GB2481023A

GB2481023A - Hot water dispenser with adjustable temperature and dispensing volume settings

Info

Publication number: GB2481023A
Application number: GB1009565.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Stuart Clark; Grant Geeson; Mike James; Glyn Hauser
Original assignee: Morphy Richards Ltd; Morphy Richards NI Ltd
Current assignee: Morphy Richards Ltd; Morphy Richards NI Ltd
Priority date: 2010-06-08
Filing date: 2010-06-08
Publication date: 2011-12-14
Also published as: GB201009565D0

Abstract

A water heating device capable of heating water to a pre-determined temperature, in a range which includes temperatures below and equal to boiling point, comprises a reservoir 502 for storing a quantity of water, a heating chamber 503 for heating water to the set temperature, a heating element for heating water in the chamber, a pump 600 for pumping water from the reservoir to the chamber, and a valve 602 for releasing water from the chamber for dispensing. Electronic controller 507 is designed to receive values representing a required volume of water and/or a desired temperature within the range. The controller controls the pump to transfer the required volume from the reservoir to the heating chamber, the element to heat the water to the desired temperature; and the valve to dispense the heated water into a waiting receptacle 504. The dispensing outlet may be arranged to provide multiple streams for a number of receptacles. Sensors may be provided to determine the number and type of receptacles and send the required volume information to the control means.

Description

TWO STAGE KETTLE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a water heating device for kitchen use, and particularly although not exclusively to a two stage water heating device which, amongst other uses, can be used as a kettle.

Background to the Invention

Electric kettles are commonly known in domestic kitchens for boiling water to make tea, coffee or other hot beverages, or for boiling water for general use such as washing up. Typically such electric kettles comprise a water vessel having a heating element; a lid; a spout for pouring water; a fill level indicator and an electrical switch for turning the kettle on or off. Typical kettles for domestic use have a water heating capacity of between 1.0 and 1.9 liters of water.

Referring to Figure 1 herein, there is illustrated schematically one example of a class of known jug type kettles which are in common usage. An upper part of a kettle comprising a jug 100 is detachable from a base 101 of the kettle. The heating element, fill level indicator and switch are contained in the upper jug part of the kettle, and the electrical power supply is provided by the base of the kettle 101 via a coaxial Strix® type mains power connector.

Referring to Figure 2 herein, there is illustrated schematically a process carried out by a user for operating the known kettle of Figure 1. On identifying a requirement 200 for water, the user can either require hot water 201 or cold water 202. In the case of cold water 202, the known kettle is not used. In step 203, the user checks whether there is enough water in the kettle. That might simply be by picking up the kettle, looking in the lid or looking at the fill level indicator. If more water is needed 204, the user has to pick up the kettle which weighs around 1.2 kg empty or partially filled, put the kettle under a tap to fill it, in which case the filled or part-filled kettle can weigh up to 2.7 kg, and then replace the kettle on its base. If at 203, there is already enough water in the kettle 207, then the user proceeds to boil the kettle 208 by turning the kettle on. In the meantime, if the user is preparing a drink, he/she may prepare a cup, teapot or the like 209. The user lifts the kettle and pours it 210 either into a cup or mug to mix drinks 211, or into a pan, teapot, carafe or similar vessel 212. Irrespective of whether a single cup, two cups, a mug or a pan or teapot of water is required, the user generally boils more water than the exact amount required for the intended purpose.

Whilst the known electric kettle is very successful and has been around for more than 50 years, it has a basic feature that it is not fully optimized for power saving. Typically, if a person wishes to boil enough water for a mug of coffee or a cup of tea, a person fills the kettle to an approximate level, making sure that the heating element is covered, and boils the water. Although there is a fill level indicator on the kettle, filling the kettle is generally an imprecise operation as commonly carried out, with the result that more often than not, more water is boiled than is needed by the user.

It is also known to find "mini" kettles being smaller sized versions of electric kettles, typically of capacity in the range 0.5 to 1.0 liters, which are sometimes marketed as "hotel kettles" or "travel kettles", which are intended to boil just enough water for one or two cups. This type of kettle is generally very similar to a normal jug type kettle, but having reduced size and correspondingly reduced heating power uses less electricity, but at the penalty of reduced capacity.

Coffee makers are another type of known water heating device for beverages.

Referring to Figure 3 herein, there is illustrated in perspective view from the front, a known coffee maker having twin water outlets for filling two cups or mugs at the same time. The known coffee maker comprises a water reservoir, an electric heating chamber, through which water passes to be heated, a pump for pumping water from the reservoir through the heating chamber to the outlets, and a timing device for timing the water flow, and therefore controlling the volume of water which is delivered to the outlets.

Whilst the conventional coffee maker is relatively energy efficient in heating only enough water for the required drink, it has two main disadvantages and can never replace a conventional kettle.

* Firstly, because the water is heated by a flow-through heater, this limits the delivery rate of the water, so the known coffee maker takes a long time to deliver a cup or mug of heated water; * Secondly, the water is not boiled, but is delivered at a lower temperature, in the range 80°C to 90°C.

In general, the known coffee maker is unsuitable for delivery of boiling water, due to the time taken to heat the water as it passes through the flow-through heater, which makes the known coffee heater unsuitable for general kitchen usage, for example boiling water for washing up or boiling water to place in a pan prior to cooking.

Known hot water dispenser type devices designed at dispensing a cup of water or a similar quantity include the Tefal Quick Cup® device and the Breville Hot Cup® device, model VKJ31 8 both of which are aimed at "quick" hot water delivery for kitchen or canteen use. These types of devices provide a consumer with the means to fill on or two cups quickly and conveniently, but each device has its draw backs.

The Tefal product delivers water at below boiling point, typically at 90°.

The Breville product delivers boiled water, but only in a limited volume. The Breville device has a jug type vessel on a circular base which also has a circular drip tray attached, and with a Strix® type mains power connector to enable power to connect to the vessel. The vessel has incorporated into it an in line heating chamber which heats water as it trickles through the chamber. Although the Breville Hot Cup product is energy efficient because it only heats and delivers a measured amount of water, it cannot replace a conventional kettle due to its low water delivery rate caused by the in line heating chamber.

Each of the Tefal and Breville products are complimentary to normal conventional kettles rather than being able to replace a kettle, since they do not provide the means to boil a large volume of water quickly and conveniently, for example for cooking or for washing up.

At present, the consumer is faced with an array of known kitchen water heating devices including coffee makers, kettles, and water dispensers, but no one device encapsulates the full range of possible consumer requirements for normal domestic or canteen kitchen hot water requirements in an energy efficient and energy saving manner.

Specific embodiments and methods disclosed here aim to provide a general purpose energy efficient water heating device, which can be used as a kettle for boiling water for general kitchen use, such as washing up or pouring into pans for cooking.

Specific embodiments and methods disclosed herein also aim to provide a water heating device which can deliver heated water at selectable temperatures, and in selectable volumes, and where only the desired amount of water is heated.

Specific embodiments and methods disclosed herein aim to provide a multi-functional multi-purpose water heating device which combines the versatility and functionality of a known kettle, known coffee maker and known water dispensing devices in a single unit, whilst at the same time providing energy efficiency and a reduced carbon foot print by heating only the necessary amount of water up to the required temperature, and avoiding overheating water above a desired temperature, and avoiding heating quantities of water greater than those which are required by the user.

Specific implementations disclosed herein may provide an energy efficient substitute for the traditional electric kettle, with the added benefit of other multi-functional uses.

Summary of the Invention

According to first aspect there is provided a water heating device capable of heating water to a pre-determined temperature settable by a user, in a range which includes temperatures both below and including boiling point, said device comprising: a heating chamber which can be filled or partially filled with a volume of water and in which said volume of water may be heated to a user set temperature within said range of temperatures; an electric heating element for heating water in said heating chamber; electronic control means for controlling said heating element to heat water in said heating chamber to said user set temperature; and a controllable valve for releasing water from said heating chamber; electronic control means for controlling said valve to dispense a controlled volume of water from said heating chamber.

Preferably, said heating chamber is elevated so as to allow a receptacle to be placed directly underneath said heating chamber such that water can drain from said heating chamber under gravity when said valve is in an open condition.

Said control means for said water release valve may be capable of controlling said valve to dispense a volume of heated water which is user controllable for any volume within a pre-determined range of volumes.

A volume of water dispensed from said heating chamber may be controllable in real time by a user by activating said water release valve to release water from said heating chamber under control of a user operated electric switch.

A volume of water to be heated may be selectable by a user over a continuously variable range of volumes.

A temperature to which the water is heated is preferably user selectable in a range 7000 to 100°C.

Preferably, said heating chamber is elevated above a base platform capable of accommodating one or a plurality of water receptacles.

The water heating device may comprise a bifurcated outlet for draining water from said heating chamber.

A said bifurcated outlet may be arranged to direct water into a pair or receptacles positioned underneath said bifurcated outlet.

The water heating device may comprise a pair of outlets to said heating chamber for draining water from said heating chamber; and valve means for directing water to drain from one or both of said outlets.

The water heating device may comprise a vertically rnoveable base positioned underneath said heating chamber, said base being adjustable to accommodate different size receptacles positioned underneath said heating chamber.

There may be provided a jug receptacle of a size and shape suitable for fitting directly underneath said heating chamber.

There may be provided a carafe vessel of dimensions suitable for fitting underneath said heating chamber.

The water heating device may be provided with a pair of cups or mugs of a size and shape suitable for fitting side by side on a base platform of said water heating device, such that both said cups/mugs can be filled simultaneously from water drained from said heating chamber.

The water heating device may comprise one or a plurality of sensors for sensing whether a receptacle is present underneath said heating chamber.

There may be provided one or a plurality of sensors for sensing a type of receptacle positioned underneath said heating chamber.

The water heating device may comprise a fill level sensor for sensing a level of water in said heating chamber.

The water heating device may comprise a fill level sensor for sensing the level of fluid present in said storage reservoir.

Preferably, the device comprises: a first water reservoir having which may be filled with water by a user; and a second water reservoir positioned underneath said first water reservoir such that the water can drain from said first reservoir into said second reservoir by gravity; and a water filter positioned between said first and second reservoirs, the arrangement being such that said water filters through said water filter and passes from said first reservoir to said second reservoir.

According to a second aspect there may be provided a water heating device capable of heating water to a pre-determined temperature, settable by a user, in a range which includes temperatures both below and including boiling point, said device comprising: a reservoir for storing a quantity of water; a heating chamber separate from the reservoir, for heating water to a user settable temperature; an electric heating element for heating water in said heating chamber; an electric pump for pumping water from the reservoir to the heating chamber; a controllable valve for releasing water from said heating chamber; electronic control means for controlling said pump to transfer a user selectable volume of water from said storage reservoir to said heating chamber; electronic control means for controlling said heating element to heat water in said heating chamber to said user settable temperature; electronic control means for controlling said valve to dispense a pre-determined volume of heated water from said heating chamber; a plurality of receptacle vessels; and an outlet nozzle for draining water from said heating chamber, said outlet nozzle adapted to divert a flow of water into two separate streams directable to two separate said vessels when placed side by side, and wherein each said vessel has an upper aperture capable of receiving either one or both of said water flows from said nozzle.

According to a third aspect there is provided a water heating device capable of heating and/or boiling water, comprising: a first reservoir for storing a quantity of water a heating chamber, separate from the reservoir for heating water means for transferring a selectable volume of water from the storage reservoir to the heating chamber; wherein a user can select a quantity of water for transfer from the reservoir, to the heating chamber in which the water is heated and said quantity of water is heated in said chamber in a heating operation and is dispensed from said heating chamber prior to refilling said heating chamber.

According to a fourth aspect there is provided a water heating device for heating water over a continuously variable range of temperatures below and including boiling point, said device comprising: an elevated heating chamber for heating a volume of said water; at least one outlet valve for draining water from said heating chamber; one or a plurality of receptacles designed to fit underneath said elevated heating chamber; and an outlet nozzle adapted to direct a flow of water into one or a plurality of separate streams directable to one or a plurality of separate receptacles placed side by side underneath said heating chamber.

Said valve means may be capable of diverting a water flow to one only of said nozzles, or to both of said nozzles, or to cut off a flow of water to both of said nozzles.

A said receptacle may be selected from the set: comprising the members: a cafetiere; a jug; a cup; a mug; a carafe.

According to a sixth aspect there provided a user interface for a water heating device, said user interface comprising: selector means for selecting a quantity of water over a continuously variable range between a minimum and maximum predetermined quantity; and control selector means for selecting a temperature for heating water over a continuously variable range between a lower pre-set temperature and an upper pre-set temperature, wherein said temperature range includes temperatures below and including boiling point; and an activation control, to activate operation of said heating device.

According to a seventh aspect there is provided a method of operating a kitchen water heating device comprising: pouring water into a water reservoir of said device; selecting a temperature to heat the water, from a set of continuously variable temperatures over a pre-set selectable temperature range; selecting a volume of water to be heated from a continuously variable range of volumes within a pre-set volume range; and activating said water heating device to heat said water, wherein said water heating device operates automatically after receiving said activation signal to heat said selected quantity of water to said selected temperature and to deliver said quantity of water into a receptacle.

According to an eighth aspect there is provided a method of operation of a kitchen water heating device, said method comprising: checking a temperature setting to determine a temperature for heating water; checking a quantity setting for determining a volume of water to be delivered; transferring a quantity of water from a water reservoir into a heating chamber, such that said heating chamber contains a volume of water equivalent to said quantity of water to be delivered; heating said quantity of water to said selected water temperature; and automatically delivering said quantity of heated water to one or more receptacles.

The method may further comprise a determining whether a water receptacle is present underneath an outlet of a heating chamber, prior to delivering said quantity of water; and if it is determined that no water receptacle is present, then inhibiting said process of delivering said quantity of water.

The process may comprise determining a type of receptacle present prior to dispensing water, and dispensing a quantity of water which is less than or equal to a capacity of said receptacle.

The process may comprise determining a number of different receptacles present, and dispensing said water equally distributed amongst one or a plurality of present said receptacles.

Other aspects are as recited in the claims herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 illustrates schematically a known electric kettle of the jug type, where the jug is removable from a separate base; Figure 2 illustrates schematically typical usage of a known kettle; Figure 3 illustrates schematically a known coffee making machine having capacity to fill two cups or mugs simultaneously; Figure 4 illustrates schematically a known hot water dispenser; Figure 5 illustrates schematically a water heating device according to a specific implementation disclosed herein; Figure 6 illustrates schematically internal components of the water heating device of Figure 5; Figure 7 illustrates schematically an accessory or attachment to the water heating device, in this case a plunger for a coffee carafe; Figure 8 illustrates schematically, the water heating device conFigured for draining water into a pair of receptacles, in this case a pair of pot or china mugs; Figure 9 illustrates schematically the water heating device in view from above; Figure 10 illustrates schematically in cut away view a first draining arrangement of a heating chamber of the water heating device, comprising a pair of outlet tubes and a pair of outlet valves; Figure 11 illustrates schematically a second arrangement of outlets of a heating chamber of the water heating device; Figure 12 illustrates schematically a third possible arrangement of outlets of the heating chamber of the water heating device; Figure 13 illustrates schematically electronic and electrical components of the water heating device; Figure 14 illustrates schematically a mode of operation of the water heating device according to a specific process disclosed herein; Figure 15 illustrates schematically in view from the front, an alternative embodiment of control device giving simple user operation of the water heating device; Figure 16 illustrates schematically process steps for operation of the water heating device for inputting data and starting the device; Figure 17 illustrates schematically processes for operating the water heating device transferring water from a reservoir to a water heating chamber; Figure 18 illustrates schematically processes for operating the water heating device for heating water in the heating chamber; and Figure 19 illustrates schematically processes for operating the water heating device to dispense water.

Detailed Description

There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to

unnecessarily obscure the description.

Referring to Figure 5 herein, there is illustrated schematically in frontal view a kitchen water heating device according to a specific implementation of the present invention. The device comprises a first, upper, reservoir 500, into which water can be poured to fill the device; a filter device 501 for filtering water from the first reservoir; a second, lower reservoir 502 for containing filtered water which has drained under gravity through filter 501 from the upper reservoir 500; a heating chamber 503 for heating water; a jug or carafe 504 for holding heated water which has been heated in the jug or carafe 504; a frame or chassis 505, to which the upper reservoir, lower reservoir and heating chamber are attached; an electronic or electric pump (not shown in Figure 5) for pumping cold water from the lower reservoir 502 into the heating chamber; at one or more tubes or passages connecting the lower reservoir, the electronic pump and the heating chamber, through which water flows; an outlet valve (not shown in Figure 5) positioned at the base of the heating chamber, for draining water from the heating chamber; a movable base portion 506 which can be raised or lowered relative to the heating chamber 503; and an electronic control component 507 for controlling the electronic pump, the heating element of the heating chamber, and the outlet valve of the heating chamber.

The heating element is preferably a wound element. Whilst use of a thick film heating element is an option, it is not a preferred option because a thick film element would not store as much heat.

The circular base may incorporate a removable insert so as to act as a drip tray, and may be detachable from the body of the device for easy cleaning.

Referring to Figure 6 herein, there is illustrated schematically internal components of the water heating device. Electrical! electronic pump 600 receives filtered water from the second, lower reservoir 502, and pumps the filtered water through tubular passage or pipe 601 into the overhead heating chamber 503, in which the water is heated. Outlet valve 602 is operable to drain a measured amount of water from the heating chamber into a receptacle 504, in this case a carafe.

In the specific implementation shown, typically the upper reservoir 500 may have a water holding capacity in the range 1.0 to 2.0 liters, and preferably around 1.5 liters, the lower reservoir 502 may have the capacity of 1.0 to 2.0 liters and preferably around 1.5 liters, and similarly the heating chamber may also have a capacity in the range 1.0 to 2.0 liters, and preferably around 1.5 liters.

The water heating device operates as follows.

The user selects an amount of water which they want to use, for example any volume of water from one cup full of water up to a full capacity of the device, for example 2.0 liters. Selection of the quantity of water is made electronically using the electronic control pad 507.

Unheated (cold) water from the lower (filtered water) reservoir 502 is pumped into the heating chamber 503.

The user can select a temperature for heating the water to, variably within a range of predetermined possible temperatures. For example a user may select 85°C, 95°C, or 10000. Once heated, the amount of water selected is dispensed into either a cup, or a carafe vessel, or any other receptacle placed under the heating chamber. The heating element is turned off by an electronic or electrically operated switch. An electronic or electrically operated switch is preferred over a mechanical type switch, because the electronic switch gives greater possibilities for control of heating times.

A number of attachments are provided for use with the water heating device, either for tea steeping, and/or a plunger for operating with a coffee carafe, or just as a transportation vessel for cooking, e.g. a jug.

Electric or electronic sensors are provided in the cavity between the base 506 and the heating chamber to detect which type of receptacle is present. The sensors generate a signal which detects a size and/ or weight and/or type of receptacle present or detects a parameter which can be used to differentiate between different types of receptacle, and the generated signal is used to control the amount of water to be dispensed, so that for example the device will not dispense 1.5 liters of hot water if only one or two cups are placed underneath the heating chamber with capacity of for example 330 ml each, since this would overflow the capacity of the cups.

The required quantity of water is transferred from the second, lower reservoir into the heating chamber where it is heated to the pre-selected temperature. Once heated, the water is dispensed automatically into the receptacle or receptacles underneath the heating chamber. If there are no receptacles detected under the heating chamber by the sensors, then dispensing is prohibited by the outlet valve being kept closed, unless the user over rides this condition by keeping pressed a control on the control pad, e.g. a push button.

The volume of water in the heating chamber is monitored so that only the correct quantity of required water is heated, thereby optimally using electricity.

Referring to Figure 7 herein, there is illustrated schematically in perspective view, the water heating device, showing an optional plunger 700 which can be inserted into a cafetiere, after the cafetiere is filled by heated water from the overhead water chamber 503.

Referring to Figure 8 herein, there is illustrated schematically in frontal view the water heating device configured for filling 2 cups or mugs 800, 801. In the embodiment shown, a substantially circular base 506 is moveable in an up-down direction, so as to accommodate the difference in height between a mug and a carafe, jug or cafetiere, when placed underneath an outlet of the heating chamber.

In order to fill a pair of mugs, or just one mug in either or a plurality of positions, on the base 506, the outlet consists of either 2 separately operable outlets, or an inverted Y" shaped bifurcated pipe, feeding from a single outlet and a single electronically controlled valve.

In the case of a pair of electronically controlled valves, each valve can be separately electronically controlled to open for a controlled time to deliver a required volume of water. In the case of a single inverted "Y" shaped outlet supply from a single electronically controlled outlet valve, the amount of water delivered is measured by controlling the open time of the single valve.

Typically the device may have an overall height of around 385mm +-10%, a height of the underneath of the water heating chamber may be around 220mm +- 10%, and a height at which the upper surface of the base 506 is positioned above a worktop surface, when positioned for filling mugs or cups may be 130mm +-30%.

Referring to Figure 9 herein, there is illustrated schematically the water heating device in view from above. The heating chamber has a lid 900, and the upper reservoir has a lid 901. The lids of both the heating chamber and the upper reservoir are removable, to allow filing of the heating chamber or the upper reservoir directly, and for cleaning. The interior of the heating chamber may be graduated with indications of fill level, so that a user may fill the heating chamber directly with water, without using the first and second chambers and the filter.

In the embodiment shown, the heating chamber and the reservoirs are substantially circular in plan view, and are arranged substantially side by side, so that in use, the heating device can be accommodated in a relatively small space, for example on a kitchen work top, whilst presenting the electronic controls 507 outwardly to a user. The device is arranged such that the device can be used as an alternative for a conventional kettle, with similar or not significantly diminished ease of use compared to a conventional jug kettle, and with a "footprint" i.e. area of kitchen surface taken up, which is about twice that of a conventional jug kettle.

In the specific implementations herein, the heating device may provide a multi-purpose water heating device for domestic or kitchen use, which has the advantages of: * User variable water temperature in a range both below and above boiling point, typically in the range 85°C to 105°C.

* A full jug capacity in the range 1.0 to 2.0 liters, which makes the jug part of the device of a similar weight and capacity to a conventional normal sized electric jug kettle; * Energy efficiency is provided by the ability to heat only the correct amount of water for a particular purpose, for example, to fill a jug, fill a tea pot or fill a cupormug.

* Because the water is heated in a separate heating chamber, rather than through a "flow through" heater, the speed of heating of a conventional kettle can be matched, so the heating device should take no longer to use than a conventional jug type kettle, or only very slightly so.

Referring to Figure 10 herein, there is illustrated schematically in cut away view, a first option for providing drain outlets from the heating chamber. In this option, there is provided an outlet manifold having a pair of outlet tubes 1000, 1001 spaced apart from each other, far enough apart such that each outlet tube can drain into a separate receptacle, for example a cup or mug placed side by side on the base plate 506, as shown in Figure 8 herein.

Each drain outlet has its own electronically controlled outlet valve 1002, 1003 respectively, which can be opened and closed. Immediately adjacent to each outlet tube there may be placed a respective electronic, electrical or optical sensor 1004, 1005 respectively, for sensing whether a receptacle has been placed underneath the drain outlet. Thus, the sensors may inhibit the operation of the outlet valve, when no receptacle is detected immediately underneath the corresponding drain tube.

In an alternative embodiment, sensors for the receptacles may be incorporated into the moveable base plate 506, and the controller may inhibit any opening of the water heater outlet valve(s) for any tube for which a receptacle has not been detected to be directly underneath that tube.

Referring to Figure 11 herein, there is illustrated schematically a second valve and outlet option for draining the chamber 503, comprising a single electronically controlled outlet valve 1100 which is electronically controllable and directs water flow along one or both arms of a bifurcated manifold -component 1101 comprising two tubular outlets, spaced apart from each other and positioned to drain into the openings of two adjacent receptacles, for example coffee cups, tea cups or mugs, or where a single receptacle is provided with a wide enough inlet, into the mouth of that single receptacle, for example a jug, carafe or cafetiere.

The outlet valve 1100 may comprise a butterfly type valve which can direct the water flow into a first outlet of the bifurcated component 1101, or via a second outlet of the bifurcated component, or can split the water flow equally or unequally between the two outlets, or can close off both outlets at the same time under electronic control, by rotation of the butterfly valve in a suitably shaped chamber 1102.

Referring to Figure 12 herein, there is illustrated schematically a third outlet configuration for the water heating chamber of the water heating device. The third configuration comprises a single electronic outlet valve 1200 positioned in a single outlet of the heating chamber, which is positioned upstream of a bifurcated tubular manifold component 1201 which splits an outlet water flow into two water outlets.

The two outlet channels are positioned adjacent to each other but spaced apart so as to be able to drain into two adjacent receptacles such as a cup or a mug placed on the base portion 506, but also placed sufficiently close apart so that both outlets can drain at the same time into the mouth of a single receptacle, such as a single mug, or a single jug or carafe having a wide enough mouth.

Referring to Figure 13 herein, there is illustrated schematically electrical and electronic components of the water heating device. The electrical components comprise a display device 1300 which may include for example a liquid crystal display or a light emitting diode display, for displaying parameters such as water temperature, cup size or jug size and an amount of water to be heated; a key pad 1301 comprising a plurality of switches or push buttons for a user to enter instructions or selections on the water temperature, size of receptacle, amount of water to be heated, and/temperature; a processor 1302; a timer device 1303 which may be implemented as part of the processor 1302; an electric pump 1304 for pumping cold water from the lower cold water reservoir into the heating chamber; one or more heating elements 1305 in the heating chamber for heating water in that chamber; one or a plurality of outlet valves to the heating chamber, for draining water from the heating chamber into one or a plurality of tubular outlets which drain directly into vessels placed underneath the heating chamber; one or more sensors for sensing the water flU level of the heating chamber, and for sensing whether receptacles are positioned underneath the outlets to the heating chamber and/or on the base 506; and an optional base motor 1308 for moving the base upwards and downwards to accommodate different sizes of water receptacle.

The keypad and display may be marked either in volume measures, such as liters or in easily understandable generic measures such as "one cup", "two cups", "half kettle" or "full kettle". Similarly, temperature may be designated either in SI units such as 00, or in terms temperatures for commonly used water uses such as "coffee", "chocolate", "soup", "boil", according to the intended use of the water.

The heating element 1305 may be controlled by the timer and/or processor to heat water to a desired temperature according to an instruction by entered via the keypad 1301. Optional temperature sensors 1307 positioned in the heating chamber may send a temperature signal to the processor, which may be configured to cut power to the heating element 1305 via solenoid 1309, once a required water temperature has been achieved.

The processor 1302 and/or timer 1303 may control the pump 1304 to pump water from the lower reservoir into the heating chamber, either by controlling the amount of time taken to drive the pump 1304, or by turning off the pump once a fill level sensor 1307 in the heating chamber indicates a particular level of water in the heating chamber.

The optional base motor 1308 may be controlled by the processor 1302 to raise or lower to accommodate cups, jugs or various different sizes of receptacle, according to one or a plurality of receptacle sensors 1307 positioned in or around the area in which the receptacles are positioned underneath the heating chamber.

Referring to Figure 14 herein, there is illustrated schematically processes for use and operation of the heating device according to a specific method herein.

Having established a requirement for water 1400, a user decides whether they require hot water 1401, or cold water 1402. In the case of cold water, it is possible to use the water heating device to pump cold water from the lower reservoir which contains filtered water, through the heating chamber and through the outlets, without any heating, so as to effectively use the device as a water filter only.

In the case of a hot water requirement 1400, the user checks whether there is water present in the device. To assist the user in determining whether there is water in the device, the inside of the upper and lower reservoirs 500, 502 are visible, in this embodiment through a transparent cylindrical reservoir wall, so that the water fill level can be easily viewed. However in other embodiments, the reservoir walls need not be transparent, but there may be provided a fill level indicator by means of a transparent window on the side of the reservoir(s). In the other embodiments, a fill level indicator light or other indicator may be provided to assist the user in establishing the fill level of the reservoirs.

If water is needed 1404, the user lifts the receptacle. In the case of a jug, the weight of the empty vessel may be of the order of 0.4kg. The user fills the vessel, either partially or fully, at which point the vessel may weigh up to for example 1.9kg or 2.0kg; and pours the cold water into the upper reservoir (hopper) 500.

In the case where the reservoir is already full, or sufficiently full 1408, the user does not need to add any more water to the upper reservoir. In either case, the user then may select a temperature 1409, a volume 1401 and/or a type of drink 1411, for example filter coffee, tea, hot beverage, soup etc, or may select a use for the anticipated heated water, for example cooking, making tea in a tea pot, or making coffee in a cafetiere.

In some embodiments, the water heating device may be adapted to automatically sense the type of receptacle fitted to the base plate, for example tea pot, mug or mugs, cup or cups, cafetiere, or carafe, in which case the moveable base 506, may be adjusted to the correct height underneath the hopper. Where the base is motorised, the base may be controlled automatically to move tot he correct position. Where it is manually moveable, the user may adjust the height of the base.

The user may then activate the water heating device by pressing an "ON" button 508, and the heating device then activates by transferring the correct amount of water from the lower water reservoir 502 into the heating chamber 503 to supply the required consumer demand, heating the water to the desired temperature, and dispensing 1415 the correct desired amount of water to one or more receptacles.

The user may lift and poor the jug receptacle 1416 for example for use in cooking, making drinks etc, or if the water heating device as dispensed directly into one or more cups or mugs, the user may mix the drinks in those mugs 1417.

The amount of water dispensed may be controlled according to any one of the following options, either: -A preset volume, determined by the volume selected from the user control; -A volume selected by a user anywhere within a range of volumes between upper and lower limits, as selected using a continuously variable control (see figure 15 herein); or -A volume which is continuously variable until the heating chamber is drained, i.e. the valve opens as long as the user presses a "drain" or dispense" button.

In a preferred embodiment, the amount of water dispensed will be controlled such that the heating chamber is fully drained and the water chamber is emptied after use, so the user will have no control over keeping water retained in the heating chamber. The volume of water to be heated may be continuously varied over a range to avoid the need for any water to be retained in the heating chamber. However, in other embodiments the device may optionally be configured to tallow the user to retain water in the heating chamber.

Referring to Figure 15 herein, there is illustrated schematically in view from the front an alternative user interface to the keypad 507 in figure 5. The alternative user interface comprises a casing 1500 having a front face which comprises a control dial 1501 which is rotatable and can be set to one of a plurality of different settings, indicated by icons 1502 representing a cup, a mug, a part filled cup, a part filled jug, an icon representing two mugs, a half filled jug, and a full jug; a second rotary control 1503 marked with icons representing water, weak tea or herbal/fruit tea, coffee, and strong tea; and a start/stop button 1504.

The quantity control 1501 has icon markers as guides on volume to give an approximate measure in terms of cups, mugs or parts of jugs. The quantity control dial can be set in any position, giving the user complete control over the quantity of water to delivered over a continuous range.

The temperature control 1503 is also continuously adjustable within a preset range, and represents the temperature in terms of symbols for particular types of drinks to advise the user on recommended temperatures for those drinks.

The start/stop 1504 is intuitive and self explanatory in its operation, i.e. press for start, press for stop.

Using the user interface as shown in Figure 15, the user may set the volume and temperature independently, press "go", and the device will then deliver the selected quantity of water at the selected temperature automatically without further user intervention.

Referring to Figure 16 herein, there is illustrated schematically processes for operation of the water heating device for setting the quantity and temperature of the water to be heated. In process 1600, the user inputs a temperature from a range of available temperatures, using a user interface of the device. The selected temperature is digitally stored. In process 1601, the user inputs a quantity of water to be dispensed, from a possible range of selectable quantities. The selected quantity is stored digitally by the processor.

In process 1602, the user activates the "start" control of the user interface, which activates the processor to start a water heating and delivery operation 1603.

Referring to figure 17 herein, there is illustrated schematically operational processes of the water heating device for selecting a correct volume of water to be heated.

Once the device has been activated by the user, in process 1700, the processor checks a fill level of the heating chamber, using one or more electronic sensors in the heating chamber to determine how much water is present in the heating chamber. In process 1701, it is checked whether any water is required to be delivered to the heating chamber to heat the required quantity of water selected by the user. The volume of water in the heating chamber may be determined by reading one or more electronic level fill sensors provided in the heating chamber.

If no further water is required in the heating chamber (heating chamber already has enough water), then the device starts heating in process 1702. However, if the heating chamber is empty, or contains an insufficient amount of water to satisfy the required quantity, then in process 1703, the device checks the level of available water in the storage reservoir in process 1703.

In process 1704, it is checked whether there is sufficient water stored in the storage reservoir. If there is insufficient water in the storage reservoir to transfer to the water heating chamber to satisfy the overall quantity requirement from the user, then this means there is insufficient water in the device as a whole to satisfy the quantity requirement, and the user must pour water into the device, into the upper chamber. In process 1705, optionally the device may generate an alert signal, for example a red light indicating that the device needs filling, in order to satisfy the users requirement for heated water. However, if there is already enough water in the storage reservoir, then in process 1706 water is transferred from the storage water to the heating chamber. The amount of water transferred from the storage reservoir to the heating chamber may vary between different embodiments of the device. In some embodiments, the device may be configured so that the exact quantity required by the user is transferred from the storage reservoir to the heating chamber, on the assumption that the heating chamber is drained fully every time it is used, and therefore only the exact quantity of water is heated. In other embodiments, the operation may be configured such that if there is any residual water in the heating chamber, only enough water is transferred from the storage reservoir to the heating chamber to "top up" the water in the heating chamber to the amount selected by the user, so that overall, the heating chamber heats only the user selected amount of water and no more. Once the heating chamber has the correct amount of water, then heating is started in process 1702, by the processor sending a signal to turn on the electric heating element.

Referring to figure 18 herein, there is illustrated schematically processes for operating the water heating device for heating water. Having turned on the heating element electronically in process 1702, in process 1800, one or more temperature sensors in the heating chamber continuously monitor the water temperature. It is continuously checked by the processor whether the correct temperature has been reached in process 1801, i.e. whether the temperature of the water is hot enough to reach the desired temperature. Whilst the water is heating up, the temperature is not reached, and in parallel with the heating, a timer is activated as a fail safe mechanism, so that if the water has been heating for an unexpected long time, then in process 1803 a fault is determined, and the power to the heating element is cut, as a safety cut out mechanism. However, as long as the expected heating time as timed by the timer has not elapsed, then the heating element continues to operate until in process 1801 it is determined that the correct water temperature has been reached. When the correct water temperature has been reached in process 1804, then the device dispenses water in process 1805.

Referring to figure 19, there is illustrated schematically processes for operation of the water heating device to dispense water.

Once the water has been heated in the heating chamber to the correct temperature and a water dispense operation has been activated, the device then checks whether it is in an auto-dispense mode, process 1900, in which a selected quantity of water is automatically dispensed, or whether a user has manually overridden the automatic mode, in process 1901.

If the device is in auto-dispense mode, then it is optionally checked in process 1902, depending upon the configuration of the outlets as shown in figures to 12 herein whether one water drain outlet or two water drain outlets have been selected by a user, or have been selected automatically. Automatic selection may occur where, for example there are sensors provided underneath the heating chamber and/or around the bay underneath the heating chamber or in the base to detect which type of receptacle is present, and such sensors may generate a signal determining that either one or two receptacles are present as appropriate.

Alternatively, a user may deliberately select using the control panel two cups, one cup, or a jug, for example as a result of selecting an icon on the control device as shown in figure 15 herein. In process 1903, the selected quantity of water is dispensed through the outlets, to either one or a pair or receptacles as appropriate, and depending upon which embodiment of outlet valve arrangement is provided in the device.

Where the user has manually overridden the auto-dispense mode, then the outlet valve(s) are opened in response to a user continuously pushing a button in process 1904. Whilst the button is pressed, the valve continues to be opened by an electronic signal from the processor water flows through the valve(s). As soon as the button is released, then the valve is electronically closed, or reverts to a default close position. Whether one or two valves are present and whether one or two outlets are present is an implementation specific option, and can be selected either manually, or automatically, as in process 1902 as described herein.

One of the problems with prior art hot water dispense systems of the flow -through heating chamber type is that an extended time of delivery of the hot water results in water drained into the receptacle cooling significantly, during the period when the receptacle is being filled, due to the slow flow rate.

A prototype of the embodiments presented herein was tested using a variety of prior art receptacles to check that the temperature of the water in the vessel available for use by the user as soon as the vessel had filled was at an acceptable level.

The results of the prototype test were as follows: Description Volume & Temp Dispense Temp Temp in Vessel OC oc Dispense into standard 1.5L @19°C 1010 96° cup Dispense into Glass 1.5L @19°C 102° 98° Carafe Dispense into Steel 1.5L©19°C 102° 98° Carafe Dispense into Thermal 1.5L@19°C 102° 99° Carafe Dispense into SS 1.5L @19°C 102° 94° Saucepan Dispense into Steel 1.5L@19°C 102° 91° Carafe then standard cup Dispense into Thermal 1.5L@19°C 102° 93° Carafe then standard cup Dispense into Glass 1.5L@19°C 102° 93° Carafe then standard cup Dispense into Steel 1.5L ©19°C 102° 91° Carafe then saucepan Dispense into Steel 1.5L @19°C 102° 86° Carafe then saucepan Dispense into Thermal 1.5L@19°C 102° 91° Carafe then saucepan In all but one of the tests, the temperature in the vessel stayed above 90°C.

Over a 5 minute period, a further loss of approximately 3°C occurred. However, this would be the same for any receptacle filled with boiling water, and was not due to the time taken for the water heating device to heat the water up to above boiling point. In all cases, the boiling water dispensed from the heating chamber provided an acceptable final temperature in the vessel, at the point of which the vessel was filled and was ready for use by a user.

In the present embodiments, because the water is heated to a uniform temperature in one go in the heating chamber and is released from the heating chamber in one go, rather then being delayed and trickled out over time, the water temperature in the collecting receptacle is maintained at a temperature which is nearer to that selected than is the case with the prior art devices, and the cooling of water in the receptacle is equivalent to that as would be encountered if the receptacle had been filled using a conventional jug kettle, where the water is poured all at once into a cup, mug, pan or the like.

In the above embodiments, various sensors are disclosed for sensing temperatures, fill levels and fluid flows. In the best mode herein those sensors are electronic sensors, but may be substituted by known electrical, or optically activated sensors as appropriate.

The hybrid kettle/water heating device concept disclosed herein may provide a user with multiple options for drinks, alongside a full replacement for a conventional kettle.