Control unit for a liquid heating appliance and liquid heating appliance

Abstract

A control unit for a liquid heating appliance and a liquid heating appliance. The liquid heating appliance comprises a liquid heating vessel, an electric heater and a control unit (16). The control unit (16) comprises an electrical adapter component (28) for receiving an electrical supply and first and second tabs (29a, 29b) electrically connected to the electrical adapter component (28) for forming a main power supply circuit including the heater. A bimetallic element (31) is operable at a predetermined temperature to interrupt the main power supply circuit. The control unit (16) comprises third and fourth tabs (33a, 33b) connected to the electrical adapter component (28) separately from the first and second tabs (29a, 29b) for forming a bypass power supply circuit. The first and third tabs (29a, 33a) are connected to a neutral electrical contact (28c) and the second and fourth tabs (29b, 33b) are connected to a live electrical contact (28b) of the electrical adapter component (28).

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 2024207629155, filed on April 12, 2024, entitled "Control Unit for Liquid Heating Appliance and Liquid Heating Appliance". Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to a liquid heating appliance and a control unit for the liquid heating appliance. Background Technology

[0004] In liquid heating appliances such as household kettles, an electric heater is typically arranged to heat the liquid stored in the appliance's heating container. A control unit may be provided to control the supply of power to the electric heater, such as starting or stopping the heating operation. Power to the liquid heating appliance is usually supplied via a power base connected to a mains power supply.

[0005] The control unit typically includes a switch for removing the power supply from the appliance when a predetermined temperature is sensed within the appliance, thereby cutting off the electric heater. For example, the control unit may be arranged to disconnect the power supply when the liquid in the liquid heating container has reached boiling or when overheating is detected. Typically, the control unit includes a thermomechanical element (e.g., a tachy-actuated bimetallic element) that operates at the predetermined temperature to disconnect the switch and interrupt the power supply.

[0006] These thermomechanical components are advantageous because they are reliable and relatively inexpensive compared to electronic temperature detection and actuation devices.

[0007] However, there is a growing demand for additional features in liquid heating appliances, particularly household appliances, including auxiliary components such as electronic displays or user interfaces. In conventional appliances that include thermomechanical control units, auxiliary electronic components can also disconnect from the power supply when a predetermined temperature is reached, meaning these components can only be used while the electric heater is running. This significantly reduces the practicality of such household appliances.

[0008] One existing solution to this problem is to replace the thermomechanical control unit with an electronic control system that senses the temperature of the liquid inside the container and individually shuts off the electric heater when a predetermined temperature is reached. This avoids a complete interruption of the appliance's power supply when the predetermined temperature is detected, where the electric heater is instead selectively controlled. Such an electronic control system allows auxiliary components to continue operating even after the electric heater has been shut off.

[0009] However, this solution would significantly increase the cost and complexity of manufacturing liquid heating appliances. Utility Model Content

[0010] This application attempts to provide a liquid heating appliance that overcomes these problems.

[0011] When viewed from a first perspective, this application provides a liquid heating appliance, the liquid heating appliance comprising:

[0012] Liquid heating containers;

[0013] An electric heater for heating the liquid contained in the liquid heating container; and

[0014] Control unit, the control unit includes:

[0015] An electrical adapter component for receiving a power supply, the electrical adapter component including a neutral contact and a live contact;

[0016] A first electrical tab and a second electrical tab are used for electrical connection to an electric heater to form a main power supply circuit including a set of switch contacts, wherein the first electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact of the electric adapter component, and wherein the second electrical tab is connected to the energized contact of the electric adapter component.

[0017] A bimetallic element, operable at a predetermined temperature, to interrupt the main power supply circuit by opening the set of switch contacts; and

[0018] A third and a fourth electrical tab are connected separately from the first and second electrical tabs to the electrical adapter component for electrical connection to one or more auxiliary components to form a bypass power circuit, wherein the third electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact of the electrical adapter component, and wherein the fourth electrical tab is connected to the live contact of the electrical adapter component.

[0019] The first and second electrical tabs are electrically connected to the electric heater to form the main power supply circuit; and

[0020] The liquid heating appliance includes one or more auxiliary components connected to the third and fourth electrical tabs to form the bypass power circuit.

[0021] Therefore, it should be understood that this application provides a liquid heating appliance including a control unit comprising two sets of separate electrical tabs connected to the same electrical adapter component. The first set of electrical tabs includes a first electrical tab and a second electrical tab. The second set of electrical tabs includes a third electrical tab and a fourth electrical tab. In some embodiments, the first and second electrical tabs (e.g., directly or indirectly) are connected to an electric heater to form a main power circuit, which can be interrupted by operation of a bimetallic element at a predetermined temperature (e.g., corresponding to a desired temperature or state of the liquid in the liquid heating container, such as boiling). In some embodiments, the third and fourth electrical tabs are connected to one or more auxiliary components in a bypass power circuit. Because the third and fourth electrical tabs are connected to the electrical adapter component separately from the first and second electrical tabs, the bypass power circuit can receive power independently of the main power circuit. The bypass power circuit can be connected in parallel with the main power circuit. Therefore, it should be understood that the operation of the bimetallic element at the predetermined temperature will not interrupt the bypass power supply circuit, which means that even after the bimetallic element has disconnected the electric heater from the power supply, power can still be supplied to one or more auxiliary components connected to the bypass power supply circuit.

[0022] This means that liquid heating appliances can provide the functionality of an electronically controlled kettle, but do not necessarily require expensive electronic components and complex manufacturing.

[0023] The liquid heating appliance preferably includes a container spout arranged in fluid communication with a liquid heating container, thereby allowing dispensing of the contents of the liquid heating container. The appliance may include a cap arranged to close the orifice for filling the liquid heating container with the liquid to be heated. In some embodiments, the liquid heating appliance includes a handle for lifting the liquid heating appliance.

[0024] In some embodiments, the electric heater includes an electric heating element, preferably a sheathed electric heating element. The electric heating element may be a conventional "horseshoe" structure with an electrical terminal at one end. The electric heater may include a heat diffuser plate. The electric heating element may be mounted on the bottom surface of the heat diffuser plate. Preferably, the electric heating element is arranged in thermal communication with the heat diffuser plate. The heat diffuser plate is preferably arranged to heat the contents of the liquid heating container. The electric heater (e.g., including a heat diffuser plate) may be arranged in or below the bottom of the liquid heating container.

[0025] Preferably, the bimetallic element includes a switch operable to interrupt the main power circuit. The control unit may include a trip lever for allowing the user to manually operate the switch. Preferably, the switch is arranged to control the power supply from the electrical adapter component to the electric heater. The switch may include a movable electrical contact mounted on a movable member. Preferably, the switch includes a fixed electrical contact in the main power circuit. Preferably, the movable electrical contact is arranged to cooperate with the fixed electrical contact to allow power to be supplied to the electric heater via the main power circuit when the movable member is in the closed position.

[0026] Preferably, at a predetermined temperature, the bimetallic element is configured to move the movable member from a closed position to an open position, in which the movable electrical contact separates from the electrical contact to interrupt the main power supply circuit.

[0027] The bimetallic element is operable at a predetermined temperature related to changes in the state (e.g., boiling) of the liquid within the liquid heating container. Preferably, the bimetallic element is operable at a predetermined temperature below 100°C, for example, about 95°C. Preferably, the bimetallic element is operable at a predetermined temperature that serves as a steam sensing temperature. Therefore, it should be understood that the bimetallic element is not operable to detect overheating of the electric heater.

[0028] Preferably, the bimetallic element is arranged to detect steam generated in the liquid heating container. In some embodiments, the appliance includes a steam pipe arranged to guide the steam generated in the container to the bimetallic element in the control unit.

[0029] The control unit may also include means for detecting overheating within the liquid heating appliance (e.g., by detecting the overheating temperature of the heat diffuser or electric heater during a "dry-burning" condition). The means may include a temperature sensor or a thermal actuator, such as a second bimetallic element connected in series with the main power circuit.

[0030] The device for detecting overheating in a liquid heating appliance is preferably arranged in thermal communication with a heat diffuser or an electric heater (e.g., directly).

[0031] Preferably, the (first) bimetallic element is separate from the device for detecting overheating within the liquid heating appliance. The (first) bimetallic element is preferably not arranged in thermal communication with a heat diffuser or electric heater (e.g., directly). The (first) bimetallic element is preferably configured to operate at a predetermined temperature during normal operation of the appliance. However, the device for detecting overheating is preferably configured to operate only as a safety mechanism and not during normal operation of the appliance. Preferably, the device for detecting overheating is configured to operate at a temperature higher than the predetermined temperature at which the (first) bimetallic element can be operated to interrupt the main power circuit. Preferably, the device for detecting overheating is configured to operate at a temperature higher than 100°C.

[0032] The control unit itself is considered novel and inventive. Therefore, viewed from a second aspect, this application provides a control unit for a liquid heating appliance, the control unit comprising:

[0033] An electrical adapter component for receiving a power supply, the electrical adapter component including a neutral contact and a live contact;

[0034] A first electrical tab and a second electrical tab are used for electrical connection to an electric heater to form a main power supply circuit including a set of switch contacts, wherein the first electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact of the electric adapter component, and wherein the second electrical tab is connected to the energized contact of the electric adapter component.

[0035] A bimetallic element, operable at a predetermined temperature, to interrupt the main power supply circuit by opening the set of switch contacts; and

[0036] A third and a fourth electrical tab are connected separately from the first and second electrical tabs to the electrical adapter component for electrical connection to one or more auxiliary components to form a bypass power circuit, wherein the third electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact of the electrical adapter component, and wherein the fourth electrical tab is connected to the live contact of the electrical adapter component.

[0037] In any embodiment disclosed herein, the electrical adapter component may be a cordless electrical adapter component. In some embodiments, the cordless electrical adapter component is arranged to mate with a corresponding base electrical connector component. The cordless electrical adapter component and the corresponding base electrical connector component may be of a type that can mate regardless of their relative angular orientation, or of a type that can mate at least through a wide angular range (e.g., at least 340°, preferably up to 360°). Suitable cordless connectors of this “360° type” are described in WO95 / 08024 and WO01 / 28294 and are available as Strix’s P72 or P76 connector components.

[0038] In some embodiments, the liquid heating appliance includes a base electrical connector component. The base electrical connector component may include tabs for electrical connection to a mains power cable, or the mains power cable may be integrated with the connector component. In embodiments where the control unit includes a cordless power adapter component, the base electrical connector component may be mounted in a power base for the liquid heating appliance (i.e., for a cordless appliance removably mounted on a power base). Preferably, the base electrical connector component is not included in the electronic control unit within the power base. Because the control unit in the cordless appliance provides a separate electrical connection to a bypass power circuit, this bypass power circuit can be used to power the electronic control components in the appliance, rather than relying on an electronic controller in the base (e.g., as shown in WO01 / 28294).

[0039] (For example, cordless) electrical adapter components include a neutral contact and a live contact. An additional grounding connection may be present. In some embodiments, the electrical adapter component is a three-pole conductor component (e.g., for mating with a Strix P72 connector). In other embodiments, the electrical connector component is a five-pole conductor component (e.g., for mating with a Strix P76 connector). This five-pole connector provides both electronic signal connectivity and electrical connectivity.

[0040] The neutral contact and / or the live contact may include (each) annular contacts. The annular contacts may be arranged to be received within (each) annular holes in the base electrical connector component.

[0041] The first electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact of the electrical adapter component. The second electrical tab is connected to the energized contact of the electrical adapter component.

[0042] In some embodiments, a first electrical tab is connected to a neutral contact via a switch operable via a bimetallic element to interrupt the main power supply circuit. In some embodiments, a second electrical tab is connected to a live contact via the same switch.

[0043] The electric heater is preferably connected between the first electrical tab and the second electrical tab.

[0044] Preferably, the first and second electrical tabs and / or the third and fourth electrical tabs are quick-disconnect connectors, such as FASTON. TM Connectors. This can help reduce the complexity of the manufacturing process for liquid heating appliances, which can also reduce the costs associated with said manufacturing. In some embodiments, the first and second electrical tabs are directly attached (e.g., welded) to the electrical terminals of the heating element.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first and second electrical tabs have shapes different from those of the third and fourth electrical tabs.

[0046] Preferably, the bimetallic element is arranged to detect a temperature representative of the temperature inside the liquid heating container. The bimetallic element may also be arranged to detect steam generated within the liquid heating container. For example, the control unit may include means for guiding steam received from the liquid heating container.

[0047] The bimetallic element is preferably a fast-acting bimetallic element. Where the bimetallic element includes a switch operable to interrupt the main power circuit, the switch can be operated by the action of the bimetallic element. In some embodiments, the bimetallic element may also be arranged to operate the trip lever of the control unit at a predetermined temperature (e.g., directly or indirectly).

[0048] The third electrical tab connects to the neutral contact of the electrical adapter component. The fourth electrical tab connects to the energized contact of the electrical adapter component.

[0049] The neutral contact of the electrical adapter component is connected to the first electrical tab and also to the third electrical tab. The energized contact of the electrical adapter component is connected to the second electrical tab and also to the fourth electrical tab. Therefore, it should be understood that the main power supply circuit and the bypass power supply circuit are connected to the electrical adapter component via the same contacts.

[0050] In some embodiments, the liquid heating appliance includes one or more auxiliary components, such as those connected to a third and fourth electrical tab to form a bypass power circuit. At least one of the auxiliary components may be an electronic component. In various embodiments, the liquid heating appliance includes one or more auxiliary components connected to the third and fourth electrical tabs to form a bypass power circuit, wherein the one or more auxiliary components include one or more of a processor, control circuitry, an electronic temperature sensor, a secondary electric heater, a user interface, an electronic display, a light source, a wireless transceiver, a weight sensor, a filling sensor, and / or a rechargeable power supply.

[0051] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include control circuitry. The control circuitry may include logic and, optionally, a processor. In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a processor. One or more auxiliary components may include a memory storing software containing instructions for execution by the processor. The processor is preferably configured to control the operation of one or more other auxiliary components. In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components preferably include a rechargeable power supply connected to the processor. This allows the processor to continue controlling one or more auxiliary components after the main power circuitry has been interrupted when the appliance is disconnected from the power base.

[0052] One or more auxiliary components may include electronic temperature sensors (e.g., thermistors), arranged, for example, to measure (directly or indirectly) the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container. Preferably, the electronic temperature sensor is configured to send a measurement signal to the processor representing the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container. Therefore, the bypass power supply circuit may include an electronic temperature sensor connected to the processor.

[0053] In some embodiments, the one or more auxiliary components include a processor and an electronic temperature sensor, wherein the processor is arranged to control one or more additional auxiliary components based on signals received from the electronic temperature sensor. As described above, one or more auxiliary components preferably include a rechargeable power supply connected to the processor. This allows the processor to continue controlling one or more additional auxiliary components after the main power circuit has been interrupted when the appliance is disconnected from the power base.

[0054] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components preferably include an electronic temperature sensor and an electronic display configured to display the temperature value measured by the electronic temperature sensor. For example, the electronic display may be configured to display the current temperature of the liquid in the liquid heating container after it has cooled down following a boiling operation. This can help prevent the user from reboiling the liquid unnecessarily, thereby helping to reduce the negative environmental impact of the device.

[0055] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a secondary electric heater. The secondary electric heater preferably has a lower power output than the main electric heater, such as a "heat-insulating" heater. In some embodiments, a first and second electrical tab are connected to the (main) electric heater to form a main power circuit, and a third and fourth electrical tab are connected to the secondary (e.g., lower power) electric heater.

[0056] The secondary electric heater can be configured to maintain the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container. The liquid heating appliance may include a switch arranged to control the power supply from a bypass power circuit to the secondary electric heater. The operation of the switch is preferably controlled by a processor. The processor may be configured to control the switch based on measurement signals received from an electronic temperature sensor. The switch may include a relay or a triac. The processor may be configured to control the switch based on the value of a timer, for example, limiting the duration of the appliance's "heat preservation" operation.

[0057] The processor can be configured to cyclically turn the secondary electric heater on and off to maintain the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container. The temperature to be maintained can be a predetermined temperature or a temperature selected by the user of the liquid heating appliance. The processor can be configured to cyclically turn the secondary electric heater on and off in response to a measurement signal received from an electronic temperature sensor.

[0058] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a secondary electric heater, a user interface, and a processor. The secondary electric heater is arranged to heat a liquid contained within a liquid heating container. The user interface is configured to receive user input of a target temperature. The processor is arranged to control the secondary electric heater to heat the liquid contained within the liquid heating container to the target temperature. In some embodiments, the processor may determine the heating time required to reach the target temperature. In some embodiments, the processor may control the secondary electric heater based on signals received from an electronic temperature sensor. This can provide additional heating functionality to the liquid heating appliance, even after the main power circuit to the main electric heater has been interrupted by the operation of the bimetallic element. This additional heating functionality can be used immediately after the main electric heater (e.g., to raise the liquid temperature to the target temperature) or at a later time (e.g., to reheat to the target temperature).

[0059] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a display, preferably an electronic display. In some embodiments, the electronic display is configured to display a countdown indicating the remaining time until the liquid contained in the liquid heating container reaches a target temperature. The target temperature may be preset or may be input by a user (e.g., at the user interface described above). In some embodiments, the processor is configured to automatically shut off the secondary electric heater after a predetermined time, and the user interface includes an electronic display configured to display a countdown indicating the remaining time before the processor is about to automatically shut off the secondary electric heater.

[0060] In some embodiments, the electronic display is configured to show a volume indicator representing the volume of liquid contained in the liquid heating container. This informs the user of the current liquid volume, allowing only the required volume (e.g., one cup) to be heated.

[0061] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a light source, or the appliance otherwise includes a light source connected to a bypass power supply circuit. In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include control circuitry (optionally including a processor) arranged to control the light source. The light source may include light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or multiple LEDs. The light source is preferably configured to output light of multiple different colors. Preferably, the color of the light output by the light source is controlled by the processor. The processor may be configured to set the color of the light output by the light source based on parameters or measurements. For example, the processor may be configured to change the color of the light source (e.g., from blue to red) during heating, for example, based on a temperature value measured by an electronic temperature sensor as described above.

[0062] In some embodiments, the light source is arranged to project light onto the surface on which the appliance is located during use. For example, the light source may be arranged to direct light onto the surface of a tabletop on which the appliance is placed. In some embodiments, the light source is arranged on the handle of the liquid heating appliance.

[0063] In some embodiments, the handle includes a first portion extending substantially horizontally away from the appliance and a second portion extending substantially vertically from the first portion toward the base of the appliance. As those skilled in the art will understand, the first and second portions effectively form an inverted "L" shape, with the second portion being gripped by the user. A light source may be arranged on the underside (e.g., at the tail end) of the second portion of the handle. This arrangement helps ensure that light emitted by the light source is projected onto the surface on which the liquid heating appliance is placed. It also helps prevent the light source from being blocked by the user's hand when the user is lifting the liquid heating appliance, thereby helping to ensure that the light emitted by the light source remains visible to the user.

[0064] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a user interface. The user interface may be disposed on the side wall of the liquid heating container. The user interface preferably includes input devices for operation by a user of the appliance. Input devices may include one or more of buttons, dials, touchscreens, or any other suitable or desired devices. The user interface may include a display, preferably an electronic display. The electronic display may include an LCD or LED (e.g., OLED) display. The electronic display may include an electronic screen. The electronic screen may include a touchscreen display, such as a resistive or capacitive display. This allows the user to interact with auxiliary components of the appliance, such as a processor, to control the operation of the appliance.

[0065] In some embodiments, the display is configured to display a current temperature representing the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container (e.g., based on a temperature value measured by an electronic temperature sensor as described above). In some embodiments, the display is configured to display a timer indicating an estimated remaining time until a target temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container is reached. Preferably, the target temperature is selectable by a user via a user interface. The processor is preferably configured to determine the estimate, for example, using a measurement obtained by an electronic temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the display is configured to display the target temperature selected by the user. In some embodiments, the display is configured to display the elapsed time or remaining time of the timer, such as a hold-up timer. In some embodiments, the display is configured to display the time since the liquid within the liquid heating container last reached boiling. This can help reduce the likelihood of the user unnecessarily repeating the boiling operation shortly after boiling occurs (e.g., because they are unaware that boiling has recently been completed). In some embodiments, the display is configured to display an estimated volume of liquid present within the liquid heating container.

[0066] In some embodiments, the display and / or light source is configured to show one or more alarms to the user. The display or light source may be configured to display an alarm notifying the user that descaling is required. This can help reduce the appliance's negative environmental impact by encouraging users to descale their kettles regularly, which can improve appliance efficiency. The display or light source may be configured to display an alarm notifying the user that the total volume of liquid in the liquid heating container is less than a threshold volume. This helps reduce the risk of "dry burning," in which case the appliance may be damaged or become a safety hazard because the electric heating element is energized when the liquid heating container is empty.

[0067] The display or light source can be configured to show usage data to the user. For example, the display can be configured to show the user feedback on their focus in the environment, such as information related to the user's historical operation of the appliance. This helps to "make" the use of the appliance more "fun," while educating users on environmentally friendly and efficient usage practices.

[0068] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a wireless transceiver (e.g., a radio transceiver) for transmitting and receiving data. The display may be configured to show data received by the wireless transceiver.

[0069] In some embodiments, the one or more auxiliary components include an electronic display and a wireless transceiver for receiving data, wherein the electronic display is configured to display data received by the wireless transceiver. For example, the display may be configured to show a user weather information received by the wireless transceiver via the electronic display. The display may also be configured to display emails, calendars, time / dates, instant messages, or news data received by the wireless transceiver.

[0070] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include an electronic temperature sensor and a wireless transceiver for transmitting data obtained by the electronic temperature sensor. For example, the wireless transceiver may be configured to transmit usage data measured by the electronic temperature sensor to a remote device or server for processing. The wireless transceiver may be configured to receive processed usage data. As described above, the appliance may include an electronic display screen configured to display such data to the user, for example, in the form of feedback on the user's focus on the environment.

[0071] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a processor and a wireless transceiver for receiving control signals from a remote user for processor operation. For example, the wireless transceiver may be configured to receive control signals from a user's personal mobile device, which are then sent to the processor, enabling control of one or more other auxiliary components (e.g., a secondary heater) in response to the user's control signals.

[0072] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include sensors for detecting the amount of liquid in the liquid heating container. The sensors may include weight sensors for detecting the weight of the liquid in the liquid heating container. The sensors may include filling level sensors for detecting the volume of the liquid in the liquid heating container. Preferably, one or more auxiliary components include control circuitry and sensors for detecting the amount of liquid in the liquid heating container. Preferably, the control circuitry is configured as follows:

[0073] The sensor is used to determine a first amount of liquid in the liquid heating container when the appliance is located on the power base platform;

[0074] Detecting when the appliance has been removed from the power base and subsequently placed back on the power base; and

[0075] Following the detection, the sensor is used to determine a second liquid volume within the liquid heating container. Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to determine whether the difference between the first and second liquid volumes is less than a threshold. Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to, in response to determining that the difference is less than the threshold, send a signal to trigger a user alarm device arranged to alert a user of the liquid heating appliance that overfilling has occurred. Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to use the sensor to detect when the appliance has been removed from and returned to the power base.

[0076] It should be understood that liquid heating appliances may (alternatively or additionally) include any of the auxiliary components described herein as part of the main power circuit. However, in a preferred embodiment, all auxiliary components are connected to a bypass power circuit. This allows the auxiliary components to continue functioning after the main power circuit has been interrupted by the operation of the bimetallic element.

[0077] In various embodiments that can be combined with any of the above embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include a rechargeable power source. The rechargeable power source may include a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable power source may include a capacitor-based power source. Preferably, the rechargeable power source is arranged to provide power to other auxiliary components among one or more auxiliary components after the electrical adapter component has been disconnected from the base electrical connector component (e.g., when the cordless liquid heater is lifted away from the power base). Preferably, the rechargeable power source is arranged to be charged via a bypass power circuit while the electrical adapter component is connected to the base electrical connector component.

[0078] Providing rechargeable power within the bypass power circuit allows other electrical components connected to the bypass power circuit to receive power, even after the power adapter components have stopped receiving power. This can happen when the appliance is disconnected from the mains power supply, such as when a user lifts the cordless appliance from the power base.

[0079] As described above, one or more auxiliary components can be connected to a bypass power circuit to allow the liquid heating appliance to perform additional functions. Therefore, this aspect of the application provides a liquid heating appliance capable of providing auxiliary electronic features typically reserved only for fully electronic kettles, without requiring complex electronic components to control the operation of the electric heater.

[0080] For example, providing a rechargeable power source allows the electronic display of the liquid heating appliance to show an estimated amount of water present in the liquid heating container, even when the power adapter is not connected to a power source. It should be understood that this allows the user to use the electronic display to determine the liquid level in the liquid heating container while filling it (e.g., from a tap), which typically requires removing the liquid heating appliance from its power base.

[0081] Any of the above embodiments can utilize a rechargeable power supply in a bypass power circuit to power other auxiliary components connected to the bypass power circuit. In some embodiments, the liquid heating appliance includes an electronic temperature sensor and a processor connected to the rechargeable power supply, wherein the processor is arranged to control one or more auxiliary components based on signals received from the electronic temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the liquid heating appliance includes: a secondary electric heater connected to the rechargeable power supply and arranged to heat a liquid contained within the liquid heating container; a user interface connected to the rechargeable power supply and configured to receive user input of a target temperature; and a processor connected to the rechargeable power supply and arranged to control the secondary electric heater to heat the liquid contained within the liquid heating container to the target temperature.

[0082] In various embodiments that can be combined with any of the above embodiments, one or more auxiliary components include an electronic temperature sensor (e.g., a thermistor) and a display assembly, the electronic temperature sensor being arranged to detect the temperature of the liquid within the container, and the display assembly being configured to indicate the detected liquid temperature to the user of the appliance. For example, the display assembly could be used to indicate that the liquid temperature has reached boiling point.

[0083] It is understood that any aspect described herein may (and preferably does) include one or more (e.g., all) of the optional and preferred features outlined herein. Attached Figure Description

[0084] Some preferred embodiments of this application will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0085] Figure 1 A perspective view of a liquid heater appliance according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0086] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 An exploded view of the heating device of the appliance;

[0087] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 A perspective view of the control unit of a liquid heating appliance;

[0088] Figure 4 Showing Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the power supply circuit for a liquid heater;

[0089] Figure 5 A side view of a liquid heating appliance according to another embodiment of this application is shown;

[0090] Figure 6 Showing Figure 5 A side view of the liquid heating appliance operating in another display mode;

[0091] Figure 7 Showing Figure 5 A side view of the liquid heating appliance operating in another display mode;

[0092] Figure 8 Showing Figure 5 A side view of the liquid heating appliance operating in another display mode;

[0093] Figure 9 Showing Figure 5 A side view of the liquid heating appliance operating in another display mode;

[0094] Figure 10 A side view of a liquid heater appliance according to another embodiment of this application is shown; and

[0095] Figure 11 Showing Figure 10 A side view of the liquid heating appliance in operation in another display mode. Detailed Implementation

[0096] Figure 1 A perspective view of a liquid heating appliance 2 (hereinafter referred to as appliance 2) according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Appliance 2 includes a liquid heating container 4, a container spout 6, and a handle 8. The top of appliance 2 is closed with a cover 10. Appliance 2 is arranged to rest on a power base 12, which has a centrally located 360-degree base electrical connector component 14 for supplying power to the appliance.

[0097] Appliance 2 also includes an electric heater ( Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) This heater is used to heat a certain volume of liquid contained within a liquid heating container 4. The heater includes an electric heating element mounted on the bottom surface of a heat diffuser plate. The heating element is arranged to be in thermal communication with the base 23 of the liquid heating container 4 via the heat diffuser plate when electrical energy is supplied to the heater, thereby heating the contents of the liquid heating container 4.

[0098] Control unit ( Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) is also mounted on the bottom surface of the heat diffusion plate and controls the power supply from the power base 12 to the electric heater, as described in more detail below.

[0099] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1An exploded view of the heating device of appliance 2, which includes an electric heater 18, a control unit 16, and the base 23 of the liquid heating container 4 of appliance 2. For clarity, other components of appliance 2 have been removed. The control unit 16 and the heater 18 are both mounted below the base 23 of the liquid heating container 4.

[0100] The control unit 16 is arranged to receive the base electrical connector component 14 of the power base 12 and to control the power supply from the power base 12 to the electric heater 18. The heater 18 includes a sheathed electric heating element 18a and a circular heat diffuser plate 18b. The heating element 18a has a conventional "horseshoe" structure with an electrical terminal 19 at either end. The heating element 18a extends substantially around the circumference of the bottom surface of the heat diffuser plate 18b. The control unit 16 is arranged to be mounted at the center of the bottom surface of the heat diffuser plate 18b.

[0101] Figure 3 Showing Figure 2 The bottom perspective view of the control unit 16 shown.

[0102] The control unit 16 includes a molded plastic control body 26, with a cordless power adapter component 28 formed on its bottom side. The cordless power adapter component 28 is a three-pole conductor component including a ground pin 28a, a charged ring 28b, and a neutral ring 28c. The charged ring 28b and the neutral ring 28c are arranged concentrically around the ground pin 28a. Base electrical connector ( Figure 3 (Not shown) includes a central hole for receiving the ground pin 28a and a coaxial annular hole for receiving both the charged ring 28b and the neutral ring 28c.

[0103] Electrical contacts housed in the center hole and coaxial hole respectively contact the live ring 28b and the neutral ring 28c to connect the live and neutral poles of the power circuit when the connector / adapter components 14, 28 are assembled together.

[0104] The control unit 16 includes a first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a and 29b (represented as a first electrical tab and a second electrical tab, respectively), which are electrically connected to the cordless adapter component 28. The neutral tab 29a is connected to the neutral ring 28c, and the energized tab 29b is connected to the energized ring 28b. The two tabs 29a and 29b are connected via a switch (…). Figure 3 (Not shown) is connected to the corresponding contact of the cordless power adapter component 28. Each of the first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a, 29b is also connected via a flying wire (not shown) to the corresponding electrical terminal 19 of the heating element 18a.

[0105] The control unit 16 also includes a bimetallic element 31 supported by a molded plastic control body 26. The bimetallic element 31 is a fast-acting bimetallic element configured to operate at a predetermined temperature. In use, when the control unit 16 is installed within the appliance 2, the bimetallic element 31 is arranged to detect the temperature of steam generated by boiling water within the liquid heating container 4, for example, via a steam passage extending from the top of the container 4 to the control unit 16 through a steam delivery pipe, as is known in the art.

[0106] The control unit 16 includes a trip lever 36 pivotally mounted on the control body 26. The distal end of the trip lever 36 is arranged to contact the bimetallic element 31, while the proximal end of the trip lever 36 is arranged to operate a switch. Figure 3 (Not shown in the image), the switch connects the first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a, 29b to the cordless adapter component 28.

[0107] The bimetallic element 31 is arranged such that its operation at a predetermined temperature causes the trip lever 36 to pivot, thereby disconnecting the switch and interrupting the electrical supply to the first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a, 29b, and thus to the heater 18. This allows the heater 18 to be shut off when the bimetallic element 31 detects that the water in the liquid heating container 4 has reached a boiling temperature. The trip lever 36 can also be manually operated to open and close the switch.

[0108] The control unit 16 also includes a second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a and 33b (represented as a third and fourth electrical tab, respectively). The neutral tab 33a is directly connected to the neutral ring 28c, and the charged tab 33b is directly connected to the charged ring 28b. In contrast to the first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a and 29b, none of the second pair of tabs 33a and 33b is connected to the cordless adapter component 28 via a switch. This means that even after the bimetallic element 31 has been activated to disconnect the heater 18, the second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a and 33b continue to receive power from the base electrical connector component via the cordless adapter component 28.

[0109] Each of the second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a and 33b can be further connected to an auxiliary component module (such as...) via a flying wire (not shown). Figure 4 (as shown), thereby providing a bypass power supply circuit for supplying power to the auxiliary component module.

[0110] Figure 4 Showing Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the power supply circuit of appliance 2. Appliance 2 includes a main power supply circuit 60 (in... Figure 4 (represented by dashed lines) and bypass power supply circuit 62 (represented by solid lines).

[0111] As described above, the control unit 16 of the appliance 2 includes a cordless power adapter component 28, which can be connected to a corresponding base electrical connector component 14 when the appliance 2 is placed on the power base platform 12. Figure 4 When the base electrical connector component (not shown) is in use, it supplies AC current to the electrical components of the appliance 2. The control unit 16 also includes a pair of switches 64a, 64b and a first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a, 29b. Each tab 29a, 29b is connected to the cordless adapter component 28 via a corresponding one of the switches 64a, 64b.

[0112] The electric heating element 18a is connected to both ends of the first pair of protrusions 29a and 29b, thereby completing the main power supply circuit 60.

[0113] The bimetallic element 31 is arranged to disconnect switches 64a, 64b when a predetermined temperature is sensed. This causes the electric heating element 18a to disconnect from the power supply provided by the base electrical connector component 14, thereby turning off the heating element 18a.

[0114] The control unit 16 also includes a second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a, 33b, each tab being connected to the cordless adapter component 28. Unlike the first pair of fixed electrical tabs 29a, 29b, each of the second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a, 33b is directly connected to the cordless adapter component 28, rather than via a switch.

[0115] The auxiliary component module 70 is connected to both ends of the second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a and 33b, thereby completing the bypass power circuit 62 connected in parallel with the main power circuit 60.

[0116] Due to the above arrangement, when the bimetallic element 31 operates to disconnect switches 64a and 64b, thereby disconnecting the electric heating element 18a from the power supply provided by the base electrical connector component 14, the power supply to the bypass power circuit 62 is not interrupted.

[0117] In this example, the auxiliary component module 70 includes a low-cost power supply 72 directly connected to the second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a, 33b. The low-cost power supply 72 is arranged to store electrical energy received from the power supply of the base electrical connector component 14 when the appliance 2 is placed on the power base 12. This means that even after the appliance 2 has been lifted off the power base 12, causing the cordless adapter component 28 and the base electrical connector component 14 to be no longer connected, the low-cost power supply 72 can still provide power to other components of the auxiliary component module 70. Therefore, the appliance 2 can be equipped with electrical components that continue to operate even after the appliance 2 has been removed from the power base 12, as will be described in more detail below.

[0118] The auxiliary component module 70 also includes a processor 74, a low-power electronic display 76, a light-emitting diode (LED) 77, and a thermistor 78, each of which is arranged to receive power from a low-cost power supply 72. Although the components of the auxiliary component module 70 are... Figure 4 The components are grouped together in the diagram shown, but they are not necessarily physically adjacent to each other in appliance 2.

[0119] An electronic display 76 is arranged on the side of the liquid heating container 4 of the appliance 2, between the handle 8 and the container spout 6. An LED 77 is arranged at the end of the handle 8 to project light vertically downwards, for example toward a surface on which the appliance 2 has been placed. The LED 77 on the handle allows information about the status of the appliance 2 to be provided to the user from a greater distance or when the display 76 is turned away from the user.

[0120] The auxiliary component module 70 also includes a "heat-insulating" (i.e., low-power) electric heating element 80, which is connected to a second pair of fixed electrical tabs 33a, 33b via a bidirectional thyristor 82 controllable by the processor 74. The heat-insulating electric heating element 80 is arranged in the appliance 2 adjacent to the base 23 of the liquid heating container 4, such that when the heating element 80 is powered, the heat generated by the heating element 80 is used to heat the contents of the liquid heating container 4. A thermistor 78 is arranged in the appliance 2 to detect the temperature of the contents of the liquid heating container 4.

[0121] The processor 74 is configured to receive temperature measurements from the thermistor 78 and operate the bidirectional thyristor 82 during the "heat preservation" operation mode of the appliance 2 to cyclically turn the heat preservation heating element 80 on or off in order to maintain the contents of the container 4 at a substantially constant desired temperature.

[0122] Now refer to Figures 5 to 11 Describes some preferred uses of the components of the auxiliary component module 70.

[0123] Figure 5 An appliance 102 according to another embodiment of this application is shown. Appliance 102 is substantially similar to... Figure 1 The appliance 102 is identical to the one in the previous model; module 70 includes a user interface 175, which includes an electronic display 176, a power button 181, a keep-warm selection button 183, and a temperature selection button 185. The user interface 175 is located on the side wall of the liquid heating container 104 of the appliance 102, between the handle 108 and the container spout 106. The electronic display 176 is an LED display located beneath a transparent portion of the wall of the liquid heating container 104. The appliance 102 also includes an LED 177, which is located on the bottom surface of the tail end of the handle 108 of the appliance 102.

[0124] After turning on appliance 102 using power button 181, the user of appliance 102 can select the desired temperature to which the liquid in container 104 will be heated. This selection is made by pressing temperature selection button 183 until the desired target temperature is displayed on display 176. Figure 5 As shown.

[0125] The selected temperature is achieved by the user pressing the power button 181 again. The display 176 is then configured to show a countdown indicating the remaining time until the liquid in the liquid heating container 104 reaches the selected temperature, such as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0126] The display 176 can also display the current temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating container 104 during heating operation, regardless of whether the user has selected a target temperature. The current temperature is determined by the processor of the appliance 102 using measurements obtained from a thermistor arranged within the appliance 102 to detect the temperature within the liquid heating container 104. The LED 177 on the handle 108 can also output different colors to indicate the temperature rise of the liquid in the container 104 (e.g., gradually changing from blue to red as the temperature rises from the initial temperature to the target temperature).

[0127] If a heat preservation operation mode is required after the liquid in the liquid heating container 104 has been heated to the target temperature, the user presses the heat preservation selection button 183. The user continues to press button 183 until the display 176 shows the desired heat preservation cycle duration. This selection is made by pressing the power button 181, and the appliance 102 continues to maintain the liquid temperature at that temperature for the selected heat preservation period.

[0128] During the heat preservation operation mode, the electronic display 176 is used to inform the user of the remaining time before the heat preservation heater of appliance 102 will be automatically turned off by the processor.

[0129] Figure 7 Showing Figure 5 Appliance 102 includes an electronic display 176 that shows an alarm to the user that appliance 102 needs descaling. In this case, an LED 177 arranged on the handle 108 is configured to output a blue light 179 to provide the user with an additional indication that appliance 102 needs descaling. Scale buildup in liquid heating appliances prolongs the time it takes for the liquid inside the appliance to reach its boiling point, thereby increasing the total amount of electrical energy required. Notifying the user when appliance 102 needs descaling helps reduce the unnecessary extension of boiling time, thus reducing the negative environmental impact of appliance 102.

[0130] Figure 8 Showing Figure 5Appliance 102, wherein electronic display 176 displays an alarm to notify the user that liquid heating container 104 is empty. In this case, LED 177 on handle 108 of appliance 102 is configured to output red light 179 to provide the user with an additional indication that liquid heating container 104 is empty. Display 176 and LED 177 can also be used to warn the user that a dry-burning event has occurred, i.e., the control unit of appliance 102 has disconnected the heating element from the power supply after detecting that liquid heating container 104 is empty (e.g., because all liquid present in container 104 has turned into steam).

[0131] Figure 9 Showing Figure 5 Appliance 102, wherein electronic display 176 displays an alarm to notify the user that appliance 102 is providing “ECO” feedback to the user. In this mode, when appliance 102 is placed on power base 112, environmental usage feedback is provided to the user based on the color of light emitted by LED 177 on handle 108. LED 177 is configured to output green light 179 if the user’s habitual use of appliance 102 is determined by the processor of appliance 102 to be environmentally efficient, and to output red light 179 if the user’s habitual use of appliance 102 is determined to be non-environmentally efficient. In some embodiments, auxiliary component module 70 of appliance 102 includes a weight / fill sensor (not shown) that detects (i) the amount of liquid in liquid heating container 104 before appliance 102 has been removed from power base 112 and (ii) after appliance 102 has been returned to power base 112 (e.g., after making a beverage). The processor 74 compares the detected values ​​to determine the amount of liquid that has been dispensed from the liquid heating container 104, and thus determines whether the user has heated more liquid than they use (i.e., they have overfilled the appliance). When it is determined that the user has (e.g., habitually) overfilled the appliance 102, a red light 179 is output.

[0132] This can be used to "enhance" the use of appliance 102, while educating users on environmentally friendly and efficient usage practices. This can help improve how users operate appliance 102, thereby reducing its negative environmental impact.

[0133] Figure 10 A liquid heating appliance 202 according to another embodiment of this application is shown. Appliance 202 and Figure 1 and Figure 5The appliances are essentially the same, except that module 70 includes a touchscreen organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display 276, which is arranged on the side wall of the liquid heating container 204 of appliance 202, between handle 208 and container spout 206. Appliance 202 has WiFi connectivity, allowing appliance 202 to retrieve and display a wide range of data to the user via display 276, including date and time, weather forecast, and upcoming appointments from the user's cloud-based calendar.

[0134] The appliance 202 is also configured to transmit data collected by sensors within the appliance 202 to a server or processor via WiFi for further processing or analysis.

[0135] like Figure 11 As shown, appliance 202 is also configured to run applications associated with different operating modes of appliance 202, including the temperature selection and keep-warm modes discussed above. Display 276 includes icons corresponding to power function 281, keep-warm function 283, and temperature selection function 285. Display 276 also includes an icon corresponding to timer function 287, which can be used to delay the start of operation of appliance 202 by a selected time period.

[0136] The electronic display 276 is also configured to provide the user with a volume indicator 289, which indicates the volume of liquid currently contained in the liquid heating container 204.

Claims

1. A control unit for a liquid heating appliance, characterized in that, The control unit includes: An electrical adapter component for receiving a power supply, the electrical adapter component including a neutral contact and a live contact; A first electrical tab and a second electrical tab are used for electrical connection to an electric heater to form a main power supply circuit including a set of switch contacts, wherein the first electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact of the electric adapter component, and wherein the second electrical tab is connected to the energized contact of the electric adapter component. A bimetallic element, operable at a predetermined temperature, to interrupt the main power supply circuit by opening the set of switch contacts; and The third and fourth electrical tabs are connected separately from the first and second electrical tabs to the electrical adapter component for electrical connection to one or more auxiliary components to form a bypass power circuit; wherein The third electrical tab is connected to the neutral electrical contact of the electrical adapter component; The fourth electrical tab is connected to the energized electrical contact of the electrical adapter component; and wherein The first electrical tab and the second electrical tab are quick-disconnect connectors, and / or the third electrical tab and the fourth electrical tab are quick-disconnect connectors.

2. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein, The electrical adapter component is a cordless electrical adapter component.

3. The control unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first and second electrical tabs have shapes different from the third and fourth electrical tabs.

4. The control unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The bimetallic element is operable at a predetermined temperature below 100°C.

5. The control unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control unit includes a switch operable to interrupt the main power circuit, and a trip lever for allowing the user to manually operate the switch.

6. The control unit according to claim 5, wherein, The bimetallic element is arranged to operate the trip lever at the predetermined temperature.

7. The control unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first electrical tab is connected to the neutral contact via the set of switch contacts; and / or The second electrical tab is connected to the energized contact via the set of switch contacts.

8. A liquid heating appliance, characterized in that, The liquid heating appliance includes: Liquid heating containers; An electric heater for heating the liquid contained in the liquid heating container; and The control unit as described in claim 1 or 2; The first and second electrical tabs are electrically connected to the electric heater to form the main power supply circuit; and The liquid heating appliance includes one or more auxiliary components connected to the third and fourth electrical tabs to form the bypass power circuit.

9. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include one or more of a processor, control circuitry, electronic temperature sensor, secondary electric heater, user interface, electronic display, light source, wireless transceiver, weight sensor, filling sensor, and / or rechargeable power supply.

10. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 9, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include: processor; and An electronic temperature sensor is arranged to measure the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating appliance. The processor is configured to control one or more additional auxiliary components based on signals received from the electronic temperature sensor.

11. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components also include a rechargeable power supply connected to the processor.

12. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include: An electronic temperature sensor, arranged to measure the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating appliance; and An electronic display configured to display temperature values ​​measured by the electronic temperature sensor.

13. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include: A secondary electric heater is arranged to heat the liquid contained within the liquid heating container; User interface, configured to receive user input for a target temperature; and The processor is configured to control the secondary electric heater to heat the liquid contained in the liquid heating container to the target temperature.

14. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 13, wherein, The user interface includes an electronic display configured to show a countdown indicating the remaining time until the liquid contained in the liquid heating container reaches the target temperature.

15. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 13, wherein, The processor is configured to automatically shut down the secondary electric heater after a predetermined time, and the user interface includes an electronic display configured to display a countdown indicating the remaining time before the processor is about to automatically shut down the secondary electric heater.

16. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include an electronic display configured to display an alarm notifying the user that a descaling operation is required.

17. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include an electronic display configured to display an alarm notifying the user that the total volume of liquid in the liquid heating container is less than a threshold volume.

18. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include an electronic display configured to show feedback on the environment to the user of the liquid heating appliance.

19. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include an electronic display configured to display a volume indicator representing the volume of liquid contained within the liquid heating container.

20. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 16, wherein, The electronic display includes LEDs arranged on the handle of the liquid heater.

21. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include a user interface, which includes a touchscreen display.

22. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include: Electronic displays; and A wireless transceiver, used for receiving data. The electronic display is configured to display data received by the wireless transceiver.

23. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include: An electronic temperature sensor, arranged to measure the temperature of the liquid within the liquid heating appliance; and A wireless transceiver for transmitting data obtained by the electronic temperature sensor.

24. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include a light source and control circuitry arranged to control the light source.

25. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 24, wherein, The light source is arranged to project light onto the surface on which the appliance is located during use.

26. The liquid heating appliance of claim 24, wherein the appliance further comprises a handle for lifting the appliance, and wherein the light source is disposed on the handle.

27. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 26, wherein, The handle includes a first portion extending horizontally away from the appliance and a second portion extending vertically from the first portion toward the base of the appliance, wherein the light source is arranged on the underside of the second portion of the handle.

28. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The liquid heating appliance includes a secondary electric heater, wherein the third and fourth electrical tabs are connected to the secondary electric heater to form the bypass power circuit.

29. The liquid heating appliance according to claim 8, wherein, The one or more auxiliary components include a sensor and a control circuit for detecting the amount of liquid in the liquid heating container, wherein the control circuit is configured to: The sensor is used to determine a first amount of liquid in the liquid heating container when the appliance is located on the power base platform; Detecting when the appliance has been removed from the power base and subsequently placed back on the power base; Following the detection, the sensor is used to determine the second liquid volume within the liquid heating container; Determine whether the difference between the first liquid volume and the second liquid volume is less than a threshold. and In response to determining that the difference is less than the threshold, a signal is sent to trigger a user alarm device, the user alarm device being arranged to alert the user of the liquid heating appliance that overfilling has occurred.

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