Combination chair and electric kettle for personal heating and brewing

Abstract

The invention presents a novel chair integrated with an electric kettle, designed to enhance personal comfort through energy-efficient heating. Utilizing waste heat from boiling beverages, the chair provides localized warmth, eliminating the need to heat entire spaces. The system features a height-adjustable section, heating element, automatic damper, fan, and user interface for temperature control. In winter mode, the chair automatically regulates temperature, while summer mode activates airflow to prevent sweating. The kettle can be removed for independent use, and safety features prevent overheating and fire hazards. This multifunctional design is ideal for various environments, including offices, healthcare, and education, offering users the convenience of hot beverages alongside personalized heating solutions.

Description

Combination Chair and Electric Kettle for Personal Heating and Brewing

[0001] The present invention relates to a specific device which is a combination chair and electric kettle for personal heating and brewing.Technical Field

[0002] The technical field of the invention relates to personal heating devices and multi-functional furniture. Specifically, it pertains to a combination chair and electric kettle designed to provide localized heating for the user by utilizing the waste heat from the kettle.Background Art

[0003] Personal heating devices and beverage preparation appliances are common fixtures in various environments, including offices, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and residential spaces. Personal heating solutions, such as electric blankets, heating pads, and heated chairs, have been developed to provide localized warmth to individuals without the need to heat the entire environment. These devices offer greater energy efficiency compared to space heaters but are typically limited in functionality and often require separate appliances for other needs, such as beverage preparation. Electric kettles and coffee makers are ubiquitous in both personal and professional settings, providing a quick and convenient means of boiling water for tea, coffee, or other hot beverages. However, these appliances are typically standalone devices that do not integrate with personal heating solutions, leading to a cluttered workspace and the need for multiple power sources. There has been a growing interest in multifunctional devices that combine various utilities to enhance user convenience and efficiency. Innovations in this field aim to reduce energy consumption, optimize space usage, and provide seamless user experiences. Despite these advancements, there remains a gap in the market for a device that simultaneously addresses personal heating and beverage preparation needs while maintaining energy efficiency and user comfort.

[0004] Patent document "US20100025388A1" describes a device for heating chairs and wheelchairs using a rechargeable battery. The heat generating unit is placed in the seat or backrest of the chair and is powered by a rechargeable battery attached to a power supply unit. The heat generating unit is made of a heating element covered in a thermal conduction material. The power supply unit includes a power switch, a volume control for temperature adjustment, and a socket for connecting the rechargeable battery. This invention aimed to provide warmth to chairs and wheelchairs used in various settings like schools, arenas, and camping sites. Patent document "US11369205B2" describes a portable, collapsible chair with integrated temperature control. The chair can be folded for easy carrying and storage, and when unfolded, it provides a seat and backrest for the user. The chair includes heat exchangers and a control circuit that allows the user to adjust the temperature of the chair. The control circuit can activate the heat exchangers to warm the chair or deactivate them to cool it down, providing comfort in various weather conditions. An article "Temperature rising and controlling chair" describes a chair with integrated temperature control. The chair has a heating device built into the seat, powered by an external power supply. The temperature can be adjusted using a control button and displayed on a screen located on the chair's handrail. This design aims for simplicity, ease of use, and flexibility in temperature control, making it suitable for various applications. Another article "Adjustable electric heating chair" describes an electric heating chair with adjustable temperature. Heating elements are placed in both the backrest and seat of the chair. The chair uses electric heating wires and a silicon voltage regulator to control the temperature. The invention aims to provide warmth in regions without heating systems and to benefit office workers, researchers, and people with back, waist, and leg pain. The chair is claimed to be easy to manufacture and use, suitable for various applications in daily life and work environments. Patent document "US7866743B1 " describes a chair with adjustable temperature. The chair has a seat with a backrest and armrests on both sides. The chair is supported by multiple legs. Both the backrest and seat contain a thermoelectric cooler that can either heat or cool the chair. The cooler is controlled by a panel located on one of the armrests. This design allows the user to adjust the chair's temperature according to their preference. Patentdocument "US20090072594A1 " describes a portable, heated chair powered by a battery. The chair is equipped with wheels for easy mobility and an on / off switch to conserve battery life. The battery is housed in a weatherproof plastic case, which is further protected by a wooden box attached to the chair's metal frame. This invention provides heat and portability without relying on an external power source. Patent document "US20140103129A1 " describes a cup holder with an integrated heating system for use in a motor vehicle. The system utilizes exhaust gas heat to warm food or drinks. A heater coil is located at the bottom of the cup holder and is connected to a fluid reservoir. A circulating pump moves cold fluid from the reservoir through a heat exchanger located near the exhaust manifold, where it is heated before returning to the cup holder. The pump is controlled by a controller to regulate fluid circulation. This design aims to provide a convenient and efficient way to heat beverages or food while in a vehicle. Patent document "US8840176B2" describes a heated and cooled seating unit with intelligent power management. The chair has a built-in rechargeable battery to power the heating element. A pressure sensor or other sensing device detects if someone is sitting on the chair and turns the heating element on or off accordingly to conserve power. The battery and control switch are located under the seat for convenience and protection. It offers energy efficiency and user comfort. Patent document "US11369203B2" describes a versatile chair design that can incorporate various technologies like heating, massage, and cooling. The chair has attachment points for electronic components that provide these functions. The electronic assemblies can be easily attached or removed, allowing customization and flexibility in the chair's features. This invention aims to create a multifunctional and adaptable chair that caters to different user preferences and needs.

[0005] The present invention distinguishes itself by integrating a chair with an electric kettle, utilizing waste heat from the beverage preparation process to provide efficient, localized personal heating. Unlike prior inventions that focus solely on heating or cooling the chair, our design offers a multifunctional solution that simultaneously ensures user warmth and convenient access to hot beverages without affecting the room temperature. Additionally, our chair features a detachable heating element and cooling fan, enhancing user comfort throughout the year. The inclusion of a mobile app for real-time temperature control anddevice management further sets our invention apart, providing a modern and user-friendly experience.Summary of Invention

[0006] A combination of chair and electric kettle is the solution. The kind of heating provided by this product is the best energy-saving mode. The user can warm themselves up by utilizing the waste heat from making tea or coffee. The heat from the electrical element of the electric kettle rises through the hole in the chair, warming the bottom and back. The calf is warmed by radiation from the element. Additionally, there is a fan under the element to enhance heat convection to the top. In summer, the user can remove the entire electrical element and electric kettle and place them on a desk, using just the fan to stay cool and avoid sweating while sitting in the chair. The temperature of the seat is automatically controlled by a damper and a sensor, which transfer the controlled heat intensity upwards. To prevent possible dangers of fire, burns, and overturning of the chair, safety requirements have been carefully considered in the chair's design.Technical Problem

[0007] Cold legs and feet syndrome is a common issue during colder seasons, especially in large or open environments where it is difficult or impractical to warm the entire space. Maintaining a comfortable temperature in the workplace during winter is essential for productivity and employee well-being. However, many workers face challenges in achieving this, as they often cannot heat their surroundings adequately. This problem is particularly evident in various labor- intensive settings such as guarding, warehousing (including cold storage warehouses), ticket sales, supermarkets, grocery stores, and military applications such as cross-border traffic police, speed control officers, and border guards.

[0008] These environments often involve large open spaces where traditional heating methods are inefficient or impractical. Workers in such settings need a localized heating solution that provides personal warmth without heating the entire area. Existing solutions like portable heaters or heated cushions fail to address this need effectively as they either require significant power consumption, are cumbersome to use, or do not provide sufficient warmth. Thus, there is a need foran innovative solution that offers efficient, localized heating to improve comfort and productivity for individuals working in these challenging environments.Solution to Problem

[0009] To address the aforementioned issues, a type of chair has been introduced that incorporates an electric kettle in its base, utilizing the heating element for dual purposes [Figure 1]. This element heats a kettle or flask while also using the waste heat to warm the chair. Alternatively, the heating element can warm the chair independently. Additionally, a fan within the system creates airflow in the summer mode to prevent sweating. More details are provided below.

[0010] The chair can be of any type, but the open chair model with a thick base allows for easier placement of the kettle. A door "6" has been cut into the body of the chair's base "7", which, when closed, makes the base appear as a single unified tube. This door is connected to the base of the chair with one or more hinges, and the components are placed inside the base. From bottom to top, the components are arranged vertically as follows: Height Adjusting Section (hydraulic or electrical), Heating Element "1", kettle "2", Automatic Damper with thermostat "3", fan "4", Diffuser "5", Seat, Molded Sponge with Breathable Mesh.

[0011] The power input is connected to the heating element through a port "8", and alongside the power cable, the temperature sensor cable and the fan cable also come out of the chair and connect to a control box. Inside the control box, there is an electronic board responsible for controlling the actuators, receiving input from the sensors, and interfacing with the user. The user interface can be a keyboard and monitor or a mobile application [Figure 3]. On the user interface, the seat temperature, set temperature, winter or summer mode, boiling icon, and fan speed can be displayed and adjusted.

[0012] [Figure 2] In winter mode, the heating element generates adjustable heat according to the set temperature and the difference with the seat temperature. It turns off when the temperature reaches two degrees above the set temperature and turns back on when it drops two degrees below the set temperature. Simultaneously, the fan turns on to help the heat from the element pass through the porous sponge of the seat and reach the user. In heating mode, the damperis open. Pressing the boiling icon sets the heating element to its maximum heat for a specified time, with the damper closed and the fan off to prevent excessive heat transfer to the user and minimize heat loss for boiling. After boiling, the control settings revert to the winter mode.

[0013] In summer mode, the heating element is placed outside the device on the seat to eliminate the risk of fire and burns, and the kettle is placed on it. In summer mode, the device only uses the fan to create airflow, preventing sweating and reducing the local temperature of the seat to be closer to the ambient temperature. The damper remains open in summer mode.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0014] The combination chair and electric kettle present a revolutionary approach to personal heating, offering several significant advantages over traditional methods. This invention allows users to maintain ambient temperature at a low level, significantly reducing the amount of energy needed to warm individuals, particularly in large, open, or environments where raising the ambient temperature is not feasible. As a result, energy costs are considerably reduced. The chair's unique design ensures that users always have hot beverages like tea, coffee, or boiling water readily available. The product's affordability, despite its numerous features, makes it an attractive option. The seat temperature is adjustable through an automatic damper and a sensor, providing customized comfort. During summer, a cooling fan can be activated to prevent sweating, and the heating element can be placed on a desk to serve as a percolator, making it ideal for gamers and those who spend long hours seated, such as students, programmers, and guards. The ability to detach the kettle and heating element in warmer months enhances its versatility. This innovative device also effectively prevents cold legs and feet syndromes, ensuring user comfort in various settings.Brief Description of Drawings

[0015] [Fig.1 ] A cross-section view of a base of chair and its components

[0016] [Fig.2] Flow chart of decision making by electronical board

[0017] [Fig.3] A view of user interface by mobile applicationDescription of Embodiments

[0018] As shown in [Figure.1] the device includes the following parts and equipment:1 - Heating Element 2- kettle 3- Automatic Damper with thermostat 4- fan 5- Diffuser 6- door 7- chair's base 8- port of heating element

[0019] [Figure.2] the flowchart shows performance of actuators in different modes.

[0020] [Figure.3] the user interface was shown.Examples

[0021] To use the chair in winter mode, you must first put a kettle full of water in the base and click the boiling icon through the user interface. After boiling, the tea can be brewed and the device turns on and off according to the set temperature. In the summer mode, the heating system and the kettle completely come out of the seat and are placed on the table, and according to the set temperature, the fan is turned on for cooling, and the user interface icons can be used to brew tea or coffee.

[0022] In various practical applications, the combination chair and electric kettle prove highly effective. For example, in a corporate office, employees benefit from localized warmth and readily available hot beverages, improving satisfaction and productivity while reducing overall heating costs. In a healthcare facility, patients and staff enjoy the comfort and convenience, with decreased energy expenses and positive feedback. In educational institutions, students benefit from focused studying in comfortable conditions year-round. Retail environments see improved cashier morale and energy efficiency. Additionally, outdoor workstations like border security checkpoints benefit from localized heating and hot beverages during long shifts, enhancing comfort and alertness. These examples demonstrate the chair's versatility and effectiveness across different settings.Industrial Applicability

[0023]

[0011] The industrial applicability of the combination chair and electric kettle is extensive, covering a wide range of settings and industries. In office environments, this invention provides individual warmth to employees without the need to heat entire spaces, resulting in significant energy savings. In healthcare facilities, it offers comfort to patients and staff who may spend extended periods seated. Educational institutions can benefit from providing students and staff witha cozy seating option during cold seasons. Retail environments, such as supermarkets and grocery stores, can utilize this invention to keep employees comfortable without increasing overall heating costs. Additionally, outdoor workstations, including guard posts, ticket sales booths, and warehouses, especially those in cold storage, can greatly benefit from the localized heating provided by this chair. The ability to switch to a cooling mode in summer further enhances its utility, making it suitable for year-round use. This versatility and efficiency make the combination chair and electric kettle a valuable addition to various industrial and commercial applications, promoting energy conservation and user comfort across different sectors.

Claims

Claims

1. A device comprising: a) from bottom to top, the components are arranged vertically as follows: a height adjusting section; a heating element, a kettle; an automatic damper with thermostat, a fan; a diffuser; a seat; and a molded sponge with breathable mesh; b) electronical board; c) user interface.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the heating element is designed to operate in dual modes: to heat a kettle or flask while simultaneously providing warmth to the seat.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the fan is operable in both winter and summer modes, facilitating heat distribution in winter and airflow in summer to prevent sweating.

4. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a user interface that allows for temperature setting, mode selection (winter or summer), fan speed adjustment, and boiling control.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the automatic damper is closed during boiling mode to minimize heat transfer to the user and is open during all other operating modes to optimize airflow and heat distribution.

6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the kettle can be detached and operated separately from the heating element for safety during summer use.

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