Vessel Separable From Stand Patents (Class 219/432)
-
Patent number: 8226290Abstract: A cooking and mashing device for cooking and mashing a food in a bowl comprising a generally flat cooking panel; a hot plate component disposed on the top surface of the cooking panel; a motor housing disposed on the top surface of the cooking panel; an arm pivotally attached to the top surface of the motor housing via a pivot component, wherein the arm can move between an up position and a down position; a plurality of mashing blades attached to the second end of the arm; a first motor for driving the mashing blades to rotate; and a drain for draining excess water that accumulates atop the hot plate component.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Inventor: Eunice K. Tolufashe
-
Patent number: 8222573Abstract: A dual-spectrum intelligent cooking and baking machine without oil fume includes a housing, a top cover, an inner cylinder with heat preservation, an inner cooking and baking machine and a control circuit. An upper heater is disposed on the inner top surface of the top cover, and a lower heater is disposed on the inner undersurface of the inner cylinder with heat preservation. The upper heater and the lower heater are optical heaters. An insulating layer with light and heat penetration is disposed on the lower heater. The inner cooking and baking machine is a pan, a stockpot or a barbecue net rack. The pan or the stockpot is disposed moveably on the upper surface of the insulating layer with light and heat penetration. The barbecue net rack is disposed moveably over the insulating layer with light and heat penetration and is connected with the motor by the coupling device.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Inventors: Haipeng Qian, Jianjun Liu, Bo Qian
-
Publication number: 20120103969Abstract: A warming apparatus for warming a container having outer walls, the apparatus including a warmer body, at least one container holder, open at both ends, defined in the body, the container holder including holder walls adapted and configured to cradle a portion of the outer walls of a container for releasably holding that portion of the outer walls, and at least one heating element disposed in the warmer body adjacent the container holder.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventor: Igal Sharon
-
Patent number: 8168924Abstract: The invention provides an overheat protection control component for a liquid heating vessel which includes a control body (1); a single-integrated dual-actuation thermally sensitive bimetallic actuator (2) is provided on the upper face of the control body (1), wherein the single-integrated dual-actuation thermally sensitive bimetallic actuator (2) is two integrated and relatively independent actuating units which are formed on a piece of bimetallic strip, and the outer kick limb (3) of either said actuating unit will produce an actuating movement downwards when an overheat state occurs; two groups of switch contacts (6) are also provided on the control body (1), wherein either group of switch contacts (6) cooperate with the outer kick limb (3) of a corresponding actuating unit, and the outer kick limb (3), when producing a downward actuating movement, will open a corresponding group of switch contacts (6) and cut off the power supply of the heater for the liquid heating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Zhejiang Jiatai Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd.Inventors: Qiang Yang, Hesheng Zheng, Yu Yan
-
Patent number: 8138454Abstract: A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2008Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: C Change Surgical LLCInventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
-
Patent number: 8124917Abstract: A vessel for preparing heated water or other liquid includes a container, an electric heater and a temperature sensing probe mounted through a wall of the container. The probe includes an efficient heat transferring structure in direct thermal contact with and wet by the liquid. An electrical sensor within the probe is in intimate thermal contact with the transferring structure and has electrical properties directly correlating with the temperature of the transferring structure. The transferring structure is attached to a supporting structure mounted to the wall by an elastomeric efficient thermal insulating material held in compression providing physical support for the probe and sealing the wall from leaking and insuring that the sensor is primarily thermally responsive to the temperature of the transferring surface and to the liquid but is thermally insulated from variations in the temperature of the supporting wall.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2009Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Edgecraft CorporationInventors: Daniel D. Friel, Sr., James Fitzgerald, Daniel D. Friel, Jr.
-
Patent number: 8122815Abstract: A cooking device and method heats a removable vessel with heaters of a cooking capsule, which includes a separator wall between the heaters and vessel. The heaters mount to the separator wall. The capsule is fixed in a housing, which also mounts a motor that rotates the vessel. The housing tiltably mounts on a base. Accessories can be fixed to the vessel or a lid secured to the housing, so the accessories can rotate with the vessel or remain stationary with respect to the vessel as it rotates. A locking mechanism that secures the lid to the housing prevents lid detachment when the vessel counter-rotates and an accessory is fixed to the lid. A heat sink wall reflects heat toward the vessel and fins draw heat from the heat sink wall away from the housing and out vent holes. Computer hardware and software control power to the motor and heaters.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Inventor: Amy Wolfe
-
Publication number: 20120000374Abstract: A fondue set includes a plurality of utensils, a removable heating vessel for holding a liquid to cook or coat food items, and a fondue stand for holding the heating vessel and the utensils. Each utensil has a food attaching portion for holding a food item. The fondue stand includes a lower portion having a central cavity sized and shaped to hold the removable heating vessel, and an end opening that allows the removable heating vessel to be placed within the central cavity. The stand also includes an upper portion configured to hold the plurality of utensils. The upper portion has a top opening that allows the food attaching portion of the utensils to be placed into the heating vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventor: Warren Harold BOCK
-
Patent number: 8084718Abstract: A wax melting system including a melting stage and a holding stage. Implementations may include a melting stage having a drain and the drain configured to permit flow of melted wax from the melting stage to the holding stage. A vessel may also be included. The melting stage and the holding stage may be coupled into the vessel and the melting stage oriented above the holding stage. The vessel may enclose the melting stage and the temperature of the melting stage may be maintained above the temperature of the holding stage.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2007Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: TayMac CorporationInventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin
-
Publication number: 20110303651Abstract: A cooking device includes a pot (30) having a nozzle (32) for steam blow-off and a handle (50), a housing part (21, 23, 24) for housing the pot (30), a connection part (26) to which the nozzle (32) of the pot (30) housed in the housing part (21, 23, 24) is connected, a heater part (22) for heating the pot (30) housed in the housing part (21, 23, 24), and a heating chamber (12) to which steam is supplied from the pot (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventors: Tatsuya Mineoka, Akio Tamura
-
Patent number: 8076620Abstract: An anti-oxidation food preparation device includes a food preparation vessel having an electrically conductive body and a separate power supplying base. The base generates high frequency AC power that is transferred by a primary coil to as secondary coil maintained by the vessel. A rectification circuit converts the high frequency AC power into a rippled, rectified AC current that is supplied to the electrically conductive body of the vessel so as to create a reducing environment of available electrons for absorption by the food as it is prepared.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Steven L. Maupin, Lance P. Johnson
-
Publication number: 20110219956Abstract: A beverage apparatus has a portable liquid container having a ledge detail within a top open end; a removable infuser with an annular support flange; and a gasket about the infuser below the annular support flange, where in use the gasket forms a seal with the container ledge detail and the infuser body, and further spaces the infuser annular support flange from the container ledge detail to define a liquid access gap. At least one vertical channel is defined through the gasket to communicate liquid through the gasket between the liquid container and the liquid access gap. A support base has an opening to receive and hold a bottom end of the portable liquid container and a heating element to heat liquid within the portable container when the container bottom end is inserted within the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2010Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: Ram Industrial Design Inc.Inventors: Robert S. Englert, M. Bianca Leigh, Carlos A. Suarez
-
Patent number: 8003051Abstract: Sample processing systems for processing sample materials located in sample processing devices that are separate from the system are disclosed. The sample processing systems include a rotating base plate with raised and/or non-planar thermal structures on which the sample processing devices are located during operation of the systems. The systems may also include structure to urge the sample processing devices against the base plate and thermal structures.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2009Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: William Bedingham, James E. Aysta, Barry W. Robole
-
Patent number: 8003921Abstract: The invention concerns a cooking apparatus (1) which includes a base (3) and a receptacle (2) that rests upon the base (3). According to the invention, the apparatus includes a skirt (14) that has a closed side wall (15) surrounding the receptacle (2) and extending vertically from the base (3) up to at least the free top end (16) of the side wall (5) of the receptacle (2).Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: SEB SAInventors: Valerie Lagrange, Christophe Gouthiere
-
Patent number: 7994454Abstract: Beverage Mate consists of at least some of the following: a base, metal adaptor, power switch, power cord, cold/hot switch, adjustable flanges, heating coil, an external cooling unit and a line connecting the cooling unit to the adjustable flanges. To use Beverage Mate, a person places a beverage between the metal flanges and onto the base, plugs the unit into a cigarette lighter using the adaptor attached to the power cord and activates the power switch. The hot or cold setting is then chosen. If the user selects the hot setting, the heating coil in the base is activated allowing the beverage to heat or remain warm if it is already hot. If the user selects the cold setting, the cooling unit is activated allowing the beverage to cool or remain cool if it is already cold.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2006Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Inventor: Randy Traylor
-
Patent number: 7947927Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for heating the contents of a vessel wherein said vessel has a conducting plate that contacts the interior vessel contents and actuates a thermostat based on the temperature of interior contents.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Inventors: Norman Brooks, Charlie Rosenberg, Michael Zheng
-
Patent number: 7943888Abstract: A slow cooker includes a cooking base having a heating element and an open end. The slow cooker has a first container sized to fit within the open end of the cooking base. The first container has an opening for receiving foodstuff. The volume of the first container is sized to accommodate a second container. The second container has an opening for receiving foodstuff. The opening of the second container is generally equal in size to the opening of the first container. The first container has a cooking position wherein the first container is inserted in the cooking base. The second container has a cooking position wherein the second container is inserted in the cooking base. The first container and second container have a storage position, wherein the second container is nested within the first container. The slow cooker also includes a lid that is sized to enclose the opening of either of the first and second containers during their respective cooking positions.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2007Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.Inventors: John Barnes, Yvonne Olson, David Jackson, James Gaynor
-
Patent number: 7919729Abstract: A heating vessel comprises a bottom portion made of conductive material and perimeter wall extending upward from the bottom portion to form a perimeter and covers the vessel such as to form a cavity. The perimeter wall comprises an outer wall and an inner wall, and at least an adiabatic portion defined between the outer wall and the inner wall, which is as an adiabatic layer. The dimension of the inner wall is less than the outer wall. The inner wall is connected to the bottom.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2006Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventor: Chia-Yi Hsu
-
Patent number: 7767937Abstract: Modular sample processing apparatus kits that can provide a user with the flexibility to customize a disk-based assay in view of a variety of factors are disclosed. The sample processing apparatus kits of the present invention include one or more process modules that can be retained within openings in a frame. The frame and process modules of the sample processing apparatus kits are preferably adapted for use in sample processing systems that compress the apparatus. The process modules may contain different reagents to perform different tests on the same sample materials or a variety of sample materials. As a result, a single sample processing apparatus can be used to perform a variety of different tests and may include a quality control module capable of providing feedback to the user as to the accuracy of the processes run using the sample processing apparatus. Methods of using the sample processing apparatus that include deforming the process modules and frame are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: William Bedingham, Barry W. Robole
-
Patent number: 7727494Abstract: A child care storage having a steam sterilizing apparatus, wherein the steam sterilizing apparatus includes an outer tub defined by walls of a steam sterilizing compartment; a hollow upstanding coupling member installed on the center bottom of the outer tub and having an interlocking hole formed at its top; an inner tub inserted inside the outer tub for accommodating infant accessories therein, the inner tub having a reception hole formed at its bottom center and a latch part formed along the circumference of its bottom center; an evaporation vessel having a flange along its circumference, the flange being coupled to the latch part of the inner tub; a flat-type heater installed under a rear bottom surface of the evaporation vessel; and a supporting plate for placing the flat-type heater thereon.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2006Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Daewoo Electronics CorporationInventor: Young Jae Kim
-
Patent number: 7586065Abstract: A device for cooking food is disclosed. The device has an elongated body for containing the food to be cooked with a heater at one end and a simmer temperature sensor at the other end. The heater initially brings the substance contained in the elongated member to a boil which is sensed by a boiling sensor. The boiling temperature sensor may be integral with the heater. Once a controller connected to the heater receives a signal from the boiling sensor indicating that the substance is boiling, the controller alternates the power to the heater between a simmer power level and a non-simmer power level which is lower than the simmer power level. The controller controls the power level of the heater in response to a signal from the simmer temperature sensor. The simmer temperature sensor sends a signal to the controller when the temperature of the substance at the end remote from the heater falls below a predetermined simmer temperature.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2006Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Inventors: Paul M. Kehoe, Daniel P. Kehoe
-
Patent number: 7569186Abstract: Sample processing systems for processing sample materials located in sample processing devices that are separate from the system are disclosed. The sample processing systems include a rotating base plate with raised and/or non-planar thermal structures on which the sample processing devices are located during operation of the systems. The systems may also include structure to urge the sample processing devices against the base plate and thermal structures.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: William Bedingham, James E. Aysta, Barry W. Robole
-
Patent number: 7560667Abstract: This disclosure provides examples of innovations for a heating pad to be used with heating removable basins or drapes containing sterile fluid. When used with a sterile basin, it is desirable for the pad to deform to conform to the irregular surface on the bottom of the basin. It is also desirable for the pad to have a low thermal mass so that the pad is more responsive to the control system.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2005Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: C Change Surgical LLCInventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
-
Publication number: 20090159586Abstract: The present invention provides a heating device capable of dispensing heated personal care product while containers thereof are being heated. For example, there could be a base having multiple wells with a heating system associated with each well. There could be separate control of the heat in each well. The wells have an upper opening for permitting insertion of a container in them (in inverted fashion), and a side opening for permitting heated material in a container to be dispensed from the container while a portion of the container is being heated in the well. In another form, the invention provides a temperature sensor at the bottom of a heating well that projects into a heat conductive head of a container being warmed in the well. Methods for using such devices are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2007Publication date: June 25, 2009Inventors: Stephen B. Leonard, Thomas P. Gasper
-
Publication number: 20090050620Abstract: A heating arrangement for heating one or more liquid-containing microcavities (102) that are present on a microdevice (101) in which there is a contact surface (Sdev) (108). The arrangement comprises a heating support (104,204) that has: a) a support contact surface (Ssup) (110) which is apposed to Sdev (108), when the microdevice (101) is placed on the heating support (104,204), and b) one or more heating elements (120,220) each of which are in thermal contact with Ssup (110), and also with at least one of said microcavities (102), when the microdevice (101) is placed according to (a) with said microcavities (102) matched to said heating elements (120,220), The characteristic feature of the arrangement is that it comprises a sub pressure system (113-119) that is capable of creating sub pressure between said support (104,204) and said microdevice (101) via the support when the microdevice (101) is placed on the support (104,204).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2005Publication date: February 26, 2009Applicant: GYROS ABInventors: Per Andersson, Gunnar Kylberg
-
Patent number: 7461589Abstract: A countertop cooking device for automating the preparation of food that requires stirring, heating, and the addition of liquid is proposed. The cooking device comprises a body containing a heated cooking pot, one or more separately heated reservoirs, and a means for transferring liquid to the cooking pot from the reservoir(s). The cooking device also comprises a means for stirring the contents of the cooking pot and scraping the inner surfaces of the cooking pot. A means is provided to control the temperatures of the cooking pot and reservoir(s), the sequence and duration of steps, and the stirring of the cooking pot. The sequence and duration of events may be controlled by a predetermined schedule, or based upon information from sensors in the device. The usefulness of the proposed cooking device is demonstrated in the application by describing its use in the preparation of risotto. This device may optionally be used in the preparation of other dishes such as rice and bulgur pilaf, or polenta.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Inventor: Alexander J Sinton
-
Patent number: 7459657Abstract: A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device are provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: C Change Surgical LLCInventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
-
Patent number: 7431613Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic charging cup assembly, including an electronic charging cup and charging cup holder. The electronic charging cup is provided with an embedded cell module and a button set, so that the cell module supplies sufficient power to the linear conducting strip covering the cup core. Since the cell module is a rechargeable cell structure, it is only required to place the electronic charging cup into the charging cup holder in the event of electric exhaustion of cell module, thereby achieving the purpose of additional power supply with improved applicability.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: J Sheng Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chih-Hsiang Liu, Shu-Fen Li
-
Publication number: 20080217317Abstract: The invention concerns a cooking apparatus (1) which includes a base (3) and a receptacle (2) that rests upon the base (3). According to the invention, the apparatus includes a skirt (14) that has a closed side wall (15) surrounding the receptacle (2) and extending vertically from the base (3) up to at least the free top end (16) of the side wall (5) of the receptacle (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2007Publication date: September 11, 2008Inventors: Valerie Legrange, Christophe Gouthiere
-
Publication number: 20080216668Abstract: An electric cooking appliance comprising heating means (9) for heating a bowl (4) and sensor means (10,11) for sensing the temperature of the bowl (4). The sensor means (10,11) comprise a movable thermal contact member (10) to contact the wall (5) of the bowl (4). The cooking appliance is provided with detection means (18,19) for detecting the presence of the bowl (4), whereby displacement of said movable thermal contact member (10) operates said detection means (18,19).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2006Publication date: September 11, 2008Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Fred Fraij, Klaas Kooijker, Herman Huizinga, Mindert Kats
-
Publication number: 20080173632Abstract: A pan sensor capable of stably detecting the mounting of a cooking pan without error, a heat generation unit having the pan sensor, a cooking range having the heat generation unit and a control method thereof are disclosed. The cooking range includes a top plate for mounting a cooking pan thereon, one or more radiant heaters installed in the top plate for supplying heat to the cooking pan, one or more pan sensors, respectively installed in the radiant heaters, for sensing the presence of the cooking pan, each pan sensor having a sensor ring for detecting variation in electrostatic capacitance depending on whether the cooking pan is present, and a controller for controlling each radiant heater based on a sensor output value of each pan sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2007Publication date: July 24, 2008Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Seong Deog Jang, Seok Weon Hong, Sung Ho Lee, Min Su Jeon
-
Publication number: 20080169280Abstract: A slow cooker includes a cooking base having a heating element and an open end. The slow cooker has a first container sized to fit within the open end of the cooking base. The first container has an opening for receiving foodstuff. The volume of the first container is sized to accommodate a second container. The second container has an opening for receiving foodstuff. The opening of the second container is generally equal in size to the opening of the first container. The first container has a cooking position wherein the first container is inserted in the cooking base. The second container has a cooking position wherein the second container is inserted in the cooking base. The first container and second container have a storage position, wherein the second container is nested within the first container. The slow cooker also includes a lid that is sized to enclose the opening of either of the first and second containers during their respective cooking positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2007Publication date: July 17, 2008Applicant: HAMILTON BEACH/PROCTOR-SILEX, INC.Inventors: John Barnes, Yvonne Olson, David Jackson, James Gaynor
-
Patent number: 7388174Abstract: A starch-reducing rice cooker includes a pot containing a lower compartment and an upper boiling chamber having a top opening. A partition separates the lower compartment from the upper boiling chamber. A perforated basket is located within the upper boiling chamber for containing rice to be cooked, and is adapted to contain more than sufficient water to immerse the rice for cooking. A cover is provided. In one embodiment, the cover is also provided with a top opening having a sprayer, spraying cool rinsing water onto the rice within the basket, after cooking of the rice is complete. A discharge valve within the partition communicates between the upper boiling water chamber and the lower compartment. A detector is programmed to detect when boiling of water in the upper boiling temperature starts and to maintain boiling for a time required to properly cook the rice based upon the boiling temperature of the water.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2003Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Inventors: Salim Ejaz, Murad Pandit, Omar Khan
-
Patent number: 7378619Abstract: A confectionary fountain assembly enables user to self-serve confectionary liquid, such as liquid chocolate. The fountain assembly comprises a base assembly, a conduit assembly, a functional sculpture, and an annular basin. The base assembly supports a bowl-shaped receptacle and houses a heating element and a motor assembly for respectively providing chocolate-liquefying thermal energy and rotational movement. The conduit assembly is coupled to the motor assembly and the receptacle and comprises a liquid chocolate lifting auger. The sculpture assembly receives the lifted chocolate and imparts pressure thereto for further directing the chocolate to a sculpture outlet. The chocolate, upon exiting the outlet, covers an outer decorative surface of the sculpture and returns to the receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Inventor: William Rogers
-
Publication number: 20080118614Abstract: A device for cooking food is disclosed. The device has an elongated body for containing the food to be cooked with a heater at one end and a simmer temperature sensor at the other end. The heater initially brings the substance contained in the elongated member to a boil which is sensed by a boiling sensor. The boiling temperature sensor may be integral with the heater. Once a controller connected to the heater receives a signal from the boiling sensor indicating that the substance is boiling, the controller alternates the power to the heater between a simmer power level and a non-simmer power level which is lower than the simmer power level. The controller controls the power level of the heater in response to a signal from the simmer temperature sensor. The simmer temperature sensor sends a signal to the controller when the temperature of the substance at the end remote from the heater falls below a predetermined simmer temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2006Publication date: May 22, 2008Inventors: Paul M. Kehoe, Daniel P. Kehoe
-
Publication number: 20080083730Abstract: The invention pertains to a multi-functional cooker having a thermal probe operatively connected to a controller for controlling a heating element in response to a real-time temperature reading from the probe. By controlling the level of heat provided by the heating element in response to real-time temperature readings, optimal comestible flavor may be achieved. The multi-functional cooker also includes a hinged lid for directing fluid on an inner surface of the lid into a cooking vessel of the invention upon opening of the lid.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: April 10, 2008Inventors: Mona Wetter Dolgov, Jeff Kornreich, Kelly White, Amy Golino, Keith Coutu, Robert A. Barker
-
Patent number: 7326884Abstract: A butter heating and dispensing system for facilitating dispersal of melted butter. The system includes a container assembly, a spray assembly, and a heating assembly. The container assembly includes an interior space for receiving a quantity of butter to be melted and dispensed. The spray assembly is operationally coupleable to the container assembly. The spray assembly includes an intake for liquid butter, and a spray nozzle for dispersing the liquid butter. The heating assembly is for providing thermal energy to melt the butter received by the container assembly. The heating assembly is thermally coupleable with the container assembly. Most preferably, the container assembly has a sloped bottom wall, which slopes downwardly towards the intake of the spray assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Inventors: William Arthur Anderson, Mary-Lynn Anderson
-
Patent number: 7323660Abstract: Modular sample processing apparatus kits that can provide a user with the flexibility to customize a disk-based assay in view of a variety of factors are disclosed. The sample processing apparatus kits of the present invention include one or more process modules that can be retained within openings in a frame. The frame and process modules of the sample processing apparatus kits are preferably adapted for use in sample processing systems that compress the apparatus. The process modules may contain different reagents to perform different tests on the same sample materials or a variety of sample materials. As a result, a single sample processing apparatus can be used to perform a variety of different tests and may include a quality control module capable of providing feedback to the user as to the accuracy of the processes run using the sample processing apparatus. Methods of using the sample processing apparatus that include deforming the process modules and frame are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: William Bedingham, Barry W. Robole
-
Patent number: 7312424Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in cooking bulbs of garlic are described. The apparatus (100) includes a bowl (102) and a top (104). An insert (122) that releases moisture during cooking is supported on a bottom (108) of the bowl (102). A holder (124), which is capable of holding garlic, is supported on the insert (122). A cooking chamber (118) is formed when the top (104) is positioned on the bowl (102). The escape of heat and vapor from the cooking chamber (118) are resisted by the engagement of a top rim (116) to a complementary bowl rim (112). A heating element (120) that is disposed near an outside surface of the bowl (102) provides the heat to cook garlic when the heating element (120) is connected to a power source by a cord (134).Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventors: Todd J. Hannon, Georgia A. Hannon
-
Patent number: 7312425Abstract: A programmable slow-cooker appliance uses an application-specific integrated circuit digital controller, in which a user sets a time and temperature for cooking a food item. The digital controller prevents the unit from functioning only as a “keep warm” appliance, and a unique design allows cooling of the application-specific integrated circuit digital programmable controller during cooking.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.Inventors: James E. DeCobert, Lorens G. Hlava, Charles T. Thrasher, Jr., William Levy
-
Patent number: 7291812Abstract: A cooking appliance configured with a programmable controller within a heating unit. The programmable controller is configured to control a plurality of functions of the cooking appliance. The controller is located in the base of the appliance and is in communication with a control panel that transmits a plurality of signals to the controller indicative of a user input. The control panel can be arranged nearly flush with an outer surface of the cooking appliance.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Focus Products Group, LLCInventors: Howard Wayne Kaney, Alistair Hugh Tatham Mackay
-
Patent number: 7276676Abstract: A food and food-plate warming device includes a base plate that has a planar top surface and has an outwardly beveled edge provided with laterally stepped ridges concentrically spaced from the top surface center. A cover plate is positioned on the base plate and has an outer lip that is nested on one of the stepped ridges. Handles are conjoined to the outer lip for receiving at least four contiguous metacarpals therethrough. A mechanism is included for heating the base plate top surface such that the food and food-plate interfitted between the base plate and the cover plate can be heated. The heating mechanism includes a heating element intercalated between the top and bottom surfaces of the first base plate. An automatic shut off switch is coupled to the heating element for interrupting power to the heating element when an interior temperature of the device reaches a maximum threshold temperature.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Jennifer J. Thompson
-
Patent number: 7207358Abstract: This invention relates to a safety cut-off for any type of device for domestic use which is designed to produce pressurized vapor for different purposes. The invention also relates to a safety cut-off for any type of device for domestic use which is designed to produce pressurized steam for different purposes, such as to avoid the risk of accidents by scalding when filling with water, when pressurized steam exists in the steam chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Inventor: Luis Moreno-Jordana
-
Patent number: 7166822Abstract: A device for heating and warming food featuring a base with a central member axially projecting it surface which provides heat from its exterior surface. The base is cooperatively engageable with one or a plurality of cooking containers having central cavities adapted to frictionally engage the central member thereby heating food in the containers from a central axis. Secondary cooking containers are engageable to axial projections in the primary cooking contains to allow two foods to be heated at the same time from a central area.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Inventors: Peter Chung-Yuan Chang, Steven Chang
-
Patent number: 7145105Abstract: The invention concerns an electric kettle comprising a power supply base (1) including electrical connection means (3), and, a removable container (2) including a reservoir (4), a electrical heating element (5), matching electrical connection means (8) adapted to co-operate with the electrical connection means (3) of the base (1), and control means (9) adapted to interrupt electric power supply of the electrical heating element (5) and which comprise a switch mobile between an open position and a closed position. The invention is characterized in that the power supply base (1) comprises a manual control knob (11) mobile between a neutral position and an activating position, and the kettle comprises transmission means (12) adapted to shift the switch in closed position when the manual control knob (11) is placed in activating position.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2003Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: SEB SAInventor: Hervé Gaulard
-
Patent number: 7112764Abstract: A disposable insert or liner conformable to a slow cook cookware (such as, for example, a conventional crock pot or like slow cooking device) having a single interior cooking chamber. The liner is adapted to fit within the interior chamber of a crockpot so as to substantially be in adjacent contact with the crock pot interior chamber walls without interfering with the operation of the cooking device. The liner provides a single compartment which may be made of any material allowing heat conduction between the cookware and the liner. A suitable material may be a tear resistant aluminum foil to withstand typical food preparation in a crock pot. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a flange, notches, indentations or other formations which assist in the insertion and removal of the present invention in the cookware. The present invention advantageoiusly provides for a desirable cooking environment, allows easy removal of food from the crock pot and provides simplified cleaning of the crock pot.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Inventor: Kristy Kailynn Garcia
-
Patent number: 7091455Abstract: An electric thermos jug comprises generally from the top to the bottom a lid assembly, a spout assembly, a double-layer vacuum body, a heating element, an underbody, and a base. An insulating plate and an insulating material layer are provided under the heating element inside the underbody of the jug. The lid is two-layer structure comprising an upper lid and lower lid with an air plenum in between. The electric thermos is convenient for use and effective in heat insulation due to the excellent air tightness of the components. The temperature inside the jug can be maintained for a long time without the need of repetitive heating. As a result, it can maintain a good water quality and is energy efficient. A safety valve is also employed.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Shiu Po Fung
-
Patent number: 7034256Abstract: A popcorn heating device includes a bag member, a receptacle removably connectable therewith and having a top portion including inner and outer layers and a medially disposed heat-retaining layer. The device further includes a mechanism for electrically heating the receptacle and the bag member. The heating mechanism includes a base member having at least one electrical conductor including a plurality of conducting posts. The base member further includes a first switch for toggling at least one electrical conductor between on and off positions and a second switch for controlling the temperature of at least one electrical conductor. A plurality of heating elements are electrically coupled to the plurality of conducting posts and a plug provided for electrically coupling the base member to a power source.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Inventor: Richard D. Phillips
-
Patent number: 7009149Abstract: A slow cooker is provided that includes a ceramic cooking vessel and a base for supporting and heating the cooking vessel. The cooking vessel preferably extends substantially the upper surface of the base when mounted thereto. A stand is provided for supporting the base, and is preferably secured to the base. The stand includes handles that allow the slow cooker to be carried. The top of the base is preferably defined by a heat resistant, polymeric lip.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2004Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: JCS/THG, LLCInventors: Kelly M. White, Richard McDuffie, David Bossa
-
Patent number: 7005615Abstract: The food warmer is a subdivided individual sectioned compartments that holds a multiple portion of foods with transparent covers and is operated by a motorized turntable that the foods. The heating is an option of electricity or battery power. The two unit heating system operates from either side of the warmer, independently of sides, with no turntable rotation when this mode is in operation. The temperature is regulated by control led heat settings to keep foods from scorching and warmer safe from overheating. The warmer is compacted to hold most of your needs with ease of access to all selections. Alternatives are: this warmer has subdivided, individual sectioned compartments that permits more ease to access selections of foods with a turntable that rotates for serving convenience without containers being spread to only select one dish from each.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Inventor: Ellen Lelita Thomas