Abstract: An embodiment of an electric heating element is disclosed, including an electrically resistive inner heating element, an electrically resistive outer heating element, and a thermostat positioned underneath a centrally-positioned medallion and along a cold leg of the inner heating element. The thermostat is configured to selectively allow electrical current to be delivered to the inner heating element while maximum electrical current, for example, continues to be provided to the outer heating element. The thermostat cycles the electrical current on and off when detecting maximum and minimum desired temperatures radiated from the electric heating element. The inner heating element has a pair of cold legs that extend parallel to a pair of cold legs of the outer heating element, some or all of which may be supported by a terminal bracket.

Abstract: A thermally zoned substrate holder including a substantially cylindrical base having top and bottom surfaces configured to support a substrate. A plurality of temperature control elements are disposed within the base. An insulator thermally separates the temperature control elements. The insulator is made from an insulting material having a lower coefficient of thermal conductivity than the base (e.g., a gas- or vacuum-filled chamber).

Abstract: A portable pet warmer may include an outer cylinder and front and rear covers. An inner cylinder may be removably positioned within the outer cylinder. The inner cylinder remains spaced from the outer cylinder while the inner cylinder is positioned within the outer cylinder. A thermostat and a heating element may be located within the apparatus and adapted to be coupled to an external 115 volt alternating current power supply source. A mounting plate and retainer springs are used to hold the thermostat at a secure position during use while permitting easy access to the thermostat during maintenance. An internal power supply source providing a 12 volt direct current to the thermostat may further be electrically coupled to the circuit breaker.

Abstract: A barbecue grill for cooking an object. The barbecue grill includes a first resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object, and a second resistive element subassembly energizable for generating heat to cook the object.

Abstract: A hotplate with a stainless steel top plate to support a vessel. The stainless steel top plate has an upper surface with a substantially centrally located depression having a depth and area generally sufficient to absorb upward crowning of the top plate when heated. A heating unit is in a heat transfer relation with the stainless steel top plate, and a base unit is connected to the heating plate assembly; however, the base unit is not fastened directly to the stainless steel top plate, so that the stainless steel top plate can expand more uniformly when heated.