Cookware (e.g., Vessel, Utensil, Etc.) Patents (Class 219/725)
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Publication number: 20020043532Abstract: A container for microwave heating of a food product, and a method of fabricating such a container, wherein the container includes a tub assembly having a moisture-impervious floor and one or more sidewalls. A quantity of food product, such as popcorn, is placed in a pocket formed in a sheet of barrier material, and a continuous heat seal is formed between the floor of the tub and the sheet of barrier material. A microwave susceptor can be disposed to the floor for heating the food product.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2001Publication date: April 18, 2002Inventor: Jeffrey T. Watkins
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Patent number: 6342693Abstract: A pleated microwave oven liner comprising a plurality of liner pleats, is expandable in the preferred embodiment from initial dimensions of approximately 6 inches in height by 11 inches in width, to final dimensions as large as approximately 15 inches in height by 21 inches in width, by ⅛ inch increments. This microwave oven liner, by virtue of its resizability (scalability), can be used to protect a wide range of sizes of microwave oven from spills and spatters associated with the microwave cooking and heating process.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2000Date of Patent: January 29, 2002Inventors: Rose Mary Smith, Elizabeth Hogan, David Hogan
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Patent number: 6326599Abstract: A microwave oven food container in the form of a receptacle for foodstuffs. The receptacle is composed of a polymeric material containing a microwave absorbent filler, which may comprise carbon or metal particles.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Novus Foods Ltd.Inventor: Keith Pickford
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Patent number: 6320172Abstract: A container for microwave heating of a food product, and a method of fabricating such a container, wherein the container includes a tub assembly having a moisture-impervious floor and one or more sidewalls. A quantity of food product, such as popcorn, is placed in a pocket formed in a sheet of barrier material, and a continuous heat seal is formed between the floor of the tub and the sheet of barrier material. A microwave susceptor can be disposed to the floor for heating the food product.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2000Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventor: Jeffrey T. Watkins
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Publication number: 20010032842Abstract: Low-odor microwaveable polypropylene/mica food contact articles are disclosed. The articles are prepared by low temperature processing and typically include odor-suppressing basic organic or inorganic compounds. Preferably, the articles are substantially free from C8 and C9 organic ketones associated with undesirable odors. Further improvements to the articles include crack-resistant embodiments with synergistic amounts of polyethylene and titanium dioxide.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2001Publication date: October 25, 2001Inventors: Ronald L. Cochran, Mark B. Littlejohn, Donald C. McCarthy, Cristian M. Neculescu, Robert Patterson, Anthony J. Swiontek
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Patent number: 6307192Abstract: The invention is related to an ovenable food tray (1) and its manufacturing method. The paperboard or cardboard tray is provided with at least one layer of polymeric coating (3, 4) which, according to the invention, is lying at least on the side of the tray coming into contact with the food and contains a polymerized crosslink structure which consists of an inorganic, chain or crosslinked polymeric backbone which contains alternating silicon and oxygen atoms and which comprises side chains and/or crosslinks formed by organic groups or chains. The tray (1) is manufactured by spreading, on the board (2), a mixture which contains reactive ingredients and which is polymerized to form a grease-tight, glassy coating (3, 4) that withstands heat, on at least one and preferably both sides of the paperboard, and by forming the tray from the thus obtained, coated paperboard. The polymerized ingredients can be organosilanes with which crosslinking organic compounds, such as epoxides, can be reacted.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignees: Stora Enso Oyj, Oy Zeus Ultrastructures ABInventors: Jack Owe Lennart Ulfstedt, Liisa Marjatta Kukko, Tapani Penttinen
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Patent number: 6307193Abstract: A cooking vessel with a unique adjustable ventilation system for cooking various foods and obtaining desired tastes. The cooking vessel has a lid and a base with a free standing rack located in the bottom of the base. The lid is designed with an ventilation system that traverses an upper ventilation cap with either a lower ventilation cap or, alternatively, a recess to enable the positional alignment of ventilation holes in the upper ventilation cap to the ventilation holes in the lower ventilation cap or, alternatively, recess to permit the proper degree of steam to be released from the cooking vessel while retaining the proper amount of moisture to effectively cook the food.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2000Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: Microwave Magic Company, Inc.Inventor: Joan C. Toole
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Publication number: 20010015354Abstract: Low-odor microwaveable mineral-filled polypropylene food contact articles are disclosed. The articles are prepared by low temperature processing and typically include odor-suppressing basic organic or inorganic compounds. Preferably, the articles are substantially free from C8 and C9 organic ketones associated with undesirable odors. Further improvements to the articles include crack-resistant embodiments with synergistic amounts of polyethylene and titanium dioxide.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2001Publication date: August 23, 2001Inventors: Donald C. McCarthy, Ronald L. Cochran, Mark B. Littlejohn, Cristian M. Neculescu, Robert Patterson, Anthony J. Swiontek
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Publication number: 20010014363Abstract: The invention is concerned with a method of manufacture of bread crumb and with a production line for bread crumb manufacture, the method comprising the steps of preparing and sheeting a dough, disposing the sheeted dough on a conveyor and deforming the sheeted dough back and forth to form the dough into an undulating configuration, baking the dough by conveying same through a tunnel oven and converting the baked dough into bread crumb.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2001Publication date: August 16, 2001Inventor: Thomas Robertson Parker
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Patent number: 6274229Abstract: Improved disposable three layered pads for collecting cooking grease produced during the cooking of fatty foods particularly in the cooking area of a microwave oven as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,814,396. These pads comprise (a) a top grease absorbing layer having at least one ply of a grease absorptive sheet; (b) a middle grease and high temperature resistant layer; and (c) a bottom layer composed of an anti-stick heat insulating sheet. The pad is dimensioned to cover a substantial portion of the bottom cooking area of a microwave oven when used in these devices. The top layer is from 2 to 50 times thicker than the middle and bottom layer. The improvement comprises a small yet effective amount of anti-stick coating on the top layer of these three layered pads. These anti-stick coatings may be selected from such substances as vegetable oils, animal fats and synthetic lubricants.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2000Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Inventors: Ron J. Weidner, John C. Miller
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Patent number: 6255637Abstract: A stacking arrangement for simultaneously stacking plural food filled plates and beverage containers together for use in microwaves and refrigerators. Hollow rings with outwardly sloping sides each having side oval through-holes and upper edge grooves are placed on food filled plates so that the plates can be stacked on top of each hollow ring. A cover with outwardly sloping sides has a handle with a lid and through-hole adjacent to the handle covers the top food filled plate in the stack. The stack can be placed in a microwave, heating oven, refrigerator or freezer. The through-holes in the rings and the cover act as vents to allow heat to be evenly dispersed about the food and to allow the food to be more evenly cooked when being microwaved. The cover and rings can be made of microwaveable plastic such as polypropylene. When not being used the rings can together be inserted into the cover for storage.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2000Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Inventor: Peter F. Collett
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Patent number: 6255636Abstract: Low-odor microwaveable polypropylene/mica food contact articles are disclosed. The articles are prepared by low temperature processing and typically include odor-suppressing basic organic or inorganic compounds. Preferably, the articles are substantially free from C8 and C9 organic ketones associated with undesirable odors. Further improvements to the articles include crack-resistant embodiments with synergistic amounts of polyethylene and titanium dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2000Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: Fort James CorporationInventors: Ronald L. Cochran, II, Mark B. Littlejohn, Donald C. McCarthy, Cristian M. Neculescu, Robert Patterson, Anthony J. Swiontek
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Patent number: 6239417Abstract: A method for serving a frozen confection includes the steps of: (a) providing a utensil including a bowl portion formed from a substantially rigid material that becomes heated when subjected to microwave radiation in a conventional microwave oven and including a handle portion attached to the bowl portion, formed from a substantially rigid material that substantially restricts the absorption of microwave energy; (b) subjecting the utensil to microwave energy for a predetermined period of time, so that the bowl portion becomes heated; and (c) manually gripping the handle portion of the utensil to scoop the frozen confection with the heated bowl portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Assignee: Hanover Catalog Holdings, Inc.Inventors: James F. Vidmar, Yading Wang, Robert S. Rheinish, Peter Rimback
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Patent number: 6229128Abstract: A system for preparing and cooking edible components in a microwave including different cells or compartments containing different components of the desired consumable product. Under pressure of the microwaves on the components, pressure of one or more components acts to break seals between the cells so that the components can mix and provide a desirable end product, which can be a liquid or solid form. The disposable system can make hot beverages such as espresso and cappuccino in a microwave oven. One of the ingredients can be a dairy product such as milk and the other can be water. One or more of the compartments may be made of a material to contract or expand under heat. This aids in creating or decreasing pressure on the components being processed for cooking.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2000Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Inventor: Nini Policappelli
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Patent number: 6211501Abstract: Low-odor microwaveable mineral-filled polypropylene food contact articles are disclosed. The articles are prepared by low temperature processing and typically include odor-suppressing basic organic or inorganic compounds. Preferably, the articles are substantially free from C8 and C9 organic ketones associated with undesirable odors. Further improvements to the articles include crack-resistant embodiments with synergistic amounts of polyethylene and titanium dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Fort James CorporationInventors: Donald C. McCarthy, Ronald L. Cochran, II, Mark B. Littlejohn, Cristian M. Neculescu, Robert Patterson, Anthony J. Swiontek
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Patent number: 6211500Abstract: Low-odor microwaveable polypropylene/mica food contact articles are disclosed. The articles are prepared by low temperature processing and typically include odor-suppressing basic organic or inorganic compounds. Preferably, the articles are substantially free from C8 and C9 organic ketones associated with undesirable odors. Further improvements to the articles include crack-resistant embodiments with synergistic amounts of polyethylene and titanium dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Fort James CorporationInventors: Ronald L. Cochran, II, Mark B. Littlejohn, Donald C. McCarthy, Cristian M. Neculescu, Robert Patterson, Anthony J. Swiontek
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Patent number: 6177663Abstract: A molding tube for the production of a bread product formed around a skewer (37). The skewer (37) is used in piercing ingredients used for flavor. The skewer (37) then organizes where chosen ingredient flavors will appear in the final food product. The skewer (37) may also used as a utensil in eating the final food product. One embodiment of the invention is the replacement of skewer (37) with a assembly consisting of a store bought candy stick (50) which has been connected to a pointed portion (43) via a post (66) and a pointed end (79). All embodiments of the present invention require support for skewer (37). The support may come from an insert (56) located in the uppermost opening of molding tube (61). The insert (56) has a fossa (57) or a plurality of fossa (57). Skewer (37) is supported by inserting skewer (37) into a compatible fossa (57). The insert (56) also has a vent (45) or a plurality of vent (45) which allow expanding gases to escape molding tube (61) during cooking.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Inventor: Gregory Michael Kula
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Patent number: 6175105Abstract: A container for microwave cooking having geometric features which improve the efficiency and uniformity of microwave cooking of food products containing liquids and which enhance boiling uniformity while preventing boilover of the contents. The container has a bottom portion and a side panel wherein the bottom portion contains a central segment in the shape of a section of a sphere. The side panel is tapered outwardly as it extends from the bottom portion to an end opening. Sharp corners are avoided within the container. As the result of the geometry of the container, a more uniform distribution of heat within the contents of the container is attained during cooking and the combination of uniform heating, the lack of sharp corners and the tapered side panel causes boiling of the contents without bumping, thereby minimizing the risk of boil over.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1998Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Assignee: BestfoodsInventors: Harry A. Rubbright, Nelson J. Beall, Stephen A. Gaeta, M. Debbie Meiners
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Patent number: 6137097Abstract: A pleated microwave liner bag comprising a plurality of liner pleats, is expandable in the preferred embodiment from initial dimensions of approximately 6 inches in height by 11 inches in width, to final dimensions as large as approximately 15 inches in height by 21 inches in width, by 1/8 inch increments. This liner bag, by virtue of its resizability (scalability), can be used to protect a wide range of sizes of microwave oven from spills and spatters associated with the microwave cooking and heating process.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1999Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Inventors: Rose Mary Smith, Elizabeth Hogan, David Hogan
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Patent number: 6121597Abstract: This invention provides a packaging bag for a microwave oven capable of allowing vapor generatetd during microwave heating to escape surely, which comprises a bag body comprising an upper side sheet portion and an underside sheet portion and an upper fin seal portion formed on the upper side sheet portion formed on the upper side sheet portion, wherein said upper fin seal portion is formed of heat-sealed laminated films comprising an inner layer film and an outer layer film, and wherein said upper fin seal portion comprises a non-sealed portion connecting with a container portion of the bag body, a projected portion projected from an inside end of a heat-scaled portion, and a weakly joined portion having a peel strength of 0.1 to 15 g/15 mm width formed between the inner layer film and the outer layer film at least surrounding the projected portion and connected with an outside end of the upper fin seal portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignees: Ace Package Co., Ltd., Ajinomoto Co., Inc.Inventors: Shoji Igota, Takeshi Fukumoto, Masanori Shibasaki
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Patent number: 6100512Abstract: Disposable food contact compatible microwaveable containers having at least one micronodular surface are disclosed. These containers including plates, bowls, cups, trays, buckets, souffle dishes, and lids are prepared from polypropylene or propylene-ethylene copolymer or blends, talc and mica mixtures and pigment and are thermoformed into the shape of the desired article of manufacture exhibiting (a) a micronodular surface on at least one side; (b) a melting point of not less than about 250.degree. F.; these articles of manufacture being dimensionally stable and resistant to grease, sugar, and water at temperatures up to at least 250.degree. F. and being of sufficient toughness to resist cutting by serrated polystyrene flatware.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1997Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Assignee: Fort James CorporationInventors: Cristian M. Neculescu, Richard J. Rogers, Mark B. Littlejohn
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Patent number: 6097017Abstract: A container for a food product (30) heated in a microwave oven comprises a base (2), one or more sides (3) extending from the base, said sides and base defining a receptacle for a food product and support means (5, 6) adapted to support the food product (30) above the base (2) to allow egress of water vapour from the food product in use.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Novus Foods LimitedInventor: Keith Pickford
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Patent number: 6093920Abstract: A method of microwave cooking, heating and re-heating includes the steps of placing food to be cooked, heated or re-heated into a microwave compatible container having an open mouth thereof and, thereafter, applying over said mouth of said microwave compatible container an FDA grade waxpaper having a basis weight in a range of about 15/25 to about 30/40. Thereafter, the container is placed in a microwave oven for less than a prescribed period of heating for such food type and quantity. Alternatively, such FDA grade waxpaper may be tightly wrapped or enclosed about food to be heated and thereafter placed within a microwave oven, thereby dispensing with the use of any microwave compatible container.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 1999Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Inventor: Darla L. Beckwith
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Patent number: 6080436Abstract: A method of refreshening a bread product by heating the bread product to a temperature between 2500.degree. F. and 4500.degree. F. The bread products are maintained at this temperature range for a period of 3 to 90 seconds.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1999Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Inventor: Terrance F. Lenahan
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Patent number: 6066840Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the temperature of food in a casserole dish is provided. The apparatus includes a casserole dish, a casserole lid, a thermal unit, and a container constructed for holding the thermal unit and the casserole dish in thermally conductive contact. A method for controlling the temperature of food in a casserole dish is provided. The thermal unit can be heated by placing the thermal unit in a microwave oven, and the thermal unit can be cooled by placing the thermal unit in a freezer.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Vesture CorporationInventors: Wayne D. Baldwin, Julie C. Lambert
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Patent number: 6054697Abstract: Pizza pan shielding systems and methods generally include one or more of the following: a pan, a bottom shield, a top shield, and a ring shield. Each of these elements preferably incorporates a plurality of perforations. The size, location and density of these perforations, and/or the material make-up of the element(s), determine whether certain types of baking energy from various heat sources will reach a food item located within the system. Substantial evenness of cooking results, in a short time period and at reasonably baking temperatures. Embodiments of the invention address the problems of underbaking in central areas of the food item and overbaking, dryness, microwave-induced toughness or burning of outer areas of the food item, such as a crust area. Embodiments of the invention have particular, though not exclusive, application to the pizza-baking devices and methods.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1998Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Assignee: Pizza Hut, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Woodward, David Z. Ovadia, Larry B. Johnson, Malcolm F. Dyer, Dana R. Reynolds
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Patent number: 5977531Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for facilitating the heating of a food product having an interior and an exterior, the device comprising an antenna for receiving microwave energy generated by a microwave source, such as a microwave oven, and converting the microwave energy into an electric current, and at least two probes in contact with the antenna and the interior of the food product for directing the current into the interior of the food product, whereby the interior of the food product is resistively heated.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1997Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Inventors: Dennis M. Pfister, Charles M. Byrd
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Patent number: 5954987Abstract: Disclosed is a microwave oven having a wrap film hanger. The microwave oven has a wrap film hanger for receiving a wrap film which is used for sealing an opened side of a vessel. The wrap hanger comprises a cover which is pivotably installed about a rear end thereof so that an opening formed at the upper surface of the outer panel is covered by the first cover, a support for rotatably supporting the roll of wrap film in a space formed between the first cover and an upper surface of the cabinet assembly, a first roller installed at a front inner side of the first cover, a second roller disposed below the first roller in such a manner that a nip is formed between the first and second rollers so that the wrap film is passed out through the nip, and a cutting means for cutting the wrap film when the wrap film passing through the nip is ejected from a gap formed between the first cover and the outer panel.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1998Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yong-woon Han
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Patent number: 5951905Abstract: In order to sufficiently and properly thaw frozen food such as frozen sushi, a thawing-heating tray made of dielectric material is provided with thick portions disposed in the central region and the peripheral region thereof, respectively. Fixed to this tray is a reflector. The frozen food is placed on the tray and is then thawed by an electronic oven.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1998Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: Kiyari Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shuichi Iwai, Takahiro Nonaka
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Patent number: 5935477Abstract: A microwave grilling apparatus comprising a continuous conductive grill element which is a continuous element shaped into a plurality of elements segments. At least a portion of the cross-sectional area of the elements segments of the continuous grill element has a surface area between about 5.times.10.sup.-3 cm.sup.2 to about 0.1 cm.sup.2. Additionally, a microwave grilling apparatus comprising multiple continuous grill elements and at least one tray is provided. The grill elements can be rectangular, round or other geometric configurations and are used for grilling comestibles in a microwave oven.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1996Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Assignee: Kontract Product Supply Inc.Inventor: Kamel K. Koochaki
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Patent number: 5928553Abstract: A sealed bag for microwave heating composed of a film having a fusing layer inside, said bag being sealed by fusing both sides of said film longitudinally with each other and both ends thereof laterally, wherein both sides of the film are turned outside to form two rows or turned-up faces, a turned-up line formed by said two rows of turned-up faces is covered with an easily openable fusing tape having an easily openable film inside and reinforced with a base material outside, said tape being fused with the turned-up faces of the film, and at least one end of the fusing tape not fused by a length which can be taken with fingers is left as a pick-up flap in the laterally fused area. When cooked food for a few people is hermetically packaged in this sealed bag and heated with a microwave oven, the bag is not broken until the internal temperature thereof approaches 100.degree. C.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1998Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Hoseki Planning, Sanwa Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd., Totai Co., Ltd.Inventors: Isao Toshima, Shinji Murata, Misao Kishi
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Patent number: 5925281Abstract: A microwave-reflective vessel with a cold-keeping agent is chilled in a freezer. Then a frozen foodstuff, contained in the chilled vessel, is deep heated by microwave energy while the foodstuff's surface is cooled by conventional heat loss to the chilled vessel. The invention concerns frozen, foodstuffs a) that are difficult to penetrate with a spoon, as frozen whipped cream, b) that frozen are too rigid to easily masticate, as a frozen Milky Way.RTM., and c) that, when cooled on the outside and warmed on the inside, provide a novel taste treat, as a cool outside, warm inside, jelly doughnut. Multiple purpose covers are disclosed that a) retard freezer burn when in a freezer, b) maintain freezing temperatures when in a microwave oven, and c) serve as chilled dessert dishes on the dining table.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1998Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Inventor: Melvin L. Levinson
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Patent number: 5919390Abstract: A package is described comprising a bag with at least two layers, an outer layer comprised of kraft paper and an inner layer comprised of a thinly extruded polymeric material. The bag is at least partially filled with raw, unshelled nuts or seeds for roasting. The product is roasted by placing the bag in a microwave oven and cooking for a predetermined time limit to achieve the desired texture and crunchiness of the roasted product, and then allowing the food contents to cool thereby improving the crunchiness of the roasted product.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1997Date of Patent: July 6, 1999Inventor: Rickey T. Childress
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Patent number: 5906764Abstract: An apparatus and method for baking dough capable of easily adjusting the texture of dough without changing the mixture of ingredients of the dough. The apparatus includes a microwave irradiation part provided with a downstream belt conveyor and an upstream belt conveyor which is disposed immediately before the downstream belt conveyor and moves slower than the downstream belt conveyor. When the apparatus is incorporated into a crumb production line or bread production line, crumbs and bread having different dough textures can be easily baked.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1997Date of Patent: May 25, 1999Assignee: Oshikiri Co., Ltd.Inventors: Minoru Suzuki, Satoshi Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 5893320Abstract: A device for improving the process of cooking fowl in a heated chamber, resulting in a cooked food that is nutritious, tasty, and low in fat content. The device includes an insert or mount that fits within the interior cavity of the fowl to be cooked. The device may also include a base plate connected to the insert or mount which is oriented vertically and holds the fowl upright to promote drainage of exuded liquidified fat. The device may also cause and/or promote convective, radiative, and conductive heating of the interior of the fowl while it is being cooked in the heated chamber. Finally, the device may contain liquids and also additives such as spices, with the liquid being vaporized and emitted through an aperture in the top portion of the insert or mount and then perfused through and forced out from the interior cavity of the fowl.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1997Date of Patent: April 13, 1999Inventor: Michael S. Demaree
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Patent number: 5893997Abstract: The invention concerns a microwave oven having an oven cavity which is split into a movable cavity part (4) integrated into the oven door (2) and a stationary cavity part (5), sectioning the cavity when the oven door (2) is opened. The oven comprises a load carrier (6) supporting a food stuff or beverage being heated in the oven the load carrier (6) is provided in either of said cavity parts such that it protrudes from the same. Thereby access to a foodstuff or beverage in the oven is facilitated without requiring a displacement of the same.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 1997Date of Patent: April 13, 1999Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventor: Conny Gustafsson
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Patent number: 5886329Abstract: An antibiotic microwave oven for cooking a foodstuff within its cooking chamber utilizing high frequency energy, including an antibiotic layer provided to the cooking chamber for killing bacteria bred within the cooking chamber contaminated by the foodstuff being cooked and for preventing the propagation of harmful microbes. The antibiotic layer is formed of zeolite-Ag, thus killing escherichia coli, salmonella typhimurium, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and bacillus alvei.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hyang-Gi Kim
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Patent number: 5866885Abstract: A stacking arrangement for simultaneously microwaving plural food filled plates together. Hollow rings with outwardly sloping sides each having side oval through-holes and upper edge grooves are placed on food filled plates so that the plates can be stacked on top of each hollow ring. A cover with outwardly sloping sides has a handle with a lid and through-hole adjacent to the handle covers the top food filled plate in the stack. The stack can be placed in a microwave, heating oven, refrigerator or freezer. The through-holes in the rings and the cover act as vents to allow heat to be evenly dispersed about the food and to allow the food to be more evenly cooked when being microwaved. The cover and rings can be made of microwaveable plastic such as polypropylene. When not being used the rings can together be inserted into the cover for storage.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1997Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Inventor: Peter F. Collett
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Patent number: 5858487Abstract: According to the present invention a non-stick, microwaveable food wrap for crispening and browning of food is provided comprising a non-stick layer; a polymeric film layer; an unperforated susceptor layer; an adhesive layer; a paper layer and optionally containing at least one encapsulated flavor and/or fragrance incorporated into the laminated non-stick microwaveable food wrap and freshly released by microwave heating into the food item while being cooked, browned and crispened.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1996Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Assignees: Joseph J. Funicelli, William L. BoehlerInventors: William L. Boehler, Joseph J. Funicelli
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Patent number: 5814396Abstract: A disposable three layered pad for collecting cooking grease. The top layer is made up of at least one ply of a grease absorptive sheet. The middle layer is a grease resistant sheet. Finally, the bottom layer is an anti-stick insulating sheet. The pad is dimensioned to cover a substantial portion of the bottom cooking area of a microwave oven.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Inventors: Ron J. Weidner, John C. Miller
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Patent number: 5750967Abstract: A food container having provision for storing a freezable chilling medium and having a valve for venting steam. The food container is divided into a food storage chamber and a chilling chamber for holding the chilled medium. These chambers are separated by a wall having an opening at the top enabling fluid communication between these chambers. The container is closed by a removable lid. A steam relief valve is disposed in the lid, sunken into a depression formed in the lid, so that the valve body is substantially flush with the lid. A handle in the form of ears projects from the valve for easy grasping. The valve is opened for microwave cooking of stored food, and closed for chilled storage. When heating, the chilled medium is removed. Optionally, water is placed in the empty chilling chamber, and steam generated upon heating migrates into the food storage chamber, thereby steaming the food.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1996Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Inventor: Joseph E. Sprauer, Jr.
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Patent number: 5690852Abstract: A sterilizing container including a container main body for storing therein a plurality of baby bottles and including an opening for storing therein water used to generate steam when the sterilizing container is inserted into and heated in a microwave oven, a cover member for covering the container main body from the upper portion of the front surface to the upper surface of the container main body and including a water pouring opening in the upper portion of the front surface thereof, a support member stored within the container main body and including a plurality of holders respectively for supporting baby bottles, and a tray member connected to the support member a substantially a right angle and stored within the container main body along the back surface thereof to the bottom surface thereof, the tray member having a certain degree of depth for being able to contain water.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1996Date of Patent: November 25, 1997Assignee: Combi CorporationInventors: Hideo Saito, Hiroaki Matsuda
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Patent number: 5685217Abstract: A device for cooking meatballs, which may be made for use in a microwave oven, conventional oven or stove-top. The invention comprises a horizontal drip pan having a plurality of relatively short vertical pegs projecting upward from the bottom, spaced throughout the pan sufficiently apart to allow each meatball to be impaled on a peg without touching its neighbor meatball. Each peg has a disk-like stop for supporting a meatball, and preventing it from sliding down the peg into the bottom of the pan. The pan is preferably fabricated of microwave-oven safe material, but can also be made of metal and covered with Teflon.RTM. or a similar anti-stick coating for better cleaning in stove-top or regular oven use. The pan is preferably dishwasher safe for easier cleaning.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1996Date of Patent: November 11, 1997Inventor: Rachel Kreitzer
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Patent number: 5596921Abstract: A thermally insulated cooking device, including an insulated container, a cooking spot suspended inside the insulated cooking container, an insulated outer lid which closes off an upper opening of the insulated container, and an inner lid for closing off an upper opening of the cooking pot. Further included is a heat retaining material that can be heated by microwaves, which is removably attached to an inner face of the insulated outer lid. By attaching the heat retaining material, after it has been heated in a microwave oven, a temperature drop inside the insulated container can be substantially and safely prevented since heat radiates from the heat retaining material into the insulated container. Moreover the heat retaining material can be safely handled.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1996Date of Patent: January 28, 1997Assignee: Nippon Sanso CorporationInventors: Takeshi Kuwana, Yoshiya Nishino, Yasuhiko Komiya, Kunio Matsuda
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Patent number: 5582758Abstract: A method and apparatus for vending a hot food product wherein a sealed container is moved from a protective sleeve and deposited in an oven where heat is transferred to the container for initially melting a protective sealing film and then heating the food product. After the food product has been heated, the container is removed from the oven and reinserted into the protective sleeve prior to dispensing the heated food product.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1995Date of Patent: December 10, 1996Assignee: Patentsmith Technology, Ltd.Inventors: Donald P. Smith, Michael J. Dobie, Alden B. Sparman, Sr., John R. Norris
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Patent number: 5571627Abstract: A susceptor according to the present invention includes a substrate having physical properties so that melting and size deformation of the substrate occur in response to microwave absorption by the susceptor. A metalized layer is coupled to the substrate, and supporting means is provided for supporting the substrate and the metalized layer.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1995Date of Patent: November 5, 1996Assignee: The Pillsbury CompanyInventors: Michael R. Perry, Ronald R. Lentz
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Patent number: 5569514Abstract: Sand-based biodegradable articles, such as planar frangible targets and formed three-dimensional tableware and food containers, are disclosed. The articles are made formed of a mixture of sand and a decomposable binder, the binder preferably comprising by weight 30-40% starch, 20-30% salt, 1-3% oil and water. The articles are preferably coated with a decomposable waterproof sealant.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1994Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Assignee: Nu-Tech & Engineering, Inc.Inventor: John Ayres
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Patent number: 5527413Abstract: A susceptor according to the present invention includes a substrate having physical properties so that melting and size deformation of the substrate occur in response to microwave absorption by the susceptor. A metalized layer is coupled to the substrate, and supporting means is provided for supporting the substrate and the metalized layer.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1993Date of Patent: June 18, 1996Assignee: The Pillsbury CompanyInventors: Michael R. Perry, Ronald R. Lentz
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Patent number: 5519195Abstract: A method and device for enhancing the heating of a surface layer of an article being heated by microwave energy is characterized by directing the energy through the surface layer into a main portion of the article in such a manner that the modes of the energy are in cut-off in the surface layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 1993Date of Patent: May 21, 1996Assignee: Beckett Technologies Corp.Inventors: Richard M. Keefer, Cindy M. Lacroix
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Patent number: 5436432Abstract: A new microwave autoclave apparatus, and a method for pasteurizing, sterilizing or retorting food product in a continuous mode, and in commercial quantities, using microwave radiant energy. In this new microwave autoclave apparatus, containers of food-stuff are held tightly within individual moving bottom vessel, and a corresponding moving top cover. The moulds therefrom, made of a material which is permeable to microwave radiation, are linked together to form a chain such that a continuous flow of container enters and leaves a microwave chamber. The synchronization of the moving top covers with the moving bottom vessels, and the opposing forces applied thereupon provide tightly fitted cavities capable of supporting substantial pressure, and thus providing a retort effect. The moulds prevent undesired expansion of containers during heating periods, without applying adverse pressure beyond its original shape during the cooling phase.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1993Date of Patent: July 25, 1995Inventor: Samuel A. Cyr