Having Vent Patents (Class 219/735)
  • Patent number: 11524477
    Abstract: A storage container includes a container body having a storage space defined therein; and a container cover coupled to one side of the container body to open and close the storage space, wherein the container body includes: an inner layer forming an inner face of the container body defining the inner space; and an outer layer bonded to the inner layer and forming an outer face of the container body. The inner layer is made of titanium first material, and the outer layer is made of aluminum second material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Hyungi Jung, Sangyong Lee, Seokjae Jeong
  • Patent number: 10932615
    Abstract: An apparatus to speed the heating of a soup-type comestible and to assist in the heat retention of the comestible includes a lithic body that is microwavable and food safe. The apparatus when placed in a bowl, arranges a quantity of soup-type comestible into a form readily heated by microwaves, and the apparatus is capable of functioning as a heat absorber and thermal reservoir to lose heat to the surrounding soup-type comestible after removal from the microwave oven in order to maintain a temperature for the comestible that is desirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Inventors: Jon C. Floyd, Eron Cavazos
  • Patent number: 10695738
    Abstract: A vessel system for high-pressure reactions is disclosed. The system includes a plugged polymer cylinder reaction vessel with a pressure vent opening extending radially through the wall of the reaction vessel and a supporting frame into which the vessel is received. Complementing keying structure elements on the vessel and on the frame limit the orientation of the reaction vessel in the supporting frame and the radially extending vent opening to a defined single position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: CEM Corporation
    Inventors: Ian Goldstein, Wyatt P. Hargett, III
  • Patent number: 10219544
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery device and a related method. The aerosol delivery device includes a heating chamber having an aerosol precursor composition disposed therein. A microwave radiation emitting device is operably engaged with the heating chamber and is configured to heat the aerosol precursor composition therein with the microwave radiation to form an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition. An outlet port is formed in a housing of the aerosol delivery device and is in fluid communication with the heating chamber. The heating chamber is responsive to a suction applied to the outlet port for the aerosol to be drawn through the outlet port outwardly from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: RAI Strategic Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric M. Sparklin, Sawyer A. Hubbard, Karen V. Taluskie, Stephen Benson Sears
  • Patent number: 10017317
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bottom part intended to receive food thereon, and a container part where the bottom part and the container part are intended to enclose the food. The package is provided with means to hold the bottom part and the container part together in a detachable fashion and means to separate the bottom part from the container part fully or partially. Separating takes the form of removing the bottom part with the bottom part of the package standing in an essentially horizontal position on a serving surface so that the food is so arranged as to come into contact with the serving surface, as a consequence of which the container part is essentially retained it its position enclosing the food. The invention also relates to a method for transferring food from a package to a serving surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Torus Pak Research and Development S.A.R.L.
    Inventor: Rickard Gillblad
  • Patent number: 8933381
    Abstract: Provided is a packaging pouch for a microwave oven, provided with a steam releasing seal portion having a weakened portion, in which no clogging occurs in the steam releasing seal portion at the time of heat-cooking in a microwave oven, and any clogging occurred can be automatically eliminated. In the present invention, hermetic sealing is effected through heat sealing of a plastic film, and at least one steam releasing seal portion having a weakened portion is provided, with a width of the weakened portion gradually increasing from a forward end portion thereof to be opened toward a rear end portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Toyo Seikan Kaisha, Ltd.
    Inventors: Keizou Kanzaki, Taketo Sakurai, Shie Nishimoto
  • Publication number: 20140370160
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a pouch for holding a fresh produce item and a method. The pouch includes (A) a body composed of at least one flexible multilayer film having a haze value less than 20%. The body further includes a front wall, a rear wall, and a gusset panel that form a closed chamber. (B) The gusset panel includes a rim. (C) A fresh produce item is located in the closed chamber. (D) The pouch has a chamber-to-rim ratio (mm) from 6:1 to 200:1. At least a portion of at least one wall is transparent permitting a person to see the fresh produce item in the pouch. The method includes displaying the fresh produce item through at least one of the front wall or the rear wall at a chamber-to-rim ratio from 6:1 to 200:1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: Dow Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Jill M. Martin, Haley Lowry, James F. Warner, Jihoon Kim, Thomas A. Herbert
  • Publication number: 20140348990
    Abstract: A system is provided for heating a comestible. The system includes a container and a flexible vented package containing a liquid, semi-solid or liquid/solid combination comestible. The package is positioned within the container in a manner that hinders the comestible from escaping through the package's vent(s). The container is penetrable to microwaves and is adapted to not experience heat-induced damage when subjected to a heating cycle in a combination microwave and convection oven. The container is adapted to protect the package from heat-induced damage when the container is subjected to a heating cycle in a combination microwave and convection oven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: Campbell Soup Company
    Inventors: Rasheed Mohammed, Adrienne Lynn Sienkowski, Talia Salamon-Hickey, Mohammed Karkache, Mark R. Watts, Amanda Zimlich, Allan Sinclair, Chris Dawson, James Howarth, William Cramer, John Baranowski
  • Patent number: 8866056
    Abstract: A multi-component packaging system includes a lower containing assembly, an upper containing assembly, and a cover. The lower containing assembly defines an interior cavity that is adapted to receive a first food component. The upper containing assembly defines an interior that is adapted to receive a second food component. The upper containing assembly is adapted for engagement with the lower containing assembly. The cover is engaged with at least one of the lower containing assembly and the upper containing assembly. The cover includes a passage portion that defines a plurality of apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: ConAgra Foods RDM, Inc.
    Inventors: Catherine M. Shapiro, Corey L. Berends, Brian M. Degner, Jess C. Sweley, Stephanie L. Bills, Christopher M. Branda, Kim M. Folta, Robert Kim, Sue Lai, Pamela A. Poulis, Jesse Jay Spungin, Katie M. Bartholomew, Lynda A. Deakin, Todd T. S. Holscher, Grace J. Hwang, Mark M. Kavanagh, Michelle S. K. Lee, Adam M. Mack, Eleanor D. Morgan, John W. Smith, David C. Thomsen, Gabriel M. Trionfi, Ana T. Yuan Chang
  • Patent number: 8847131
    Abstract: A rotary cooking apparatus for a microwave oven including a hollow drum for holding food, said drum including a first open end and a second closed end, a lid detachably securable onto said first end of said drum, wherein said lid includes a support shaft protruding from said lid operatively arranged to engage in a freely rotatable manner with a support means, and wherein said lid includes a ventilation hole, a ventilation insert secured between said cooking drum and said lid when said lid is secured onto said drum, wherein said ventilation insert includes a ventilation means, and a socket in said second end of said drum, wherein said socket has a shape corresponding to a cross-section of a head on a driving shaft of a motor, wherein said head of said driving shaft complimentarily engages in said socket for rotating said drum via said motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Lee Fang
  • Publication number: 20140251983
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention concern a removable cover for placement over food to be cooked in a microwave oven. The cover includes punchable perforations around the perimeter of the cover. The perforations are to be optionally punched out by the user to provide one or more holes for egress of moisture during cooking. The cover is configured as a dome, pyramid, cone or similar shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: Nasro Farah
  • Publication number: 20140224790
    Abstract: The applicant provides a heating vessel with a single lid for a microwave oven wherein boiling is maintained and overspill is unlikely to be ejected. In view of the fact that a wooden lid for an iron pot is flat, bulky and heavy, the applicant employs a thickened intermediate lid for a double-lid earthen pot for rice cooking that is used for heating with gas. By providing steam vents at equal intervals around the circumference of the lid, the soluble solids of cooked rice ejected due to boiling are returned into the earthen pot for rice cooking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Kazuyo KIMURA
  • Publication number: 20140197162
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a food package for cooking, storing and heating of ready-to-eat food.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventors: Joel Haamer, Martin Gustavsson
  • Publication number: 20140138376
    Abstract: A microwave container includes a container body and a lid. The container body has a bottom wall, a sidewall extending upwardly from a periphery of the bottom wall and ending at a rim. The lid has a top wall, a sidewall extending downwardly from a periphery of the top wall and ending at a brim. The lid is formed with a vent opening. The flap includes a proximal portion hingedly connected to the brim of the lid by a living hinge and an outwardly extending distal portion formed with a plug, wherein the flap is movable between a free-hanging position where the flap is hanging freely from the brim of the lid and a closed position where the flap is flipped about the hinge over a side of the lid and the plug is plugged into the vent opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventor: Chak Hong Gary CHEUNG
  • Patent number: 8729438
    Abstract: A cover for covering an opening of a container for a food stuff includes a substantially flat cover body including at least one aperture and at least one substantially flat flap. The at least one flap includes a linear proximal end configured to connect with the cover body and allow the at least one flap to rotate with respect to the cover body. A lower surface of the at least one flap includes a protrusion configured to close the at least one aperture when the at least one flap is at a first position in which the at least one flap is in parallel with the cover body. The cover body and the at least one flap are integrally formed by a co-injection molding. The container and cover are suitable for heating a food stuff in a microwave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Iwasaki Industry, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshihisa Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 8686324
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed package, for example a freezable, microwavable package containing a food product, having a sealing film that includes a vent system that is scored by a laser into the package. The vent system includes at least one linear or non-linear vent pattern scored into a portion of the outer surface of the sealing film so as to form at least one weakened wall pattern. According to certain embodiments, the vent pattern may be scored by a laser to a depth that does not perforate the sealing film. The inner surface of the sealing film that is adjacent to the weakened wall pattern is directly exposed to pressure that is generated in the inner region of the package during heating. According to some embodiments, the vent pattern may have a vent pattern span that is approximately 1% to 50% of the size of the inner region span.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Pliant, LLC
    Inventors: Jau-Ming Su, Paul Z. Wolak
  • Patent number: 8686322
    Abstract: A microwave heating construct includes a movable portion defined at least partially by lines of disruption extending between adjacent edges of the bottom panel. The movable portion is adapted to be moved towards the interior space for maintaining a food item in an elevated position within the construct. A susceptor or other microwave energy interactive element may be joined to the movable portion to enhance heating, browning, and/or crisping of the food item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventors: Vicki Laubhan, Kelly R. Fitzwater, Weston R. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20140072680
    Abstract: A microwave cooking system is described for use in cooking pasta and alike in a microwave oven. The microwave cooking system includes a base receptacle, a colander, and a ventilation cover. The colander is sized to be suspended and nested within a central cavity of the base receptacle. The ventilation cover is sized to mount on top of the colander. An optional storage lid may be included for use in sealably engaging onto the base receptacle in which the colander and the ventilation cover can be nested within the base receptacle sealed with the storage lid. The method includes the steps of affixing, cooking, filling, heating, obtaining, placing, removing, and repositioning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: TRISTAR PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Dilonardo, Jorge Prats
  • Publication number: 20140027446
    Abstract: The present document describes a cooking container for cooking foodstuff comprising: an edge having a seal separating the interior from the exterior of the cooking container; a steam valve formed in the seal, the steam valve comprising: a pressure accumulating portion; a pressure controlling portion; and a breakable seal between the pressure accumulating portion and the pressure controlling portion; whereby the breakable seal is breakable under an increase in pressure in the pressure accumulating portion during cooking thereby forming a gap/passage in the seal and permitting controlled evacuation of pressure from the interior of the cooking container through the gap/passage to the exterior, the pressure controlling portion restricting the evacuation of pressure relative to the pressure accumulating portion after the breakable seal is broken.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: ULTRAPERF TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventor: Christian von Glasow
  • Publication number: 20140010927
    Abstract: A packaged food product includes a food product; a packaging having an interior containing the food product, the packaging including a first film defining a recess to receive the food product, the first film having an anti-fog treatment applied to at least a portion of the recess, the first film configured to define a space between the food product and the first film and receive heated water vapor released from the food product during heating of the food product; and a second film releasably sealed to the first film, the second film comprising an absorbent layer configured to absorb moisture released from the food product; and at least one vent portion configured to relieve steam pressure from the interior during heating of the food product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: The Hillshire Brands Company
    Inventors: Benjamin M. Cichowski, Jeffrey Anthony Czarny
  • Patent number: 8592736
    Abstract: A microwave cooking system is described for use in cooking pasta and alike in a microwave oven. The microwave cooking system includes a base receptacle, a colander, and a ventilation cover. The colander is sized to be suspended and nested within a central cavity of the base receptacle. The ventilation cover is sized to mount on top of the colander. An optional storage lid may be included for use in sealably engaging onto the base receptacle in which the colander and the ventilation cover can be nested within the base receptacle sealed with the storage lid. The method includes the steps of affixing, cooking, filling, heating, obtaining, placing, removing, and repositioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Tristar Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul DiLonardo, Jorge Prats
  • Publication number: 20130266699
    Abstract: A free-standing, microwavable food container capable of being used for both high pressure processing (HPP) and microwave reconstitution of food products. The container is designed so as to be capable of being hand-held, even after microwave heating of the food products contained therein. The design of the container, coupled with the incorporation of the pressure release valve, enables the container to be used to both HPP preserve the food product and reconstitute the food product in the same container while retaining the original organoleptic properties of the preserved food, including taste, texture and appearance. A method of combining the high pressure processing of food products and microwave reconstitution in the stand-up container containing the pressure release valve is also described. Typical food products preserved include vegetables, proteins and/or carbohydrates, optionally coated or mixed with powdered, pellet or cube sauce or gravy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: H.J. HEINZ COMPANY
    Inventors: Jonathan MIDDIS, Dragoljub ZEC
  • Patent number: 8492691
    Abstract: A portable and microwave safe container for steaming food. The container includes a lid, having an upper and lower portion, for coupling over a substantially circular food chamber. The upper and lower lid portions are connected together for holding water and creating steam therebetween when microwaved. The lower lid portion includes a middle portion and an outwardly extending sloped channel for holding water therein. The middle portion includes a plurality of steam holes for allowing steam to escape after the water is heated and move into the food chamber for heating the food contained therein. The food chamber has a lip for allowing the lower lid portion to securely rest thereon and cover the food chamber. A pivoting handle is affixed to the lid for locking the lid to the food chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Sonia Corella Hernandez
  • Patent number: 8426787
    Abstract: A high speed, spill-proof cooking container is provided with a novel design allowing for faster cooking speeds for multiple food varieties as well as spill-proof features. The cooking container comprises a container body having an opening defined by a rim and a lid. Inside the container body spaced from the rim is a first ledge which divides the container body into an upper segment, and a lower segment which holds the contents to be cooked. The upper segment further contains a second ledge disposed inside the container body between the first ledge and the rim. In the most preferred embodiment, the second ledge is parallel to the first ledge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Dion Darling
  • Patent number: 8395100
    Abstract: A microwave heating construct includes a movable portion defined at least partially by lines of disruption extending between adjacent edges of the bottom panel. The movable portion is adapted to be moved towards the interior space for maintaining a food item in an elevated position within the construct. A susceptor or other microwave energy interactive element may be joined to the movable portion to enhance heating, browning, and/or crisping of the food item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventors: Vicki Laubhan, Kelly R. Fitzwater, Weston R. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8395101
    Abstract: A construct for heating a food product. The construct comprises a first centerline extending in a first direction and a second centerline extending in a second direction, wherein the first centerline is substantially perpendicular to the second centerline, a base, a pair of opposed platforms extending upwardly from the base. The pair of opposed platforms are separated by a recess extending in the second direction. The construct comprises at least one locating feature foldably connected to the construct and being located between the opposed platforms for locating a food product on one of the opposed platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick H. Wnek, Terrence P. Lafferty
  • Patent number: 8389915
    Abstract: The present document describes a cooking container for foodstuff in the form of a pouch made of a microwaveable heat-sealable polyester film. The polyester film comprises micro-perforations allowing controlled respiration of the film while maintaining atmospheric pressure inside the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Ultraperf Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Allen Taylor, Christian von Glasow
  • Patent number: 8367989
    Abstract: The invention relates to a removable lid for defining a food cooking or heating enclosure (5) in a microwave oven, comprising an outer wall (2) pervious to microwaves and sealed for air and steam, an inner wall (3) pervious for microwaves and adapted for the passage of air and steam, and an intermediate ply (4) made of a porous water-retaining material and provided between the inner and outer walls, characterised in that the outer wall (2) includes at its inner face oriented towards the inner wall (3) at least one convex conformation (10) for defining a cold condensation area, the inner wall (3) being open opposite each convex conformation in order to expose at least the portion of the intermediate ply (4) surrounding the convex conformation (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Georges Pralus
  • Patent number: 8343561
    Abstract: Provided is a package for cooking in a microwave oven, in which a synthetic resin container body having a flange part is filled with contents and a lid is heat-sealed to the flange part to seal the package hermetically. Independent concave parts sandwiching a heat-sealed part are provided in a part of the flange part on the inner and outer sides of the heat-sealed part to form, on the heat-sealed part, a projection part directed to the inner direction of the container and serving as a steam releasing part by automatically opening. The package is prevented from being broken or deformed by preventing the heat-sealed part from being peeled immediately after the contents are placed in the container body. When heating cooking is performed in a microwave oven, the package improves the taste of the contents by the steaming effect. The lid is sure to automatically open by the increase of the pressure in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Toyo Seikan Kaisha, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hisakazu Yasumuro, Shinji Tanaka, Kikuo Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20120321765
    Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided a flexible container for use by the end user as a cooking utensil. Said container comprises a front and rear panel formed of a food safe material and sealed at three sides, the rear panel being extended beyond the front panel on the unsealed fourth side to form a flap. On the upper side of the flap is formed an adhesive strip provided with a removable cover strip intended to be removed by the user when closing the container. The user is instructed to fold the container across both layers rather than simply across the junction of the flap and front panel in order to seal it prior to cooking. This creates a container which is effectively sealed but which is capable of releasing excess pressure above that level needed to steam the contents thoroughly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Planit Products Ltd.
    Inventor: Guy Darell Unwin
  • Patent number: 8294070
    Abstract: A cooking appliance includes a recirculating airflow which is directed through particularly configured air plenum and nozzle structure that synergistically combine to enhance an overall cooking efficiency and effectiveness. In particular, the configuration of the air plenum, as well as the sizing and distribution of oven cavity entry nozzles, provides for an enhanced flow of heated air to the food product, thereby resulting in short cooking times due to high heat transfer while also providing an even browning and crisping of the food item being cooked. In addition, the cooking appliance incorporates an exhaust system wherein cooling air and a percentage of the recirculating airflow are mixed prior to being exhausted from an angled exhaust mixing tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: ACP, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert McNamee, Robert A. Schulte
  • Patent number: 8247751
    Abstract: The invention relates to a microwave pressure cooker including a container open at its top which includes a cover with a gasket adapted for ledge interlock type sealing and lug locking engagement with the container. There are two regulator opening means provided as valve opening through the cover (2) such that one of the deformable diaphragm type pressure regulator means formed are disposed on these regulator opening means which deform responsive to the pressure in the enclosure. A push rod type gasket offset device means is also provided on locking lug and opening and closing aid of the cover for releasably maintaining the container and the cover in sealing engagement. Further a filter is disposed removably on the first regulator opening means, which controls the pressure building within the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: TTK Prestige Limited
    Inventor: Tiruvallur Thatai Jagannathan
  • Patent number: 8198571
    Abstract: A construct for heating, browning, and/or crisping a food item in a microwave oven includes a plurality of compartments, at least one of which is defined at least partially by a microwave energy interactive insulating material that includes a layer of microwave energy interactive material supported on a polymer film, and a second polymer film layer that at least partially defines a plurality of expandable insulating cells that inflate upon exposure to microwave energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventors: Lorin R. Cole, Scott W. Middleton
  • Publication number: 20110120993
    Abstract: A multi-component package is provided which enables simultaneous heat cooking of a food product which does not require a long cooking time and a food product which requires a longer cooking time. The multi-component package includes a lower container comprising a bottomed, lower container main body for containing a first food product. The container further includes an upper container comprising an upper container main body for containing a second filled food product. A flange of the lower container main body and a flange of the upper container main body are engaged with each other so that the lower container and the upper container are combined integrally. A vapor vent is provided in a lower container lid material, whereby water vapor generated upon heating of the first food product heats the second food product in the upper container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Kathryn Marie Birchmeier, Paul Andrew Cogley, Noriko Sakamoto, Koji Otsuka, Takashi Kado
  • Patent number: 7717285
    Abstract: The disposable splatter guard is a cover for food being heated in a microwave oven. The splatter guard has a fluted wall member and a semi-rigid, pyramidal top made from a fluted material. The flutes of the wall member and the pyramidal top maintain rigidity and prevent the splatter guard from collapsing into the food product. The top has a plurality of vents to allow steam to escape. The pyramidal configuration prevents condensation from dripping back onto the cooked food and permits easy stacking and dispensing. The disposable splatter guard is made from a microwave transparent material, such as paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Bradley W. Price
  • Patent number: 7709069
    Abstract: Provided are high temperature, venting food preparation bags used to package food products for storage, transportation, and preparation and methods for making and using the same. High temperature, venting food preparation bags are composed of a sealed end, an open end, at least one side wall composed of a first thermoplastic film having a vent, and a vent seal composed of a second thermoplastic film. The vent seal is fused to the sidewall via a non-adhesive seal thereby closing the vents. At elevated temperatures, the vent seal at least partially detaches from the side wall thereby opening the vents. Opening of the at least one vent is not dependent upon the accumulation of internal fluid or gaseous pressure, and is compatible with vacuum packaging techniques. Vented cooking techniques are provided that permit browning and crisping of beef and poultry without manipulating the food preparation bag during cooking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: M & Q Packaging Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Schmal, Ernest E. Bachert, John A. Menges
  • Patent number: 7611557
    Abstract: A reversed pressure relief valve that is used in connection with a computer hard disk drive so as to vent pressurized gases contained within the disk drive while not permitting debris to enter the drive mechanism or the valve. More specifically, the present invention is a reversed direction valve which includes at least one passageway defined by at least a lifter ring, a dry strap, a pressure sensitive adhesive (“PSA”)/body film and a filter media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Plitek, LLC
    Inventor: Karl K. Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20090218337
    Abstract: A rotary cooking apparatus for a microwave oven including a hollow drum for holding food, said drum including a first open end and a second closed end, a lid detachably securable onto said first end of said drum, wherein said lid includes a support shaft protruding from said lid operatively arranged to engage in a freely rotatable manner with a support means, and wherein said lid includes a ventilation hole, a ventilation insert secured between said cooking drum and said lid when said lid is secured onto said drum, wherein said ventilation insert includes a ventilation means, and a socket in said second end of said drum, wherein said socket has a shape corresponding to a cross-section of a head on a driving shaft of a motor, wherein said head of said driving shaft complimentarily engages in said socket for rotating said drum via said motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Lee Fang
  • Publication number: 20090200296
    Abstract: [Purpose] To provide a container assembly suitable for heating a food stuff therein with a heating device such as a microwave and a cover thereof. [Solution] A cover for covering an opening of a container for a food stuff comprising: a substantially flat cover body including at least one aperture, at least one substantially flat flap including a linear proximal end configured to connect with the cover body, the proximal end allowing the at least one flap to rotate with respect to the cover body, wherein a lower surface of the at least one flap includes a protrusion configured to close the at least one aperture when the at least one flap is at a first position in which the at least one flap is in parallel with the cover body, the cover body and the at least one flap are integrally formed by a co-injection molding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Yoshihisa Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 7573010
    Abstract: A package for heating a microwave food item is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, Inc.
    Inventor: Lorin R. Cole
  • Publication number: 20090179029
    Abstract: A microwave cooking system is described for use in cooking pasta and alike in a microwave oven. The microwave cooking system includes a base receptacle, a colander, and a ventilation cover. The colander is sized to be suspended and nested within a central cavity of the base receptacle. The ventilation cover is sized to mount on top of the colander. An optional storage lid may be included for use in sealably engaging onto the base receptacle in which the colander and the ventilation cover can be nested within the base receptacle sealed with the storage lid. The method includes the steps of affixing, cooking, filling, heating, obtaining, placing, removing, and repositioning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Paul DILONARDO, Jorge PRATS
  • Publication number: 20090107993
    Abstract: A pasta cooking system 10 comprises a container body 1, a pasta holder 2, a lid 3, and a cap 4, wherein raised ridges are formed on the bottom surface of the pasta holder 2 to prevent pasta from sticking to each other. A fitting section 9 of the container body and a bottom fitting section 13 of the lid 3 are engaged together, while the upper fitting section 11 of the lid and the fitting section 12 of the cap 4 are engaged together. An Opening 26 and a steam-releasing groove 18 of the lid 3 and/or a gap between the fitting section 9 of the container body 1 and the bottom fitting section 13 of the lid 3 provides a path for air and steam generated within the container, controlling steam pressure within the container and preventing water therein from boiling out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: News Chef, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshio Ohyama
  • Publication number: 20090061053
    Abstract: A susceptor includes a flexible substrate and a metallic material provided on at least one surface of the substrate. A first plurality of ventilation apertures are formed in the substrate and the metallic material, and the first plurality of ventilation apertures are configured to permit a fluid to pass through the substrate and the metallic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Ian Michael Daines Gaylor, Charles Daniel Bonner, Annie Louise Charlotte Broadhurst
  • Patent number: 7482561
    Abstract: A spatter guard for covering food in an oven. The guard includes: a first shell configured to cover food, having: a first semi-hemispherical barrier member with a plurality of apertures therein. Additionally, there is a second shell pivotally coupled to the first shell to substantially form a hemispherical barrier and an array of substantially parallel semi-hemispherical barriers. The array includes a second semi-hemispherical barrier member with a plurality of apertures therein. Moreover, the first shell has a plurality of protrusions extending downwardly from a bottom of the first hemispherical barrier member to space the first shell from a surface. Further, there is a flange that extends outwardly from a bottom of the first hemispherical barrier member. Further, the second shell has a protrusion extending outwardly therefrom and is configured to be used as a handle for actuating the second shell between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Bradley Henderson
  • Publication number: 20080251518
    Abstract: A self-venting cover for a heatable food package comprises a sheet of film having a slit formed therein to permit the passage of steam therethrough. A label is secured to the film for controlling the flow of steam through the opening. The label includes a sheet of material having a first region secured to the film in an area remote from the slit and having a second elongated region covering the slit. The elongated region is only partially secured to the film and forms a vent passage between the unsecured portion of the elongated region and the film itself, which vent passage extends from the slit towards the periphery of the label to permit controlled venting of steam from the opening. The elongated region of the label is relatively narrow and the first region is relatively wide and is located spaced from the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: FFP PACKAGING SOLUTIONS LIMITED
    Inventor: Gary Tee
  • Publication number: 20080248173
    Abstract: A device to improve microwave cooking is described. The device (10) comprises a plurality of containers (12, 22) that include a venting mechanism (15, 25) on each container (12, 22). On of the containers (12) defines a first volume (14) for holding food. Another container (22) defines a second volume (24) and is operatively coupled to the first container (12). During microwaving of the food, steam is released into the first volume (14) defined by one of the containers (12). Pressure builds up creating a first pressure treatment for the food until the venting mechanism (15) is activated. Steam exits the first volume (14) through the venting mechanism (15) and enters the second volume (24). Again, pressure builds up to create a second pressure treatment for the food until the venting mechanism (25) for the container (22) is activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Gary L. Hopkins Sr.
  • Publication number: 20080210686
    Abstract: A multi-component packaging system includes a lower containing assembly, an upper containing assembly, and a cover. The lower containing assembly defines an interior cavity that is adapted to receive a first food component. The upper containing assembly defines an interior that is adapted to receive a second food component. The upper containing assembly is adapted for engagement with the lower containing assembly. The cover is engaged with at least one of the lower containing assembly and the upper containing assembly. The cover includes a passage portion that defines a plurality of apertures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: ConAgra Foods RDM, Inc.
    Inventors: Catherine M. Shapiro, Corey L. Berends, Brian M. Degner, Jess C. Sweley, Stephanie L. Bills, Christopher M. Branda, Kim M. Folta, Robert Kim, Sue Lai, Pamela A. Poulis, Jesse Jay Spungin, Katie M. Bartholomew, Lynda A. Deakin, Todd T.S. Holscher, Grace J. Hwang, Mark M. Kavanagh, Michelle S.K. Lee, Adam M. Mack, Eleanor D. Morgan, John W. Smith, David C. Thomsen, Gabriel M. Trionfi, Ana T. Yuan Chang
  • Publication number: 20080105674
    Abstract: A container structure comprises a lid and a holder. The lid has a through hole having air-permeable troughs having inner and outer openings. The inner and outer openings of adjacent air-permeable troughs are in opposite directions. An elastic plug is fitted within the through holes and an air-permeable passageway is formed. By providing the air-permeable passageway, high-temperature circular vapors are regulated and vented, thereby preventing the lid from being blown open by the vapors. Clip-on pieces and lower ribs are provided on a sealing portion of the lid. Upward bending portions and upper ribs are provided on a marginal frame portion of the holder. The lid is securely fitted onto the holder by mutual restriction of the lower and upper ribs. Pressing the clip-on pieces down will make the sealing portion deformed and the lower ribs freed from the restriction of the upper ribs to open the lid quickly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Mu-Chuan Hsu
  • Publication number: 20080078760
    Abstract: A container cover for use with a container having a neck. The cover includes a lid, a skirt extending downward from the circumference of the lid, and a concentric plug seal extending from the lid inside the skirt. The cover also may include vent holes in the lid. The skirt preferably includes six lock panels. The sides of the lock panels are defined by vertical slots in the skirt, and each lock panel features at least one inwardly-projecting lock. When the cover is locked on the container, the locks engage a lip on the container neck. When a user wishes to remove the cover, the user pulls up on the edge of a lock panel, disengaging the locks from the container lip and removing the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Robert Thomas Auer, Jason Wesley Stull
  • Patent number: 7326895
    Abstract: A spatter guard for covering food in an oven. The guard includes: a first shell configured to cover food, having: a first semi-hemispherical barrier member with a plurality of apertures therein. Additionally, there is a second shell is pivotally coupled to the first shell to substantially form a hemispherical barrier and an array of substantially parallel semi-hemispherical barriers. The array includes a second semi-hemispherical barrier member with a plurality of apertures therein. Moreover, the first shell has a plurality of protrusions extending downwardly from a bottom of the first hemispherical barrier member to space the first shell from a surface. Further, there is a flange that extends outwardly from a bottom of the first hemispherical barrier member. Further, the second shell has a protrusion extending outwardly therefrom and is configured to be used as a handle for actuating the second shell between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Bradley J. Henderson