Abstract: A deodorizing/odor removal and disinfection device designed to function in conjunction with a waste receptacle such as a garbage can. The device is equipped with an ozone/ion generator that generates an ozone/ion laden air stream and introduces the air stream into the interior of the waste receptacle without unduly interfering with the operation or seating of the lid of the receptacle. A securing mechanism such as a hook secures the deodorizing device to the exterior of the waste receptacle by engaging with the upper edge or lip of the receptacle, and preferably uses a tube to transmit the ozone laden air stream into the malodorous environment.

Abstract: The vacuum cleaner and steamer apparatus of the present invention has a fluid assembly for generating and delivering true steam to a surface to be cleaned and a vacuum assembly for drawing deposited steam and other matter from the surface. The apparatus also includes a cleaning fluid reservoir for holding cleaning fluid and a waste reservoir for holding vacuumed matter. Preferably, both reservoirs are removable. Highly preferred embodiments have a housing 20 within which the cleaning fluid and waste reservoirs are received and retained. The fluid assembly preferably includes the cleaning fluid reservoir, a fluid pump for pumping cleaning fluid therefrom, a heater within which the cleaning fluid is turned into steam, and a sprayer head for spraying the steam upon the surface to be cleaned. The vacuum assembly preferably includes a vacuum fan driven by an electric motor, a vacuum head through which matter is drawn, and the waste reservoir.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable air sterilization and filtration apparatus for removing contaminants from the ambient atmosphere, having a housing with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, filter media and ultraviolet light source, and a motorized fan for maintaining a flow of air through the housing from the inlet opening to the outlet opening. The invention also includes easy access to the filter medium and to the ultraviolet light sources for periodic replacement or cleaning, and integrates a safety lock feature whereby the removal of the filter or the removal of an ultraviolet light source would open the power circuit to the ultraviolet light source, preventing accidental irradiation of the user. The ultraviolet light sources also activate an indicator light viewable by the user when the ultraviolet light sources are energized.

Abstract: The water dispenser of the present invention preferably has a draw tube mechanism for extending and retracting a draw tube with respect to a water bottle, a water pump for pumping water therefrom through the draw tube, and a dispensing outlet through which water is dispensed. The draw tube mechanism is preferably a rack and pinion set to which the draw tube is connected for moving the draw tube with respect to the water bottle. By preferably employing a substantially rigid draw tube (as opposed to conventional flexible draw tubes), the draw tube is consistently positioned to draw water from the bottom of the water bottle, thereby drawing all water from the water bottle and reducing waste. Some preferred embodiments provide for partial or full automation of the draw tube mechanism, such as by using one or more sensors to detect water bottle position, dispenser door closure, and the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automated drip-type coffee or beverage making machine with an automatic bean grinding apparatus and an automatic cleaning apparatus. The invention also incorporates improvements and features such as a projection or boss within the device which improves the operating efficiency of the bean grinding feature, an improved blade configuration which improves grinding efficiency, including a unique blade arrangement employing a plurality of blades of different lengths, and an improved lid for the coffee or beverage container which acts as an insulator, a moving and sealing cover to prevent ground material from escaping during the grinding process, a water tank insulating compartment, a double-walled grinding basket lid to aid in insulation and spreading of hot liquid, and a damping member for reducing the vibrations associated with motor operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automated drip-type coffee or beverage making machine with all automatic bean grinding apparatus and an automatic cleaning apparatus. The invention also incorporates improvements and features such as a projection or boss within the device which improves the operating efficiency of the bean grinding feature, an improved blade configuration which improves grinding efficiency, including a unique blade arrangement employing a plurality of blades of different lengths, and an improved lid for the coffee or beverage container which acts as an insulator, a moving and sealing cover to prevent ground material from escaping during the grinding process, a water tank insulating compartment, a double-walled grinding basket lid to aid in insulation and spreading of hot liquid, and a damping member for reducing the vibrations associated with motor operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automated drip-type coffee or beverage making machine with an automatic bean grinding apparatus and an automatic cleaning apparatus. The invention also incorporates improvements and features such as a projection or boss within the device which improves the operating efficiency of the bean grinding feature, an improved blade configuration which improves grinding efficiency, including a unique blade arrangement employing a plurality of blades of different lengths, and an improved lid for the coffee or beverage container which acts as an insulator, a moving and sealing cover to prevent ground material from escaping during the grinding process, a water tank insulating compartment, a double-walled grinding basket lid to aid in insulation and spreading of hot liquid, and a damping member for reducing the vibrations associated with motor operation.

Abstract: A juice extractor module includes a cover and a juice extractor fluted dome and pulp filter which filters the extracted juice. A second module is formed by a pitcher. The juice flows into the pitcher through the pulp filter of the first module. A paddle depends from a third module and is driven by a motor and gears simultaneously with the extractor, for mixing the extracted juice and other ingredients such as water, sweeteners, etc. The third module contains the motor, drive gears and switch in substantial fluid isolation from the first and second compartments, for driving the paddle and the juice extractor. Different extractors may be attached for different size fruits. A lid may be attached over the pitcher for juice/beverage storage.

Abstract: An automatic, household drip-type coffee making machine with a main housing for receiving and holding a carafe or decanter, and having an method and apparatus for rapidly heating water to form an infused beverage such as coffee. The speed brewing system has an automatic water level sensing system with a float box, a lever and a micro-switch, which detects the level of water in the water tank and when the water reaches a pre-selected level, activates a water heater located within a water bladder, heating the water bladder to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the water passing into the water bladder. The water vapor condenses along a water outlet tube while still retaining sufficient heat to brew an infused beverage. The heated water (condensed water vapor) reaches a shower nozzle plate and is dispensed through the shower nozzle plate into a filter basket which contains a filter and material for making an infused beverage such as regular or decaffeinated coffee.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved automated beverage making machine combining a traditional French Press of the plunger/strainer type with an improved automatic hot water dispensing machine, the dispensing machine having a housing, a water tank and automatic electric water heater. The dispensing machine is adapted to communicate with a French Press plunger/strainer extractor where the extractor also functions as a serving carafe for hot infused beverages such as coffee and tea. The invention also employs improved heating circulation and temperature sensing system which recirculates water until the water has reached a pre-selected desired temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automated drip-type coffee or beverage making machine with an automatic bean grinding apparatus and an automatic cleaning apparatus. The invention also incorporates improvements and features such as a projection or boss within the device which improves the operating efficiency of the bean grinding feature, an improved blade configuration which improves grinding efficiency, including a unique blade arrangement employing a plurality of blades of different lengths, and an improved lid for the coffee or beverage container which acts as an insulator, a moving and sealing cover to prevent ground material from escaping during the grinding process, a water tank insulating compartment, a double-walled grinding basket lid to aid in insulation and spreading of hot liquid, and a damping device for reducing the vibrations associated with motor operation.

Abstract: A toaster oven that has a steam generating system is described. The steam from a steam generating system is passed into the oven during the heating and rewarming of meats and casserole dishes to prevent them from drying out.

Abstract: An electronic coffee maker having a control circuit that allows for selective warming of brewed coffee. The control circuit has a micro-control unit that controls the heating coils of the coffee maker. Selector buttons allow the user to choose the delay time and the power levels for keeping the brewed coffee warm. This selectivity prevents the brewed coffee from becoming overly cooked.

Abstract: An improved household coffee maker is disclosed, having a built-in water filter for removing water-borne contaminants. The water filter is disposed between the water reservoir and the heating coil, which heats the water and keeps the coffee carafe warm. An indicator disposed upon the cover of the coffee maker signals when the water filter has become saturated with contaminants and requires replacement or cleaning.

Abstract: An indoor grille having a steam-generating reservoir is described. The reservoir is heated by the heating elements used to heat the grille structure of the unit. The combination of steaming and grilling provides a flavorful quality to meats and other foods prepared therein. The heating elements of the grille are disposed in the metal body of the unit, which acts like a heat sink. The heat sink ensures that the unit attains cooking temperatures faster.