Abstract: The carrying case for storing and transporting heated articles includes a thermal storage assembly having a heat retention member for absorbing and retaining sensible heat and for releasing the sensible heat of a extended period time. The thermal storage assembly includes a heating coil assembly secured to a surface of the heat retention member. The heating coil assembly includes a resistive heating coil disposed adjacent to the heat retention member. The heating coil has a power cord connected to the coil with the coil being retained within a sealed thermally conductive pouch.

Abstract: A beverage cooling and carrying apparatus is described. The beverage cooling and carrying apparatus includes a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment includes an area constructed for receiving a beverage and a heat sink, a door for selective access to the first compartment, and insulation for decreasing the rate of heat transfer into the first compartment. The second compartment is provided for receiving drinking containers, and includes cushioning material. The apparatus includes a strap for carrying the apparatus. The beverage cooling and carrying apparatus preferably includes a bottle of wine in the first compartment, and a pair of wine glasses in the second compartment. A method for cooling and carrying beverage is provided by the present invention.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the temperature of food in a casserole dish is provided. The apparatus includes a casserole dish, a casserole lid, a thermal unit, and a container constructed for holding the thermal unit and the casserole dish in thermally conductive contact. A method for controlling the temperature of food in a casserole dish is provided. The thermal unit can be heated by placing the thermal unit in a microwave oven, and the thermal unit can be cooled by placing the thermal unit in a freezer.

Abstract: A thermal seat is provided including a seat panel and a back panel. The seat panel includes a first rigid support, a second rigid support, and a cushioned region. Similarly, the back panel includes a first rigid support, a second rigid support, and a central cushioned region. The thermal seat additionally includes first and second straps attaching the seat panel and the back panel to provide a predetermined angle between the seat panel and the back panel. The interaction between these components of the thermal seat provide for a sturdy and comfortable sitting arrangement. The thermal seat additionally includes a thermal unit constructed for being received within the central cushioned region of the seat panel or the back panel. Alternatively, the thermal unit can be provided in both the seat panel and the back panel. A method for using the thermal seat is provided by altering the temperature of the thermal unit, and introducing the thermal unit into either the seat panel or the back panel.

Abstract: A beverage cooling and carrying apparatus is described. The beverage cooling and carrying apparatus includes a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment includes an area constructed for receiving a beverage and a heat sink, a door for selective access to the first compartment, and insulation for decreasing the rate of heat transfer into the first compartment. The second compartment is provided for receiving drinking containers, and includes cushioning material. The apparatus includes a strap for carrying the apparatus. The beverage cooling and carrying apparatus preferably includes a bottle of wine in the first compartment, and a pair of wine glasses in the second compartment. A method for cooling and carrying beverage is provided by the present invention.

Abstract: The carrying case for storing and transporting heated articles includes a thermal storage assembly having a heat retention member for absorbing and retaining sensible heat and for releasing the sensible heat of a extended period time. The thermal storage assembly includes a heating coil assembly secured to a surface of the heat retention member. The heating coil assembly includes a resistive heating coil disposed adjacent to the heat retention member. The heating coil has a power cord connected to the coil with the coil being retained within a sealed thermally conductive pouch.

Abstract: A beverage cup includes an inner vessel having walls defining a fluid retaining volume. An outer wall surrounds the inner vessel and cooperates with the inner vessel to define an enclosed chamber. A microwave receptive material is disposed within the enclosed chamber.