kettle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a kettle for heating a liquid, including a base with a base connector movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a container for holding the liquid. The container includes a container connector with electrical contacts connected to a heating element. The container is pivotally connected to the base such that pivoting the container causes liquid in the container to flow through an opening located at the top of the container. The kettle is configured such that when the base connector of the base is in the engaged position, the base connector engages with the container connector to activate the heating element, and when the base connector is in the disengaged position, the container is pivotable relative to the base to pour liquid through the opening in the container.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a kettle for heating a liquid such as water. [Background technology]

[0002] Electric kettles are commonly used to heat or boil water without the need for a stove. They usually have a container with a spout and a handle that can be connected to a power base to activate a heating element within the container. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It may be difficult for some people, such as those who suffer from arthritis in the joints of their hands or fingers, to lift and pivot the container off the power base to pour hot water into a cup. It would therefore be advantageous if at least one embodiment of the present invention provided a kettle that overcomes this problem, or at least provides a viable alternative to a conventional kettle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the specification shall not be deemed to be an admission that any or all of such matters form part of the prior art or were common general knowledge in the art relevant to the invention existing prior to the priority date of each claim of this application.

[0005] Throughout the specification, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to mean the inclusion of a specified element, integer, or step, or group of elements, integers, or steps, but not the exclusion of other elements, integers, or steps, or groups of elements, integers, or steps.

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a kettle for heating a liquid, the kettle including a base including a base connector with electrical contacts connectable to a power source, the base connector of the base being movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a container including a heating element for holding a liquid and heating the liquid, the container further including a container connector with electrical contacts connected to the heating element, the container being pivotally connected to the base such that by pivoting the container relative to the base, liquid in the container flows through an opening located at a top of the container, the kettle being configured such that when the base connector of the base is in an engaged position, the base connector engages with the container connector so as to connect the electrical contacts of the base and the container to activate the heating element, and when the base connector is in a disengaged position, the container is pivotable relative to the base to pour liquid through the opening in the container.

[0007] Kettles according to embodiments of the present invention have important advantages. In particular, by providing electrical contacts in the base that are connectable to a power source, there is no or relatively little movement of the power cable as the container pivots. Furthermore, by providing a container that is pivotable relative to the base, liquid can be poured through an opening in the container without the need to lift the container off the base.

[0008] In one embodiment, the kettle is configured such that pivoting of the container is limited when the base connector is in the engaged position. For example, the container connector may include a receptacle for receiving the base connector such that pivoting movement of the container is limited. This has the advantage that the risk of the container accidentally pivoting and spilling hot liquid may be reduced.

[0009] In one embodiment, the kettle is configured such that the base connector automatically returns to the engaged position. For example, the base connector may be spring loaded to automatically return to the engaged position. The base may further include a damping element to slow movement of the base connector from the disengaged position to the engaged position.

[0010] The kettle may be configured such that a force must be applied to move the base connector from the engaged position to the disengaged position. This may be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, the kettle may include a switch to move the base connector from the engaged position to the disengaged position. Alternatively, the base may include a handle to facilitate moving the base connector from the engaged position to the disengaged position. In one particular embodiment, the handle may be in the form of a ring extending around the base and connected to the base connector.

[0011] In one particular embodiment, the base may include a magnet for holding the base connector in the disengaged position. In this regard, the kettle may include an activator for activating the magnet when the base connector is in the disengaged position. The activator may be configured to activate the magnet for a predetermined period of time such that the base connector returns to the engaged position at the end of the predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time may be between 5 seconds and 1 minute, or between 10 seconds and 45 seconds, or between 20 seconds and 30 seconds, or about 10 seconds, or about 20 seconds, or about 30 seconds.

[0012] In one embodiment, the kettle includes a motor for electrically moving the base connector between the disengaged and engaged positions. In such an embodiment, no force is required to move the base connector. Rather, a switch or push button may be operated to activate the motor. The motor may be connected to the connector on the base via one or more gears. Thus, activation of the motor causes the gears to rotate, thereby moving the base connector between the engaged and disengaged positions. In one particular embodiment, the base connector is supported on a threaded shaft. The gears may be positioned to engage threads on the shaft. Thus, rotation of the gears may cause the shaft to be raised or lowered.

[0013] To operate the motor, the kettle may include at least one control element to facilitate input from a user. The at least one control element may be in the form of one or more push buttons, for example, located on a control panel. Alternatively, the at least one control element may be in the form of a touch screen. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable control element may be provided to facilitate input from a user. The kettle may be configured to control any suitable function using the at least one control element, including, but not limited to, a timer, and a desired temperature of the liquid in the container. In this regard, the kettle may include a temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the liquid in the container.

[0014] In one embodiment, the kettle can include a support frame configured to pivotally connect the vessel to the base. The support frame can include first and second frame portions pivotable relative to one another about a pivot axis, the first frame portion connected to the base and the second frame portion connected to the vessel. The kettle can have the pivot axis extending through a center of gravity of the vessel. For example, the pivot axis can extend through a center of gravity of the vessel.

[0015] Each frame portion can include a base member and a pair of substantially opposed support members extending from the base member, the pair of support members of the second frame portion pivotally connected to the pair of support members of the second frame portion. Specifically, the second frame portion can be pivotally movable relative to the second frame portion between a first position in which the base members of the first and second frame portions at least partially overlap and a second position in which the base member of the second frame portion is spaced apart relative to the base member of the first frame portion, and the container is pivoted relative to the base.

[0016] In one embodiment, the base member of each of the first and second frame portions includes an aperture adapted to allow the base connector to move therethrough. Specifically, when the second frame portion is in the first position, the apertures in the base portions of the first and second frame portions align to allow the base connector to move therethrough to engage the receptacle connector.

[0017] In one embodiment, the base member of each of the first and second frame portions includes a wall portion, and the support frame is configured such that when the second frame portion is in the first position, the walls of the first and second frame portions form a rim that at least partially surrounds the container.

[0018] The support frame may be configured such that the container is removable from the support frame. This has the advantage that the container can be removed for cleaning purposes or for filling with liquid. For example, the container can be connectable to the second frame part by a snap-fit ​​connection. In particular, each support member of the second frame part can include a recess for receiving a protrusion arranged on the outer surface of the container.

[0019] In one embodiment, the container is generally cylindrical. The container may include a lid to close a relatively large opening at the top of the container. In this way, access to the interior of the container may be improved, for example for cleaning purposes.

[0020] In one embodiment, the kettle has a central vertical axis and is configured such that the container is rotatable about the central axis relative to the base. This provides the advantage that liquid can be poured in different directions without having to lift the container off the base. In one embodiment, the container is rotatable about 360 degrees. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a limited range of rotation is contemplated, including but not limited to 90 degrees, 180 degrees, or 270 degrees. In one particular embodiment, the first frame portion of the support frame is rotatable about the central axis relative to the base.

[0021] In one embodiment, the kettle can include a light source for emitting light of one or more wavelengths or ranges of wavelengths. In one particular example, the wavelengths of light emitted are selected based on the temperature of the liquid in the container. The light source can illuminate the liquid in the container. Additionally or alternatively, the light source can direct light onto at least one defined surface area proximate the base, the at least one defined surface area indicating a location to receive liquid as the container pivots to pour liquid through an opening in the container. This is particularly advantageous when the kettle is rotatable about a central axis relative to the base.

[0022] In one particular embodiment, the container may include a light source for illuminating a liquid in the container and a battery for powering the light source, and the kettle may be configured such that the light source is powered by the battery when the base connector is in the disengaged position.

[0023] The kettle may include an electrical switch for connecting electrical contacts in the vessel and the base to activate a heating element in the vessel. The vessel's heating element may be incorporated into the vessel's wall, for example, the heating element may be welded to a steel plate at the vessel's bottom. This has the advantage of reducing the build-up of deposits from the liquid, such as minerals.

[0024] The container typically includes a handle for holding the container. In one particular embodiment, the handle is configured to allow the container to be grasped from two directions. For example, the handle can include a first handle portion that extends across and above the top of the container and a second handle portion that extends along a side portion of the container.

[0025] Certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 13 is a side view of the kettle with the base connector in an engaged position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the kettle of FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 shows an exploded view of the kettle of FIG. 1; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the kettle of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional front view of the kettle of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a side view of the kettle of FIG. 1 with the base connector in a disengaged position. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view of the kettle of FIG. 6 with the container pivoted. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the kettle of FIG. [Figure 9] 7 shows an exploded view of the kettle of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the kettle of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional front view of the kettle of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the kettle of FIG. 6 with the vessel pivoted. [Figure 13] 13 shows a side view of a kettle according to a further embodiment of the invention with the base connector in an engaged position. [Figure 14] 1 shows an isometric view of a kettle according to a further embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a side view of the kettle of FIG. [Figure 16] 1 shows an isometric view of a kettle according to a further embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows a further isometric view of the kettle of FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 17 shows a side view of the kettle of FIG. 16 when the container is pivoted. [Figure 19] 17 shows a cross-sectional side view of the kettle of FIG. 16 with the base connector in an engaged position. [Figure 20] FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional side view of the kettle of FIG. 16 with the base connector in a disengaged position. [Figure 21] FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional side view of the kettle of FIG. 16 with the base connector in a disengaged position and the vessel pivoted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a kettle for heating a liquid, such as an electric kettle. The kettle includes a base including a base connector with electrical contacts connectable to a power source, for example via a cable. The kettle further includes a container for holding a liquid. The container includes a heating element for heating the liquid and further includes a container connector with electrical contacts connected to the heating element. The container is pivotally connected to the base such that pivoting the container relative to the base allows the liquid to flow through an opening located at the top of the container, such as a spout.

[0028] The base connector of the base is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. When the base connector of the base is in the engaged position, the base connector engages with the container connector such that electrical contacts of the base and container can be connected to activate the heating element, for example by using an electrical switch. Also, when the base connector is in the engaged position, pivotal movement of the container can be limited. This provides a safety feature since the risk of accidental pivoting of the container and therefore accidental spilling of hot liquid can be reduced or even avoided.

[0029] When the base connector is in the disengaged position, the container can be pivoted relative to the base to allow liquid to be poured through an opening in the container, and the container can be rotatable relative to the base about a central vertical axis of the kettle, thus allowing liquid to be poured in different directions, allowing a user to fill multiple containers without moving the containers.

[0030] Turning now to the drawings, Figures 1 to 12 show schematic diagrams of a kettle according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figures 1 to 5 show the kettle with the base connector in an engaged position, and Figures 6 to 12 show the kettle with the base connector in a disengaged position.

[0031] The kettle 100 in this example is an electric kettle for heating and / or boiling a liquid, such as water. The kettle 100 includes a container 102 for holding a liquid and a heating element 104 for heating the liquid. In this example, the heating element 104 is completely enclosed within a steel plate in the bottom of the container 102. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that any suitable heating element is contemplated, including, but not limited to, a coil disposed within the container 102.

[0032] The kettle 100 further includes a power base 106. The base 106 includes a base connector 108 with electrical contacts connectable to a power source, for example via a cable (not shown). The vessel 102 also has a connector 110 with electrical contacts connected to the heating element 104. Thus, when the electrical contacts of the base connector 108 and the vessel connector 110 are connected, the heating element 104 is activated to heat the liquid in the vessel 102. To connect the electrical contacts of the vessel 102 and the base 106, the kettle 100 further includes an electrical switch 112.

[0033] The kettle 100 further includes a support frame configured to pivotally connect the container 102 to the base 106. By pivoting the container 102 relative to the base 106, liquid within the container 102 can flow through an opening 116 at the top of the container 102. In this regard, the container 102 further includes a spout 118 protruding from the opening 116 and a lid 120 for closing the opening 116. In this example, the container 102 has a generally cylindrical shape with a relatively large opening 116 that spans across a substantial cross section of the container 102. Providing such a large opening 116 has the advantage that it can allow access to the interior of the container 102, for example, for cleaning purposes.

[0034] The container 102 further has a handle 122 for holding and pivoting the container 102. In this example, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the handle 122 has two handle portions. A first handle portion 124 is attached to substantially opposite sides of the container 102 and curves outwardly around and across the top of the container 102. A central portion of the first handle portion 124 extends in a substantially horizontal line. In this manner, a person can grip the handle 122 from above. Additionally, the handle 122 can improve pivoting of the container 102.

[0035] The second handle portion 126 is attached to the first handle portion 124 and the bottom of the container 102. The second handle portion 126 curves outward along the side of the container 102. In this manner, a person can grip the handle 122 from the side.

[0036] Referring now to the configuration of the base connector 108 in more detail, as mentioned above, the base connector 108 is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the base connector 108 engages with the receptacle connector 110. Only in this position can the electrical contacts of the base connector 108 and the receptacle connector 110 be connected via the switch 112 to activate the heating element 104. In the example shown in the accompanying drawings, the receptacle connector 110 includes a receptacle 128 for receiving the base connector 108, which is in the form of a plug. This arrangement has the advantage that when the base connector 108 is placed in the receptacle 128 of the receptacle connector 110, pivoting of the receptacle 102 is limited. Thus, the risk of accidental spillage of hot liquid can be reduced or even avoided.

[0037] In this example, the kettle 100 is configured such that the base connector 108 automatically returns to the engaged position. In other words, the engaged position defines a normal position, and a force must be applied to move the base connector 108 from the engaged position to the disengaged position. In this regard, the base 106 includes a spring 130 arranged such that the spring 130 is compressed when the base connector 108 is moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The base 106 further includes a magnet 132 that can be activated to hold the base connector 108 in the disengaged, spring-loaded position. The magnet 132 can be activated automatically when the base connector 108 is moved to the disengaged position. In one particular embodiment, the base 106 includes a timer (not shown) for activating the magnet 132 for a predetermined period of time such that the base connector 108 automatically returns to the engaged position at the end of the predetermined period of time. In this example, the predetermined period of time is approximately 20-30 seconds. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other predetermined time periods are contemplated, including, but not limited to, between 5 seconds and 1 minute, or between 10 seconds and 45 seconds, or between 20 seconds and 30 seconds, or about 10 seconds, or about 20 seconds, or about 30 seconds.

[0038] In order to move the base connector 108 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, a force needs to be applied. This can be implemented mechanically or electronically. In this example, as shown in Figs. 1-12, the base 106 includes a handle 134 for facilitating manual movement of the base connector 108 from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The handle 134 is in the form of a ring that extends around the base 106 and is connected to the base connector 108 via a number of spokes 136. Thus, when the ring 134 is pressed downward, the base connector 108 also moves downward from the engaged position to the spring-loaded disengaged position. When the ring 134 is pressed down, the magnet 132 is activated to maintain the base connector 108 in such position. During this time, the container 102 can be pivoted to pour liquid.

[0039] The base 106 may further include a damping element for slowing the movement of the base connector 108 from the disengaged position to the engaged position. An exemplary damping element is shown in FIG. 13, in which a kettle 200 according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown. It should be noted that in this figure, like numerals represent like configurations as described and shown with reference to the kettle 100. In this example, the damping element is in the form of a mechanical rotary damper 220. Specifically, the rotary damper 220 includes a gear-like body 222 configured to move on a drive track 224 having corresponding teeth. In this way, the movement of the base connector 108 from the disengaged position to the engaged position can be limited, and thereby slowed down. This has the particular advantage that a smooth, controlled movement of the base connector 108 can be achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other mechanical or electrical damping elements are envisaged, for example as described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15 below.

[0040] 1-12, the kettle 100 further includes a support frame 138 that functions to pivotally connect the vessel 102 to the base 106. As shown particularly in Figures 6-9, the support frame 138 includes two frame portions, a first frame portion 140 connected to the base 106, and a second frame portion 142 connected to the vessel 102.

[0041] The first frame portion 140 includes a base member 144 and a pair of substantially opposed support members 146 extending from the base member 144. The first frame portion 142 is connected to the base 106 via the base member 144. The second frame portion 140 also includes a base member 148 and a pair of support members 150 extending from the base member 148. The second frame portion 140 is configured to support and connect to the container 102.

[0042] In this example, the second frame portion 142 is pivotally connected to the first frame portion 140 at a joint 152 that defines a pivot point and a pivot axis extending between the joint 152. The joint 152 is located at an end of each support member 146, 150. A secure connection is formed between the first and second frame portions 140, 142, and a protective cap 154 ​​may be provided at each joint 152 to protect and cover the movable portion of the joint 152. As shown in the drawings, the pivot axis extends through a central portion of the container 102, such as the center of gravity of the container 102. This has the advantage that pivoting of the container 102 may be simplified, especially when the container 102 is filled to its maximum.

[0043] The second frame portion 142 is pivotable relative to the first frame portion 140 between a first position and a second position. The first position is shown, for example, in FIGS. 1-3. In the first position, the base members 144, 148 of the first and second frame portions 140, 142 partially overlap in such a manner that the central holes 156, 158 of the base members 144, 148 are aligned. The central holes 156, 158 are provided to allow the base connector 108 to move through the aligned holes 156, 158 to engage the container connector 110. This may also serve as an added safety feature in that if a portion of the base connector 108 extends into the hole 158 of the second frame portion 142, pivotal movement of the container 102 is limited.

[0044] The base members 144, 148 of each of the frame portions 140, 142 include walls 160, 162, and the support frame 138 is configured such that when the second frame portion 142 is in the first position, the walls 160, 162 of the first and second frame portions 140, 142 form a rim that circumscribes the circumference of the container 102. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the rim can only partially surround the container 102.

[0045] The second position of the second frame part 142 is shown, for example, in Figs. 7 and 8. In the second position, the container 102 is pivoted relative to the base 106 and the base members 144, 148 of the first and second frame parts 140, 142 are spaced apart from each other. Only the second frame part 142 supports and holds the container 102. In this regard, the container 102 is removably attachable to the second frame part 142, so that the container 102 can be removed, for example, for cleaning purposes or to fill the container 102 with liquid. It may be sufficient to provide a base member 148 and a support member 150 for supporting the container. However, in this example, the kettle 100 further includes a snap-fit ​​connection and a plurality of support elements 164. These are particularly shown in Figs. 3 and 9.

[0046] The snap fit connection is achieved by a pair of substantially opposed recesses 166 located at the end of the support member 150 of the second frame portion 142. The pair of recesses 166 are positioned to receive a respective pair of projections 168 located on the exterior surface of the container 102. In this example, the snap fit connection is aligned with the pivot axis; however, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other suitable locations for the snap fit connection are envisioned.

[0047] The second frame portion 144 further includes a plurality of support elements 164 protruding from the base member 148. The support elements 164 are positioned to be received within respective recesses in the bottom of the container 102. This ensures that the bottom of the container 102 does not slide off the second frame portion 142 when the container 102 is pivoted.

[0048] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other suitable connections for removably attaching the container 102 to the second frame portion 142 are envisioned.

[0049] 14 and 15, there is shown a kettle 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The kettle 300 also includes a container 302 and a base 306 with a base connector 308. The container 302 is pivotally connected to the base 306 via a support frame 338 which functions in the same way as the support frame 138 of the kettle 100.

[0050] Similar to the operation of the kettle 100 described above, the base connector 308 of the kettle 300 is movable between an engaged position (shown in FIG. 15) and a disengaged position (not shown). However, the movement of the base connector 308 between the engaged and disengaged positions is performed electronically. Thus, the kettle 300 does not require a handle to manually move the base connector 308. Rather, the movement of the base connector 308 is performed automatically upon activation of an electrical switch 312.

[0051] For example, actuation of the electrical switch 312 of the kettle 300 causes the motor 330 of the kettle 300 to connect the base connector 308 (which is in its normally engaged position) to the vessel connector 310. In this manner, a heating element (not shown) of the kettle 300 is activated to heat the liquid in the vessel 302. When the liquid reaches a predetermined temperature, such as the boiling point, the motor 330 may be configured to automatically turn off the heating element, move the base connector 308 from the engaged position to a disengaged position, and activate the magnet 332 to maintain the base connector 308 in the disengaged position. In this regard, the kettle 300 may include a temperature sensor (not shown) in electronic communication with the motor 330.

[0052] The motor 330 can be configured to maintain the base connector 308 in the disengaged position for a predetermined period of time. For example, the motor 330 can be configured to activate the magnet 332 for a period of time ranging from 1 to 4 minutes, or specifically for 1 to 2 minutes, or specifically for about 30 seconds, 1 minute, 90 seconds, or 2 minutes. After the predetermined period of time, the motor 330 can be configured to return the base connector 308 to the engaged position. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the movement of the base connector can be in a controlled manner, such as damped. In this regard, the kettle 300 can further include a damping element or a damping function can be incorporated within the motor 330.

[0053] Alternatively, the disengaged position of the base connector 308 may define a normal position. In this regard, activation of the electrical switch 312 may cause the motor 330 to move the base connector 308 from the disengaged position to the engaged position and activate the heating element. When the liquid in the container 302 reaches a predetermined temperature, the motor 330 may be configured to move the base connector 308 to the disengaged position.

[0054] 14 and 15, it can be seen that the kettle 300 also includes a handle 322. In this example, the handle 322 includes a portion that extends along the side of the kettle 300 and a protrusion 324 located at the top of the handle relatively close to the lid of the vessel 302. The protrusion 324 can be manually pressed by using, for example, a finger or thumb, to facilitate pivoting of the vessel 302.

[0055] 16 to 21, there is shown a kettle 400 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that in these figures, like numerals represent like features as described and shown with reference to kettle 100. These features will not be described in detail, but reference is made to the detailed description of kettle 100.

[0056] The kettle 400 of this example is also an electric kettle for heating and / or boiling a liquid, such as water. The kettle 400 includes a container 102 for holding a liquid. The container 102 of the kettle 400 has a similar configuration to the container 102 of the kettle 100 in that the container 102 includes a spout 118, a lid 120, and a heating element (not shown) for heating the liquid. The container 102 further includes a handle 322 similar to the handle 322 of the kettle 300 shown in Figures 14 and 15. In particular, the handle 322 includes a protrusion 324 disposed on an upper portion of the handle 322. The protrusion 324 is relatively close to the lid 120 and is configured to facilitate pivoting of the container 102 by manually pushing the protrusion 324.

[0057] The kettle 400 further includes a power base 406 with a base connector 408 that can make electrical contact with the vessel connector 110 of the vessel 102. Similar to the kettle 100, the vessel 102 is pivotally connected to the base 406 via a two-part support frame 140, 142 that functions in the same manner as the support frame 138 of the kettle 100.

[0058] The kettle 400 differs from the kettle 100 in that the vessel 102 does not include a switch for activating a heating element within the vessel 102. In contrast, the power base 406 includes a control panel 510 including a plurality of push buttons 412 for controlling the functions of the kettle 400. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power base 406 may include any suitable control element, such as a switch for simply turning the kettle on and off. In this example, the control panel 510 is configured to facilitate input from a user via the four push buttons 412. Alternatively (not shown), the power panel may include a combined input / output device, such as a touch screen, such that any suitable information may be displayed in addition to input from a user. For example, the current temperature or a timer may be displayed. In general, the kettle 400 may be configured such that any suitable function of the kettle 400 may be controlled by the control panel 410. For example, the kettle 400 may facilitate a user to set a timer, a temperature, a number of cups to be filled, or any other suitable function. In one example, the control panel 410 can facilitate a user setting up an automatic schedule for heating the liquid in the container 102, for example, to heat water for tea or coffee each morning.

[0059] The power base 406 further includes a base connector 408 with electrical contacts connectable to a power source, for example, via a cable 414. The base connector 408 is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, as shown in FIG. 19, the base connector 408 engages with the receptacle connector 110 and connects the electrical contacts to activate a heating element (not shown).

[0060] The kettle 400 is configured such that the base connector 408 is automatically moved from a disengaged position to an engaged position by operating a control element of the power base 406, such as one of the buttons 412. In this example, the base connector 408 is supported by a threaded shaft 414 that can be raised and lowered via a gear 416. The power base 406 further includes a motor 418 that, when actuated, rotates the gear 416, thereby raising and lowering the base connector 408 between the disengaged and engaged positions. When the base connector 408 engages with the vessel connector 110, the motor 418 can automatically activate the heating element. In this manner, the kettle 400 can be actuated by touching a button. When the liquid reaches a predetermined temperature, the motor 418 can be configured to automatically turn off the heating element and move the base connector 408 from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0061] The kettle 400 of this example has the advantage that the control elements requiring power are provided on the power base 406. There is no need to provide a switch on the vessel 102 which has the advantage that a relatively low cost vessel 102 can be provided. Additionally, the vessel 102 can be replaced as needed or desired.

[0062] In this example, the kettle 400 has a central vertical axis and is configured such that the vessel 102 is rotatable about the central axis relative to the base 406. This provides the advantage that the liquid in the vessel 102 can be poured in different directions without having to lift the vessel 102 off the base 406. Rather, the vessel 102 can be pivoted about the central axis to fill multiple containers disposed about the base 406. In one particular example, the vessel 102 can be rotatable approximately 360 degrees. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a limited range of rotation is contemplated, including but not limited to 90 degrees, 180 degrees, or 270 degrees. A rotatable vessel 102 configuration can be realized in that the first frame portion 140 of the support frame 138 is rotatable relative to the base 406.

[0063] The kettle 400 may further include one or more light sources. The light sources may be configured to emit light of one or more wavelengths or wavelength ranges, for example, to provide different colors of light. In this particular example, the kettle 400 includes a first light source (not shown) configured to illuminate the liquid in the container 102. The first light source may include, for example, one or more LEDs. In examples having multiple LEDs, the LEDs may emit different wavelengths of light, and individual LEDs, such as LEDs of one color, may be selectively activated. The kettle 400 may be configured to change the wavelength of the emitted light based on the detected temperature of the liquid in the container 102. For example, the light emitted from the first light source may change from a blue color, indicative of a relatively cool liquid, to a red color, indicative of a relatively hot liquid. In this regard, the kettle 400 may include a temperature sensor disposed in the container 102 to detect the temperature of the liquid.

[0064] In this example, the vessel 102 further includes a power source, such as a battery 420, for powering the first light source. This is particularly advantageous when the base connector 408 is in a disengaged position and therefore power is not transferred from the base 406 to the vessel 102. For example, the kettle 400 can be configured to change the power source for the first light source to the battery 420 when the base connector 408 moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position. However, one skilled in the art will understand that the light source may be powered only by the battery 420. The kettle 400 can also be configured to change the color of the light emitted when the base connector 408 moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position. For example, the color of the first light source can change from red to white, indicating that the base connector 408 has been disconnected and the vessel 102 can be pivoted to pour. Illuminating the liquid in the vessel 102 after the base connector 408 moves to the disengaged position has the advantage of being able to illuminate the liquid while it is being poured through the spout 118. This is particularly advantageous for users with visual or other impairments, as it may be more obvious that a potentially hot liquid is being poured.

[0065] In this example, the kettle 400 further includes a second light source 422 configured to direct light to a defined surface area proximate the power base 406. In this example, the second light source 422 is arranged on the power base 406 in the form of a ring with multiple LEDs. Individual LEDs or groups of LEDs can be selectively activated. In this manner, the light from the multiple LEDs can be directed to form one or more defined surface areas that are illuminated to indicate a location to receive liquid as the container 102 pivots to pour liquid through the spout 118. In one particular example, the kettle 400 is configured to direct light to a surface to form one or more light spots or rings to define the location of a container, such as a cup or glass. This is particularly advantageous for visually impaired users in that a cup can be placed in the light spot to allow heated liquid to be poured into the container without spilling. The kettle 400 in this example includes both a first light source provided within the vessel 102 and a second light source 422 at the power base 406, although those skilled in the art will appreciate that zero light sources or any other suitable number of light sources may be provided.

[0066] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that numerous variations and / or modifications can be made to the present invention as shown in the specific embodiments and / or aspects without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. For example, it will be apparent that certain configurations of the present invention can be combined to form further embodiments. The present embodiments and aspects are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Some embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings. These drawings show certain details of particular embodiments implementing the systems and methods and programs of the present invention. However, describing the invention with the drawings should not be construed as imposing limitations on the invention related to the configurations shown in the drawings. [Explanation of symbols]

[0067] 100 Kettles 102 Container 104 Heating element 106 Base 108 Base Connector 110 Container connector 112 Electric Switch 116 Opening 118 Spout 120 Lid 122 Handle 124 First handle part 126 Second handle part 128 Receptacle 130 Spring 132 Magnet 134 Handle (base) 136 spokes 138 Support Frame 140 First frame part 142 First frame part 144 Base member (first frame portion) 146 Pair of support members (first frame portion) 148 Base member (second frame part) 150 Pair of support members (second frame part) 152 Joint 154 Protective Cap 156 Hole (first frame part) 158 Hole (second frame part) 160 Wall section (first frame section) 162 Wall section (second frame part) 164 Supporting elements 166 Depression 168 Protrusion 200 Kettle 220 Rotating Damper 222 Gear-shaped body 224 Driving Truck 300 Kettle 302 Container 306 Base 308 Base Connector 312 Electric Switch 318 Spout 324 Handle 330 Motor 332 Magnet 338 Support Frame 400 Kettle 406 Base 408 Base Connector 410 Control Panel 412 Push Button 414 Threaded Shaft 416 Gears 418 Motor 420 battery 422 Second Light Source

Claims

1. 1. A kettle for heating a liquid, said kettle comprising: a base including a base connector with electrical contacts connectable to a power source; a vessel for holding a liquid and including a heating element for heating said liquid, said vessel further comprising a vessel connector having electrical contacts connected to said heating element; a support frame for pivotally connecting the container to the base such that pivoting the container relative to the base causes liquid in the container to flow through an opening located at a top of the container; the support frame includes first and second frame portions pivotable relative to one another about a pivot axis, the first frame portion connected to the base and the second frame portion connected to the container; the base connector is movable relative to the base between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and when the base connector of the base is in the engaged position, the base connector engages with a container connector to connect the electrical contacts of the base and the container to activate the heating element, and when the base connector is in the disengaged position, the electrical contacts of the base are disconnected from the container and the container is pivotable relative to the base to pour the liquid through the opening of the container. A kettle characterized by the above.

2. The kettle of claim 1 , wherein the kettle is configured such that pivoting of the vessel is restricted when the base connector is in the engaged position.

3. The kettle of claim 1 , wherein the kettle includes a motor for electrically moving the base connector between the disengaged and engaged positions.

4. The kettle of claim 3 comprising one or more gears connected to the base connector and operable by the motor to move the base connector between the disengaged and engaged positions.

5. 4. The kettle of claim 3, comprising at least one control element for facilitating input from a user to operate the motor.

6. The kettle of claim 1 , wherein the kettle requires the application of a force to move the base connector from the engaged position to the disengaged position, and the base connector is configured to automatically return to the engaged position.

7. The kettle of claim 6 , wherein the base comprises a handle for facilitating moving the base connector from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

8. The kettle of claim 1 , further comprising a temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of liquid in the vessel.

9. 9. The kettle of claim 8, comprising at least one control element for facilitating input from a user to set a temperature of the liquid in the container, the kettle being configured to heat the liquid to a set temperature.

10. The kettle of claim 1 , wherein the kettle is configured such that the pivot axis extends through a center of gravity of the vessel.

11. 2. The kettle of claim 1, wherein each frame portion comprises a base member and a pair of substantially opposed support members extending from the base member, the pair of support members of the second frame portion pivotally connected to the pair of support members of the first frame portion.

12. 12. The kettle of claim 11, wherein the second frame portion is pivotable relative to the first frame portion between a first position in which the base members of the first and second frame portions at least partially overlap and a second position in which the base member of the second frame portion is spaced apart relative to the base member of the first frame portion, and the container is pivoted relative to the base.

13. 13. The kettle of claim 12, wherein a base portion of each of the first and second frame portions includes a hole, and the kettle is configured such that when the second frame portion is in the first position, the holes in the base portions of the first and second frame portions are aligned such that the base connector can move through the hole to engage the container connector.

14. The kettle of claim 1 , wherein the support frame is configured such that the container is removable from the support frame.

15. The kettle of claim 14, wherein the container is connectable to the second frame part by a snap-fit ​​connection.

16. The kettle of claim 1 , wherein the kettle has a central vertical axis, the vessel being configured to be rotatable about the central vertical axis relative to the base.

17. 2. The kettle of claim 1, further comprising an electrical switch for connecting the electrical contacts of the vessel and the base to activate the heating element within the vessel, the heating element being embedded within a wall of the vessel.

18. 2. The kettle of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a handle for holding the container, the handle including a protrusion disposed on an upper portion of the handle, the handle configured to facilitate pivoting of the container by manually pushing on the protrusion.

19. 10. The kettle of claim 1, comprising a light source for emitting light, the frequency of the emitted light being selected based on the temperature of the liquid in the vessel.

20. 2. The kettle of claim 1, further comprising a light source for emitting light onto at least one defined surface area adjacent the base, the at least one defined surface area indicating a position for receiving liquid when the vessel is pivoted to pour liquid through the opening of the vessel.

21. 2. The kettle of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a light source for illuminating a liquid in the container and a battery for powering the light source, the kettle being configured such that the light source is powered by the battery when the base connector is in the disengaged position.

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