure 13tc shows a further arrangement whereby the manifold 635i may be provided as part of an assembly 685 that may include a steam channel or chamber 640i and that may be positioned between the reservoir 5 and the lid 8 and supported by and secured to/within the top part of the reservoir 5. The assembly 685 may be installed during the manufacturing process or may be provided as a separate component, so that for example the user may have the option of using the appliance with or without the manifold 635i. The manifold may include a spout 677 as previously described.

[157] Figure 13td is a further variant in which the features of the manifold 635i are provided within a complete lid assembly.

[158] Figure 13tda is a further variant in which the manifold 635i is provided partially within the lid 8 and partially below the lid 8. This arrangement enables the aperture 698 and/or spout 677 to be provided within the depth of the lid assembly 8. [159] A seal 110 may be provided around the part of the lid 8 that interfaces with the appliance 1.

[160] Advantageously the manifold 635i arrangements as illustrated in Figures 13tc to 13tda are particularly suitable for retrofitting into existing liquid heating appliances.

[161] The arrangement of 13tda is particularly advantageous for retrofitting into known safety type water heating appliances to replace the existing mechanical and/or user actuated spill inhibiting means.

[162] In this and each embodiment a filter housing 740 including, for example, a mesh filter 652 may be provided between the spout 7 and the manifold 635 or as part of the manifold 635. In further embodiments (not shown) each of the apertures 632 may also be provided with a filter means.

[163] Figure 13r is a schematic cutaway cross section of the manifold 635i in an upright position. Where applicable, this illustration type will be employed in the subsequent description to further explain the relationship between the apertures 632a and 632b, the baffles 647a to 647e, the channels 682a and 682b and the water level 225 when the appliance 1 is in a tipped position.

[164] In all embodiments of the invention, means may be provided to enhance the flow of liquid through the conduits and channels, for example internal and external radii 639 as illustrated in Figures 13r, 13xi and 13xya.

[165] In all embodiments external baffles 647j may be provided in front of or around the apertures 632 to, for example, inhibit turbulent water entering the channels 682 in both normal use and in a tipped over position.

[166] In the case that the appliance 1 includes a steam switch 73, or other temperature control, in fluid connection with the reservoir 5, then the appliance 1 may also include at least one weir type steam channel or chamber arrangement 640, positioned within or above the void 222 (as previously described with reference to, for example, figure 12x).

[167] Whereas the steam chamber 640 may provide some secondary venting for the reservoir 5 unless otherwise stated the reservoir 5 relies upon the spout 7 for the primary venting.

[168] Figure 13u to figure 13w illustrate the steam chamber 640i to 640iii which may comprise first and second parts 637, 638.

[169] Figure 13u is an exploded perspective rear sectional view of the appliance 1 illustrating the steam chamber 640i in situ (for clarity, the second part 638 is omitted). [170] The first part 637 may include an outer wall 683 and a baffle 647g which in combination with the second part 638 form a substantially 'U' shaped channel 682c and apertures 632c and 632d. For clarification, the expression 'U' shaped referred herein is specific to the flow path of the channel 682c and not the cross section of the channel 682c. With the aperture 632c in direct fluid communication with the void 222 of the reservoir 5 and the aperture 632d in direct fluid communication with the steam switch 73 (not shown) or steam tube (not shown).

[171] Figures 13w to 13wb respectively illustrate cross sections through 3 variants of the steam chamber 640. The forms and shape of Figures 13w to 13wb variants are not limiting to the scope of the invention.

[172] Fig 13w illustrates the aperture 632c facing towards the spout; Figure 13wa illustrates the aperture 632c facing towards the rear of the reservoir and Figure 13wb towards the side of the reservoir 5.

[173] Figure 13wb illustrates an elongate steam chamber 640 which extends closer to the periphery of the reservoir 5 as later described.

[174] Each of the apertures 632c may be provided with baffles 647k (for example as illustrated in figure 13m ) or baffles 647j as schematically illustrated in figure 13r to inhibit turbulent or standing liquid entering the steam chamber 640i. Each of the channels 682c may be provided with a labyrinth of baffles 6471 to inhibit the flow of any liquid that may enter the steam chamber 640i when the appliance is in a tipped position.

[175] Preferably the baffles 6471 in the channel 682c are positioned above the lower plane of the steam chamber 640i so as not to form an obstruction to liquid draining out of the channel 682 when the appliance 1 is in an upright position.

[176] In each of the embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 13wb, the baffles 6471 may be angled or chamfered so that they inhibit incoming liquid. Advantageously this arrangement may aid the flow of liquid draining from the channel 682c.

[177] In further arrangements the first portion of the steam chamber may be made wider so that a greater volume of liquid can be contained in that area.

[178] Whilst Figure 13o illustrates the steam chamber arrangement 640 being substantially parallel to the water level 225 d, in further embodiments the steam chamber 640 may be positioned at a gradient to improve the drainage back into the reservoir 5 when the appliance 1 is returned to an upright position. [179] In further embodiments the U shaped channel 682c may be provided as part of or in combination with other parts of the appliance 1 including, but not limited to, the reservoir 5, or lid 8. Alternatively the U shaped channel 682c may be formed from a tube or conduit.

[180] Fixture and securing of the steam chamber 640i to or with the appliance 1 may be as previously described for the manifold 635.

[181] In all embodiments either the steam chamber 640 and/or the manifold 635 may be formed from a single moulding process, for example blow moulding.

[182] Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf illustrate schematic front views of the section through the appliance 1 of Figure 13o lying on its side in four different orientations. In Figures 13x and 13xd, the spout 7 faces upward towards the left and in Figures 13xb and 13xf the spout 7 faces downward towards the left.

[183] The appliance 1 includes a manifold 635i and a steam chamber 640i.

[184] As previously disclosed some appliances may not include a steam operated control in which case the steam chamber 640i will not be required however the principles of the manifold 635i are applicable for any liquid appliance with and without the steam chamber 640i.

[185] The top views of Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf clearly illustrate the active function of the steam chamber 640i in preventing liquid exiting the steam chamber 640i via the aperture 632d. However this same top view cannot easily illustrate the active functions of the manifold 635i; hence additional corresponding Figures 13xa, 13xc, 13xe and 13xg have been provided to schematically illustrate the respective functions of the apertures 632a, 632b and 698, the baffles 647a to 647e and the channels 682a and 682b of the manifold 635i in the respective tipped positions of Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf.

[186] Whereas in normal use the various channels of the steam chamber 640i and manifold 635i are employed in pouring filling and steam venting these same channels may now act as weirs and primary venting means when the appliance is in a tipped position.

[187] As previously described the water level 225d is illustrative of a water heating appliance filled to its maximum level.

[188] It should also be noted that the Figures are schematic and are provided solely to illustrate the basic concepts of the embodiments. The concepts are applicable to a wide range of appliance designs and shapes as such the invention is not limited by the dimensions and forms of the Figures.

[189] Figures 13x and 13xa illustrate the appliance 1 with the spout 7 facing upwards and towards the left. [190] As illustrated in Figure 13x although the aperture 632c of the steam chamber 640i is below the water level 225d, the free end 648 of the baffle 647g is above the water level 225b. As such a weir is formed and the water is unable to flow through the U bend of the steam chamber 640i. Baffles 647j, 647k and 6471 as previously described may be provided to help prevent against turbulence forcing the water beyond the level 225 d.

[191] It can also be seen in Figure 13x that the aperture 632b of the manifold 635i is below the water level 225d whilst the aperture 632a and the free ends 648 of baffles 647b and 647e are above the water level 225 d.

[192] Figure 13xa schematically illustrates the function of the manifold 635i in the same orientation of Figure 13x. The aperture 632b is below the water level, however the free end 648 of the baffle 647b forms a weir above the water level 225d and so prevents water from exiting the channel 682b and entering the central area of the manifold 635i which houses the aperture 698. As such liquid is prevented from exiting the spout 7.

[193] The aperture 632a is in an opposed corner of the manifold 635 and the liquid level is below the free end 648 of the baffle 647e as such liquid is unable to enter the channel 682a. Advantageously the elevated position of 632a enables the channel 682a to act as the primary vent for the appliance as indicated by the arrow 634.

[194] Likewise, when the water cools and contracts, pressure is equalised within the appliance 1 via the same primary venting means 634.

[195] Figures 13xb and 13xc illustrate the appliance 1 facing in the same direction as Figures 13x and 13xa, with the spout 7 facing downward. In this case the free end 648 of the steam tube 640i is elevated further above the water level 225 d and so has a greater margin of safety than previously. Conversely the manifold 635i is now lower, as such the water level 225d around the manifold 635i is higher; however, water remains unable to flow past the free end 648 of the channel 682b and is therefore still unable to enter the central part of the manifold 635i. Additionally the water level remains below the aperture 632a in which case the channel 682a continues to act as the primary vent for the appliance as previously described and indicated by the arrow 634.

[196] Figures 13xd to 13xg illustrate the appliance 1 with the spout 7 facing towards the right. In these arrangements the steam chamber 640i and manifold 635i are turned through 180° compared to Figures 13x to 13xc in which case each part of the steam chamber 640i and manifold 635i may have a different function: for example channels, that were weirs, may now be primary venting means and vice versa. [197] As illustrated in Figure 13xd the free end 648 of the wall 647f of the steam chamber 640i acts as a weir so that the aperture 632c of the steam chamber is above the water level 225d and water is unable to enter the aperture 632c.

[198] It can also be seen in Figure 13xd that the aperture 632a of the manifold 635i is now below the water level 225d whilst the aperture 632a and the free ends 648 of baffles 647a and 647d are now above the water level 225 d.

[199] Figure 13xe schematically illustrates the function of the manifold 635i in the same orientation of Figure 13xd. The aperture 632a is below the water level, however, the free end 648 of the baffle 647d now forms a weir above the water level 225d and so prevents water from exiting the channel 682a and entering the central area of the manifold 635i which houses the aperture 698. As such liquid is prevented from exiting the spout 7.

[200] The aperture 632b is in an opposed corner of the manifold 635 and the liquid level is now below the free end 648 of the baffle 647e as such liquid is unable to enter the channel 682b. The elevated position of 632a now enables the channel 682b to act as the primary vent for the appliance 1 as indicated by the arrow 634.

[201] Likewise, when the water cools and contracts, pressure is equalised within the appliance 1 via the same primary venting means 634.

[202] Figures 13xf and 13xg illustrate the appliance 1 facing in the same direction as Figures 13xd and 13xe, with the spout 7 facing downward. In this case the aperture 632c of the steam tube 640i is elevated further above the water level 225 d and so has a greater margin of safety than previously. Conversely the manifold 635i is now lower, as such the water level 225d around the manifold 635i is higher; however water remains unable to flow past the free end 648 of the channel 682a and is therefore still unable to enter the central part of the manifold 635i. Additionally the water level remains below the aperture 632b in which case the channel 682b continues to act as the primary vent for the appliance as previously described and indicated by the arrow 634.

[203] In which case it can be seen that the manifold 635i may act as respective spill inhibiting and primary venting in each orientation and the steam chamber 640i may act as spill inhibiting means in both directions.

[204] Unless otherwise stated each of the following embodiments will be illustrated in one of the previously illustrated angle of orientation of Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf.

[205] Figures 13xh and 13xi illustrate a further arrangement of manifold 635i in which free ends 648 of baffles 647a to 647e are extended such that the apertures 632a and 632b can now be located on the sides of the manifold 635i. In which case the apertures 632a and 632b are substantially higher above the water level 225d in the tipped position than the embodiment of Figures 13xb and 13xc without substantially increasing the size or mass of the manifold 635i. The embodiment of Figures 13xh and 13xi may allow the appliance 1 to have a larger water carrying capacity or allow the tipping angle of the appliance 1 to be increased whilst still inhibiting spillage from the appliance 1.

[206] In addition, Figure 13xi illustrates the fixed ends of the each baffle 647a to 647e having a series of radii 639 which may improve the flow during filling and dispensing from the appliance 1. Alternatively, the surface of the baffles 647a to 647e may be tapered (not shown) to improve flow during filling or dispensing.

[207] Figure 13xj illustrates an exploded isometric view of a further variant of the manifold 635i, in which only two baffles 647c, 647d are provided below the aperture 698 to reduce the material content and so reduce manufacturing costs.

[208] In this embodiment, the central portion of the manifold 635i has been narrowed in order to:

a. Further reduce the material content;

b. Increase the water carry capacity of the reservoir 5; and/or

c. Reduce the visual size of the manifold 635e.

[209] Figure 13xk illustrates a front view of the appliance 1 with the manifold 635i of Figure 13xj in a tipped position and the spout 7 facing downwards with Figure 13x1 illustrating a schematic front view of the manifold 635i.

[210] The manifold 635i functions substantially as previously described and illustrated for figures 13x to 13xi.

[211] In this and each of the other embodiments the manifold 635i may be made wider so that the apertures are higher above the water level 225 d. Extending the manifold in a circular appliance in such a manner may inhibit the dispensing in which case this arrangement may be more suitable for appliances with a front part that is less curved as illustrated in figure

I3yj.

[212] In the case that the water level 225d of the appliance 1 is increased then a wider steam chamber, for example, 640iii may be employed to prevent water exiting via aperture 632d.

[213] In further embodiments where space is at a premium the manifold 635i may be configured with only the upper channel 632b (as illustrated in Figure 13yr and Figure 13ys). [214] This configuration will inhibit the ability to fill and via the spout 7 and therefore may only be used with removable lid appliances.

[215] This configuration may also inhibit the ability to provide primary venting in all orientations in which case an additional conduit 681 (as described herein with reference to Figure 13xu and 13xv) may be provided.

[216] Figures 13xm to 13xo illustrate schematic exploded isometric and cross section views of the manifold 635ii, wherein the manifold 635ii may comprise first, second and third portions 678, 679, 680 respectively.

[217] As illustrated the first part 678 includes the aperture 698, the second part 679 includes a baffle 647h facing in one direction and the third part 680 includes a baffle 647i facing in an opposing direction to the baffle 647h. Two elongate apertures 632e and 632f may be formed between the parts 678 and 679 and an elongate channel 682e communicates between the apertures 632e to 698.

[218] Aperture 632e is within the reservoir 5 and aperture 698 is positioned towards the opening of the spout 7.

[219] In normal use the channel 682e provides the means to fill and pour and also provides the primary venting means

[220] Figures 13xp to 13xs are schematic front views of the appliance 1 with the manifold 635ii in the four different orientations as previously described and illustrated with reference to Figures 13x, 13xb, 13xd and 13xf respectively.

[221] Whereas the channels 682a and 682b were horizontal in embodiments of manifold 635i, the channels are vertical in embodiment of manifold 635ii in which case the channels may be viewed from above and there is no requirement for a second schematic Figure to explain the spill inhibiting features.

[222] In figures 13xp and 13xq the aperture 632e is above the water level 225d; as such no water may enter the channel 682a and the channel 682e may act as the primary vent as indicated by the arrow 634. The steam chamber functions as previously described in Figures 13x and 13xb.

[223] In figures 13xr and 13xs the aperture 632e is below the water level 225d, however the baffle 647h forms a weir within the channel 682e and as previously described water is prevented from exiting the aperture 698.

[224] However in the orientations of figures 13xr and 13xs the manifold 635ii is unable to provide the primary venting and therefore relies upon the steam chamber 640i as indicated by the arrow 634. [225] Figure 13xt illustrates a further embodiment of manifold 635ii in which the apertures are provided on the end of the manifold as previously described, for example, with reference to Figure 13xh.

[226] It is preferable, but not limiting, that the primary venting means is provided through the spout 7 and Figures 13xu to 13xza illustrate a variant of manifold 635ii in which an additional conduit or channel 681 is provided to vent from the reservoir 5, through the manifold 635ii and out of the aperture 698 (as indicated by the arrow 634) when the aperture 632e is beneath the water level 225d.

[227] The conduit or channel 681 may be provided as part of the manifold 635ii or as a separate component.

[228] Preferably the additional conduit 681 is provided towards the top of the manifold so that it is above the water level 225 d in normal use and may provide additional dispensing means in the pouring position.

[229] The conduit 681 communicates from the side of the manifold 635ii opposed to the aperture 632e and enters the manifold 635ii within the channel 682f formed between the first part 678 and second part 679. As illustrated the conduit 681 may be in contact with the elongate aperture 632e and may marginally restrict the aperture at the point of contact.

[230] Figures 13xw to 13xza illustrate the function of the new embodiment of the manifold 635ii. Other than this marginal restriction of the conduit 681 the channel 682e functions as previously described.

[231] In the tipped positions of Figures 13xw and 13xy the aperture 632i of the conduit 681 is below the water level 225 d, however the free end of the baffle 647i acts as a weir to prevent water entering the area of aperture 698.

[232] In the tipped position of Figures 13xz and 13xza the aperture 632i is above the water level and acts as a primary vent as indicated by the arrow 634. In which case the steam chamber 640i is not required to function as the primary venting means.

[233] In further embodiments where space is at a premium the manifold 635i (as illustrated in figure 13yr) may be configured so that the weir is positioned above the aperture 698

[234] This configuration will inhibit the ability to fill and via the spout 7 and therefore may only be suitable with removable lid appliances.

[235] This configuration may also inhibit the ability to provide primary venting in all orientations in which case an additional conduit 681 (as previously described with reference to Figure 13xu and 13xv) may be provided. Weir Type Filling, Pouring and Pressure Relief Means in the Lid

[236] Figures 13y to 13yid illustrate a further embodiment of the manifold 635iii in which the filling, pouring and primary venting are provided within the depth of the lid 8 of the appliance 1.

[237] As illustrated in the exploded view 13y the lid assembly 8 may include a top part 157, a steam chamber 640i, a middle portion 158 that may include the manifold 635iii and the apertures 698, 632j, 632o and a bottom part 66 that may include apertures 632k, 6321 and 632p.

[238] Parts or all of each of the above mentioned components may be moulded as part of an adjacent component.

[239] The void 222 may communicate with the steam tube 70 via the middle part 158 through the apertures 632o and 632j and steam chamber 640i. The steam chamber 640i is configured and positioned as previously disclosed and will not be further described.

[240] The manifold may be configured on two levels. The aperture 698 which communicates directly with spout 7 (which may include a spigot 677) is positioned on the upper level and the apertures 632k and 6321 which communicate with the reservoir 5 may be provided on the lower level.

[241] The apertures 632k and 6321 may be positioned at a distance either side of the aperture 698 on the outer perimeter of the bottom part of the lid assembly 8.

[242] An upper platform 686 may be provided beneath the spout which communicates via sloping platforms 687k and 6871 to the respective apertures 632k and 6321.

[243] Channels 682k and 6821 may be discrete conduits or may be formed in combination with the outer perimeter of the middle portion 158, the top portion 157, the bottom portion 66, the apertures 698, 632k and 6321, the upper platform 686, the inclined platform 687 and the baffles 647k, 6471 and 647m.

[244] As illustrated in Figure 13ya the water is filled and dispensed through both the channels 682k and 6821 as indicated by the flow path arrows 633.

[245] The front portion of the baffle 647K may include radii 639 that may act to assist in combining the flow of water prior to dispensing and divide the flow of water when filling.

[246] The apertures 632k and 6321 may be positioned partially or wholly beneath the upper platform 686 and as such are substantially obscured in Figure 13ya.

[247] Figures 13yb to 13yc schematically illustrate the flow path of channel 6821 from the aperture 6321, up the inclined platform 6871 around the combined free end 648 of the baffles 647k and 6471 along the upper platform 686 and out of the aperture 698 as also indicated by the arrow 633.

[248] Conversely Figures 13yd and 13ye schematically illustrates the water flow path of channel 682k from the aperture 632k, up the inclined platform 687k around the free end 648 of the baffle 647k along the upper platform 686 and out of the aperture 698 as indicated by the arrow 633.

[249] During normal use the primary venting follows the same path as the arrow 633.

[250] Figures 13yf to 13yi illustrate the manifold of 635iii when the appliance is in a tipped position.

[251] In figures 13yf and 13yg the aperture 6321 is below the water level however the combined free end 648 of the baffles 647k and 6471 acts as a weir to prevent water entering the area of the aperture 698, whilst the aperture 832k is above the water level and the channel 682k acts as the primary vent as indicated by the arrow 634.

[252] Conversely in figures 13yh and 13yi the aperture 632k is below the water level however the combined free end 648 of the baffles 647k acts as a weir to prevent water entering the area of the aperture 698, whilst the aperture 6321 is above the water level and the channel 6821 acts as the primary vent as indicated by the arrow 634.

[253] In further embodiments, baffles 647k as illustrated in drawings 13m, 13ma and 13mb may be added to the underside of the lid to further improve the spill inhibiting means.

[254] Figure 13yia illustrates a further embodiment in which the bottom portion 66 of the lid 8 is provided with a ramp 694. The ramp 694 is located on the periphery of the lid 8 in front of the apertures 6321 and 632k and is used to direct water towards the apertures 6321 and 632k during the dispensing process. Advantageously, as the appliance 1 is tipped forward, and the dispensing angle increases, the ramp 694 directs the remaining water towards the apertures 6321 and 632k to improve the flow in the dispensing process and particularly at the end of the dispensing process.

[255] Additionally the ramp 694 may fill the area between the reservoir 5 and the apertures 6321 and 632k that may normally hold water during the dispensing process so that substantially all of the water in the appliance 1 is dispensed,.

[256] Figures 13yib and 13yic illustrate schematic section views of the lid 8 and the appliance 1. As illustrated, the lid 8 may be securably sealed to the inner vessel 62 via a seal 110, so that the lid 8 remains in place and does not leak liquid in the case that the appliance 1 is tipped over. When assembled, the ramp 694 may mutually engage with the reservoir 5 of the double walled vessel 1. [257] Figure 13yib illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the ramp 694 may be formed on the inner wall 62 of the double walled vessel. The ramp 694 may engage with the bottom portion 66 of the lid 8, such that the free end of the ramp 694 abuts the opening of the apertures 6321 and 632k.

[258] The provision of the ramp 694 is not limited to double walled vessels and is equally as applicable to single wall vessels 1.

[259] The embodiments are illustrated with reference to apertures 6321 and 632k of a manifold 635 within a lid 8 in combination with the reservoir 5. However this arrangement is not limiting and ramps 694 (or other arrangements) of various sizes and orientations may be provided adjacent to the apertures 632 of each of the previously disclosed manifolds 635 to improve the flow and/or help ensure that all the heated liquid may be dispensed.

[260] Figures 13yie and 13yif illustrate an alternative arrangement in which the upper portion of the lid 8 seals against the vessel wall 62 and the lower portion is positioned within the void 222 of the reservoir 5.

[261] In this arrangement each or both of the apertures 632k, 6321 may be formed partially or entirely within the side walls of the lid 8. In which case the apertures 632k, 6321 may be positioned closer to the perimeter of the reservoir 5, to improve the spill inhibiting means of the appliance 1, whilst the cross section of the apertures 632k, 6321 may be substantially equal to the cross section of the apertures 632k, 6321 previously disclosed so that the flow rate of the respective channels 682k, 6821 is not inhibited.

[262] In further embodiments, for example as illustrated in Figures 13yig and 13yih, a manifold 635iv, arranged with at least one inclined channel 682k, 6821, may be provided substantially within the reservoir 5 below the lid 8. The manifold 635iv may include apertures 632k, 6321 as previously described, for example, at least partially formed within the side wall. Alternatively the apertures 632k, 6321 may be formed in the entirely in the bottom or side of the manifold 635iv.

[263] In all the embodiments the relationship between the lid assembly 150, the spout 7 and the spill inhibiting means 635 and 640 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.

[264] In each of the embodiments the spill inhibiting means 635 and 640 are configured to function without moving parts and without the need for user actuation. However this is not limiting and embodiments that fall under the scope of the invention may be used in conjunction with spill inhibiting means comprising moving parts and/or user actuation. [265] In further embodiments the spill inhibiting means 635 and 640 may be provided as part of or injunction with 'ECO' water metering arrangements for example as disclosed in the applicant's patent publication WO-A-2008/139173. In further arrangements the manifold 635 may also function as the water metering arrangement so that, for example, the manifold may be configured to hold a set or variable volume of water and the user may use this measure to ensure only the required volume of water is heated.

[266] In other embodiments the spill inhibiting means 635 and 640 may be positioned within the spout, which may assist in reducing the overall height of the vessel body 1.

[267] Each of the figures illustrate a substantially circular appliances, however the weir principles of the manifolds, steam chambers and vents are equally applicable to appliances of alternative shapes.

[268] Throughout this and previous patent applications it is recognised that liquid spillage through the spout is a critical area to address, particularly when the spout is in a down turned position, in which case it would be advantageous to configure an appliance such that the spout 7 always rests in a predicable position when the vessel 1 is tipped over and preferably does not face in a down turned position.

[269] This may be achieved by lowering the centre of gravity to such an extent that the appliance 1 always righted itself upright when tipped over. However accommodating the required weight distribution may render the appliance both unsightly and difficult to use in which case the inventors seek to propose alternative solutions that may be implemented within the normal user expectation of a liquid appliance.

[270] Figures 13yj to 13yn illustrate an appliance 1 that may be predisposed to tip into a substantially horizontal position. The respective manifold 635 li and steam chamber 640i are configured as previously described with reference to figures 13x, 13ya, 13xd and 13xe in which case it is not necessary to further describe the functions of the spill inhibiting means.

[271] The appliance 1 is elongate with substantially flat sides in which, so that, in the case that the appliance is tipped, the centre of gravity is likely to force the appliance to tip onto either of the two flat sides so that the spout is predisposed in a horizontal position. As such the spill inhibiting means, for example the manifold 635i and/or the steam chamber 640i need only be configured to accommodate a predictably small angle or range of orientations.

[272] As illustrated both of the manifold 635 li and/or steam chamber 640i have considerable margin between the water level 225d and the free end 648 in the weir arrangements in which case, for example, the size of each of the component manifold 635 li and/or steam chamber 640i may be reduced and/or the maximum water level may be increased.

[273] Figures 13yn to 13yo illustrate a further embodiment (including a respective manifold 635 li and steam chamber 640i configured to function as previously described with reference to figures 13x, 13ya, 13xd and 13xe) in which the spout is predisposed to point in an upward direction when the appliance is tipped over.

[274] As illustrated in Figure 13yn the appliance 1 may be configured so that the centre of gravity is substantially towards the handle part by, for example, adding additional mass in this area.

[275] Additionally or alternatively, as illustrated, the appliance 1 may be configured in a tear drop type shape with a substantially circular front part and elongate sides towards the rear so that the appliance is less likely to tip with the spout downwards.

[276] With the configuration of spout upwards it is ensured that there is always a considerable margin between the leading edge of baffles 647b and 647e in the manifold 635i and the water level of 225d, as such the manifold 635i may be reduced and/or the maximum water level may be increased.

[277] As previously described in the case that a steam chamber 640i is required then this will need to be configured to accommodate the same level of spill inhibiting mean as the manifold 635i.

[278] 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.

[279] Figure 13yt illustrates a further schematic plan view of the manifold 635iii as previously described.

[280] Figures 13yu and 13yv schematically illustrate variants of Figure 13yt, in which the appliance land/or lid 8 is configured to have at least one projection 699 to accommodate an extended manifold 635 v.

[281] As illustrated in Figure 13yu, the projections 699 may be formed as outriggers so that they project outside the outline/contour of the either or both of the appliance 1 and/or lid 8, or alternatively as illustrated in Figure 13yv the projections 699 may be integrated or blended with the outline/contour of appliance 1 and/or lid 8.

[282] In each of the Figures 13yu and 13yv, the apertures 632k and 6321 and the free ends 648 of the baffles 647m, 647n can now be located further away from the centreline of the appliance 1, in which case the apertures 632k and 6321 and the free ends 648 of the baffles 647m, 647n may be substantially higher above the water level in the tipped position than in the embodiment of Figure 13yt as indicated by Dimension Y and Dimension X in comparison to Dimension W.

[283] The embodiments of Figures 13yu and 13uv are applicable to any of the previously described embodiments and may allow the appliance 1 to have a larger water carrying capacity or allow the tipping angle of the appliance 1 to be increased whilst still inhibiting spillage from the appliance.

[284] Advantageously the projections 699 may allow the spout 7 to be predisposed in an upward direction when the appliance is tipped over.

[285] In further embodiments, not shown, the flow management means and pressure relief means may be provided with fixing or fitting means, such as 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.

[286] 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.

[287] 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.

[288] In some embodiments the spill inhibiting means may not function fully until, for example, the appliance 1 has reached a stable state. In these embodiments it is preferable that the flow rate through the spout 7 or manifold 635 may be restricted or controlled, for example by selecting the size of the apertures 632, to a suitable maximum flow rate for normal use so that any spillage in the tipped position may be limited to the same maximum flow rate prior to the spill inhibiting means becoming functional.

[289] Advantageously, either or both of the spill inhibiting means 635 and/or 640 may be provided within the reservoir 5 to reduce the overall height of the appliance in comparison to the prior art appliances in which the spill inhibiting features are in the lid 8, so that the packaging and shipping costs may be reduced.

[290] In at least some embodiments, the 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. [291] At least some aspects of the invention are applicable to vessels that do not include a heating function, as it is advantageous to avoid accidental spillage of liquids in general, not just heated liquids.

[292] 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.

Sealing Arrangement for Element Plates in Liquid Heating Vessels

[293] In liquid heating vessels, known as 'underfloor' heating vessels, a heating element plate forms part or all of the bottom surface of the liquid heating reservoir. The heater itself is attached to or formed on the underside of the element plate, and may be a sheathed, diecast or thick film heater. The applicant's Easifix (RTM) sealing system, as described for example in WO-A-99/17645 and EP-B- 1683451, provides convenient methods of sealing and fixing a heating element plate in a liquid heating vessel, such as a kettle. One of the problems addressed by the Easifix (RTM) system is the thermal expansion of a plastics bodied vessel relative to the material from which the element plate is made, such as stainless steel.

[294] One of the solutions provided by the Easifix (RTM) system is to use a form of resilient seal having one or more radially extending fins on the first sealing surface, which deform to take the shape of the surfaces to be sealed, thus the fins effect a seal without the need to provide addition compression forces. These radially extending fins may seal against either the element plate or the vessel body. A second substantially flat sealing surface may be provided on the opposing side of the seal from the fins. The seal is generally marginally smaller in diameter than the element plate and, in the case that the second surface is mating with the element plate, relies to some extent upon the pressure of stretch of the seal to effect a seal against the second substantially flat sealing surface.

[295] It is also known to provide extending fins on both sides of a single seal. Whilst both inner and outer radially extending fins may provide additional compression forces and deform to take shape of the inner and outer surfaces to be sealed, such an arrangement adds to the material cost of the seal.

[296] In preferred embodiments, the vessel wall 1 is generally circular in cross-section about the horizontal plane in the region of the element plate 12, and the element plate 12 is generally circular; in other embodiments, other shapes such as oval may be used. [297] The diameter of the vessel may decrease with height, so that the element plate 12 must be inserted in the lower opening of the vessel; alternatively the vessel may be parallel sided or the diameter may increase with height, in which case the element plate 12 may be inserted through an upper opening of the vessel. The element plate 12 may be sealed directly against the vessel wall 1 , or there may be provided an annular adapter portion between the element plate 12 and the vessel wall 1. The element plate 12 may fit within the vessel wall 1, or extend beyond the vessel wall 1 and seal against an outer surface thereof.

[298] The element plate 12 has rotational symmetry about its central axis, which is generally vertical in use. The element plate 12 comprises a central, generally planar portion and a peripheral flange 12a extending transversely downwards from the central portion and substantially parallel to the vessel wall 1. The lower end portion of the flange 12a may extend radially outwards to form a lip 12b.

[299] The element plate 12 is metallic, and preferably of steel such as stainless steel. The central, generally planar portion may include one or more circumferential steps, for example to impart greater strength or to accommodate a particular heating arrangement.

[300] An annular seal 400, of resilient sealing material, is located around the flange 12a. The seal 400 include a groove into which the lip 12b fits, and a support wall 406 that extends radially inwardly below the lip 12b, thus securing the seal 400 on the flange 12b. The seal 400 includes one of more radially extending circumferential fins 23, which form a circumferential seal between the element plate 12 and the vessel body 1.

[301] In the specific embodiments, the heating element comprises a sheathed heating element 39 in thermal contact with the element plate 12 via a diffuser 410 however the element type is not limiting and embodiments of the invention are also suitable for use with, for example diecast and/or thick film element plates, where the heating element is deposited as one or more thick film heating tracks on a dielectric layer formed on the underside of the element plate 12.

[302] One way to further improve the integrity of an Easifix type seal, without substantially adding to the material costs, is to provide additional circumferential ribs on at least the second sealing surface of the seal, which may provide some or all of the following advantages.

1) Any force generated by the fins across the seal during the assembly may 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. 2) The circumferential ribs will locally increase the tightness of the seal in the area of the ribs. For example in the case of a 140mm element plate, a 1mm rib will increase the stretch by approximately 1.5% in the area of the ribs and a 3mm rib by approximately 4.5%.

3) Increasing the local sealing pressure may make the seal more tolerant to any blemishes in the surface of the element plate.

4) Increasing the local sealing pressure will act to prevent or impede capillary action.

[303] In each of the embodiments described below, one or more circumferentially extending ribs 27 may be formed on a part of a sealing surface of the seal 400, the sealing surface being a part of the seal 400 that comes into sealing contact with any one or more components of the liquid heating vessel, for example the vessel wall 1 and/or the element plate 12. The rib(s) 27 preferably extend circumferentially completely around the seal 400, so as to provide a secure sealing effect, although a similar effect could be achieved with overlapping circumferential sections, or other variants.

[304] The rib(s) 27 may be formed on a lateral wall 450 and/or on another part of the seal 400 that forms a sealing surface. The rib(s) 27 are preferably substantially smaller than the fin(s) 23, and project from the sealing surface of the seal 400 to a much smaller extent. In one example, the cross-sectional area of a fin 23 is approximately 5 mm2 and that of a rib 27 is approximately 0.06 mm2; in general, the cross-sectional area of a rib 27 may be between 10 times to 100 times less than that of a fin 23. The size ratio between the fin 23 and the rib 27 can be altered for different applications, such that the ribs 27 can compensate for different manufacturing tolerances between the vessel wall 1 and the element plate 12. The cross- sectional profile of a rib 27 may be for example approximately circular, semi-circular or triangular; however the shape is not limiting and any other suitable form or shape may fall within the scope of the invention.

[305] Preferably, the seal 400 is formed of a substantially homogenous material, for example by a moulding process. Alternatively, the ribs 27 could be formed by a separate process, and fixed to the seal 400 during the moulding process, for example using a 'twin- shot' process, or after the moulding process. The ribs 27 may be formed of a different material from the remainder of the seal 400; the ribs 27 could then have different hardness. Alternatively or additionally, the surface of the seal 400 may be treated so as to change the properties of the ribs 27, for example to harden or soften them by, for example, a vulcanisation process. [306] The seal 400 is preferably fitted around the flange 12a prior to the element plate 12 being fitted within the vessel wall 1.

[307] In an embodiment shown in Figures 51q to 51qb, the seal 400 comprises a radially inner lateral wall 450 for abutting the flange 12a, and a plurality of (in this case two) axially spaced circumferential fins 23 extending radially outwardly so as to seal against the inner surface of the vessel wall 1, as shown particularly in Figure 51q.

[308] Figure 51qa illustrates the seal 400 in an uncompressed state. The sealing surface of the lateral wall 450 comprises a plurality (in this case, three) of circumferential ribs 27, at least some of which contact the element plate 12 when the element plate 12 is located within the vessel wall 1. The ribs 27 are smaller than the fins 23, and may be suitable where the material of the element plate 12 is more prone to imperfections than that of the vessel wall 1.

[309] Figure 51qb illustrates a variant, in which the seal 400 comprises a circumferential rib 27 disposed substantially opposite each fin 23. In this embodiment, the ribs 27 may apply compression forces directly behind the fins 23 which may increase the sealing effect of the fins 23. Alternatively and/or additionally the fins 23 may apply compression forces against the ribs 27 to improve the sealing effect in the region of the ribs 27.

[310] In further embodiment as shown in Figure 51qc, the seal 400 comprises a radially outer lateral wall 455 for abutting and sealing against the vessel wall 1, and a plurality of (in this case two) axially spaced circumferential fins 23 extending radially inwardly from the lateral wall 455 so as to seal against the flange 12a. An upper extending support wall 454 also projects radially inwardly from the lateral wall 455, and may abut or fit over the flange 12a, to provide greater stability.

[311] In the seal configuration of Figure 51qc, the outer sealing face of the lateral wall 455 carries a plurality (in this case, three) of substantially triangular circumferential ribs 27 for sealing against the vessel wall 1.

[312] In a further embodiment as shown in Figure 51qd, both the sealing faces of the resilient seal 400 are substantially flat and one or both sealing faces may include circumferential ribs 27 to locally increase the sealing pressure in the region of the ribs. At least one fin 23 may be provided between the two sealing faces to locally increase the sealing pressure in the region of the fin 23.

[313] At least one of the circumferential ribs 27 may be aligned with at least one fin 23.

[314] In alternative embodiments at least one of the surfaces to be sealed, for example the vessel wall 1 and/or flange 12a may be provided with circumferential ribs 27 to improve the sealing effect of the seal 400 in the region of the ribs 27. [315] Alternatively, at least one of the surfaces to be sealed, for example the vessel wall 1 and/or the flange 12a may be provided with one or more circumferential recesses (not shown), for example, for receiving the ribs 27 or fins 23 of the seal 400 during the assembly process. Sheathed Conductors on the Dry Side of Waterproof

Connectors

[316] Cordless appliances for containing food or liquids may require cleaning after use for example food processors, blenders, irons, kettles, 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 plus the previously described safety appliances. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

[317] Therefore, 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 and WO-A-2008/012506.

[318] Figure 51r 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 10a of WO-A- 2008/012506.

[319] The tab terminals 507 are formed as part of contact plates 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 which pass through the bottom of the cavity 526 from the wet side of the connector 3.

[320] 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.

[321] 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.

[322] The finished level of the sealant 523 is lower than the walls 522 which increases the creepage distance between the conductors 507.

[323] 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 (CTI).

[324] 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.

[325] The following embodiments provide a waterproof cordless connector with improved electrical creepage and clearance distances on the normally dry side to make provision against such leakage.

[326] 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.

[327] 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 may include weld pips or other connection means 513 to assist in attaching the conductors (not shown) onto plates 508a the dry side of the connector 3.

[328] Figure 5 It illustrates the sheathed conductors 524 with the conductor 512 attached by welding or other means 513 onto the contact plates 508a and Figure 51u illustrates a similar view after the sealant 523 has been added.

[329] 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.

[330] In Figures 5 It and 5 lu each of the sheathed conductors 524 are shown as round wire, however alternative forms and materials, for example flat wire, may be employed.

[331] As illustrated in Figures 5 It and 5 lu 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.

[332] As illustrated in Figure 51v the sheathed conductors 524 are of a flat profile with male tab terminals 507 stamped from the flat profile. [333] 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.

[334] 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.

[335] Each of the previously described sheathed conductors 524 may be malleable so that they can be easily post formed for ease of packaging and/or assembly.

[336] Each of the previously described sheath conductors 524 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.

[337] 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-2008/012506 in which a single seal is provided around the current-carrying components.

[338] For further embodiments which utilise 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 the above may reduce the component costs.

[339] In further embodiments the waterproof connector 3 may be formed as part of a thermo-mechanical or electronic control. Improved Sealing Arrangement for Waterproof Connector

[340] The following embodiments utilise aspects of the above-mentioned disclosure of improved sealing means and/or waterproof connection means in combination with improvements to the optical transmission properties of the seal. The improved optically transmissive seal is being described with reference to sealing arrangements for use with the above mentioned water proof connectors in water proof appliances however the disclosed transmissive seal and connector may be equally applicable to other applications for example in areas of dampness, for example outdoor applications including but not limited to meter houses and/or electrical car charging points. In further embodiments standard electrical connection types, for example the UK 13 amp three pin system, may be made waterproof and also provide some form of communication around or between the electrical connection. In further embodiments the electrical connection may be made primarily to provide power for the given function or measurement to be communicated whilst the optical seal transmits the information. Each of the above embodiments may include the dual voltage arrangements as disclosed in WO-A-2011/101642.

[341] As described above 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 publication WO-A-2011/101642.

[342] As previously described the resilient seal 23 has two sealing surfaces. The first sealing surface comprises fins which deform to take the shape of the surfaces to be sealed, while a second substantially flat sealing surface is provided on the opposing side of the seal from the fins. The seal is generally marginally smaller in diameter than the central component to be sealed and, in the case that the second sealing surface is mating with the central component, the seal relies to some extent upon the pressure of stretch of the seal to effect a seal against the second substantially flat sealing surface.

[343] 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.

[344] The seal is meant for use in optical communication between transmitters and receivers 31 situated in the appliance 1 and base 2.

[345] 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.

[346] It is advantageous that an optical emitter or detector 31 or associated transmission means 41 is in contact with the seal to maximize the signal. However it is not always possible to position an emitter or detector 31 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.

[347] The following description describes a sealing arrangement which maximizes optical transmission properties without compromising the sealing capabilities by modifying the shape and form of the seal.

[348] Figure 5 lx and 5 ly illustrate a first sealing arrangement with the fins 23 in the sealed position in which the width of the upper and lower ends 28 of the seal 21 are substantially equal to the width of the resultant gap between the outside wall 29 of the connector 3 and the mating wall of the sub base 19 marked as Dim A on Figure 5 ly.

[349] The width Dim 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.

[350] 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.

[351] 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.

[352] 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.

[353] 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. [354] As previously described, 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.

[355] In Figures 5 lx, 51 y and 5 lzd the socket wall 29 is intended to be smooth.

[356] As illustrated in Figures 5 lz to 5 lzb 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.

[357] 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.

[358] As illustrated in Figures 5 lza to 5 lzb the ribs 28 may be circular or triangular or may take the form of small fins (not shown).

[359] 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.

[360] Figure 51zc 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.

[361] Figure 5 lzd shows a schematic cross section view of the seal of an alternative 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. [362] 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.

[363] Figure 51ze 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.

[364] Advantageously the interface of the seal 21 and the recess 30 improve the sealing means in the area of the recess 30.

[365] In further embodiments a seal 21 with reciprocal circumferential ribs 27 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 30 so as to improve the sealing pressure therein.

[366] Figure 51zf 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%.

[367] Further embodiments may include variants of the described embodiments; for example the fins 23 may extend inwardly and the ribs 27 may extend outwardly. Electrical Connection Means with Integral Mechanical

Connection

[368] As previously described, in a cordless appliance the appliance proper may include a cordless connector that is operable to cooperate with a corresponding cordless connector on a power base. Thus, when the appliance proper, for example a kettle, 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 kettle to be removed from the base for various operations, such as dispensing heated liquid from a cordless liquid heating appliance.

[369] 360° cordless connectors, as described for example in WO-A-94/06185, which allow the appliance proper to be rotated freely relative to the power base, have become the preferred connection choice for users of small cordless appliances.

[370] It is known to provide cordless electrical connectors into motor driven domestic appliances, such as food processors, blenders and milk frothers, so that, for example the appliance proper may include a heating element in addition to the motor driven function. This arrangement provides an advantage in that the processed/heated food or liquid can be more easily dispensed by a user; however the provision of a cordless connector may inhibit other aspects of the appliance.

[371] In the case of appliances with electrical motors in the base part, mechanically connected via a centrally mounted rotatable coupling to the appliance part, it has been necessary to position the cordless electrical connection to one side of the centre. In which case it not possible to provide a 360° docking so that, for example, 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.

[372] In prior art appliances, for example milk frothers, which incorporate a centrally mounted 360° electrical connector it is necessary for the motor to be positioned within the appliance proper which increases the size and weight of the removable container.

[373] In other 360° appliances, some form of mechanical connection between the appliance and the base, for example an actuator, may be required as disclosed in the proprietor's patent application WO-A-2005/59670. However solutions based on or similar to WO-A- 2005/59670 may be problematic in that the concentric mechanical links are relatively large, and there is difficulty in maintaining the forces and tolerances required for consistent performance. Furthermore the links are vulnerable to damage, dirt or debris which may also compromise their consistent performance.

[374] With prior art connection systems the provision of a fluid connection between a cordless electric appliance and the cordless base, for example, steam tubes, has been problematical and inhibits the 360° docking of the appliance onto the base.

[375] Embodiments will now be described using corresponding reference numerals to those of preceding Figure 1 where appropriate for corresponding elements.

[376] At least some of the embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating appliances in which the electro mechanical control 73 is provided in the cordless base 2.

[377] At least some of the embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating appliances in which the electro mechanical control 73 is provided in the appliance 1 and the switch actuator 305 is provided in the base 2. [378] At least some embodiments of the present invention are applicable to appliances that require a rotational or motor driven tool and electrical supply in the upper container or vessel, 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 cafetieres.

[379] In further embodiments, for example, the central shaft may provide the means to dispense liquid.

[380] At least some embodiments may be equally applicable to non-heating or cooling applications, for example, the connection arrangement may provide the means for a central shaft to act as an axis so that, for example, a cable reel may be coiled and uncoiled before and after use.

[381] In further embodiments the connection arrangement may provide the means for an active hinge, for example in a refrigerator door that may provide both power and liquid to for example a heated or cooled water dispenser.

[382] Still further embodiments may be considered in combination with the previously described sealing systems and safety features.

[383] Where the appliance 1 is required to be washproof then the applicant's washproof connector means may be employed as previously described and as disclosed in patent application WO-A-2008/012506.

[384] Where communication means is required between the base 2 and the appliance 1 then optical communication means may be employed as previously described and as disclosed in patent application WO-A-2008/155538.

[385] Embodiments will now be described using corresponding reference numerals to those of preceding Figure 1 where appropriate for corresponding elements.

[386] The interrelationship between a 360° electrical plug in an appliance and the corresponding socket in the base is complex with many mechanical and electrical issues to overcome, including docking, electrical connection and safety/approval issues. The provision of additional mechanical or fluid connections, for example, rotating means, switch mechanisms or steam tubes between the base and the appliance, adds to this complexity. The following embodiments seek to disclose means to provide the additional mechanical or fluid connections, without compromising safety and design issues, in a manner that meets the expectations of the user. [387] The following embodiments describe methods for incorporating a mechanical or fluid connecting means within or as part of a 360° cordless electrical connector without compromising the safety and performance of the electrical connection and the 360° docking.

[388] As will be described in more detail below, the embodiments incorporate a plurality of axial electrical conductors as part of a 360° cordless electrical connector, and provide for an axial mechanical or fluid connection passing through the central part of the connector so that the appliance may rotate about the axial mechanical or fluid connection.

[389] The mechanical or fluid connecting means may pass through a discrete central aperture provided within a 360° connector, or may be integral with and/or connected to and/or positioned within a central hollow electrical conductor so that the conductor and the mechanical or fluid connecting means enter the mating part of the connector through a single centrally located aperture.

[390] It is preferred that the hollow conductor associated with or adjacent to or closest to the mechanical or fluid connecting means is the earth conductor so that there is additional separation between the mechanical or fluid connecting means and the live parts.

[391] Additional axial electrical conductors may be provided around the central conductor depending upon requirements of the appliance type.

[392] Another consideration is user access to live parts. In the prior art, for example the proprietor's A1/CS7 series and/or the Triax series, the apertures in the socket are designed to meet the requirements of BS EN 60320-2-4 which state that it should not be possible to touch the live parts with a test probe 13 of IEC 61032, as schematically illustrated, for example, in Figure 53ba.

[393] In simple terms to meet the above requirements any aperture in which a user may gain access to live parts should be

a) at least 15mm from the live parts, or

b) small enough to prevent the tapered 3 to 4 mm tip of the test probe entering the aperture and touching live parts, and

c) provided with a suitable shutter or other means to prevent the probe accessing live parts.

[394] Generally, as highlighted in the prior art, it is not practical to provide a gap of 15mm between the aperture and the live parts in a 360° electrical connector, due to the additional height this adds to the connection system. Therefore, arrangements b) and/or c) are preferably implemented. [395] In the case that a hollow conductor and the mechanical or fluid connecting means enter the mating part of the connector through a single centrally located aperture, the aperture will typically be greater than 3mm wide. Therefore, it may be necessary to provide a shutter or ensure that the live parts are a minimum 15mm from the aperture or ensure that no live parts are accessible through the aperture.

Cordless Connector with Integral Rotating Shaft

[396] Figures 53a to 53b illustrate an embodiment of the 360° mechanical and electrical connection means which may comprise a rotatable mechanism 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.

[397] 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.

[398] The drive means 126 may be 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 described in the applicant's copending Chinese Utility Model Application CN201120473947.6.

[399] The base 2 may also comprise 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 described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A- 2011/101642.

[400] In Figures 53a and 53b, the 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.

[401] 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.

[402] 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 described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A2- 2011/101642. In further embodiments a separate light transmitting means may be provided in the base 6.

[403] 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.

[404] Each of the previously described seals 44 may be for example 'lip' seals, 'dynamic 'O' 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.

[405] 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.

[406] It is preferred that the coupling means 129 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 of 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.

[407] 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.

[408] 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.

[409] The mutually coupling means may be a gear/cog type as illustrated or may be other types including, 'opposite lock', 'friction lock', 'ball lock', 'thread lock' or any other suitable mutual coupling means.

[410] 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.

[411] The shaft 128 may drive one rotary tool exclusively or may drive more than one tool via a series of gears.

[412] In additional embodiments that incorporate a pump, the shaft 128 may be configured to drive 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.

[413] Figures 53c and 53d show schematic cutaway views of an alternative embodiment of an integrated mechanical and electrical connection means where the plug part 135 is provided with a hollow connector 534 within which the shaft 128 and the first coupling 129 are positioned so that both the connector 534 and the shaft 128 enter the base connector 136 through a single aperture 541.

[414] As illustrated, the first coupling 129 may be provided radially inwardly of the hollow connector 534.

[415] It is probable that the combined diameter of the hollow connector 534 and shaft 128 will be greater than 3mm and expected that a shutter mechanism would add complexity and cost to the assembly therefore it is preferred the hollow connector is the earth conductor 534E so that the mating resilient spring connections 137E that are accessible within single aperture 541 are not at live potential.

[416] The hollow earth conductor 534E may act to support the second shaft 128 and may also include one or more of the previously described seals 44 or bearings (not shown) that may be positioned within the earth conductor 534E. Alternatively, electrical or thermal insulation, centraliser, guide and/or lubrication means may be provided on the hollow earth conductor to support the shaft 128. The appliance connector 135 may include additional conducting rings 534N and 534L for the live and neutral electrical connections and associated contact plates and connection means (not shown). The live, earth and neutral conductors 534, 534E and 534N may be configured to be coaxial.

[417] The base connector 136 may include an integral motor 126 as illustrated or may alternatively include means to interface with a motor 126 that is separately installed into the base 2. The base connector 136 may also include the first shaft 128 and the female part of the coupling 129 about which is spaced at least one but preferably two resilient springs 137E. The base connector 136 may also include a guide or shroud (not shown) so that the earth ring 534E is aligned correctly with the base connector 136 during the docking procedure. The base connector may also include two resilient springs 137L and 137N that make contact with cooperating conducting rings 534L and 534N during the docking procedure

[418] As the appliance connector 135 docks with the base connector 136 the first shaft 128 enters the hollow earth conductor 534E. The hollow conductor 534E makes contact with resilient spring(s) 137E and then the first shaft 128 mutually couples with the second shaft 128 via the couplings 129. Figures 53c and 53d further illustrate that the hollow connector 534E and the coupling 129 may be coaxial. The live and neutral conductors 534L/N and 137L/N will be configured so that they make contact after the earth connection. The live, earth and neutral conductors 534, 534E and 534N may be configured to be coaxial

[419] The motor 126 may be positioned within or externally of the base connector 136 and there may be provided a switch means to prevent the motor 126 being energised until the appliance 1 has been docked on the base 2.

[420] This connector system may be used in any appliance that requires a rotational or motor driven tool and electrical supply in the upper container or vessel, 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 cafetieres. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

[421] Where the appliance is required to be washproof and/or communication is required from the upper container to the cordless base then the previously described washproof connector and communication means may be employed.

[422] In some cases the electrical connection may only 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 cafetiere 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.

[423] However further embodiments, for example, a glass walled cafetiere may be provided with an element for heating the water and/or keeping the brewed coffee warm. The heater may be a thick film heater and may be glued to the base of the glass walled vessel and the plunger may be powered through an aperture within the element plate.

[424] In the above embodiments where the rotating, rotatable or rotary drive means/function is provided, a reciprocating function may be used as an alternative. Alternatively, the rotating, rotatable or rotary drive means/function may be converted into non-rotational operation in the appliance. [425] In the above embodiments, the rotating, reciprocating and/or non-rotating operation may include one of more of agitating, blending, plunging, kneading, pumping, stirring, frothing, whisking, slicing and/or grating. The operation may be provided by at least one removably secured tool or attachment. Alternative Cordless Connector Embodiments

[426] Figures 53 da to 53dc schematically illustrate alternative embodiments of the invention in which the previously described 360° cordless connection systems, suitable for use with a rotational shaft, have been adapted to provide alternative mechanical or fluid connection means via the central axis of the connector pair 135 and 136. Unless otherwise stated, the alternative embodiments will be described using corresponding reference numerals to those of preceding figures where appropriate for corresponding elements, such as the connector pair 135 and 136.

[427] Each of the appliances illustrated in Figures 53 da to 53dd are by way of example only and are not limiting to the scope of the invention. Cordless Connector with Integral Actuator or Pushrod

[428] Figure 53 da illustrates a liquid heating appliance in which there is provided a heater 12, a mechanical actuated control 73 which may be heating control and may be a bimetal actuated steam control or other mechanically actuated controlling means. As illustrated, the control 73 is separate to the appliance dry boil control 15 and situated at the periphery of the appliance 1. However in further alternative embodiments, the appliance control 73 may be integral to the appliance control 15 and/or cordless connector 135 and/or may be situated closer to the centre of the appliance 1.

[429] The appliance 1 may include a steam tube 70 to cooperate with the heating control 73.

[430] The previously described appliance connector 135 includes a push rod 212 positioned within a hollow conductor 534 and this push rod 212 cooperates either directly or via a linkage (not shown) with the mechanically actuated control 73.

[431] The base 2 is provided with a user actuator 305 that is connected to a further push rod 212 positioned within a previously described base connector 136. The further push rod 212 cooperates either directly or via a linkage with a user actuator 305.

[432] Each of the push rods 212 may include a coupling means 129, which may be used for removably connecting the appliance 1 and the power base 2 together. The coupling means 129 may provide a combined electrical rotary/driving coupling. Each of the coupling means 129 may comprise male and female connectors for mutual engagement.

[433] Furthermore, fastening means (not shown) may be provided for engaging the connectors. The fastening means may comprise at least one of a bayonet locking means, ball locking means, gear and cog locking means, friction locking means, thread locking means, electromagnetic means, permanent-magnetic means and synchronous means.

[434] Alternatively, the fastening means may be arranged to engage when driven in a normal drive direction and disengage when driven in the opposite direction.

[435] The fastening means may be equally applied to the previously and subsequently described embodiments.

[436] When the appliance 1 is positioned on the base 2 the push rods 212 cooperate so that the user actuator 305 may be linked directly with the mechanically actuated control 73 so that the mechanically actuated control may be actuated from the actuator 305.

[437] In further alternative embodiments, the appliance push rod may be employed for other means, for example, the push rod 212 of the appliance may switch other components within the appliance. In further embodiments the push rod may communicate through the base of the appliance into the reservoir of the vessel 1.

Cordless Connector with Integral Liquid Connection

[438] Figure 53db illustrates an alternative embodiment of a liquid heating appliance in which there is provided a heater 12, and a heating control 73 which may be actuated by the actuator 305.

[439] The appliance 1 may include a steam tube 70 to cooperate with the heating control 73.

[440] The heating plate 12 includes an aperture 141 which cooperates with a user operated valve 303 and is fluidly connected with the conduit 654 positioned within the hollow conductor 534, such that the conduit 654 is in fluid communication with the reservoir of the appliance 1. So that for example in a Hot Water on Demand appliances, as described in applicants patent application WO- A -2010/094945, the water may be dispensed through base of the appliance 1 and the appliance 1 may be connected to the power base in any orientation.

[441] The user operated valve 303 may be actuated in conjunction with the appliance control actuator 305 or may be actuated by a separate actuator (not shown). The user operated valve 303 or conduit 654 may include some form of non return valve (not shown) or other means to prevent liquid flowing through the conduit 654 when the appliance is removed from the base. The non return valve (not shown) or other means may also prevent dirt or debris entering the conduits 70 and affecting the performance of the appliance 1 and/or contaminating the liquid.

[442] The base 2 may be provided with a raised portion and drip tray 188 so that a cup or other vessel 576 may be placed beneath the appliance 1.

[443] The base connector 136 incorporates a further conduit 654 and each of the conduits 654 may include a coupling means 142.

[444] When the appliance 1 is positioned on the base 2 the conduits 654 cooperate via the coupling means 142 so that liquid from the vessel 1 may be dispensed through the connector pair 135 and 136 and into the vessel 576 below appliance 1.

[445] In further alternative embodiments, the user appliance type and/or valve means and/or user interface and/or valve means may be as previously or subsequently described for example with reference to Figures 40a to 48b in the applicant's co-pending Chinese Utility Model Applications CN201120160289.5 and CN201120473543.7.

[446] In further alternative embodiments (not shown), the liquid in the reservoir 1 may be dispensed into or via a liquid heating chamber provided in the base 2 for rapidly heating and dispensing of the liquid.

[447] In further alternative embodiments (not shown), the liquid in the reservoir 1 may be dispensed into or via a flow through heater provided in the base 2 for rapidly heating and dispensing of the liquid.

[448] In a further embodiment as illustrated in Figure 53dc, the centrally mounted conduit 654 may be employed for filling the appliance, as opposed to dispensing from the appliance.

[449] The appliance 1 may function as a standard cordless water heating appliance with the exception that the user may fill the appliance 1 whilst the appliance is sitting upright on the base 2, which may allow the user to more easily judge the fill level of the appliance 1.

[450] The liquid supply via the conduit 140 may be pump fed, gravity fed or mains fed and the conduit 140 may include a user operated valve 307 so that the user may fill the vessel 1 as and when required.

[451] The vessel 1 would include an aperture in the element plate 12, as previously described, however may also include a non return valve 310 or other means to prevent liquid flowing back through the supply conduit 654 when the appliance 1 is removed from the base, for example, for pouring. [452] In further embodiments the appliance may include a flow through heater or other form of direct liquid heating means.

Cordless Connector with Integral Steam Tube

[453] Figure 53dd illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the liquid conduit communicating through the connector pair 135 and 136 acts a steam tube 70. In this alternative embodiment, pressurised steam that is generated in the appliance 1 during boiling will be transferred via the conduit 70 towards a bimetal actuated steam control 73 or other control means situated in the base 2 via the coupling means 142. The control 73 may then be provided with a user actuator 305 so that the appliance 1 may be controlled from the base 2.

[454] This alternative embodiment advantageously reduces the requirements for user control components in the appliance 1, which would be particularly suitable for the previously described water proof appliances as illustrated in Figure 23 in the applicant's copending Chinese Utility Model Application CN201120160286.1.

[455] The appliance 1 may include a steam tube 70 to cooperate with the heating control 73 in the base 2.

[456] The heating plate 12 includes an aperture 141 which cooperates with a user operated valve 303 and is fluidly connected with the steam tube 70 and the conduit 654 positioned within the hollow conductor 534.

[457] The steam tube 70 and/or conduit 654 may include some form of non return valve (not shown) or other means to prevent liquid flowing through the conduit 654 when the appliance is removed from the base. In addition the non return valve or other means may prevent dirt or debris from entering tube 70 or conduit 654 when the appliance 1 is off the base 2.

[458] In alternative embodiments (not shown) the central aperture may be used to provide a wireless communication link between the appliance 1 and base 2 so that for example one way and/or two way optical or RF transmitters and/or receivers may be centrally mounted in the connecting means.

Flexible Shutter Seal

[459] As previously described 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.

[460] 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.

[461] 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.

[462] 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.

[463] 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.

[464] 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

[465] Embodiments will now be described using corresponding reference numerals to those of preceding Figure 1 where appropriate for corresponding elements.

[466] The seal arrangement is disclosed with reference to non-360⁰ connector systems however at least some of the seal embodiment may be applicable to 360°connectors.

[467] It has previously been disclosed that 360° connectors are the preferred connector type however there are still some appliance types, for example slot in appliances, in which a non- 360⁰ connection system may be more suitable. Where applicable the non-360⁰ embodiments may be used in conjunction with each of the previously described safety, sealing and optical communication embodiments.

[468] A cordless connecting coupling for a cordless appliance 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 54a to 54f. [469] 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.

[470] 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 socket 4 to their respective parts.

[471] 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.

[472] 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.

[473] 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.

[474] 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. [475] 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.

[476] 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

[477] 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.

[478] 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.

[479] 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.

[480] 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.

[481] 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.

[482] 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.

[483] Each resilient flap 710 must be provided with sufficient flexibility to allow the electrical pin 721 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.

[484] 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 free 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.

[485] 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.

[486] 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.

[487] 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.

[488] 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.

[489] 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. [490] In further embodiments the cover assembly 719 may be provided in front of the cover moulding 721.

[491] In alternative embodiments the cover assembly 719 and the resilient flap 710 may be formed from separate components.

[492] 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.

[493] In a further embodiments, the twin spring earth connector 527 may be substituted with a conventional a resilient spring connector 137 and vice versa.

[494] In further embodiments the cover assembly 719 and flaps 710 may be arranged so as substantially to prevent liquid from entering the socket 4.

[495] In further embodiments the cover assembly 719 and associated flap 710 may be employed in a wall socket or other connecting means.

Further Embodiments

[496] 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.

Claims

1. A spill inhibiting system for a portable vessel (1) for containing heated liquid, the system comprising at least two channels (641, 642; 682) arranged such that when the vessel (1) is in an upright position at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) vents the vessel (1) and when the vessel (1) is tipped on its side, at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) vents the vessel (1) whilst the flow of liquid from the vessel (1) through the said channels (641, 642; 682) is impeded.

2. The spill inhibiting system of claim 1, wherein the least two channels (641, 642; 682) have respective apertures (92; 632) arranged such that, when the vessel is tipped over on its side, an aperture (92; 632) of at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) is above the liquid level (225) in the vessel so as to vent the vessel (1).

3. The spill inhibiting system of claim 2, wherein the apertures (92; 632) are located towards the periphery of the vessel (1).

4. The spill inhibiting system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the apertures (92; 632) are arranged at opposing sides of a filling and/or dispensing aperture (7; 155; 698; 677) of the vessel (1).

5. The spill inhibiting system of claim 4, wherein at least one of said channels (641, 642;

682) comprises at least one weir or baffle arranged to impede the flow of liquid therethrough when the vessel (1) is tipped on its side.

6. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, in which at least one of the channels (641 , 642; 682) is formed from adjacent baffles.

7. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) includes a plurality of baffles in a staggered arrangement.

8. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, in which at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) comprises a plurality of parallel sections.

9. The spill inhibiting system of claim 5, including means for impeding the flow of liquid through at least one of the channels.

10. The spill inhibiting system of claim 9, wherein the means for impeding comprises at least one baffle.

11. The spill inhibiting system of claim 9, wherein the means for impeding comprises a plurality of baffles in a staggered arrangement.

12. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) is arranged to contain liquid from the vessel (1) when tipped on its side, and to drain the contained liquid back into the vessel (1) when the vessel (1) is returned to the upright position.

13. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) allows filling of and/or dispensing from the vessel (1) therethrough.

14. The spill inhibiting system of claim 13, wherein at least one of the channels (641, 642;

682) allows filling of and/or dispensing from the vessel (1) therethrough without user actuation thereof.

15. The spill inhibiting system of claim 13 or 14, wherein said at least one of the channels (641, 642; 682) is fluidly connected to a filling and/or dispensing aperture (7; 677; 155; 698).

16. The spill inhibiting system of claim 15 when dependent on claim 2, wherein at least one said aperture (632) is below the filling or dispensing aperture (7; 677; 155; 698) when the appliance is in an upright position.

17. The spill inhibiting system of claim 16, wherein at least one of the channels is substantially coplanar with the dispensing aperture so as to allow drainage through the dispensing aperture during a dispensing operation.

18. The spill inhibiting system of claim 16 or 17, wherein at least one said aperture (632) is positioned substantially towards the front of the vessel.

19. The spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein at least two of said channels (641, 642; 682) are commonly connected to the filling or dispensing aperture (7, 677, 698).

20. The spill inhibiting system of claim 19, wherein at least two of said channels (641, 642;

682) are commonly connected to the filling or dispensing aperture (7, 677, 698) within a manifold.

21. The spill inhibiting system of claim 20, wherein the manifold is arranged substantially vertically when the vessel (1) is in an upright position.

22. The spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the filling or dispensing aperture comprises a spout (7).

23. The spill inhibiting system of claim 22, having said spout integrated therewith.

24. The spill inhibiting system of claim 22 or 23, including a filter (652) for the spout aperture (7; 698).

25. The spill inhibiting system of claim 20, wherein the manifold is arranged substantially horizontally.

26. The spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 15 to 20 or 25, wherein the filling or dispensing aperture comprises a lid aperture.

27. The spill inhibiting system of claim 1, wherein each said channel (641 ; 642) has a respective outlet (645; 646), arranged such that when the vessel (1) is in its upright position the outlet (645; 646) of at least one of the channels (641, 642) vents the vessel (1); and such that when the vessel (1) is in a tipped position one of the inlets (643; 644) is above the liquid level (225) in the vessel (1) and vents the vessel (1) via its respective channel (641; 642) and outlet (645; 646), whilst the other inlet (643; 644) is below the liquid level (225) and its corresponding outlet (645; 646) is above the liquid level, thus impeding the flow of liquid.

28. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the channels (682c) is fluidly connected to a steam-sensitive control switch.

29. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the venting apertures (92; 632) has a baffle (647) arranged inwardly thereto so as to impede the flow of liquid through the corresponding said venting aperture (92; 632) when the vessel is tipped on its side, without impeding the venting action of said aperture (92; 632) .

30. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, fixed or removably secured to the vessel (1).

31. The spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 1 to 30, arranged within a lid (8) for the vessel.

32. The spill inhibiting system of claim 31 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the at least one of said apertures is in the base (66) of the lid, and at least one baffle (647) is arranged on the underside of the base so as to impede the flow of liquid through the corresponding said aperture (92; 632) when the vessel is tipped on its side, without impeding the venting action of said aperture (92; 632).

33. The spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 1 to 30, arranged behind a spout (7) of the vessel.

34. A spill inhibiting system for a vessel, comprising a manifold through which the vessel can be filled and liquid can be poured out, the manifold acting to vent the vessel when tipped on its side.

35. The spill inhibiting system of any preceding claim, operable without any moving parts and/or user actuation.

36. A vessel including the spill-inhibiting system of any one of claims 1 to 35.

37. The vessel of claim 36, comprising a liquid heating vessel.

38. The vessel of claim 36 or 37, wherein the spill-inhibiting system is provided within a reservoir (5) of the vessel (1).

39. The vessel of any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein at least one projection (699) is formed on the vessel (1) and/or on an associated lid (8), so that the spill inhibiting system extends away from the centreline of the appliance (1) into the at least one projection (699).

40. A kit of parts for the spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 1 to 30.

41. A lid (8) for a vessel (1), the lid (8) comprising the spill inhibiting system of claim 31.

42. A spout assembly for a vessel, comprising the spill inhibiting system of claim 33.

43. A steam chamber (640i) for a liquid heating vessel (1), the steam chamber (640i) comprising an inlet aperture (632c) opening into the vessel (1) and an outlet aperture (632d) for connection to a steam sensor, the steam chamber (640i) being arranged to impede liquid flow through the outlet aperture (632d) when the vessel (1) is tipped over on its side.

44. The steam chamber (640i) of claim 43, comprising at least one baffle (647g) arranged to impede said liquid flow.

45. The steam chamber of claim 44, wherein the baffle (647g) forms a U-shaped channel within the steam chamber (640i).

46. The steam chamber (640i) of any one of claims 43 to 45, wherein the inlet aperture (632c) is located to one side of the vessel (1), such that if the vessel is tipped over on its side with that side uppermost, the inlet aperture (632c) is located above the liquid level within the vessel, and if the vessel is tipped over on its side with the other side uppermost, the inlet aperture (632c) is located below the liquid level, but liquid is prevented by the steam chamber (640i) from flowing to the outlet aperture (632d).

47. A vessel comprising a spout and a spill inhibiting system arranged to inhibit spillage from the spout when the vessel is tipped over, the vessel being predisposed to rest, when tipped over, with the spout substantially horizontal.

48. The vessel of claim 47, wherein the external walls of the vessel, on either side of the spout, are substantially flat.

49. A vessel comprising a spout and a spill inhibiting system arranged to inhibit spillage from the spout when the vessel is tipped over, the vessel being predisposed to rest, when tipped over, with the spout substantially facing upward.

50. The vessel of claim 49, further having a handle substantially opposite the spout, wherein the centre of gravity of the vessel is located towards the handle.

51. The vessel of claim 50, tapered towards the handle thereof.

52. The vessel of any one of claims 36 to 39 and 47 to 51, wherein the vessel is a safety kettle, kettle, wasserkocher, heated vacuum flask, cooking pot or pan, microwavable container or vessel, hot water on demand appliance, vacuum pot or the like.

53. A sealing means for sealing the periphery of a heating element plate to a liquid heating vessel, the sealing means having first and second opposing sealing surfaces, the first sealing surface comprising at least one radially extending circumferential fin and the second sealing surface being substantially flat and comprising at least one circumferential rib for locally increasing the sealing pressure in the region of the rib.

54. The sealing means of claim 53, wherein the second sealing surface is arranged to seal against a part of the heating vessel.

55. The sealing means of claim 53, wherein the second sealing surface is arranged to seal against the heating element plate.

56. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 55, wherein the second sealing surface is provided on an axially extending portion of the seal.

57. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 55, wherein the second sealing surface is provided on the heating vessel.

58. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 55, wherein the second sealing surface is provided on the heating element plate.

59. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 58, wherein said at least one rib projects to a substantially lesser extent than said at least one fin.

60. The sealing means of claim 56, wherein said at least one rib projects from the seal to a substantially lesser extent than said at least one fin.

61. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 60 in which at least one said circumferential fin is aligned with at least one said circumferential rib.

62. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 61, wherein at least one said circumferential rib is dimensioned to locally increase the tightness of the seal by between 1.5 and 4.5%.

63. The sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 62, or a heating vessel or heating element including the sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 62, further comprising at least one circumferential recess.

64. The heating vessel, heating element plate or sealing means of claim 63, wherein the at least one circumferential recess is arranged to mutually engage with at least one corresponding said fin and/or rib.

65. A heating element plate for a liquid heating vessel, the heating element plate having a central, generally planar portion carrying a heater and a peripheral flange extending substantially transversely to the central portion; wherein a sealing means according to any one of claims 53 to 64 is provided around said flange.

66. The heating element plate of claim 65, including a radially outwardly projecting lip, the seal having a groove into which the lip fits.

67. The heating element plate of claim 65 or 66, wherein the seal includes a radially inwardly extending portion that fits around the flange.

68. A liquid heating vessel having the heating element plate of any one of claims 65 to 67 sealed therein.

69. The vessel of any one of claims 63, 64 or 68 ,wherein the vessel is a safety kettle, kettle heated vacuum flask, cooking pot or pan, microwavable container or vessel, iron, wasserkocher, coffee and/or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother, heated or cooled water dispenser or the like.

70. A cordless electrical connector for an appliance, comprising at least one sheathed conductor for supplying power to the appliance, and sealing means for sealing said at least one sheathed conductor within the connector such that a sheathed portion of the conductor extends externally from the sealing means.

71. The cordless electrical connector of claim 70, wherein said sealing means comprises a sealant within which the sheathed portion of the conductor is embedded.

72. The cordless electrical connector of claim 70 or 71, comprising a plurality of said sheathed conductors, each of which is sealed by a corresponding one of a plurality of discrete sealing portions.

73. The cordless electrical connector of claim 72, wherein each of said plurality of discrete sealing portions is contained within a corresponding one of a plurality of discrete partitions.

74. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 73, wherein each sheathed conductor is electrically connected to a corresponding contact within the connector, the contact being sealed by said sealing means.

75. The cordless electrical connector of claim 74, wherein the contact is located within a cavity of the cordless electrical connector, the cavity being sealed by said sealing means.

76. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 75, wherein each said sheathed conductor has a distal end for electrical connection to the appliance.

77. The cordless electrical connector of claim 76, wherein the distal end comprises a terminal or other connecting means.

78. The cordless electrical connector of claim 76 or 77, wherein the distal end extends substantially radially of the cordless connector.

79. The cordless electrical connector of claim 76 or 77, wherein the distal end extends substantially axially of the cordless connector.

80. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 76 to 79, wherein the distal end comprises a spring.

81. The cordless electrical connector of claim 80, wherein the distal end is bent so as to form the spring.

82. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 76 to 79, wherein the at least one conductor is malleable.

83. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 82, wherein the at least one sheathed conductor has a substantially flat cross-section.

84. The cordless electrical connector of claim 83, wherein the sheathed conductor comprises metal strip.

85. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 82, wherein the at least one sheathed conductor has a substantially round cross-section.

86. The cordless electrical connector of claim 83 or 85, wherein the sheathed conductor comprises wire.

87. The cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 86, wherein said cordless electrical connector is a waterproof connector.

88. The cordless electrical connector of claim 87, wherein the at least one sheathed conductor is provided on the normally dry side of the cordless electrical connector.

89. A thermal control including the cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 88.

90. A cordless domestic appliance including the cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 88 or the thermal control of claim 89.

91. The cordless domestic appliance of claim 90, wherein the cordless electrical connector is sealed to the appliance and said at least one sheathed conductor is provided on the normally dry side of the appliance.

92. A method of forming a cordless electrical connector for an appliance, the cordless connector comprising at least one conductor for supplying power to the appliance, the method comprising providing a respective insulating sheath around each said conductor, and sealing said at least one conductor within the connector, such that a sheathed portion of the conductor extends externally from the seal.

93. The method of claim 92, wherein the at least one conductor is provided as a sheathed conductor before the step of sealing within the connector.

94. The method of claim 92, wherein the respective insulating sheath is provided during or after the step of sealing within the connector.

95. The method of any one of claims 92 to 94, comprising electrically connecting the at least one conductor to a respective contact within the connector prior to said sealing step.

96. The method of claim 95, wherein the contact is provided within a cavity of the cordless connector, and the step of sealing comprises sealing the cavity after the step of electrically connecting.

97. The method of claim 96, wherein the cavity is sealed by providing a sealant within the cavity.

98. The method of claim 96 or 97, wherein each said contact is provided with a corresponding said cavity, and each said cavity is sealed discretely.

99. The method of any one of claims 92 to 98, wherein the distal end of the at least one conductor is stamped, flattened and/or folded to form a terminal.

100. The method of any one of claims 92 to 98, wherein the distal end of the at least one conductor is stamped, flattened and/or folded to form a spring terminal.

101. The method of any one of claims 92 to 100, wherein the at least one conductor is malleable and is formed during assembly of the cordless electrical connector.

102. The appliance of claim 90 or 91, wherein the appliance is a safety kettle, kettle, heated vacuum flask, cooking pot or pan, microwavable container or vessel, food processor, blender, iron, wasserkocher, coffee and/or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother or the like.

103. A sealing means for sealing the periphery of a component to an appliance, the sealing means having first and second opposing sealing surfaces, the first sealing surface comprising at least one radially extending circumferential fin and the second sealing surface being substantially flat and comprising at least one circumferential rib for locally increasing the sealing pressure in the region of the rib.

104. The sealing means of claim 103, wherein the second sealing surface is arranged to seal against a part of the heating vessel.

105. The sealing means of claim 103, wherein the second sealing surface is arranged to seal against the component.

106. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 105, wherein the second sealing surface is provided on an axially extending portion of the seal.

107. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 105, wherein the second sealing surface is provided on the heating vessel.

108. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 105, wherein the second sealing surface is provided on the component.

109. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 108, wherein the at least one rib is positioned towards an axial end of the sealing means.

110. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 109, wherein said at least one radially extending circumferential fin is axially aligned with said at least one circumferential rib, so as to add pressure thereto.

111. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 110, wherein said one radially extending circumferential fin extends substantially more in a radial direction than said at least one circumferential rib.

112. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 111, wherein the at least one rib is rounded in cross-section.

113. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 111, wherein the at least one rib is triangular in cross-section.

114. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 113, wherein the at least one rib is dimensioned to locally increase the tightness of the sealing means by between 6% and 12%.

115. A sealing means for sealing the periphery of a component to an appliance, the sealing means having first and second opposing sealing surfaces, and an axial end that is wider than a portion of the sealing means intermediate to the axial ends thereof.

116. The sealing means of claim 115, wherein the first sealing surface comprises at least one radially extending circumferential fin, and the at least one fin is positioned such that the axial end does not interfere with the sealing action of the at least one fin.

117. The sealing means of claim 116, wherein the at least one fin is positioned such that the axial end does not interfere with the sealing action of the at least one fin when the fin is bent away from the axial end.

118. The sealing means of any one of claims 115 to 117, wherein the axial end extends radially less than said at least one fin, such that the axial end does not have a substantial sealing action in use.

119. A sealing means for sealing the periphery of a component to an appliance, as claimed in any one of claims 103 to 114 and as claimed in any one of claims 115 to 118.

120. The sealing means of claim 119, wherein said at least one circumferential rib is provided inboard of said axial end.

121. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 120, substantially symmetrical about an axially central plane.

122. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 120, substantially asymmetrical about an axially central plane.

123. The sealing means of any one of claims 103 to 122, wherein the component comprises a cordless electrical connector.

124. A cordless electrical connector including the sealing means of claims 123.

125. The cordless electrical connector of claim 124 when dependent to any one of claims 103 to 114, having a wall against which the sealing means seals, the wall having one or more circumferential ribs and/or recesses in sealing contact with the sealing means.

126. An appliance having the cordless electrical connector of claim 124 or 125 sealed therein by said sealing means.

127. The appliance of claim 126 when dependent on any one of claims 115 to 118, wherein the wider end is not substantially compressed between the appliance and the cordless electrical connector.

128. The appliance of claim 127, wherein the wider end provides an optical coupling of the sealing means to an optical component for optical communication across the cordless electrical connector.

129. The appliance of claim 128, wherein both axial ends of the sealing means are wider than an intermediate portion thereof, to provide an optical coupling between optical components at said axial ends.

130. The appliance of claim 128, wherein the optical component is offset from the axially extending portion.

131. The appliance of any one of claims 126 to 130, wherein the appliance is a safety kettle, kettle, heated vacuum flask, cooking pot or pan, microwavable container or vessel, food processor, blender, iron, wasserkocher, coffee and/or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother, outdoor appliance or application or the like.

132. A cordless connection system for connecting an appliance to a power base, the system comprising a plug and a corresponding socket configured for providing both an electrical connection and a non-electrical connection between the power base and the appliance over substantially 360 degrees of relative rotation therebetween, the non-electrical connection being provided by a centrally located component.

133. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 132, wherein at least one of the plug and the socket includes a substantially hollow, centrally located electrical connector.

134. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 133, wherein at least one said hollow electrical connector is arranged as an earth conductor.

135. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 133 or 134, wherein the centrally located component is arranged to pass through the centrally located electrical connector.

136. A cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 132 to 135, wherein the component provides a rotary and/or driving function.

137. A cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 132 to 136, wherein the component is an actuator.

138. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 137, wherein the actuator comprises a push rod for operating an appliance control within the appliance.

139. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 138, wherein the push rod is directly or indirectly connected to a user actuator in the power base via coupling means.

140. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 136, further comprising coupling means for removably connecting the appliance and the power base together, the coupling means providing a combined electrical and rotary/driving mechanical coupling.

141. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed claim 140, wherein the coupling means comprises first and second mechanical connectors respectively on the power base and on the appliance.

142. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 141, wherein the first and second mechanical connectors comprise respectively male and female connectors.

143. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 141 or 142, wherein said coupling means includes fastening means for engaging said first and second mechanical connectors.

144. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 143, wherein said fastening means comprises at least one of a bayonet locking means, ball locking means, gear and cog locking means, friction locking means, thread locking means, electromagnetic means, permanent-magnetic means and synchronous means.

145. A cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 132 to 135, wherein the component is a fluid conduit that is in fluid communication with a reservoir of the appliance.

146. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 145, further comprising coupling means for removably connecting the appliance and the power base, wherein the fluid conduit is directly or indirectly fluidly connected to the power base by the coupling means.

147. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 146, wherein the coupling means and/or the conduits comprise valve means for preventing leakage and/or contamination of the liquid when the appliance is removed from the power base.

148. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 147, wherein the valve means is a non-return valve or a one-way valve.

149. A cordless electrical appliance comprising the connection system of any one of claims 145 to 148, wherein the appliance comprises a user actuator for operating an appliance control within the appliance.

150. A cordless electrical appliance comprising the connection system of any one of claims 145 to 148, or as claimed in claim 149, wherein the appliance comprises a user operated valve for allowing contents in the reservoir of the appliance to be dispensed.

151. A cordless electrical appliance of claim 150, when dependent on claim 149, wherein the user operated valve is operable by the user actuator.

152. A cordless electrical appliance of claim 150 or 151, arranged to dispense the contents of the reservoir into/via a flow through heater and/or heating chamber provided in the power base for rapidly heating and dispensing of the liquid.

153. A cordless electrical appliance comprising the connection system of any one of claims 145 to 149, wherein the appliance comprises a user operated valve for allowing the reservoir of the appliance to be filled via the conduit.

154. A cordless electrical appliance of claim 153, when dependent to claim 149, wherein the user operated valve is operable by the user actuator.

155. A cordless electrical appliance of claim 153 or 154, wherein the user operated valve is fluidly connected to liquid supply means via a conduit provided in the power base.

156. A cordless electrical appliance of claim 155, wherein the liquid supply means is pumped, gravity or mains fed via the conduit.

157. A cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 145 to 148, wherein the fluid conduit is a steam tube.

158. A cordless electrical appliance comprising the connection system of claim 157, wherein the steam tube is fluidly connected to an appliance control in the power base.

159. A cordless electrical appliance of claim 158, wherein the appliance control is a steam or temperature actuated control.

160. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 140 or claim 146, wherein the hollow electrical conductor and coupling means are substantially coaxial.

161. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 133 or any one of claims 134 to 160 when dependent on claim 133, wherein the plug connector has at least one separate component provided between the hollow electrical conductor and the additional component.

162. A cordless electrical connection system of claim 161, wherein the at least one separate component is one or a combination of the following: an electrical or thermal insulator, sealing means, centraliser, guide, bearing or lubrication means.

163. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in any one of claims 132 to 148, 157 or 160 to 162, further comprising a communication link provided between the appliance and the power base.

164. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 163, wherein the communication link is provided via said hollow electrical conductor.

165. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 163 or 164, wherein said communication link is an optical link.

166. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 165, wherein the optical link is provided via the coupling means.

167. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in claim 163 or 164, wherein said communication link is a wireless communication link.

168. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in any one of claims 163 to 167, wherein the communication link is a unidirectional link.

169. A cordless electrical connection system as claimed in any one of claims 163 to 167, wherein the communication link is a bidirectional link.

170. A cordless electrical appliance comprising the cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 132 to 148, 157, 160 to 169, or as claimed in any one of claims 149 to 156, wherein the appliance comprises an appliance proper and a power base.

171. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 170, wherein the power base includes drive means to rotate or drive a mechanical coupling means of the cordless electrical connection system.

172. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 171, wherein the drive means is reciprocally driveable.

173. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 171 or 172, wherein the drive means comprises an electric motor having a drive shaft forming, or connected directly to, the mechanical coupling means of claim 171 or 172.

174. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 173, further comprising sealing means provided between the drive shaft and the appliance.

175. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 173 or 174, wherein the drive shaft is coaxial with the mechanical coupling means.

176. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in any one of claims 171 to 175, wherein fastening means of the cordless electrical connection system are arranged to engage when driven by said drive means.

177. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 176, wherein said fastening means are arranged to engage when driven in a normal drive direction and to disengage when driven in an opposite direction.

178. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in any one of claims 170 to 177, wherein the mechanical coupling means are provided radially inwardly of the electrical connector of the cordless electrical connection system.

179. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 178, wherein the mechanical coupling means comprises a rotary shaft located or locatable within a hollow earth conductor of the electrical plug.

180. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 179 when dependent on claim 171, wherein the rotary shaft comprises the drive shaft of the electric motor.

181. A cordless electrical appliance of any one of claims 170 to 180, wherein the appliance proper is removable from the base so that the appliance proper can be filled or emptied.

182. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in any one of claims 170 to 181 , wherein said appliance provides one or more operations, driven by at least one rotary/driving mechanical coupling.

183. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 182, wherein rotation of the rotary/driving mechanical coupling is converted to a non-rotational operation in the appliance.

184. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in claim 182 or 183, wherein the operation comprises one or more of: agitating, blending, plunging, kneading, pumping, stirring, frothing, whisking, slicing and/or grating.

185. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in any one of claims 182 to 184, wherein the rotational operation is provided by at least one removably secured tool or attachment.

186. A cordless electrical appliance as claimed in any one of claims 170 to 185, wherein said appliance includes an electrical heating function, powered through the electrical connection.

187. The power base of any one of claims 170 to 186.

188. The appliance proper of any one of claims 170 to 186.

189. A liquid heating vessel comprising a cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 132 to 148, 157, or 160 to 169.

190. A liquid heating vessel of claim 189, wherein the liquid heating vessel is a kettle, safety kettle, heated vacuum flask, cooking pot or pan, wasserkocher, food processor, blender, coffee and/or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, milk frother, cafetiere, cable reel, hinge arrangement, heated or cooled water dispenser, water cooler, hot water on demand appliance, vacuum pot, refrigerator, slot in appliance or the like.

191. A cordless electrical socket having a cover for concealing internal components of the socket, the cover having at least one aperture for receiving at least one respective electrical pin of a corresponding plug, wherein at least one said aperture has a respective single resilient flap for closing the aperture when the pin is absent.

192. The cordless electrical socket of claim 191, wherein the flap or flaps are unitary with the cover.

193. The cordless electrical socket of claim 191, wherein the flap or flaps are formed as separate components from the cover.

194. The cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 193, wherein the flap or flaps each have at least one side connected to the cover assembly and another at least one side free from the cover.

195. The cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 194, wherein at least one said aperture is substantially square or rectangular, and the respective flap is connected to only one side of the aperture.

196. The cordless electrical socket of claim 194 or 195, wherein the flap or flaps are substantially thicker at said connected side than at said free side.

197. The cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 196, wherein the flap or flaps are larger than said corresponding apertures.

198. The cordless electrical socket of claim 197, wherein the flap or flaps are positioned directly behind said corresponding apertures.

199. The cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 198, further comprising a base having at least mounting point for securing at least one an electrical contact thereto, wherein said cover is disposed between the base and a cover moulding.

200. The cordless electrical socket of claim 199, including means for maintaining the cover in tension.

201. The cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 200, including an electrical connector comprising at least two arms, mutually biased together, for receiving a pin of the corresponding plug therebetween.

202. The electrical socket of claim 201, wherein the electrical connector comprises an earth connector.

203. The cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 201, having an earth, live and neutral connectors positioned behind respective said apertures, wherein the earth connector is positioned closer to its respective said aperture than are the live and neutral connectors.

204. A cordless electrical connection apparatus comprising the cordless electrical socket of any one of claims 191 to 203 and said corresponding plug.

205. A cordless electrical appliance including the cordless electrical connection apparatus of claim 204.

206. The cordless electrical appliance of claim 205, wherein the appliance is a safety kettle, kettle, heated vacuum flask, food processor, blender, iron, wasserkocher, coffee and/or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother, slot in appliance or the like.

207. Apparatus comprising the spill inhibiting system of any one of claims 1 to 35 and/or vessel of any one of claims 36 to 39, 47 to 52, 64, 68 or 69 and/or the kit of parts of claim 40 and/or the lid of claim 41; and/or the spout assembly of claim 42 and/or the steam chamber of any one of claims 43 to 46 and/or the sealing means of any one of claims 53 to 64 or 103 to 123 and/or the heating element plate of any one of claims 64 or 65 to 67 and/or the cordless electrical connector of any one of claims 70 to 88, 124 or 125 and/or the thermal control of claim 89 and/or the appliance of any one of claims 90,

91, 102, 126 to 131 or 188 and/or the cordless connection system of 132 and/or the cordless electrical connection system of any one of claims 133 to 148, 157 or 160 to 169 and/or the cordless electrical appliance of any one of claim 149 to 156, 158, 159, 170 to 186, 205 or 206 and/or the power base of claim 187 and/or the liquid heating vessel of claim 189 or 190 and/or the cordless electrical socket of claims 191 to 203 and/or the cordless electrical connection apparatus of claim 204.

208. The apparatus of claim 207, wherein the appliance is a safety kettle, kettle or heated vacuum flask, cooking pot or pan, microwavable container or vessel, food processor, blender, iron, wasserkocher, coffee and/or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother, heated or cooled water dispenser, hot water on demand appliance, cable reel, hinge arrangement, refrigerator, water cooler, heated or cooled water dispenser, outdoor appliance or application, slot in appliance or the like.