Method for designing and manufacturing a kettle

Abstract

Method for designing and manufacturing a kettle (10, 110) comprising a main body (11, 111) configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid and having a central axis (X), a lower part (12) substantially perpendicular to the central axis (X) and a lateral wall (15) on a first flank of which there is a tapping hole (18) configured to let the liquid flow out of the main body (11, 111).

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR DESIGNING AND MANUFACTURING A KETTLE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention’s field of application is that of small electrical appliances. In particular, the present invention concerns both a method for designing and manufacturing a kettle, such as an electric kettle, or a kettle heated by induction or through contact with a heat source, of small sizes, manually grippable by a user, and also a kettle thus designed and manufactured. The electric kettle according to the present invention is of the type that comprises a main body, which serves as a container and during use is substantially vertical, is configured to contain a liquid, for example water, and has a capacity of several liters, for example up to approximately 3 liters, and a lower plate, and also a handle disposed on a flank or on a top of the container, and also a tapping or dispensing spout, disposed on the upper part of another flank of the container.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Different types of small size kettles are known, for example a few centimeters high, each comprising a main body, which acts as a container, usually having a substantially cylindrical, or rounded, or truncated conical shape that narrows upward. During use, the main body is substantially vertical, is configured to contain a liquid, for example water, and has a capacity of a few liters, for example between 250 ml and 3 1. In the lower part of the main body there is a lower wall, electrically heatable by means of a plate or base associated with it, or by induction, or by contact with a heat source, to bring the liquid contained in the container to a boil. A handle is associated with the main body and can be gripped by a user to lift the kettle. A tapping or dispensing hole, normally associated with a spout, is disposed in proximity to an upper part of a flank of the main body.

[0006] Electric kettles with electronic control are also known, in which the regulation of the temperature of the liquid inside the main body occurs by means of a sensor in contact with the liquid, or with the electrically heatable plate.

[0007] Other known electric kettles instead have an electromechanical control and are provided with a small tube, known as a “steam pipe” in the sector, disposed inside the main body to intercept the steam produced therein and convey it outside the main body, into the aforementioned lower plate, where a thermostat is positioned capable of detecting its temperature and possibly commanding the shutdown of the electrically heatable plate. Both types of known electric kettles can be provided with a microprocessor that controls the steps of heating the liquid and the aforementioned shutdown.

[0008] Some known kettles are also provided with a mechanical device that prevents the involuntary or unwanted spillage of the liquid from the spout, even if the kettle, which during use is in a vertical position, were to tip over and fall, or rest with a flank thereof on a horizontal surface, such as the top of a table or the floor.

[0009] In some countries, such as in Japan, for reasons of security for users or other people or animals, certain limits are set for the quantity of liquid that is permitted to spill out of the container in the event of an accidental overturning on the horizontal plane so that, in fact, kettle manufacturers who want to market the kettles in that country are required to equip them with so-called anti-spillage means, which completely prevent the unintentional spillage of liquid from the container, or keep it within the above mentioned limits, liquid that can sometimes even be very hot, close to boiling temperature, and therefore dangerous.

[0010] The solutions currently used in known kettles are based on mechanical devices associated with the spout, or with the liquid tapping hole and, in the case of kettles with electromechanical operation, also with the steam pipe, which can have an automatic actuation or require a manual actuation by the user, or possibly be driven by gravity when the kettle falls or is tipped over relative to the vertical position of use.

[0011] Both known solutions allow to close, either automatically or by means of a manual actuation by the user, the holes that allow the liquid to spill out in the event the kettle is tipped over.

[0012] It should be noted that the liquid contained in the kettle can spill out of the container through the spout associated with a tapping hole, and also from a filling cap, which is usually disposed on the top of the container itself, closing a main aperture of the container, and also, in the case of electromechanical kettles, through the steam pipe. The closure of the filling cap and of the main aperture has already been resolved for quite some time and can be conveniently achieved in any known manner whatsoever, for example by means of gaskets and / or coupling teeth between cap and container, elements already widely known in the prior art and which are not the subject of the present invention.

[0013] Known solutions are configured to selectively close, in a hermetic manner, in addition to the filling cap, the other two routes through which the liquid, or steam, can spill out, namely, the spout and the steam pipe, where present; solutions that are in any case of an “active” type, that is, which require an actuation and movement of a command element comprising movable elements that implement the closure of the respective liquid spillage routes, such as for example a button or a cursor, which have to be actively driven and / or released to allow to selectively close the spout and the steam pipe in the event of a fall, or movable elements such as bulkheads or valves that are activated by gravity.

[0014] However, known solutions, in addition to being expensive because they require additional components, still have the disadvantages typical of each actuation, because the command elements are subject to jamming and wear; phenomena further amplified by an environment prone to high temperatures and presence of limescale, for example due to steam and boiling water. In addition, they result in increased manufacturing complexity and cost of the finished product.

[0015] EP4306011A1 discloses a kettle comprising a heating base and a main body provided with a spout for pouring a liquid made in continuity with an upper aperture, which is closed by means of a lid. The lid comprises a steam removal device, comprising a first and a second steam inlet hole which face, during use, toward the inside of the main body, which are connected to a first and a second steam channel that develop inside the lid and are connected to the outside by means of an aperture provided on a lateral wall of the lid, opposite the position of the spout.

[0016] EP4298961A1 discloses a kettle provided with a main body and a lid in which a tapping hole associated with a spout is realized, and a kettle of the “goose neck” type comprising a main body having a tapping hole created in a lower part, adjacent to a heating base, and a lid having outlet holes for the steam. This document provides to create a first and a second pipe for conveying the steam inside the lid itself.

[0017] There is therefore the need to design and manufacture a kettle that can overcome at least one of the disadvantages of the state of the art.

[0018] To do this, it is necessary to solve the technical problem of designing and manufacturing a kettle in which the liquid contained inside the main body is prevented, or as much as possible limited, from accidentally or unintentionally spilling out from the tapping or dispensing spout, and possibly also from the steam pipe, if present, without providing any mean for closing them, either automatic or manually driven.

[0019] In particular, one purpose of the present invention is to design and manufacture a kettle so as to solve the aforementioned technical problem simply and effectively.

[0020] Another purpose of the present invention is to design and manufacture a kettle that has lower production costs than known kettles provided with anti-spillage devices, while maintaining high product reliability and without any maintenance being required to keep the spout clean.

[0021] The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.

[0022] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0023] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims. The dependent claims describe other characteristics of the present invention or variants to the main inventive idea.

[0024] In accordance with the above purposes and to solve the technical problem described above in a new and original way, also achieving considerable advantages compared to the state of the prior art, a method for designing and manufacturing a kettle for heating liquids, having a main body with a central axis and configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid, provided with a lower part which, during use, is substantially horizontal, and with a lateral wall in which there is a tapping hole, possibly associated with a spout, configured to let the liquid flow out of the main body, comprises at least a first design step in which it is assumed, or simulated, that the kettle is disposed in at least two possible stable positions thereof, namely: a first stable position thereof in which the lower part is resting on a horizontal plane and the free surface of the liquid lies on a first plane which is at a first level measured from the lower part and corresponds to a nominal filling capacity of the kettle, and at least a second stable position thereof in which the lateral wall is resting with a first side thereof on a horizontal plane and the free surface of the liquid lies on a second plane which is at a second level measured from the portion of the lateral wall resting on the first side; and wherein there is provided the intersection of the first plane and of the second plane to define between them a space free of the liquid in any of the at least two stable positions; and a subsequent second design step in which it is provided that the tapping hole is positioned in a first area of the lateral wall which is located in correspondence with the space.

[0025] The first stable position can essentially correspond to the kettle’s normal position of use.

[0026] We must clarify that the lower part of the main body does not necessarily have to have a flat resting surface perpendicular to the central axis; it can instead also be inclined with respect to that axis, or have a concave or convex shape, or an irregular shape, for example suitable to be coupled to an electric plate in the case of an electric kettle. In any case, in the kettle’s normal position of use, the lower part faces downward and is suitable to be positioned resting on a horizontal plane.

[0027] The second stable position can be correlated to the position of a handle or ballast which are associated with the main body.

[0028] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, in the first design step it is assumed or simulated that the kettle is also disposed in a third stable position, in which the lateral wall is resting with a second side thereof, substantially opposite the first side, on the horizontal plane and the free surface of the liquid lies on a third plane which is at a third level measured from the portion of the lateral wall resting on the second side, and the intersection of the first, second and third plane is provided to define the space in which to position the tapping hole, possibly associated with a spout.

[0029] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, it is provided that the lateral wall is substantially a solid of revolution around the central axis, and the method also comprises a third design step, independent of the first and second design steps as above, in which the kettle is designed so that it also comprises a handle which protrudes from a second flank of the lateral wall, different from a first flank on which the tapping hole is disposed, or from a top of the main body, so that the handle rests on the horizontal plane with a first side thereof when the kettle is in the second stable position, and with a second side thereof, different from its first side, when the kettle is in the third stable position.

[0030] Preferably, the second flank of the lateral wall from which the handle protrudes is opposite the first flank on with the tapping hole and the possible spout are disposed.

[0031] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, in the case of an electric kettle, the method also comprises a fourth design step, independent of the other design steps, in which the kettle is designed so that it also comprises an electric plate or base associated with the lower part, and a steam pipe disposed inside the main body and having an end disposed inside the plate and a free end; moreover, during the fourth design step it is provided that the free end is designed so that it is positioned in a second area present in the space to intercept any steam possibly present inside the main body.

[0032] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method provides that during the fourth design step it is provided that the steam pipe is designed so that it has a lower part substantially parallel to the central axis, or slightly divergent therefrom, and a curved upper part which terminates in, or in proximity to, the free end.

[0033] Preferably, the curved upper part follows an arc of a circle disposed at a higher height than the first level and is configured to create a siphon effect if immersed in the liquid, or remain out of the liquid when the kettle is in the at least a second stable position.

[0034] According to one aspect of the invention, if the kettle has three stable positions, the curved upper part is configured to create a siphon effect when the kettle is in one of either the second stable position or the third stable position, and the free end is immersed in the liquid; the free end being out of the liquid both when the kettle is in the first stable position and also when the kettle is in the other of either the second stable position or the third stable position.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, the method can provide to identify, as a function of the external conformation of the main body in combination with the conformation and position of the handle, if present, also a fourth or additional stable positions, and for each of these determine a respective free surface of the water corresponding to the nominal capacity of the kettle and a respective plane. In this case, it can be provided that the free space is defined by the intersection of all the planes, or at least three of them.

[0036] In accordance with another aspect, the present invention comprises a method for designing and manufacturing a kettle having a main body with a central axis and configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid, provided with a lower part which, during use, is substantially horizontal, and with a lateral wall, on a first flank of which there is a tapping hole, possibly associated with a spout, configured to let the liquid flow out of the main body, wherein the kettle also comprises a handle located on a second flank of the lateral wall, different from the first flank and preferably opposite thereto, or on a top of the main body, wherein the method comprises, in sequence, at least:

[0037] - a first step in which, first of all, the shape of the main body is analyzed in order to identify at least two possible stable positions of the kettle: a first stable position in which the lower part is horizontal; and a second stable position, obtainable by setting down the kettle on a first side, with the lateral wall and the handle resting on a horizontal plane after a possible rotation with respect to the central axis;

[0038] - a second step in which, for the stable positions mentioned above, through calculations or graphic resolution, there are identified both a first plane of the free surface of the liquid corresponding to a nominal capacity of the kettle, defined by a first level, lower than a height at which to position the tapping hole measured from the lower part, and also at least a second plane of the free surface of the same quantity of liquid, which defines a second level in the second stable position;

[0039] - a third step in which the intersections of the planes are defined, and a space is identified within the main body comprised between the intersections, the space being free of liquid in all the two stable positions mentioned above;

[0040] - a fourth step in which at least a first area is identified in the lateral wall corresponding to the space where the tapping hole and possibly an associated spout are then positioned.

[0041] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the method also provides to identify a third stable position, obtainable by setting down the kettle on a second side, substantially opposite the first side, or by rotating it around the central axis starting from the second stable position, so that the lateral wall and the handle rest on the horizontal plane, and the second step provides to identify a respective third plane of the free surface of the same quantity of liquid which defines a third level in the third stable position, and the third step provides to intersect the three planes so as to identify the space free of liquid. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the method can also provide to identify additional stable positions, for example, a fourth and / or fifth stable position, by setting down the kettle on a fourth or fifth side, defined for example by different zones of the kettle’s lateral wall, and the second step provides to identify a respective fourth and / or fifth plane of the free surface of the same quantity of liquid that defines respective levels in the above mentioned additional stable positions, and the third step provides to intersect the above mentioned planes in order to identify the space free of liquid.

[0042] The above mentioned steps can be advantageously implemented by means of a processor, for example a computer provided with a screen and a processor, or a data processing unit in which specific calculation and / or graphic design programs are stored and / or run.

[0043] The method can also provide to repeat the above mentioned steps iteratively, possibly changing the nominal capacity value to be considered on each occasion and progressively identifying the free space optimal to balance the kettle’s capacity and safety requirements, and therefore the optimal position for the first area.

[0044] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a kettle according to the present invention comprises a main body configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid and having a central axis, a lower part which, during use, is substantially horizontal, and a lateral wall in which there is a tapping hole, possibly associated with a spout, configured to let the liquid flow out of the main body. The kettle is configured to assume at least the following two stable positions: a first stable position in which the lower part is substantially horizontal and the free surface of the liquid lies below the tapping hole on a first plane which is at a first level measured from the lower part and corresponding to a nominal capacity of the kettle; and a second stable position in which the lateral wall rests with a first side thereof on a horizontal plane and the free surface of the liquid lies on a second plane which is at a second level measured from the portion of the lateral wall resting on the first side; moreover, the above mentioned levels are defined in relation to the nominal capacity and are such that their corresponding planes can intersect to define between them a space free of the liquid in any of the two stable positions described above, and the tapping hole and the possible associated spout is / are positioned in a first area of the lateral wall which is located in correspondence with the space.

[0045] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the kettle is configured to also assume a third stable position in which the lateral wall rests with a second side thereof, substantially opposite the first side, on the horizontal plane and the free surface of the liquid lies on a third plane which is at a third level measured from the portion of the lateral wall resting on the second side, and the space is defined by the intersection of these three planes.

[0046] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the lateral wall is substantially a solid of revolution around the central axis, the kettle also comprises a handle which protrudes from a second flank of the lateral wall, different from a first flank of the lateral wall on which the spout is disposed, or in correspondence with a top of the main body.

[0047] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the handle is configured to rest on the horizontal plane with a first side thereof when the kettle is in the second stable position, and with a second side thereof, opposite its first side, when the kettle is in the third stable position.

[0048] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the kettle also comprises a steam pipe disposed inside the main body and having a free end positioned in a second area present in the space to intercept any steam possibly present inside the main body.

[0049] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the steam pipe is shaped so as to have a lower part substantially parallel to the central axis, or slightly divergent therefrom, and a curved upper part, which terminates in, or in proximity to, the free end and is configured to create a siphon effect when immersed in the liquid or remain out of the liquid when the kettle is in the at least a second stable position.

[0050] According to one aspect of the invention, for a kettle having three stable positions, the curved upper part is configured to create a siphon effect when the kettle is in one of either the second stable position or the third stable position while the free end is immersed in the liquid; the free end being configured to be out of the liquid both when the kettle is in the first stable position, and also when the kettle is in another of either the second stable position or the third stable position.

[0051] Therefore, the present invention achieves the aim of designing and manufacturing a kettle in which the loss of liquids in the event of tipping over is drastically reduced, or even essentially eliminated, by using a so-called “passive” system, meaning that no mobile element and / or any movement and / or action are required, whether automatic, by the user, or as a result of the force of gravity, to prevent such loss.

[0052] The solution according to the present invention concerns a design mode such that, given the structure of the kettle and in particular the shape of its main body, the positions and shape of the tapping hole, and possibly also of the steam pipe, when the latter is present, as in the case of electromechanical kettles, are defined in such a way that in the event the kettle tips over, even accidentally, there is no spillage, or only a limited spillage, of liquid, for example below the limit imposed by the regulations in force in specific countries.

[0053] The solution according to the present invention is based on identifying at least a first area on a lateral wall of the kettle’s main body, in which to position the tapping hole and the possible spout associated therewith, and possibly also a second area, inside the main body, in which to dispose a free end of the steam pipe. This solution according to the present invention allows to achieve at least the following advantages: a) normal filling of the liquid by the user is guaranteed through the cap and / or the main aperture, without any spillages, if the kettle is in a vertical position; b) normal pouring of the liquid by the user is guaranteed, through the tapping hole and the possible spout, if the kettle is tilted forward, as is currently the case in the prior art; and c) any liquid loss is prevented, or at least limited as much as possible, in the event the kettle is tipped over, even accidentally, on a horizontal plane, such as for example any kitchen surface whatsoever or the floor.

[0054] All of the above occurs because the free surface of the liquid contained in the main body, specifically a quantity of liquid corresponding to the kettle’s nominal capacity, is always below the above mentioned first area in all the different stable positions the kettle can assume before and after its possible tipping over.

[0055] For the sake of accuracy, we must clarify that during the transient tipping over phase, due to the likely undulatory type movement of the liquid, it is not guaranteed that the aforementioned free surface will always remain below the aforementioned first area; however, given that the duration of this transient tipping over phase is very short, of the order of seconds, any accidental spillage of liquid is extremely limited and is in any case below the limits established by current regulations.

[0056] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein:

[0058] - fig. 1 is a perspective view of a kettle according to the present invention in accordance with a first embodiment;

[0059] - fig. 2 is a schematic front view of some components of the kettle of fig. 1 shown in a first stable position, that is, with a central axis thereof vertical, and which highlights a first level, or maximum level, of the liquid contained inside the main body;

[0060] - fig. 3 is a schematic front view of the components of the kettle of fig. 2 shown in a second stable position thereof, that is, set down, with its central axis inclined and in which a first flank of the main body rests on a horizontal plane; fig. 3 highlights a second level of the same quantity of liquid contained inside the main body of the kettle of fig. 2;

[0061] - fig. 4 is a schematic front view of the components of the kettle of fig. 2 shown in a third stable position thereof, that is, also set down, with its central axis inclined and in which a second flank of the main body, substantially opposite the aforementioned first flank, rests on a horizontal plane; fig. 4 highlights a third level of the same quantity of liquid contained inside the same main body of fig. 2, substantially the same as the aforementioned third level;

[0062] - fig. 5 is a schematic front view similar to that of fig. 2, which highlights the three levels of the liquid contained in the kettle of the previous drawings, highlighted individually in figs. 2, 3, and 4, respectively;

[0063] - fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the components of the kettle of fig. 2, which highlights the three levels highlighted in fig. 5;

[0064] - fig. 7 is a front view of the kettle of fig. 1;

[0065] - fig. 8 is a perspective and partly sectioned view of the kettle of fig. 1 in the second stable position shown in fig. 3; - fig. 9 is an enlarged detail of fig. 8;

[0066] - fig. 10 is a view taken from the upper part of the kettle of fig. 1 in the second stable position shown in fig. 8;

[0067] - fig. 11 is a perspective and partly sectioned view of the kettle of fig. 1 in the third stable position shown in fig. 4;

[0068] - fig. 12 is an enlarged detail of fig. 11 ;

[0069] - fig. 13 is a view taken from the upper part of the kettle of fig. 1 in the third stable position shown in fig. 11;

[0070] - fig. 14 is a front view of a kettle according to the present invention in accordance with a second embodiment;

[0071] - fig. 15 is a perspective and partly sectioned view of the kettle of fig. 14 in the second stable position shown in fig. 3;

[0072] - fig. 16 is an enlarged detail of fig. 15;

[0073] - fig. 17 is a view taken from the upper part of the kettle of fig. 14 in the second stable position shown in fig. 15;

[0074] - fig. 18 is a perspective and partly sectioned view of the kettle of fig. 14 in the third stable position shown in fig. 4;

[0075] - fig. 19 is an enlarged detail of fig. 18;

[0076] - fig. 20 is a view taken from the upper part of the kettle of fig. 14 in the third stable position shown in fig. 18.

[0077] We must clarify that the phraseology and terminology used in the present description, as well as the figures in the attached drawings also in relation as to how described, have the sole function of better illustrating and explaining the present invention, their purpose being to provide a non-limiting example thereof, the scope of protection being defined only by the claims. We must also clarify that the drawings are not to scale.

[0078] To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings.

[0079] DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0080] With reference to fig. 1, a kettle 10 designed and manufactured according to the present invention comprises a main body 11 which, in accordance with a first embodiment shown in figs, from 1 to 13, has a substantially truncated conical shape, symmetrical with respect to a central axis X, having a lower part 12 with a diameter generally larger than an upper part 13, although rounded conformations with upper and lower parts of a similar diameter can also be provided. The main body 1 1 comprises a lateral wall 15 defining an internal cavity 16 (figs. 2 and 6) configured to contain a liquid to be heated, for example water, until it is brought to a boil. The main body 11 is therefore configured to serve as a container.

[0081] By way of a non-limiting indication, the maximum capacity of the main body 11 is comprised between 250 ml and 3 1. By way of a non-limiting indication, the height Hl of the main body 11 is approximately 15-30 cm.

[0082] The kettle 10 can be an electric type kettle, a kettle able to be heated by induction or a kettle able to be heated by means of contact with a heat source, for example gas or a stove top.

[0083] The kettle 10, if of the electric type, can also comprise a plate 17, also known as a base, disposed in contact with the lower part 12 of the main body 11 and electrically heatable in any known manner whatsoever, for example by means of one or more electrical resistors, not shown in the drawings, to in turn heat the liquid contained in the internal cavity 16.

[0084] In the case of a kettle 10 of the induction type, or heatable through heat conduction, the lower part 12 can itself serve as a rest base for the kettle 10.

[0085] The kettle 10 comprises a tapping hole 18, or dispensing hole, disposed on a specific first area 22 (figs, from 3 to 5) located in the upper part of a first flank 20 (fig. 1) of the lateral wall 15, with which a spout 21 can be associated.

[0086] The tapping hole 18, and thus the spout 21 if present, is positioned substantially in the upper part of the main body 11 , at a height H2 lower than the height Hl of the main body 11 , and its position, in accordance with one aspect of the invention, is determined according to the criteria set out below.

[0087] In other words, the tapping hole 18 is located spaced apart relative to an edge 32 of the upper part 13 of the main body 11.

[0088] The kettle 10 also comprises a handle 19 grippable by a user to lift the kettle 10 and pour the liquid from the spout 21.

[0089] The handle 19 can have a shape open at one end or closed in a loop, and be attached onto a second flank 23 of the lateral wall 15, different from and preferably opposite the first flank 20 on which the tapping hole 18 is located, or in correspondence with a top of the main body 11. According to possible embodiments, the main body 11 can comprise, in addition or alternatively to a handle 19, a ballast 14 associated with one flank, so as to define a stable position for the kettle 10 when set down on one side.

[0090] The ballast 14 can be located in a zone diametrically opposite with respect to the tapping hole 18, with respect to a vertical median plane M passing through the center of the tapping hole 18 and the central axis X.

[0091] According to a variant, the ballast 14 can be located in an intermediate zone, for example within an angle of + / - 45° with respect to the diametrically opposite zone, as shown by way of example with a dashed line in figs. 1 and 4. In this way, the kettle 10 can be positioned on the flank with the tapping hole 18 facing upward, or in an inclined position, respectively, in a manner similar to the case in which there is a handle on the side 19.

[0092] According to this variant, two ballasts 14 can also be provided, symmetrical with respect to the median plane M, able to define a second and a third stable position for the kettle 10, respectively.

[0093] In the case of a main body 11 with a polygonal section, at least one of either a handle 19 or a ballast 14 can be provided on at least one wall substantially opposite the tapping hole 18, so as to define at least one preferred stable position of the kettle 10, different from the first position in which the main body 11 is disposed in a vertical position.

[0094] The kettle 10 also comprises a covering element 24 that hermetically closes the upper part 13 of the main body 11 and can be provided with a filling cap 25 that closes an upper aperture 33 of the main body 11, through which it is possible to fill the internal cavity 16 with a liquid up to a certain first level LI (fig. 2), or the maximum level recommended to the user, as will be described in detail below.

[0095] Preferably, the covering element 24 and the filling cap 25 have a continuous solid wall, without any holes for the passage of steam or suchlike. In this way, in the event the kettle 10 accidentally falls onto one side, there is no leakage of liquid through the covering element 24 or the filling cap 25.

[0096] Some embodiments of the present invention provide that in the internal cavity 16 of the main body 11, in the case of an electric type kettle 10, there is a steam pipe 26 (figs. 1 and from 7 to 11) having a free end 27, disposed in a second area 29 near the spout 21 to intercept the steam produced therein, and an opposite end, not visible in the drawings, disposed inside the plate 17.

[0097] The function of the steam pipe 26 is to transfer the steam produced inside the internal cavity 16, above the free surface of the water, into the plate 17 and to make a thermostat, of a known type and not shown in the drawings, detect its temperature in order to command the possible shutdown of the plate 17 and therefore of the electric kettle 10, as occurs in the state of the art. The shape of the steam pipe 26 and the position of the second area 29, and therefore of the free end 27, are part of the characteristics of the present invention and are described further below.

[0098] With reference to figs, from 2 to 13, we will now disclose the new and original criteria of the present invention, which are part of the method for designing and manufacturing the kettle 10 so that the latter is provided with an anti-spillage system of a passive type, that is, which does not require the presence of any additional or movable mean whatsoever. These criteria, in fact, are based first of all on the position of the tapping hole 18 in relation to the aforementioned level L 1 , and to other levels that the liquid can assume in the event the kettle 10 is tipped over, as explained further below.

[0099] The method for designing the first area 22 in which to place the tapping hole 18 and the possible spout 21 and possibly, alternatively, the second area 29 in which to dispose the free end 27 of the steam pipe 26, is substantially divided into the following five steps, which will be described in sequence.

[0100] The method comprises a first step in which, first of all, the shape of the main body 11 of the kettle 10 is analyzed in order to identify at least two possible stable positions of the latter, and preferably three, namely: a first stable or resting position, in which the kettle 10 is in a vertical position (figs. 2, 5, 6 and 7), that is, with its central axis X vertical, resting it with its plate 17 on a horizontal plane PO, and in which the internal cavity 16 of the main body 11 can be partly filled with a chosen liquid, for example water, through the filling cap 25 or through the upper aperture 33; at least a second stable position, obtainable by setting down the kettle 10 on a first side (figs. 3, 8, 9 and 10), with the lateral wall 15 and the handle 19, if present, and / or the ballast 14, resting on the horizontal plane PO after a possible rotation with respect to the central axis X of the main body 11 ; and optionally a third stable position, obtainable by setting down the kettle 10 on a second side (figs. 4, 11, 12 and 13), substantially opposite the first side, or by rotating it around its central axis X starting from the aforementioned second stable position, so that the lateral wall 15 and the handle 19 are resting on the horizontal plane PO.

[0101] According to some embodiments, the first stable position corresponds to the position of normal use of the kettle 10, with the lower part 12 positioned resting on a horizontal plane. The second and / or third stable position can be defined by the conformation of the main body 11 , in the event the lateral wall 15 externally has one or more flat portions, or possibly be determined based on the position and shape of the handle 19.

[0102] The kettle 10 can also have only two stable positions, for example when the main body 11 has a symmetrical and rounded shape, and comprises a ballast 14 on a flank thereof, preferably opposite to the flank on which the tapping hole 18 is provided, which can be without a spout and therefore flush with the external surface of the containing body, and the handle 19 is positioned on the top. In other cases, the kettle 10 normally has at least three stable positions, although particular conformations of the main body 11 can be provided, for example a polygonal section and / or ballasts 14 located at certain points of the main body 11, which also determine a fourth or additional stable positions of the kettle 10.

[0103] The method also comprises a second step in which, through calculations or graphic resolution, for the at least two, optionally for the three stable positions, there are identified both a first plane Pl (fig. 2) of the free surface of the liquid corresponding to a nominal capacity of the kettle 10, defined by the first level LI, lower than the height H2, and also a second plane P2 (fig. 3) and optionally a third plane P3 (fig. 4) of the two free surfaces of the same quantity of liquid, which define a second level L2 (fig. 3) in the second stable position, and a third level L3 (fig. 4) in the third stable position, respectively.

[0104] The nominal capacity is generally lower than the maximum capacity of a kettle, and is a design-defined datum corresponding to a maximum filling level recommended for the correct operation of the kettle 10, which is normally indicated in a manner visible to a user.

[0105] Generally, by way of example, the nominal capacity can be comprised between 60% and 95% of the maximum capacity, which is defined by the internal volume of the main body and by the position of the tapping hole 18 and / or the spout 21.

[0106] According to some embodiments, the levels L2 and L3 should have the same value if the shape of the lateral wall 15 of the main body 11 is a surface of rotation with respect to the central axis X.

[0107] The method also comprises a third step, in which the intersections of the two or three planes Pl, P2 and P3 are defined (figs. 5 and 6), and a space S is identified within the main body 11 comprised between the aforementioned intersections; a space S which is free of liquid in all of the aforementioned two or three stable positions.

[0108] The method also comprises a fourth step in which at least the first area 22 is identified in the lateral wall 15 of the main body 11 corresponding to the space S, so as to then position the tapping hole 18 and the possible spout 21 therein, and possibly, in the case of an electric type kettle 10, the second area 29 is also identified within the space S, in which to then place the free end 27 of the steam pipe 26.

[0109] The method can also provide to determine the shape of the tapping hole 18 according to the conformation of the first area identified.

[0110] The method can provide to position the tapping hole 18 in proximity to the upper limit of the identified area 22 (see fig. 5), or possibly in a lower position, consequently adapting the references to indicate the nominal capacity.

[0111] The method also comprises a fifth step in which the tapping hole 18 is positioned within the first area 22 and, if present, the free end 27 of the steam pipe 26 is positioned in the second area 29.

[0112] The method steps described above can advantageously be implemented by means of a processor, for example a computer provided with a screen and a processor, or a data processing unit in which specific calculation and / or graphic design programs are stored and / or run.

[0113] The method can also provide to repeat the aforementioned steps iteratively, possibly changing on each occasion the value of the nominal capacity to be considered and progressively identifying the optimal free space to balance the capacity and safety requirements of the kettle 10, and therefore the optimal position of the first area 22 and of the tapping hole 18.

[0114] Furthermore, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the steam pipe 26 is shaped so as to have a lower part 30 (fig. 7) substantially parallel to the central axis X, or slightly divergent therefrom, and a curved upper part 31 (figs. 8, 9 and 10), which terminates at the free end 27 and is configured to create a siphon effect when the kettle 10 is in its second stable position, in which the free end 27 can be immersed, albeit slightly, in the liquid. Instead, the same free end 27 is out of the liquid when the kettle 10 is in its third stable position (figs. 11, 12 and 13).

[0115] In accordance with a second embodiment shown in figs. 14 to 20, a kettle 110 according to the present invention comprises a main container 111 having a rounded shape, but in any case, symmetrical with respect to the central axis X. The kettle 110 comprises all the elements of the kettle 10 described with reference to figs. 1-13 and therefore, to make the present description simpler and shorter, they are not described again.

[0116] We must clarify that in this second embodiment, the height H2 (fig. 14) of the spout 21 is lower than the analogous one of the first embodiment (fig. 2). This means that the manufacturer of electric kettles, following the criteria outlined above, can decide to position the tapping hole 18 and the spout 21 at any height whatsoever, as long as it is inside the first area 22 in correspondence with the space S.

[0117] We must also clarify that the criteria for identifying the position of the tapping hole 18, with or without spout 21, and of the free end 27 of the steam pipe 26 of the kettle 110 are the same as those disclosed above for the kettle 10.

[0118] In more general terms, the criteria disclosed above apply to any shape whatsoever of a kettle’s main container, even when the wall, or walls, thereof are not the result of a rotation of a line around the central axis X. In fact, for example, the main container could also have a parallelepiped or irregular shape.

[0119] We must also clarify that, in any case, a) the position of the tapping hole 18 and / or of the spout 21 , and possibly their shape, have to be such that they are always above the planes P 1 , P2 and P3 of the free surface of the liquid for all of the two or more stable positions identified as above; and b) the position of the end 27 of the steam pipe 26 can also be inside one or more of the spaces located below one of the planes Pl, P2 and P3 of the free surface of the liquid, it being understood that, to avoid liquid spillage in these cases, it is possible to exploit the aforementioned curved shape of the upper part 31 of the steam pipe 26; in fact, the curved upper part 31 creates a siphon effect that allows to limit the spillage of liquid whenever the kettle 10, 110 accidentally tips over.

[0120] Following the sequence of steps of the method according to the present invention outlined above, it is possible to identify, for different geometries of electric kettles, different areas and spaces, and depending on these spaces, create spouts and steam pipes of different shapes and sizes.

[0121] In the case of kettles for which the presence of the steam pipe 26 is not required, the design methodology will be the same, but applied only to the positioning and creation of the tapping hole 18.

[0122] The solution disclosed above, according to the present invention, is different from those of the prior art, and surprisingly advantageous compared to the latter, since it guarantees the anti-spillage function without the use of any active systems, that is, requiring at least one actuation, automatic and / or by the user.

[0123] An advantage of the solution according to the present invention is the fact that, by using passive elements only, that is, a geometric solution designed so as not to have any spillages in the event the kettle 10, 110 is tipped over, even accidentally, any problems related to the complexity of the system are eliminated, thus preventing the onset of any issues related to jamming, wear and / or aging of the components used, which can be, for example, gaskets, springs and / or other components configured to slide relative to each other.

[0124] It is clear that modifications and / or additions of steps and / or parts may be made to the method for designing and manufacturing a kettle 10, 110, and also to the latter, as described heretofore, without thereby departing from the field and scope of the present invention, as defined by the claims.

[0125] It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to a specific example, a person of skill in the art will be able to achieve other equivalent forms of methods for designing and manufacturing kettles for heating liquids, having the characteristics as set forth in the claims and hence all coming within the field of protection defined thereby.

[0126] In the following claims, the sole purpose of the references in brackets is to facilitate their reading and they must not be considered as restrictive factors with regard to the field of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Method for designing and manufacturing a kettle (10, 110) for heating liquids, having a main body (11, 111) with a central axis (X), configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid and provided with a lower part (12) which, during use, is substantially horizontal, and with a lateral wall (15) in which there is a tapping hole (18) configured to let said liquid flow out of said main body (11, 111), wherein said method is characterized in that it comprises at least a first design step in which it is assumed, or simulated, that said kettle (10, 110) is positioned in at least two possible stable positions thereof, namely a first stable position thereof, in which said lower part (12) rests on a horizontal plane and the free surface of a quantity of liquid corresponding to a nominal capacity of said kettle (10) lies on a first plane (Pl) which is at a first level (LI) measured from said lower part (12), and a second stable position thereof, defined by at least one of either a handle (19) or a ballast (14) which are associated with said main body (11), in which said lateral wall (15) is resting with a first side thereof on a horizontal plane (PO) and the free surface of said liquid lies on a second plane (P2) which is at a second level (L2) measured from the portion of said lateral wall (15) resting on said first side; wherein there is provided an intersection of said first and second level (LI, L2) to define between them a space (S) free of said liquid in any of said at least two stable positions; and a subsequent second design step in which it is provided that said tapping hole (18) is positioned in a first area (22) of said lateral wall (15) which is located in correspondence with said space (S).

2. Method as in claim 1, characterized in that in said first design step a third stable position is also assumed or simulated, in which said lateral wall (15) is resting with a second side thereof, different from said first side, on said horizontal plane (PO) and the free surface of said liquid lies on a third plane (P3) which is at a third level (L3) measured from the portion of said lateral wall (15) resting on said second side, and the intersection of said first, second and third plane is provided to define said space (S) in which to position said tapping hole (18).

3. Method as in claim 1 or 2, wherein it is provided that said lateral wall (15) is substantially a solid of revolution around said central axis (X), characterized in that it also comprises a third design step, in which said kettle (10, 110) is designed so that it also comprises a handle (19) which protrudes from a second flank (23) ofsaid lateral wall (15), different from a first flank (20) on which said tapping hole (18) is disposed, or from a top of said main body (11), so that said handle (19) rests on said horizontal plane (PO) with a first side thereof when said kettle (10, 110) is in said second stable position, and possibly with a second side thereof, opposite its first side, when said kettle (10, 110) is in said third stable position.

4. Method as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it also comprises a fourth design step, in which said kettle (10, 110) is designed so that it also comprises a steam pipe (26) disposed inside said main body (1 1 , 111) and having an end (28) able to be disposed in a plate (17) that is associated with said lower part (12) and a free end (27), and in that during said fourth design step it is provided that said free end (27) is designed so that it is positioned in a second area (29) present in said space (S) to intercept any steam possibly present inside said main body (11, 111) when said kettle (10, 110) is in said first stable position.

5. Method as in claim 4, characterized in that during said fourth design step it is provided that said steam pipe (26) is designed so that it has a lower part (30) substantially parallel to said central axis (X), or slightly divergent therefrom, and a curved upper part (31) which terminates in, or in proximity to, said free end (27) and is configured so that when said kettle (10, 110) is in said at least one second stable position, said curved upper part (31) creates a siphon effect, with said free end (27) immersed in said liquid, or is out of said liquid; said free end (27) being out of said liquid when said kettle (10, 110) is in said first stable position.

6. Method as in claim 4 or 5, wherein said kettle (10, 110) has at least three stable positions, characterized in that said curved upper part (31) is configured to create a siphon effect when said kettle (10, 110) is in one of either said second stable position or said third stable position, and said free end (27) is immersed in said liquid; said free end (27) being out of said liquid both when said kettle (10, 110) is in said first stable position and also when said kettle (10, 110) is in the other of either said second stable position or said third stable position.

7. Method for designing and manufacturing a kettle (10, 110) having a main body (11, 111) with a central axis (X) and configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid, provided with both a lower part (12) which, during use, is substantially horizontal, and also with a lateral wall (15), on a first flank (20) of which there is a tapping hole (18) configured to let said liquid flow out of said main body (11,111), and wherein said kettle (10, 110) comprises a handle (19) located on a second flank (23) of said lateral wall (15), different from the first flank (20), or on a top of the main body (11, 111), said method being characterized in that it comprises, in sequence, at least:- a first step in which, first of all, the shape of said main body (11, 111) is analyzed in order to identify at least two possible stable positions that said kettle (10, 110) can assume: a first stable position in which said lower part (12) is resting on a horizontal plane; and a second stable position, obtainable by setting down said kettle (10, 110) on a first side, with said lateral wall (15) and said handle (19) resting on a horizontal plane (PO) after a possible rotation with respect to said central axis (X);- a second step in which, for said stable positions, through calculations or graphic resolution, there are identified both a first plane (Pl) of the free surface of said liquid corresponding to a nominal capacity of said kettle (10, 110), defined by a first level (LI), lower than a height (H2) in which to position said tapping hole (18) measured from said lower part (12), and also at least a second plane (P2) of the free surface of the same quantity of liquid, which defines a second level (L2) in said second stable position;- a third step in which the intersections of said planes (Pl, P2) are defined, and a space (S) is identified within said main body (11, 111) comprised between said intersections, said space (S) being free of liquid in all said stable positions;- a fourth step in which at least a first area (22) is identified in said lateral wall (15) corresponding to said space (S) where said tapping hole (18) is then positioned, possibly associated with a spout (21).

8. Method as in claim 7, characterized in that said first step provides to also identify a third stable position, obtainable by setting down said kettle (10, 110) on a second side, substantially opposite said first side, or by rotating it around said central axis (X) starting from said second stable position, so that said lateral wall (15) and said handle (19) rest on said horizontal plane (PO), and said second step provides to identify a respective third plane (P3) of the free surface of the same quantity of liquid which defines a third level (L3) in said third stable position, and said third step provides to intersect said three planes (Pl, P2, P3) to identify said space (S) free of liquid and said first area (22).

9. Kettle (10, 110) comprising a main body (11, 111) configured to contain a certain quantity of liquid and having a central axis (X), a lower part (12) which, during use, is substantially horizontal, and a lateral wall (15) in which there is a tapping hole (18) configured to let said liquid flow out of said main body (11, 111), characterized in that the kettle is configured to assume at least the following two stable positions: a first stable position in which said lower part (12) rests on a horizontal plane and the free surface of said liquid lies below said tapping hole(18) on a first plane (Pl) which is at a first level (LI) measured from said lower part (12); at least a second stable position, defined by at least one of either a handle(19) or a ballast (14) which are associated with said main body (11), in which said lateral wall (15) rests with a first side thereof on a horizontal plane (PO) and the free surface of said liquid lies on a second plane (P2) which is at a second level (L2) measured from the portion of said lateral wall (15) resting on said first side; in that said two levels (LI, L2) are defined on the basis of a quantity of liquid corresponding to a nominal capacity of said kettle (10, 110) and are such that their corresponding planes (Pl , P2) can intersect to define between them a space (S) free of said liquid in any of said two stable positions, and in that said tapping hole (18) is positioned in a first area (22) of said lateral wall (15) which is located in correspondence with said space (S).

10. Kettle (10, 110) as in claim 9, characterized in that it is configured to also assume a third stable position in which said lateral wall (15) rests with a second side thereof, substantially opposite said first side, on said horizontal plane (PO) and the free surface of said liquid lies on a third plane (P3) which is at a third level (L3) measured from the portion of said lateral wall (15) resting on said second side, and said space (S) is defined by the intersection of said three planes (Pl, P2, P3).

11. Kettle (10, 110) as in claim 10, wherein said lateral wall (15) is substantially a solid of revolution around said central axis (X), characterized in that it also comprises a handle (19) which protrudes from a second flank (23) of said lateral wall (15) different from a first flank (20) on which said tapping hole (18) is disposed, or from a top of said main body (11, 111), said handle (19) being configured to rest on said horizontal plane (PO) with a first side thereof when said kettle (10, 110) is in said second stable position, and with a second side thereof, different from its first side, when said kettle (10, 110) is in said third stableposition.

12. Kettle (10, 110) as in claim 10, wherein said main body (11) comprises at least one ballast (14) associated with a flank of said lateral wall (15) different from a first flank (20) on which said tapping hole (18) is disposed, said ballast (14) being configured to rest on said horizontal plane (PO) when said kettle (10, 110) is in said second stable position.

13. Kettle (10, 110) as in claim 11 or 12, wherein said main body (11) comprises two ballasts (14), each associated with a flank of said lateral wall (15) different from a first flank (20) on which said tapping hole (18) is disposed, said two ballasts (14) being symmetrical with respect to a median plane (M) passing through said spout (18) and said central axis (X), able to define a second and a third stable position for said kettle (10), respectively.

14. Kettle (10, 110) as in any claim from 9 to 13, characterized in that it also comprises a steam pipe (26) disposed inside said main body (11, 111) and having an end (28) able to be disposed in a plate (17) that is associated with said lower part (12) and a free end (27) positioned in a second area (29) present in said space (S) to intercept any steam possibly present inside said main body (11, 111).

15. Kettle (10, 110) as in claims 11 and 14 or 13 and 14, characterized in that said steam pipe (26) is shaped so as to have a lower part (30) substantially parallel to said central axis (X), or slightly divergent therefrom, and a curved upper part (31), which terminates in, or in proximity to, said free end (27) and is configured to create a siphon effect when said kettle (10, 110) is in one of either said second stable position or said third stable position, and said free end (27) is immersed in said liquid; said free end (27) being configured to be out of said liquid both when said kettle (10, 110) is in said first stable position, and also when said kettle (10, 110) is in another of either said second stable position or said third stable position.

16. Kettle (10, 110) as in any claim from 9 to 15, characterized in that it comprises a covering element (24) that hermetically closes said upper part (13) of the main body (11).

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