With Temperature Or Current Control Means Patents (Class 219/441)
  • Publication number: 20100155386
    Abstract: A storage-type water heater includes a tank for supporting water to be heated, a first heating bank including a first heating surface disposed within the tank, a first contactor connected to the first heating bank, a second heating bank including a second heating surface disposed within the tank, a second contactor connected to the second heating bank, and a controller for selectively operating the first contactor and the second contactor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Andrew Robert Caves, Andrew William Phillips, Brian Thomas Branecky, William Louis Mehlhorn, Thomas G. Van Sistine, Robert Eugene Olson, Zhongsheng Niu
  • Patent number: 7728263
    Abstract: A process of controlling an operation of an electric kettle includes the steps of initializing a microprocessor to detect a water temperature via a temperature sensor to set a system parameter; checking a status of a control circuit; determining a preserve temperature of the water; verifying the temperature sensor to protect the temperature sensor from being burnt; determining a condition of the water whether the water is needed to be heated up or preserved; and sending out a control signal to the control circuit in responsive to the condition of the water to heat up the water or maintain the water at the preserve temperature. Therefore, the present invention is adapted to accurately control the whole process of the electric kettle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventors: Mohan Zhang, Yaolun Wang
  • Publication number: 20100126980
    Abstract: A dissolution test vessel configured for direct vessel heating includes a lateral wall, a resistive heating element, and a temperature-sensing element. The resistive heating element and the temperature-sensing element are bonded directly to the lateral wall, and may be formed by dispensing flowable materials onto the lateral wall. The resistive heating element includes a contiguous first heating element end, heating element section, and second heating element end. The temperature-sensing element includes a contiguous first sensing element end, sensing element section, and second sensing element end. The vessel may communicate with a heater control system, which may be provided with a dissolution test apparatus at which the vessel is mounted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Jeremy Fetvedt
  • Patent number: 7718928
    Abstract: A multifunction safe electric pressure cooker includes a lid, an outer body, a warming container, a control panel, an inner tank, a sealant washer, a heating plate under the inner tank, and a control device. The control device comprises a control circuit, a pressure switch, and a temperature control device. The lid has a floating valve, a pressure discharging valve, and a safety valve. Between the heating plate and the warming container there is a spring device. Under the heating plate is a pole. The control device employs a sensor to determine whether the inner tank is placed in the cooker. Between the lid and the body sets a lid safety control switch that connected to the control circuit. The electric pressure cooker is more convenient and durable, can fry and sauté food, and includes multiple safety devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventors: Zhigang He, Zhibin Huang
  • Publication number: 20100111648
    Abstract: Any particle adhesion onto the surface of a substrate to be processed is prevented. There is provided a substrate processing apparatus characterized by including a transfer chamber for, via a gate to which a substrate accommodating container for accommodation of the substrate is set, performing transfer of the substrate between the same and the substrate accommodating container, a processing chamber for applying a specific process to the substrate, a load-lock chamber for linking the processing chamber with the transfer chamber, and a temperature control unit for at the stage of transferring the substrate into at least one of the transfer chamber and the load-lock chamber, so as for the temperature of the substrate just before the transfer thereof to be higher than the temperature of the interior of the chamber, into which the substrate will be transferred, controlling at least one of the temperature of the substrate and the temperature of the interior of the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Akitake Tamura, Teruyuki Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7706671
    Abstract: A container is provided for heating or otherwise processing the contents of the container. For example, the container may be a kettle or kettle for heating fluids therein. The container may receive a command, desired characteristic or desired range for processing the contents of the container. The container may further include at least one sensor such as a temperature sensor or pressure sensor for determining a corresponding characteristic of the contents of the container. Based on at least one determined characteristic and/or the input command, the container may heat or otherwise process the contents therein. The results and/or current status of the contents may further be provided through a display. Also, based on the current status of the contents, the container may further process/heat the contents or discontinue processing/heating of the contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: B2M Asset Management, LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Brown
  • Publication number: 20100078423
    Abstract: In a heating unit, based on a required output amount Q, a control part 50 performs: (A) when the required output amount Q is not more than a predetermined set value, a control in which none of the heating devices 24a is continuously kept on throughout a heating cycle, and all or one or more heating devices 24a are controlled in a periodically divided manner; and (B) when the required output amount is larger than the predetermined set value, a control in which all or one or more heating devices 24a are continuously kept on throughout the heating cycle, and all or one or more heating devices 24a among the remaining heating devices 24a are controlled in the periodically divided manner during this heating cycle. At this time, a difference between the maximum number and the minimum number of the heating devices 24a that are simultaneously kept on during the heating cycle is made not more than 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Hideaki SATO, Hiromi Hara
  • Publication number: 20100050606
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed towards improved systems and methods for the delivery of a urea solution to an exhaust gas treatment system. In one particular exemplary embodiment, a urea tank assembly is provided. The urea tank assembly includes a reservoir defining a fluid inlet opening for receiving urea solution and a fluid outlet opening for discharge of the urea solution. The urea tank further includes a vented hollow member located within the reservoir. The vented hollow member defines an internal hollow portion and a plurality of openings for providing fluid flow between the reservoir and the internal hollow portion. The urea tank further includes a heater located along the vented hollow member to cause heating of urea solution within the internal hollow portion and the reservoir. The urea tank further includes a fluid pump located within the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Gary C. Fulks, Todd Bordewyk
  • Publication number: 20090277896
    Abstract: A container is provided for heating or otherwise processing the contents of the container. For example, the container may be a kettle or kettle for heating fluids therein. The container may receive a command, desired characteristic or desired range for processing the contents of the container. The container may further include at least one sensor such as a temperature sensor or pressure sensor for determining a corresponding characteristic of the contents of the container. Based on at least one determined characteristic and/or the input command, the container may heat or otherwise process the contents therein. The results and/or current status of the contents may further be provided through a display. Also, based on the current status of the contents, the container may further process/heat the contents or discontinue processing/heating of the contents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: ANTHONY BROWN
  • Patent number: 7615724
    Abstract: An electrical water heater includes a housing, a filling opening delimited by a rim, heating elements, a pouring member, a lid, a tongue mobile between an extended position wherein it seals the pouring member and a pouring position wherein it is retracted, and a pouring control connected to the tongue through an actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism includes a first mechanism arranged in the housing and having one end connected to the pouring control and one end mobile through a window of the rim, and a second mechanism arranged in the lid and having one end mobile through a window of the lid and one end connected to the tongue, the windows of the rim and of the lid being urged into mutual correspondence when the lid seals the opening, and the corresponding ends of the mechanisms being adapted to co-operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
  • Publication number: 20090255540
    Abstract: A drape device is provided for use with a thermal treatment system, where the thermal treatment system includes a receptacle dimensioned to receive a basin, a heater to heat items placed within the receptacle and a limit switch that is operable to identify when the basin or other item is placed within the receptacle and to further activate the heater upon identification by the limit switch of the basin or other item being placed within the receptacle. The drape device includes a drape that can be placed within the receptacle to provide a barrier between items placed on the drape and the receptacle. The drape device further includes engaging structure configured to engage the drape and one of the basin and the receptacle. In one embodiment, the engaging structure includes an actuation member that facilitates operation of the limit switch and activation of the heater without the use of the basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Durward I. Faries, JR.
  • Patent number: 7586065
    Abstract: A device for cooking food is disclosed. The device has an elongated body for containing the food to be cooked with a heater at one end and a simmer temperature sensor at the other end. The heater initially brings the substance contained in the elongated member to a boil which is sensed by a boiling sensor. The boiling temperature sensor may be integral with the heater. Once a controller connected to the heater receives a signal from the boiling sensor indicating that the substance is boiling, the controller alternates the power to the heater between a simmer power level and a non-simmer power level which is lower than the simmer power level. The controller controls the power level of the heater in response to a signal from the simmer temperature sensor. The simmer temperature sensor sends a signal to the controller when the temperature of the substance at the end remote from the heater falls below a predetermined simmer temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventors: Paul M. Kehoe, Daniel P. Kehoe
  • Publication number: 20090212038
    Abstract: A food-cooking device including at least one heating member arranged to heat food placed inside a cooking utensil. At least one sensor arrangement is arranged to sense the temperature of the cooking utensil. The food-cooking device is adapted to control the heating member based on the temperature sensed by the sensor arrangement. A cooking utensil is adapted to facilitate the heating of food with a food-cooking device. The cooking utensil includes a body designed with a hollow adapted to contain the food.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Hans-Goran Ahlander
  • Publication number: 20090208621
    Abstract: Appliance for cooking food articles, which comprises a container for receiving an amount of the food articles to be cooked and an amount of cooking liquid sufficient to only partially immerse the food articles therein. The container has a discharge and comprising an opening for discharging the cooked food articles and a cover for closing the opening during the cooking operation. The appliance also comprises a helical paddle; a shaft on which the paddle is mounted, such that shaft is rotatably supported by the container; a motor for driving the shaft; means for causing the motor to drive the shaft in either the cooking direction or the discharging direction; and a support for supporting the container in a slightly slanted position wherein the front end of the shaft is slightly higher than the rear end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: EVERLASTING GLORY LIMITED
    Inventor: Simon Dotan
  • Patent number: 7569797
    Abstract: An electric liquid-heating appliance includes a housing, an upper fill hole which is defined by a rim (9), heating elements, a spout and a lid. The lid includes: a lock which can engage with a retaining element; a locking control element which is connected to the lock and which can move between a locked position and an unlocked position; and a tongue which can move between a retracted position, in which the tongue is housed in the lid, and a deployed position, in which the tongue seals the spout. The tongue is connected to the locking control element by an actuating mechanism which is designed to position the tongue either in the deployed position when the locking control element is in the locked position or in the retracted position when the locking control element is in the unlocked position, the unlocked position being stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
  • Publication number: 20090184399
    Abstract: A system for and method of processing, i.e., annealing semiconductor materials. By controlling the time, frequency, variance of frequency, microwave power density, wafer boundary conditions, ambient conditions, and temperatures (including ramp rates), it is possible to repair localized damage lattices of the crystalline structure of a semiconductor material that may occur during the ion implantation of impurities into the material, electrically activate the implanted dopant, and substantially minimize further diffusion of the dopant into the silicon. The wafer boundary conditions may be controlled by utilizing susceptor plates (4) or a water chill plate (12). Ambient conditions may be controlled by gas injection (10) within the microwave chamber (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Jeffrey Michael Kowalski, Jeffrey Edward Kowalski
  • Publication number: 20090166350
    Abstract: The present invention provides apparatuses and methods for boiling a liquid such as water. The liquid is heated at full power when the measured temperature of the liquid is below a first predetermined threshold. When the temperature is above the first predetermined threshold and below a second predetermined threshold, partial power, which may be based on the duty cycle, is applied to the heater. When the measured temperature of the liquid reaches the second predetermined threshold, power is removed from the heater after a predetermined time. When the increase of the measured temperature is less than a predetermined temperature change during a predetermined time duration, it is determined that the liquid is boiling and power is removed to the heater. If the level is too high or too low, an alarm may be activated and/or power removed from the heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: Computime, Ltd
    Inventor: Kin-wah Ho
  • Publication number: 20090154908
    Abstract: A method and system for delivering iodine gas is presented. The pure iodine gas flow can be at a controlled, known flow rate, and furthermore be held at a positive pressure in relation to a process chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, pure iodine gas is transported without the use of an inert carrier gas. This is facilitated in part by maintaining the iodine gas chamber at a higher pressure than the processing chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, an iodine vessel receives solid iodine supplied by an iodine fill source and is heated to produce pure iodine gas. In addition, a control system monitors and controls the operating conditions in the iodine vessel and maintains a positive pressure in the iodine vessel. The iodine delivery system may include a valve system configured to control the flow of iodine gas through the iodine delivery system and into a process chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: George Engle
  • Publication number: 20090139978
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a water/powdered milk mixing device, capable of mixing water and powdered milk, which are independently stored, at a predetermined concentration when a mixing switch is manipulated. The device has a water heating means (11) for heating water stored in a water storage container. The water heating means and a temperature sensor are controlled by a control unit (50). A predetermined amount of water is dispensed from the water storage container using a water supply pump, and the driving speed of a powdered-milk dispensing means (21) is controlled so that an amount of powdered milk corresponding to the concentration set using a concentration-control-switch is continuously dispensed to a powdered-milk outlet (22). Further, a mixing switch (40) is provided to control the ON/OFF operation of a water supply pump and the powdered-milk dispensing means, thus allowing a user to set the dispensed amount of mixed milk as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Chong-Kyu Ha
  • Patent number: 7539402
    Abstract: An electrical household liquid-heating appliance includes a housing (10), electrical heating elements, a switch, a button (16) pivotable about an axis between an on position and an off position and having an actuation surface, and a switch actuation lever (28) movable between an operative position in which the switch is closed and an inoperative position in which the switch is open. The button (16) is biased into a so-called neutral intermediate position by a resilient member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
  • Publication number: 20090114637
    Abstract: Household electrical appliance for heating liquid including a tank, a heating element having at least one resistive track screen-printed on an electrically insulating plate secured to part of said tank, and a device controlling the electrical supply of said heating element. The control device includes several electronic components among which are at least one thermometric component, a switching component capable of opening and closing the electrical power supply circuit for said heating element, and a control component for controlling said switching component according to signals output from said thermometric component. At least said thermometric, switching and control components are located on said insulating plate within a single area free of resistive track, said area being surrounded by a peripheral region free of resistive track and of electronic components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Peter Ireman, Lionnel Durand, Christian Diore
  • Publication number: 20090112057
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for warming a medical scope to a temperature at or near body temperature in order to prevent fogging and remove debris. A system for warming medical scopes and a variety of other medical items is to be used in conjunction with a liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids. The anti-fogging apparatus is described with emphasis on the properties of said apparatus and its interaction with a liquid warming device with a removable basin. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for an apparatus used to warm and clean medical scopes and other medical items before, during and after medical procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Patrick Kammer, Mark Martel, Todd Cassidy
  • Publication number: 20090095732
    Abstract: A multi-functional cooker disclosed in the present invention at least comprises a base on which a pan body, a power line, a first heating unit, a second heating unit and a control panel are mounted. The first heating unit comprises a heating body, a first control circuit and a first control switch. A first loop is formed by the power line, the heating body, the first control circuit and the first control switch. The second heating unit comprises a band heater, a second control circuit and a second control switch. A second loop is formed by the power line, the band heater, the second control circuit and the second control switch. The first and second heating units have independent control circuits respectively, each control circuit can be adjusted to the optimal cooking state according to the different cooking functions performed by the heating units, so the present multi-functional cooker not only can perform the multiple functions such as steaming, frying, stir-frying, deep-frying and stewing etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventor: Kuochu Li
  • Publication number: 20090050618
    Abstract: A circuit device for a steam engine having a power unit is electrically connected to a positive electrode and a negative electrode of the power unit includes a switching unit having a positive voltage contact set and a negative voltage contact set and is switchable between a first mode, in which the power unit provides electricity to first contacts of the positive and negative voltage contact sets, and a second mode, in which the power unit provides electricity to second contacts of the positive and negative voltage contact sets, a heater module having an input end connected to first and second contacts of the positive voltage contact set and an output end thereof connected to the first contact of the negative voltage contact set, and a voltage step-down unit connected in series to the output end of the heater module and the second contact of the negative voltage contact set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: Mitco International LTD
    Inventor: Fei JIANG
  • Publication number: 20090001070
    Abstract: A liquid heating vessel comprising heating means for heating liquid in the vessel, electronic control means, electromagnetic switching means for interrupting or reducing power to the heating means, and temperature sensing means for providing a signal dependent on the temperature of liquid in the vessel to the control means. The control means is arranged to operate the electromagnetic switching means to interrupt or reduce power to the heating means in response to the control means determining that a pre-determined temperature condition has been reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Strix Limited
    Inventors: Michael James Scott, Iain Fenna, Alan Michael George Meeks
  • Publication number: 20080308547
    Abstract: A method of controlling an electric kettle for “dry” burn prevention during heating process, including the steps of: providing a temperature sensor, a microprocessor, and a control circuit; detecting the water temperature; determining the temperature rate change and comparing the temperature rate change with the rate change threshold; and when the temperature rate change is larger than the preset rate change threshold, sending a control signal to the control circuit. The microprocessor determines the temperature rate change and the acceleration rate change that when the temperature rate change and acceleration rate change are larger than the corresponding thresholds respectively, the microprocessor sends the control signal to the control circuit to stop the heating process. Therefore, the present invention accurately determines the increasing temperature of the water and simultaneously cuts off the heating power to prevent the electric kettle from being burnt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2005
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: Mohan Zhang, Yaolun Wang
  • Publication number: 20080302780
    Abstract: A water temperature calibration method for an electric kettle includes the steps of providing a temperature sensor, a microprocessor, and a control circuit; detecting an interior temperature from one of the temperatures of the water, a heating point contacting with the water, and an interior wall of the electric kettle; determining a temperature rate change by the microprocessor and comparing a current cycle of the temperature rate change with a previous cycle thereof; and sending out a control signal to the control circuit when the current cycle of the temperature rate change is close to the previous cycle thereof that a difference between the current cycle of the temperature rate change and the previous cycle thereof is minimized. Therefore, the process is adapted to accurately determine the water temperature and to cut off the heating power when the water is boiled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2005
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventors: Mohan Zhang, Yaolun Wang
  • Patent number: 7441714
    Abstract: A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: C Change Surgical LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
  • Publication number: 20080250822
    Abstract: The present invention relates to drum type washing machines, and more particularly, to a new type of steam generator for a drum type washing machine, which enables fast and effective washing and drying of laundry, and can provide a refresh effect of removal of wrinkles form, and sterilization of the laundry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: In Geun Ahn
  • Publication number: 20080223846
    Abstract: An electrical heating apparatus having an emitting surface, in particular in the form of a panel. It comprises a heating device having a vessel receiving a small volume of low-boiling-temperature phase-transition liquid, and an electrical heating body for the liquid in the vessel, a closed casing forming the emitting surface, surmounting the vessel and in communication with the latter to form a pressure-resistant hermetic enclosure for the liquid vapour and the condensate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: ELKA S.A.
    Inventor: Dominique Akel
  • Publication number: 20080203084
    Abstract: The present invention provides a heating apparatus for heating objects to be processed, which can detect a temperature of the objects to be processed with higher precision and accuracy, thereby to achieve higher precision temperature control. A heating apparatus 2 includes a processing vessel 8 configured to contain therein a plurality of objects W to be processed, the objects W including objects 58a to 58e to be processed for temperature measurement, each object 58a to 58e having each corresponding elastic wave element 60a to 60e, a heating means 10 adapted for heating the objects W to be processed, and a holding means 22 adapted to hold the objects W to be processed. To the processing vessel 8, a transmitter antenna 52 adapted to transmit an electric wave for measurement toward each elastic wave element 60a to 60e, and a receiver antenna 52 adapted to receive an electric wave having a frequency corresponding to the temperature and generated from each elastic wave element 60a to 60e are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Kenichi Yamaga
  • Publication number: 20080169281
    Abstract: A deep fryer including a housing, a pot positioned in the housing and a basket which is removably positioned in the pot. The basket includes first and second handle attachment brackets that mount each of first and second handles to opposite sides of the basket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTOR-SILEX, INC.
    Inventors: Cory Thomas Borovicka, Michael Garman, Anja Catharina Thomas, David Lee Jackson, Jess Jay Schnell
  • Publication number: 20080087658
    Abstract: A heating assembly comprising of a defined space fitting a temperature sensor. The placement of the temperature sensor in the space would reduce environmental influences on it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Applicant: Petatech International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Charlie Huang
  • Patent number: 7291812
    Abstract: A cooking appliance configured with a programmable controller within a heating unit. The programmable controller is configured to control a plurality of functions of the cooking appliance. The controller is located in the base of the appliance and is in communication with a control panel that transmits a plurality of signals to the controller indicative of a user input. The control panel can be arranged nearly flush with an outer surface of the cooking appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Focus Products Group, LLC
    Inventors: Howard Wayne Kaney, Alistair Hugh Tatham Mackay
  • Patent number: 7279660
    Abstract: An electrically heated water kettle comprises a vessel for holding a liquid for extraction of tea, coffee or other food material. The vessel includes a partially open immersible container sized to allow the passage of water between the walls of the vessel. The container is capable of holding the material while an opening in the container allows the entrance of water into the container upon immersion of the container in the water. The heated kettle incorporates structure to hold the container out of the water until the water reaches an appropriate extraction temperature and to immerse or withdraw the container into or from the water as is necessary to accomplish the extraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Edgecraft Corporation
    Inventors: Tom Long, Daniel D. Friel, Sr., Daniel D. Friel, Jr., James M. Fitzgerald, H. William Busch, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7257321
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for heating liquids, comprising: a liquid container, at least one electrical heating element connected to the liquid container for heating liquid received in the liquid container, at least one boiling sensor connected to, the inner side of the liquid container for detecting a boiling temperature in a part of the liquid container located above the liquid, at least one overheating sensor thermally connected to the heating element, and an electrical circuit in which the heating element, the boiling sensor and the overheating sensor are received such that a power supply to the heating element can be interrupted by the boiling sensor and the overheating sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Ferro Techniek Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Simon Kaastra
  • Patent number: 7203565
    Abstract: A semiconductor manufacturing apparatus includes: a hot plate that heats an article to be processed; a temperature control section that controls temperature of the hot plate; a main body control section that controls the entirety of the apparatus based on a process recipe; and an elevating mechanism that elevates the article to be processed above the hot plate. The semiconductor manufacturing apparatus further includes: a storage section that stores temperature data of the hot plate; an elevation control section that controls the elevating mechanism and sends elevation timing data to the storage section; a management range calculation section that calculates a management range corresponding to parameter behavior in a transient gradient state based on the temperature data, process recipe data, and the elevation timing data; and an abnormality detection section that detects apparatus abnormality with the use of the management range calculated by the management range calculation section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoaki Sato
  • Patent number: 7196293
    Abstract: An electric adapter for providing output power to an accessory includes an adapter housing having a projection configured for insertion into a DC power accessory port, the projection carrying an electrical input conductor, a power outlet cord extending from the housing, a manually operable power switch mounted on the housing, the switch operable to electrically connect the electrical input conductor to the power outlet cord, and a timer circuit contained within the housing and configured to electrically disconnect the input conductor from the power outlet cord after a predetermined cycle time period, without removing the projection from the DC power accessory port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: The First Years Inc.
    Inventor: James J. Britto
  • Patent number: 7128275
    Abstract: A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: C Change Surgical LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
  • Patent number: 7015429
    Abstract: A deep fryer has an outer housing (4) closed by a lid (14) and an immersed type heating element (28) extending into an oil containing receptacle (22), the housing having an upper rim at which the lid (14) is supported, with the underside of the lid (14) having an upwardly domed shape and the rim formed with a channel (44) arranged beneath the periphery of the underside of lid (14) to receive droplets of moisture condensing on the underside of the lid during use, a sensor (31) being provided which includes a thermal use and temperature sensing element (56) disposed in a single tubular housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Eastern Sources Housewares (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Joseph Wing Chung Lau, Wallace Lai
  • Patent number: 7002111
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electric warmer for heating a container by means of a heat transfer medium. The warmer comprises a jar into which the container can be inserted for heating, and an electric heating device comprising at least one resistance heating element for heating the heat transfer medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: DBK David & Baader GmbH
    Inventor: Hans-Peter Bauer
  • Patent number: 6919540
    Abstract: The invention relates to a heating element with at least one electrical resistance, wherein between a surface for heating and the electrical resistance is situated a dielectric, onto which dielectric connects an ammeter for detecting a leakage current. In addition, the invention comprises a liquid container provided with such a heating element. The invention also relates to a method for detecting a temperature change in a heating element formed by an electrical resistance by measuring a leakage current discharged by a dielectric connected to the heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Ferro Techniek Holding B. V.
    Inventor: Simon Kaastra
  • Patent number: 6872921
    Abstract: A programmable slow-cooker appliance uses an application-specific integrated circuit digital controller, in which a user sets a time and temperature for cooking a food item. The digital controller prevents the unit from functioning only as a “keep warm” appliance, and a unique design allows cooling of the application-specific integrated circuit digital programmable controller during cooking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: The Holmes Group, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. DeCobert, Lorens G. Hlava, Charles T. Thrasher, Jr., William Levy
  • Patent number: 6818867
    Abstract: A method of heating water in an electric kettle including determining the temperature differential between a measured starting temperature and a preselected target temperature. If the determined temperature differential is equal to a reference temperature differential, then the kettle is heated at less than full power for a calculated period of time. If, on the other hand, the determined temperature differential is greater than the reference temperature differential, then the kettle is heated until the kettle temperature reaches a determined end temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Braun GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Kressmann
  • Publication number: 20040217108
    Abstract: An electronic control circuit for use with a heater, a fan, a humidifier, a cooking apparatus, or any device utilizing a power mode switch and a condition sensor, and time-automated switching of modes of operation. The circuit includes a single control switch to manually set power output, to set a value for automatically comparing and responding to a sensed condition, and to set a time-automated sequence of operational modes. The circuit includes a microprocessor, preferably an application-specific integrated circuit, to provide circuit logic. The single control switch, preferably a push-button switch, selects a mode of operation. The circuit includes a thermistor or humidity sensor. The unit responds to the sensed condition, in accordance with the temperature/humidity value set by the control switch. The unit bypasses sensor operation in manual mode. In timed mode, a manual or automatic mode operates for selected time, followed by an automatic mode or powering off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: William Levy, Robert A. Sherwood, James J. Tracy
  • Patent number: 6789461
    Abstract: A water level detecting device for a percolator includes a pot body having a coffee powder container provided on the topside and a buoy device installed in the interior. The buoy device consists of a buoy rod fitted thereon with a buoy. A detecting device (a magnetic induction element or a photoelectric element) is provided on a power base or on the outer wall of the pot body or in the buoy rod. The buoy is able to move upward and downward together with the height of the water level of a water tank of the pot body. When the water level of the water reservoir reaches a lowermost limit preset, the detecting device will interact with the buoy to cut off power of the heater of the pot body, enabling the percolator to cut off electricity automatically to enhance safety in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventors: Chuan-Pan Huang, Chen-Lung Huang
  • Publication number: 20040149729
    Abstract: A method of heating water in an electric kettle including determining the temperature differential between a measured starting temperature and a preselected target temperature. If the determined temperature differential is equal to a reference temperature differential, then the kettle is heated at less than full power for a calculated period of time. If, on the other hand, the determined temperature differential is greater than the reference temperature differential, then the kettle is heated until the kettle temperature reaches a determined end temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Frank Kressmann
  • Patent number: 6666131
    Abstract: A cooking appliance composed of: a housing; a vessel provided to be placed in the housing and arranged to receive a cooking bath; an emptying device provided in the vessel for permitting the cooking bath to be drained from the vessel; an emptying receptacle for receiving the cooking bath from the vessel; a first valve associated with the emptying device; a maneuvering button associated with the emptying device; and a control mechanism mounted on the emptying receptacle and interposed between the maneuvering button and the first valve for moving the first valve between open and closed positions and response to movements of the maneuvering button, wherein the emptying receptacle is removable from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventor: Jean-Claude Bizard
  • Publication number: 20030146204
    Abstract: The invention relates to a heating element with at least one electrical resistance, wherein between a surface for heating and the electrical resistance is situated a dielectric, onto which dielectric connects an ammeter for detecting a leakage current. In addition, the invention comprises a liquid container provided with such a heating element. The invention also relates to a method for detecting a temperature change in a heating element formed by an electrical resistance by measuring a leakage current discharged by a dielectric connected to the heating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Simon Kaastra
  • Patent number: 6571690
    Abstract: A home yogurt making machine includes: a housing, an inner incubator thermally insulatively mounted in the housing, and a heating device having a positive-temperature-coefficient (PTC) semiconductor heating element mounted on a bottom of the inner incubator for smoothly heating the incubator, with the inner incubator having an internal chamber for directly storing a milk bottle or a soybean milk bottle in the incubator for conveniently forming yogurt at home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Tsang-Hung Hsu