Powder dispenser

Abstract

A powder dispenser (204) including a funnel (236) for dispensing a dose of powder through an outlet (243), a vibrator (244) to assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet, a plug (238), and an actuator (242). The funnel includes an upper portion (237) and a lower portion (241), and a constriction (240) arranged along an axis A between the upper portion and the lower portion. The plug (238) is arranged in the constriction (240), where the constriction (240) makes contact with the plug (238) in a natural state of the funnel (236) so as to seal off the upper portion (237). The actuator (242) is arranged to move one of the lower portion and upper portion relative to the other along the axis A, to open the constriction (240) relative to the plug (238) so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion (237) to the lower portion (241) and towards the outlet (243).

Description

[0001] Powder Dispenser

[0002] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a powder dispenser and an appliance for dispensing and weighing powder.

[0004] When using a powder in a domestic setting, it is often desirable to have a dispenser which dispenses a dose of the powder, to avoid the user having to touch the powder itself. This may be useful for dispensing powders that may stain, e.g. dye, or powders which are easily contaminated e.g. foodstuff powder.

[0005] In the preparation of a mixture from a powder, e.g. a foodstuff powder in order to quickly prepare a safe and enjoyable food or beverage, it can be necessary to use a specific dose of powder in relation to the rest of the ingredients. In some cases, for example when preparing infant formula from milk powder, it is important that this dose is as precise as possible. It is therefore desirable to have a powder dispenser or an appliance which dispenses a precise dose of a powder.

[0006] Additionally, many powders are moisture-sensitive, e.g. foodstuff powders, and will spoil if exposed to humid air for an extended period of time, for example in a kitchen. This is particularly concerning in the preparation of infant formula, which may expire or not dissolve properly if exposed to a humid environment. It is therefore desirable to have a powder dispenser which can protect powder from ambient humidity, to avoid wastage or use of spoiled powder.

[0007] It is an object of the invention to provide a powder dispenser which is able to dispense a precise dose of powder, and protect unused powder from the environment when the dispenser is not in use.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] From a first aspect, the invention provides a powder dispenser comprising: a funnel for dispensing a dose of a powder through an outlet; a vibrator arranged to vibrate the funnel to assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet; and an actuator arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet, wherein the outlet is defined by a boundary between an outer surface of the funnel and an inner surface of the funnel.

[0010] Thus it will be seen that, in accordance with embodiments of the invention, the actuator can be operated to seal the outlet of the funnel when the powder dispenser is not in use, to prevent air and moisture from entering the powder dispenser and potentially spoiling any undispensed powder (e.g. powder remaining in the funnel).

[0011] In some embodiments, the powder is a foodstuff or beverage powder. It will be seen by those skilled in the art that the invention is preferably used for dispensing powders in a domestic setting (e.g. dispensing foodstuff and beverage powders). The powder dispenser may therefore be a domestic powder dispenser.

[0012] The actuator may be arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet by operating to either close the outlet completely or to open the outlet. In a set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to open the outlet to a varying degree in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. The actuator may seal the outlet when the powder dispenser is not in use. When the powder dispenser is in use, the actuator may open the outlet, at varying degrees between sealed, partially open and completely open.

[0013] The actuator may be operated manually, for example comprising a mechanism or plug that can be manually moved to seal and unseal the outlet. In at least some embodiments, the actuator operates automatically to selectively seal and unseal the outlet. In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser may further comprise a processor that is arranged to automatically control the actuator. The actuator may be operated automatically based on the processor receiving an input signal, for example an input signal from a user or a feedback signal from another part of the appliance (e.g. a feedback signal from a weighing system as described below). Alternatively, or in addition, the actuator may be operated automatically by the processor based on a dispensing time (e.g. which has been pre-programmed and / or selected by a user). A benefit of automatically controlling the actuator is that the outlet is sure to be sealed following a dispensing cycle without requiring manual intervention. Furthermore, as described below, automatic control of the actuator may also be used to controllably vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet.

[0014] In various embodiments, the actuator may comprise e.g. a ratchet, servo motor, geared motor with limit switches, worm gear, bevel gear, or other appropriate mechanism, arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged (e.g. controlled by a processor) to open the outlet to a varying degree by moving (e.g. incrementally or continuously) a cover (e.g. a plug) relative to the funnel. The actuator may move the cover (e.g. a plug) from blocking the outlet (i.e. sealing the outlet), to not blocking the outlet (i.e. unsealing the outlet), optionally stopping at one or more intermediate positions so as to affect the rate of flow of powder through the outlet. By varying the flow rate of powder through the outlet, the powder dispenser can provide more precise control over the dose as it is being dispensed. As mentioned above, this can be controlled by a user and / or automatically.

[0015] In a set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to continuously open the outlet to continuously vary the flow rate. A servo motor or mechanism may be used to continuously move a plug or cover from a position of sealing the outlet to one or more open positions of the outlet. This may allow for fine control of the flow rate of the powder through the outlet.

[0016] In a set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a position of the funnel from a first (e.g. upper) position to a second (e.g. lower) position, wherein the outlet is sealed in one of the first position and second position, and wherein the outlet is unsealed in the other of the first position and second position. In at least some embodiments, adjusting the funnel position between the first and second positions acts to vary the degree of opening of the outlet and hence vary the flow rate of powder through the outlet.

[0017] In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser further comprises a plug, wherein the outlet is sealed by the plug when the funnel is in one of the first and second positions. Preferably the plug is fixed in position and the actuator is arranged to move the funnel relative to the plug, such that when the funnel is in the first (e.g. upper) position, the plug is positioned to block the outlet and hence seal the outlet of the powder dispenser. The funnel may be moved by the actuator to a second (e.g. lower) position, wherein at the second (e.g. lower) position of the funnel the outlet of the powder dispenser is unobstructed by the plug and hence completely unsealed. At a position between the first (e.g. upper) and second (e.g. lower) positions, the outlet may be partially obstructed by the plug, and hence the rate of flow of powder through the outlet may be varied between zero (when the outlet is sealed by the plug), and a maximum when the outlet is completely unobstructed by the plug.

[0018] In an alternative set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a position of the plug from a first position to a second position (e.g. relative to the funnel, which may be fixed in position), wherein the outlet is sealed in one of the first position and second position, and wherein the outlet is unsealed in the other of the first position and second position. In at least some embodiments, adjusting the plug position between the first and second positions acts to vary the degree of opening of the outlet and hence vary the flow rate of powder through the outlet.

[0019] In a set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a vertical position of the funnel in order to control a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. Where the funnel position is adjusted vertically, the flow of powder through the outlet may be assisted by gravity. In an alternative set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a vertical position of the plug, in order to control a rate of flow of powder through the outlet.

[0020] In a set of embodiments, the funnel is made of an elastomeric material (e.g. a natural or synthetic elastomer, e.g. a silicone-based material). For example, when the funnel is made of a flexible material, the funnel may have improved sealing at the outlet.

[0021] In a set of embodiments, an inner circumference of the outlet of the funnel may be less than an outer circumference of the plug. The plug may push on the inner circumference of the outlet, flexing the elastomeric material and creating an air-tight seal.

[0022] In a set of embodiments, the plug is tapered to assist with sealing. For example, the plug may have a maximum circumference at its upper end and a minimum circumference at its lower (i.e. sealing) end. The plug may be tapered in order to create an air-tight seal in the event that the inner circumference of the outlet of the funnel is larger than the outer circumference of the minimum circumference of the plug. The plug may be lowered (or the funnel raised) until an air-tight seal is created.

[0023] In a set of embodiments, the vibrator may be attached to the outer surface of the funnel. This may allow for vibrations to be transmitted to the powder regardless of the position of the funnel (i.e. regardless of whether the outlet is fully or partially open). However, the vibrator can be an undesirable weight on the funnel and can cause a complication at least in those embodiments where the funnel is moved between different positions.

[0024] In a set of embodiments, the vibrator is in a fixed position adjacent to the funnel. In various embodiments, the outer surface of the funnel is brought into contact with the vibrator when the funnel is in the second (e.g.) lower position wherein the outlet is unsealed. The vibrator may vibrate the funnel, to assist with agitation of powder and hence improve the flow of powder towards the outlet when the outlet is open.

[0025] In an alternative set of embodiments, the vibrator may be moved from a first (i.e. upper) position to a second (i.e. lower position) by the actuator, wherein the vibrator is in contact with the outer surface of the funnel when in the first position and not in contact with the outer surface of the funnel when in the second position. This means that vibrations can be selectively applied to the funnel regardless of the funnel position.

[0026] In a set of embodiments where the funnel is elastomeric, the funnel elastically deforms in response to the vibrations, which may further assist the flow of powder towards and / or through the outlet. In this set of embodiments, the outer surface of the funnel may deform when brought into contact with the vibrator, for optimal transmission of vibrations from the vibrator to the powder.

[0027] In a set of embodiments, the funnel is removeable, e.g. the funnel is separable or detachable from the vibrator and actuator so as to be removed from the powder dispenser when not in use. This may allow for the funnel to be emptied and / or washed, to prevent any old or expired powder from remaining in the funnel. This may allow for the funnel to be filed or refilled with powder before it is reassembled with the powder dispenser. The funnel may be constructed to be dishwasher-proof.

[0028] In a set of embodiments, in addition or alternatively, the plug is removeable, e.g. the plug is separable or detachable from the funnel so as to be removed for cleaning.

[0029] From a second aspect, the invention provides a powder dispenser comprising: a funnel for dispensing a dose of powder through an outlet, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; a vibrator arranged to vibrate at least the upper portion of the funnel to assist with the flow of powder towards the constriction; a plug arranged in the constriction wherein, in a natural state of the funnel, the constriction makes contact with the plug so as to seal off the upper portion; and an actuator arranged to move one of the lower portion and upper portion relative to the other of the lower portion and upper portion along the axis, and thereby open the constriction relative to the plug so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet.

[0030] Thus it will be seen that, in accordance with embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the actuator can be operated to open the constriction so that the upper portion is connected to the lower portion to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion through the constriction. The skilled person will appreciate that the “natural state” of the funnel refers to a configuration that is naturally and stably adopted when there are no external forces acting on the funnel. In this natural state, i.e. when the actuator is not acting on the funnel, the constriction has a configuration (e.g. width dimension) that causes it to make contact with the plug, e.g. sealing around the plug. This means that powder contained in the upper portion of the funnel can be sealed off from the outlet of the funnel when the powder dispenser is not in use, to prevent air and moisture from entering the upper portion and potentially spoiling any undispensed powder remaining therein. When the funnel is moved by the actuator, the constriction is no longer in contact with the plug, such that the constriction is opened and the plug may not block the constriction and powder may flow through the outlet. It is the relative movement between the upper and lower portions which acts to open the constriction, thereby determining whether powder can pass through the constriction. It will be understood that the constriction is a region of the funnel which is narrower compared to each of the upper portion and the lower portion. The constriction may have a dimension (e.g. a width dimension), in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis of the funnel as defined between the upper portion and lower portion, which is less than the corresponding dimension of the upper portion and the lower portion. For example, the actuator may open the constriction by moving the constriction down relative to the plug, and / or by increasing the width of the constriction relative to the plug.

[0031] In at least some embodiments, the constriction has a width dimension (e.g. diameter) that is less than a diameter of the plug (e.g., the diameter of the widest portion of the plug). This means there is interference when the funnel is in its natural state, ensuring a tight seal where the constriction makes contact with the plug.

[0032] Furthermore, this (e.g. width) dimension of the constriction can change from a maximum value when the constriction is opened by the actuator, to a minimum value when the funnel is in its natural state. The corresponding dimension of the upper portion and / or lower portion may not substantially change when the funnel is adjusted between its expanded and natural states. Preferably, the openness of the constriction is variable, e.g. the constriction has a variable width.

[0033] In some embodiments, the upper portion may be frustoconical. In some embodiments, the lower portion may be frustoconical. For example, the funnel may be hourglassshaped.

[0034] When the funnel is in its natural state, the upper portion is sealed off at the constriction by the plug. This means that powder contained in the upper portion of the funnel is unable to flow through the constriction to reach the lower portion and hence cannot be dispensed through the outlet. The natural state of the funnel may seal off the upper portion by narrowing the diameter of the opening of the constriction, that is, the constriction may narrow as the funnel contracts towards its natural state. The sealing effect may arise from the constriction sealing around a face of the plug, to seal closed the upper portion. The sealing effect may also, or alternatively, arise from the constriction being made sufficiently narrow such that powder bridging prevents the flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion.

[0035] The plug may be arranged such that the constriction can allow a flow of powder past the plug, from the upper portion to the lower portion and hence to the outlet of the funnel, when the constriction is opened. For example, the constriction may seal azimuthally around the plug when the funnel is in the natural state.

[0036] Preferably, the plug is fixed in position and the actuator is arranged to move the lower portion (and / or the upper portion) relative to the plug, such that when the funnel is in the natural (i.e. contracted) position, the plug is positioned to block the constriction and hence seal off the upper portion of the funnel and close the powder dispenser. When the constriction is opened by the actuator, in some examples the funnel may be expanded by the actuator such that the constriction of the funnel is no longer obstructed by the plug and hence the upper portion of the funnel is completely unsealed. At a position between the natural state of the funnel and a fully opened state of the constriction, the flow of powder may be partially obstructed by the plug in some examples. The rate of flow of powder through the constriction may be varied (e.g. continuously) between zero (when the constriction is blocked by the plug in the natural state), and a maximum when the flow of powder through the constriction is minimally obstructed by the plug.

[0037] In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to move the lower portion of the funnel relative to the upper portion of the funnel. For example, the actuator may be attached to the lower portion of the funnel, such that the actuator may move up to close the constriction, and down to open the constriction. In at least some embodiments, adjusting the funnel between the natural state and an expanded state acts to vary the degree of opening of the constriction and the degree of contact, e.g. sealing, of the constriction with the plug, and hence vary the flow rate of powder through the constriction. The actuator can therefore adjust the flow rate of powder through the outlet by adjusting the state of the funnel between its natural state (e.g. zero flow rate) and its fully expanded state (e.g. maximum flow rate).

[0038] In some embodiments, the upper portion, lower portion, and constriction comprise a plurality of concentric rings. The funnel therefore has a circular geometry in cross- section. In some embodiments, the upper portion and the lower portion may each comprise a concentric ring of substantially the same diameter. In some embodiments, the lower portion may comprise a concentric ring having a smaller diameter than the concentric ring of the upper portion, i.e. the lower portion is generally narrower than the upper portion. The constriction comprises a concentric ring having a smaller dimeter than the concentric rings of the upper and lower portions.

[0039] In some embodiments, the power dispenser is for a powder that is a foodstuff or beverage powder. It will be seen by those skilled in the art that the invention is preferably used for dispensing powders in a domestic setting (e.g. dispensing foodstuff and beverage powders). The powder dispenser may therefore be a domestic powder dispenser.

[0040] The actuator may be arranged to selectively seal and unseal the upper portion of the funnel by operating to either close (e.g. completely close) the constriction or to open the constriction. In a set of embodiments, the funnel may comprise at least one fold between the upper portion and the lower portion, such that moving the funnel to expand the fold acts to open the constriction relative to the plug. For example, the funnel may concertina, e.g. about the fold, in order to move between the natural state and an expanded state. The actuator may be arranged to move the funnel from a natural state that is a folded state to another natural state that is an unfolded state. In some examples, the funnel may be bi-stable. The actuator may be arranged to move the funnel bi-stably between its folded and unfolded states. In such embodiments, the constriction may comprise a fold extending azimuthally around the axis of the funnel defined between the upper portion and lower portion.

[0041] In a set of embodiments, the actuator is arranged to open the constriction to a varying degree in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the constriction, by stretching the funnel to a varying degree between its natural state and one or more expanded states. When the powder dispenser is in use (e.g. dispensing powder), the actuator may operate to unseal the upper portion of the funnel, at varying degrees between sealed, partially open and completely open, by expanding the funnel from its natural state, a partially expanded state, and a fully expanded state. In any embodiment described herein, the flow of powder through the constriction from the upper portion to the lower portion may be assisted by gravity.

[0042] The actuator may be operated manually, for example comprising a mechanism attached to the funnel that can be manually moved to seal and unseal the upper portion of the funnel, by expanding the funnel and hence opening the constriction. In at least some embodiments, the actuator operates automatically to selectively seal and unseal the upper portion of the funnel. In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser may further comprise a processor that is arranged to automatically control the actuator. The actuator may be operated automatically based on the processor receiving an input signal, for example an input signal from a user or a feedback signal from another part of the appliance (e.g. a feedback signal from a weighing system as described below). Alternatively, or in addition, the actuator may be operated automatically by the processor based on a dispensing time or dispensing program (e.g. which has been pre-programmed and / or selected by a user).

[0043] A benefit of automatically controlling the actuator is that the upper portion of the funnel is sure to be sealed following a dispensing cycle without requiring manual intervention. This may be further assisted by the natural state of the funnel ensuring that the constriction is in contact with the plug, hence sealing the upper portion of the funnel, when the actuator is not acting on the funnel. Furthermore, as described further below, automatic control of the actuator may also be used to controllably vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet, e.g. in response to a feedback signal.

[0044] In some embodiments, the upper portion of the funnel comprises a larger volume than the lower portion of the funnel. This may be useful where the upper portion of the funnel is arranged to store a large volume of powder, e.g. act as a powder reservoir.

[0045] In some embodiments, the funnel is mounted in contact with the vibrator, In some embodiments, the funnel is brought into contact with the vibrator when the constriction is open (i.e. when the upper portion of the funnel is unsealed). Preferably, the vibrator is fixed in position, however in some embodiments the vibrator may be adjustable relative to the position of the funnel. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of vibrators arranged to be in contact with the funnel (e.g. at least) when the constriction is open. The vibrators may be mounted to a ring, which may additionally support the upper portion of the funnel. For example, the ring may be compliant, e.g. made of an elastomeric material, which may isolate the vibrators from the rest of the powder dispenser such that the vibrators may oscillate with a full range of motion.

[0046] Furthermore, the ring may deform when the vibrators are in contact with the funnel.

[0047] In some embodiments, the funnel is made of an elastomeric material (e.g. natural or synthetic elastomer, e.g. a silicone-based material). For example, the funnel may be brought into contact with the vibrator when the constriction is only partially open, e.g. funnel is only partially expanded, to assist with the flow of powder towards the constriction. When the constriction is fully opened, e.g. the funnel is fully expanded, the funnel may elastically deform to accommodate both the expansion of the funnel and contact with the vibrator, e.g. when the constriction is open and the upper portion of the funnel is unsealed. Furthermore, the elastomeric material may improve sealing between the funnel and the plug at the constriction.

[0048] In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to elastically deform the funnel to open the constriction relative to the plug. The natural state of the funnel may be a state where there is no elastic deformation of the funnel, e.g. the constriction seals around the plug when there is no elastic deformation. Therefore, when the constriction is opened by the actuator, the funnel may elastically deform to accommodate expansion of the funnel, to open the constriction and unseal the upper portion of the funnel, e.g. by widening the constriction such that it no longer seals around the plug and / or by moving the constriction away from the plug. When the force from the actuator is removed from the funnel, the funnel may elastically return to the natural state, e.g. where the upper portion of the funnel is sealed.

[0049] In a set of embodiments, e.g. where the funnel is elastomeric, the funnel elastically deforms in response to the vibrations, which may further assist the flow of powder towards and / or through the constriction. In this set of embodiments, the funnel may deform when brought into contact with the vibrator, for optimal transmission of vibrations from the vibrator to the powder.

[0050] In some embodiments, where the constriction comprises a circular opening, the plug comprises a cylinder. In some embodiments, the diameter of the widest portion of the plug is substantially the same as the width of the constriction when the funnel is in the natural state, thereby forming a seal between the constriction and the plug such that no powder is able to escape from the upper portion to the lower portion of the funnel.

[0051] In some embodiments, where the funnel is made from an elastomeric material, the inner width of the constriction may be less than the diameter of the widest portion of the plug. The plug may push on the inner surface of the constriction, flexing the elastomeric material and creating an air-tight seal.

[0052] In some embodiments, the plug is tapered to assist with sealing. For example, the plug may have a maximum circumference at its upper end and a minimum circumference at its lower (i.e. sealing) end. The plug may be tapered in order to create an air-tight seal in the event that the inner circumference of the constriction of the funnel is larger than the outer circumference of the minimum circumference of the plug. In some embodiments, the plug may comprise a domed and / or spherical portion, e.g. at the end of the plug. This may assist with the sealing of the constriction in the natural state of the funnel.

[0053] In some embodiments, whether the plug is tapered or not, the plug comprises a stepped portion, wherein the stepped portion is wider than the lower (i.e. sealing) end of the plug. This may prevent the constriction of the funnel travelling too high up the plug when the actuator acts to seal the constriction. For example, if the constriction is too high up the plug, when the actuator moves the lower portion of the funnel downwards to open the funnel, the constriction may not clear the lower end of the plug and thus may not open properly.

[0054] In some embodiments, the upper portion of the funnel may be stiffened relative to the lower portion of the funnel. For example, the upper portion may comprise one or a plurality of rigid supporting elements, e.g. spokes, to help prevent sagging of the upper portion of the funnel. For example, the rigid supporting elements may be embedded within the upper portion of the funnel, e.g. sandwiched between or overmoulded by layers of elastomeric material making up the upper portion of the funnel. In addition, or alternatively, the upper portion of the funnel may be made of a stiffer material than the lower portion of the funnel.

[0055] Stiffening the upper portion of the funnel relative to the lower portion of the funnel may ease the movement of the lower portion of the funnel relative to the upper portion, such that it is easier to collapse the funnel. Furthermore, stiffening the upper portion of the funnel may also help to prevent deformation of the funnel, for example sagging, under the weight of undispensed powder. This may ease the flow of powder towards the constriction and hence the outlet.

[0056] Preferably, the actuator is arranged to move the lower portion of the funnel down relative to the upper portion of the funnel, which is substantially supported or fixed in place. In some embodiments, a rigid element, e.g. a rigid actuating ring, may be comprised in or attached to the lower portion of the funnel. For example, a lower portion of the funnel may include a rigid actuating ring at the outlet of the funnel, e.g. where the rigid actuating ring circles the entire outlet of the funnel. This may ease the opening of the constriction by the actuator. For example, in embodiments where the funnel is made of an elastomeric material, it may be easier for the actuator to come into contact with (e.g. grasp onto) and translate the rigid element in order to expand the funnel, without pinching the funnel.

[0057] In a set of embodiments, the actuator pulls down on the rigid element to open the constriction. The actuator may comprise a rotating mechanism, including a set of retractable jaws, wherein rotation of the rotating mechanism brings one or more of the set of retractable jaws into contact with the rigid element. The rotating mechanism may be arranged to move the jaws radially inward before the jaws are moved linearly downward to come into contact with the top of the rigid element. The rotating mechanism may be arranged to move the rigid element downwards by the jaws pushing down on the rigid element, thus moving the lower portion of the funnel downwards. This may increase the width of the constriction and unseal the upper portion of the funnel. Using a rotating mechanism can help to keep the powder dispenser compact.

[0058] For example, the rotating mechanism may rotate to come into contact with the rigid element when the powder dispenser is in use, and then move the jaws downwards to unseal the upper portion. The actuator in the form of a rotating mechanism may convert a rotational motion to linear motion of the rigid element and lower portion of the funnel, e.g. using a ramp. The rotating mechanism may alternatively comprise a clamp that attaches to the rigid element, however preferably the jaws of the rotating mechanism push down on the rigid element to move the lower portion of the funnel downwards whilst avoiding pinching or rotating the funnel. The jaws may protract in order to be in contact with the funnel to move the constriction from the natural state to an open state. The jaws may retract in order for the funnel to move back to the natural state, e.g. by elastically returning to the natural state, e.g. the jaws may retract such that the actuator no longer acts on the funnel.

[0059] The rotating mechanism may comprise at least one jaw. Preferably, the rotating mechanism comprises three jaws, such that there are three points of contact with the funnel such that the rigid element has substantially the same force acting on all sides, such that the constriction opens symmetrically.

[0060] The rotating mechanism may be azimuthally symmetric, such that the funnel may be positioned within the rotating mechanism at any angle and the rotating mechanism may still be able to act on the rigid ring. This may be useful if the powder dispenser is being reassembled e.g. after being cleaned and / or refilled.

[0061] In a set of embodiments, the lower portion of the funnel comprises an outer portion and a directing portion, wherein the directing portion is narrower than the outer portion, wherein the directing portion comprises an inlet to the constriction and the outlet of the funnel; and wherein the directing portion is arranged to restrict the flow of powder towards the outlet of the funnel to be substantially parallel to the axis of the funnel. This may help to prevent powder exiting the funnel at large angles to the axis (e.g. angles close to perpendicular to the axis of the funnel), instead directing the majority of the power exiting the funnel through the outlet to land directly underneath the funnel, e.g. onto a weighing tray of the appliance. In at least some embodiments, the directing portion is substantially coaxial to the outer portion. The directing portion may be longer than the lower portion of the funnel, e.g. to direct the powder more accurately. The directing portion may be tapered, e.g. the directing portion may be narrower at its lower end towards the outlet than its upper end towards the constriction. In some examples, the directing portion may comprise a separate piece (e.g. a detachable tube) which may be attached to the lower portion of the funnel (e.g. to the inside of the outer portion of the funnel). Preferably, the directing portion is integrated with the funnel. For example, the funnel including the directing portion is moulded as a single piece, e.g. made of a plastic or elastomeric material. Preferably, the actuator is arranged to move the outer portion of the lower portion of the funnel down relative to the upper portion of funnel, e.g. a rigid actuating ring is comprised in or attached to the outer portion of the lower portion of the funnel. The rigid actuating ring may circle the entire outer potion of the lower portion of the funnel. This may enable the actuator to move the lower portion of the funnel down and up to expand and contract the funnel (and thereby open and close the constriction) whilst avoiding pinching the directing portion and thus preventing powder from exiting the outlet.

[0062] It will be appreciated that the funnel including the constriction, plug, and actuator may be considered novel and inventive in its own right, and thus from a third aspect the invention provides a powder dispenser comprising: a funnel for dispensing a dose of powder through an outlet, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; a plug arranged in the constriction wherein, in a natural state of the funnel, the constriction makes contact with the plug so as to seal off the upper portion; and an actuator arranged to move one of the lower portion and upper portion relative to the other of the lower portion and upper portion along the axis, and thereby open the constriction relative to the plug so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet.

[0063] In some embodiments, the powder dispenser comprises a powder reservoir arranged in fluid communication with the funnel. In some embodiments, the powder reservoir and funnel are both removeable from the powder dispenser. This is considered novel and inventive in its own right, and therefore from a fourth aspect the invention provides a powder dispenser comprising: a powder reservoir; a funnel for dispensing a dose of powder from the powder reservoir through an outlet, wherein the funnel is arranged in fluid communication with the powder reservoir; a mounting base arranged to receive the funnel thereon, wherein the mounting base comprises an opening arranged to align with the outlet of the funnel; one or more vibrators arranged in contact with the mounting base, wherein the vibrators are arranged to vibrate the mounting base and the outer surface of the funnel, to assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet; wherein the funnel and powder reservoir are removeable from the powder dispenser; wherein the funnel is arranged to be removeable from the powder reservoir to allow for filling of the powder reservoir with powder.

[0064] Thus it will be seen that, in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention, the powder reservoir and funnel can be removed from the powder dispenser. This allows for the powder reservoir to be refilled, e.g. in a different location to the powder dispenser. The powder reservoir and funnel can each be cleaned, e.g. put into a dishwasher, when they are removed. This may be useful to prevent contamination of the powder within the powder dispenser, e.g. to prevent old powder being dispensed such as mouldy powder.

[0065] Different powder reservoirs and funnels may be used with the same powder dispenser. For example, in a childcare setting, there may be children with a milk allergy, and thus it is useful to be able to swap out the powder reservoir and funnel that has been in contact with dairy milk powder, for a powder reservoir and funnel that contains only lactose free powder, without the need to wash the powder reservoir and funnel between dispensing different types of milk powder.

[0066] The mounting base is arranged to receive the funnel, such that the funnel can be repositioned in the powder dispenser after it has been removed. For example, the mounting base may have the same shape as the funnel, to make it easy to place the funnel back into the powder dispenser. The vibrators in contact with the mounting base may be arranged beneath the mounting base, e.g. on the other side of the mounting base to the funnel. This may prevent the user from touching the vibrators when removing / replacing the funnel.

[0067] The vibrator(s) are arranged in contact with the mounting base, such that the vibrations are transmitted to both the mounting base and the funnel, e.g. to the funnel via the mounting base where the mounting base is positioned in between the vibrator(s) and the funnel.

[0068] In some embodiments, the mounting base comprises a rigid base attached to one or more springs. The vibrator(s) may cause the mounting base to vibrate on the spring(s), and thus transmit vibrations to the funnel. In some other embodiments, the mounting base comprises an elastic base, e.g. such that the vibrator(s) may cause the mounting base itself to vibrate. Preferably, the mounting base is made of an elastomeric material (e.g. natural or synthetic elastomer, e.g. a silicone-based material). This may assist with the transmission of vibrations to the funnel, e.g. by the vibrator(s) causing the mounting base itself to vibrate and thus transmit vibrations to the funnel and the powder, to aid the flow of powder towards the outlet.

[0069] In some embodiments, the funnel is made of an elastomeric material (e.g. natural or synthetic elastomer, e.g. a silicone-based material). This may assist with the transmission of vibrations from the funnel to the powder, which in turn may assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet. For example, vibrating the powder may break up clumps in the powder, and encourage powder to flow towards the outlet e.g. under gravity, where the outlet is positioned at the lowest part of the funnel.

[0070] The funnel and powder reservoir are removeable from the powder dispenser, with the funnel also being removeable from the powder reservoir. For example, the funnel may be attached to the powder reservoir when the powder reservoir and funnel are within the powder dispenser. This may allow the funnel and powder reservoir to be removed separately from the powder dispenser. In some embodiments, the funnel and powder reservoir are attached to each other, such that the funnel and powder reservoir may be removed from the powder dispenser simultaneously. For example, the funnel may be detachable from the powder reservoir when removed from the powder dispenser, allowing the funnel to be removed from the powder reservoir when both are removed from the powder dispenser.

[0071] In a set of embodiments, one of the powder reservoir or funnel comprises attachment means to removably attach to the other of the powder reservoir or funnel. For example, the powder reservoir or funnel comprises one or more clips arranged to attach the powder reservoir to the funnel (or vice versa). The attachment means (e.g. clip(s)) may be removed (e.g. unclipped) to detach the powder reservoir from the funnel, to allow for cleaning and / or refilling of the powder reservoir and the funnel.

[0072] For example, each clip may be attached to the powder reservoir or funnel via a hinge.

[0073] The funnel or powder reservoir may have one or more ledges, such that when the power reservoir and funnel are placed together, the clip(s) of the powder reservoir or funnel may attach to a corresponding ledge of the funnel or powder reservoir. This may allow for the powder reservoir and funnel to be simultaneously lifted out from the powder dispenser, and may prevent the leakage of powder when the funnel and reservoir are removed from the powder dispenser.

[0074] In a set of embodiments, the mounting base comprises one or more living hinges arranged to attach the funnel to the mounting base. For example, the living hinge(s) may automatically attach the funnel to the mounting base when the funnel (e.g. with the powder reservoir attached to the funnel) is placed into the powder dispenser. The living hinge(s) may allow for the funnel to align with the mounting base when it is replaced into the powder dispenser, to ensure that the outlet of the funnel and the opening of the mounting base are in alignment such that powder can be dispensed. This may further allow for the vibrator(s) in contact with the mounting base to be aligned with the funnel, e.g. to allow for efficient transmission of vibrations from the vibrator(s) to the powder within the funnel.

[0075] In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser comprises a plug, wherein the plug is arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet of the funnel. For example, the plug is arranged to seal the outlet of the funnel when the funnel is removed from the powder dispenser, to prevent powder leaking from the outlet of the funnel.

[0076] In a some of embodiments, the plug is removeable, e.g. the plug can be removed from the funnel and the powder reservoir. For example, the plug is a separate part to the funnel and the powder reservoir, can be installed independently of the funnel and powder reservoir. For example, the plug may be arranged to sit within the funnel, e.g. by resting upon the funnel (e.g. the outer perimeter of the funnel) via a plurality of spokes attached to the upper end of the plug (i.e. the end of the plug distal from the outlet of the funnel). For example, the plug may be replaced within the funnel when the funnel is replaced onto the powder dispenser. This may enable the plug to hold itself in a position above the outlet of the funnel, such that the funnel can be moved relative to the plug to seal and unseal the outlet. This may allow the plug to be washed separately to the powder reservoir and funnel. In a set of embodiments, the plug is comprised in the reservoir. Preferably, the plug is permanently attached to the reservoir, e.g. moulded into the powder reservoir. For example, the plug and powder reservoir may comprise an integral unit, such that when the powder reservoir is removed from the funnel, the plug is also removed from the funnel. This may reduce the number of parts required to assemble the powder dispenser after cleaning. Furthermore, this reduces the risk of the user forgetting or misaligning the funnel with the plug when replacing the funnel, plug and powder reservoir in the dispenser after refilling and / or cleaning, and thus reduces the risk that the plug may not properly seal the outlet. For example, it can be preferable that the removeable powder reservoir includes the plug, so that when the powder reservoir is attached to the funnel the plug is positioned correctly relative to the funnel.

[0077] In a set of embodiments, the plug is arranged to seal the funnel when the powder reservoir and the funnel are removed together from the powder dispenser. For example, when positioned in the powder dispenser, the powder reservoir may be arranged above the funnel, such that gravity assists the flow of powder from the powder reservoir towards the funnel. Thus, when the powder reservoir and funnel are both removed from the powder dispenser, it is useful for the plug to seal the funnel, to prevent powder from spilling out of the bottom of the funnel when the funnel, plug and powder reservoir are removed from the powder dispenser.

[0078] For example, the powder reservoir and funnel may be removed from the powder dispenser, and then turned over, such that the funnel acts as a lid for the powder reservoir. The funnel may then be removed from the powder reservoir, to allow for cleaning and / or refilling of the powder reservoir and the funnel.

[0079] In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser comprises an actuator, wherein the actuator is arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet of the funnel. For example, when the funnel and powder reservoir are placed onto the mounting base of the powder dispenser, the mounting base aligns the outlet of the funnel with the actuator such that the actuator is able to selectively seal and unseal the outlet, to allow for powder to be dispensed from the funnel. For example, the actuator may cover and uncover the outlet of the funnel to allow for the flow of powder from the funnel to be varied. Preferably, the actuator is arranged to adjust the position of the funnel relative to the plug to selectively seal and unseal the outlet of the funnel. For example, the position of the funnel may be adjusted by the actuator in order to vary the flow rate through the outlet.

[0080] In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a position of the funnel from a first (e.g. upper) position to a second (e.g. lower) position, wherein the outlet is sealed in one of the first position and second position, and wherein the outlet is unsealed in the other of the first position and second position. In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a vertical position of the funnel, in order to control a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. In some embodiments where the powder dispenser further comprises a plug, the outlet is sealed by the plug when the funnel is in one of the first and second positions.

[0081] In a set of embodiments, the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; wherein the mounting base is arranged to support the upper portion of the funnel, wherein the opening of the mounting base is arranged to surround the constriction, and the lower portion of the funnel is arranged below the mounting base; and the powder dispenser comprises an actuator arranged to move the lower portion along the axis, relative to the upper portion, and thereby open the constriction so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet. In some embodiments where the powder dispenser further comprises a plug and an actuator, the plug is arranged in the constriction, wherein, in a natural state of the funnel, the constriction makes contact with the plug so as to seal off the upper portion; and the actuator is arranged to move one of the lower portion and upper portion along the axis, relative to the other of the lower portion and upper portion, and thereby open the constriction relative to the plug so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet. In some embodiments, the funnel may comprise a directing portion as previously described.

[0082] The plug may be arranged to extend into the funnel (e.g. the constriction) when the reservoir is attached to the funnel. In some further embodiments, the same actuator (or another actuator) may be arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the constriction at an adjustable flow rate. For example, as is described in more detail above, the openness of the constriction of the funnel relative to the plug may be adjusted by the actuator, e.g. the funnel may be expanded by the actuator, in order to vary the flow rate through the constriction. In various embodiments, the actuator is arranged to open the constriction to a varying degree in order to vary a rate of flow of power through the outlet.

[0083] The mounting base may align the funnel with the actuator when the funnel is replaced in the powder dispenser. For example, as explained above, the actuator may pull down on the funnel, e.g. to open the constriction, where the actuator may comprise a rotating mechanism, including a set of retractable jaws, wherein rotation of the rotating mechanism brings one or more of the set of retractable jaws into contact with the funnel. Therefore, it is useful for the mounting base to correctly align the funnel with the actuator, as otherwise the actuator may not be able to accurately adjust the position of the funnel to control the flow rate of powder through the outlet.

[0084] For example, when the actuator pulls down on the funnel, e.g. to open the constriction, where the funnel is made of an elastomeric material, the upper portion of the funnel may be brought into closer contact with the mounting base. Therefore, the transmission of vibrations from the vibrator(s) to the funnel and hence the flow of the powder may be improved when the actuator opens the constriction. This may be useful as the funnel may not need to be in good contact with the mounting base when replaced into the powder dispenser, for vibrations to be transmitted to the powder when the powder dispenser is in use.

[0085] In some embodiments, one or more vibrators are arranged adjacent to the opening of the mounting base. For example, the vibrators arranged adjacent to the opening of the mounting base are arranged closest to the outlet of the funnel. This may assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet. In some embodiments, the vibrators are equally spaced around the opening of the mounting base.

[0086] In some embodiments, the axis of vibration of the vibrator(s) is arranged to be perpendicular to the contacting surface of the funnel. This may allow for a high transmission of vibrations through the mounting base and / or funnel to the powder. In some embodiments, the vibrator(s) are eccentric rotating mass vibration motors (ERM). In some embodiments, the vibrator(s) are linear resonant actuators (LRA). For the example, the vibrator(s) are haptic vibration motors. In embodiments where the vibrator(s) are embedded in the mounting base, the axis of vibration of the vibrator(s) is preferably arranged to be perpendicular to the surface of the mounting base. Further preferably, if the mounting base is elastic or elastomeric then this can help to ensure a good amplitude of motion perpendicular to the surface of the mounting base, e.g., acting upon the funnel placed on the mounting base.

[0087] In some embodiments, the funnel and mounting base are each elongate in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis of the funnel, e.g. elongate in the horizontal plane. For example, the funnel may be lozenge-shaped rather than circular in the horizontal plane. This can expand the capacity of the funnel. In embodiments where the funnel is attached to the powder reservoir, the powder reservoir may also be elongate in a horizontal plane.

[0088] In some embodiments, the outlet of the funnel and opening of the mounting base is off-centre; wherein the mounting base comprises a sloped portion towards the outlet; wherein at least one vibrator is arranged near the opening of the mounting base; and wherein at least one vibrator is arranged adjacent to the sloped portion of the mounting base. For example, the vibrator(s) arranged adjacent to the sloped portion of the mounting base may assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet, particularly for powder that is far from the outlet and may otherwise stagnate. For example, the respective sloped portions of the funnel and the mounting base may slope away from the outlet / opening an angle of approximately 10° to the horizontal.

[0089] In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser of any of the preceding aspects of the invention is connected to a weighing system within a powder dispensing appliance. The weighing system includes a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder dispensed from the funnel, and a processor arranged to analyse a signal from the load cell. For example, the processor may be programmed with a target weight. The processor can be arranged to compare the weight of the dose of dispensed powder with the target weight. In such embodiments, a comparison result from the processor can be used to provide a feedback signal to the powder dispenser. The feedback signal to the powder dispenser may simply control the actuator to seal the outlet or upper portion of the funnel when it is determined that the target weight has been reached. This corresponds to a zero flow rate. In other embodiments, the feedback signal to the powder dispenser may adjust the rate of flow of powder from the powder dispenser to a suitable non-zero value depending on the comparison result, for example by varying the degree to which the outlet or constriction is open. The outlet or constriction may be opened more if the target weight is not being reached quickly enough, or the outlet or constriction may be opened less to slow the flow as the target weight is approached. This may allow for the weight of the full dose of dispensed powder to be as close to the target weight as possible, such that the dose of powder dispensed is precise (e.g. within 1 g of the target weight). In some examples, the outlet or constriction may be closed when the processor detects that the weight of the dose of dispensed powder is close to the target weight, and then re-opened to a lesser degree to dispense a final amount of powder at a reduced flow rate (e.g. gliding-in to the target weight).

[0090] In a set of embodiments, the actuator is controlled in response to the feedback signal. For example, the actuator can adjust the flow rate of the powder being dispensed through the outlet or constriction, e.g. by adjusting the vertical position of the funnel and / or the plug, or by collapsing and expanding the funnel as previously described. The actuator may be controlled by its own processor or directly controlled by the processor carrying out the weight comparison.

[0091] This approach is considered novel and inventive in its own right, and so from a further aspect, the invention provides an appliance for dispensing and weighing a powder, comprising a powder dispenser and a weighing system; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense a dose of a powder through an outlet at an adjustable flow rate; wherein the weighing system comprises: a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder that has been dispensed through the outlet; and a processor arranged to be programmed with a target weight; wherein the processor is arranged to compare the weight of the dispensed powder with the target weight; and wherein a comparison result from the processor is used to send a feedback signal to the powder dispenser for adjusting the flow rate through the outlet. From another further aspect, the invention provides an appliance for dispensing and weighing a powder, comprising a powder dispenser and a weighing system; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense a dose of a powder through constriction of a funnel at an adjustable flow rate depending on an openness of the constriction; wherein the weighing system comprises: a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder that has been dispensed through the outlet; and a processor arranged to be programmed with a target weight; wherein the processor is arranged to compare the weight of the dispensed powder with the target weight; and wherein a comparison result from the processor is used to send a feedback signal to the powder dispenser for adjusting the flow rate by varying the openness of the outlet.

[0092] More generally, from another aspect, the invention provides an appliance for dispensing and weighing a powder, comprising a powder dispenser and a weighing system; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense a dose of a powder through an outlet of a funnel at an adjustable flow rate depending on an openness of the outlet; wherein the weighing system comprises: a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder that has been dispensed through the outlet; and a processor arranged to be programmed with a target weight; wherein the processor is arranged to compare the weight of the dispensed powder with the target weight; and wherein a comparison result from the processor is used to send a feedback signal to the powder dispenser for adjusting the flow rate by varying the openness of the outlet.

[0093] As mentioned above, the comparison result can indicate how quickly the weight of the dispensed powder is approaching the target weight. If the dispensed weight is far below the target weight then the feedback signal can be used to increase the flow rate through the outlet. If the comparison result indicates that there may be a blockage preventing powder from being dispensed (e.g. due to no or little weight increase over a period of time), then the feedback signal may be used to adjust the flow rate by closing and re-opening the outlet or constriction. Once the dispensed weight reaches the target weight, the feedback signal can be used to seal the outlet or upper portion of the funnel as soon as the desired dose has been dispensed.

[0094] In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser is arranged to reduce the flow rate of powder through the outlet in response to the feedback signal as the weight of the dispensed powder approaches the target weight. For example, a / the actuator may respond to the feedback signal (directly or via a processor) to move the funnel to a different vertical position, or to collapse the funnel, in order to reduce the flow rate as the weight of the dispensed powder approaches the target weight.

[0095] In a set of embodiments, the powder dispenser further comprises a vibrator arranged to vibrate the funnel to assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet (e.g. as described above). The processor may control the vibrator depending on the comparison result. For example, if the processor registers that the weight of dispensed powder is far from the target weight, it may increase the current supplied to the vibrator in order to increase agitation of the powder. In another example, the processor may register that the actuator has moved the funnel to a position out of contact with the vibrator, and may turn off the vibrator as it is no longer in contact with the outer surface of the funnel. In some embodiments, in addition or alternatively, the powder dispenser is arranged to bring the outer surface of the funnel into contact with the vibrator (or vice versa) in response to the feedback signal. In some embodiments, the vibration frequency of the vibrator is varied in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. For example, a higher frequency of vibration may be associated with a higher flow rate. In some embodiments, the vibration amplitude of the vibrator is varied in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. For example, a higher amplitude of vibration may be associated with a higher flow rate.

[0096] The powder dispenser in this dispensing and weighing appliance may include any of the features already described in relation to the first, second or third aspect of the invention.

[0097] In some embodiments, the powder dispenser comprises a funnel for dispensing a dose of a powder through the outlet, and an actuator arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet, wherein the outlet is defined by a boundary between an outer surface of the funnel and an inner surface of the funnel. In some further embodiments, the same actuator (or another actuator) may be arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the outlet at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal. For example, as is described in more detail above, a position of the funnel may be adjusted by the actuator in order to vary the flow rate through the outlet in response to the feedback signal. In various embodiments, the actuator is arranged to open the outlet to a varying degree in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. In some embodiments, the processor is arranged to automatically control the actuator using the feedback signal. In some embodiments, the feedback signal is sent to a different processor arranged to control the actuator.

[0098] In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a position of the funnel from a first (e.g. upper) position to a second (e.g. lower) position in response to the feedback signal, wherein the outlet is sealed in one of the first position and second position, and wherein the outlet is unsealed in the other of the first position and second position. In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a vertical position of the funnel in response to the feedback signal, in order to control a rate of flow of powder through the outlet.

[0099] In some embodiments, the vibrator(s) are arranged to adjust the vibration speed of the vibrator(s) (e.g. to adjust the amplitude and / or frequency of vibration) in response to the feedback signal, in order to control a rate of flow of powder through the outlet. For example, the vibrator(s) may respond to the feedback signal (directly or via a processor) to reduce the vibration speed as the weight of the dispensed powder approaches the target weight.

[0100] In some embodiments, the powder dispenser further comprises a plug, wherein the outlet is sealed by the plug when the funnel is in one of the first and second positions.

[0101] In some embodiments, the powder dispenser comprises a funnel for dispensing a dose of powder through an outlet, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; a vibrator arranged to vibrate at least the upper portion of the funnel to assist with the flow of powder towards the constriction; a plug arranged in the constriction, wherein, in a natural state of the funnel, the constriction makes contact with the plug so as to seal off the upper portion; and an actuator arranged to move one of the lower portion and upper portion along the axis, relative to the other of the lower portion and upper portion, and thereby open the constriction relative to the plug so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet. In some further embodiments, the same actuator (or another actuator) may be arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the constriction at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal. For example, as is described in more detail above, the openness of the constriction of the funnel relative to the plug may be adjusted by the actuator, e.g. the funnel may be expanded by the actuator, in order to vary the flow rate through the constriction in response to the feedback signal. In various embodiments, the actuator is arranged to open the constriction to a varying degree in order to vary a rate of flow of power through the outlet.

[0102] In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to move the funnel between a natural state and an expanded state in response to the feedback signal, wherein the upper portion of the funnel is sealed by the plug being in contact with the constriction in the natural state, and wherein the upper portion is unsealed in the expanded state. In some embodiments, the actuator is arranged to adjust a state of the funnel between the natural state and an expanded state (e.g. by moving the lower portion up and down) in response to the feedback signal, in order to vary the opening of the constriction and control a rate of flow of powder through the constriction.

[0103] In some embodiments, the funnel is made of an elastomeric material (e.g. natural or synthetic elastomer, e.g. a silicone-based material).

[0104] In a set of embodiments, the processor is arranged to calibrate the weighing system using a tare weight of an empty container placed on the weighing system. This may allow a user to place a container, e.g. a bottle, on the weighing system such that once the powder is dispensed, the mixture, e.g. infant formula, can be prepared directly, without impacting the precision of the dose of dispensed powder.

[0105] In a set of embodiments, the processor is able to register when an empty container is placed on the weighing system. The processor may identify when the load cell is at zero and the powder dispenser is off, and therefore that a container has been placed on the weighing system. In any of the embodiments described herein, the powder dispenser or appliance may comprise a user interface. The user interface may include any suitable input element (e.g. a touchscreen, e.g. one or more buttons, dials, etc.) enabling a user to input or select a desired dose of powder to be dispensed. The actuator may be arranged to receive a signal from the user interface so that the outlet is unsealed at the start of a dispensing cycle and sealed after the desired dose has been dispensed. A processor, e.g. as described above, may be used to automatically control the actuator during the dispensing cycle. Control of the actuator can be time-based, and / or based on an input from the user at the user interface, and / or based on a feedback signal from the weighing system (where one is included).

[0106] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer- implemented method for dispensing and weighing a powder, wherein a processor is arranged to: receive a weight reading from a load cell that is arranged to weigh a dose of powder that is being dispensed from a powder dispenser; compare the weight reading with a target weight; generate a feedback signal relating to a desired flow rate of the powder being dispensed from a powder dispenser depending on the comparison result.

[0107] The target weight may be stored in a memory accessible by the processor. The target weight may be pre-programmed, programmed by a user input, or programmed dependent on the container detected by the load cell.

[0108] As described above, the processor may be arranged to send the feedback signal to the powder dispenser. The method may further comprise adjusting the flow rate through an outlet of the powder dispenser, for example by controlling an actuator to open the outlet to a varying degree based on the feedback signal. The method may comprise controlling a position of a dispensing funnel (e.g. relative to a fixed plug for the outlet) in response to the feedback signal.

[0109] The method may further comprise adjusting a funnel of the powder dispenser from the natural state to an expanded state, to open a constriction of the funnel to a varying degree based on the feedback signal. Another aspect of the invention relates to a computer program containing instructions that, when implemented by a processor, carry out the method(s) described above.

[0110] Features of any aspect or embodiment described herein may, wherever appropriate, be applied to any other aspect or embodiment described herein. Where reference is made to different embodiments or sets of embodiments, it should be understood that these are not necessarily distinct but may overlap.

[0111] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0112] Certain preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0113] Figure 1 shows schematically a perspective view of an appliance for dispensing and weighing powder;

[0114] Figure 2 shows schematically a cross-section of the appliance shown in Figure 1 ;

[0115] Figure 3a shows schematically an enlarged perspective cross-section of a powder dispenser for use in the appliance shown in Figure 1 , when the powder dispenser is not in use;

[0116] Figure 3b shows schematically a perspective cross-section of the powder dispenser shown in Figure 3a, when the powder dispenser is in use;

[0117] Figure 4a shows schematically a cross-section of a second powder dispenser for use in the appliance shown in Figure 1 , when the powder dispenser is not in use;

[0118] Figure 4b shows schematically a perspective cross-section of the second powder dispenser shown in Figure 4a;

[0119] Figure 5a shows schematically a cross-section of the second powder dispenser shown in Figure 4a, when the powder dispenser is in use;

[0120] Figure 5b shows schematically a perspective cross-section of the second powder dispenser shown in Figure 5a;

[0121] Figure 6a shows schematically a view from below of the actuator of the second powder dispenser shown in Figure 4 when the powder dispenser is not in use;

[0122] Figure 6b shows schematically a view from below of the actuator of the second powder dispenser shown in Figure 5 when the powder dispenser is not in use;

[0123] Figure 7 shows schematically a system for operating an appliance for dispensing and weighing powder; Figure 8 shows schematically a perspective view of a third powder dispenser for use in the appliance shown in Figure 1, when the powder dispenser is not in use;

[0124] Figure 9 shows schematically a cross-section of the third powder dispenser shown in Figure 8;

[0125] Figure 10 shows schematically a view from below the mounting base of the third powder dispenser shown in Figure 8;

[0126] Figure 11a shows schematically a perspective view of a fourth powder dispenser for use in the appliance shown in Figure 1 , when the powder dispenser is not in use;

[0127] Figure 11b shows schematically a cross-section of the funnel and powder reservoir of the fourth powder dispenser shown in Figure 11a;

[0128] Figure 12 shows schematically a perspective view of a second appliance for dispensing and weighing powder.

[0129] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0130] Figure 1 shows an appliance 100 for dispensing powder. The appliance 100 comprises a powder dispenser 104 and weighing system 106. The powder dispenser 104 is located at the upper end of the appliance housing 102, whilst the weighing system 106 is located at the lower end of the appliance housing 102, directly beneath the powder dispenser 104.

[0131] Loose powder is placed into an upper vessel 105 of the powder dispenser 104, with the inside of the vessel 105 accessed by opening the lid 108. A dose of the powder is then dispensed from the vessel 105 via an outlet (not shown) onto the weighing tray 110 of the weighing system 106. A container for receiving the powder (not shown), such as a baby bottle, may also be placed onto the weighing tray 110.

[0132] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the appliance 100 for dispensing powder shown in Figure 1. The powder to be dispensed is stored inside the vessel 105. A funnel 112 is fluidically connected to the vessel 105, such that powder entering the vessel 105 immediately enters the funnel 112, i.e. the vessel 105 and funnel 112 act together as a reservoir for the powder. The funnel 112 has an outlet 116, which allows for a dose of powder to flow out of the powder dispenser 104 and fall onto the weighing tray 110. The outlet 116 is defined by a boundary between an outer surface 113 of the funnel and an inner surface 111 of the funnel. Located inside the funnel 112 is a plug 114. The plug 114 is shown selectively sealing the outlet 116 of the funnel 112. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the funnel 112 is connected to an actuator in the form of a servo motor 118, where the servo motor 118 is located within the appliance housing 102. The servo motor 118 is arranged to raise and lower the funnel 112 relative to the plug 114. The plug 114 is fixedly attached to the vessel 104 and hence does not move relative to the appliance housing 102.

[0133] When the funnel 112 is in its upper position, as shown in Figure 2, the plug 114 blocks the outlet 116, such that the vessel 105 is sealed at its lower end and no powder is able to exit the powder dispenser 104, and no air or moisture is able to enter the powder dispenser through the outlet 116. This may help to prevent the powder clumping together or otherwise deteriorating.

[0134] When the funnel 112 is in its lower position (described below with reference to Figure 3b), the plug 114 does not block the outlet 116, and powder is able to flow out of the outlet 116 of the funnel 112. The funnel 112 may be moved to any position between its upper and lower positions, in order to adjust the flow rate of the powder from the powder dispenser through the outlet 116.

[0135] The dispensed powder falls from the outlet 116, and lands on the weighing tray 110 of the weighing system 106. The weighing system 106 comprises the weighing tray 110, which sits on a load cell 126.

[0136] The load cell 126 is connected to a processor 120. The processor 120 is also connected to the servo motor 118. The load cell 126 registers a weight of dispensed powder, e.g. received in a bottle or other container (not shown) placed on the weighing tray, and sends this reading to the processor 120. The processor 120 is preprogrammed with a target weight (e.g. according to a dose amount input or selected by the user), which it compares with the weight of the dispensed powder. For example, the user may input the desired weight of powder or select a pre-set weight (e.g. in a baby milk powder dispenser, the user may input the age / size of the baby) via a user interface 121. A variety of different containers may be placed on top of the weighing tray 110. The processor 120 is able to calibrate the load cell 126 to absolute zero, by determining the tare weight of the container. For example, the user may be able to put the processor 120 into a ‘calibration mode’, wherein the user places a desired powder weight onto the weighing tray 110, e.g. by measuring out a predetermined volume of powder on a spoon. The load cell 126 may record the desired powder weight, and the processor 120 may record this desired powder weight, such that this desired powder weight may be dispensed automatically in the future.

[0137] Based on the comparison result for the weight of dispensed powder, the processor 120 then sends a feedback signal to the servo motor 118, to either move the funnel up or down. For example, if the weight of the dispensed powder is close to the target weight, the processor 120 may send a feedback signal instructing the servo motor 118 to move the funnel up, in order to slow the flow of dispensed powder through the outlet 116, or to stop the powder being dispensed entirely. For example, the feedback signal may instruct the servo motor 118 to stop the powder being dispensed entirely when the weight of the dispensed powder is close to the target weight, and subsequently instruct the servo motor 118 to slightly unseal the outlet of the funnel such that a small amount of powder is dispensed. This may allow for finer control over the powder dispensed close to the target weight. In another example, the feedback signal may instruct the servo motor 118 to gradually seal the outlet of the funnel to reduce the rate of powder dispensed, as the dispensed powder approaches the target weight.

[0138] In another example, if the weight of the dispensed powder is much lower than the target weight, the processor 120 may send a feedback signal instructing the servo motor 118 to move the funnel down, in order to increase the flow of the dispensed powder through the outlet 116. The servo motor 118, processor 120, and weighing system 106 are powered via a power supply 122 e.g. a battery and / or mains power connection.

[0139] Figure 3a shows an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the powder dispenser 104 shown in Figure 2, where the funnel 112 is in the upper (i.e. closed) position. It can be seen that the outlet 116, as defined by the boundary between the outer surface 113 of the funnel and the inner surface 111 of the funnel, is sealed by the plug 114. The powder dispenser 104 also includes a vibrator 128 (e.g. a motor), which is arranged to be in contact with the outer surface 113 of the funnel 112 when the funnel is in the lower position (i.e. dispensing powder), and not in contact with the outer surface 113 of the funnel 112 when the funnel is in the upper position (i.e. sealed). The vibrator 128 is arranged to vibrate the funnel, in order to assist the flow of powder towards the outlet 116 and help to break up any clumps in the powder.

[0140] The plug 114 is cylindrical, and passes continuously through the powder dispenser 105 and down the centreline of the funnel 112. The plug 114 is connected to the powder dispenser 105 at its upper (i.e. distal) end via spokes 115. The plug 114 is tapered towards its lower end 132. The outer circumference of the lower end 132 of the plug 114 is slightly greater than the inner circumference of the outlet 116 of the funnel 112. This interference fit ensures that the plug 114 seals the outlet 116.

[0141] The funnel 112 is made of an elastomeric material. When the funnel 112 is in the upper position, and the lower end 132 of the plug 114 fills the outlet 116 of the funnel 112, a seal 130 is formed between the lowest inner circumference of the funnel and the lower end 132 of the plug 114. The seal 130 is secured by the elastomeric funnel 112 elastically deforming to accommodate the plug 114, such that there is a compression between the plug 114 and the funnel 112. The seal 130 prevents powder leaking from the funnel 112, or unwanted moisture entering the funnel 112 through the outlet 116 when the powder dispenser 104 is not in use.

[0142] Figure 3b shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the powder dispenser 104 shown in Figure 3a, when the funnel 112 is in the lower (i.e. open) position. The funnel 112 has been moved down by the servo motor 118. In this position, the vibrator 128 is in contact with the outer surface 113of the funnel 112. As the funnel 112 is made from an elastomeric material, it can be pressed against the vibrator 128 in this lower position, for optimal contact between the vibrator 128 and funnel 112, for transmission of vibrations through the funnel 112. This aids the flow of powder downwards through the funnel 112 and out through the outlet 116.

[0143] When the funnel 112 is in the lower (i.e. open) position shown in Figure 3b, the lower dispensed under gravity. It is also possible to move the funnel 112 to a range of different vertical positions between the positions shown in Figures 3a and 3b, or to a lower position than that shown in Figure 3b, to vary the flow rate of powder through the outlet 116. As the funnel 112 is lowered from the upper position, shown in Figure 3a, the flow rate of powder through the outlet 116 continually increases. This is due to the plug 114 protruding less into funnel 112.

[0144] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 1-3, loose powder is placed the upper vessel 105 of the powder dispenser 104 by opening the lid 108. Alternatively, the lid 108 is integrated with the plug 114, such that the plug 114 is removed to allow access to the inside of the vessel 105. The plug 114 may also be integrated with the vessel 105 and lid 108, with the funnel 112 instead being removable to allow loose powder to be placed directly into the funnel 112. The plug 114 may also be removable from the vessel 105, e.g. for cleaning.

[0145] Figures 4a and 4b show schematically a cross-sectional view of a second powder dispenser 204, which is an alternative powder dispenser to the dispenser 104 shown in Figures 1-3. The second powder dispenser 204 may be used with the appliance 100 instead of the powder dispenser 104 shown in Figures 1-3.

[0146] The second powder dispenser includes an expandable funnel 236, shown in Figure 4a in its natural (i.e. closed) state, i.e. when the powder dispenser is not in use. The expandable funnel 236 is fluidically connected to the vessel (not shown), such that powder entering the vessel enters the expandable funnel 236, i.e. the vessel and the expandable funnel 236 act together as a reservoir for the powder. The expandable funnel 236 has an outlet 243, which allows for a dose of powder to flow out of the powder dispenser 204 and fall onto the weighing tray of the appliance.

[0147] The expandable funnel 236 is hourglass-shaped, including a wide upper portion 237 arranged to receive loose powder from the vessel (not shown), and a wide lower portion 241. In between the upper portion 237 and lower portion 241 of the funnel 236 is a constriction 240, which is the narrowest point of the expandable funnel 236. The upper portion 237, lower portion 241 , and constriction 240 are arranged such that they are concentric about an axis A, where the expandable funnel 236 is expanded parallel to the common axis A of the hourglass of the expandable funnel 236. The upper portion 237 of the expandable funnel 236 has a larger volume than the lower portion 241 , such that the upper portion 237 is able to act as a powder reservoir.

[0148] Located inside the expandable funnel 236, there is a second plug 238. The second plug 238 is shown selectively sealing the constriction 240 of the expandable funnel 236. The second plug 238 is attached to the appliance housing (not shown).

[0149] When the expandable funnel 236 is in its natural state, as shown in Figures 4a and 4b, the second plug 238 blocks the constriction 240, such that the upper portion 237 is sealed and no powder is able to exit, and no air or moisture is able to enter the upper portion of the funnel 237, and hence the powder, through the outlet 243 or constriction 240. This may help to prevent the powder clumping together or otherwise deteriorating.

[0150] The second plug 238 is cylindrical, and passes continuously through the second powder dispenser 204 and down the centreline of the expandable funnel 236. The second plug 238 is connected to the second lid 245 of the second powder dispenser 204 at its upper (i.e. distal) end via spokes (not shown). The second plug 238 may be tapered, such that it is narrower at its lower end 239 than its upper end 235.

[0151] The second lid 245 is also arranged to attach to the upper portion 237 of the expandable funnel 236, such that the upper portion of the funnel is held open and may be more rigid than the lower portion of the funnel 241.

[0152] The constriction 240 of the expandable funnel 236 has the same internal diameter as the outer diameter of the lower end 239 of the second plug 238, such that when the funnel is in the natural state, the constriction 240 is arranged to form a seal around the second plug 238 and thus seals the upper portion 237.

[0153] When the expandable funnel 236 is in its expanded position (described below with reference to Figures 5a and 5b), the second plug 238 does not block the constriction 240, and powder is able to flow from the upper portion 237 to the lower portion 241 out of the constriction 240 and hence the outlet 243 of the expandable funnel 236. The expandable funnel 236 may be adjusted between its expanded and natural states to adjust the position of the constriction 240 relative to the second plug 238, in order to adjust the flow rate of the powder from the second powder dispenser 204 through the outlet 243.

[0154] The expandable funnel 236 is made of an elastomeric material, such that the expandable funnel 236 can be moved between a natural state shown in Figures 4a and 4b, and an expanded position shown in Figures 5a and 5b by elastically deforming. This allows for the constriction 240 of the expandable funnel 236 to be moved relative to the second plug 238, to selectively seal and unseal the upper portion 237. The upper portion 237 of the funnel is stiffened by a rigid supporting element 233, which is embedded within the upper portion 237, to prevent the upper portion of the funnel from sagging underneath the weight of the powder when in the expanded or natural states.

[0155] The hourglass shape of the expandable funnel 236 has an axis A which is the same as the axis A of the second plug 238. For example, the upper portion 237, lower portion 241 , and constriction may be viewed as a plurality of concentric rings.

[0156] The second powder dispenser 204 also includes a vibrator 244 (e.g. a motor), which is arranged to be in contact with the outer surface of the expandable funnel 236. The vibrator 244 is arranged to vibrate the funnel 236, in order to assist the flow of powder towards the outlet 243 and help to break up any clumps in the powder. The vibrator 244 is shown in contact with the upper portion 237 of the expandable funnel 236, however a vibrator may also be in contact with the lower portion 241 of the expandable funnel 236, for example the lower portion 241 may be brought into contact with a vibrator when in the expanded position shown in Figures 5a and 5b. As the expandable funnel 236 is made from an elastomeric material, it may be pressed against the vibrator 244, for optimal contact between the vibrator 244 and expandable funnel 236, for transmission of vibrations through the expandable funnel 236. This aids the flow of powder downwards through the expandable funnel 236 and out through the outlet 243.

[0157] A rigid actuating ring 242 is attached to the lower portion 241 of the funnel, e.g. at the outlet 243. The rigid actuating ring 242 is connected to an actuator (shown with reference to Figure 6) is arranged to move the constriction 240 downwards (e.g. along the centreline of the expandable funnel 236), by moving the expandable funnel 236 from the natural state shown in Figures 4a and 4b, to the opened state shown in Figures 5a and 5b. A set of jaws 249 are connected to the actuator, shown in Figure 4b as retracted, i.e. not in contact with the rigid actuating ring 242.

[0158] Figures 5a and 5b show schematically a cross-sectional view of the second powder dispenser 204 shown in Figures 4a and 4b, when the expandable funnel 236 is in the open position i.e. when the powder dispenser is in use. The expandable funnel 236 has been moved down by the rigid actuating ring 242, as the jaws 249 of the actuator (shown with reference to Figure 6) are protracted and have moved radially inwards to be in contact with the rigid actuating ring 242, and the actuator has moved the jaws 249 and hence the rigid actuating ring 242 downwards.

[0159] When the expandable funnel 236 is in the stretched state shown in Figures 5a and 5b, the lower end 239 of the second plug 238 is no longer obstructing the constriction 240, so that the upper portion 237 is no longer sealed and powder may be dispensed under gravity. It is also possible to move the constriction 240 to a range of different vertical positions between the positions shown in Figures 4 and 5, or to a lower position than that shown in Figures 5a and 5b by expanding or collapsing the funnel, to vary the flow rate of powder through the constriction 240 and outlet 243. As the expandable funnel

[0160] 236 is expanded from the natural state, shown in Figure 4, the flow rate of powder through the outlet 243 continually increases. This is due to the second plug 238 protruding less into expandable funnel 236, e.g. protruding less into the constriction 240 which has moved downward.

[0161] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 4-5, loose powder is placed in the upper portion

[0162] 237 of the expandable funnel 236, e.g. by opening the second lid 245. Alternatively, the second lid 245 is integrated with the second plug 238, such that the second plug

[0163] 238 is removed to allow access to the inside of the expandable funnel 236. The second plug 238 may also be integrated with the housing of the appliance (not shown) and lid 245, with the expandable funnel 236 instead being removable to allow loose powder to be placed directly into the expandable funnel 236.

[0164] Figure 6a shows a cross-section of the second powder dispenser 204, viewed from beneath the second powder dispenser 204, when the powder dispenser 204 is not in use, i.e. the constriction 240 is blocked by the second plug 238. The rigid actuating ring 242 is attached to the lower portion 241 of the funnel 236, and is arranged to not be in contact with a rotating mechanism 246 when the powder dispenser 204 is not in use. The rotating mechanism includes the set of jaws 249, shown in Figure 6a in the retracted position, i.e. they are not in contact with the rigid ring 242. The rotating mechanism is connected to an actuator 248, which may be connected to a motor (not shown). The rotating mechanism 246 and actuator 248 are located below the expandable funnel 236.

[0165] Figure 6b shows a cross-section of the second powder dispenser 204, viewed from beneath the second powder dispenser 204, when the second powder dispenser 204 is in use, i.e. the constriction 240 is not blocked by the second plug 238.

[0166] In order to expand the expandable funnel 236, the actuator 248 acts to move the rotating mechanism 246 such that the jaws 249 rotate and protract, such that they are above the rigid actuating ring 242. The actuator 248 then moves the rotating mechanism 246 and the rigid actuating ring 242 downwards (i.e. parallel to the axis A of the expandable funnel 236), such that the jaws 249 push down on the rigid actuating ring 242 in order to stretch the expandable funnel 236, and move the constriction 240 downwards to unseal the outlet 243. The actuator 248 also acts to retract the jaws 249 of the rotating mechanism 246 , in order to release the expandable funnel 236, and move the constriction 240 upwards to seal around the second plug 238 and thus seal the outlet 243, by allowing the expandable funnel to move elastically back to its natural state. The expandable funnel 236 is elastomeric and will return to its natural (i.e. collapsed) state when it is not being elastically deformed by the rotating mechanism 246. The actuator 248 rotates the rotating mechanism 246 in order to release the jaws 249 from being in contact with the rigid actuating ring 242. The actuator converts the rotational motion of the rotating mechanism 246 to vertical linear motion of the rigid portion and lower portion of the funnel, using a ramp (not shown). The actuator 248 rotates anticlockwise to rotate the rotating mechanism 246, and hence protract the laws 249 to come into contact with the rigid actuating ring 242 and move the funnel downwards.

[0167] Figure 7 shows schematically a control system 134 for operating the appliance 100 of Figures 1-6. The control system 134 includes the processor 120, servo motor 118, user interface 121 and vibrator 128, 244. The system 134 may also include the load cell 126.

[0168] The processor 120 is configured to receive information from the user interface 121, where the user enters or selects a desired dose, e.g. based on volume or weight of power required, or a pre-set category (e.g. where the user enters the age / size of a baby which has an associated volume or weight of baby milk powder). The processor 120 uses this information to set the target weight of powder to be dispensed.

[0169] The processor 120 sends a signal based on the input from the user interface 121 to each of the vibrator 128, 244 and servo motor 118 / actuator 248, to actuate movement of the funnel and / or plug, to begin dispensing the powder while the funnel is vibrating.

[0170] The processor 120 may optionally be configured to receive the weight of dispensed powder from the load cell 126, and compare it to the pre-programmed target weight (e.g. as selected by the user). The processor 120 is then configured to control the servo motor 118 / actuator 248 to adjust the position of the funnel 112, 234 to adjust the flow rate of the powder being dispensed through the outlet 116 or constriction 240, and / or to adjust the vibrations of the vibrator 128, 244.

[0171] If the processor 120 is not configured to receive the weight of dispensed powder from the load cell 126, the processor 120 may instead control the servo motor 118 / actuator 248 to move the funnel 112 down for a predetermined time expected to allow for flow of the desired dose through the outlet 116, or to expand the funnel 236 down for a predetermined time expect to allow for flow of the desired dose through the constriction 240. The processor 120 may additionally control the vibrator 128, 244 to operate for a predetermined time expected to assist with flow of the desired dose.

[0172] Figure 8 shows schematically a perspective view of a third powder dispenser 304, which is an alternative powder dispenser to the dispenser 104 shown in Figures 1-3 and the second dispenser 204 shown in Figures 4a-6b. The third powder dispenser 304 may be used with the appliance 100 instead of the powder dispenser 104 shown in Figures 1-3. Figure 9 shows schematically a cross-sectional view of the third powder dispenser 304. The third powder dispenser 304 includes a powder reservoir 350, a removeable funnel 336, a removeable plug 338, and a mounting base 352. The mounting base 352 is fixed to the appliance, whilst the powder reservoir 350, removeable funnel 336 and the removeable plug 338 are removable. The powder reservoir 350 and the removeable funnel 336 are fluidically connected, and both can be filled with powder.

[0173] When the powder dispenser 304 is assembled, the upper portion 337 of the removeable funnel 336 is supported by the mounting base 352. The mounting base includes an opening 370 (shown in Figure 10), which allows for powder to exit through the outlet of the funnel 336. The mounting base 352 has the same shape as the upper portion of the funnel 336, including a sloped portion 339, where the sloped portion slopes upwards from the opening 370.

[0174] The funnel 336 is attached to the mounting base 352 with a living hinge (not shown), such that the funnel can be removed from the mounting base. The powder reservoir 350 attaches to the funnel via a pair of clips 356, which can be opened to separate the powder reservoir 350 from the funnel 336.

[0175] The powder reservoir 350, funnel 336 and plug 338 can be removed from the powder dispenser together, as the reservoir 350 is clipped to the funnel 336, and the plug is contained within the funnel 336. When removed from the powder dispenser 304, the plug 338 seals the funnel 336 such that no powder leaks from the outlet of the funnel 336. The powder reservoir 350 can then be turned upside-down, the funnel 336 and plug 338 removed, and the reservoir 350 filled with powder. The funnel 336 and plug 338 can then be placed on the top of the powder reservoir 350, the clips 356 attached to the funnel 336, and the powder reservoir 350 reoriented for placing back into the powder dispenser 304.

[0176] The mounting base 352 is surrounded by a plurality of fasteners 353. These attach the mounting base to the appliance, such that a user of the powder dispenser cannot remove the mounting base 352 when lifting out the funnel 336 and the reservoir 350.

[0177] An actuator 355 is arranged below the mounting base 352, and is arranged to receive the funnel 336 when it is placed into the powder dispenser. A protective ring 354 encircles the opening of the mounting base, which prevents a user from accessing the actuator 355 when the funnel 336 is removed from the powder dispenser 304.

[0178] The removeable funnel 336 is shown in Figure 9 in its natural (i.e. closed) state, i.e. when the powder dispenser is not in use. The removeable funnel 336 is fluidically connected to a powder reservoir 350, such that powder entering the powder reservoir 350 enters the removeable funnel 336, i.e. the powder reservoir 350 and the removeable funnel 336 act together as a repository for the powder. The removeable funnel 336 has an outlet 360, which allows for a dose of powder to flow out of the powder dispenser 304 and fall onto the weighing tray of the appliance.

[0179] The removeable funnel 336 is hourglass-shaped, including a wide upper portion 337 arranged to receive loose powder from the powder reservoir 350, and a wide lower portion 341. In between the upper portion 337 and lower portion 341 of the removeable funnel 336 is a constriction 340, which is the narrowest point of the removeable funnel 336. The upper portion 337, lower portion 341, and constriction 340 are arranged such that they are concentric about an axis, where the removeable funnel 336 is expanded parallel to the common axis of the hourglass of the removeable funnel 336.

[0180] The upper portion 337 of the removeable funnel 336 has a larger volume than the lower portion 341, such that the upper portion 337 is able to act as a powder repository.

[0181] A second rigid actuating ring 342 is attached to the lower portion 341 of the funnel 336. The second rigid actuating ring 342 is connected to the actuator 355 (e.g. as shown with reference to Figure 6), which is arranged to move the constriction 340 downwards, by moving the removeable funnel 336 from the natural state shown in Figure 9 (e.g. as described with reference to the expandable funnel 236 in Figures 4a and 4b), to an opened state (e.g. as described with reference to the expandable funnel 236 shown in Figures 5a and 5b).

[0182] The removeable plug 338 is shown as selectively sealing the constriction 340 of the removeable funnel 336. The plug 338 includes spokes 357 to allow the removeable plug 338 to rest above the funnel. When the expandable funnel 336 is in its natural state, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the removeable plug 338 blocks the constriction 340, such that the upper portion 337 is sealed and no powder is able to exit, and no air or moisture is able to enter the upper portion of the funnel 337, and hence the powder, through the outlet 360 or constriction 340.

[0183] The constriction 340 of the removeable funnel 336 has the same internal diameter as the outer diameter of the lower end of the removeable plug 338, such that when the funnel is in the natural state, the constriction 340 is arranged to form a seal around the removeable plug 338 and thus seals the upper portion 337.

[0184] The removeable plug 338 includes a stepped portion 359, to prevent the constriction 340 travelling too far up the plug when the plug is sealing the upper portion of the funnel.

[0185] When the removable funnel 336 is in its expanded position (e.g. as described with reference to the expandable funnel 236 shown in Figures 5a and 5b), the removeable plug 338 does not block the constriction 340, and powder is able to flow from the upper portion 337 to the lower portion 341 out of the constriction 340 and hence the outlet 343 of the removeable funnel 336. The removeable funnel 336 may be adjusted between its expanded and natural states to adjust the position of the constriction 340 relative to the removeable plug 338, in order to adjust the flow rate of the powder from the third powder dispenser 304 through the outlet 360.

[0186] The removeable funnel 336 is made of an elastomeric material, such that the removeable funnel 336 can be moved between a natural state shown in Figures 8 and 9, and an expanded position by elastically deforming. This allows for the constriction 340 of the removeable funnel 336 to be moved relative to the removeable plug 338, to selectively seal and unseal the upper portion 337.

[0187] A directing portion 358 is attached to the inside of the lower portion 341 of the removeable funnel 336, such that the directing portion 358 is concentric to the lower portion 341. The directing portion 358 includes an inlet to the constriction 340, and the outlet 360 of the removeable funnel 336. When powder is dispensed from the third powder dispenser 304, the powder exits from the upper portion 337 of the removeable funnel 336 through the constriction 340, then through the directing portion 358 to the outlet 360. The directing portion 358 channels the powder downwards, so it exits the powder dispenser 304 substantially downwards. This prevents powder from scattering and not landing on the weighing tray of the appliance.

[0188] The mounting base includes first, second, third and fourth vibrators (e.g. motors) 362, 364, 366, 368 attached to the underside of the mounting base 352, as shown in Figure 10.

[0189] The vibrators 362, 364, 366, 368 are arranged to be in contact with the outer surface of the mounting base 352. The mounting base 352 is in contact with the outer surface of the expandable funnel, e.g. the mounting base is moulded to be the same shape as the upper portion of the funnel. The mounting base may be made of an elastomeric material, such that the vibrators are arranged to vibrate the mounting base and thus the funnel 336, in order to assist the flow of powder towards the outlet 360 of the directing portion and help to break up any clumps in the powder. When the actuator translates the lower portion of the funnel to open the constriction, the upper portion of the funnel may be brought into better contact with the mounting base 352, such that the vibrations from the vibrators 362, 364, 366, 368 are better transmitted through the mounting base 352 to the funnel, to assist with the flow of powder.

[0190] The first, second, and third vibrators 362, 364, 366 are arranged to surround the opening 370 of the mounting base 352. The first, second, and third vibrators 362, 364, 366 are spaced around the opening 370 with a relative spacing of 90°. The first, second, and third vibrators 362, 364, 366 encourage the flow of powder through the constriction 340 of the funnel, by vibrating the regions of the mounting base 352 which are in contact with parts of the upper portion 337 of the funnel 336 closest to the constriction 340.

[0191] The fourth vibrator 368 is positioned at the opposite end of the mounting base 352 to the opening 370, underneath the sloped portion 339 of the mounting base 352. The fourth vibrator 368 encourages the flow of powder down the upper portion of the funnel 336 towards the constriction 340. The first, second, third and fourth vibrators 362, 364, 366, 368 are arranged to have an axis of oscillation perpendicular to the surface of the mounting base 352, and thus perpendicular to the surface of the funnel 336. This may allow for better transmission of vibrations through the mounting base 352 and 336 funnel to the powder, to better encourage the flow of powder and breaking up clumps of powder.

[0192] The mounting base 352 also includes a sensor 372. The sensor 372 detects the presence of the funnel, e.g. the sensor 372 is a proximity sensor. This may be transmitted to a processor within the appliance. For example, the appliance may not dispense any powder (e.g. the actuator may not operate) if the sensor 372 does not detect the funnel, e.g. if the funnel has not been correctly positioned within the powder dispenser.

[0193] Figures 11a and 11b show a fourth powder dispenser 404, including a second powder reservoir 450 with a moulded plug 474. The second powder reservoir 450 with the moulded plug 474 may be used instead of the removeable plug 338 and powder reservoir 350 in the third powder dispenser 304.

[0194] The second powder reservoir 450 clips to the funnel 436, such that when the second powder reservoir 450 is removed from the fourth powder dispenser 404, the moulded plug 474 and funnel 436 are removed at the same time. The powder reservoir can then be flipped over and the funnel 436 removed, for filling of the powder reservoir, without the need to remove an additional plug for filling. The moulded plug 474 also includes a stepped portion 476.

[0195] The powder dispenser described with reference to any of Figures 1-11 may be used in the second appliance 500 shown in Figure 12. The second appliance 500 includes a powder dispenser including a powder reservoir 550, and a water dispenser including a water reservoir 580. For example, the water dispenser dispenses heated water for making beverages e.g. baby formula using baby formula powder dispensed from the powder dispenser. The powder and water dispensers are controlled using a control panel 582. Beneath the powder dispenser is a powder weighing tray 584, and beneath the water dispenser is a water weighing tray 586. The powder weighing tray 584 weighs the dispensed powder, and the water weighing tray 586 weighs the dispensed water, such that accurate doses of powder and water may be dispensed. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention has been illustrated by describing one or more specific embodiments thereof, but is not limited to these embodiments; many variations and modifications are possible, within the scope of the accompanying claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A powder dispenser comprising: a funnel for dispensing a dose of powder through an outlet, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; a vibrator arranged to vibrate at least the upper portion of the funnel to assist with the flow of powder towards the constriction; a plug arranged in the constriction, wherein, in a natural state of the funnel, the constriction makes contact with the plug so as to seal off the upper portion; and an actuator arranged to move one of the lower portion and upper portion along the axis, relative to the other of the lower portion and upper portion, and thereby open the constriction relative to the plug so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet.

2. The powder dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is arranged to open the constriction to a varying degree in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet.

3. The powder dispenser of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a processor that is arranged to automatically control the actuator.

4. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the upper portion and lower portion are frustoconical e.g. the funnel is hourglass-shaped.

5. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the upper portion comprises a larger volume than the lower portion.

6. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the plug comprises a cylinder, and the constriction seals azimuthally around the plug.

7. The power dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the plug is tapered.

8. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the plug has an outer diameter that is substantially the same as the width of the constriction in the natural state of the funnel.

9. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the funnel is brought into contact with the vibrator when the actuator opens the constriction.

10. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the funnel is made of an elastomeric material.

11. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the actuator is arranged to elastically deform the funnel so as to open the constriction relative to the plug.

12. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the upper portion, lower portion, and constriction comprise a plurality of concentric rings.

13. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the funnel is removable.

14. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the plug is removable.

15. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, wherein the upper portion of the funnel is stiffened relative to the lower portion.

16. The powder dispenser of any preceding claim, further comprising a rigid element attached to the lower portion of the funnel.

17. The powder dispenser of claim 16, wherein the actuator pulls down on the rigid element to move the lower portion relative to the upper portion, and thereby open the constriction relative to the plug.

18. The powder dispenser as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lower portion of the funnel comprises an outer portion and a directing portion; wherein the directing portion is narrower than the outer portion; wherein the directing portion comprises an inlet to the constriction and the outlet of the funnel; and wherein the directing portion is arranged to restrict the flow of powder towards the outlet of the funnel to be substantially parallel to the axis of the funnel.

19. An appliance for dispensing and weighing a powder, comprising a powder dispenser as claimed in any preceding claim and a weighing system; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense a dose of a powder through the outlet of the funnel at an adjustable flow rate depending on an openness of the constriction; wherein the weighing system comprises: a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder that has been dispensed through the outlet; and a processor arranged to be programmed with a target weight; wherein the processor is arranged to compare the weight of the dispensed powder with the target weight; and wherein a comparison result from the processor is used to send a feedback signal to the powder dispenser for adjusting the flow rate by varying the openness of the constriction.

20. The appliance as claimed in claim 19, wherein the vibrator is arranged to adjust the vibration speed in response to the feedback signal.

21. The appliance as claimed in claim 19 or 20, wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to reduce the flow rate of powder through the outlet in response to the feedback signal as the weight of the dispensed powder approaches the target weight.

22. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 19 to 21 wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the outlet at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal.

23. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 19 to 22, wherein the actuator is arranged to adjust the funnel between the natural state and the expanded state in response to the feedback signal.

24. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 19 to 23, wherein the processor is arranged to calibrate the weighing system using a tare weight of an empty container placed on the weighing system.

25. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 19 to 24, wherein the processor is able to register when an empty container is placed on the weighing system.

26. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 19 to 25, comprising a user interface27. A powder dispenser comprising: a powder reservoir; a funnel for dispensing a dose of powder from the powder reservoir through an outlet, wherein the funnel is arranged in fluid communication with the powder reservoir; a mounting base arranged to receive the funnel thereon, wherein the mounting base comprises an opening arranged to align with the outlet of the funnel; one or more vibrators arranged in contact with the mounting base, wherein the vibrators are arranged to vibrate the mounting base and the outer surface of the funnel, to assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet; wherein the funnel and powder reservoir are removeable from the powder dispenser; wherein the funnel is arranged to be removeable from the powder reservoir to allow for filling of the powder reservoir with powder.

28. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 27, wherein one of the powder reservoir or funnel comprises attachment means to removably attach to the other of the powder reservoir or funnel.

29. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 27 or 28, wherein the mounting base comprises one or more living hinges arranged to attach the funnel to the mounting base.

30. The powder dispenser as claimed in any of claims 27 to 29, further comprising a plug, wherein the plug is arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet of the funnel.

31. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 30, wherein the plug is removeable.

32. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 30 or 31 , wherein the plug is comprised in the powder reservoir.

33. The powder dispenser as claimed in any of claims 30 to 32, wherein the plug is arranged to seal the funnel when the powder reservoir and the funnel are removed together from the powder dispenser.

34. The powder dispenser as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising an actuator arranged to selectively seal and unseal the outlet of the funnel.

35. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 34, wherein the actuator is arranged to move the funnel relative to a plug and thereby open the outlet relative to the plug so as to allow a flow of powder through the outlet.

36. The powder dispenser as claimed in any of claims 27 to 35, wherein the mounting base is made of an elastomeric material.

37. The powder dispenser as claimed in in any of claims 27 to 36, wherein one or more vibrators are arranged adjacent to the opening of the mounting base.

38. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 37, wherein the vibrators are equally spaced around the opening of the mounting base.

39. The powder dispenser as claimed in in any of claims 27 to 38, wherein the funnel and mounting base are each elongate in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis of the funnel, wherein the outlet of the funnel and opening of the mounting base is off-centre; wherein the mounting base comprises a sloped portion towards the outlet; wherein at least one vibrator is arranged near the opening of the mounting base; and wherein at least one vibrator is arranged adjacent to the sloped portion of the mounting base.

40. The powder dispenser as claimed in any of claims in any of claims 27 to 39, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; wherein the mounting base is arranged to support the upper portion of the funnel, wherein the opening of the mounting base is arranged to surround theconstriction, and the lower portion of the funnel is arranged below the mounting base; and the powder dispenser comprises an actuator arranged to move the lower portion along the axis, relative to the upper portion, and thereby open the constriction so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet.

41. The powder dispenser as claimed in claim 40, wherein the lower portion of the funnel comprises an outer portion and a directing portion; wherein the directing portion is narrower than the outer portion; wherein the directing portion comprises an inlet to the constriction and the outlet of the funnel; and wherein the directing portion is arranged to restrict the flow of powder towards the outlet of the funnel to be substantially parallel to the axis of the funnel.

42. The powder dispenser as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a vibration speed of the vibrators is varied in order to vary a rate of flow of powder through the outlet.

43. The powder dispenser as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the axis of vibration of the vibrators is arranged to be perpendicular to the contacting surface of the funnel.

44. An appliance for dispensing and weighing a powder, comprising a powder dispenser as claimed in any of claims 27 to 43 and a weighing system; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense a dose of a powder through the outlet of the funnel at an adjustable flow rate depending on an openness of the outlet; wherein the weighing system comprises: a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder that has been dispensed through the outlet; and a processor arranged to be programmed with a target weight; wherein the processor is arranged to compare the weight of the dispensed powder with the target weight; andwherein a comparison result from the processor is used to send a feedback signal to the powder dispenser for adjusting the flow rate through the outlet, by varying the openness of the outlet.

45. The appliance as claimed in claim 44, wherein the vibrators are arranged to adjust the vibration speed of the vibrators in response to the feedback signal.

46. The appliance as claimed in claim 44 or 45, wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to reduce the flow rate of powder through the outlet in response to the feedback signal as the weight of the dispensed powder approaches the target weight.

47. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 44 to 46, comprising an actuator arranged to vary the openness of the outlet in response to the feedback signal.

48. The appliance as claimed in claim 47, wherein the actuator is arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the outlet at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal.

49. The appliance as claimed in claim 47 or 48, wherein the actuator is arranged to adjust a position of the funnel from a first position to a second position in response to the feedback signal, wherein the outlet is sealed in one of the first position and second position, and wherein the outlet is unsealed in the other of the first position and second position.

50. The appliance as claimed in claim 49, wherein the powder dispenser further comprises a plug, wherein the outlet is sealed by the plug when the funnel is in one of the first and second positions.

51. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 44 to 46, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; and an actuator arranged to move the lower portion along the axis, relative to the upper portion, and thereby open the constriction so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet;wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to vary the openness of the constriction in response to the feedback signal.

52. The appliance as claimed in claim 51 , wherein the actuator is arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the constriction at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal.

53. The appliance as claimed in claim 51 or 52, wherein the actuator is arranged to adjust a state of the funnel between the natural state and an expanded state in response to the feedback signal, in order to vary the opening of the constriction and control a rate of flow of powder through the constriction.

54. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 44 to 53, wherein the processor is arranged to calibrate the weighing system using a tare weight of an empty container placed on the weighing system.

55. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 44 to 54, wherein the processor is able to register when an empty container is placed on the weighing system.

56. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 44 to 55, comprising a user interface.

57. An appliance for dispensing and weighing a powder, comprising a powder dispenser and a weighing system; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to dispense a dose of a powder through an outlet of a funnel at an adjustable flow rate depending on an openness of the outlet; wherein the weighing system comprises: a load cell arranged to weigh a dose of powder that has been dispensed through the outlet; and a processor arranged to be programmed with a target weight; wherein the processor is arranged to compare the weight of the dispensed powder with the target weight; and wherein a comparison result from the processor is used to send a feedback signal to the powder dispenser for adjusting the flow rate by varying the openness of the outlet.

58. The appliance as claimed in claim 57, wherein the powder dispenser comprises one or more vibrators arranged to vibrate the outer surface of the funnel to assist with the flow of powder towards the outlet.

59. The appliance as claimed in claim 58, wherein the vibrators are arranged to adjust the vibration speed of the vibrators in response to the feedback signal.

60. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 57 to 59, wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to reduce the flow rate of powder through the outlet in response to the feedback signal as the weight of the dispensed powder approaches the target weight.

61. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 57 to 60, comprising an actuator arranged to vary the openness of the outlet in response to the feedback signal.

62. The appliance as claimed in claim 61 , wherein the actuator is arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the outlet at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal.

63. The appliance as claimed in claim 61 or 62, wherein the actuator is arranged to adjust a position of the funnel from a first position to a second position in response to the feedback signal, wherein the outlet is sealed in one of the first position and second position, and wherein the outlet is unsealed in the other of the first position and second position.

64. The appliance as claimed in claim 63, wherein the powder dispenser further comprises a plug, wherein the outlet is sealed by the plug when the funnel is in one of the first and second positions.

65. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 57 to 60, wherein the funnel comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and a constriction arranged along an axis between the upper portion and lower portion; and an actuator arranged to move the lower portion along the axis, relative to the upper portion, and thereby open theconstriction so as to allow a flow of powder from the upper portion to the lower portion and towards the outlet; wherein the powder dispenser is arranged to vary the openness of the constriction in response to the feedback signal.

66. The appliance as claimed in claim 65, wherein the actuator is arranged to dispense the dose of powder through the constriction at an adjustable flow rate in response to the feedback signal.

67. The appliance as claimed in claim 65 or 66, wherein the actuator is arranged to adjust a state of the funnel between the natural state and an expanded state in response to the feedback signal, in order to vary the opening of the constriction and control a rate of flow of powder through the constriction.

68. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 57 to 67, wherein the processor is arranged to calibrate the weighing system using a tare weight of an empty container placed on the weighing system.

69. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 57 to 68, wherein the processor is able to register when an empty container is placed on the weighing system.

70. The appliance as claimed in any of claims 57 to 69, comprising a user interface.

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