WO2014195842A2

WO2014195842A2 - A device and a method for the preparation of hot liquid or steam

Info

Publication number: WO2014195842A2
Application number: PCT/IB2014/061876
Authority: WO
Inventors: Herve Gaulard; Thierry Gourand; Kwok Yui Lawrence NG
Original assignee: Heatex Ltd.
Priority date: 2013-06-02
Filing date: 2014-06-01
Publication date: 2014-12-11
Also published as: WO2014195842A3

Abstract

The present invention discloses a machine [100] for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising: a. at least one heating device [1 10]; b. at least one temperature sensor [510], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110]; c. at least one control unit [120], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110] and to said at least one temperature sensor [510]; d. at least one regulation unit [180], operatively connected to said at least one control unit [120] and to at least one liquid source, and e. at least one pump [130], operatively connected to said at least one control unit [120] and to at least one regulation unit [180]; wherein said at least one control unit [120] is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said at least one heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature and thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature.

Description

" DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR THE PREPARATION OF HOT LIQUID OR

STEAM"

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for heating a flowing liquid.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many known machines for obtaining hot drinks using an electric power source.

Among one can find: coffee machines, filter coffee machines, espresso machines with or without pods, kettles, hot water dispensers and multi drink machines generally do not allow an instantaneous use. In fact, a warm-up time is required such that a certain amount of liquid should be heated before a drink can be provided. Several heating means are currently used to heat water for domestic appliances, cited below are few examples of the existing apparatuses.

Publication number FR2766693 discloses a tubular heating element which is brazed into a main tube in order to heat circulating water. This type of element is used in filter coffee machines, for example, however it does not yield efficient results, most of the energy produced by the tubular heating element is dissipated in the air. Furthermore, the flow of this type of construction is low and does not allow instantaneous distribution of an adequate volume of hot water for comfortable use. Another disadvantage of this construction is that it does not provide sufficient pressure to espresso coffee machines-pressure type.

Publication number FR27 4321 discloses a tubular heating element brazed under a heating plate. This kind of element is used in kettles, however it does not yield efficient results, most of the energy produced by the tubular heating element is dissipated in the air. Furthermore, the heating time depends on the device's container and on the quantity of water to be heated. This apparatus is not suitable for the preparation of instant beverages or beverage preparation under pressure. In such a device one may heat more water than actually required therefore a waste of water and energy.

Publication number FR2713432 discloses a tubular heating element immersed within the liquid to be heated. This kind of element is used for example in kettles or heaters in the espresso machine and offers a better solution since energy being dissipated by the resistance is disposed within the liquid to be heated. However, the heating time depends on the quantity of water inside the device's container. This apparatus is not suitable for preparing instant beverage, it requires an important warm-up time before the liquid reaches to the required temperature. Furthermore in such a device one may heat more water than actually required therefore a waste of water and energy.

Publication number FR2841116 discloses a tubular heating element shaped into a block of aluminum, generally having high thermal inertia. This kind of element is commonly used in espresso coffee makers. In this kind of construction, a warm-up phase is necessary in order to store thermal energy in the aluminum block, which is then returned to the liquid through a channel usually arranged in a spiral inside the aluminum block. This device requires a significant long time to warm before the block has stored enough thermal energy to be effective. This device has the disadvantage of consuming more energy than necessary.

Publication number PR277S411 and PR2878023 disclose a screen-printed heating element with a low thermal inertia. This construction has the advantage of solving many of the disadvantages mentioned in the preceding devices, since it only heats the water needed and very fast. However it has the disadvantage of using expensive and not widely available technology which makes a device ill-suited to the production of household appliances in public. Moreover, this device is not suitable for pressure machine type espresso.

Prior art demonstrate different types of domestic appliances using steam, like: steam iron, steam generator, steam cleaner, coffee machine, steam cooker. These machines generally do not allow immediate use. In fact, warm-up time is necessary so that a certain amount of liquid should be heated until the steam can be produced.

Publication number FR2818734A1 discloses a tubular heating element shaped into a block of aluminum, generally having high thermal inertia. This element type is commonly used in steam generator for irons. In this type of construction, a warm-up phase is necessary to store thermal energy in the block which is then returned to the liquid in the steam chamber. This device requires a significant long time to warm before the block has stored enough thermal energy to be effective. This device has the disadvantage of consuming more energy than necessary.

Publication number EP1815773A1 discloses a tubular heating element brazed under a plate heater. This kind of element is usually used in steam cooker however it does not have very efficient performances. Most of the energy produced by the tubular heating element is dissipated in the air. Furthermore, the heating time depends on the quantity of water inside the devices container of the device. This kind of device is not suitable to obtain instant steam. Publication number EP0597748A1 discloses an instantaneous steam generator. The device comprises a tubular heating element centered into an external tube. However, the heating element is not in contact with water, since there is a metallic part around the heating element. Furthermore the hollow space between the metallic part and the external tube is filled with metallic balls. Therefore, in order to obtain steam it is necessary to heat the metallic part and the metallic balls, which procedure requires a long time and energy.

It is herein acknowledged that improved means and methods for instantaneously heating a liquid, especially for beverages is a long felt and unmet need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a machine for instant distribution of hot liquid or steam, useful for the preparation of hot beverages by heating the amount of liquid just needed to prepare said beverage and optimizing the employed energy. The machine is also useful for providing continuous steam flow for a steam cleaner or a steam cooker. Another advantage of the present invention is the use of common materials and common manufacturing processes.

It is one object of the present invention to provide a machine [100] for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising: a. at least one heating device [110];

b. at least one temperature sensor [S 10], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110];

c. at least one control unit [120], operatively connected to said at least one heating device[l 10] and to said at least one temperature sensor [510];

d. at least one regulation unit [180], operatively connected to said at least one control unit [120] and to at least one liquid source, and

e. at least one pump [130], operatively connected to said at least one control unit

[120] and to at least one regulation unit [180];

wherein said at least one control unit [120] is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said at least one heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature and thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said pump [130] comprises means for varying flow rates.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said pump is adapted to pump said liquid at a flow rate ranging from about 0.0 to about 4.0 liter per minute.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid container [140];

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said at least one liquid container [140] is portable.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid or steam outlet regulator [190].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said outlet regulator [190] further is connected to an infusion device [ISO].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said outlet regulator [190] further is connected to a percolating device [ISO].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said outlet regulator [190] further is connected to a nozzle [1SS] for steaming.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said at least one outlet regulator [190] is a solenoid valve.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said nozzle [1SS] for steaming is a derivative pipe and said outlet regulator [190] is a double solenoid valve controlled by said control unit [120].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said at least one heating device [110] is in a C-like, U-like, serpentine-like, helical- like shape or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprise a receptacle, such as but not limited to a pot or a cup. It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprises fluid flow connections [160].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein in the case of said at least one heating device [110] are more than one, said devices [110] may be connected in a parallel or in a sequential connection.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said heating devices can be operated dependency or independently of each other.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said at least one control unit and said at least one regulation unit [180] can be joint into a single unit.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the machine [100] as defined above, wherein said machine [100] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a control unit [120] useful for controlling a machine [100] for instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising:

a. an electrical connection to at least one heating device [110];

b. an electrical connection to at least one temperature sensor [510], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110];

c. an electrical connection to at least one pump [130];

d. an electrical connection to at least one regulation unit [180], operatively connected to said at least one pump [130] and at least one liquid source;

e. a user interface for setting preferences, and

f. a microprocessor

wherein said microprocessor is configured to collect data from said at least one temperature sensor [510], process said data, and simultaneously control the temperature of said at least one heating device [110] and the flow rate of said at least one pump into said at least one heating device [110], thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the control unit [120] as defined above, wherein said control unit [120] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the control unit [120] as defined above, wherein said control unit [120] further comprises an electrical connection to at least one outlet regulator [190];

It is another object of the present invention to provide a heating device [110] useful for instantly heating liquid or steam, comprising:

a. an electrical heating element [310] centered inside an outer main tube [210], with a flow space [320] between said element [310] and the interior of said main tube [210];

b. means for guiding the flow of said liquid through said flow space [320];

c. an operative connection to at least one pump [130];

d. an operative connection to a temperature sensor [510], and

e. an electrical connection to at least one control unit [120];

wherein said heating device [110] is adapted to heat said liquid flowing through said guided flow space in a predetermined manner correlated with said liquid's flow rate and with the effective flow path of said guided flow space.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said guided flow space is configured for at least partial turbulent flow.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said guided flow space is configured for at least partial laminar flow.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein both ends of said main outer tube [210] have a narrower diameter [520], and thereby said heating element [310] is centered inside said main tube [210].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said bom ends of main outer tube [210] having a narrower diameter [520], include welding [530].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein further comprise plugs [610] at both ends of said main tube [210], thereby said heating element [310] is centered inside said main tube [210]. It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said main outer tube [210] is made of a material a poor thermal conductor, such as stainless steel.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said material is selected from the group consisting of: metals, alloys, composite polymers, ceramics, or glasses.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said means for maneuvering the flow of said liquid through said flow space is a wire element [620] helically wrapped around the heating element [310].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein the diameter of said guiding wire element [620] equals to the difference between the radius the interior of said main tube [210] and the radius of said heating element [310].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the device as defined above, wherein said heating device [110] is in a C-like, U-like, serpentine-like, helical-like shape or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the heating device [110] as defined above, wherein said heating device [110] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising the steps of: a. obtaining a machine [ 100] comprising:

i. at least one heating device [110];

ii. at least one temperature sensor [S10], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110];

iii. a control unit [120], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110] and to its said at least one temperature sensor [510];

iv. at least one regulation unit [180], operatively connected to said control unit [120] and to at least one liquid source, and

v. at least one pump [130], operatively connected to said control unit [120] and to at least one regulation unit [180]; b. operating said machine [100].

wherein said control unit is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature, thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature and

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said pump [130] comprises means for varying flow rates.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said pump is adapted to pump said liquid at a flow rate ranging from about 0.0 to about 4.0 liter per minute.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid container [140];

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one liquid container is portable.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid or steam outlet regulator [190].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said outlet regulator [190] further is connected to an infusion device [ISO].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said outlet regulator [190] further is connected to a percolating device [150].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one outlet regulator [190] is a solenoid valve.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one heating device [110] is in a C-like, U-like, serpentine-like, helical-like shape or any combination thereof..

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprise a receptacle, such as but not limited to a pot or a cup.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said machine [100] further comprises fluid flow connections [160].

It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein in the case of said at least one heating device [110] are more than one, said devices may be connected in a parallel or in a sequential connection. It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said heating devices can be operated dependency or independently of each other.

It is still an object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least on control unit [120] and said at least one regulation unit [180] can be joint into a single unit.

It is lastly an object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said machine [100] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers.

The present invention discloses an improved hot beverage machine that offers higher quality service, compared to the devices that are currently on the market, by avoiding the preheating stage required as in prior art, and thereby reducing the energy consumption and avoiding unnecessary waste of liquid.

The present invention also decreases the energy consumption, by avoiding the procedure, as in the prior art machines, which keep a certain quantity of liquid warm for the following service.

The present invention, by its construction is also suitable for the production and distribution of hot beverages such as espresso, requiring high pressure of IS bars and higher.

The present invention is also suitable for steam generation, used in some coffee machines through specific nozzle, to warm other liquids such as milk or cream for example.

To summarize, this invention provide the following majors advantages compared with prior art:

1. A relatively fast preparation of hot liquid or steam, with very short pre-heating or even no pre-heating.

2. Energy and cost saving due to the very short pre-heating or even no pre-heating.

3. Distribution of continuous hot liquid or steam also under pressure. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be implemented in practice, a plurality of embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

Figure 1 presents a view of the complete machine [100] assembly;

Figure 2 presents a view of the heating device [110] assembly;

Figure 3 presents a cross sectional view of the heating device [110] assembly,

Figure 4 presents a detailed sectional view A-A of the heating device [110] assembly;

Figure 5 presents a detailed sectional view of the heating device [110] outlet;

Figure 6 presents a detail section of an alternate solution for the heating device [110] outlet;

Figure 7 presents a complete assembly and a partial sectional view of an alternative bi-tube [710] and [720] construction for the hearting device; and

Figures 8 presents a perspective view an alternative construction for the heating element with a helical-like shape;

Figure 9 presents a face view of an alternative construction for the heating device [110] with a helical-like shape;

Figure 10 presents a perspective view of an alternative construction for the heating device [1101 with a U-like shape;

Figure 11 presents a face view of an alternative construction for the heating device [110] with a U-like shape; Figure 12 presents a perspective view of an alternative construction for the heating device [110] with a C-like shape;

Figure 13 presents a face view of an alternative construction for the heating device [110] with a C-like shape;

Figure 14 A presents an ON/OFF liquid flow for a single temperature set point, as in prior art; Figure 14 B present continuous liquid flow rates for several temperature set points;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of the present invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, are adapted to remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide a device and a method for the preparation of hot liquid or steam.

The present invention is a new machine for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam. In particular, the invention is specially suited for the purpose of preparing hot beverages such as but not limited to: coffee, tea, hot milk, hot chocolate, espresso, cappuccino and more.

The new machine [100] comprises: a. at least one heating device [110];

b. at least one temperature sensor [510], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110];

c. at least one control unit [120], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110] and to said at least one temperature sensor [510];

[120] and to at least one regulation unit [180]; wherein said at least one control unit [120] is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said at least one heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature and thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature.

In addition, present invention discloses a new control unit [120] useful for controlling a machine for instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising: a. an electrical connection to at least one heating device [110];

b. an electrical connection to at least one temperature sensor [510], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [ 10];

c. an electrical connection to at least one pump [130];

e. a user interface for setting preferences, and

f. a microprocessor;

In addition, present invention discloses a new heating device [110] useful for instantly heating liquid or steam, comprising: a. an electrical heating element [310] centered inside an outer main tube [210], with a flow space [320] between said element [310] and the interior of said main tube [210];

b. means for guiding the flow of said liquid through said flow space [320];

c. an operative connection to at least one pump [130];

d. an operative connection to a temperature sensor [510], and

e. an electrical connection to at least one control unit [120] ;

wherein said heating device [110] is adapted to heat said liquid flowing through said guided flow space in a predetermined manner correlated with said liquid's flow rate and with the effective flow path of said guided flow space. Present invention also provides a method for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising the steps of: a. obtaining a machine [100] comprising:

i. at least one heating device [110];

ii. at least one temperature sensor [510], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110];

iii. a control unit [120], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110] and to its said at least one temperature sensor [ 10];

iv. at least one regulation unit [ 180], operatively connected to said control unit and to at least one liquid source, and

v. at least one pump [130], operatively connected to said control unit [120] and to at least one regulation unit [180];

b. operating said machine [100].

wherein said control unit [120] is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature, thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature.

The term "about" refers hereinafter to a range of 25% below or above the referred value. The term "inlet" refers hereinafter to the liquid's entrance into the heating device [110], indicated as [230] as in Figures 2 and 3.

The term "outlet" refers hereinafter to the liquid's outlet form the heating device [110], indicated as [220] as in Figures 2 and 3.

The term "flow space" refers hereinafter to the volume between the external-diameter of the heating element [310] and the internal-diameter of the main tube [210], where the heated liquid flows, indicated as [320], in Figure 3, 4 and 5.

The term "guided flow space" refers hereinafter to the guided volume along the wire [620] placed between the external-diameter of the heating element [310] and the internal-diameter of the main tube [210], where the heated liquid flows, indicated as [630], in Figures 6 and 7.

The symbol "d" as in Figure 3 refers hereinafter to a distance between the inlet and the outlet of the heating device [110]. Before explaining the figures, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention can be carried out in various ways by a person skilled in the art who has read the present disclosure.

Reference is now made to Figure 1 which is a schematic diagram showing the embodiment of the heating machine of present invention, illustrated and generally indicated as [100]. Further in Figure 1 is illustrated the coffee machine [100] comprising: a heating device [110], a ^' control unit [120] and regulation unit [180], a liquid source such as portable container [140], a pump [130], fluid flow connections [160], an optional percolating device [150] and a liquid receptacle such as a cup [170]. The container [140] is suitable for containing liquid and is connected to the pump [130] allowing the liquid in the container [140] to be pumped through the heating device [110]. Conventionally the container [140] is portable and can be removed for easy filling.

Reference is made to Figures 2, 3 and 4, which are schematic diagrams showing the embodiment of the heating device [110] demonstrating: the main tube [210] which is preferably made of, but not limited to, copper (which has a high thermal conductivity), insulated copper or any other metal or alloy with a low thermal conductivity such as stainless steel. Also demonstrated are the inlet [230] and the outlet [220] for the flowing liquid and the distance "d" between them. Also demonstrated are two sealing plugs [540] and two electrical contacts [550], located at the ends of the heating device.

In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing plugs [540] and the electrical contacts [550] are located at both ends of the main tube [210] and the inlet [230] and the outlet [220] are preferably located perpendicular to the tube [210], as shown in Figures 1-2 and 4-13.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the inlet [230] and the outlet [220] are located at both ends of the main tube [210] and the sealing plugs [540] and the electrical contacts [550] are located perpendicular to the tube [210], not shown.

Reference is now made to Figures 5 and 6, which are schematic diagrams showing the embodiment of the heating element [310], located inside the center of the heating device [110], comprising: an outer tube [330] which is preferably made of, but not limited to, stainless steel, a filament [350] which is centered inside the outer tube, a filling medium such as but not limited to magnesia for filling the volume [340] inside the outer tube [330], two sealing plugs [S40] made of, but not limited to, ceramic or silicone and two electrical contacts [550].

As in any conventional tubular heating element, the filament [350] is connected at each end to an electrical contact [550]. The two electrical contacts [550] are supplied with alternating current, which further runs through the filament [350] and heats it. The filament [350] is positioned in the center of the tube [330], it is electrically isolated and maintained in the center of the tube [330], by a filling medium such as a magnesium based medium which fills the volume [340] inside the tube [330]. The filling medium also serves as a heat conductor between the filament [350] and outer tube [330]. The two sealing caps [540] are used to constrain the filling medium inside the tube [330] and to center the two electrical contacts [550] and the filament [350] inside the tube [330].

In one embodiment of the present invention, the heating element [310] is positioned in the center of the main outer tube [210] of the heating device [110], so that the two contacts [550] protrude from the main outer tube [210], where the tubular heating element [310] is maintained at the center of the main outer tube [210] by a narrower diameter [520] and a welding [530] at both ends of the main tube as shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, the sealing between the main outer tube [210] and tubular heating element [310] can be obtained by the aforementioned narrower diameter [520] at each end of the main outer tube [210] so mat the internal diameter thereof and the external diameter of the tubular heating element [310] are in contact. This sealing can be completed by the aforementioned welding [530] between the two tubes [210] and [330] to ensure the sealing even under pressure; also shown in Figure 5.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the heating element [310] is positioned in the center of the main outer tube [210] of the heating device [110], so that both contacts [550] protrude the main outer tube [210], where the tubular heating element [310] is maintained at the center of the main outer tube [210] by plugs [610] as shown in Figure 6. Furthermore, the aforementioned plugs [610] also serve as sealing plugs where both ends of the main tube closed and sealed together. The aforementioned sealing plugs [610] are preferably made of silicone, but not limited to; also shown in Figure 6.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a wire [620J is helically wrapped around the tube [330] of the heating element [310], This wire [620] is primarily made of, but not limited to, stainless steel. This wire has several functions: i. The wire creates a guided flow space [630] as shown in Figure 6, between the internal diameter of heating device main tube [210] and the external diameter of tube [330] of the heating element [310] and by that extending the path in which the liquid flows around the heating element [310]. ii. Further, the aforementioned guided flow helps to ensure a gradual, homogeneous and optimal heating of the liquid as it travels around the heating element [310]. iii. The wire allows the tubular heating element [310] to be centered in the main outer tube [210] of the heating device [110]. iv. The wire further allows the bending the heating device [110], while avoiding the deformation of the tubular heating element [310] and the heating device [110], and while keeping the centered geometry between these two; demonstrated in figures 8-13. v. Further, the aforementioned bent or bendable heating device enables a compact and a suitable integration into a variety of devices; also demonstrated in figures 8- 13.

In one embodiment of the present invention the outlet [220] of the machine [100] is connected a liquid outlet regulator [190] for filling a receptacle such as but not limited to a cup [170], a bowl or a pot

In another embodiment of the present invention, the outlet regulator [190] is connected to an infusion set [150] of known construction for preparing a drink such as coffee or tea.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the outlet regulator [190] is connected to a nozzle [1SS] for steaming a liquid such as milk. This versatility allows this heater to be used in equipment designed to prepare espresso coffee types and incidentally using a steam nozzle to heat other liquids.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a temperature sensor [S10] is positioned through the outer tube [210], as showed in enlargement in Figure 5, measuring the temperature of the liquid flowing inside the heating device [110]. The readings of the temperature sensor [510] allow the control unit [120] to simultaneously control, in a predetermined manner, the power of the pump [130] and the power of the tubular heating element [310].

In another embodiment of the present invention the temperature sensor [510] is positioned in contact with the external surface of the outer tube [210], allowing the same control method as mentioned above.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a control unit [120] is connected to a temperature sensor [510]. The control unit includes means for collecting information and data concerning temperature and or flow in order to simultaneously control, in a predetermined manner, the functioning of the pump [130] to a variation of flow rates and the temperature of tubular heating element [310] by adjusting its electrical current. The control unit [120] includes a user interface allowing the user to act on the functioning of the machine [100].

According to the present invention, when the machine [100] is in between uses, it consumes no power for the purpose of maintaining the temperature of the liquid, as in prior art. The new and non obvious features of the machine [100] allow it an energy efficiency which gives it a definite advantage compared to existing devices.

The following is a description of the core attributes of the present invention.

Once the machine [100] is turned ON, and only from that moment, depending on the chosen regulation method and the readings of the temperature sensor, the tubular heating element [310] only, the pump [130] only, or the pump [130] and tubular heating element [310], are activated simultaneously to allow the production and distribution of a hot liquid.

In operation, the liquid is introduced into the heating device [110] by the inlet [230] of the heating device [110]. Preferably the liquid is pumped into the heating device [110] via a pump [130]. The liquid arriving in the main outer tube [210] of the heating device [110], comes in contact with die tubular heating element [310] and is heated by being in contact with it in the flow space [320] formed by the main external tube [210] and the main outer tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310]. The liquid reaches the outlet [220] of the heating device [110] at the desired temperature having gradually been heated along the tubular heating element [310] having traveled the entire flow space [320] between inlet [230] and outlet [220] of the whole heating device [110].

In an alternative construction, a wire [620] is wrapped helically around the tubular heating element [310]. The liquid is introduced into the heating device [110] by the inlet [230] of the heating device [110]. Preferably the liquid is pumped into the heating device [110] via a pump [130]. The liquid arriving in the main outer tube [210] of the heating device [110] is guided by the helically wrapped wire [620]. The liquid flows through the spiral guided flow space [630] formed by the wire [620] between the outer tube main [210] and the main outer tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310], the liquid gets heated by the contact with it in space [630]. The liquid reaches the heater outlet [220] of the heating device [110] to the desired temperature having been gradually heated along the tubular heating element [310] having traveled the entire space helical [630] between inlet [230] and outlet [220] of the whole heating device [110].

The heating device [110] as described is characterized by:

• The power of the tubular heating element [310]

• The space [320] characterized by the difference in diameter between the outer diameter of the tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310] and the inner diameter of outer tube main [210].

• The distance "d" between the inlet [230] and outlet [220] of the whole heating device

[110].

In another type of construction, the heating device [110] is characterized by:

• The power of the tubular heating element [310]

• The space [320] characterized by the difference in diameter between the outer diameter of the tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310] and the inner diameter of main outer tube [210]. • The wire's diameter [620] is related to the difference in radius between the outside radius of tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310] and the inner radius of outer tube main [210].

• The pitch of the helical wire [620]

[110].

EXAMPLES:

More precisely we obtain from a liquid at 18 °C at the inlet [230], a liquid temperature of 90 °C at the outlet [220] by applying the following parameters:

Power of the tubular heating element [310] = 3000W

Diameter of tubular heating element [310] = 16mm

Inner diameter of the main tube [210] = 20mm

Distance "d" = 300mm

Pump flow rate = 250 cLJ min

In another type of construction, we obtain from a liquid at 18 °C at the inlet [230], a liquid temperature of 90 °C at the outlet [220] by applying the following parameters:

Power of the tubular heating element [310] = 3000W

Diameter of tubular heating element [310] = 14mm

Inner diameter of the main tube [210] = 20mm

Wire diameter [620] = 3mm

Pitch of the helical wire [620] = 6mm

Distance "d" = 200mm

Pump flow rate = 250 cL / min

These values are given for an application such as a hot water dispenser for instant drinks: soup, coffee, tea, herbal tea etc. The above values, the type of pump and control, and the power supply voltage will be adjusted according to the country of destination or the chosen application: coffee maker, espresso machine, steam generation teapot ... etc.

According to these different types of application, different temperatures may be required. We can for example ensure the temperature control by positioning one or more temperature sensors [510] on the heating device [110]. From the data provided by temperature sensors [510], an electronic control module [120] will control the electrical power of the tubular heating element [310] and of the pump [130] in such a way that the temperature liquid outlet corresponds to the choice of the manufacturer or user.

So in a case of classical control, the temperature sensor [510] can be of type NTC [temperature sensor electronics] and positioned on the heating device [110] near the outlet [220]. The NTC [510] reads the temperature of the liquid in the heating device [110] and transmits it to the electronic control card [120]. At the start of the machine duty cycle, the temperature of the liquid being measured is low the tubular heating element [310] is switched ON and the pump [130] is controlled cyclically so that the flow is very low. This has the effect of allowing the liquid to heat while beginning to distribute the liquid although its temperature is below the set point. As soon as the temperature read by the NTC [510] is adequate, the pump [130] is switched ON continuously to deliver the expected flow. The control is then making by controlling the pump [130] and / or tubular heating element [310] to maintain a constant temperature in the liquid supplied. To anticipate the inertia of the assembly, the control program can be provided with an analysis of the temperature gradient in order to regulate the flow rate more precisely for correcting the temperature at the outlet. In addition, this NTC [510] can also be used to detect the lack of fluid in the heating device [110] and turn off the power and turn of the tubular heating element [310] to avoid overheating. Alternatively the container [140] may include a liquid level detection thereby avoiding an operation without liquid.

In another type of construction of the present invention, the pump [130] has a variable flow rate; this flow rate is managed in a conventional manner by varying an electrical power of the pump [130] in tension, intensity or frequency, depending on the type of selected pump. A NTC [510] (an electronic temperature sensor) is positioned on the heating device [110] near the device's outlet [220]. The NTC [510] reads the temperature of the liquid in the heating device [110] and transmits it to the electronic control card [120]. The electronic card [120] then manages the power of the pump [130] to regulate the flow of it to ensure that the liquid temperature read by the temperature sensor [510] is always between two values defined by the construction. In one particular example, the set points were set at 90 °C for the low value and 93 °C for the high value. During startup, the temperature read by the NTC [510] is typically a lower temperature than the low value set by construction. At the start by the user, the tubular heating element [310] is powered and the pump [130] is not powered, the temperature of the liquid heats therefore very quickly inside of the whole heating device [110]. When the low value of the set point is reached, the pump [130] is supplied in order to obtain maximum set by the manufacturer. The flow rate and power have been calculated by the manufacturer in order to obtain the desired temperature; a steady state is expected in theoretical terms. However, many variables such as voltage, temperature of the liquid in the container [140], the pump flow [130], the back pressure in case of infusion [150], the power of the tubular heating element [310], do not operate in the theoretical conditions. To overcome this problem the flow of the pump [130] is adjusted to the temperature read by the temperature sensor [510]. So in the example, when the temperature read by the temperature sensor [510] reduces again to the lower set point, the pump [130] is supplied in order to obtain a minimum flow set by the manufacturer. The pump flow [130] therefore varies between two low and high values according to the temperature read by temperature sensor [510].

In another advantageous configuration type, several temperature set points are used in conjunction with several flow values, as demonstrated in Fig 14B. This configuration allows better anticipation of changes in fluid temperature so as to ensure a reduced tolerance interval between the low temperature and the high temperature of the liquid. This configuration also has the advantage of being able to change tile flow rate smoothly, avoiding rapid changes in flow rate, as demonstrated in Pig 14A.

In another advantageous construction type, as describe figure 7, the heater is made by two main tubes [710] and [720] linked by a lateral pipe [730]. Each main tube [710] and [720] comprise a tubular heating element [310],

The heating bodies of the heating devices [710] and [720] consist of two main outer tubes [740] and [750] preferably made of copper or stainless steel. The main outer tube [740] has an inlet [760] and an outlet [770] to a pipe [730] connected preferably perpendicular to the main outer tube [740] and sealed. The second main outer tube [750] is positioned near the first main outer tube [740], its first end [780] is connected to the pipe [730] and where the other end [790] is the outlet.

Each main outer tube [740] or [750] comprise a tubular heating element [310] positioned in the center of the main outer tube [740] or [750] of each heating device [710] or [720], so that the two contacts [550] of the tubular heating element [310] protrude the main outer tube [710] or [720]. The tubular heating element [310] is maintained at the center of the main outer tube [740] or [750] by the narrow shape [520] or by plugs [610] depending the type of construction.

In another advantageous construction type, a wire [620] wrapped helically can be inserted around the tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310]. This wire [620] is made primarily in stainless steel. It realizes three functions:

1. The tubular heating element [310] is always centered in the heater [110].

2. The heating device [110] may be bent or curved, while avoiding the deformation of the tubular heating element [310] and the deformation of the heating device [110] to keep the geometry that allows these elements to stay concentric, while maintaining a section constant for the space [320] of the liquid.

3. The ability to bend the heating device [110] enables the device to be compact and suitable for integration into various devices. For example, the heating device [110] may be bent in order to obtain, a shape of a horseshoe. It can also be curved in order to obtain a helical shape.

A space may be arranged so as to guide the liquid in the heating device [110], This space [320] for circulating the liquid to be heated is located between the main outer tube [210] and the tube [330] of the tubular heating element [310]. The helical shape of the wire [620] prints the liquid to be heated in a helical path also spacing [630], helping to ensure a gradual and homogeneous heating of the same liquid as it travels inside the heating device [110].

Such a construction gives different advantages. The first advantage is two separate heating devices assembly which enables two different power controls. The electronic board can manage the two heating elements [310] to have the required power at each instant. In mis example, each element [310] is 1500W, so that when the two elements [310] are switched ON, the total power is 3000W. In a typical functioning, when the user turns ON the product, the two elements [310] are switches ON until the required temperature is reached. After that, if the chosen flow and the difference between the container [140] temperature and the outside temperature permit, the electronic switch ON the two elements [310] to have the total power.

The second advantage is that, this construction reduces the length of the element [310] enabling convenience and flexibility of design of the intended products into which the heater shall be integrated. In this construction the liquid passes from the first [710] to the second heating device [720] by way of a lateral pipe [730].

Also, in a particular construction, this heating device [110] can be use to produce steam. This particular construction is described in Figure 1. The construction is the same as above mentioned, but with the addition of a solenoid valve for the outlet regulator [190] at the outlet [220] of the heating device [110] or [720] to prevent water exhaust during the heating process. Also to obtain steam, the set points were set at 100 °C for the low value and 130 °C for the high value.

In this particular steam construction, the function is a little different. At the beginning, the pump [130] pumps the water inside the tube [210] or [710]-[720] under a defined pressure. At this moment the outlet solenoid valve [190] is closed. Then, the heater [310] heats the liquid temperature to the defined set temperature. Between 100°C and 130°C in this example. Then when the required temperature is reached, the solenoid valve [190] opens and the steam is released from the heating system by the outlet [220] or [790]. Then, the pump [130] continues to pump the water inside the tube at a very low flow rate. This flow rate is calculated to have a continuous steam exhaust. If for any reason the output temperature decreases under the lower set temperature, then, the solenoid valve [190] will be close to avoid obtaining hot water instead of steam.

This construction can also provide hot water. In this case the functions are the same but the solenoid valve [190] stays open during function.

The steam construction could be use for example and with no limitation to produce continuous and very fast steam for Irons, clothes pressers, window cleaners, steam stations, or coffee machines including pipes for heating or steaming milk.

The advantages of such a construction are many, including:

1. Use of a tubular heating element [310] "traditional" mass-produced, reliable and inexpensive. The liquid is directly in contact with the tubular heating element [310] along its entire length of heating ensuring a fast heating of the liquid. The liquid is guided throughout its way in contact with the tube [330] outside the tubular heating element [310] to avoid hot spots. The wire [620] allows the guiding of the liquid and ensures the geometry of the assembly during when folding or bending the aforementioned heating device [110].

The set of technologies and materials used ensures a cost of economic production. This product is highly energy efficient due to its low thermal inertia and due to its operating mode, it heats only when needed. It is also economic in liquid since only the necessary amount of liquid is heated for the user. This heater produces very fast hot water or steam and can ensure a continuous flow according with the previous specifications. As a result of the narrower ends of the main tube [520] and its welding [530], the heating device [110] is suitable for the production of liquid with continuous flow under pressure of about up to 20 bars.

This device can also produce continuous steam with the same construction further comprising a solenoid valve [190]

Claims

1. A machine [100] for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising:

a. at least one heating device [110];

d. at least one regulation unit [180], operatively connected to said at least one control unit [120] and to at least one liquid source (tap water);

[120] and to at least one regulation unit [180], and wherein said at least one control unit [120] is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said at least one heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature and thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature.

2. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said pump [130] comprises means for varying flow rates.

3. The machine [100] according to claim 2, wherein said pump is adapted to pump said liquid at a flow rate ranging from about 0.0 to about 4.0 liter per minute.

4. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid container [140];

5. The machine [100] according to claim 4, wherein said at least one liquid container is portable.

6. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said machine [100] further comprise at least one liquid or steam outlet regulator [190].

7. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said outlet regulator [190] is connected to an infusion device [150].

8. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said outlet regulator [190] is connected to a percolating device [150].

9. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said outlet regulator [190] is connected to a nozzle [155] for steaming. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said at least one outlet regulator [190] is a solenoid valve.

The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said nozzle [155] for steaming is a derivative pipe and said outlet regulator [190] is a double solenoid valve controlled by said control unit [120].

The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said at least one heating device [110] is in a C-like, U-like, serpentine-like, helical-like shape or any combination thereof.

The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said machine [100] further comprise a receptacle, such as but not limited to a pot or a cup [170]. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said machine [100] further comprise fluid flow connections [160]. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein in the case of said at least one heating device are more than one, said devices may be connected in a parallel or in a sequential connection. The machine [100] according to claim 15, wherein said heating devices can be operated dependently or independently of each other. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said at least one control unit [120] and said at least one regulation unit [180] can be joint into a single unit. The machine [100] according to claim 1, wherein said machine [100] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers. A control unit [120] useful for controlling a machine for instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising:

a. an electrical connection to at least one heating device [110];

c. an electrical connection to at least one pump [130];

e. a user interface for setting preferences, and f a microprocessor

The control unit [120] according to claim 19, wherein said control unit [120] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers. The control unit [120] according to claim 19, wherein said Control Unit [120] further comprises an electrical connection to at least one outlet regulator [190]; A heating device [110] useful for instantly heating liquid or steam, comprising:

a. an electrical heating element [310] centered inside an outer main tube [210], with a flow space between said element [310] and the interior of said main tube [210];

b. means for guiding the flow of said liquid through said flow space [320];

c. an operative connection to at least one pump [ 130];

d. an operative connection to a temperature sensor [510], and

e. an electrical connection to at least one control unit [120];

The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said guided flow space [320] is configured for at least partial turbulent flow.

The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said guided flow space [320] is configured for at least partial laminar flow. The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein both ends of said main outer tube [210] have a narrower diameter [520], thereby said heating element [310] is centered inside said main tube [210]. The heating device [110] according to claim 25, wherein said both ends of main outer tube [210] having a narrower diameter [520], include welding [530]. The heating device [110] according to 22, wherein said device further comprise sealing plugs [610] at both ends of said main tube [210], thereby said heating element [310] is centered inside said main tube [210]. The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said main outer tube [210] is made of a material defined as a poor thermal conductor such as stainless steel. The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said material is selected from the group consisting of metals, alloys, composite polymers, ceramics or glasses. The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said means for maneuvering the flow of said liquid through said flow space is a wire element [620] helically wrapped around the heating element [310]. The heating device [110] according to claim 30, wherein the diameter of said guiding wire element [620] equals to about the difference between the radius of the interior of said main tube [210] and the radius of said heating element [310J. The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said heating device [110] is in a C- ike, U-like, serpentine-like, helical-like shape or any combination thereof. The heating device [110] according to claim 22, wherein said heating device [110] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers. A method for an instant preparation of hot liquid or steam, comprising the steps of: a. obtaining a machine [100] comprising:

i. at least one heating device [110];

iii. a control unit [120], operatively connected to said at least one heating device [110] and to its said at least one temperature sensor [510]; iv. at least one regulation unit [180], operatively connected to said control unit

[120] and to at least one liquid source;

v. at least one pump [130], operatively connected to said control unit [120] and to at least one regulation unit [180], and

b. operating said machine [100]. wherein said control unit [120] is adapted to control the flow rate of said liquid into said heating device [110], in a predetermined manner correlated with said measured temperature, thereby providing said liquid output at a predetermined temperature. The method according to claim 34, wherein said pump [130] comprises means for varying flow rates.

The method according to claim 35, wherein said pump [130] is adapted to pump said liquid at a flow rate ranging from about 0.0 to about 4.0 liter per minute. The method according to claim 34, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid container [140]; The method according to claim 37, wherein said at least one liquid container [140] is portable. The method according to claim 34, wherein said machine [100] further comprises at least one liquid or steam outlet regulator [1 0]. The method according to claim 34, wherein said outlet regulator [1 0] is connected to an infusion device [150].

The method according to claim 34, wherein said outlet regulator [190] is connected to a percolating device [150].

The method according to claim 34, wherein said outlet regulator [190] is connected to a nozzle [155] for steaming.

The method according to claim 34, wherein said at least one outlet regulator is a solenoid valve [190].

The method according to claim 34, wherein said nozzle [155] for steaming is a derivative pipe and said output regulator is a double solenoid valve controlled by said control unit [120].

The method according to claim 34, wherein said at least one heating device [110] is in a C-like, U-like, serpentine-like, helical-like shape or any combination thereof.

The method according to claim 34, wherein said machine [100] further comprise a receptacle, such as but not limited to a pot or a cup [170]. The method according to claim 34, wherein said machine [100] further comprise fluid flow connections [160]. The method according to claim 34, wherein in the case of said at least one heating device [110] are more than one, said devices may be connected in a parallel or in a sequential connection. The method according to claim 48, wherein said heating devices can be operated dependently or independently of each other. The method according to claim 34, wherein said at least on control unit [120] and said at least one regulation unit [180] can be joint into a single unit. The method according to claim 34, wherein machine [100] is integrated into devices selected from the group consisting of: coffee maker, espresso machine, teapot, hot beverage machine, steam generation, steam generation iron, steam station, steam cleaner, cloths pressure, window cleaner or water purifiers.