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Title:
A FLOW HEATER FOR HEATING FLUID AND/OR FOR GENERATING STEAM, AND A HEATER ASSEMBLY AND A FLOW DEVICE FOR HEATING FLUID AND/OR FOR GENERATING STEAM COMPRISING SUCH A HEATER
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/171310
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A heater for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam, comprising a body in the form of a tube, said body comprising a first end and a second end, an outer surface defined between said first and second end, an outer diameter and an inner diameter, a heating system comprising a thick-layer resistance heating component arranged on at least a portion of the outer surface of the body. The heater comprises a flattening arranged on at least a portion of the outer surface of the body and extending along the length of the body between the first and the second end. In the heater according to the invention, the ratio of the outer diameter to the inner diameter of the body is greater than or equal to 1.25, while the outer diameter of the body is smaller than or equal to 10 mm. A heater assembly and a device for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam comprising such a heater.

Inventors:
BURSZTEIN MACIEJ (PL)
Application Number:
PCT/IB2019/051836
Publication Date:
September 12, 2019
Filing Date:
March 07, 2019
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
FORMASTER S A (PL)
International Classes:
F24H1/10; A47J31/54; F24H1/14; F24H9/18; H05B3/42
Domestic Patent References:
WO2006023979A22006-03-02
Foreign References:
EP0335250A11989-10-04
EP3214896A12017-09-06
EP0485211A11992-05-13
GB2305233A1997-04-02
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
ŚWIERCZYŃSKI, Dariusz (PL)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS:

1. Heater (1, 2) for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam, comprising a body (3) in the form of a tube, comprising a first end (4) and a second end (5), an outer surface (S) defined between said first and second ends (4, 5), an outer diameter (Dl) and an inner diameter (D2), wherein the body (3) is configured to run inside of it a fluid and/or steam between the first end (4) and the second end (5) of the body

(3), a heating system (8) comprising a thick-layer heating resistance heating component (9) arranged on at least a portion of the outer surface (S) of the body (3) and configured to generate heat for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam inside the body (3). a flattening (10) arranged on at least a portion of the outer surface (S) of the body (3) and extending along the length of the body (3) between the first and the second end (4, 5), wherein the ratio of the outer diameter (Dl) to the inner diameter (D2) of the body

(3) is greater than or equal to 1.25, and wherein the outer diameter (Dl) of the body (3) is smaller than or equal to 10 mm.

2. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the resistance heating component (9) is in the form of a path. 3. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the body (3) is made of a metallic material.

4. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 3, characterized in that the material constitutes at least one material from among copper, copper alloys, aluminium, aluminium alloys, iron, iron alloys, optionally coated with an auxiliary layer, preferably an enamel layer. 5. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the body (3) is made of a thermally conductive ceramic material.

6. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 5, characterized in that the thermal conductive ceramic material is at least one of a porcelain, preferably zirconium porcelain, beryllium porcelain, alundum porcelain, glass.

7. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the flattening (10) is arranged along the entire outer surface (S) of the body (3).

8. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 7, characterized in that the flattening (10) is arranged in the area free of the resistance heating component (9). 9. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer diameter (Dl) of the body (3) is approximately 8 mm, while its inner surface (D2) is approximately 6 mm.

10. A heater (1, 2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer diameter (Dl) of the body (3) is approximately 6 mm, while its inner surface (D2) is approximately 4.8 mm.

11. A heater assembly (21, 22, 23) for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam, comprising at least one heater (1, 2), as specified in any of the claim 1 to 12.

12. A heater assembly (21, 22, 23) according to claim 11, characterized in that the heaters (1, 2) are arranged into a serial and/or parallel fluid flow system. 13. A device for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam, comprising heater (1,

2), as specified in any of the claim 1 to 12.

Description:
AFLOW HEATER FOR -HEATING FLUID AND/OR FOR GENERATING STEAM, AND A HEATER ASSEMBLY AND AN FLOW DEVICE FOR HEATING FLUID AND/OR FOR GENERATING STEAM COMPRISING SUCH A HEATER

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention is related to a heater for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam. Furthermore, the present invention is related to a heater assembly containing such a heater. The present invention is further related to a device for flow heating of fluid, containing such a heater. The heater according to the present invention is intended for heating fluid, preferably water, especially domestic water. The heater according to the present invention is particularly intended for flow-heating of domestic water to a near boiling point. Alternatively, or additionally, the heater according to the present invention is intended for flow-generation of steam from domestic water. The heater according to the present invention is intended for devices for flow-heating of water, in particular household devices for flow-heating of domestic water to a near boiling point and/or for flow-generation of steam.

PRIOR ART

[0002] Water heating devices are commonly equipped with a heater for flow-heating of water. Such a heater comprises a body in the form of a tube through which the water to be heated flows. The heater also comprises a heating system containing a heating element for generating the heat to heat the water. A flow water heater operates only in a water flow mode. This means that the heating component of the heater generates heat only when receiving heat generated by it is ensured, that is, when water flows through the body of the heater.

[0003] The most commonly used flow water heaters are heaters with a bare internal heating component. Such a heater comprises a body through which water to be heated flows, as described above. Inside the body of the heater is a heating component, which heats the water flowing around it. The heating component is usually an electrical resistance heating component, for example, a heating spiral made of resistance wire. In such solutions, undesired chemical substances penetrate heated water during heating, particularly metal ions, such as ions of iron, led, cadmium, nickel, chrome and other metals used to produce the internal heating component. It is believed that penetration by chemical substances, particularly metal ions, occurs during electrolysis and is additionally promoted by a high temperature in the material of the heating component. The presence of undesired chemical substances not only results in the heated water having an unfavourable taste and/or smell, but it may also make it harmful, especially if drunk over a long period of time. For this reason, such heaters may not be used for heating drinking water, that is water intended for animals and, especially, people. [0004] An attempt has been made to solve the above-mentioned problem of heaters for flow-heating of water with an internal heating component. Such designs propose an internal heating component in covers for isolating water to be heated from contacting the active component of the heating component to prevent undesired chemical substances from penetrating water during its heating. Use of an internal heating component in a cover makes the design of the heater for flow-heating of water more complicated and thus increases its production costs. Another shortcoming is the increased size of the flow water heater resulting from the fact that more space must be provided to fit the heating component in a cover inside the body and that sufficient space must be provided to ensure proper heating of water flowing around such a heating component. [0005] Another attempt at solving the problem of flow water heaters has been a proposal to use heaters for flow-heating of water with an external heating component. Similarly, a flow water heater with an external heating component comprises a body through which water to be heated flows. Outside the body of such a heater is a heating component for heating water flowing inside the body of the heater. In such designs, the external heating component generates heat for heating water, which is transferred to water through the material from which the body of the flow water heater is made.

[0006] In typical designs of a flow water heater of this type, a heating component is used, being arranged in close contact with the body of the heater. Most frequently, in such solutions the heating element comprises an electrical resistance heating component arranged on the outer surface of the body of the heater. The problem of a flow water heater with an external heating component for heating flowing water to higher temperatures, such as, for example, a near boiling point, or in applications for generating steam during flow, is that such a heater requires increasing its diameter to at least 20 mm to provide heat sufficient to heat water to the desired high temperatures or to evaporate water to steam, which results in increased dimensions of such a heater.

[0007] Presently, the aim is to minimize the dimensions of devices for flow-heating of water and/or for generating steam. Consequently, it is expected that as the efficiency of water heating increases, in the worse-case scenario, the dimensions of such device do not increase and, in line with the current trends, even decrease, what is particularly desirable as regards household applications. Hence, increasing the diameters of a heater for flow- heating of water and/or for generating steam to provide the heater with the power to heat water to high temperatures or to generate steam and, consequently, its total size is against the above-mentioned requirements that flow water heating devices should meet.

[0008] Moreover, in devices for flow-heating of water containing heaters for flow heating of water, energy losses occur resulting from starting and stopping the heater. Namely, following commencing water heating, that is, following triggering the flow of water in the body of the heater, part of the energy is used to heat the heater itself to a temperature in which the principal heating of the flowing water takes place. Moreover, following completion of water heating, that is, following stopping water from flowing inside the body of the heater, the energy accumulated in the heater as such is wasted. Namely, the heater cools off, releasing the heat accumulated in it to the water retained in the body, as well as to the heater’s environment. Following restarting the heater after a longer time, the water retained in the body also cools off, contributing to a further energy waste. This is particularly important in devices wherein small amounts of domestic water are heated and/or evaporated at longer intervals. Such devices include, for example, coffee machines, flow drinking water heating devices, etc. Hence, in order to ensure heating of the flowing water to high temperatures or flow-generation of steam, a heater of an increased size must be provided, as described above. In such cases, the problem of energy waste becomes even more complex.

[0009] Increasing the size of a flow heater with a resistance heating component for heating water to high temperatures, especially to a near boiling point, in order to boil water or generate steam, encounters problems that result in a decreased efficiency of the heater. [0010] One these problems is that water flowing through the body of a heater with an increased diameter is heated more by the inner wall of the body of the heater, as a result of which, it is not heated evenly. Consequently, a large, negative temperature gradient is observed on the side of the inner wall of the body of the heater toward the centre of the water stream, which is a highly undesired phenomenon. To solve this problem, installation of water flow disturbing elements inside the body of the heater has been proposed. These water flow disturbing elements mix water in a stream, resulting in decreasing the negative temperature gradient. [0011] During the heating of water to a near boiling point, gaseous phase bubbles are produced on the inner wall of the body of the heater. The gaseous phase bubbles result in the creation between the inner wall of the body and the stream of heated water of areas of lower thermal conductivity, resulting in heat being transferred to the stream of water to heat it to high temperatures and/or evaporate it to create steam. To solve also this problem, water flow disturbing elements have been proposed. These water flow disturbing elements disturb water in a stream causing the tearing gaseous phase bubbles away from the inner wall of the body, thus increasing the transmission of heat from the body to the water stream. [0012] Another method of solving the above problems of prior-art flow water heaters having a resistance heating component consists in increasing the speed of the flow of water inside the body of the heater. One of the methods of increasing the speed of the flow is to decrease the effective section of the body of the heater. Such decreasing of the effective section is achieved, for example, by placing inside the body elements for decreasing its effective section. Increased flow of water causes increased mixing of water in a stream, thus decreasing the negative gradient of water temperature and/or tearing gas bubbles away from the inner wall of the body of the heater.

[0013] Nevertheless, selecting the type and location of the elements inside the body, such as the water flow disturbing elements and/or elements for decreasing the effective section of the body is very difficult and causes numerous problems. One of these problems is to select and locate the water flow disturbing elements and/or elements decreasing the effective section inside the body of the heater in such a way as to avoid dead zones, that is still water zones, wherein water does not move relative the body of the tube and does not mix with the water of the water stream flowing nearby. This results in the effect of decreasing the negative temperature gradient and/or tearing away gas bubbles being far from intended. Moreover, producing a flow water heater with elements disturbing the flow of water and/or decreasing its effective section, as described above, is related to a significant cost increase. In addition, undesired physical phenomena appear, such as noise resulting from a turbulent flow of the water stream inside the body of the heater, or cavitation, which cause a user’s discomfort and/or do not sufficiently increase the efficiency of the heater. Moreover, providing a heater for flow-heating of water and/or for generating steam with elements inside the body, such as, for example, water flow disturbing elements and/or elements for decreasing the effective section of the body, additionally increases the energy losses related to starting and stopping such a heater. [0014] Hence, there is still a demand for a universal heater with a resistance heating component for flow-heating of water, especially for flow-heating of domestic water to a high temperature, to a near boiling point, to boil water, to generate and/or heat steam, that would decrease or eliminate the problems of the heaters known from prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a technical solution providing a heater for flow-heating of water and/or for generating steam, having an increased capacity to heat water to temperatures ranging from moderate to high and, simultaneously or alternatively, for flow-generation of steam, in particular, for heating domestic water to a high temperature, to a near boiling point, for boiling water, for generating steam and/or for flow-heating of steam. In particular, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a heater for flow-heating of drinking water to a high temperature, to a near boiling point, for flow-boiling of drinking water, for flow-generation of steam from drinking water and/or for flow-heating of steam from drinking water. [0016] In the first aspect, the present invention is related to a heater for flow-heating of fluid and/or for flow-generation of steam, comprising a body in the form of a tube, comprising a first end and a second end, an outer surface defined between said first and second end, an outer diameter and an inner diameter. The body is adapted for running inside of it a fluid and/or steam between the first end and the second end of the body. The heater further comprises a heating system containing a thick-layer resistance heating component arranged on at least a portion of the outer surface of the body and adapted for generating heat for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating steam inside the body. The heater contains a flattening situated on at least a portion of the outer surface of the body and extending along the length of the body between the first and the second end. In the heater according to the invention the ratio of the outer diameter of the body to its inner diameter is greater than or equal to 1.25. Moreover, the outer diameter of the body is smaller than or equal to 10 mm.

[0017] Preferably, the resistance component of the heating system is in the form of a path. [0018] Preferably, the body of the heater is made of a metallic material. Preferably, the metallic material is one of copper, copper alloys, aluminium, aluminium alloys, iron, iron alloys. Preferably, the body of the heater made from a metallic material is covered with an auxiliary coating, preferably enamel coating. [0019] Preferably, the body of the heater is made of a thermal conductive ceramic material. Preferably, the thermal conductive ceramic material is at least one of a porcelain, preferably zirconium porcelain, beryllium porcelain, alundum porcelain, glass.

[0020] Preferably, the flattening extends along the entire outer surface of the body. Preferably, the flattening is located in an area free of the resistance heating component.

[0021] Preferably, the outer surface of the body is approximately 8 mm, while its inner surface is approximately 6 mm.

[0022] Preferably, the outer surface of the body is approximately 6 mm, while its inner surface is approximately 4.8 mm. [0023] The ratio of the outer surface to the inner surface of the body of the heater, according to the present invention, provides a relatively thick wall of the body. Such a ratio provides a greater surface of the body of the heater available for placing thereupon a heating system, in particular, a resistance heating component, while keeping the inner section of the body of the heater small. Application of a body of the heater in which the ratio of the outer surface to the inner surface is at least 1.25, where the outer surface of the body is no greater than 10 mm, allows to provide a convenient heater for flow-heating of water and/or for generation of steam. The heater, according to the present invention, contains a heating component located outside the body. During flow-heating of water and/or flow-generating of steam with the heater according to the present invention, the resistance heating component does not contact the flowing water and/or steam and, consequently, no chemical substances, especially undesired metal ions, penetrate the water and/or steam. Moreover, providing a heater with an external heating element results in the entire interior of the body of the heater being accessible by the flowing water, thus allowing to decrease the size of the heater as such for flow-heating of water or for generating steam. The heater according to the present invention, comprising a body having the above-mentioned ratio of the outer surface to the inner surface, and having the said inner diameter, allows to provide a heater having a greater power for a more effective heating of the flowing water to a desired temperature, especially high temperature, a near boiling point, for boiling water and/or for generating steam. Therefore, the heater according to the present invention is smaller compared with the heaters having the same power known from prior art. Decreasing the dimensions of the body of the heater according to the present invention allows decreasing the size of the heater itself. Consequently, the heater according to the present invention for flow-heating of water and/or for generating steam is characterized by smaller energy losses related to starting and stopping the heater, as compared with heaters having the same power, known from prior art. Application of a body of the heater according to the present invention having an outer diameter no greater than 10 mm ensures a decreased negative temperature gradient in the flowing stream of domestic water to be heated. Moreover, application of a body of the heater according to the present invention having an outer diameter no greater than 10 mm ensures an increased speed of flow of water inside the body, thus increasing the effectiveness of the heater. In addition, application of a body of the heater according to the present invention, as indicated above, ensures tearing gaseous phase bubbles away and eliminating undesired physical phenomena, such as the noise of water flowing through the heater, or cavitation. In the heater according to the present invention, decreasing the negative temperature gradient in the flowing stream of water, ensuring tearing away the gaseous phase bubbles and eliminating noise during the operation of the heater is achieved without additional components of the heater, such as water flow disturbing elements and/or elements for decreasing the effective section of the body, provided inside the body of the heater. Thus, the heater according to the present invention has a simpler design and, consequently, is cheaper to manufacture.

[0024] In another aspect, the present invention is related to a heater assembly containing at least one heater, as specified above.

[0025] Preferably, in the heater assembly the heaters are interconnected in a serial and/or parallel fluid flow system.

[0026] In yet another aspect, the present invention is related to a device for flow- heating of fluid and/or for flow-generation of steam, containing a heater, as specified above.

[0027] The heater assembly and the device for flow-heating of fluid and/or for flow generating of steam rely on the advantages of the heater according to the present invention for flow-heating of fluid and/or for generating power, which advantages are described above.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0028] The invention will now be described in more detail by way of example with reference to the figures of the drawing, wherein: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the heater according to the invention for flow-heating of fluid and/or for flow-generation of steam,

Fig. 2 is another perspective view of an embodiment of the heater of Fig. 1,

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the heater of Fig. 1 and 2, Fig. 4 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of the heater of Fig. 1 and

2,

Fig. 5 is a cross-section of the heater along the A-A line of Fig. 4,

Fig. 6 is a cross-section of the heater along the B- B line of Fig. 4,

Fig. 7 is one of the preferred embodiments of the heater assembly according to the invention,

Fig. 8 is another preferred embodiment of the heater assembly according to the invention,

Fig. 9 is yet another preferred embodiment of the heater assembly according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] An embodiment of the heater 1 according to the invention for flow-heating of domestic water and, simultaneously or alternatively, for flow-generating of steam, is presented in Fig. 1 and 2. The heater 1, 2 according to the invention comprises a body 3. The body 3 is in the form of a tube and comprises a first end 4 and a second end 5. Defined between the ends 4, 5 of the body 3 is an outer surface S. The body 3 of the heater 1, 2 has also an outer diameter D1 and an inner diameter D2. The inner diameter D2 defines a space inside the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 for a stream of a flowing-through domestic water to be heated. Simultaneously or alternatively, the space inside the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 is intended for generating steam. The cross-section of the space inside the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 accessible for a stream of domestic water to be heated and/or for generating steam therefrom, has a shape selected from among an elliptical, oval, round or other, similar shapes. Preferably, the cross-section of the space inside the body 3 has a round shape, as shown in Fig. 5 and 6.

[0030] The body 3 is at least partly made of a heat conducting material. In one of the preferred embodiments of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, the body 3, between the ends 4, 5, is made entirely of a heat conductive material, while the ends 4, 5 as such are made of a different material, preferably a non-conductive material. In another preferred embodiment of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, the entire body 3 of the heater 1, 2, together with the ends 4, 5, is made of a conductive material. The portion of the body 3 made of a conductive material carries heat through itself and transfers it to the domestic water for heating and/or for generating steam, flowing through the inside of the body.

[0031] The conductive material for the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 is selected from among any heat conductive material. In one of the preferred embodiments of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, the conductive material is selected from among a metallic conductive material, thermally conducive ceramic material. Examples of a metallic conducive material include, but are not limited to, metals and their alloys, such as copper, copper alloys, such as bronze, brass, aluminium, aluminium alloys, iron, iron alloys, such as cast iron, cast steel, steel. Preferably, the metallic material is stainless steel. In one of the preferred embodiments, the metallic material of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 may be covered with an enamel coating. Examples of thermally conductive ceramic material include, without limitation, porcelains, such as zirconium porcelain, beryllium porcelain, alundum porcelain and glass. Preferably, the thermally conductive material is porcelain.

[0032] On the outer surface S of the body 3 of the heater 1,2 according to the invention there is a heating system 8. The heating system 8 contains a resistance heating component 9 arranged on at least a portion of the outer surface S of the body 3, within the area of the body 3 made of a heat conductive material. The heating system 8 is configured for generating heat by means of the resistance heating component 9 and for transmitting this heat to the body 3 made of a heat conductive material for heating domestic water and/or for generating steam therefrom, as described below in more detail. [0033] In one of the preferred embodiments, the heating system 8 comprises a resistance heating component 9 and connectors 11 in an electrical communication with the resistance heating component 9 for supplying electrical power to the heating component 9. In a preferred embodiment, the connectors 11 of the resistance heating element 9 are connecting fields made of silver-based materials. In one of the preferred embodiments, the heating system 8 comprises also connectors for connecting in an electrical communication additional/auxiliary elements of the heating system 8 (not shown in the figures), which the additional and auxiliary elements are described below in more detail. [0034] The resistance heating component 9 is made in the form of at least one path. In a preferred embodiment of the heater 1,2, the resistance heating component 9 comprises one path arranged on the entire outer surface S between the first and the second end 4, 5 of the body 3. In another preferred embodiment of the heater 1, 2, the resistance heating component 9 is made in the form of one path occupying a portion of the outer surface S of the body 3 and extends from one of the ends 4, 5 to the other end 4, 5. In yet another embodiment of the heater 1, 2, the resistance heating component 9 is in the form of a meandering path, that is, the form of a path extending from one of the ends 4, 5 to the other end 4, 5 along the length of the body and back. In a heater 1, 2 with a meandering path of the resistance heating component 9, the straight sections of this path are arranged next to each other at a distance. In another preferred embodiment, the straight sections of this path are simultaneously arranged evenly on the outer surface S on the body 3, as shown in Fig. 1 to 4. The number of the path meanders, that is, the number of the straight sections of the path, and the method of their arrangement on the outer surface S of the body 3 are selected as needed. In yet another embodiment of the heater 1, 2, the resistance heating component 9 comprises two paths arranged, as described above. In yet another embodiment, the resistance heating component 9 is in the form of single path arranged spirally along the length of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2. In another preferred embodiment, the path or paths of the resistance heating component 9 are arranged evenly on the outer surface S of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2. In yet another preferred embodiment, the path or paths of the resistance heating component 9 are arranged unevenly on the outer surface S of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2. Generally, the number of the paths of the resistance heating component 9 and the method of their arrangement on the outer surface S of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention is selected as needed. [0035] In a preferred embodiment, the heating system 8 comprises additional/auxiliary elements. For example, but without limitation, the additional/auxiliary elements of the heating system 8 are temperature-protective elements, such thermal connector, temperature limiters, thermal switches, automatic or non- automatic, deliberately weakened parts, adjustment elements, such as thermostats, temperature sensors 12. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature sensor 12 is, for example but without limitation, a thermistor or thermocouple.

[0036] The heating system 8 is at least partly applied on the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 using a thick-layer technique of applying electrical systems onto a substrate. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the resistance heating component 9 of the heating system 8 is a thick-layer resistance heating component. In the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, a thick-layer heating component 9 is used, as it allows ensuring concentration of the power necessary for flow-heating of domestic water, especially for flow-heating of water to high temperatures, such as a near boiling point, and/or for flow-through evaporating of domestic water to generate steam. Furthermore, application of a thick-layer resistance heating component 9 allows, if necessary, flow-heating of steam. In one of the preferred embodiments, the heating system 8, especially the thick-layer resistance heating component 9, is applied on the body 3 of the heater by means of screen printing. In a preferred embodiment, the heating system 8, especially the independently or alternatively thick-layered resistance heating component 9 is made by means of a single-layer technology. In a preferred embodiment of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, applied on the body 3 by means of screen printing are a thick-layer resistance heating element 9 and electrical connectors, while the other components of the heating system 8 are installed later by means of other techniques, such as soldering, gluing with structural, conductive adhesives. In a preferred embodiment, the heating system 8 is at least partly made by means of a multi-layer technology. In yet another preferred embodiment, the thick-layer resistance heating component 9 is made by means of a multi-layer technology, while the other parts of the heating system 8 are made by means of a single-layer technology. [0037] The body 3 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for flow-generating steam therefrom has a ratio of its outer diameter D1 to the inner diameter D2 greater than or equal to 1.25. At the same time, the body 3 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, has an outer diameter D1 smaller than or equal to 10 mm. In other words, the body 3 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water has a ratio of the outer diameter D1 to the inner diameter D2 of at least 1.25 and at the same time has an outer diameter D1 no bigger than 10 mm. The ratio of the inner diameter D1 to the outer diameter D2 of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2, according to the present invention, ensures a relatively bigger outer surface S on which the heating system 9 is located, especially the resistance heating component 9, as described above. Increasing the outer surface S of the body 3 allows provision of a heating component 9 having a greater power. The ratio of the diameters of the body 3, as described above, thus provides for increasing the amount of heat generated by the resistance heating component 9 and delivered by the body 3 to the domestic water flowing through the body 3 per a length unit of the body 3. In other words, the amount of heat delivered in a length unit of the body 3 to the volume of the domestic water in this length unit is greater than in flow domestic water heaters known from prior art. Moreover, the inventor/inventors have found that providing the body 3 of the heater with an outer diameter Dl smaller than 10 mm ensures a flow of domestic water inside the body 3 allowing to effectively collect the increased amount of heat generated by the resistance heating component 9 and delivered by the wall of the body 3, in which body 3 gaseous phase bubbles are tom away from its walls and without generating undesired phenomena, such as noise or cavitation. Hence, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water ensures its fast heating to a desired temperature, especially a high temperature, a near boiling point, for boiling domestic water. Additionally, or alternatively, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-generating of steam ensures efficient evaporation of domestic water for generating steam therefrom.

[0038] In one of the preferred embodiments, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam comprises a body 3 with a wall thickness of approximately 1 mm for the outer diameter Dl of the body 3 being 8 mm and the inner diameter D2 of the body 3 being 6 mm.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment, the heater 1, 2 according to the invention for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam comprises a body 3 with a wall thickness of approximately 0.6 mm for the outer diameter Dl of the body 3 being 6 mm and the inner diameter D2 of the body 3 being 4.8 mm. [0040] In yet another preferred embodiment, the heater 1, 2 according to the invention for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam comprises a body 3 with a wall thickness of approximately 1 mm for the outer diameter Dl of the body 3 being 10 mm and the inner diameter D2 of the body 3 being 8 mm.

[0041] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water with an increased capacity, as described above, allows decreasing its dimension to heat the same amount of domestic water, as in the case of heaters known from prior art. Consequently, this allows to decrease the dimensions of the device for flow-heating of water and/or for generating steam while keeping the same capacity of such a device for hot domestic water and/or steam. On the other hand, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam may be applied in the existing devices to increase the capacity of this device for hot domestic water and/or steam. In both cases, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam displays smaller energy losses related to starting and stopping the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, compared to heaters of the same power known from prior art. The length of the body 3 and, consequently, the length of the heater as such, may be selected as needed. In a preferred embodiment of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, the length of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 ranges from 40 to 300 mm. In another preferred embodiment of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, the length of the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 to be used in typical devices for flow-heating of domestic water and/or generating steam therefrom in households is about 140 mm. [0042] The body 3 of the heater, according to the invention, comprises at least one flattening 10 arranged on at least a portion of its outer surface S. Provision of the flattening 10 on the body 3 of the heater 2, according to the invention, facilitates application of the heating system 8, as described above, onto the outer surface S of the body 3. The flattening 10 allows more accurate application of at least a portion of the heating system 9, especially the resistance heating component 9, onto the outer surface S of the body 3 of the heater 2, especially but without limitation, by ensuring a more stable mounting of the body 3 and its handling during the manufacture of the heater 2 according to the invention. The stability of the mounting and handling of the body 3 of the heater 2 is of particular significance during the application of the heating system 8, especially the resistance heating component 8, by means of the single-layer screen printing technique and, particularly, by means of the multi-layer screen printing technique. In another preferred embodiment, the flattening 10 is used to fix to the body 3 of the heater 2, according to the invention, the other and/or selected components of the heating system 8 and/or additional components (not shown in the figures). Furthermore, ensuring a flat surface of the flattening 10 ensures a better operation of such elements of the heating system 8 and/or auxiliary elements. For example, if an additional element of the heating system 8 is a temperature protective element, as described above, operating based on the read-out temperature, their mounting on the flattening 10 of the body 3 results in a more accurate readout of the temperature of the body 3 of the heater 3, thus improving the operation of such additional elements of the heating system 8. Improving the operation of such additional elements may be effected, without limitation, by increasing the contact surface of the active part for reading the temperature of such an additional element with the flat surface of the flattening 10 of the body 3 of the heater 2. Furthermore, the flattening 10 as such facilitates and improves fixing of such additional/auxiliary elements to the body 3 of the heater 2. Improving the mounting of the additional/auxiliary elements is effected, for example, but without limitation, by providing a flat surface to which such elements are mounted, for example by means of an adhesive or other fixing means, to the body 3 of the heater 2. The number of the flattenings 10 and their arrangement on the body 3 of the heater 2 is selected as needed. In one of the preferred embodiments, the body 3 of the heater 2 contains one flattening extending substantially along the length of said body 3. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the heater 2 according to the invention, at least one flattening 10 is free of the resistance heating component 9 of the heating system 8, as shown in Fig. 3 and 4. In other words, such at least one flattening 10 does not contain on its surface the resistance heating component 9, which is arranged on the curved outer surface S of the body 3 of the heater 2. In yet another particularly preferred embodiment of the heater 2, the body 3 contains one flattening 10 extending substantially along approximately a half of the length of the body 3 and is free of the resistance heating component 9, as shown in Fig. 4. In another preferred embodiment of the heater 2, the body 3 contains one flattening 10 extending substantially along approximately more than a half of the length of the body 3 and is free of the resistance heating component 9, as shown in Fig. 3.

[0043] If necessary, between the body 3 of the heater 1, 2 and the heating system 8, according to the invention, there is placed, at least in a part, a protective primer layer 13. The protective primer layer 13 ensures safety of operation of the heater 1, 2, in particular it serves as a protection against electrocution. In one of the embodiments of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, the protective primer layer 13 is arranged on the outer surface S of the body 3 under the portions of the heating system 8 which require safety of use. In another embodiment of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention, the protective primer layer 13 is arranged on the outer surface S of the body 3 beneath the resistance heating component 9 of the heating system 8. The protective primer layer 13 is particularly applied on portions of the body 3, which is made of a metallic material, in order to ensure the functionality of the heating system, that is, to prevent a short-circuit of a portion of the heating system 8, which is applied on the body 3 made of a metallic material.

[0044] The heater 1, 2 according to the invention for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam therefrom contains a top protective layer (not shown in the figures). The top protective layer protects the components arranged beneath it, for example but without limitation, from staining, degradation and/or ensures protection against electrocution. The top protective layer is placed on at least a portion of the outer surface of such a heater 1, 2 and in this area covers the components located beneath it, particularly, the body 3 and the heating system 8. In one of the embodiments of the heater 1, 2, the top protective layer covers the area of such heater 1, 2 on which there is the resistance heating component 9 of the heating system 8. In another preferred embodiment, the top protective layer covers the area of the heater 1, 2 on which there is arranged the entire heating system 8, or, alternatively, with the exception of electrical connectors, such as, for example but without limitations, the connectors 11 of the electrical power supply of the resistance heating component 9. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical connectors are covered with a conductivity improving layer, such as, for example but without limitations, a layer of conductive paste.

[0045] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of water and/or generating steam generally operates in the following way. As domestic water starts to flow in a stream through the inside of the body 3, electrical power is supplied to the heating system 8 of the heater 1, 2. Consequently, the resistance heating component 9 of the heating system 8 generates heat and gives it up to the body 3 of the heater 1, 2. The body 3 of the heater 1, 2 transfers the heat further to the domestic water flowing through the body 3, thus increasing the temperature of the domestic water. In the case of application of the heater 1, 2 for generating steam, heat is generated by the resistance heating component 9 and transmitted by the body 3 to domestic water until it reaches the boiling point and evaporates, thus generating steam. If necessary, the steam is further flow-heated by the heater 1, 2 in a similar way as described above for water, in order to heat steam to the desired temperature. Through adequate control of the resistance heating component 9 of the heating system 9, heated domestic water is obtained having a pre-set temperature and/or steam having a pre-set temperature.

[0046] The heater 1, 2 according to the invention is suitable for flow-heating of domestic water to temperatures ranging from low to moderate to high to a near boiling point for boiling domestic water, for generating steam and for heating steam.

[0047] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or generating steam, as described above, is used in devices for flow-heating of domestic water. Such device comprises a housing, wherein the heater 1, 2 according to the invention is arranged. One of the ends 4, 5 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is in a flow communication with a domestic water supply connection such as, for example, a domestic water supply connection, a tank for heating water, etc. The other end 4, 5 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is in flow communication with the domestic water discharge following the heating of the water, such as, for example, a domestic hot water system, heated domestic water tank, etc. The device, according to the invention, for flow- heating of domestic water also comprises a power system for powering and, preferably, controlling the heater 1, 2 according to the invention. In one of the preferred embodiments of the device according to the invention, heated domestic water is directed immediately for use in the hot domestic water system. In another preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, heated domestic water is directed for use to a tap located in close vicinity of the device, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water. In yet another preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it contains a tap for mixing hot domestic water with cold water by a user in order to adjust the temperature of the water as needed. Preferably, the device, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water also contains a protective system ensuring safety of its use.

[0048] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, as described above, is used in devices for flow-boiling of domestic water, such as, for example, boiling water dispensers. Such a device comprises a housing inside of which the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is arranged. One of the ends of the heater 1, 2 is in a fluid communication with a domestic water supply connection such as, for example, a municipal water supply connection, a tank for boiling water, etc. The other end 4, 5 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is in fluid communication with the domestic water discharge following heating the water, such as, for example, an end for dispensing hot water, a connection for discharging boiled domestic water, etc. The device, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water also comprises a power system for powering and, preferably, controlling the heater 1, 2 according to the invention. In the device for boiling water, domestic water, especially drinking water, is heated by means of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, to a temperature ranging from 70°C to l00°C, preferably from 80°C to l00°C, to be used as the so-called“boiling water” in a household, for example, but without limitation, for preparing hot drinks such as tea, coffee, etc.

[0049] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, as described above, is applied in devices for flow-generating of steam such as, for example, steam dispensers. Such a device comprises a housing inside of which the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is arranged. One of the ends 4, 5 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is in a fluid communication with a supply of domestic water to be heated and evaporated, such as, for example, a municipal water supply connection, a water tank, etc. The other end 4, 5 of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is in fluid communication with a discharge of generated steam, such as, for example, a steam connection, ends of steam household devices, etc. The device, according to the invention, for flow-generating of steam from domestic water also comprises a power system for powering and, preferably, controlling the heater 1, 2 according to the invention. In the device for generating steam domestic water is heated by means of the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, to the boiling point and is evaporated to create steam of a temperature of at least l00°C to be used for household purposes, for example, but without limitation, in ironing devices, humidifiers, steam cleaners, milk frothers.

[0050] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or generating steam, as described above, is used in devices for preparing and serving drinks, such as, for example, coffee machines and tea brewers. Such devices comprises a housing holding a section for in-taking and preparing a material to make a drink, such as, for example, a tea and herbs container and mill, a coffee container and, possibly, grinder, etc. The housing also holds a section for preparing a drink in a transport communication with the section for in-taking and preparing a material to make a drink in order to collect said material, such as, for example, milled tea leaves, milled herbs, ground coffee, etc., and for preparing a drink from it. The housing of the device also holds a heater 1, 2 according to the invention. One end of the heater 1, 2 is in a fluid communication with a domestic water supply connection to be heated and used to prepare a drink, such as, for example, a municipal water supply system connection, a water tank, etc. The other end 4, 5 of the heater 1, 2 according to the invention is in a fluid communication with the drink preparation section for providing hot drinking water heated by said heater 1, 2 in order to prepare in this section a drink, for example from tea, herbs or coffee. The drink preparation section is in a fluid communication with the device for dispensing a prepared drink into a collector, such as a mug, cup, etc. In a preferred embodiment of a device for preparing and dispensing drinks, said device comprises an end in a fluid communication with the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for providing hot water to prepare a drink directly outside the drink preparation section, for example, directly in a mug or a cup, and/or for other applications. In yet another preferred embodiment of a device for preparing and dispensing drinks, said device comprises and end in a fluid communication with the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for providing steam for external application, such as, for example, heating up a drink vessel, such as a mug, cup and/or for frothing, such as, for example, frothing milk for a coffee and/or other applications. The device according to the invention for preparing and dispensing drinks comprises a power supply system for powering and, preferably, controlling the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for providing hot drinking water having a temperature suitable for a specific drink, for heating hot drinking water to a desired temperature and/or for generating steam.

[0051] A specialist in the field will be aware of which components are required and/or preferred in order to use the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, in a device for flow- heating domestic water, a device for boiling domestic water, a device for generating steam and in a device for preparing and dispensing drinks. Consequently, this issue will not be discussed here in greater detail.

[0052] The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or generating steam can be used in devices individually. Alternatively, the heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, can be put together into a heater assembly, where such heater assembly can be used in devices for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam on exactly the same basis as an individual heater 1, 2, as described above.

[0053] The heater assembly 21, 22, 23 comprises a plurality of heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, as described above. The heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, are connected into a heater assembly, according to the invention, in order to increase the capacity of heating domestic water and to simultaneously or alternatively increase the capacity of generating steam.

[0054] In one of the preferred embodiments, the heater assembly 21 comprises a plurality of heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, connected in a parallel fluid communication. The heater assembly 21 with the heaters 1, 2 in a parallel arrangement ensures heating of a plurality of domestic water streams flowing parallel through the heaters 1, 2 for flow-heating of domestic water. Such heater assembly 21 is characterized by multiplying the effective cross-section of a heater while multiplying the power of a heater and is used wherein heated domestic water of a large flow is needed and wherein obtaining very high increases of the temperature of such water is not significant. Application of such heater assembly 21 is particularly desired for heating domestic water, for example, for washing, bathing, laundry, etc., wherein there is a demand for a large amount of heated domestic water of a moderate temperature, usually no higher than 70°C. A more preferred embodiment of the heater assembly 21 comprises three parallel- connected heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of water and/or generating steam, as shown in Fig. 7.

[0055] In another preferred embodiment, the heater assembly 22 comprises a plurality of heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, connected in a serial fluid communication. The heater assembly 22 with the heaters 1, 2 in a serial arrangement ensures heating of one stream of domestic water flowing consecutively through the heaters 1, 2 for flow-heating of domestic water. Such heater assembly 22 is characterized by multiplying the effective power of a heater and is used wherein there is a demand for hot domestic water of a small flow and wherein obtaining very high increases of the temperature of such water is significant. Application of such heater assembly 22 is particularly desired for heating domestic water, for example, for washing, heating, generating steam, etc., wherein there is a demand for a small amount of hot domestic water of a high temperature, usually higher than 90°C. A more preferred embodiment of the heater assembly 22 comprises three serially arranged heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of water and/or generating steam, as shown in Fig. 8.

[0056] In yet another preferred embodiment, the heater assembly 23 comprises a plurality of heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, connected in a mixed serial-parallel fluid communication. The heater assembly 23 with the heaters 1, 2 comprises heater sub- assemblies comprised of a few parallel-interconnected heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, wherein these heater sub-assemblies are connected in a series. In such heater assembly 23, water is heated parallel in a plurality of streams in the heaters 1, 2 in particular heater sub-assemblies and serially in these assemblies. Such heater assembly 22 combines the features of a parallel and serial heater assembly 21, 22, that is, it is characterized by multiplying the effective section of a heater while multiplying its effective power. Such heater assembly 23 is used wherein there is a demand for a moderately hot domestic water with a moderate flow, where it is essential to obtain moderate increases of temperature of such domestic water, usually ranging from 70°C to 90°C. A more preferred embodiment of the heater assembly 23 comprises two interconnected sub-assemblies, each comprising two parallel- interconnected heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam, as shown in Fig. 9. A particularly preferred embodiment of the heater assembly 23 comprises two interconnected sub-assemblies, each comprising three parallel-interconnected heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam. A particularly preferred embodiment of the heater assembly 23 comprises three interconnected sub-assemblies, each comprising two parallel-interconnected heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam. The particularly preferred embodiments of the heater assembly, as described above, are useful wherein three-phase voltage is used. [0057] The number of the heaters 1, 2 according to the invention and the method of connecting them into the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 according to the invention can be selected as needed. In one of the embodiments, particular heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 are controlled interdependently each. In another embodiment, the heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 are controlled all together. In yet another embodiment, the heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 are all controlled in groups. For example, but without limitation, heaters in heater assembles are controlled together, while particular heater assemblies are controlled independently of one another. The heaters 1, 2 in the heater assemblies 21, 22, 23 are powered in a similar way, as in the case of control. That is, in one of the embodiments, all heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 are powered in a series. In another embodiment, all heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 are powered parallel. In yet another embodiment, the heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 are powered in groups, that is, part of the heaters 1, 2 are powered in heater sub-assemblies. For example, but without limitation, heaters in heater sub- assemblies are powered in a series, while particular heater sub-assemblies are powered parallel, and the other way around. In one of the preferred embodiments, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 is powered by three-phase voltage in which heater assembly, preferably, 3 or 6 heaters 1, 2, according to the invention, are applied. A specialist in the field will be aware of how to power and control the heaters 1, 2 in the heater assembly 21, 22, 23. Consequently, this issue will not be discussed here in more detail.

[0058] The heater assembly 21, 22, 23, according to the invention, can be used in a device for flow-heating of domestic water, a device for flow-boiling of domestic water, a device for flow-generating of steam and in a device for preparing and dispensing drinks, in a similar way, as described above, for an individual heater 1, 2 according to the invention. [0059] In addition to the advantages described above, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, has a simplified design, compared to the heaters known in the prior art. The heater 1, 2, according to the invention, does not contain internal elements, such as, for example, flow-disturbing elements and/or elements for decreasing the effective section. Consequently, the energy losses related to starting and stopping such a heater are smaller, as no energy is used to heat up and cool down such internal elements. Additionally, the heater 1, 2, according to the invention, is easier and cheaper to manufacture, compared to the heaters known in the prior art having internal elements.

[0060] The heater 1, 2 for flow-heating of water and/or for generating steam, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 for flow-heating of water and/or generating steam and the device for flow-heating of water and/or generating steam, are described above for application to domestic water intended for household use. The heater 1, 2, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 and the device according to the invention can be used to heat water other than domestic water, water solutions and other fluids, including suspensions in fluids, as well as liquid gas solutions. The heater 1, 2, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 and the device, according to the invention, can be used to gases other than steam, gaseous phases of fluid other than water, as well as any gases or gas mixtures. The heater 1, 2, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 and the device, according to the invention, can be used for any domestic, commercial and/or industrial purposes. The heater 1, 2, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 and the device, according to the inventions, can also be used for heating water in amounts ranging from small to large volumes and/or to heat fluid to temperatures ranging from slightly increased to very high and/or to generate steam and/or generate overheated steam. The heater 1, 2, the heater assembly 21, 22, 23 and the device, according to the invention, can be used in applications ranging from fluid transporting lines to portable devices. [0061] The invention was described above by reference to preferred embodiments only by way of example. Based on the above disclosure, a specialist in the field will recognize that modifications, variants or equivalents are possible that fall within the spirit and the inventive intention of the present invention without exceeding the scope of the appended claims. [0062] The features indicated in the above-described embodiments of the invention, especially the preferred ones, can be combined or replaced in any given way and in any given combination, whereby all new connections or combinations possible are deemed to be fully disclosed in the description of the present invention.

List of reference markings: 1, 2 heater for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam

3 body of the heater 1, 2 for flow-heating of domestic water and/or for generating steam

4 first end of the body 3

5 second end of the body 3

8 heating system

9 thick-layer resistance heating component of the heating system 8

10 flattening on the outer surface S of the body 3

11 connector of the resistance heating component 9 12 temperature sensor 13 protective primer layer

21 parallel heater assembly

22 serial heater assembly

23 parallel- serial (mixed) heater assembly

S outer surface of the body 3

Dl outer diameter of the body 3

D2 inner diameter of the body 3