Electric brewing machine comprising an infusion accessory equipped with a gripping member

The electric brewing machine addresses ergonomic and safety concerns by positioning the gripping member outside the container and using a sealing device to prevent water spillage, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

FR3160544A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-10-03SEB SA
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Patent Information

Application Number
FR2024003080
Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-03-27
Publication Date
2025-10-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing electric brewing machines face challenges in balancing ergonomic design, safety, and contamination prevention, particularly with infusion accessories that have gripping parts located under the cover, which can lead to user burns and water spillage risks.

Method used

The electric brewing machine features a gripping member positioned outside the container, connected via a sealing device that ensures safe handling and minimizes water spillage, with additional steam evacuation conduits to prevent overflow.

Benefits of technology

The configuration enhances user safety by preventing burns and reducing water spillage, while maintaining ergonomic design and efficient operation.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The electric brewing machine comprises a container (4) delimiting an internal volume (5); an infusion accessory (39) comprising a main body (41) arranged in the internal volume (5) and a gripping member (49) fixed to the main body (41); and a cover (11) configured to close the container (4) and cover the infusion accessory (39). The gripping member (49) comprises a gripping portion (51) configured to be located outside the electric brewing machine (2), and a connecting portion (52) mechanically connecting the gripping portion (51) to the main body (41) and configured to extend between the cover (11) and the container (4). The electric brewing machine (2) comprises a sealing device (55) configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the container (4) and the gripping member (49). Figure 5
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Description

Title of the invention: Electric infusion machine comprising an infusion accessory equipped with a gripping member Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electric brewing machines, and in particular electric kettles and electric teapots. State of the art

[0002] An electric brewing machine comprises in a known manner:

[0003] - a container delimiting an internal volume intended to contain water and in which the water is intended to be heated and in particular brought to a boil,

[0004] - a grip handle attached to the container,

[0005] - a pouring spout located opposite the grip handle relative to an axis central longitudinal of the container,

[0006] - an infusion accessory, such as an infusion basket, comprising a main body configured to be arranged at least partly in the internal volume of the container, the main body delimiting an infusion volume configured to contain a product to be infused, and comprising an upper opening through which the product to be infused is capable of being introduced into the infusion volume, and

[0007] - a cover configured to cover the infusion accessory and to close the container.

[0008] In order to facilitate the removal of the infusion accessory from the container, the infusion accessory is advantageously provided with a gripping portion capable of being manipulated by a user.

[0009] The gripping part is more particularly configured to be fully arranged in the internal volume delimited by the container, and therefore to be located under the cover.

[0010] In order, on the one hand, to limit the contamination of the water by possible contaminants present on the gripping part and, on the other hand, to limit the risks of burning a user when removing the infusion accessory from the container, it is preferable that the gripping part equipping the infusion accessory can be kept outside the water contained in the container, including when the latter is filled to its maximum filling level.

[0011] However, in order to meet the two aforementioned criteria with an infusion accessory equipped with a gripping part arranged in an upper part of the infusion accessory and intended to be located entirely under the cover, it is necessary either to increase the height of the container, which is detrimental to the height of this latter, or to reduce the size of the gripping part, which affects the handling of the infusion accessory. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks.

[0013] The technical problem underlying the invention consists in particular in providing an electric infusion machine which is of simple, ergonomic and economical structure, while presenting a high degree of safety of use.

[0014] To this end, the present invention relates to an electric brewing machine, and in particular an electric kettle or an electric teapot, comprising:

[0015] - a container delimiting an internal volume intended to contain water and in which the water is intended to be heated, the container comprising an upper peripheral edge delimiting an upper filling opening opening into the internal volume,

[0016] - a gripping handle attached to the container,

[0017] - a pouring spout,

[0018] - an infusion accessory, such as an infusion basket, which is removable from the container, the infusion accessory comprising: • a main body configured to be arranged at least partly in the internal volume of the container, the main body delimiting an infusion volume configured to contain a product to be infused, such as tea, coffee or plants, and • a gripping member attached to an upper portion of the main body and comprising a gripping portion configured to allow a user to manipulate the infusion accessory, and for example to remove the infusion accessory from the container, and

[0019] - a cover configured to occupy a closed position in which the cover closes the container and at least partially covers the infusion accessory, the cover comprising a lower face configured to be located opposite the main body of the infusion accessory,

[0020] the gripping portion is configured to be located at least partly outside the electric brewing machine, i.e. to be accessible from outside the electric brewing machine, when the lid occupies the closed position, the gripping member comprises a connecting portion fixed to the upper part of the main body and mechanically connecting the gripping portion to the main body, the connecting portion being configured to extend between the lid and the container when the lid occupies the closed position, and the electric brewing machine comprises a sealing device configured to cooperate in a manner sealed with the container and the gripping member when the lid is in the closed position.

[0021] Such a configuration of the gripping member, and in particular the fact that the gripping part is located outside the electric brewing machine and therefore at a distance from the high temperature water contained in the container, substantially limits the risks of burning a user when removing the brewing accessory from the container.

[0022] Furthermore, the specific configuration of the sealing device significantly reduces the risks of boiling water flowing outside the container, for example in the event of the container being overturned (due to the fact that the sealing device is capable of cooperating in a sealed manner with the gripping member).

[0023] The electric brewing machine may further have one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, the main body comprises a support part, for example annular, configured to rest on a retaining part, for example annular, provided on the container.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support portion is configured to extend substantially perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of the container when the support portion rests on the retaining portion.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the support part is in sealed support against the retaining part when the infusion accessory is associated with the container and the lid is in the closed position.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the support part comprises a shoulder suitable for cooperating with the retaining part when the infusion accessory is associated with the container and for ensuring a seal between the support part and the retaining part, in particular when the lid is in the closed position.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cover is capable of exerting a bearing force on the main body when the cover is in the closed position, such that the bearing part exerts a bearing effect against the retaining part.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the invention, the sealing device comprises a first annular seal and a second annular seal which are configured to be offset relative to each other along a central longitudinal axis of the container when the lid occupies the closed position. Such a configuration of the sealing device further limits the risk of water flowing between the lid and the container, for example in the event of the container being overturned.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first annular seal and the second annular seal are fixed to the cover.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first annular seal is attached to a lower portion of the cover, and the second annular gasket is attached to an upper portion of the cover.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first annular seal extends around the lower portion of the cover, and the second annular seal extends around the lower portion of the cover.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first annular seal and the second annular seal extend substantially coaxially with respect to each other, and for example substantially coaxially with a central axis of the cover.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first annular seal is configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the main body of the infusion accessory, and for example with the bearing part provided on the main body, when the lid occupies the closed position, and the second annular seal is configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the container and the gripping member, and for example the connecting part or the gripping part, when the lid occupies the closed position. Such a configuration of the sealing device further limits the risk of water flowing between the lid and the container, for example in the event of the container being overturned.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second annular seal is configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the upper peripheral edge of the container and the gripping member when the lid occupies the closed position.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping member has a general L-shape.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping member, and for example the gripping portion, is configured to extend between the lid and the upper peripheral edge of the container.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, the connecting portion is configured to extend at least partially between an outer peripheral surface of the lid and an inner peripheral surface of the container.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the container comprises a receiving recess configured to at least partially house the connecting part. In other words, the container comprises a hollow receiving area configured to at least partially house the connecting part. The arrangement of the connecting part in such a receiving recess makes it possible to position the lid as close as possible to the container, and therefore further limits the risk of water flowing between the lid and the container, for example in the event of the container being overturned.

[0040] Advantageously, the receiving recess is provided in a rear part of the container, and for example near the grip handle.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, the receiving recess opens at least partly into an internal peripheral surface of the container configured to be located opposite an external peripheral surface of the lid when the lid occupies the closed position.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the invention, the receiving recess opens at least partly into the upper peripheral edge of the container.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the invention, the connecting portion is configured to extend substantially vertically when the container rests on a horizontal surface.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the receiving recess comprises a first receiving portion opening into the internal peripheral surface of the container, and a second receiving portion opening into the upper peripheral edge of the container. The first receiving portion is for example configured to at least partially house the connecting portion, and the second receiving portion is for example configured to partially house the gripping portion.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the invention, the connecting portion is configured to be substantially flush or to be located set back from the internal peripheral surface of the container.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the invention, the portion of the gripping part housed in the receiving recess, and for example in the second receiving part, is configured to be substantially flush or to be located set back from the upper peripheral edge of the container.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the receiving recess comprises an additional seal capable of cooperating with the gripping member when the infusion accessory is associated with the container.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping part is a gripping tab.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lid comprises an annular bearing surface against which the second annular seal bears, the annular bearing surface being configured to be oriented towards the upper peripheral edge of the container when the lid occupies the closed position.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping member is configured to extend at least partly between the annular bearing surface provided on the lid and the upper peripheral edge of the container.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second annular seal is configured to bear on the gripping member, and for example on the gripping part.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping portion is configured to extend towards the rear of the electric brewing machine, and for example opposite the pouring spout.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the invention, the container has a central longitudinal axis, and the pouring spout is configured to be located opposite the grip handle relative to the central longitudinal axis of the container.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the invention, the infusion accessory comprises an upper opening through which the product to be infused is able to be introduced into the infusion volume.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the invention, the gripping portion is configured to be laterally offset relative to the upper opening. Such a configuration of the gripping device ensures easy introduction of the product to be infused into the infusion volume (and also easy removal of the infused product from the infusion volume).

[0056] According to one embodiment of the invention, the main body comprises an infusion part delimiting the infusion volume. Advantageously, the infusion part has a generally cylindrical shape.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine comprises an angular indexing device, also called a keying device, configured to angularly index the brewing accessory relative to the container, so as to define a single position for retaining the brewing accessory on the container.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine comprises a steam evacuation circuit configured to convey, outside the internal volume and for example towards the outside of the electric brewing machine, steam generated in the internal volume when the water contained in the internal volume boils.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the invention, the steam evacuation circuit comprises:

[0060] - a first steam inlet and a second steam inlet steam which are provided on the lid and which open into the lower face of the lid, the first and second steam inlet orifices being configured to be fluidically connected to the internal volume delimited by the container, and for example to be located above a maximum filling level of the container, and to be arranged on either side of a median vertical plane of the electric brewing machine which passes through the grip handle,

[0061] - an internal chamber delimited by the cover, and

[0062] - a first steam flow conduit comprising a first opening steam inlet fluidly connected to the first steam inlet and a first steam outlet opening opening into the internal chamber, and a second steam flow conduit comprising a second steam inlet opening fluidly connected to the second steam inlet and a second steam outlet opening opening into the internal chamber.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam flow conduits form an anti-spill device, also called an anti-overflow device, configured to prevent spillage of the water contained in the internal volume via the steam discharge circuit when the electric brewing machine is overturned.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the invention, the steam discharge circuit comprises at least one steam discharge opening, and for example one or more steam discharge opening(s), provided on the cover and fluidically connected to the internal chamber delimited by the cover, the at least one steam discharge opening being configured to allow discharge of the steam contained in the internal chamber to the outside of the cover and for example to the outside of the electric brewing machine.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one steam discharge opening is configured to be located near the pouring spout.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine is configured such that, when the electric brewing machine is inverted and the gripping handle and a first lateral side of the container are resting stably on a horizontal surface, the first steam inlet is located above the water level in the internal volume, and such that, when the electric brewing machine is inverted and the gripping handle and a second lateral side of the container are resting stably on a horizontal surface, the second steam inlet is located above the water level in the internal volume. Thus, the electric brewing machine according to the present invention makes it possible to avoid or at least considerably limit the risks of boiling water flowing out of the electric brewing machine in the event of the latter being overturned.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine is configured such that, when the electric brewing machine is inverted and the gripping handle and a first lateral side of the container are stably resting on a horizontal surface, the first steam inlet and the second steam outlet opening are located above the water level in the internal volume, and such that, when the electric brewing machine is inverted and the gripping handle and a second lateral side of the container rest stably on a horizontal surface, the second steam inlet and the first steam outlet opening are located above the water level in the internal volume.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam outlet openings are configured to be arranged on either side of the median vertical plane of the electric brewing machine.

[0069] According to another embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam outlet openings are located in a rear half of the internal chamber. Such an arrangement of the first and second steam outlet openings limits the risks of water flowing into the lid (via the first and second steam inlet ports and the first and second steam flow conduits) when a user pours boiling water into a container by tilting the electric brewing machine forward and downward. In addition, when the electric brewing machine comprises an electromechanical control system, such an architecture makes it possible to facilitate the transfer of steam to the grip handle and to an electromechanical control system of the electric brewing machine located in the lower part and capable of deactivating the heating of the electric brewing machine when it detects steam.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam outlet openings are configured to face away from the spout, i.e., toward the rear of the electric brewing machine. These arrangements further limit the risks of water flowing into the lid (via the first and second steam inlet ports and the first and second steam flow conduits) when a user pours boiling water into a container by tilting the electric brewing machine forward and downward.

[0071] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam flow conduits are housed in the internal chamber delimited by the cover.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam inlet ports are located in a front half of the lower face of the cover.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam inlet orifices are located near a peripheral edge of the lower face of the cover. Such an arrangement of the first and second steam inlet orifices further limits the risks of boiling water flowing out of the electric brewing machine in the event of the latter being overturned.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lid is configured to be arranged at the upper filling opening.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the invention, the container comprises the pouring spout.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cover is removable from the container.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine comprises a fixing device configured to removably fix, i.e. temporarily and reversibly, the lid to the container.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the invention, the fixing device comprises at least one fixing member, such as a fixing lug or a fixing finger, provided on the lid and at least one fixing element, such as a fixing housing, provided on the container, the at least one fixing member being configured to occupy a fixing position in which the at least one fixing member is configured to cooperate with the at least one fixing element so as to fix the lid to the container, and a release position in which the at least one fixing member is configured to release the at least one fixing element so that the lid can be removed from the container.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one fixing member is mounted to move relative to the cover between the fixing position and the release position.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the invention, the fixing device comprises a return member, such as a return spring, configured to return the at least one fixing member to the fixing position.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine comprises an actuating mechanism provided on the cover and configured to move the at least one fixing member into the release position when the actuating mechanism is actuated by a user.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the invention, the actuating mechanism comprises an actuating member which can be manually actuated by a user and which is configured to move the at least one fixing member from the fixing position to the release position, the actuating member being mounted to move between a first actuating position and a second actuating position, the actuating member and the at least one fixing member being configured such that a movement of the actuating member from the first actuating position to the second actuating position causes a movement of the at least one fixing member from the fixing position to the release position. Such a configuration of the actuating mechanism allows a user to be able to remove the cover by simply actuating the actuating mechanism.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the invention, the cover comprises a pouring conduit configured to convey water contained in the internal volume towards the pouring spout, the electric brewing machine comprising a shutter mounted movably on the lid between a closed position in which the shutter closes the pouring conduit and prevents water from flowing through the pouring conduit and an open position in which the shutter releases the pouring conduit and allows water to flow through the pouring conduit. Such a configuration of the lid considerably limits the risk of water flowing through the pouring spout when the electric brewing machine is tipped over.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pouring conduit comprises a water inlet opening opening into the lower face of the cover and a water outlet opening opening into an external peripheral surface of the cover.

[0085] According to one embodiment of the invention, the at least one steam discharge opening is located close to the water outlet opening.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electric brewing machine comprises an actuation system provided on the cover and configured to move the shutter between the open position and the closed position.

[0087] According to one embodiment of the invention, the actuation system comprises an actuation button actuable by a user and movable between a first button position and a second button position, the actuation system being configured such that a movement, by a user, of the actuation button from the first button position to the second button position causes a movement of the shutter from the shutter position to the open position.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the invention, the container comprises a heating base located under the internal volume and configured to heat the water contained in the internal volume.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second steam flow conduits are formed respectively by first and second steam flow tubes. Advantageously, each of the first and second steam flow tubes is formed in one piece and is a single piece. Brief description of the figures

[0090] The invention will be better understood with the aid of the description which follows with reference to the appended schematic drawings representing, by way of non-limiting example, an embodiment of this electric infusion machine.

[0091] [Fig-1] is a perspective view from above of an electric brewing machine according to the invention.

[0092] [Fig.2] is a partial top perspective view of the electric brewing machine of [Fig.l].

[0093] [Fig.3] is a partial perspective view from above of a container belonging to the electric brewing machine of [Fig.l].

[0094] [Fig.4] is a longitudinal sectional view of the electric brewing machine of [Fig.l].

[0095] [Fig.5] is a view, on an enlarged scale, of a detail of [Fig.4].

[0096] [Fig.6] is a top perspective view of a cover of the brewing machine electric of [Fig.l].

[0097] [Fig.7] is a top perspective view of the cover of [Fig.6].

[0098] [Fig.8] is a perspective view from below of the cover of [Fig.6].

[0099] [Fig.9] is a partial perspective view from above of the cover of [Fig.6].

[0100] [Fig. 10] is a partial perspective view from above of the cover of [Fig.6].

[0101] [Fig. 11] is a perspective view from below of the cover of [Fig.6] and of an ac infusion accessory belonging to the electric infusion machine of [Fig.l].

[0102] [Fig. 12] is a top view of the infusion accessory of [Fig. 11].

[0103] [Fig. 13] is a top perspective view of the infusion accessory of [Fig. 11]

[0104] [Fig. 14] is a partial side view of the electric brewing machine of [Fig.l] showing the electric brewing machine inverted on a horizontal surface and occupying a stable position in which a grip handle of the electric brewing machine and the left lateral side of the container rest on the horizontal surface.

[0105] [Fig. 15] is a partial side view of the electric brewing machine of [Fig.l] showing the electric brewing machine inverted on a horizontal surface and occupying a stable position in which a gripping handle of the electric brewing machine and the right lateral side of the container are supported on the horizontal surface. Detailed description

[0106] It will be noted that in this document, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “lower”, “upper”, “front”, “rear” and “longitudinal” used to describe the electric brewing machine refer to this electric brewing machine in use, when it is resting flat on a work surface.

[0107] Figures 1 to 15 represent an electric brewing machine 2, and in particular an electric kettle, according to the invention.

[0108] In the remainder of the description, the term “electric brewing machine” means a device intended to heat water to a temperature above 50°C, preferably above 70°C, and allowing a product to be brewed to be brewed.

[0109] The electric brewing machine 2 comprises a support base (not shown in the figures) configured to be electrically powered by a power cord, and a container 4 configured to rest on the support base.

[0110] The container 4 has a central longitudinal axis A configured to extend substantially vertically when the container 4 rests on a horizontal surface. Advantageously, the container 4 has a general shape of revolution around the central longitudinal axis A.

[0111] The container 4 delimits an internal volume 5 intended to contain water and in which the water is intended to be heated and in particular brought to a boil. The container 4 further comprises an upper filling opening 6 opening into the internal volume 5.

[0112] The container 4 further comprises a heating base 7 located under the internal volume 5 and configured to heat the water contained in the internal volume 5. In a known manner, the heating base 7 houses an electrical heating element configured to be electrically powered when the container 4 rests on the support base.

[0113] The electric brewing machine 2 further comprises a gripping handle 8 fixed to the container 4, and a pouring spout 9 located opposite the gripping handle 8 relative to the central longitudinal axis A of the container 4. The pouring spout 9 may for example be provided on the container 4 and be located at the level of the upper filling opening 6.

[0114] The electric brewing machine 2 further comprises a cover 11 configured to occupy a closed position in which the cover 11 closes the container 4, and more particularly the upper filling opening 6. The cover 11 is provided with a lower face 12 configured to be located opposite the internal volume 5 of the container 4.

[0115] The electric brewing machine 2 further comprises a fixing device configured to removably fix, i.e. temporarily and reversibly, the cover 11 to the container 4.

[0116] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the fixing device comprises two fixing members 14 (see in particular figures 6, 7 and 9), such as fixing fingers, provided on the cover 11 and diametrically opposite. Each fixing member 14 is housed in the cover 11 and is configured to protrude from the cover 11 through a respective through opening 15 provided on the cover 11.

[0117] The fixing device further comprises two fixing elements 16 (see [Fig.2]), such as fixing housings, provided on an internal surface of the container 4 and located near the upper filling opening 6. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the fixing members 14 are more particularly configured to respectively penetrate into the fixing elements 16 when the cover 11 is attached to the container 4.

[0118] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the fixing members 14 are slidably mounted relative to the cover 11 in a sliding direction and between a fixing position in which each fixing member 14 is configured to cooperate with the respective fixing element 16 so as to fix the cover 11 to the container 4, and a release position in which each fixing member 14 is configured to release the respective fixing element 16 so that the cover 11 can be removed from the container 4. Advantageously, the sliding direction extends substantially radially relative to a central axis of the cover 11.

[0119] The fixing device may further comprise two return members 17 (see [Fig.9]) housed in the cover 11 and configured to return the fixing members 14 respectively into the fixing position.

[0120] As shown more particularly in Figures 1 and 6, the electric infusion machine 2 comprises an actuating mechanism 18 provided on the cover 11 and configured to move the fixing members 14 into the release position when the actuating mechanism 18 is actuated by a user.

[0121] The actuating mechanism 18 more particularly comprises two actuating members 19 (see FIGS. 1 and 9) which can be manually actuated by a user and which are configured to move the fixing members 14 from the fixing position to the release position. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the actuating members 19 respectively comprise two manipulation parts 21 which are accessible from an upper face of the cover 11 and which are configured to be manipulated by a user.

[0122] The actuating members 19 are slidably mounted relative to the cover 11 between a first actuating position and a second actuating position, and the actuating members 19 and the fixing members 14 are configured such that a movement of the actuating members 19 from the first actuating position to the second actuating position causes a movement of the fixing members 14 from the fixing position to the release position. Advantageously, each actuating member 19 and the respective fixing member 14 are fixed to each other (and therefore integral in movement), and the two actuating members 19 are configured to move the fixing members 14 into the release position by pinching the two handling parts 21, i.e. by bringing the two handling parts 21 closer to each other.

[0123] The cover 11 further comprises a pouring conduit 24 (see [Fig.5]) configured to convey water contained in the internal volume 5 to the pouring spout 9. The pouring conduit 24 more particularly comprises an inlet opening water outlet 25 opening into a front half of the lower face 12 of the cover 11, and a water outlet opening 26 opening into an external peripheral surface of the cover 11 and intended to be located substantially opposite the pouring spout 9 when the cover 11 is fixed to the container 4.

[0124] The electric brewing machine 2 further comprises a shutter 27 (see Figures 4, 5 and 8) movably mounted on the cover 11 between a shutter position in which the shutter 27 closes the pouring conduit 24 and prevents a flow of water through the pouring conduit 24, and an open position in which the shutter 27 releases the pouring conduit 24 and allows a flow of water through the pouring conduit 24.

[0125] The electric brewing machine 2 further comprises an actuation system provided on the cover 11 and configured to move the shutter 27 between the open position and the closed position. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the actuation system comprises an actuation button 28 actuable by a user and movable between a first button position and a second button position, the actuation system being configured such that a movement, by a user, of the actuation button 28 from the first button position to the second button position causes a movement of the shutter 27 from the closed position to the open position.

[0126] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the actuation system comprises a bistable control device 29, for example of the ballpoint pen type, configured such that a movement, by a user, of the actuation button 28 from the first button position to the second button position causes a movement of the shutter 27 from the shutter position to the open position, and such that a movement, by a user, of the actuation button 28 from the second button position to the first button position causes a movement of the shutter 27 from the open position to the shutter position. The first and second button positions therefore correspond to stable positions of the actuation button 28.

[0127] The electric brewing machine 2 also comprises a steam evacuation circuit configured to convey, outside the internal volume 5 and for example towards the outside of the electric brewing machine 2, steam generated in the internal volume 5 during boiling of the water contained in the internal volume 5.

[0128] The steam discharge circuit comprises in particular a first steam inlet orifice 33 and a second steam inlet orifice 34 which are provided on the cover 11 and which open into the lower face 12 of the cover 11 and close to a peripheral edge of the lower face 12 of the cover 11. When the cover 11 is fixed to the container 4 and the latter rests on a surface ho rizontale, the first and second steam inlet orifices 33, 34 open into the internal volume 5 delimited by the container 4 and above a maximum filling level of the container 4.

[0129] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second steam inlet orifices 33, 34 are arranged on either side of a median vertical plane P of the electric brewing machine 2 which passes through the pouring spout 9 and the gripping handle 8, and are located in the front half of the lower face 12 of the cover 11. Advantageously, the first and second steam inlet orifices 33, 34 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the median vertical plane P of the electric brewing machine 2.

[0130] As shown more particularly in Figures 8, 10, 14 and 15, the steam evacuation circuit also comprises:

[0131] - an internal chamber 35 delimited by the cover 11,

[0132] - a first steam flow conduit 36 ​​comprising a first opening steam inlet fluidly connected to the first steam inlet orifice 33 and a first steam outlet opening 360 opening into the internal chamber 35 delimited by the cover 11, and

[0133] - a second steam flow conduit 37 comprising a second steam inlet opening fluidly connected to the second steam inlet 34 and a second steam outlet opening 370 opening into the internal chamber 35.

[0134] The first and second steam flow conduits 36, 37 form an anti-spill device, also called an anti-overflow device, configured to prevent spillage of the water contained in the internal volume 5 via the steam discharge circuit when the electric brewing machine 2 is overturned.

[0135] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, and in particular as visible in [Fig. 5], the first and second steam flow conduits 36, 37 are flexible and are housed in the internal chamber 35. The first and second steam flow conduits 36, 37 may for example be formed respectively by first and second steam flow tubes which are advantageously formed in one piece and therefore in one piece. The first and second steam flow conduits 36, 37 may for example be configured to extend substantially horizontally when the container 4 rests on a horizontal surface.

[0136] Advantageously, each of the first and second steam flow conduits 36, 37 has a cross-section which is circular and a passage section which is substantially constant along its length.

[0137] The first and second steam outlet openings 360, 370 are more particu fully configured to be arranged on either side of the median vertical plane P of the electric brewing machine 2, and advantageously to be arranged symmetrically with respect to the median vertical plane P of the electric brewing machine 2.

[0138] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first and second steam outlet openings 360, 370 are located in a rear half of the internal chamber 35, and are configured to be oriented substantially opposite the spout 9, i.e. towards the rear of the electric brewing machine 2.

[0139] As shown more particularly in Figures 14 and 15, the electric brewing machine 2 is more particularly configured:

[0140] - such that when the electric brewing machine 2 is overturned and the gripping handle 8 and a first lateral side, namely the left side, of the container 4 rest stably on a horizontal surface (see [Fig. 14]), the first steam inlet orifice 33 and the second steam outlet opening 370 are located above the water level in the internal volume 5, and

[0141] - such that when the electric brewing machine 2 is overturned and the gripping handle 8 and a second lateral side, namely the right side, of the container 4 rest stably on a horizontal surface (see [Fig. 15]), the second steam inlet opening 34 and the first steam outlet opening 360 are located above the water level in the internal volume 5.

[0142] Thus, the electric brewing machine 2 according to the present invention makes it possible to avoid or at least considerably limit the risks of boiling water flowing out of the electric brewing machine 2 in the event of the latter being overturned, while making it possible to optimize the maximum filling volume of the container 4.

[0143] The steam discharge circuit further comprises several steam discharge openings 38 provided on the cover 11 and fluidically connected to the internal chamber 35 delimited by the cover 11. The steam discharge openings 38 are configured to allow discharge of the steam contained in the internal chamber 35 to the outside of the electric brewing machine 2.

[0144] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the steam discharge openings 38 open into an external peripheral surface of the cover 11, and are located near the water outlet opening 26. The steam discharge openings 38 are therefore configured to be located near the pouring spout 9 when the cover 11 is attached to the container 4. Such a configuration of the electric brewing machine 2 allows steam to be discharged from the container 4 via the cover 11 and the pouring spout 9.

[0145] The electric brewing machine 2 further comprises an infusion accessory 39, such as an infusion basket, configured to be arranged at least partly in the volume internal 5 of the container 4, and more particularly to be at least partly immersed in the water contained in the internal volume 5. Advantageously, the infusion accessory 39 is removable relative to the container 4.

[0146] The infusion accessory 39 comprises a main body 41 configured to rest on a retaining portion 42 provided on the container 4 and to be arranged at least partly in the internal volume 5 of the container 4. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the retaining portion 42 is annular and is formed by an annular retaining rib provided on an internal peripheral surface of the container 4. Advantageously, the annular retaining rib extends circumferentially around the central longitudinal axis A. According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the annular retaining rib could be replaced for example by two diametrically opposite retaining ribs or by an annular retaining shoulder.

[0147] The main body 41 delimits an infusion volume 43 configured to contain a product to be infused, such as tea, coffee or plants, and comprises an upper opening 44 through which the product to be infused is able to be introduced into the infusion volume 43.

[0148] As shown in Figures 11 to 13, the main body 41 more particularly comprises a support portion 46, such as an annular support collar, configured to rest on the retaining portion 42 provided on the container 4 and to be located opposite the lower face 12 of the lid 11. Advantageously, the support portion 46 is substantially planar and is configured to extend substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A of the container 4 when the support portion 46 rests on the retaining portion 42.

[0149] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the support portion 46 is in sealed support against the retaining portion 42 when the infusion accessory 39 is associated with the container 4 and the lid 11 is in the closed position. Advantageously, the support portion 46 comprises a shoulder suitable for cooperating with the retaining portion 42 when the infusion accessory 39 is associated with the container 4 and for ensuring a seal between the support portion 46 and the retaining portion 42, in particular when the lid 11 is in the closed position. The lid 11 is more particularly suitable for exerting a bearing force on the main body 41 when the lid is in the closed position, such that the support portion 46 then exerts a bearing force against the retaining portion 42.

[0150] The main body 41 further comprises an infusion part 47 delimiting the infusion volume 43. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the infusion part 47 has a generally cylindrical shape, and comprises a tubular wall 47.1 of circular section and provided with an upper end delimiting the upper opening 44 and a lower end opposite the upper end upper, and a closing member 47.2 closing the lower end of the tubular wall 47.1.

[0151] Advantageously, the main body 41 comprises a passage opening 48 configured to be located opposite the shutter 27 and to allow the shutter 27 to move between the open position and the closed position.

[0152] As shown more particularly in Figures 2 and 13, the infusion accessory 39 further comprises a gripping member 49 fixed to an upper part of the main body 41. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the gripping member 49 has a general L-shape.

[0153] The gripping member 49 more particularly comprises a gripping portion 51, such as a gripping tab, configured to allow a user to manipulate the infusion accessory 39, and for example to remove the infusion accessory 39 from the container 4. The gripping portion 51 is more particularly configured to be located at least partly outside the electric infusion machine 2, that is to say to be accessible from outside the electric infusion machine 2, when the cover 11 occupies the closed position.

[0154] Advantageously, the gripping portion 51 is configured to extend towards the rear of the electric brewing machine 2, and for example opposite the pouring spout 9, and to be offset laterally relative to the upper opening 44.

[0155] The gripping member 49 further comprises a connecting part 52 fixed to the upper part of the main body 41 and mechanically connecting the gripping part 51 to the main body 4L.

[0156] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the connecting portion 52 is configured to extend between the outer peripheral surface of the cover 11 and the inner peripheral surface of the container 4, and the gripping portion 51 is configured to extend partially between the cover 11 and an upper peripheral edge 53 of the container 4.

[0157] As shown in particular in [Fig. 3], the container 4 comprises a receiving recess 54, forming a hollow receiving zone, configured to at least partially house the connecting part 52. Advantageously, the receiving recess 54 comprises a first receiving part 54.1 opening into the internal peripheral surface of the container 4 and housing the connecting part 52, and a second receiving part 54.2 opening into the upper peripheral edge 53 of the container 4 and partially housing the gripping part 51. Advantageously, the receiving recess 54 is provided in a rear part of the container 4, and for example in the vicinity of the gripping handle 8.

[0158] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the connecting portion 52 is configured to be substantially flush or to be located set back from the surface. inner peripheral edge of the container 4, and the portion of the gripping part 51, which is housed in the second receiving part 54.2, is configured to be substantially flush with or to be located set back from the upper peripheral edge 53 of the container 4.

[0159] The connecting part 52 may for example be configured to extend substantially vertically when the container 4 rests on a horizontal surface, and the portion of the gripping part 51, housed in the second receiving part 54.2, may for example be configured to extend substantially horizontally when the container 4 rests on a horizontal surface.

[0160] The electric infusion machine 2 also comprises a sealing device 55 configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the container 4 and the gripping member 49 when the cover 11 occupies the closed position.

[0161] The sealing device 55 more particularly comprises a first annular seal 56 and a second annular seal 57 which are configured to be offset relative to each other along a central longitudinal axis A of the container 4 when the lid 11 occupies the closed position.

[0162] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the first annular seal 56 is fixed to a lower part of the cover 11, and the second annular seal 57 is fixed to an upper part of the cover 11. Advantageously, the first annular seal 56 and the second annular seal 57 extend substantially coaxially to a central axis of the cover 11, and extend respectively around the lower part and the upper part of the cover 11.

[0163] The first annular seal 56 is more particularly configured to rest on and cooperate in a sealed manner with the main body 41 of the infusion accessory 39, and for example with the bearing part 46 provided on the main body 41, when the cover 11 occupies the closed position, and the second annular seal 57 is more particularly configured to rest on and cooperate in a sealed manner with the upper peripheral edge 53 of the container 4 and the gripping member 49, and for example the portion of the gripping part 51 which is housed in the receiving recess 54, when the cover 11 occupies the closed position.

[0164] In the absence of the infusion accessory 39, the first annular seal 56 is configured to rest on and cooperate in a sealed manner with the retaining portion 42, when the cover 11 occupies the closed position.

[0165] In the absence of the infusion accessory 39, the second annular seal 57 is configured to rest on and sealingly cooperate with the upper peripheral edge 53 and the receiving recess 54, when the cover 11 occupies the closed position.

[0166] As shown in [Fig. 5], the lid 11 comprises an annular bearing surface 58 against which the second annular seal 57 bears, the annular bearing surface 58 being configured to be oriented towards the upper peripheral edge 53 of the container 4 when the lid 11 occupies the closed position. Advantageously, the portion of the gripping part 51, which is housed in the receiving recess 54, is configured to extend between the annular bearing surface 58 provided on the lid 11 and the upper peripheral edge 53 of the container 4.

[0167] Alternatively, the first annular seal 56 and the second annular seal 57 are fixed to the container 4 and in particular respectively on the retaining part 42 and the upper peripheral edge 53.

[0168] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the electric infusion machine 2 further comprises an angular indexing device configured to angularly index the infusion accessory 39 relative to the container 4, so as to define a single position for retaining the infusion accessory 39 on the container 4 and therefore to ensure an optimal position of the infusion accessory 39 allowing movement of the cover 11 into the closed position.

[0169] As shown in Figures 3 and 11, the angular indexing device comprises at least one indexing element 59, such as an indexing boss, provided on the container 4, and at least one indexing member 61, such as an indexing housing, provided on the main body 41 and configured to cooperate with the at least one indexing element 59 when the main body 41 rests on the retaining portion 42.

[0170] According to another embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, the electric brewing machine 2 could comprise an electromechanical control device comprising a bimetallic element, and the steam discharge circuit could comprise at least one steam discharge opening 38 which is configured to direct the steam contained in the internal chamber 35 towards the bimetallic element, the electromechanical control device being configured such that an influx of steam onto the bimetallic element triggers a stoppage of the heating of the electric brewing machine 2.

[0171] The bimetallic element may for example be arranged in the gripping handle 8. In this case, the at least one steam discharge opening 38 is provided in a rear part of the cover 11 and is configured to be oriented towards the gripping handle 8.

[0172] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the bimetallic element could be arranged in a lower part of the container 4. In this case, the at least one steam discharge opening 38 is provided in a rear part of the cover 11 and is configured to be fluidly connected to a vapor tube which is arranged in the container 4 and which is fluidly connected to the bimetallic element.

[0173] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the receiving recess 54 comprises an additional seal capable of cooperating with the gripping member 49 when the infusion accessory 39 is associated with the container 4.

[0174] Of course, the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described and illustrated which have been given only as examples. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. Claims Electric brewing machine (2) including: - a container (4) delimiting an internal volume (5) intended to contain water and in which the water is intended to be heated, the container (4) comprising an upper peripheral edge (53) delimiting an upper filling opening opening into the internal volume, - a gripping handle (8) fixed to the container (4), - a pouring spout (9), - an infusion accessory (39) which is removable from the container (4), the infusion accessory (39) comprising: • a main body (41) configured to be arranged at least partly in the internal volume (5) of the container (4), the main body (41) delimiting an infusion volume (43) configured to contain a product to be infused, and • a gripping member (49) attached to an upper portion of the main body (41) and comprising a gripping portion (51) configured to allow a user to manipulate the infusion accessory (39), and - a cover (11) configured to occupy a closed position in which the cover (11) closes the container (4) and at least partially covers the infusion accessory (39), the cover (11) comprising a lower face (12) configured to be located opposite the main body (41) of the infusion accessory (39), characterized in that the gripping portion (51) is configured to be located at least partially outside the electric brewing machine (2) when the cover (11) occupies the closed position, in that the gripping member (49) comprises a connecting portion (52) fixed to the upper portion of the main body (41) and mechanically connecting the gripping portion (51) to the main body (41), the connecting portion (52) being configured to extend between the cover (11) and the container (4) when the cover (11) occupies the closed position,and in that the electric brewing machine (2) comprises a sealing device (55) configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the container (4) and the gripping member (49) when the cover (11) occupies the closed position.,

2. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 1, wherein the sealing device (55) comprises a first annular seal (56) and a second annular seal (57) which are configured to be offset relative to each other along a central longitudinal axis (A) of the container (4) when the lid (11) occupies the closed position.

3. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 2, wherein the first annular seal (56) and the second annular seal (57) are attached to the cover (11).

4. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 3, wherein the first annular seal (56) is attached to a lower portion of the cover (11), and the second annular seal (57) is attached to an upper portion of the cover (11).

5. An electric brewing machine (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the first annular seal (56) is configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the main body (41) of the brewing accessory (39) when the lid (11) occupies the closed position, and the second annular seal (57) is configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the container (4) and the gripping member (49) when the lid (11) occupies the closed position.

6. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 5, wherein the second annular seal (57) is configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the upper peripheral edge (53) of the container (4) and the gripping member (49) when the lid (11) occupies the closed position.

7. An electric brewing machine (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the container (4) comprises a receiving recess (54) configured to at least partially accommodate the connecting portion (52).

8. An electric brewing machine (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the connecting portion (52) is configured to extend at least partially between an outer peripheral surface of the lid (11) and an inner peripheral surface of the container (4).

9. An electric brewing machine (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the gripping portion (51) is configured to extend towards the rear of the electric brewing machine (2).

10. An electric brewing machine (2) according to any one of the claims- indications 1 to 9, which comprises an angular indexing device configured to angularly index the infusion accessory (39) relative to the container (4), so as to define a single position for retaining the infusion accessory (39) on the container (4).

11. An electric brewing machine (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which comprises a steam discharge circuit configured to convey, outside the internal volume (5), steam generated in the internal volume (5) during boiling of the water contained in the internal volume (5).

12. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 11, wherein the steam discharge circuit comprises: - a first steam inlet (33) and a second steam inlet (34) which are provided on the lid (11) and which open into the lower face (12) of the lid (11), the first and second steam inlet (33, 34) being configured to be fluidly connected to the internal volume (5) delimited by the container (4), and to be arranged on either side of a median vertical plane (P) of the electric brewing machine (2) which passes through the gripping handle (8), - an internal chamber (35) delimited by the lid (11), and - a first steam flow conduit (36) comprising a first steam inlet opening fluidly connected to the first steam inlet (33) and a first outlet opening of steam (360) opening into the internal chamber (35),and a second steam flow conduit (37) comprising a second steam inlet opening fluidly connected to the second steam inlet port (34) and a second steam outlet opening (370) opening into the internal chamber (35).,

13. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 12, wherein the steam discharge circuit comprises at least one steam discharge opening (38) provided on the cover (11) and fluidically connected to the internal chamber (35) delimited by the cover (11), the at least one steam discharge opening (38) being configured to allow discharge of the steam contained in the internal chamber (35) outside the cover (11).

14. An electric brewing machine (2) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the electric brewing machine (2) is configured such that when the electric brewing machine (2) is inverted and the gripping handle (8) and a first lateral side of the container (4) rest stably on a horizontal surface, the first steam inlet (33) is located above the water level in the internal volume (5), and such that, when the electric brewing machine (2) is overturned and the gripping handle (8) and a second lateral side of the container (4) rest stably on a horizontal surface, the second steam inlet (34) is located above the water level in the internal volume (5).

Citation Information

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