System and method for powering and communicating with accessory

Abstract

A system configured to allow a kitchen device to power and communicate with an associated accessory, the system comprising: a first coil located in the kitchen device; a second coil in the accessory, at least one sensor and a controller, the at least one sensor and the controller being connected to the second coil, where, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the controller is configured to: receive data from the at least one sensor, the data relating to a physical property; and transmitting the data to the first coil via the second coil, and wherein the second coil is configured to receive power from the first coil.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for powering and communicating with an accessory associated with a device. Background Art

[0002] Kitchen appliances often have removable accessories that are used in conjunction with the kitchen appliance to perform various functions of the kitchen appliance, such as a coffee maker and its associated portafilter and milk jug. Because these accessories are not electrically connected to the kitchen appliance by wires, there are technical limitations in obtaining data from and powering sensors located in the accessories. Accessing data from sensors located in accessories is beneficial because it can help optimize the operation of the kitchen appliance using real-time measurements taken while the appliance is operating.

[0003] In order to obtain data about temperature or other physical properties, some devices have accessories with wired sensors, where the sensor or accessory is connected to the device by a wire to provide power to the sensor and receive data from the sensor. However, such a setup is undesirable because it tethers the accessory to the device and limits the range of use of the accessory. In addition, connecting the device and its associated accessory with an external wire can hinder the use of the accessory, and such visible and protruding wires can be unsafe and aesthetically unpleasant. Summary of the invention

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to at least substantially address one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages or problems, or at least provide a useful alternative.

[0005] In a first aspect, although not necessarily the only or broadest form, the invention resides in a system configured to allow a kitchen appliance to power and communicate with an associated accessory, the system comprising:

[0006] A first coil located in a kitchen appliance;

[0007] a second coil, at least one sensor and a controller located in the accessory, the at least one sensor and the controller being connected to the second coil,

[0008] Wherein, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the controller is configured as follows:

[0009] receiving data from at least one sensor, the data being related to a physical property, and

[0010] The data is transmitted to the first coil via the second coil, and

[0011] Wherein the second coil is configured to receive power from the first coil.

[0012] Preferably, the kitchen appliance is a coffee machine. Preferably, the accessory is a pot associated with the coffee machine. Preferably, the accessory comprises a bottom wall and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall.

[0013] Preferably, the first coil is configured to wirelessly power and communicate with the second coil by inducing a current or potential in the second coil.Preferably, the first coil is located in a portion of the kitchen device adjacent to an inflatable member of the kitchen device.Preferably, the inflatable member is a steam wand.

[0014] Preferably, the kitchen device comprises a first controller electrically connected to the first coil.Preferably, the first controller is configured to provide power to the first coil and to communicate with the first coil.

[0015] Preferably, the kitchen appliance comprises a second controller electrically connected to the first controller and the first coil.Preferably, the second controller is configured to control the temperature and air flow rate of the steam discharged through the steam wand.

[0016] Preferably, the second coil of the accessory and the controller are attached to a bottom wall of the accessory.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one sensor is electrically connected to a controller of the accessory. Preferably, the at least one sensor is a temperature sensor. Preferably, the at least one sensor is an NTC thermistor. Preferably, the at least one sensor is configured to measure a physical property of a fluid in the accessory. Preferably, the physical property measured by the at least one sensor is the temperature of the fluid. Preferably, the physical property measured by the at least one sensor is the density or turbidity of the fluid. Preferably, the accessory comprises a further sensor configured to measure another physical property of the fluid in the accessory.

[0018] Preferably, the controller of the accessory includes a DC power regulator and a microprocessor electrically connected to the DC power regulator. Preferably, the DC power regulator receives power from the second coil. Preferably, the DC power regulator converts AC power to DC power for powering the microprocessor.

[0019] Preferably, the controller receives data from at least one sensor and encodes the data. Preferably, a microprocessor of the controller encodes the data. Preferably, the data from at least one sensor is encoded with amplitude shift keying (ASK). Preferably, the controller of the accessory converts the data from at least one sensor into a binary code format. Preferably, the data from at least one sensor is encoded by the microprocessor with amplitude shift keying (ASK).

[0020] Preferably, the first controller of the kitchen device comprises an ASK filter, a microprocessor and a carrier frequency generator electrically connected to each other. Preferably, the first controller decodes data from at least one sensor received by the first coil. Preferably, the ASK filter of the first controller decodes the data. Preferably, the data from at least one sensor is decoded by an FSK (Frequency Shift Keying) filter of the first controller.

[0021] Preferably, the microprocessor of the first controller receives data from at least one sensor and issues control commands to control the operation of the kitchen appliance.Preferably, the microprocessor of the first controller receives data from at least one sensor and issues control commands to control the operation of the inflatable member via the second controller.

[0022] Preferably, the accessory is a filter associated with a coffee machine. Preferably, the filter is a portafilter configured to contain ground coffee. Preferably, the accessory comprises a handle and a basket portion connected to the handle.

[0023] Preferably, the kitchen appliance comprises a heater configured to heat water.Preferably, the first coil is located in a portion of the kitchen appliance adjacent to an area where the filter may be used and connected to a coffee machine.

[0024] Preferably, the second controller is configured to control the temperature and flow rate of the water used to extract the coffee.Preferably, the second controller is configured to control the duration of the water flow or the pressure of the water.

[0025] Preferably, the second coil and the controller of the accessory are housed in a handle of the accessory.

[0026] Preferably, the physical property measured by the at least one sensor is viscosity, flow rate and / or pH of the fluid.

[0027] Preferably, the microprocessor of the first controller receives data from at least one sensor and issues control commands to display information to a user, the information being related to the data from at least one sensor.Preferably, the microprocessor of the first controller receives data from at least one sensor and issues control commands to the heater via the second controller.

[0028] Preferably, the accessory comprises an identifier located therein. Preferably, the identifier is a magnet, RFID or NFC tag. Preferably, the identifier allows the accessory to be identified by the kitchen appliance. Preferably, the identifier is configured to be powered by power received by the second coil from the first coil.

[0029] Preferably, the accessory comprises a power storage device. Preferably, the power storage device is a supercapacitor, an ultracapacitor or a battery. Preferably, the power storage device is configured to store power when the second coil receives power from the first coil. Preferably, the power storage device allows a controller and at least one sensor of the accessory to be powered by power stored in the power storage device. Preferably, the power storage device powers a display on the accessory.

[0030] Preferably, the system comprises a radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth (BT) module to transmit and / or receive data from at least one sensor. Preferably, the RF module is a low power RF module. Preferably, the BT module is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module. Preferably, the RF or BT module is located in the accessory and is powered by the power received by the second coil. Preferably, the RF or BT module receives data from at least one sensor and transmits the data to another RF or BT module located in the kitchen device.

[0031] Preferably, the kitchen device is a heater base. Preferably, the accessory is a vessel associated with the heater base. Preferably, the kitchen device and the accessory together act as an induction kettle. Preferably, the vessel contains water or other liquid to be heated.

[0032] Preferably, the kitchen device is connected to a power source electrically coupled to an induction coil housed within the kitchen device. Preferably, the induction coil is magnetically coupled to a heating element located in the accessory when the accessory rests on the kitchen device. Preferably, the induction coil is configured to deliver a magnetic field to the heating element for heating water contained in the accessory. Preferably, the heating element is a heating disc or plate.

[0033] Preferably, the second controller of the kitchen appliance is configured to control the induction coil to heat water in the accessory.Preferably, the first coil and the induction coil are offset from each other and operate at different frequencies.

[0034] Preferably, the second coil is located at a lower end of the accessory and a controller for the accessory is located at an opposite upper end thereof. Preferably, a shaft extends centrally through the accessory. Preferably, the shaft is located between the controller and the second coil. Preferably, the upper end of the shaft is connected to the controller and the lower end of the shaft is connected to the second coil.

[0035] Preferably, the shaft comprises a plurality of sensors configured to measure a physical parameter or a gradient of a physical parameter. Preferably, the plurality of sensors are water level sensors. Preferably, the plurality of sensors are spaced apart from each other. Preferably, the plurality of sensors determine the height of the water level in the accessory and transmit the data to the controller. Preferably, the plurality of sensors detect the presence of scale in the accessory.

[0036] Preferably, the at least one sensor comprises a first sensor and a second sensor. Preferably, the first sensor and the second sensor are temperature sensors. Preferably, the first sensor is located at the lower end of the shaft. Preferably, the second sensor is located adjacent to the second coil. Preferably, the first sensor and the second sensor are located at a distance from the heating element.

[0037] Preferably, the at least one sensor comprises a third sensor. Preferably, the third sensor is a temperature sensor embedded in or mounted on the heating element. Preferably, the third sensor measures the temperature of the heating element.

[0038] In a second aspect, the invention resides in a kitchen device configured to power and communicate with an associated accessory, the kitchen device comprising:

[0039] a first coil configured to inductively couple with and transfer power to a second coil located in the accessory,

[0040] Wherein, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the first coil is configured to receive data from at least one sensor located in the accessory via the second coil, the data being related to the physical property.

[0041] In a third aspect, the invention resides in an accessory configured to be powered by and communicate with an associated kitchen device, the accessory comprising:

[0042] a second coil, at least one sensor and a controller located in the accessory, the at least one sensor and the controller being connected to the second coil,

[0043] wherein the second coil is configured to receive power from the first coil located in the kitchen device, and

[0044] Wherein, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the controller is configured as follows:

[0045] receiving data from at least one sensor, the data relating to a physical property, and

[0046] The data is transmitted to the first coil via the second coil.

[0047] In a fourth aspect, the invention resides in a method of powering and communicating with an accessory associated with a kitchen device, the method comprising:

[0048] positioning a second coil of the accessory adjacent to the first coil of the kitchen device to inductively couple the first coil and the second coil;

[0049] transferring power from the first coil to the second coil;

[0050] receiving, by a controller of the accessory, data from at least one sensor located in the accessory, the data relating to the physical property;

[0051] Data is transmitted to the first coil via the second coil by the controller.

[0052] Preferably, transferring power from the first coil to the second coil comprises:

[0053] generating a signal of a predetermined frequency through the first coil;

[0054] Power is generated from the signal through the second coil.

[0055] Preferably, transmitting, by the controller, data to the first coil via the second coil comprises:

[0056] encoding, by a controller, data from at least one sensor;

[0057] transmitting the encoded data to the first coil;

[0058] The encoded data is decoded by a first controller of the kitchen appliance.

[0059] Preferably, the induction coil of the kitchen appliance is magnetically coupled to the heating element of the accessory when the second coil of the accessory is positioned adjacent to the first coil of the kitchen appliance.

[0060] In a fifth aspect, the present invention consists in a method of operating a kitchen appliance and associated accessories, the method comprising:

[0061] positioning the accessory adjacent to the kitchen appliance to inductively couple the first coil of the kitchen appliance and the second coil of the accessory;

[0062] transmitting data from at least one sensor located in the accessory to the first coil via the second coil, the data relating to the physical property;

[0063] The water level in the accessory is determined, and the kitchen appliance is powered off when the data indicates that there is no water in the accessory, or the water is heated by energizing an induction coil of the kitchen appliance when the data indicates that the accessory contains water.

[0064] Preferably, the method further comprises:

[0065] monitoring the temperature of the water by at least one sensor;

[0066] In a case where the temperature of the water has reached the temperature set by the user or in a case where the temperature change of the water does not exceed a predetermined temperature, the kitchen device is powered off.

[0067] Preferably, the method further comprises detecting "cook dry" by determining when the temperature sensed by the at least one sensor is greater than a cut-off temperature, and powering off the kitchen appliance.

[0068] Preferably, in order to detect "cooking dry", the cut-off temperature T is calculated according to the following formula: 1 :

[0069]

[0070] Where C is the maximum cut-off temperature of the accessory, dT / dt is the rate of temperature change of the heating element, T s is the initial temperature of the heating element before being heated, and "a" and "b" are predetermined constants.

[0071] Preferably, the method further comprises:

[0072] detecting a difference in a rate of change of temperature of two adjacent sensors of the at least one sensor;

[0073] detecting a temperature difference between the two adjacent sensors;

[0074] In response to determining that the rate of temperature change of the two adjacent sensors exceeds a first predetermined limit or the temperature difference of the two adjacent sensors exceeds a second predetermined limit, it is determined that one of the two adjacent sensors has failed and the kitchen device is powered off. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0076] Figure 1 is a schematic system diagram of a system for powering and communicating with an accessory, wherein the accessory is a pot associated with a coffee machine, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic system diagram of the system.

[0078] Figure 3 is a schematic system diagram of a system for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the accessory is a portafilter associated with a coffee machine.

[0079] Figure 4 is a schematic system diagram of a system for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the accessory is a pot associated with a coffee machine.

[0080] Figure 5is a schematic system diagram of a system for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the accessory is a portafilter associated with a coffee machine.

[0081] Figure 6 is a schematic system diagram of a system for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the accessory is a portafilter associated with a coffee machine.

[0082] Figure 7 is a schematic system diagram of a system for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the accessory is an inductive kettle vessel associated with a base.

[0083] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic system diagram of the operation of the system.

[0084] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 Another schematic system diagram of the operation of the system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A system 10 for powering and communicating with an accessory is illustrated, the system being configured to allow a kitchen appliance to power and communicate with an accessory associated with the kitchen appliance. In this embodiment, the kitchen appliance is a coffee machine (not shown), and the accessory is a fluid container in the form of a tank 100 for heating and aerating / frothing milk or a milk substitute. The tank 100 includes a bottom wall and side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall, thereby forming a space for receiving milk.

[0086] The coffee machine (not shown) includes a first coil 120, a first controller 121, and a second controller 122 electrically connected to each other. The first coil 120 is configured to wirelessly power and communicate with the second coil 110 located in the tank 100, for example by inducing current or potential in each other, and is located in a portion of the coffee machine adjacent to an aeration member (in the form of a steam wand 150), i.e., adjacent to an area where the tank 100 may be used with the steam wand 150 to aerate / froth milk. The first controller 121 is configured to provide power and communicate with the first coil 120 and also communicate with the second controller 122. In this embodiment, the second controller 122 is configured to control the temperature and air flow rate of the steam discharged through the steam wand 150. However, in other embodiments, the second controller 122 may control other operating parameters of the coffee machine, such as the duration of a particular process, water temperature, operating pressure, etc., and / or the second controller 122 may control a display located on the coffee machine.

[0087] Throughout the specification, the terms "electrically connected", "connected" or "electrically connected" do not necessarily limit a direct connection, but may also refer to an indirect connection, for example, an indirect connection made using another electrical component (such as a resistor) located between the two points being connected, or it may also refer to a communicative coupling.

[0088] Attached to the bottom wall of the tank 100 is a second coil 110 and a controller 111 electrically connected to the second coil 110. The controller 111 is also electrically connected to a sensor (not shown) located in the attachment. In this embodiment, the sensor is a temperature sensor in the form of an NTC thermistor that measures the temperature of the milk (or any other fluid) in the tank 100. However, in other embodiments, the sensor may measure other physical properties, such as density, turbidity, milk type, foaming level, etc., and / or the tank 100 may include two or more sensors to measure several physical properties. In addition, in other embodiments, the second coil 110 and the controller 111 may be located elsewhere on the tank 100, the location being selected based on the location of the first coil 120. The second coil 110 is configured to communicate with the first coil 120 and receive power from the first coil.

[0089] In use, when the tank 100 is positioned substantially adjacent to the first coil 120 of the coffee machine, the first coil 120 of the coffee machine and the second coil 110 of the tank 100 are inductively coupled, and the second coil 110 receives power from the first coil 120. Figure 2 As shown, the controller 111 of the tank 100 includes a DC power regulator and a microprocessor electrically connected to the DC power regulator. The first coil 120 of the coffee machine generates a signal of a predetermined frequency (e.g., 100kHz). The second coil 110 of the tank 100 is tuned to resonate at the same predetermined frequency and generates power from the received signal. The DC power regulator receives the power and converts it into DC power, which is then used to power the microprocessor. The data from the sensor is received by the microprocessor and encoded with amplitude shift keying (ASK) to be transmitted to the first coil 120 via the second coil 110. In particular, in order to transmit data, the controller 111 of the tank 100 changes the power consumption of the circuit in the attachment to generate a specific pulse pattern form. For example, the controller 111 may include a very low resistance resistor (which draws a very high current) and then turn off the resistor to generate a pulse pattern. In this way, the controller 111 of the tank 100 can convert the data from the sensor into a binary code format.

[0090] The first controller 121 of the coffee machine includes an ASK filter, a microprocessor, and a carrier frequency generator electrically connected to each other. The encoded data received by the first coil 120 of the coffee machine is decoded by the ASK filter and received by the microprocessor connected to it. However, in other embodiments, the data from the sensor can be encoded by the microprocessor 386 in frequency shift keying (FSK) and decoded by the FSK filter included in the first controller 121.

[0091] The microprocessor of the first controller 121 uses the decoded data and issues control commands to other components of the coffee machine to display key information to the user and / or control the operation of the steam wand 150 via the second controller 122. For example, based on the temperature data in the decoded data, the coffee machine can provide an indication to the user that the milk is ready, and can automatically turn off the steam wand 150 or the entire coffee machine. In addition, where the decoded data includes other physical properties, such as viscosity or data related to the foam layer, this information can be provided to the user (via a display located on the coffee machine or via an application on the user's mobile device) and / or further operation of the coffee machine can be controlled based on such data (e.g., turning off the steam wand 150 or changing its operating parameters).

[0092] Figure 3 A system 20 for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The system 20 is configured to allow a kitchen appliance to power and communicate with an accessory associated with the kitchen appliance. In this embodiment, the kitchen appliance is a coffee machine (not shown), and the accessory is a filter in the form of a portafilter 200 that holds ground coffee during extraction and through which the extracted coffee flows. The portafilter 200 includes a handle 201 and a basket portion 202 connected to the handle 201.

[0093] Similar to the coffee machine of system 10, the coffee machine of system 20 includes a first coil 220, a first controller 221, and a second controller 222 electrically connected to each other. The coffee machine of system 20 also includes a heater 223 that heats water for extracting coffee, and the heater 223 is electrically connected to the first controller 221 and the second controller 222. The first coil 220 is configured to wirelessly power and communicate with the second coil 210 located in the portafilter 200, for example, by inducing current or potential in each other, and is located in a portion of the coffee machine that is adjacent to an area where the portafilter 200 may be used and connected to the coffee machine. The first controller 221 is configured to provide power and communicate with the first coil 220 and also communicate with the second controller 222. In this embodiment, the second controller 222 is configured to control the temperature and flow rate of water used to extract coffee. However, in other embodiments, the second controller 222 may control other operating parameters of the coffee machine, such as flow duration, operating pressure, etc., and / or the second controller 222 may perform calculations, generate recommendations and / or display relevant parameters (via a display) in real time or after a predetermined amount of coffee has been extracted.

[0094] Housed in the handle 201 of the beta filter 200 is a second coil 210 and a controller 211 electrically connected to the second coil 210. The controller 211 is also electrically connected to a sensor 212 located in the beta filter 200. In this embodiment, the sensor is a temperature sensor in the form of an NTC thermistor that measures the temperature of the extracted coffee passing through the basket portion 202 of the beta filter 200. However, in other embodiments, the sensor 212 may measure other physical properties, such as viscosity, flow rate, pH, etc., and / or the beta filter 200 may include two or more sensors to measure several physical properties. The second coil 210 is configured to communicate with the first coil 220 and receive power from the first coil.

[0095] In use, the operation of system 20 is similar to that of system 10, i.e., Figure 2 When the portafilter 200 is positioned adjacent to the first coil 220 of the coffee machine, the first coil 220 of the coffee machine and the second coil 210 of the portafilter 200 are inductively coupled, and the second coil 210 receives power from the first coil 220 .

[0096] However, instead of controlling the operation of the steam wand 150, in the system 20, the microprocessor of the first controller 221 uses the decoded sensor data and issues control commands to other components of the coffee machine to display key information to the user and / or control the operation of the heater 223 via the second controller 222. For example, based on the temperature data in the decoded data, the coffee machine can provide an indication to the user that the water used for coffee extraction is too hot or not hot enough, and can automatically change the operation of the heater 223. As another example, the temperature data in the decoded data can allow the coffee machine to determine whether the temperature gradient in the coffee cake (i.e., the ground coffee in the portafilter 200) is achieved relatively quickly, thereby indicating that the ground coffee is too fine, and the coffee machine can display this information and / or recommendation to the user. In addition, in the case where the decoded data includes other physical properties, such as flow rate or water pressure, this information can be provided to the user (via a display located on the coffee machine or via an application on the user's mobile device) and / or further operation of the coffee machine can be controlled based on such data (e.g., turning off the heater 223 or changing its operating parameters).

[0097] In another embodiment, the system 10 or system 20 may include an identifier located in the accessory, such as a magnet, RFID, NFC tag, etc., to allow the accessory (pot 100 or portafilter 200) to be recognized by the kitchen device (coffee machine). Each accessory has a unique identifier, and the identifier may be powered by the power received by the second coil 110, 210 from the first coil 120, 220. In this way, the coffee machine can identify the type of pot 100 or portafilter 200 being used and can change its operation based on the accessory being used.

[0098] The systems 10, 20 are completely sealed, compact and allow data and power to be transferred wirelessly between the kitchen appliance and the accessories. Sensors located in the accessories allow key data about temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc. to be read and transmitted to the kitchen appliance, which allows the appliance to control and / or change its operation for optimal results. In addition, sensors located inside the accessories allow for more accurate measurements, thereby achieving precise control of the desired results.

[0099] In the systems 10, 20, power transfer and data communication between the first coil 120, 220 and the second coil 110, 210 has a limited range and is not possible when the second coil 110, 210 is positioned beyond a predetermined maximum distance from the first coil 120, 220, i.e. when the accessory is positioned beyond a predetermined maximum distance from the kitchen appliance, the maximum distance depending on the amount of power to be transferred and other factors.

[0100] Figure 4A system 30 for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The system 30 is configured to allow a kitchen appliance to power and communicate with an accessory associated with the kitchen appliance. The system 30 is similar to the system 10, but the differences between them will be noted below.

[0101] As with system 10, the coffee machine of system 30 includes a first coil 320, a first controller 321, and a second controller 322 electrically connected to each other. The tank 300 of system 30 includes a second coil 310, a controller 311 electrically connected to the second coil 110, and a sensor (not shown) electrically connected to the controller 311. However, in system 30, tank 300 also includes a power storage device in the form of a supercapacitor (not shown), which can be charged (for example, when the accessory is not in use and is in idle mode) and stores power when the second coil 310 receives power from the first coil 320. In other embodiments, different types of power storage devices, such as batteries, can be used.

[0102] Including a power storage device in the tank 300 allows the controller 311 and associated sensors to be partially powered by the power stored in the power storage device, thereby eliminating the need to maintain a strong power transmission link between the first coil 320 and the second coil 310. With power stored in the power storage device, if the power supplied by the first coil 320 is insufficient, the controller 311 of the tank 300 can rely on the stored power. This allows the system 30 to operate over a longer distance, i.e., the maximum operating distance between the tank 300 and the coffee machine is longer, because the power storage device can provide the power required by the controller 311 and the associated sensors when the tank 300 is moved farther away from the coffee machine. In addition, the power storage device can be used to power a display (e.g., an LCD display) on the tank 300 to display sensor data or other information to the user.

[0103] Figure 5 A system 40 for powering and communicating with an accessory according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. System 40 is similar to system 20, but the differences therebetween will be noted below.

[0104] As with system 20, the coffee machine of system 40 includes a first coil 420, a first controller 221, a second controller 222, and a heater 423 electrically connected to each other. The portafilter 400 of system 40 includes a handle 401 and a basket portion 401, and includes a second coil 410, a controller 411 electrically connected to the second coil 410, and a sensor (not shown) electrically connected to the controller 411. However, in system 40, the portafilter 400 also includes a power storage device in the form of a supercapacitor (not shown), which can be charged (e.g., when the accessory is not in use and is in idle mode) and stores power when the second coil 410 receives power from the first coil 420, similar to the power storage device of system 30. In other embodiments, different types of power storage devices may be used, such as batteries or supercapacitors. The power storage device can be used to power a display (e.g., an LCD display) on the portafilter 400 to display sensor data or other information to the user. In some embodiments, when the wave tower filter 400 is in use, the power storage device may provide the required power to the wave tower filter (rather than receiving power from the first coil 420).

[0105] In some embodiments, the systems 30, 40 may include a radio frequency (RF) module, such as a Bluetooth (BT) module, to transmit and / or receive sensor data, such as Figure 6 As shown. The RF module may be a low power RF module, and the BT module may be a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module. For example, Figure 6 As shown, an RF module included in an accessory of the system 30, 40 and powered by power received by the coil of the accessory receives sensor data from a microprocessor of a controller of the accessory and transmits the sensor data to an RF module located in the kitchen device. When an RF module is used, data can be transmitted over a longer distance and also allows the sensor data to be transmitted from the RF module of the accessory to a user's mobile device so that the user can collect sensor data or control the operation of the kitchen device accordingly.

[0106] Additionally, in some embodiments, the system 20, 40 may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) located in the portafilter 200, 400 (e.g., located in the handle 201, 401 and / or the basket portion 202, 402). The LEDs may be connected to the second coil 210, 410 without a controller, potentially requiring only a rectifier and / or capacitor. Incorporating LEDs in the portafilter 200, 400 will provide aesthetic and functional benefits to the user.

[0107] Figure 7A system 50 for powering and communicating with an accessory implemented in an induction kettle according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The system 50 is configured to allow a kitchen device to power and communicate with an accessory associated with the kitchen device. In this embodiment, the kitchen device includes a heater base 501, and the accessory is a vessel 500 that contains water or other liquid to be heated and rests on the heater base 501. The heater base 501 and the vessel 500 together serve as an induction kettle.

[0108] The base 501 is connected to a power source that is electrically coupled to an induction coil 530 housed within the base 501. When the vessel 500 rests on the base 501, the induction coil 530 is magnetically coupled to a heating element (not shown) located in the vessel 500. In particular, the power source is configured to deliver an alternating current to the induction coil 530, such that the induction coil 530 is operable to deliver a magnetic field to the heating element, thereby heating the water contained in the vessel 500. The heating element may be in the form of a heating disk or plate.

[0109] The base 501 also includes a first coil 520, a first controller 521, a power module 522, and a second controller 523 that are electrically connected to each other. The first coil 520 is configured to wirelessly power and communicate with the second coil 510 located in the vessel 500, for example, by inducing current or potential in each other. The first controller 521 is configured to provide power and communicate with the first coil 520 and also communicate with the second controller 523. In this embodiment, the second controller 523 is configured to control the induction coil 530 to heat the water in the vessel 500. However, in other embodiments, the second controller 122 can control other operating parameters of the induction kettle, such as indicator lights, displays, etc. Although the base 501 includes two coils (induction coil 530 and first coil 502), the two coils are offset from each other and operate at different frequencies to minimize interference. However, in other embodiments, the base 501 may include only one coil that performs two functions, and / or the two coils can operate at substantially the same frequency.

[0110] Vessel 500 includes a second coil 510 and a controller 511 electrically connected to the second coil 110. The second coil is located at the lower end of the vessel 500, adjacent to the base 501 when the vessel 500 is located on the base 501, and the controller 511 is located at the opposite upper end of the vessel 500 to maintain the distance between the heating element and the controller 511. Appropriate separation is also maintained between the second coil 510 and the heating element in the vessel 500 to minimize the impact of radio interference and heat generated by the heating element. However, in other embodiments, the controller 511 may be located elsewhere in the vessel 500. Located between the controller 511 and the second coil 510 is an axis 502 that extends through the vessel 500 in the center, that is, the axis 502 extends along the central axis of the cylindrical vessel 500. The upper end of the axis 502 is connected to the controller 511, and the other lower end of the axis 502 is connected to the second coil 510. However, in other embodiments, the axis 502 may be located on and extend along a sidewall of the vessel 500 .

[0111] Several water level sensors 514 are positioned along the axis 502, and the water level sensors 514 are spaced apart from each other. The sensor 514 determines the height of the water level in the vessel 500 and transmits data to the controller 511. However, in other embodiments, the axis may include multiple sensors to measure another physical parameter or physical parameter gradient. The water level sensor 514 is positioned on the axis 502 extending through the vessel 500 in the center compared with positioning such sensors on the side wall of the vessel 500. By positioning the sensor 514 at the center of the vessel 500, the sensor 514 does not need to tilt (due to the tilted side wall of the vessel 500) and can provide an accurate reading of the water level. However, in other embodiments, the water level sensor 514 may be located elsewhere in the vessel 500, or other devices or other types of sensors may be used to accurately determine the water level in the vessel 500.

[0112] The water level sensors 514 also detect the accumulation and / or presence of scale in the vessel 500 by comparing the impedance between each sensor 514 immersed in the water, which provides a relative difference in impedance and is independent of changes in impedance due to the type of water in the vessel 500. Generally, the sensors 514 closest to the heating element will be exposed to the highest temperature relative to the sensors 514 located further away from the heating element, which can cause faster scale accumulation on the lower sensors 514 and slower scale accumulation in the higher sensors 514. Therefore, comparing the impedance level between the sensors 514 and determining whether it exceeds a predetermined threshold will indicate a scale accumulation condition.

[0113] Vessel 500 also includes two temperature sensors 513 in the form of NTC thermistors for measuring the temperature of the water in vessel 500. One of these temperature sensors 513 is located at the lower end of shaft 502, and the other temperature sensor 513 is located adjacent to second coil 510, both temperature sensors 513 are located at a distance from the heating element. However, in other embodiments, there may be only one or three or more temperature sensors 513, and / or the temperature sensors 513 may be located elsewhere in vessel 500, for example, on the side wall of vessel 500 or further along axis 502.

[0114] Another temperature sensor 512 in the form of an NTC thermistor is embedded in or mounted to the heating element to measure the temperature of the heating element. Embedding the temperature sensor 512 in the heating element minimizes response time and also minimizes any potential adverse effects from dirt or scale accumulation. In some embodiments, other sensors may be embedded in or mounted to the heating element to detect and identify failure modes.

[0115] In some embodiments, the vessel 500 of the system 50 may include a power storage device in the form of a supercapacitor that can be charged (e.g., when the vessel 500 is not in use) and store power when the second coil 510 receives power from the first coil 520. This allows data to be transferred to the base 501 when the vessel 500 is positioned a distance from the base 501.

[0116] In use, when the vessel 500 is located on the base 501, the first coil 520 of the base 501 and the second coil 510 of the vessel 500 are inductively coupled, and the second coil 510 receives power from the first coil 520. In addition, as described above, the induction coil 530 and the heating element located in the vessel 500 are magnetically coupled, and the heating element can be activated to heat the water contained in the vessel 500.

[0117] Data from the temperature sensors 512, 513 and the water level sensor 513 is transmitted to the controller 511, and the data is then encoded and transmitted to the first coil 520 via the second coil 510. The power module 522 of the base 501 includes a data filter in the form of an ASK filter, which decodes the data received by the first coil 520 and transmits the decoded data to the first controller 521. The first controller 521 uses the decoded data (i.e., the temperature of the water and / or heating element, the water level, etc.) and issues control commands to control the operation of the induction coil 530 via the second controller 523. This allows the desired water temperature to be reached and accurately maintained. The measured data is also used to implement a number of safety features, such as detecting "boil dry" (i.e., when there is no water in the vessel 500 of the kettle) and any faults in the temperature sensor.

[0118] In another embodiment, the second coil 520 of the vessel 500 can receive power from the induction coil 530 in the base 501, and the transmitted power can be used to charge a power storage device in the form of a supercapacitor that can store power. Alternatively, the induction coil 530 can transmit power to the power storage device or charge the power storage device by other means. The power storage device can power a radio frequency (RF) module (e.g., a Bluetooth (BT) module) located in the vessel 500 to transmit and / or receive sensor data from the base 501.

[0119] In another embodiment, the system 30, system 40, or system 50 may include an identifier located in the accessory, such as a magnet, RFID, NFC tag, etc., to allow the accessory (tank 300, portafilter 400, or vessel 500) to be recognized by the kitchen device (coffee machine or heater base 501). Each accessory has a unique identifier, and the identifier can be powered by the power received by the second coil 310, 410, 510 from the first coil 320, 420, 520. In this way, the coffee machine can identify the type of tank 100 or portafilter 200, or the heater base 501 can identify the vessel 500 being used and can change its operation based on the accessory being used.

[0120] In some embodiments, the system 10, 20, 50 may include a radio frequency (RF) module, such as a Bluetooth (BT) module, to transmit and / or receive sensor data. The RF module may be a low-power RF module, and the BT module may be a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) module. For example, an RF module included in an accessory of the system 10, 20, 50 and powered by power received by a coil of the accessory receives sensor data from a microprocessor of a controller of the accessory and transmits the sensor data to an RF module located in the kitchen device. When an RF module is used, data can be transmitted over a longer distance, and it also allows the sensor data to be transmitted from the RF module of the accessory to a user's mobile device, so that the user can collect sensor data or control the operation of the kitchen device accordingly.

[0121] Figure 8 Illustrated Figure 7 The "normal" operation of the induction kettle shown. When the kettle is turned on, the sensor is powered on and begins to transmit data related to the water temperature, the heating element temperature and the water level to the controller 521 in the base 501. In the case where the base 501 does not receive the sensor data, this will indicate that the vessel 500 is not located on the base 501, and the kettle does not perform any further functions, such as energizing the induction coil 530. Similarly, in the case where the sensor data indicates that there is no water in the vessel 500, the kettle does not perform further functions. However, in the case where the base 501 receives the sensor data and the water level indicates that the vessel 500 does contain water, the induction coil 530 is energized and the heating of the water is started. When the water is heated, the temperature of the water is monitored by the temperature sensor 513 to check whether the water temperature has reached the desired temperature set by the user or whether the temperature change of the water does not exceed the predetermined temperature. In the case where any of these conditions is met, the kettle is powered off and the kettle does not perform further functions.

[0122] Fig. 9 Illustrated for use in Figure 7 Safety logic for detecting abnormal conditions during operation of the induction kettle shown. The safety logic allows for detection of "boil dry" and faults in the temperature sensor. Initially, the sensor is powered on and begins transmitting data related to water temperature, heating element temperature and water level to the controller 521 in the base 501. Next, it is determined whether the initial power cycle (i.e., the first power cycle initiated when the kettle is powered on) has been completed. In the case where the initial power cycle has not yet been performed, the induction coil 530 is powered on using a predetermined amount of total power available for the induction coil 530, and the temperature and temperature change rate of each temperature sensor are monitored. However, in the case where the initial power cycle has previously been performed, the induction coil 530 is powered on using the power available for heating, wherein the power supplied to the induction coil 530 is controlled using a PID controller, and the temperature and temperature change rate of each temperature sensor are monitored.

[0123] The data received from the sensors located in the vessel 500 of the kettle is monitored to check if a "boil dry" condition exists or if any temperature sensor is faulty. In particular, if the temperature of any temperature sensor exceeds the cut-off temperature T 1 In the case of a boil-dry condition, it is determined that a boil-dry condition exists and a safety shutdown of the kettle is performed. The cut-off temperature T is calculated as follows 1 :

[0124]

[0125] Where C is the maximum cut-off temperature, dT / dt is the rate of temperature change of the heating element, T s is the initial temperature of the heating element before being heated, and "a" and "b" are predetermined constants calculated based on various factors such as the heating capacity / power of the kettle and the physical design of the kettle (i.e., water capacity, materials, etc.). In other embodiments, dT / dt may be the rate of change of temperature of the water, and T s This may be the initial temperature of the water before it is heated.

[0126] Alternatively, when the difference in the temperature change rate of two consecutive or adjacent temperature sensors exceeds a first predetermined limit D x In the event of a temperature difference between two consecutive or adjacent temperature sensors exceeding a second predetermined limit Tx, at least one of the temperature sensors is determined to be faulty and a safety shutdown of the kettle is performed. In this way, the data obtained from the sensors located in the vessel 500 of the kettle can be used to implement various safety features during operation of the kettle.

[0127] In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, forward and backward, upward and downward, top and bottom, proximal and distal, etc. may be used only to distinguish one element or action from another element or action, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, references to integers or components or steps (or the like) should not be interpreted as being limited to only one of the integers, components or steps, but may be one or more of the integers, components or steps, etc.

[0128] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided to describe to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, many alternative forms and variations of the present invention are apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teachings. Therefore, although some alternative embodiments have been specifically discussed, it will be clear or relatively easy for those of ordinary skill in the art to develop other embodiments. The present invention is intended to encompass all alternative forms, modifications and variations discussed herein of the present invention, as well as other embodiments falling within the spirit and scope of the above invention.

[0129] In this specification, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or similar terms are intended to represent a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may also include other elements that are not listed.

Claims

1. A system configured to allow a kitchen appliance to power and communicate with associated accessories, the system comprising: a first coil located in the kitchen device; a second coil, at least one sensor and a controller located in the accessory, the at least one sensor and the controller being connected to the second coil, Wherein, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the controller is configured to: receiving data from the at least one sensor, the data relating to a physical property, and The data is transmitted to the first coil via the second coil, and wherein the second coil is configured to receive power from the first coil.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first coil is located in a portion of the kitchen appliance adjacent to an area where the accessory may be used. 3 . The system of claim 1 , wherein the kitchen appliance comprises a first controller electrically connected to the first coil, the first controller being configured to provide power to the first coil and to communicate with the first coil. 4 . The system of claim 3 , wherein the kitchen appliance includes a second controller electrically connected to the first controller and the first coil.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the second controller is configured to: controlling the temperature and flow rate of steam discharged through the inflatable member of the kitchen appliance, or Control the temperature and flow rate of the water used to extract the coffee, or An induction coil of the kitchen appliance is controlled to heat water in the accessory.

6. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to measure a physical property of a fluid in the attachment.

7. The system of claim 7, wherein the physical property is temperature, density and / or turbidity of the fluid.

8. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the data is encoded by the controller of the accessory before being transmitted to the first coil, and the encoded data is decoded by the first controller of the kitchen appliance.

9. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the second coil of the accessory and the controller are attached to a bottom wall of the accessory, or The second coil and the controller of the accessory are housed in a handle of the accessory, or The second coil is located at a lower end of the accessory, and the controller of the accessory is located at an opposite upper end of the accessory.

10. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the accessory includes an identifier located therein, the identifier being configured to allow the accessory to be identified by the kitchen appliance.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the identifier is configured to be powered by power received by the second coil from the first coil.

12. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the accessory comprises a power storage device configured to store power when the second coil receives power from the first coil.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the power storage device allows the controller and the at least one sensor of the accessory to be powered by power stored in the power storage device.

14. The system of claim 12 or 13, wherein the power storage device is a supercapacitor or a battery.

15. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth (BT) module to transmit and / or receive the data from the at least one sensor.

16. The system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the kitchen appliance is a coffee maker and the accessory is a fluid container or canister.

17. The system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the kitchen appliance is a coffee maker and the accessory is a portafilter for use with the coffee maker.

18. The system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the accessory is a vessel and the kitchen device is a heater base associated with the vessel, the vessel and base together functioning as an induction kettle.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein when the accessory rests on the kitchen appliance, the induction coil of the kitchen appliance magnetically couples to a heating element located in the accessory to heat water contained in the accessory.

20. A system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein a shaft extends centrally through the accessory, the shaft comprising a plurality of sensors.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of sensors determine a water level in the attachment.

22. A kitchen device configured to power and communicate with associated accessories, the kitchen device comprising: a first coil configured to inductively couple with and transfer power to a second coil located in the accessory, Wherein, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the first coil is configured to receive data from at least one sensor located in the accessory via the second coil, wherein the data is related to a physical property.

23. An accessory configured to be powered by and communicate with an associated kitchen device, the accessory comprising: a second coil, at least one sensor and a controller located in the accessory, the at least one sensor and the controller being connected to the second coil, wherein the second coil is configured to receive power from a first coil located in the kitchen device, and Wherein, when the first coil and the second coil are inductively coupled, the controller is configured to: receiving data from the at least one sensor, the data relating to a physical property, and The data is transmitted to the first coil via the second coil.

24. A method of powering and communicating with an accessory associated with a kitchen device, the method comprising: positioning a second coil of the accessory adjacent to the first coil of the kitchen appliance to inductively couple the first coil and the second coil; transferring power from the first coil to the second coil; receiving, by a controller of the accessory, data from at least one sensor located in the accessory, the data relating to a physical property; The data is transmitted to the first coil by the controller via the second coil.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein transferring power from the first coil to the second coil comprises: generating a signal of a predetermined frequency through the first coil; The power is generated from the signal by the second coil.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein transmitting, by the controller, the data to the first coil via the second coil comprises: encoding, by the controller, the data from the at least one sensor; transmitting the encoded data to the first coil; The encoded data is decoded by a first controller of the kitchen appliance.

27. A method of operating a kitchen appliance and associated accessories, the method comprising: positioning the accessory adjacent to the kitchen appliance to inductively couple the first coil of the kitchen appliance and the second coil of the accessory; transmitting data from at least one sensor located in the accessory to the first coil via the second coil, the data relating to a physical property; The water level in the accessory is determined, and the kitchen appliance is powered off when the data indicates that there is no water in the accessory, or the water is heated by energizing an induction coil of the kitchen appliance when the data indicates that the accessory contains water.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the method further comprises: monitoring the temperature of the water via the at least one sensor; In a case where the temperature of the water has reached the temperature set by the user or in a case where the temperature change of the water does not exceed a predetermined temperature, the kitchen device is powered off.

29. The method of any one of claims 27 or 28, wherein the method further comprises detecting "cook dry" by determining when the temperature sensed by the at least one sensor is greater than a cut-off temperature, and powering off the kitchen appliance.

30. The method according to claims 27 to 29, wherein the cut-off temperature T1 is calculated according to the following formula: Where C is the maximum cut-off temperature of the accessory, dT / dt is the rate of temperature change of the heating element, T s is the initial temperature of the heating element before being heated, and "a" and "b" are predetermined constants.

31. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the method further comprises: When the difference in the temperature change rate of two adjacent sensors of the at least one sensor exceeds a first predetermined limit, or when the temperature difference of the two adjacent sensors exceeds a second predetermined limit, it is determined that one of the two adjacent sensors has failed and the kitchen device is powered off.

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