Vessel Separable From Stand Patents (Class 219/432)
  • Patent number: 6573483
    Abstract: A programmable slow-cooker appliance, in which a user sets a time and temperature for cooking a food item. A programmable controller prevents the unit from being used solely as a “keep warm” appliance, and a unique design allows cooling of the controller during cooking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: The Holmes Group, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. DeCobert, Lorens G. Hlava, Charles T. Thrasher, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030080107
    Abstract: A coffee maker heater/warmer plate assembly includes a spring wire clamp that retains the flow-through heater centered against the bottom of the warmer plate. The spring clamp has ends that are attached to a support ring. The clamp engages a flow-through heater and biases it against the bottom of a warmer plate that is retained by the support ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Applicant: Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Williamson
  • Patent number: 6545252
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electric fryer comprising a body comprising a housing and a container between which an insulating chamber is formed; a lid connected to the upper part of said body; a basket positionable in said container for containing food to be fried; heating means for heating the container; controlling means for controlling a heating time and a heating temperature of the heating means; and a base positioned under the body and connected separately thereto. The electric fryer according to the invention is of a novel structure, ensures safety, and can be easily cleaned and saves power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Dongming Wang
  • Patent number: 6536333
    Abstract: An electric cooking appliance, such as a fryer, having a receptacle provided to receive a cooking liquid, the receptacle being disposed at least partially in a casing having a lateral wall, and an electric connector mounted in an opening of the lateral wall of the casing, the electric connector being provided to cooperate with a mating electric connector connected at the end of a power supply cord. The lateral wall of the casing has an outer rim disposed above the opening, creating a conduit, or trough, that is arranged to keep any liquid that is flowing along the lateral wall of the casing at a distance from the electric connector mounted in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Bouly, CĂ©line Sobole
  • Patent number: 6521872
    Abstract: A method for making a non-stick ceramic cooking vessel for a slow-cooker, the vessel having glazing defining a seal over a cooking surface of the ceramic vessel, the method comprising the steps of removing at least a portion of the glazing while preferably maintaining at least a portion of the seal of the vessel and applying a non-stick coating over the cooking surface. The step of removing the glazing is preferably achieved by grit-blasting at least a portion of the glazing with aluminum oxide. Additionally, the cooking surface preferably includes a bottom surface and a wall surface wherein the glazing is preferably removed from the bottom surface such that the seal is substantially removed, and a portion of the glazing is preferably removed from the wall surface such that the seal there remains substantially intact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Premark WB Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph G. Toman
  • Patent number: 6509550
    Abstract: A roasting oven having a large capacity heating well including a wrap-around heating element for heating the side walls thereof and a top heating element for browning is disclosed. A function control panel featuring a touch-film interface and digital display of cooking modes is provided for the user's convenience. In an alternative embodiment standard electromechanical switches and rheostatic temperature controls provide the functions of the present oven. The heating elements are also fabricated in alternative embodiments to provide single-sided or double-sided configurations for particular applications. The power supply circuit board is isolated from the heating elements in a ventilated compartment on an undersurface of the roasting oven to prevent damage thereto from exposure to the heat source. The present roasting oven is provided with an optional serving set conforming to the shape of the heating well to maintain food in a warmed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: George T. C. Li
  • Publication number: 20020175161
    Abstract: A paraffin bath apparatus for melting paraffin used in therapeutic applications is disclosed. The paraffin bath apparatus comprises a housing having a base, a sidewall and upper opening. An inner tub is formed of a temperature resistant polymeric material is a generally cup shaped member having a bottom wall, an upstanding wall and an open top. The inner tub is received within the upper opening of the housing with the bottom wall of the inner tub overlying the base of the housing. The heating element is located between the inner tub and the housing for providing heat to the inner tub sufficient to melt the paraffin but below the temperature that would adversely affect the polymeric material forming inner tub. A thermostatic sensor is disposed between the inner tub and the housing and is electrically connected to the heating element to control the heat provided to the inner tub. A temperature indicating element may be provided in the inner tub and placed in contact with paraffin melted in the inner tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Dov Glucksman
  • Patent number: 6469280
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hanging assembly for supporting an electric heater below a chafing dish or chafing pan. The removable electric chafing dish heater is supported by two identical hanging assemblies each with an elastic component to provide a constant thermal interface to the underside of a typical chafing dish. The hanging assembly provides a bent and curved device for holding the hanging assembly fast to a typical chafing frames that typically accompanies all chafing dishes. The chafing dish heater includes an electric flat plate element in a rectangular housing that is connected to a power assembly. The power assembly has an on/off switch, a power cord, and a visual indicator for representing the power is on/off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: BBC Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Everett F. Graham, Samuel S. Dew
  • Patent number: 6465242
    Abstract: A portable incubator for testing water comprising a housing, a heating element, a temperature sensor, a heating controller and a specimen bottle having recesses for receiving the heating element and the temperature sensor. The specimen bottle is filled with water to be tested which is mixed with a reagent and placed inside the incubator. The heating controller serves to keep the temperature of the water within a preset range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Aquasure Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Ravi Kanipayor, Ron Emburgh
  • Patent number: 6459073
    Abstract: An arts and crafts hot pot is described. The arts and crafts hot pot is used to melt various types of materials such as thermographic resins, crayons, glue etc. The materials are used in the fabrications of various craft items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Ranger Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry Berger
  • Publication number: 20020130122
    Abstract: An arts and crafts hot pot is described. The arts and crafts hot pot is used to melt various types of materials such as thermographic resins, crayons, glue etc. The materials are used in the fabrications of various craft items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Barry Berger
  • Patent number: 6444956
    Abstract: A device for both warming substances and for providing a nightlight. The device can have a single opening in a upper lid portion for allowing various sized containers of substances to be inserted therein. The substances can include lotions, creams, pastes, gels, liquids, and the like. Controls such as rheostats can be adjusted to select desired nightlight intensity levels and desired temperature levels. Timers can adjust when the rheostat settings are to be turned on and off. Visual and/or audible alarms can be activated when selected levels have been reached. The device can have a clock for giving off the current time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Elizabeth Witcher, Michael Witcher
  • Patent number: 6443052
    Abstract: A household electric appliance has three basic components, a griddle, a skillet which can be placed on the griddle to be heated thereby when the griddle is not otherwise in use, and a skillet lid which can be placed atop the skillet. The appliance can be compactly assembled for storage by changing the manner in which the components are stacked. When compactly assembled for storage, the three basic components can be clamped together and stored on edge to conserve lateral storage space. Two types of clamps are described, a resilient strap clamp and a wire rod clip. Operation of the appliance is controlled by a thermostat and a heating control panel is provided that has two sets of indicia, one for use when the griddle is used by itself and one for use when the skillet is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan M. Garber, Phillip L. Brookshire, David L. Slayton, Lawrence M. Pillion, Stacey R. Just
  • Patent number: 6437295
    Abstract: A lotion heating system including a container having an open upper end, a closed lower end, and a side wall disposed therebetween. The container is dimensioned for receiving the bottle of lotion therein through the open upper end. A quantity of water is disposed within the container. A heating plate is secured within the container to the closed lower end thereof. A control knob is rotatably coupled with the side wall of the container. The control knob is in communication with the heating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jason A. Hogg, Shirley A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6433316
    Abstract: A heater assembly 10 which selectively heats a container holding pressurized gaseous matter. The heater assembly 10 includes a container holding portion 44 and a heater housing portion 42 which are separated by a divider wall 57 and a baffle 50, at least one aperture 60 and at least one selectively moveable member 52 which selectively and substantially covers the aperture 60 while member 52 is in a closed position 30. When in an open position, member 52 cooperatively couples with baffle 50 to form a heating passage 54, effective to indirectly heat a container 56.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventors: James Sigety, Kerry Paul Sigety
  • Patent number: 6417498
    Abstract: A receptacle-type heating device for automatically warming and vibrating a multitude of containers simultaneously in order to thaw, warm, and mix cold or frozen liquid in an expedient and accurate manner. The device heats each container to a desired temperature using heat exchange of heated water with the container. The device includes a heater block having multiple wells therein, and removable reservoirs disposed respectively within the wells for receiving the water. Heating elements are disposed between the removable reservoirs and the heater block within the wells for heating the removable reservoirs, the water, and the containers placed therein. The container typically is a baby bottle, syringe, test tube, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventors: Janice M. Shields, Paul W. Shields
  • Patent number: 6417495
    Abstract: A paraffin bath apparatus for melting paraffin used in therapeutic applications is disclosed. The paraffin bath apparatus comprises a housing having a base, a sidewall and upper opening. An inner tub is formed of a temperature resistant polymeric material is a generally cup shaped member having a bottom wall, an upstanding wall and an open top. The inner tub is received within the upper opening of the housing with the bottom wall of the inner tub overlying the base of the housing. The heating element is located between the inner tub and the housing for providing heat to the inner tub sufficient to melt the paraffin but below the temperature that would adversely affect the polymeric material forming inner tub. A thermostatic sensor is disposed between the inner tub and the housing and is electrically connected to the heating element to control the heat provided to the inner tub. A temperature indicating element may be provided in the inner tub and placed in contact with paraffin melted in the inner tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Dov Glucksman
  • Patent number: 6403928
    Abstract: A beverage heating assembly for warming and maintaining the temperature of a hot beverage. The beverage heating assembly includes an housing with a base portion designed for resting on a horizontal support surface such as a desk or a vehicle dash board, a heating element positioned substantially within the housing for converting electrical energy to thermal energy for heating a beverage in a cup, and an electrical power source operationally coupled to the heating element for providing electrical energy to the heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Tracy L. Ford
  • Publication number: 20020060216
    Abstract: An electric cooking apparatus including a main housing, a heated compartment and a steaming compartment in which the heated compartment is received within said main housing and is adapted to be heated by heating elements within said main housing, said heated compartment including a base portion, a continuous peripheral wall extending upwardly from the edge of said base portion and an aperture opposite said base portion which aperture is defined by the upper end of said peripheral wall; and at least a first steaming compartment including a first removable member having a liquid retainable base portion and a peripheral wall extending from said base portion wherein a plurality of apertures are formed in the peripheral wall at a level above the base portion to allow steam communication between the heated compartment and the steaming compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Applicant: China Pacific Trade Ltd.
    Inventor: Kin Wing Chan
  • Patent number: 6388236
    Abstract: A temperature control device for an electric pot assembly includes a base for receiving a pot therein and a receptacle is connected to the base. A temperature probe 41 includes a bi-metal plate and an end of the temperature probe is connected to a U-shaped resilient member on an outside of the base and the other end of the temperature probe extends through a peripheral wall of the base. A temperature sensing member is connected to the temperature probe and has two overlapped plates. An end of the bi-metal plate contacts one of the plates. The pot has an electric wire and a frame connected to a bottom thereof. The temperature probe is engaged the frame when the pot 1 is put on the base. The two plates are separated to open the circuit when the electric wire is overheated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Lyu Jan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Li-Chen Chang
  • Patent number: 6373031
    Abstract: A food-heating appliance has a heating unit with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a heating chamber with an annular lip, and a heating element. A cooking unit is also provided with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a cooking chamber adapted to be at least partially received within the heating chamber, and a medial wall upstanding from the bottom wall defining at least a first and second cooking subchamber. The heating element supplies heat to the cooking unit via the heating chamber to heat the first and second cooking subchambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: The Rival Company
    Inventor: Mary Kathleen Barrow
  • Patent number: 6365878
    Abstract: There is provided an electric frying apparatus (10, 200) including a heating coil (32), an oil tank (14) for cooking food, and a housing (12), in which the heating coil (32) is in a heat-transferable relationship with the oil tank (14), and the apparatus (10, 200) is adapted to be in an operable state when at least part of the heating coil (32) is received within the housing (12). The electric frying apparatus (10, 200) also includes a frying basket (16) for supporting the food for frying within the oil tank (14), in which the basket (16) is releasably engageable with the housing (12), and the basket (16) includes a protruding part (82) for securing the basket (16) against movement relative to the housing (12). The electric frying apparatus (200) also includes a temperature sensor connected with a liquid crystal display (LCD) 202. The temperature sensor senses the temperature within the oil tank (14) and such a temperature is visually displayed by the LCD (202).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Eastern Sources Housewares (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Joseph Wing Chung Lau, Chi Leung Ho
  • Publication number: 20020023912
    Abstract: A 12-Volt Heated Coffee Mug is designed for the holding and drinking of hot beverages. The cup, with lid and handle, sits in a matching base with heating elements powered by 12 volts DC as provided by a motor vehicle to maintain the hot temperature of the liquid. The matching base assures not only a tight coupling to prevent the cup from tipping over while driving, but also to insure that good heat transfer will occur from the heating coils to the liquid. The matching base has a wide base to provide stability on a horizontal surface while traveling in a motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Inventors: Roy McGee, Francina McGee
  • Patent number: 6347576
    Abstract: An electric cooker includes a rounded bottom member including a flat surface for defining a food receiving space, a thermal transmission member coupled on an outer bottom surface of the rounded bottom member, an insulating member for insulating the rounded bottom member from the thermal transmission member, a base coupled between the heating member and the insulating member for supporting the cooker, and a coupling device for coupling the insulating member, the base and the thermal transmission member to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Rok Chung
  • Patent number: 6340808
    Abstract: Regarding a base construction comprising a hot plate for a coffee-making apparatus of the type designed to have water brought to a boil in a closed container (1), whereupon the water is pressed through a riser pipe (12) into an open container (6), where boiling water extracts aromas and flavor from the ground coffee, whereupon the finished coffee beverage is filtered back into the closed container (1) through a filter placed at the outlet of the open container, the objective is to provide a sealed base construction which comprises a hot plate for a coffee-making apparatus where the hot plate does not suddenly boil dry, while the finished coffee beverage is carefully treated. Moreover, a reliable sealing of the hot plate must be provided, using simple means and without the use of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Assignee: PI-Design AG
    Inventor: Carsten Joergensen
  • Patent number: 6330849
    Abstract: A stand for an electric pot has a support extending out from a peripheral edge of a base of the stand and a plate integrally formed with the support and being adapted to receive and support cups on the plate. When the water within the electric pot is boiled, the cups that go with the pot can simultaneously be heated for sanitary purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Inventor: Ming-Hui Chao
  • Publication number: 20010045422
    Abstract: The appliance comprises a heater base, at least two removable cooking receptacles capable of being centered and held on said heater base, one of them being constituted by a leakproof pan and the other by a grill plate, and also a removable lid adapted to close the top portion of said pan so as to make up a cooking enclosure. The grill plate is provided with at least one through orifice and has means enabling it to be positioned above said pan in order to perform steam cooking in said cooking enclosure. The appliance is applicable to cooking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Christophe Gouthiere
  • Patent number: 6314867
    Abstract: A inductively coupled beverage warmer for safely heating a beverage contained in a container. The inductively coupled beverage warmer includes a container having a bottom wall and a side wall; and also includes a temperature sensitive switch disposed in the container, a heater connected to the temperature sensitive switch, and a secondary induction coil connected to the resistor and disposed on the bottom wall of the container; and further includes a base member including a housing having a top wall, side walls, and an circular recessed portion in the top wall; and also includes a power cord extending through a hole in the housing and being connectable to a power source, an on/off switch mounted to the housing, a contact switch moveably disposed upwardly through an opening in the recessed portion, and a primary induction coil disposed under the recessed portion and connected to the contact switch for inducing electrical current in the secondary induction coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: David K. Russell
  • Publication number: 20010035402
    Abstract: A food-heating appliance has a heating unit with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a heating chamber with an annular lip, and a heating element. A cooking unit is also provided with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a cooking chamber adapted to be at least partially received within the heating chamber, and a medial wall upstanding from the bottom wall defining at least a first and second cooking subchamber. The heating element supplies heat to the cooking unit via the heating chamber to heat the first and second cooking subchambers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Applicant: The Rival Company.
    Inventor: Mary Kathleen Barrow
  • Patent number: 6310329
    Abstract: A heatable container assembly for heating liquids placed in the container. The heatable container assembly includes a base unit with a heating coil, a container positionable on the base unit, and a heatable gel positioned within a bottom chamber of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Tina H. Carter
  • Patent number: 6307186
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for preparing hydrocolloids comprising means heating a container containing a hydrocolloid. The heating means consist of preferably low-power ceramic resistors, insulated on three surfaces transmitting heat only through the top surface in direct contact with a tube square in external cross section and circular in internal cross section of diameter adapted to the diameter of the hydrocolloid cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Jouvin, Frédéric Jouvin
  • Publication number: 20010025843
    Abstract: A cooking appliance having a bowl portion and a hotplate portion whereby differing cooking modes can be simultaneously effected by the appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: John William McClean
  • Patent number: 6274847
    Abstract: A cooking apparatus including a housing having an interior which contains a heating device. A sensor is provided that is operatively connected to the heating device. The sensor having an actuated position, wherein the sensor affects a heat output generated by the heating device. A first and second cooking insert for containing the food to be cooked each being separately positionable within the housing interior. The first cooking insert actuating the sensor when positioned in the housing interior, and the second cooking insert not actuating the sensor when positioned in the housing interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: The Holmes Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Lorens G. Hlava, Mary Barrow
  • Patent number: 6259068
    Abstract: A food-heating appliance has a heating unit with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a heating chamber with an annular lip, and a heating element. A cooking unit is also provided with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a cooking chamber adapted to be at least partially received within the heating chamber, and a medial wall upstanding from the bottom wall defining at least a first and second cooking subchamber. The heating element supplies heat to the cooking unit via the heating chamber to heat the first and second cooking subchambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: The Rival Company
    Inventor: Mary Kathleen Barrow
  • Publication number: 20010004981
    Abstract: A method for making a non-stick ceramic cooking vessel for a slow-cooker, the vessel having glazing defining a seal over a cooking surface of the ceramic vessel, the method comprising the steps of removing at least a portion of the glazing while preferably maintaining at least a portion of the seal of the vessel and applying a non-stick coating over the cooking surface. The step of removing the glazing is preferably achieved by grit-blasting at least a portion of the glazing with aluminum oxide. Additionally, the cooking surface preferably includes a bottom surface and a wall surface wherein the glazing is preferably removed from the bottom surface such that the seal is substantially removed, and a portion of the glazing is preferably removed from the wall surface such that the seal there remains substantially intact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Publication date: June 28, 2001
    Applicant: Premark WB Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph G. Toman
  • Patent number: 6248982
    Abstract: A cooking unit has a cooking chamber for water which is heated and drained from a pot by electrical remote controls which are compactly placed on the surface of the unit. In one embodiment, a basin is employed with the cooking unit and affords movement of a cutting board over the basin. Various types of cooking utensils can be employed in conjunction with the cooking chamber and the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Mary J. Reid, David J. O'Connell, Carl F. Mueller, John F. Quella, Mark Johansen
  • Patent number: 6236020
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for enhancing the cure of photocurable dental restorative composite(s) containing unreactive monomer(s) and filler upon exposure to light radiation comprising the steps of preheating the photocurable dental restorative composite(s) to an elevated temperature above ambient prior to said exposure to light radiation during clinical usage. The heating assembly of the present invention may be used to preheat any dental material(s) stored in one or more compules to an elevated temperature above ambient prior to clinical usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Joshua Friedman
  • Patent number: 6225605
    Abstract: Electrical cooking appliance, notably a fryer, having a case (1) forming a housing (2) provided to receive a removable bowl (3), the bowl having lateral walls (4) and a base (5) under which is fixed a shielded heating element (6) having two extremities (7) each terminated by a connection terminal (8). An electric connector (10) is mounted in the case (1), the connector having electrical contacts (12) disposed opposite openings (11) provided to receive the terminals (8) of the shielded heating element (6), during introduction of the bowl (3) into the housing (2). The connector (10) is mounted to be movable in lateral translation relative to the base of the case (1) and the openings (11) have bevel edges (13) provided to guide the terminals (8) of the heating element (6) toward the electrical contacts (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Bernard Beugnot, Dominique Federico, Laurent Sestier
  • Patent number: 6204485
    Abstract: A warmer for heating a toothpaste container. The container may be either a toothpaste tube or a pump. The warmer has a toothpaste compartment with a central cavity to hold the toothpaste container. The toothpaste compartment is attached to a base which is preferably weighted to prevent tipping. An electrical heating element may be located entirely in the base or may partially surround the central cavity. The heating element may be controlled by a timer so that the toothpaste is heated at preset times. A toothbrush compartment may be attached to the toothpaste compartment for heating a toothbrush. The warm toothpaste makes tooth brushing more comfortable and pleasant for persons whose teeth are sensitive to the cold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Frank J. Williams
  • Patent number: 6192787
    Abstract: A beverage warming device for collecting, temporarily storing, and thermally maintaining an elevated level of a hot beverage which includes a heated drinking container and a mating holding structure for holding the heated drinking container and connecting it to an electrical power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Bartolino Paul Montalto
  • Patent number: 6188046
    Abstract: A food-heating appliance has a heating unit with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a heating chamber with an annular lip, and a heating element. A cooking unit is also provided with a bottom and at least one upstanding sidewall, a cooking chamber adapted to be at least partially received within the heating chamber, and a medial wall upstanding from the bottom wall defining at least a first and second cooking subchamber. The heating element supplies heat to the cooking unit via the heating chamber to heat the first and second cooking subchambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: The Rival Company
    Inventor: Mary Kathleen Barrow
  • Patent number: 6184500
    Abstract: A paraffin bath apparatus for melting paraffin used in therapeutic applications is disclosed. The paraffin bath apparatus comprises a housing having a base, a sidewall and upper opening. An inner tub is formed of a temperature resistant polymeric material is a generally cup shaped member having a bottom wall, an upstanding wall and an open top. The inner tub is received within the upper opening of the housing with the bottom wall of the inner tub overlying the base of the housing. The heating element is located between the inner tub and the housing for providing heat to the inner tub sufficient to melt the paraffin but below the temperature that would adversely affect the polymeric material forming inner tub. A thermostatic sensor is disposed between the inner tub and the housing and is electrically connected to the heating element to control the heat provided to the inner tub. A temperature indicating element may be provided in the inner tub and placed in contact with paraffin melted in the inner tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Dov Glucksman
  • Patent number: 6177655
    Abstract: A method for making a non-stick ceramic cooking vessel for a slow-cooker, the vessel having glazing defining a seal over a cooking surface of the ceramic vessel, the method comprising the steps of removing at least a portion of the glazing while preferably maintaining at least a portion of the seal of the vessel and applying a non-stick coating over the cooking surface. The step of removing the glazing is preferably achieved by grit-blasting at least a portion of the glazing with aluminum oxide. Additionally, the cooking surface preferably includes a bottom surface and a wall surface wherein the glazing is preferably removed from the bottom surface such that the seal is substantially removed, and a portion of the glazing is preferably removed from the wall surface such that the seal there remains substantially intact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Premark WB Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph G. Toman
  • Patent number: 6172339
    Abstract: An electric cooking appliance having a housing receiving a removable bowl, a heating element in thermal contact with the bowl when the bowl is seated in the housing, a heat adjuster, an ultimate safety switch to act in case of failure of the heat adjuster, and a thermal limit switch mounted in the housing. The thermal limit switch is set to be triggered before the ultimate safety switch if the bowl in not seated in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventor: Jean-Marie Thevenin
  • Patent number: 6157007
    Abstract: An improved heater assembly for use with a chafing dish having water and food pans with complemental peripheral flanges is disclosed. The assembly includes a corner piece sized to be interposed between such flanges to maintain at least portions of such flanges in spaced relationship when the chafing dish is in use. The assembly also includes an immersible heater element sub-assembly including an upstanding arm connected to and depending from the corner piece. The sub-assembly including an encased electrical resistance heater loop having end portions connected to the arm with the arm and loop being sized to position the loop near a bottom of such water pan and immersed in water when such chafing dish is in use. Side and end arms are connected to the corner piece and adapted to be positioned respectively between side and end portions of such peripheral flanges. The spacer arms are each of thickness from a thick portion near the corner portion to a thinner remote end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Chesterfield Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Chester B. Scott, III
  • Patent number: 6140613
    Abstract: A sample container for heating a sample stored therein includes a resin layer on the whole inner surface of the container made of metal having a thickness ranging from 0.02 mm to 1.0 mm and the resin layer having a thickness ranging from 1 .mu.m to 100 .mu.m. A sample container for heating a sample stored therein includes a metal oxide layer on at least the whole inner surface of the container made of metal having a thickness ranging from 0.02 mm to 1.0 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, LTD
    Inventor: Nobuo Tsuno
  • Patent number: 6100504
    Abstract: A pitcher and warming system is described in which a pitcher having a bottom wall and a peripheral side wall leading to an open top is releasably received within a receptacle having a heater. An outwardly projecting shoulder on the peripheral side wall is located between the open top and bottom wall to suspend the pitcher within the receptacle, particularly within a pitcher receiving recess formed in the receptacle. The recess is defined by a receptacle bottom wall, a receptacle side wall joining the receptacle bottom wall and extending to an open peripheral rim. The pitcher is releasably positionable in the pitcher receiving recess with the shoulder engaging the open peripheral rim and suspending the pitcher from the receptacle with the bottom wall spaced above the receptacle bottom wall and with the peripheral side wall spaced from the receptacle side wall and thereby defining an air space between the receptacle bottom and side wall and respective bottom and side wall of the pitcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Alfred R. Wagner
  • Patent number: 6080968
    Abstract: A control for engagement with the external base of a liquid heating vessel comprises a carrier mounting two bimetallic actuators at opposite ends thereof. The actuators operate at the same temperature. Attached to the carrier is a moulding which provides a cordless electrical connector for the vessel, as well as mounting switch means operable by the actuators through push rods. The push rod acts on a leaf spring to open the contacts, and upon further movement engages an arm of a trip lever, so tripping the lever and causing a further arm of the lever to engage the leaf spring open the contacts fully.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Strix Limited
    Inventor: John Crawshaw Taylor
  • Patent number: 6075229
    Abstract: A new cup warmer holder for keeping beverages, such as coffee, hot while in a vehicle, such as a car. The inventive device includes a base having upper and lower surfaces with a receiving member extending from the upper surface. The receiving member has a central bore extending between its top and the bottom. A cup with an open top and a handle positioned towards its top is removably inserted through the top of the receiving member into the central bore of the receiving member. A heater is provided for heating an item within the central bore of the receiving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Inventor: Terry Vanselow
  • Patent number: 6072161
    Abstract: A beverage container is disclosed for keeping liquid evenly heated. The beverage container includes a cup, a heating element, and a removable battery power source. The cup has an inner sidewall surface, an outer sidewall surface, an inner bottom surface, and an outer bottom surface. The inner sidewall surface and inner bottom surface are shaped to hold liquid. The heating element is completely enclosed between the inner sidewall surface and the outer sidewall surface. The heating element heats the inner sidewall surface which then heats the liquid. An insulating layer is included between the heating element and the outer sidewall surface to keep the outer sidewall surface cool while the inner sidewall surface is heated. The battery power source is capable of being temporarily secured to the outer bottom surface of the cup and is utilized to keep the heating element energized to a predetermined level while the battery power source is secured to the cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Todd Anthony Stein