Electric kettle

Abstract

To provide an electric kettle for smoothly discharging steam while suppressing a hot water leakage in overturning.SOLUTION: An electric kettle includes: a power feeding part 7; a container 1 having a storage part 11 for storing a fluid and an opening part 12 connected to the storage part 11 and opening in a first direction z; and a lid 2 to be mounted on the opening part 12. The lid 2 includes: a first housing 3 positioned on a first side z1 in the first direction z so as to face the storage part 11; a second housing 4 positioned on a second side z2 in the first direction z; and a partition member 5 held between the first housing 3 and the second housing 4 in the first direction z. The first housing 3 includes: introduction ports 311 communicating with the storage part 11; and first spaces 30 communicating with the introduction ports 311. The second housing 4 includes: discharge ports 411 communicating with an outer side; and second spaces 40 communicating with the discharge ports 411 and divided from the first spaces 30 by the partitioning member 5. The partitioning member 5 includes steam passing parts 511 to more easily pass the steam than water.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric kettle. [Background technology]

[0002] Electric kettles are widely used in households and other settings as appliances for boiling water. Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a conventional electric kettle. The electric kettle disclosed in this document includes a power supply unit, a container, and a lid. When the container is placed on the power supply unit, power is supplied to the container, and a fluid such as water inside the container is heated. The lid has an inlet for introducing steam generated inside the container and an outlet for discharging the steam to the outside. Meanwhile, it is necessary to prevent the hot water inside the container from leaking to the outside if the container accidentally falls over. The electric kettle disclosed in this document has a curved flow path inside the lid that connects the inlet and the outlet. By flowing the hot water through the curved flow path, it is intended to delay the hot water leaking to the outside. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-129317 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In order to delay the leakage of hot water, it is preferable to increase the length of the curved flow path. However, if the curved flow path is too long, there is a concern that the steam will not be discharged smoothly and the steam may stagnate within the curved flow path.

[0005] The present invention was conceived in light of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its object is to provide an electric kettle that can suppress hot water leakage when the kettle is tipped over and can discharge steam more smoothly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The electric kettle provided by the present invention comprises a power supply unit, a container that is powered when placed on the power supply unit and has a storage unit for storing a fluid and an opening that is connected to the storage unit and opens in a first direction, and a lid that is attached to the opening, wherein the lid has a first housing that is located on a first side in the first direction and faces the storage unit, a second housing that is located on a second side in the first direction, and a partition member that is interposed between the first housing and the second housing in the first direction, wherein the first housing has an inlet that is connected to the storage unit and a first space that is connected to the inlet, and the second housing has an outlet that is connected to the outside and a second space that is connected to the outlet and is partitioned from the first space by the partition member, and the partition member has a steam passage portion through which steam passes more easily than water.

[0007] The vapor passage portion has a valve structure that changes from a closed state to an open state as the pressure in the first space becomes higher than the pressure in the second space.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vapor passage portion is formed of a moisture-permeable material through which vapor passes more easily than water.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises a plurality of fixing members for fixing the first housing, the second housing, and the partition member, and the arrangement of the plurality of fixing members or the shape of the fixing members is configured to specify the relative orientation of the first housing, the second housing, and the partition member in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the inlet and the outlet are arranged on a first side, and the vapor passage is arranged on a second side.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first housing has a first rib that diverts the flow path from the inlet to the steam passage in the first space, and the second housing has a second rib that diverts the flow path from the steam passage in the second space to the outlet.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first rib and the second rib are disposed opposite each other with the partition member interposed therebetween.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first housing has two of the inlets and two of the first spaces, the second housing has two of the inlets and two of the second spaces, and the center-to-center distance between the two inlets in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is greater than the center-to-center distance between the two outlets.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first housing has a guide rib along the flow path at a position overlapping the vapor passage portion when viewed in the first direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress hot water leakage when the kettle is overturned and to discharge steam more smoothly.

[0016] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an electric kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view showing a lid of an electric kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view showing a lid of an electric kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]1 is a partial plan view showing a lid of an electric kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a partial plan view showing a lid of an electric kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a partial bottom view showing the lid of the electric kettle according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. [Figure 10] 3 is a partially enlarged perspective view showing the operation of the steam passage portion of the electric kettle according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged plan view showing a modified example of the steam passage portion of the electric kettle according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a partial bottom view showing the lid of the electric kettle according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a partial bottom view showing a modified example of the lid of the electric kettle according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a partial plan view showing a lid of an electric kettle according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a partial plan view showing a partition member of an electric kettle according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a partial plan view showing a partition member of an electric kettle according to a first modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a partial plan view showing the second housing 4 of the electric kettle according to a second modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a lid of an electric kettle according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a partial plan view showing a partition member of an electric kettle according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. in the present invention are used merely for identification purposes and are not intended to assign any order to their objects.

[0020] First Embodiment 1 to 10 show an electric kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The electric kettle A1 of this embodiment includes a container 1, a lid 2, and a power supply unit 7. The electric kettle A1 is used, for example, in an ordinary household to boil water.

[0021] [Power supply unit 7] The power supply unit 7 shown in FIG. 1 is for supplying power to the container 1 for boiling water. The specific configuration of the power supply unit 7 is not limited in any way. The power supply unit 7 may have, for example, a flat shape suitable for placing the container 1 on it. The power supply unit 7 may appropriately include, for example, a power cord connected to a commercial 100V AC power source, operation buttons for user operation, etc. The method of supplying power from the power supply unit 7 to the container 1 is not limited in any way, and may be electricity flow by contact between conductor parts, or contactless power supply using electromagnetic induction, etc.

[0022] [Container 1] The container 1 is used to heat and store a fluid to be heated. The specific configuration of the container 1 is not limited in any way, and in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the container 1 has a storage section 11, an opening 12, and a dispensing nozzle 13. The storage section 11 is a section that stores a fluid. The opening 12 is connected to the storage section 11 and opens to a first side z1 in a first direction z. The dispensing nozzle 13 is connected to the storage section 11 and is a section that dispenses the fluid in the storage section 11 to the outside. The container 1 may further include a power receiving mechanism, a heater for heating, etc., as appropriate, which are not shown.

[0023] [Lid 2] As shown in Fig. 1, the lid 2 is detachable from the container 1 and closes the opening 12 from a first side z1 in a first direction z. As shown in Figs. 1 to 9, the lid 2 of this embodiment has a first housing 3, a second housing 4, and a partition member 5. The lid 2 may also have a grip 6.

[0024] [1st cabinet 3] As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 7 to 9, the first housing 3 is located on a first side z1 in a first direction z and faces the storage section 11. The specific configuration of the first housing 3 is not limited in any way, and in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 to 4 and 7 to 9, the first housing 3 has a first main plate portion 31, a first side plate portion 32, a first rib 33, a third rib 34, and a first space 30. The material of the first housing 3 is not limited in any way, and resin, metal, or the like may be used as appropriate.

[0025] The first main plate portion 31 is a plate-like portion extending in the second direction x and the third direction y. The shape of the first main plate portion 31 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is circular.

[0026] The first side plate portion 32 is a plate-like portion that stands up from the periphery of the first main plate portion 31 toward the second side z2 in the first direction z. The specific shape of the first side plate portion 32 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is annular.

[0027] The third rib 34 is a plate-shaped portion that stands from the first main plate portion 31 toward the second side z2 in the first direction z. The third rib 34 divides the first main plate portion 31 in half when viewed in the first direction z. In the illustrated example, the third rib 34 passes through the center of the first main plate portion 31 and extends along the second direction x. By providing the third rib 34, the first housing 3 is configured to have a first space 30 located on the first side y1 in the third direction y and a first space 30 located on the second side y2 in the third direction y. Note that the first housing 3 is not limited to a configuration that includes the third rib 34, and may be configured without the third rib 34. In this case, the first housing 3 has only one first space 30.

[0028] In the illustrated example, the configuration of the first housing 3 described below is linearly symmetrical with respect to the third rib 34, but this is not limited to this and may be, for example, point-symmetrical with respect to the center of the first housing 3.

[0029] The first main plate portion 31 has an inlet 311. When the lid 2 is attached to the container 1, the inlet 311 is connected to the storage portion 11 and also to the first space 30. In this embodiment, the first main plate portion 31 has two inlets 311. One inlet 311 is connected to the first space 30 on a first side y1 in the third direction y, and the other inlet 311 is connected to the first space 30 on a second side y2 in the third direction y. The arrangement of the two inlets 311 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, they are arranged on the first side x1 in the second direction x.

[0030] The first main plate portion 31 has a plurality of through holes 319. The plurality of through holes 319 are for inserting screws 91, which will be described later. In the example shown, the first main plate portion 31 has four through holes 319, with two through holes 319 arranged on either side of the third rib 34.

[0031] The first rib 33 is intended to divert the flow path from the inlet 311 in the first space 30 to a vapor passage 511, which will be described later. The first rib 33 is a plate-shaped portion standing from the first main plate portion 31 toward a second side z2 in the first direction z. In the example shown, the first housing 3 has two first ribs 33. One of the first ribs 33 is located on a first side y1 in the third direction y with respect to the third rib 34, and the other first rib 33 is located on a second side y2 in the third direction y with respect to the third rib 34. The shape of the first rib 33 is not limited in any way, and in the example shown, the first rib 33 is generally U-shaped and bulges out from the third rib 34 in the third direction y.

[0032] [Second enclosure 4] 2, 3, and 7 to 9, the second housing 4 is located on the second side z2 in the first direction z. The specific configuration of the second housing 4 is not limited in any way, and in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 6 to 9, the second housing 4 has a second main plate portion 41, a second side plate portion 42, a second rib 43, a fourth rib 44, an outer groove portion 45, and a second space 40. The material of the second housing 4 is not limited in any way, and resin, metal, or the like may be used as appropriate.

[0033] The second main plate portion 41 is a plate-like portion extending in the second direction x and the third direction y. The shape of the second main plate portion 41 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is circular.

[0034] The second side plate portion 42 is a plate-like portion that stands up from the periphery of the second main plate portion 41 toward the first side z1 in the first direction z. The specific shape of the second side plate portion 42 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is annular.

[0035] The fourth rib 44 is a plate-shaped portion that stands from the second main plate portion 41 toward the first side z1 in the first direction z. The fourth rib 44 divides the second main plate portion 41 in half when viewed in the first direction z. In the illustrated example, the fourth rib 44 passes through the center of the second main plate portion 41 and extends along the second direction x. By providing the fourth rib 44, the second housing 4 is configured to have a second space 40 located on the first side y1 in the third direction y and a second space 40 located on the second side y2 in the third direction y. Note that the second housing 4 is not limited to a configuration that includes the fourth rib 44, and may be configured without the fourth rib 44. In this case, the second housing 4 has only one second space 40.

[0036] In the illustrated example, the configuration of the second housing 4 described below is linearly symmetrical across the fourth rib 44, but is not limited to this and may be, for example, point-symmetrical about the center of the second housing 4.

[0037] The second main plate portion 41 has an outlet 411. The outlet 411 is connected to the outside and to the second space 40. In this embodiment, the second main plate portion 41 has two outlets 411. One outlet 411 is connected to the second space 40 on a first side y1 in the third direction y, and the other outlet 411 is connected to the second space 40 on a second side y2 in the third direction y. The arrangement of the two outlets 411 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, they are arranged on the first side x1 in the second direction x.

[0038] 6, in the illustrated example, the center-to-center distance P1 in the third direction y between the two inlets 311 is greater than the center-to-center distance P2 in the third direction y between the two outlets 411. Furthermore, when viewed in the first direction z, all of the inlets 311 are positioned outside the outlets 411 in the third direction y, and the inlets 311 and the outlets 411 do not overlap.

[0039] The second main plate portion 41 has a plurality of female thread portions 419. The plurality of female thread portions 419 are for threading with screws 91, which will be described later. In the example shown, the second main plate portion 41 has four female thread portions 419, with two female thread portions 419 arranged on either side of the fourth rib 44.

[0040] The second main plate portion 41 may have a plurality of through holes 418. The plurality of through holes 418 are for inserting a plurality of screws 92, which will be described later.

[0041] The second rib 43 is intended to divert the flow path from a vapor passage 511 (described later) to the exhaust port 411 in the second space 40. The second rib 43 is a plate-shaped portion standing on a first side z1 in the first direction z from the second main plate portion 41. In the illustrated example, the second housing 4 has two second ribs 43. One second rib 43 is located on a first side y1 in the third direction y with respect to the fourth rib 44, and the other second rib 43 is located on a second side y2 in the third direction y with respect to the fourth rib 44. The shape of the second rib 43 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, the second rib 43 is substantially U-shaped and bulges out from the fourth rib 44 in the third direction y.

[0042] The outer groove 45 is provided on the outside of the second side plate 42 and has a shape and size that surrounds the second side plate 42. In the illustrated example, the outer groove 45 has an annular shape. The depth direction of the outer groove 45 is the first direction z, and the outer groove 45 opens to a first side z1 in the first direction z.

[0043] [Compartment member 5] As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 7 to 9, the partitioning member 5 is interposed between the first housing 3 and the second housing 4 in the first direction z. The partitioning member 5 separates the first space 30 and the second space 40 from each other. The material of the partitioning member 5 is not particularly limited, and a material that allows a steam passage portion 511 (described later) to function properly may be selected as appropriate. For example, a material that is softer than the material of the first housing 3 and the second housing 4, such as a silicone resin, may be used. The material of the partitioning member 5 may also be a heat-resistant material other than silicone resin, such as a material that satisfies the standards that electric kettles are subject to under the Food Sanitation Act.

[0044] The specific configuration of the partition member 5 is not limited in any way, and in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 7 to 9, the partition member 5 has a third main plate portion 51 and an engaging portion 52.

[0045] The third main plate portion 51 is a plate-like portion extending in the second direction x and the third direction y. The shape of the third main plate portion 51 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is circular.

[0046] The third main plate portion 51 has a steam passage portion 511. The steam passage portion 511 is a portion where steam can pass through more easily than water. In the present invention, water is not limited to water at room temperature, but also includes, for example, heated hot water. The steam passage portion 511 of this embodiment changes from a closed state to an open state as the pressure in the first space 30 becomes higher than the pressure in the second space 40. In the illustrated example, the steam passage portion 511 is provided at two locations, one on the first side y1 and one on the second side y2 in the third direction y.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the steam passage 511 is formed by providing a slit 510 in the partition member 50, and has a so-called valve structure. The slit 510 is a portion where a part of the third main plate portion 51 is cut. The specific configuration of the slit 510 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is cross-shaped. By employing the cross-shaped slit 510, four triangular steam passages 511 are provided at each of two locations in the third direction y. Note that the steam passage 511 is not limited to a configuration formed by a part of the steam passage 511, and may be formed by attaching an elastic member or the like separate from the third main plate portion 51.

[0048] 10 shows the operation of the steam passage 511. The slit 510 and four steam passages 511 indicated by solid lines indicate a state in which the pressures in the first space 30 and the second space 40 are approximately equal, and are in a closed state. In the closed state, there is no significant opening in the slit 510, and the ends of adjacent steam passages 511 are in contact with each other. As the pressure in the first space 30 becomes higher than the pressure in the second space 40, the steam passages 511 are pushed up toward the second side z2 in the first direction z. As a result, the ends of adjacent steam passages 511 become aligned as indicated by the imaginary lines (two-dot chain lines), and the state becomes open.

[0049] The arrangement of the vapor passage 511 is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, the vapor passage 511 is arranged on the second side x2 in the second direction x. That is, the inlet 311 and the outlet 411 and the vapor passage 511 are arranged on opposite sides to each other in the second direction x.

[0050] The third main plate portion 51 has a plurality of through holes 519. The plurality of through holes 519 are for inserting screws 91, which will be described later. In the illustrated example, the third main plate portion 51 has four through holes 519.

[0051] The engaging portion 52 is a portion for engaging with the outer groove portion 45 of the second housing 4. There are no particular limitations on the specific configuration of the engaging portion 52, and in the example shown, the engaging portion 52 is a ring-shaped portion that is bent so as to bulge out from the periphery of the third main plate portion 51 toward the second side z2 in the first direction z.

[0052] The first housing 3, the second housing 4, and the partition member 5 are fixed to one another by a plurality of screws 91. The plurality of screws 91 are inserted from the first side z1 in the first direction z into the through holes 319 of the first housing 3 and the through holes 519 of the partition member 5, and are screwed into a plurality of female thread portions 419 of the second housing 4. This fixes the first housing 3 and the second housing 4 to one another with the partition member 5 sandwiched between them. At this time, the engaging portion 52 engages with the outer groove portion 45.

[0053] In this embodiment, the third main plate portion 51 is sandwiched on both sides in the first direction z by the first side plate portion 32, the first rib 33, and the third rib 34 of the first housing 3 and the second side plate portion 42, the second rib 43, and the fourth rib 44 of the second housing 4. That is, the third main plate portion 51 is arranged so that the first side plate portion 32, the first rib 33, and the third rib 34 of the first housing 3 and the second side plate portion 42, the second rib 43, and the fourth rib 44 of the second housing 4 face each other in the first direction z. In other words, in the illustrated example, the first side plate portion 32 and the second side plate portion 42 are aligned with each other when viewed in the first direction z. Furthermore, the first rib 33 and the second rib 43 are aligned with each other when viewed in the first direction z. Furthermore, the third rib 34 and the fourth rib 44 are aligned with each other when viewed in the first direction z.

[0054] With this configuration, in this embodiment, the first space 30 is defined by the first main plate 31, the first side plate 32, the first rib 33, the third rib 34, and the third main plate 51. The second space 40 is defined by the second main plate 41, the second side plate 42, the second rib 43, the fourth rib 44, and the third main plate 51. In order to improve the airtightness of the first space 30, it is preferable that the through hole 519 has a cylindrical shape that contacts the first main plate 31. In addition, in order to improve the airtightness of the second space 40, it is preferable that the female thread portion 419 has a cylindrical shape that contacts the third main plate 51.

[0055] [Gripping part 6] The grip portion 6 is used by a user when attaching or detaching the lid 2 to the container 1. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 7 to 9, in the illustrated example, the grip portion 6 is attached to the second housing 4 on the second side z2 in the first direction z. The grip portion 6 has, for example, a plurality of female thread portions 69. A plurality of screws 92 are inserted into the plurality of through holes 418 and screwed into the plurality of female thread portions 69, thereby fixing the grip portion 6 to the second housing 4. Note that the lid 2 is not limited to a configuration having the grip portion 6, and may be configured such that, for example, a portion of the second housing 4 has a shape suitable for gripping.

[0056] Next, the operation of the electric kettle A1 will be described.

[0057] According to this embodiment, the steam passage 511 is configured to allow steam to pass through more easily than water. That is, when hot water is stored in the storage compartment 11 of the container 1, steam is introduced from the storage compartment 11 into the first space 30 through the inlet 311. When the pressure in the first space 30 becomes higher than the pressure in the second space 40 due to steam pressure, the steam passage 511 changes from a closed state to an open state, as shown in FIG. 10 . This causes steam to flow from the first space 30 to the second space 40 through the open steam passage 511 and be discharged through the outlet 411. Meanwhile, if the container 1 is unintentionally tipped over, hot water may be introduced into the first space 30 through the inlet 311. However, the steam passage 511 is not constantly open. This delays the immediate flow of hot water from the first space 30 into the second space 40. Therefore, the electric kettle A1 can smoothly discharge steam while preventing hot water from leaking when the container 1 is tipped over.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 , inlet 311 and outlet 411 are disposed on a first side x1 in the second direction x, and steam passage 511 is disposed on a second side x2 in the second direction x. As a result, hot water introduced from inlet 311 flows in the second direction x within first space 30 and reaches steam passage 511. Next, assuming that the hot water passes through steam passage 511, the hot water flows in the second direction x within second space 40 and reaches outlet 411. In this way, in first space 30 and second space 40, the hot water flows back and forth in the second direction x. As a result, the distance from inlet 311 to outlet 411 can be increased, and the time until the hot water leaks can be delayed.

[0059] 4 and 6, the first housing 3 is provided with a first rib 33, and the second housing 4 is provided with a second rib 43. This allows the flow path shown by the thick dashed line in FIGS. 4 and 6 to be largely detoured in the third direction y. This makes it possible to make the distance from the inlet 311 to the outlet 411 longer than when the flow path in the first space 30 or the second space 40 is linear, and thereby delaying the time until the hot water leaks.

[0060] 8 and 9, the first rib 33 and the second rib 43 are disposed opposite each other with the third main plate portion 51 of the partition member 5 therebetween. As a result, the third main plate portion 51 is supported from both sides in the first direction z by the first rib 33 and the second rib 43. This prevents the third main plate portion 51 from bending downward due to heating, for example, when steam flows into the first space 30 or the second space 40. Furthermore, a configuration in which the third rib 34 and the fourth rib 44 face each other in the first direction z is preferable for preventing the third main plate portion 51 from bending.

[0061] 6, the center-to-center distance P1 between the two inlets 311 in the third direction y is greater than the center-to-center distance P2 between the two outlets 411 in the third direction y. This allows steam to be introduced into the two inlets 311 from a larger area of ​​the storage unit 11. It also prevents the steam discharged from the two outlets 411 from unintentionally spreading over a wide area outside the electric kettle A1.

[0062] 11 to 19 show modified examples and other embodiments of the present invention. In these figures, elements that are the same as or similar to those in the above-described embodiment are given the same reference numerals. Furthermore, the configurations of the various parts in each modified example and each embodiment can be appropriately combined with each other as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0063] <Modification of the first embodiment> 11 shows modified examples of slits 510 and steam passages 511 in an electric kettle A1. In the modified example shown in Fig. 11(a), slits 510 are a collection of radial line segments that form angles of 60° with each other. As a result, six triangular steam passages 511 are provided in this modified example.

[0064] In the modification shown in Fig. 1(b), the slit 510 is formed in a mountain shape, so that one vapor passage portion 511 is provided in this modification.

[0065] In the modified example shown in Fig. 1(c), the slit 510 is U-shaped, so that in this modified example, one vapor passage portion 511 having an arc-shaped tip is provided.

[0066] In the modification shown in Fig. 11(d), the slit 510 is Z-shaped, so that two triangular vapor passage portions 511 are provided in this modification.

[0067] As can be seen from these modifications, the shape, size, number, etc. of the slits 510 and vapor passages 511 of the present invention are not limited in any way.

[0068] Second Embodiment 12 shows an electric kettle according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The electric kettle A2 of this embodiment differs in the arrangement of the multiple screws 91 used to secure the lid 2. For example, in the illustrated second housing 4, the multiple female threads 419 are arranged in a trapezoidal shape. Correspondingly, the multiple through holes 319 in the first housing 3 and the multiple through holes 519 in the partition member 5 are also arranged in a trapezoidal shape.

[0069] This embodiment also makes it possible to suppress hot water leakage when the pot falls over, while discharging steam more smoothly. Furthermore, this embodiment makes it possible to fasten the first housing 3, second housing 4, and partition member 5 with the multiple screws 91 when they are stacked in the correct orientation, but prevents fastening with the multiple screws 91 when at least one of the first housing 3, second housing 4, and partition member 5 is in the wrong orientation. This makes it possible to avoid fastening the first housing 3, second housing 4, and partition member 5 in the wrong orientation.

[0070] <First Modification of Second Embodiment> 13 shows a first modified example of the electric kettle A2. In this modified electric kettle A21, the second housing 4 has three female threads 419 and one engagement hole 419a. As in the above example, the three female threads 419 are threadedly engaged with three screws 91. The one engagement hole 419a is, for example, a rectangular hole that engages with an engagement pin (not shown) or the like with a rectangular cross section. Corresponding to the configuration of the second housing 4, the first housing 3 and the partition member 5 are each provided with one rectangular through-hole.

[0071] This modification also makes it possible to prevent hot water leakage when the kettle is overturned and to discharge steam more smoothly. Furthermore, this modification uses three screws 91 and one engagement pin with a rectangular cross section, making it possible to prevent the first housing 3, the second housing 4, and the partition member 5 from being fixed in the wrong orientation.

[0072] Third Embodiment 14 shows an electric kettle according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In the electric kettle A3 of this embodiment, the configuration of the first housing 3 is different from that of the above-described embodiments.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first housing 3 has a plurality of guide ribs 35. The plurality of guide ribs 35 are plate-shaped portions standing from the first main plate portion 31 toward the second side z2 in the first direction z. The plurality of guide ribs 35 are provided at positions overlapping with the steam passage portions 511 when viewed in the first direction z. The plurality of guide ribs 35 are aligned along the flow direction of steam and the like in the first space 30.

[0074] This embodiment also makes it possible to more smoothly discharge steam while suppressing hot water leakage when the kettle is overturned. Furthermore, this embodiment makes it possible to more smoothly guide steam that has flowed through the first space 30 to the steam passage 511. Therefore, steam can be more smoothly discharged. Furthermore, in cases where the steam passage 511 of the valve structure can deform so as to sag toward the first side z1 in the first direction z, the guide rib 35 can suppress the sagging of the steam passage 511. This makes it possible to prevent problems such as the steam passage 511 becoming loose due to sagging.

[0075] <Fourth embodiment> 15 shows an electric kettle according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the electric kettle A4 of this embodiment, the configuration of the partition member 5 is different from that of the above-described embodiments.

[0076] In the partition member 5 of this embodiment, the third main plate portion 51 is formed of a moisture-permeable material that allows steam to pass through more easily than water. In the figure, the moisture-permeable material is indicated by hatching for ease of understanding. An example of such a moisture-permeable material is an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene porous body. A specific example of an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene porous body is Sunmap (registered trademark) manufactured by Nitto Denko Corporation. The third main plate portion 51 made of such a moisture-permeable material has excellent breathability and moisture permeability, allowing steam to pass through more easily than water. That is, in this embodiment, the entire third main plate portion 51 can function as the steam passage portion 511. In this embodiment, the engaging portion 52, the through-hole 519, etc. may also be formed using the materials used in the above-described embodiment.

[0077] This embodiment also makes it possible to suppress hot water leakage when the kettle is overturned and to discharge steam more smoothly. Furthermore, this embodiment does not require the steam passage portion 511 to be actively deformed in order to allow steam to pass through. Therefore, deterioration of the third main plate portion 51 over time, etc., can be suppressed.

[0078] 16 shows a first modified example of the electric kettle A4. In the electric kettle A41 of this modified example, only a portion of the third main plate 51 is made of the moisture-permeable material, and the other portions are made of, for example, the same material as the material of the partition member 5 in the other embodiments.

[0079] In the illustrated example, a moisture-permeable material is disposed in the position where steam passage 511 was provided in electric kettle A1. As a result, partition member 5 has two steam passages 511. The shape of steam passage 511 in this embodiment is not limited in any way, and in the illustrated example, it is circular.

[0080] This modification also makes it possible to suppress hot water leakage when the pot is overturned and to discharge steam more smoothly. Furthermore, this modification uses a moisture-permeable material only in the portion that will become the steam passage 511, so that hot water flows back and forth in the second direction x in the first space 30 and the second space 40. This makes it possible to increase the distance from the inlet 311 to the outlet 411, thereby delaying the time until the hot water leaks.

[0081] 17 shows a second modified example of the electric kettle A4. In the electric kettle A42 of this modified example, the outlet 411 is provided with the moisture-permeable material described above.

[0082] This modification also makes it possible to more smoothly discharge steam while preventing hot water from leaking when the pot is overturned. Furthermore, by providing outlet 411 with a moisture-permeable material, in addition to steam passage 511, outlet 411 can allow steam to pass through while preventing water from passing through. Note that when providing outlet 411 with a moisture-permeable material, steam passage 511 need not necessarily be provided.

[0083] Fifth Embodiment 18 shows an electric kettle according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the electric kettle A5 of this embodiment, the configuration of the second housing 4 is different from that of the above-described embodiments. The configuration of the partition member 5 may be the same as that of the partition member 5 of the electric kettle A1, for example.

[0084] The second housing 4 of this embodiment has a protrusion 49. The protrusion 49 protrudes from the second main plate portion 41 to the first side z1 in the first direction z. The protrusion 49 is provided at a position overlapping with the steam passage portion 511 when viewed in the first direction z. The tip of the protrusion 49 is slightly spaced from the steam passage portion 511.

[0085] This embodiment also makes it possible to more smoothly discharge steam while suppressing leakage of hot water when the pot is overturned. Furthermore, this embodiment allows the steam passing portion 511 to come into contact with the protrusion 49 when the steam passing portion 511 is deformed toward the second side z2 in the first direction z. This prevents the steam passing portion 511 from being excessively deformed and coming into contact with the second main plate portion 41. This prevents the steam passing portion 511 from being unintentionally stuck to the second main plate portion 41 and being constantly in the open state when the steam passing portion 511 is excessively deformed.

[0086] Sixth Embodiment 19 shows an electric kettle according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In an electric kettle A6 according to this embodiment, the configuration of a steam passage 511 in a partition member 5 differs from that of the above-described embodiments.

[0087] In this embodiment, two vapor passages 511 are provided on each of the y1 side and the y2 side in the third direction y. On one side in the third direction y, two vapor passages 511 are provided side by side in the x direction.

[0088] When steam passages 511 are provided at two positions aligned in the x direction, it is preferable to make steam passages 511 (slits 510) smaller than, for example, electric kettle A1. Also, steam passages 511 may be provided at three or more positions on one side in the third direction y.

[0089] This embodiment also makes it possible to more smoothly discharge steam while suppressing leakage of hot water when the kettle is overturned. Furthermore, this embodiment also makes it possible to properly pass steam through the other steam passage 511 even if one of the multiple steam passages 511 arranged in the x direction cannot change from a closed state to an open state. Furthermore, by providing multiple steam passages 511, it is possible to ensure a sufficient amount of steam passing through even if each steam passage 511 is small. Furthermore, a small steam passage 511 in the valve structure is preferable for suppressing sagging of the steam passage 511.

[0090] The electric kettle according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the specific configuration of each part of the electric kettle according to the present invention can be freely modified in various ways. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] A1, A2, A21, A3, A4, A41, A42, A5, A6: Electric kettle 1: Container 2: Lid 3: First enclosure 4: Second enclosure 5: Compartment member 6: Grip part 7: Power supply unit 11: Storage section 12: Opening 13: Dispensing nozzle 30: 1st space 31: 1st main plate part 32:First side plate part 33: First rib 34: Third rib 35: Guide rib 40:Second space 41: 2nd main plate part 42:Second side plate part 43: Second rib 44: 4th Rib 45: Outer groove 49: Protrusion 50: Compartment member 51: 3rd main plate part 52: Engagement part 69: Female thread 91,92:Screw 311: Entrance 319: Through hole 411: Outlet 418:Through hole 419: Female thread 419a: Engagement hole 510: Slit 511: Steam passage section 519: Through hole P1,P2: Distance between centers x :Second direction y: third direction z: first direction

Claims

1. A power supply unit; a container that is placed on the power supply unit to receive power, the container having a storage unit that stores a fluid and an opening that is connected to the storage unit and opens in a first direction; a lid attached to the opening, the lid has a first housing located on a first side in the first direction and facing the storage portion, a second housing located on a second side in the first direction, and a partition member interposed between the first housing and the second housing in the first direction, the first housing has an inlet connected to the storage portion and a first space connected to the inlet, the second housing has an exhaust port connected to the outside and a second space connected to the exhaust port and partitioned from the first space by the partition member, The partition member has a steam passage portion through which steam passes more easily than water passes. Electric kettle.

2. The electric kettle according to claim 1 , wherein the steam passage portion has a valve structure that changes from a closed state to an open state as the pressure in the first space becomes higher than the pressure in the second space.

3. The electric kettle according to claim 1, wherein the steam passage portion is formed of a moisture-permeable material through which steam passes more easily than water.

4. further comprising a plurality of fixing members that fix the first housing, the second housing, and the partition member; 2. The electric kettle of claim 1, wherein the arrangement of the plurality of fixing members or the shape of the fixing members is configured to specify the relative orientation of the first housing, the second housing, and the partition member in a direction perpendicular to the first direction.

5. The electric kettle according to claim 1 , wherein in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the inlet and the outlet are disposed on a first side, and the steam passage is disposed on a second side.

6. the first housing has a first rib that diverts a flow path from the inlet to the vapor passage in the first space, The electric kettle according to claim 5 , wherein the second housing has a second rib that diverts a flow path from the steam passage portion to the outlet in the second space.

7. The electric kettle according to claim 6 , wherein the first rib and the second rib are disposed opposite each other with the partition member interposed therebetween.

8. the first housing has two of the inlets and two of the first spaces, the second housing has two of the inlets and two of the second spaces, 8. The electric kettle according to claim 5, wherein a center-to-center distance between the two inlets in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is greater than a center-to-center distance between the two outlets.

9. The electric kettle according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first housing has a guide rib along the flow path at a position overlapping the steam passage portion when viewed in the first direction.

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