Kettle assembly

Abstract

A kettle includes a housing including a housing top, a housing body coupled with the housing top, and a housing base coupled with the housing base and positioned vertically below the housing body. The housing body is configured to contain a fluid. The kettle includes an illumination component disposed in at least one of the housing top or the housing base. The illumination component is configured to selectively emit light to illuminate at least a portion of the kettle. The housing body includes a partially transparent window portion such that light emitted by the illumination component is emitted through the window portion.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This PCT application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 620,358, filed January 12, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to kettles or kettle assemblies. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a kettle assembly having audio and visual functions that promote mindfulness and indicate operating status, and having control functions that achieve and maintain a target fluid temperature. Background Technology

[0004] A kettle is used to heat fluids (such as water) to a target temperature to prepare a beverage for drinking. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One embodiment relates to a kettle. The kettle includes a housing, the housing comprising a housing top, a housing body coupled to the housing top, and a housing base coupled to and located vertically below the housing body. The housing body is configured to contain fluid. The kettle includes an illumination element disposed in at least one of the housing top or the housing base. The illumination element is configured to selectively emit light to illuminate at least a portion of the kettle. The housing body includes a partially transparent window portion through which light emitted by the illumination element exits.

[0006] Another embodiment relates to a kettle assembly. The kettle assembly includes a kettle. The kettle includes a housing body having a window portion. The window portion is at least partially translucent. The kettle includes an illumination component disposed within the kettle. The illumination component is configured to selectively emit light through the window portion. The kettle includes a heating component for selectively heating fluid located within the housing body. The kettle assembly includes a base defining a receiving portion to selectively receive at least a portion of the kettle. The base includes at least one speaker. The kettle assembly includes a controller disposed in at least one of the kettle or the base. The controller is configured to control the operation of at least one of the illumination component, the heating component, or the speaker based on the operation of the kettle assembly.

[0007] Another embodiment relates to a method for operating a kettle assembly. The method includes receiving input regarding a target temperature of fluid located within a kettle in the kettle assembly. The method includes determining a threshold temperature based on the target temperature. The threshold temperature is lower than the target temperature. The method includes initiating operation of a heating element to raise the fluid temperature to the target temperature. The method includes receiving a signal indicating the fluid temperature. The fluid temperature corresponds to the threshold temperature. The method includes adjusting the operation of the heating element in response to the fluid temperature corresponding to the threshold temperature.

[0008] This disclosure also relates to various features and combinations of features shown and described in the disclosed embodiments. Other ways of achieving the objects and features of the disclosed embodiments will be described in the following description, or will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification. If such other ways fall within the scope of the invention described herein, they are deemed to fall within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0009] Numerous specific details are provided to provide a comprehensive understanding of embodiments of the subject matter of this disclosure. The features described in this disclosure can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and / or implementations. In this regard, one or more features of one aspect of the invention may be combined with one or more features of different aspects of the invention. Furthermore, additional features that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations may be identified in certain embodiments and / or implementations. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a kettle assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A 3D view of a medium-sized kettle.

[0012] Figure 3 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A 3D view of the top of the kettle.

[0013] Figure 4 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A 3D view of the bottom of the medium-sized kettle.

[0014] Figure 5 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A 3D view of the base of the medium-sized kettle.

[0015] Figure 6 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the kettle.

[0016] Figure 7 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A three-dimensional sectional view of a portion of the kettle.

[0017] Figure 8 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of a portion of the kettle.

[0018] Figure 9 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A 3D view of the base of the water jug ​​assembly.

[0019] Figure 10 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of the water jug ​​assembly.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling the operation of a kettle assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of another method for controlling the operation of a kettle assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of another method for controlling the operation of a kettle assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of yet another method for controlling the operation of a kettle assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0024] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof. In the drawings, the same reference numerals generally identify the same parts unless the context otherwise requires. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be adopted and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein.

[0025] In general, referring to the accompanying drawings, the various embodiments disclosed herein relate to a kettle assembly. Advantageously, the kettle assembly described herein provides multiple functions to aid in heating fluids and promote mindfulness. For example, the kettle assembly can use audio and / or visual cues to create a relaxing environment for the user when preparing beverages such as tea. The kettle assembly of this disclosure may include a kettle having a body portion and a light source, the body portion including a translucent window portion (e.g., the window portion may include frosted glass). Light emitted by the light source is diffused into the space near the kettle assembly via the window portion. As described herein, the window portion / body may be configured or constructed as frosted glass. Advantageously, frosted glass can soften the emitted light to provide soft lighting to the spatial environment, thereby influencing the atmosphere of the space. In some embodiments as described herein, the light may dynamically emit different characteristics. For example, the emitted light may transition between different colors (e.g., red to green to yellow, soft blue to magenta to soft pink, etc.) and patterns to indicate various operating characteristics of the kettle assembly. Operating characteristics may include the operating state of the kettle (e.g., fluid boiling state, fluid heat preservation state, etc.). The kettle assembly may also include an audio system configured to provide or emit audio during kettle operation. For example, the kettle assembly may play music, pre-set relaxing sounds (e.g., rainforest, rain sounds, ocean waves), or other sounds during operation. The kettle assembly may adjust the emitted audio attributes (e.g., content or volume) based on the operating state of the kettle assembly.

[0026] The kettle assembly also includes a temperature control system. The temperature control system is configured or constructed to heat the fluid contained in the kettle. The temperature control system can adjust the heating profile to prevent or attempt to prevent the fluid in the kettle from overheating. For example, the temperature control system can adjust the power supplied to the kettle to regulate or control the heat supplied to the fluid, thereby preventing or attempting to prevent the fluid from overheating. In some embodiments, the temperature control system can adjust the heating profile based on the amount of fluid in the kettle.

[0027] From a technical and beneficial perspective, the kettle assembly described herein can control the temperature of a fluid while also influencing the surrounding environment. For example, the kettle assembly can heat a fluid (e.g., water) to prepare beverages (e.g., tea) or food (e.g., oatmeal, ramen) for consumption, among other uses. To heat the fluid, the kettle assembly can control the fluid's temperature to prevent or attempt to prevent it from overheating or falling below a target temperature. For example, the kettle assembly can provide heat to raise the fluid temperature as quickly as possible and avoid, substantially avoid, or attempt to avoid deviations between the target temperature and the actual fluid temperature. The kettle assembly also provides visual cues or effects configured to create a relaxing or otherwise desired environment and / or indicate different operating states of the kettle assembly. For example, the kettle assembly can smoothly transition between different displayed colors to create a relaxing environment, or it can switch between colors and / or display sequences to indicate when the kettle assembly switches from a first operating state (e.g., heating) to a second operating state (keeping warm). Similarly, the kettle assembly can also provide audio cues or effects configured to create a relaxing or other desired environment and / or indicate different operating states of the kettle assembly. For example, the kettle assembly may provide a first audio indicator during a first operating state and a second audio indicator during a second operating state. In some embodiments, the kettle assembly may include preset instructions that allow the user to easily input via a display on the kettle assembly to prepare the desired beverage and accompanying environment. In some embodiments, the kettle assembly may integrate additional functions that allow the user to personalize the experience by selecting or customizing heating, audio, and / or visual settings. These and other features and advantages will be described more fully below.

[0028] For reference Figure 1 The image illustrates a kettle assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The kettle assembly 100 includes a kettle 102 that is coupled to or docked with a base 104. The kettle 102 is configured to selectively engage or dock with the base 104. The base 104 is configured to power the kettle 102 to heat a liquid (e.g., water) located in / contained in the kettle 102 to a desired temperature. The heated fluid can be used for various desired applications, such as making beverages (e.g., tea or coffee).

[0029] For reference now Figures 2 to 4 According to an exemplary embodiment, it is shown Figure 1Various views of the kettle 102 are shown. The kettle 102 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 includes a housing top 204, a housing body 206 located vertically below the housing top 204 (i.e., closer to the support surface of the kettle assembly 100; closer to the base 104), and a housing base 208 located near the base 104 when the kettle assembly 100 is assembled (i.e., vertically below the housing top 204 and housing body 206, respectively). The housing body 206 is disposed between the housing top 204 and the housing base 208.

[0030] The top of the housing 204 can be made of a variety of materials. In the example shown, the top of the housing 204 is at least substantially made of a metal-based material. In other embodiments, different materials and / or combinations of materials (e.g., plastic, glass, etc.) can be used. The top of the housing 204 can have any shape. For example, the top of the housing 204 can have a cylindrical shape. The top of the housing 204 may define an opening 210 located at or near the vertical top of the top of the housing 204. Fluid can enter the kettle 102 through the opening 210. The kettle 102 may include a lid 212. The lid 212 (e.g., a cap) may be at least partially disposed in the opening 210 to close the opening and thereby close the kettle 102 (i.e., to prevent or substantially prevent fluid from flowing out of the kettle 102 during use). The lid 212 may be or include a release mechanism 214. A release mechanism 214 (e.g., a release device, release element, etc.) is configured or constructed to selectively hold the lid 212 in a closed position (i.e., near the top of the housing 204 to cover the opening 210). In this way, the lid 212 is movable between an open position and a closed position, in which the lid 212 is located furthest from the opening 210 (i.e., removable from the kettle 102 and a separate component relative to the kettle 102), and in the closed position, the lid covers the opening 210. The release mechanism 214 can be a compact lid release mechanism. For example, the release mechanism 214 may include a button that engages with a portion of the lid 212, and the button is configured to disengage the lid from the top of the housing 204 when pressed. Actuation of the release mechanism 214 disengages the lid 212 from the top of the housing 204, thereby allowing the lid 212 to be removed. With the lid 212 removed, fluid can enter the kettle 102 via the opening 210. In another embodiment, the lid 212 may be hingedly coupled to the top of the housing 204. In yet another embodiment, the lid 212 may be selectively attached to the kettle 102 via other structures.

[0031] The housing body 206 is configured or constructed to contain most of the fluid supplied to the kettle 102. The housing body 206 can be made of a variety of materials. In the example shown, the housing body 206 or a portion thereof is at least partially transparent. For example, the housing body 206 may include at least one window portion 207. Light can escape through the window portion 207. The window portion 207 may constitute the entire housing body 206 or one(s) of it. The user can see inside through the partially transparent housing body 206 (although visibility may be reduced). In the example shown, the window portion 207 of the housing body 206 is made of a material that is at least partially transparent, such as glass or plastic. More specifically, and as shown, the window portion 207 is at least partially made of frosted glass. The “frosted” property provides reduced visibility. In other embodiments, completely transparent glass or plastic materials may be used. Advantageously, the frosted nature / property of at least a portion of the housing body 206 can transform / change glaring direct light into diffused, softer light. This softer light can create a calm, relaxing environment.

[0032] The housing body 206 can have various shapes (e.g., a pure cylinder, a cube, etc.). In the example shown, the housing body 206 has a truncated conical shape extending from the bottom to the top 204. In this way, the top of the housing body 206 (e.g., the portion disposed closer to the top 204) can have a first cross-sectional area, and the bottom of the housing body 206 (e.g., the portion disposed further from the top 204) can have a second cross-sectional area. The first cross-sectional area can be smaller than the second cross-sectional area. The housing body 206 can have an inclined surface extending at least partially between the top and bottom of the housing body 206. The top of the housing body 206 can terminate with a circular cross-sectional shape that matches or substantially matches the circular cross-sectional shape of the generally cylindrical top 204. The bottom of the housing body 206 can also have a circular or generally circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, different cross-sectional shapes can be used. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the top of the housing body 206 can be different from the cross-sectional shape of the bottom of the housing body 206.

[0033] The top or top portion of the housing body 206 may be coupled to the housing top 204. In other embodiments, the housing body 206 and the housing top 204 may be an integral part (e.g., a one-piece component). In this embodiment, a metal-based material may wrap around the housing top 204, while the same material (e.g., glass or frosted glass) may continuously pass through both components.

[0034] The housing base 208 may have a circular shape corresponding to the shape (particularly the cross-sectional shape) of the bottom of the housing body 206. In some embodiments, the housing base 208 may have different cross-sectional shapes (e.g., rectangular, square, etc.). In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the housing base 208 may differ from the cross-sectional shape of the bottom of the housing body 206. The housing base 208 may be attached to the bottom of the housing body 206. The housing base 208 may be made of various materials, such as metal-based materials, rubber-based materials, plastic-based materials, and combinations thereof. Additional details and descriptions of the housing base 208 are referenced below. Figure 5 supply.

[0035] The kettle 102 includes at least one user interface element, shown as a handle 216. The handle 216 is coupled to the housing 202. The handle 216 can have various shapes and sizes. In the example shown, the handle 216 is a closed handle, such that both a first end 218 and a second end 220 of the handle 216 are coupled to, and in particular in contact with, the housing 202. As shown, the first end 218 can be coupled to the top 204 of the housing, and the second end 220 can be coupled to the base 208 of the housing.

[0036] The kettle 102 includes at least one fluid outlet, shown as a spout 222. Fluid in the kettle 102 can flow out of the kettle 102 via the spout 222. The spout 222 may extend or protrude outward and away from the top 204 of the housing. The spout 222 may be located on the opposite side of the handle 216.

[0037] The kettle 102 includes at least one kettle engagement element 402 (also referred to as a coupler, electrical coupler, or coupling element, base coupler, conductor coupler, or conductive coupling element). The kettle 102 may be configured to be electrically coupled to a base 104 via the kettle engagement element 402. The kettle engagement element 402 may be at least partially disposed within the housing base 208 of the kettle 102. As shown, the kettle engagement element 402 is constructed as a plurality of concentric rings. The plurality of concentric rings are configured to be conductive and therefore may be at least partially constructed of a conductive material (e.g., metal). In other embodiments, different types or structures of conductive elements may be employed. Furthermore, the shape and / or size of the conductive elements may also differ in other embodiments (e.g., square, fewer or more than three rings as shown, etc.).

[0038] For reference Figures 5 to 7 According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing base 208 is shown in more detail. Figure 5 The housing base 208 with the remainder of the kettle 102 removed is shown. Figure 6This is a side sectional view of a portion of the housing base 208 and the housing body. The housing base 208 may define a base cavity 502. The base cavity 502 is configured or constructed to receive various components of the kettle assembly 100. As described in more detail herein, the base cavity 502 is configured to receive at least one of a lighting component or a heating component, and other components. For example, the kettle 102 may include at least one heating component or heating element 504 (also referred to as a heater or heat source). The heating element 504 may be at least partially disposed in the base cavity 502. The heating element 504 may be any type of heating element 504 configured to provide heat (e.g., to fluid in the kettle 102). For example, the heating element 504 may be a resistance heating element 504. In some embodiments, the heating element 504 may be other types of heating elements 504.

[0039] The kettle 102 may include at least one lighting component 506 (also referred to as a light source, lighting element, lamp, and / or similar terms). The lighting component 506 may be at least partially disposed in the base cavity 502. In some embodiments, the lighting component 506 may be disposed in a cavity defined by the housing top 204. The lighting component 506 may be or include a plurality of lamps 508. In the example shown, the plurality of lamps 508 are configured as light-emitting diode (LED) lamps. In other embodiments, different lamp structures / types may be used for the lighting component 506. The plurality of lamps 508 may be arranged / set in various shapes. In the example shown, the plurality of lamps 508 are arranged in a ring shape. The ring may at least partially surround the heating element 504 (in the example shown, the lamp ring surrounds a large portion of the heating element 504). The lighting component 506 may be disposed between the inner wall of the housing base 208 and the heating element 504. For example, the lighting component 506 may be disposed in the base cavity 502 radially outside the heating element 504 and extend at least partially circumferentially around the heating element 504.

[0040] At least some of the plurality of lamps 508 of the lighting component 506 may be at least partially angled inward toward the center of the housing base 208. At least some of the plurality of lamps 508 may be at least partially angled upward toward the housing body 206. In the example shown, at least some lamps 508 are angled inward and upward to illuminate the kettle 102 (or a portion thereof). In other embodiments, the lamps 508 may not be angled, and reflective elements may be used to direct the emitted light onto the kettle 102 (e.g., a mirror, a glossy surface, etc.).

[0041] The kettle 102 may include at least one first plate, shown as a base plate 510. The base plate 510 may be part of or engaged with a heating element 504. The base plate 510 may be heated through interaction with the heating element 504. The heated base plate 510 may contact fluid in the kettle 102 to heat the fluid. The base plate 510 may include or define a recess 512. The recess 512 may be an annular recess 512. The recess 512 may extend circumferentially around at least a portion of the heating element 504. The recess 512 may be configured to receive a portion of the housing body 206. The recess 512 may form a seal with this portion of the housing body 206 to prevent fluid from flowing out of the kettle 102 via the bottom of the housing body 206. In some embodiments, a sealant or sealing element may be disposed in the recess 512 to form a seal. For example, an O-ring or other gasket may be disposed in the recess 512.

[0042] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the housing body 206 may include at least one first portion (shown as outer portion 602), at least one second portion (shown as extension portion 604), and at least one third portion (shown as sealing portion 606). The outer portion 602 may define the outer surface of the kettle 102. The extension portion 604 may extend radially inward from the outer portion 602 toward the center of the housing body 206. The extension portion 604 may be disposed within the kettle 102. For example, the extension portion 604 may extend over a portion of the base cavity 502. The extension portion 604 may separate the base cavity 502 from the internal volume of the housing body 206 that receives or contains fluid. In particular, and as shown, the extension portion 604 may extend at least partially over a lighting component 506 disposed within the base cavity 502.

[0043] A sealing portion 606 may be located at the end of the extension 604. The sealing portion 606 may be configured to be disposed in a recess 512 defined by the base plate 510. The sealing portion 606 may be configured or constructed to form a seal with the base plate 510 in the recess 512 to prevent or substantially prevent fluid from flowing out of the kettle 102 via the bottom of the housing body 206. For example, the bottom of the housing body 206 may define a housing orifice or housing opening 608 that exposes the internal volume of the housing body 206. The base plate 510 may be configured to be at least partially disposed in the housing opening 608 to close the housing body 206 and retain fluid. An illumination component 506 may be disposed radially outside the sealing portion 606. For example, the illumination component 506 may be disposed between the sealing portion 606 and the inner surface of the housing base 208.

[0044] Kettle 102 may include at least one second plate, shown as heating plate 610. Heating plate 610 may be part of or coupled to heating element 504. Kettle 102 may include at least one heater or heating coil 612. Heating coil 612 may be heating element 504 or may be part of heating element 504 (i.e., multiple components and / or systems may form heating element 504). Heating coil 612 may be energized via electricity to generate heat to heat fluid in kettle 102. Heating plate 610 may be disposed between heating coil 612 and base plate 510. Heating plate 610 may be heated by heating coil 612, and then the fluid in kettle 102 may be heated. Therefore, heating plate 610 may be any material configured to be thermally conductive. For example, heating plate 610 may be metal or other thermally conductive material. Heating plate 610 may be configured to transfer heat from heating coil 612 to fluid (e.g., from heating coil 612 to base plate 510, and then to fluid). The heating plate 610 may be circumferentially surrounded by the groove 512. The heating coil 612 may be at least partially circumferentially surrounded by the groove 512.

[0045] For reference Figure 8 According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing top 204 is shown in more detail. In some embodiments, the housing top 204 and the housing body 206 are separate components joined together. For example, the housing body 206 may include an extension 604 and a sealing portion 606 near the top of the housing top 204. The housing top 204 may define a top recess 802. The extension 604 may extend at least partially radially inward from the outer portion 602 such that the sealing portion 606 may be disposed in the top recess 802. The sealing portion 606 may form a seal with the top recess 802 to prevent fluid from flowing out of the kettle 102 via the top of the housing body 206. In some embodiments, a sealant or sealing element may be disposed in the top recess 802 to form a seal. For example, an O-ring or other gasket may be disposed in the top recess 802.

[0046] In some embodiments, the lighting element 506 may be disposed in the top 204 of the housing. For example, the lighting element 506 may be disposed between the inner wall of the top 204 of the housing and the sealing portion 606 of the housing body 206. In some embodiments, the lighting element 506 may be disposed in the base 104 (e.g., in the base receiving portion 902) instead of in the kettle 102. In still other embodiments, the lamp may be disposed in both the base 104 and the kettle 102. Regardless of the location, the lighting element 506 may be configured to emit light into the housing body 206 such that the light can be dissipated through the housing body 206 into the space surrounding the kettle assembly 100. In other embodiments, the lamp 508 may emit light that does not penetrate or substantially does not penetrate the housing body 206 into the surrounding area. Instead, the lamp 508 may illuminate the area surrounding the kettle assembly 100 without requiring the light to first penetrate the housing body 206. The lamps 508 of the lighting element 506 may work together or independently. For example, all lamps 508 may display the same color, transition between the same colors at the same rate, and / or be driven at the same frequency or pattern (e.g., constant, flashing). In some embodiments, when operated independently, lamps 508 may have different colors, transition between different colors, and / or be driven at different frequencies or patterns.

[0047] Based on the description of kettle 102, now refer to Figure 9 According to an exemplary embodiment, a perspective view of the base 104 of a kettle assembly 100 is shown. The base 104 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of at least a portion of the kettle 102. For example, the base 104 may have a generally circular cross-sectional area to match a housing base 208 having a generally circular cross-sectional shape. The shown base 104 has a diameter wider than any portion of the kettle 102, such that the base 104 can at least partially surround at least a portion of the kettle 102.

[0048] The base 104 may define a base receiving portion 902. The base receiving portion 902 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the kettle 102. In particular, the base receiving portion 902 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the housing base 208 of the kettle 102.

[0049] The base 104 includes at least one base engagement element 904 (also referred to as a coupler, electrical coupler, or coupling element, kettle coupler, conductor coupler, or conductive coupling element). The base engagement element 904 may be at least partially disposed within the base receiving portion 902. The base 104 may be configured to be electrically coupled to the kettle 102 via the base engagement element 904. For example, the base engagement element 904 may engage with the kettle engagement element 402, such that the base 104 can supply power to the heating element 504 of the kettle 102. As shown, the base engagement element 904 is constructed as a plurality of concentric rings. The plurality of concentric rings are configured to engage, mate, and / or otherwise engage with the kettle engagement element 402. The base engagement element 904 is configured to be conductive and therefore may be at least partially constructed of a conductive material (e.g., metal). In other embodiments, different types or structures of conductive elements may be employed. Furthermore, the shape and / or size of the conductive elements may also differ in other embodiments (e.g., square, fewer or more than three rings shown, etc.).

[0050] In some embodiments, the base 104 and therefore the kettle 102 may be powered by a power source. In one embodiment, the power source is at least one battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). In this way, the base 104 can be wirelessly powered by a battery. In another embodiment, and as shown, the power source may be connected via a wall outlet and is alternating current (AC) power. In some other embodiments, a combination of battery and wall power is used. In still other embodiments, different power sources are used.

[0051] The base 104 has at least one outer base surface. For example, the base 104 may have at least one first outer base surface (shown as upper outer base surface 906) and at least one second outer base surface (shown as lower outer base surface 908). The upper outer base surface 906 may be oriented at an angle relative to the lower outer base surface 908.

[0052] In some embodiments, the base 104 includes at least one control interface or display 910. In one embodiment, the display 910 may be visible only when the kettle assembly 100 is turned on and in use (e.g., operating to heat fluid). In other embodiments, the display 910 may be visible at other desired operating times (e.g., always on when the kettle assembly is receiving AC power, regardless of whether fluid is being heated, etc.). The display 910 may be located on the upper outer base surface 906. In some embodiments, the display 910 may be located at other locations on the base 104. In some embodiments, the display 910 may be located on other portions of the kettle assembly 100. For example, the display 910 may be located on the kettle housing 202 (e.g., the housing top 204, housing body 206, or housing base 208) or on the handle 216.

[0053] Display 910 may be an input / output device configured to receive input from a user and / or provide output to a user. Display 910 may include at least one of status display indicator 912, operation control element 914, or operation indicator 916. Status display indicator 912 may provide information, for example, regarding the operation of kettle assembly 100, such as the temperature of the fluid in kettle 102, the volume of the fluid in kettle 102 (estimated or measured), audio output settings, and / or other information. Operation control element 914 may include interactive elements (e.g., buttons, touchscreen, a combination of both, etc.) for user input to control the operation of kettle assembly 100. For example, operation control element 914 may include interactive elements for the user to adjust the target temperature of the fluid, adjust the volume of the sound, and / or switch between various audio settings (e.g., switch between music tracks). Operation indicator 916 may include interactive elements for the user to select the kettle operation to control or view. For example, selecting the first operation indicator 916 may cause the temperature to be displayed on status display indicator 912 and allow the user to adjust the target temperature of the fluid. Selecting the second operation indicator 916 allows audio settings to be displayed on the status display indicator 912, and allows the user to adjust the audio settings (e.g., the volume of the sound emitted, what sound is emitted, a combination of both, etc.). The function of the operation control element 914 can be based on the selected operation made by the operation indicator 916.

[0054] In some embodiments, the base 104 includes at least one audio system 917. The audio system 917 may include at least one speaker 918. The base 104 may provide audio indicators to a user via the speaker 918. For example, the base 104 may provide music, voice commands (e.g., “The fluid has been heated to the target temperature and is ready for use”), and / or non-voice alarms (e.g., alarms, beeps, etc.). In some embodiments, the audio system 917 includes a microphone. The microphone may be used to receive voice commands to control the operation of the kettle assembly. For example, a user may voice command the kettle assembly 100 to heat the fluid to a target temperature. The speaker 918 and / or microphone may be any type of speaker and / or microphone.

[0055] In some embodiments, the speaker 918 may be disposed on the outer surface of the base 104. For example, the speaker 918 may be disposed on the lower outer base surface 908. In other embodiments, the speaker 918 may be disposed on the upper outer base surface 906. In some embodiments, the speaker 918 may be disposed on the inner surface of the base 104. For example, the speaker 918 may be disposed on the inner base surface 920. The speaker 918 located on the inner base surface 920 can guide an audio indicator into the base receiving portion 902.

[0056] In some embodiments, a speaker 918 may be disposed on the kettle 102. For example, the speaker 918 may be disposed on the housing base 208, the housing body 206, or the housing top 204. In some embodiments, the speaker 918 may be oriented to direct an audio indicator directly from the kettle 102 to the user. In some embodiments, the speaker 918 may be oriented to direct an audio indicator into the base receiving portion 902 (e.g., to affect audio quality).

[0057] In some embodiments, the speaker 918 may be configured to provide different audio qualities. For example, the speaker 918 may be configured to provide mono sound, dual mono sound, or stereo sound.

[0058] In some embodiments, the kettle assembly 100 may include a plurality of speakers 918. The speakers 918 may be disposed on the base 104, the kettle 102, or a combination of both. For example, a first speaker 918 may be disposed on the base 104, and a second speaker 918 may be disposed on the kettle 102. In some embodiments, the speakers 918 may be dedicated to a specific audio indicator or a specific type of audio indicator. For example, a first speaker 918 may be dedicated to providing a first audio indicator (e.g., sound associated with a user interface or display 910), a second speaker 918 may be dedicated to providing a second audio indicator (e.g., music), and a third speaker 918 may be dedicated to providing a third audio indicator (e.g., bass response).

[0059] refer to Figure 10 A schematic block diagram of a kettle assembly 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the kettle assembly 100 may include fewer, more, and / or different parts / elements, therefore Figure 10 The description herein is not intended to be limiting. The kettle assembly may include at least one controller 1000. The controller 1000 may be disposed in at least one of the kettle 102 or the base 104 of the kettle assembly 100. The controller 1000 may be configured to control components of the kettle assembly 100 described herein.

[0060] Controller 1000 may include at least one processing circuitry 1002. Processing circuitry 1002 includes at least one processor 1004 and at least one memory 1006. Processor 1004 may be implemented as one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a set of processing units, or other suitable electronic processing units. Memory 1006 may be one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code used to perform and / or facilitate the various processes described herein. Memory 1006 may be or include non-transient volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and non-transitory computer storage media. Memory 1006 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure used to support the various activities and information structures described herein. Memory 1006 may be communicatively coupled to processor 1004 and includes computer code or instructions for performing one or more processes described herein.

[0061] The controller 1000 may include at least one temperature circuit 1009. The temperature circuit 1009 may be configured to control the heating element 504 to bring the fluid in the kettle 102 to a target temperature. For example, the controller 1000 may receive input from a user indicating a target temperature 1012 for the fluid. The controller 1000 may store the target temperature 1012 in a memory 1006. The controller 1000 may receive input via a display 910. The temperature circuit 1009 may activate the heating element 504 to raise the fluid temperature to the target temperature 1012.

[0062] In some embodiments, controller 1000 may wirelessly and remotely receive input from user equipment 1008. User equipment 1008 may be any computing device associated with a user and configured to send and / or receive communications. For example, in various embodiments, user equipment 1006 may include fixed devices (e.g., desktop computers) or mobile devices such as telephones (e.g., smartphones), mobile computing devices (e.g., tablets, laptops, personal digital assistants, etc.), wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smart glasses, smart bracelets, etc.), and so on. In the example shown, the user equipment is a smartphone. As described in more detail herein, user equipment 1008 may include user application 1010 (e.g., a user client application of a software application that executes on user equipment 1008). User application 1010 may be configured to implement wireless and remote management and control of kettle assembly 100. In some embodiments, user application 1010 is configured to generate and provide a display via user equipment 1008, enabling the user to view and / or manage control settings associated with kettle assembly 100. Therefore, user application 1010 can be configured to send information to and receive information from kettle assembly 100. For example, a user can indicate a target temperature 1012 via user application 1010 of user device 1008.

[0063] In some embodiments, user application 1010 includes at least one application programming interface (API) and / or software development kit (SDK) that facilitates integration of other applications with user application 1010. For example, in some embodiments, user application 1010 is configured to utilize the capabilities of a music provider's computing system via the API to play music through the speaker 918 of kettle assembly 100.

[0064] In some embodiments, user application 1010 is a separate software application downloaded to user device 1008. User application 1010 may be downloaded before its use, hard-coded into memory 1006, or be a web-based or web-based interface application, enabling the provider computing system to provide a web browser to access user application 1010. Therefore, user device 1008 may include software and / or hardware capable of implementing web-based or web-based applications. For example, in some cases, user application 1010 includes software in languages ​​such as HTML, XML, WML, SGML, PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor), CGI, etc.

[0065] In some embodiments, the controller 1000 can wirelessly and remotely connect (e.g., pair) or couple with at least one other appliance 1011. The other appliance 1011 can be any other device or appliance. In some embodiments, the other appliance 1011 can be configured to emit light and / or sound similar to that of the kettle assembly 100. For example, the other appliance 1011 can be a toaster, toaster oven, coffee maker, air fryer, pressure cooker, or slow cooker, etc. The other appliance 1011 can have similar functionality to the kettle assembly 100 described herein. For example, the controller 1000 can connect the kettle assembly 100 to and synchronize the other appliances 1011 such that the sound and / or light emitted by the kettle assembly 100 and the other appliances 1011 can be the same or complementary, or the cooking, heating, or operating cycles of the kettle assembly 100 and the other appliances 1011 can be timed to be consistent with each other. For example, the controller 1000 can cause the kettle assembly 100 and the other appliances 1011 to play the same song simultaneously. In some embodiments, the controller 1000 can cause the kettle assembly 100 and other appliances 1011 to emit the same or complementary light. In some embodiments, the controller 1000 can cause the kettle assembly 100 to begin its heating cycle at a certain time relative to the heating cycles of the other appliances 1011, so that the two heating cycles end at the same (or approximately the same) time. The controller 1000 can connect any number of other appliances 1011 to the kettle assembly 100. Such connection can facilitate the formation of a harmonious environment created by the kettle assembly 100 and the other appliances 1011.

[0066] The kettle assembly 100 may include at least one sensor 1014. Sensor 1014 may be a temperature sensor 1014 for detecting the temperature of fluid in the kettle 102. Sensor 1014 may be communicatively coupled to a controller 1000. For example, sensor 1014 may send a signal to controller 1000 indicating the temperature of the fluid in the kettle 102. Temperature circuitry 1009 may control heating element 504 based on the temperature detected by sensor 1014. In some embodiments, the kettle assembly 100 may include other sensors 1014. For example, the kettle assembly 100 may include a weight sensor 1014 1014 configured to measure or estimate the weight of fluid in the kettle 102. Sensor 1014 may include an ambient light sensor that can detect ambient light for lighting circuitry to responsively control emitted light (e.g., adjust the brightness of emitted light based on the detected ambient light level). Sensor 1014 may be configured to detect other appliances 1011 that the kettle assembly 100 can connect to in order to synchronize sound, light, or operation with other appliances 1011.

[0067] In some embodiments, the controller 1000 may adjust the operation of the heating element 504 based on a detected temperature via a temperature circuit 1009. For example, the controller 1000 may store an operation instruction 1016 in a memory 1006 instructing how to adjust the heating element 504 based on the detected temperature. For example, the operation instruction 1016 may cause the controller 1000 to shut off the heating element 504 when it detects that the fluid temperature has reached or exceeded a target temperature 1012. For example, the controller 1000 may receive an input indicating the target temperature 1012. For example, a user may use a display 910 or a user device 1008 to indicate the target temperature 1012. The controller 1000 may drive the heating element 504 until the sensor 1014 detects that the temperature has reached or exceeded the target temperature 1012. In response to receiving a signal from the sensor 1014 indicating that the temperature has reached or exceeded the target temperature 1012, the controller 1000 may shut off the heating element 504.

[0068] In some embodiments, the controller 1000 may adjust the operation of the heating element 504 via the temperature circuit 1009 when it detects that the fluid temperature has reached a threshold temperature based on a target temperature 1012. For example, the controller 1000 may receive an input indicating the target temperature 1012. The controller 1000 may also receive an operation instruction 1016 instructing how to operate the heating element 504. For example, the operation instruction 1016 may include a temperature offset. The controller 1000 may store the operation instruction 1016 including the temperature offset in a memory 1006. The temperature offset may indicate a temperature threshold below the target temperature, at which point the heating element 504 will be adjusted or turned off. The temperature offset may be the same or different for different target temperatures 1012. The controller 1000 may determine the threshold temperature by subtracting the temperature offset from the target temperature 1012.

[0069] As an illustrative example, the temperature of the fluid in kettle 102 may continue to rise after heating element 504 is turned off. Therefore, when the fluid temperature reaches a temperature below the target temperature (e.g., a threshold temperature), controller 1000 may reduce the heat output of heating element 504 to prevent, substantially prevent, or attempt to prevent fluid overheating. The threshold temperature and / or the reduced heat output may be selected based on the amount of fluid in kettle 102 to similarly prevent, substantially prevent, or attempt to prevent underheating of the fluid. Thus, kettle assembly 100 can heat the fluid as quickly as possible and avoid, substantially avoid, or attempt to avoid deviations between the target temperature 1012 and the actual fluid temperature.

[0070] The controller 1000 can drive the heating element 504 until the sensor 1014 detects that the fluid temperature has reached or exceeded a threshold temperature. In response to receiving a signal from the sensor 1014 indicating that the temperature has reached or exceeded the threshold temperature, the controller 1000 can adjust the heating element 504. For example, the controller 1000 can turn off the heating element or gradually reduce the heat supplied by the heating element 504 until the temperature reaches the target temperature 1012. Turning off the heating element 504 or reducing the heat supplied by the heating element 504 before the fluid temperature reaches the target temperature 1012 can prevent the fluid from overheating.

[0071] In some embodiments, the controller 1000 may adjust the operation of the heating element 504 based on the amount of fluid in the kettle 102 via a temperature circuit 1009. For example, the controller 1000 may determine the amount of fluid in the kettle 102. In some embodiments, the kettle assembly 100 may include a weight or volume sensor 1014 configured to detect the weight or volume of the fluid in the kettle 102. The weight or volume sensor 1014 may send a signal to the controller 1000 indicating the weight or volume of the fluid. The controller 1000 may determine the amount of fluid in the kettle 102 based on the received signal.

[0072] As described above, sensor 1014 may be or include a temperature sensor. Sensor 1014 may be configured to detect a first temperature at a first time point and a second temperature at a second time point. For example, the first temperature may be the initial temperature of the fluid (e.g., the temperature before the heating element 504 is activated). The second temperature may be the fluid temperature after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since heat was applied via the heating element. For example, the second temperature may be measured after ten seconds of heating. Controller 1000 may receive a first signal indicating the first temperature and a second signal indicating the second signal. Controller 1000 may determine the rate of temperature change of the fluid based on the first and second temperatures. Controller 1000 may estimate the amount of fluid in kettle 102 based on the rate of temperature change.

[0073] The controller 1000 can adjust the operation of the heating element 504 based on the amount of fluid in the kettle 102. For example, the controller 1000 may have a temperature gauge 1018 (e.g., a lookup table) stored in memory 1006. The temperature gauge 1018 can correlate the amount of fluid with a temperature offset. In some embodiments, the controller 1000 can determine a threshold temperature based on a target temperature 1012, the determined amount of fluid, and the temperature gauge 1018, and shut off (or otherwise control or regulate) the heating element 504 when it receives a signal from sensor 1014 indicating that the temperature has been reached or exceeded. In some embodiments, the controller 1000 can gradually reduce the power supplied to the kettle assembly based on the amount of fluid in the kettle 102, and thus gradually reduce the heat supplied to the fluid via the heating element 504.

[0074] In some embodiments, the controller 1000 may regulate the operating state of the kettle assembly 100 via the temperature circuit 1009. For example, the controller 1000 may regulate the kettle assembly 100 between an off state or a standby state, a heating state, and a heat-preserving state. For example, the kettle assembly 100 may be in a standby state before receiving an input indicating a target temperature. In the standby state, power may be supplied to the kettle assembly 100, but the heating element 504 may not be activated. For example, sound and light may be emitted, but the heating element 504 may be turned off. In response to receiving an input indicating a target temperature, the controller 1000 may put the kettle assembly 100 into a heating state and activate the heating element 504 to begin heating the fluid. When the fluid temperature reaches the target temperature 1012, the controller 1000 may put the kettle assembly 100 into a heat-preserving state to maintain the fluid at a temperature that reaches or exceeds the target temperature 1012. The heat-preserving state may be a form of the heating state, but may include controlling the heating element 504 in a manner different from the heating state when heating from an initial temperature to the target temperature 1012. For example, in the heat preservation state, the controller 1000 can adjust the heat output to maintain the fluid temperature within a predetermined temperature range relative to the target temperature. The controller 1000 can provide a constant or substantially constant heat output lower than that in the heating state, or it can switch the heating element 504 between on and off states based on fluid temperature fluctuations (e.g., turning off the heating element 504 when the fluid temperature is at the target or threshold temperature, and then turning it back on when the fluid temperature drops below a predetermined temperature relative to the target or threshold). The controller 1000 can keep the kettle assembly 100 in the heat preservation state for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., ten minutes, twenty minutes, forty minutes, less than one hour, etc.). The controller 1000 can automatically return the kettle assembly 100 to the standby state at the end of the predetermined time.

[0075] In some embodiments, the controller 1000 may be configured to pause and then resume operation after the kettle 102 is removed from and subsequently placed back on the base 104. For example, the kettle 102 may be in a heating or heat-keeping state. A user can remove the kettle 102 and pour out some heated fluid for use. In response to detecting that the kettle 102 has been removed from the base 104, the controller 1000 may temporarily stop the heating or heat-keeping state and return to a standby state. Subsequently, the controller 1000 may detect that the kettle has been returned to the base 104, and the controller 1000 may resume the heat-keeping or heating state. For example, the controller 1000 may be in a heat-keeping state to maintain the fluid at a target temperature 1012. The controller 1000 may detect that the kettle 102 has been removed from the base 104 and begin a standby state. In response to detecting that the kettle 102 has returned to the base 104, the controller 1000 may determine the temperature of the fluid in the kettle 102. When the temperature of the fluid in the kettle is within a predetermined value (e.g., a predetermined degree) of the target temperature 1012, the controller 1000 can resume the heat preservation state. For example, if the fluid temperature is within five degrees of the target temperature 1012, the controller 1000 can resume the heat preservation state. If the fluid temperature is not within the predetermined degree (e.g., more than five degrees lower than the target temperature 1012), the controller 1000 can activate the heating state.

[0076] The controller 1000 can detect the removal or return of the kettle 102 from or to the base 104 using various detection methods. For example, the kettle assembly 100 may include at least one sensor 1014 configured to detect the removal or return of the kettle 102 from or to the base 104. For example, the sensor 1014 may be or include a weight sensor 1014. When the kettle 102 is positioned in the base 104, the weight sensor 1014 can detect the weight of the kettle 102. The weight sensor 1014 can send a signal indicating the weight to the controller 1000. The controller 1000 can determine whether the kettle 102 is located in the base 104 based on the weight. In some embodiments, the sensor 1014 may be configured to detect the engagement state between the kettle engagement element 402 and the base engagement element 904. For example, the sensor 1014 may be configured to detect when the kettle engagement element 402 is connected or engaged with the base engagement element 904. The sensor 1014 can send a signal indicating this engagement state to the controller 1000. The controller 1000 can determine whether the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the sensor 1014 can be an infrared sensor 1014. The infrared sensor 1014 can be configured to identify when an object (e.g., the kettle 102) is placed in the base 104. The infrared sensor 1014 can send a signal to the controller 1000 indicating that an object has been detected. The controller 1000 can determine whether the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on the detection of the object. In some embodiments, the sensor 1014 can be or include a magnet that forms a circuit. For example, the circuit can be open or closed when the kettle 102 is removed from the base 104, and the circuit can be closed when the kettle 102 is placed in the base 104. The sensor 1014 can detect when the circuit is open and closed. The sensor 1014 can send a signal to the controller 1000 indicating whether the circuit is open or closed. The controller 1000 can determine whether the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on whether the circuit is open or closed.

[0077] The controller 1000 may include at least one audio circuit 1020. The audio circuit 1020 may be configured to control an audio indicator 1022 provided via an audio system 917 (e.g., speaker 918) of the kettle assembly 100. The audio indicator 1022 may be stored in a memory 1006 of the controller 1000. In some embodiments, the audio indicator 1022 may be provided by a user device 1008. For example, a user may select the audio indicator 1022 via the user device 1008. The controller 1000 may apply operating instructions and integrate the selected audio indicator 1022 from the user device 1008. The audio indicator may include, for example, music, non-musical sounds (e.g., rain, ocean waves, rainforest), guided meditation, reminders, or alarms. In some embodiments, operating instructions 1016 in the memory 1006 may indicate when a specific audio indicator is provided. For example, when the heating cycle begins, the operating command 1016 may cause the audio circuitry 1020 to provide a first audio indicator 1022 (e.g., playing relaxing music during the heating cycle), a second indicator (e.g., emitting a bell or a soft tone to indicate that the target temperature 1012 has been reached) when the fluid reaches the target temperature 1012, and / or a third indicator (e.g., playing a different sound during the boiling cycle) when the fluid begins to boil. The transitions between the audio indicators 1022 can create a soothing environment while indicating the state of the fluid or the operating status of the kettle assembly 100.

[0078] In some embodiments, the audio circuitry 1020 of the controller 1000 can automatically adjust the volume of the audio indicator 1022. The audio circuitry 1020 can adjust the volume based on the noise level generated by the kettle during heating or when the fluid is boiling. For example, the noise generated by the kettle 102 can be based on the amount of fluid in the kettle 102. The audio circuitry 1020 can adjust the volume of the audio indicator 1022 based on the amount of fluid in the kettle 102. In some embodiments, the audio circuitry 1020 can adjust the volume of the audio indicator 1022 based on the operating state. For example, the volume during the keep-warm state can be lower than during the heating state. Adjusting the volume can create a soothing environment while ensuring that the audio indicator 1022 is audible during each operating state of the kettle assembly 100.

[0079] The controller 1000 may include at least one lighting circuit 1024. The lighting circuit 1024 may be configured to control the lighting component 506 of the kettle assembly 100. For example, an operation instruction 1016 may instruct how to control the lighting component 506. The controller 1000 may activate the lighting component 506 based on the operation instruction 1016. For example, the instruction may instruct the controller 1000 to illuminate the lamps 508 of the lighting component 506 differently for different operating states. For example, during a heating state, the controller 1000 may cause the lamps 508 to cycle through various selected or predetermined colors. The controller 1000 may cause the lamps to smoothly transition between colors. During a heat-preservation state, the controller 1000 may cause the lamps 508 to maintain a constant color. In some embodiments, all lamps 508 of the lighting component 506 may emit the same color. In some embodiments, the lamps 508 may emit different colors. For example, the color of the first lamp 508 may be independent of the color of the second lamp 508.

[0080] In some embodiments, the user can configure operation instructions 1016. For example, via the user application 1010 of the user device 1008, the user can instruct which lights to illuminate and when, which colors the lights can display and when, and which audio indicators 1022 to play and when.

[0081] refer to Figure 11 An exemplary method 1100 for controlling the operation of a kettle assembly 100 is illustrated. Method 1100 may include receiving input indicating a target temperature 1012 (step 1102). For example, a controller 1000 of the kettle assembly 100 may receive input from a user. The controller 1000 may receive input via a display 910 of the kettle assembly 100 or via a user device 1008. For example, the kettle assembly 100 may be communicatively and operably coupled to an external device (e.g., user device 1008) via Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, or other short-range communication channels (e.g., NFC, etc.) and / or different communication protocols, allowing information to be transferred between the kettle assembly 100 and the external device. A user application 1010 may be associated with or linked to the kettle assembly 100, allowing the user to provide input regarding the operation of the kettle assembly 100 (e.g., pairing the user application with the kettle assembly 100 via a pairing process or other process).

[0082] Method 1100 may include determining a threshold temperature (step 1104). When the fluid temperature reaches the threshold temperature instead of the target temperature 1012, controller 1000 may adjust the operation of heating element 504 to prevent the fluid from overheating or underheating. The threshold temperature may be based on a predetermined temperature offset or may be based on the amount of fluid. For example, in some embodiments, operating instructions 1016 of controller 1000 may indicate the predetermined temperature offset. Controller 1000 may subtract the temperature offset from the target temperature 1012 to determine the threshold temperature.

[0083] In some embodiments, controller 1000 may determine the amount of fluid to determine a threshold temperature. For example, method 1100 may include controller 1000 receiving a first signal indicating an initial fluid temperature (step 1106) and receiving a second signal indicating a subsequent fluid temperature (step 1108). Controller 1000 may receive the signal from sensor 1014. The subsequent fluid temperature may be the fluid temperature after a predetermined amount of time. For example, the subsequent fluid temperature may be the fluid temperature after heating the fluid for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., ten seconds).

[0084] Method 1100 may include controller 1000 determining a rate of temperature change based on an initial fluid temperature and a subsequent fluid temperature (step 1110). Method 1100 may include controller 1000 determining the amount of fluid based on the rate of temperature change (step 1112). Based on the amount of fluid, controller 1000 may determine a threshold temperature. For example, step 1104 may include controller 1000 accessing a temperature table 1018 and determining a threshold temperature corresponding to the amount of fluid.

[0085] Method 1100 may include the controller 1000 initiating the operation of the heating element 504 (step 1114). Initiating the heating element 504 may activate the heating operation of the kettle assembly 100 to raise the fluid temperature to a target temperature 1012. During the heating operation, the sensor 1014 of the kettle assembly 100 may be configured to detect the fluid temperature in the kettle 102.

[0086] Method 1100 may include controller 1000 receiving a signal indicating the fluid temperature (step 1116). For example, controller 1000 may receive the signal from sensor 1014. Step 1116 may include controller 1000 comparing the fluid temperature with a threshold temperature and determining that the fluid temperature has reached or exceeded the threshold temperature.

[0087] Method 1100 may include controller 1000 regulating the operation of heating element 504 (step 1118). Controller 1000 may regulate the operation of heating element 504 in response to the fluid temperature relative to a threshold temperature. In some embodiments, controller 1000 may turn off heating element 504. In some embodiments, controller 1000 may gradually reduce power, thereby reducing the heat emitted by heating element 504 (e.g., reducing the current and / or voltage supplied to resistance heating element 504). For example, controller 1000 may reduce power proportionally based on the amount of fluid. For example, for a first fluid volume, controller 1000 may reduce power at a first rate (e.g., X watts / second). For a second fluid volume smaller than the first fluid volume, controller 1000 may reduce power at a second rate (e.g., Y watts / second). The second rate may be greater than the first rate because the rate of temperature change of a larger fluid volume is less than that of a smaller fluid volume. Continuous control and regulation of power output can contribute to precise control of fluid temperature and can improve the efficiency of kettle assembly 100 by not having to operate at full load continuously. This control can prevent, substantially prevent, or attempt to prevent temperatures from exceeding or falling below the target temperature of 10¹².

[0088] Method 1100 may include controller 1000 determining or receiving an indication that the fluid temperature has reached or exceeded a target temperature 1012 (step 1120). In this regard, after the operation of adjusting heating element 504, the fluid temperature may continue to rise to the target temperature 1012 due to temperature hysteresis (i.e., the act of supplying heat causes the fluid to initially heat up, and continues to heat up after the heat supply is stopped or reduced, due to the hysteresis / delay in the heat supplied by heating element 504 affecting the fluid temperature). Temperature sensor 1014 may detect the fluid temperature and send a signal indicating the fluid temperature to controller 1000. Temperature sensor 1014 is capable of sending signals at predetermined time intervals, continuously, and / or in other modes / rhythms. Controller 1000 may determine whether the fluid temperature has reached or exceeded the target temperature 1012 based on the information received from temperature sensor 1014. In one embodiment, controller 1000 analyzes the signal temperature sensor readings relative to a temperature threshold. In another embodiment, the controller 1000 determines a representative sample of the temperature sensor 1014 readings / measurements relative to a temperature threshold (e.g., average value over a predetermined time period, maximum value over a predetermined time period, median value over a predetermined time period, etc.).

[0089] Method 1100 may include controller 1000 activating a heat preservation operation (step 1122). For example, in response to the fluid temperature reaching or exceeding a target temperature 1012, controller 1000 may activate or regulate the operation of heating element 504 to maintain or substantially maintain the fluid temperature at the target temperature 1012 (e.g., within a predetermined value of the target temperature 1012, such as within three or five degrees Fahrenheit).

[0090] For reference Figure 12 According to an exemplary embodiment, a method 1200 for controlling the operating state of a kettle assembly 100 is shown. Method 1200 may be part of method 1100, or it may be a separate operating method for the kettle assembly 100.

[0091] Method 1200 may include controller 1000 determining that the kettle 102 of the kettle assembly 100 has been removed from the base 104 (step 1202). For example, the kettle assembly 100 may include a sensor 1014. Sensor 1014 may be configured to detect the presence of the kettle 102 in the base 104. For example, sensor 1014 may be a pressure sensor 1014. Sensor 1014 may send a signal to controller 1000 indicating that the kettle 102 is not placed in the base 104 (e.g., based on a pressure reading below a predetermined value (which indicates the presence of gravity but not the mass of the kettle 102)). Controller 1000 may determine that the kettle 102 of the kettle assembly 100 has been removed from the base 104 based on the signal received from sensor 1014.

[0092] Method 1200 may include a controller 1000 at least temporarily stopping the operation of at least one component of the kettle assembly 100 (step 1204). The controller 1000 may stop the operation of at least one component in response to the removal of the kettle 102 from the base 104. The controller 1000 may stop the operation of at least one of the heating element 504, display 910, lighting element 506, speaker 918, or sensor 1014. During the removal of the kettle 102 from the base 104, the controller 1000 may maintain the stopped operation of at least one component / system.

[0093] Method 1200 may include controller 1000 determining that the kettle 102 of the kettle assembly 100 has returned to the base 104 (step 1206). For example, sensor 1014 may send a signal to controller 1000 indicating that the kettle 102 is placed in the base 104. For example, sensor 1014 may be or include a weight sensor 1014. When the kettle 102 is placed in the base 104, weight sensor 1014 may detect the weight of the kettle 102. Weight sensor 1014 may send a signal indicating the weight to controller 1000. Controller 1000 may determine that the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on the weight. In some embodiments, sensor 1014 may be configured to detect engagement between kettle engagement element 402 and base engagement element 904. For example, sensor 1014 may be configured to detect when kettle engagement element 402 is connected or engaged with base engagement element 904. Sensor 1014 may send a signal to controller 1000 indicating this connection. The controller 1000 can determine that the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on this signal. In some embodiments, the sensor 1014 can be an infrared sensor 1014. The infrared sensor 1014 can be configured to identify when an object (e.g., the kettle 102) is placed in the base 104. The infrared sensor 1014 can send a signal to the controller 1000 indicating the detection of the object. The controller 1000 can determine that the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on the detection of the object. In some embodiments, the sensor 1014 can be or include a magnet that forms a circuit. For example, the circuit can be open or closed when the kettle 102 is removed from the base 104, and closed when the kettle 102 is in the base 104. The sensor 1014 can detect when the circuit is open and closed. The sensor 1014 can send a signal to the controller 1000 indicating whether the circuit is open or closed. The controller 1000 can determine whether the kettle 102 is in the base 104 based on whether the circuit is open or closed.

[0094] Method 1200 may include controller 1000 determining an updated and / or altered fluid temperature (step 1208) (e.g., a second fluid temperature immediately following an initial / first temperature determined before the kettle 102 is removed). For example, sensor 1014 may include at least one temperature sensor 1014. At least one temperature sensor 1014 may be configured to detect the updated fluid temperature after the kettle 102 is returned to the base 104. Sensor 1014 may send a signal to controller 1000 indicating the updated / altered / second fluid temperature. Controller 1000 may determine the updated fluid temperature based on the signal received from sensor 1014.

[0095] Method 1200 may include controller 1000 initiating an updated operation of kettle assembly 100 (step 1210). For example, controller 1000 may initiate the updated operation in response to kettle 102 returning to base 104. The updated operation may be based on whether the updated fluid temperature is within a predetermined range of target temperature 1012 and / or initial temperature (fluid temperature before kettle 102 was removed). For example, method 1200 may include controller 1000 determining whether the updated fluid temperature is within a predetermined range of target temperature 1012 (step 1212). The predetermined range may be stored in memory 1006 of controller 1000. If the updated fluid temperature is within this range, method 1200 may include resuming a heat preservation operation (step 1214) (e.g., the updated operation is a heat preservation operation). If the updated fluid temperature is not within this range, method 1200 may include initiating a default operation (step 1216) (e.g., the updated operation is a default operation). In some embodiments, the default operation may be a standby mode, wherein heating element 504 is turned off (e.g., no longer heating fluid). In some embodiments, the default operation may be a heating operation to reheat the fluid to a target temperature of 1012.

[0096] In some embodiments, the updated operation may be based on how long the kettle 102 has been removed from the base 104. For example, method 1200 may include the controller 1000 determining whether the kettle 102 has been removed from the base 104 for a predetermined amount of time (step 1218). The predetermined amount of time may be stored in the memory 1006 of the controller 1000. If the amount of time is less than the predetermined amount of time, method 1200 may include resuming the keep-warm operation (step 1220) (e.g., the updated operation is a keep-warm operation). If the amount of time reaches or exceeds the predetermined amount of time, method 1200 may include initiating a heating operation (step 1222) (e.g., the updated operation is a heating operation).

[0097] Now for reference Figure 13 According to an exemplary embodiment, another method 1300 for controlling the operation of a kettle assembly 100 is shown. Method 1300 can be used to activate and control an audio system 917 of the kettle assembly 100. The audio system 917 can provide music, sounds, instructions, tones, etc., capable of creating a soothing environment, and control of the audio system 917 can ensure that these audio indicators 1022 are provided at the desired time and are audible. For example, certain audio indicators 1022 can be played in specific operating states or during specific periods, and the volume of these audio indicators 1022 can be controlled to ensure that the audio indicators 1022 can be heard over noise generated by the kettle assembly 100 or other external factors.

[0098] The controller 1000 may be configured to control an audio indicator 1022 of the kettle assembly 100. In some embodiments, the audio indicator 1022 may indicate different operations of the kettle assembly 100, different stages of operation, and / or other information about the kettle assembly 100 (e.g., detected errors in the operation of the kettle assembly 100, such as the kettle 102 not being properly positioned / engaged with the base 104). For example, method 1300 may include the controller 1000 initiating a heating operation (step 1302). Initiating the heating operation may include activating the heating element 504. The heating operation may raise the fluid temperature in the kettle 102.

[0099] Method 1300 may include providing a first audio indicator 1022 (step 1304). The first audio indicator 1022 may indicate a first phase of the heating operation. For example, the first phase may include a fluid temperature range (e.g., before the fluid begins to boil). The first audio indicator 1022 may continue during the duration of the first phase, may repeat intermittently during the first phase, or may be played at predetermined times during the first phase. For example, the first audio indicator 1022 may be one or more relaxing songs played during the first phase. In some embodiments, the first audio indicator may be a beeping sound played at predetermined times during the first phase (e.g., at the beginning and / or end of the first phase at a specific temperature).

[0100] Method 1300 may include providing a second audio indicator 1022 (step 1306). The second audio indicator 1022 may indicate a second phase of the heating operation. For example, the second phase may include a different fluid temperature range or a different state (e.g., the fluid is boiling). The second audio indicator 1022 may continue during the duration of the second phase, may repeat intermittently during the second phase, or may play at predetermined times during the second phase. In some embodiments, the first audio indicator 1022 and the second audio indicator 1022 may be stored in the memory 1006 of the controller 1000. In some embodiments, at least one of the first audio indicator 1022 or the second audio indicator 1022 may be provided by the user equipment 1008.

[0101] Method 1300 may include controller 1000 adjusting the volume of audio indicator 1022 (step 1308). Controller 1000 may adjust the volume of at least one of the first audio indicator 1022 or the second audio indicator 1022. For example, during a second phase (e.g., during boiling), controller 1000 may increase the volume of the second audio indicator 1022 to overcome noise generated by the boiling fluid. Controller 1000 may determine the amount of noise generated by the fluid by estimating the amount of fluid. Controller 1000 may adjust the volume of audio indicator 1022 based on the noise generated by the fluid. This volume adjustment may ensure that audio indicator 1022 is heard above other noise generated by the kettle assembly 100. For example, boiling water will generate a certain amount of noise. Controller 1000 may use sensor 1014 (e.g., a microphone) to detect the decibel level of the boiling fluid and automatically adjust the volume of audio indicator 1022 to be higher than the detected decibel level.

[0102] In some embodiments, audio settings (e.g., which audio indicators 1022 are played, when they are played, and the volume of the audio indicators 1022) can be adjusted or customized by the user. For example, a user can select desired audio settings via a user application 1010 on user device 1008. The user-selected settings can be stored in memory 1006. In some embodiments, only a subset of the audio settings can be customized by the user to ensure a specific effect is achieved. For example, a user can select the song to play during a heat loop, but instructions stored in memory 1006 can specify the volume of that song. Any combination of settings can be predetermined or customizable.

[0103] For reference Figure 14 According to an exemplary embodiment, another method 1400 for controlling the operation of the kettle assembly 100 is shown. Method 1400 can be used to activate and control the lighting component 506 of the kettle assembly 100. The lighting component 506 can provide different colors, different patterns, and / or different transitions between colors capable of creating a soothing environment. For example, the lamp 508 of the lighting component 506 can illuminate in different colors during specific operating states or periods. The light emitted by the lamp 508 can be emitted into the environment via the housing body 206 of the kettle 102 to create a soothing environment.

[0104] The controller 1000 may be configured to control the lighting component 506 of the kettle assembly. For example, the controller 1000 may cause the lighting component 506 to perform various lighting sequences. The lighting sequence may be, for example, a smooth or relatively smooth transition between various colors to provide an effect such as color blending into the next color, maintenance of a single color, flashing of one or more colors (e.g., a flashing light), etc. In one embodiment, a predefined lighting sequence may indicate various one or more operations or operating states of the kettle assembly 100.

[0105] As described above, the lighting component 506 may have multiple lamps 508. The lamps 508 may be LEDs. In some embodiments, all lamps 508 may display the same color. In some embodiments, the lamps 508 may display different colors. For example, each lamp 508 or a subset of lamps 508 may be controlled independently of the remaining lamps 508. For example, a first lamp 508 may display a first color different from the color displayed by a second lamp 508. In some embodiments, the controller 1000 may operate the lamps 508 in different orders. For example, the controller 1000 may allow the first lamp to smoothly transition between colors and allow the second lamp to maintain a fixed color.

[0106] Method 1400 may include controller 1000 driving heating element 504 to initiate heating operation to increase the fluid temperature (step 1402). Method 1400 may include controller 1000 initiating a first lighting sequence (step 1404). For example, controller 1000 may initiate the first lighting sequence to indicate that heating operation has been initiated. For example, the first lighting sequence may include a smooth transition between different colors during heating operation. Furthermore, the lamp may emit colors associated with heat, such as predominantly red and orange hues. This provides the user with a visual cue about what is happening with the kettle assembly 100 (e.g., heating). Often, users activate electronic components but may forget they have done so due to, for example, multitasking. With the visual cues provided by lamp 508 (e.g., a red hue for heating, a fixed predefined color maintained to indicate that the fluid has reached a target temperature, a blue hue that can vary or remain consistent to indicate a decrease in fluid temperature, etc.), the user can easily observe and understand how the kettle assembly 100 is operating without manual inspection. This saves time and is appealing to the user.

[0107] Method 1400 may include controller 1000 adjusting heating element 504 to initiate a heat preservation operation to maintain fluid temperature (step 1406). Method 1400 may include controller initiating a second lighting sequence (step 1408). For example, controller 1000 may initiate the second lighting sequence to indicate the heat preservation operation. For example, the second lighting sequence may include maintaining a fixed color during the heat preservation operation.

[0108] In some embodiments, lighting settings (e.g., which lights 508 are turned on / lit, what color is displayed, brightness, how or whether there is a transition between colors, whether the light is constant or flashes in a specific pattern, etc.) can be adjusted or customized by the user. For example, a user can select desired lighting settings via a user application 1010 on user device 1008. The user-selected settings can be stored in memory 1006. In some embodiments, only a subset of the lighting settings can be customized by the user to ensure a specific effect is achieved. For example, a user can select the color displayed during operation, but instructions stored in memory 1006 can specify the brightness of the light and when to switch to different colors. Any combination of settings can be predetermined or customizable.

[0109] The various embodiments of the kettle assembly 100 described herein, as well as the various methods of controlling the kettle assembly 100, can be applied in any combination to provide a soothing or relaxing environment for a user when preparing a beverage (e.g., tea) using the kettle assembly 100. As an illustrative example, a user can activate the kettle assembly 100 to initiate a water heating process. Initially, the water in the kettle 102 may be at a lower initial temperature. The kettle assembly 100 can initiate a heating operation to raise the water temperature from the initial temperature to a target temperature. During the heating operation, the kettle assembly 100 can provide audio and / or visual effects to create a soothing environment. For example, the kettle assembly 100 can play music, soothing sounds (e.g., rain sounds), guided meditation, etc., while the water is being heated. Furthermore, during the heating operation, the kettle assembly 100 can emit color through a window portion 207 of the housing body 206 to create a soothing environment. The window portion 207 may include translucent features / elements (e.g., frosted glass or plastic) that allow light to be diffused into the surrounding area without being too glaring. The light during the heating process can transition smoothly between different colors.

[0110] Once the water temperature reaches a threshold temperature (which is below the target temperature), the controller 1000 may adjust (e.g., reduce) the power output of the heating element 504 to prevent or attempt to prevent the water from overheating. When the water temperature reaches the threshold temperature, the audio indicator 1022 may change (e.g., different song, different volume) and / or the operation of the lighting component 506 may change (e.g., different color, faster transition between colors) to indicate that different stages of the heating operation have begun.

[0111] When the water temperature reaches the target temperature, the kettle assembly 100 can again change the operating state of the audio indicator 1022 and / or the lighting component 506 to indicate that the target temperature has been reached. After reaching the target temperature, the kettle assembly 100 can automatically enter a keep-warm state to maintain the water temperature within a specific range of the target temperature. For example, the controller 1000 can intermittently activate the heating element 504 or keep the heating element 504 active at a lower power output to maintain the target temperature within a predetermined range of the target temperature. The kettle assembly 100 can provide a specific audio indicator 1022 (e.g., a beep tone) or operate the lighting component in a specific manner (e.g., a fixed color) to indicate the keep-warm state.

[0112] During operation of the kettle assembly 100, the user can remove the kettle 102 from the base 104 at any time. Removal of the kettle 102 may not interrupt sound and / or lighting operation, or it may interrupt heating operation. For example, when the kettle 102 is removed from the base 104, the current lighting operation (e.g., a fixed single color) may continue to be emitted through the window portion 207 of the housing body 206, and the current audio indicator (e.g., a rainforest sound) may continue to play, but the heating element 504 may be turned off. For example, the kettle 102 may include a power storage device (e.g., a battery or capacitor) configured to power the lighting element 506 when the kettle 102 is removed from the base 104. When the kettle 102 is returned to the base 104, the kettle assembly 100 may adjust the audio and lighting operation. For example, if the kettle 102 has been returned to the base 104 and the water temperature has dropped below a threshold, the controller 1000 may activate the heating operation and adjust the light 508 and / or the audio indicator 1022 accordingly.

[0113] In some embodiments, the kettle assembly 100 may store predetermined heating, lighting, and / or audio settings in memory 1006, such that operation of the kettle assembly 100 requires minimal user interaction. In other embodiments, at least some of the heating, lighting, and audio settings may be selectable or customized by the user, whether via display 910 or user device 1008. For example, the user may decide what color light and what song to play during keep-warm operation. The kettle assembly 100 may include predetermined audio indicators 1022, or the user may be able to select various other audio indicators from other sources. For example, the user may select songs from a library on user device 1008 or a separate provider application to play during operation of the kettle assembly 100.

[0114] As used herein, the term "connection" refers to the direct or indirect connection between two components. Such a connection can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., detachable or releasable). This connection can be achieved by directly connecting two components to each other, by connecting two components to each other using a separate intermediate component and any additional intermediate components connected to each other, or by connecting two components to each other using an intermediate component integrally formed with one of the two components as a single whole. These components can be mechanically, electrically, and / or fluidly connected. It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the kettle assembly as illustrated in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Furthermore, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated into or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein.

[0115] Embodiments of the methods and systems have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate certain details of specific embodiments of the systems, methods, and programs that implement this disclosure. However, the description of the methods and systems by way of the drawings should not be construed as imposing any limitations that may exist in the drawings on this disclosure. The above embodiments relate to methods, systems, and program products for implementing their operation, stored on any non-transitory machine-readable storage medium. These embodiments may be implemented, at least in part, using existing computer processors, or by a dedicated computer processor incorporated for this or other purposes, or by a hardwired system.

[0116] Embodiments may include program products comprising non-transitory machine-readable storage media for carrying or storing machine-executable instructions or data structures thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available medium accessible by a computer or other processor-equipped machine. As examples, such machine-readable storage media may include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and is accessible by a processor-equipped computer. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processing machine to perform a particular function or group of functions.

[0117] Embodiments of this disclosure have been described in the general context of method steps that, in one embodiment, may be implemented by a program product (e.g., program code) including machine-executable instructions, such as in the form of a program module executed by a machine in a networked environment. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, logic, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform a specific task or implement a specific abstract data type. Machine-executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of program code for performing the method steps disclosed herein. A particular order of such executable instructions or associated data structures represents examples of corresponding actions for implementing the functionality described in such steps.

[0118] The embodiments of this disclosure can be practiced in a network environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers having processors. Those skilled in the art will understand that such network computing environments can encompass a wide variety of computer types, including personal computers, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframes, etc. The embodiments of this disclosure can also be practiced in a distributed computing environment, where tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices linked via a communication network (whether via hardwired links, wireless links, or a combination of hardwired and wireless links). In a distributed computing environment, program modules can reside in local and remote memory storage devices.

[0119] Exemplary systems for implementing an entire system or part of this disclosure may include a computer including a processing unit, system memory or a database, and a system bus coupling various system components, including the system memory, to the processing unit. The database or system memory may include read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). The database may also include a magnetic hard disk drive for reading from and writing to a magnetic hard disk, a disk drive for reading from or writing to a removable disk, and an optical disk drive for reading from or writing to a removable optical disk, such as a CD-ROM or other optical media. The drive and its associated machine-readable medium provide the computer with non-volatile storage of machine-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data. A user interface as described herein may include a computer with a monitor, keyboard, keypad, mouse, joystick, or other input device performing similar functions.

[0120] It should be noted that although the figures herein may show a specific order and composition of method steps, it should be understood that the order of these steps may differ from that shown. For example, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. Furthermore, some method steps performed as discrete steps may be combined, steps performed as combined steps may be separated into discrete steps, the order of certain processes may be reversed or otherwise changed, and the number or nature of discrete processes may be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any element or device may be changed or replaced according to alternative embodiments. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. Such changes will depend on the chosen software and hardware system and the designer's choices. It should be understood that all such changes are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, the software and network implementations of this disclosure can be accomplished using standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to implement various database search steps, association steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0121] The foregoing description of embodiments of this disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit this disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and modifications and variations can be made in light of the above teachings, or from the practice of the disclosed solutions. The embodiments were chosen and described to explain the principles of the disclosed solutions and their practical application, enabling those skilled in the art to utilize the disclosed solutions in various embodiments and with various modifications suitable for the particular intended use. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made to the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0122] Throughout this specification, numerous advantages of the exemplary embodiments have been pointed out. It should be understood, of course, that the teachings herein can be employed without necessarily achieving the same advantages. Furthermore, although many features have been described in the context of a particular data processing unit, it should be understood that these features can also be implemented in the context of other hardware configurations.

[0123] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “roughly,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the common and accepted usage by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to allow for the description of certain features described and claimed, without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or irrelevant modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of this disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0124] It should be noted that, as used herein to describe various embodiments, the term “exemplary” and its variations are intended to indicate that these embodiments are possible examples, representations and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and these terms are not intended to imply that these embodiments are necessarily special or best examples).

[0125] As used herein, the term "or" is used in its inclusive (rather than exclusive) sense, such that when used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Unless otherwise expressly stated, connective language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z" should be understood to convey that the elements can be X, Y, Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Therefore, unless otherwise stated, such connective language is generally not intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of each of at least one X, at least one Y, and at least one Z.

[0126] References to element positions (e.g., "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc.) herein are used only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

Claims

1. A kettle, comprising: A housing includes a housing top, a housing body connected to the housing top, and a housing base connected to the housing base and located vertically below the housing body, the housing body being configured to contain fluid; as well as A lighting component is disposed in at least one of the top of the housing or the base of the housing, the lighting component being configured to selectively emit light to illuminate at least a portion of the kettle; The housing body includes a partially transparent window portion, allowing light emitted by the lighting component to exit through the window portion.

2. The kettle according to claim 1, wherein, The lighting component includes at least one light-emitting diode (LED) lamp disposed in the housing base, the at least one LED lamp being at least partially angled inward toward the center of the housing base.

3. The kettle according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one LED is configured as a plurality of LEDs, wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged in a ring shape such that the plurality of LEDs at least partially surround the housing body.

4. The kettle according to claim 3 further includes a heating element disposed in the housing base, wherein, The plurality of LEDs extend circumferentially around the heating element.

5. The kettle according to claim 1, wherein, The lighting component includes a plurality of lamps, wherein at least one of the plurality of lamps is configured to emit a different color of light relative to at least another of the plurality of lamps.

6. The kettle according to claim 1, wherein, The window portion of the housing body includes frosted glass.

7. A kettle assembly, comprising: A kettle, comprising: A housing body, comprising a window portion, said window portion being at least partially translucent; A lighting component disposed within the kettle, the lighting component being configured to selectively emit light through the window portion; and A heating element for selectively heating fluid located within the housing body; A base defining a receiving portion to selectively receive at least a portion of the kettle, the base including at least one speaker; and A controller is disposed in at least one of the kettle or the base, the controller being configured to control the operation of at least one of the lighting component, the heating component, or the at least one speaker based on the operation of the kettle assembly.

8. The kettle assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is configured to: Receives an input indicating the target temperature of the fluid located in the housing body; A threshold temperature is determined based on the target temperature, wherein the threshold temperature is lower than the target temperature; The operation of the heating element is activated to raise the fluid temperature to the target temperature; Receive a signal indicating the temperature of the fluid, wherein the fluid temperature reaches or exceeds the threshold temperature; as well as In response to the fluid temperature reaching or exceeding the threshold temperature, the heat output from the heating element is reduced or the operation of the heating element is stopped.

9. The kettle assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The controller is also configured to: Receive a first signal indicating the initial fluid temperature of the fluid located in the housing body; After a predetermined amount of time, a second signal indicating the subsequent fluid temperature is received; The rate of temperature change is determined based on the initial fluid temperature and the subsequent fluid temperature; The amount of fluid is determined based on the rate of temperature change; as well as The threshold temperature is determined based on the amount of fluid.

10. The kettle assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is also configured to: Receive input indicating the target temperature; Activate the heating operation to raise the fluid temperature to the target temperature; Determine that the fluid temperature reaches or exceeds the target temperature; as well as In response to the target temperature reaching or exceeding the target temperature, a heat preservation operation is activated to maintain the fluid temperature within a predetermined range of the target temperature.

11. The kettle assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The controller is also configured to: The kettle has been removed from the base; Temporarily suspend the operation of at least one component of the kettle assembly; The kettle has been detected to have returned to the base; In response to detecting that the kettle has returned to the base, the updated fluid temperature is determined; as well as The updated operation is initiated based on the updated fluid temperature.

12. The kettle assembly according to claim 11, wherein, In response to the updated fluid temperature being within a predetermined range of the target temperature, the updated operation is the heat preservation operation, wherein the fluid temperature is maintained within the predetermined range of the target temperature.

13. The kettle assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is also configured to: Initiate a heating operation to raise the fluid temperature relative to the fluid's initial temperature; Provide a first audio indicator to indicate the first stage of the heating operation; and A second audio indicator is provided to indicate a second stage of the heating operation, the second stage including the fluid temperature reaching or approaching a target fluid temperature.

14. The kettle assembly according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is also configured to adjust the volume of the first audio indicator or the second audio indicator based on the determined amount of fluid.

15. The kettle assembly according to claim 13, wherein, The first audio indicator and the second audio indicator are received from a remote user equipment.

16. The kettle assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is also configured to: The heating element is activated to initiate a heating operation to increase the fluid temperature; A first lighting sequence is initiated via the lighting component to indicate the heating operation; The heating operation is adjusted to initiate a heat preservation operation to substantially maintain the fluid temperature. as well as A second lighting sequence is activated via the lighting component to indicate regulated heating operation; the second lighting sequence is different from the first lighting sequence.

17. The kettle assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The first lighting sequence includes transitions between different colors; and The second lighting sequence includes maintaining at least one color for a predetermined amount of time.

18. The kettle assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The lighting component includes a plurality of LEDs, wherein the color displayed by the first LED is independent of the color displayed by the second LED.

19. A method of operating a kettle assembly, the method comprising: Receive input regarding the target temperature of the fluid in the kettle located in the kettle assembly; A threshold temperature is determined based on the target temperature, wherein the threshold temperature is lower than the target temperature; The operation of the heating element is activated to raise the fluid temperature to the target temperature; Receive a signal indicating the temperature of the fluid, the fluid temperature corresponding to the threshold temperature; as well as The operation of the heating element is adjusted in response to the fluid temperature corresponding to the threshold temperature.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: Receive a first signal indicating the initial fluid temperature of the fluid located in the kettle; After a predetermined amount of time, a second signal indicating the subsequent fluid temperature is received; The rate of temperature change is determined based on the initial fluid temperature and the subsequent fluid temperature; The amount of fluid is determined based on the rate of temperature change; as well as The threshold temperature is determined based on the amount of fluid.

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