Patents Issued in December 13, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180352964
    Abstract: A convertible furniture item, configured to be transformed from a chair to a sofa, and vice-versa is provided. The furniture has a main supporting body and a first and a second supplementary body, each of which are rotatably connected to the main supporting body so that they can rotate at an angle (?) of 180 degrees with respect to such supporting body. The arrangement is such that the furniture item can assume a chair configuration and a sofa configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2015
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Anna Luisa CIMADAMORE
  • Publication number: 20180352965
    Abstract: A support cushion is provided. The support cushion includes an annular outer surface and an opening extending through the support cushion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Kelly M. Douglas, Brian A. Douglas
  • Publication number: 20180352966
    Abstract: A collapsible bed base includes a plurality of elongate frame members (10) and a plurality of frame supporting members (12) each comprising a foot portion (16) for resting on a floor and at least two openings (18) sized to receive an end of one of the elongate members (10) therein. The frame supporting members (12) together hold frame members (10) parallel to the floor to thereby form an assembled frame for the bed base. A plurality of mattress supporting members (14) each have a flat upper surface (20) for receiving a mattress thereon. A plurality of frame engaging formations (22) enable the mattress supporting members (14) to be held securely in a horizontal position by the assembled frame thereby to receive a mattress on top of the mattress supporting members (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Mohammed Asif Qasim, Arthur BITZOUNIS
  • Publication number: 20180352967
    Abstract: Implementations of a bed sheet with an integrated body positioner are provided. In some implementations, the bed sheet may comprise a sheet having an integrated body positioner, the body positioner may comprise a head portion, a torso portion, a first arm portion, a second arm portion, a first leg portion, a second leg portion, or any combination thereof. In some implementations, one or more portions of the integrated body positioner may include a removable pillow, or padding, that is positioned therein. In some implementations, the integrated body positioner may include an elevating foot portion instead of the leg portions. The elevating foot portion may be configured to act as a pillow for a user's feet and/or ankles. In some implementations, the bed sheet with an integrated body positioner may be configured so that it can be secured on a mattress, an infant changing pad, and/or any other suitable structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Nadia Galloway
  • Publication number: 20180352968
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an auto run mode for initiating a heating cycle of a heated bedding product. A heated bedding product can include a bedding product body comprising a heating element and a controller electrically connected to the heating element. The controller can include a processing circuit, such as a microcontroller, that is configured to operate in an auto run mode in which a heating cycle of the heating element is automatically initiated in response to alternating current power being provided to the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Michael Lightsey, Mark Castracane
  • Publication number: 20180352969
    Abstract: A baby chair includes a main body including a sitting groove having a shape corresponding to an outer surface of a backside of child sitting in the chair and an inner space in a lower end thereof, two front plates each including two insertion gadgets inserted into the inner space from an outer surface of each of a left and right lower end of the main body, two rear plates on an inner surface of the inner space each including two insertion holes into which the insertion gadgets are inserted, binding gadgets protruding toward an opposite direction of each pair of the insertion gadgets from a surface of each front plate, two belt plates each including a binding hole into which the pair of binding gadgets is inserted and rotatably attached thereto, and belt grooves which connect one side of the binding hole to an end of each belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Byunghoon YU
  • Publication number: 20180352970
    Abstract: An apparatus for rocking a piece of furniture to which it is attached. The rocking apparatus includes at least one rolling mechanism that, when in operation, rotates the rolling mechanism around an axis of rotation causing a rocking action. The apparatus may be utilized for rocking a variety of pieces of furniture such as a safety infant car seat, a stroller seat, a rocking chair, a swing or a hammock. According to some embodiments the rolling mechanism is connected to a driving portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Sar-el Israel
  • Publication number: 20180352971
    Abstract: Disclosed are containment apparatuses that include, in some embodiments, a flexible barrier configured to attach to a tray. The flexible barrier may include a middle panel configured to extend approximately perpendicular to and along a perimeter of the tray. The flexible barrier also has a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge. A right side panel of the flexible barrier extends from the first edge toward the middle panel and a left side panel of the flexible barrier extends from the second edge toward the middle panel. The containment apparatus further includes an adjustable coupler configured to attach the right side panel to the left side panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Jodi Bracho
  • Publication number: 20180352972
    Abstract: A merchandising system that improves the merchandising of product by limiting the number and the frequency with which product can be removed from, for example, a merchandising shelf. The merchandising system may include a base configured to support product and a housing configured to engage the base. The housing may comprise a top wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, and a front retaining wall mounted to the base at an angle. The system may further include a spring-urged pusher movably mounted on the base. The system may further include an opening defined by the first side wall and the front retaining wall through which product may be removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Stephen N. Hardy
  • Publication number: 20180352973
    Abstract: A refrigerated display unit is described which comprises at least one refrigerating machine; at least one refrigerated volume designed to contain products to be kept at a temperature lower than the room temperature by means of the refrigerating machine; at least one technical volume intended to contain an air treatment unit, operatively connected to the refrigerating machine and comprising at least one heat exchange battery, through which a refrigerating fluid and a carrier fluid exchange heat, and a plurality of fans placed at the inlet surface of the heat exchange battery; one or more doors or walls that isolate the refrigerated volume from the external environment; one or more conduits of an air system, placed in fluid connection with the heat exchange battery and arranged for conveying the refrigerated carrier fluid, moved by the fans, towards the refrigerated volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: IGOR LAURI
  • Publication number: 20180352974
    Abstract: A flexible merchandising food well display configured for use with a cabinet including a countertop. The food well display includes an upwardly open food well housed within the cabinet and the countertop defines an opening into the food well. The flexible merchandising food well display further includes a height-adjustable shelving system within the food well. The shelving system includes a plurality of shelves, each of which may be individually mounted within the food well at a selectable height such that the shelves may support different containers at different heights within the food well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: James Neil Archbold, Lee Isaac Simon
  • Publication number: 20180352975
    Abstract: A pillow cart includes a frame having a lower portion that includes a lower support assembly and an upper support assembly. The frame has an upper portion that includes a top support assembly that is connected to the upper support assembly. A first tray is coupled to the lower support assembly. A second tray is coupled to the upper support assembly. A third tray is coupled to the top support assembly. A housing is coupled to the third tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: BEDGEAR, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene Alletto
  • Publication number: 20180352976
    Abstract: A data setting method adopted by a body information analysis apparatus (1) includes following steps: determining continually whether to receive a trigger audio from an electronic device (2) at the analysis apparatus (1) while it is standby or in regular use; entering an account adding mode for waiting and activating an image obtaining module (12) in the account adding mode when receiving the trigger audio; decoding a register message for obtaining user record of a user after the register message is captured by the image obtaining module (12); detecting face record of the user through the image obtaining module (12); detecting voice record of the user through an input interface (15); and, creating an account of the user of the analysis apparatus (1) based on the user record, the face record and the voice record.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Shyh-Yong SHEN, Min-Chang CHI, Ching-Sheng TSAI, Chia-Ming YONG
  • Publication number: 20180352977
    Abstract: A picture stand system for coupling a stand to a picture frame includes a picture frame. A stand is provided and the stand is selectively coupled to said picture frame. Moreover, the stand is configured to props the picture frame up on a support surface thereby facilitating the picture frame to be displayed. An adhesive layer is coupled to said stand. The adhesive layer adhesively engages the picture frame to retain the stand on the picture frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Susan Johnson
  • Publication number: 20180352978
    Abstract: A gallery device is described that can be mounted over a door for showcasing or organizing various items. The gallery device includes at least two vertically arranged cords that are substantially parallel to each other. The gallery device additionally includes one or more horizontal cords, extending between the vertical cords, that provide points of attachment for the various items. The horizontal cords are vertically adjustable along the vertical cords to accommodate different sized items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: KRISTI SLEVIN-GIESLER
  • Publication number: 20180352979
    Abstract: The present invention has a primary object to provide ergonomically designed multifunctional body pillow, the pillow provide support for not only the head but the entire back body. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is a pillow including a pillow body having a substantially uniform cross section, essentially characterized with a rectangular shape for providing support for the entire back body of a person along with the head portion, a hole formed between the enclosing area of said rectangular shaped body for accommodating the back of a person's body created by joining two longer arms with two shorter arms, additionally characterized by its minimum number of parts, its inexpensive manufacture, its maneuverability, and its effectiveness in providing comfort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Alexandre Leu
  • Publication number: 20180352980
    Abstract: A textile may have a cooling material which may contain a phase change material or other suitable materials or combinations thereof to be applied thereto. Such a material will thereby resisting an increase in temperature during use. The textile may be fashioned into a variety of objects including but not limited to pillows, mattresses, mattress toppers, etc. Further contained herein are methods of applying the cooling material and methods of making objects containing the cooling material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Louis A. Casali, JR.
  • Publication number: 20180352981
    Abstract: A grommet of resilient material having a top and bottom circumferential surfaces, wherein the body defining a central passage therethrough and defining a plurality of flanges forming an integral part of the grommet and extending inwardly from the body. The body further comprising an external holding groove extending longitudinally from the rear toward the front and extending completely around the outer periphery thereof to engage edges of the circular aperture of a beverage container. The flanges, when not engaged, forming a closed barrier across the grommet to frictionally create a hermetic seal against the passage of heat, moisture, and vapor therethrough. The flanges, when engaged, bending in a downwardly extending position against the outer surface of a straw and frictionally forming a hermetic seal between the flange and the straw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Cyndi W. Sladics
  • Publication number: 20180352982
    Abstract: Provided is a container for drinking liquid comprising: a) a body; b) a first cap for removably attaching to the body, the cap having an opening configured to allow liquid to travel from inside of the body to outside of the body; c) a piston configured to move inside the body as the liquid leaves the body, the piston separating the liquid and air inside the body; wherein liquid leaves the body and moves to the outside of the container through the opening in the first cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Tom Kim
  • Publication number: 20180352983
    Abstract: Disclosed is a drinking straw that may be separated along its longitudinal axis into two halves so that the internal walls of the straw may be easily cleaned. The halves may then be rejoined together to again form a straw so that the straw may be easily reused.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: April Allen
  • Publication number: 20180352984
    Abstract: A tableware system is provided that includes a placemat with non-integrated tableware. The placemat includes a substantially planar bottom surface that forms a partial vacuum when provided in contact with an underlying surface and a first fastening mechanism provided at a top surface of the placemat. The tableware includes a second fastening mechanism that corresponds to the first fastening mechanism, the second fastening mechanism being detachably coupled to the first fastening mechanism. A lid is provided that secures to the tableware and includes another first fastening mechanism provided at a top surface thereof. A lock is provided that fixedly secures the first fastening mechanism and the second fastening mechanism. The lock may include a release mechanism that disengages the lock upon application of a force thereto. Alternatively, the lock may be removable by a separate tool that disengages the lock to allow the tableware and the placemat to be detached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Vienar ROAKS
  • Publication number: 20180352985
    Abstract: A serving tray comprised of at least one synthetic material and an insert which provides a non-slip top surface of the serving tray. The textured relief is preferably made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) which allows a glass or other item to be placed on the serving tray without the item sliding or slipping while the tray is in motion. As the tray is being fabricated, the TPU is mechanically bonded with the top surface of the tray while a textured relief is simultaneously defined into the top surface. The textured relief provides adequate frictional force to an item being placed on the tray so as to substantially prevent its lateral movement. The tray also includes an inner support structure disposed on its inner surface. The inner support structure provides an upward facing edge which allows a plurality of trays to be easily and efficiently stacked or nested on one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Jorge Baez
  • Publication number: 20180352986
    Abstract: A hanger is provided which supports long garments securely and easily in half or less length than the garment would occupy hanging on a conventional hanger. Such a garment hanger comprises: a primary support including a hook and elements arranged to suspend a top portion of a garment; an auxiliary support including a bar for suspending the bottom portion of the garment, shortening a total length of the garment thus supported; and the primary support and the auxiliary support including cooperative, non-locking elements detachably suspending the auxiliary support from the primary support with the bar close to the primary support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Jessica Davidoff
  • Publication number: 20180352987
    Abstract: The present invention teaches a residential curbside mailbox with enhanced box handling capability, openable by barcode scanning, and with interchangeable bonnets. A body which is generally column shaped has front and rear doors which open at the top and hinge near the bottom and which have interleaved fingers or members extending from the bottom ends into the interior space of the mailbox. A box tray sits on the interleaved fingers. When either door is opened the fingers of that door lift the box tray upward and out of the box on that side. Thus a delivery person may access a box without leaving a delivery vehicle, while the homeowner may do the same without leaving the safety of the yard. In addition, an elastic cord and carefully slanted slots on side panels of the front door allow easy retention of a box even further up the front door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey Robert Kutas, Brian Lang
  • Publication number: 20180352988
    Abstract: Systems and methods for use in the secure recovery of drone delivered packages can include a housing, at least one electromechanically operated door securing access to the housing, and a retractable platform that can electromechanically extend from inside the housing to an area outside the housing when the at least one electromechanically operated door is opened. The retractable platform can serve as a landing pad for a delivery drone and/or as a base onto which a package can be received from a delivery drone. The retractable platform can electromechanically move back into the housing and the door can close after receiving the package. Communications components, alarms, and cameras can also be associated with the housing to facilitate its operation for package recovery and security.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Luis M. Ortiz, Kermit D. Lopez
  • Publication number: 20180352989
    Abstract: A vegetable skin removal system is disclosed herein, the vegetable having a volume, the system including a top-body, a bottom-body, a desiccant-tray configured to absorb and disperse moisture, the desiccant-tray removably insertable into the bottom-body, at least one hinge-assembly configured to hingeldy couple the top-assembly to the bottom-assembly, and at least one fastener configured to secure the top-body to the bottom-body while the lower-mating-surface is mated with the top-mating-surface. The at least on hinge is preferably configured such that the top-body and the bottom-body are removable and/or separable from each other for cleaning and maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: JUDITH ANN DUDNEY
  • Publication number: 20180352990
    Abstract: This invention discloses a steamer, comprising an outer wall and a steaming board received within the outer wall; and one lap of groove formed on a side wall of middle portion of the outer wall, and said groove protruding away from an inner side of the outer wall, and an edge of said steaming board received in the groove; wherein, said groove is rolled into a sheet-like convex, and the rolled groove clutches the edge of the steaming board. The present invention greatly simplifies the processing procedure of the steamer, achieving a higher manufacturing efficiency and lower cost, and the connection of the outer wall and steaming board is secure and reliable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Qinsheng Dai
  • Publication number: 20180352991
    Abstract: A method of regulating the temperature of a cooking liquid during sous vide cooking in a cooking vessel on a burner of a cooktop includes setting a desired cooking temperature and measuring the temperature of the cooking liquid inside the sous vide cooking vessel at a plurality of predetermined time intervals with a first temperature sensor mounted on an interior surface of a wall of the sous vide cooking vessel. The temperature of the cooking liquid is compared to the desired cooking temperature at each of the predetermined time intervals. The energy output of the burner is controlled based on the difference between the temperature of the cooking liquid and the desired cooking temperature. A cooking vessel and system for sous vide cooking using this method are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: James Charles Johncock, Darpan Dinkar Patil
  • Publication number: 20180352992
    Abstract: Disclosed is a double-liner electric cooker, comprising a cooker body, liners and cooker covers, wherein two liners and two cooker covers are provided, the cooker body is provided with a first inner cavity, two first inner cavities are mutually separated via a thermal insulation plate, and the two first inner cavities are both provided with cavity openings for the liners to be placed therein; the rear ends of the two cooker covers are respectively hinged to the edges of the cavity openings via hinge shafts, and the axial directions of the two hinge shafts intersect. The electric cooker is convenient to open, and on the basis that the sealing members are convenient to assemble and disassemble, the cooker cover can still maintain good sealing effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: Stent (Guangzhou) Industrial Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Mei Zhang
  • Publication number: 20180352993
    Abstract: A portable drink extractor using pressure according to the present invention may include a main body which is formed to be extendable/contractible in a longitudinal direction so that a drink is extracted by pressurizing contents stored in the main body; a filter which is placed at one open side of the main body; and a cap which is provided at one open side of the main body. According to the portable drink extractor using pressure according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the main body, which stores contents, is formed to be extendable/contractible, and as a result, it is possible to allow a user to conveniently extract a drink with a small effort in comparison with a technology in the related art in which contents are pressurized by a method using a piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Han Sang YOON
  • Publication number: 20180352994
    Abstract: A method and a machine for preparing beverages, wherein the machine has a liquid feeding unit, a gas source at atmospheric pressure, an infusion chamber and an infusion circuit; wherein during a dispensing cycle for preparing a beverage the method provides the following steps: at least partially filling the circuit with gas at atmospheric pressure by means of said gas source; feeding the liquid into the circuit by means of said feeding unit so as to push inside the infusion chamber, filled with the infusion product, some gas already present in the circuit before the inlet of the liquid; and dispensing the beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Francesco ILLY, Kurt SCHMID
  • Publication number: 20180352995
    Abstract: The brewing unit (1) comprises a supporting structure (3) and a brewing chamber (7) supported by the supporting structure (3). The brewing chamber (7) comprises a first brewing chamber portion (9) and a second brewing chamber portion (11), movable one with respect to the other along an opening and closing direction (F) from an open position to a closed position and vice-versa. An actuation mechanism (15) is provided for closing and opening the brewing chamber (7). The brewing unit further comprises a capsule insertion aperture (5) and a capsule guiding arrangement (33) between the capsule insertion aperture (5) and a capsule intermediate position. The capsule guiding arrangement (33) comprises a first component (35), stationarily mounted on the supporting structure (3), and a second component (37), pivotally mounted on the stationary structure (3) around a pivoting axis (37A) approximately orthogonal the opening and closing direction (F).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: GIUSEPPE FIN
  • Publication number: 20180352996
    Abstract: A beverage-making machine for making a beverage from a portion capsule has a motorized brewing module that has a first brewing module part and a second brewing module part, which can be moved relative to the first brewing module part. A brewing chamber can be formed by the first and second brewing module parts, the brewing chamber at least partly surrounding the portion capsule. The beverage-making machine includes a closing unit and a sensor. The closing unit includes a manually actuatable operating lever that can be pivoted about a pivot axis between a closed position, in which the operating lever closes the capsule insertion opening, and an open position, in which the capsule insertion opening is accessible. The sensor can be used to ascertain whether the operating lever has assumed the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: QBO Coffee GmbH
    Inventors: Jörg KRUG, Sophie SCHWERDTFEGER
  • Publication number: 20180352997
    Abstract: An automatic cooking apparatus includes a main housing, a drinking water supply unit, a cooking apparatus and a controller. The drinking water supply unit includes a drinking water tank and a drinking water supplying apparatus including a water delivering unit connected to the drinking water tank. At least one drinking water outlet is provided on the main housing and is connected to the water delivering unit. The cooking apparatus includes a food storage tank and a cooking unit. The cooking unit includes a pot and a heater thermally communicated with the pot. The controller is electrically connected to the drinking water supply unit and the cooking apparatus, and operates the automatic cooking apparatus on at least one of a water supplying mode and a cooking mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Ping-Hua CHANG
  • Publication number: 20180352998
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for preventing the blocking of the brew group, the filter holder or the coffee filter (8) in coffee machines when using fully softened water for the preparation of coffee. According to the invention, it is proposed to avoid the blocking of the machine by metering calcium and magnesium ions to the fully softened water. According to the invention this is achieved in that a device with a bag or reservoir (4) containing the calcium and magnesium ion containing solution, is positioned in a cartridge (3), which is arranged in the water tank of the coffee machine. The bag is in contact with the fully softened water via a capillary (5), which is closed with a check valve (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: ICon GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Monique Bissen
  • Publication number: 20180352999
    Abstract: The apparatuses described herein provide a portable, pod-based beverage maker, such as an apparatus that makes smoothies and other similar beverages from pod-based ingredient mixtures. The apparatus provides an easy and simple way to combine ingredients in pods with water, ice, and other mixing liquids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: John CRONIN, Steven Matthew PHILBIN
  • Publication number: 20180353000
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an apparatus (1) for making a beverage, in particular a beverage containing milk. The apparatus (1) comprises a machine body, a milk container (2) and a milk frothing device (3) for mixing milk with air and steam. The milk frothing device (3) is removably mountable in a seat (10) in an outer wall (11) of the machine body. The milk container (2) is removably couplable to the milk frothing device (3). The apparatus (1) also comprises a locking member (5) for locking the milk frothing device (3) in the mounted condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: MAURIZIO DIAMANTI, VALERIY CHANINE
  • Publication number: 20180353001
    Abstract: The device (1) comprises a steam generator (2, 4), a compressed-air generator (9, 11) and a dispensing wand (10) connected or adapted to be connected to the steam generator (2, 4) and the compressed-air generator (9, 11) and adapted to be introduced into a receptacle (R) containing the milk (M) to be heated and frothed. The dispensing wand (10) defines first and second conduits (21, 22) separate from each other and having respective separate inlets (10a, 10b) for connection to the steam generator (2, 4) and the compressed-air generator (9, 11), respectively, as well as respective separate outlets (10c, 23; 10d, 24) for dispensing during use a flow of steam and a low of compressed air, respectively, within the milk (M) contained in the receptacle (R), said outlets (23, 24) being arranged such that the flows of steam and compressed air exiting therefrom intersect each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: LUIGI LAVAZZA S.p.A.
    Inventors: Denis ROTTA, Andrea COLONNA, Gabriele Luciano PICONE
  • Publication number: 20180353002
    Abstract: Systems and methods for customizing beverage profiles and associated consumption programs, such as customizing smoothie pods to be used in making smoothies and other beverages, are described. For example, the systems and methods may receive or obtain information associated with a user's previous, current, and/or future activities (e.g., workouts or training sessions), a user's sleep activities, a user's current mental acuity or sharpness, a user's health or fitness, and so on, and determine or create a beverage profile for the user based on the information for the user. Further, the systems and methods may communicate and/or facilitate interactions with various online health or wellness programs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: John CRONIN, Dylan Jonathan Wilson, Steven Matthew PHILBIN, Michael Glynn D'Andrea
  • Publication number: 20180353003
    Abstract: Monitoring of food temperature during cooking for taste as well as to check if it is safe for consumption is well known, especially when grilling or bbqing or in professional kitchens. With smartphones and tablets, use of wireless thermometers that use bluetooth or WiFi are now available commercially. These thermometers use the internet cloud when needed and have apps that provide a lot of information to make cooking easier and fun. The present invention relates to an unique temperature monitoring system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Ashok Sabata, Karl Baumgartner, Thierry Jayet, Bikash Sabata
  • Publication number: 20180353004
    Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for automatedly preparing food items for consumption. In one aspect, a food preparation system may comprise a refrigeration unit, a cooking unit, a control unit, and a transportation unit configured to transport food items from the refrigeration unit to the cooking unit. The refrigeration unit and the cooking unit may each comprise an aperture configured to receive a portion of the transportation unit such that food items located in the refrigeration unit can be collected by the transportation unit and placed into the cooking unit. In another aspect, a portion of the transportation unit may be placed adjacent the aperture of the cooking unit when a food item is delivered to the cooking unit such that the portion of the transportation unit can function as a lid to the cooking unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Yuanji Zhu
  • Publication number: 20180353005
    Abstract: A griddle and a cooking appliance having a griddle are provided. The griddle may include a housing having an accommodation space formed therein and an open top, a heating plate formed to have a predetermined width and length and seated on a top of the housing, a burner provided in the housing to heat the heating plate, and a temperature sensor module provided in the housing to measure a temperature of the heating plate. The temperature sensor module may include a cover provided in the housing and having an accommodation space formed therein, and a temperature sensor provided in the housing with at least a portion thereof accommodated in the accommodation space of the cover to measure a temperature of an inside of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Kookhaeng LEE, Yangho KIM, Hyun Woo PARK
  • Publication number: 20180353006
    Abstract: The present invention provides a waffle maker capable of displaying waffle crispiness, comprising an upper lid (1) assembly and a lower lid (2) assembly that can be opened and closed with respect to each other, the upper lid (1) assembly comprising an upper baking plate (3) and an upper lid (1), the lower lid (2) assembly comprising a lower baking plate (4) and a lower lid (2), both the upper lid (1) assembly and the lower lid (2) assembly being provided with a heating element. The waffle maker further comprises a temperature detection element for detecting the temperature of the baking plate of the baking machine; an operation panel (8) for setting and displaying waffle crispiness; and a circuit board (7) for adjusting baking time according to the set waffle crispiness and a temperature drop rate of the baking plate, the circuit board (7) being connected with the temperature detection element and the operation panel (8) respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2017
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: NINGBO KAIBO GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventor: JIEBO YAN
  • Publication number: 20180353007
    Abstract: The invention relates to a air-based fryer apparatus (100) including a shield (101) for use in a cooking apparatus (100) having a food preparation chamber (102) to receive a food support (103), a system (104) for circulating a flow of hot air inside the food preparation chamber (102) and a heating element (105) to heat at least the circulated air. The shield (101) is configured to be disposed between the heating element (105) and the food support (103). The shield (101) comprises a plurality of inclined surfaces (112) and a plurality of apertures (111) between the inclined surfaces (112) through which the flow of hot air can pass, wherein the inclined surfaces (112) are adapted to block a direct line of sight through the apertures (11) in the shield (101) from the heating element (105) to the food support (103) to prevent air flowing from the food support (103) to the heating element (105) through the apertures without being defelected by the inclined surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: INGOLF RONALD EBERHART, GERALD KAUER, INGRID HIET-BRINK, JAN VAUPOT, STEFAN HANS SAUER
  • Publication number: 20180353008
    Abstract: A heating and cooking apparatus is provided that can produce a place for all-participating-type cooking. The electric griddle 100 mainly includes an iron plate section 110 having a high thermal conductivity, a glass section 120 having a low thermal conductivity, a heating material 130 as a heat source, a heat insulating mechanism 140, and an outer frame 150. On the glass section 120, it is possible to place dishes and bowls on which food ingredients and the like can be placed in the glass part 120, and to place food ingredients there directly. Thus, it is possible to prevent food ingredients and the like from being placed only in the hands of a specific person, to realize a situation which many people can easily cook, and to produce a place for all-participating-type cooking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Applicant: A UTILITY TOOL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Katsunori MAKIHARA
  • Publication number: 20180353009
    Abstract: The invention discloses an adjusting device for adjusting the position of a grill rack relative to a combustible heat source. The device comprises an annular body defining at least one track in the form of a slot extending through the body partially around the circumference thereof; a support for supporting the grill rack being provided with an adjustment guide extending through the slot for travelling along the track; and at least one retaining formation for releasably retaining the adjustment guide in a position intermediate the two extremities of the track. Movement of the adjustment guide along the track moves the support and grill rack relative to the heat source. The device can be used with, or be integral with a kettle-type grill or be used as a barbeque grill on its own and is configured such that the components are collapsible and stackable for convenient storage and transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventor: Hendrik Francois KROMBERG
  • Publication number: 20180353010
    Abstract: An apparatus for cooking food which includes a receiving container provided for receiving food, a stirring device arranged inside the receiving container, at least one main heating system and at least one ventilation motor for generating a heating airflow, the receiving container and the stirring device being designed to be imparted with a relative rotation movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Olivier DELRUE, François LETAIN, Michel PETIT
  • Publication number: 20180353011
    Abstract: A container includes: a double wall vacuum insulated body including: an electroplated stainless steel inner surface or a polished stainless steel inner surface; an outer surface including a vacuum port; a mouth located at a top end of the body having a mouth diameter; and a base opening located at a bottom end of the body having a base opening diameter; a removable top cap including a top seal that seals the top opening; and a removable bottom cap including a bottom seal that seals the bottom open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2018
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Steven Pinelli, Richard Ellison, Glen Gilmore, Micaela McCabe, Kurtis Sward, Derek Leatzow
  • Publication number: 20180353012
    Abstract: The milling device for a seasoning product, in particular for salt, a spice or a condiment includes a mill, an annular bowl and a frustoconical bulb able to be rotated in the bowl, when the mill is actuated. An axial rod is used and connected to its apex. The inner face of the bowl and the outer face of the bulb is provided with teeth. There is a flange for securing to the mill, the flange being in the shape of a “U” having two lateral branches connected by a transverse branch. The distance between the two lateral branches is adjusted to the diameter of the bowl. There is a device for aligning the rotation axis of the bulb with the axis of the bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Maurice LAUZET, Christian MESNIER
  • Publication number: 20180353013
    Abstract: Food processing apparatus and methods for processing food are disclosed. The apparatus may include stored sequences for operating a processing tool. The stored sequences may address various challenging aspects of blending solid foods and/or ice. In come embodiments, particular sequences are implemented with specific processing tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Publication date: December 13, 2018
    Inventors: Amy L. Golino, Vanessa H. Spilios