Classifications

• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
  • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
  • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
  • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
  • H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
  • H01R13/521—Sealing between contact members and housing, e.g. sealing insert
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
  • A47J27/00—Cooking-vessels
  • A47J27/21—Water-boiling vessels, e.g. kettles
  • A47J27/21008—Water-boiling vessels, e.g. kettles electrically heated
  • A47J27/2105—Water-boiling vessels, e.g. kettles electrically heated of the cordless type, i.e. whereby the water vessel can be plugged into an electrically-powered base element
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
  • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
  • A47J27/00—Cooking-vessels
  • A47J27/21—Water-boiling vessels, e.g. kettles
  • A47J27/21008—Water-boiling vessels, e.g. kettles electrically heated
  • A47J27/21041—Water-boiling vessels, e.g. kettles electrically heated with heating elements arranged outside the water vessel
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
  • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
  • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
  • H01R13/73—Means for mounting coupling parts to apparatus or structures, e.g. to a wall
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
  • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
  • H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
  • H01R43/20—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for assembling or disassembling contact members with insulating base, case or sleeve
  • H01R43/24—Assembling by moulding on contact members

Definitions

• the present invention relates to electrical appliances and components therefor, and particularly, although not exclusively, to cordless domestic appliances.
• the appliance proper includes a cordless plug connector that is operable to cooperate with a corresponding cordless socket connector on a power base.
• a cordless plug connector operable to cooperate with a corresponding cordless socket connector on a power base.
• power may be supplied to the appliance proper.
• Such arrangements allow a power base to be connected to a domestic power supply (such as by a plug), whilst further allowing the appliance proper to be removed from the base for various operations, such as dispensing heated liquid from a cordless liquid heating appliance.
• the above types of cordless electrical connectors have also found use on other domestic appliances, such as food processors, blenders and the like. This arrangement provides an advantage that the processed/blended food can be more easily dispensed by a user.
• 360° cordless connectors as described for example in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-94/06185, allow the appliance proper to be rotated freely relative to the power base, so that the appliance proper may be positioned on the power base with any azimuthal orientation.
• appliances such as food processors, blenders and, to a lesser extent kettle jugs, need regular cleaning.
• cordless appliances for containing food or liquids other than water, for example milk frothers may require cleaning after each use. Such a task is time consuming and may be difficult to perform manually.
• One method to reduce the costs of an appliance is to optimise the material usage of the cordless plug connector, whilst still maintaining the connector's ability to be waterproof such that the appliance may be washed in a dishwasher or by immersion in water.
• cordless plug connector should encompass the need to provide ancillary conductors and signalling means, for example, for appliances in which the user controls are in the power base.
• a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising a main body having a plurality of electrical conductor assemblies, at least one of which comprises at least:
• a proximal end for electrical connection to a socket conductor of a corresponding socket connector
• At least one seal assembly is provided to seal over and/or around a sealing area of said intermediate portion, and the main body is moulded partially or fully over and/or around at least the intermediate portion.
• the main body may be moulded partially or fully over and/or around at least said one or more seal assembly.
• at least said one or more seal assembly may be moulded partially or fully against, over and/or around the main body.
• a method of assembling a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising the following steps: a) providing a plurality of electrical conductor assemblies, at least one of which comprises a proximal end for electrical connection to a socket conductor of a corresponding socket connector, a distal end for electrical connection to an electrical component of the cordless electrical appliance and an intermediate portion disposed therebetween;
• a method of assembling a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising the following steps:
• the at least one seal assembly and the main body may be provided as part of a multiple stage moulding process.
• the multiple stage moulding process may be a two-stage moulding process.
• the at least one seal assembly and the main body may be provided as part of a single stage moulding process, such as a twin- shot moulding process.
• Embodiments of the invention cover a series of disclosures which include:
• Figure 1 is a schematic cross-section of a cordless liquid heating appliance in an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 2a illustrates an isometric view of the applicant's current CP8TM washproof plug connector from the top.
• Figure 2b illustrates an isometric view of the applicant's current CP8TM washproof plug connector from the bottom.
• Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of a reduced size washproof cordless plug connector according to an embodiment of the present invention from above.
• Figure 4 illustrates an isometric view of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector of Figure 3 from below.
• Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of conductor assemblies.
• Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of the conductor assemblies assembled in position and a seal.
• Figure 7 illustrates a detailed view of the seal of Figure 6.
• Figure 8 illustrates a cross section along line A - A of the seal of Figure 7.
• Figure 9a illustrates an isometric view of the seal secured to the conductor assemblies.
• Figure 9b illustrates a detailed view of the tab terminals on the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector.
• Figure 9c illustrates a detailed view of an alternative arrangement to that of Figure 9b.
• Figure 10 illustrates an exploded view of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector of Figure 3 with a resilient seal and the applicant's CS8TM cordless socket connector.
• Figure 11 illustrates a schematic cross section of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector of Figure 10 secured and sealed within the appliance.
• Figure 12 illustrates a plan view of the seal secured to the conductor assemblies.
• Figure 13a illustrates a second variant of the seal of Figure 7.
• Figure 13b illustrates a third variant of the seal of Figure 7.
• Figure 13c illustrates a double sealing arrangement in an alternative embodiment.
• Figure 13d illustrates a cross section along line A - A of the double sealing arrangement of Figure 13c.
• Figure 13e illustrates a variant of the double sealing arrangement of Figure 13d.
• Figure 14 illustrates an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector to that of Figure 3.
• Figure 15 illustrates a cross section along line B - B of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector of Figure 14.
• Figure 16 illustrates an isometric view of a variant of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector of Figures 14 and 15.
• Figure 17 is a plan of the conductors and seal according to a further embodiment to that of Figure 3.
• Figure 18 is a plan of a sub assembly of conductors and the seal prior to a second over-moulding process according to the embodiment of Figure 17.
• Figure 19 is an isometric view of the assembled reduced size washproof cordless plug connector according to the embodiment of Figure 17.
• Figure 20 illustrates a plan view of an alternative arrangement of the conductor assemblies.
• Figure 21a illustrates an exploded isometric view of a further embodiment of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector and the seal.
• Figure 21b illustrates an assembled isometric view the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector and the seal of Figure 21a.
• Figure 22 illustrates a schematic cross section of another embodiment of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector secured and sealed within the appliance.
• Figures 23a and 23b illustrates exploded and assembled isometric views of a neutral conductor assembly.
• Figure 23c illustrates a schematic cross section of the plug connector with the neutral conductor assembly of Figures 23a and 23b.
• Figures 24a and 24b illustrates exploded and assembled isometric views of an embodiment of the neutral conductor assembly.
• Figure 24c illustrates a schematic cross section of the plug connector with the neutral conductor assembly of Figures 24a and 24b.
• Figure 25a is a schematic cross sectional view of a mould assembly with live, neutral and earth conductors.
• Figure 25b is detailed view through the mould assembly of Figure 25a, illustrating the earth and neutral ring conductors in-situ.
• Figure 26a is a schematic cross sectional view of the plug connector assembled with the mould assembly of Figure 25a.
• Figure 26b is a detailed view through a section of the earth and neutral ring
• Figure 27a is a schematic cross sectional view of a variant of the mould assembly with live, neutral and earth conductors
• Figure 27b is detailed view through the mould assembly of Figure 27a, illustrating the earth and neutral ring conductors in-situ.
• Figure 28a is a schematic cross sectional view of the plug connector assembled with the mould assembly of Figure 27a.
• Figure 28b is a detailed view through a section of the earth and neutral ring
• Figure 29a is a schematic cross sectional view of a first variant of the plug connector.
• Figure 29b is a detailed view through a section of the earth ring conductor of Figure
• Figure 30 illustrates a second variant of the plug connector, whereby the annular support for supporting the earth ring conductor forms part of the main body of the plug connector.
• the invention may be described as 'reduced size' which covers the potential to reduce, for example, material usage in comparison to prior art design and/or assembly methods.
• the term 'reduced size' is not intended to be limiting.
• 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.
• 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.
• the electrical power supply lead into the base 2 or appliance 1 may be described by the term cord (13) and the term cable (336). It is intended that each term has a similar or equivalent meaning.
• kettle, safety kettle, appliance, vessel and reservoir may have equivalent meaning.
• waterproof cordless connector and/or waterproof component mean that the cordless connector and/or component in its own right is waterproof or has waterproof properties, i.e. preventing the ingress or passing of water through the cordless connector and/or component.
• waterproof appliance or washable appliance means that the appliance contains at least said waterproof cordless connector sealed and/or secured to a sub base or to a component of the appliance to form a substantially waterproof or water tight compartment or enclosure for housing electrical components so that the appliance becomes waterproof or washable. Therefore, the compartment or enclosure does not require to be additionally filled and/or partially filled with a sealant or filler material to enable the appliance to become waterproof or washable. Furthermore, the individual electrical components do not required to be additionally waterproofed within the compartment or enclosure.
• dry side means the side in which the waterproof connector is not exposed to water when the appliance is washed or submersed in water and/or the side in which is electrical connection is made between the waterproof connector and internal components of the appliance.
• wet side means the side in which the waterproof connector is exposed to water when the appliance is washed or submersed in water and/or the side in which is electrical connection is made between the waterproof connector and the socket connector of the power base.
• waterproof cordless connector and/or waterproof component means liquids cannot pass from the wet side of the waterproof cordless connector and/or waterproof component to the dry side of the waterproof cordless connector and/or waterproof component.
• FIG. 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.
• 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 WO- A 1-94/06185 and/or as sold by Otter Controls Ltd under, for example, the CS4/CS7TM Series (power base socket) and the AlTM, CP7TM or CP8TM (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 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 WO- A 1-94/06185 and/or as sold by Otter Controls
• I and/or base 2 and/or cordless plug connector 3 and/or cordless socket 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.
• 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.
• an electronic control 15 may employ an alternative user interface 11. Either or both of the electronic control 15 and/or user interface
• I I may be situated in one or both of the vessel 1 and/or base 2.
• the vessel body 1 comprises a reservoir 5 for containing liquid to be heated, lid 8, spout 7, handle 9 and a base section or compartment 6 having a sub-base portion 19, which forms the bottom surface of the vessel body 1.
• the spout 7 may provide primary venting and/or pressure equalisation.
• the spout 7 may further include a spout filter 740 having a screen mesh 659.
• the vessel body 1 may be further provided with a baffle 730 located behind the spout 7, as described in the applicant's own patent publication GB-A-2484571, for reducing or inhibiting water from being ejected or spitting out of the spout during the heating process.
• the plug connector 3 may be a waterproof or washproof plug connector 3 sealed into the appliance 1 directly and/or indirectly via the sub base 19 with seals 21, and so provide a sealed area and/or compartment 6 within the appliance 1 in which electrical components, for example heating elements, mechanical or electronic controls, NTC, stirrer, mixer, blender, sensor, RCD, motor, chargeable or non-chargeable power supply, lift-off switch-off mechanism, wiring harnesses etc, may be housed, thus allowing the appliance to be washed in a dishwasher or cleaned by immersion in water, as described in the applicant' s own patent publication WO- A 1-2008/012506.
• electrical components for example heating elements, mechanical or electronic controls, NTC, stirrer, mixer, blender, sensor, RCD, motor, chargeable or non-chargeable power supply, lift-off switch-off mechanism, wiring harnesses etc.
• 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 8 may be securably sealed to the vessel so that the lid 8 remains in place and does not leak liquid in the case that the appliance is tipped over.
• the lid 8 may further include a spill inhibiting means 149, as described in the applicant's own patent publication WO-A2-2011/101642 to reduce or eliminate spillage if the appliance is accidentally tipped or knocked over.
• 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 73 a.
• 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.
• the 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 plug connector 3.
• the heating means may comprise a sheathed element 39 as illustrated or may comprise a thick film element, induction element and/or diecast element arrangement.
• 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.
• the element plate 12 may be supported in the vessel 1 by a removable annular support 401.
• the element sealing system may also include an intermediate flange 438 between the element plate 12 and the vessel 1.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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, food processors, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, slow cookers, vacuum pots, milk frothers, water coolers, water dispensers, pans, vending machine, and/or hot water on demand appliances. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.
• cordless electrical washproof appliances for example, blenders, mixers and frothers
• the appliance proper is able to be washed in a dishwasher or immersed in water after use.
• the appliance proper 1 includes a cordless plug connector 3 and the cordless power base 2 includes a cooperating cordless socket 4 for providing power to the appliance 1.
• the cordless power base 2 includes a cooperating cordless socket 4 for providing power to the appliance 1.
• the applicant's CP8TM washproof electrical plug connector as disclosed in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2008/012506, provides a workable solution to the problem of sealing conductors into the cordless plug connector 3.
• the applicant's patent publications provide solutions for sealing the plug connector 3 into the appliance 1, for example as disclosed in WO- A 1-2008/012506 and so provide a sealed area and/or compartment within the appliance in which electrical components for example heating elements, mechanical or electronic controls, wiring harnesses etc may be housed.
• Figures 2a and 2b illustrate the applicant's current production version of CP8TM series washproof plug connectors 3, whereby the electrical connections 507L, 507N, 507E (on the dry side of the cordless plug connector 3) are each provided with cavities 526 that are defined by the walls 522.
• the electrical connections 507L, 507N 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 plug connector 3.
• the earth tab terminal 507E is provided on the distal end of earth terminal 127, which is connected directly to the top of the central earth pin 525 and passes through the bottom of the cavity 526 into the wet side of the plug connector 3.
• 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.
• a sealing means 523 for example silicone
• the electrical connections 507L, 507N are electrically connected to spring connectors 965L, 965N, whilst the earth tab terminal 507E is electrically connected to the central earth pin 525, such that the CP8TM series is designed to interface with the applicant's cooperating CS7TM cordless sockets (not shown).
• the spring connectors 965L, 965N are housed within an annular housing 255, which is designed to reside within an annular aperture of the applicant's cooperating CS7TM cordless sockets (not shown). At least one drainage channel 346 may be provided in the annular housing 255 to allow water to drain from the annular housing 255, for example, after the appliance proper has been washed in a dishwasher or immersed in water after use.
• the arrangement of the CP8TM series also provides sufficient creepage between the conductors 507L, 507N, 507E on both the dry side and the wet side so as to prevent electrical arcing or tracking between the conductors. This is particularly important on the dry side, in the case that small amounts of conductive liquid have leaked into the sealed compartment 6. To achieve this, the conductors are spaced apart by a sufficient distance and the materials for the sealant and plastic moulding have a suitable Comparative Tracking Index (CTI).
• CTI Comparative Tracking Index
• the prior art washproof plug connector 3 functions admirably to prevent water entering the appliance through the plug connector 3, however the assembly methods, for example the application of the sealant, are difficult to automate and, in the case of liquid sealant, time is required for the sealant to cure. Furthermore, the sealant fills the cavity under gravity, in which case sufficient space is required around each conductor for the sealant to flow, which in turn increases the width and height of the cavity and impacts both on the amount of sealant used and the height and size of the plug connector 3.
• the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2008/012506, discloses further methods for sealing the conductors into the connector moulding 22 including insert moulding.
• engineering plastics for example with suitable mechanical strength and electrical insulation properties, may not provide a capable sealing interface with the electrical conductors so that water may seep through the plug connector 3 along the mating surface between the conductors and the main moulding 22.
• the different coefficients of expansion between the plastic and conductor may subject the mating sealing faces to movement and compromise the seal, for example when subjected to cooling following the moulding process and/or high temperatures and aggressive detergents, as experienced in a dishwasher.
• the increase and decrease of ambient pressure within the sealed compartment may gradually compromise any weak point along the conductor.
• the following description discloses embodiments of a reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3a that provide improvements over the prior art washproof plug connector 3, in which the plug connector 3a is assembled in at least two stages.
• the first stage comprises applying the seal and/or sealant substantially onto and/or around the conductors and the second stage comprises over-moulding the main moulding 22 substantially over and/or around the conductors and the seal and/or sealant.
• the proposed assembly/manufacturing process may be more readily automated, particularly if the sealant does not require a curing time after assembly.
• the following embodiments may include features as described or disclosed with reference to the applicant's patent publications WO-A 1-2008/012506 and CN-U-202695826. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features.
• Figure 3 is an isometric view of first embodiment of the reduced sized washproof cordless plug connector 3a from above.
• Figure 4 is an isometric view of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3a of Figure 3 from below.
• Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E
• Figure 6 illustrates the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E assembled in position prior to a seal assembly 385 being attached thereto.
• the reduced material washproof cordless plug connector 3a may include bosses 282 or other features, such as snap-fittings, click-fits or rivets to allow the reduced material washproof cordless plug connector 3a to be secured to a sub base.
• the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3a is illustrated as a 360° cordless plug connector 3a to interface with the applicant's CS8TM cordless socket connector 4, as described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2013/093526.
• teachings of this application are equally applicable to other arrangements including 360° and non 360° cordless plugs 3 suitable to cooperate with any proprietary cordless socket connector.
• the cordless plug connector 3a includes three conductors 530L, 534N, 534E, however the teachings are equally applicable to cordless plug connectors with more than or fewer than three conductors as may be required to carry power and/or signals between the appliance 1 and the cordless power base 2.
• the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3 a comprises a main moulding 22 and a plurality of electrical conductor assemblies, for example, 394L, 394N, 394E.
• Each of the electrical conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E may further include:
• a proximal end for electrical connection to a mating socket connector 4, for example, a central conductor 530 and/or annular ring conductor 534; b. distal end for electrical connection to an appliance component, for example, tab terminals 507L, 507N, 507E;
• the central live conductor assembly 394L includes a central pin 530L, and the neutral and earth conductor assemblies 394N, and 394E comprise annular ring conductors 534N and 534E respectively.
• the central pin 530L and the annular ring conductors 534N, 534E are substantially exposed and/or not housed within a housing. Therefore, when the appliance proper has been washed in a dishwasher or immersed in water after use, water will not be collected in any cavity of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3a, thus a drainage channel is not required.
• the intermediate portion 539 may be a lateral part (as shown in Figures 5 and 6) that may act to position and assist in securing the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E within the main moulding 22 during assembly.
• Other connection means 507 including rivets, planished portions or crimps may be provided on the distal ends of the conductor assemblies 394.
• each of the proximal, intermediate and distal portions of the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E may be fixed and/or rigid.
• at least one portion of the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E may be resilient and, for example, may form a movable spring contact which may form part of an electrical switch.
• the cordless plug connector 3a may be provided with a combination of fixed and movable spring contacts.
• the socket connector on the power base may be provided with a combination of fixed and movable spring contacts, fixed spring contacts and/or movable spring contacts to mutually cooperate with the cordless plug connector 3a.
• the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E may be stamped, folded and formed from a flat and/or strip material such as brass and/or copper alloy and may be plated and/or provided with low resistivity material such as silver, as described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2013/093526.
• each of the conductors 394 can be assembled from discrete parts, for example, as illustrated the pin 530L may be mechanically connected to the intermediate portion 539L.
• the main moulding 22 comprises an aperture 393 for housing the three fixed conductors 534E, 534N and 530L for interfacing with, for example, the applicant's CS8TM cordless socket connector 4, as described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2013/093526.
• Figure 7 illustrates a detailed isometric view of the seal assembly 385 of Figure 6, and Figure 8 illustrates a cross section of a discrete seal portion 386 in position with the conductor 394.
• Figure 9a illustrates an isometric view of the reduced size plug connector 3a including the seal 385 prior to the over- moulding of the main mould 22 and Figures 9b and 9c illustrate variants of the assembly after the over-moulding process.
• the seal assembly 385 may comprise a series of discrete seals 386 that be may be further provided with interconnecting ribs 387.
• the interconnecting ribs 387 may assist in securing the seals 386 and/or conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E during or prior to assembly and/or assist with the flow of sealing material during the moulding process.
• the ribs 387 may be removed prior to the over-moulding stage of the assembly.
• the seal assembly 385 may be moulded directly substantially onto and/or around the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E, for example, in an injection moulding process.
• the seal assembly 385 may be pre-formed and positioned over and/or around the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• the seal material is elastic and/or resilient and the aperture(s) 414 in the preformed seal assembly 385 may be smaller than the cross-section of the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E so that the seal 385 may be stretched over the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• the effect of the undersized pre-formed seal 385 stretched around the conductor may provide an additional compression force to enhance the sealing means.
• the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E are arranged concentrically and may be held in position by a jig (not shown) during the assembly/moulding process to allow the seal 385 to be moulded and/or positioned around, for example, the sealing area 390 of each conductor assembly 394L, 394N, 394E.
• the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E may be provided with an aperture 414 or recess 389 in the sealing area 390 such that the seal 385 can be positively secured and/or anchored to the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E during the assembly and/or moulding process.
• the seal 385 may include cooperating retention features to further secure the seal 385 to the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• the aperture 414 of the conductor 394 may be filled with the sealant 385 during the moulding process to form anchoring means 391 to allow the seal 385 to be positively secured and/or anchored to the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• the sealing area 390 may be provided with a textured, roughened and/or etched surface (not shown) to further improve the adhesion and or sealing means between the seal 385 and the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E. It is also preferred that any sharp edges formed during the stamping of the conductor assembly 394L, 394N, 394E are removed by a secondary operation.
• the periphery of the seal 385 may be provided with a profile 388 to allow the seal 385 to be positively secured and/or anchored to the main moulding 22 during the over- moulding process.
• the profile 388 may be omitted.
• the seal 385 may be made from an elastomeric material or from a resilient polymeric material, such as a polymer, polyamide, copolyamide and/or copolymer etc.
• the main moulding 22 may be made from a rigid and/or engineered plastic material such as reinforced plastics, polybutylene terephthalate, reinforced polybutylene terephthalate, polyphenylene sulphide, reinforced nylon and/or polypropylene etc, and so act as a mechanical support for the assembly.
• the properties of the seal allow the seal 385 to function as a primary seal between the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E and the main mould 22, and may also provide resilience and/or flexibility therebetween.
• moulding the main mould 22 directly onto a conductor 394 may cause problems when the main mould 22 shrinks as it cools, however it can be envisaged that the shrinkage of the main moulding 22 may further compress/clamp the seal 385 between the main mould 22 and conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E and so improve the sealing means.
• the seal 385 may be made from a material that is similar to, a variant of and/or based on the material used for the main moulding 22, such that when the main mould 22 is moulded partially or fully over and/or around the seal 385, the similarity between the material of the seal 385 and the main moulding 22 may create fused area, bond and/or adhesion between the main moulding 22 and the seal 385. This ensures a fluid tight seal.
• the seal 385 may be based on and/or derived from a polybutylene terephthalate material.
• the combination of similar materials between the seal 385 and the main moulding 22 and the shrinkage of the main mould 22 as it cools creates both mechanical, physical and/or chemical adhesion for improving sealing and/or waterproofing performance and/or reliability of the plug connector 3 a.
• the over-moulding of the main mould 22 may completely cover the seal 385 on the dry side of the plug connector 3a.
• the shut off point of the mould 22 may finish level with or short of the end face of the seal 386 so that at least the end of the seal 386 may be exposed, which may further allow for flexing due to, for example, the differential expansion between the seal 385 and the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E and/or the seal 385 and the main moulding 22.
• a separate sleeve, cover, plug and/or cap may be applied over the seal 386.
• a coating may be applied over the seal 386.
• the combination of the seal 385 and the over- moulding 22 provides a discrete sealing portion 386 around each conductor assembly 394L, 394N, 394E, so that each conductor assembly 394L, 394N, 394E is at least partially embedded within the sealing portion 386, and the sealing portion 386 is at least partially embedded within the main moulding 22, so preventing liquid travelling from the wet side of the plug connector 3 a along the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E and through the main moulding 22 into the dry side of the appliance 1.
• Figure 10 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the reduced size plug connector 3a with a resilient seal 21 for sealing the plug connector 3a into, for example, the sub base of the appliance 1.
• the resilient seal 21 has two sealing surfaces, as described in the applicant's patent publications WO-A 1-2008/012506 and CN-U-202695826.
• Figure 11 illustrates a schematic cross section of the plug connector 3a installed/sealed within the sub base 19, in which the first sealing surface may comprise at least one radially outwardly extending circumferential fin 23 located between upper/lower ends 28 of the resilient seal 21, which may deform to take the shape of the sealing face of the sub base.
• the second sealing surface may comprise at least one radially inward extending circumferential rib 27 for sealing against the sealing face of the cordless plug connector 3a and so maintaining a waterproof electrical connector means for the compartment 6 formed, for example, by the sub base 19.
• Figure 10 also illustrates the applicant's CS8TM cordless socket connector 4, as described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2013/093526, for interfacing with the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3a. It is not intended to further describe the features of the applicant's CS8TM cordless socket connector 4.
• Figure 12 illustrates a plan view of the seal 385 secured onto and/or around the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• a minimal Distance A may be required between adjacent terminals 507L, 507N, 507E to provide suitable electrical clearances.
• the conductor assembly 394L, 394N, 394E may be substantially narrower at the sealing area 390, which may increase the creepage distance between the sealed conductors to make provisions against small of amounts of conductive liquids that may have leaked into the sealed compartment 6.
• Suitable clearances and creepage distance are chosen according to CTI of the materials and the voltage, current and/or power rating of the application.
• the interconnecting portions 387 may be removed, however this may be considered wasteful of the expensive sealant material.
• the seal 385a may comprise a series of discrete sealing portions 386 for the individual sealing areas 390 of the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• the discrete seals 386 may be provided as pre- moulded components and then assembled onto the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E or moulded directly onto or over the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E as previously described.
• the gap between the adjacent seals 386 may be filled by the material of the main mould 22.
• this minimises the risk of water passing/seeping between the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E within the main mould 22.
• Figure 13b illustrates a third variant of the seal 385, whereby the seal 385b is a single elongated seal which may simplify the mould tooling and subsequent moulding process.
• Figure 13c illustrates a double sealing arrangement 385c, whereby at least two seals, for example, a primary seal 385i and a secondary seal 385H, may be provided in tandem to provide greater redundancy or factor of safety should the integrity of the primary seal 385i fail.
• Figure 13d illustrates a cross section through the double sealing arrangement 385c in which a gap may be provided between the adjacent seals 385, which will be filled during the second stage over- moulding process to support the seals 385i and 385H in use.
• Figure 13e illustrates a variant of the double sealing arrangement 385d, whereby the seals 385e may have a reduced width to provide additional material saving, whilst still able to offer the greater redundancy or factor of safety of the double sealing arrangement 385c of Figure 13d.
• Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3b, whereby the main moulding 22 may be provided with at least one housing 32 for receiving an optical transmitter 31 such as an LED for transmitting data from the appliance to an optical receiver on the cordless socket connector of the cordless power base (not shown) to provide a one-way communication link, which will be described in more detail below.
• an optical transmitter 31 such as an LED for transmitting data from the appliance to an optical receiver on the cordless socket connector of the cordless power base (not shown) to provide a one-way communication link, which will be described in more detail below.
• Figure 15 illustrates a section through line B- B of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3b of Figure 14, whereby signals from the optical transmitter 31 are transmitted to the optical receiver on the cordless socket connector of the cordless power base (not shown) via the optically transmissive seal 21 as described in the applicant's patent publications WO-A2-2011/101642 and CN-U-202695826, and solutions for providing signalling from the appliance proper 1 to the cordless power base 2, for example as disclosed in WO-A2-2011/101642
• Figure 16 illustrates a variant of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3c of Figures 14 and 15, whereby the main moulding 22 may be provided with at least one housing 32 for receiving said optical transmitter 31 and at least one further housing 32a for receiving an optical receiver, such that signals may be transmitted between the appliance and the cordless socket connector on the cordless power base (not shown) to provide a two-way communication link.
• the optical receiver may be directly housed and/or mounted to the cordless power base.
• FIGS 17 to 19 illustrate a further embodiment of the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector 3d, whereby lateral conductors 539N, 539L, 539E may be stamped and/or cropped from a continuous strip of material 391, whereby the lateral conductors are supported by a carrier 392.
• the lateral conductors 539N, 539L, 539E may be provided with location apertures 414a to enable conductor rings 534N, 534E and/or pin 530L (shown in dotted lines) to be secured thereto either prior to or after the assembly process or moulding stages.
• the sealant 385 may be substantially applied onto and/or around the sealing area 390 of the lateral conductors 539N, 539L, 539E.
• the second stage over- moulding process may then proceed and so form the connector moulding 22 around the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E and the sealant 385.
• the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector may further comprise at least an appliance control a steam control or a thermal control.
• the appliance control, steam control or thermal control may be integrated with the reduced size washproof cordless plug connector.
• the terminals 507 of the conductor assemblies 394 radiate outwardly and substantially terminate in a parallel formation so that the discrete sealing means 396 may be arranged substantially side-by-side or linearly.
• at least one of the conductor assemblies 394 may radiate at an angle, for example substantially 180°, from at least one other conductor 394.
• each of the conductors may radiate at different angles to suit specific application requirements.
• at least one of the connections 507 may be angled, for example upwards, to suit specific application requirements.
• a single conductor wire may be attached, by for example welding, to at least one connector/terminal 507 prior to the over moulding stage.
• the connector/terminal 507 and at least part of the wire may then be over-moulded.
• the over- moulding may be part of an over-moulded seal and/or main moulding 22, or may be a discrete portion over-moulded in a separate process.
• a sheath or heat shrinkable sleeve may be applied over the connector/terminal 507 and at least part of the wire.
• the description so far has disclosed a multi-stage assembly, in which the first stage is applying the sealant 385 substantially onto and/or around the conductor assemblies 394 and the second stage over-moulding the main moulding 22 substantially over and/or around the conductor assemblies 394 and the sealant 385, it can be envisaged that in further embodiments the main moulding 22 may be applied first and the sealant 385 may be applied in the second stage.
• Figures 21a and 21b illustrate an embodiment, in which the main moulding 22 is applied over the conductor assemblies 394 at the first stage and the seal 385 is then moulded as the second stage.
• the main mould 22 may include features 388 to act as retention features for an over-moulded seal 385.
• the main moulding 22 may include an aperture 395 which may be partially or fully filled by the sealant 385 during the second moulding process.
• the sealing area 390 may be provided with aperture 414, recess 389 and/or textured, roughened and/or etched surface 395 to allow the seal 385 to be secured, anchored and/or adhered to the sealing area 390 of the conductor assemblies 394.
• Each of the seals may be moulded and/or provided as preformed components, so that for example, the secondary seal may be pre-formed cover, cap or plug and secured to and/or over at least the main moulding and a portion of the conductor assemblies.
• At least one seal 385 may be applied within and between the conductors 530 and 534 as illustrated in Figure 22.
• both the seal assembly 385 and the main moulding 22 may be applied in a single stage process, for example, in a twin shot moulding process.
• FIGs 23a and 23b illustrate exploded and assembled isometric views of the neutral conductor assembly 394N.
• the neutral conductor assembly 394N may be, for example, manufactured from two discrete parts: the ring conductor 534E and the tab terminal 507N.
• the ring conductor 534E may be provided with a planished portion 518 to allow the tab terminal 507N to be mechanically and/or electrically connected thereto, by for example welding etc.
• the sealing area 390 for the seal 386 (not shown) may be provided on the tab terminal 507N.
• Figure 23c illustrates a schematic cross section of the plug connector 3g with the neutral conductor assembly 394N of Figures 23a and 23b.
• the seal 386 on the neutral conductor assembly 394N may be sealed around the sealing area 390 of the tab terminal 507N, i.e. on the 'dry side' where the planished portion 518 is connected to its corresponding tab terminal 507N.
• the main moulding 22 may be moulded partially or fully over and/or around each conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E. Under certain conditions, for example, deviation in the moulding process, it can be envisaged that minute gaps may be formed between the main moulding 22 and the neutral conductor assembly 394N.
• liquids may be forced to propagate through the gaps until the flow of liquids may be terminated by the seal 386. It can be envisaged that the liquid present between the mating interface of planished portion 518 and tab terminal 507N cause corrosion between the mating interface.
• Figures 24a and 24b illustrate exploded and assembled isometric views of a variant of the neutral conductor assembly 394N.
• the neutral conductor assembly 394N may be manufactured from two discrete parts.
• the planished portion 518 of the ring conductor 534E may be extended to include a sealing area 390 for the seal 386 (not shown).
• Figure 24c illustrates a schematic cross section of the plug connector 3g with the neutral conductor assembly 394N of Figures 24a and 24b.
• the seal 386 on the neutral conductor assembly 394N may be sealed around the sealing area 390 of the planished portion 518, i.e. on the 'wet side' where the planished portion 518 is connected to its corresponding tab terminal 507N.
• a similar principle may be applied on the live conductor assembly 394L, whereby the seal 396 is provided on the 'wet side' where the live conductor 530L is connected to its corresponding tab terminal 507L.
• the conductor assemblies 394L, 394N may be made from a unitary component as opposed to an assembly of discrete parts as illustrated by the earth conductor assembly 394E in Figures 23c and 24c, for example, to eliminate the possibility of crevice corrosion between mating components and/or to allow flexibility in the positioning of the seal 396 for the manufacturing purposes.
• the applicant's patent publication WO-A 1-2008/012506 discloses methods of sealing the conductors into the connector moulding 22 via insert moulding.
• the pressures required in the moulding process may introduce flash material along undesired areas of the conductor assemblies 394.
• the conductor assemblies 394 are substantially annular ring conductors pressed from a sheet material and the concentricity of the annular ring conductors are not within designed tolerances, then flash material may be formed along non concentric surfaces of the annular conductors during the moulding process.
• the following description may include features as previously described or disclosed. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features.
• Figures 25a and 25b illustrate a schematic cross section of the mould assembly 275 and a detailed view through the mould assembly 275 with the earth or neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N.
• the mould assembly 275 may comprise at least a lower moulding 280, an upper moulding 279 and a cavity 272 therebetween.
• the lower moulding 280 may comprise a series of channels 274L, 274N, 274E for receiving respective conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• tolerance gaps 278a, 278b may present between the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N and the lower moulding 280, for example, to account for concentricity and/or positioning tolerances.
• the tolerance gaps 278a, 278b may be filled with the injected material, commonly known as flash material.
• the flash material is an undesired by-product of the moulding process.
• FIGs 26a and 26b illustrate a schematic cross section of the plug connector 3g assembled with the mould assembly 275 of Figure 25a and a detailed view through a section of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N of the plug connector 3g.
• the flash material 281a, 281b may be present on at least the outer and inner diameters of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N.
• the cordless plug connector 3g is designed to cooperate electrically and/or mechanically with the corresponding cordless socket connector on the power base.
• the flash material 281a, 281b may prevent electrical continuity between the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N and their corresponding electrical conductors provided in the cordless socket connector.
• Figures 27a and 27b illustrate a schematic cross section of a variant of the mould assembly 275a and a detailed view through the mould assembly 275a with the earth or neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N.
• the free end of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N may include a fold 87 IN, 87 IE to increase rigidity.
• the lower moulding 280a may comprise a series of channels 274L, 274N, 274E for receiving respective conductor assemblies 394L, 394N, 394E.
• a tolerance gap 278a may only be provided on the outer diameter of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N, whilst an increased annular channel 273 may be provided between the inner diameter of the earth and/or neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N and the lower moulding 280a. As illustrated, the distal end of the annular channel 273 may terminate at the free end of the fold 87 IN, 87 IE of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N.
• the injected material may preferentially fill the annular channel 273 and not the tolerance gap 278a, as the increase dimension of the annular channel 273 provides a path of least resistance.
• annular support 277E, 277N may be formed on inner diameter of each of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N and exerts a substantially radially outward pressure onto the inner diameter of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N, as shown by arrows 271.
• the radially outward pressure exerted by the annular supports 277E, 277N may further close the tolerance gap 278a between the outer diameter of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N and the lower moulding 280a and may prevent flash material from being deposited on the outer diameter of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N.
• the fold 87 IN, 87 IE provided additional benefits, for example, eliminating sharp edges and providing a lead-in to aid docking of the plug connector 3h and/or may prevent sharp edges from wearing the corresponding contacts on the socket connector.
• Figures 28a and 28b illustrate a schematic cross section of the plug connector 3h assembled with the mould assembly 275a of Figure 27a and a detailed view through a section of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N of the plug connector 3h.
• the annular supports 277E, 277N remain in place and may provide support for the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N.
• the cordless plug connector 3h is designed to cooperate electrically and/or mechanically with the corresponding cordless socket connector on the power base.
• the outer diameter of the annual channel 273 may be configured as a datum surface for the outer diameter of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N such that when pressure is exerted by the injected material during the formation of the annular supports 277E, 277N, the outer diameter of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N may abut to the outer diameter of the annual channel 273 and referenced thereto. Furthermore, this improves the concentricity of the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N, thus improving docking between the plug connector 3h and its corresponding socket connector.
• the annular supports 277E, 277N may provide support for the earth and neutral ring conductors 534E, 534N made from a thinner sectioned sheet material.
• the annular support 277N on the neutral ring conductor 534N is formed from an insulating material, the annular support 277N may increase the distance between the neutral ring conductor 534N and adjacent the live pin 530L, thus reduces the Comparative Tracking Index.
• FIGS 29a and 29b illustrate a schematic cross section of a first variant of the plug connector 3i and a detailed view through a section of the earth ring conductor 534E of the plug connector 3i.
• the annular support 277E may provide support for the outer diameter of the earth ring conductor 534E, whilst the inner diameter of the neutral ring conductor 534N may be supported by the annular support 277N. It can be envisaged that outer diameter of the neutral ring conductor 534N may be supported by the annular support 277N and the inner diameter of the earth ring conductor 534E may be supported by the annular support 277E.
• Figure 30 illustrates a second variant of the plug connector 3j, whereby the annular support 277E for supporting the earth ring conductor 534E forms part of the main body 22, and for receiving the main body of socket connector (not shown).
• the earth ring conductor 534E of the plug connector 3j may be electrically connected to a corresponding earth spring contact projecting through the outer wall of the socket connector.
• the appliance proper may comprise at least one sealed user actuable switch as disclosed in the applicant's patent publication GB-B-2482497.
• the appliance proper may comprise at least one touch sensitive switch, for example, a capacitive, resistive and/or piezo touch switch, for operating various functions of the appliance proper.
• the touch sensitive switch may be provided on the entire or on a portion of the appliance body. As a result, the touch sensitive switch may not require additional mounting aperture(s) made in the appliance body nor additional sealing.
• the appliance switch and/or touch sensitive switch may be located on the power base.
• a base component of the appliance may comprise the previously described reduced size washproof cordless plug connector, in which case the base component may be seal to and/or removably secured or secured to the appliance.
• a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising a main body having a plurality of electrical conductor assemblies, at least one of which comprises at least:
• a proximal end for electrical connection to a socket conductor of a corresponding socket connector
• an intermediate portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein at least one seal assembly is provided to seal over and/or around a sealing area of said intermediate portion, and the main body is applied and/or moulded partially or fully over and/or around at least the intermediate portion.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the at least one seal assembly is directly moulded over and/or around the sealing area of said intermediate portion.
• the seal assembly is made from a polybutylene terephthalate based material on and/or derived from a polybutylene terephthalate material.
• each seal assembly comprises a plurality of discrete sealing portions for sealing the sealing area of said intermediate portion.
• each seal assembly comprises a peripheral profile and/or channel to allow the main body to be positively secured and/or anchored to the least one seal assembly.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 26 wherein the resilient seal comprises at least two sealing surfaces and the first sealing surface comprises at least one radially outwardly extending circumferential fin located between upper/lower ends of the resilient seal, which deform to take the shape of the sealing face of the component of the appliance.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 34 wherein the optical coupling is a one-way or a two-way optical coupling to provide signal data between the appliance and the corresponding cordless power base.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 34 or 35 wherein the at least one optical transmitter, receiver and/or transceiver is mounted to the corresponding socket connector on the cordless power base.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 34 to 36 when made dependent to any one of clauses 26 to 28, wherein the resilient seal is made from an optically transmissive material.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 37, wherein the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector comprises at least live and neutral electrical conductor assemblies.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 43 or 44 further comprising at least one annular support projecting from the main body to provide support for each of said at least said intermediate ring conductor and/or an outer ring conductor.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 45 wherein each annular support engages and/or abuts with the inner diameter of said at least said intermediate ring conductor and/or an outer ring conductor.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 47 wherein the annular support for the outer ring conductor forms part of the main body of said plug connector for receiving the corresponding socket connector.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 48 wherein the distal ends of the electrical conductor assemblies radiate outwardly and substantially terminate in a parallel formation so that the at least one seal assembly at the sealing area is arranged substantially side-by-side or linearly.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 41 wherein the proximal ends of the electrical conductor assemblies are arranged linearly or non- concentrically to provide an orientation specific electrical mating or connection to the corresponding socket connector.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 51 further comprising at least an appliance control, steam control or thermal control.
• the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of clause 52 wherein the appliance control, steam control or thermal control is integrated with said plug connector.
• a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising a main body having a plurality of electrical conductor assemblies, at least one of which comprises at least:
• a proximal end for electrical connection to a socket conductor of a corresponding socket connector
• an intermediate portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein the main body is moulded partially or fully over and/or around at least the intermediate portion, and further comprising at least one seal assembly for sealing over and/or around a sealing area of said intermediate portion and to seal partially or fully against, over and/or around the main body.
• a waterproof cordless electrical appliance comprising the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 55.
• a washable cordless electrical appliance comprising the waterproof cordless electrical plug connector of any one of clauses 1 to 55.
• cordless electrical appliance of clause 56 or 57 further comprising at least one sealed user actuable switch for operating one or more functions of the appliance.
• cordless electrical appliance of clause 56 or 57 further comprising at least one touch sensitive switch, such as a capacitive, resistive and/or piezo touch switch, for operating one or more functions of the appliance.
• touch sensitive switch such as a capacitive, resistive and/or piezo touch switch
• cordless electrical appliance of clause 58 or 59 wherein the at least one sealed user actuable switch or touch sensitive switch is provided on the appliance and/or on a power base.
• a method of assembling a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising the following steps:
• each electrical conductor assembly comprises a proximal end for electrical connection to a socket conductor of a corresponding socket connector, a distal end for electrical connection to an electrical component of the cordless electrical appliance and an intermediate portion disposed therebetween;
• a method of assembling a waterproof cordless electrical plug connector for a cordless electrical appliance comprising the following steps:
• each electrical conductor assembly comprises a proximal end for electrical connection to a socket conductor of a corresponding socket connector, a distal end for electrical connection to an electrical component of the cordless electrical appliance and an intermediate portion disposed therebetween;
• seal assembly is made from a resilient material.
• at least one seal assembly is made from an elastomeric material or from a polymeric material, such as a polymer, polyamide, copolyamide and/or copolymer and the like.
• each one seal assembly comprises a plurality of discrete sealing portions for sealing the sealing area of said intermediate portion.
• each seal assembly comprises a peripheral profile and/or channel to allow the main body to be positively secured and/or anchored to the least one seal assembly.

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• Food Science & Technology (AREA)
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• 2013
  • 2013-07-09 GB GB1312323.7A patent/GB2516053B/en active Active
• 2014
  • 2014-07-09 CN CN201420377900.3U patent/CN204067692U/zh not_active Expired - Lifetime
  • 2014-07-09 WO PCT/GB2014/052086 patent/WO2015004451A1/en active Application Filing

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