Appliances and Components Therefor

Field of the Invention

[01] The present invention relates to domestic and commercial appliances, such as electrical appliances, and in particular liquid heating appliances. Some aspects of the invention are directed to controls for heated liquid vessels and some aspects of the invention are directed to cordless electrical appliances.

Background of the Invention

[02] There is a constant pressure in the domestic appliance industry to innovate; see for example the applicant's 360° cordless connector as disclosed in WO-A-199406185. In the past, innovation may have been very specific and directed to one appliance type only. However, from experience, the applicant understands that this is not always the case so that, for example, the 360° cordless connector which was primarily expected to be used with known appliances is now found across a variety of domestic and commercial appliance types and in combination with a multitude of associated innovations that could not have been foreseen in 1992, at the priority date of WO-A-199406185.

[03] Furthermore, there is a constant commercial pressure in the domestic appliance industry to lower the price or reduce the costs of small domestic appliances.

[04] However, the applicant understands that the issue is greater than the just the cost of the materials or components and has realised that there is a need to reduce the impact or cost of domestic appliances through interrelated factors, including commercial, logistical and the environmental aspects. Invariably, reducing the mass or volume of material used in an appliance will have a positive effect on the material price of the appliance. However, there are also other aspects for example shipping and packing whereby innovation can make great strides in reducing costs. To achieve a reduction in material costs it is necessary to challenge the established prior art methods and ideology.

[05] One method to reduce the costs of an appliance is to optimise the material usage of the vessel body by reducing the size of the vessel body

[06] One factor is to reduce the cost of components used in these appliances. The present inventors understand that the issue is greater than just the cost of the materials or components and have realised that there is a need to reduce the impact or cost of domestic appliances through interrelated factors, including other commercial, logistical and the environmental aspects. Invariably, reducing the mass or volume of material used in an appliance will have a positive effect on the material price of the appliance. However, there are also other aspects, for example rework, shipping and packing whereby innovation can make great strides in reducing costs.

[07] Another way to reduce the cost of an appliance to is to reduce the material costs of the controls and connector systems. Typically the appliances are required to be rated at above 2 kW at 240 volts and perform at very high temperatures. For example the plastics used in the control and connector components are advanced engineering type plastics with very specific properties to suit the very specific safety critical requirements. Typically the plastic costs in a prior art integrated 360° control and connector account for up to 60% of the material costs of the control, therefore any initiative to reduce these costs with have a substantial effect on the costs of the components. It is known that reducing the size/mass of the plastic components in, for example, a water heating appliance may have an impact on the way individual components cooperate with each other and it is the applicant's intention to alleviate any issues that may arise, for example drainage, docking of cordless connector assemblies, and/or interaction of bimetal actuators. Statement of Invention

[08] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a thermal control apparatus for a liquid heating appliance, comprising an actuator mount for mounting a bimetallic actuator, wherein the bimetallic actuator is secured to the actuator mount by at least one securing means, and further comprising dampening means for dampening and/or absorbing energy, vibration and/or oscillation in the bimetallic actuator.

[09] The dampening means may be provided between the bimetallic actuator and the securing means. Alternatively, the dampening means may be provided between the bimetallic actuator and the actuator mount.

[10] The thermal control apparatus may further comprise a bistable actuator operable to be actuated by said bimetallic actuator. The bistable actuator operable may be pivotally mounted to a main moulding of the thermal control. The bimetallic actuator may be arranged to be actuated by steam.

[11] The securing means may be arranged to control and/or restrict the axial movement of the bimetallic actuator. The at least one securing means may comprise at least one of the following: a star washer, a circlip, an r-clip, a fastener, a grommet and/or suitable fastening.

[12] The dampening means may comprise a resilient element. The resilient element may comprise one or more of the following: an o-ring, a polymeric material, an elastomeric material, a coil spring, a leaf spring, a wave spring, a helical spring, an axial spring gasket, washer, sheath, bush, grommet and/or sleeve.

[13] The securing means and the resilient element may comprise a unitary component. The unitary component may comprise a flat or sheet material including an interconnecting member between said securing means and resilient element. The resilient element may be provided by said interconnecting member.

[14] The securing means and/or dampening means may further comprises at least one channel and/or annular wall axially extending therefrom for strengthen thereof and/or to reduce distortion and/or warping.

[15] The securing means may form a part of the main moulding. Alternatively, the securing means may be secured and/or removably secured to the main moulding.

[16] The dampening means may form part of the securing means.

[17] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a thermal control apparatus, comprising an actuator mount for mounting a bimetallic actuator, wherein bimetallic actuator is secured to the actuator mount by at least one securing means, and further comprising dampening means for dampening and/or absorbing energy, vibration and/or oscillation in the bimetallic actuator.

[18] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, wherein the plug connector further comprises said thermal control apparatus.

[19] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, wherein the plug connector comprises at least one circumferential electrical conductor for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical conductor of the socket connector, such that at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor of the plug connector is located against a main body of the socket connector, said main body having at least one annular wall, the or each said annular wall comprising at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions for centralising and/or aligning the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

[20] Each of said discrete substantially radial protrusions may extend radially inwardly. Alternatively, each of said discrete substantially radial protrusions may extend radially outwardly. [21] The or each discrete substantially radial protrusion may extend substantially vertically. At least one of the discrete substantially radial protrusions may house at least one of the corresponding electrical conductors.

[22] The or each corresponding electrical conductor may be positioned within an aperture of the socket connector. The or each discrete substantially radial protrusion may be locally positioned towards and/or in the proximity of the inlet of the aperture. The or each discrete substantially radial protrusion may not fully extend vertically.

[23] The at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be provided on the inner diameter or surface of the at least one annular wall for locating against the outer diameter or surface of the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor. Each protrusion may be defined by a line segment or chord across the inner diameter of the at least one annular wall.

[24] The at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be provided on the outer diameter or surface of the at least one annular wall for locating against the inner diameter or surface of the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

[25] The plug connector may comprise at least two concentric electrical conductors for electrical connection to corresponding electrical conductors within inner and outer annular apertures in the socket connector. Furthermore, the main body may comprise at least an outer annular wall and an inner annular wall and said at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be provided on either or both the outer annular wall and/or on the inner annular wall. Moreover, the inner annular wall may be disposed between the inner and outer annular apertures

[26] The at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be provided on the outer annular wall, whereby the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may protrude into the outer aperture for centralising and/or aligning against the outer diameter or surface of the outer circumferentially extending electrical conductor. The outer annular wall may be a circumferential wall of the socket connector.

[27] The at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be provided on the inner annular wall, whereby the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may protrude into the inner aperture for centralising and/or aligning against the outer diameter or surface of the inner circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

[28] The at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be provided on the inner annular wall, whereby the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may protrude into the outer aperture for centralising and/or aligning against the inner diameter or surface of the outer circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

[29] The plug connector may further comprise a substantially central electrical plug conductor for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical socket conductor within a substantially central aperture in the socket connector. The inner and outer circumferentially extending electrical conductors may be located outwardly of the substantially central electrical plug conductor each may be at a different radial distance from the substantially central electrical plug conductor.

[30] The at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions may be positioned substantially equidistantly apart.

[31] Furthermore, the plug connector may comprises at least three discrete substantially radial protrusions and the at least one of the circumferentially extending electrical conductor may centralise and/or align against two of the at least three discrete substantially radial protrusions during docking whilst a clearance may be provided between the at least one of the circumferential electrically extending conductor and the third discrete substantially radial protrusion so as to prevent friction therebetween.

[32] The inlet of the outer annular aperture may be provided with a chamfer to provide guidance for the outer circumferentially extending electrical conductor of the plug connector. The chamfer may be provided on the outer annular wall and having a shallow angle of less than 21°, and preferably less than or equal to 10.5°.

[33] The cordless electrical connection system may further comprise an additional one or more circumferential electrically extending conductor for transmitting electrical signals between the appliance proper and the power base.

[34] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, wherein at least one of the plug connector or socket connector comprises at least one circumferentially extending conductor for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical conductor of the socket connector or plug connector such that the at least one circumferentially extending conductor is located against a main body of the socket connector or plug connector, said main body having at least one annular wall comprising at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions for centralising and/or aligning the at least one circumferentially extending conductor. [35] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, the socket connector comprises a main body having at least one aperture for receiving at least one corresponding electrical conductor of the plug connector, and the at least one aperture is provided with drainage means for draining liquids away therefrom and towards a drainage aperture provided in the power base, wherein at least the outlet of the drainage means is not in direct contact with any part or portion of the power base.

[36] The main body of the socket connector may further comprise an annular lip, in which an annular well may be formed for safely collecting any liquid between the top surface of the power base and the socket connector and said annular well may be provided with drainage means for draining liquids away therefrom and towards a drainage aperture provided in the power base, wherein at least the outlet of the drainage means may not be direct contact with any part or portion of the power base.

[37] At least the outlet of the or each drainage means may be suspended freely within the power base.

[38] The main body of the socket connector may comprise at least two apertures for receiving corresponding electrical conductors of the plug connector, and each aperture may be provided with drainage means for draining liquids away from the respective apertures. The main body of the socket connector may comprise at least three apertures for receiving corresponding electrical conductors of the plug connector, and at least two apertures may share a common drainage means.

[39] The draining means of the or each aperture and annular well may form a combined drainage channel. Alternatively, the drainage means may comprise separate drainage channels.

[40] The power base may further comprise a lower power base portion including means for receiving the socket connector. The socket connector may further comprise locating means for mutually engaging with corresponding locating means provided on the lower power base portion for aligning the drainage means with the drainage aperture provided in the power base.

[41] The lower power base portion may comprise an annular skirt that may function as a dam and/or barrier to contain any excess liquid and divert this liquid towards the drainage aperture. Furthermore, a central portion of the lower power base may be angled and/or tapered towards the drainage aperture, so that water may be easily drained away. [42] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, the socket connector comprises a main body having at least one aperture for receiving at least one corresponding electrical conductor of the plug connector, and the at least one aperture is provided with drainage means for draining liquids away therefrom and towards a drainage aperture provided in the power base, wherein at least the outlet of the drainage means is suspended freely within the power base.

[43] At least one of the plug and socket connectors of the cordless electrical connection system may be a waterproof connector. The at least one of the plug and socket connectors may be made waterproof by sealing one or more cavities containing electrical connections to said electrical conductors.

[44] The plug connector of the cordless electrical connection system may further comprise a thermal control for said appliance proper.

[45] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an appliance comprising the cordless electrical connection system and/or thermal control apparatus. The appliance may be a kettle, heated vacuum flask, pot, blender, iron, wasserkocher, coffee or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, food processor, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother, water coolers water dispenser, pan, vending machine, and/or hot water on demand appliance.

[46] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a liquid reservoir, a heater for heating liquid in the reservoir and a spout for dispensing liquid from the reservoir, the appliance further comprising a baffle, located behind the spout, for inhibiting or preventing turbulent liquid) from spitting and/or ejecting through the spout during heating, wherein the baffle comprises:

a. a first surface for deflecting the turbulent liquid away from the spout; and b. a second surface 747) that extends substantially around and/or along at least the lower periphery of the first surface, whereby the second surface abuts and/or seals against an inner wall at the front of the liquid reservoir.

[47] The first surface may further comprises at least one aperture, whereby the at least one aperture may provide means for pouring from or filling of the reservoir and means for excess steam to escape out of the reservoir during the heating process [48] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid heating appliance comprising a liquid reservoir, a heater for heating liquid in the reservoir and a spout for dispensing liquid from the reservoir, the appliance further comprising a baffle, located behind the spout, for inhibiting or preventing turbulent liquid from spitting and/or ejecting through the spout during heating, wherein the baffle comprises a first surface for deflecting the turbulent liquid towards the back of the reservoir of the appliance and at least one aperture is provided in said first surface, whereby the at least one aperture provides means for pouring from or filling of the reservoir and means for excess steam or steam exhaust to escape out of the reservoir during the heating process.

[49] The baffle may further comprises a second surface that extends substantially around and/or along at least the lower periphery of the first surface, whereby the second surface may abut and/or seal against an inner wall at the front of the liquid reservoir. Alternatively, the second surface extends substantially around and/or along the first surface.

[50] The at least one aperture may be located at an offset position to the spout.

[51] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a steam valve assembly comprising a valve member through which steam and/or vapour can pass during normal use, the valve member being arranged to:

a. close when the appliance is tipped over on its side with the liquid level above the valve member; and

b. open when the appliance is tipped over on its side with the liquid level below the valve member.

[52] The steam valve assembly may be in fluid communication with a steam switch.

[53] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a steam valve assembly for a liquid heating appliance, comprising at least one venting channel for allowing venting of the appliance in an upright position thereof, the venting channel being connected to at least first and second discrete valves positioned in a mutually opposite arrangement, such that when the appliance is tipped over to one side the first valve closes the venting channel and when the appliance is tipped over to the other side the second valve closes the venting channel.

[54] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spill inhibiting system for a liquid heating comprising:

a. a first component comprises at least one channel for allowing venting of the appliance in an upright position and when the appliance is tipped over to one side; and b. a second component comprises a valve member selectively operable to allow liquid to pass therethrough for dispensing and/or filling of the appliance via a spout aperture during normal use, but prevents liquid to pass therethrough when the appliance is tipped over to one side.

[55] The first component and second component may be discrete components. Alternatively, the first component and the second component may be integrated and/or assembled together to form a sub-assembly.

[56] The second component may be pivotally and/or hingedly connected together.

[57] Each of the embodiments in this patent application may be considered as discrete inventions in their own right for specific appliances or may be considered to be used in combination with at least one other embodiment and/or for different appliances as may become clear upon reading the description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[58] There now follows, by way of example only, a detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the Figures identified below.

Figure 1 is a schematic cross section of a cordless liquid heating appliance in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 9a is a schematic cross-section of a prior art liquid heating appliance with a user actuated spill-inhibiting safety feature.

Figure 13ywh is a schematic isometric cutaway section view through plane A- A of an appliance with a steam valve assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13ywi is an exploded isometric view of the steam valve assembly of Figure 13ywh.

Figures 13ywj and 13ywk are schematic views though plane B-B of the steam valve assembly of Figure 13ywh in downward and upward facing positions.

Figures 13ywl, 13ywn, 13ywp and 13ywr are schematic front views of the section through the appliance of Figure 13ywh lying on its side in four different orientations.

Figures 13ywm, 13ywo, 13ywq and 13yws are schematic sectional views of the steam valve assembly in their respective positions of Figures 13ywl, 13ywn, 13ywp and 13ywr, showing the positions of the valve.

Figure 13ywt is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of the appliance of Figure 13ywh. Figures 13ywu and 13ywv are schematic plan views of the appliance of Figure 13ywh illustrating the angular position of the steam valve assembly.

Figure 13yww is a schematic isometric cutaway section view through plane A- A of the appliance illustrating as embodiment of steam valve assembly.

Figure 13ywx is an exploded isometric view of the steam valve assembly of Figure

13yww.

Figure 13ywx is a schematic plan view of a section through the appliance in its upright and normal position of Figure 13yww.

Figures 13yxa and 13yxb are exploded and assembled perspective views of a first embodiment of a spill inhibiting assembly.

Figure 13yxc is an exploded rear view of the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxa and 13yxb.

Figure 13yxd is a front view of the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxa and 13yxb.

Figures 13yxe and 13yxf are schematic sectional views of the appliance with the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd lying on its side in two different orientations.

Figure 13yxg is a schematic plan view of an appliance with a variant of the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means appliance of Figures 13yxe and 13yxf.

Figure 13yxh is a schematic front view of the appliance of Figure 13yxg in its tipped over position with the spout facing downwards and/or upon impact with the spout facing downwards.

Figures 13yxi and 13yxj are schematic sectional views of the appliance with the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means of Figures 13yxg and 13yxj lying on its side in two different orientations.

Figure 13yxk is a cutaway view of the appliance without the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd in the upright and normal position.

Figure 13yxl is a cutaway view of the appliance with the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd in the upright and normal position illustrating the spill inhibiting assembly in a closed position.

Figure 13yxm is a cutaway view of the appliance with the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd in the upright and normal position illustrating the spill inhibiting assembly in an opened position. Figures 13yxn, 13yxo and 13yxp are schematic cross section views of the spill inhibiting appliance in the upright and normal position illustrating the appliance in pre- assembled, closed and Open' positions respectively.

Figures 13yxs and 13yxt are exploded and assembled perspective views of a second embodiment of the spill inhibiting assembly.

Figure 13yxu is a perspective front view of the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxs and 13yxt.

Figure 13yxw is front view of the spill inhibiting assembly of Figures 13yxs to 13yxu.

Figures 13yxx and 13yxy are schematic cross section views of the appliance with the spill inhibiting appliance of Figures 13yxs to 13yxw in the closed and Open' positions respectively.

Figures 13yya and 13yyb are exploded and assembled perspective views of a third embodiment of the spill inhibiting assembly.

Figures 13yyc and 13yyd are schematic cross section views of the appliance with the spill inhibiting appliance of Figures 13yya and 13yyb in the closed and Open' positions respectively.

Figures 13yye and 13yyf are schematic sectional views of an embodiment of the appliance comprising a spill inhibiting means of Figures 13yxa to 13yye and the steam valve assembly of Figures 13ywh to 13ywy lying on its side in two different orientations with the spout 7 facing upwards.

Figure 13yyg is schematic illustration of the appliance in an upright position comprising the spill inhibiting means of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd and the steam valve assembly of Figures 13ywh to 13yws.

Figure 13yyh is a schematic cross section of an appliance with a spill inhibiting assembly and steam valve assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13yyi is a schematic cross section of the appliance of Figure 13yyh with the spill inhibiting assembly in an opened position.

Figure 13yyj is an isometric view of the appliance of Figures 13yyh and 13yyi with the steam valve assembly in an upright and normal position with non-essential components of the lid removed for illustrative, clarity and descriptive purposes.

Figure 13yyk is a detailed view of Figure 13yyi with the internal features of the steam valve assembly shown in grey lines. Figures 13yyl to 13yyo illustrate schematic perspective views of the appliance of Figures 13yyh to 13yyk lying on its side in four different orientations.

Figure 49ze is a cross-section view of a prior art reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with a turbulence management arrangement.

Figure 49zo is a cross-section view of a first embodiment of a reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with a turbulence management arrangement.

Figure 49zp is a front isometric view of the baffle.

Figure 49zq is a schematic cutaway view of the region of the baffle of Figure 49zo. Figure 49zqa schematically illustrates the baffle of Figure 49zo superimposed in front of a spout 7 of the appliance.

Figure 49zqa illustrates an embodiment of the baffle of Figure 49zqa.

Figure 49zqc schematically illustrates a section through the appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zo.

Figure 49zr is a detailed schematic cross-section in the region of the baffle of the appliance of Figure 49zo, in a pouring position

Figure 49zs is a cutaway view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance without the baffle of Figure 49zo in a pre-assembled position.

Figure 49zt is a cutaway view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zo in an assembled position.

Figures 49zu and 49zv illustrate rear perspective views of the baffle and an appliance filter in preassembled and assembled states.

Figure 49zw is a cutaway view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zo and the appliance filter in an assembled position.

Figure 49zx is a schematic cutaway view of an alternative embodiment of the baffle in a pouring position.

Figures 49zy to 49zza schematically illustrate three stages in assembling and securing a steam tube into a steam cap.

Figure 49zzb is a schematic cross-section of an embodiment of the steam path moulding provided within the lid.

Figure 49zzc is a schematic cutaway isometric view of an embodiment of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle in a pre-assembled position.

Figure 49zzd is a schematic cutaway side view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zzc in a pre-assembled position. Figure 49zze is a schematic cutaway isometric view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zzc in a first stage of assembly.

Figure 49zzf is a schematic cutaway side view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zze in the first stage of assembly.

Figure 49zzg is a schematic cutaway isometric view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zzc in a final stage of assembly.

Figure 49zzf is a schematic cutaway side view of the reduced headroom liquid heating appliance with the baffle of Figure 49zzg in the final stage of assembly

Figure 53mka is an isometric view of an integrated control 520 including a cordless plug connector, from below, for use with a cordless socket connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 53mkb is an isometric view of a cordless socket connector according to an embodiment of the present invention, from above.

Figure 53mkc is a detailed isometric view of the cordless socket connector of Figure 53mkb.

Figure 53mkd is a schematic plan view of the cordless socket connector of Figure 53mkc.

Figure 53mke is an enlarged schematic plan view of a prior art socket connector, illustrating the width of a gap Ga, which is consistent over the diameter of the prior art socket connector.

Figure 53mkf is an enlarged schematic plan view of the socket connector of Figures 53mkb to 53mkd, illustrating the width of the same gap Ga, which is only required in the area of the protrusion.

Figures 53mkg to 53mkj are schematic section views of the cordless plug connector and cordless socket connector of Figures 53mka and 53mkb according to the embodiment of the present invention before, during and after docking.

Figure 53mkk is a schematic plan view of the docking of the plug connector with the socket connector of Figures 53mkb to 53mkd and 53mkf to 53mkj according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 53mkl to 53mkn are schematic plan views of further embodiments of the socket connector.

Figure 53qczoa is an exploded isometric section view of a prior art integrated control, whereby non-essential components are removed for illustrative purposes.

Figures 53qczob and 53qczoc are isometric views of alternative star washers. Figures 53qczod to 53qczof are schematic section views of the integrated control of Figure 53qczoa during its operational phases.

Figure 53qczog is a schematic section view of the integrated control of Figure 53qczoa with an improved dampening means according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 53qczoh and 53qczoi are isometric views of a variant of the improved dampening means in its pre-formed and formed states.

Figure 53qczoj is a schematic section view of the integrated control of Figure 53qczoa with the improved dampening means of Figures 53qczoh and 53qczoi.

Figure 53qczzl is an exploded isometric view of the cordless socket connector according to an embodiment of the present invention and a lower power base.

Figure 53qczzm is an isometric sectional view through the assembled cordless connector and the lower power base of Figure 53qczzl with a base cover moulding.

Figure 53qczzn is a schematic sectional view through the assembled cordless connector and the lower power base of Figure 53qczzl with the base cover moulding.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[59] The following description discloses innovations that individually, or in combination, with will impact upon very specific appliance designs and may also find use in alternative domestic and commercial appliances.

[60] The embodiments are presented in separate sections of this document and each of these sections will include a brief introduction to the specific problem.

[61] At least some of the embodiments are improvements to the applicant's previously applied for and/or concurrent patent applications, in which case, an appropriate patent number may be provided to reference specific cases. The relevant features of the referenced patent applications are thereby incorporated by reference herein.

[62] To avoid duplication of the background, the description refers to lowering prices, reducing material costs and reducing size etc. but in doing so is taking into consideration each of the above aspects that may be relevant to the specific disclosure.

[63] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, the invention may be described as 'reduced size' which covers the potential to reduce, for example, material usage in comparison to prior art design and/or assembly methods. The term 'reduced size' is not intended to be limiting. [64] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the upward and downward directions refer to the orientation of a vessel when placed upright on a horizontal surface. Axial refers to the principal, normally substantially vertical axis of the vessel. Radial refers to a direction substantially orthogonal to the axial direction, but does not necessarily imply that the vessel is circular cylindrical.

[65] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, any female connector or connecting part that includes the live electrical parts will be hereon referred to in the description as the socket and any male connector or connecting part that plugs into the socket will be hereon referred to as the plug.

[66] In the following description, functionally similar parts carry the same reference numerals between different embodiments. The drawings are intended to be schematic, and dimensions and angles may not be determined accurately from them unless otherwise stated.

[67] The following description discloses a combination of measures that will advantageously impact on costs and price in all their aspects.

[68] At least some of the embodiments may rely on, or refer to, the features of Figure 1 by reference to the figure reference numerals in Figure 1.

[69] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms apparatus, system, means, arrangements, mechanisms and device are intended to have equivalent meanings.

[70] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the electrical power supply lead into the base 2 or appliance 1 may be described by the term cord 13 and the term cable 336. It is intended that each term has a similar or equivalent meaning.

[71] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms liquid and water are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[72] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms kettle, safety kettle, appliance, vessel and reservoir may have equivalent meaning.

[73] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms appliance and appliance proper refer to the device and/or the appliance per se, for example, a kettle, milk frother, blender and/or mixer etc. that is removable and/or detachable from its power base. Where the appliance is cordless and a portion of the appliance may be separable from the power base for example during filling and/or pouring, then the appliance proper refers to the portion that is separable from the power base.

[74] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms waterproof, wash proof, washable and immersable in water are intended have equivalent meaning. Furthermore, the term water is not limiting and may encompass other liquid types and/or aerated liquids, for example, foam or suds.

[75] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the term waterproof cordless connector and/or waterproof component mean that the cordless connector and/or component in its own right has waterproof properties, i.e. preventing or inhibiting the ingress or passing of water through the cordless connector and/or component.

[76] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms part and portion are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[77] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, when describing electrical connections the terms discrete contact, contact portion and contact area are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[78] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the kettle, safety kettle, appliance and vessel may function as a reservoir without the need for a separate reservoir, such as a filtering or dispensing reservoir.

[79] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the upward and downward directions refer to the orientation of a vessel when placed upright on a horizontal surface. Axial refers to the principal, normally substantially vertical axis of the vessel. Radial refers to a direction substantially orthogonal to the axial direction, but does not necessarily imply that the vessel is circular cylindrical.

[80] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, any female connector or connecting part that includes the live electrical parts will be hereon referred to in the description as the socket and any male connector or connecting part that plugs into the socket will be hereon referred to as the plug.

[81] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms steam chamber and steam valve assembly may have equivalent meaning. The steam chamber and steam valve assembly may form a part of the vessel, for example, on the lid, reservoir, steam tube or handle etc. Alternatively, steam chamber and steam valve assembly may be secured or removably mounted to a part of the vessel, for example, on the lid, reservoir, steam tube or handle etc. [82] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, when describing one part of a heating element the terms heat transfer plate and heat diffuser plate are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[83] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, when describing one part of a vessel body the terms opening and aperture are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[84] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, when describing the trip lever and/or control the terms over centre and bistable are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[85] Figure 1 illustrates schematically a jug kettle with a mechanical actuator, as an example of a liquid heating appliance to which embodiments of the invention may be applied. In this example, the kettle is a cordless kettle comprising a vessel body 1 and a power base 2 having respective body and base cordless connectors 3 and 4, such as 360° cordless connectors of the type described in the applicant's own patent publication WO94/06285 and/or as sold by Otter Controls Ltd under, for example, the CS4/CS7 Series (power base socket) and the Al, CP7 or CP8 (appliance plug) references. The power base 2 is connectable by a power cord 13 to an electrical power outlet (not shown). Each of the vessel 1 and/or base 2 and/or cordless plug connector 3 and/or cordless socket connector 4 may be provided with emitters and/or detectors 31, annular seals 21 which may be optically transmissive and/or annular optically transmissive rings 41.

[86] The jug kettle may include an electro mechanical control 60, for example the applicant's own Al series integrated 360° control, or an electronic control 15. The electro mechanical control 60 may include an integral steam switch 73 or alternatively a discrete steam switch 73 a may be provided, within, for example, the handle 9. The appliance may be provided with a switch actuator 305 or 305a which interacts with the control 60, for example through a known over-centre trip lever mechanism (not shown in Figure 1), to toggle between operating states of the appliance. Alternatively an electronic control 15 may employ an alternative user interface 11. Either or both of the electronic control 15 and/or user interface 11 may be situated in one or both of the vessel 1 and/or base 2.

[87] The vessel body 1 comprises a reservoir 5 for containing liquid to be heated, lid 8, spout 7, handle 9 and a base section 6 having a sub-base portion 19, which forms the bottom surface of the vessel body 1. The spout 7 may provide primary venting and/or pressure equalisation. The spout 7 may further include a spout filter 740 having a screen mesh 659. The vessel body 1 may be further provided with a baffle 730 located behind the spout 7, as described in the applicant's own patent publication GB-A-2484571, for reducing or inhibiting water from being ejected or spitting out of the spout during the heating process.

[88] The cordless plug connector 3 may be a waterproof or washproof cordless plug connector 3 sealed into the appliance 1 directly and/or indirectly via the sub base 19 with seals 21, and may provide a sealed area and/or waterproof compartment 6 within the appliance 1 in which electrical components, for example heating elements, mechanical or electronic controls, NTC, stirrer, mixer, blender, sensor, RCD, motor, chargeable or non- chargeable power supply, lift-off switch-off mechanism, wiring harnesses etc., may be housed, thus allowing the appliance to be washed in a dishwasher or cleaned by immersion in water, as described in the applicant's own patent publication WO-A1-2008/012506. In that case, the waterproof compartment 6, including internal components, may not require to be additionally filled and/or partially filled with a sealant or filler material to enable the appliance to become waterproof or washable.

[89] The lid 8 may be operable to open and close with a user actuator and may be secured to the vessel with a hinge, latch or other means. The lid 8 may be securably sealed to the vessel so that the lid remains in place and does not leak liquid in the case that the appliance is tipped over.

[90] The vessel 1 may further include a spill inhibiting means for example 149, 640 in the area of the spout 7 and/or steam inlet, as described for example, in the applicant' s own patent publication WO-A2-2011/101642 to reduce or eliminate spillage if the appliance is accidentally tipped or knocked over.

[91] A steam tube 70 and steam cap 101 may be provided. The steam tube communicates from the area above the water level 225 to the steam switch 73 or 73 a. The steam tube may be formed, for example as part of the handle 9 or reservoir wall 5 or as illustrated as a separate tube. In the case that the steam tube passes through the element then a suitable seal 584 and additional steam guide 599 may be provided. The vessel body 1 may be any shape and formed, for example, from plastic, metal, glass or ceramic. The vessel body may comprise a single wall as illustrated or alternatively a twin wall so that, for example, the vessel may be better insulated against heat loss or to render the wall cool to the touch.

[92] Liquid is heated by an element plate 12 which may form the base of the reservoir 5. The reservoir 5 of the appliance 1 may be provided with water level markings and/or other features that indicate the state of the appliance 1. The element plate 12 includes a heating means and is connected to receive electrical power via the cordless connector 3. The heating means may comprise a sheathed element 39 as illustrated or may comprise a thick film element, induction element and/or diecast element arrangement. There may be provided a heat transfer means 410 and the plate 12 may be composed of stainless steel and/or other suitable substrate. As illustrated the element plate 12 may be sealed into the vessel body 1 using the Easifix (RTM) sealing arrangement as described in WO-A- 99/17645 or alternative sealing means may be employed, for example gluing, welding or clamping. The element plate 12 may be supported in the vessel 1 by a removable annular support 401. The element sealing system may also include an intermediate flange 438 between the element plate 12 and the vessel 1.

[93] Each of the above and subsequent mentioned components may be supplied as discrete and/or separate integers to be fixed into the appliance 1 as part of the assembly procedure.

[94] At least some embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating vessels having a heating element immersed in the water, rather than an element on the underside of the vessel.

[95] At least some embodiments of the present invention are applicable to liquid heating vessels connectable directly by a power cord rather than a cordless connector.

[96] At least some of the embodiments in the invention are applicable to kettles or heated vacuum flasks and pots, blenders, irons, wasserkochers, coffee and espresso makers, juicers, smoothie makers, pans, soup makers, sauce makers, steamers, tea makers, chocolate fountains, fondues, slow cookers, food processors, blenders, vacuum pots, milk frothers, refrigerators, water coolers, water dispensers, hot water on demand appliances, vending machines, and/or slot- in appliances. It will be appreciated that the above list is not exhaustive.

[97] At least some of the embodiments in the invention are applicable to non-electrical appliances for containing hot liquid, such as pans and microwavable containers

[98] At least some of the embodiments of the invention are applicable to outdoor applications or areas of extreme dampness.

[99] Within of the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms liquid and water are intended to have equivalent meaning. Spill Inhibiting System for Vessels

[100] With electrical liquid heating appliances, there is a risk of spillage of hot liquid if the appliance is accidentally tipped or knocked over. Since the liquid may be at or close to boiling, such spillage can cause severe scalding to the user or bystanders.

[101] There is also a need to save energy by reducing or eliminating spillage of heated water, so that the heated water is not wasted.

[102] There have been many proposals in the state of the art to reduce or inhibit such spillage. These solutions are generally one of three types, each of which relies on either user actuation and/or moving parts.

i) Manual types in which, for example, liquid can only be poured out when a valve is manually released: for example, Figures 13a to 13f of WO-A-2011/101642 in which the valve is incorporated with a user operated actuator.

ii) Automatic types in which liquid can only be poured out when the appliance is in a particular orientation, using one or more parts that move with the orientation of the appliance, for example, gravity. For example, Figures 15a to 21b of WO-A-2011/101642 illustrate a gravity biased valve in the form of a pendulum pivotally mounted on the vertical axis and supported by pendulum supports. The pendulum is acted on from opposite sides by respective springs so as to centre the pendulum when the appliance is upright or tipped forward towards the spout. The force of the springs is sufficient to overcome any friction between the pendulum and the pendulum supports so that the pendulum is in equilibrium. A central recess in the pendulum allows liquid through the aperture into the lid chamber and subsequently through the aperture into the spout, when the appliance is tipped towards the spout for pouring.

iii) Inertia types in which the valve is sensitive to impact and/or rapid deceleration. For example, Figures 14a to 14d of WO-A-2011/101642 illustrate a valve seat having an inwardly projecting portion located towards the spout side of a lower lid wall, which prevents the conical valve from sliding upwards and closing the aperture when the appliance is tipped forwards for pouring. However, if the appliance is tipped forward suddenly, the valve will jump past the projecting portion and seal against the upper lid sealing face. If the appliance is tipped over sideways or backwards the valve member will not be engaged by the projecting portion but will seal against the upper lid sealing face, thereby closing the aperture.

[103] Very often the provision to make the appliance safe may also inhibit the easy use of the appliance. [104] The state of the art is mostly directed to domestic water boiling appliances, referred to hereafter as safety kettles.

[105] One particular problem in kettles is the need to provide pressure relief and/or venting from the appliance both in normal use (during filling and pouring and heating and cooling cycles) and in abnormal conditions, for example if the appliance is tipped over. Generally the spout of the kettle acts as the primary pressure relief and venting means for steam and to accommodate expansion and contraction. In the case that the spout is sealed or partially sealed, for example to prevent spillage, a separate primary venting means is usually provided.

[106] Another venting requirement for safety kettles is the need for pressure equalization between the reservoir and atmosphere so that for example, the water may pour freely from the reservoir.

[107] For kettles that incorporate a temperature control (for example a steam switch) mounted remote from the reservoir, a steam tube may communicate between the reservoir and the steam switch and this steam tube may provide secondary venting and/or pressure equalization for the appliance.

[108] In safety kettles, the primary venting or secondary venting means may be inhibited by the spill inhibiting features and alternatively or additionally excessive water pressure may result in the primary or secondary venting means ejecting heated water.

[109] In the case of a cordless kettle, the temperature difference between the heating element and the water may cause boiling to continue for a short while after the kettle is knocked over, so that pressure may also continue to build up to some degree even after the power has been disconnected.

[110] For example, JP-A-2008212315 discloses a manual type safety kettle with a separate venting outlet for steam. In tests of commercially available safety kettles in Japan and based on the disclosure of that patent application, boiling water spurted vigorously from the venting outlet after the kettle had been tipped onto its side.

[Ill] In addition, the steam pressure may force the heated water into the handle and/or the sub base via the steam tube so that there is a risk of the user accidentally contacting a heated surface and/or liquid when attempting to pick up the appliance after being tipped over. Furthermore, there is the risk of excessive water contacting any electrical components that may also be housed in the handle and/or sub base. [112] However if the heating vessel were completely closed by an interlock or valve, as for example in GB-A-2272629, there is a risk that steam pressure will build up inside the vessel until it explodes.

[113] Another problem to be addressed in safety kettles and the like is the need to allow easy filling and/or pouring.

[114] The applicant's patent publication WO-A-2011/101642 discloses a number of means to overcome the above problems including a commercially available system based on a moving pendulum arrangement which enables the user to pour from the safety kettle without user actuation and to provide spill inhibiting primary and/or secondary venting means.

[115] It is understood that these automatic arrangements do not always fulfil local marketing requirements, in which, for example, the user actuation may not be considered detrimental and may even be seen as a benefit. However, there is a need to provide improvements to user actuator arrangements, in which the default position provides spill inhibiting means whilst also providing primary venting means.

[116] The applicant's patent publication WO-A-2012/ 110925 discloses means to overcome spillage issues in which the appliance is predisposed to rest, after being tipped over, with the spout in an upward facing position. However, there is still a need to prevent and/or restrict liquid spilling from the spout if/when the appliance is tipped over in the forward position prior to the appliance resting on its side. Furthermore, generally there is a steam tube towards the back of the appliance, and there is a need to prevent liquid entering the steam tube whilst the appliance is predisposed to rest with the spout in an upward facing position.

[117] Each of the following embodiments, identified with reference to the drawings, may be used in isolation or in conjunction with other embodiments to provide solutions to the above problems and, in a number of arrangements; the inventors have illustrated embodiments of such combinations.

[118] It is evident that the full scope and combination of embodiments is extensive; however it is envisaged that the skilled person, having read the description herein, will be able to transfer solutions between the embodiments to meet the specific problems of individual appliances within the scope of the present invention.

[119] Traditionally spill inhibiting means have been used in electrical portable water heating appliances such as kettles or heated vacuum flasks and pots. Additional example appliances may include any appliance that requires some form of protection from the spillage of heated liquid; in which case the safety kettle embodiments subsequently described are applicable to any heated liquid appliance that is susceptible to spillage and/or being knocked over. This may include non-electrical appliances for containing hot liquid, such as pans and microwavable containers, so that the food or liquid being heated can vent safely during and immediately after the cooking process without excess pressure build up and/or spillage during normal use and to prevent excessive spillage if the container is dropped or tipped over.

[120] It is known that a water heating vessel requires head room or a void 222 above the water level to accommodate the turbulence and/or expansion that may occur when the water boils. The water level 225d in the following Figures is a typical maximum level for a water heating appliance including a steam operated control and the equivalent volume is used to schematically illustrate the level of water when the appliance 1 is in a tipped over position. Each of the spill inhibiting embodiments are illustrated with reference to the water level 225d however the level 225d is not limiting and arrangements may be configured for appliances with alternative maximum water levels.

[121] In the following description, functionally similar parts carry the same reference numerals between different embodiments. The drawings are intended to be schematic, and dimensions and angles may not be determined accurately from them unless otherwise stated.

[122] Embodiments will now be described using corresponding reference numerals to those of preceding Figure 1 where appropriate for corresponding elements.

[123] Figure 9a illustrates a prior art safety kettle, as described in WO-A-2011/101642, in which the lid 8 comprises a lid chamber 71, the floor of which comprises a lower lid surface 66. The lid 8 is removably sealed against the upper end of the reservoir 5 by a reservoir seal 64. The lid 8 including the lid chamber 71 can be removed from the reservoir 5, to allow filling or cleaning of the reservoir 5. Alternatively or additionally the lid 8 may be attached to the vessel body 1 by a hinge.

[124] The lid chamber 71 acts as a passage for liquid from the reservoir 5, which enters the lid chamber 71 through an aperture 86 in the lower lid surface 66. Liquid may then be poured out from the lid chamber 71 through the spout 7.

[125] In each embodiment, the vessel body may have an outer wall 61 spaced apart from an inner wall 62, the latter forming the wall of the reservoir 5. The steam tube 70 passes through the space between the inner wall 62 and the outer wall 61, for example as described and claimed in the applicant's granted patents GB-B-2365752 and CN-C- 1239116. This steam tube may act as a secondary vent as previously described.

[126] The flow of liquid through the aperture 86 is governed by at least one mechanical flow management means 80, to prevent liquid from escaping from the reservoir 5 when the vessel body 1 is tipped over. The mechanical flow management means may comprise a user actuator 75 or may be automatic.

[127] The spill inhibiting means in Figure 9a, as described, is positioned within the lid, however, WO-A-2011/101642 explicitly discloses the use of such systems in other parts of the appliance including the reservoir and/or the spout.

[128] US-B-6, 805,266 discloses a spill prevention mechanism for a liquid-containing vessel, in which a flap closes under hydrostatic pressure to seal an opening, and is magnetically latched in the closed position until manually opened.

Steam Chamber/Steam Valve Assembly Arrangements to Prevent Liquid Entering the Steam Chamber and/or Steam Tube.

[129] As previously described, within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms steam chamber and steam valve assembly may have equivalent meaning, however, for brevity, this will be referred to in the following description as a steam valve assembly.

[130] As illustrated the steam valve assembly 640vi is formed as part of, or removably mounted to, the steam tube as part of the steam path from the reservoir 5 towards the appliance control for example steam sensor 73. However, in further embodiments the steam valve assembly 640vi may form a part of or removably mounted to other parts of the vessel that form part of the steam path, for example, on the lid, reservoir, steam chamber or handle etc.

[131] For illustrative and clarity purposes, non-essential components are omitted from the figures.

[132] Figures 13ywh to 13yws illustrate a first embodiment of the steam valve assembly 640vi, in which steam access and secondary venting is provided when the appliance lc is in an upright or pouring position; however, liquid is prevented from entering the steam tube 70 when the appliance lc is tipped over on its side.

[133] Figure 13ywh illustrates a schematic isometric cutaway section view through the central plane A-A of the appliance lc illustrating the steam valve assembly 640vi secured or removably secured to the end of the steam tube 70 with the appliance lc in an upright position. As illustrated, it is preferred, but not limiting, that the steam valve assembly 640vi is offset from the central plane A-A of the appliance lc and positioned towards the outer perimeter of the vessel lc at approximately 90° to the central plane A-A. It is also preferred that the steam valve assembly 640vi is positioned to face downwardly at an angle towards the central axis of the appliance lc, so that the steam valve assembly 640vi is always open when the appliance lc is in an upright position. The range of angle in which the steam valve assembly 640vi may face downwardly towards the central axis of the appliance lc is between 15° to 75° to the horizontal axis of the appliance lc. Preferably, the angle may be 45°.

[134] Figure 13ywi illustrates an exploded isometric view of the steam valve assembly 640vi and Figures 13ywj and 13ywk are schematic cutaway cross sections through the central plane B-B of the steam valve assembly 640vi in upright and tipped over positions, which will be described in more detail below.

[135] As illustrated, the steam valve assembly 640vi comprises a chamber 640 which may be formed as part of a main body 637 and cover 638. The chamber 640 may include at least one channel 682d for housing the valve member 159a, which is movable therein.

[136] A first aperture 160 is provided in a side of the chamber 640 to fluidly connect the reservoir 5 to the channel 682d. A second aperture 92 is provided in a side of the chamber 640, to fluidly connect the channel 682d to the steam tube 70 so that the reservoir 5 is fluidly connected to the steam tube 70 via the channel 682d of steam valve assembly 640vi. As illustrated the apertures 92, 160 are positioned on opposite sides of the channel 682d, however in other embodiments the apertures 92, 160 may, for example, be on the same side of the chamber 640 and in still further embodiments at least one aperture 92, 160 may be positioned on an end wall of the chamber 640.

[137] As illustrated the valve member 159a is circular with flat sides so that the valve member 159a may easily move/rotate along the channel 682d in response to gravity, and the side of the valve member 159a may close at least one of the apertures 92, 162 in the tipped over position.

[138] As illustrated, the apertures 92, 160 lie substantially on the same axis, such that in the tipped over position, the valve member 159 may mutually engage and close one or both of the apertures 92, 160. In further embodiments the apertures 92, 160 may be offset or on the same plane. Furthermore, the shape/form of the valve member 159a and the manner in which it rests against, within or closes the apertures 92, 160 are not limiting, and in further embodiments it can be envisaged that the valve member 159a may be, for example, rectangular, square, ovoid or spherical for cooperating with mutually engaging features provided on the apertures 92, 160 to ensure an effective seal between the valve member 159a and the apertures 92, 160.

[139] As illustrated, the steam valve assembly 640vi may be connected to the steam tube 70 via a steam guide 599, however in further embodiments the steam valve assembly 640vi may be connected directly to the steam tube 70 or may, as previously described, form a part of or be removably mounted to other parts of the vessel, for example, on the lid, reservoir, steam chamber or handle etc.

[140] With the appliance lc in an upright position as illustrated in Figure 13ywj, the steam valve assembly 640vi faces in a first downward position as illustrated by the arrow, and the valve member 159a resides at the bottom end of channel 682d such that the apertures 92, 160 are both open to allow the reservoir 5 to be fluidly connected to the steam tube 70. During the following description any steam valve assembly 640vi described in a downward facing position will be deemed to be open.

[141] With the appliance lc in a tipped over position as illustrated in Figure 13ywk, the steam valve assembly 640vi faces in an upward position as illustrated by arrow B, which allows the valve member 159a to move to the other end of the channel 682d such that at least one of the apertures 92, 160 is closed and disconnects the reservoir 5 from the steam tube 70. During the following description any steam valve assembly 640vi described in an upward facing position will deem to be closed.

[142] Figures 13ywl, 13ywn, 13ywp and 13ywr illustrate schematic front views of the section through the appliance lc of Figure 13ywh lying on its side in four different orientations. In Figures 13ywl and 13ywp, the spout 7 faces upward and in Figures 13ywn and 13ywr the spout 7 faces downward.

[143] Figures 13ywm, 13ywo, 13ywq and 13yws are schematic sectional views of the steam valve assembly 640vi on their respective positions of Figures 13ywl, 13ywn, 13ywp and 13ywr, showing the positions of the valve member 159a.

[144] As illustrated in the first tipped over position of Figures 13ywl and 13ywm the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the left and the steam valve assembly 640vi is above the water level 225d in which case no liquid will enter the steam valve assembly 640vi. The valve assembly 640vi is in a first downwardly facing position in which case the valve member 159 resides at a distance from both apertures 92, 160 within the channel 682d and in this position the steam valve assembly 640vi allows excess steam pressure to be safely vented out of the reservoir 5. [145] As illustrated in second tipped over position of Figures 13ywn and 13ywo, the spout 7 is facing downwardly towards the left however the steam valve assembly remains above the water level 222d in which case no liquid will enter the steam valve assembly 640vi. The valve assembly 640vi is in a second downwardly facing position in which case the valve member 159 resides at a distance from both apertures 92, 160 within the channel 682d and in this position the steam valve assembly 640vi allows excess steam pressure to be safely vented out of the reservoir 5.

[146] As illustrated in a third tipped over position of Figures 13ywp and 13ywq, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the right and the steam valve assembly 640vi is below the water level 225d. The steam valve assembly 640vi is now in a first upwardly facing position and the valve member 159 moves to the other end of the channel 682d closing at least one of the apertures 92, 160, and preventing the contents of the reservoir 5 entering the channel 682d.

[147] As illustrated in the fourth tipped over position of Figures 13ywr and 13yws, the spout 7 is facing downwardly towards the right and the steam valve assembly 640vi once again below the water level 225d. The steam valve assembly 640vi is now in a second upwardly facing position with the valve member 159 closing at least one of the apertures 92, 160 to prevent the contents of the reservoir 5 entering the channel 682d.

[148] As illustrated, in at least one orientation, when tipped over, the steam valve assembly 640vi will fully block access to the steam tube 70, and so prevents the steam tube 70 acting as a primary or secondary vent. In which case, it is preferred, but not limiting, that alternative venting is provided in at least this orientation of the tipped over position, for example venting through the spout and/or the provision of a pressure relief valve as described in the proprietors' patent application WO-A2-2011/101642.

[149] In an alternative embodiment as shown in Figure 13ywt, at least a second steam valve assembly 640vii may be provided within the vessel lc at an opposite side to the first steam valve assembly 640vi. The second steam valve assembly 640vii may be connected to the same steam tube 70 as the first steam valve assembly 640vi so that, in the first and second tipped over positions when first steam valve assembly 640vi is above liquid level the second steam valve assembly 640vii is below the liquid level. In which case, the second steam valve assembly 640vii acts as a valve to prevent liquid entering the steam tube 70 and the first steam valve assembly 640vi acts as a vent.

[150] Conversely in the third and fourth tipped over positions when first steam valve assembly 640vi is below the liquid level the second steam valve assembly 640vii is above the liquid level. In which case, the first steam valve assembly 640vi acts as a valve to prevent liquid entering the steam tube 70 and the second steam valve assembly 640vii acts as a vent. So that a vent is provided through the steam tube 70 in the first, second, third and fourth tipped over positions.

[151] Whilst the embodiments of Figures 13ywh to 13ywt illustrate the steam valve assembly 640vi positioned at approximately 90° to the centreline A-A, however this angle is not limiting. In further embodiments, the steam valve assembly 640vi may be angled towards the handle 9, as shown by Angle A in Figure 13ywu. Alternatively, the steam valve assembly 640vi may be angled away from the handle 9, as shown by Angle B in Figure 13ywv. The range of suitable angles will be dependent upon, for example, water level, head room and/or shape of the appliance etc.

[152] Figures 13yww to 13ywy, illustrates a second embodiment of the steam valve assembly 640vii in which steam access and secondary venting is provided when the appliance lc is in an upright or pouring position; however, liquid is prevented from entering the steam tube 70 when the appliance lc is tipped over on its side.

[153] Figure 13yww illustrates a schematic isometric cutaway section view through the central plane A-A of the appliance lc illustrating the steam valve assembly 640viii according to the second embodiment secured or removably secured to the end of the steam tube 70 with the appliance lc in an upright position. As illustrated, it is preferred, but not limiting, that the steam valve assembly 640viii is offset from the central plane A-A of the appliance 1, which will be described in more detail below. As previously described, it is also preferred that the steam valve assembly 640vi is positioned to face downwardly at an angle towards the central axis of the appliance lc.

[154] Figure 13ywx illustrates an exploded isometric view of the steam valve assembly 640viii according to the second embodiment. As previously described, the steam valve assembly 640viii comprises said chamber 640 which may be formed as part of the main body 637 and cover 638. The chamber 640 may include at least one channel 682d for housing the valve member 159, which is movable therein. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features.

[155] As previously described, determining the position/orientation of the assemblies 640 is complex; particularly the need to ensure that the valve member 159 moves from the closed state to the open state (or vice versa) as required in each tipped over position.

[156] As previously described it is essential that the valve faces in a least a first downward position when the appliance is an upright position and the following description read in conjunction with Figure 13wwy discloses means to determine the optimum angular position of the channel 682 of the assembly 640 in plan view to allow the valve to function in at least four tipped over positions.

[157] Figure 13ywy illustrates a schematic plan view of a section through the appliance in its upright and normal position according to the second embodiment. As illustrated, Line A represents a first tangential line in which the spout 7 and the side of the appliance lc rest against a substantially flat surface if tipped over towards the side in a first direction. The horizontal surface and Line B represents a second tangential line in which the handle 9 and the side of the appliance lc may rest against a flat surface if tipped over towards the side in a similar first direction. Line C bisects the angle AB between Line A and Line B as such positioning the channel 682 of the assembly 640vii parallel to line C would be the optimum position if the appliance always tipped over in the first direction irrespective of whether the appliance resides with spout or handle downwards.

[158] Line X represents a third tangential line in which the spout 7 and the side of the appliance lc may rest against a flat surface if tipped over towards the side in a second direction. The horizontal surface and Line Y represent a fourth tangential line in which the handle 9 and the side of the appliance lc rest against a flat surface if tipped over towards the side in a similar second direction. Line Z bisects the angle XY between Line X and Line Y; positioning the channel 682 of the assembly 640vii parallel to line Z would be the optimum position if the appliance always tipped over in the second direction irrespective whether the appliance resides with spout or handle downwards.

[159] It can be appreciated that angles C and Z are substantially the same, however because the tangential lines form a kite shape then lines C and Z are not parallel and will cross each other substantially at the central point of the appliance to form angle CZ. Intersection line M bisects angle CZ and provides an average angle between lines C and Z. In which case positioning the channel 682 of the assembly 640vii parallel to intersection line M would be the optimum position if the appliance is likely to fall on both sides irrespective if the spout or handle is facing downwards.

[160] Ideally the channel 682 of the assembly 640 should be substantially parallel to the intersection line M and preferably should at least fall parallel to any intersection line within the angle CZ.

[161] It can be envisaged that angles C and Z may vary and/or may be dependent upon the design of the appliance. However, the principle remains consistent, i.e. the steam valve assembly 640viii may be substantially parallel to intersection line M so that the valve member 159 may be predisposed at substantially the same angle to the horizontal axis in the four different orientations.

[162] In the case that the appliance comprises two steam valve assemblies as for example as illustrated in figure 13ywt then it would be necessary to determine the angles of Line C and Line Z as described above and it would be preferred that the first valve would be positioned substantially parallel to the equivalent line C and a second valve would be positioned substantially parallel to the equivalent line Z.

[163] The steam valve assembly, or parts thereof, may be made from plastic, or, for example, a corrosion resistant material such as stainless steel. Alternatively, the valve member 159a may be coated in a corrosion resistant and/or a non-stick coating, which may prevent the build-up of scale on its surface, which may cause the valve member 159a to seize

User Actuated Spill Inhibiting Means

[164] In the prior art, it is known to employ inertia type valves or mechanisms that provide spill inhibiting means for the spout upon impact and/or deceleration, for example, as disclosed in WO-A-2011/101642. However, the prior art mechanisms do not resolve the problems of primary venting after the appliance has tipped over onto its side. Furthermore, the prior art mechanisms are located in the lid of the appliance, which may result in more complex and bulky design.

[165] The applicant's patent publication GB-A-2499065 resolve the abovementioned problem by using a combination of a manifold system that provides primary venting, pouring and filling from the spout in normal use and primary venting and spill inhibiting means when the appliance is tipped over on its side and an inertia type ball valve to act as a spill inhibiting means. The inertia type ball valve is retained within its chamber to allow liquid to be dispensed and filled through the spout aperture in normal use and but engages the spout aperture when the appliance is dropped in a forward position to inhibit spillage.

[166] Whilst the disclosed manifold system with the inertia type ball valve is automatic and/or intuitive and may not require any user interaction, its arrangement may be more suited to larger sized appliances, as the manifold system may reduce the liquid carrying capacity of smaller sized appliances.

[167] As previously explained it is understood that these automatic and/or intuitive arrangements do not always fulfil local marketing requirements, in which, for example, the user actuation may not be considered detrimental and may even be seen as a benefit. However, there is a need to provide improvements to user actuator arrangements, in which the default position provides spill inhibiting means whilst also providing primary venting means.

[168] One embodiment of the invention provides a spill inhibiting assembly 635vi that may comprise a valve member 93 for an appliance Id that acts to allow liquid to be dispensed and filled through an aperture 698 in normal use and may act as a spill inhibiting means when the appliance 1 is tipped over in a forward position. The spill inhibiting assembly 635vi may further comprise a pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 that operates in all positions e.g. the tipped over, normal and operating positions, which will be described in more detail below.

[169] For illustrative and clarity purposes, non-essential components are omitted from the figures.

[170] As illustrated in Figures 13yxa to 113yxp, the spout 7 communicates with the reservoir 5 via the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi which may comprise at least one filling and/or pouring aperture 698, a pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 having at least one pressure relieving and/or venting aperture 632, and at least one valve member 93, pivotally supported and/or mounted to said spill inhibiting assembly 635vi, each of which will be described in more detail below.

[171] In the tipped over, normal and operating positions, i.e. all positions, the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 provide pressure relief and equalisation for the appliance Id, i.e. primary venting from the spout in normal use and primary venting when the appliance Id is tipped over on its side, which will be described in more detail below.

[172] The valve member 93 selectively opens and closes the aperture 698 provided in a first surface 705 of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi, such that the appliance Id may be emptied and filled via the aperture 698 and spout aperture 632g, which will be described in more detail below.

[173] Figures 13yxa and 13yxb illustrate exploded and assembled perspective views of the first embodiment of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi which comprises at least two components 705 and 707. The first component 705 comprises said pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 and at least one aperture 698 that cooperates with the spout 7 and the second component 707 comprises said at least one valve member 93. A valve seating surface 706 may be formed around or within the aperture 698. As illustrated the functions of assembly 635vi may be provided within or by the cooperation of first and second components 705, 707 when the assembly is attached to the vessel Id or alternatively (as later described) at least part of the valve function for example the valve sealing means 706 and or hinge 732 may be provided as part of, or integral with for example the vessel 1 and/or lid 8.

[174] As illustrated the first component 705 may abut and/or seal against an inner wall 5a of the vessel Id at the front of the reservoir 5 so that the aperture 698 is in fluid connection with the spout 7 and/or spout aperture 632g. Preferably, the first component 705 mirrors and/or follows the contour of the inner wall 5a at the front of the reservoir 5 to prevent water escaping out of the spout 7 via gaps that may be formed between the first component 705 and the inner wall 5a of the reservoir 5.

[175] As illustrated, the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi may be provided with at least one hinge 732 to allow the valve member 93 to be pivotally mounted thereto via at least one pivot 118. In the default position, the valve member 93 is biased to close off the aperture 698, such that, without user operation, in the tipped over positions the valve member 93 remains in the closed position. The valve member 93 may be provided with an abutment 703 to allow the user to directly or indirectly operate the spout aperture valve member 93 to open the aperture 698. As illustrated the abutment 703 is configured to open the valve member 93 when pushed in the direction of the spout 7. However in further embodiments (not shown), the abutment 703 may be configured so that the valve member 93 opens when pulled in a direction away from the spout 7.

[176] The biasing means is not shown but may be provided, at least partially, within the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi or alternatively may be provided, at least partially, as part of the user actuator assembly, for example, in cooperation with the actuator 75b.

[177] Figure 13yxc illustrates an exploded rear view of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi and Figure 13yxd illustrates a corresponding front view of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi. As illustrated a conduit, chamber, compartment or channel 682 may be formed as part of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi to provide pressure relief and pressure equalisation means. For ease of reference the conduit, chamber, compartment or channel 682 of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi will be referred to as channel 682 and unless otherwise stated will have equal meaning in the description and claims.

[178] In further embodiments the channel 682 may be a separate component secured or removably secured to the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi, alternatively the channel may be formed in combination with a second component, for example, as later described, at least one wall of the channel 682 may be formed in combination with the inner wall of the reservoir. [179] At least one aperture 632a, 632b may be provided within the channel 682 on the reservoir side and at least one further aperture 632n, 632m may be provided through front of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi on the spout side such that the reservoir 5 may be fluidly connected to atmosphere via the channel 682 and corresponding apertures 632a, 632b, 632n, 632m. As illustrated at least one aperture 632a, 632b may be provided on each end of the channel 682.

[180] It can be envisaged that the channel 682 provides primary venting both in normal use and also in when the appliance Id is tipped over on its side.

[181] The spill inhibiting assembly 635vi may be provided as a separate and/or discrete removable component that is removably secured to at least the body or the lid 8 of the appliance Id, which will be described in more detail below.

[182] Alternatively, the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi may be pivotally connected to the body or to the lid 8 of the appliance Id by a hinge provided on the user actuated spill inhibiting assembly 635vi, in which case, for example at least the first component 705 may be formed as a single moulding together with at least the body or the lid 8 of the appliance Id.

[183] Figures 13yxe and 13yxf are schematic sectional views of the appliance Id with the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd lying on its side in two different orientations.

[184] As previously disclosed, in the tipped over positions the spout aperture valve member 93 remains in the closed position, in which case no liquid exits through aperture 698 when tipped over.

[185] It can be envisaged that the appliance Id may be predisposed to lie with the spout 7 facing upwards when tipped over for example by configuring the appliance Id so that its centre of gravity is substantially towards the handle 9, in which case each of figures 13yxe and 13yxf illustrate the vessel lb with the spout facing upwards.

[186] As illustrated in the first tipped over position of Figure 13yxe, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the left and the both apertures 632b and 632m are above the water level 225d in which case the apertures 632b and 632m act as a primary vent for the reservoir 5 as indicated by the arrow 634. The aperture 632a of the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 is below the water 225d allowing only a lower portion of the channel 682 to be submerged in water. Water is prevented from exiting the spout 7 as the apertures 632b and 632m are above the water level 225d. [187] As illustrated in the first tipped over position of Figure 13yxf, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the right and the both apertures 632a and 632m are above the water level 225d in which case the apertures 632a and 632m act as a primary vent for the reservoir 5 as indicated by the arrow 634. The aperture 632b of the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 is below the water 225d allowing only a lower portion of the channel 682 to be submerged in water. Water is prevented from exiting the spout 7 as the apertures 632a and 632m are above the water level 225d.

[188] It can be envisaged that in its upright and normal position, the apertures 632a, 632b 632m, 632n and channel 682 are above the water level 225d, with the spout 7 in liquid communication with the reservoir 5 via the channel 682. The sizes of the apertures may be selected dependent upon the vessel type, water volume etc. to provide the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 through the spout 7 in normal use and in the illustrated tipped over positions.

[189] In the case of the appliance Id being dropped forward onto its spout prior to the appliance Id being tipped over onto its side, it can be envisaged that momentarily the apertures 632a, 632b 632m, 632n and channel 682 are below the water level. During said momentary period, channel 682 may minimise spillage from the spout 7 by the controlled dimension of at least one of the apertures 632a, 632b, 632m and/or the channel 682. In which case the apertures may be selected dependent upon the vessel type, water volume etc. to provide the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 through the spout 7 in normal use and in the illustrated tipped over positions. Each of the apertures 632m, 632n may further configured so that any liquid exiting through the apertures 632m, 632n may be directed, for example downwards, towards the spout so that this liquid flow may be further inhibited and/or prevented from spillage/ejection outside the appliance 1. Advantageously any liquid thus retained within the spout 7 may flow back into the reservoir 5 when the appliance 1 is placed upright.

[190] As described above, the centre of gravity may urge the appliance Id to rotate towards the handle i.e. predisposed with the spout 7 facing upwards, thus allowing at least one of the apertures 632a, 632b and aperture 632m to be above the water level 225d and further minimising spillage from the spout 7.

[191] One or more baffles (not shown) may be provided in the channel 682 to provide a tortuous path, which may impede the flow of spillages from the spout 7 when tipped over in the forward position. The baffles may be arranged in a staggered or angled configuration to further impede the flow of liquid and spillage. [192] In alternative embodiments, the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685i may extend further around the appliance. In which case, the apertures 632a and 632b may be substantially higher than the water level 225d in the tipped over position. This may allow the appliance 225d to have a larger water carrying capacity and/or inhibit the spillage of liquid when the appliance is tipped over forward.

[193] Figures 13yxg to 13yxj are schematic sectional views of the appliance Id with a variant of the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 635vi, whereby a movable member 617 may be provided in the channel 682 to prevent spillage if the appliance Id is dropped forward onto its spout 7 prior to the appliance la being tipped over onto its side.

[194] Figure 13yxg illustrates the appliance Id in its upright and normal position. The apertures 632a, 632b and 632m and channel 682 are above the water level, thus allowing the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 to provide primary venting from the spout 7 in normal use. The member 617, for example a ball, may reside within a recess 109 via gravity and away from the aperture 632m in its upright and normal position to allow primary venting from the spout 7 via the aperture 632m.

[195] Figure 13yxh illustrates the appliance Id is in its tipped over position with the spout 7 facing downwards and/or upon impact with the spout facing downwards, in which the member 617 moves forward under gravity and seals against the aperture 632m so that liquid is prevented from exiting the spout 7. As previously described, the steam generated within the appliance Id may be vented via a steam chamber or steam tube (not shown) situated above the water level.

[196] The mechanism provided to unlatch the member 617 may be manual or automatic, mechanical or electrical and may be an inertia type mechanism that is sensitive to impact and/or rapid deceleration, for example, a magnet.

[197] The member 617 may automatically return (for example by gravity) to its original position and then may be retained or latched by the retaining means (not shown) for further deployment.

[198] Figures 13yxi and 13yxj are schematic sectional views of the appliance Id, with the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685i of Figures 13yxg and 13yxh, lying on its side in two different orientations with the spout 7 facing upwards. As previously mentioned, the centre of gravity may be likely to predispose the appliance with the spout 7 facing upwards.

[199] As previously described, in the first tipped over position of Figure 13yxi, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the left and the both apertures 632b and 632m are above the water level 225d, and aperture 632a is below the water level 22d. The movable member 617 moves under gravity away from aperture 698 and engages the aperture 632a of the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685i, and may prevent and/or minimise water entering the channel 682. The apertures 632b and 632m act as a primary vent for the reservoir 5 as indicated by the arrow 634.

[200] In the second tipped over position of Figure 13yxj, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the right and the both apertures 632a and 632m are above the water level 225d, and aperture 632b is below the water level 22d. The movable member 617 moves under gravity away from aperture 698 and engages the aperture 632b of the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685i, and may prevent and/or minimise water entering the channel 682. The apertures 632a and 632m act as a primary vent for the reservoir 5 as indicated by the arrow 634.

[201] In many of the embodiments the member 617 may be described and illustrated as a ball 617, but is not limited thereto, and may be equally applicable to other shapes or forms, for example, a disk etc.

[202] Typically, the ball 617 may be metal, for example, a ball bearing or may be plastic, glass or ceramic. The ball 617 may be coated for example, as found in a ball-operated computer mouse or the like. Advantageously, the ball 617 may be made from a corrosion resistant material such as stainless steel and/or coated in a non-stick and/or corrosion resistant coating for example PTFE, Teflon ®, ceramic or enamel. Non-stick coating and/or corrosion resistant coating may provide an additional benefit by preventing or reducing the build-up of scale on the surface of the ball 617, which may cause the ball 617 to seize within the chamber 682. In further embodiments the ball 617 may be plated, for example nickel plated, to provide similar non stick properties.

[203] The channel 682 may be configured so that the ball 617 moves away from the aperture 698 when the appliance Id is resting in its upright and normal position.

[204] The channel 682 may be configured so that when the appliance Id is removed from a tipped over sideways to a tipped over forward position the ball 617 returns to a central position to seal against the aperture 698 so that, for example, liquid is inhibited from spilling from the appliance when the appliance 1 is picked up after being knocked over.

[205] Figures 13yxk, 13yxl and 13yxm are schematic isometric cutaway views of the spill inhibiting appliance Id in the upright and normal position illustrating the appliance Id in pre-assembled, closed and open positions. [206] As illustrated, at least one tab 734 may be provided that projects from the inner wall of the appliance Id near the lower end of the aperture 632g and/or projects downwardly within the peripheral flange 743 to act and to support and secure the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi within the reservoir 5 of the appliance Id. Alternatively, other known means such as snap-fittings, screws, friction-fittings and/or clamping is provided to removably secure the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi to the appliance Id.

[207] As illustrated, the apertures 632m and 698 and are fluidly connected to the spout aperture 632g.

[208] A button or trigger 99 may be provided on a handle 9 of appliance Id to allow the user to directly or indirectly operate the spout aperture valve member 93. As illustrated in Figure 13yxl, the spout aperture valve member 93 is in its default closed position, where the spout aperture valve member 93 is biased to close off the aperture 698. Spring or resilient biasing means (not shown) may be provided to the bias the spout aperture valve 93 in a closed position.

[209] Figure 13yxm illustrates the spout aperture valve member 93 in an open position in which the button or trigger 99 operates a first actuator 75a, which indirectly or directly operates the abutment 703 to allow the spout aperture valve member 93 to open the aperture 698 as schematically shown by arrow 704, as will be described in more detail below.

[210] Figures 13yxn, 13yxo and 13yxp are schematic cross section views of the spill inhibiting appliance Id in the upright and normal position illustrating the appliance Id in pre-assembled, closed and open positions.

[211] As illustrated, at least one further actuator 75b may be provided in, for example, the lid 8, which may act as an intermediate member that connects the first actuator 75a to the abutment 703 of the spout aperture valve member 93. The button or trigger 99 operates the first actuator 75a, which in turn operates the second actuator 75b to engage the abutment 703 and pivots the spout aperture valve member 93 away from the aperture 698 (as shown by arrow 704) and opens the valve assembly member 93. This allows the appliance Id to be emptied and filled via the aperture 698 and spout aperture 632g in normal use. In which case, in order to fill or empty the appliance Id, the user will have to operate the button or trigger 99. Advantageously, when positioned in the lid, the intermediate actuator will not interfere with, for example, the cleaning of the kettle if/when the lid is removed however in alternative embodiments the first actuator 75a may directly engage the abutment 703. [212] When the user releases the button or trigger 99 the valve member 93 returns to default closed position and so prevents leakage through the spout when tipped over.

[213] In further embodiments the trigger 99 may be positioned below the handle so that the first actuator 75a is pulled away from the direction of the spout 7. In which case it may be necessary to provide an additional pivot (not shown) to convert the movement of the actuator towards the spout or (as previously described) the valve assembly may be configured to respond to a backward movement of the at least one actuator 75.

[214] As previously described the biasing means is not shown but may be provided, at least partially, within the spill inhibiting assembly 635vi or alternatively may be provided, at least partially, as part of the user actuator assembly, for example, in cooperation with the actuator 75b.

[215] The lid 8 may be provided with a locking mechanism to secure against the appliance Id and may include at least a peripheral resilient seal (not shown) to seal against the aperture 20 of the appliance Id and so prevent water spilling from the appliance Id when tipped over. In other embodiments, the seal may be provided on the aperture 20 of the appliance Id.

[216] Figures 13yxs to 13yya illustrates a second embodiment of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vii, in which the channel 682 has a least one open side which, when assembled, may abut and/or seal against the inner wall 5a of the reservoir 5 to form a substantially closed channel 682 therebetween. As previously described at least two apertures 632 may be provided so that the reservoir 5 is in fluid communication with the spout 7.

[217] Figures 13yxs and 13yxt illustrate exploded and assembled rear perspective views of the second embodiment of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vii which comprises the two components 705 and 707, as previously described.

[218] Figure 13yxu illustrates the front perspective of the first component 705 of the second embodiment 635vii and Figure 13yxw illustrates a corresponding front view of the spill inhibiting assembly 635vii, which may include at least one slot 632o, 632p below the channel 682 which may overlap the spout aperture 632g in the reservoir 5 and act and form an aperture 632m, 632n between the channel 682 and the spout 7.

[219] As illustrated the aperture 698 of the first component and corresponding valve member 93 of the second component 707 may be circular and the valve seat 706 may be formed within or around the aperture 698. [220] As illustrated, the valve member 93 may be pivotally mounted to the spill inhibiting assembly 635vii. In the default position, the valve member 93 is biased to close off the aperture 698, such that, without user operation, in the tipped over positions the valve member 93 remains in the closed position.

[221] As illustrated at least one aperture 632a, 632b may be provided on each end of the channel 682. As previously described, the apertures 632a, 632b, 632m and 632n may be designed to provide primary venting both in normal use and also in the case that the appliance Id is tipped over on its side.

[222] Advantageously by forming channel 682 with one side open simplifies the moulding procedure and also enables the channel 682 to be further configured so that it improves the control and retention of any liquid that may exit the reservoir 5 via the apertures 632a, 632b. For example:

a) The volume of the channel 682 may be increased so that a quantity of liquid may be retained within the channel 682.

b) Baffles or other means may be provided in the channel 682 to inhibit the flow of any liquid that may enter the channel 682 under pressure from the reservoir 5.

c) The channel 682 may slope downwards towards the reservoir and the apertures 632a, 632b may be provided towards the lowest point of the channel 682 so that any liquid retained in the channel 682 in the tipped over position may drain back into the reservoir 5 when the appliance 1 is upright.

[223] Figures 13yxx and 13yxy are schematic cross section cutaway views of the spill inhibiting appliance Id with the spill inhibiting assembly 635vii (through plane A-A of Figure 13yxu) according to a second embodiment in the upright and normal position illustrating the appliance Id in the closed and open positions.

[224] As illustrated, the pressure relief and pressure equalisation means 685 may abut and/or seal against the inner wall 5a of the reservoir 5 to form the channel 682 therebetween.

[225] As previously described at least one slot 632o, 632p may be provided within the first component that overlaps the spout aperture 632g in the reservoir 5 to form at least one aperture 632n, 632m between said components. However in alternative embodiments at least one slot 632 may be provided in the inner wall of the reservoir 5 to overlap with channel 682 and so form at least one aperture 632n, 632m between said components.

[226] In further embodiments the open end of the channel 682 may communicate directly with the spout 5. [227] As previously described, the button or trigger 99 may be provided on a handle 9 of appliance Id to allow the user to directly or indirectly operate the spout aperture valve member 93. As illustrated in Figure 13yxx, the spout aperture valve member 93 is in its default closed position, where the spout aperture valve 93 is biased to close off the aperture 698. Spring or resilient biasing means (not shown) may be provided to the bias the spout aperture valve 93 in a closed position.

[228] Figure 13yxy illustrates the spout aperture valve 93 in an open position in which the button or trigger 99 operates a first actuator 75a, which indirectly or directly operates the abutment 703 to allow the spout aperture valve member 93 to open the aperture 698 as schematically shown by arrow 704.

[229] As illustrated and previously described, at least one further actuator 75b may be provided in, for example, the lid 8, which may act as an intermediate member that connects the first actuator 75a to the abutment 703 of the spout aperture valve member 93. The button or trigger 99 operates the first actuator 75a, which in turn operates the second actuator 75b to engage the abutment 703 and pivots the spout aperture valve member 93 away from the aperture 698 (as shown by arrow 704) and opens the valve member 93. Other variants of the user operation means, for example as previously described, may also be employed.

[230] Figures 13yya to 13yyd illustrate a third arrangement of the spill inhibiting assembly 635viii, in which that the valve member 93 may directly engage the spout aperture 632g.

[231] Figures 13yya and 13yyb illustrate exploded and assembled rear perspective views of the third embodiment of the spill inhibiting assembly 635viii which comprises the two components 705 and 707, as previously described. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features.

[232] As illustrated, the lower portion of the first component 705 may not be required, so that the valve member 93 may directly engage the spout aperture 632g. It can be envisaged that the reduced size first component 705 may provide an additional benefit of material and/or cost saving.

[233] As previously described, the valve member 93 may be pivotally mounted to the spill inhibiting assembly 635viii. In the default position, the valve member 93 is biased to close off the aperture 698, such that, without user operation, in the tipped over positions the valve member 93 remains in the closed position. [234] Figures 13yyc and 13yyd are schematic cross section views of the spill inhibiting appliance Id according to the third embodiment in the upright position illustrating the appliance Id in the closed and open positions.

[235] As illustrated, at least one further actuator 75b may be provided in, for example, the lid 8, which may act as an intermediate member that connects the first actuator 75a to the abutment 703 of the spout aperture valve member 93. The button or trigger 99 operates the first actuator 75a, which in turn operates the second actuator 75b to engage the abutment 703 and pivots the spout aperture valve member 93 away from the aperture 698 (as shown by arrow 704) and opens the valve assembly 93.

[236] Although illustrated in terms of the assembly 635vi of the first embodiment the arrangement of 635viii is equally applicable to other embodiments including but not limited to the assembly of 635vii.

[237] Figures 13yye and 13yyf are schematic sectional views of an embodiment of the appliance lc comprising a spill inhibiting means 635vi to 635viii and the steam valve assembly 640vi to 640viii lying on its side in two different orientations with the spout 7 facing upwards. As previously described it can be envisaged that the centre of gravity may urge the appliance Id to rotate towards the handle, i.e. predisposed with the spout 7 facing upwards. This may be achieved by configuring the appliance Id so that its centre of gravity is substantially towards the handle 7.

[238] As previously mentioned, in the tipped over positions the spout aperture valve member 93 remains in the closed position, i.e. closing off the aperture 698.

[239] As illustrated in the first tipped over position of Figure 13yye, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the left with the valve member 93 closed and the both apertures 632b and 632m are above the water level 225d in which case the apertures 632b and 632m act as a primary vent for the reservoir 5 as indicated by the arrow 634. Water is prevented from exiting the spout 7 as the valve member 93 is closed and the aperture 632m is above the water level 225d. In addition, as previously described the steam valve assembly 640 is above the water level and so prevents water exiting the appliance Id via the steam tube 70.

[240] Each of the disclosed assemblies 635 and valves 640 may function independently or in conjunction with other spill inhibiting or venting/steam chamber arrangements. However the applicant considers that the individual functions of each of spout assemblies 635vi to 635viii complement the steam valve assemblies 640vi to 640viii. Thus, in combination, they provide the means for a user-operated fail safe spill inhibiting and venting means operable with a steam valve arrangement that automatically prevents liquid entering the steam tube 70 in a tipped over position.

[241] As illustrated in the second tipped over position of Figure 13yyf, the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the right with the valve member 93 closed and the both apertures 632a and 632m are above the water level 225d in which case the apertures 632a and 632m act as a primary vent for the reservoir 5 as indicated by the arrow 634. Water is prevented from exiting the spout 7 as the valve member 93 is closed and the aperture 632m is above the water level 225d. In addition, as previously described the steam valve assembly 640 is below the water level 225d and valve (not shown) closes off the steam valve assembly 640 to prevent the contents of the reservoir 5 entering the channel (not shown). However the appliance is inherently safe as the primary venting is provided by the spill inhibiting assembly 635.

[242] Figure 13yyg is a preferred embodiment of the appliance lc in an upright position comprising the spill inhibiting means 635vii of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd and the steam valve assembly 640vi of Figures 13ywh to 13yws.

[243] As illustrated the spill inhibiting means 635vii may be provided immediately behind the spout aperture 632g so that the corresponding apertures 698 and 632g are fluidly connected. The channel 682 may be closed off by the inner wall of the reservoir the said channel 682 may faces downwardly towards the reservoir 5 so that any liquid entering the chamber 682 in the tipped over position may drain at least through the aperture 632a when the appliance Id is upright. A slot 632o may communicate between the channel 682 and the spout aperture 632g to form an aperture 632m and so the reservoir 5 can communicate (vent) to atmosphere through at least the apertures 632a, 632m. As illustrated the user operated valve member 93 is in its default closed position.

[244] The steam valve assembly 640vi provides access for steam to enter the steam tube 70 in an upright position and prevents liquid entering the steam tube in a tipped over position.

[245] Whilst Figure 13yyg describes the preferred embodiment of the appliance Id comprising the spill inhibiting means 635vii of Figures 13yxa to 13yxd and the steam valve assembly 640vi of Figures 13ywh to 13yws, further improvement may still achieved, for example, reducing the number of components required and/or simplifying means for venting the appliance in tipped over, normal and operating positions.

[246] Figures 13yyh to 13yyo illustrate a further embodiment of the present invention with a spill inhibiting assembly 635ix and steam valve assembly 640ix. The spill inhibiting assembly 635ix may comprise at least one filling and/or pouring aperture 698 for allowing the appliance le to be filled and/or emptied, which will be described in more detail below.

[247] The steam valve assembly 640ix provides pressure relief and pressure equalisation means and operates in all positions e.g. the tipped over, normal and operating positions, but also provides fluid communication between the reservoir 5 and the steam actuated control, which will be described in more detail below. Thus the steam valve assembly 640ix acts as a primary and secondary venting. For illustrative and clarity purposes, non-essential components are omitted from the figures.

[248] The following embodiment may include previously described features. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features.

[249] Figure 13yyh illustrates a schematic cross section of an appliance le with said spill inhibiting assembly 635ix and steam valve assembly 640ix in an upright and normal position. As shown, the steam valve assembly 640ix may be provided in and/or integrated into a portion of the lid 8. Alternatively, the steam valve assembly 640ix may be provided in the reservoir 5 of the appliance le or provided as a separate component to be assembled into the appliance le.

[250] As shown in Figure 13yyh, a button or trigger 99 may be provided between the lid 8 and the spout 7 of appliance le to allow the user to directly or indirectly operate a spout aperture valve member 93 so that the appliance le can be filled and/or emptied. As illustrated in Figure 13yyh, the spout aperture valve member 93 is in its default closed position, where the spout aperture valve member 93 is biased to close off the aperture 698. Spring or resilient biasing means (not shown) may be provided to the bias the spout aperture valve member 93 in a closed position.

[251] Figure 13yyi illustrates a schematic cross section of an appliance le with the button or trigger 99 pressed and the spout aperture valve member 93 is in its opened position for pouring and/or filling of the appliance le.

[252] Alternatively, the button or trigger 99 may be positioned on the lid 8 of the appliance le. In another variant, the button or trigger 99 may located on the handle 9 of the appliance le as described in the previous embodiment.

[253] Figure 13yyj illustrates an isometric view of the appliance le with the steam valve assembly 640ix in an upright and normal position. For illustrative, clarity and descriptive purposes, non-essential components of the lid 8 are removed from Figure 13yyi.

[254] Figure 13yyk illustrates a detailed view of Figure 13yyi with the internal features of the steam valve assembly 640ix shown in grey lines. [255] As shown in Figures 13yyh to 13yyk, the lid 8 comprises a lid chamber 71, the floor of which comprises a lower lid surface 66 that is removably sealed against the upper end of the reservoir 5 by a reservoir seal 64. The lid 8 including the lid chamber 71 can be removed from the reservoir 5, to allow filling or cleaning of the reservoir 5. Alternatively or additionally the lid 8 may be attached to the vessel body 1 by a hinge.

[256] The steam valve assembly 640ix may be positioned within the lid chamber 71 and comprises a steam path moulding 100 having a first aperture 92a provided on the lower lid surface 66 and a second aperture 92b provided on another portion of the lid 8 adjacent to the handle 9 for fluidly connecting the reservoir 5 of the appliance le to the steam actuated control 60. When the water boils in the reservoir 5, steam passes through the first aperture 92a and directed towards the steam actuated control 60 to switch off or reduce heating when steam is detected.

[257] A seal 67 may be provided between the second aperture 92b of the steam valve assembly 640ix and the handle 9 to prevent steam escaping through a gap between the lid 8 and the handle 9 and/or to prevent leaking.

[258] As shown in Figures 13yyj and 13yyk, the steam path moulding 100 may comprise a central channel 682e for directing steam 72 towards the steam actuated control and having first and second valve housing channels 682f, 682g connected thereto and arranged in a substantially mutually opposite arrangement. Preferably, the first and second valve housing channels682f, 682g are mutually offset and/or may extend in mutually non- parallel directions for housing first and second valve members 159b, 159c respectively. Furthermore, the first and second valve housing channels 682f, 682g may extend downwardly in diverging directions, which will be described in more detail below.

[259] As shown, the first and second valve housing channels 682f, 682g may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the axis of the central channel 682e. Alternatively, the first and second valve housing channels 682f, 682g may be positioned at angle to the axis of the central channel 682e, which will be described in more detail below.

[260] As shown in Figure 13yyk with the appliance le in an upright and normal position, the first and second valve members 159b, 159c reside in the bottom end of their respective valve housing channels 682f, 682g and away from the central channel 682e, such that the central channel 682e is opened to allow steam pressure to be safely vented out of the reservoir 5 and towards the steam actuated control.

[261] With the appliance le in a tipped over position, depending upon the orientation of the tipped over position, either the first or second valve member 159b, 159c will move away from the bottom end of their respective valve housing channels 682f, 682g and towards the central channel 682e such that the central channel 682e is closed and disconnects the reservoir 5 from the remaining steam path moulding 100, preventing water leaking out of the appliance le via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[262] Figures 13yyl to 13yyo illustrate schematic perspective views of the appliance le of Figures 13yyh to 13yyk lying on its side in four different orientations. In Figures 13yyl and 13yyn, the spout 7 faces upward and in Figures 13yyml and 13yyo the spout 7 faces downward.

[263] As illustrated in the first tipped over position of Figure 13yyl the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the left, the first aperture 92a of the steam valve assembly 640xi is above the water level 225d. The second valve member 159c will move away from the bottom end of its valve housing channel 682g to close off the central channel 682e such that no turbulent liquid may leak out of the appliance le via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[264] As illustrated in the second tipped over position of Figure 13yym the spout 7 is facing downwardly towards the left and the first aperture 92a of the steam valve assembly 640xi is below the water level 225d. The second valve member 159c will move away from the bottom end of its valve housing channel 682g to close off the central channel 682e, and preventing the contents of the reservoir 5 leaking out of the appliance le via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[265] As illustrated in the third tipped over position of Figure 13yyn the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the right and the first aperture 92a of the steam valve assembly 640xi is above the water level 225d. The first valve member 159b will move away from the bottom end of its valve housing channel 682f to close off the central channel 682e such that no turbulent liquid may leak out of the appliance le via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[266] As illustrated in the fourth tipped over position of Figure 13yyo the spout 7 is facing downwardly towards the right and the first aperture 92a of the steam valve assembly 640xi is below the water level 225d. The first valve member 159b will move away from the bottom end of its valve housing channel 682f to close off the central channel 682e, preventing the contents of the reservoir 5 leaking out of the appliance le via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[267] As illustrated in Figures 13yyl to 13yyo when the appliance le is lying on its side in four different orientations, either the first or second valve member 159b, 159c will close off the central channel 682e. In order to prevent the reservoir 5 of the appliance le from being over pressurised in the tipped over position when the water is heated, the appliance le may require an increase in head room to accommodate the expansion of water and steam. In this embodiment, preferably the head room volume may need to be increased by 10% to 18%.

[268] Alternatively, a portion of the lid 8 may contain one or more seal that opens under pressure from within the reservoir 5. When the appliance le is tipped over, the seal opens to allow the pressurised water and steam to enter the lid chamber 71 in order to equalise the pressure in the reservoir 5, as described in the applicant's patent publication WO-A2- 2011/101642.

[269] In another variant (not shown), the first and second valve housing channels 682f, 682g may be positioned at angle to the axis of the central channel 682e. In this variant when the appliance le is tipped over with the spout 7 is facing upwardly towards the left or right, the first aperture 92a of the steam valve assembly 640xi will be above the water level 225d. Due to the angular position of the first and second valve housing channels 682f and 682g and depending on whether the appliance le is tipped over with the spout 7 facing upwardly towards the left or right, the first or second valve members 159b, 159c remain at the bottom end of their valve housing channels 682f, 682g so that the central channel 682e is opened to allow excess steam pressure to be safely vented out of the reservoir 5 via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[270] However, if the appliance le is tipped over with the spout 7 facing downwardly towards the left or right and the first aperture 92a of the steam valve assembly 640xi is above the water level 225d, the first or second valve members 159b, 159c will move away from the bottom end of their valve housing channels 682f, 682g to close off the central channel 682e, thus preventing the contents of the reservoir 5 leaking out of the appliance le via the steam valve assembly 640ix.

[271] In all cases, the figures are schematic and the sizes and dimensions of, for example, the vents, apertures, inlets and outlets will need to be determined according to the requirements of the appliance.

Alternative Embodiments

[272] Each of the previously described embodiments may include an alarm to warn the user that the vessel body 1 has tipped over. In its simplest form this alarm may cooperate mechanically with the steam valve assembly 640, such as a bell. Alternatively, the alarm may be an electronic or electromechanical warning system triggered by a valve mechanism or a tilt switch and powered by a rechargeable battery, capacitor, thermocouple or preferably a 'green' power source, for example, a photovoltaic cell.

[273] Alternatively or additionally, each of the previously described embodiments may include, for example, a tilt switch that disconnects power to the heater 12 and/or other electrically powered components when the appliance 1 is tipped over.

[274] Any of the previously described flow management means and pressure relief means may be provided to the appliance manufacturer as discrete components and fixed into the appliance 1 as part of the assembly procedure.

[275] In further embodiments, not shown, the flow management means and pressure relief means may be provided with fixing or fitting means, such as threads, flanges, bayonet fits or the like, so that they can be easily installed by the appliance manufacturer in the appliance. In further embodiments the flow management means and pressure relief means may be supplied to the appliance manufacturer as part of other functional parts of the appliance, for example, the spout, lid, actuator, handle or steam control.

[276] In further embodiments the flow management means and pressure relief means may include a bimetal or other actuator so that the function is dependent upon temperature.

[277] In further embodiments other parts of the appliance such as the handle, sub base or the void between the outer and inner walls may be used as means to acts as a 'buffer' or 'overflow' area for liquid or vapour that would otherwise be expelled from the spout.

[278] In some embodiments the spill inhibiting means may not function fully until, for example, the appliance 1 has reached a stable state. In these embodiments it is preferable that the flow rate through the spout 7 or manifold 635 may be restricted or controlled, for example by selecting the size of the apertures 632, to a suitable maximum flow rate for normal use so that any spillage in the tipped over position may be limited to the same maximum flow rate prior to the spill inhibiting means becoming functional.

[279] Advantageously, either or both of the spill inhibiting means 635 and/or 640 may be provided within the reservoir 5 to reduce the overall height of the appliance in comparison to the prior art appliances in which the spill inhibiting features are in the lid 8, so that the packaging and shipping costs may be reduced.

[280] In at least some embodiments, the over-boil that occurs after power to the appliance has been switched off can be reduced by the use of low mass elements, for example, thick film or printed elements. [281] At least some aspects of the invention are applicable to vessels that do not include a heating function, as it is advantageous to avoid accidental spillage of liquids in general, not just heated liquids.

[282] In all cases the diagrams are schematic and the sizes and dimensions of, for example, the vents, apertures, inlets and outlets will need to be determined according to the requirements of the appliance.

Reduced Headroom Water Heating Appliance

[283] In water heating appliances, for example kettles, it is preferable that water does not spit or is not ejected from the spout during the heating process. Typically, the water is most likely to be ejected or spit from the spout after the water has reached boiling, when the movement of the water can be described as turbulent. Typically, the longer the water boils, the more aggressive the turbulence and the more likely that the water will be ejected or spit from the spout. Typically, a higher power heating element results in a more aggressive turbulence.

[284] It is known to add flaps or other means to the spout to help reduce water being ejected or spitting during the heating process. However, a flap or other means may require moving parts and this adds complexity to the assembly. Typically, the moving parts may require some form of user interaction so the appliance can be filled through, or emptied out of, the spout, for example, as disclosed in GB-A-952689.

[285] It is known to provide a baffle in the area of the spout to prevent water being ejected or spitting during the heating process. Typically, these baffles are provided to act as a barrier behind the spout. However the problem with such arrangement is that baffle may only provide a barrier if the turbulent water travels towards and/or hits the baffle face on. In some kettles, the turbulent water may boil aggressively and travel in all directions, i.e. omnidirectional. In such case, the baffle may not fully effective in preventing water being ejected or spitting during the heating process, as the turbulent water may bypass the baffle via gaps between the baffle and the kettle body.

[286] For illustrative and clarity purposes, non-essential components are omitted from the figures.

[287] Figure 49ze illustrates a prior art appliance la, as disclosed in the applicant's patent publication WO-A1-2012/085602, in which a contoured baffle 730 is provided in the reservoir 5 of the appliance la to divert turbulent water away from the spout 7 and towards the back of the appliance la. In this prior art arrangement a gap may be provided between the upper end of the baffle 730a and lid 8 for the excess steam to escape out of the reservoir 5 when the water is heated.

[288] The prior art arrangement of Figure 49ze may also rely on the combination of the contoured baffle 730 and heat distribution means 741, 742 in order to contribute towards the management of water turbulence in the liquid heating appliance la.

[289] It is also known to provide 'headroom' above the water level so that space is provided between the water level and the spout to contain the turbulence of the boiling water and so help reduce water being ejected or spitting during the heating process. The higher the heating power of the kettle the larger the headroom required in order to contain the more aggressive turbulence. Typically, the headroom provided in a 3kw 1.7 litre kettle may account for up to 30% of the volume of the reservoir, which adds to both the material costs in the manufacture of the appliance and also to the shipping and transport costs.

[290] For example, in a typical 3kw 1.7 litre kettle, with parallel sides, the headroom takes up approximately 47 mm in height and in a similar 3kw 1.7 litre conical kettle the headroom takes up approximately 64 mm.

[291] The following description discloses means to reduce the headroom required in a liquid heating appliance. In one specific embodiment, the headroom may be reduced by approximately 11.5 mm in a conical kettle and 8.5 mm in a parallel sided kettle without the need for a user operated or automatic spout flap.

[292] This reduction in height may reduce the amount of material used and the size and volume of the packaging. Based on typical packaging sizes it has been estimated that reducing the height of the appliance by between 8.5 and 11.5 mm may reduce the volume of the packaging by a further 3 to 4%.

[293] In addition, the reduction in height of the appliance will also correspond to a reduction in the volume of the headroom. Consequently, this may also reduce the time taken for the steam generated by the boiling water to fill the headroom 222, and may result in a quicker response and/or activation of the steam sensitive control switch to cut power being supplied to the heating plate 12. Accordingly, this may reduce the energy consumption of the appliance 1.

[294] Cutting off the power earlier may also reduce 'after boil' (where the residual heat of the element continues to boil the water after the power is disconnected) and so further reduce the opportunity for water to be ejected or spitting from the spout. [295] In addition, the present embodiment provides an arrangement whereby the operation and/or function of the baffle is not affected by the heat distribution of the heating element plate.

[296] Figure 49zo illustrates a first embodiment of a reduced headroom appliance lb in which a baffle 730a is provided in the reservoir 5 of the appliance lb. The reservoir 5 may include an aperture 632g towards the front so that the reservoir 5 may be in liquid communication with the spout 7. As illustrated, the baffle 730a is positioned behind the aperture 632g and spout 7 so that the baffle 730a acts as a barrier to prevent turbulent water spitting out of the spout 7 during boiling. This control of the turbulence provides the opportunity to reduce the headroom 222 above the water level 225.

[297] The appliance lb comprises the aforementioned baffle 730a and spout 7 along with a lid 8 and a sheathed heating element 39 attached to a heating plate 12 that forms the base of the reservoir 5. There may also be provided a filter 740, steam tube 70, a steam actuated control 60 and a dry boil control (not shown). A steam guide 599 may be provided to fluidly connect the steam tube 70 to the steam control 60. The steam guide 599 may be a separate component or may be formed as a part of the steam tube 70 or the steam actuated control 60. In other embodiments, the steam actuated control 60 may be provided in a handle 9. Additionally or alternatively, other control means, for example, an electronic control (not shown), may be provided.

[298] A portion of the aperture 20 at the top of the reservoir 5 may be provided with a peripheral downward facing flange 743 and the lid 8 may interface with this flange 743. As illustrated in Figure 49zo, the lid 8 has a double wall, wherein its lower wall interfaces with the flange 743.

[299] As illustrated, the baffle 730a is located behind the spout 7 and at least one aperture 737 may be provided in the baffle 730a to enable water to flow out of the baffle 730a when pouring from or filling the reservoir 5, which will be described in more detail below. Unlike the applicant's previously disclosed invention in WO-A1-2012/085602, there may be no gap provided between the upper end of the baffle 730a and lid 8 for the excess steam or steam exhaust to escape out of the reservoir 5 when the water is heated. Instead, the excess steam or steam exhaust 746 may escape out of the reservoir 5 via said at least one aperture 737, which will be described in more detail below. For clarity and illustrative purposes, the filter 740 is not shown in Figures 49zo to 49zt. [300] As illustrated in Figures 49zo and 49zp, the baffle 730a may be provided with a first surface 765 for deflecting and/or diverting the aggressive turbulence 735 of the boiling water towards the back of the reservoir 5.

[301] As illustrated in Figure 49ze, the deflecting surface 765 is substantially inclined in form. In other embodiments (not shown) the first surface 765 may be, for example, arcuate, or vertical.

[302] Figure 49zp illustrates the baffle 730a from the front (spout) direction. The baffle 730a may comprise a second surface 747 extending therefrom that abuts and/or seals against an inner wall 5a at the front of the reservoir 5. Preferably, the second surface 747 mirrors and/or follows the contour of the inner wall 5a at the front of the reservoir 5 such that the second surface 747 deflects and/or diverts aggressive turbulence 735 of the boiling water away from gaps between the inner wall 5a and the deflecting surface 765 and/or baffle 730a, which will be described in more detail below.

[303] A third surface 748 may be provided on an upper portion of the baffle 730a that abuts and/or seals against the peripheral downward facing flange 743 for further deflecting and/or diverting the aggressive turbulence 735 of the boiling water away from gaps between the downward facing flange 743 and the deflecting surface 765 and/or baffle 730a.

[304] Alternatively, the third surface 748 may abut and/or seal against a portion of the lid 8. In which case, the third surface 748 may deflect and/or divert the aggressive turbulence 735 of the boiling water away from gaps between the lid 8 and the deflecting surface 765 and/or baffle 730a.

[305] As illustrated, the second surface 747 may extend substantially around and/or along the periphery of the baffle 730a, such that the third surface 748 may be formed on the upper portion of the second surface 747. The second and third surfaces 747, 748 of the baffle 730a may be provided with flanges said 749a, 749b, which will be described in more detail below.

[306] As illustrated in Figure 49zo, the third surface 748 is substantially horizontal in form. In other embodiments (not shown) the third surface 748 may be, for example, contoured, inclined or vertical.

[307] As illustrated in Figure 49zo, the combination of the second and third mating surfaces 747, 748 provides a barrier between the spout 7 and the reservoir 5 so that water may only flow through the baffle 730a via the aperture 737 for example when pouring from or filling the reservoir 5. Likewise, the apertures 737 allow excess steam or steam exhaust 746 to escape out of the reservoir 5 during the heating process.

[308] In an alternative embodiment, the third surface 748 of the baffle 730a may be a separate and/or discrete component from the second surface 747 of the baffle 730a. For example, the third surface 748 may be formed or secured to the lid 8 or peripheral flange 743, and the second surface 747 and the lower part of the baffle 730a may be secured to the reservoir 5. The third surface 748 may be arranged inwardly or outwardly from the lower part of the baffle 730a, provided that the arrangement inhibits or prevents liquid from being ejected from the spout 7.

[309] As illustrated in Figure 49zo, the lower end of the baffle 730a may extend downwardly beyond the lower end of the spout 7 and may extend below the maximum water level 225 of the reduced headroom appliance lb. Furthermore, the apertures 737 may be positioned above the maximum water level 225 to prevent and/or limit the turbulent water 735 passing therethrough during the heating process.

[310] Advantageously, in the present arrangement, the function of the baffle 730a is not affected by the orientation of a hot zone 741 of the heating plate 12 and so can be implemented across a range of existing appliance types without the need to amend the element configuration.

[311] The present invention is also equally applicable to alternative heating arrangements, for example, thick film elements, induction heating elements and/or diecast heating elements.

[312] A peripheral flange 743 may be provided around the perimeter of the aperture 20 to trap any upward moving turbulence liquid that may otherwise be ejected in the area or interface of the lid 8 and aperture 20 and may assist in preventing any upward movement of the turbulence forcing the lid 8 to open.

[313] Figures 49zp to 49zr illustrate that the two apertures 737 may be provided on either side of the deflecting surface 765 of the baffle 730a. The apertures 737 fluidly connect the reservoir 5 to the spout 7 to enable water to flow through the baffle 730a when pouring from the reservoir 5, as indicated by arrows 739. The same apertures 737 may be used for filling the reservoir 5 via the spout 7 and allow excess steam or steam exhaust 746 to escape out of the reservoir 5 during the heating process, as described above.

[314] As illustrated in Figure 49zq, the baffle 730a may be wider than the opening of the spout 7 such that the apertures 737 may be located at an offset position to the spout 7 and/or aperture 632g so any water ejected through the aperture 737 will hit the inner wall 5a of the reservoir 5 and be directed horizontally across the baffle 730a and so help prevent the turbulent water being ejected or spitting from the spout 7 via the apertures 737 during the heating process. During use, the apertures 737 are not in direct line of sight with the spout 7 and/or aperture 632g.

[315] Figures 49zqa and 49zqb schematically illustrate the baffle 730a superimposed in front of the spout 7 of the appliance lb. Figure 49qzc schematically illustrates a plan view section through the appliance lb with the baffle 730a.

[316] As illustrated, the apertures 737 of the baffle 730a are positioned on each side of the spout aperture 632g at an offset position, such that the spout aperture 632g may not be direct line of sight with the apertures 737, for example the user may not be able to view the interior of the appliance lb when looking through the spout 7. Dimension A defines a minimum offset distance between the end of the aperture 737 and the end of the spout aperture 632g. The minimal offset distance Dimension A may be determined by the width of the spout 632g. Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that the Dimension A with a range between 6mm to 10mm may be suitable to work on a wide range of the spout aperture widths whilst simultaneously prevents the turbulent water spitting out of the spout 7, for example, the Dimension A of 8mm may be suitable work on spout aperture widths ranging between 20mm to 70mm.

[317] Dimension B defines a minimum width of the aperture 737 for allowing a sufficient area in which steam can escape and water to be filled or poured out therethrough, without:

a. creating back pressure in the reservoir that may force the turbulent water to spit out of the spout 7; and

b. impeding the flow of water, when the appliance lb is tilted in a pouring position or when the appliance is being filled.

[318] The inventors have discovered that the Dimension B with a range between 6mm to 10mm may be suitable to work on a wide range of appliances. Furthermore, it is also discovered that a minimum of area of aperture 737 with a range between 120mm ^{2 t0} 200mm provides a sufficient area in which steam can escape and water to be poured out therethrough.

[319] Dimension C is the minimum distance between the upper end of the aperture 737 and the upper end of the spout aperture 632g, which may define a deflecting portion 766 above the aperture 737 for further deflecting the turbulent water away from the spout 7. The inventors have discovered that the Dimension C with a range between 0mm to 14mm may be sufficient to deflect the turbulent water away from the spout 7.

[320] In all cases, the figures are schematic and the sizes and dimensions of, for example, the vents, apertures, inlets and outlets will need to be determined according to the requirements of the appliance.

[321] In an alternative embodiment as illustrated in Figure 49zqb, the aperture 737 may be extended upwardly, in which case the deflecting portion 766a may be provided in inner wall of the reservoir directly above the spout aperture 632g. As illustrated, the Dimension D is the minimum distance between the upper end of the aperture 737 and the upper end of the spout aperture 632g.

[322] As illustrated in Figure 49zqc, the second surface 747 abuts and/or seals against the inner wall 5a at the front of the reservoir 5 and deflects turbulent water 735a generated at the side of the reservoir 5. As illustrated by the dash-dot line, the steam 746 illustrates the tortuous path for the steam to be vented. It can be envisaged that the same tortuous path 746 may be used for filling or emptying of the appliance lb.

[323] The baffle 730a may be provided as a separate and/or discrete removable component that is removably secured to at least the body or the lid 8 of the appliance lb. Alternatively, the baffle 730a may be pivotally connected to the body or to the lid 5 of the appliance lb by a hinge provided on the baffle 730a, whereby, for example the baffle 730a may be formed as a single moulding together with at least the body or the lid 5 of the appliance lb, which will be described in more detail below.

[324] As illustrated in Figures 49zs and 49zt a tab 734 may be provided that projects from the inner wall of the appliance lb near the lower end of the aperture 632g to act on and to support and secure the baffle 730a.

[325] The second and third surfaces 747, 748 of the baffle 730a may be provided with flanges 749a, 749b respectively for mutually engaging with the tab 734 and peripheral downward facing flange 743 in order to secure the baffle 730a within the reservoir 5 of the appliance lb. Alternatively, other known means such as snap-fittings, screws, friction- fittings and/or clamping is provided to removably secure the baffle 730a to the appliance lb.

[326] Figures 49zu and 49zv detail rear perspective views of the baffle 730a including a removable filter 740 in preassembled and assembled states. A baffle 730a may be provided with a channel 760 for receiving the filter 740. The filter 740 may comprise a frame 657 and/or series of ribs 762 to form at least one aperture 737a. The frame 657 and/or ribs 762 may act as a support for the filter mesh (not shown). The aperture(s) 737a are positioned in line with the apertures 737 of the baffle 730a to provide a direct path for the water flow. However limiting the surface area of the filter 740 may cause the filter mesh 652 to block too quickly, particularly in hard water areas, in which case it is preferred to increase the size of the filter 740 in relation to the apertures 737.

[327] As illustrated at least one additional aperture 737b may be provided in the filter 740 to increase the surface area of the mesh 652. In which case, in order to provide a suitable gap between the baffle 730a and the filter 740, the support channel 760 may be substantially positioned apart from the deflecting surface 765 and apertures 737 by an abutment surface 761 extending therefrom. So that, when assembled, the filter 740 is positioned away from the baffle 730a to enable water to flow through central area of the filter 740 towards the apertures 730a.

[328] A series of location and/or anchoring features 763a a may be provided on and/or around the baffle 730a for removably securing the filter 740 to the channel 760 of the baffle 730a.

[329] The upper portion of the filter 740 may be provided with a flange 749c to aid the user in removing the filter 740 from the baffle 730a for cleaning purposes. As illustrated, the flange 749c may extend inwardly and away from the spout 7, and the flange 749c may assist in deflecting the turbulent water back into the reservoir 5.

[330] Figure 49zw illustrates the appliance lb of Figure 49zt in an assembled state with the filter 740. As described above, the baffle 730a may be provided with said location and/or anchoring features 763a for removably securing the filter 740 to the baffle 730a. Alternatively, the lid (not shown) and/or spout 7 and/or reservoir 5 and/or flange 743 may be provided with location and/or anchoring features for removably securing the filter 740 to the appliance lb.

[331] In further embodiments separate removable filters may be provided to each of the apertures 737. In further alternative embodiments, the screen mesh may be supported and/or applied directly to the baffle 730a.

[332] Figure 49zx illustrates an alternative embodiment where the baffle 730a may be further provided with slots 745 and louvres 731. As illustrated the louvres 731 may extend outwardly and downwardly from the baffle 730a. The slots 745 allow the flow of fluid 739c through the baffle 730a during pouring and filling and the louvres 731 will help prevent water being ejected or spitting out of the spout 7 during the heating process. Alternatively, the louvres 731 may extend inwardly and/or upwardly, or in other directions, to prevent turbulent water being ejected or spitting from the spout 7 during the heating process. As previously described apertures 737 may also be provided for the filling of and pouring from the reservoir 5.

[333] In the case that a steam tube 70 is provided to guide steam to a steam switch (not shown) of the controller 60, it is preferred that the aperture for the steam tube 70 is protected from water entering. For example, as illustrated in Figure 49zo, the aperture for the steam tube 70 is shielded at the front and access provided between the back of the steam tube 70 and the reservoir wall by a steam tube cap 101. Alternatively the steam tube 70 may terminate within the peripheral flange 743 (not shown).

[334] As illustrated in Figures 49zs, 49zt and 49zw, the steam tube cap 101 may be moulded or formed as a part of the peripheral flange 743 or the body of the appliance lb and pivotally connected thereto by for example a hinge on at least on side of the steam cap 101 and folded into position during assembly.

[335] Figures 49zy to 49zza schematically illustrate three stages in assembling and securing the steam tube 70 into the steam cap 101. For clarity and illustrative purposes, Figures 49zy to 49zza illustrate cross sections of the appliance lb, and non-essential components are removed from the figures.

[336] Figure 49zy illustrates the first stage of assembly. The steam cap 101 may comprise front, side and back walls 764a, 764b, 764c and a lower wall 764d pivotally connected to the front wall 764a by said hinge 732 which may be formed as one continuous hinge 732 or, for example, a series of webs (not shown) that form a hinge 732. The back wall 764c may comprise a tab 734 extending therefrom for mutually engaging an aperture 733a provided in the lower wall 764d. The lower wall 764d may further comprise a steam tube aperture 733b, which will be described in more detail below.

[337] Figure 49zz illustrates the second stage of assembly, wherein the lower wall 764d is folded into position and secured to the tab 734 to form a steam chamber 116. At least one aperture 632c may be provided in the steam cap 101 to allow steam to be in fluid communication with the steam tube 70.

[338] Figure 49zza illustrates the final stage of assembly, wherein the steam tube 70 is inserted through the aperture 733b. It is preferred that the aperture of the steam tube 70 resides in the upper portion of the steam cap 101 abutting against at least one location and/or anchoring feature 763b. As illustrated, the front, side, back and lower walls 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d may act to prevent turbulent liquid 735 entering into the steam chamber 116 and/or into the steam tube 70. As previously described hereinabove, the steam tube 70 may be in fluid communication with the steam control via said at least one aperture 632c provided in the lower portion of the steam cap 101, as indicated by line 72. Furthermore, it can be envisaged that the steam tube 70 may further relieve the build-up of excess steam pressure.

[339] In a further alternative the steam tube cap 101 may be a separate component removably/permanently secured to the peripheral flange 743 or to the aperture of the steam tube 70 by known methods such as gluing, fusion bonding, snap-fittings, screws, friction- fittings and/or clamping.

[340] Whilst the figures illustrate the aperture of the steam tube 70 as straight, in further embodiments the aperture of the steam tube 70 may angled towards the handle 9, i.e. away from the direction of the aggressive turbulence 735 to prevent the turbulence liquid 735 entering the steam tube 70.

[341] In a further embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 49zzb, a steam path moulding 100 may be provided in the lid 8 which communicates with the steam tube 70 and steam control (not shown) and an aperture 86 may be provided in the lid 8 for access for the steam 72. As illustrated, the aperture 86 in the lid 8 may be positioned behind the baffle 730a, and a louvre 731 may be provided above or below the aperture 86 to prevent turbulent water, deflected by the baffle 730a, entering the aperture 86.

[342] In another embodiment (not shown), the aperture may be provided towards the front part of the lid (as disclosed for example in the applicant's granted patent GB-B- 2332095) for access for the steam. In this embodiment, aperture for the steam path in the lid may be positioned between the baffle and the spout so that turbulence is prevented from entering the aperture.

[343] The steam path moulding 100 may be formed as a single moulding together with the body of the lid 8. Alternatively, the steam path moulding 100 may be a separate component removably/permanently secured to the lid 8 by known methods such as gluing, fusion bonding, snap-fittings, screws, friction-fittings and/or clamping.

[344] In each of the embodiments in which a steam path moulding 100 is provided in the lid 8, a gradient or incline may be provided in the moulding 100 so that any liquid entering the steam path moulding 100 will meet with some resistance and then drain back into the reservoir 5 by gravity.

[345] As illustrated, the substantially vertical steam tube 70 may be provided with a lip 70a above the bottom level of the steam path moulding 100 to help prevent any liquid that may be present in the steam path moulding 100 entering the steam tube 70. [346] In further embodiments, for example as described in the applicants granted patent GB-B-2332095, the steam tube 70 may be formed as part of the reservoir 5 or as part of the handle 9.

[347] Figures 49zzc to 49zzh schematically illustrate a further embodiment of the baffle 730b, whereby the baffle 730b may be formed as a single moulding together with the body of the appliance lc.

[348] Figures 49zzc, 49zze and 49zzg illustrate schematic cutaway isometric views of the appliance lc in the pre-assembled, first assembly and assembled states, and Figures 49zzd, 49zzf and 49zzh illustrate schematic cutaway side views of the appliance lc in the pre-assembled, first assembly and assembled states. For clarity and illustrative purposes, non-essential components are removed from the figures, and only the baffle 730b is shown as not sectioned in Figures 49zzc, 49zze and 49zzg.

[349] As illustrated, the baffle 730b may be pivotally connected to the flange 743 of the appliance lc by at least one hinge 732 that may be provided on at least the third surface 748 of the baffle 730b. The lower end of the baffle 730b may be provided with a flange 749b for mutually engaging with a tab 734 that projects from the inner wall of the appliance la.

[350] Figures 49zze and 49zzf illustrate the appliance in the first assembly state, in which at least one location feature 794 may be provided in the body of the appliance lc for mutually engaging with an aperture 793 provided in the third surface 748 of the baffle 730b. During assembly, it can be envisaged that during assembly the location feature may provide at least lateral and/or horizontal support for the baffle 730b.

[351] Figures 49zzg and 49zzh illustrate the appliance lc in the assembled state in which at least the flange 749c, location feature(s) 794 and/or hinge(s) 732 acts to support the baffle 730b in a stable position.

[352] Although Figures 49zzc to 49zzh illustrate that the baffle 730b is pivotally connected to the aperture 743 of the appliance lc by one hinge 732 that is provided on the third surface 748 of the baffle 730b, it can be envisaged that a plurality of hinges may be employed to allow the baffle 730b to be pivotally connected to any portion of the appliance lc without departing from the scope of the invention.

[353] The provision of each of, or a combination of, the disclosed baffle 730a, 730b, peripheral flange 743 and control of water flow across the apertures 737 contribute towards the management of water turbulence in liquid heating appliances lb without the need for moving parts or user interaction, thus allowing the reduction in height of the previously described 1.7 litre 3kw water heating appliance by between 6.5 and 11 mm and a reduction in the volume of the packaging by between 3 and 11%, for example

Cordless Connectors and Reduced Material Integrated Control

[354] The following embodiment may include features as described or disclosed with reference to the applicant's patent publications WO- A 1-2013/093526 A 1 and WO-A1- 2012/085602. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features.

[355] The principles of the present disclosure have been illustrated in terms of the applicant's A8 series of integrated controls and CS8 series of cordless socket connectors but are equally applicable to other controls and or socket connector types.

[356] Figure 53mka illustrates an isometric view, from below, an electromechanical control 60, for example, the applicant's integrated control 520 including a cordless plug connector 3, which also may include at least a chassis assembly 675 for mounting and/or securing the integrated control 520 to a heating element plate (not shown), at least one wire conductor 512 for supply power to the heating element, a main moulding 535 for housing at least a central live pin 530, a neutral ring 534N and an earth ring 127 and a trip lever 594 with an over centre and/or bistable mechanism in cooperation with, for example, a bimetal actuator 592 for operating the integrated control 520. The main moulding 535 may include an inner wall 556 for cooperating with, for example, at least a circumferential wall 547 of the socket connector 4. Alternatively, an inner wall of the sub base (not shown) may be used for cooperating with, for example, at least the circumferential wall 547 of the socket connector 4.

[357] Figure 53mkb illustrates an isometric view of a cordless socket connector 4, from above according to an embodiment of the present invention, which may include at least a main moulding 536 having at least a central aperture 564, an inner and outer annular apertures 541, 542, an annular lip 853 for forming an annular drainage channel 852, a wall 567 to form a collection drainage port and at least one shroud 560 on the underside to provide electrical insulation and/or water shedding for the electrical connection means, for example, tab terminals. The socket connector 4 will also include cooperating contacts 544L, 544N, 544E which may be supported by fixed and/or resilient spring conductors, for example, as described in WO-A1-2013/093526A1 and WO-A1-2012/085602 Improved Docking in 360° Cordless Connectors

[358] The following description discloses embodiments of a cordless socket connector that provide improvement(s) to docking means over the prior art.

[359] Typically, in the prior art, the initial centralisation stage in the docking procedure may be provided by a central pin 530 of the plug connector 3 and a cooperating central aperture 564 in the socket connector 4 and/or between a circumferential conductor of the plug connector 3 and a cooperating wall of the socket connector 4.

[360] The docking procedure is made more complex and tolerances more critical when the size of the mating components are reduced for example:

a. the relative positioning between the mating plastic mouldings; and/or

b. the relative positioning and required contact forces between the cooperating electrical conductors during docking and during use.

[361] The docking of mating cordless connector pairs 3, 4 may be improved by the provision of a plurality of discrete substantially radial protrusions 890, 891 on at least one of the walls 546, 547 of the cordless socket 4 so as to centralise, provide location means, and/or align the corresponding plug connector 3 during docking. The plurality of discrete substantially radial protrusions 890 may extend substantially vertically.

[362] Advantageously, the plurality of specific discrete protrusions 890, 891 may be provided within the envelope of the socket connector 4 so that the overall size of the socket connector 4 may not increase, and in further embodiments the socket connector 4 may decrease in size. Furthermore, at least one of the discrete portions 890, 891, may house at least one cooperating electrical contact 544 (not shown), which again may decrease the overall diameter of the socket connector 4.

[363] The principles of the present disclosure have been illustrated in terms of the proprietor's A8 series of integrated controls and CS8 series of cordless sockets but are equally applicable to other controls and/or connector types.

[364] Figures 53mkc and 53mkd illustrate detailed isometric and plan views respectively of the first embodiment of the cordless socket connector 4. For clarity and illustrative purposes, non-essential components are removed from the figures. Furthermore, the socket connector 4 may comprise each of the previously and subsequently described contacts 544L, 544N, 544E which may be supported on resilient spring conductors (not shown); however, again for clarity, only 544E is illustrated.

[365] The socket connector 4 further comprises a main moulding 536 in which two annular apertures 541 and 542 and a central aperture 564 are formed by the walls 546, 547 and 868 and may include shrouds 560 on the underside to provide electrical insulation and/or water shedding for the electrical connection means, for example, tab terminals (not shown).

[366] A wall 567 may be provided in the main moulding 536 to form a collective drainage port, for the annular apertures 541 and 542, for draining water safely away from the socket connector 4.

[367] As illustrated, the socket connector 4 may also further comprise at least first, second and third protrusions 890a, 890b, 890c respectively that protrude from the wall 547 and into the outer annular aperture 542. When viewed from above, the protrusions 890a, 890b, 890c as illustrated are defined by a line segment (chord) 893 across the inner diameter of the circumferential wall 547 and they may be positioned equidistantly apart to improve centralisation, alignment and location means during docking, which will be described in more detail below.

[368] It is known in the prior art that a vertical conductor may be provided between the parallel circumferential walls 547a, 547b and a gap Ga is required therebetween to accommodate the required minimum lateral movement of the vertical contact 544E, so that the contact 544E may be able to move freely during docking and undocking, yet still provides a consistent and sufficient contact pressure against the cooperating annular conductor 127 (not shown).

[369] In the prior art, the provision for the width of the gap Ga between the walls 547a and 547b is consistent over the diameter of the socket connector 4 as illustrated in Figure 53mke, and the overall diameter of the prior art socket connector 4 reflects the dimension of the gap Ga.

[370] As illustrated in Figure 53mkf, at least one contact 544 may be positioned within the area of a protrusion 890, and this protrusion 890 may partially accommodate the lateral movement of the contact 544E during docking. In which case, the gap Ga is only required in this one area of the socket connector 4; the corresponding gap Gb between the walls 547a and 547b is narrower than gap Ga and the overall diameter of the socket connector 4 is reduced accordingly.

[371] Furthermore the straight line segment 893 may provide an improved retention means for cooperating with the back stop 598 of the contact 544E when the plug connector 3 is removed from the socket connector 4. The back stop 598 may be provided on at least one side of the contact 544E as illustrated or may also be provided above and/or below the contact 544E [372] Figures 53mkg to 53mkj illustrate schematic section views of the cordless plug connector 3 and cordless socket connector 4 of Figures 53mka and 53mkb according to the embodiment of the present invention before, during and after docking. The protrusions 890a, 890b, 890c are schematically illustrated in the section view, and will be described in more detail below. For clarity and illustrative purposes, only the contact 544E is shown in Figure 53mkg.

[373] An initial alignment, centralisation and/or docking between the connector pairs 3 and 4 may be provided by other means, for example the inner wall 556 of the plug connector3 or by the inner wall of the sub base (not shown), for cooperating with at least the circumferential wall 547 of the socket connector 4, however, this is not limiting on the invention.

[374] It is known in the prior art that the central pin 530 is vulnerable to distortion and/or bending over its life and it is preferred, but not limiting, that the live conductor 530 does not contact the periphery of the aperture 564 during the docking.

[375] It is also preferred, but not limiting, that the overall height of the socket connector 4 including the circumferential wall 547 is kept as low as possible for both aesthetic and cost purposes.

[376] It is also preferred, but not limiting that the top surface of the wall 547 includes a chamfer to bias the plug connector 3 towards the centre of the socket connector 4 as detailed in Figure 53mkg. In order to minimise the overall height the wall 547, it is preferred the angle of chamfer is shallow, for example, less than 21°. Preferably the angle is less than or equal to 10.5°.

[377] Figure 53mkh illustrates the plug connector 3 and socket connector 4 during the initial engagement at which time the conductor 127 may abut at least one portion of the top surface of the circumferential wall 547, which, as previously described, may be chamfered towards the centre of the socket connector 4. This chamfer may bias the central Axis A of the plug connector 3 towards central Axis B of the socket connector 4, thus improving location means, alignment and/or centralisation between the plug connector 3 and the socket connector 4 during the initial engagement.

[378] Figure 53mki illustrates the plug connector 3 and socket connector 4 during the second stage engagement, wherein the conductor 127 makes contact with at least one protrusion 890 thus centralising the plug connector 3 so that docking continues without the live conductor 530 making contact with the inlet 562 of the wall 868. [379] Figure 53mkj illustrates the plug connector 3 and socket connector 4 during the final stage of engagement. As illustrated, the plug connector 3 travels downward and each or all of the protrusions 890a, 890b and 890c may further centralise the earth conductor 127 and prevent the central live conductor 530 from contacting the aperture 564.

[380] Advantageously, the fixture and annular arrangement of the circumferential conductor 127 may be more robust than a centrally secured pin and is better at absorbing the forces and stresses of the initial docking.

[381] Furthermore, the free end of the central live conductor 530 may be provided with a substantially circumferential and/or annular lead-in and/or a taper to further improve clearance between the central live conductor 530 and the cooperating central aperture 564 during docking.

[382] As illustrated in Figures 53mkg to 53mkj, the plurality of discrete substantially radial protrusions 890 may extend substantially vertically. In alternative embodiments (not shown), it can be envisaged that at least one of the protrusions 890 may be locally positioned towards and/or in the proximity of the inlet of the aperture 542 and may not need to fully extend vertically, whilst providing the improved location means, alignment and/or centralisation between the plug connector 3 and the socket connector 4 during the initial engagement.

[383] Figure 53mkk illustrates a schematic plan view of the docking of the plug connector 3 with the socket connector 4 according to the present invention in which the protrusions 890 mate tangentially with the outer diameter and/or outer surface of the earth conductor 127. It is envisaged that conductor 127 will centralise sufficiently against at least two of the three protrusions 890 for successful docking, whilst a clearance is provided between the conductor 127 and at least the third protrusion so as to prevent friction therebetween.

[384] Advantageously in areas where there are no protrusions 890, a larger gap is provided between the outer diameter of the conductor 127 and the inner diameter of the circumferential wall 547 and so this gap may help to accommodate the manufacturing tolerances and/or any distortion of the either or both the main moulding 536 and/or conductor 127.

[385] Figures 53mkl to 53mkn illustrate schematic plan views of further embodiments of the socket connector 4a, 4b, 4c.

[386] Figure 53mkl illustrates a socket 4a comprising a plurality of outwardly facing protrusions 891a, 891b, 891c. The protrusions 891a, 891b, 891c may be provided on the outer diameter of the inner wall 546 and protrude into the outer annular aperture 542 for mating with the inner diameter and/or surface of the earth conductor 127.

[387] Advantageously at least one contact 544N may be housed within at last one of the protrusions 891 so that that the overall diameter of the socket 4 may be reduced as previously described.

[388] Figure 53mkm illustrates a further embodiment in which a plurality of inwardly facing protrusions 892a, 892b, 892c may be provided on the inner wall 546 of the socket connector 4b and protruding into the inner annular aperture 541 for mating with the outer diameter and/or outer surface of the neutral contact 534N. As previously described, at least one contact 544N may be housed within at last one of the protrusions 891 so that that the overall diameter of the socket 4 may be reduced.

[389] In a further embodiment as illustrated in Figure 53mkn, the protrusions 890a, 890b and 890c may be provided on the outer wall 547 of the socket connector 4c for mating with the inner surface 556 of the plug connector 3 in the appliance 1. Alternatively, the protrusions 890 may be provided on the inner surface 556 of the plug connector 3 for mating with the outer wall 547 of the socket connector 4.

[390] The shape and form of the protrusions 890, 891, 892 are not limiting to the scope of the invention, and they may be round, ovoid, arcuate, rectangular or any suitable shape.

[391] In further embodiments, the socket connector 4 may be provided with additional protrusions 890 without departing from the scope of the invention.

[392] The angles, datum and width of the chamfers of the inlet 542 may be modified to suit the particular geometry of the mating parts without departing from the scope of the invention.

[393] In alternative embodiments, the function or polarity of the individual conductors, for example, the central pin 530 and/or the rings 534N, 127 may be reversed or changed. In further embodiments, additional conductors may be provided, for example, for transmitting electrical signals between the cordless base 2 and the appliance proper 1. Alternatively, at least the central pin 530 and/or the rings 127, 534N may also provide means for conducting electrical signals. Improvements to Bimetal Actuators

[394] In prior art integrated controls for liquid heating appliances, for example the applicant's Al series, it is known to provide a bimetal actuator to operate the trip lever of the appliance 1 when, for example, a desired heated liquid temperature has been reached. Typically, in the prior art, the bimetal actuator is pivotally supported by the integrated control so that at least part of the bimetal actuator is free to move between states at the required temperatures.

[395] The operation of the bimetal actuator is made more complex and tolerances more critical when the size of the components are reduced for example:

a. the relative positioning of the fulcrum and actuator mount for the bimetal actuator;

b. the relative positioning of the fulcrum and back stop for the bimetal actuator;

c. the mechanical interface between the bimetal actuator and the cooperating trip lever and/or the back stop; and/or

d. the thickness and mechanical properties of the bimetal actuator.

[396] Figure 53qczoa is an exploded isometric section view of an integrated control 520 where the bimetal actuator 592 may be substantially centrally supported by the actuator mount 593 and may cooperate with a pivotal point adjacent to the actuator mount 593, for example, a fulcrum 895 which may be provided as a projection and/or raised portion. For clarity and illustrative purposes, non-essential components are removed from the figure.

[397] The integrated control 520 may comprise a star washer 888 for securing the bimetal actuator 592 to the actuator mount 593 of the main moulding 535, and the bimetal actuator 592 may cooperate with a back stop 598 and a trip lever 594. As illustrated, the bimetal actuator 592 may be circular and may reside in any azimuthal orientation, however for the purposes of the description the point closest to the back stop 598 is designated the first end 592a and the point for actuating the trip lever 594 is designated the free end 592b.

[398] Whilst Figure 53qczoa illustrates the star washer 888 with a substantially planar peripheral profile, it can be envisaged that alternative star washer configurations may be used, for example, as illustrated in Figures 53qczob and 53qczoc.

[399] Figure 53qczob illustrates a star washer 888a comprising an annular wall 851, which may extend upwardly from the periphery of the star washer 888a for providing additional rigidity. Figure 53qczoc illustrates a star washer 888b comprising at least one annular channel 370, which may be positioned near the periphery of the star washer 888b for providing additional rigidity. The annular channel 370 may protrude towards the upper surface of the bimetal actuator 592 to allow the annular channel 370 to abut against the upper surface of the bimetal actuator 592. [400] Figures 53qczod to 53qczof illustrate schematic section views of the integrated control 520 during its operational phases, in which the trip lever 594 pivots about a point 579 and cooperates with electrical switching means (not shown) in the integrated control 520. The combination of pivot point 579, the trip lever 594 and the spring 811 may form the bistable mechanism.

[401] As illustrated in Figure 53qczod, in the cold condition of the bimetal actuator 592 its concave surface may face substantially downwards. In this first phase, in which the switching means are closed (i.e. in the on position), the trip lever 594 is biased towards the bimetal actuator 592, such that, for example, a portion 595a of the trip lever 594 may abut or is proximal to the free end 592b of the bimetal actuator 592. At this stage, the first end 592a of the bimetal actuator 592 may also abut or be proximal to the back stop 598.

[402] As illustrated in Figure 53qczoe, as the liquid boils, steam and/or heated vapour may be directed towards the bimetal actuator 592 causing the bimetal actuator 592 to reverse its curvature and its free end 592b to deflect, thus forcing the bistable trip lever 594 to overcome the over centre mechanism and open the switching means (i.e. in the off position). The deflection of the free end 592b may be controlled by pivoting the bimetal actuator 592 about the fulcrum 895 and restricting movement of the first end 592a of the bimetal actuator 592 by the back stop 598.

[403] As the bimetal actuator 592 cools, the bimetal actuator 592 resets and/or returns to its original concave shape as illustrated in Figure 53qczof. During reset, the bimetal actuator 592 may vibrate and/or oscillate which may induce stresses in the bimetal actuator 592. In the prior art, the star washer 888 may be provided to dampen and/or fully or partially absorb the energy from the vibration and/or oscillation, which may reduce the resultant stresses in the bimetal actuator 592.

[404] The relevant position and tolerance between the damping means and the bimetal actuator 592 is important. For example, too much pressure exerted by the damping means may distort the operating point of the bimetal actuator 592. Alternatively, if the star washer 888 is set too far from the bimetal actuator 592, then the star washer 888 may not be able to absorb the vibration and/or oscillation from the bimetal actuator 592 during operation.

[405] With reduced sized controls and/or reduced mass bimetal actuators the tolerances are even more important and an improved dampening means may be required.

[406] Figures 53qczog illustrates the first embodiment of the integrated control 520 with an improved dampening means for improving absorption of the energy dissipated from the bimetal actuator 592, whilst widening the positional tolerance between the star washer 888 and the bimetal actuator 592.

[407] As illustrated, an intermediate damping means, for example, an o-ring 422 may be provided between the star washer 888 and the bimetal actuator 592.

[408] This intermediate damping means may be provided to resiliency absorb energy, vibration and/or oscillation from the bimetal actuator 592 and/or to resiliency absorb pressure exerted by the star washer 888.

[409] In alternative embodiments (not shown), at least one of a radial wave spring, a coil spring, a polymeric material, an elastomeric material, a leaf spring, a helical spring, an axial spring, gasket, washer, sheath, bush, grommet and/or sleeve may be provided between the star washer 888 and the bimetal actuator 592 in addition to, or instead of, the o-ring 422.

[410] In alternative embodiments (not shown), a circlip, r-clip, fastener, grommet, and/or other suitable fastening may be used as an alternative to the star washer 888.

[411] Figures 53qczoh and 53qczoi illustrate isometric views of a variant of the first embodiment, whereby a resiliency formed means may be used to dampen the vibration and/or oscillation. The resiliently formed means, for example, a spring-loaded washer 897, may comprise an annular member 411 and/or washer connected to the star washer portion 888 by at least one resilient interconnecting member 381. As illustrated in Figure 53qczog, the resiliently formed means may be stamped from a sheet material and folded to form the spring-loaded washer 897 as illustrated in Figure 53qczoi. In addition the annular member 411 may comprise at last one channel 370 and/or annular wall 851 for strengthening thereof.

[412] Figure 53qczoj illustrates a schematic section view of the control 520 with the spring-loaded washer 897.

[413] It can be envisaged that the resilience provided by both the o-ring 422 and resilient spring washer 897 may help to accommodate the manufacturing tolerances associated with the critical positioning of the conventional star washer 888, which advantageously may further extend the operational life of the bimetal actuator 592 by reducing and/or controlling the levels of induced stresses.

[414] Additionally, improvements to the dampening means may allow the use of a thinner bimetal actuator 592 to provide additional cost savings.

[415] Whilst the above improvements are described in relation to a specific dampening means in the applicant' s integrated control 520, it can be envisaged that the improvements to the dampening means of bimetal actuators may be used in any thermally actuated bimetal controls, thermostats and/or switches, for example, but not limited to, integrated controls, contact type thermostats, dry boil protection, steam thermostats, air/humidity sensor etc, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[416] It can also be envisaged that the damping means may be provided on any surface of the bimetal actuator 592 including its edge and/or may be provided as part of an adjacent or abutting component, for example, the main moulding 535.

Improved Water Shedding in 360° Cordless Connectors

[417] The following description discloses embodiments of cordless socket connectors that provide improvement(s) to drainage means over the prior art.

[418] In prior art 360° connectors (not shown), for example the applicant's CS4 series, it is known to provide a full height moulded skirt as part of base 2 so that the moulded skirt acts to provide the initial engagement between the base 2 and the plug 3. This skirt may alleviate the water ingress issues between the socket 4 and the base 2, however there may be interface and tolerance issues between the skirt moulded by the appliance manufacture as part of the base 2 and the plug 3 and socket 4 supplied by the component manufacturer.

[419] It is also known to provide cordless bases without a skirt and care must be taken to accommodate any liquid that may be present where the connector 4 interfaces with power base 2.

[420] It is also known to provide central drainage within a cordless connector so that any liquid that is present on the top surface of the connector 4 may drain through the connector 4 and then out of the base through cooperating drainage channels.

[421] The inventors have discovered that, in particularly with reduced size components, the interface or connection means between the drainage channels and lower power base may retain water or, in fact, may assist in drawing water between the components through capillary action, which may encourage an electrical path between the connector and the lower power base under wet and/or damp conditions.

[422] It is the intention of the applicant to seek improvement(s) to drainage of cordless connector assemblies by providing means to isolate the drainage function from adjacent components.

[423] The following embodiments may include features as described or disclosed with reference to the applicant's patent publications WO- A 1-2013/093526 A 1 and WO-A1- 2012/085602. Unless otherwise stated, it is not intended to further describe those features. [424] Figure 53qczzl illustrates an exploded isometric view of the cordless socket connector 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention and a lower power base 2a, whereby for clarity and illustrative purposes the lower power base 2a is sectioned. Figure 53qczzm illustrates an isometric sectional view through the assembled cordless connector 4 and the lower power base 2a of Figure 53qczzl with a base cover moulding 343 and Figure 53qczzn illustrates a schematic sectional view through the assembled cordless connector 4 and the lower power base 2a of Figure 53qczzl with a base cover moulding 343. For clarity and illustrative purposes, non-essential components are removed from the figures.

[425] The central portion of the lower power base 2a may be provided with an annular wall 851 that functions as a dam and/or barrier to contain any excess liquid or condensate and divert this liquid towards an aperture 346b in the lower power base 2a.

[426] As described in WO-A1-2013/093526A1, walls 546 and 547 of the socket connector 4 may be provided with vertical apertures 565a and 565b within a collective drainage port 567a to provide the drainage from the two annular apertures 541, 542 as indicated by arrow A, so that water present in the apertures 541, 542 may be drained via the aperture 346b.

[427] The cordless connector 4 may further be provided with a series of support means, for example feet 884 located, on its underside to engage with, for example, abutment features 885, 885a provided on the lower power base 2a. The abutment feature 885a may be profiled to mutually engage with its corresponding feet 884 and also provide indexing and/or alignment means. When assembled as illustrated in Figure 53qczzm, the feet 884 rest on the abutment features 885, 885a and supported by the lower power base 2a, so that the drainage port 567a of the socket connector 4 is aligned and/or indexed with the aperture 346b.

[428] The main moulding 536 of the socket connector 4 may comprise an annular lip 853, in which an annular well 882 may be formed between the wall 547 for safely collecting any liquid, for example, between the top surface of the base cover moulding 343 and the socket connector 4. A drainage channel 567b may be provided where the external wall of the drainage port 567a abuts the annular well 882 for safely draining water away from the annular well 882 and towards the aperture 346b in the lower power base 2a as illustrated by arrow B.

[429] As illustrated in Figures 53qczzm and 53qczzn, the combined drainage channel 894 formed by ports 567a, 567b is not directly connected to the drainage port 346b and is positioned away from the support means 885. Thus, the outlet of the combined drainage channel 894 is suspended freely above the lower power base 2a.and so helps to prevent water being trapped and/or retained between the combined drainage channel 894 and the lower power base 2a, thereby eliminating a potential electrical path between the connector 4 and the lower power base 2a under wet and/or damp conditions.

[430] Preferably a gap of approximately 5mm may be provided between the outlet of the combined drainage channel 894 and the lower power base 2a, the support means 885 and/or any other part or portion of the lower cordless base 2a. However, the dimension of the gap is not limiting on the invention.

[431] The central portion of the lower power base 2a may be angled and/or tapered towards the aperture 346b, so that water may be easily drained away.

[432] The invention is not limited to a single combined drainage means and is equally applicable to embodiments whereby a plurality of drainage means are provided and/or in which the drainages means may not be combined. Further Embodiments

[433] It is evident that the full scope and combination of embodiments is extensive; however it is envisaged that the skilled person, having read the description herein, will be able to transfer solutions between the embodiments to meet the specific problems of individual appliances within the scope of the present invention.

[434] The embodiments described above are illustrative of rather than limiting to the present invention. Alternative embodiments apparent on reading the above description may nevertheless fall within the scope of the invention.

Alternative Statements of Invention

Alternative statements of invention are recited in the following numbered clauses.

1. A thermal control apparatus for a liquid heating appliance, comprising an actuator mount for mounting a bimetallic actuator, wherein the bimetallic actuator is secured to the actuator mount by at least one securing means, and further comprising dampening means for dampening and/or absorbing energy, vibration and/or oscillation in the bimetallic actuator.

2. The thermal control apparatus of clause 1, wherein the dampening means is provided between the bimetallic actuator and the securing means.

3. The thermal control apparatus of clause 1 or 2, wherein the dampening means is provided between the bimetallic actuator and the actuator mount.

4. The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 3, further comprising a bistable actuator operable to be actuated by said bimetallic actuator.

5. The thermal control apparatus of clause 4, wherein the bistable actuator is pivotally mounted to a main moulding of the thermal control.

6. The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the bimetallic actuator is arranged to be actuated by steam.

7. The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the securing means is arranged to control and/or restrict the axial movement of the bimetallic actuator.

8. The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the dampening means comprises a resilient element.

9. The thermal control apparatus of clause 8, wherein the resilient element comprises a polymeric and/or elastomeric material.

10. The thermal control apparatus of clause 8 or 9, wherein the resilient element comprises one or more of the following: an o-ring, a coil spring, a leaf spring, a wave spring, a helical spring, an axial spring gasket, a washer, a sheath, a bush, a grommet and/or a sleeve.

11. The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the securing means comprises at least one of the following: a star washer, a circlip, an r-clip, a fastener, a grommet and/or other suitable fastening. The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 8 to 10, or clause 11 when dependent on any one of clauses 8 to 10, wherein the securing means and the resilient element comprise a unitary component.

The thermal control apparatus of clause 12, wherein the unitary component comprises a flat or sheet material including an interconnecting member between the securing means and the resilient element.

The thermal control apparatus of clause 13, wherein the resilient element includes said interconnecting member.

The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the securing means and/or dampening means further comprises at least one axially extending channel and/or annular wall for strengthening thereof and/or to reduce distortion and/or warping thereof.

The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 15, wherein the securing means comprises an annular and/or a circular member.

The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 16, wherein the dampening means comprises an annular and/or a circular member.

The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the securing means comprises a part of the main moulding.

The thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the securing means is secured and/or removably secured to the main moulding.

The thermal control apparatus of clause 18 or 19, wherein the dampening means comprises part of the securing means.

A substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, wherein the plug connector further comprises said thermal control apparatus of any one of the preceding clauses.

An appliance comprising the thermal control apparatus of any one of clauses 1 to 20. A thermal control apparatus, comprising an actuator mount for mounting a bimetallic actuator, wherein the bimetallic actuator is secured to the actuator mount by at least one securing means, and further comprising dampening means for dampening and/or absorbing energy, vibration and/or oscillation in the bimetallic actuator.

A substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, wherein the plug connector comprises at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical conductor of the socket connector, such that the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor of the plug connector is located against a main body of the socket connector, said main body having at least one annular wall, the or each said annular wall comprising at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions for centralising and/or aligning the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 24, wherein each of said discrete substantially radial protrusions extends radially inwardly.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 24, wherein each of said discrete substantially radial protrusions extends radially outwardly.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 26, wherein the or each discrete substantially radial protrusion extends substantially vertically.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 27, wherein at least one of the discrete substantially radial protrusions houses at least one said corresponding electrical conductor.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 28, wherein the or each corresponding electrical conductor is positioned within an aperture of the socket connector.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 29, wherein the or each discrete substantially radial protrusion is locally positioned towards and/or in the proximity of the inlet of the aperture.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 30, wherein the or each discrete substantially radial protrusion does not fully extend vertically.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 31, wherein the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are provided on the inner diameter or surface of the at least one annular wall for locating against the outer diameter or surface of the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 32, wherein at least one of the protrusions is defined by a line segment or chord across the inner diameter of the at least one annular wall.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 31, wherein the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are provided on the outer diameter or surface of the at least one annular wall for locating against the inner diameter or surface of the at least one circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 34, wherein the plug connector comprises at least two concentric electrical conductors for electrical connection to corresponding electrical conductors within respective inner and outer annular apertures in the socket connector.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 35, wherein the main body comprises at least an outer annular wall and an inner annular wall and said at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are provided on either or both the outer annular wall and/or on the inner annular wall.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 36, wherein the inner annular wall is disposed between the inner and outer annular apertures.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 37 when dependent on clause 32 or 33, wherein the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are provided on the outer annular wall, whereby the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions protrude into the outer aperture for centralising and/or aligning against the outer diameter or surface of the outer circumferentially extending electrical conductor. The cordless electrical connection system of clause 38, wherein the outer annular wall is a circumferential wall of the socket connector.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 37 when dependent on clause 32 or 33, wherein the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are provided on the inner annular wall, whereby the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions protrude into the inner aperture for centralising and/or aligning against the outer diameter or surface of the inner circumferentially extending electrical conductor. The cordless electrical connection system of clause 37 when dependent on clause 34, wherein the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are provided on the inner annular wall, whereby the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions protrude into the outer aperture for centralising and/or aligning against the inner diameter or surface of the outer circumferentially extending electrical conductor.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 35 to 40, wherein the plug connector further comprises a substantially central electrical plug conductor for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical socket conductor within a substantially central aperture in the socket connector. The cordless electrical connection system of clause 42, wherein the free end of the central electrical plug conductor comprises a substantially circumferential and/or annular lead-in and/or a taper to further improve clearance between the central electrical plug conductor and the substantially central aperture during docking.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 42 or 43, wherein the inner and outer circumferentially extending electrical conductors are located outwardly of the substantially central electrical plug conductor each at a different radial distance from the substantially central electrical plug conductor.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 44, wherein the at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions are positioned substantially equidistantly apart.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 45, wherein the plug connector comprises at least three discrete substantially radial protrusions and the at least one of the circumferentially extending electrical conductor centralises and/or aligns against two of the at least three discrete substantially radial protrusions during docking whilst a clearance is provided between the at least one said circumferentially extending electrical conductor and the third discrete substantially radial protrusion so as to prevent friction therebetween.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 35 to 46 each when dependent on clause 35, wherein the inlet of the outer annular aperture is provided with a chamfer to provide guidance for the outer circumferentially extending electrical conductor of the plug connector.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 47, wherein the chamfer is provided on the outer annular wall and has a shallow angle of less than 21°, and preferably less than or equal to 10.5°.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 48, further comprising an additional one or more circumferentially extending electrical conductor for transmitting electrical signals between the appliance proper and the power base. A substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, wherein at least one of the plug connector or socket connector comprises at least one circumferentially extending conductor for electrical connection to a corresponding electrical conductor of the socket connector or plug connector such that the at least one circumferentially extending conductor is located against a main body of the socket connector or plug connector, said main body having at least one annular wall, the or each said annular wall comprising at least two discrete substantially radial protrusions for centralising and/or aligning the at least one circumferentially extending conductor.

A substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, the socket connector comprises a main body having at least one aperture for receiving at least one corresponding electrical conductor of the plug connector, and the at least one aperture is provided with drainage means for draining liquids away therefrom and towards a drainage aperture provided in the power base, wherein at least the outlet of the drainage means is not in direct contact with any part or portion of the power base.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 51, wherein the main body of the socket connector further comprises an annular lip, in which an annular well is formed for safely collecting any liquid between the top surface of the power base and the socket connector and said annular well is provided with drainage means for draining liquids away therefrom and towards a drainage aperture provided in the power base, wherein at least the outlet of the drainage means is not direct contact with any part or portion of the power base.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 51 or 52, wherein at least the outlet of the or each drainage means is suspended freely within the power base.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 51 to 53, wherein the main body of the socket connector comprises at least two apertures for receiving corresponding electrical conductors of the plug connector, and each aperture is provided with drainage means for draining liquids away from the respective apertures. The cordless electrical connection system of clause 54, wherein the main body of the socket connector comprises at least three apertures for receiving corresponding electrical conductors of the plug connector, and at least two apertures share a common drainage means.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 52 to 55, wherein the draining means of the or each aperture and annular well forms a combined drainage channel.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 52 to 54, wherein the drainage means comprises separate drainage channels. The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 51 to 57, wherein the power base further comprises a lower power base portion including means for receiving the socket connector.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 58, wherein the socket connector further comprises locating means for mutually engaging with corresponding locating means provided on the lower power base portion for aligning the drainage means with the drainage aperture provided in the power base.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 58 or 59, wherein the lower power base portion comprises an annular skirt that functions as a dam and/or barrier to contain any excess liquid and divert this liquid towards the drainage aperture.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 58 to 60, wherein a central portion of the lower power base is angled and/or tapered towards the drainage aperture, so that water may be easily drained away.

A substantially 360° cordless electrical connection system for connecting an appliance proper to a power base, the system comprising a plug connector and a corresponding socket connector, the socket connector comprises a main body having at least one aperture for receiving at least one corresponding electrical conductor of the plug connector, and the at least one aperture is provided with drainage means for draining liquids away therefrom and towards a drainage aperture provided in the power base, wherein at least the outlet of the drainage means is suspended freely within the power base.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 21 and 24 to 62, wherein at least one of the plug and socket connectors is a waterproof connector.

The cordless electrical connection system of clause 63, wherein the at least one of the plug and socket connectors is made waterproof by sealing one or more cavities containing electrical connections to said electrical conductors.

The cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 24 to 64, wherein the plug connector further comprises a thermal control for said appliance proper.

An appliance comprising the cordless electrical connection system of any one of clauses 21 and 24 to 65.

The appliance of clause 66, comprising a kettle, heated vacuum flask, pot, blender, iron, wasserkocher, coffee or espresso maker, juicer, smoothie maker, food processor, soup maker, sauce maker, steamer, tea maker, chocolate fountain, fondue, slow cooker, vacuum pot, milk frother, water coolers water dispenser, pan, vending machine, and/or hot water on demand appliance.

68. A liquid heating appliance (lb) comprising a liquid reservoir (5), a heater (12) for heating liquid in the reservoir (5) and a spout (7) for dispensing liquid from the reservoir (5), the appliance (lb) further comprising a baffle (730a, 730b), located behind the spout (7), for inhibiting or preventing turbulent liquid (735) from spitting and/or ejecting through the spout (7) during heating, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) comprises:

a. a first surface (765) for deflecting the turbulent liquid away from the spout (7); and b. a second surface (747) that extends substantially around and/or along at least the lower periphery of the first surface (765) , whereby the second surface (747) abuts and/or seals against an inner wall at the front of the liquid reservoir (5).

69. The liquid heating appliance of clause 68, wherein the second surface (747) mirrors and/or follows the contour of the inner wall of the liquid reservoir (5), such that the second surface (747) deflects and/or diverts the turbulence liquid (735) away from gaps between the inner wall (5a) and the first surface (765).

70. The liquid heating appliance of clause 68 or 69, wherein the second surface (747) extends substantially around and/or along the first surface (765)

71. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 68 to 70, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) further comprises a third surface (748) for abutting and/or sealing against a portion of the appliance or a lid (8), such that the third surface (748) deflects and/or diverts the turbulent liquid (735) away from gaps between the portion of the appliance or lid (8) and the first surface (765) and/or baffle (730a, 730b).

72. The liquid heating appliance of clause 71, wherein the third surface (748) is provided on an upper portion of the baffle (730a, 730b).

73. The liquid heating appliance of clause 71 or 72, wherein the third surface (748) is formed from an upper portion of the second surface (747)

74. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 68 to 74, wherein said first surface (765) further comprises at least one aperture (737), whereby the at least one aperture (737) provides means for pouring from or filling of the reservoir (5) and means for excess steam to escape (746) out of the reservoir (5) during the heating process.

75. A liquid heating appliance (lb) comprising a liquid reservoir (5), a heater (12) for heating liquid in the reservoir (5) and a spout (7) for dispensing liquid from the reservoir (5), the appliance (lb) further comprising a baffle (730a, 730b), located behind the spout (7), for inhibiting or preventing turbulent liquid (735) from spitting and/or ejecting through the spout (7) during heating, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) comprises a first surface (735) for deflecting the turbulent liquid (735) towards the back of the reservoir (5) of the appliance (lb) and at least one aperture (737) is provided in said first surface (765), whereby the at least one aperture (737) provides means for pouring from or filling of the reservoir (5) and means for excess steam or steam exhaust to escape (746) out of the reservoir (5) during the heating process.

76. The liquid heating appliance of clause 75, wherein said baffle (730a, 730b) further comprises a second surface (747) that extends substantially around and/or along at least the lower periphery of the first surface (765), whereby the second surface (747) abuts and/or seals against an inner wall at the front of the liquid reservoir (5).

77. The liquid heating appliance of clause 76, wherein the second surface (747) mirrors and/or follows the contour of the inner wall of the liquid reservoir (5), such that the second surface (747) deflects and/or diverts the turbulence liquid (735) away from gaps between the inner wall (5a) and the first surface (765).

78. The liquid heating appliance of clause 76 or 77, wherein the second surface (747) extends substantially around and/or along the first surface (765).

79. The liquid heating appliance of clause 77 or 78, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) further comprises a third surface (748) for abutting and/or sealing against a portion of the appliance or a lid (8), such that the third surface (748) deflects and/or diverts the turbulence liquid (735) away from gaps between the portion of the appliance or lid (8) and the first surface (765) and/or baffle (730a, 730b).

80. The liquid heating appliance of clause 79, wherein the third surface (748) is provided on an upper portion of the baffle (730a, 730b).

81. The liquid heating appliance of clause 79 or 80, wherein the third surface (748) is formed from an upper portion of the second surface (747).

82. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 74 to 81, wherein the at least one aperture (737) is located at an offset position to the spout (7).

83. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 74 to 82, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) is wider than the opening of the spout (7) so that any liquid ejected through the at least one aperture (737) is directed away from an exit aperture (632g) of the spout (V).

84. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 74 to 83, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) comprises at least two apertures. 85. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 74 to 84, wherein each aperture (737) is positioned above the maximum water level (225) to prevent and/or limit the turbulent water (735) passing therethrough during the heating process.

86. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first surface (765) is formed from one of or a combination of an arcuate, inclined or vertical surface.

87. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a peripheral flange (743) provided substantially around the perimeter of an upper aperture (20) of the appliance (lb) to trap any upward moving turbulent liquid that may otherwise be ejected in the area or interface between a lid (5) of the appliance (lb) and the upper aperture (20).

88. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) has a lower end that extends downwardly beyond a lower end of the spout 97) and below the maximum liquid level of the appliance (225).

89. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the baffle (730a) is a separate and/or discrete component that is removably secured to at least the body or the lid (5) of the appliance (lb).

90. The liquid heating appliance of clause 89, wherein snap-fittings, screws, friction- fittings and/or clamping is provided to removably secure the baffle (730a) to the appliance (lb).

91. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 68 to 88, wherein the baffle (730b) is formed as a single moulding together with at least the body and/or the lid (5) of the appliance (lb).

92. The liquid heating appliance of clause 91, wherein the baffle (730b) is pivotally connected to at least the body and/or lid (5) of the appliance (lb).

93. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) comprises a channel (760) for receiving a filter (740).

94. The liquid heating appliance of clause 93, wherein the cross-sectional area of the filter (740) is larger than the cross-sectional area of each aperture (737).

95. The liquid heating appliance of clause 93 or 94, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) comprises a series of location and/or anchoring features (763a) for removably securing the filter (740) to the channel (760)

96. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 93 to 95, wherein the channel (760) is substantially positioned away from the first surface (765) and each aperture (737) by an abutment surface (761) extending therefrom, such that when assembled the filter (740) is positioned away from the baffle (730a, 730b) to enable water to flow through a larger surface area of the filter (740).

The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 93 to 96, wherein the filter (740) comprises a frame (657) with a series of support ribs (762) for a screen mesh filter. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 93 to 97, wherein an upper portion of the filter (740) is provided with a flange (749c) to aid the removal of the filter (740) from the baffle (730a, 730b).

The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the baffle (730a, 730b) further comprises at least one slot (745) and a corresponding louvre

(731), in which the at least one slot (745) allows the flow of liquid through the baffle (730a, 730b) during pouring and/or filling and the louvre (731) prevents the liquid being ejected or spitting out of the spout (7) during the heating process.

The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, in which the appliance (lb) is a water heating appliance.

The liquid heating appliance of clause 100, further comprising a steam tube (70) or steam path (100) fluidly connected to a steam switch.

The liquid heating appliance of clause 101, wherein the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) comprises an aperture that is shielded from the path of aggressive turbulence of the water.

The liquid heating appliance of clause 102, wherein a steam tube cap (101) is provided to shield the aperture from the path of aggressive turbulence of the water.

The liquid heating appliance of clause 103, wherein the steam tube cap (101) is moulded or formed as a part of the peripheral flange (743) or the body of the appliance (lb).

The liquid heating appliance of clause 104, wherein the steam tube cap (101) is pivotally connected to the peripheral flange (743) or the body of the appliance (lb) by a hinge (732).

The liquid heating appliance of clause 103, wherein the steam tube cap (101) is a separate component removably/permanently secured to the peripheral flange (743) or to the aperture of the steam tube (70).

The liquid heating appliance of clause 101 or 102, wherein the aperture of the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) path terminates within the peripheral flange. 108. The liquid heating appliance of clause 101 or 102, wherein the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) is provided within the lid (5) of the appliance (lb).

109. The liquid heating appliance of clause 108, wherein the aperture of the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) is positioned behind the baffle (730a, 730b).

110. The liquid heating appliance of clause 108, wherein the aperture of the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) is provided between the baffle (730a, 730b) and the spout (7). 111. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 108 to 110, wherein the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) is inclined so as to drain any liquid within the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) back into the reservoir (5) by gravity.

112. The liquid heating appliance of any one of clauses 108 to 110, wherein the aperture of the steam tube (70) or steam path (100) comprises a louvre (731) to prevent water entering the aperture of the steam tube (70) or steam path (100).

113. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the height of the appliance (lb) is reduced relative to the height of a conventional liquid heating appliance (1) having a similar reservoir capacity.

114. The liquid heating appliance of clause 113, wherein the reduction in height of the appliance (lb) is between 6.5 and 11 mm.

115. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the appliance (lb) is a kettle

116. An appliance package having therein the liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the volume of the package is reduced relative to a package having therein a conventional liquid heating appliance having a similar reservoir capacity.

117. The appliance packaging of clause 116, wherein the reduction in volume of the packaging is between 3 to 11%.

118. A steam valve assembly comprising a valve through which steam and/or vapour can pass during normal use, the valve being arranged to:

a. close when the appliance is tipped over on its side with the liquid level above the valve; and

b. open when the appliance is tipped over on its side with the liquid level below the valve.

119. The steam valve assembly of clause 118, further comprising a first body and a second body and a chamber therebetween, whereby the first body comprises at least one first aperture is in fluid communication with a steam and/or vapour inlet, and the second body comprises at least one second aperture is in fluid communication with a reservoir of the appliance, such that the reservoir is fluidly connected to the steam and/or vapour inlet via the chamber.

120. The steam valve assembly of clause 119, wherein the steam and/or vapour inlet is in fluid communication with a steam switch.

121. The steam valve assembly of clause 119 or 120, further comprising a member moveable under gravity within the chamber when the appliance is tipped to one side, so that the valve closes or opens.

122. The steam valve assembly of clause 121, wherein the member is arranged to cooperate with said at least one aperture such that the valve is closed or opened when the appliance is tipped on its side.

123. The steam valve assembly of any one of clauses 118 to 122, wherein the steam valve assembly is positioned to face downwardly at an angle towards the central axis of the appliance.

124. The steam valve assembly of clause 123, wherein the range of the angle is between is between 15° to 75° to the horizontal axis of the appliance, and optionally the angle is 45°.

125. The steam valve assembly of any one of clauses 118 to 124, wherein the steam valve assembly is offset to the vertical symmetrical plane of the appliance.

126. The steam valve assembly of any one of clauses 118 to 125, wherein the steam valve assembly is attached or removably secured to a lid, steam chamber, reservoir, steam tube and/or handle of the appliance.

127. The steam valve assembly of any one of clauses 118 to 125, wherein the steam valve assembly forms a part of a lid, steam chamber, reservoir, steam tube and/or handle of the appliance.

128. A liquid heating appliance comprising the steam valve assembly of any one of clauses 118 to 127, wherein the liquid heating appliance further comprises at least a handle and a spout, and the steam valve assembly is angled away from the handle or angled away from the spout.

129. A steam valve assembly for a liquid heating appliance, comprising at least one venting channel for allowing venting of the appliance in an upright position thereof, the venting channel being connected to at least first and second discrete valves positioned in a mutually opposite arrangement, such that when the appliance is tipped over to one side the first valve closes the venting channel and when the appliance is tipped over to the other side the second valve closes the venting channel.

130. The valve assembly of claim 129, wherein the first and second valves are mutually independent.

131. The steam valve assembly of clause 129 or 130, wherein the first and second valves comprise respective first and second valve members movable in respective first and second valve housing channels.

132. The steam valve assembly of clause 131, wherein the first and second valve housing channels are mutually offset.

133. The steam valve assembly of clause 131 or 132, wherein the first and second valve housing channels extend in mutually non-parallel directions.

134. The steam valve assembly of clause 133, wherein the first and second valve housing channels extend downwardly in diverging directions.

135. The steam valve assembly of any one of clauses 131 to 134, wherein the first and second valve members are moveable under gravity in their respective valve housing channels.

136. A spill inhibiting system for a liquid heating appliance comprising:

a. a first component comprising at least one channel for allowing venting of the appliance in an upright and when the appliance is tipped over to one side; and b. a second component comprises a valve member selectively operable to allow liquid to pass therethrough for dispensing and/or filling of the appliance via a spout aperture during normal use, but preventing liquid from passing therethrough when the appliance is tipped over to one side.

137. The spill inhibiting system of clause 136, wherein the first component and second component are discrete components.

138. The spill inhibiting system of clause 137, wherein the at least one venting channel fluidly connects the reservoir side of the appliance to a steam actuator, and a steam valve assembly is connected therebetween through which steam and/or vapour can pass during normal use, the valve assembly being arranged to close when the appliance is tipped over on its side.

139. The spill inhibiting system of clause 138, wherein the steam valve assembly comprises at least first and second discrete valves positioned in a mutually opposite arrangement, such that when the appliance is tipped over to one side the first valve closes the venting channel and when the appliance is tipped over to the other side the second valve closes the venting channel.

140. The spill inhibiting system of clause 139, wherein the first and second valves are mutually independent

141. The spill inhibiting system of clause 139 or 140, wherein the first and second valves comprise respective first and second valve members movable in respective first and second valve housing channels.

142. The spill inhibiting system of clause 140, wherein the first and second valve housing channels are mutually offset.

143. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 140 to 142, wherein the first and second valve housing channels extend in mutually non-parallel directions.

144. The spill inhibiting system of clause 143, wherein the first and second valve housing channels extend downwardly in diverging directions.

145. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 140 to 144, wherein the first and second valve members are moveable under gravity in their respective valve housing channels.

146. The spill inhibiting system of clause 136, wherein the first component and second component are integrated and/or assembled together to form a sub-assembly.

147. The spill inhibiting system of clause 146, wherein the second component is pivotally and/or hingedly connected together.

148. The spill inhibiting system of clause 146or 147, wherein the at least one channel further comprises:

a. at least two first apertures or slots provided on a reservoir side of the appliance, wherein each first aperture or slot is located on an opposite side of said at least one channel, whereby when the appliance is tipped over to one side, at least one of the first aperture or slot is above the liquid level and/or when the appliance is in its upright and normal position each first aperture or slot is above the liquid level; and

b. at least one second aperture or slot provided on the atmospheric side of the appliance, whereby when the appliance is tipped over to one side and/or when the appliance is in its upright position said at least one second aperture or slot is above the liquid, such that the reservoir of the appliance is fluidly connected to atmosphere via said at least one channel, whereby the at least one channel allows venting of the appliance in said upright and normal position and when the appliance is tipped over to one side. 149. The spill inhibiting system of clause 148, wherein the at least one second aperture or slot is angled downwards to prevent liquids directly ejecting out of a spout and/or the at least one second aperture or slot is angled away from a spout.

150. The spill inhibiting system of clause 148 or 149, wherein the dimension or size of at least two first apertures or slots and the at least one second aperture or slot is selected to control, restrict and/or prevent liquids exiting the spout.

151. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 148 to 150, wherein the at least one second aperture or slot is positioned centrally on said at least one channel.

152. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 148 to 151, further comprising a gravity valve provided in said at least one channel for closing the at least one of the first aperture or slot that is below the liquid level when the appliance is tipped over to one side in the non-pouring position for controlling the amount of liquid entering the at least one channel.

153. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 148 to 151, wherein the at least one channel provides primary venting when the appliance is its upright and normal position and when the appliance is tipped over to one side.

154. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 136 to 153, wherein spill inhibiting apparatus is arranged between a spout aperture and the reservoir of the appliance.

155. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 136 to 154, wherein the at least one channel comprises an open portion, such when the open portion seals and/or abut against an inner wall of the appliance, the at least one channel becomes a closed channel.

156. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 136 to 155, wherein the valve member is closed in its default position.

157. The spill inhibiting system of clause 156, further comprising biasing means arranged to close the valve member in its default position.

158. The spill inhibiting apparatus of any one of clauses 136 to 157, wherein the valve member is arranged to be selectively operable by a user actuator.

159. The spill inhibiting system of clause 158, further comprising an actuator assembly provided between the valve member and the user actuator, such that motion from the user actuator is transferred to the valve via the actuator assembly.

160. The spill inhibiting system of claim 159, wherein a portion and/or part of the actuator assembly is located near a lid or spout of the appliance. 161. The spill inhibiting system of claim 160, wherein a portion and/or part of the actuator assembly is located between the lid and spout of the appliance

162. The spill inhibiting system of clause 159, wherein a portion and/or part of the actuator assembly is located in a lid of the appliance.

163. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 136 to 162, wherein the spill inhibiting apparatus is attached or removably secured to a lid, steam chamber, reservoir, steam tube and/or handle of the appliance.

164. The spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 136 to 163, that forms a part of a lid, steam chamber, reservoir, steam tube and/or handle of the appliance.

165. A liquid heating appliance comprising the steam valve assembly of any one of clauses

118 to 135, or spill inhibiting system of any one of clauses 136 to 164, and further comprising a handle substantially opposite the spout, wherein the centre of gravity of the appliance is located towards the handle, such that when the appliance is tipped over to one side the spout faces upwards.

166. The liquid heating appliance of clause 165, further comprising a lid having a peripheral resilient seal to seal against an opening of the appliance and so prevent liquids spilling from the appliance when tipped over.

167. The liquid heating appliance of clause 166, wherein the lid comprises a locking mechanism for securing the lid to the appliance.