WO2024038274A1

WO2024038274A1 - Water treatment devices and liquid heating devices

Info

Publication number: WO2024038274A1
Application number: PCT/GB2023/052155
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher Kay; Tan Tran; Michael LAVOIPIERRE
Original assignee: Strix (China) Limited; Williams, Thomas
Priority date: 2022-08-16
Filing date: 2023-08-16
Publication date: 2024-02-22
Also published as: GB2621594A; GB202211959D0

Abstract

A water treatment device (2) comprising a hopper (18) for receiving untreated water and a water collection chamber (26) for collecting treated water. The device further comprises a spout (8), comprising an opening, for permitting the egress of treated water from the water collection chamber (26). The spout (8) is fluidly connected to the water collection chamber (26) via a channel (28) which comprises an inlet (60) and an outlet (62), and wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet (62) is at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the inlet (60).

Description

Water Treatment Devices and Liquid Heating Devices

The present invention relates to water treatment devices, particularly water treatment devices in the form of a filter jug, and liquid heating devices.

Water treatment devices, for example, water filter jugs, typically comprise a hopper which is filled with untreated water. The hopper typically comprises a water filter cartridge configured to treat water flowing therethrough. In use, a user fills the hopper with untreated water. The untreated water then passes through the water filter cartridge and collects in a lower chamber of the jug. When treated water is required, for example when a user requires a drink, the treated water is poured from the lower chamber, via a spout, into a receptacle, e.g. a glass.

During use of some existing water treatment devices, for example during the pouring of treated water from the device, glugging may occur resulting in a non-laminar flow of treated water from the device. Such a non-laminar flow of treated water and/or glugging may result in the overfilling of a receptacle and/or the spilling of water onto a surrounding surface.

The present invention aims to address or at least mitigate at least one of the problems outlined above.

When viewed from a first aspect, the present invention provides a water treatment device comprising: a hopper for receiving untreated water; a water collection chamber for collecting treated water; and a spout, comprising an opening, for permitting the egress of treated water from the water collection chamber; wherein the spout is fluidly connected to the water collection chamber via a channel which comprises an inlet and an outlet, and wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet is at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the inlet.

Having an outlet with a cross-sectional area which is at least 75 % of the cross- sectional area of the inlet may advantageously mean that any restriction in the flow of water leaving the device, out through the spout, is relatively small, or non-existent. This may minimise, or even eliminate, the occurrence of glugging during the dispensing of water from the device. It may also facilitate a smooth flow of water out of the device. With such arrangements, a lowermost wall of the hopper may hold back a body of water within the water collection chamber and the channel may facilitate a relatively constant flow rate of water from the water collection chamber out through the spout of the device. In contrast, a channel which is significantly tapered may notably resist the flow of water therethrough, which may result in a non-constant flow of water and potentially result in glugging. Similarly, where no channel is present, the area of the spout relative to the area of water which is able to reach the spout, i.e. the area within chamber through which water passes when moving towards the spout, will be significantly lower. This may result in glugging and/or a non-laminar flow of water out through the spout.

Where cross-sectional area of the inlet and outlet is described, this is intended to mean the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction of the flow of water through the particular point in the channel. For example, taking a channel in the form of a cylinder, the cross-sectional area referred to above would be the circular cross-section of the cylinder if the water flows along the length of the cylinder.

In a set of embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the outlet is at least 78% of the cross-sectional area of the inlet. For example, the cross-sectional area of the inlet may be approximately 588 mm², and the cross-sectional area of the outlet may be approximately 464 mm².

The channel may have any suitable shape and form and be defined in any suitable manner within the device such water contained therein may be at least substantially constrained to flow within the channel. For example, the channel may be at least substantially enclosed such that once water is within the channel, it is at least substantially constrained therein. By substantially enclosed, it is meant that the majority of the water flowing through the channel flows towards the outlet without passing back into or mixing with other water within the device. For example, the channel may comprise at least one narrow opening, running along its length, which is open to the rest of the water collection chamber. The narrow opening may be elongate. The width of the opening may be relatively narrow, e.g. a no more than 5 mm, no more than 3 mm, no more than 2 mm wide, such that once in the channel, the majority of the water is substantially constrained therein, despite a small amount being able to enter along the length of the narrow opening and/or a small amount able to leave the channel via the same narrow opening. The narrow opening may also allow air which enters via the spout, during pouring, to pass back into the water collection chamber. This may help to reduce and/or prevent glugging. This may be particularly notable in embodiments wherein the cross-sectional area of the opening of the spout is larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the channel. The majority of the water may comprise at least 80%, e.g. at least 90 %, e.g. at least 95% of the water flowing through the channel. In some embodiments, the at least one opening occupies no more than 10 %, e.g. no more than 5 %, e.g. no more than 2 %, of the internal surface area of the channel. In some embodiments, the channel may fully constrain the water flowing therein. In such embodiments, the channel may be fully enclosed, such that water cannot escape the channel except through the inlet and the outlet.

The inlet of the channel may be considered to be the place within the device at which the channel first becomes at least substantially enclosed such that the water is at least substantially contained within the channel. The inlet and outlet may thus be arranged at either end of a channel which is substantially enclosed. In some embodiments, the inlet to the channel may be aligned with a base of the hopper, i.e. the part of the hopper which defines a water receiving space within the hopper. In such embodiments, during pouring, water will flow out through the channel, and the base of the hopper may hold back the remaining body of water. The outlet of the channel may be the place within the device whereby the water is no longer constrained. For example, in an embodiment wherein the spout extends away from a side wall of the device, the outlet of the channel may be aligned with the side wall of the device. In some embodiments, the outlet of the channel may be the point at which water is no longer constrained between a wall of the hopper and a side wall of a main body of the device. For example, when in the spout, the water is constrained by the walls of the spout, rather than the hopper and a side wall of the main body. In embodiments wherein the cross-sectional area and/or shape of the spout, e.g. the opening thereof, is larger/different from that of the channel, the outlet of the channel may be the point at which the cross-sectional area and/or shape is larger/different from that of the channel. In other embodiments, the outlet of the channel may be aligned with the opening of the spout, i.e. the outlet may form the opening of the spout.

The shape and form of the channel between the inlet and the outlet thereof may have any suitable shape such that the water can smoothly flow therethrough. In a set of embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the channel changes monotonically between the inlet and the outlet. In other words, the area of the channel between the inlet and the outlet remains the same and/or decreases, i.e. it does not decrease, increase and then decrease again. A channel with an area which changes monotonically between the inlet and the outlet does not have any pinch points, i.e. points at which the area becomes notably smaller before becoming larger again. The Applicant has found that such pinch points may prevent smooth flow and contribute to glugging. Accordingly, such embodiments may also help to ensure the smooth flow of water through the channel and also minimise or prevent glugging.

In a set of embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the outlet is 100% of the cross- sectional area of the inlet. In other words, the cross-sectional area of the outlet is the same as the cross-sectional area of the inlet. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, having matching cross-sectional areas may mean that the water is not restricted in any way as it leaves the outlet of the channel. This may also contribute to a smooth flow of water out through the spout.

The inlet and the outlet of the channel may have different shapes, but nonetheless meet the area requirements set out above. For example, the inlet to the channel may be elliptical in shape, and the outlet to the channel may be circular in shape. However, in a set of embodiments, the channel has a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along the length of the channel. Having a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along the length of the channel may facilitate the smooth flowing of water therethrough as the number of places where the water has to change direction, due to changing shape of the channel, may be reduced and/or avoided completely. In such embodiments, the inlet and the outlet may thus have a corresponding shape. In some embodiments, the channel has a constant cross-sectional shape along the length of the channel.

Before the water leaves the device, the water first passes out of the channel and out through the spout. In a set of embodiments, the opening of the spout has a cross- sectional area that is at least the same as the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the channel. The Applicant has recognised that by having an area which is at least the same as the outlet of the channel, may avoid further restriction of the flow of water as it leaves the device. In a set of embodiments, the opening of the spout has a cross- sectional area that is larger than the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the channel. As the spout is open to atmospheric pressure, having a larger area may allow air to flow over the top of the water as it is being poured and thus facilitate a smooth flow of water from the spout. In a set of embodiments, the opening of the spout has a cross- sectional area of at least 450 mm², e.g. at least 500 mm², e.g. at least 550 mm², e.g. at least 600 mm².

In a set of embodiments, the opening of the spout has a cross-sectional shape that substantially matches the cross-sectional shape of at least the outlet of the channel. As with the various embodiments discussed above, having a shape of the opening of the spout which corresponds to that the outlet of the channel may minimize the number of discontinuities experienced by the water as it leaves the device and thus promote the smooth flow of water therethrough. In a set of embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the outlet also matches the cross-sectional shape of the inlet.

The channel may have any suitable shape which permits the smooth flow of fluid therethrough. In a set of embodiments, the channel has a cross-sectional profile which is at least partially curved. For example, the channel may have a substantially circular, or elliptical cross-sectional profile. Having such an at least partially curved profile may facilitate the smooth flowing of water through the channel and thus the smooth flowing of water out of the device.

The opening of the spout may have a corresponding profile to that of the channel. Accordingly, in another set of embodiments, a cross-sectional profile of the opening of the spout is at least partially curved. The cross-sectional profile of the opening of the spout may match the cross-sectional profile of the outlet of the channel.

The shape of the spout may also impact the flow of water therefrom. Accordingly, in a set of embodiments, a horizontal width of the opening is greater than a vertical height of the opening. In such embodiments, the opening of the spout is thus wider than it is deep. In another set of embodiments, the opening of the spout extends substantially in a vertical plane. In such embodiments, the opening extends in a vertical plane, as opposed to extending in a horizontal plane as is more common in water treatment devices. A wide opening on the spout may reduce any restriction of the water as it is flowing out of the spout and thus may contribute towards the formation of a smooth, laminar flow of water from the device. In a set of embodiments, a ratio of the horizontal width of the opening to the vertical height of the opening is at least 3:2, e.g. at least 2:1 , e.g. at least 3:1, e.g. at least 4:1, e.g. at least 5:1. In embodiments wherein the opening of the spout extends in a horizontal plane, a width of the opening may be greater than a depth of the opening. The ratio of the width to the depth, may correspond to the ratios set out above.

The channel may be formed within the device in any suitable manner. For example, the channel may be integrally formed within an outer wall of the device. In a set of embodiments, however, the channel is defined between the hopper and an outer wall of the water treatment device. Forming the channel in this manner may advantageously simplify manufacture of the device as the hopper may be made as a separate part to the outer wall of the device. This may, for example, make manufacture of a main body of the device easier, as the channel does not need to be formed therein. In some embodiments, the hopper comprises a concave outward facing surface which at least partially defines the channel. In further embodiments, the outer wall of the water treatment device, comprises a concave inward surface which faces the hopper, e.g. facing the concave outward facing surface of the hopper. Such concave surfaces may thus define a substantially enclosed channel. There may be a small gap between the concave surfaces to form at least one opening running along the length of the channel. In a set of embodiments, an outer wall of the water treatment device defines the water collection chamber. The outer wall of the device may be in the shape of a jug.

In some embodiments, the channel extends from the spout down at least 50 %, e.g. at least 60 %, e.g. at least 70 %, e.g. at least 80 % of a height of the water treatment device. The height may be defined between the spout and a base of the water collection chamber. The Applicant has found that a channel which extends down at least 50 % of the height of the device may sufficiently entrain the liquid passing therethrough into a smooth flow thus ensuring a smooth outflow of liquid from the spout.

In some embodiments, the inlet to the channel is arranged within the device at a position at which the volume of liquid within the water collection chamber below the inlet is no more than 250 ml. Again, such an arrangement may ensure that for a typical minimum usable amount of water within the liquid heating chamber, the liquid is below the inlet, and thus passes directly up through the inlet when the water treatment heating device is tipped to dispense the liquid therefrom. This, again, may ensure a smooth outflow of liquid.

In some embodiments, the channel has a length, extending between the inlet and outlet thereof, and wherein the length is at least 5 cm, e.g. at least 7.5 cm, e.g. at least 10 cm, e.g. at least 12.5 cm. The Applicant has appreciated that a channel having a length of at least 5 cm may entrain a smooth flow of liquid therein.

Another problem with some existing water treatment devices is that during, or shortly after, pouring therefrom, water which collects on the edge of the spout can drip down the side of the device. As the water dries, water marks are often left on the side of the device which are unsightly and require cleaning. In a set of embodiments, the spout extends away from a side wall of the device, and an underside wall of the spout extends from an edge of the spout to the side wall, and wherein at least a first portion of the underside wall extends in a direction towards the side wall such that when the device is in a pouring position, the first portion extends at least partially upwards. The first portion may be the portion of the spout extending from an edge of the spout, e.g. an edge of the spout which defines the opening thereof.

As at least the first portion of the underside wall of the spout extends at least partially upwards when in the pouring position, the water may be unable to flow back up along the underside wall, and thus be prevented from reaching the side wall. This may, therefore, prevent dripping down the side wall of the device. Instead of running back up the side wall, any water at the edge of the opening will simply fall away into the receptacle into which the water is being poured. Minimising the amount of dripping of water down the side wall of the device may help to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the device and reduce the amount and/or the frequency which the outside of the device needs to be cleaned.

In a further set of embodiments, in the pouring position, the device is tilted away from vertical by at least 30 degrees, e.g. at least 40 degrees, e.g. at least 50 degrees, e.g. at least 60 degrees. Of course, the pouring position may depend on the internal form of the device, e.g. the maximum volume of water collection chamber, e.g. the position of height of the spout relative to the water collection chamber. The underside wall of the spout may extend to the side wall in any appropriate manner. For example, the underside wall may follow a concave curved profile. In other embodiments, the underside wall may form a straight profile. In such embodiments, the underside wall and the side wall may form an acute angle therebetween.

In order to facilitate the smooth flow of water from the hopper into the water collection chamber, air must replace the water which leaves the hopper. Similarly, in order to facilitate the smooth flow of water from the water collection chamber, out through the spout, air must replace the water which is dispensed from the water collection chamber. Some prior art devices comprise an opening in the lid which permits airflow into the device. However, when arranged on the lid, such openings may permit other material, e.g. dirt and dust, to pass into the device potentially contaminating the water therein.

Accordingly, in a set of embodiments, the device further comprises a handle for lifting and tilting the water treatment device, wherein the handle comprises an air vent which is open to an external space around the device and which is in fluid communication with both the hopper and the water collection chamber. The air vent on the handle may thus allow air into the hopper and water collection chamber and thus facilitate the smooth flow of water from both elements. Additionally, by arranging the air vent on the handle, this may reduce the amount of material which may undesirably enter the device. Arranging the air vent on the handle may also allow any lid provided to fully seal any upper opening on the device. Fully sealing the upper opening may prevent the escape of any untreated water still within the hopper when the device is tilted. This may thus prevent the mixing of treated and untreated water as the device is used. The air vent may vent to atmospheric pressure.

In a set of embodiments, the air vent is arranged on a downward facing surface of the handle. The downward facing surface may be any surface which is downward facing when the device is in a vertical orientation, e.g. when it is placed on a horizontal countertop. The downward facing surface may be fully or partially downward facing. Arranging the air vent on a downward facing surface may mean that material cannot fall into the air vent and pass into the device.

The air vent may be in fluid communication with the water collection chamber in any suitable manner. In a set of embodiments, the air vent is in fluid communication with the water collection chamber via an air channel which is formed between the hopper and an outer wall of the device. Such an arrangement may provide a convenient and simple to manufacture means for providing said fluid communication.

The various parts of the water treatment device described above may be physically separate components which are connected together by any suitable fixing means. However, in a set of embodiments, the handle and spout are integrally formed with a main body which defines the water collection chamber, and wherein the hopper is formed as a separate body which is inserted into the main body. In a set of embodiments, the spout extends in a horizontal direction away from a side wall of the device. The side wall may be part of the main body of the device.

The device may comprise any suitable means for treating the water flowing therethrough. In a set of embodiments, the device further comprises a water treatment cartridge coupled to the hopper. The water treatment cartridge may be coupled to the hopper in any suitable manner. For example, the cartridge may be inserted into the hopper, e.g. from above, and at least partially sit within the hopper. In other embodiments, the water treatment cartridge may be coupled to an underside of the hopper such that the cartridge depends entirely from the hopper. The hopper may comprise an outlet through which treated or untreated water, depending on the position of the water filter cartridge, flows.

The water treatment device may treat the water passing through a water treatment cartridge arranged in the hopper, the water may then be stored in the water collection chamber before being poured out. It may also be desirable to heat the water, e.g. so that a user can, for example, use the water for use in the preparation of a hot beverage. Accordingly, in a set of embodiments, the water treatment device further comprises a heating arrangement arranged to heat water within the device. The heating arrangement may be arranged to heat water within the device in any suitable manner. In a set of embodiments, the heating arrangement is arranged to heat water within the water collection chamber.

The heating arrangement may take any suitable form. For example, the heating arrangement may be arranged beneath a floor of the water collection chamber. Such a heating arrangement may be considered to be an underfloor heating arrangement. The heating arrangement may comprise a resistive sheathed heating element. Of course, any other suitable means for heating the water may be utilised. For example, an inductive heating arrangement may be used.

In embodiments comprising a heating arrangement arranged to heat water within the device, the water treatment device may also be considered to be a water heating device. In such embodiments, the water treatment device may, for example, be in the form of a kettle. As a water treatment cartridge capable of filtering the water leaving the hopper may be inserted therein, such a kettle may be considered to be a water treatment kettle or a filter kettle.

In embodiments comprising a heating arrangement, the device may further comprise a power base. The hopper, water collection chamber and spout may together form a removable vessel part which can be seated on the power base. In such embodiments, when seated on the power base, the removable vessel part, e.g. the heating arrangement therein, may be provided with electrical power from the power base. The power base may comprise a power supply cable which can be plugged into an appropriate power supply, e.g. a mains power supply.

In some instances, a user may pour water out of the device before all of the water in the hopper has passed therethrough into the water collection chamber. In such instances, untreated water may escape the hopper out of an upper opening of the device. Accordingly, in a set of embodiments, the device comprises a selectively openable lid configured to seal a water inlet end of the hopper. The selectively openable lid may advantageously seal the hopper and prevent the escape of untreated water therefrom. This may therefore prevent the mixing of treated and untreated water externally of the device and also prevent spilling of water from the device during use.

The lid may have any suitable form that seals the inlet end of the hopper whilst being openable in order to allow the device to be refilled with water. In a set of embodiments, the lid comprises: a cover portion which seals the hopper and which defines an opening which provides a water inlet to the hopper; and a sliding element arranged to slide between an open position in which the opening is open and a closed position in which the opening is sealed. The cover portion therefore seals and prevents the escape of water from the hopper. This is in contrast to lids on typical water treatment devices which often seal an outer wall of the jug, but do not seal the hopper itself. The cover portion may seal a peripheral rim of the hopper. The cover portion may also seal other portions of the device. For example, the cover portion may also function to seal a main body of the device, in which the water collection chamber may be formed. As the cover portion comprises an opening which functions as a water inlet to the hopper, the cover portion does not need to be removed in order to fill the hopper. This may provide for more convenient use of the device.

Further, sealing the opening using a sliding element may achieve an improved seal when compared to a pivoting sealing element. The sliding element may achieve a seal by an interference fit between the sliding element and the cover portion, and no separate sealing element, e.g. a gasket, may be required. This may reduce the overall cost of the device and simplify the manufacture and/or assembly of the device.

The opening may be positioned at any suitable position in the cover portion. In a set of embodiments, however, the opening is positioned on the cover portion such that it is proximal to the spout. On water treatment devices, the handle is typically placed on the opposite side of the main body to the spout. When a user refills the device, they typically hold the device by the handle and place the device under the tap on a sink. By arranging the opening proximal to the spout, it may be easier for a user to position the opening under the tap, therefore making filling of the device easier.

The sliding element may seal the opening in any suitable manner such that water cannot escape the hopper during use. For example, the sliding element may seal against an upper surface of the cover portion to thereby seal the opening. In a set of embodiments, however, the sliding element comprises a lower portion arranged to slide on an underside of the cover portion and arranged such that when the sliding element is in the closed position, the lower portion seals against an underside of the cover portion.

In such arrangements, if there is still a sufficient amount of water in the hopper during pouring, the water within the hopper may press up against the underside of the lower portion of the sliding element, applying a force thereto, which will increase the engagement of the lower portion against the underside of the cover portion, and thus reinforce the seal therebetween. This may therefore help to prevent the escape of water from the hopper during use.

In a set of embodiments, a peripheral portion of the sliding element seals against a corresponding peripheral sealing seat extending around the opening, when the sliding element is in the closed position.

In a set of embodiments, the lid comprises a resilient bias arranged to bias the sliding element into contact with the underside of the cover portion. The resilient bias may, for example, be in the form of at least one lug which resiliently biases the sliding element into contact with the underside of the cover portion, e.g. when in a closed position. The at least one lug, may, for example, be arranged on an underside of the cover portion. The resilient bias may therefore help to ensure that the sliding element appropriately seals the opening when in the closed position. In a set of embodiments, the sliding element comprises an arrangement for holding the sliding element in an open position. The arrangement may comprise a resilient bias arranged to hold the sliding element in the open position. The resilient bias may be the same resilient bias as the resilient bias for biasing the sliding element into contact with the underside of the cover portion or a separate resilient bias. The resilient bias may be provided by any suitable means. In some embodiments, the sliding element may be brought into contact with the underside of the cover portion and/or the sliding element may be held in the open position, by other suitable means. For example, the sliding element and cover portion may be designed such that frictional engagement between the sliding element and the cover portion is sufficient to hold the sliding element in position. Similarly, the sliding element may be brought into contact with the underside of the cover portion by frictional engagement between the sliding element and the cover portion. This frictional engagement may drive the sliding element against the underside of the cover portion.

The sliding element may be constrained to slide relative to the cover portion and the opening therein in any suitable manner. In a set of embodiments, the sliding element comprises an upper portion which slides relative to an upper surface of the cover portion, and wherein at least part of the underside of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface of the cover portion so that it is spaced therefrom and does not contact the at least part of upper surface when sliding relative thereto. Arranging the upper portion to slide relative to the cover part such that it does not contact at least part of the upper surface of the cover portion may advantageously reduce the friction experienced by the upper part when sliding, and thus reduce the force required to slide the upper part of the sliding element. Additionally, it may minimise the visual degradation of the upper surface of the cover portion, which would otherwise occur if the upper portion of the sliding element were to contact the at least part of the upper surface as it slides.

The at least part of the upper portion may be held away from the upper surface of the cover portion in any suitable manner. For example, the upper portion of the sliding element itself may be shaped such that it only contacts the cover portion at the sides thereof, and a central part of the upper portion may form a bridge over a central part of the cover portion. In a set of embodiments, however, at least part of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface by at least one spacing feature.

The spacing feature may be formed on the upper portion, and extend down and contact the cover portion, or extend from the cover portion, and contact the underside of the upper portion of the sliding element. A single spacing feature may be sufficient to hold the upper portion away from the upper surface. However, in a set of embodiments, the at least one spacing feature comprises a plurality of spacing features.

The spacing feature may have any suitable form which holds the underside of the upper portion away form the upper surface of the cover portion. In a set of embodiments, the spacing feature comprise at least one ridge arranged on the upper surface. The at least one ridge may be integrally formed with the upper surface or be a separate part which is attached thereto. In embodiments comprising a plurality of spacing features, the spacing features may each comprise at least one ridge on the upper surface of the cover portion. The ridge(s) may run parallel to the direction which the sliding element slides relative to the cover portion.

The Applicant has recognised that a lid having a sliding element which is spaced from an upper surface of a cover portion is novel and inventive in its own right. Accordingly, when viewed from a second aspect, the present invention provides a selectively openable lid, for use with a water treatment device, comprising: a cover portion configured to seal an inlet portion of a water treatment device, wherein the cover portion comprises an opening extending therethrough; a sliding element arranged on the cover portion and configured to slide between an open position in which the opening is open and a closed position in which the opening is closed, wherein the sliding element comprises an upper portion which slides relative to an upper surface of the cover portion, and wherein at least part of the underside of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface of the cover portion so that it is spaced therefrom and does not contact the at least part of the upper surface when sliding relative thereto.

The selectively openable lid may comprise any of the features of the selectively openable lid described above with respect to the first aspect of the present invention. The cover portion may be configured to seal an inlet portion of a hopper of a water treatment device and/or may be configured to seal a main body of a water treatment device.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a water treatment device comprising a hopper for receiving untreated water, a water collection chamber and the selectively openable lid according to aspect of invention set out above.

The water treatment device of any of the embodiments described above may be a portable water treatment device. For example, the water treatment device may be a water treatment jug, typically known as a filter jug.

Whilst the devices have been described above in the context of treating water, it will be appreciated that the devices may be used to filter any type of liquid. As such, the device may instead be a liquid treatment device, and the water may instead be any liquid.

The selectively openable lid set out above may also be suitable for use with any device in which it is desirable to fill with a liquid (e.g. water), for example a liquid heating device as set out below.

The Applicant has recognised that the smooth pouring of liquid out of a device is not only beneficial in water treatment devices, but is also beneficial in liquid heating devices more generally. Accordingly, when viewed from a further aspect, there is provided

A liquid heating device comprising: a liquid heating chamber configured to receive liquid to be heated; a heating arrangement configured to heat liquid received within the liquid heating chamber; and a spout, comprising an opening, for permitting the egress of liquid from the liquid heating chamber; wherein the spout is fluidly connected to the liquid heating chamber via a channel which comprises an inlet and an outlet, and wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet is at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the inlet.

As set out above, such a channel having the respective inlet and outlet may facilitate the smooth flow of liquid out of the liquid heating device. Any of the appropriate features of the embodiments of the various aspects of the present invention discussed above, may equally be applied to this further aspect of the invention. For example, the spout may have any of the features of the various embodiments set out above, as appropriate. Similarly, the channel may have any of the features of the various embodiments set out above.

The channel may be formed within the device by any suitable means. In a set of embodiments, the channel is formed between a wall (e.g. an external wall) of the liquid heating chamber and an internal wall extending into the liquid heating chamber. The internal wall may be considered to be a baffle. The internal wall may be mounted to, or integrally formed with, the wall of the liquid heating chamber and extend therefrom. The wall of the heating chamber may substantially define the heating chamber, i.e. it may define the volume in which a liquid is held. The channel may be at least substantially, e.g. fully, enclosed, such that once a liquid enters the channel via the inlet, it cannot pass back into the liquid heating chamber (except back through the inlet). The channel may be considered to be a conduit.

The channel may extend into the liquid heating chamber. The inlet to the channel may be at any appropriate position within the liquid heating chamber. In some embodiments, the channel extends from the spout down at least 50 %, e.g. at least 60 %, e.g. at least 70 %, e.g. at least 80 % of a height of the liquid heating chamber. The height may be defined as the distance between the spout and a base of the liquid heating chamber. The Applicant has found that a channel which extends down at least 50 % of the height of the liquid heating chamber may sufficiently entrain the liquid passing therethrough into a smooth flow thus ensuring a smooth outflow of liquid from the spout.

In some embodiments, the inlet to the channel is arranged within the liquid heating chamber at a position at which the volume of liquid within the liquid heating chamber below the inlet is no more than 250 ml. Again, such an arrangement may ensure that for a typical minimum usable amount of liquid within the liquid heating chamber, the liquid is level with or above the inlet, and thus passes directly up through the inlet when the liquid heating device is tipped to dispense the liquid therefrom. This, again, may ensure a smooth outflow of liquid.

In some embodiments, the channel has a length, extending between the inlet and outlet of the channel, and wherein the length is at least 5 cm, e.g. at least 7.5 cm, e.g. at least 10 cm, e.g. at least 12.5 cm. The Applicant has appreciated that a channel having a length of at least 5 cm may entrain a smooth flow of liquid therein.

In a set of embodiments, the inlet extends in a substantially horizontal plane, e.g. a horizontal plane. The liquid heating device described above may be capable of heating any suitable liquid, e.g. water, milk etc.

Various embodiments of the liquid heating device will now be described. In some embodiments, the channel has a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along the length of the channel. In some embodiments, the opening of the spout has a cross-sectional area that is at least the same as the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the channel. In some embodiments, the opening of the spout has a cross-sectional shape that substantially matches the cross-sectional shape of at least the outlet of the channel. In some embodiments, the channel has a cross-sectional profile which is at least partially curved. In some embodiments, a cross-sectional profile of the opening of the spout is at least partially curved. In some embodiments, the opening of the spout extends substantially in a vertical plane. In some embodiments, a horizontal width of the opening is greater than a vertical height of the opening. In some embodiments, the spout extends away from a side wall of the device, and an underside wall of the spout extends from an edge of the spout to the side wall, and wherein at least a first portion of the underside wall extends in a direction towards the side wall such that when the device is in a pouring position, the first portion extends at least partially upwards. In some further embodiments, in the pouring position, the device is tilted away from vertical by at least 30 degrees, e.g. at least 40 degrees, e.g. at least 50 degrees, e.g. at least 60 degrees. In some embodiments, the device comprises a handle for lifting and tilting the device, wherein the handle comprises an air vent which is open to an external space around the device and which is in fluid communication with both the hopper and the water collection chamber. In some embodiments, the air vent is in fluid communication with the liquid heating chamber via an air channel. In some embodiments, the liquid heating device comprises a selectively openable lid configured to seal a water inlet end of the hopper. In some embodiments, the lid comprises: a cover portion which seals the hopper and which defines an opening which provides a water inlet to the hopper; and a sliding element arranged to slide between an open position in which the opening is open and a closed position in which the opening is sealed.

In some embodiments, the opening is positioned on the cover portion such that it is proximal to the spout. In some embodiments, the sliding element comprises a lower portion arranged to slide on an underside of the cover portion and arranged such that when the sliding element is in the closed position, the lower portion seals against an underside of the cover portion. In some embodiments, the sliding element comprises an upper portion which slides relative to an upper surface of the cover portion, and wherein at least part of the underside of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface of the cover portion so that it is spaced therefrom and does not contact the at least part of upper surface when sliding relative thereto. In some embodiments, at least part of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface by at least one spacing feature. In some embodiments, the at least one spacing feature comprises a plurality of spacing features. In some embodiments, the spacing feature comprise at least one ridge arranged on the upper surface.

Various advantages and further features of the above embodiments are described above with respect to embodiments of the first and second aspects of the present invention. These further features and advantages are equally applicable to embodiments of the liquid heating device set out above. Some preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a water treatment device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view through the water treatment device shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view through the water treatment device shown in Fig. 1 illustrating air flow therein;

Fig. 4 is a cut-away view through the water treatment device shown in Fig. 1 revealing the channel connecting the water collection space and spout;

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view through the water treatment device when viewed from above at the inlet to the channel;

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view through the water treatment device when viewed from above at the outlet of the channel

Fig. 7 is a cut-away view through the device when looking at the spout illustrating the connection of the spout to the channel;

Fig. 8 is a front-on view of the water treatment device looking at the spout;

Fig. 9 is a side-on view of the water treatment device when in a horizontal orientation;

Fig. 10 is a side-on view of the water treatment device when in a tilted orientation;

Fig. 11 is a view focussing on the selectively closable lid of the water treatment device; Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view through the selectively closable lid, when looking from the handle of the water treatment device towards the spout;

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the water treatment device with the lid in an open configuration;

Fig. 14 is an underside view of the lid in isolation;

Fig. 15 is a partial cut-away view through the lid in isolation;

Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a water treatment device, in accordance within another embodiment of the present invention, which also comprises a heating arrangement for heating water contained within the water treatment device;

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view through the water treatment device shown in Fig. 16;

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a liquid heating device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view through the liquid heating device shown in Figure 18; Fig. 20 is a cut-away view through the liquid heating device shown in Fig. 18 showing the inlet to the channel between the spout and liquid heating chamber;

Fig. 21 is a top-down view of the cut-away view shown in Fig. 20; Fig. 22 is a cut-away view through the liquid heating device shown in Fig. 18 showing the outlet to the channel between the spout and the liquid heating chamber; and Fig. 23 is a top-down view of the cut-away view shown in Fig. 22.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a water treatment device 2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The water treatment device 2 is in the form of a filter jug 2 and will be referred to as such, hereinafter, for brevity. The filter jug 2 comprises a main body 4 which comprise a handle 6 and a spout 8. In an embodiment, as depicted, the handle 6 and spout 8 are integrally formed with the main body 4. However, it will be appreciated, that these may be formed from separate components which may attached to the main body 4 by any suitable means. The spout 8 comprises an opening 9 through which water escapes the filter jug 2. As depicted, in some embodiments, the opening 9 extends in a vertical plane.

An inlet portion 10 of the filter jug 2 is closed by a selectively openable lid 12. As depicted, the lid 12 comprises a cover portion 14 which closes the inlet portion 10 and a sliding element 16 which slides to reveal an opening (not visible in this Figure) which extends through the cover portion 14.

Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view through the filter jug 2 to reveal the internal components thereof. The filter jug 2 comprises a hopper 18 which receives untreated water, in use. A hopper outlet 20 is arranged at the base 22 of the hopper 18. A cartridge connection arrangement 24 is also arranged on the base 22 of the hopper 18. In use, a water filter cartridge is attached to the cartridge connection arrangement 24 such that water passing through the hopper outlet 20 proceeds to pass through the water filter cartridge (not shown).

Water which has been treated by the water filter cartridge then collects in the water collection chamber 26 arranged beneath the hopper 18. In the embodiment depicted, the water collection chamber 26 is defined by the main body 4 of the filter jug 2, however it may be defined in any other suitable manner. A channel 28 extends from the water collection chamber 26 to the spout 8. In some embodiments, as depicted, the channel 28 is defined between a side wall 30 of the hopper and an outer wall 32 of the main body 4 of the filter jug 2. The handle 6 comprises an air vent 34 which is open to an external space around the filter jug 2 and which is in fluid communication with both the hopper 18 and the water collection chamber 26. The handle 6 may comprise a hollow core 36 through which air may flow. The air vent 34 may be fluidly connected to the hopper 18 and the water collection chamber 26 in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, as depicted, a first vent aperture 38 connects the hollow core 36 to the water collection chamber 26 and a second vent aperture 40 connects the hollow core 36 to the hopper 18. The second vent aperture 40 can be seen more clearly in Figure 3. A vent channel 42, defined between the side wall 44 of the hopper 18 and the outer wall 46 of the main body 4, fluidly connects the first vent aperture 38 and the water collection chamber 26.

In some embodiments, a removable insert 48 may be arranged within the hollow core of 36 of the handle 6. The handle 6 may be formed of transparent material such that the removable insert 48 can be seen through the handle 6 itself. The removable insert 48 may be formed from a coloured material so as to alter the aesthetic appearance of the filter jug 2. A user may be able to select from a plurality of different removable inserts 48 so as to be able to customise the look of their filter jug 2. It may be possible to remove and replace the removable insert 48 when the lid 12 is separated from the filter jug 2.

In some embodiments, the lid 12, specifically the cover portion 14 thereof seals the hopper 18. As depicted, the cover portion 14 comprises a sealing rim 15 configured to seal against an edge 17 of the hopper 18. Sealing the hopper 18 in this manner advantageously means that water cannot escape the hopper 18 if the filter jug 2 is tilted before the water has passed into the water collection chamber 26.

As is shown in Figure 2, in some embodiments, the sliding element 16 of the lid 12 comprises a lower portion 50 which is arranged to seal against an underside 52 of the cover portion 14. As described above, sealing against the underside 52 of the lid may provide an improved seal, particularly when there is still water in the hopper 18 during pouring.

The sliding element 16 also comprises an upper portion 54 which slides relative to an upper surface 56 of the cover portion 14. A user may use the upper portion 54 as a means pull/push the sliding element 16 in order to open/close the opening 57 in the cover portion 14. Figure 3 shows a cut-away view through the filter jug 2 demonstrating air flow therein during use. As depicted by arrows 58, air is able to pass up through the hollow core 36 of the handle 6, from the air vent 34 (not visible in this Figure). The air then passes through the first vent aperture 38, down through the vent channel 42 and into the water collection chamber 26 and/or through the second vent aperture 40 and into the hopper 18. In the embodiment depicted, the second vent aperture 40 is formed in the cover portion 14 of the lid 12. However, it will be appreciated that the second vent aperture 40 may be formed in any suitable part of the filter jug 2. When water drains out through the opening 20 in the base 22 of the hopper 18, air will pass into the hopper 18 via the second vent aperture 40, and thus facilitate the flow of water from the hopper 18. Similarly, when the filter jug 2 is tilted and water is poured from the water collection chamber 26, through the channel 28 and out through the spout 8, air will pass into the water collection chamber 26, via the first vent aperture 38 and vent channel 42, and replace the expelled water. This will facilitate the smooth flow of water out of the device and help to minimise or prevent any glugging.

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view through the filter jug 2 when viewed at an angle, and more clearly shows the channel 28 which connects the water collection chamber 26 to the spout 8. As depicted, the channel 28 is defined by the wall 30 of the hopper 18 and the outer wall 32 of the main body 4. The channel 28 comprises an inlet 60, i.e. the opening at the base of the channel 28, adjacent the base 22 of the hopper 18. The channel 28 also comprises an outlet 62, which connects the channel 28 to the spout 8. The cross-sectional area of the outlet 62 is at least 75% of the cross-sectional area of the inlet 60.

Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view through the filter jug 2 when viewed from above and at the level of the line A-A shown in Figure 4. This cross-sectional view at this level shows the inlet 60 of the channel 28, i.e. the point at which water enters the channel 28 and becomes constrained between the wall 30 of the hopper 18 and the outer wall 32 of the main body 4. This view also shows the air vent 34 which extends through the handle 6. As seen most clearly in Figure 5, in some embodiments, the channel 28 is substantially enclosed. In the embodiment depicted, two small openings 33 run along the length of the channel 28. The openings are formed between the edge of the side wall 30 of the hopper and the wall 32 of the main body 32. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the elongate openings 33 are relatively narrow and small in comparison to the overall area of the channel 28. As such they only permit a relatively small amount of flow between the channel 28 and the surround space. Accordingly, the majority of the water within the channel 28 is constrained to flow therein. In other embodiments, the wall 30 of the hopper 18 and the wall 32 of the main body 4 may engage one another so as to fully enclose the channel 28, such that once in the channel 28, the water can only escape/enter via the inlet 60 or the outlet 62.

With reference back to Figure 4, in this embodiment, the inlet 60 is aligned with the base 22 of the hopper 18. As such, during pouring, the base 22 of the hopper 18 holds back the body of water within the water collection chamber 26, whilst the channel 28 allows a portion of said water to flow from the water collection chamber 26 to the spout 8. Of course, the position of the inlet to the spout 8 may depend on the particular form of the hopper 18 and the rest of the device, e.g. the outer wall of the main body 4.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the hopper comprises a side wall 30 which has a concave outward facing surface 35 which at least partially defines the channel 28. The outer wall 32 of the main body 4 may also comprise a concave inward facing surface 37. Each of these surfaces 35, 37 together define the substantially enclosed channel 28.

Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view through the filter jug 2 when viewed from above and at the level of the line B-B shown in Figure 4. This cross-sectional view at this level shows the outlet 62 of the channel 28, i.e. the point at which water leaves the channel 28 and passes into the spout 8 (not visible int his Figure).

With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the cross-sectional area of the outlet 62 is at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the inlet 60. In the embodiment depicted, the cross-sectional area of the outlet 62 is 78% of the cross-sectional area of the inlet 60. Additionally, the shape and profile of the outlet 62 is the same as the shape and profile of the inlet 60. Similarly, both the inlet 60 and the outlet 62 have a curved profile. In the embodiment depicted, the inlet 60 and the outlet 62 are both substantially elliptical. With reference to Figure 4, the cross-sectional area of the channel 28 changes monotonically between the inlet 60 and the outlet 62. It can be seen that the cross- sectional area gradually reduces, but does not increase at any point. Figure 7 shows a front on view of the filter jug 2, with the spout 8 cut-away thereby revealing how the channel 28 feeds into the spout 8 (not visible in this Figure).

Figure 8 shows a front-on view of the filter jug 2 looking at the spout 8. As visible in this Figure, the spout 8 has a shape which substantially matches the shape of the inlet 60 and outlet 62 of the channel 28. In the embodiment depicted, the spout 8 has a substantially elliptical shape. At least the lower wall 66 of the spout 8 has a curved profile. This curved profile may facilitate the smooth flowing of water over the edge of the spout 8 and thus contribute towards the formation of a laminar flow of water from the filter jug 2. With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the cross-sectional area of the spout 8 is it at least the same as the outlet 62 of the channel 28.

As can be seen most clearly in Figure 8, in some embodiments, the opening 9 of the spout 8 has a horizontal width X which is greater than a vertical height Y of the opening 9. This results in a wide opening 9. Such a wide opening may achieve a smoother flow of water therefrom as there is minimal restriction on the water as it is flowing out of the spout 8. This is in contrast to a typical spout which typically focusses the water to a point at the place at which water leaves the spout. In the embodiment depicted, the ratio of the width, X, to the height, Y, is approximately 3:1.

The opening 9 of the spout 8 extends in a substantially vertical plane. A lower part 62 of the spout 8 is formed with the main body 4 of the filter jug 2. An upper part 64 of the spout 8 is formed on the cover portion 14 of the lid 12. Separating the two parts 62, 64 of the spout 8 in this manner may simplify manufacture of the filter jug 2. Of course, the upper part 64 of the spout 8 may be omitted.

Figure 9 shows a side-on view of the filter jug 2 when the filter jug is in a non-tilted orientation, e.g. when it is resting on a work surface. The spout 8 extends away from a side wall 70 of the filter jug 2. As depicted, in some embodiments, an underside wall 66 of the spout 8 extends from an edge 68 of the opening 9 of the spout 8 to a side wall 70 of the main body 4 of the filter jug 2. At least a first portion 72 of the underside wall 66 extends in a direction towards the side wall 70 such that when the filter jug 2 is in a pouring position, the first portion 72 extends at least partially upwards. This is described in more detail below with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 shows a view of the filter jug 2 when in a pouring position such that water escapes via the spout 8. This pouring position may be any point at which the filter jug 2 is tilted away from vertical (0) by at least 30°. In the embodiment depicted, the pouring position may be any angle of at least 53°. As depicted, when in this pouring position, at least the first portion 72 of the underside wall 66 extends at least partially upwards. As such, any water which sits around the edge 68 of the opening 9 will not be able to flow onto the side wall 70 as the water would first have to flow upwards along the first portion 72, which it is not likely to do. Accordingly, having such an underside wall 66 may prevent water from collecting on the side wall 70 during use. This may help to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the filter jug 2. The underside wall 66 depicted is just one example of how the wall may be configured and the underside wall 66 may have any suitable shape and profile that prevents the backflow of water towards the side wall 70.

Figure 11 shows a perspective view focussing on the selectively openable lid 12 of the filter jug 2. As previously discussed, the lid 12 comprises a cover portion 14 and a sliding element 16 that slides relative thereto. The sliding element 16 comprises an upper portion 54 which slides relative to the upper surface 56 of the cover portion 14. As depicted, in some embodiments, the upper portion 54 is spaced away from the upper surface 56 by at least one spacing feature, which in the embodiment depicted comprise a plurality of spacing features in the form of ridges 74 on the upper surface 56.

Whilst not visible in Figure 11 , the opening on the cover part 14, which is below the sliding element 16 shown in Figure 11 , is proximal to the spout 8, and is positioned distally from the handle 6. This may make it easier to fill the filter jug 2.

Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view through the filter jug 2, when looking from the handle 6 towards the spout 8, focussing on the lid 12. As depicted, the lower surface 78 of the upper portion 54 of the sliding element 16 rests on the spacing features 74 which are in the form of ridges 74 on the upper surface 54 of the cover portion 14. The spacing features 74 are integrally formed with the cover portion 14. In alternative embodiments, the spacing features 74 may be integrally formed with the upper portion 54 of the sliding element 16. Whilst a plurality of spacing features 74 are depicted, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, only a single spacing feature may be provided. The ridges 74 form a series of troughs 76 which are not contacted by the sliding element 16. As a result, when the sliding element 16 slides, the troughs 76 are untouched by the sliding element 16, specifically the upper portion 54 thereof, and thus do not become worn. Due to the shape of the ridges 74, the troughs 76 define a significant area of the upper surface 56, and thus during use the upper surface 56 does not become too visibly worn as only a relatively small area thereof is contacted by the sliding element 16.

Of course, the spacing features may have any other suitable shape and configuration and the ridges 74 depicted in the drawings represent just one exemplary embodiment.

In the embodiments depicted in the accompanying drawings and described above, the channel 28 and spout 8 have an elliptical shape. However, it will be appreciated that the channel 28 and spout 8 may have any other suitable shape that facilitates the smooth flow of water therethrough.

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the jug 2, when the sliding element 16 has been moved into an open position whereby the opening 57 in the cover portion 14 has been opened. In this position, a user can fill the hopper 18, by placing the opening 57 under a water source, e.g. a tap. As visible in this Figure, when in the open position, both the upper portion 54 and lower portion 50 have moved relative to the cover portion 14. The upper portion 54 and lower portion 50 may be coupled together in any suitable manner such that movement of the upper portion 54 drives movement of the lower portion 50. The upper and lower portions 50, 54, may be formed as separate parts which are coupled to one another by any suitable means.

Figure 14 shows an underside view of the lid 12, in isolation. As visible in this view, the underside of the cover portion 14 comprises two tracks 80, which engage in correspondingly shaped guides 82 arranged on the lower portion 50 of the sliding element 16. The cooperation of these two parts serves to guide linear movement of the lower portion 50 relative to the cover portion 14. The cover portion 14 may also comprise lugs 84 shaped to hold the lower portion against the underside 52 of the cover portion 14. These lugs 84 may function to hold the lower portion 50 against the underside 52 so as to form a seal therebetween. The lugs 84 may provide a resilient bias which tends to bias the lower portion 50 against the underside 52 of the cover portion 14. The lugs 84 may be resiliently deformable, at least to an amount sufficient to allow the lower portion 50 to slide relative thereto and to provide a resilient bias. Of course, the lower portion 50 may be held against the cover portion by any other suitable means. For example, an interference fit between the lower portion 50 and the underside 52 of the cover portion 14 may be achieved with an appropriate arrangement.

Figure 15 shows a partial cut-away view of the lid 12. As visible in this view, in some embodiments, the sliding element 16 may comprise a biasing element 86. When in the closed position, the biasing element 86 does not interact with the cover portion 14. However, when the sliding element 16 is moved into an open position, the biasing element 86 engages the underside 52 of the cover portion 14. A resilient bias is generated due to deformation of the resilient element 86, and this acts to hold the upper portion 86 of the sliding element against the cover portion 14. This contact between the upper portion 86 and the cover portion 14 serves to hold the sliding element 16 in position relative to the cover portion 14 by increasing the friction therebetween. As such, when in the open position, the sliding element 16 will remain in the open position so that a user can easily fill the filter jug 2. Whilst in the embodiment depicted the biasing element 86 does not contact the cover portion 14 when in the closed position, in other embodiments, the biasing element 86 may still contact the cover portion 14 when in the closed position. Whilst a biasing element 86 is depicted, any other means for holding the sliding element 16 relative to the cover portion 14 may instead be provided. A friction fit, for example, may be provided. Thus, in some embodiments, the lid comprises a holding arrangement for holding the sliding element in an open position.

Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a water treatment device 102 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The water treatment device 102 comprises a heating arrangement (not visible in this Figure) which is arranged to heat water within the device 102. The water treatment device 102 comprises a main body 104 which rests on a power base 105. Although not shown, the power base 105 may be connected to a power supply, e.g. a mains power supply, via a power supply cable. The power base 105 may supply power to the main body 104, e.g. the heating arrangement thereof, during use of the water treatment device 102. As with the previous embodiment, the water treatment device 102 comprises a handle 106 which allows the main body 104 to be lifted away from the power base 105. The main body 104 comprises a spout 108, out through which treated, and potentially heated, water may be poured. A switch 107, e.g. in the form of a toggle switch, may be arranged on the device 102, e.g. the main body 104 thereof, to turn the device 102 on, e.g. supplying power to the heating arrangement therein.

Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional view through the water treatment device 102 shown in Figure 16. In a similar manner to the embodiment discussed above, the device 102 comprises a hopper 118 and a water collection chamber 126. In this regard, the device 102 functions in an identical manner to the device 2 described above, in that when a water treatment cartridge is inserted into/attached to the hopper 118, water within the hopper 118 is treated by the water treatment cartridge, before collecting in the water collection chamber 126.

As visible in Figure 17, in this embodiment, device 102 further comprises a heating arrangement 188 arranged to heat the water within the device 102. In this embodiment, the heating arrangement 188 is arranged to heat the water within the water collection chamber 126. However, the device 102 may comprise an alternative form of heating arrangement arranged to heat water elsewhere within the device 102.

In the embodiment depicted, the heating arrangement 188 comprises a heating element 190 arranged to heat the floor 192, i.e. the base, of the water collection chamber 126. As such, this heating arrangement 188 may be considered to be an underfloor heating arrangement. The heating element 192 may be in the form of a resistive sheathed heating element. In some embodiments, as depicted, the power base 105 comprises a cordless electrical connector 194 arranged to mate with a cordless electrical adaptor 196 arranged on the main body 104. The cordless electrical connector 194 and adaptor 196 may together provide an electrical connection between the power base 105 and the main body 104, facilitating the supply of electrical power to the heating arrangement 188.

When water has been treated by the water treatment cartridge (not visible in this Figure) and passed into the water collection chamber 126, the heating arrangement 188 may be used to heat the collected water. This may be achieved by switching on the power supply using switch 107. Once heated, a user may then lift the main body away from the power base 105, e.g. using the handle 108. The main body comprises a channel 128 extending between the water collection chamber 126 and the spout 108. The channel 128 and spout 108 may be substantially identical to the channel and spout of the embodiment described above with respect to Figures 1-14. As such, when a user pours water out of the main body 104, a smooth laminar flow of water may be achieved. The embodiment depicted in Figures 16 and 17 may thus allow for water to be both treated and heated, and also facilitate the smooth pouring of water from the device. The smooth outflow of water may be particularly important when pouring heated water, as a non-smooth outflow of heated water could increase the chances of water splashing which may risk injury to a user or those around them.

Figure 18 shows a perspective view of a liquid heating device 202 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Similarly to the embodiment discussed above with respect to Figures 16 and 17, the liquid heating device 202 comprises a main body 204, a power base 205 on which the main body 204 is removably seated, a handle 206, a spout 208 and a switch 207. Whilst not shown, the power base 205 may be connected to a suitable power supply, e.g. using a power supply cable. Unlike the previous embodiments which include a hopper and a water treatment cartridge, the liquid heating device 202 is simply for heating a liquid, e.g. water. As such, the main body 204 defines a liquid heating chamber as shown Figure 19.

Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view through the liquid heating device 202 shown in Figure 18. The main body 204 defines a liquid heating chamber 227 into which a liquid is filled during use of the liquid heating device 202. Similarly to the embodiment described above, a heating arrangement 288 is provided for heating the liquid in the liquid heating chamber 227. The heating arrangement comprises a heating element 290 arranged to heat a base (i.e. floor) 292 of the liquid heating chamber 227.

The power base 205 comprises a cordless electrical connector 294 arranged to mate with a cordless electrical adaptor 296 provided on the main body 204, such that when the main body 204 is seated on the power base 205, the power base 205 is able to supply electrical power to the heating element 290. As depicted, a channel 228 extends between the spout 208 and the liquid heating chamber 227. The channel 228 may be substantially, e.g. fully, enclosed. As such, in order for liquid to leave the liquid heating chamber 227 via the spout 208, it must first pass through the channel 228. The channel 228 comprises an inlet 260 at which liquid enters the channel 228 from the liquid heating chamber 227 and an outlet 262, through which liquid leaves the channel 228 and passes through the spout 208.

The channel 228 may, as depicted, be defined between an external wall 229 of the main body 204 and an internal wall 231 extending within the main body 204, e.g. within the liquid heating chamber 227. The internal wall 231 may be attached to, or integrally formed with, the external wall 229. The internal wall 231 may be considered to be a baffle.

As depicted in Figure 19 by the dashed line, the device may have a height H, which may extend between the spout 208 and the base 292 of the liquid heating chamber 227. In some embodiments, the channel 228 may be configured such it extends at least 50 %, e.g. 60 %, e.g. 70 %, e.g. 80 %, down the height H, e.g. between the spout 208 and the base 292 of the liquid heating chamber 227. In some embodiments, the channel 228 may be configured such that the length of the channel 228 between the inlet 260 and the outlet 262 of the channel 228 is at least 5 cm long, least 7.5 cm long, e.g. at least 10 cm long, e.g. at least 12.5 cm long. The Applicant has found that these particular arrangements of the channel 228 and the inlet 260 may advantageously ensure a smooth flow of liquid through the channel 228 and out through the spout 208. As depicted in Figure 19, the inlet 260, to the channel 228, may extend substantially in a horizontal plane. In some embodiments the inlet 260 to the channel 228 may be arranged within the liquid heating chamber 227 at a position at which the volume of liquid within the liquid heating chamber 227 below the inlet 260 (i.e. to the point at which the liquid within the liquid heating chamber 227 becomes level with the inlet 260) is no more than 250 ml. In other words, 250 ml of liquid within the liquid heating chamber 227 will fill the liquid heating chamber 227 to the point at which the liquid therein is level with the inlet 260.

The spout 208 may be identical to the spout of the embodiments described above.

Figure 20 shows a partial cut-away view of the liquid heating device 202 shown in Figures 18 and 19. The inlet 260 to the channel 228 can be seen in this Figure. As is evident, the shape of the inlet 260 substantially corresponds to the shape of the spout 206. This may help to promote a smooth flow of liquid from the device 202. The internal wall 231 can also be seen more clearly in this Figure. The internal wall 231 may be attached to the external wall 229 along its length, e.g. along its entire length. As such, the internal wall 231 and external wall 229 may form a fully enclosed channel 228. In some embodiments, the internal wall 231 may instead rest against the external wall 229. In such embodiments, the channel 228 may be substantially enclosed, but a small amount of liquid may be able to escape the channel 228 along its length.

Figure 21 shows a top-down view of the cut-away view shown in Figure 19 to more clearly show the shape of the inlet 260 and its cross-sectional area.

Figure 22 shows a cut-away view of the upper portion of the liquid heating device 202, showing the outlet 262 of the channel 228. Figure 23 shows a top-down view of the cut-away view shown in Figure 22. As shown in both of these Figures, the outlet 262 of the channel 228 has substantially the same shape as the inlet 260, and the spout 208. Additionally, comparing Figure 23 to Figure 21 , the cross-sectional area of the outlet 262 is at least 75% of the cross-sectional area of the inlet 260. Such relative areas may facilitate a smooth flow of liquid out of the liquid heating device 202, specifically out of the liquid heating chamber 227. As discussed previously, this may be particularly important when pouring hot, e.g. boiling, liquid.

While the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the scope of the invention. Additionally, while various embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims:

1. A water treatment device comprising: a hopper for receiving untreated water; a water collection chamber for collecting treated water; and a spout, comprising an opening, for permitting the egress of treated water from the water collection chamber; wherein the spout is fluidly connected to the water collection chamber via a channel which comprises an inlet and an outlet, and wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet is at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the inlet.

2. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein the channel has a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along the length of the channel.

3. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein the opening of the spout has a cross-sectional area that is at least the same as the cross-sectional area of the outlet of the channel.

4. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein the opening of the spout has a cross-sectional shape that substantially matches the cross-sectional shape of at least the outlet of the channel.

5. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein the channel has a cross-sectional profile which is at least partially curved.

6. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein a cross-sectional profile of the opening of the spout is at least partially curved.

7. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein the opening of the spout extends substantially in a vertical plane

8. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein a horizontal width of the opening is greater than a vertical height of the opening.

9. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, wherein the spout extends away from a side wall of the device, and an underside wall of the spout extends from an edge of the spout to the side wall, and wherein at least a first portion of the underside wall extends in a direction towards the side wall such that when the device is in a pouring position, the first portion extends at least partially upwards.

10. The water treatment device of claim 8, wherein in the pouring position, the device is tilted away from vertical by at least 30 degrees, e.g. at least 40 degrees, e.g. at least 50 degrees, e.g. at least 60 degrees.

11. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, further comprising a handle for lifting and tilting the water treatment device, wherein the handle comprises an air vent which is open to an external space around the device and which is in fluid communication with both the hopper and the water collection chamber.

12. The water treatment device of claim 11, wherein the air vent is in fluid communication with the water collection chamber via an air channel which is formed between the hopper and an outer wall of the device.

13. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, further comprising a water treatment cartridge coupled to the hopper.

14. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, comprising a selectively openable lid configured to seal a water inlet end of the hopper.

15. The water treatment device of claim 14, wherein the lid comprises: a cover portion which seals the hopper and which defines an opening which provides a water inlet to the hopper; and a sliding element arranged to slide between an open position in which the opening is open and a closed position in which the opening is sealed.

16. The water treatment device of claim 15, wherein the opening is positioned on the cover portion such that it is proximal to the spout.

17. The water treatment device of claim 15 or 16, wherein the sliding element comprises a lower portion arranged to slide on an underside of the cover portion and arranged such that when the sliding element is in the closed position, the lower portion seals against an underside of the cover portion.

18. The water treatment device of any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the sliding element comprises an upper portion which slides relative to an upper surface of the cover portion, and wherein at least part of the underside of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface of the cover portion so that it is spaced therefrom and does not contact the at least part of upper surface when sliding relative thereto.

19. The water treatment device of claim 18, wherein at least part of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface by at least one spacing feature.

20. The water treatment device of claim 19, wherein the at least one spacing feature comprises a plurality of spacing features.

21. The water treatment device of claim 19 or 20, wherein the spacing feature comprise at least one ridge arranged on the upper surface.

22. The water treatment device of any preceding claim, further comprising a heating arrangement arranged to heat water within the device.

23. A selectively openable lid, for use with a water treatment device, comprising: a cover portion configured to seal an inlet portion of a water treatment device, wherein the cover portion comprises an opening extending therethrough; a sliding element arranged on the cover portion and configured to slide between an open position in which the opening is open and a closed position in which the opening is closed, wherein the sliding element comprises an upper portion which slides relative to an upper surface of the cover portion, and wherein at least part of the underside of the upper portion is held away from at least part of the upper surface of the cover portion so that it is spaced therefrom and does not contact the at least part of the upper surface when sliding relative thereto.

24. A water treatment device comprising a hopper for receiving untreated water, a water collection chamber and the selectively openable lid according to claim 23.

25. A liquid heating device comprising: a liquid heating chamber configured to receive liquid to be heated; a heating arrangement configured to heat liquid received within the liquid heating chamber; and a spout, comprising an opening, for permitting the egress of liquid from the liquid heating chamber; wherein the spout is fluidly connected to the liquid heating chamber via a channel which comprises an inlet and an outlet, and wherein a cross-sectional area of the outlet is at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the inlet.

26. The liquid heating device of claim 25, where the channel is formed between a wall of the liquid heating chamber and an internal wall extending into the liquid heating chamber.

27. The liquid heating device of claim 25 or 26, wherein the channel is substantially enclosed.

28. The liquid heating device of any of claims 25-27, wherein the channel extends from the spout down at least 50 %, e.g. at least 60 %, e.g. at least 70 %, e.g. at least 80 % of a height of the liquid heating chamber.

29. The liquid heating device of any of claims 25-28, wherein the inlet to the channel is arranged within the liquid heating chamber at a position at which the volume of liquid within the liquid heating chamber below the inlet is no more than 250 ml.

30. The liquid heating device of any of claims 25-29, wherein the channel has a length, extending between the inlet and outlet of the channel, and wherein the length is at least 5 cm, e.g. at least 7.5 cm, e.g. at least 10 cm, e.g. at least 12.5 cm.