Rotatable Detachable Cup Lid Connection Structure for Electric Kettles

The problem

Most electric kettles feature lids that are either hinged directly to the body or integrated into the handle but not removable. Hinged designs create crevices where mineral deposits and water droplets accumulate, making thorough cleaning difficult. Non-detachable designs prevent the user from using the kettle body as a simple pot or serving vessel without the heavy handle and lid assembly attached. There is a need for a mechanism that secures the lid firmly during boiling but allows it to be separated easily for maintenance and versatile use.

The solution

The patent describes a cup cover assembly (2) with a rotating shaft (21) that connects to a kettle body (1) via a handle (3). The handle includes a handle cover (31) and a guide limit spring piece (32). These parts assemble to form an assembly channel (4). One end of the channel is open (42), and the other contains a rotating shaft hole (41). The spring piece features two symmetric clamping points (323) that protrude inward. When the lid’s shaft is pushed through the open end, it travels along guide inclined planes (3231) on the clamping points. The elasticity of the spring piece allows the clamping points to deform outward, expanding the neck size to let the shaft pass into the shaft hole. Once inside, the spring piece returns to its original shape, locking the shaft in place. To remove the lid, the process is reversed: pushing the shaft against guide curved surfaces (3232) forces the clamping points to deform again, releasing the shaft.

Who it is for

• Small Appliance Brands: Companies looking to differentiate their kettles with superior hygiene features and modular usability.
• OEM Manufacturers: Factories producing handles and lid assemblies who need a robust, snap-fit compatible mechanism.
• Outdoor Gear Suppliers: Brands targeting camping or travel markets where equipment must be compact, cleanable, and multi-functional.
• Commercial Kitchen Equipment Makers: Businesses needing durable, easy-to-maintain components for high-volume tea or coffee preparation stations.

How it works

The main parts

Operating Steps

1. Installation: Align the lid’s rotating shaft (21) with the open end (42) of the assembly channel. Push the shaft forward.
2. Deformation: As the shaft moves, it contacts the guide inclined planes (3231) on the clamping points (323). The force pushes the elastic spring piece outward, widening the gap.
3. Locking: The shaft passes the widest point and enters the rotating shaft hole (41). The spring piece snaps back, causing the clamping points to return to their initial position, holding the shaft securely.
4. Usage: The lid rotates around the shaft to open or close the pot mouth. Gravity keeps the lid closed if the center of gravity is offset correctly (Claim 4).
5. Removal: Apply pressure to push the shaft backward against the guide curved surfaces (3232). The clamping points deform again, allowing the shaft to slide out of the hole and exit the channel.

Applications

Home Hygiene Maintenance

Users can completely remove the lid from the handle assembly. This eliminates the hard-to-reach hinge areas where mold and mineral scale typically build up, ensuring the entire surface is washable under running water.

Camping and Outdoor Use

When detached, the kettle body acts as a standard pot. Campers can boil water, then remove the electronic lid/handle assembly to pour hot water into cups or use the body for cooking over a fire, provided the body material supports it.

Commercial Tea Stations

In cafes or offices, staff can swap dirty lids for clean ones instantly without unscrewing complex hardware. The quick-release mechanism speeds up turnover time during peak hours.

Product Modularity

Manufacturers can offer different lid styles (e.g., glass, steel, insulated) that all fit the same handle chassis. This reduces tooling costs for new SKUs while offering consumers variety.

Where it is less suitable

• Ultra-Low-Cost Kettles: The additional spring piece and precision molding for the handle cover increase part count and cost compared to simple riveted hinges.
• High-Vibration Industrial Settings: While secure, the elastic nature might be less ideal than rigid screw-fastened lids in environments with constant heavy machinery vibration, though no specific failure data is in the patent.
• Fully Sealed Pressure Cookers: This design relies on a loose fit for rotation and removal; it is not intended for high-pressure sealing applications.