Apparatus for and Method of Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

Field

The invention relates to an apparatus for and method of steam treating plant fibres, for example animal fodder (such as hay, grasses, herbaceous legumes, tree legumes, silage and crop residues) or industrial fibres (such as industrial hemp fibre). The apparatus is particularly suitable for steam treating batches of plant fibres, which are typically in baled form, which is intended to include bales as well as retaining nets, bags, baskets or similar receptacles.

Background

The primary purpose of steam treating is to kill mesophilic and thermophilic mould spores and bacteria that are either attached to plant fibres or detach when disturbed and become airborne. These airborne particles are commonly assumed as dust spores, together with any living organisms and can include insects and the like. The purpose therefore of treating the plant fibres is to kill all the aforesaid, for example before the plant fibres are processed, or prior to fodder being fed to livestock; thus reducing the risks of creating or aggravating respiratory problems, infections and allergies from such or similar organisms. The problem associated with respiratory conditions, infections and allergies applies to both livestock being fed as well as humans handling the plant fibres or when preparing and feeding the plant fibres to livestock as fodder.

Most forms of livestock are fed predominantly on conserved fodder from manmade bales; in their whole, in part, or detached from the whole bale and inserted in a receptacle such as a net or basket.

Fodder is one of the cheapest and most widely available natural forms of feeding livestock and provides most of the nutrients required. When fodder, such as grasses and crop residues, is cut, it is usually compressed into bales for ease of storage and manoeuvrability. All fodder contains leaf shatter, soil, mesophilic moulds, plant particles, fragments of sundry inorganic materials, bacteria, fungi and fungal spores, insects, and other organisms in varying amounts. When the fodder has been cut and stored additional organisms (thermophilic actinomycetes) are also present. All of this matter is generally classified as dust. Much of this dust is present in particles of less than 5 microns in diameter (respirable particles) and these particles can cause an allergic reaction within some livestock (e.g. horses and certain goat species). The allergic reaction is precipitated by a hypersensitivity to the respirable particles, which leads to airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction and accumulation of mucoid secretion in the animal’s airways. Clinical signs such as coughing and reduced capacity for exercise are persistent. These conditions include the well-known Equine Asthma Syndrome (formerly known as Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD)) - and are responsible for a significant loss of revenue in terms of days in training and reduced performance. Moreover, these respirable particles are the cause of the debilitating condition in humans known as Farmer’s Lung, as well as more common hay fevers. Some livestock owners soak their fodder, such as hay, to reduce the number of airborne particles released during feeding.

However, the initial handling of the material usually results in the dust becoming airborne and present in the atmosphere exposing animals and humans alike to hazardous respirable particles. While soaking fodder has proved effective in reducing respirable particle numbers, it does not kill the fungi and bacteria present and thus ingestion of these pathogens still occurs and can lead to other associated problems, particularly in breeding livestock. Furthermore soaking has been scientifically proven to leach some of the nutritional content from the fodder; and produces a post-soak liquid that has a high biological oxygen demand classifying it as an environmental pollutant.

Steam treating may also be beneficial in the processing of plant fibres for use in industrial processes, for example where bales of plant fibres which have been baled and stored after harvesting may benefit from decontamination by steam treating to kill mould spores and bacteria present on the fibres.

Prior Art

Examples of steam treating fodder are described in UK Patent Application GB 2 338 167 A (Meech & Davis). Another type of fodder steam treatment system is described in UK Patent Application GB 2 387 311 A (Bottomley). Although the aforementioned systems operated with a reasonable degree of success they suffered from a number of drawbacks.

Another type of hay steamer was made and sold by Happy Horse Products limited and includes a conventional steam generator which delivers steam, via a lance, into loosely packed fodder which is contained in a bag. In the event that the bag is waterproof steam condenses in the bag with the result that there is a build up of hot water condensate in the bag and the aforementioned risk of leaching of nutrients from the fodder.

An example of an apparatus for steam treating fodder in baled form is disclosed in European patent EP2364100B1 of Haygain Limited. The present invention overcomes problems associated with the aforementioned prior art systems.

Summary of the Invention

The invention is defined in the independent claims, to which reference should now be made. Preferred or advantageous features of the invention are set out in the dependent subclaims.

First Aspect of the Invention

Apparatus for and Method of Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

Ambient Temperature Sensing

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres. The apparatus comprises a container for a batch of plant fibres, and a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam into the interior of the container, for steaming the batch of plant fibres. The apparatus further comprises a controller which is configured to control steam delivery from the steam source to the interior of the container.

According to the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus comprises an ambient temperature sensor for sensing an ambient temperature outside the container, and the controller is configured to receive a signal from the ambient temperature sensor. The controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor.

The ambient temperature sensor may be any conventional electronic temperature sensor known in the art. The ambient temperature sensor is preferably provided on the outside of the container, for example on a wall, or on the base or lid of the container, so that it is in contact with the ambient air outside the container.

The apparatus is preferably an animal fodder steaming apparatus configured for steaming animal fodder in baled form, for example fodder compressed into bales, or held in nets, mesh bags or other steam-permeable receptacles. The apparatus is also suitable for steaming loose fodder.

The apparatus for steam treating fibres may be stored and used in a variety of weather conditions or climates. For example, the ambient temperature could vary from -20°C to 40°C. Therefore, the period of time required to steam the plant fibres may vary depending on the ambient temperature. For example, the period of time required to kill a sufficient amount of mould spores and bacteria may vary depending on the ambient temperature. When the ambient temperature is 40°C the amount of time required to steam the plant fibres may be less than the amount of time required to steam plant fibres when the ambient temperature is -20°C.

Advantageously, sensing the ambient temperature and adjusting the period of time of steam delivery accordingly may reduce the energy requirements for steaming the plant fibres. If the ambient temperature is high the plant fibres may need to be steamed for a shorter period of time, therefore less energy is needed to steam the plant fibres.

When the ambient air temperature is low, for example less than 0°C, the plant fibres may require a longer period of steaming in order to kill all of the mould spores and bacteria present on the fibres. Advantageously, the controller receiving a signal from the ambient temperature sensor, and being configured to control the period of time of steam delivery means that the apparatus is able to adjust the period of steam delivery to be longer at colder ambient temperatures, thus allowing a sufficient period of steam delivery to kill all, or at least a desired amount, of the mould spores or bacteria within the plant fibres.

The use of a temperature sensor for sensing an ambient temperature and a controller configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor advantageously allows improved control of the steaming process. It may be particularly advantageous to not steam the plant fibres for excessive periods of time when steaming temperature-sensitive plant fibres where excessive steaming may cause undesirable degradation of the fibres.

The controller may be pre-programmed steam the plant fibres for a predetermined reference steaming period depending on the sensed ambient temperature. The controller may preferably be programmed to control steaming time based on a linear relationship between sensed ambient temperature and steaming time. For example, for a sensed ambient temperature of 0°C the controller may be programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for 1 hour. At a measured ambient temperature of 10°C the controller may be configured to set the period of time of steam delivery to 50 minutes. At a measured ambient temperature of 20°C the controller may be configured to set the period of time of steam delivery to 40 minutes. At a measured ambient temperature of 30°C the controller may be configured to set the period of time of steam delivery to 30 minutes. At a measured ambient temperature of -10°C the controller may be configured to set the period of time of steam delivery to 1 hour and 10 minutes. At a measured ambient temperature of -20°C the controller may be configured to set the period of time of steam delivery to 1 hour and 20 minutes. The controller may be programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a reference steaming period when the ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature. The controller is preferably programmed to calculate the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature. The controller is particularly preferably programmed to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

The reference ambient temperature may be, for example 10 °C, 15 °C, or 20 °C.

The reference steaming period may be, for example 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes, or 50 minutes, or 60 minutes.

The controller may be programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period if the sensed ambient temperature is below the reference ambient temperature, and to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period if the sensed ambient temperature is above the reference ambient temperature.

The controller may be programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period by a set increment for every 1 °C, or 2 °C, or 5 °C that the sensed ambient temperature rises above a reference ambient temperature. The set increment may be, for example, a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes, or 5 minutes.

The controller may be programmed to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period by a set increment for every 1 °C, or 2 °C, or 5 °C that the sensed ambient temperature drops below the reference ambient temperature. The set increment may be, for example, a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes, or 5 minutes.

For example the controller may be programmed to have a reference steaming period of 60 minutes at an ambient reference temperature of 15 °C, and to adjust the steaming time by a set increment of 1 minute for every 1 °C that the ambient temperature departs from the reference ambient temperature. Thus if the ambient temperature sensor senses that the ambient temperature is 25 °C, which is 10 °C above the reference ambient temperature, the controller may decrease the steaming period by 10 minutes, so that the plant fibres are steamed for 50 minutes at 25 °C. Alternatively if the ambient temperature sensor senses that the ambient temperature is -5 °C, which is 20 °C below the reference ambient temperature, the controller may increase the steaming period by 20 minutes, so that the plant fibres are steamed for 80 minutes when the ambient temperature is -5 °C.

The controller may be configured to compare the sensed ambient temperature to a look-up table of ambient temperature vs. reference steaming period, and to select the reference steaming period correlating to the sensed ambient temperature.

The controller is preferably configured to stop the delivery of steam when the reference steaming period, or the adjusted steaming period, has elapsed. The controller may stop steam delivery by stopping the power supply to the heating element, or by closing a valve means to prevent passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller may be configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the weight of the plant fibres in the container, in addition to the sensed ambient temperature.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container and to input the sensed weight into the controller. In a preferred embodiment the weight sensor may be a piezoelectric sensor, which may be positioned in a base or foot of the container and configured to sense the weight of plant fibres placed in the container.

Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a user interface via which a user can input the weight of the plant fibres into the controller.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller is programmed to carry out a reference steaming period for a reference weight of plant fibres when the ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature. The controller may be configured to calculate the difference between the sensed weight of plant fibres and the reference weight, to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed weight and the reference weight, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

The controller may be programmed to contain a look-up table of reference steaming periods vs weight of plant fibres. When the plant fibres are placed in the container and the sensed weight is communicated to the controller, the controller may be programmed to consult the look-up table to find the reference steaming period suitable for that weight of plant fibres. The controller may then adjust the reference steaming period with reference to the sensed ambient temperature, as described above, by calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and adjusting the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. Thus the controller may control steaming time to take into account both the weight of plant fibres and the ambient temperature.

The controller may be configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the volume of the batch of plant fibres in the container.

The apparatus may comprise a user interface via which a user can input a volume of the batch of plant fibres into the controller, preferably by selecting a batch size from a list of batch sizes in the user interface.

The controller may be configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor and the density of the batch of plant fibres in the container.

As mentioned above, the apparatus may comprise a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container, and the controller may be configured to calculate the density of the batch of plant fibres from its weight. The controller may be programmed to calculate the average density of the plant fibres in the container based on the known interior volume of the container and the sensed weight of the plant fibres in the container. The controller may be programmed to increase the period of steam delivery if the calculated average density is above a reference density, or to reduce the period of steam delivery if the calculated average density is below the reference density.

The apparatus may comprise a user interface via which a user can input a batch type of the batch of plant fibres into the controller, preferably by selecting a batch type from a list of batch types in the user interface. The list of batch types may allow the user to indicate whether the plant fibres to be steamed are in the form of a bale, loose, or loosely-packed in a hay net, for example. As different batch types are packed with different densities, and therefore have different thermal densities, the controller may advantageously adjust the period of steam delivery depending on the batch type in the container. For example a bale of plant fibres is more densely packed than the same weight of fibres in a hay net, while fibres in a hay net are more densely packed than the same weight of plant fibres loaded loose into the container. The denser the batch, the more difficult it is for steam to penetrate to the centre of the batch, so the longer the required period of steam delivery.

The controller may be programmed to calculate a batch density based on the batch type and the sensed weight of the batch of plant fibres. For example the controller may be programmed to increase the period of steam delivery if the calculated batch density is above a reference batch density, or to reduce the period of steam delivery if the calculated batch density is below the reference batch density.

The controller may preferably be programmed to calculate a period of steam delivery based on the sensed ambient temperature, the sensed weight of the batch of plant fibres, and the batch type.

The controller may be configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor and the type of plant fibres in the container. Preferably the apparatus comprises a user interface via which a user can input a type of plant fibres into the controller, particularly preferably by selecting a plant fibre type from a list of plant fibre types in the user interface. For example, the list of plant fibre types may allow the user to indicate whether the plant fibres to be steamed are animal fodder such as hay, haylage, or alfalfa, or other fibre-types such as industrial hemp. As different types of plant fibres require different steaming conditions in order to sterilize or clean the fibres without causing deterioration to the plant fibres, the controller may be pre-programmed with different steaming conditions for different plant fibre types.

The controller may preferably be programmed to calculate a period of steam delivery based on the sensed ambient temperature, the sensed weight of the batch of plant fibres, the batch type, and the type of plant fibres in the container.

Controller

The controller may comprise a temperature control feedback loop. The controller may be configured to continuously monitor the ambient temperature and to control the period of time for steam delivery accordingly. This allows the controller to adjust the period of time of steam delivery whilst steam is being delivered. Advantageously the period of time of steam delivery may be adjusted if there is a fall or increase in ambient temperature whilst steam is being delivered.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations.

The user interface may display information on the steam delivery. For example, the user interface may display an estimated steam delivery finish time. The user interface may display the progressed time of the steam delivery, for example it may display a progress bar. The user interface may display the time remaining of the steam delivery.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller comprises a programmable timer. The controller may be programmable to commence steam delivery at a selected start time, and/or to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. When the controller is programmed to finish steaming at a selected finish time, it calculates the steaming time that will be required based on the ambient temperature (and optionally additional factor(s) such as the weight of plant fibres in the container), and automatically commences steaming at the appropriate start time.

The timer may advantageously allow the user to pre-load the container with plant fibres, and to program the apparatus to steam the plant fibres at a later time, so that the plant fibres are freshly steamed when required. This is more convenient for the user, as they no longer need to wait for the steaming cycle to take place. The high temperature and moisture level in the container following steaming means that it is preferable that plant fibres are not left for long periods in the container after steaming has finished, so by selecting a convenient finish time this can be avoided.

The controller and timer may be programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours.

In some preferred embodiments, the controller may be configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and to alert the user to a maintenance requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached. Preferably the maintenance requirement is a descale requirement, so the controller may alert the user when it is necessary to descale the apparatus to remove limescale build-up. The controller may preferably be programmed to run the apparatus in a descale operation when directed by a user.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be total steam delivery time, such that the controller monitors how much time the steam generator has been operating and delivering steam. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined total steam delivery time.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be a number of steaming cycles, such that the controller monitors how many batches of plant fibres (steaming one batch of fibres being counted as one steaming cycle) have been steamed since the last descale operation. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined number of steaming cycles.

Container

The apparatus comprises a container configured to contain, in use, the batch of plant fibres.

The container may also be configured to contain the manifold. For example, the container may be a box or chest in which the interior volume of the box defines the container for the plant fibres.

The container advantageously confines the steam during steaming, enabling the plant fibres to reach a higher temperature and/or humidity more quickly than would be possible outside a container.

The container is preferably thermally insulated. This advantageously improves the thermal efficiency of the apparatus by reducing heat loss from the container. The container may be moulded from polypropylene. The container may be thermally insulated with polyurethane. The polyurethane may be polyurethane foam. Preferably, the container may be thermally insulated with at least one of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or expanded polypropylene (EPP).

The container is preferably a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls. Preferably the cavity is filled with an insulating material. Particularly preferably the cavity is filled with at least one of polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene or expanded polypropylene.

The container is preferably formed from moulded plastic, particularly preferably from rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene.

The container may be sealable in a gas-tight configuration, so that steam pressure inside the container can be increased above atmospheric pressure. The container may be sealable to prevent steam from escaping during use and to improve temperature build up within the container.

The container may be sealed by a lid, preferably a hinged lid that is openable to place plant fibres into the container, and to remove plant fibres from the container.

Steam Generator

The apparatus may comprise a steam generator configured to deliver steam to the manifold, such that the steam generator forms the steam source.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. Titanium metal may advantageously be more resistant to build-up of limescale than other metals conventionally used as heating elements. The titanium heating element may advantageously have a longer operational lifetime and can withstand the higher scale levels often found in stables and yards where animal fodder is typically steamed.

The steam generator may be provided inside the container, or integrated with the container body or housing. In preferred embodiments, the steam generator may be housed in the base of the container, or in a wall of the container. Preferably, the container may be configured to house the steam generator in a lower portion of the housing, such that the container for receiving the batch of plant fibres is defined in an upper portion of the housing, above the steam generator.

Alternatively, the steam generator may be situated outside of the container.

In a preferred embodiment, the steam generator and the manifold are provided in a shared housing. The outlet of the steam generator may form the inlet of the manifold. By providing the steam generator and the manifold in the same housing, the distance that steam must travel between the steam generator and the manifold may be reduced or minimised. This may advantageously allow steam to be delivered to the lances at a higher pressure and/or temperature than is possible with a “remote” steam generator, as the steam does not have time to cool down, lose pressure and condense as it travels through piping from the steam generator.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and the controller may be configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. The controller may preferably be programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level, so that the low water level warning light alerts a user to add more water to the steam generator. The controller may be programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. Preferably the predetermined low water level is higher than the predetermined minimum water level, so that the user is alerted to the need to add water before the minimum water level is reached.

Manifold

The apparatus preferably comprises valve means controllable to prevent or allow the passage of steam from the steam source to the manifold. The valve means are controllable by the controller so that the controller can start or stop steam delivery to the interior of the container on demand.

The manifold may take a variety of forms, as long as it is configured to receive steam from the steam source and to deliver the steam to the interior of the container. The manifold is preferably configured to deliver steam into the interior of the container through a plurality of steam inlets.

In some embodiments of the invention, the steam inlets may be a plurality of holes formed in the base or walls of the container. The manifold may comprise one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator.

If the manifold and/or steam generator are positioned inside the container or integrated into a base or wall of the container, the manifold may be a manifold plate configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator. The manifold plate may comprising a plurality of holes acting as steam inlets through which steam may pass from the steam generator into the interior of the container. The manifold plate is preferably formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel.

In some preferred embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances. The steam manifold may be adapted to receive steam from the steam source and to distribute steam to the plurality of lances. The plurality of lances may be configured to deliver steam into the interior volume of a batch of plant fibres, this may advantageously ensure that there is an even distribution of steam throughout the volume of the batch plant fibres. This may ensure that the humidity and temperature of the plant fibres as a whole is raised to a desired level.

Condensation Control

The container preferably has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. The lid is preferably hinged to the container for opening, and the lid preferably has a handle for opening the lid.

The underside of the lid may preferably comprise one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. The vapour guides are preferably protrusions which protrude downwards from the lid. The presence of the protrusions on the underside of the lid may advantageously encourage condensation forming on the lid to run down the protrusions and drip down onto the plant fibres, rather than remaining on the underside of the lid until the lid is opened. Particularly preferably, the lid may comprise an array of vapour guide protrusions positioned across the underside of the lid, so that condensation is guided to drip onto the plant fibres evenly throughout the container.

Preferably the container comprises a handle for opening the lid, and the lid comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. As steam is typically still present in the container when the steaming cycle ends and the lid of the container is opened, in prior art designs steam trapped under the lid has typically vented past the handle as soon as the lid begins to lift. This presents a safety risk to the user’s hands on the handle, as the venting steam may cause burns. By providing a vapour deflector that deflects steam away from the handle when the lid is lifted, the risk of harm to the user is significantly reduced. The vapour deflector is preferably positioned adjacent to the handle, between the handle and the interior of the container, and may take a variety of forms configured to direct steam trapped under the lid in directions away from the handle when the lid is lifted.

The lid is preferably hinged to the container. In some prior art designs, this has meant that when the lid is opened, condensation on the underside of the lid runs towards the hinges and flows off the lid and onto the floor outside the container. This causes a mess and a potential slipping hazard. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid, which is configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. The condensation guide may take the form of a curved or ramped portion on the underside of the lid, shaped so that condensation running down the lid towards the hinges hits the condensation guide before the hinges, and is directed into the interior of the container.

The apparatus preferably comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. The removable condensation trap may be received in a recess in the base of the container, with the base of the container configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. Alternatively the removable condensation trap may be received underneath the base of the container, and the base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

The “plant fibres” steamable with the apparatus may be animal fodder, such as hay or haylage, straw or alfalfa. Alternatively, the plant fibres may be industrial fibres such as industrial hemp. In a preferred embodiment, the plant fibres may be selected from a group consisting of animal fodder or industrial hemp. Thus, the apparatus may be an apparatus for steam treating animal fodder, or an apparatus for steam treating industrial hemp.

A batch of plant fibres may, for example, include plant fibres in baled form, for example plant fibres compressed into bales, or plant fibres held in nets, mesh bags or other containers or receptacles.

The apparatus is preferably formed from a strong and heat resistant material, such as stainless steel, other metals or synthetic plastics material, which is able to withstand temperatures in excess of 110°C.

The size of the manifold may be chosen to correspond to the capacity of the container, and therefore the volume of plant fibres the apparatus is configured to steam. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of manifolds.

Ideally, the apparatus includes a heater which has an immersion element and is adapted for use with either 240 Volts or 110 Volts. The heater generates steam in the well-known manner.

Second Aspect of the Invention

Ambient Temperature Method

According to a second aspect, the invention may provide a method of steaming plant fibres, comprising the steps of: delivering steam from a steam source, through a manifold, and into a container containing the batch of plant fibres; sensing an ambient temperature; and controlling the period of time of steam delivery to the plant fibres in response to the sensed ambient temperature. The method may comprise a step of calculating a period of time of steam delivery for the sensed ambient temperature. Preferably this step is performed by a controller that is preprogrammed and calibrated to adjust steaming time based on ambient temperature.

The method preferably comprises the step of calculating the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and a reference ambient temperature. The method may also involve calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and adjusting a reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

The reference ambient temperature may be, for example 10 °C, 15 °C, or 20 °C.

The reference steaming period may be, for example 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes, or 50 minutes, or 60 minutes. The method may comprise the step of increasing the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period by a set increment for every 1 °C, or 2 °C, or 5 °C that the ambient temperature rises above a reference ambient temperature. The set increment may be, for example, a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes.

The method may comprise the step of decreasing the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period by a set increment for every 1 °C, or 2 °C, or 5 °C that the ambient temperature drops below the reference ambient temperature. The set increment may be, for example, a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes.

For example the controller may be programmed to have a reference steaming period of 60 minutes at an ambient reference temperature of 15 °C, and to adjust the steaming time by a set increment of 1 minute for every 1 °C that the ambient temperature departs from the reference temperature. Thus if the ambient temperature sensor senses that the ambient temperature is 25 °C, which is 10 °C above the reference temperature, the controller may decrease the steaming period by 10 minutes, so that the plant fibres are steamed for 50 minutes at 25 °C. Alternatively if the ambient temperature sensor senses that the ambient temperature is -5 °C, which is 20 °C below the reference temperature, the controller may increase the steaming period by 20 minutes, so that the plant fibres are steamed for 80 minutes at -5 °C.

The method may comprise the step of automatically comparing the sensed ambient temperature to a look-up table of ambient temperature vs. period of time of steam delivery, and selecting the period of steam delivery correlating to the sensed ambient temperature.

The method may comprise the step of heating the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and maintaining the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

In a preferred embodiment, the method may comprise the step of controlling the period of time of steam delivery based on the weight of the plant fibres in the container, in addition to the sensed ambient temperature.

The method may comprise the step of sensing a weight of the plant fibres placed in the container. Alternatively, the user may input the weight of the plant fibres into the controller.

The method may comprise delivering steam for a reference steaming period for a reference weight of plant fibres when the ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature. The method may comprise the steps of calculating the difference between the sensed weight of plant fibres and the reference weight, calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed weight and the reference weight, and adjusting the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

The method may comprise the step of consulting a look-up table of reference steaming periods vs weight of plant fibres. When the plant fibres are placed in the container and the sensed weight is communicated to the controller, the controller may consult the look-up table to find the reference steaming period suitable for that sensed weight of plant fibres. The controller may then adjust the reference steaming period with reference to the sensed ambient temperature, as described above, by calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and adjusting the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. Thus the controller may control steaming time to take into account both the weight of plant fibres and the ambient temperature.

The method may comprise the step of controlling the period of time of steam delivery based on the volume of the batch of plant fibres in the container.

The apparatus may comprise a user interface via which a user can input a volume of the batch of plant fibres into the controller, preferably by selecting a batch size from a list of batch sizes in the user interface.

The method may comprise the step of controlling the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor and the density of the batch of plant fibres in the container.

As mentioned above, the apparatus may comprise a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container, and the controller may be configured to calculate the density of the batch of plant fibres from its weight.

The method may involve inputting a density of the batch of plant fibres into the controller, preferably by selecting a batch density from a list of batch densities in the user interface.

The method may comprise the step of controlling the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor and the type of plant fibres in the container. The method may involve inputting a type of plant fibres into the controller, particularly preferably by selecting a plant fibre type from a list of plant fibre types in a user interface.

The apparatus of the first and second aspects of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a list of clauses setting out preferred features of the first and second aspects of the invention.

1. An apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam to the interior of the container; an ambient temperature sensor for sensing an ambient temperature outside the container; and a controller configured to receive a signal from the ambient temperature sensor and to control steam delivery from the steam source to the container, in which the controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor.

2. An apparatus according to clause 1, in which the controller is programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a reference steaming period when the sensed ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature, to calculate the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. An apparatus according to clause 2, in which the reference ambient temperature is 10 °C, 15 °C, or 20 °C. An apparatus according to clause 2 or 3, in which the reference steaming period is 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes, or 50 minutes, or 60 minutes. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period by a set increment for every 1 °C, or 2 °C, or 5 °C that the sensed ambient temperature rises above a reference ambient temperature, and to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period by a set increment for every 1 °C, or 2 °C, or 5 °C that the sensed ambient temperature drops below the reference ambient temperature. An apparatus according to clause 5, in which the set increment is a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes. An apparatus according to clause 7, in which the target temperature is at least 90 °C, preferably in which the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is additionally configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the weight of the plant fibres in the container. An apparatus according to clause 9, in which the apparatus comprises a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container and to input the sensed weight into the controller. An apparatus according to clause 9, in which the apparatus comprises a user interface via which a user can input the weight of the plant fibres into the controller. An apparatus according to clause 9, 10 or 11 , in which the controller is programmed to carry out a reference steaming period for a reference weight of plant fibres when the ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature, to calculate the difference between the sensed weight of plant fibres and the reference weight, to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed weight and the reference weight, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the volume of the batch of plant fibres in the container. An apparatus according to clause 13, in which the apparatus comprises a user interface via which a user can input a volume of the batch of plant fibres into the controller, preferably by selecting a batch size from a list of batch sizes in the user interface. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor and the density of the batch of plant fibres in the container. An apparatus according to clause 15, in which the apparatus comprises a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container, and in which the controller is configured to calculate the density of the batch of plant fibres from its weight. An apparatus according to clause 15 or 16, in which the apparatus comprises a user interface via which a user can input a density of the batch of plant fibres into the controller, preferably by selecting a batch density from a list of batch densities in the user interface. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the ambient temperature sensor and the type of plant fibres in the container, preferably in which the apparatus comprises a user interface via which a user can input a type of plant fibres into the controller, particularly preferably by selecting a plant fibre type from a list of plant fibre types in the user interface. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam source is a steam generator, and in which the apparatus comprises a steam generator for producing steam for delivery to a batch of plant fibres. An apparatus according to clause 19, in which the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. An apparatus according to clause 19 or 20, in which the steam generator is integrated into the container. An apparatus according to any of clauses 19, 20 or 21, in which the apparatus comprises a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and in which the controller is configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. An apparatus according to clause 22, in which the controller is programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level. An apparatus according to clause 22 or 23, in which the controller is programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls, and in which the cavity is insulated with polyurethane foam. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is formed from moulded plastic, preferably rotational or injection moulded polypropylene. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller comprises a programmable timer, and in which the controller is programmable to commence steam delivery at a selected start time, or to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. An apparatus according to clause 27, in which the controller is programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and in which the controller is programmed to alert the user to a descale requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached. An apparatus according to clause 29, in which the steam delivery condition is total steam delivery time, and in which the predetermined steam delivery condition is a predetermined total steam delivery time, or in which the steam delivery condition is a number of steaming cycles, and in which the predetermined steam delivery condition is a predetermined number of steaming cycles. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. An apparatus according to clause 31 , wherein the underside of the lid comprises one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. An apparatus according to clause 31 or 32, in which the container comprises a handle for opening the lid; and wherein the lid comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. An apparatus according to clause 31 , 32 or 33, in which the lid is hinged to the container, and in which the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid and configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the apparatus comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. An apparatus according to clause 35, in which the removable condensation trap is received in a recess in the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. 37. An apparatus according to clause 35, in which the removable condensation trap is received underneath the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

38. A method of steaming plant fibres, comprising the steps of: delivering steam from a steam source, through a manifold, and into a container containing the batch of plant fibres; sensing an ambient temperature; and controlling the period of time of steam delivery to the plant fibres in response to the sensed ambient temperature.

39. A method according to clause 38, comprising the step of calculating a period of time of steam delivery for the sensed ambient temperature.

40. A method according to clause 38 or 39, comprising the step of calculating the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and a reference ambient temperature, calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and adjusting a reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

41. A method according to clause 38 or 39, comprising the step of automatically comparing the sensed ambient temperature to a look-up table of ambient temperature vs. reference steaming periods, and selecting the reference steaming period correlating to the sensed ambient temperature.

42. A method according to clause 38, 39 or 40, comprising the step of controlling the period of time of steam delivery based on the weight of the plant fibres in the container, in addition to the sensed ambient temperature.

43. A method according to clause 42, comprising the step of automatically comparing the weight of the plant fibres to a look-up table of weight vs. reference steaming periods, and selecting the reference steaming period correlating to the weight of the plant fibres.

Third Aspect of the Invention

Apparatus for and Method of Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

Weight of Plant Fibres

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres. The apparatus comprises a container for a batch of plant fibres, and a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam into the interior of the container, for steaming the batch of plant fibres. The apparatus further comprises a controller which is configured to control steam delivery from the steam source to the interior of the container. According to the third aspect of the invention, the apparatus comprises a weight sensor for sensing a weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container, and the controller is configured to receive a signal from the weight sensor. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a user interface via which a user can input the weight of the plant fibres into the controller.

The controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the weight of the plant fibres in the container.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container and to input the sensed weight into the controller. In a preferred embodiment the weight sensor may be a piezoelectric sensor, which may be positioned in a base or foot of the container and configured to sense the weight of plant fibres placed in the container.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller is programmed to carry out a reference steaming period for a reference weight of plant fibres. The controller may be configured to calculate the difference between the sensed weight of plant fibres and the reference weight, to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed weight and the reference weight, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

The controller may be programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is above a reference weight, and to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is below the reference weight.

The controller may be programmed to contain a look-up table of reference steaming periods vs weight of plant fibres. When the plant fibres are placed in the container and the sensed weight is communicated to the controller, the controller may be programmed to consult the look-up table to find the reference steaming period suitable for that weight of plant fibres.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller may then adjust the reference steaming period with reference to the sensed ambient temperature, as described above in relation to the first aspect, by calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and adjusting the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. Thus the controller may control steaming time to take into account both the weight of plant fibres and the ambient temperature. The reference weight of plant fibres may be, for example, 2 kg, or 5 kg, or 7.5 kg, or 10 kg.

The reference steaming period may be, for example 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes, or 50 minutes, or 60 minutes.

The controller may be programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period by a set increment for every 0.25 kg, or 0.5 kg, or 1 kg that the sensed weight of plant fibres increases above a reference weight. The set increment may be, for example, a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes, or 5 minutes.

The controller may be programmed to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period by a set for every 0.25 kg, or 0.5 kg, or 1 kg that the sensed weight of plant fibres decreases below a reference weight. The set increment may be, for example, a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes, or 5 minutes.

For example the controller may be programmed to have a reference steaming period of 60 minutes for a reference weight of 10 kg of plant fibres, and to adjust the steaming time by a set increment of 1 minute for every 0.5 kg that the ambient temperature departs from the reference ambient temperature. Thus if the weight sensor senses that the container contains 12 kg of plant fibres, which is 2 kg above the reference weight, the controller may increase the steaming period by 4 minutes, so that the plant fibres are steamed for 64 minutes. Alternatively if the weight sensor senses that the container contains 6 kg of plant fibres, which is 4 kg below the reference weight, the controller may reduce the steaming period by 8 minutes, so that the plant fibres are steamed for 52 minutes.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

The apparatus of the third aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

Fourth Aspect of the Invention

Weight Method

According to a fourth aspect, the invention may provide a method of steaming a batch of plant fibres in a container, comprising the steps of: communicating a weight of the batch of plant fibres into a controller; delivering steam from a steam source, through a manifold, and into a container containing the batch of plant fibres; and controlling the period of time of steam delivery to the container in response to the weight of the batch of plant fibres.

The method may comprise the step of sensing the weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container using a weight sensor, and automatically communicating the sensed weight to the controller. Alternatively the method may comprise the step of inputting the weight of the batch of plant fibres into the controller via a user interface.

The method may comprise a step of calculating a period of time of steam delivery for the weight of the batch of plant fibres. Preferably this step is performed by a controller that is preprogrammed and calibrated to adjust steaming time based on the input weight of the batch of plant fibres.

The method preferably comprises the step of calculating the difference between the weight of the batch of plant fibres (either sensed or input via a user interface) and a reference weight. The method may also involve calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the actual weight and the reference weight, and adjusting a reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

The reference weight may be, for example, 2 kg, or 5 kg, or 7.5 kg, or 10 kg.

The reference steaming period may be, for example 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes, or 50 minutes, or 60 minutes.

The method may comprise the step of increasing the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is above a reference weight, and decreasing the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is below the reference weight.

The method may comprise the step of increasing the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period by a set increment for every 0.25 kg, or 0.5 kg, or 1 kg that the weight of the batch of plant fibres increase above a reference weight, and decreasing the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period by a set increment for every 0.25 kg, or 0.5 kg, or 1 kg that the weight of the batch of plant fibres drops below the reference weight. The method may comprise the step of heating the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and maintaining the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

In a preferred embodiment, the method may comprise the step of controlling the period of time of steam delivery based on the ambient temperature of the air outside the container, in addition to the weight of the batch of plant fibres.

The method may comprise the step of sensing the ambient temperature. Alternatively, the user may input the ambient temperature into the controller.

The method may comprise the step of consulting a look-up table of reference steaming periods vs weight of plant fibres. When the plant fibres are placed in the container and the weight of the batch of plant fibres is communicated to the controller, the controller may consult the look-up table to find the reference steaming period suitable for that weight of plant fibres.

In preferred embodiments, the controller may then optionally adjust the reference steaming period with reference to the sensed ambient temperature, as described above in relation to the first aspect, by calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and adjusting the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. Thus the controller may control steaming time to take into account both the weight of plant fibres and the ambient temperature.

The apparatus of the fourth aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a list of clauses setting out preferred features of the third and fourth aspects of the invention.

1 . An apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam to the interior of the container; a controller configured to receive a signal indicating the weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container, and to control steam delivery from the steam source to the container, in which the controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the weight of the plant fibres in the container. An apparatus according to clause 1 , in which the apparatus comprises a weight sensor for sensing a weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container; and the controller is configured to receive a signal from the weight sensor and to control steam delivery from the steam source to the container, in which the controller is configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the signal from the weight sensor. An apparatus according to clause 1 , in which the apparatus comprises a user interface via which a user can input the weight of the batch of plant fibres into the controller. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a reference steaming period when the weight of the batch of plant fibres is equal to a reference weight, to calculate the difference between the weight of the batch of plant fibres and the reference weight, to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the weight of the batch of plant fibres and the reference weight, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. An apparatus according to clause 4, in which the reference weight is 2 kg, or 5 kg, or 7.5 kg, or 10 kg. An apparatus according to clause 4 or 5, in which the reference steaming period is 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 30 minutes, or 40 minutes, or 50 minutes, or 60 minutes. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is above a reference weight, and to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is below the reference weight. An apparatus according to clause 7, in which the controller is programmed to increase the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period by a set increment for every 0.25 kg, or 0.5 kg, or 1 kg that the weight of the batch of plant fibres increase above a reference weight, and to decrease the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period by a set increment for every 0.25 kg, or 0.5 kg, or 1 kg that the weight of the batch of plant fibres drops below the reference weight. An apparatus according to clause 8, in which the set increment is a time period of 15 seconds, or 30 seconds, or 1 minute, or 2 minutes, or 3 minutes, or 5 minutes. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes. An apparatus according to clause 10, in which the target temperature is at least 90 °C, preferably in which the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C. An apparatus according to any of clauses 2 to 11 , in which the apparatus comprises a weight sensor configured to automatically weigh the plant fibres in the container and to input the sensed weight into the controller. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is programmed to consult a look-up table of reference steaming periods vs weight of plant fibres, and to select a reference steaming period assigned to the weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is additionally configured to control the period of time of steam delivery based on the ambient temperature of the air outside the container. An apparatus according to clause 14, in which the controller is programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a reference steaming period assigned to the weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container when the sensed ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature, to calculate the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and to adjust the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment. An apparatus according to clause 15, in which the reference ambient temperature is 10 °C, 15 °C, or 20 °C. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam source is a steam generator, and in which the apparatus comprises a steam generator for producing steam for delivery to a batch of plant fibres. An apparatus according to clause 17, in which the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. An apparatus according to clause 17 or 18, in which the steam generator is integrated into the container. An apparatus according to any of clauses 17, 18 or 19, in which the apparatus comprises a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and in which the controller is configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. An apparatus according to clause 20, in which the controller is programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level. An apparatus according to clause 20 or 21, in which the controller is programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls, and in which the cavity is insulated with polyurethane foam. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is formed from rotational moulded plastic, preferably rotational moulded polypropylene. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller comprises a programmable timer, and in which the controller is programmable to commence steam delivery at a selected start time, or to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. An apparatus according to clause 25, in which the controller is programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the controller is configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and in which the controller is programmed to alert the user to a descale requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached. An apparatus according to clause 27, in which the steam delivery condition is total steam delivery time, and in which the predetermined steam delivery condition is a predetermined total steam delivery time, or in which the steam delivery condition is a number of steaming cycles, and in which the predetermined steam delivery condition is a predetermined number of steaming cycles. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. An apparatus according to clause 29, wherein the underside of the lid comprises one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. An apparatus according to clause 29 or 30, in which the container comprises a handle for opening the lid; and wherein the lid comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. An apparatus according to clause 29, 30 or 31 , in which the lid is hinged to the container, and in which the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid and configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the apparatus comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. An apparatus according to clause 33, in which the removable condensation trap is received in a recess in the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. 35. An apparatus according to clause 33, in which the removable condensation trap is received underneath the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

36. A method of steaming a batch of plant fibres in a container, comprising the steps of: communicating a weight of the batch of plant fibres to a controller; delivering steam from a steam source, through a manifold, and into a container containing the batch of plant fibres; and controlling the period of time of steam delivery to the container in response to the weight of the batch of plant fibres.

37. A method according to clause 36, in which the step of communicating the weight of the batch of plant fibres to the controller comprises sensing the weight of the batch of plant fibres in the container using a weight sensor, and automatically communicating the sensed weight to the controller.

38. A method according to clause 36 or 37, comprising the step of the step of calculating the difference between the weight of the batch of plant fibres and a reference weight, calculating a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the actual weight and the reference weight, and adjusting a reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

39. A method according to clause 36, 37 or 38, comprising the step of increasing the period of steam delivery from a reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is above a reference weight, and/or decreasing the period of steam delivery from the reference steaming period if the weight of the batch of plant fibres is below the reference weight.

40. A method according to any of clauses 36 to 40, comprising the step of adjusting the period of time of steam delivery based on the ambient temperature of the air outside the container.

Fifth Aspect of the Invention

Timer Delay

According to a fifth aspect of the invention there may be provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising a container for a batch of plant fibres and a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source. The manifold may be adapted to deliver steam into the interior of the container for steaming the batch of plant fibres. The apparatus further comprises a controller which is configured to control steam delivery from the steam source to the container.

According to the fifth aspect of the invention, the controller comprises a programmable timer, and the controller is programmable to deliver steam at a selected time. ln one preferred embodiment the controller is programmable to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. The controller may alternatively or additionally be programmable to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time.

The apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may require operation at different periods throughout a day. The apparatus may not be conveniently located for a user to make multiple uses of the apparatus throughout the day. It may be convenient for a user to predetermine the end time of the steam delivery.

Delaying the start of the steam delivery may increase user convenience by allowing a user to delay the steam delivery so that the steam delivery may end at a time convenient for the user.

The controller may be programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours.

For example, the user may set a delay to the start of the steam delivery. The delay may be for a period of 1 hour, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or 20 hours.

Alternatively, the user may set a delay by setting the end time of the steam delivery. The controller may be configured to calculate the required start time from the user inputted end time.

Advantageously, the controller configured to delay the steam delivery according to a user input may conveniently allow a user to determine when the steam delivery will end to prevent the user needing to keep checking if the steam delivery is finished. Additionally this feature could allow the user to select a convenient finish time when they otherwise may not have been able to start the steam delivery. For example, the user may input a delay so that they can set up the apparatus for steaming in the evening and the plant fibre will be steamed the following morning, without requiring the user to attend the apparatus in the meantime. For example, at 6pm the user could set a 1 hour steam delivery cycle with a 12 hour time delay, so that the steam delivery cycle could start at 6am the following morning and conveniently end at 7am.

The apparatus of the fifth aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

Sixth Aspect of the Invention

Descale Warning

According to a sixth aspect of the invention an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam to a batch of plant fibres. It may further comprise a controller configured to control steam delivery from the steam source to the container.

In the sixth aspect, the controller may be configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and to alert the user to a maintenance requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached.

Steam treating plant fibres can use large amounts of hot water which is prone to cause limescale build-up on portions of apparatus that are in contact with water or steam. Over time, limescale build-up is likely to decrease the operational performance of the apparatus.

Alerting a user to a maintenance requirement allows the user to be informed when performance may start to be affected and alert the user that it is time for maintenance activities to be carried out.

The maintenance requirement may be that the apparatus requires descaling.

The controller may preferably be programmed to run the apparatus in a descale operation when directed by a user.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be total steam delivery time, such that the controller monitors how much time the steam generator has been operating and delivering steam. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined total steam delivery time.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be a number of steaming cycles, such that the controller monitors how many batches of plant fibres (steaming one batch of fibres being counted as one steaming cycle) have been steamed since the last descale operation. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined number of steaming cycles.

The apparatus of the sixth aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

Seventh Aspect of the Invention

Waste T ray According to a seventh aspect of the invention, an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a container for a batch of plant fibres in which the container is configured to contain steam during use. The apparatus may comprise a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam into the interior volume of a batch of plant fibres. The apparatus may further comprise a removable condensation trap, or condensation container, configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container.

During and after steam treatment of plant fibres, condensation is formed in the container from steam that has passed through the plant fibres and so may contain dust particles, fragments of plant fibres and other organic matter.

Advantageously, the apparatus may comprise a removable condensation trap, or waste water container. The condensation trap may be configured to collect condensed waste water. This waste water may contain dust particles. This waste water may be collected in a removable condensation trap to prevent a build-up of waste water in the apparatus. The condensation trap is removable also that a user can regularly remove and empty the waste container without a need to move the whole apparatus.

The removable condensation trap may comprise a one-way valve, such as a flexible diaphragm, that allows waste water to pass into the condensation trap, but prevents water flowing back out of the condensation trap. This may prevent spillages or leakage from occurring when the condensation trap is removed by a user.

The removable condensation container may be positioned substantially underneath the container. Waste water may pass into the waste collection container from a hole, valve, or pipe, from the bottom of the container into the condensation container. Advantageously, the condensation trap may be gravity fed from the plant fibre container, maximising the amount of waste water collected.

Alternatively, the condensation container may be positioned inside the container for plant fibres. The condensation container, or condensation trap, may be received in a recess in the base of the container. The base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. The condensation container may then be removable by the user only when the container for plant fibres is open. If the container for plant fibres comprises a lid, the waste collection container may only be removed by a user when the lid is open or off.

The removable condensation trap may be received underneath the base of the container. The base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

The container for plant fibres may further comprise drainage channels for channelling waste water to the condensation trap.

The apparatus of the seventh aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

Eighth Aspect of the Invention

Vapour Guide

According to a eighth aspect of the invention, an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a container for a batch of plant fibres, the container having a lid, in which the container is configured to contain steam during use. The apparatus may comprise a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam into the container to steam the batch of plant fibres.

According to the eighth aspect, the lid comprises one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense. The lid may comprise vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense in a plurality of condensation channels on the lid.

When steaming plant fibres the steam will eventually condense to water. In particular, the steam will condense in the batch of plant fibres and on surfaces such as container walls and the lower surface of the lid, which forms a ceiling of the container.

The vapour guides are preferably protrusions which protrude downwards from the lid. The presence of the protrusions on the underside of the lid may advantageously encourage condensation forming on the lid to run down the protrusions and drip down onto the plant fibres, rather than remaining on the underside of the lid until the lid is opened. Particularly preferably, the lid may comprise an array of vapour guide protrusions positioned across the underside of the lid, so that condensation is guided to drip onto the plant fibres evenly throughout the container.

The vapour guides may advantageously control the condensation of the steam and cause the steam to condensate evenly across the inner surface of the lid.

The apparatus of the eighth aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention. Ninth Aspect of the Invention

Apparatus for Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

Vapour Deflector

According to a ninth aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres. The apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a container for a batch of plant fibres, the container having an openable lid and a handle for opening the lid. The container may be configured to contain steam during use. The container may comprise a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened.

According to the ninth aspect of the invention, the apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a container for a batch of plant fibres, the container having an openable lid and a handle for opening the lid, and a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam into the interior of the container.

According to the ninth aspect, the lid may comprise a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened.

The apparatus is preferably an animal fodder steaming apparatus configured for steaming animal fodder in baled form, for example fodder compressed into bales, or held in nets, mesh bags or other steam-permeable receptacles. The apparatus is also suitable for steaming loose fodder.

In use, steam flows into the container to sterilize or clean a batch of plant fibres in the container. When the plant fibres have been steamed for a sufficiently long period to kill any pathogens in the fibres, the steam source is turned off, and the lid of the container is opened so that the steamed plant fibres can be removed.

Steam treating fibres involves high temperature steam, which escapes when a user opens the container by the lid. Additionally, the hot steam may have condensed and formed hot condensate on the inside of the lid.

The vapour deflector is configured to direct steam away from the handle, or from a portion of the lid. In particular the vapour deflector may guide vapour away from a portion of the lid that is touched by the user.

The vapour deflector may guide vapour away from a handle on the lid.

Advantageously, the vapour deflector prevents vapour or condensate accumulating near a portion of the lid that a user may touch, such as a handle, which protects the user from their hand being scalded by escape accumulated water vapour or condensate.

As steam is typically still present in the container when the steaming cycle ends and the lid of the container is opened, in prior art designs steam trapped under the lid has typically vented past the handle as soon as the lid begins to lift. This presents a safety risk to the user’s hands on the handle, as the venting steam may cause burns. By providing a vapour deflector that deflects steam away from the handle when the lid is lifted, the risk of harm to the user is significantly reduced. The vapour deflector is preferably positioned adjacent to the handle, between the handle and the interior of the container, and may take a variety of forms configured to direct steam trapped under the lid in directions away from the handle when the lid is lifted.

The vapour deflector is preferably mounted on the underside of the lid. Thus the vapour deflector will prevent steam from venting past the handle regardless of how quickly or slowly the lid is lifted away from the container.

The vapour deflector may be formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the handle. The position of this vapour deflector advantageously ensures that when the lid is opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle and scalding the user’s hand.

The vapour deflector may take a variety of forms, such as a ridge or barrier positioned between the handle and the interior of the container.

The lid may comprise one or more venting channels through which steam is vented when the lid is opened, in which the one or more venting channels are configured to direct venting steam away from the handle.

One side of the lid is preferably hinged to the container. The handle is positioned on the opposite side of the lid from the hinges. Thus when the handle is lifted to open the hinged lid, steam is inclined to vent first on the raised side of the lid. The vapour deflector therefore stops the steam from venting past the handle.

The apparatus may comprise a plurality of handles. In that case, the apparatus may preferably comprise one or more vapour deflectors configured to direct steam away from all of the handles when the lid is opened.

The container is preferably a thermoplastic moulded container, and preferably comprises a thermoplastic moulded lid which together define an interior volume into which a batch of plant fibres may be placed.

The vapour deflector is preferably a moulded portion of the lid. The vapour deflector may be moulded integrally with the lid to simplify the construction of the apparatus.

The vapour deflector is preferably configured to fit inside the container when the lid is closed.

The vapour deflector is preferably a ridge that protrudes downwards from the lid. The vapour deflector preferably protrudes downwards from the lid by at least 3 cm, or 5 cm, or 7 cm. This may advantageously be large enough to prevent steam from venting under the vapour deflector and scalding a user’s hand on the handle.

The vapour deflector may be a ridge that protrudes upwards from a rim of the container. The vapour deflector may for example protrude upwards from the rim of the container by at least 3 cm, or 5 cm, or 7 cm. This may advantageously be large enough to prevent steam from venting over the vapour deflector when the lid is first cracked open, and scalding a user’s hand on the handle.

Container

The apparatus comprises a container configured to contain, in use, the batch of plant fibres. For example, the container may be a box or chest in which the interior volume of the box defines the container for the plant fibres.

The container advantageously confines the steam during steaming, enabling the plant fibres to reach a higher temperature and/or humidity more quickly than would be possible outside a container.

The container is preferably thermally insulated. This advantageously improves the thermal efficiency of the apparatus by reducing heat loss from the container. The container may be moulded from polypropylene. The container may be thermally insulated with polyurethane. The polyurethane may be polyurethane foam. Preferably, the container may be thermally insulated with at least one of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or expanded polypropylene (EPP). The container is preferably a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls. Preferably the cavity is filled with an insulating material. Particularly preferably the cavity is filled with at least one of polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene.

The container is preferably formed from moulded plastic, particularly preferably from rotational or injection moulded polypropylene.

The container may be sealable in a gas-tight configuration, so that steam pressure inside the container can be increased above atmospheric pressure. The container may be sealable to prevent steam from escaping during use and to improve temperature build up within the container.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and the controller may be configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. The controller may preferably be programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level, so that the low water level warning light alerts a user to add more water to the steam generator. The controller may be programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. Preferably the predetermined low water level is higher than the predetermined minimum water level, so that the user is alerted to the need to add water before the minimum water level is reached.

Condensation Control

The container preferably has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. The lid is preferably hinged to the container for opening, and the lid preferably has a handle for opening the lid.

The underside of the lid may preferably comprise one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. The vapour guides are preferably protrusions which protrude downwards from the lid. The presence of the protrusions on the underside of the lid may advantageously encourage condensation forming on the lid to run down the protrusions and drip down onto the plant fibres, rather than remaining on the underside of the lid until the lid is opened. Particularly preferably, the lid may comprise an array of vapour guide protrusions positioned across the underside of the lid, so that condensation is guided to drip onto the plant fibres evenly throughout the container.

The lid is preferably hinged to the container. In some prior art designs, this has meant that when the lid is opened, condensation on the underside of the lid runs towards the hinges and flows off the lid and onto the floor outside the container. This causes a mess and a potential slipping hazard. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid, which is configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. The condensation guide may take the form of a curved or ramped portion on the underside of the lid, shaped so that condensation running down the lid towards the hinges hits the condensation guide before the hinges, and is directed into the interior of the container.

The apparatus preferably comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. The removable condensation trap may be received in a recess in the base of the container, with the base of the container configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. Alternatively the removable condensation trap may be received underneath the base of the container, and the base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

During and after steam treatment of plant fibres, condensation is formed in the container from steam that has passed through the plant fibres and so may contain dust particles, fragments of plant fibres and other organic matter.

Advantageously, the apparatus may comprise a removable condensation trap, or waste water container. The condensation trap may be configured to collect condensed waste water. This waste water may contain dust particles. This waste water may be collected in a removable condensation trap to prevent a build-up of waste water in the apparatus. The condensation trap is removable also that a user can regularly remove and empty the waste container without a need to move the whole apparatus.

The removable condensation trap may comprise a one-way valve, such as a flexible diaphragm, that allows waste water to pass into the condensation trap, but prevents water flowing back out of the condensation trap. This may prevent spillages or leakage from occurring when the condensation trap is removed by a user.

The removable condensation container may be positioned substantially underneath the container. Waste water may pass into the waste collection container from a hole, valve, or pipe, from the bottom of the container into the condensation container. Advantageously, the condensation trap may be gravity fed from the plant fibre container, maximising the amount of waste water collected.

Alternatively, the condensation container may be positioned inside the container for plant fibres. The base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. The condensation container may then be removable by the user only when the container for plant fibres is open. If the container for plant fibres comprises a lid, the waste collection container may only be removed by a user when the lid is open or off.

The container for plant fibres may further comprise drainage channels for channelling waste water to the condensation trap.

The “plant fibres” steamable with the apparatus may be animal fodder, such as hay or haylage, straw or alfalfa. Alternatively, the plant fibres may be industrial fibres such as industrial hemp. In a preferred embodiment, the plant fibres may be selected from a group consisting of animal fodder or industrial hemp. Thus, the apparatus may be an apparatus for steam treating animal fodder, or an apparatus for steam treating industrial hemp.

A batch of plant fibres may, for example, include plant fibres in baled form, for example plant fibres compressed into bales, or plant fibres held in nets, mesh bags or other containers or receptacles.

The apparatus is preferably formed from a strong and heat resistant material, such as stainless steel, other metals or synthetic plastics material, which is able to withstand temperatures in excess of 110°C.

The size of the manifold may be chosen to correspond to the capacity of the container, and therefore the volume of plant fibres the apparatus is configured to steam. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of manifolds.

Ideally, the apparatus includes a heater which has an immersion element and is adapted for use with either 240 Volts or 110 Volts. The heater generates steam in the well-known manner.

The apparatus of the ninth aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a list of clauses setting out preferred features of the ninth aspect of the invention. An apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres, the container having an openable lid and a handle for opening the lid; in which the container is configured to contain steam during use, and in which the container comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. An apparatus according to clause 1 in which the vapour deflector is mounted on the underside of the lid. An apparatus according to clause 1 or 2, in which the vapour deflector is positioned between the handle and the interior of the container. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the lid comprises one or more venting channels through which steam is vented when the lid is opened, in which the one or more venting channels are configured to direct venting steam away from the handle. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which one side of the lid is hinged to the container. An apparatus according to clause 5, in which the handle is positioned on the opposite side of the lid from the hinges. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, wherein the underside of the lid comprises one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the lid is hinged to the container, and in which the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid and configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the vapour deflector is a moulded portion of the lid. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the vapour deflector is configured to fit inside the container when the lid is closed. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the vapour deflector is a ridge that protrudes downwards from the lid. An apparatus according to clause 11, in which the vapour deflector protrudes downwards from the lid by at least 3 cm, or 5 cm, or 7 cm. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the vapour deflector is a ridge that protrudes upwards from a rim of the container. An apparatus according to clause 13, in which the vapour deflector protrudes upwards from the rim of the container by at least 3 cm, or 5 cm, or 7 cm. Tenth Aspect of the Invention

Condensation Guide

According to a tenth aspect of the invention, an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a container for a batch of plant fibres, the container having a lid, in which the container is configured to contain steam during use. The apparatus may comprise a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from a steam source and to deliver steam into the interior of the container.

According to the tenth aspect, the lid comprises a condensation guide which is configured to guide condensed steam (water condensation) from the lid into the container when the lid is opened.

After steam has passed through the plant fibres during steaming it may come into contact with an inner surface of the lid. When coming into contact with the inner surface of the lid the steam may condense, so when a steaming cycle ends there is typically condensation on the underside of the lid. In prior art designs, when the lid is opened by a user, condensate on the inner surface of the lid drips out of off the lid and onto surrounding surfaces, such as the floor.

The use of a condensation guide may advantageously prevent the condensate from dripping outside of the container. The condensation guide may direct the condensate to fall within the container. The condensation guide minimises or eliminates condensate dripping off of the inner surface of the lid onto the floor. This makes the apparatus more convenient for the user because the user may otherwise have to clean up water drips and puddles on the floor. A puddle on the floor near to the apparatus could pose a safety hazards. A puddle could pose a slip hazard.

Preferably, the lid is hinged to the container. In some prior art designs, when a hinged lid is opened, condensation on the underside of the lid runs towards the hinges and flows off the lid and onto the floor outside of the container. This causes a mess and a potential slipping hazard. The condensation guide may be positioned on the hinged side of the lid and configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened.

Preferably the apparatus comprises a condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. The condensation guide may preferably be configured to direct condensation into the container and towards the condensation trap for collection. The apparatus of the tenth aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

Eleventh Aspect of the Invention

Heating Element

According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres may comprise a steam generator for producing steam for delivery to a batch of plant fibres, in which the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. The apparatus may further comprise a container for the batch of plant fibres and a steam manifold that is adapted to receive steam from the steam generator and to deliver steam into the container to steam the batch of plant fibres.

Apparatus for steam treating plant fibres should be long-lasting and sturdy to withstand frequent use and to minimize user inconvenience caused by faults or breakages. The elevated temperatures and large amounts of water make the apparatus and its components prone to limescale build-up, which can cause a number of problems. In particular, the immersion heating element of the steam generator can become degraded after frequent use due to a build-up of scale.

A titanium heating element has a longer operational lifetime than the typical heating element for use in steam generators, for example those used to generate steam in prior art plant fibre steaming devices. Additionally, a titanium heating element is more resistant than other metals to limescale build-up even in hard water conditions.

The apparatus of the eleventh aspect of the invention may also have any of the features described in relation to any other aspect of the invention.

Twelfth Aspect of the Invention

Apparatus and Method for Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

Integrally Moulded Boiler

According to a twelfth aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; a steam generator reservoir configured to contain water; and a heating element in the steam generator reservoir, for forming steam in the steam generator reservoir; in which the steam generator reservoir is moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container.

The apparatus is preferably an animal fodder steaming apparatus configured for steaming animal fodder in baled form, for example fodder compressed into bales, or held in nets, mesh bags or other steam-permeable receptacles. The apparatus is also suitable for steaming loose fodder.

In the prior art, steam generators have typically been provided as separate units which were connected to steamer containers via a pipe or an insulated hose. A downside of such designs, however, is that steam travelling from the steam generator to the container loses heat and pressure, reducing the efficiency of the device.

The steam generator reservoir is preferably a recess moulded into a base of the container. Alternatively the reservoir may be formed from one or more reservoir walls moulded to project out of the walls or base of the container, which form a reservoir in which water may be held.

By providing the steam generator reservoir as a recess moulded integrally with the container itself, the present invention conveniently eliminates the need for a separate boiler unit. As it is often necessary to transport steaming apparatuses, particularly steamers for animal fodder, the provision of the steam generator and the container as an integral unit is significantly more convenient than prior designs.

In the prior art, boiler units have occasionally been positioned inside steaming containers, with the boiler units either sitting on the floor of the container, or screwed or bolted to the inside of the container itself. However, moulding the steam generator together with the container itself provides some significant benefits over these prior art devices. Moulding the reservoir as an integral part of the container base or walls advantageously reduces the number of separate components forming the apparatus by eliminating the need for a separate water container. This reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies assembly, and improves the reliability and robustness of the apparatus. There is no need for hoses to connect the steam generator to the container, and also no need for corrosion-susceptible screws or bolts to connect the reservoir to the container.

Forming the steam generator reservoir by moulding the reservoir as part of the container walls or base also has benefits with respect to energy efficiency, as the container walls and base are preferably insulated. This insulation thus benefits the water contained in the reservoir, reducing heat loss as the water is heated and evaporated to steam.

Another benefit of the integral moulding of the steam generator reservoir with the container is improved safety. In prior designs, boiler units were provided separately, typically with the electrical controls mounted on the boiler unit, so in the event of a dangerous pressure build-up in the boiler, or a leak in the system, there may be an increased risk of injury to the user, as hot water or steam could escape from the boiler unit or hose and hit a user. With the steam generator moulded into the container itself, however, all hot water and steam are safely contained within the container at all times. Thus the risk of the user coming into contact with steam or hot water by accident are greatly reduced.

By providing the steam generator and the manifold in the same housing, the distance that steam must travel between the steam generator and the manifold may be reduced or minimised. This may advantageously allow steam to be delivered to the lances at a higher pressure and/or temperature than is possible with a “remote” steam generator, as the steam does not have time to cool down, lose pressure and condense as it travels through piping from the steam generator.

The steam generator is preferably configured to deliver steam to the lances at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, for example at least 1.2 bar, or at least 1.4 bar, or at least 1.6 bar, or at least 2 bar.

By delivering steam at a raised pressure, the plant fibres may be heatable more quickly, with less time for moisture to condense in the plant fibres during steaming.

The container is preferably a thermoplastic moulded container, and preferably comprises a thermoplastic moulded lid which together define an interior volume into which a batch of plant fibres may be placed.

The steam generator reservoir is preferably a recess moulded into a base of the container.

The apparatus preferably comprises a manifold configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through a plurality of steam inlets.

The manifold may be a manifold plate configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator. The manifold plate may be configured to fit over the steam generator reservoir to form a ceiling between the reservoir below, and the interior of the container above. In use, the manifold plate therefore separates the water in the steam generator reservoir from the plant fibres being steamed in the container.

The manifold plate may comprise a plurality of holes acting as steam inlets through which steam may pass from the steam generator into the interior of the container. The manifold plate preferably forms a removable lid of the steam generator reservoir, to allow easy re-filling of the reservoir with water.

By providing the manifold as a ceiling, or lid, of the steam generator itself, the distance which the steam must travel to reach the plant fibres is significantly reduced or minimised. Advantageously there may be no tubing or pipework between the steam generator reservoir and the interior of the container, in which the plant fibres are contained.

In use, the batch of plant fibres to be steamed are preferably placed on top of the manifold plate, so that steam passing from the steam generator reservoir upwards through the steam inlets in the manifold plate contacts the plant fibres and permeates upwards and throughout the plant fibres contained in the interior volume of the container.

The manifold plate of the present invention is advantageously significantly simplified compared to the manifolds used in the prior art, which typically comprised opposing metal plates bolted together to form passageways for steam in channels formed between the plates.

The manifold plate is preferably formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel, or the manifold plate may be formed from plastic.

In some preferred embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances. The steam manifold may be adapted to receive steam from the steam source and to distribute steam to the plurality of lances. The plurality of lances may be configured to deliver steam into the interior volume of a batch of plant fibres, this may advantageously ensure that there is an even distribution of steam throughout the volume of the batch plant fibres. This may ensure that the humidity and temperature of the plant fibres as a whole is raised to a desired level.

The steam inlets may optionally be formed as holes straight through the manifold plate, such that steam travels from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container by passing through the holes. A pressure drop may be created between the reservoir and the interior of the container by selecting a preferred number of holes and size of holes.

In some embodiments, the manifold may comprise one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator.

The heating element may be an immersion heating element. Electrical wiring connecting the heating element to an electrical plug, or to a power supply, is preferably run inside the walls of the container.

In preferred embodiments, the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. Titanium metal may advantageously be more resistant to build-up of limescale than other metals conventionally used as heating elements. The titanium heating element may advantageously have a longer operational lifetime and can withstand the higher scale levels often found in stables and yards where animal fodder is typically steamed.

Preferably the steam generator reservoir is formed as a recess in the base of the container, and the manifold plate is configured so that when the manifold plate is in position over the reservoir, the top surface of the manifold plate is positioned flush with the base of the container. By positioning the manifold plate so that its top surface sits flush with the bottom surface of the interior of the container, the manifold plate effectively forms part of a floor of the interior of the container. This advantageously prevents hay, fungi and bacteria build up inside the apparatus. The positioning of the manifold plate in the floor of the container provides a smooth and accessible floor of the container, which is extremely easy for a user to clean. This improves the hygiene of the apparatus by eliminating inaccessible areas where residue (such as waste water and remnants of steamed plant fibres) can accumulate in damp conditions.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the apparatus may comprise more than one steam generator reservoir. For example, one container may comprise two or more steam generator reservoirs moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container. Particularly preferably, the apparatus may comprise two or more steam generator reservoirs moulded into the base of the container. Each steam generator reservoir may preferably be moulded as a separate recess in the base of the container. Preferably each recess extends below a floor level of the container, though in alternative embodiments reservoir walls may be moulded to project upwardly from the floor of the container. A separate heating element may be provided in each steam generator reservoir.

This embodiment may be particularly advantageous for scaling up the steaming capacity for larger-volume containers, as the steaming capacity can be increased by adding additional steam generator reservoirs rather than increasing the water capacity of the one and only reservoir, which may lead to the heating element struggling to heat the increased volume of water. By providing multiple steam generator reservoirs moulded into the container, the water capacity of each reservoir may be configured to contain a volume of water that the heating elements can efficiently heat and boil.

Controller

The apparatus preferably comprises a controller configured to control the delivery of steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations.

The user interface may display information on the steam delivery. For example, the user interface may display an estimated steam delivery finish time. The user interface may display the progressed time of the steam delivery, for example it may display a progress bar. The user interface may display the time remaining of the steam delivery.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller comprises a programmable timer. The controller may be programmable to commence steam delivery at a selected start time, and/or to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. When the controller is programmed to finish steaming at a selected finish time, it calculates the start time required and automatically commences steaming at the appropriate start time.

The timer may advantageously allow the user to pre-load the container with plant fibres, and to program the apparatus to steam the plant fibres at a later time, so that the plant fibres are freshly steamed when required. This is more convenient for the user, as they no longer need to wait for the steaming cycle to take place. The high temperature and moisture level in the container following steaming means that it is preferable that plant fibres are not left for long periods in the container after steaming has finished, so by selecting a convenient finish time this can be avoided.

The controller and timer may be programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours.

In some preferred embodiments, the controller may be configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and to alert the user to a maintenance requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached.

Preferably the maintenance requirement is a descale requirement, so the controller may alert the user when it is necessary to descale the apparatus to remove limescale build-up. The controller may preferably be programmed to run the apparatus in a descale operation when directed by a user.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be total steam delivery time, such that the controller monitors how much time the steam generator has been operating and delivering steam. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined total steam delivery time.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be a number of steaming cycles, such that the controller monitors how many batches of plant fibres (steaming one batch of fibres being counted as one steaming cycle) have been steamed since the last descale operation. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined number of steaming cycles.

Container

The apparatus comprises a container configured to contain, in use, the batch of plant fibres. For example, the container may be a box or chest in which the interior volume of the box defines the container for the plant fibres.

The container advantageously confines the steam during steaming, enabling the plant fibres to reach a higher temperature and/or humidity more quickly than would be possible outside a container.

The container is preferably thermally insulated. This advantageously improves the thermal efficiency of the apparatus by reducing heat loss from the container. The container may be moulded from polypropylene. The container may be thermally insulated with polyurethane. The polyurethane may be polyurethane foam. Preferably, the container is thermally insulated with expanded polystyrene (EPS), or expanded polypropylene (EPP).

The container is preferably a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls. Preferably the cavity is filled with an insulating material. Particularly preferably the cavity is filled with at least one of polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene.

The container, and therefore also the walls and floor of the integrally moulded reservoir, is preferably formed from moulded plastic, particularly preferably from rotational or injection moulded polypropylene. The container and the reservoir are preferably formed at the same time, in the same plastic moulding process.

The container may be sealable in a gas-tight configuration, so that steam pressure inside the container can be increased above atmospheric pressure. The container may be sealable to prevent steam from escaping during use and to improve temperature build up within the container.

The container may be sealed by a lid, preferably a hinged lid that is openable to place plant fibres into the container, and to remove plant fibres from the container.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and the controller may be configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. The controller may preferably be programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level, so that the low water level warning light alerts a user to add more water to the steam generator. The controller may be programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. Preferably the predetermined low water level is higher than the predetermined minimum water level, so that the user is alerted to the need to add water before the minimum water level is reached.

Condensation Control

The container preferably has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. The lid is preferably hinged to the container for opening, and the lid preferably has a handle for opening the lid.

The underside of the lid may preferably comprise one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. The vapour guides are preferably protrusions which protrude downwards from the lid. The presence of the protrusions on the underside of the lid may advantageously encourage condensation forming on the lid to run down the protrusions and drip down onto the plant fibres, rather than remaining on the underside of the lid until the lid is opened. Particularly preferably, the lid may comprise an array of vapour guide protrusions positioned across the underside of the lid, so that condensation is guided to drip onto the plant fibres evenly throughout the container.

Preferably the container comprises a handle for opening the lid, and the lid comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. As steam is typically still present in the container when the steaming cycle ends and the lid of the container is opened, in prior art designs steam trapped under the lid has typically vented past the handle as soon as the lid begins to lift. This presents a safety risk to the user’s hands on the handle, as the venting steam may cause burns. By providing a vapour deflector that deflects steam away from the handle when the lid is lifted, the risk of harm to the user is significantly reduced. The vapour deflector is preferably positioned adjacent to the handle, between the handle and the interior of the container, and may take a variety of forms configured to direct steam trapped under the lid in directions away from the handle when the lid is lifted.

The lid is preferably hinged to the container. In some prior art designs, this has meant that when the lid is opened, condensation on the underside of the lid runs towards the hinges and flows off the lid and onto the floor outside the container. This causes a mess and a potential slipping hazard. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid, which is configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. The condensation guide may take the form of a curved or ramped portion on the underside of the lid, shaped so that condensation running down the lid towards the hinges hits the condensation guide before the hinges, and is directed into the interior of the container.

The apparatus preferably comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. The removable condensation trap may be received in a recess in the base of the container, with the base of the container configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. Alternatively the removable condensation trap may be received underneath the base of the container, and the base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

During and after steam treatment of plant fibres, condensation is formed in the container from steam that has passed through the plant fibres and so may contain dust particles, fragments of plant fibres and other organic matter.

Advantageously, the apparatus may comprise a removable condensation trap, or waste water container. The condensation trap may be configured to collect condensed waste water. This waste water may contain dust particles. This waste water may be collected in a removable condensation trap to prevent a build-up of waste water in the apparatus. The condensation trap is removable also that a user can regularly remove and empty the waste container without a need to move the whole apparatus.

The removable condensation trap may comprise a one-way valve, such as a flexible diaphragm, that allows waste water to pass into the condensation trap, but prevents water flowing back out of the condensation trap. This may prevent spillages or leakage from occurring when the condensation trap is removed by a user.

The removable condensation container may be positioned substantially underneath the container. Waste water may pass into the waste collection container from a hole, valve, or pipe, from the bottom of the container into the condensation container. Advantageously, the condensation trap may be gravity fed from the plant fibre container, maximising the amount of waste water collected.

Alternatively, the condensation container may be positioned inside the container for plant fibres. The base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. The condensation container may then be removable by the user only when the container for plant fibres is open. If the container for plant fibres comprises a lid, the waste collection container may only be removed by a user when the lid is open or off.

The container for plant fibres may further comprise drainage channels for channeling waste water to the condensation trap. The base of the container may optionally comprise a drainage channel surrounding the steam generator reservoir, at a lower level than the top surface of the steam generator reservoir, and the container walls may preferably be configured to direct condensation and waste water into the drainage channel.

The “plant fibres” steamable with the apparatus may be animal fodder, such as hay or haylage, straw or alfalfa. Alternatively, the plant fibres may be industrial fibres such as industrial hemp. In a preferred embodiment, the plant fibres may be selected from a group consisting of animal fodder or industrial hemp. Thus, the apparatus may be an apparatus for steam treating animal fodder, or an apparatus for steam treating industrial hemp. A batch of plant fibres may, for example, include plant fibres in baled form, for example plant fibres compressed into bales, or plant fibres held in nets, mesh bags or other containers or receptacles.

The apparatus is preferably formed from a strong and heat resistant material, such as stainless steel, other metals or synthetic plastics material, which is able to withstand temperatures in excess of 110°C.

The size of the manifold may be chosen to correspond to the capacity of the container, and therefore the volume of plant fibres the apparatus is configured to steam. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of manifolds.

Ideally, the apparatus includes a heater which has an immersion element and is adapted for use with either 240 Volts or 110 Volts. The heater generates steam in the well-known manner.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a list of clauses setting out preferred features of the twelfth aspect of the invention.

1. An apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; a steam generator reservoir configured to contain water; and a heating element in the steam generator reservoir, for forming steam in the steam generator reservoir; in which the steam generator reservoir is moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container.

2. An apparatus according to clause 1 , in which the steam generator reservoir is a recess moulded into a base of the container.

3. An apparatus according to clause 1 or 2, in which the apparatus comprises a manifold configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through a plurality of steam inlets.

4. An apparatus according to clause 3, in which the manifold is a manifold plate configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator.

5. An apparatus according to clause 3 or 4, in which the manifold is a manifold plate comprising a plurality of holes which form steam inlets through which steam passes from the steam generator reservoir into the interior of the container.

6. An apparatus according to clause 4 or 5 in which the manifold plate is formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the apparatus comprises a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the manifold comprises one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam generator reservoir is formed as a recess in the base of the container, and in which the manifold plate is configured to sit over the reservoir, with the top surface of the manifold plate positioned flush with the base of the container. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam manifold plate forms a removable lid of the steam generator reservoir. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is a doublewalled container comprising a cavity between the two walls, and in which the cavity is insulated with polyurethane foam. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container and the steam generator reservoir are formed from rotational moulded plastic, preferably rotational moulded polypropylene. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the base of the container comprises a drainage channel surrounding the steam generator reservoir, at a lower level than the top surface of the steam generator reservoir, and in which the container walls are configured to direct condensation and waste water into the drainage channel. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the apparatus comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. An apparatus according to clause 15, in which the removable condensation trap is received in a recess in the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. An apparatus according to clause 15, in which the removable condensation trap is received underneath the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base. A method of manufacturing an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, comprising the steps of: forming a container with a recess moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container, the recess forming a steam generator reservoir configured to contain water; and providing a heating element in the steam generator reservoir.

19. A method according to clause 18, comprising the step of providing a manifold plate configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through a plurality of steam inlets.

20. A method according to clause 18 or 19, in which the steam generator reservoir is a recess moulded into a base of the container, and the manifold plate is configured to fit over the reservoir to form a ceiling of the steam generator.

Thirteenth Aspect of the Invention

Apparatus for Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; a steam generator reservoir configured to contain water; and a manifold comprising a plurality of steam inlets, the manifold being configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through the plurality of steam inlets; in which the manifold is positioned over the steam generator reservoir, so that water condensing in the manifold, or in the steam inlets, drains into the steam generator reservoir.

The steam generator reservoir is preferably provided in a base of the container, for example as a recess moulded integrally with the walls or base of the container. Alternatively the reservoir may be formed from one or more reservoir walls moulded to project out of the walls or base of the container, which form a reservoir in which water may be held.

The apparatus is preferably an animal fodder steaming apparatus configured for steaming animal fodder in baled form, for example fodder compressed into bales, or held in nets, mesh bags or other steam-permeable receptacles. The apparatus is also suitable for steaming loose fodder.

In the prior art, steam generators have typically been provided as separate units which were connected to steamer containers via a pipe or an insulated hose. A downside of such designs, however, is that steam travelling from the steam generator to the container loses heat and pressure, reducing the efficiency of the device.

As the manifold is provided above the steam generator, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the opportunity to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms.

This arrangement also eliminates the need for a hose to connect the steam generator to the interior of the container. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particular between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

By positioning the manifold over, or above, the steam generator reservoir, the present invention ensures that water condensing in the steam inlets, or elsewhere in the manifold, naturally drains back into the steam generator reservoir.

When temperatures reach sub-zero degrees, the tubing and manifold constructions used in the prior art can contain condensation water from previous steam cycles that freezes and clogs the path of steam from the generator to the container. The result is the build-up of pressure within the steam generator reservoir, and as soon as the ice melts and the blockage disappears, steam pressure is suddenly released out of the system. This can occur either at the overpressure valve or suddenly from the manifold when a user suspects a non-functioning apparatus and tries to investigate. Wherever in the apparatus this occurs, there is a high safety risk to the user. By positioning the manifold directly over the steam generator reservoir, the present invention ensures that condensation water drains completely back into the boiler compartment, preventing clogging of the steam pathway. This invention therefore delivers the highest possible safety for the user in sub-zero conditions.

By providing the steam generator in or on a base of the container itself, the present invention conveniently eliminates the need for a separate boiler unit. As it is often necessary to transport steaming apparatuses, particularly steamers for animal fodder, the provision of the steam generator and the container as an integral unit is significantly more convenient than prior designs.

In the prior art, boiler units have occasionally been positioned inside steaming containers, with the boiler units either sitting on the floor of the container, or screwed or bolted to the inside of the container itself. However, moulding the steam generator together with the container itself provides some significant benefits over these prior art devices. Moulding the reservoir as an integral part of the container base or walls advantageously reduces the number of separate components forming the apparatus by eliminating the need for a separate water container. This reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies assembly, and improves the reliability and robustness of the apparatus. There is no need for hoses to connect the steam generator to the container, and also no need for corrosion-susceptible screws or bolts to connect the reservoir to the container.

Locating the steam generator reservoir in the container base also has benefits with respect to energy efficiency, as the container walls and base are preferably insulated. This insulation thus benefits the water contained in the reservoir, reducing heat loss as the water is heated and evaporated to steam.

Another benefit of the position of the steam generator reservoir in the container is improved safety. In prior designs, boiler units were provided separately, typically with the electrical controls mounted on the boiler unit, so in the event of a dangerous pressure build-up in the boiler, or a leak in the system, there may be an increased risk of injury to the user, as hot water or steam could escape from the boiler unit or hose and hit a user. With the steam generator in the container itself, however, all hot water and steam are safely contained within the container at all times. Thus the risk of the user coming into contact with steam or hot water by accident are greatly reduced.

By providing the manifold directly over the steam generator reservoir, the distance that steam must travel between the steam generator and the manifold may be reduced or minimised. This may advantageously allow steam to be delivered to the steam inlets at a higher pressure and/or temperature than is possible with a “remote” steam generator, as the steam does not have time to cool down, lose pressure and condense as it travels through piping from the steam generator.

The steam generator is preferably configured to deliver steam to the lances at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, for example at least 1.2 bar, or at least 1 .4 bar, or at least 1 .6 bar, or at least 2 bar.

By delivering steam at a raised pressure, the plant fibres may be heatable more quickly, with less time for moisture to condense in the plant fibres during steaming.

The container is preferably a thermoplastic moulded container, and preferably comprises a thermoplastic moulded lid which together define an interior volume into which a batch of plant fibres may be placed.

The manifold may be a manifold plate configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator. The manifold plate may be configured to fit over the steam generator reservoir to form a ceiling between the reservoir below, and the interior of the container above. . In use, the manifold plate therefore separates the water in the steam generator reservoir from the plant fibres being steamed in the container.

The manifold or the steam generator reservoir may comprise a seal configured to fit between the manifold plate and the reservoir walls when the manifold plate is in position. The seal may advantageously ensure that the manifold plate forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the holes in the manifold plate.

The manifold plate may comprise a plurality of holes acting as steam inlets through which steam may pass from the steam generator into the interior of the container.

The manifold plate preferably forms a removable lid of the steam generator reservoir, to allow easy re-filling of the reservoir with water. By providing the manifold as a ceiling, or lid, of the steam generator itself, the distance which the steam must travel to reach the plant fibres is significantly reduced or minimised. Advantageously there may be no tubing or pipework between the steam generator reservoir and the interior of the container, in which the plant fibres are contained.

In use, the batch of plant fibres to be steamed are preferably placed on top of the manifold plate, so that steam passing from the steam generator reservoir upwards through the steam inlets in the manifold plate contacts the plant fibres and permeates upwards and throughout the plant fibres contained in the interior volume of the container.

The manifold plate of the present invention is advantageously significantly simplified compared to the manifolds used in the prior art, which typically comprised opposing metal plates bolted together to form passageways for steam in channels formed between the plates.

The manifold plate is preferably formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel, or the manifold plate may be formed from plastic.

In some preferred embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances. The steam manifold may be adapted to receive steam from the steam source and to distribute steam to the plurality of lances. The plurality of lances may be configured to deliver steam into the interior volume of a batch of plant fibres, this may advantageously ensure that there is an even distribution of steam throughout the volume of the batch plant fibres. This may ensure that the humidity and temperature of the plant fibres as a whole is raised to a desired level.

The lances are preferably hollow, with a passage defined therethrough through which steam may pass. The lances are preferably attached to, or mountable on, the manifold plate in an upright configuration, so that the lances protrude vertically upwards from the manifold plate. Thus, any water that condenses inside the passages is naturally inclined to drain downwards, back out of the lances, through the manifold plate and into the steam generator reservoir below the manifold.

The steam inlets may optionally be formed as holes straight through the manifold plate, such that steam travels from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container by passing through the holes. A pressure drop may be created between the reservoir and the interior of the container by selecting a preferred number of holes and size of holes. As the manifold plate is positioned above the steam generator reservoir, the holes are located directly above the reservoir, and any condensation forming in the holes naturally drips downwards into the reservoir.

In some embodiments, the manifold may comprise one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator.

The steam generator preferably comprises a heating element for heating water in the steam generator reservoir. The heating element may be an immersion heating element. Electrical wiring connecting the heating element to an electrical plug, or to a power supply, is preferably run inside the walls of the container.

In alternative embodiments, the apparatus may comprise no valves to control the flow of steam through the manifold. For example the apparatus may comprise no valves between the steam generator reservoir and the steam inlets in the manifold, through which steam flows into the container. By eliminating all valves in the manifold (or in pipework leading to the manifold), the present invention prevents condensation from becoming trapped in or near the valve, which could freeze in cold weather. Removing valves from the manifold also allows water condensing in the steam inlets to drain into the steam generator reservoir. ln preferred embodiments, the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. Titanium metal may advantageously be more resistant to build-up of limescale than other metals conventionally used as heating elements. The titanium heating element may advantageously have a longer operational lifetime and can withstand the higher scale levels often found in stables and yards where animal fodder is typically steamed, double-wall formed from moulded

Preferably the steam generator reservoir is formed as a recess in the base of the container, and the manifold plate is configured so that when the manifold plate is in position over the reservoir, the top surface of the manifold plate is positioned flush with the base of the container. By positioning the manifold plate so that its top surface sits flush with the bottom surface of the interior of the container, the manifold plate effectively forms part of a floor of the interior of the container. This advantageously prevents hay, fungi and bacteria build up inside the apparatus. The positioning of the manifold plate in the floor of the container provides a smooth and accessible floor of the container, which is extremely easy for a user to clean. This improves the hygiene of the apparatus by eliminating inaccessible areas where residue (such as waste water and remnants of steamed plant fibres) can accumulate in damp conditions.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the apparatus may comprise more than one steam generator reservoir. For example, one container may comprise two or more steam generator reservoirs moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container. Particularly preferably, the apparatus may comprise two or more steam generator reservoirs moulded into the base of the container. Each steam generator reservoir may preferably be moulded as a separate recess in the base of the container. Preferably each recess extends below a floor level of the container, though in alternative embodiments reservoir walls may be moulded to project upwardly from the floor of the container. A separate heating element may be provided in each steam generator reservoir.

This embodiment may be particularly advantageous for scaling up the steaming capacity for larger-volume containers, as the steaming capacity can be increased by adding additional steam generator reservoirs rather than increasing the water capacity of the one and only reservoir, which may lead to the heating element struggling to heat the increased volume of water. By providing multiple steam generator reservoirs moulded into the container, the water capacity of each reservoir may be configured to contain a volume of water that the heating elements can efficiently heat and boil.

Controller

The apparatus preferably comprises a controller configured to control the delivery of steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations.

The user interface may display information on the steam delivery. For example, the user interface may display an estimated steam delivery finish time. The user interface may display the progressed time of the steam delivery, for example it may display a progress bar. The user interface may display the time remaining of the steam delivery.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller comprises a programmable timer. The controller may be programmable to commence steam delivery at a selected start time, and/or to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. When the controller is programmed to finish steaming at a selected finish time, it calculates the start time required and automatically commences steaming at the appropriate start time.

The timer may advantageously allow the user to pre-load the container with plant fibres, and to program the apparatus to steam the plant fibres at a later time, so that the plant fibres are freshly steamed when required. This is more convenient for the user, as they no longer need to wait for the steaming cycle to take place. The high temperature and moisture level in the container following steaming means that it is preferable that plant fibres are not left for long periods in the container after steaming has finished, so by selecting a convenient finish time this can be avoided.

The controller and timer may be programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours.

In some preferred embodiments, the controller may be configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and to alert the user to a maintenance requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached.

Preferably the maintenance requirement is a descale requirement, so the controller may alert the user when it is necessary to descale the apparatus to remove limescale build-up. The controller may preferably be programmed to run the apparatus in a descale operation when directed by a user.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be total steam delivery time, such that the controller monitors how much time the steam generator has been operating and delivering steam. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined total steam delivery time.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be a number of steaming cycles, such that the controller monitors how many batches of plant fibres (steaming one batch of fibres being counted as one steaming cycle) have been steamed since the last descale operation. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined number of steaming cycles.

Container

The apparatus comprises a container configured to contain, in use, the batch of plant fibres. For example, the container may be a box or chest in which the interior volume of the box defines the container for the plant fibres.

The container advantageously confines the steam during steaming, enabling the plant fibres to reach a higher temperature and/or humidity more quickly than would be possible outside a container.

The container is preferably thermally insulated. This advantageously improves the thermal efficiency of the apparatus by reducing heat loss from the container. The container may be moulded from polypropylene. The container may be thermally insulated with polyurethane. The polyurethane may be polyurethane foam. Preferably, the container may be thermally insulated with expanded polystyrene (EPS), or expanded polypropylene (EPP).

The container is preferably a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls. Preferably the cavity is filled with an insulating material. Particularly preferably the cavity is filled with at least one of polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene.

The container is preferably formed from rotational or injection moulded plastic, particularly preferably from rotational or injection moulded polypropylene. In preferred embodiments in which the steam generator reservoir is moulded integrally with the container, the walls of the steam generator reservoir are thus also formed from injection moulded plastic, particularly preferably from rotational or injection moulded polypropylene. The container and the reservoir are preferably formed at the same time, in the same plastic moulding process.

The container may be sealable in a gas-tight configuration, so that steam pressure inside the container can be increased above atmospheric pressure. The container may be sealable to prevent steam from escaping during use and to improve temperature build up within the container.

The container may be sealed by a lid, preferably a hinged lid that is openable to place plant fibres into the container, and to remove plant fibres from the container.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and the controller may be configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. The controller may preferably be programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level, so that the low water level warning light alerts a user to add more water to the steam generator. The controller may be programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. Preferably the predetermined low water level is higher than the predetermined minimum water level, so that the user is alerted to the need to add water before the minimum water level is reached.

Condensation Control

The container preferably has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. The lid is preferably hinged to the container for opening, and the lid preferably has a handle for opening the lid.

The underside of the lid may preferably comprise one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. The vapour guides are preferably protrusions which protrude downwards from the lid. The presence of the protrusions on the underside of the lid may advantageously encourage condensation forming on the lid to run down the protrusions and drip down onto the plant fibres, rather than remaining on the underside of the lid until the lid is opened. Particularly preferably, the lid may comprise an array of vapour guide protrusions positioned across the underside of the lid, so that condensation is guided to drip onto the plant fibres evenly throughout the container.

Preferably the container comprises a handle for opening the lid, and the lid comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. As steam is typically still present in the container when the steaming cycle ends and the lid of the container is opened, in prior art designs steam trapped under the lid has typically vented past the handle as soon as the lid begins to lift. This presents a safety risk to the user’s hands on the handle, as the venting steam may cause burns. By providing a vapour deflector that deflects steam away from the handle when the lid is lifted, the risk of harm to the user is significantly reduced. The vapour deflector is preferably positioned adjacent to the handle, between the handle and the interior of the container, and may take a variety of forms configured to direct steam trapped under the lid in directions away from the handle when the lid is lifted.

The lid is preferably hinged to the container. In some prior art designs, this has meant that when the lid is opened, condensation on the underside of the lid runs towards the hinges and flows off the lid and onto the floor outside the container. This causes a mess and a potential slipping hazard. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid, which is configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. The condensation guide may take the form of a curved or ramped portion on the underside of the lid, shaped so that condensation running down the lid towards the hinges hits the condensation guide before the hinges, and is directed into the interior of the container.

The apparatus preferably comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. The removable condensation trap may be received in a recess in the base of the container, with the base of the container configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. Alternatively the removable condensation trap may be received underneath the base of the container, and the base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

During and after steam treatment of plant fibres, condensation is formed in the container from steam that has passed through the plant fibres and so may contain dust particles, fragments of plant fibres and other organic matter.

Advantageously, the apparatus may comprise a removable condensation trap, or waste water container. The condensation trap may be configured to collect condensed waste water. This waste water may contain dust particles. This waste water may be collected in a removable condensation trap to prevent a build-up of waste water in the apparatus. The condensation trap is removable also that a user can regularly remove and empty the waste container without a need to move the whole apparatus.

The removable condensation trap may comprise a one-way valve, such as a flexible diaphragm, that allows waste water to pass into the condensation trap, but prevents water flowing back out of the condensation trap. This may prevent spillages or leakage from occurring when the condensation trap is removed by a user.

The removable condensation container may be positioned substantially underneath the container. Waste water may pass into the waste collection container from a hole, valve, or pipe, from the bottom of the container into the condensation container. Advantageously, the condensation trap may be gravity fed from the plant fibre container, maximising the amount of waste water collected.

Alternatively, the condensation container may be positioned inside the container for plant fibres. The base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. The condensation container may then be removable by the user only when the container for plant fibres is open. If the container for plant fibres comprises a lid, the waste collection container may only be removed by a user when the lid is open or off.

The container for plant fibres may further comprise drainage channels for channeling waste water to the condensation trap. The base of the container may optionally comprise a drainage channel surrounding the steam generator reservoir, at a lower level than the top surface of the steam generator reservoir, and the container walls may preferably be configured to direct condensation and waste water into the drainage channel.

The “plant fibres” steamable with the apparatus may be animal fodder, such as hay or haylage, straw or alfalfa. Alternatively, the plant fibres may be industrial fibres such as industrial hemp. In a preferred embodiment, the plant fibres may be selected from a group consisting of animal fodder or industrial hemp. Thus, the apparatus may be an apparatus for steam treating animal fodder, or an apparatus for steam treating industrial hemp.

A batch of plant fibres may, for example, include plant fibres in baled form, for example plant fibres compressed into bales, or plant fibres held in nets, mesh bags or other containers or receptacles. The apparatus is preferably formed from a strong and heat resistant material, such as stainless steel, other metals or synthetic plastics material, which is able to withstand temperatures in excess of 110°C.

The size of the manifold may be chosen to correspond to the capacity of the container, and therefore the volume of plant fibres the apparatus is configured to steam. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of manifolds.

Ideally, the apparatus includes a heater which has an immersion element and is adapted for use with either 240 Volts or 110 Volts. The heater generates steam in the well-known manner.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a list of clauses setting out preferred features of the thirteenth aspect of the invention.

1. An apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; a steam generator reservoir configured to contain water; and a manifold comprising a plurality of steam inlets, the manifold being configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through the plurality of steam inlets; in which manifold is positioned over the steam generator reservoir, so that water condensing in the manifold drains into the steam generator reservoir.

2. An apparatus for steam treating plant fibres according to clause 1, in which the manifold is a manifold plate configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator reservoir, the manifold plate comprising a plurality of steam inlets through which steam is delivered from the steam generator reservoir into the interior of the container.

3. An apparatus according to clause 1 or 2, in which the manifold plate comprises a plurality of holes forming steam inlets through which steam passes from the steam generator reservoir into the interior of the container.

4. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the manifold is formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel.

5. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the apparatus comprises a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances.

6. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the manifold comprises one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator. 7. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam generator comprises a heating element for heating water in the steam generator reservoir, preferably in which the heating element is a titanium heating element.

8. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the steam generator reservoir is formed as a recess in the base of the container.

9. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the manifold plate forms a removable lid of the steam generator reservoir.

10. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the base of the container comprises a drainage channel surrounding the steam generator reservoir at a lower level than the top surface of the steam generator reservoir, and in which the container walls are configured to direct condensation and waste water into the drainage channel.

11. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the apparatus comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container.

12. An apparatus according to clause 11 , in which the removable condensation trap is received in a recess in the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap.

13. An apparatus according to clause 11 , in which the removable condensation trap is received underneath the base of the container, and in which the base of the container is configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

14. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which no valves are positioned between the steam generator reservoir and the steam inlets in the manifold, so that water condensing in the steam inlets drains into the steam generator reservoir.

Fourteenth Aspect of the Invention

Apparatus for Steam Treating of Plant Fibres

Integrally Moulded Boiler

According to a fourteenth aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; in which walls of the container comprise a layer of insulation positioned inside a double-wall formed from moulded plastic.

The apparatus preferably comprises a lid for the container. The lid is preferably also formed from a double-walled moulded thermoplastic. The lid is preferably formed from the same material as the container.

The apparatus is preferably an animal fodder steaming apparatus configured for steaming animal fodder in baled form, for example fodder compressed into bales, or held in nets, mesh bags or other steam-permeable receptacles. The apparatus is also suitable for steaming loose fodder.

In use, steam is introduced into the interior of the container in which the batch of plant fibres is held, so that the steam heats the plant fibres and sterilises or cleans the fibres by heating and killing bacteria and pathogens.

By providing a layer of insulation positioned inside a double-wall of thermoplastic, the container of the present invention advantageously keeps the produced heat, in the form of steam, as long as possible within the steamer. Traditional prior art steamers use a single walled design for the container, which causes them to lose a large amount of heat through the walls of the container. As heat is lost, steam condenses inside the container, and the effectiveness of the steam sterilisation or cleaning is reduced. This means that the efficiency of the prior art devices is poor, particularly in cold weather. Steaming apparatuses may be operated in environmental conditions ranging from -20°C to 40°C throughout the year in different geographical locations, so the performance of the prior art designs varies greatly depending on the environmental conditions at any one time.

The container, and preferably lid, of the present invention preferably consists of a sandwich of two thermoplastic moulded walls filled with heat resistant insulation to prevent heat from dissipating to the environment as much as possible. This leads to a more energy efficient device than has been achieved in the prior art, as less heat is lost to the environment.

The container is preferably insulated with a polymer foam. Particularly preferably the container is insulated with polyurethane foam. The container may be insulated with expanded polystyrene (EPS) or expanded polypropylene (EPP).

The container is preferably formed from thermoplastic.

The container is preferably formed from a rigid plastic. This may advantageously make the container impact-resistant, and suitably robust for use in a variety of locations, for example in stable yards. The insulation inside the double-wall of the container may also advantageously act as a shock-absorbing material, further increasing the strength and robustness of the container. The container is preferably formed from rotational moulded plastic, or injection moulded plastic.

The container is preferably formed from polypropylene, preferably rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene.

The container preferably has a base and at least one wall, preferably a base and four walls, providing a receptacle in which plant fibres may be placed for steaming. Preferably all walls and the base of the container are formed from double-walled plastic and insulated by a layer of insulation positioned inside the double wall.

The insulation preferably fills the entire cavity between the double-walls.

The apparatus preferably comprises a steam generator reservoir configured to contain water, and a heating element in the steam generator reservoir, for forming steam in the steam generator reservoir. The steam generator reservoir is preferably moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container.

In the prior art, steam generators have typically been provided as separate units which were connected to steamer containers via a pipe or an insulated hose. A downside of such designs, however, is that steam travelling from the steam generator to the container loses heat and pressure, reducing the efficiency of the device.

The steam generator reservoir is preferably a recess moulded into a base of the container. Alternatively the reservoir may be formed from one or more reservoir walls moulded to project out of the walls or base of the container, which form a reservoir in which water may be held.

Providing the steam generator reservoir as a recess moulded integrally with the container itself may conveniently eliminate the need for a separate boiler unit. As it is often necessary to transport steaming apparatuses, particularly steamers for animal fodder, the provision of the steam generator and the container as an integral unit is significantly more convenient than prior designs.

In the prior art, boiler units have occasionally been positioned inside steaming containers, with the boiler units either sitting on the floor of the container, or screwed or bolted to the inside of the container itself. However, moulding the steam generator together with the container itself provides some significant benefits over these prior art devices. Moulding the reservoir as an integral part of the container base or walls advantageously reduces the number of separate components forming the apparatus by eliminating the need for a separate water container. This reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies assembly, and improves the reliability and robustness of the apparatus. There is no need for hoses to connect the steam generator to the container, and also no need for corrosion-susceptible screws or bolts to connect the reservoir to the container.

Forming the steam generator reservoir by moulding the reservoir as part of the container walls or base also has benefits with respect to energy efficiency, as the container walls and base are insulated. This insulation thus benefits the water contained in the reservoir, reducing heat loss as the water is heated and evaporated to steam.

Another benefit of the integral moulding of the steam generator reservoir with the container is improved safety. In prior designs, boiler units were provided separately, typically with the electrical controls mounted on the boiler unit, so in the event of a dangerous pressure build-up in the boiler, or a leak in the system, there may be an increased risk of injury to the user, as hot water or steam could escape from the boiler unit or hose and hit a user. With the steam generator moulded into the container itself, however, all hot water and steam are safely contained within the container at all times. Thus the risk of the user coming into contact with steam or hot water by accident are greatly reduced.

By providing the steam generator and the manifold in the same housing, the distance that steam must travel between the steam generator and the manifold may be reduced or minimised. This may advantageously allow steam to be delivered to the lances at a higher pressure and/or temperature than is possible with a “remote” steam generator, as the steam does not have time to cool down, lose pressure and condense as it travels through piping from the steam generator.

The steam generator is preferably configured to deliver steam to the lances at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure, for example at least 1.2 bar, or at least 1.4 bar, or at least 1.6 bar, or at least 2 bar.

By delivering steam at a raised pressure, the plant fibres may be heatable more quickly, with less time for moisture to condense in the plant fibres during steaming.

The container is preferably a thermoplastic moulded container, and preferably comprises a thermoplastic moulded lid which together define an interior volume into which a batch of plant fibres may be placed. The steam generator reservoir is preferably a recess moulded into a base of the container.

The apparatus preferably comprises a manifold configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through a plurality of steam inlets.

The manifold may be a manifold plate configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator. The manifold plate may be configured to fit over the steam generator reservoir to form a ceiling between the reservoir below, and the interior of the container above. In use, the manifold plate therefore separates the water in the steam generator reservoir from the plant fibres being steamed in the container.

The manifold plate may comprise a plurality of holes acting as steam inlets through which steam may pass from the steam generator into the interior of the container. The manifold plate preferably forms a removable lid of the steam generator reservoir, to allow easy re-filling of the reservoir with water.

By providing the manifold as a ceiling, or lid, of the steam generator itself, the distance which the steam must travel to reach the plant fibres is significantly reduced or minimised. Advantageously there may be no tubing or pipework between the steam generator reservoir and the interior of the container, in which the plant fibres are contained.

In use, the batch of plant fibres to be steamed are preferably placed on top of the manifold plate, so that steam passing from the steam generator reservoir upwards through the steam inlets in the manifold plate contacts the plant fibres and permeates upwards and throughout the plant fibres contained in the interior volume of the container.

The manifold plate is advantageously significantly simplified compared to the manifolds used in the prior art, which typically comprised opposing metal plates bolted together to form passageways for steam in channels formed between the plates.

The manifold plate is preferably formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel, or the manifold plate may be formed from plastic.

In some preferred embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances. The steam manifold may be adapted to receive steam from the steam source and to distribute steam to the plurality of lances. The plurality of lances may be configured to deliver steam into the interior volume of a batch of plant fibres, this may advantageously ensure that there is an even distribution of steam throughout the volume of the batch plant fibres. This may ensure that the humidity and temperature of the plant fibres as a whole is raised to a desired level.

The steam inlets may optionally be formed as holes straight through the manifold plate, such that steam travels from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container by passing through the holes. A pressure drop may be created between the reservoir and the interior of the container by selecting a preferred number of holes and size of holes.

In some embodiments, the manifold may comprise one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator.

The heating element may be an immersion heating element. Electrical wiring connecting the heating element to an electrical plug, or to a power supply, is preferably run inside the walls of the container.

In preferred embodiments, the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element. Titanium metal may advantageously be more resistant to build-up of limescale than other metals conventionally used as heating elements. The titanium heating element may advantageously have a longer operational lifetime and can withstand the higher scale levels often found in stables and yards where animal fodder is typically steamed.

Preferably the steam generator reservoir is formed as a recess in the base of the container, and the manifold plate is configured so that when the manifold plate is in position over the reservoir, the top surface of the manifold plate is positioned flush with the base of the container. By positioning the manifold plate so that its top surface sits flush with the bottom surface of the interior of the container, the manifold plate effectively forms part of a floor of the interior of the container. This advantageously prevents hay, fungi and bacteria build up inside the apparatus. The positioning of the manifold plate in the floor of the container provides a smooth and accessible floor of the container, which is extremely easy for a user to clean. This improves the hygiene of the apparatus by eliminating inaccessible areas where residue (such as waste water and remnants of steamed plant fibres) can accumulate in damp conditions.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the apparatus may comprise more than one steam generator reservoir. For example, one container may comprise two or more steam generator reservoirs moulded integrally with a wall or base of the container. Particularly preferably, the apparatus may comprise two or more steam generator reservoirs moulded into the base of the container. Each steam generator reservoir may preferably be moulded as a separate recess in the base of the container. Preferably each recess extends below a floor level of the container, though in alternative embodiments reservoir walls may be moulded to project upwardly from the floor of the container. A separate heating element may be provided in each steam generator reservoir.

This embodiment may be particularly advantageous for scaling up the steaming capacity for larger-volume containers, as the steaming capacity can be increased by adding additional steam generator reservoirs rather than increasing the water capacity of the one and only reservoir, which may lead to the heating element struggling to heat the increased volume of water. By providing multiple steam generator reservoirs moulded into the container, the water capacity of each reservoir may be configured to contain a volume of water that the heating elements can efficiently heat and boil.

Controller

The apparatus preferably comprises a controller configured to control the delivery of steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 75 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

The target temperature is preferably at least 90 °C. Preferably the target temperature is between 75 °C and 104 °C, particularly preferably between 90 °C and 100 °C.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations.

The user interface may display information on the steam delivery. For example, the user interface may display an estimated steam delivery finish time. The user interface may display the progressed time of the steam delivery, for example it may display a progress bar. The user interface may display the time remaining of the steam delivery.

In a preferred embodiment, the controller comprises a programmable timer. The controller may be programmable to commence steam delivery at a selected start time, and/or to finish steam delivery at a selected finish time. When the controller is programmed to finish steaming at a selected finish time, it calculates the start time required and automatically commences steaming at the appropriate start time.

The timer may advantageously allow the user to pre-load the container with plant fibres, and to program the apparatus to steam the plant fibres at a later time, so that the plant fibres are freshly steamed when required. This is more convenient for the user, as they no longer need to wait for the steaming cycle to take place. The high temperature and moisture level in the container following steaming means that it is preferable that plant fibres are not left for long periods in the container after steaming has finished, so by selecting a convenient finish time this can be avoided.

The controller and timer may be programmable to delay the start time or finish time by a set period, for example by a period of 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours, or 12 hours, or 20 hours.

In some preferred embodiments, the controller may be configured to monitor a steam delivery condition, and to alert the user to a maintenance requirement when a predetermined steam delivery condition is reached.

Preferably the maintenance requirement is a descale requirement, so the controller may alert the user when it is necessary to descale the apparatus to remove limescale build-up. The controller may preferably be programmed to run the apparatus in a descale operation when directed by a user.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be total steam delivery time, such that the controller monitors how much time the steam generator has been operating and delivering steam. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined total steam delivery time.

The steam delivery condition monitored by the controller may be a number of steaming cycles, such that the controller monitors how many batches of plant fibres (steaming one batch of fibres being counted as one steaming cycle) have been steamed since the last descale operation. The predetermined steam delivery condition may then be a predetermined number of steaming cycles.

Container The apparatus comprises a container configured to contain, in use, the batch of plant fibres. For example, the container may be a box or chest in which the interior volume of the box defines the container for the plant fibres.

The container advantageously confines the steam during steaming, enabling the plant fibres to reach a higher temperature and/or humidity more quickly than would be possible outside a container.

The container is preferably thermally insulated. This advantageously improves the thermal efficiency of the apparatus by reducing heat loss from the container. The container may be moulded from polypropylene. The container may be thermally insulated with polyurethane. The polyurethane may be polyurethane foam. Preferably, the container may be thermally insulated with at least one of expanded polystyrene (EPS), or expanded polypropylene (EPP).

The container is preferably a double-walled container comprising a cavity between the two walls. Preferably the cavity is filled with an insulating material. Particularly preferably the cavity is filled with at least one or polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene.

The container, and therefore also the walls and floor of the integrally moulded reservoir, is preferably formed from moulded plastic, particularly preferably from rotational or injection moulded polypropylene. The container and the reservoir are preferably formed at the same time, in the same plastic moulding process.

The container may be sealable in a gas-tight configuration, so that steam pressure inside the container can be increased above atmospheric pressure. The container may be sealable to prevent steam from escaping during use and to improve temperature build up within the container.

The container may be sealed by a lid, preferably a hinged lid that is openable to place plant fibres into the container, and to remove plant fibres from the container.

The apparatus may advantageously comprise a water level sensor configured to sense a water level in the steam generator, and the controller may be configured to receive a water level signal from the water level sensor. The controller may preferably be programmed to activate a low water level warning light if the water level drops below a predetermined low water level, so that the low water level warning light alerts a user to add more water to the steam generator. The controller may be programmed to stop steaming if the water level drops below a predetermined minimum water level. Preferably the predetermined low water level is higher than the predetermined minimum water level, so that the user is alerted to the need to add water before the minimum water level is reached.

Condensation Control

The container preferably has a lid forming a ceiling of the container. The lid is preferably hinged to the container for opening, and the lid preferably has a handle for opening the lid.

The underside of the lid may preferably comprise one or more vapour guides configured to guide the steam to condense on the vapour guides on the lid. The vapour guides are preferably protrusions which protrude downwards from the lid. The presence of the protrusions on the underside of the lid may advantageously encourage condensation forming on the lid to run down the protrusions and drip down onto the plant fibres, rather than remaining on the underside of the lid until the lid is opened. Particularly preferably, the lid may comprise an array of vapour guide protrusions positioned across the underside of the lid, so that condensation is guided to drip onto the plant fibres evenly throughout the container.

Preferably the container comprises a handle for opening the lid, and the lid comprises a vapour deflector configured to direct steam away from the handle when the lid is opened. As steam is typically still present in the container when the steaming cycle ends and the lid of the container is opened, in prior art designs steam trapped under the lid has typically vented past the handle as soon as the lid begins to lift. This presents a safety risk to the user’s hands on the handle, as the venting steam may cause burns. By providing a vapour deflector that deflects steam away from the handle when the lid is lifted, the risk of harm to the user is significantly reduced. The vapour deflector is preferably positioned adjacent to the handle, between the handle and the interior of the container, and may take a variety of forms configured to direct steam trapped under the lid in directions away from the handle when the lid is lifted.

The lid is preferably hinged to the container. In some prior art designs, this has meant that when the lid is opened, condensation on the underside of the lid runs towards the hinges and flows off the lid and onto the floor outside the container. This causes a mess and a potential slipping hazard. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lid comprises a condensation guide positioned on the hinged side of the lid, which is configured to guide condensation from the lid into the container when the lid is opened. The condensation guide may take the form of a curved or ramped portion on the underside of the lid, shaped so that condensation running down the lid towards the hinges hits the condensation guide before the hinges, and is directed into the interior of the container. The apparatus preferably comprises a removable condensation trap configured to receive water formed from steam condensing inside the container. The removable condensation trap may be received in a recess in the base of the container, with the base of the container configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. Alternatively the removable condensation trap may be received underneath the base of the container, and the base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap through an outlet in the container base.

During and after steam treatment of plant fibres, condensation is formed in the container from steam that has passed through the plant fibres and so may contain dust particles, fragments of plant fibres and other organic matter.

Advantageously, the apparatus may comprise a removable condensation trap, or waste water container. The condensation trap may be configured to collect condensed waste water. This waste water may contain dust particles. This waste water may be collected in a removable condensation trap to prevent a build-up of waste water in the apparatus. The condensation trap is removable also that a user can regularly remove and empty the waste container without a need to move the whole apparatus.

The removable condensation trap may comprise a one-way valve, such as a flexible diaphragm, that allows waste water to pass into the condensation trap, but prevents water flowing back out of the condensation trap. This may prevent spillages or leakage from occurring when the condensation trap is removed by a user.

The removable condensation container may be positioned substantially underneath the container. Waste water may pass into the waste collection container from a hole, valve, or pipe, from the bottom of the container into the condensation container. Advantageously, the condensation trap may be gravity fed from the plant fibre container, maximising the amount of waste water collected.

Alternatively, the condensation container may be positioned inside the container for plant fibres. The base of the container may be configured to direct condensation into the condensation trap. The condensation container may then be removable by the user only when the container for plant fibres is open. If the container for plant fibres comprises a lid, the waste collection container may only be removed by a user when the lid is open or off.

The container for plant fibres may further comprise drainage channels for channeling waste water to the condensation trap. The base of the container may optionally comprise a drainage channel surrounding the steam generator reservoir, at a lower level than the top surface of the steam generator reservoir, and the container walls may preferably be configured to direct condensation and waste water into the drainage channel.

The “plant fibres” steamable with the apparatus may be animal fodder, such as hay or haylage, straw or alfalfa. Alternatively, the plant fibres may be industrial fibres such as industrial hemp. In a preferred embodiment, the plant fibres may be selected from a group consisting of animal fodder or industrial hemp. Thus, the apparatus may be an apparatus for steam treating animal fodder, or an apparatus for steam treating industrial hemp.

A batch of plant fibres may, for example, include plant fibres in baled form, for example plant fibres compressed into bales, or plant fibres held in nets, mesh bags or other containers or receptacles.

The apparatus is preferably formed from a strong and heat resistant material, such as stainless steel, other metals or synthetic plastics material, which is able to withstand temperatures in excess of 110°C.

The size of the manifold may be chosen to correspond to the capacity of the container, and therefore the volume of plant fibres the apparatus is configured to steam. Alternatively, the apparatus may comprise a plurality of manifolds.

Ideally, the apparatus includes a heater which has an immersion element and is adapted for use with either 240 Volts or 110 Volts. The heater generates steam in the well-known manner.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a list of clauses setting out preferred features of the fourteenth aspect of the invention.

1. A steamer apparatus for steam treating plant fibres, the apparatus comprising: a container for a batch of plant fibres; in which walls of the container comprise a layer of insulation positioned inside a doublewall formed from moulded thermoplastic.

2. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is insulated with a polymer foam.

3. An apparatus according to clause 2, in which the container is insulated with polyurethane foam. 4. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is formed from a rigid plastic.

5. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container is formed from rotational moulded plastic, or injection moulded plastic.

6. An apparatus according to clause 5, in which the container is formed from rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene.

7. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, in which the container comprises a steam generator reservoir, the steam generator reservoir being configured to contain water.

8. An apparatus according to clause 7, in which the container comprises a heating element in the steam generator reservoir, for forming steam in the steam generator reservoir.

9. An apparatus according to clause 8, in which the steam generator comprises a titanium heating element.

10. An apparatus according to clause 7, 8 or 9, in which the container comprises a manifold plate configured to deliver steam from the steam generator reservoir to the interior of the container through a plurality of steam inlets.

11. An apparatus according to any of clauses 7 to 10, in which the steam generator reservoir is integrated into a base of the container, and the manifold plate is configured to form a ceiling of the steam generator.

12. An apparatus according to clause 10 or 11, in which the manifold plate comprises a plurality of holes acting as steam inlets through which steam passes from the steam generator reservoir into the interior of the container.

13. An apparatus according to clause 10, 11 or 12, in which the manifold plate is formed from a thermally conductive material, for example stainless steel.

14. An apparatus according to any of clauses 10 to 13, in which the apparatus comprises a plurality of lances configured to deliver steam into the batch of plant fibres, with the plurality of steam inlets being provided in the lances.

15. An apparatus according to any of clauses 10 to 14, in which the manifold comprises one or more valves configured to create an elevated pressure in the steam generator.

16. An apparatus according to any preceding clause, comprising a lid configured to form a ceiling of the container.

17. An apparatus according to clause 16, in which the lid is formed from a double-walled moulded thermoplastic.

The features described above in relation to one aspect of the invention are applicable to any of the other aspects of the invention. Preferred embodiments of the invention comprise some or all of the features of the preceding aspects of the invention in combination.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of examples only, and with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of the Figures for the First and Second Aspects of the Invention

Figure 1 is an overall diagrammatical view of one embodiment of the invention and illustrates the principle of operation;

Figure 2 is an overall diagrammatical view of one embodiment of the invention, wherein the apparatus comprises lances;

Figure 3a illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is inside a container for plant fibres;

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is inside a container for plant fibres and the manifold has lances;

Figure 3c, illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Figure 4a illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container removable from a first side;

Figure 4b illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container from a second side;

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the container for plant fibres comprises a lid;

Figure 6a shows a graph illustrating an exemplary control protocol for controlling steaming time based on ambient temperature; and

Figure 6b shows an alternative graph illustrating an exemplary control protocol for controlling steaming time based on ambient temperature.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the First and Second Aspects of the Invention Referring to Figure 1 there is shown in general an apparatus for steam treatment of plant fibres comprising a steam generator 20 in which is located a heating element 22. The steam generator 20 comprises a water reservoir for containing water that in use is heated and evaporated by the heating element 22.

The steam generator 20 is a sealed vessel capable of heating water to more than its normal boiling point. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, a high pressure flexible hose 24, which is ideally insulated, conducts steam from the reservoir to a manifold, ideally via a flexible or universal joints 25 and 26. The manifold 1 distributes the steam into the interior of a container 30, in which a batch of plant fibres 10 is positioned.

The steam generator optionally includes conventional safety equipment such as thermostatic settings, boil dry warning and residual current detectors (RCD) for use in damp and outdoor environments.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the heating element 22 is formed from titanium metal.

In one preferred embodiment, the manifold 1 is generally square and has a number of apertures 4, which allow the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the plant fibres inside the container 30. The apertures 4 may be holes formed in the manifold.

If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale is dropped onto the manifold.

The supply of steam may be switched on or off by a controller 29. The controller is preferably programmable by a user, and is configured to control steam supply to the plant fibres, and therefore to control the steaming temperature and duration of the steaming.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations (e.g., a target temperature, target humidity, target steaming time, and/or a target steaming pressure).

The controller may comprise a data processing system, which may include one or more processors (e.g., a general purpose microprocessor and/or one or more other data processing circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA’s), and the like); a network interface for connecting the controller to a network; and a local storage unit, which may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In embodiments where the controller includes a general purpose microprocessor, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program product may include a computer readable medium (CRM) storing a computer program comprising computer readable instructions. The CRM may be a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as, but not limited to magnetic media (e.g., a hard disk), optical media (e.g., a DVD), memory devices (e.g., random access memory), and the like. In some embodiments, the computer readable instructions are configured such that when executed, they cause the controller to perform tasks described herein. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform tasks described herein without the need for code. For example, the data processing system may consist merely of one or more ASICs.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, an ambient temperature sensor 27 is provided to measure an ambient temperature of the air outside the container 30, and to communicate ambient temperature signals to the controller 29. This gives the controller information about the temperature of the air outside the container 30. The controller is programmed to control the period of time of steam delivery based on a sensed ambient temperature signal from the ambient temperature sensor.

Figure 6a shows a graph illustrating an exemplary control protocol for controlling steaming time based on ambient temperature. This graph shows schematically how the controller may be programmed to increase total steaming time either above or below a normal reference steaming time (tbase) depending on the magnitude of the ambient temperature sensed by the ambient temperature sensor.

Figure 6b shows an alternative graph illustrating an exemplary control protocol for controlling steaming time based on ambient temperature. This graph shows schematically how the controller may be programmed to increase total steaming time either above or below a normal reference steaming time (tbase) depending on the magnitude of the ambient temperature sensed by the ambient temperature sensor.

The controller may be programmed to calculate the period of steam delivery in a variety of ways, as discussed above. For instance, the controller may be programmed to carry out a calculation of: ttotal ⁼ tbase * f (Tambient)

In which t _to tai is total steaming time, tbase is regular steaming time (reference steaming period), and Tambient is ambient temperature, f (Tambient) is a function of ambient temperature.

In some embodiments, the controller may be programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a reference steaming period when the sensed ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature. When the sensed ambient temperature is higher or lower than the reference ambient temperature, the controller is programmed to calculate the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature. The controller then adjusts the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

For example, the controller may be programmed with a reference ambient temperature of 15 °C and a reference steaming period of 30 minutes, so that when the ambient temperature is 15 °C, the controller will control the steam generator to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a steaming period of 30 minutes.

In high summer temperatures (which may be over 30 °C or 40 °C in certain regions), the controller may shorten the steaming time to save energy.

In hotter weather, for example when the sensed ambient temperature is 30 °C, the controller will calculate that the sensed ambient temperature is 15 °C higher than the reference ambient temperature. The controller will then calculate a steaming time adjustment based on this 15 °C difference, and adjust the reference steaming time by that steaming time adjustment. For example the controller may be programmed to reduce the steaming time by 2 minutes for every 5 °C that the sensed ambient temperature is hotter than the reference ambient temperature. Thus when the sensed ambient temperature is 30 °C the controller may reduce the reference steaming time by 6 minutes, to a total of 24 minutes steaming time. This reduced steaming time reflects the fact that less steam will be needed to raise the temperature of the plant fibres at the start of the steaming process, and advantageously reduces the overall energy consumption of the apparatus while still steaming the plant fibres for long enough and at a high enough temperature to kill harmful pathogens and sterilize or clean the plant fibres.

Similarly, when the sensed ambient temperature is lower than the reference ambient temperature, the controller may increase the steam delivery period to compensate for the additional heat energy that will be needed to heat the plant fibres to the target temperature. For example, in extremely cold ambient temperatures (such as winter temperatures below 0 °C), the controller may lengthen the steaming time to compensate for the high rate of heat loss from the container to the atmosphere, and to compensate for the low starting temperature of the batch of plant fibres).

In prior art devices, the lack of measurement of ambient temperature meant that fibres were typically steamed continuously for a set period. The ambient temperature sensor 27 and controller of the present device, however, allow more precise control so that the plant fibres are properly steamed regardless of the ambient weather conditions, and energy consumption is reduced where possible.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the apparatus contains a weight sensor (not shown), for example a piezoelectric sensor provided in a foot of the container, which senses the weight of plant fibres placed in the container for steaming. The weight sensor may be connected to the controller and configured to communicate the sensed weight of the batch of plant fibres to the controller. The controller may be configured to calculate the steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container. The controller may be programmed with an algorithm for calculating steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container. In preferred embodiments, the controller may be programmed to contain a look-up table tabulating reference steaming times for different weights of plant fibres. When the plant fibres are weighed, the controller may thus look up the reference steaming time for that weight of plant fibres.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the controller may calculate the period of steam delivery based on the weight of plant fibres in the container and also the sensed ambient temperature as described above. The controller may be programmed with an algorithm for calculating steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container and the sensed ambient temperature. The controller may optionally also factor in parameters such as batch type, average batch density and/or type of plant fibres (which may be input by a user through a user interface (not shown)) when calculating the steaming time.

Depending on the programming of the controller, the plant fibres may be exposed to continuous steam from the apparatus, or the steam supply may be intermittently stopped and started to maintain the fibres at a desired target temperature, for example.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 90 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

During use, steam and condensed steam permeate through the plant fibres increasing the temperature of the fibres to between 90 and 105 degrees Centigrade (depending upon ambient temperature) killing thermophilic and mesophilic mould spores and other living organisms as mentioned above and effectively steam treating the fibres as well as dampening dust spores thus restricting their ability to become airborne.

The period of time of steam delivery is controlled by the controller, by controlling the power supply to the steam generator and/or a valve means that controls the passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The steam is distributed from the reservoir, via the hose and through the apertures 4 and where the steam condenses the water content is absorbed, in the majority, by the plant fibres leaving it damp. As the moisture content within the plant fibres increases, the temperature rises exponentially due to the increased efficiency of water as a heat conducting medium within the fibres, compared to air in the fibres’ dry state.

At least part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 is situated inside a container 30. For example, the manifold is shown situated within container 30.

The aforementioned apparatus can be used either in open space or within an enclosed environment, such as horse box, stable or barn.

Figure 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the steam manifold is fitted with a number of substantially vertical lances 2a, 2b, 2c. Each lance 2 has a pointed end for ease of penetration into a batch of plant fibres. Lances 2 have apertures 4, extending a proportion of their length, for the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the centre of the batch of plant fibres. Apertures 4 may be vertically disposed or they may be in the form of slits or slots, extending lengthwise or helically about circular lances 2.

As a result of the lances 2a, 2b, and 2c, steam is introduced into the centre of the bale of plant fibres by placing the batch of plant fibres 10 onto the manifold 1. Alternatively the manifold 1 can be forced into a batch of plant fibres 10 from the side or above. In whichever orientation the lances penetrate so as ensure steam reaches all of the batch. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale of compacted plant fibres is dropped onto the lances.

Figure 3a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a steaming apparatus in which a steam generator reservoir 200 is moulded integrally with the base of a container 30. A reservoir wall 40 extends vertically upwards from the base of the container, and encircles a portion of the container floor to form a reservoir for holding water, in which the floor of the container inside the reservoir wall 40 forms the floor of the reservoir.

The container is double-walled and formed from plastic, and is insulated by insulating foam provided between the double-walls of the container. The container is sealable with a lid (not shown), so that steam delivered into the container during use cannot escape. The reservoir wall 40 is also formed from the same plastic as the container 30, and is moulded as part of the container 30 during manufacture.

A manifold plate 100 is formed by a flat metal plate through which apertures or holes 4 extend to allow the passage of steam therethrough. The manifold plate 100 is configured to fit onto the upper surface of the reservoir wall 40 to form a lid or ceiling of the steam generator reservoir 200. The manifold plate 100 is removable from the steam generator reservoir 200 to allow refilling, and forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall 40 when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100.

The steam generator reservoir 200 and the manifold plate 100 are positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the manifold plate 100 and sits on the manifold during steaming. Steam emitted into the container 30 through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100 therefore passes into the batch of plant fibres.

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment in which the manifold plate 100 and a steam generator reservoir 200 are situated inside a container 30 and the manifold plate is connected to a plurality of upright lances 2 through which steam is delivered into the interior of the container. The manifold plate 100 is positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the lances 2 so that they penetrate into the batch of fibres. The lances provide the benefit that steam delivered through the lances is provided into the centre of the batch of plant fibres, ensuring that plant fibres in the centre of the batch are steamed as thoroughly as plant fibres nearer the edges of the container.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B the reservoir wall 40 extends upwards out of the base of the container, so that there is a channel formed between the outside of the reservoir wall 40 and the walls of the container, into which condensation formed during steaming may drain.

As shown in the alternative embodiment of Figure 3C, the steam generator reservoir 200 may be integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor, or base, of the container. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor. This advantageously makes the apparatus easy to clean, by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can proliferate. The removable manifold plate also means that the inside of the steam generator reservoir 200 can be cleaned, and limescale easily removed, which has not been possible in prior art embodiments with conventional sealed boilers.

In the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the manifold 100 is positioned directly above the steam generator 40, such that it forms a ceiling of the steam generator water reservoir. As the steam generator and the manifold are adjacent to one another, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the chance to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particularly between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

Figure 4a shows an alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50, which is a container for collecting waste condensation formed in the container. In the example shown in Figure 4a the condensation trap is removable from the top of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 is an open-topped container which is shaped to fit into a recess (not shown) in the base of the container 30. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water into the open top of the condensation trap 50.

Figure 4b shows another alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50. In the example shown in Figure 4b the condensation trap is removable from the bottom of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 has a round inlet hole in its top, which is configured to be aligned with an outlet hole (not shown) in the base of the container 30 when the condensation trap is in position. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channelling condensed steam water towards the outlet hole, so that it flows through the outlet hole into the condensation trap 50.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the steaming apparatus includes a container 30 and a lid 60. The container and lid are both formed from double-walled rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene, and the cavity between the double-walls is insulated with polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene, which advantageously makes the containers both well-insulated and tough.

The lid 60 forms the ceiling of the chest-style container 30, and is hinged on one side and openable using a moulded handle 65 in the edge of the lid. A soft-close piston is provided to soften closing of the lid, and a rubber seal is positioned around the periphery of the lid, so that the lid and the container form a gas-tight seal when the lid is closed. A pair of catches is also provided to secure the lid closed.

On the underside of the lid 60, which forms the ceiling of the container when the lid is closed, an array of vapour guides 70 are moulded into the plastic. The vapour guides take the form of rounded plastic “buttons” which protrude downwards out of the surface of the lid, so that condensation forms on the vapour guides and forms droplets on the lowermost point of the buttons, from where the condensed water drips down into the container.

The array of vapour guides 70 vary in size according to their position on the lid, with the vapour guides at the outer corners of the lid being the smallest, and the vapour guides in the centre being the largest. This may advantageously encourage condensation to form in a central area of the lid from which it will drip back onto the plant fibres which will typically be positioned centrally in the container.

On the non-hinged side of the lid 60, a vapour deflector 80 is formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the moulded handle 65. The position of this vapour deflector 80 ensures that when the catches are released and the lid 60 opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle 65 and scalding the user’s hand.

On the hinged side of the lid 60, the lid is moulded into a curved condensation guide 90. As condensation forms on the underside of the lid 60 during steaming, not all of the condensation will have time to drip from a vapour guide 70 before the steaming is finished. When the lid is opened after steaming, the condensed water on the underside of the lid therefore runs towards the hinged side of the lid. The condensation guide 90 then channels the condensed water into the interior of the container, preventing it from running through the gap between the container and the lid and onto the floor.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Third and Fourth Aspects of the Invention

Figure 1 is an overall diagrammatical view of one embodiment of the invention and illustrates the principle of operation;

Figure 2 is an overall diagrammatical view of one embodiment of the invention, wherein the apparatus comprises lances;

Figure 3a illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is inside a container for plant fibres;

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is inside a container for plant fibres and the manifold has lances;

Figure 3c, illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Figure 4a illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container removable from a first side;

Figure 4b illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container from a second side;

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the container for plant fibres comprises a lid; and

Figure 7 shows a graph illustrating an exemplary control protocol for controlling steaming time based on the mass, or weight, of plant fibres in the container.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Third and Fourth Aspects of the Invention Referring to Figure 1 there is shown in general an apparatus for steam treatment of plant fibres comprising a steam generator 20 in which is located a heating element 22. The steam generator 20 comprises a water reservoir for containing water that in use is heated and evaporated by the heating element 22.

The steam generator 20 is a sealed vessel capable of heating water to more than its normal boiling point. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , a high pressure flexible hose 24, which is ideally insulated, conducts steam from the reservoir to a manifold, ideally via a flexible or universal joints 25 and 26. The manifold 1 distributes the steam into the interior of a container 30, in which a batch of plant fibres 10 is positioned.

The steam generator optionally includes conventional safety equipment such as thermostatic settings, boil dry warning and residual current detectors (RCD) for use in damp and outdoor environments.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the heating element 22 is formed from titanium metal. In one preferred embodiment, the manifold 1 is generally square and has a number of apertures 4, which allow the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the plant fibres inside the container 30. The apertures 4 may be holes formed in the manifold.

If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale is dropped onto the manifold.

The supply of steam may be switched on or off by a controller 29. The controller is preferably programmable by a user, and is configured to control steam supply to the plant fibres, and therefore to control the steaming temperature and duration of the steaming.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations (e.g., a target temperature, target humidity, target steaming time, and/or a target steaming pressure).

The controller may comprise a data processing system, which may include one or more processors (e.g., a general purpose microprocessor and/or one or more other data processing circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA’s), and the like); a network interface for connecting the controller to a network; and a local storage unit, which may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In embodiments where the controller includes a general purpose microprocessor, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program product may include a computer readable medium (CRM) storing a computer program comprising computer readable instructions. The CRM may be a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as, but not limited to magnetic media (e.g., a hard disk), optical media (e.g., a DVD), memory devices (e.g., random access memory), and the like. In some embodiments, the computer readable instructions are configured such that when executed, they cause the controller to perform tasks described herein. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform tasks described herein without the need for code. For example, the data processing system may consist merely of one or more ASICs.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, an ambient temperature sensor 27 is provided to measure an ambient temperature of the air outside the container 30, and to communicate ambient temperature signals to the controller 29. This gives the controller information about the temperature of the air outside the container 30. The controller is programmed to control the period of time of steam delivery based on a sensed ambient temperature signal from the ambient temperature sensor.

The controller is programmed to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a reference steaming period when the sensed ambient temperature is equal to a reference ambient temperature. When the sensed ambient temperature is higher or lower than the reference ambient temperature, the controller is programmed to calculate the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature, and to calculate a steaming time adjustment based on the difference between the sensed ambient temperature and the reference ambient temperature. The controller then adjusts the reference steaming period by the calculated steaming time adjustment.

For example, the controller may be programmed with a reference ambient temperature of 15 °C and a reference steaming period of 30 minutes, so that when the ambient temperature is 15 °C, the controller will control the steam generator to deliver steam to the interior of the container for a steaming period of 30 minutes.

In high summer temperatures (which may be over 30 °C or 40 °C in certain regions), the controller may shorten the steaming time to save energy.

In hotter weather, for example when the sensed ambient temperature is 30 °C, the controller will calculate that the sensed ambient temperature is 15 °C higher than the reference ambient temperature. The controller will then calculate a steaming time adjustment based on this 15 °C difference, and adjust the reference steaming time by that steaming time adjustment. For example the controller may be programmed to reduce the steaming time by 2 minutes for every 5 °C that the sensed ambient temperature is hotter than the reference ambient temperature. Thus when the sensed ambient temperature is 30 °C the controller may reduce the reference steaming time by 6 minutes, to a total of 24 minutes steaming time. This reduced steaming time reflects the fact that less steam will be needed to raise the temperature of the plant fibres at the start of the steaming process, and advantageously reduces the overall energy consumption of the apparatus while still steaming the plant fibres for long enough and at a high enough temperature to kill harmful pathogens and sterilize or clean the plant fibres.

Similarly, when the sensed ambient temperature is lower than the reference ambient temperature, the controller may increase the steam delivery period to compensate for the additional heat energy that will be needed to heat the plant fibres to the target temperature. For example, in extremely cold ambient temperatures (such as winter temperatures below 0 °C), the controller may lengthen the steaming time to compensate for the high rate of heat loss from the container to the atmosphere, and to compensate for the low starting temperature of the batch of plant fibres).

In prior art devices, the lack of measurement of ambient temperature meant that fibres were typically steamed continuously for a set period. The ambient temperature sensor 27 and controller of the present device, however, allow more precise control so that the plant fibres are properly steamed regardless of the ambient weather conditions, and energy consumption is reduced where possible.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the apparatus contains a weight sensor (not shown), for example a piezoelectric sensor provided in a foot of the container, which senses the weight of plant fibres placed in the container for steaming. The weight sensor may be connected to the controller and configured to communicate the sensed weight of the batch of plant fibres to the controller. The controller may be configured to calculate the steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container. The controller may be programmed with an algorithm for calculating steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container.

Figure 7 shows a graph illustrating an exemplary control protocol for controlling steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container. This graph shows schematically how the controller may be programmed to increase total steaming time either above or below a normal reference steaming time (tbase) depending on the mass of plant fibres sensed by the weight sensor.

The controller may be programmed to calculate the period of steam delivery in a variety of ways, as discussed above. For instance, the controller may be programmed to carry out a calculation of: ttotal ⁼ tbase * f (m loaded)

In which t _to tai is total steaming time, tbase is regular steaming time (reference steaming period), and mioaded is the mass of plant fibres (preferably hay) loaded in the container, f (m ioaded) is a function of the loaded mass of plant fibres.

In preferred embodiments, the controller may be programmed to contain a look-up table tabulating reference steaming times for different weights of plant fibres. When the plant fibres are weighed, the controller may thus look up the reference steaming time for that weight of plant fibres.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the controller may calculate the period of steam delivery based on the weight of plant fibres in the container and also the sensed ambient temperature as described above. The controller may be programmed with an algorithm for calculating steaming time based on the weight of plant fibres in the container and the sensed ambient temperature. The controller may optionally also factor in parameters such as batch type, average batch density and/or type of plant fibres (which may be input by a user through a user interface (not shown)) when calculating the steaming time.

Depending on the programming of the controller, the plant fibres may be exposed to continuous steam from the apparatus, or the steam supply may be intermittently stopped and started to maintain the fibres at a desired target temperature, for example.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 90 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

During use, steam and condensed steam permeate through the plant fibres increasing the temperature of the fibres to between 90 and 105 degrees Centigrade (depending upon ambient temperature) killing thermophilic and mesophilic mould spores and other living organisms as mentioned above and effectively steam treating the fibres as well as dampening dust spores thus restricting their ability to become airborne.

The period of time of steam delivery is controlled by the controller, by controlling the power supply to the steam generator and/or a valve means that controls the passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The steam is distributed from the reservoir, via the hose and through the apertures 4 and where the steam condenses the water content is absorbed, in the majority, by the plant fibres leaving it damp. As the moisture content within the plant fibres increases, the temperature rises exponentially due to the increased efficiency of water as a heat conducting medium within the fibres, compared to air in the fibres’ dry state.

At least part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 is situated inside a container 30. For example, the manifold is shown situated within container 30.

The aforementioned apparatus can be used either in open space or within an enclosed environment, such as horse box, stable or barn.

Figure 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the steam manifold is fitted with a number of substantially vertical lances 2a, 2b, 2c. Each lance 2 has a pointed end for ease of penetration into a batch of plant fibres. Lances 2 have apertures 4, extending a proportion of their length, for the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the centre of the batch of plant fibres. Apertures 4 may be vertically disposed or they may be in the form of slits or slots, extending lengthwise or helically about circular lances 2.

As a result of the lances 2a, 2b, and 2c, steam is introduced into the centre of the bale of plant fibres by placing the batch of plant fibres 10 onto the manifold 1. Alternatively the manifold 1 can be forced into a batch of plant fibres 10 from the side or above. In whichever orientation the lances penetrate so as ensure steam reaches all of the batch. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale of compacted plant fibres is dropped onto the lances.

Figure 3a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a steaming apparatus in which a steam generator reservoir 200 is moulded integrally with the base of a container 30. A reservoir wall 40 extends vertically upwards from the base of the container, and encircles a portion of the container floor to form a reservoir for holding water, in which the floor of the container inside the reservoir wall 40 forms the floor of the reservoir.

The container is double-walled and formed from plastic, and is insulated by insulating foam provided between the double-walls of the container. The container is sealable with a lid (not shown), so that steam delivered into the container during use cannot escape. The reservoir wall 40 is also formed from the same plastic as the container 30, and is moulded as part of the container 30 during manufacture.

A manifold plate 100 is formed by a flat metal plate through which apertures or holes 4 extend to allow the passage of steam therethrough. The manifold plate 100 is configured to fit onto the upper surface of the reservoir wall 40 to form a lid or ceiling of the steam generator reservoir 200. The manifold plate 100 is removable from the steam generator reservoir 200 to allow refilling, and forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall 40 when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100.

The steam generator reservoir 200 and the manifold plate 100 are positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the manifold plate 100 and sits on the manifold during steaming. Steam emitted into the container 30 through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100 therefore passes into the batch of plant fibres.

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment in which the manifold plate 100 and a steam generator reservoir 200 are situated inside a container 30 and the manifold plate is connected to a plurality of upright lances 2 through which steam is delivered into the interior of the container. The manifold plate 100 is positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the lances 2 so that they penetrate into the batch of fibres. The lances provide the benefit that steam delivered through the lances is provided into the centre of the batch of plant fibres, ensuring that plant fibres in the centre of the batch are steamed as thoroughly as plant fibres nearer the edges of the container.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B the reservoir wall 40 extends upwards out of the base of the container, so that there is a channel formed between the outside of the reservoir wall 40 and the walls of the container, into which condensation formed during steaming may drain.

As shown in the alternative embodiment of Figure 3C, the steam generator reservoir 200 may be integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor, or base, of the container. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor. This advantageously makes the apparatus easy to clean, by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can proliferate. The removable manifold plate also means that the inside of the steam generator reservoir 200 can be cleaned, and limescale easily removed, which has not been possible in prior art embodiments with conventional sealed boilers.

In the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the manifold 100 is positioned directly above the steam generator 40, such that it forms a ceiling of the steam generator water reservoir. As the steam generator and the manifold are adjacent to one another, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the chance to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particularly between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

Figure 4a shows an alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50, which is a container for collecting waste condensation formed in the container. In the example shown in Figure 4a the condensation trap is removable from the top of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 is an open-topped container which is shaped to fit into a recess (not shown) in the base of the container 30. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water into the open top of the condensation trap 50.

Figure 4b shows another alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50. In the example shown in Figure 4b the condensation trap is removable from the bottom of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 has a round inlet hole in its top, which is configured to be aligned with an outlet hole (not shown) in the base of the container 30 when the condensation trap is in position. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water towards the outlet hole, so that it flows through the outlet hole into the condensation trap 50.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the steaming apparatus includes a container 30 and a lid 60. The container and lid are both formed from double-walled rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene, and the cavity between the double-walls is insulated with polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene, which advantageously makes the containers both well-insulated and tough.

The lid 60 forms the ceiling of the chest-style container 30, and is hinged on one side and openable using a moulded handle 65 in the edge of the lid. A soft-close piston is provided to soften closing of the lid, and a rubber seal is positioned around the periphery of the lid, so that the lid and the container form a gas-tight seal when the lid is closed. A pair of catches is also provided to secure the lid closed.

On the underside of the lid 60, which forms the ceiling of the container when the lid is closed, an array of vapour guides 70 are moulded into the plastic. The vapour guides take the form of rounded plastic “buttons” which protrude downwards out of the surface of the lid, so that condensation forms on the vapour guides and forms droplets on the lowermost point of the buttons, from where the condensed water drips down into the container.

The array of vapour guides 70 vary in size according to their position on the lid, with the vapour guides at the outer corners of the lid being the smallest, and the vapour guides in the centre being the largest. This may advantageously encourage condensation to form in a central area of the lid from which it will drip back onto the plant fibres which will typically be positioned centrally in the container.

On the non-hinged side of the lid 60, a vapour deflector 80 is formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the moulded handle 65. The position of this vapour deflector 80 ensures that when the catches are released and the lid 60 opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle 65 and scalding the user’s hand.

On the hinged side of the lid 60, the lid is moulded into a curved condensation guide 90. As condensation forms on the underside of the lid 60 during steaming, not all of the condensation will have time to drip from a vapour guide 70 before the steaming is finished. When the lid is opened after steaming, the condensed water on the underside of the lid therefore runs towards the hinged side of the lid. The condensation guide 90 then channels the condensed water into the interior of the container, preventing it from running through the gap between the container and the lid and onto the floor.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Aspects of the Invention The figures of the first and second or the third and fourth aspects of the invention may egually be applied to the fifth, sixth, seventh or eighth aspects of the invention.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Aspects of the Invention

The description of the figures for the first and second aspects, or the third and fourth aspects of the invention may egually be applied to the fifth, sixth, seventh or eighth aspects of the invention.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Ninth Aspect of the Invention

Figure 1 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus;

Figure 2 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises lances;

Figure 3a illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres;

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres and the manifold has lances;

Figure 3c illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Figure 4a illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container removable from a first side;

Figure 4b illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container from a second side; and

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a vapour deflector is provided on the lid of the container.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Ninth Aspect of the Invention

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown in general an apparatus for steam treatment of plant fibres comprising a steam generator 20 in which is located a heating element 22. The steam generator 20 comprises a water reservoir for containing water that in use is heated and evaporated by the heating element 22.

The steam generator 20 is a sealed vessel capable of heating water to more than its normal boiling point. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 a high pressure flexible hose 24, which is ideally insulated, conducts steam from the reservoir to a manifold, ideally via a flexible or universal joints 25 and 26. The manifold 1 distributes the steam into the interior of a container 30, in which a batch of plant fibres 10 is positioned.

The steam generator optionally includes conventional safety equipment such as thermostatic settings, boil dry warning and residual current detectors (RCD) for use in damp and outdoor environments.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the heating element 22 is formed from titanium metal.

In one preferred embodiment, the manifold 1 is generally square and has a number of apertures 4, which allow the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the plant fibres inside the container 30. The apertures 4 may be holes formed in the manifold.

If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale is dropped onto the manifold.

The supply of steam may be switched on or off by a controller 29. The controller is preferably programmable by a user, and is configured to control steam supply to the plant fibres, and therefore to control the steaming temperature and duration of the steaming.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations (e.g., a target temperature, target humidity, target steaming time, and/or a target steaming pressure).

The controller may comprise a data processing system, which may include one or more processors (e.g., a general purpose microprocessor and/or one or more other data processing circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA’s), and the like); a network interface for connecting the controller to a network; and a local storage unit, which may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In embodiments where the controller includes a general purpose microprocessor, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program product may include a computer readable medium (CRM) storing a computer program comprising computer readable instructions. The CRM may be a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as, but not limited to magnetic media (e.g., a hard disk), optical media (e.g., a DVD), memory devices (e.g., random access memory), and the like. In some embodiments, the computer readable instructions are configured such that when executed, they cause the controller to perform tasks described herein. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform tasks described herein without the need for code. For example, the data processing system may consist merely of one or more ASICs.

Depending on the programming of the controller, the plant fibres may be exposed to continuous steam from the apparatus, or the steam supply may be intermittently stopped and started to maintain the fibres at a desired target temperature, for example.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 90 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

During use, steam and condensed steam permeate through the plant fibres increasing the temperature of the fibres to between 90 and 105 degrees Centigrade (depending upon ambient temperature) killing thermophilic and mesophilic mould spores and other living organisms as mentioned above and effectively steam treating the fibres as well as dampening dust spores thus restricting their ability to become airborne.

The period of time of steam delivery is controlled by the controller, by controlling the power supply to the steam generator and/or a valve means that controls the passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The steam is distributed from the reservoir, via the hose and through the apertures 4 and where the steam condenses the water content is absorbed, in the majority, by the plant fibres leaving it damp. As the moisture content within the plant fibres increases, the temperature rises exponentially due to the increased efficiency of water as a heat conducting medium within the fibres, compared to air in the fibres’ dry state.

At least part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 is situated inside a container 30. For example, the manifold is shown situated within container 30.

The aforementioned apparatus can be used either in open space or within an enclosed environment, such as horse box, stable or barn.

Figure 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the steam manifold is fitted with a number of substantially vertical lances 2a, 2b, 2c. Each lance 2 has a pointed end for ease of penetration into a batch of plant fibres. Lances 2 have apertures 4, extending a proportion of their length, for the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the centre of the batch of plant fibres. Apertures 4 may be vertically disposed or they may be in the form of slits or slots, extending lengthwise or helically about circular lances 2.

As a result of the lances 2a, 2b, and 2c, steam is introduced into the centre of the bale of plant fibres by placing the batch of plant fibres 10 onto the manifold 1. Alternatively the manifold 1 can be forced into a batch of plant fibres 10 from the side or above. In whichever orientation the lances penetrate so as ensure steam reaches all of the batch. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale of compacted plant fibres is dropped onto the lances. Figure 3a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a steaming apparatus according to the present invention, in which a steam generator reservoir 200 is are moulded integrally with the base of a container 30. A reservoir wall 40 extends vertically upwards from the base of the container, and encircles a portion of the container floor to form a reservoir for holding water, in which the floor of the container inside the reservoir wall 40 forms the floor of the reservoir.

The container is double-walled and formed from plastic, and is insulated by insulating foam provided between the double-walls of the container. The container is sealable with a lid (not shown), so that steam delivered into the container during use cannot escape. The reservoir wall 40 is also formed from the same plastic as the container 30, and is rotational moulded or injection moulded thermoplastic that is moulded as part of the container 30 during manufacture

A heating element 22 is positioned in the steam generator reservoir 200 to heat water contained in the reservoir.

A manifold plate 100 is formed by a flat metal plate through which apertures or holes 4 extend to allow the passage of steam therethrough. The manifold plate 100 is configured to fit onto the upper surface of the reservoir wall 40 to form a lid or ceiling of the steam generator reservoir 200. The manifold plate 100 is removable from the steam generator reservoir 200 to allow refilling, and forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall 40 when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100.

The steam generator reservoir 200 and the manifold plate 100 are positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the manifold plate 100 and sits on the manifold during steaming. Steam emitted into the container 30 through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100 therefore passes into the batch of plant fibres.

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment in which the steam generator 20 is formed integrally with the base of the container 30 and the manifold plate is connected to a plurality of upright lances 2 through which steam is delivered into the interior of the container. The manifold plate 100 is positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the lances 2 so that they penetrate into the batch of fibres. The lances provide the benefit that steam delivered through the lances is provided into the centre of the batch of plant fibres, ensuring that plant fibres in the centre of the batch are steamed as thoroughly as plant fibres nearer the edges of the container.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B the reservoir wall 40 extends upwards out of the base of the container, so that there is a channel formed between the outside of the reservoir wall 40 and the walls of the container, into which condensation formed during steaming may drain.

As shown in the alternative embodiment of Figure 3C, the steam generator reservoir 200 may be integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor, or base, of the container. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor. This advantageously makes the apparatus easy to clean, by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can proliferate. The removable manifold plate also means that the inside of the steam generator reservoir 200 can be cleaned, and limescale easily removed, which has not been possible in prior art embodiments with conventional sealed boilers.

In the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the manifold plate 100 is positioned directly above the steam generator reservoir 200, such that it forms a ceiling of the steam generator water reservoir. As the steam generator reservoir and the manifold are adjacent to one another, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the chance to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particularly between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

Figure 4a shows an alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50, which is a container for collecting waste condensation formed in the container. In the example shown in Figure 4a the condensation trap is removable from the top of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 is an open-topped container which is shaped to fit into a recess (not shown) in the base of the container 30. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water into the open top of the condensation trap 50.

Figure 4b shows another alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50. In the example shown in Figure 4b the condensation trap is removable from the bottom of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 has a round inlet hole in its top, which is configured to be aligned with an outlet hole (not shown) in the base of the container 30 when the condensation trap is in position. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water towards the outlet hole, so that it flows through the outlet hole into the condensation trap 50.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the steaming apparatus includes a container 30 and a lid 60. The container and lid are both formed from double-walled moulded polypropylene, and the cavity between the double-walls is insulated with polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene, which advantageously makes the containers both well-insulated and tough.

The lid 60 forms the ceiling of the chest-style container 30, and is hinged on one side and openable using a moulded handle 65 in the edge of the lid. A soft-close piston is provided to soften closing of the lid, and a rubber seal is positioned around the periphery of the lid, so that the lid and the container form a gas-tight seal when the lid is closed. A pair of catches is also provided to secure the lid closed.

On the underside of the lid 60, which forms the ceiling of the container when the lid is closed, an array of vapour guides 70 are moulded into the plastic. The vapour guides take the form of rounded plastic “buttons” which protrude downwards out of the surface of the lid, so that condensation forms on the vapour guides and forms droplets on the lowermost point of the buttons, from where the condensed water drips down into the container.

The array of vapour guides 70 vary in size according to their position on the lid, with the vapour guides at the outer corners of the lid being the smallest, and the vapour guides in the centre being the largest. This may advantageously encourage condensation to form in a central area of the lid from which it will drip back onto the plant fibres which will typically be positioned centrally in the container.

On the non-hinged side of the lid 60, a vapour deflector 80 is formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the moulded handle 65. The position of this vapour deflector 80 ensures that when the catches are released and the lid 60 opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle 65 and scalding the user’s hand. On the hinged side of the lid 60, the lid is moulded into a curved condensation guide 90. As condensation forms on the underside of the lid 60 during steaming, not all of the condensation will have time to drip from a vapour guide 70 before the steaming is finished. When the lid is opened after steaming, the condensed water on the underside of the lid therefore runs towards the hinged side of the lid. The condensation guide 90 then channels the condensed water into the interior of the container, preventing it from running through the gap between the container and the lid and onto the floor.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Tenth and Eleventh Aspects of the Invention

The figures of the first and second, or the third and fourth, aspects of the invention may equally be applied to the tenth and eleventh aspects of the invention.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Tenth and Eleventh Aspects of the Invention

The description of the figures for the first and second, or the third and fourth aspects of the invention may equally be applied to the tenth and eleventh aspects of the invention.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Twelfth Aspect of the Invention

Figure 1 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus;

Figure 2 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises lances;

Figure 3a illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres;

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres and the manifold has lances;

Figure 3c illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Figure 4a illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container removable from a first side;

Figure 4b illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container from a second side; and

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the container for plant fibres comprises a lid.

Figures 8a and 8b are transparent perspective views illustrating an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Twelfth Aspect of the Invention

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown in general an apparatus for steam treatment of plant fibres comprising a steam generator 20 in which is located a heating element 22. The steam generator 20 comprises a water reservoir for containing water that in use is heated and evaporated by the heating element 22.

The steam generator 20 is a sealed vessel capable of heating water to more than its normal boiling point. The embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 does not contain a steam generator reservoir moulded integrally into a base or wall of the container, and thus does not fall within the scope of the present invention. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 for the sake of illustrating the operation of a steamer device in general, a high pressure flexible hose 24, which is ideally insulated, conducts steam from the reservoir to a manifold, ideally via a flexible or universal joints 25 and 26. The manifold 1 distributes the steam into the interior of a container 30, in which a batch of plant fibres 10 is positioned.

The steam generator optionally includes conventional safety equipment such as thermostatic settings, boil dry warning and residual current detectors (RCD) for use in damp and outdoor environments.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the heating element 22 is formed from titanium metal.

In one preferred embodiment, the manifold 1 is generally square and has a number of apertures 4, which allow the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the plant fibres inside the container 30. The apertures 4 may be holes formed in the manifold. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale is dropped onto the manifold.

The supply of steam may be switched on or off by a controller 29. The controller is preferably programmable by a user, and is configured to control steam supply to the plant fibres, and therefore to control the steaming temperature and duration of the steaming.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations (e.g., a target temperature, target humidity, target steaming time, and/or a target steaming pressure).

The controller may comprise a data processing system, which may include one or more processors (e.g., a general purpose microprocessor and/or one or more other data processing circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA’s), and the like); a network interface for connecting the controller to a network; and a local storage unit, which may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In embodiments where the controller includes a general purpose microprocessor, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program product may include a computer readable medium (CRM) storing a computer program comprising computer readable instructions. The CRM may be a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as, but not limited to magnetic media (e.g., a hard disk), optical media (e.g., a DVD), memory devices (e.g., random access memory), and the like. In some embodiments, the computer readable instructions are configured such that when executed, they cause the controller to perform tasks described herein. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform tasks described herein without the need for code. For example, the data processing system may consist merely of one or more ASICs.

Depending on the programming of the controller, the plant fibres may be exposed to continuous steam from the apparatus, or the steam supply may be intermittently stopped and started to maintain the fibres at a desired target temperature, for example.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 90 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

During use, steam and condensed steam permeate through the plant fibres increasing the temperature of the fibres to between 90 and 105 degrees Centigrade (depending upon ambient temperature) killing thermophilic and mesophilic mould spores and other living organisms as mentioned above and effectively steam treating the fibres as well as dampening dust spores thus restricting their ability to become airborne.

The period of time of steam delivery is controlled by the controller, by controlling the power supply to the steam generator and/or a valve means that controls the passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The steam is distributed from the reservoir, via the hose and through the apertures 4 and where the steam condenses the water content is absorbed, in the majority, by the plant fibres leaving it damp. As the moisture content within the plant fibres increases, the temperature rises exponentially due to the increased efficiency of water as a heat conducting medium within the fibres, compared to air in the fibres’ dry state.

At least part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 is situated inside a container 30. For example, the manifold is shown situated within container 30.

The aforementioned apparatus can be used either in open space or within an enclosed environment, such as horse box, stable or barn.

Figure 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the steam manifold is fitted with a number of substantially vertical lances 2a, 2b, 2c. Each lance 2 has a pointed end for ease of penetration into a batch of plant fibres. Lances 2 have apertures 4, extending a proportion of their length, for the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the centre of the batch of plant fibres. Apertures 4 may be vertically disposed or they may be in the form of slits or slots, extending lengthwise or helically about circular lances 2.

As a result of the lances 2a, 2b, and 2c, steam is introduced into the centre of the bale of plant fibres by placing the batch of plant fibres 10 onto the manifold 1. Alternatively the manifold 1 can be forced into a batch of plant fibres 10 from the side or above. In whichever orientation the lances penetrate so as ensure steam reaches all of the batch. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale of compacted plant fibres is dropped onto the lances.

Figure 3a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a steaming apparatus according to the present invention, in which a steam generator reservoir 200 is are moulded integrally with the base of a container 30. A reservoir wall 40 extends vertically upwards from the base of the container, and encircles a portion of the container floor to form a reservoir for holding water, in which the floor of the container inside the reservoir wall 40 forms the floor of the reservoir.

The container is double-walled and formed from plastic, and is insulated by insulating foam provided between the double-walls of the container. The container is sealable with a lid (not shown), so that steam delivered into the container during use cannot escape. The reservoir wall 40 is also formed from the same plastic as the container 30, and is rotational moulded or injection moulded thermoplastic that is moulded as part of the container 30 during manufacture

A heating element 22 is positioned in the steam generator reservoir 200 to heat water contained in the reservoir.

A manifold plate 100 is formed by a flat metal plate through which apertures or holes 4 extend to allow the passage of steam therethrough. The manifold plate 100 is configured to fit onto the upper surface of the reservoir wall 40 to form a lid or ceiling of the steam generator reservoir 200. The manifold plate 100 is removable from the steam generator reservoir 200 to allow refilling, and forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall 40 when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100.

The steam generator reservoir 200 and the manifold plate 100 are positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the manifold plate 100 and sits on the manifold during steaming. Steam emitted into the container 30 through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100 therefore passes into the batch of plant fibres.

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment in which the steam generator 20 is formed integrally with the base of the container 30 and the manifold plate is connected to a plurality of upright lances 2 through which steam is delivered into the interior of the container. The manifold plate 100 is positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the lances 2 so that they penetrate into the batch of fibres. The lances provide the benefit that steam delivered through the lances is provided into the centre of the batch of plant fibres, ensuring that plant fibres in the centre of the batch are steamed as thoroughly as plant fibres nearer the edges of the container.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B the reservoir wall 40 extends upwards out of the base of the container, so that there is a channel formed between the outside of the reservoir wall 40 and the walls of the container, into which condensation formed during steaming may drain.

As shown in the alternative embodiment of Figure 3C, the steam generator reservoir 200 may be integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor, or base, of the container. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor. This advantageously makes the apparatus easy to clean, by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can proliferate. The removable manifold plate also means that the inside of the steam generator reservoir 200 can be cleaned, and limescale easily removed, which has not been possible in prior art embodiments with conventional sealed boilers.

In the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the manifold plate 100 is positioned directly above the steam generator reservoir 200, such that it forms a ceiling of the steam generator water reservoir. As the steam generator reservoir and the manifold are adjacent to one another, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the chance to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particularly between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

Figure 4a shows an alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50, which is a container for collecting waste condensation formed in the container. In the example shown in Figure 4a the condensation trap is removable from the top of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 is an open-topped container which is shaped to fit into a recess (not shown) in the base of the container 30. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water into the open top of the condensation trap 50.

Figure 4b shows another alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50. In the example shown in Figure 4b the condensation trap is removable from the bottom of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 has a round inlet hole in its top, which is configured to be aligned with an outlet hole (not shown) in the base of the container 30 when the condensation trap is in position. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water towards the outlet hole, so that it flows through the outlet hole into the condensation trap 50. Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the steaming apparatus includes a container 30 and a lid 60. The container and lid are both formed from double-walled rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene, and the cavity between the double-walls is insulated with polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene, which advantageously makes the containers both well-insulated and tough.

The lid 60 forms the ceiling of the chest-style container 30, and is hinged on one side and openable using a moulded handle 65 in the edge of the lid. A soft-close piston is provided to soften closing of the lid, and a rubber seal is positioned around the periphery of the lid, so that the lid and the container form a gas-tight seal when the lid is closed. A pair of catches is also provided to secure the lid closed.

On the underside of the lid 60, which forms the ceiling of the container when the lid is closed, an array of vapour guides 70 are moulded into the plastic. The vapour guides take the form of rounded plastic “buttons” which protrude downwards out of the surface of the lid, so that condensation forms on the vapour guides and forms droplets on the lowermost point of the buttons, from where the condensed water drips down into the container.

The array of vapour guides 70 vary in size according to their position on the lid, with the vapour guides at the outer corners of the lid being the smallest, and the vapour guides in the centre being the largest. This may advantageously encourage condensation to form in a central area of the lid from which it will drip back onto the plant fibres which will typically be positioned centrally in the container.

On the non-hinged side of the lid 60, a vapour deflector 80 is formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the moulded handle 65. The position of this vapour deflector 80 ensures that when the catches are released and the lid 60 opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle 65 and scalding the user’s hand.

On the hinged side of the lid 60, the lid is moulded into a curved condensation guide 90. As condensation forms on the underside of the lid 60 during steaming, not all of the condensation will have time to drip from a vapour guide 70 before the steaming is finished. When the lid is opened after steaming, the condensed water on the underside of the lid therefore runs towards the hinged side of the lid. The condensation guide 90 then channels the condensed water into the interior of the container, preventing it from running through the gap between the container and the lid and onto the floor. Figures 8a and 8b are transparent perspective views illustrating another embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Thirteenth Aspect of the Invention

Figure 1 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus;

Figure 2 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises lances;

Figure 3a illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres;

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres and the manifold has lances;

Figure 3c illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Figure 4a illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container removable from a first side;

Figure 4b illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container from a second side;

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the container for plant fibres comprises a lid; and

Figures 8a and 8b are transparent perspective views illustrating another embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Thirteenth Aspect of the Invention Referring to Figure 1 there is shown in general an apparatus for steam treatment of plant fibres comprising a steam generator 20 in which is located a heating element 22. The steam generator 20 comprises a water reservoir for containing water that in use is heated and evaporated by the heating element 22.

The steam generator 20 is a sealed vessel capable of heating water to more than its normal boiling point. The embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 does not contain a steam generator reservoir moulded integrally into a base or wall of the container, and thus does not fall within the scope of the present invention. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 for the sake of illustrating the operation of a steamer device in general, a high pressure flexible hose 24, which is ideally insulated, conducts steam from the reservoir to a manifold, ideally via - Ill - a flexible or universal joints 25 and 26. The manifold 1 distributes the steam into the interior of a container 30, in which a batch of plant fibres 10 is positioned.

The steam generator optionally includes conventional safety equipment such as thermostatic settings, boil dry warning and residual current detectors (RCD) for use in damp and outdoor environments.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the heating element 22 is formed from titanium metal.

In one preferred embodiment, the manifold 1 is generally square and has a number of apertures 4, which allow the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the plant fibres inside the container 30. The apertures 4 may be holes formed in the manifold.

If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale is dropped onto the manifold.

The supply of steam may be switched on or off by a controller 29. The controller is preferably programmable by a user, and is configured to control steam supply to the plant fibres, and therefore to control the steaming temperature and duration of the steaming.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations (e.g., a target temperature, target humidity, target steaming time, and/or a target steaming pressure).

The controller may comprise a data processing system, which may include one or more processors (e.g., a general purpose microprocessor and/or one or more other data processing circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA’s), and the like); a network interface for connecting the controller to a network; and a local storage unit, which may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In embodiments where the controller includes a general purpose microprocessor, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program product may include a computer readable medium (CRM) storing a computer program comprising computer readable instructions. The CRM may be a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as, but not limited to magnetic media (e.g., a hard disk), optical media (e.g., a DVD), memory devices (e.g., random access memory), and the like. In some embodiments, the computer readable instructions are configured such that when executed, they cause the controller to perform tasks described herein. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform tasks described herein without the need for code. For example, the data processing system may consist merely of one or more ASICs.

Depending on the programming of the controller, the plant fibres may be exposed to continuous steam from the apparatus, or the steam supply may be intermittently stopped and started to maintain the fibres at a desired target temperature, for example.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 90 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

During use, steam and condensed steam permeate through the plant fibres increasing the temperature of the fibres to between 90 and 105 degrees Centigrade (depending upon ambient temperature) killing thermophilic and mesophilic mould spores and other living organisms as mentioned above and effectively steam treating the fibres as well as dampening dust spores thus restricting their ability to become airborne.

The period of time of steam delivery is controlled by the controller, by controlling the power supply to the steam generator and/or a valve means that controls the passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The steam is distributed from the reservoir, via the hose and through the apertures 4 and where the steam condenses the water content is absorbed, in the majority, by the plant fibres leaving it damp. As the moisture content within the plant fibres increases, the temperature rises exponentially due to the increased efficiency of water as a heat conducting medium within the fibres, compared to air in the fibres’ dry state.

At least part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 is situated inside a container 30. For example, the manifold is shown situated within container 30.

The aforementioned apparatus can be used either in open space or within an enclosed environment, such as horse box, stable or barn.

Figure 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein the steam manifold is fitted with a number of substantially vertical lances 2a, 2b, 2c. Each lance 2 has a pointed end for ease of penetration into a batch of plant fibres. Lances 2 have apertures 4, extending a proportion of their length, for the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the centre of the batch of plant fibres. Apertures 4 may be vertically disposed or they may be in the form of slits or slots, extending lengthwise or helically about circular lances 2.

As a result of the lances 2a, 2b, and 2c, steam is introduced into the centre of the bale of plant fibres by placing the batch of plant fibres 10 onto the manifold 1. Alternatively the manifold 1 can be forced into a batch of plant fibres 10 from the side or above. In whichever orientation the lances penetrate so as ensure steam reaches all of the batch. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale of compacted plant fibres is dropped onto the lances.

Figure 3a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a steaming apparatus according to the present invention, in which a steam generator reservoir 200 is are moulded integrally with the base of a container 30. A reservoir wall 40 extends vertically upwards from the base of the container, and encircles a portion of the container floor to form a reservoir for holding water, in which the floor of the container inside the reservoir wall 40 forms the floor of the reservoir.

The container is double-walled and formed from plastic, and is insulated by insulating foam provided between the double-walls of the container. The container is sealable with a lid (not shown), so that steam delivered into the container during use cannot escape. The reservoir wall 40 is also formed from the same plastic as the container 30, and is rotational moulded or injection moulded thermoplastic that is moulded as part of the container 30 during manufacture

A heating element 22 is positioned in the steam generator reservoir 200 to heat water contained in the reservoir.

A manifold plate 100 is formed by a flat metal plate through which apertures or holes 4 extend to allow the passage of steam therethrough. The manifold plate 100 is configured to fit onto the upper surface of the reservoir wall 40 to form a lid or ceiling of the steam generator reservoir 200. The manifold plate 100 is removable from the steam generator reservoir 200 to allow refilling, and forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall 40 when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100.

The steam generator reservoir 200 and the manifold plate 100 are positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the manifold plate 100 and sits on the manifold during steaming. Steam emitted into the container 30 through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100 therefore passes into the batch of plant fibres.

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment in which the steam generator 20 is formed integrally with the base of the container 30 and the manifold plate is connected to a plurality of upright lances 2 through which steam is delivered into the interior of the container. The manifold plate 100 is positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the lances 2 so that they penetrate into the batch of fibres. The lances provide the benefit that steam delivered through the lances is provided into the centre of the batch of plant fibres, ensuring that plant fibres in the centre of the batch are steamed as thoroughly as plant fibres nearer the edges of the container.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B the reservoir wall 40 extends upwards out of the base of the container, so that there is a channel formed between the outside of the reservoir wall 40 and the walls of the container, into which condensation formed during steaming may drain.

As shown in the alternative embodiment of Figure 3C, the steam generator reservoir 200 may be integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor, or base, of the container. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor. This advantageously makes the apparatus easy to clean, by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can proliferate. The removable manifold plate also means that the inside of the steam generator reservoir 200 can be cleaned, and limescale easily removed, which has not been possible in prior art embodiments with conventional sealed boilers.

In the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the manifold plate 100 is positioned directly above the steam generator reservoir 200, such that it forms a ceiling of the steam generator water reservoir. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor.

As the steam generator reservoir and the manifold are adjacent to one another, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the chance to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particularly between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

Figure 4a shows an alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50, which is a container for collecting waste condensation formed in the container. In the example shown in Figure 4a the condensation trap is removable from the top of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 is an open-topped container which is shaped to fit into a recess (not shown) in the base of the container 30. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water into the open top of the condensation trap 50.

Figure 4b shows another alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50. In the example shown in Figure 4b the condensation trap is removable from the bottom of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 has a round inlet hole in its top, which is configured to be aligned with an outlet hole (not shown) in the base of the container 30 when the condensation trap is in position. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water towards the outlet hole, so that it flows through the outlet hole into the condensation trap 50.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the steaming apparatus includes a container 30 and a lid 60. The container and lid are both formed from double-walled rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene, and the cavity between the double-walls is insulated with polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene, which advantageously makes the containers both well-insulated and tough.

The lid 60 forms the ceiling of the chest-style container 30, and is hinged on one side and openable using a moulded handle 65 in the edge of the lid. A soft-close piston is provided to soften closing of the lid, and a rubber seal is positioned around the periphery of the lid, so that the lid and the container form a gas-tight seal when the lid is closed. A pair of catches is also provided to secure the lid closed.

On the underside of the lid 60, which forms the ceiling of the container when the lid is closed, an array of vapour guides 70 are moulded into the plastic. The vapour guides take the form of rounded plastic “buttons” which protrude downwards out of the surface of the lid, so that condensation forms on the vapour guides and forms droplets on the lowermost point of the buttons, from where the condensed water drips down into the container.

The array of vapour guides 70 vary in size according to their position on the lid, with the vapour guides at the outer corners of the lid being the smallest, and the vapour guides in the centre being the largest. This may advantageously encourage condensation to form in a central area of the lid from which it will drip back onto the plant fibres which will typically be positioned centrally in the container.

On the non-hinged side of the lid 60, a vapour deflector 80 is formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the moulded handle 65. The position of this vapour deflector 80 ensures that when the catches are released and the lid 60 opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle 65 and scalding the user’s hand.

On the hinged side of the lid 60, the lid is moulded into a curved condensation guide 90. As condensation forms on the underside of the lid 60 during steaming, not all of the condensation will have time to drip from a vapour guide 70 before the steaming is finished. When the lid is opened after steaming, the condensed water on the underside of the lid therefore runs towards the hinged side of the lid. The condensation guide 90 then channels the condensed water into the interior of the container, preventing it from running through the gap between the container and the lid and onto the floor.

Figures 8a and 8b are transparent perspective views illustrating another embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container.

Brief Description of the Figures for the Fourteenth Aspect of the Invention

Figure 1 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus;

Figure 2 is an overall diagrammatical view that illustrates the principle of operation of a steaming apparatus, wherein the apparatus comprises lances; Figure 3a illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres;

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment of the invention where a steam generator is formed integrally with the base of a container for plant fibres and the manifold has lances;

Figure 3c illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container;

Figure 4a illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container removable from a first side;

Figure 4b illustrates an embodiment of the invention that includes a waste collection container from a second side;

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the container for plant fibres comprises a lid;

Figures 8a and 8b are transparent perspective views illustrating an embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container; and

Figure 9 illustrates a cross-section of an embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments of the Fourteenth Aspect of the Invention Referring to Figure 1 there is shown in general an apparatus for steam treatment of plant fibres comprising a steam generator 20 in which is located a heating element 22. The steam generator 20 comprises a water reservoir for containing water that in use is heated and evaporated by the heating element 22.

The steam generator 20 is a sealed vessel capable of heating water to more than its normal boiling point. The embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 does not explicitly show the double-walled insulated construction of the present invention, but is particularly suited for a container of that construction. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 for the sake of illustrating the operation of a steamer device in general, a high pressure flexible hose 24, which is ideally insulated, conducts steam from the reservoir to a manifold, ideally via a flexible or universal joints 25 and 26. The manifold 1 distributes the steam into the interior of a container 30, in which a batch of plant fibres 10 is positioned.

The steam generator optionally includes conventional safety equipment such as thermostatic settings, boil dry warning and residual current detectors (RCD) for use in damp and outdoor environments. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the heating element 22 is formed from titanium metal.

In one preferred embodiment, the manifold 1 is generally square and has a number of apertures 4, which allow the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the plant fibres inside the container 30. The apertures 4 may be holes formed in the manifold.

If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale is dropped onto the manifold.

The supply of steam may be switched on or off by a controller 29. The controller is preferably programmable by a user, and is configured to control steam supply to the plant fibres, and therefore to control the steaming temperature and duration of the steaming.

The controller may be built into the apparatus or communicate with the apparatus, for example, via a wired or wireless interface. In certain embodiments, the controller may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or any other handheld control device. For example, an application may be downloaded onto a mobile device allowing the device to be used as a controller. The controller can be configured to provide a user interface that allows users to input desired configurations (e.g., a target temperature, target humidity, target steaming time, and/or a target steaming pressure).

The controller may comprise a data processing system, which may include one or more processors (e.g., a general purpose microprocessor and/or one or more other data processing circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA’s), and the like); a network interface for connecting the controller to a network; and a local storage unit, which may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In embodiments where the controller includes a general purpose microprocessor, a computer program product may be provided. The computer program product may include a computer readable medium (CRM) storing a computer program comprising computer readable instructions. The CRM may be a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as, but not limited to magnetic media (e.g., a hard disk), optical media (e.g., a DVD), memory devices (e.g., random access memory), and the like. In some embodiments, the computer readable instructions are configured such that when executed, they cause the controller to perform tasks described herein. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform tasks described herein without the need for code. For example, the data processing system may consist merely of one or more ASICs.

Depending on the programming of the controller, the plant fibres may be exposed to continuous steam from the apparatus, or the steam supply may be intermittently stopped and started to maintain the fibres at a desired target temperature, for example.

The controller is preferably configured to heat the plant fibres to a target temperature of at least 90 °C, and to maintain the plant fibres at the target temperature for a time of at least 10 minutes.

During use, steam and condensed steam permeate through the plant fibres increasing the temperature of the fibres to between 90 and 105 degrees Centigrade (depending upon ambient temperature) killing thermophilic and mesophilic mould spores and other living organisms as mentioned above and effectively steam treating the fibres as well as dampening dust spores thus restricting their ability to become airborne.

The period of time of steam delivery is controlled by the controller, by controlling the power supply to the steam generator and/or a valve means that controls the passage of steam from the steam generator to the interior of the container.

The steam is distributed from the reservoir, via the hose and through the apertures 4 and where the steam condenses the water content is absorbed, in the majority, by the plant fibres leaving it damp. As the moisture content within the plant fibres increases, the temperature rises exponentially due to the increased efficiency of water as a heat conducting medium within the fibres, compared to air in the fibres’ dry state.

At least part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 is situated inside a container 30. For example, the manifold is shown situated within container 30.

The aforementioned apparatus can be used either in open space or within an enclosed environment, such as horse box, stable or barn.

Figure 2 illustrates an alternative embodiment wherein the steam manifold is fitted with a number of substantially vertical lances 2a, 2b, 2c. Each lance 2 has a pointed end for ease of penetration into a batch of plant fibres. Lances 2 have apertures 4, extending a proportion of their length, for the release and distribution of steam and condensed steam into the centre of the batch of plant fibres. Apertures 4 may be vertically disposed or they may be in the form of slits or slots, extending lengthwise or helically about circular lances 2. As a result of the lances 2a, 2b, and 2c, steam is introduced into the centre of the bale of plant fibres by placing the batch of plant fibres 10 onto the manifold 1. Alternatively the manifold 1 can be forced into a batch of plant fibres 10 from the side or above. In whichever orientation the lances penetrate so as ensure steam reaches all of the batch. If the manifold is arranged to rest on the ground during operation, an optional foot or feet 7 may be provided or formed on the manifold to prevent damage to it, for example by shock loading that may occur when a bale of compacted plant fibres is dropped onto the lances.

Figure 3a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a steaming apparatus according to the present invention, in which a steam generator reservoir 200 is are moulded integrally with the base of a container 30. A reservoir wall 40 extends vertically upwards from the base of the container, and encircles a portion of the container floor to form a reservoir for holding water, in which the floor of the container inside the reservoir wall 40 forms the floor of the reservoir.

The container is double-walled and formed from plastic, and is insulated by insulating foam provided between the double-walls of the container. The container is sealable with a lid (not shown), so that steam delivered into the container during use cannot escape. The reservoir wall 40 is also formed from the same plastic as the container 30, and is rotational moulded or injection moulded thermoplastic that is moulded as part of the container 30 during manufacture

A heating element 22 is positioned in the steam generator reservoir 200 to heat water contained in the reservoir.

A manifold plate 100 is formed by a flat metal plate through which apertures or holes 4 extend to allow the passage of steam therethrough. The manifold plate 100 is configured to fit onto the upper surface of the reservoir wall 40 to form a lid or ceiling of the steam generator reservoir 200. The manifold plate 100 is removable from the steam generator reservoir 200 to allow refilling, and forms a gas-tight seal with the reservoir wall 40 when in position, so that steam can only escape the reservoir by passing through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100.

The steam generator reservoir 200 and the manifold plate 100 are positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the manifold plate 100 and sits on the manifold during steaming. Steam emitted into the container 30 through the apertures 4 in the manifold plate 100 therefore passes into the batch of plant fibres.

Figure 3b illustrates an embodiment in which the steam generator 20 is formed integrally with the base of the container 30 and the manifold plate is connected to a plurality of upright lances 2 through which steam is delivered into the interior of the container. The manifold plate 100 is positioned in the base of the container 30, so that in use the batch of plant fibres is lowered down onto the lances 2 so that they penetrate into the batch of fibres. The lances provide the benefit that steam delivered through the lances is provided into the centre of the batch of plant fibres, ensuring that plant fibres in the centre of the batch are steamed as thoroughly as plant fibres nearer the edges of the container.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A and 3B the reservoir wall 40 extends upwards out of the base of the container, so that there is a channel formed between the outside of the reservoir wall 40 and the walls of the container, into which condensation formed during steaming may drain.

As shown in the alternative embodiment of Figure 3C, the steam generator reservoir 200 may be integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor, or base, of the container. The reservoir 200 is recessed into the container floor so that the top surface of the manifold plate 100 is level with the container floor. This advantageously makes the apparatus easy to clean, by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can proliferate. The removable manifold plate also means that the inside of the steam generator reservoir 200 can be cleaned, and limescale easily removed, which has not been possible in prior art embodiments with conventional sealed boilers.

In the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the manifold plate 100 is positioned directly above the steam generator reservoir 200, such that it forms a ceiling of the steam generator water reservoir. As the steam generator reservoir and the manifold are adjacent to one another, pressurised steam may be generated in the steam generator and forced through the manifold into the interior of the container without having the chance to cool down and condense in a connecting hose. This may advantageously allow more rapid heating of the plant fibre to kill spores and microorganisms. By eliminating hoses and pipes from the apparatus, this may also advantageously reduce the chances of condensation being trapped in the hoses or pipes of the apparatus after use. Prior art designs have typically contained a lot of pipework, in particularly between the steam generator and the interior of the container. The present inventors have appreciated that a downside of such designs is that condensation may become trapped in the hoses or pipework between uses of the apparatus, and that condensation may deposit limescale and/or freeze in cold weather. This can cause damage to the apparatus, and risks dangerous pressure build-ups when the apparatus is next turned on.

Figure 4a shows an alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50, which is a container for collecting waste condensation formed in the container. In the example shown in Figure 4a the condensation trap is removable from the top of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 is an open-topped container which is shaped to fit into a recess (not shown) in the base of the container 30. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water into the open top of the condensation trap 50.

Figure 4b shows another alternative embodiment of the steaming apparatus including a container 30 which contains a removable condensation trap 50. In the example shown in Figure 4b the condensation trap is removable from the bottom of the container. In this embodiment, the condensation trap 50 has a round inlet hole in its top, which is configured to be aligned with an outlet hole (not shown) in the base of the container 30 when the condensation trap is in position. The floor of the container 30 is sloped, and optionally contains sloped grooves, for channeling condensed steam water towards the outlet hole, so that it flows through the outlet hole into the condensation trap 50.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the invention, in which the steaming apparatus includes a container 30 and a lid 60. The container and lid are both formed from double-walled rotational moulded or injection moulded polypropylene, and the cavity between the double-walls is insulated with polyurethane foam, expanded polystyrene, or expanded polypropylene, which advantageously makes the containers both well-insulated and tough.

The lid 60 forms the ceiling of the chest-style container 30, and is hinged on one side and openable using a moulded handle 65 in the edge of the lid. A soft-close piston is provided to soften closing of the lid, and a rubber seal is positioned around the periphery of the lid, so that the lid and the container form a gas-tight seal when the lid is closed. A pair of catches is also provided to secure the lid closed.

On the underside of the lid 60, which forms the ceiling of the container when the lid is closed, an array of vapour guides 70 are moulded into the plastic. The vapour guides take the form of rounded plastic “buttons” which protrude downwards out of the surface of the lid, so that condensation forms on the vapour guides and forms droplets on the lowermost point of the buttons, from where the condensed water drips down into the container.

The array of vapour guides 70 vary in size according to their position on the lid, with the vapour guides at the outer corners of the lid being the smallest, and the vapour guides in the centre being the largest. This may advantageously encourage condensation to form in a central area of the lid from which it will drip back onto the plant fibres which will typically be positioned centrally in the container.

On the non-hinged side of the lid 60, a vapour deflector 80 is formed from a moulded ridge of plastic that protrudes outwards from the underside of the lid and extends along a length of the lid adjacent to, and longer than, the moulded handle 65. The position of this vapour deflector 80 ensures that when the catches are released and the lid 60 opened, hot steam trapped under the lid is prevented from venting past the handle 65 and scalding the user’s hand.

On the hinged side of the lid 60, the lid is moulded into a curved condensation guide 90. As condensation forms on the underside of the lid 60 during steaming, not all of the condensation will have time to drip from a vapour guide 70 before the steaming is finished. When the lid is opened after steaming, the condensed water on the underside of the lid therefore runs towards the hinged side of the lid. The condensation guide 90 then channels the condensed water into the interior of the container, preventing it from running through the gap between the container and the lid and onto the floor.

Figures 8a and 8b are transparent perspective views illustrating another embodiment of the invention in which the steam generator reservoir 200 is integrally moulded as a recess sunk into the floor of the container. The insulated walls and base of the container 30 surround the recess, insulating it from the outside environment.

Figure 9 shows an apparatus according to the present invention in cross-section. The apparatus consists of a container 30 and a lid 620 which forms a lid of the container. Both the container 30 and the lid 620 are formed from double-walled rigid polypropylene plastic, which may be moulded by injection moulding or rotational moulding. Between the double walls 620 of polypropylene, there is a cavity that is filled with insulating polymer foam 610, which is preferably polyurethane foam. This insulated, double-walled construction is significantly more thermally efficient than prior art designs, as the insulation greatly reduces the heat lost to the environment in cold weather. The construction is also strong and has good shock-absorbing properties, making the apparatus ideal for use in rough environments such as stable yards, where the container may for example be kicked by horses.

All of the devices shown in Figures 1-5 of the fourteenth aspect of the invention preferably use the double-walled insulated construction shown in Figure 9.