Abstract: Device for grilling and broiling food comprising an electrically heated lower plate member adjacent to one end of which is provided an upstanding turret element on which an upper plate member, also electrically heated, is pivotally and adjustably supported so as to perform the cooking operation without, as a consequence exerting any pressure on the food product. Further modified embodiments disclosed herein reveal various concepts for supporting the upper plate member in an adjustable manner.

Abstract: A helical valve spring has terminal coils whose diameter and pitch are different from those of adjacent coils in the main body of the spring. The part of the spring lying between the terminal coil and the adjacent coil in the main body of the spring constitutes a transition zone. When the associated valve is opened, i.e., when the spring is in its maximum state of compression, a portion of the transition zone is in contact with a portion of the adjacent coil in the main body of the spring. This contact damps the natural vibration of the spring.

Abstract: A food preparation appliance with two hinged parts, usable as a waffle iron and also as a meat grilling utensil. The two movable parts contain heating rods over which are slipped hollow contact members. Each of these contact members has two different surface patterns, each surface pattern being designed for the specific type of food preparation, i.e., either baking or grilling. The contact members may be removed and turned over so that matching surface patterns face one another.