Abstract: A cooking apparatus includes a recessed area adapted to receive an associated fluid container for cooking soup and similar food products. Means for heating the recessed area as well as insulating means therearound minimizes heat loss and effectively heats the fluid container. Means for mixing the soup held in the container preferably includes an air pump and a flow passage disposed between the base and the container. Means for sensing the temperature in the fluid container is coupled with a control means for monitoring the soup temperature and, in response, controlling the heating means. Various timing means provide an automated cooking cycle which reduces the soup temperature to a lower temperature after cooking for a preselected time period, and actuates an indicating means for either automatic or manual shutoff.

Abstract: A cooking apparatus includes a recessed area adapted to receive an associated fluid container for cooking soup and similar food products. Means for heating the recessed area as well as insulating means therearound minimizes heat loss and effectively heats the fluid container. Means for mixing the soup held in the container preferably includes an air pump and a flow passage disposed between the base and fluid container. Means for sensing the temperature in the fluid container is coupled with a control means for monitoring the soup temperature and, in response, controlling the heating means. Various timing means provide an automated cooking cycle which reduces the soup temperature to a lower temperature after cooking and actuates an indicating means for either automatic or manual shutoff.

Abstract: To give an otherwise fastened wood or wood-like structure the appearance of a bolted construction, first and second wood or wood-like structural members are provided. Each member has first and second sides with the first member second side being positioned adjacent the second member first side. The two members are thereupon fastened together. A simulated bolt head is then secured to the first member first side with a simulated bolt end being secured to the second member second side so that the simulated bolt head lines up with the simulated bolt end giving the appearance of a bolt passing through the structure. A simulated bolt for use in giving the appearance of a bolted construction in a wood or wood-like structure includes a fastener, having a shank and a tip, as well as a simulated bolt portion. The fastener and the simulated bolt portion are secured to each other.