Forming Cooled Storage Compartment Patents (Class 62/438)
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Patent number: 11952197Abstract: A thermal liquid container system comprising a main body, a phase change material (PCM) liner disposed within the main body having a PCM disposed therein, a liquid reservoir defined by PCM liner, a liquid dispensing partition disposed within the liquid reservoir such that the liquid reservoir is partitioned into a temperature conditioning channel and a liquid retention chamber, and a lid comprising a liquid ingress and a liquid dispensing opening, the temperature conditioning channel for placing a liquid passing therethrough in thermal contact with the PCM whereby thermal energy is exchanged between the liquid flowing through the temperature conditioning channel and the PCM such that the liquid is dispensed at a temperature that is within a desired temperature range determined by the selected PCM melting temperature.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2020Date of Patent: April 9, 2024Assignee: The Curators of the University of MissouriInventor: Hongbin Ma
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Patent number: 11808525Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods relating to providing a portable, rechargeable vessel for collecting, storing, and recovering thermal energy are provided. In one aspect, vessel includes a structure defining a well and an open-top portion at the top of the well; a phase-change material, wherein the phase-change material is disposed in the well, the phase-change material being configured to change phase at temperature in the range of 110-700° C.; one or more thermally-conductive fins interleaved in the phase-change material; and a thermally-conductive heat transfer plate disposed at and substantially covering the open-top portion of the structure, in direct thermal contact with the one or more fins, thereby allowing the transfer plate to directly exchange thermal energy with the phase change material.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2017Date of Patent: November 7, 2023Assignee: Sun Buckets Inc.Inventors: J. Bruce Litchfield, Matthew Paul Alonso, Joe Bradley
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Patent number: 11592227Abstract: Cooler composed by an outer tank, within which a cooling tank and a useful tank are housed, among which there is an array of thermal energy accumulators, and within the tank useful there are temperature compensation chambers.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2018Date of Patent: February 28, 2023Inventors: Jose De Jesus Martinez Alcantara, Jorge Manuel Civeira Rodriguez
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Patent number: 11358493Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of managing thermal loads in a fuel cell vehicle. The method may comprise heating a fuel cell coolant of a fuel cell coolant loop utilizing waste heat from a fuel cell to form a heated fuel cell coolant, heating a battery coolant of a battery coolant loop utilizing waste heat from a battery to form a heated battery coolant, heating a refrigerant of a battery refrigeration loop by exchanging heat with the heated battery coolant, and superheating the refrigerant of the battery refrigeration loop by exchanging heat with the heated fuel cell coolant.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2021Date of Patent: June 14, 2022Assignee: Nikola CorporationInventors: Aiden Cohan, Akshit Markan, Mitchell Shinn, Katherine Smith, Rachel Cook
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Patent number: 11279258Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of managing thermal loads in a fuel cell vehicle. The method may comprise heating a fuel cell coolant of a fuel cell coolant loop utilizing waste heat from a fuel cell to form a heated fuel cell coolant, heating a battery coolant of a battery coolant loop utilizing waste heat from a battery to form a heated battery coolant, heating a refrigerant of a battery refrigeration loop by exchanging heat with the heated battery coolant, and superheating the refrigerant of the battery refrigeration loop by exchanging heat with the heated fuel cell coolant.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2021Date of Patent: March 22, 2022Assignee: Nikola CorporationInventors: Aiden Cohan, Akshit Markan, Mitchell Shinn, Katherine Smith, Rachel Cook
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Publication number: 20140250931Abstract: A seasonal thermal energy storage system for heat supply and removal, including an energy-storage device, a solar collector, a refrigerating unit, and a water supply device in closed-loop connection to a user terminal. The energy-storage device includes at least a heat source storage pond and a cold source storage pond. The heat source storage pond and the cold source storage pond are connected to water source via first water pumps. The water supply device includes a hot water supply pool connected to the heat source storage pond and a cold water supply pool connected to the cold source storage pond. The solar collector is connected to the heat source storage pond and the hot water supply pool via second water pumps. The refrigerating unit is connected to the hot water supply pool and the cold water supply pool via third water pumps.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2014Publication date: September 11, 2014Applicant: SUNSHINE KAIDI NEW ENERGY GROUP CO., LTDInventors: Yilong CHEN, Shuchuan HU
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Publication number: 20140230477Abstract: A hot water supply air conditioning system performs a first cold-storage operation, a second cold-storage operation, and a cold-used air-cooling operation. In the first cold-storage operation, a hot-water-supply-side heat exchanger serves as a condenser, and a thermal-storage-side heat exchanger serves as an evaporator. Moreover, a hot water supplier heats water of a hot water storage tank, and a thermal storage stores cold thermal energy in a thermal storage tank. In the second cold-storage operation, a heat-source-side heat exchanger serves as a condenser, and the thermal-storage-side heat exchanger serves as an evaporator. Moreover, the thermal storage stores cold thermal energy in the thermal storage tank. In the cold-used air-cooling operation, the hot water supply air conditioning system cools room air using cold thermal energy stored in the thermal storage tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: August 21, 2014Inventors: Shuji Furui, Nobuki Matsui
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Publication number: 20140223950Abstract: A temperature control system for vehicles includes an evaporator constituting an air-conditioning system, a heater core, which is installed to be proximate to the evaporator, and heat-exchanges with the peripheral air while a coolant flows inside, a first coolant circulation line, which is connected to the heater core and allows the coolant heated by the engine to circulate between the heater core and the engine, a coolant storage, in which the coolant through the heater core is stored, and a second coolant circulation line, by which the heater core and the coolant storage are connected, and which allows the coolant to circulate between the heater core and the coolant storage, wherein the coolant cooled in the heater core by the heat-exchange between the evaporator and the heater core circulates along the second coolant circulation line to be stored in the coolant storage during the operation of the air-conditioning system, and the coolant stored in the coolant storage circulates along the second coolant circType: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2011Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT ABInventors: Bo Janeling, Michael Willix, Pekka Ollila
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Patent number: 8726688Abstract: A refrigerator for fresh and frozen products with passive elements for temperature leveling without ventilation and for maintaining the relative humidity above 90% even in the absence of a connection to the electrical mains, by using the energy supplied by the melting enthalpy of the thermal mass, frozen beforehand by circulating refrigeration fluid at low temperature within a heat accumulator, which allows to absorb the heat that passes through the walls and the heat dissipated by the products, the refrigerator comprising a body which defines internally at least one compartment which is delimited by thermally insulating walls, at least 50% of the inner surface of the compartment being constituted by the surface of a heat accumulator containing a eutectic liquid, with a phase change temperature which is proximate to the temperature to be maintained within the compartment, an evaporation circuit associated with a compressor being connected to the heat accumulator.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2008Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Nomos S.R.L.Inventor: Alberto Ghiraldi
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Publication number: 20140069136Abstract: Provided is a cold-storage heat exchanger. The cold-storage heat exchanger includes a pair of header tanks, and tubes which are arranged in three rows with respect to the direction of the flow of air and connected at opposite sides thereof to the header tanks. A cold-storage medium is stored in the tubes that are disposed in a middle row, and refrigerant circulates through the tubes that are disposed in front and rear rows. Therefore, the cold-storage medium can effectively store cold-energy transferred from the refrigerant. When the engine of a vehicle is stopping, the cold-storage heat exchanger can discharge the cold-energy that has been stored into the passenger compartment of the vehicle, thus preventing the temperature in the passenger compartment from rapidly increasing, thereby creating pleasant air-conditioned conditions for a user, and minimizing the energy and time required to re-cool the passenger compartment.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2012Publication date: March 13, 2014Applicant: HALLA VISTEON CLIMATE CONTROL CORP.Inventors: Hong-Young Lim, Kwang Hun Oh, Yong Jun Jee, Young-Ha Jeon, Jin Hyuck Kim, Duck-Ho Lee, Jun Young Song
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Patent number: 8607498Abstract: A fishing bait holding apparatus includes a container that has a bottom wall and a perimeter wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. The perimeter wall has an upper edge defining an access opening into the container. A liner is removably positioned within the container. The liner has a lower wall and peripheral wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the lower wall. The lower and peripheral walls each include an outer layer enclosing an interior space. A fluid is positioned within the interior space. The fluid may be chilled and the liner placed in the container to cool an area enclosed by the container. The container can be cooled with the liner such that fishing bait positioned in the container is cooled by the liner.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Inventors: Dirk J. Smith, Shelly M. Smith
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Patent number: 8443868Abstract: An air/refrigerant heat exchanger includes a plurality of coiled tubes. A first tube of the plurality of coiled tubes has a phase change material therein. A second tube of the plurality of coiled tubes has a flow of cooled refrigerant flowing therethrough and the first tube is in thermal contact with the second tube. A third tube of the plurality of coiled tubes has a flow of air flowing therethrough and the third tube is in thermal contact with the first tube and the second tube.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: SPX CorporationInventor: James W. Barnwell
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Patent number: 8146382Abstract: The present invention relates to a packaging system for storing and/or transporting different kind of fruits packaged in clamshell, punnets or trays during long periods of time, comprising a collapsible structure including four vertical columns with side walls collapsible on a pallet-type base, exhibiting an arrangement of internal trays or grids, and wrappable curtains configuring front and rear walls, such that it doesn't require the use of cardboard, wood or plastic boxes; preferably the system also comprises cooling means, gas-generating means and controlling means.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2006Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Inversiones Sestri S.A.Inventor: Juan Jose Villasante
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Patent number: 8066152Abstract: A device that attaches to a bottle's neck has a base that secures to the bottle's neck and has two passages that traverse the base. The first passage leads to an enclosure located above the base that holds cooling material and optionally has a conduit that improves the heat exchange between a dispensing liquid and the cooling material retained in the enclosure. The exit passage of the enclosure has in at least one embodiment a valve. The second passage through the base forms a vent line that is located entirely below the enclosure and allows air to flow into the bottle as bottle's contents are dispensed through the first passage.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2007Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Ravi Solutions Inc.Inventors: Martin Tétreault, Jean-François Jodoin
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Publication number: 20090205345Abstract: Disclosed is a method and device for a refrigerant-based thermal energy storage and cooling system with multiple condensing units utilizing a common evaporator coil. The disclosed embodiments provide a refrigerant-based ice storage system with increased reliability, lower cost components, and reduced power consumption and ease of installation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2009Publication date: August 20, 2009Applicant: Ice Energy, Inc.Inventors: Ramachandran Narayanamurthy, Brian Parsonnet, Donald Thomas Cook
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Publication number: 20090145163Abstract: Methods disclosed herein include methods of manufacturing integrally thermally-sealed storage containers. Methods include creating at least one indentation in at least one layer of first thermal barrier sheet, wherein the at least one layer of first thermal barrier sheet includes at least one first ultra efficient insulation material and wherein the at least one indentation is in a size and shape substantially conforming with material to be stored; placing material to be stored within one or more of the at least one indentation; placing at least one layer of second thermal barrier sheet adjacent to the material to be stored, wherein the at least one layer of second thermal barrier sheet includes at least one second ultra efficient insulation material; and creating a thermal seal between at least two layers of thermal barrier sheet, substantially thermally sealing the material to be stored.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2008Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Edward K.Y. Jung, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Clarence T. Tegreene, William H. Gates, III, Charles Whitmer, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
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Publication number: 20080104992Abstract: A liquid cooling device includes a casing having an outer wall, a bottom base attached to a bottom end of the outer wall and a top cover attached to a top end of the outer wall. The casing defines a receiving space therein for receiving an impeller therein. A sealed chamber is defined in the casing and isolated from the receiving space. A motor driving unit is received in the sealed chamber and magnetically interacts with the impeller to drive the impeller to rotate. The motor driving unit comprises a motor having a stator and a printed circuit board electrically connecting with the stator. The top cover covers the motor driving unit and thermally contacts with electronic components on the printed circuit board for dissipating heat generated by the electronic components when the motor driving unit is operated.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Applicant: FOXCONN TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: CHENG-TIEN LAI, ZHI-YONG ZHOU, QIAO-LI DING
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Publication number: 20040144103Abstract: Quick cooling device is disclosed for quick cooling of canned or bottled drink from a room temperature, quickly. A case has an inside space divided into a cavity and a device chamber, a door is provided on a front part of the case for opening/closing the cavity. Means for bringing a cold accumulation pack into contact with a drink container, and shaking the cold accumulation pack and the drink container together, to cool down drink in the container quickly is provided in the cavity. A refrigerating system is provided in the case for cooling the cold accumulation pack.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2003Publication date: July 29, 2004Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Myung Ryul Lee, Seong Jae Kim, Wook Yong Lee
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Patent number: 6691530Abstract: The present invention relates to a rapid cooling apparatus for rapidly cooling objects at room temperature via conductive heat transfer and convective heat transfer as well. The rapid cooling apparatus comprises: means having a storage space disposed inside a first storage housing for storing the objects to be cooled and cold material bags disposed around the received objects to be cooled; means for driving the storage means in a direction; and means for spacing the storage and driving means from a second storage housing. The invention provides a user with convenience via rapid cooling and also can enhance cooling efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Myung Ryul Lee, Seong Jae Kim, Jang Seok Lee
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Patent number: 6666044Abstract: A self-contained insulated container for maintaining an item at a predetermined temperature. The container has an inner sidewall and an outer sidewall, which are spaced apart from each other and closed off to define an insulating chamber therebetween. The container includes a storage area, for receiving the item therein, which is defined by the inner sidewall. The storage area is at a first storage temperature. The insulating chamber is substantially filled with a first insulating material, which is a aqueous silicone-gel mixture. The first insulating material is at a first insulating temperature. The storage area attains a second storage temperature after the item is placed therein and the first insulating material maintains the second storage temperature and the item at the predetermined temperature for a storage period.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: December 23, 2003Inventor: François Gagnon
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Publication number: 20030209029Abstract: The present invention relates to a rapid cooling apparatus for rapidly cooling objects at room temperature via conductive heat transfer and convective heat transfer as well. The rapid cooling apparatus comprises: means having a storage space disposed inside a first storage housing for storing the objects to be cooled and cold material bags disposed around the received objects to be cooled; means for driving the storage means in a direction; and means for spacing the storage and driving means from a second storage housing. The invention provides a user with convenience via rapid cooling and also can enhance cooling efficiency.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2002Publication date: November 13, 2003Applicant: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Myung Ryul Lee, Seong Jae Kim, Jang Seok Lee
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Publication number: 20030150237Abstract: A self-contained insulated container for maintaining an item at a predetermined temperature. The container has an inner sidewall and an outer sidewall, which are spaced apart from each other and closed off to define an insulating chamber therebetween. The container includes a storage area, for receiving the item therein, which is defined by the inner sidewall. The storage area is at a first storage temperature. The insulating chamber is substantially filled with a first insulating material, which is a aqueous silicone-gel mixture. The first insulating material is at a first insulating temperature. The storage area attains a second storage temperature after the item is placed therein and the first insulating material maintains the second storage temperature and the item at the predetermined temperature for a storage period.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Francois Gagnon
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Patent number: 6401481Abstract: A temperature controller is in a position at a height of 130 cm or more from a base surface settling, of which the refrigerator is settled, on a door of the refrigerator, which position is on an upper side of a handle for opening and closing the door. Further, a minute control depending on a preserving condition of foods, the seasons, a quantity of the foods, and so on is made possible.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toshie Hiraoka, Keiji Ohya
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Patent number: 6085543Abstract: A cooling mug has an inner mug part, and an outer mug part joined together with a room in between. The room holds cooling substance and a straw therein; the straw is connected to a lower end of the inner part, and communicates with inside of the inner part provided for holding drinks. The straw further projects from upper end of the mug so that a user can suck drinks from the straw. The mug is previously kept in a refigerator to become cold. Drinks will also flow into the straw after it is poured into mug; thus, drinks sucked up from the straw can become cooler because of the contact between the straw and cooling substance.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1999Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignee: Wea Bor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chin-Cheng Su
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Patent number: 6067815Abstract: A low-cost and thermodynamically efficient implementation of a two-stage refrigeration system applied to a retail refrigerator. The invention includes a simple and easily manufactured thermally efficient and low-cost evaporation unit. The invention further includes a thermal energy storage module and an energy efficient control protocol to maintain steady temperatures in the fresh and frozen food sections, to permit energy efficient defrosting of the heat exchange surfaces in the freezer section, and minimize losses associated with condensing unit on-and-off cycling.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1997Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: TES Technology, Inc.Inventor: Timothy W. James
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Patent number: 5845514Abstract: An apparatus for chilling beverage containers such as bottles or cans, includes a chamber which containing chilling liquid cooled by a refrigeration unit and a support arrangement for sup-porting containers in the liquid. A flexible membrane in the form of a plastics bag surrounds the containers to prevent the containers coming into direct contact with the liquid but which permits the chilling liquid to cool the contents of the containers. The support extends downward within the flexible membrane supporting the article therein and allowing thermal contact between the article and chilling liquid via the flexible membrane. The support is radially collapsible or flexible to facilitate improved thermal contact between the article and chilling liquid via the flexible membrane.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1997Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: Microchill International LimitedInventors: Joseph Clarke, Brian Forshaw
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Patent number: 5701756Abstract: A container for fast cooling of milk and its preservation and transportation at an optimal temperature (0.degree.-4.degree. C.) comprises a body (11) consisting of an internal recipient (12) defining a tank (13) for containing the milk and an intermediate shell (14) surrounding the internal recipient (12) and connected in a sealed manner therewith to define between the recipient (12) and the intermediate shell (14) a jacket (18) designed to contain liquid at a freezing temperature lower than a predetermined preservation temperature. The container is covered with an insulating external shell (20). Ducts (30) for circulation of the refrigerating fluid are arranged in the jacket (18). There can also be provided means (48,49,54) for the controlled input of milk up to thermal contact with the refrigerating walls of the recipient (12) and means (35) for mixing the milk in the tank (13) during cooling and preservation.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1996Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: N.R. Development LimitedInventor: Alberto Ghiraldi
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Patent number: 5666817Abstract: An energy transfer system is provided for a refrigeration appliance. The energy transfer system includes a fluid passage disposed in the housing of the appliance for enabling the transfer of a fluid into, through, and out of the housing. The fluid is contained in a vessel which can be disposed outside of the home or underground so that the fluid is cooled by the outside air or by the ground.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1996Date of Patent: September 16, 1997Assignee: Edward R. SchulakInventors: Edward R. Schulak, J. Benjamin Horvay
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Patent number: 5491979Abstract: Food stuffs transported in trolleys are cooled on board of an aircraft directly in the trolley which has a heat exchange surface connected to a secondary coolant flow circuit in the trolley. When the trolley is parked in a parking space for example in an aircraft galley, the heat exchange surface of the trolley is in heat exchange contact with a heat exchanger connected to a central primary refrigerant circuit including a refrigerating unit (4). The heat exchange surface of the trolley and a heat exchange surface of the heat exchanger are connected to separate refrigerant circulating circuit, whereby leaks are avoided while the direct surface contact between the two heat exchange surfaces assures a substantially improved efficiency in the heat exchange.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 1994Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace Airbus GmbHInventors: Harald Kull, Thomas Scherer, Siegfried Seidler
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Patent number: 5445213Abstract: A heat accumulator for a heat energy and cold energy accumulating system. This system comprises a plurality of heat accumulator units coupled to each other in series or in parallel by a heat exchanging pipe. The heat accumulator units may be charged with phase change materials of different melting points. Alternatively, the heat accumulator units may be charged with phase change materials of the same melting point. When phase change materials of the same melting point are charged in the accumulator units, the accumulator units are provided with respective pressure controllers in order to be able to vary the respective melting points of the phase change materials.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1994Date of Patent: August 29, 1995Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jong-Sung Im
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Patent number: 5408845Abstract: Cooling or chilling apparatus for cooling or chilling beverage containers such as bottles or cans including a chamber which includes a chilling liquid cooled by a refrigeration unit and a support arrangement for supporting containers in the liquid. A flexible membrane in the form of a plastics bag surrounds the containers to prevent the containers coming into direct contact with the liquid but which permits the chilling liquid to cool the contents of the containers.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1993Date of Patent: April 25, 1995Inventors: Brian Forshaw, Joseph Clarke
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Patent number: 5243833Abstract: A method and device for thawing pouches of frozen transfusion material including a membrane which provides a barrier within an interior of the device with the membrane receiving the pouches of frozen material therewithin. The interior of the device includes a sump having thawing fluid stored therein and maintained at a constant target temperature which is to be achieved by the frozen transfusion material to be thawed. The pouch of material to be thawed, after placement within the membrane, is exposed (through the membrane) to hydrostatic forces associated with the fluid in the sump collapsing the membrane on the pouch while pulsating jets impinge indirectly upon the pouch through the membrane. In this way, as the contents within the pouch thaw, circulation of the fluid within the pouch occurs for more rapid realization of the target temperature for the fluid within the pouch.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1991Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Assignee: Instacool Inc. of North AmericaInventors: Philip H. Coelho, Terry Wolf
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Patent number: 5235819Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for maintaining products at an intended temperature during transport and storage at an ambient temperature deviating from the intended temperature. The invention features a container which holds the products and whose walls render heat transfer difficult. The container includes a main container body with a bottom and a side section that together define one or more integrated compartments suitable for storing a solidifiable substance. The container includes a lid which also has an integrated compartment for storing a solidifiable substance. When the lid is positioned on the main container body there is provided a solidifiable substance confinement enclosing the material storage space in the container from all sides.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1991Date of Patent: August 17, 1993Assignee: Pallet-Cooler KBInventor: Hans Bruce
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Patent number: 5050387Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining an intended temperature at or close to 0.degree. C. in products affected by variations in temperature, during transport and storage at an ambient temperature deviating from 0.degree. C., while using a container which holds the products and whose walls render heat transfer difficult. The method includes the steps of arranging adjacent the container walls, bottom, lid and the like compartments receiving water or a water mixture so as to provide a water-containing confinement enclosing the product-receiving space in the container from all sides. The container and the water in its wall compartments are then cooled so as to freeze the water. The products are then inserted in the container after it has been moved to a room having a temperature adapted to the products. The container is then closed and used for the transportation and/or subsequent storage of the products.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1990Date of Patent: September 24, 1991Assignee: Pallet-Cooler KBInventor: Hans Bruce
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Patent number: 5001907Abstract: A beverage container including an inner tubular wall defining a reservoir; a transparent outer tubular wall surrounding the inner wall and spaced therefrom to form an annular chamber having upper and lower annular openings; a top wall joining upper ends of the inner and outer walls and closing the upper opening; a base closing the lower opening; and a refrigerant gel retained within the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 1990Date of Patent: March 26, 1991Inventors: Michael J. LaCroix, William C. Lampert, Kenneth M. Pacunas, Roger S. Spurrell, Jr.
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Patent number: 4981234Abstract: An improved food container for maintaining food at reduced temperatures having an upper opening inner shell surrounded by an outer shell between which is a cavity filled with a gelatinous blend of amorphous natural high-polymer carbohydrates. In a preferred embodiment the inner surface of the outer shell is at least partially covered by a material of closed-cell plastic foam.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1989Date of Patent: January 1, 1991Assignee: Kreme Kool, Inc.Inventor: Marion W. Slaughter
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Patent number: 4961324Abstract: Apparatus is set forth wherein a central cylindrical body including a threadedly securable cap mounted at lowermost end of the cylindrical body and an upper cap threadedly mounted to an upper end of the cylindrical body. The upper cap includes a spout conduit diametrically disposed about an upper surface of the cap with an internally threaded boss member in fluid communication with the spout conduit to receive a threaded beverage container therewithin. An upper and lower gel refrigerant chamber is mounted within the cylindrical body and within the lower cap. The lower cap further includes a spring mounted within a bore positioned within the lower cap to direct the container upwardly towards the upper cap to maintain fluid communication therewith. A threadedly removable spout cap is mounted to the spout chamber's terminal end which is oriented beyond the cylindrical wall defined by the cylindrical body.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1990Date of Patent: October 9, 1990Inventor: Barry S. Allan
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Patent number: 4951481Abstract: A cold preserving container including an inner box forming a heat insulating chamber, an outer box, heat insulating material between the boxes, a cooling evaporating tube disposed on the outer surface of the inner box, and a cold accumulator enclosing a cold regenerative material and disposed between the evaporating tube and the heat insulating material. The cold accumulator directly contacts the evaporating tube substantially without any air therebetween and thus can be cooled rapidly and efficiently by the tube. The cold accumulator is disposed between the boxes, and thus its capacity can be easily increased, thereby increasing the cold preserving time of the container.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1989Date of Patent: August 28, 1990Assignee: Sanden CorporationInventor: Kozaburo Negishi
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Patent number: 4928501Abstract: A cold preserving container including a goods container space, a dish-like member above the space, a cold accumulator enclosing a cold regenerative material and disposed in the dish-like member, a heat insulating wall forming an air path between the wall and the dish-like member, and a blower circulating air between the air path and the goods container space. The cold accumulator cools the air in the disk-like member, the cooled air can fall down into the goods container space and circulate between the space and the air path by driving the blower. Since the cooling of the air in the space is controlled by the drive control of the blower, the temperature of the inside air can be easily controlled and maintained at the desired temperature despite variations in outside air temperatures.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1989Date of Patent: May 29, 1990Assignee: Sanden CorporationInventor: Kozaburo Negishi
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Patent number: 4862707Abstract: The refrigeration system disclosed herein provides separate chilling and freezing compartments and operates in alternate phases. In the first phase, an evaporator which controls chilling compartment temperature also absorbs heat from a thermal mass through the change of phase of a liquid to a solid. In the second phase, this evaporator becomes a condenser for the operation of a second evaporator associated with the freezer component. During this second phase, the heat transfer is reversed, the fusion energy of the first phase is recaptured as melting energy in the second. Accordingly, heat is transferred from the second evaporator to the mass over a temperature differential which is less than that existing between the second evaporator and the environment.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1988Date of Patent: September 5, 1989Assignee: University of Maine SystemInventors: Richard C. Hill, James C. LaBrecque
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Patent number: 4856296Abstract: A container includes a closed variable-volume container body, and a central stem secured in the container body. The central stem generally extends along the axis of the container body and has a plurality of branches generally extending radially outwardly from its full length. When the container body is filled with water and cooled, the central stem serves as a core on which ice deposits so that the temperature at which the water begins to solidify is raised.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1988Date of Patent: August 15, 1989Assignees: Matthias Tai, Shing-Bun Hu, Gwo-Guer Yeh, Mow-Ho GuoInventor: Chi-Yao Shu
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Patent number: 4815287Abstract: A beverage cooler apparatus is set forth wherein a hollowed walled container has a removable plug positioned within a recess through a bottom portion thereof enabling introduction of a freezeable fluid within the hollow walls of said container. Optionally a coiled spring may be positioned within the hollow interior of the beverage core apparatus for securement of an associated beverage container in use with non-hardening cooling gels or subsequent to thawing of a freezeable fluid within the hollow walls.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1988Date of Patent: March 28, 1989Inventor: John D. O'Daniel
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Patent number: 4748823Abstract: A freezer-refrigerator for automotive vehicles, which includes a freezing chamber and a refrigeration chamber. The freezing chamber includes a freezing evaporator and a first cold storage member. The refrigeration chamber includes a refrigeration evaporator and a second cold storage member. Both evaporators are connected in series so that refrigerant flows from a compressor through the freezing evaporator and then through the refrigeration evaporator under a control of a solenoid valve which is controlled by signal from a temperature sensor provided in at least one of the chambers, thus controlling the freezing and refrigeration. The freezing temperature of the second cold storage member is set higher than that of the first cold storage member thereby to maintain the interior of the chambers at a temperature near the freezing temperature of the cold storage members for long time even after the compressor stops.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1985Date of Patent: June 7, 1988Assignee: Nippondenso Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideo Asano, Kazuhisa Makida, Kenichi Fujiwara, Katsumi Hatanaka
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Patent number: 4720984Abstract: The combination of a cooling tower and a tank containing packaged, eutectoid salt compositions. The tower provides cooled water to freeze the salt compositions, which are later used to chill water for air-conditioning a building.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1986Date of Patent: January 26, 1988Assignee: Transphase Systems, Inc.Inventor: Douglas A. Ames
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Patent number: 4715195Abstract: An apparatus for rapid cooling of bottles, cans or other containers of liquid or of solid materials is disclosed. The apparatus is comprised of a top-opening cabinet which has a tub for holding liquid and a refrigeration unit for cooling the liquid in the tub. A plate having an opening is placed across the tube and a bag is positioned in the opening so that it extends into the liquid. The bag is made of a thin, flexible, water impervious material and it is sealed across the opening in the plate so that direct access to the liquid is prevented. The container is placed in the bag which then substantially conforms to the shape of that part of the container lying below the surface of the liquid. The container's contents are cooled without the container ever coming into direct contact with the liquid.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1987Date of Patent: December 29, 1987Inventor: Iosif Kucza
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Patent number: 4459821Abstract: A bulkhead for a cargo carrying vehicle and method of constructing same is the subject of the present invention. First and second uniform extruded sections are provided, each of which presents alternating web portions and open areas sandwiched between generally planar surfaces. Plate connecting means is interposed between the two extruded sections and presents first and second connecting surfaces which are aligned with the first and second planar surfaces. First and second channel means disposed across the ends of the extruded sections place each of the open areas in closed communication with an adjacent area. The open areas may be utilized to house a refrigerant conduit and a freezable media so as to convert the bulkhead into a self-contained cold plate. Alternatively, a heating element may be placed in the open areas so as to convert the bulkhead to a hot plate. The aforedescribed assembly is disposed on one side of an A-frame which divides the cargo area into left and right sections.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1982Date of Patent: July 17, 1984Assignee: The Hesse CorporationInventors: Paul C. Cabell, Robert L. Kimmich
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Patent number: 4429549Abstract: A domestic ice-cream maker has a vertical cylindrical evaporator flanked by other parts of a refrigeration unit and a drive motor. A freezing support is removably located in the evaporator and a paddle in the freezing container is connected to the drive motor by a drive in a hinged lid covering the evaporator. The support is locked in place by freezing of moisture between it and the evaporator and released by a defroster associated with the evaporator which melts the moisture when ice-cream making is completed. The evaporation coil is situated in the space between inner and outer cylindrical vessels, the space being filled with a heat exchange liquid. The material being frozen may be aerated by providing air passages exiting at the trailing edges of the paddle adjacent the bottom of the container.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1981Date of Patent: February 7, 1984Inventor: Peter P. M. Randolphi
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Patent number: 4354359Abstract: A plug-in cold storage assembly capable of being moved from one insulated cabinet or chest to another, including at least two spaced "holdover" cold storage units and a mounting structure that holds the storage units in spaced relation and which completes flow connections between them and permits mounting in a cabinet or chest.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1981Date of Patent: October 19, 1982Inventors: Roger W. Hall, John F. Lotterer, III
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Patent number: 4315416Abstract: A bath container for cooling a liquid contained therein for use in refrigeration equipment includes a jacket bounding a space for the liquid which comprises a side wall and a bottom wall. The side wall of the jacket is formed of two individual walls spaced from one another to form a hollow chamber therebetween which chamber is connected to a refrigerant feeding member and to a refrigerant discharging member whereby the jacket forming the hollow chamber and adapted to pass the refrigerant therethrough functions as an evaporator. A surface heating element including a heating wire inserted into a relatively thick insulating packing is mounted on the surface of the bottom side to supply heat to the working liquid contained in the bath container.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1980Date of Patent: February 16, 1982Inventors: Walter Frey, Rolf Kaiser
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Patent number: 4265097Abstract: Closet for the conservation of goods such as wine in bottles or other foodstuffs.The body 10 of the closet is refrigerated. Internally applying against the walls, 13, 14, 15 of the closet, is a U-shaped vat filled with an aqueous solution. This vat is open at its upper end.A serpentine evaporator 17 refrigerates the solution in the vat, without freezing it.The aqueous solution defines the coolest zones of the interior of the closet, ensures constancy of temperature in time, and controls the internal hygrometry.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1979Date of Patent: May 5, 1981Inventors: Robert Bordas, Paul Lacharmoise, Gilbert Moteruil