Combined With Container, Enclosure, Or Support For Material To Be Heated Patents (Class 219/385)
  • Patent number: 6434961
    Abstract: A refrigeration system for maintaining edible substances at a low temperature of the present invention includes a serving pan, an element for retaining or holding the serving pan, and a refrigeration tube and a glycol medium surrounding the pan is disclosed. The refrigeration tube and glycol medium act together in order to maintain the pan at a low temperature for a prolonged period of time and to provide an even cooling of the pan. In a second embodiment, the refrigeration tube may be surrounded by the glycol medium. In a further embodiment, the system may be used to heat food rather than to cool food by using a heat pump alone or in combination with electric heating elements. In yet another embodiment, the glycol medium may surround only the sides or only the bottom of the pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: Neil E. Richmond, Renald M. Corsi
  • Patent number: 6431360
    Abstract: A combination includes a holder and a replaceable dispenser package. The dispenser package has an opening for dispensing one or more items from the package, and a resealable cap assembly covering the opening of the package. The resealable cap assembly includes a reclosable cap that may be opened for dispensing the one or more items from the package. The combination includes a holder for securing the dispenser package. The holder has a front wall with outer peripheral edges, and an aperture defined by inner peripheral edges of the front wall that are spaced inwardly from the outer peripheral edges of the front wall. The resealable cap assembly engages the inner peripheral edges of the front wall aperture for securing the dispenser package to the holder. In certain preferred embodiments, the resealable cap assembly may be press-fit into the aperture. In other preferred embodiments, portions of the resealable cap assembly may be slid into grooves adjacent the inner peripheral edges of the front wall aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Nice-Pak Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert P. Julius
  • Patent number: 6423948
    Abstract: A microtiter plate system includes an integral heater. In an embodiment, the integral heater includes a heater plate. In another embodiment, the integral heater includes resistive heater wires positioned beneath and/or between the wells of a microtiter plate. In an embodiment, the microtiter plate system includes optically clear well bottoms that permit sensing and measurement of samples through the optically clear well bottoms. In an implementation, an optically clear heater is positioned beneath the optically clear well bottoms. In an alternative implementation, resistive heater wires are positioned between the wells. In an embodiment, the microtiter plate system includes a microtiter plate lid with an integral heater, which can be implemented using a heater plate, resistive wires, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: 3-Dimensional Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Kwasnoski, F. Raymond Salemme
  • Publication number: 20020088796
    Abstract: A resistance element (19) for a device for shrinking shrinkable sleeves comprises an elongate electrical conductor extending in a zigzag pattern and bent to a tunnel shape. The shrinkable sleeve including for example an optical fiber enclosed therein is placed in that region of the resistance element (19), which corresponds to approximately the geometric axis of the upper semi-cylindric portion of the tunnel shape. The resistance element (1) has attachment pins (33) and contact and attachment pins (35) at its front and rear sides respectively intended to be placed in corresponding recesses in a lid of the device. The rear contact and attachment pins (35) have portions (39) intended for contact with elastic, electrically conducting contact pins with which the resistance element (19) comes in contact, when the lid is folded down to perform the shrinking operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventors: Istvan Karacsony, Joakim Strom, Bernt Sundstrom
  • Patent number: 6417492
    Abstract: An electric heating element (11) in which electrically conductive tape (23) is wound on a non-electrically conductive former (12) and the tape is completely covered by covers (30) of electrically non-conductive but heat conductive material secured to the former. Preferably the covers and former are of Mica or Micanite. The covers are each made from several pieces and are secured to the former and each other by fastening eyelets (26) or staples extending through the covers and former intermediate the edges and at spaced positions along two opposite edges. For use in an upright toaster the tape is wound continuously round the former with each run thereof extending between the grooves in the opposite side edges of the former, the grooves in the upper portion being spaced from one another by 4.6 to 7 mm while the grooves in the lower portion of the former are spaced by a smaller distance in the range 3.6 to 5 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Dualit Limited
    Inventors: Leslie Alexander Gort-Barten, Brian Milton
  • Patent number: 6412403
    Abstract: A freestanding cover for a food tray has a flange section and a support section extending downwardly from the flange section. The support section supports the cover independently of the tray, with the flange section positioned above the tray opening. The freestanding is inserted into a heated compartment in a food warming cabinet and is supported on a shelf mounted in the food warming cabinet. A retainer provided on the cover engages the shelf to prevent the cover from moving forward or backward. With the retainer so engaged, a tray containing previously cooked food portions may be inserted into and removed from a receiving space in the cover, leaving the cover inside of the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Prince Castle, Inc.
    Inventor: Loren J. Veltrop
  • Patent number: 6403922
    Abstract: A device for heating an enclosed space of the type used for housing small animals, including at least one heating element, at least one connector for electrically connecting the heating element with an electrical power supply, and a protective cover formed of highly thermally conductive material, such that the protective cover is shaped to transfer heat to the enclosed space without attaining a surface temperature harmful on contact to animals
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventors: Randall D. Hawks, Gary L. Kolbet
  • Patent number: 6399526
    Abstract: A quartz glass which would not become a source for the contamination even if it contains metallic impurities. This quartz glass includes a region where a concentration of E′ center as measured by means of an. electron spin resonance analysis is 3×1019 cm−3 or more. This quartz glass can be manufactured by a method including the steps of forming an initial quartz glass by melting and quenching a raw material for quartz glass, and implanting therein an ion, which is capable of entering into an SiO2 network of the initial quartz glass and substantially incapable of externally diffusing, to increase a concentration of E′ center in at least part of the initial quartz glass. This quartz glass can be manufactured by a method making use of a quartz glass raw material containing 0.01 to 0.1% by weight of-silicon, by a method of irradiating ultraviolet ray to the initial quartz glass, or by a method of giving an abrasion damage to the surface of the initial quartz glass by means of sand blast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Ceramics, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tomita, Tsuneo Ishii, Chie Hongo
  • Patent number: 6400899
    Abstract: A ring assembly manufacturing apparatus (30) and method provides heat to a ring (216) such as a polymeric ring from an infrared source (48). A ring assembly (214) includes a ring (216) and a hub (218) within the ring. The ring (216) is traversed into a chamber (46) such that the ring (216) is exposed to infrared energy from the infrared source (48). The infrared energy causes the ring (216) to expand thereby facilitating assembly with the hub (218).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhu Sudan Chatterjee, Steven J Schultz, David E. Witucki, Charles T Blue
  • Patent number: 6386098
    Abstract: Food preparation apparatus including a housing having a top wall and a front wall. Each wall having an aperture defined therein. A passageway for warming and storing pre-packaged food products extends from an entrance at the top wall aperture to an exit at the front wall aperture. A plurality of chutes are formed within the passageway for channeling the food products from the entrance to the exit. A plurality of electrical elements for warming the food products to preselected temperature surround each chute. The warming elements maintain the food products at a preselected temperature until they are removed from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: C. Cretors & Co.
    Inventors: Gilbert J. Evers, Nenad Vidojevic, Charles D. Cretors
  • Patent number: 6384380
    Abstract: A temperature control system includes a cabinet or system housing having a plurality of heating compartments for containing intravenous solution bags or other medical items. Each heating compartment is independently heat controlled via a controller, and includes a heating assembly including a heater, a U-shaped heating plate, a temperature sensor and a cut-out switch for disabling the heater when a threshold temperature is exceeded. The desired or set point temperature for each heating compartment may be independently entered to the controller via an input device. The heating plate has a generally U-shaped configuration with a thermally conductive bottom wall and thermally conductive side walls extending therefrom. The heater is typically affixed to the underside of the bottom wall, wherein, upon heating of the bottom wall, heat is conducted through the side walls to provide an even distribution of heat to medical items placed within the heating compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Medical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Durward I. Faries, Jr., Bruce R. Heymann, Calvin Blankenship
  • Patent number: 6384377
    Abstract: The invention provides an aging socket, an aging cassette and an aging apparatus with which an aging system of a very low cost can be constructed and aging can be performed for any number of inspection object parts. The aging socket includes a base on which a mounting portion on which an imaging object part can be mounted is formed, and a heater and a temperature regulator incorporated in the base. A plurality of such aging sockets are disposed in a matrix on the aging cassette. One or a plurality of such cassettes on which such sockets are mounted are mounted in position into slots of the aging apparatus. Consequently, aging of any number of aging object parts mounted on the sockets of one or more cassettes can be performed by the aging apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Satoru Komuro
  • Publication number: 20020043527
    Abstract: To provide a ceramic heater capable of reducing temperature uniformity at the periphery of through holes such as insertion holes and vacuum suction holes, thereby protecting the wafer against thermal shocks and having improved controllability for temperature control parts such as thermocouples and temperature fuse. Further, a ceramic heater capable of uniform resin curing is provided. A heat generation body 14 is disposed on the surface or inside of the ceramic substrate 12. Further, corners for the insertion holes 16, the recesses 18 and the vacuum suction holes 20 of the ceramic substrate 12 are chamfered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventor: Yasutaka Ito
  • Publication number: 20020043528
    Abstract: To provide a ceramic heater which is excellent in the temperature uniformity by using a ceramic material having a high heat-conductivity as a heater substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Applicant: Ibiden Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasutaka Ito
  • Patent number: 6362460
    Abstract: A warmer-holder for use with body applied liquids has a small volume open topped receptacle able to receive a few ounces of the liquid, the receptacle supported by prongs inserted into a wall outlet. A low power heater element is energized when the holder is plugged in to heat the liquid to temperature comfortable when applied to the person's body. A cover can be provided as well as an on-off switch for the heater element. The receptacle can have a simulated shape such as a seashell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Andrea Fraker
  • Patent number: 6358473
    Abstract: A microscope slide stainer includes a waste bin with an open top, and supporting notches arranged on the top edges of opposite sides. A slide supporting rack is supported in a horizontal position across the top of the bin in the supporting notches. The rack includes a pair of rails extending along a horizontal base. Brackets arranged on top of the rails define a plurality of spaced-apart slide holding positions. A hot plate is positioned between the rails and spaced above the horizontal base. A control box is attached to the hot plate for temperature control. Pins extending from opposite sides of the hot plate ride in direction-changing slots in the rails to enable the hot plate to be moved between a raised position engaged against the bottom of the slides, and a lowered position disengaged from the slides. Grooves are arranged on top surface of the hot plate to prevent the wet slides from sticking to it. A cover is removably positioned over the rack to define a heating and humidity chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventors: Albert Coello, John Johnson, David Tacha
  • Patent number: 6346689
    Abstract: A cell for forming a composite hard material and hard materials and methods of forming composite hard materials. A cell (10) in which the article is formed includes a talc outer sleeve (12), a glass sleeve (14) and a reflecting foil (22). A heater (18) is arranged inwardly of the foil (22) and a barrier layer (16) is arranged inwardly of the glass sleeve (14). A central column (20) is defined for receiving the charge of material (50) from which the hard composite material is to be formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: The Australian National University
    Inventors: Paul Edwin Willis, Alan Major, Donald Lindsay Clark
  • Patent number: 6329640
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a bump-bonding heating apparatus, a bump bonding method and a bump forming apparatus which do not involve large-sized apparatus configuration and which are easy to handle, and a semiconductor wafer in which bumps are formed by using the bump bonding method. The bump-bonding heating apparatus has a wafer turning member, a turning unit and a wafer heating unit. The turning member is turned by the turning unit without turning the wafer heating unit, whereby a semiconductor wafer mounted on the turning member is turned. Like this, since the wafer heating unit is not turned, the apparatus configuration can be made compact. Since the turning member is turned directly by the turning unit, the turning angle of the semiconductor wafer can be implemented with higher precision as compared with the conventional gas floating type turning method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shoriki Narita, Makoto Imanishi, Takaharu Mae, Nobuhisa Watanabe, Shinji Kanayama
  • Publication number: 20010046701
    Abstract: A device for performing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and detection using microfluidic diffusion-based structures. Fluid containing DNA to be amplified is cycled repeatedly across hot and cold zones to enhance the multiplication process. The invention is used in conjunction with other devices to perform both single and multiple target detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventors: Thomas H. Schulte, Bernhard H. Weigl
  • Publication number: 20010042743
    Abstract: A surgical warming system heats medical items of various sizes, independently and simultaneously for immediate use. The warming system includes a plurality of compartments, each separately heated and controlled. The compartments may be modular and stackable, or multiple compartments of varying size may be formed into a single cabinet structure so as to receive different sized intravenous bags or bottles. Each compartment is heated by forcing a controlled mix of recycled and outside air through a heating chamber and then into the compartment. Each compartment includes a heating unit and controller allowing the simultaneous maintenance of different temperatures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Durward I. Faries, Bruce R. Heymann, Calvin Blankenship
  • Patent number: 6320162
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for enhancing the cure of photocurable dental restorative composite(s) containing unreactive monomer(s) and filler upon exposure to light radiation comprising the steps of preheating the photocurable dental restorative composite(s) to an elevated temperature above ambient prior to said exposure to light radiation during clinical usage. The heating assembly of the present invention may be used to preheat any dental material(s) stored in one or more compules to an elevated temperature above ambient prior to clinical usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Joshua Friedman
  • Patent number: 6307186
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for preparing hydrocolloids comprising means heating a container containing a hydrocolloid. The heating means consist of preferably low-power ceramic resistors, insulated on three surfaces transmitting heat only through the top surface in direct contact with a tube square in external cross section and circular in internal cross section of diameter adapted to the diameter of the hydrocolloid cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Jouvin, Frédéric Jouvin
  • Publication number: 20010029895
    Abstract: A ceramic cover plate is placed on the surface of a heater typically consisting of a ceramic heater used in a CVD device so as to cover the entire heating surface of the heater, and a silicon wafer 2 is placed on a recessed supporting surface 2a defined by the surface of the cover plate 2. The surface of the ceramic heater is therefore protected by the cover made of a ceramic plate, and the surface of the ceramic heater is prevented from being directly exposed to the gas such as the cleaning gas. Because the corrosion caused by the cleaning gas is limited to the cover, the ceramic heater can be renewed simply by replacing the cover. This substantially reduces the cost for the maintenance work.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Applicant: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Hanamachi, Toshihiro Tachikawa, Hideaki Fukuda
  • Patent number: 6300599
    Abstract: A wrap heater is provided. The wrap heater includes a first heating sleeve and a second heating sleeve. The first heating sleeve includes a first electrically conductive heating grid, a first stiffening layer for providing rigidity, a first thermostat, and a first cover for enclosing the components in the first heating sleeve. The second heating sleeve includes a second electrically conductive heating grid, a second stiffening layer, a thermostat, and a cover enclosing the components of the second heating sleeve. An extension is provided for separating the first heating sleeve and the second heating sleeve. The wrap heater is provided for heating at least two surfaces of a food product. A method for heating food product, such as pizza, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Vesture Corporation
    Inventors: Byron C. Owens, William M. Bostic, Robert Mericle
  • Patent number: 6285005
    Abstract: An improved enclosure for housing communications and electronics equipment comprises a heating element fabricated with a positive temperature coefficient material. The enclosure is particularly useful for housing communications equipment and cell site base stations for cellular telephone systems in the outdoors; it has self-regulating heating capabilities that are not dependent upon voltage parameters, thereby enabling its use in diverse geographic locations. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of PTC heating elements are used and selectively located adjacent a plurality of circuitry regions. DC power may be used to energize the PTC heaters, and the enclosure may be used for telephone equipment operating with AC or DC power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Nandakumar G. Aakalu, Daniel Plaza, Han Q. Truong
  • Publication number: 20010017295
    Abstract: An oven particularly suitable for dental materials is provided with a firing plate on which a calibration apparatus can be removably located. The calibration apparatus includes a meltable element whose melting is detectable by a detecting device. The calibration apparatus is additionally provided with a control device. The firing plate includes a device for receiving therein the calibration apparatus including a non-electrically conducting support for supporting two electrically conducting contact posts of the calibration apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Applicant: Ivoclar AG
    Inventors: Gottfried Rohner, Johannes Lorunser, Horst Ulbricht
  • Patent number: 6281475
    Abstract: A pipe stand instrument heater system for heating an instrument within an enclosure supported by a pipe stand. The heater system includes a housing mounted to the pipe stand and a heater unit in the housing. A bracket is provided for mounting the instrument to the housing. The heater unit can be powered by electric, steam or other fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Thermon Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bryan J. Campbell, Roy E. Barth, W. Gregory Huff, Ronald W. Zaborowski, Charles M. Bonorden, David L. Schlameus
  • Patent number: 6265695
    Abstract: A food thermalization device is provided, which permits the food to be thermalized and held for extended periods of time without causing the food to deteriorate. The device includes an electrically-resistance-heated plate, which is controlled to equilibrate at a set temperature in the range of 160° F. to 185° F., with a fluctuation not exceeding plus or minus 5° F. The plate draws much less power than other food cooking devices and occupies much less space for the amount of food it can prepare. A browning oven is also provided for exposing unwrapped food to very high temperature radiation for a short period of time to brown the food.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Benno Liebermann
  • Patent number: 6262394
    Abstract: An oven for maintaining cooked foods at temperatures suitable for serving the foods or even for cooking foods has a cabinet containing multiple heat sinks of channel-shaped configuration. The ends of the heat sinks open out of the cabinet, so that any heat sink may receive a tray of food from either the front or back of the cabinet. The interior surface of the heat sinks generally conform to the cross-sectional shapes of the trays, so that the heat sinks lie along the bottoms and sides of the trays. The heat sinks have a heating elements extended along their sides and bottoms for elevating the temperature of the heat sinks and directing heat into the trays within the heat sinks. In addition, each heat sink also contains a cover which may close the top of the tray in the heat sink and thereby retard the escape of moisture from the tray or may vent the interior of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Duke Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Steven M. Shei, Clement J. Luebke
  • Publication number: 20010007322
    Abstract: An oven for maintaining cooked foods at temperatures suitable for serving the foods or even for cooking foods has a cabinet containing multiple heat sinks of channel-shaped configuration. The ends of the heat sinks open out of the cabinet, so that any heat sink may receive a tray of food from either the front or back of the cabinet. The interior surface of the heat sinks generally conform to the cross-sectional shapes of the trays, so that the heat sinks lie along the bottoms and sides of the trays. The heat sinks have a heating elements extended along their sides and bottoms for elevating the temperature of the heat sinks and directing heat into the trays within the heat sinks. In addition, each heat sink also contains a cover which may close the top of the tray in the heat sink and thereby retard the escape of moisture from the tray or may vent the interior of the tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventors: Steven M. Shei, Clement J. Luebke
  • Patent number: 6259065
    Abstract: A merchandiser for displaying food products and holding such food products at a controlled temperature has a well divided into three or more well sections, wherein each of the well sections receives a serving tray and wherein the serving trays collectively have a center line. A rear access door, a pair of side plates, and a transparent front plate, together with the well, define a food product holding cavity. A pair of supporting brackets position a merchandiser heating and control device above the well. The merchandiser heating and control device has a heating compartment, which positions three or more heating elements and three or more illuminating elements substantially above the center line of the serving trays, wherein the heating compartment includes three or more circulating fans for circulating heated air from the heating compartment into the holding cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Henny Penny Corporation
    Inventors: Melissa M. Hohler, Peter J. Koopman, Robert T. Wood, Thomas M. Smith
  • Patent number: 6258440
    Abstract: A sintered ceramic part to be exposed to a corrosive gas, a surface of said ceramic part being machined, wherein each of grains exposed to the machined surface of the ceramic part is formed with a machined surface, and en edge of the machined surface of each of these grains is made round by material transfer. A process for producing such a sintered ceramic part includes the steps of: obtaining a machined body having a given shape by at least grinding a surface of a ceramic sintered body, and annealing the machined body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasufumi Aihara, Shinji Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 6252202
    Abstract: A furnace is provided generally including an upper heating chamber and a lower work base or firing platform. The upper chamber provides the main source of heat to the materials to be heat-treated. The upper chamber contains a muffle within which is located a heater ring assembly. The heater ring assembly is located in the middle to upper half of the muffle and includes an annular heating element that is located between an outer insulation ring and an inner quartz sleeve. A cavity or channel extends through the muffle into which insulation materials and the heater ring assembly is located. The channel area in the muffle below the heater ring assembly allows for the placement of the firing platform therein. The firing platform includes insulation material and a heating element located in the upper portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Jeneric/Pentron, Inc.
    Inventor: George N. Zychek
  • Patent number: 6248979
    Abstract: A hair-curling roller heating system including a plurality of rollers supported on posts heated by both a resistive heating plate and a halogen bulb which emits both visible light and radiant heat in the form of infrared radiation. The posts have open top ends and the rollers have differently colored translucent upper tips which receive light from the posts and thereby identify different types of rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Helen of Troy, L.P.
    Inventor: Michael Cafaro
  • Patent number: 6242714
    Abstract: A noncontact article temperature measuring device adapted for evaluating the quality including the food temperature, freezed/thawed state, presence/absence of bubble based on food capacitance measurement data and for evaluating/controlling the operation of a thawing device and used for a freezing/thawing system so as to solve conventional problems. The measuring device is so provided that an article of food can be passed or is provided on both vertical sides of a space or on the same plane of one of the sides. The measuring device comprises at least a pair of electrodes serving as a capacitance sensor and a capacitance measuring section for measuring the capacitance of the food article placed in the space from the signal generated by the paired electrodes. The capacitance is measured by applying a predetermined voltage between the electrodes, and the temperature of the article is determined and the freezed/thawed state is recognized from the measured capacitance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Mayekawa Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadaoki Narumiya, Eiji Kato, Tomoko Maeda, Yoshio Hagura
  • Publication number: 20010001461
    Abstract: A pipe stand instrument heater system for heating an instrument within an enclosure supported by a pipe stand. The heater system includes a housing mounted to the pipe stand and a heater unit in the housing. A bracket is provided for mounting the instrument to the housing. The heater unit can be powered by electric, steam or other fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: May 24, 2001
    Inventors: Bryan J. Campbell, Roy E. Barth, W. Gregory Huff, Ronald W. Zaborowski, Charles M. Bonorden, David L. Schlameus
  • Patent number: 6236020
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for enhancing the cure of photocurable dental restorative composite(s) containing unreactive monomer(s) and filler upon exposure to light radiation comprising the steps of preheating the photocurable dental restorative composite(s) to an elevated temperature above ambient prior to said exposure to light radiation during clinical usage. The heating assembly of the present invention may be used to preheat any dental material(s) stored in one or more compules to an elevated temperature above ambient prior to clinical usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Joshua Friedman
  • Patent number: 6198074
    Abstract: A system and method for thermally processing a substrate. A substrate is heated to a processing temperature at which the substrate is susceptible to plastic deformation or slip. An insulating cover may be removed to initially cool the substrate below such temperature before removal from the system. Gas pressure may also be adjusted to enhance heat transfer during processing and decrease heat transfer prior to removal of the substrate. Susceptors or surfaces for cooling the substrate may also be included in the system. The substrate may be transferred from a heating surface to a cooling surface by moving or rotating the substrate through warm transitional regions to avoid slip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Mattson Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen E. Savas
  • Patent number: 6196297
    Abstract: A pipe stand instrument heater system heats an instrument within an enclosure supported by a pipe stand. The heater system includes a housing mounted to the pipe stand and a heater unit in the housing. A bracket is provided for mounting the instrument to the housing. The heater unit can be powered by electric, steam or other fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Thermon Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bryan J. Campbell, Roy E. Barth, W. Gregory Huff, Ronald W. Zaborowski, Charles M. Bonorden, David L. Schlameus
  • Patent number: 6180061
    Abstract: This invention describes a cartridge pump and dispensing assembly for applications where cartridges containing liquid reagents are interchanged often. The cartridge pump has a reagent reservoir which directly empties into a metering chamber. A valve is at each end of the metering chamber. The two valves are aligned in the same direction so as to allow unidirectional liquid flow. The metering chamber is made of a compressible material, such as flexible tubing, so that when an external compression is applied to the chamber, the liquid contained therein is forcibly expelled. As the compression is removed, the metering chamber resumes its former shape and draws liquid into the chamber from the reagent reservoir. A dispensing assembly with electromechanical actuators for compression of the metering chamber and a sensor for sensing the amount of liquid contained within the reagent reservoir are also shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: CytoLogix Corporation
    Inventors: Steven A. Bogen, Herbert H. Loeffler
  • Patent number: 6175970
    Abstract: A spa enclosure for a spa tub is provided with a cabinet having at least one towel bar or towel hook and which at least partially recesses into the wall of the enclosure. The cabinet is provided with vent openings which permit heat cogenerated by a water pump used to pump water in the spa, an air blower, and/or a water heater to enter the cabinet by convection, heat towels provided on the bars or hooks, and exit through an upper portion of the cabinet. No additional dedicated heating element is provided to heat the towels. According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the cabinet is hinged at a lower portion to the enclosure and pivots about the hinge to open. The front and sides of the cabinet are preferably insulated to retain heat within the cabinet, and likewise, the enclosure may be insulated. A supply of towels may be kept in the cabinet or towels may be placed in the cabinet just prior to entering the spa tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Precision Design Concepts Ltd.
    Inventor: John Pinciaro
  • Patent number: 6175099
    Abstract: An oven for maintaining cooked foods at temperatures suitable for serving the foods or even for cooking foods has a cabinet containing multiple heat sinks of channel-shaped configuration. The ends of the heat sinks open out of the cabinet, so that any heat sink may receive a tray of food from either the front or back of the cabinet. The interior surface of the heat sinks generally conform to the cross-sectional shapes of the trays, so that the heat sinks lie along the bottoms and sides of the trays. The heat sinks have a heating elements extended along their sides and bottoms for elevating the temperature of the heat sinks and directing heat into the trays within the heat sinks. In addition, each heat sink also contains a cover which may close the top of the tray in the heat sink and thereby retard the escape of moisture from the tray or may vent the interior of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Duke Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Steven M. Shei, Clement J. Luebke
  • Patent number: 6166353
    Abstract: A free-standing warming appliance includes an outer enclosure and an inner liner which cooperate together to form a heating chamber. A warmer drawer forming a receptacle for precooked food stuffs is selectively inserted into and withdrawn out of the heating chamber. A heating element is secured to the inner liner within the heating chamber to warm the food stuffs within the warmer drawer receptacle. A control panel has an indicator light and infinite switch for controlling the heating element. The control panel is located within the enclosure and covered by a front panel of the warmer drawer so that access to the control components of the control panel is provided only when the warmer drawer is withdrawn from the heating chamber. Oven support members are secured to the outer enclosure to support a cooking appliance, such as a built-in oven, above the free-standing warming appliance. The cooking appliance rests directly on the oven support members of the warming appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Fran.cedilla.ois Senneville, Serge Laprade, Gilbert Archambault, Stephane Labadens
  • Patent number: 6153862
    Abstract: This invention discloses a device to warm and/or dry textiles to enhance comfort and to prevent prolonged dampness in articles of clothing or towels which could promote growth of mold or mildew. Consistent use of the invention for towels in bathrooms should have a positive impact on indoor air quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Donald D. Job
  • Patent number: 6145333
    Abstract: A refrigeration system for maintaining edible substances at a low temperature of the present invention includes a serving pan, an element for retaining or holding the serving pan, and a refrigeration tube and a glycol medium surrounding the pan is disclosed. The refrigeration tube and glycol medium act together in order to maintain the pan at a low temperature for a prolonged period of time and to provide an even cooling of the pan. In a second embodiment, the refrigeration tube may be surrounded by the glycol medium. In a further embodiment, the system may be used to heat food rather than to cool food by using a heat pump alone or in combination with electric heating elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventors: Neil E. Richmond, Renald M. Corsi
  • Patent number: 6140611
    Abstract: Container for keeping dishes hot and reheating them, comprising a thermally insulating box and shelves which carry plates consisting of a substrate coated with a film forming an electric circuit and having a thickness of from 1,000 to 5,000 angstroms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Societe Industrielle de Production de l'Aube
    Inventor: Michel Penard
  • Patent number: 6136280
    Abstract: An autoclave type sterilization device which includes an autoclave sterilization chamber with an electrical heating arrangement mounted thereon. This electrical heating arrangement employs one or more positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors as heating elements. These heating elements are in direct thermal and electrical contact on opposing sides, which are coated with a conductive metal such as aluminum, with electrodes to supply electrical current. These electrodes are, in turn, in direct thermal contact on their outward-facing sides with respect to the heating elements with plates which are formed of a thermally conductive and electrically insulating ceramic material such as AL.sub.2 O.sub.3, and the plates are in direct thermal contact on their outward-facing sides with respect to the heating elements with heat radiation units which include heat transfer portions which are fabricated to engage and are in direct thermal contact with a portion of the wall of the autoclave chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Body Heat Ltd.
    Inventors: Gad Golan, Yuly Galperin
  • Patent number: 6133548
    Abstract: In accordance with the apparatus of the invention, a preferably vertically upstanding housing is provided, internally thereof, with a rack structure having an upstanding series of shelves, or other microscope-slide-supporting members, spaced one above another providing multiple, substantially horizontal slots arranged alternatively with the shelves and leading into corresponding compartments between the shelves for receiving microscope slides to be heated, which preferably lie flatwise on and against the shelves so as to be heated by conduction from the shelves.The method of the invention constitutes the placing of the slides in the heating compartments, preferably with corresponding ends projecting therefrom so as to remain relatively cool for grasping during removal, and turning on the heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventors: Marilyn L. Grover, Patti A. Nelson, Gary D. Bradshaw, Barry O. Stokes, Dennis R. Briscoe, Carmelo G. Quirante
  • Patent number: 6125234
    Abstract: Electrical apparatus for thermal processing of food includes a casing which has a transparent portion for viewing the food disposed within the casing. At least one heating element is mounted within the casing for heating the food, the heating element including a heat resistant and mechanically rigid transparent first substrate having a first surface which faces the food and a second opposite facing surface. At least one electrical resistance element is disposed on the second surface, the at least one electrical resistance element being connected to a source of electrical current. At least one second transparent substrate is disposed adjacent the second surface, the at least one second transparent substrate including a transparent infrared reflective coating. Thus, the food disposed within the casing is viewable from the exterior of the casing through at least the first substrate while the food is being heated by the first substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Robot-Coupe(S.N.C.)
    Inventor: Pascal de Jenlis
  • Patent number: 6121578
    Abstract: A wrap heater is provided. The wrap heater includes a first heating sleeve and a second heating sleeve. The first heating sleeve includes a first electrically conductive heating grid, a first stiffening layer for providing rigidity, a first thermostat, and a first cover for enclosing the components in the first heating sleeve. The second heating sleeve includes a second electrically conductive heating grid, a second stiffening layer, a thermostat, and a cover enclosing the components of the second heating sleeve. An extension is provided for separating the first heating sleeve and the second heating sleeve. The wrap heater is provided for heating at least two surfaces of a food product. A method for heating food product, such as pizza, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Vesture Corporation
    Inventors: Byron C. Owens, William M. Bostic, Robert Mericle