Pot for cooking

Abstract

A cooking pot 100, with a wall 110 and a base 120. The wall has thermal insulation, and the base does not. The wall may have a first layer 112 and a second layer 114, with the thermal insulation 116 i

Description

Field of the disclosure The present disclosure relates to a pot for cooking. Background to the Disclosure Pots for cooking have been used for millennia. The traditional design of a pot for cooking comprises a thermally conducting wall and a thermally conducting base. When such a pot is placed over a fire, heat is transferred via conduction into the pot through the side walls and the base to heat contents of the pot. When such a pot is used over a conventional heat source in a modern kitchen, there is a net loss of heat through the side walls of the pot, because conventional heat sources in modern kitchens such as gas hobs, electric hobs, and induction hobs, all provide heat only to the base of the pot. Since a combination of financial pressures and the climate crisis have rendered energy efficiency increasingly important, interest in more energy efficient methods of cooking have grown. Such methods generally involve heating a traditional cooking pot until the contents reach a certain temperature, and then removing the pot from the heat and covering the pot on all sides to keep the contents warm in an insulation phase (also known as “passive cooking”). These methods are most commonly used when cooking ingredients such as dried pulses, which require long cooking times. However, these methods have several disadvantages. Firstly, it is possible for the temperature of the contents to fall below a safe level for prevention of bacteria growth, while remaining warm enough to encourage bacteria growth. Given the long duration of time in which the pot is kept warm, if the temperature of the pot falls such as to allow bacteria growth, by the time the pot is removed from the insulation the contents may already be unsafe to eat. Secondly, as the pot must generally be sealed during the insulated phase, this stage cannot be used to reduce down the contents by allowing steam to leave the pot. This means that these methods cannot be used where a reduction in the water content is required. Thirdly, it is difficult to monitor or adjust the temperature of the pot during the insulation phase, as the pot is generally covered such that the contents are not visible. This means that it is difficult to determine whether the food is fully cooked, whether the food needs to be returned to a heat source, or whether portions of the food, such as on the base of the pot, have been overheated. Fourthly, these methods are generally very time consuming, and the insulation phase often lasts several hours. It is therefore desirable to provide an alternative pot for more energy efficient cooking. Summary of the Disclosure According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is described: a pot for cooking, wherein the pot comprises: a base; a wall extending from the base, wherein the wall is provided with thermal insulation and the base is not provided with thermal insulation. The wall may be provided with thermal insulation such that the wall is more thermally insulated than the base. That is, the wall may be more thermally insulated than the base. The thermal insulation is preferably a layer of thermal insulation, such as a thermally insulating material. Said wall is preferably the outer wall of the pot. Said base is preferably the part of the pot which sits on a surface in use. Said pot is generally open-topped (in cases where a lid is not provided). According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is described: a pot for cooking, wherein the pot comprises: a base formed of a single layer of material; and a wall extending from the base, wherein the wall has a double-layered (or 'double-walled') structure being provided with thermal insulation between the layers. The base may not include such thermal insulation. It will be appreciated that heat may be transferred to the pot through the base of the pot (which has a low thermal resistance), while the insulation of the wall means that there is a high thermal resistance to transfer of heat through the wall. Advantageously, this may mean that less energy is required to heat contents of the pot, because more thermal energy is retained by the pot (and so is not lost to the environment) as compared to conventional cooking methods. Further, the insulation of the wall may render the outer surface of the side of the pot safe to touch, reducing the risk of burns when moving the pot during or after use. It will be appreciated that the pot (excluding a lid, if provided) is a single discrete article which is not normally disassembled by a user. The wall of the pot may comprise a first layer (of material) and a second layer (of material), wherein the thermal insulation is provided between the layers. Advantageously, providing insulation between the first and second layers means that forms of insulation may be used that are particularly effective in reducing transfer of heat. The base of the pot may be formed of a single layer (of material). The term ‘layer’ in this context should be understood to encompass a laminate comprising a plurality of sheets of material. The first layer may be positioned between a receiving space of the pot and the thermal insulation, and the second layer may be positioned between the thermal insulation and the outside of the pot, preferably wherein the first layer may be made of a thermally conducting material. The receiving space refers herein to the space defined by the pot for receiving contents. In other words, the first layer, facing inwards towards any contents put inside the pot, may be thermally conductive. Advantageously, this may render the heat distribution through any contents of the pot more uniform by allowing heat to be conducted up the inside of the wall, which may result in any food in the pot being cooked more evenly. In an example, the distance between the first layer and the second layer of the wall is greater than 5 mm. This means that a suitable thickness of thermal insulation may be provided between the layers, which may result in improved heat retention. The thermal insulation may comprise a (partial) vacuum, a foam or an air gap. The thermal insulation may insulate at least a major part of the wall. Preferably, said major part is the upper part of the wall (i.e. the part of the wall distal to the base). Optionally, the volume of thermal insulation (and / or the distance between the first and second layers of the wall) may be reduced proximate the base. For example, the volume of thermal insulation (and / or the wall (containing the thermal insulation)) may be tapered towards the base. Alternatively, the thermal insulation may not insulate a (minor) part of the wall proximate the base (in which case the shape of the wall may not change proximate the base, or the wall may be only single-layered (rather than double-layered) proximate the base). This may assist in avoiding overheating of the outer layer of the wall and / or the thermal insulation, which might otherwise affect the longevity of these components. Additionally, when the pot is used on an induction hob, having reduced volume of insulation or no insulation proximate to the base may reduce interaction (of the outer conductive layer of the pot) with the induction coil, which may improve the efficiency of heating of the pot contents. The thermal insulation may be integral to the pot. Advantageously, this means that the thermal insulation may be in better thermal contact with the pot, improving efficiency. The pot may further comprise a lid. A lid reduces heat losses further by reducing convection of air out of the pot. This may further improve the energy efficiency of the pot. At least a portion of the lid may comprise thermal insulation. Thermal insulation of the lid reduces heat loss through the lid by conduction or radiation. This may result in improved energy efficiency of the pot. The at least a portion of the lid may comprise a first layer (of material) and a second layer (of material), and wherein the thermal insulation is provided between the layers. The lid may comprise an outlet. The lid may comprise a channel providing a fluid connection between the outlet and the interior of the pot. The lid may further comprise a removable plug for blocking the outlet (preferably by fitting within, filling, and sealing the outlet). Removing the removable plug from the outlet allows steam to be released from the pot, and / or allows the contents of the potto be better viewed, while placing the removable plug on the outlet allows more heat to be retained by the pot. Advantageously, this may allow the user to achieve high energy efficiency through use of the lid while maintaining a watch on the contents, even if the lid is not optically transparent or has condensation obscuring the view. Additionally, allowing the release of steam through the lid (rather than by removing the lid entirely) means that some heat is still retained even when it is desired to evaporate off water from contents of the pot. In embodiments, the lid may be domed or conical, and the outlet may be positioned at an apex or peak of the lid. This allows steam to be funnelled towards the outlet Preferably, the removable plug comprises a conical or tapered portion, and / or an overhang or rim, which engages with the outlet so that the removable plug cannot fall through the outlet into the pot. The removable plug may be magnetically attracted to the outlet. The magnetic attraction between the removable plug and the outlet may be such that a user may lift the lid by lifting the plug. The magnetic attraction between the removable plug and the outlet may however be low enough to allow a user to manually remove the removable plug from the outlet without requiring excessive force. Advantageously, this means that the removable plug may be easily secured within the outlet. At least a portion of the lid may be at least substantially transparent. Optionally, the transparent portion of the lid may be distinct from the portion comprising thermal insulation. Advantageously, this allows the contents of the pot to be visually monitored without lifting the lid, and so without allowing heat to escape the pot. The upper part of the pot may comprise an angled portion configured to engage with a corresponding angled portion of the lid, preferably wherein the angled portion of the upper part of the pot corresponds with the tapered wall of the pot towards the base. In an example, the base is suitable for use with an induction hob. For example, the base may be made of carbon steel, stainless steel, or cast iron. As induction hobs are already energy efficient compared to gas or electric hobs, allowing the pot to be usable with an induction hob may further reduce the energy required to heat the pot. The pot may comprise at least one handle. The pot may comprise a single long handle. Advantageously, handles may facilitate movement of the pot. Preferably, the at least one handle is made from or covered by a thermally insulating material. This means that the handle does not heat up significantly in use, reducing the likelihood of burns from holding the pot. The at least one handle may be attached to the outer part of the wall. In an example, the pot comprises two handles, wherein a first handle is positioned diametrically opposite a second handle. This allows the pot to be lifted by a user holding both handles. Advantageously, this may allow the pot to be carried more ergonomically. In an example, the surface of the base on the outside of the pot is matte and / or a dark colour, preferably black. Matte and dark surfaces are better receivers of thermal radiation, so if the surface of the base is matte and / or a dark colour, it can better absorb heat from a heat source. This may improve efficiency. In an example, the surface of the base on the inside of the pot is matte and / or a dark colour, preferably black. As matte and dark surfaces are better emitters of thermal radiation, this increases the rate of thermal transport from the base of the potto contents of the pot. This may improve the heating of contents. In an example, a surface of the wall facing outward from the pot is reflective and / or a light colour, preferably a silver colour. As light and reflective surfaces are worse emitters of thermal radiation, this may reduce the rate of thermal transport through the wall, improving the energy efficiency of the pot In an example, an inner surface of the wall is reflective and / or a light colour, preferably a silver colour. According to a second aspect disclosed herein, there is provided: a kit of parts, comprising: a pot for cooking according to the first aspect; and a thermally insulating mat. The thermally insulating mat may be used with the pot after cooking, to reduce thermal transport from the base (so as to keep the content of the bowl warm for a longer duration (to reduce the need for reheating) and / or so as to promote carry-over cooking). Advantageously, this may allow the pot to be placed on surfaces with poor resistance to heat damage, such as plastic surfaces, which may otherwise warp or melt. It will be appreciated that the use of the pot, lid, and mat in combination may create a complete insulated vessel (being insulated around all sides), where such an insulated vessel may be assembled once the contents of the pot have been suitably heated (via the uninsulated base). Preferably, the thermally insulating mat comprises an upstanding rim and / or recess for receiving the pot. This may prevent the pot from sliding off the mat, improving stability, and may improve the insulation provided by the mat. Preferably, the thermally insulating mat is configured to be used with the pot during induction cooking. Preferably, the thermally insulating mat has a thickness of between 5 and 40 mm. Preferably, the thermally insulating mat may be made of reflective materials. For example, the thermally insulating mat may comprise a double walled plate, comprising (partial) vacuum or foam insulation in between the walls. Preferably, the kit further comprises a second thermally insulating mat, preferably wherein the second insulating mat is configured to be used with the insulating mat. A single thermally insulating mat, which may in examples be the first thermally insulating mat, may be used when the pot is used with an induction hob, to ensure that sufficient magnetic flux still reaches the base of the pot while providing some thermal insulation to the base. This thermally insulating mat may preferably have a thickness of between 5 and 20 mm. Another thermally insulating mat (which may in examples be the second insulating mat), or both thermally insulating mats stacked together, may be used when the pot is no longer being heated, in order to maximise insulation of the base. This allows the kit to be used for carry-over cooking methods (or otherwise may simply keep the contents warm for longer, which may reduce the need for reheating) as well as for improved thermal insulation during heating of the pot. At least the thermally insulating mat for use with an induction hob may be made of non-metallic materials, such as cork, so that the mat does not interact with the flux from the induction coil. Preferably, the thermally insulating mat comprises an engagement mechanism for engaging with the pot and / or an additional thermally insulating mat. More preferably, the engagement mechanism comprises one of: a magnet, a twist lock mechanism, grips, or a latch. As used herein, the term ‘insulation’ preferably connotes means for insulating; more preferably wherein said means for insulating is distinct / different to the material of the wall and / or base and / or pot. The term ‘insulation’ also preferably connotes a layer of insulation; wherein said layer may be a layer of material or a (partial) vacuum layer between surfaces (such as walls). As used herein, the term ‘wall’ preferably connotes a side wall of the pot. Preferably, the base and wall, in combination, form an open-topped container, i.e. the base and wall in combination form the pot. Reference to a singular ‘wall’ should also be understood to encompass a plurality of 'walls’. Any feature in one aspect of the disclosure may be applied to other aspects of the invention, in any appropriate combination. It should also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various features described and defined in any aspects of the disclosure can be implemented and / or supplied and / or used independently. The disclosure extends to methods and / or apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The disclosure will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Description of the Drawings Figure 1 shows a pot according to an embodiment of the present invention cut along a vertical plane through the pot; Figure 2A shows a front view of the pot shown in Figure 1 cut along the plane shown in Figure 1, and a lid suspended above the pot also cut along the plane shown in Figure 1; Figure 2B shows the pot and lid of Figure 2A with the lid fitted to the pot; Figure 3A shows the pot shown in Figure 1 cut along the plane shown in Figure 1, a further lid suspended above the pot also cut along the plane shown in Figure 1, and a removable outlet plug suspended above the lid; Figure 3B shows the pot, lid, and plug of Figure 3A with the lid fitted to the pot; Figure 3C shows the pot, lid, and plug of Figures 3A and 3B with the lid fitted to the pot and the plug fitted to the lid; Figure 4A shows the pot and lid as shown in Figure 2B, suspended above a thermally insulating mat; Figure 4B shows pot, lid, and thermally insulating mat as shown in Figure 4A, with the pot resting on the thermally insulating mat; Figure 5 shows a front view of a second pot cut along a vertical plane; Figure 6A shows the pot of Figure 5 and a lid, also cut along a vertical plane, suspended above the pot; Figure 6B shows the pot and lid of Figure 6A, with the lid fitted to the pot; Figure 7A shows the pot of Figure 5, a further lid suspended above the pot, and a removable plug suspended above the lid; Figure 7B shows the pot, lid and removable plug of Figure 7A, with the lid fitted to the pot; Figure 7C shows the pot, lid and removable plug of Figure 7A and 7B, with the lid fitted to the pot and the removable outlet fitted to the lid; Figure 8A shows the pot and lid of Figures 6A and 6B suspended above a thermally insulating mat; and Figure 8B shows the pot and lid of Figures 6A and 6B resting on a thermally insulating mat. Description of the preferred embodiments Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a pot 100 comprising a wall 110 and base 120. The wall 110 comprises a first layer 112 and a second layer 114, resulting in a double-walled construction defining a cavity within the side walls. Insulation 116 is provided within the cavity. The insulation may be an insulating material, such as a foam. Alternatively, the insulation may be a partial vacuum. It is known that heat may travel by convection, conduction, and radiation. Reducing the heat lost by a body can therefore be accomplished by inhibiting these modes of heat transport. A simple double-walled construction reduces the heat transfer by conduction and radiation, because air is poor at conducting heat, and the doublewalled construction means that there are two surfaces emitting and absorbing radiation, but that the final surface emitting radiation from the pot, as the outer layer of the wall, is at a lower temperature so emits less radiation. Filling the cavity in a double-walled construction with foam, rather than air, reduces the heat transfer further, because a foam consists of pockets of a gas separated by a liquid or solid, which means that the gas (generally air) is trapped in small regions, preventing large convection currents from forming in the cavity. Placing the cavity under a partial vacuum reduces heat transfer through the wall further, because a partial vacuum has fewer molecules available for conduction or convection, so heat transfer via conduction and convection is greatly reduced. Importantly, the base 120 is not provided with the double-walled / insulated structure of the walls. This allows the contents of the potto be easily heated via the base, where heat escape from the sides of the port is mitigated by means of the insulated walls. Heat loss by radiation may be reduced by ensuring that a surface of the wall facing outward from the pot is a bad absorber and emitter of radiation. This may be done by ensuring that the colour of the outer surface of the wall is silver or white as opposed to black. Where the pot is intended for use with a gas or electric hob, it is preferable for the base of the pot to be matte black on an outer side (in other words, a side which in use is adjacent to a heat source) to ensure the best absorption of heat from the heat source. Where the pot is intended for use with an induction hob, it is preferable for the base of the pot to be light coloured and reflective to reduce emission of heat from the base of the pot (as the heat is generated within the base itself, so heat transport will primarily occur from the base to the induction hob surface in use, rather than from the hob to the base of the pot as with a gas or electric hob). In use, contents to be cooked may be placed within the pot, and the pot may be placed over a heat source to be heated. One such heat source is a gas hob. A gas hob uses ignited natural gas to warm the base of the pot. An alternative heat source is an electric hob. An electric hob comprises a heating element. When a current is passed through the heating element, resistive heating causes the heating element to heat up and transfer heat to a pot on the electric hob. Another alternative heat source is an induction hob. An induction hob comprises an electrically conducting coil, conventionally made of copper, through which an alternating current is passed. When a metal pot is placed on the induction hob, the magnetic field generated by the alternating current in the coil generates a corresponding current in the metal base of the pot. If the metal base has a sufficiently high resistance, the current results in heating of the base due to resistive heating. Generally, pots and pans made of ferrous materials such as carbon steel, cast iron, and stainless steel are suitable for induction cooking, but vessels made of copper are unsuitable due to the lower resistance of copper to electric current, which results in insufficient heat being generated in the base of the vessel. Referring to Figure 2A, there is shown a pot 100 and a lid 210. The pot comprises a wall 110 and base 120. The wall 110 comprises a first layer 112 and a second layer 114. The lid is formed of first and second layers, resulting in a double-walled construction defining a cavity within the lid, where said cavity may be provided with insulation. Referring to Figure 2B, there is a shown the pot of Figure 2A, with the lid 210 fitted over the pot. The lid 210 covers a space defined by the wall 110. In use, contents to be cooked may be placed within the pot, and the lid may be placed over the top of the pot, covering the opening defined by the wall. The pot may then be placed on a heat source to be heated. While heating, heat enters the pot through the base of the pot, either by conductive heating of the base by the heat source or inductive heating of the base by the heat source. The wall and lid increase the retention of heat by the pot relative to a conventional cooking pot. If desired, the lid may be removed to allow moisture to leave the contents, at the cost of reduced insulation. The contents to be cooked may be raw ingredients for a dish. Alternatively and / or additionally, the contents to be cooked may be a liquid, such as water. When the contents are water, the pot may be used to bring the water to the boil. In such an arrangement, the pot may be referred to alternatively as a stovetop kettle. Referring to Figure 3A, there is shown a pot 100, lid 210, and removable plug 220. The lid 210 comprises an outlet 230. The lid 210 is shown above the pot 100, and the removable plug 220 is shown above the lid 210. A channel may be formed between the (outer part of the) outlet and the lower part of the lid (i.e. the interior of the pot), in particular when the lid has a double-layered construction - this may allow for the use of both a doublewalled construction and an outlet (and removable plug). Referring to Figure 3B, there is shown a pot 100, lid 210, and removable plug 220. The lid 210 is shown on the pot 100, and removable plug 230 is shown above the lid. Referring to Figure 3C, there is shown a pot 100, lid 210, and removable plug 220. The lid 210 is shown on the pot 100, and removable plug 230 is shown fitted with the outlet 230 (obscured in this view) in the lid 210. The removable plug 220 may be placed within the outlet 230 on the lid 210, sealing or substantially sealing the outlet. Alternatively, the removable plug may be removed using the removable plug handle, to create a smaller window for moisture to leave the contents of the pot. When the lid is not transparent, or has been rendered not transparent by excessive condensation, the removable plug may be removed in order to give the user a better view of the contents of the pot. The removable plug may be magnetic to allow easy securing of the plug to the lid. Referring to Figure 4A, there is shown a pot 100, lid 210, and thermally insulating mat 310. In Figure 4A, the pot 100 is shown above the thermally insulating mat 310. Referring to Figure 4B, there is shown a pot 100, lid 210, and thermally insulating mat 310. In Figure 4A, the pot 100 is shown on the thermally insulating mat 310. When the pot is used with an electric hob or a gas hob, the pot may be placed directly on the hob to heat the contents, and then after heating has been completed, the pot may be moved and placed on the thermally insulating mat. As the wall is insulated, the pot may be moved by a user holding the sides of the pot, as the sides may remain cool to the touch. Alternatively and / or additionally, the pot sides may be provided with one or more handles. Preferably, handles are attached to the outside of the side wall so that the handles do not create a thermal bridge through the insulation. The thermally insulating mat 310 may have a thickness of 30 mm, and may comprise a vacuum. For example, the thermally insulating mat may be made of a double-walled steel structure comprising a partial vacuum in a cavity between the steel walls. The mat includes an upstanding rim sized so as to conform to the shape of the pot, such that the lower part of the outer wall of the pot may fit within the rim so as to mount the pot to the mat. That is, the rim defines a recess into which the base of the pot fits. The fit between the pot and mat is such that there is very little or no gap between the pot and mat. This may ensure that the mat provides good insulation of the pot, and that the pot is held stable against lateral forces by the thermally insulating mat. Optionally, further engagement / locking features may be provided to connect the pot and mat. When the pot is used with an induction hob, the thermally insulating mat may be placed on the induction hob, and the pot may be placed on top of the thermally insulating mat. In this case, the thermally insulating mat may have a thickness of 5-20 mm, and may be made of a non-metallic material (to prevent any reaction with magnetic flux). When heating of the contents has been completed, the pot and thermally insulating mat may be moved from the hob. Alternatively, the pot may be moved onto a second thermally insulating mat. For example, the second thermally insulating mat may be thicker than the first thermally insulating mat, as the first thermally insulating mat is restricted in its thickness by the necessity of ensuring sufficient magnetic flux permeates to the base, whereas the second thermally insulating mat is not subject to this requirement so may be thicker to maximise thermal insulation. In one embodiment, the first insulating mat may be 5 mm thick, and the second insulating mat may be 30 mm thick. Advantageously, using one or more thermally insulating mats may also reduce damage to kitchen surfaces by reducing scratching or damage by heat. In an alternative, the thermally insulating mat may be used in combination with the further thermally insulating mat, such that the further thermally insulated mat may provide additional insulation when the pot is not being heated by induction cooking - the thermally insulating mat and the further thermally insulating mat may include cooperating features allowing them to engage together in this regard. In an example, the pot base may have a diameter of 20 cm, and the wall may have a height of 15 cm. In another example (such as a pot for use in a commercial kitchen), the pot base may have a diameter of 60 cm, and the wall may have a height of 55 cm. Referring to Figure 5, there is shown a second pot 500 according to the present invention. The pot 100 comprises a wall 110 and base 120. The wall 110 comprises a first layer 112 and a second layer 114 defining a cavity 116. The wall 110 tapers in proximity to the base 120, so as to reduce the size of the cavity 116 proximate the base, Specifically, in an area proximate the base, the first layer 112 is arranged at an angle relative to the second layer 114 such that the first layer 112 and second layer 114 converge. A corresponding angled / tapered arrangement is provided at the upper surface of the pot 500. The taper of the wall 110 in proximity to the base 120 means that, when the pot is used with an induction hob, the wall 110 has reduced interaction with the magnetic flux generated by the induction coil. Advantageously, this may improve the efficiency of the induction heating process by maximising the proportion of the induction heating that occurs in the base 120. Referring to Figure 6A, there is shown the second pot 500 with a lid 510. The lid 510 comprises angled sides to conform to the angled top of wall 110. The lid is shown above the pot. The angled arrangement of the lid and the top of the pot may assist in locating the lid onto the pot. Referring to Figure 6B, there is shown the second pot 500 with the lid 510 as shown in Figure 6A. The lid 510 is shown on the pot 500. In use, the angled edges of the lid ensure that the lid slips into position if placed slightly off the centre of the pot opening, and reduce heat escape from the edges of the pot opening. Referring to Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C, there is shown the second pot 500 with the lid 510 and a removable plug 520. The lid comprises an outlet 530. In Figure 7A, the lid 510 is shown above the pot 500, and the removable plug 520 is shown above the outlet 530 in lid 510. In Figure 7B, the lid 510 is shown resting on the pot 500, and the removable plug 520 is shown above the outlet 530 in lid 510. In Figure 7C, the lid 510 is shown resting on the pot 500, and the removable plug 520 is shown sitting in the outlet 530. In use, the angled edges of the outlet improve ease of handling and ensure that the outlet does not fall into the pot. Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, there is shown the second pot 500 with the lid 510 and a thermally insulating mat 840. In Figure 8A, the lid 510 is resting on the pot 500, and the pot 500 is shown above the thermally insulating mat 840. In Figure 8B, the lid 510 is resting on the pot 500, and the pot 500 is resting on the thermally insulating mat 840. Alternatives and modifications It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention. For example, although the pot has been described for use in cooking foods, the pot may also be used for other uses. For example, the pot may be used for dyeing of fabrics. Although in Figure 2, the outlet of the lid is shown assmall relative to the diameter of the lid, in other embodiments the outlet may be large relative to the diameter of the lid, with a size chosen based on the size and shape of the pot and the lid, the degree of insulation and type of insulation of the lid, among other features. For example, the outlet may cover 10% of the surface area of the lid. In some embodiments, the removable plug may be substantially transparent while the body of the lid may be opaque. Advantageously, when the insulation of the lid renders the lid opaque, a substantially transparent removable plug may allow a user of the pot to determine information about the contents, such as whether the contents have reached boiling point, without removing the lid. This allows more heat to be retained while still allowing the contents of the pot to be monitored. Optionally, various other features of pots known in the art may be used with the described pot, such as lid lock mechanisms and pressure valves. In an alternative, the thermal insulation may simply be air, which may simplify manufacture. This also may make it simpler to manufacture a substantially transparent lid which is wholly or substantially wholly thermally insulated (though it will be appreciated that such a substantially transparent lid could also be provided where a partial vacuum is used as insulation). In embodiments, the thermally insulating mat may lock to the base of the pot, by a mechanism such as magnetic fixing points, a twist lock mechanism, flanges, or grips. This allows the pot to be moved with the thermally insulating mat. For example, when the thermally insulating mat is fixed to the base of the pot, a user may handle the pot and place the pot on any surface without risk of burns. Alternatively and / or additionally, the thermally insulating mat may lock to an additional thermally insulating mat. For example, one thermally insulating mat may be suitable for use over an induction hob and so may be thin enough to allow substantially all flux to pass through the thermally insulating mat, and another thermally insulating mat may be thicker to give better insulating properties. In other embodiments, the thermally insulating mat or mats do not comprise locking mechanisms. This may render the thermally insulating mats simpler to manufacture. The insulating mat or mats may be sized to be wider than the base of the pot, so that the pot may easily be placed on the mat such that the entire surface of the base of the pot is on the mat. Reference numerals appearing in the claims are by way of illustration only and shall have no limiting effect on the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A pot for cooking, wherein the pot comprises:a base;a wall extending from the base,wherein the wall is provided with thermal insulation and the base is not provided with thermal insulation.

2. A pot according to claim 1, wherein the wall comprises a first layer and a second layer, and wherein the thermal insulation is provided between the layers.

3. A pot according to claim 2, wherein the first layer is positioned between a receiving space of the pot and the thermal insulation, and the second layer is positioned between the thermal insulation and the outside of the pot, preferably wherein the first layer is made from a thermally conducting material.

4. A pot according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the distance between the first layer and the second layer of the wall is greater than 5 mm.

5. A pot according to any preceding claim, wherein the thermal insulation comprises a partial vacuum, a foam, or an air gap.

6. A pot according to any preceding claim, wherein the thermal insulation insulates at least a major part of the wall.

7. A pot according to any preceding claim, wherein the volume of thermal insulation is reduced proximate the base.

8. A pot according to claim 7, wherein the volume of thermal insulation and / or the wall is tapered towards the base.

9. A pot according to claim 7, wherein the thermal insulation does not insulate a part of the wall proximate the base.

10. A pot according to any preceding claim, further comprising a lid.

11. A pot according to claim 10, wherein the lid is provided with thermal insulation.

12. A pot according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the lid comprises an outlet.

13. A pot according to claim 12, wherein the lid comprises a channel providing a fluid connection between the outlet and the interior of the pot.

14. A pot according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the lid comprises a removable plug for blocking the outlet, preferably wherein the removable plug is magnetically attracted to the outlet.

15. A pot according to any of claims 10 to 14, wherein at least a portion of the lid is at least substantially transparent.

16. A pot according to and of claims 10 to 15, wherein the upper part of the pot comprises an angled portion configured to engage with a corresponding angled portion of the lid, preferably wherein the angled portion of the upper part of the pot corresponds with the tapered wall of the pot towards the base.

17. A pot according to any preceding claim, wherein the base is suitable for use with an induction hob.

18. A pot according to any preceding claim, wherein the pot comprises at least one handle; preferably wherein the at least one handle is made from a thermally insulating material.

19. A pot according to any preceding claim, wherein the surface of the base on the outside and / or inside of the pot is matte and / or a dark colour, preferably black; and a surface of the wall facing outward from the pot is reflective and / or a light colour, preferably a silver colour.

20. A kit of parts, comprising:a pot for cooking according to any preceding claim; and a thermally insulating mat.

21. A kit of parts according to claim 20, wherein the thermally insulating mat comprises an upstanding rim and / or recess for receiving the pot.

22. A kit of parts according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the thermally insulating mat is configured to be used with the pot during induction cooking.

23. A kit of parts according to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the thermally insulating mat has a thickness of between 5 and 40 mm.

24. A kit of parts according to any of claims 20 to 23, further comprising a second thermally insulating mat, preferably wherein the second insulating mat is configured to be used with the insulating mat.

25. A kit of parts according to any of claims 20 to 24, wherein the thermally insulating mat further comprises an engagement mechanism for engaging with the pot and / or an additional thermally insulating mat.

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