Abstract: Disclosed is a self-contained, rapid cooling device that retains heat produced from the cooling process and can be stored for indefinite periods without losing its cooling potential. A liquid in a first chamber undergoes a change of phase into vapor which cools the first chamber. A second chamber forms a vacuum insulation about a third chamber which contains a sorbent. The sorbent in the third chamber is in fluid communication with the vapor and removes the vapor from the first chamber. The device is self-contained because a material in contact with the sorbent removes the heat from the sorbent to prevent the reduction in the cooling effect produced by the first chamber. In addition, a vacuum insulation about the third chamber keeps the heated sorbent from diminishing that cooling effect.

Abstract: Disclosed is a self-contained, rapid cooling device that retains heat produced from the cooling process and can be stored for indefinite periods without losing its cooling potential. A liquid in a first chamber undergoes a change of phase into vapor which cools the first chamber. A second chamber forms a vacuum insulation about a third chamber which contains a sorbent. The sorbent in the third chamber is in fluid communication with the vapor and removes the vapor from the first chamber. The device is self-contained because a material in contact with the sorbent removes the heat from the sorbent to prevent the reduction in the cooling effect produced by the first chamber. In addition, a vacuum insulation about the third chamber keeps the heated sorbent from diminishing that cooling effect.

Abstract: Control of the exothermic chemical reaction between an oxidizing agent and an associated fuel, particularly potassium permanganate and ethylene glycol, is produced by binding the oxidizing agent such that there is a controlled exposure of the oxidizing agent to the fuel, the controlled exposure of the oxidizing agent to the fuel corresponding to a predetermined rate of reaction.

Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-staged desiccant refrigeration device which employs an evaporator combined with a multi-staged vapor desiccant/heat sink module which absorbs water vapor from the evaporator. A plurality of stage vapor desiccant/heat desiccant modules are incorporated in the device, the automatic staged opening and closing of the modules allowing for a continuous and more efficient refrigeration process.

Abstract: Disclosed is a self-contained, rapid cooling device that can be stored for indefinite periods without losing its cooling potential. A liquid in a first chamber undergoes a change of phase into vapor which cools the first chamber. A sorbent in a second chamber is in fluid communication with the vapor and removes the vapor from the first chamber. A heat sink material thermally coupled to the sorbent collects and irreversibly captures heat transferred from the vapor to the sorbent.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for simultaneously heating and cooling adjacent food portions. A first module defining a first hollow chamber is formed into a substantially planar surface for supporting the food portion to be cooled. The first chamber contains a vaporizable substance in equilibrium with vapor. A second module defining a second hollow chamber is likwise formed into a substantially planar surface for supporting the food portion to be heated. The second chamber contains a sorbent and is evacuated. The chambers are fluidly interconnected by a conduit having a normally closed valve to prevent egress of vapor from the first chamber. In use, the valve is open, allowing vapor from the first chamber to flow into the evacuated second chamber. The resulting drop in pressure allows the vaporizable substance in the first chamber to change phase into vapor, thereby cooling the first chamber and its associated food portion.

Abstract: Disclosed is a self-contained, rapid cooling device that can be stored for indefinite periods without losing its cooling potential. A liquid in a first chamber undergoes a change of phase into vapor which cools the first chamber. A sorbent in a second chamber is in fluid communication with the vapor and removes the vapor from the first chamber. A heat sink material thermally coupled to the sorbent collects and irreversibly captures heat transferred from the vapor to the sorbent.