Portable Container Or Tank Patents (Class 392/444)
  • Patent number: 9241594
    Abstract: Provided in some embodiments is a beverage brewing device that includes a housing and a fill-port located on front side of the housing. The fill-port includes an inlet that may accept a fluid supply container. Provided in some embodiments is a method of preparing a brewed beverage that includes coupling a fluid supply container to a fill-port located on a front side of a brewing device, routing a fluid contained in the fluid container from the fluid container to a heat-exchange device to heat the fluid, routing the heated fluid to a brewing container to brew the fluid, and routing the brewed fluid into a beverage container used for serving the brewed beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: ENFLITE, INC.
    Inventors: Steve Martin Rodriguez, Anthony John Merkel
  • Patent number: 9101242
    Abstract: A set of articles comprises a beverage making device (1), at least one pad holder which is suitable for receiving and supporting at least one pad comprising a filter envelope and containing a quantity of beverage extract, and at least one brewing unit (21) having a space (23) for receiving and accommodating a quantity of beverage extract in a loose form. Advantageously, the space (23) of the at least one brewing unit (21) is large enough for enabling the brewing unit (21) to be used in a process of making a considerably larger quantity of beverage than may be obtained by using at least one pad and a pad holder. In this way, it is achieved that it is possible to make a large variety of quantities of beverage without a need of using another beverage making device (1), wherein a range of possible quantities may run from one cup to an entire jug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Klaas Kooijker, Martijn Douwes, Gertrude Riette Van Der Kamp
  • Patent number: 8909033
    Abstract: A method is provided for interconnecting a single electrical heating element of a hot water heater to first and second AC electrical power sources. Typically, these first and second AC electrical power sources include a utility provided electrical power source and a renewable power source that generates AC power from DC power. The method includes operating a controller that selectively connects and disconnects the first and second power sources. If sufficient electrical power is available from the renewable power source, the utility provided electrical power source may be disconnected to preferentially utilize renewable energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: David Kreutzman
  • Patent number: 8831412
    Abstract: A housing for transporting a generally cylindrical canister configured to store at least one of a pressurized gas and a pressurized liquid. The housing includes a first housing section and a second housing section that is movable with respect to the first housing section from a first operating condition to a second operating condition. A heat transfer element is coupled to at least one of the first and the second housing sections to define at least a portion of a boundary of a generally cylindrical volume. The canister is generally fixed from movement with respect to the first and the second housing sections when the second housing section is in the first operating condition, and the canister is movable with respect to the first and the second housing sections and configured to be removed from the generally cylindrical volume when the second housing section is in the second operating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Modine Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Zachary T. Ouradnik, Timothy J. Carlson, Roy J. Ingold, Brian Merklein, Eric J. Boticki, Jeroen Valensa, Michael P. Devine, Gregg D. Olson
  • Patent number: 8742297
    Abstract: The bottle warming device of the present invention includes a housing, a heating element disposed in the housing, and a basket receivable in the housing. The basket is movable between a first position in which a bottom of the basket is positioned a first distance from a top of the housing, and a second position in which the bottom of the basket is positioned a second distance from the top of the housing, the first distance being greater than the second distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Zakowski, Caitlin Bart
  • Patent number: 8467669
    Abstract: The present technology enables data communication between a kettle body and a power base of a cordless kettle. This enables a user to view kettle data and control functions or parameters such as temperature, from the power base of a cordless kettle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Brevilie Pty Limited
    Inventors: Lochana Subasekara Widanagamage Don, Eddie Siu
  • Patent number: 8467670
    Abstract: A hot beverage making container having a main body that includes a water tank and a heating chamber separated by a first valve. A removable brewing cup is connected to the main body and is separated from the heating chamber by a second valve. A tube extends from the brewing cup, through the main body, and out of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Pierre Maurice Baston
  • Patent number: 8397629
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly for a machine for preparing beverages by infusion of a liquid, that includes a holder (10), a boiler (20) for heating the liquid for producing beverages, assembling element (21 a,21 b, 25) provided so as to selectively allow the connection and removable disconnection of the boiler on the holder (10), a first fluid communication element connected to the boiler (20) and a second fluid communication element connected to a fluid inlet circuit and/or a fluid outlet circuit, the first and second fluid communication element being adapted to interact in order to provide fluid communication between the boiler and a fluid inlet circuit and/or fluid outlet circuit, characterized in that it is adapted so that the connection and the disconnection between the boiler (20) and the holder (10) respectively enables and disables the interaction between the first and second fluid communication element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Compagnie Mediterraneenne des Cafes (SA)
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Blanc, Alain Goering
  • Publication number: 20120288262
    Abstract: The heated water bucket includes a rubber bodied bucket with an integrated heating unit fitted to the bottom of the bucket. The heating unit covers the entire bottom of the bucket acting as a false “bottom” so that the heating unit does not appear as a foreign object within the bucket. The heating unit is held to the bottom of the bucket by a peripheral flange that extends radially around the inside of the bucket sidewall. The rubber construction of the bucket itself makes the invention more durable, but also improves the bucket's thermal insulation properties, making it more efficient than conventional heated plastic buckets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Benjamin Clark, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120201524
    Abstract: A housing for transporting a generally cylindrical canister configured to store at least one of a pressurized gas and a pressurized liquid. The housing includes a first housing section and a second housing section that is movable with respect to the first housing section from a first operating condition to a second operating condition. A heat transfer element is coupled to at least one of the first and the second housing sections to define at least a portion of a boundary of a generally cylindrical volume. The canister is generally fixed from movement with respect to the first and the second housing sections when the second housing section is in the first operating condition, and the canister is movable with respect to the first and the second housing sections and configured to be removed from the generally cylindrical volume when the second housing section is in the second operating condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Zachary T. Ouradnik, Timothy J. Carlson, Roy J. Ingold, Brian Merklein, Eric J. Boticki, Jeroen Valensa, Michael P. Devine, Gregg D. Olson
  • Publication number: 20120002954
    Abstract: A radiator for domestic heating with a heat-transfer fluid operating in two-phase form includes a reservoir of the heat-transfer fluid; a hot source, intended to raise the temperature of the heat-transfer fluid to a temperature such that it causes said fluid to undergo a change of phase; and a heater, at which the heat transfer with ambient air takes place, having n channels, communicating in a lower zone with the reservoir, it being possible for n to be equal to 1. The heat-transfer fluid is a mixture of at least two different heat-transfer liquids, the heat-transfer liquids having between them boiling points differing by at least ten degrees Celsius, and the liquid with the lowest boiling point representing 70% to 95% of the volume of the mixture for a mixture temperature of about 20° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventors: Stephane Colasson, Alain Marechal
  • Patent number: 8067717
    Abstract: A cooking facilitator which is preferably portable and well suited for use as both a timer and cooking process facilitator having particular usefulness with cooking objects which have a characteristic associated with establishing a cooking time such as the weight of a turkey in the case of deep frying a turkey or the thickness of a steak in deep frying the same. A gas flow timer for shutting off an overheated or unattended cooking system is also featured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Masterbuilt Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Don McLemore, John McLemore
  • Patent number: 8045848
    Abstract: A babycare heating apparatus comprising a vessel (2;102) for containing water and a heating element (15;115) for heating water held in the vessel, characterized by: a temperature sensor (22;42,123) for sensing a temperature rise effected by operation of the heating element (15); and control means (25;125) for controlling the energizing of the heating element (15;115) in dependence on the output of the temperature sensor (22;42;123) and being configured to de-energize the heating element (15;115) if the change in the temperature, sensed by the sensor (22;42;123), meets a predetermined criterion. The apparatus can be used as a sterilizer or a bottle warmer, and its uses a measure of the rate of heating during operation to determine whether the apparatus has been correctly charged with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Mark John Wortley
  • Patent number: 8035064
    Abstract: The product is basically a heating blanket that is adapted in size to fit around a canister of refrigerant used to recharge heat pumps, air conditioners and refrigerators in a commercial or home setting. The blanket has a heating element within it which heats the canister when placed around the canister. From one corner of the blanket is an electrical cord which runs to a small control unit and then to a plug that fits a common 110 voltage household outlet. The control unit consists of a fitting that is designed to be attached to the valve on the top of the refrigerant canister. This fitting is attached to a pressure sensitive valve that sense the pressure of the refrigerant that passes through the valve. This pressure sensitive valve turns off the flow of electric to the blanket when the gas hits a certain pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Craig Fish
  • Publication number: 20110211818
    Abstract: Fracturing fluid in a fluid tank is heated at a wellsite to protect against freezing of the fluid because of cold weather conditions. Convection currents induced in the fluid during heating cause fluid circulation in the tank to stir the fluid without additional equipment for that purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: Grady Rentals, LLC
    Inventor: Bradley R. Grady
  • Publication number: 20110103779
    Abstract: A hot beverage making container having a main body that includes a water tank and a heating chamber separated by a first valve. A removable brewing cup is connected to the main body and is separated from the heating chamber by a second valve. A tube extends from the brewing cup, through the main body, and out of the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: AMIAS TRADING COMPANY
    Inventor: Pierre Maurice Baston
  • Patent number: 7933506
    Abstract: A heat reservoir for storing the energy necessary for powering heat engines, particularly steam engines, is disclosed. The heat reservoir converts electrical energy into thermal energy through the use of electrical resistance heating coils bathed in one or more high heat capacity metals. Loss of heat through thermal conduction is minimized through the use of an insulating jacket surrounding the reservoir. The stored heat can be quickly transferred to a working fluid, such as steam, by using both a heat storage metal and a heat exchanger metal that possess high thermal conductivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: James Allen Kodak
  • Publication number: 20110058798
    Abstract: A liquid heating apparatus has a first mode of operation in which a first volume of water can be heated and a second mode of operation in which a second, smaller volume of water can be heated and automatically dispensed. The first mode may be provided by a removable liquid heating vessel. The second mode may be provided by a second heating chamber comprising a heater arranged to heat liquid and dispense it through an outlet. The second heating chamber is filled with water from the removable liquid heating vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: STRIX LIMITED
    Inventors: Vincent Joseph Garvey, Colin Moughton
  • Patent number: 7903957
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: C Change Surgical LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Kammer, Kevin Joseph Rackers
  • Publication number: 20110033176
    Abstract: An apparatus for heating a measured amount of water comprises a heating chamber, a dispensing chamber and a conduit for conveying water from the heating chamber to an inlet of the dispensing chamber. The apparatus is arranged such that an increase in pressure associated with boiling forces heated water into the conduit and then into the dispensing chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: STRIX LIMITED
    Inventors: Vincent Joseph Garvey, Colin Moughton, Norman Eric Nichol
  • Publication number: 20110008029
    Abstract: An automatic switch (3) for an electric domestic appliance (1, 13, 33, 36) is provided. The switch comprises a base (4) and associated electronic circuitry (8) for inclusion in an electric power supply circuit that includes a heating element whereby liquid in a container may be heated to boiling temperature. The switch includes a sensor (7, 18) for monitoring radiation emanating from the surface (6) of liquid to be boiled in a container and preferably also a radiation source (5, 19) to produce radiation that is reflected off the liquid surface. The sensor is configured to provide a first output associated with radiation sensed whilst a generally quiescent state of the surface prevails, and to provide a second output associated with radiation sensed when a generally turbulent state of the surface of the liquid prevails that is associated with the onslaught of boiling of the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Von Seidel
  • Publication number: 20100158489
    Abstract: The present technology enables data communication between a kettle body and a power base of a cordless kettle. This enables a user to view kettle data and control functions or parameters such as temperature, from the power base of a cordless kettle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Eddi Siu, Lochana Subasekara Widanagamage Don
  • Patent number: 7539402
    Abstract: An electrical household liquid-heating appliance includes a housing (10), electrical heating elements, a switch, a button (16) pivotable about an axis between an on position and an off position and having an actuation surface, and a switch actuation lever (28) movable between an operative position in which the switch is closed and an inoperative position in which the switch is open. The button (16) is biased into a so-called neutral intermediate position by a resilient member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
  • Publication number: 20080317449
    Abstract: An electrical household liquid-heating appliance includes a housing (10), electrical heating elements, a switch, a button (16) pivotable about an axis between an on position and an off position and having an actuation surface, and a switch actuation lever (28) movable between an operative position in which the switch is closed and an inoperative position in which the switch is open. The button (16) is biased into a so-called neutral intermediate position by a resilient member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
  • Patent number: 7468497
    Abstract: A heatable container suitable for material such as bitumen. The container includes a vessel for holding a flowable material having side wall zones, end wall zones and a base wall zone. The container also includes a heating system for transferring heat to at least the base wall zone as well as a zone disposed along a central longitudinal axis of the vessel. The heating system may also included at least two internal heating ducts for conveying a heat transfer medium, wherein the ducts are disposed substantially parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis of the vessel, and are vertically and horizontally spaced apart relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Cont-Asphalt Ltd.
    Inventor: Jacques Grisoni
  • Patent number: 7458316
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for brewing coffee, which includes a housing having an inner chamber for receiving and retaining brewed coffee, a water reservoir adjacent to and generally surrounding the inner chamber, for receiving water, and an electrically powered coil for heating the water contained in the water reservoir. A brew valve is positioned above the inner chamber for supporting coffee grounds, the brew valve being rotatable between a first inactive position and a second active position for brewing coffee. Heated water is directed from the water reservoir to the brew valve and to the coffee grounds to brew coffee. and to the coffee grounds to produce brewed coffee, and into the inner chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph Scelza
  • Publication number: 20080199164
    Abstract: A babycare heating apparatus comprising a vessel (2;102) for containing water and a heating element (15;115) for heating water held in the vessel, characterised by: a temperature sensor (22;42,123) for sensing a temperature rise effected by operation of the heating element (15); and control means (25;125) for controlling the energising of the heating element (15;115) in dependence on the output of the temperature sensor (22;42;123) and being configured to de-energise the heating element (15;115) if the change in the temperature, sensed by the sensor (22;42;123), meets a predetermined criterion. The apparatus can be used as a steriliser or a bottle warmer and its uses a measure of the rate of heating during operation to determine whether the apparatus has been correctly charged with water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: CANNON RUBBER LIMITED
    Inventor: Mark John Wortley
  • Patent number: 7327949
    Abstract: A heating assembly for a respiratory treatment machine includes a base and a water tank. The base has a receiving space communicating with a recessed platform at a via an opening, and a heating plate securely placed on a bottom face of the receiving space. The water tank has a main receptacle, a secondary receptacle integrally formed and communicating with the main receptacle and movably received inside the receiving space, a conducting plate securely provided at a bottom face of the main receptacle and an extension integrally formed with the conducting plate and provided at a bottom face of the secondary receptacle. The extension has a dimension corresponding to that of the heating plate such that after the secondary receptacle is received inside the receiving space, the extension is placed on top of the heating plate and engaged with the heating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Apex Medical Corp.
    Inventors: Yao-Ming Cheng, Kung-Kuan Lai, Chun-Wei Huang
  • Patent number: 7316249
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing infant formula including, a steriliser (2) for sterilising a bottle, a milk powder container (4) for dispensing milk powder into the bottle, a water container (3) for dispensing water into the bottle and a controller (8) to control operation of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: How Onn Cheong
  • Patent number: 7277628
    Abstract: A heater (10) for installation on a potable water tank (12). The heater (10) comprises a blanket (14) including an electrical resistance heating element (16) and a connection pad (18) for electrically connecting the heating element (16) to lead lines (20) to an aircraft power source (22). The water tank (12) is typically positioned under the cabin floor or other locations on an aircraft which are susceptible to cold temperatures, moisture invasion, and pressure drops/rises caused by changing altitudes. The heater (10) maintains the tank (12) at an acceptable temperature range and prevents freezing of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Michael J. Giamati
  • Patent number: 7158717
    Abstract: An apparatus for altering a temperature state of a liquid within a container and method of use are disclosed. In one form, an apparatus includes an oval housing having a top portion, a bottom portion, and a middle portion having a front side and a rear side. The said top portion has a width and a depth. A plurality of cavities is positioned along the width and has substantially cylindrical openings. The cavities are sized to receive a portion of a liquid container. Heat generating electronics are housed within the housing. The heat generating electronics include a heat transfer element integrated as part of each cavity. The heat transfer element is operable to alter a temperature state of a cavity. A heat generator is mounted within the housing and is thermally coupled to the heat transfer element to collectively alter a temperature state of each of the cavities. A thermostat is operably coupled to the heat generator to alter the temperature state of each of the cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventors: Frank Young, Stacey Young
  • Patent number: 7055466
    Abstract: A portable instant water heater. Water is delivered to a base unit of the instant hot water heater by a pump that draws water from a reservoir through a flow control valve. The water flows into a pre-heater that wraps around a base of the burner and that is heated by the burner. Water is heated in a heat exchanger and then exits the base unit through an outlet spout that swings out from the base unit to dispense water and that may be stored and locked into position in a handle for the base unit. The flow control valve may lower the flow of water through the heat exchanger, so the water has more time to absorb heat and to get hotter. The base unit includes a single control knob that turns on the pump and the burner and operates the flow control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Norris Richard Long
  • Patent number: 7015428
    Abstract: A heater formed of multiple layers with at least two envelope layers sealed to each other to form a closed envelope and with at least one of the layers within the sealed envelope layers comprising a gas permeable internal ground member that permit one to heat seal the envelope layers to each other and prevents destruction of the heater if the heater accidentally exceeds a critical operating temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Longview Research & Development
    Inventor: Todd A. Kirkman
  • Patent number: 6928236
    Abstract: A galley 1 has a main body 10 constructed of a panel material, and the galley main body 10 has a table 20, a sink 30, a storage compartment 40 and a service cart housing compartment 60. A hot-water supply unit 100 has a hot-water tank 10 with an electric heater and an electric instantaneous water heater 120 and is supplied with electric power by a control unit 150. The hot-water tank 110 and a hot-water tap 180 are connected via a hot-water supply line 190. In response to a command from a device that manages the electric power in the aircraft, the control unit 150 provides hot water using the instantaneous water heater 120 when the electric power consumption in the aircraft is low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Jamco Corporation
    Inventors: Shigeo Suzuki, Hiroyuki Hozumi
  • Patent number: 6766106
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preparing infant formula from powdered formula dispenses water at a temperature substantially in a range around body temperature into a baby bottle containing powdered infant formula for mixing and immediate feeding to a baby, thereby avoiding unnecessary inconvenience to the baby's caregiver associated with typical methods of preparing infant formula for feeding. The water is filtered, disinfected and heated to the appropriate temperature for dispensing on demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Danny J. Roberson
  • Patent number: 6659048
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a hot water dispenser capable of heating water to near boiling temperatures (e.g., 205° F. to 212° F.). When water at near boiling temperatures is required, a secondary heating element is activated. The secondary heating element is in thermally coupled to the dispensing tube so that the water in the tube may be further heated as it passes through the dispensing tube from the tank to the dispensing outlet. Heating the water to near boiling just prior to its being dispensed reduces energy costs because the near boiling temperature water is not stored and allowed to cool. Additionally, the need for expensive insulation or expensive thermostats is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Paul Mark DeSantis, Terrence William Snyder
  • Publication number: 20030210902
    Abstract: A heater (10) for installation on a potable water tank (12). The heater (10) comprises a blanket (14) including an electrical resistance heating element (16) and a connection pad (18) for electrically connecting the heating element (16) to lead lines (20) to an aircraft power source (22). The water tank (12) is typically positioned under the cabin floor or other locations on an aircraft which are susceptible to cold temperatures, moisture invasion, and pressure drops/rises caused by changing altitudes. The heater (10) maintains the tank (12) at an acceptable temperature range and prevents freezing of the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: Michael J. Giamati
  • Patent number: 6628894
    Abstract: A low-cost warm water heater for use in portable toilets, to provide unblended warm water for hand washing provides a small quantity of warm water at a predetermined temperature, the flow being sensibly at ambient pressure. The water system is supplied by hand or foot pump, or gravity feed, using a low power electric immersion heater, within a small, fabricated plastic casing that is of standard fittings, solvent welded to provide a substantially vandal-proof, child-proof heater. Provision of a cold water feed with vacuum break protects the heater against being siphoned dry. Snap-in hose connections simplify assembly and maintenance. While electrically protected by the plastic case construction, electrical ground-fault protection may also be utilized. A stand-alone embodiment incorporates a diaphragm foot pump to provide spurts of warm water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Inventors: Ken S Winter, Roger S. Winter
  • Publication number: 20030113107
    Abstract: A low-cost warm water heater for use in portable toilets, to provide unblended warm water for hand washing provides a small quantity of warm water at a predetermined temperature, the flow being sensibly at ambient pressure. The water system is supplied by hand or foot pump, or gravity feed, using a low power electric immersion heater, within a small, fabricated plastic casing that is of standard fittings, solvent welded to provide a substantially vandal-proof, child-proof heater. Provision of a cold water feed with vacuum break protects the heater against being siphoned dry. Snap-in hose connections simplify assembly and maintenance. While electrically protected by the plastic case construction, electrical ground-fault protection may also be utilized. A stand-alone embodiment incorporates a diaphragm foot pump to provide spurts of warm water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: Ken S. Winter, Roger S. Winter
  • Patent number: 6411777
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preparing infant formula from powdered formula dispenses water at a temperature substantially in a range around body temperature into a baby bottle containing powdered infant formula for mixing and immediate feeding to a baby, thereby avoiding unnecessary inconvenience to the baby's caregiver associated with typical methods of preparing infant formula for feeding. The water is filtered, disinfected and heated to the appropriate temperature for dispensing on demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Danny J. Roberson
  • Patent number: 6179168
    Abstract: A water heater system for a water dispensing fountain having a refrigerated water reservoir, is disclosed. The water heater system is comprised of a plastic molded hot water tank formed in a support membrane. A feed conduit is also formed in the membrane and extends from a connector, which secures to the bottom wall of the refrigerated water reservoir, to the bottom end of a serpentine array of the conduit which extends upwardly to the bottom wall of the hot water tank. The purpose of the serpentine conduit is to prevent hot water from the tank from flowing back into the refrigerated water reservoir. A dispensing conduit extends from the hot water tank and is located at a position whereby water can be extracted from a valve connected thereto by gravity flow. An exhaust pipe also extends from the hot water tank and is provided with an exhaust port located above the top water level of the refrigerated water reservoir whereby to exhaust water pressure vapors from the hot water tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Addico Products Inc.
    Inventors: Andr{acute over (e)} Desrosiers, Michel Morand
  • Patent number: 6140615
    Abstract: A heater apparatus includes a flat-shaped heater portion attachable to a vessel such as a water tank, and a controller for controlling the heater portion. The heater portion includes a flat heater, a first temperature sensor for detecting temperature of the flat heater, and a second temperature sensor for detecting temperature of what is contained in the vessel or water tank. The controller keeps the temperature constant inside the vessel in accordance with the temperature detected by the second temperature sensor. If the rate of rise in temperature detected by the first temperature sensor is faster than is deemed normal, the controller stops current flowing to the flat heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Sanki Consys Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masahide Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6118933
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preparing infant formula from powdered formula dispenses water at a temperature substantially in a range around body temperature into a baby bottle containing powdered infant formula for mixing and immediate feeding to a baby, thereby avoiding unnecessary inconvenience to the baby's caregiver associated with typical methods of preparing infant formula for feeding. The water is filtered, disinfected and heated to the appropriate temperature for dispensing on demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Danny J. Roberson
  • Patent number: 6069996
    Abstract: The device for heating a drinkable liquid, having a liquid-storage container (9) and an electric heating element (11) arranged therein, the liquid-storage container (9) having a valve which is arranged at the bottom in the base (12) of the liquid-storage container (9) and of which one sealing surface is the border of an opening (14) in the base (12) and which opens, in a manner which cannot automatically be reversed, on account of the base curving outwards at a predetermined internal pressure in the container, and the power supply to the heating element (11) being designed such that it is interrupted when the pressure in the liquid-storage container (9) is essentially equal to the atmospheric pressure, which device can be positioned on a collecting container for the liquid, is distinguished in that the other sealing surface of the valve is a plate-like element (15) which consists of elastic material and, in its non-loaded state, is shaped essentially conically, with the cone tip directed towards the interior
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Eberhard Timm
  • Patent number: 6009238
    Abstract: Disclosed is a water distiller of the type having a raw water container, a heater for boiling water in the container and a thermostat for disabling the heater. In the improvement, the container includes a water cavity having a upper perimeter around a panel and the heater is mounted in heat-transfer relationship to the panel. The container includes a thermostat in heat-transfer relationship to the panel and connected to the heater. When water diminishes to a level at which the panel is no longer submerged, the panel temperature rises and trips the thermostat.A heater retention member secures the heater to the panel and a reflective heat shield has a first portion spaced from the retention member. The heater is between the panel and the first portion. The thermostat projects through an aperture in the retention member and an opening in the heat shield so that such thermostat is in intimate, heat-transfer relationship to the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: The West Bend Company
    Inventor: David C. Belongia
  • Patent number: 5999700
    Abstract: A portable heating unit for heating a refrigerant supply tank is provided to facilitate the recharging of refrigeration units, such as air conditioning unit, refrigerators, etc. The heating unit includes a housing defining an enclosure sized to receive at least a portion of the supply tank and is adapted to be filled with water. An electrical heating element is used to heat the water. A temperature control switch is provided to cut power to the heating element when the water temperature exceeds a predetermined amount. A pressure switch is also provided to cut power to the heating element when the pressure within the supply tank exceeds a predetermined amount. The pressure switch also operates a solenoid activated outlet valve, and activates the solenoid when the supply tank pressure exceeds the predetermined pressure to evacuate the water from the housing. Lastly, the unit includes an operational pressure switch which is responsive to the pressure in a hose connected to the supply tank valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Kevin Geers
  • Patent number: 5908551
    Abstract: A mobile cooking oil caddie which includes in combination features of heating, filtering and transporting oil for disposal into a disposal tank. The caddie is rolled under a hot oil fry cooker and hot fats can be drained into the caddie from the cooker. A filter screen is provided in the caddie for filtering the hot fats. If the grease is to be disposed, the caddie is moved to a facility in which the oil is pumped from the caddie by a motorized pump to a disposal tank. If the grease has been stored for a time and is not in a fluid state, the heater can be activated to heat transfer mixture which in turn heats the grease to a fluid state. The filter can then be cleaned of food particles and the caddie stored until it is desired to drain the fry cooker again for receipt of hot fats from the cooker when desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Onken's Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. Onken
  • Patent number: 5855163
    Abstract: A single unit coffee brewer for simultaneous brewing of two different types of coffee which utilizes carafes that in appearance resemble a single carafe but in actuality are constructed of two separate carafes. Each carafe receives brewed coffee from a separate filter basket with each filter basket to receive water from its own separate water tank. The water of each water tank is to be moved through a water supply conduit that is unique to that water tank to which it is affixed. The conduits and water of both water tanks and the warming plate assembly are to be heated by a heater assembly mounted within the base of the coffee brewer. There is a separate heater unit of the heater assembly for each separate warming plate with there being multiple separate warming plates within the warming plate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: Robert A. DeMars
  • Patent number: 5712952
    Abstract: A boiler for an espresso coffee maker comprises a metallic body (12) comprising a cover (15) with a peripheral flange (16) and a cup (18) connected in sealed fashion to the cover (15). A downwardly-extending water supply tube (26) extends through the cover. An electric heating resistance (24) is provided. A vertical water outlet conduit (32) opens through the bottom of the cup (18), and a valve (39) is disposed in the conduit (32) and opens only when a certain pressure threshold is reached. The peripheral flange (16) of the cover (15) of the body (12) is shaped as a gutter (22) in which is positioned in intimate thermal connection the electric heating resistance (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Moulinex S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Rene Clech, Francis Landais, deceased, Joel Landais
  • Patent number: 5702623
    Abstract: A method for attaching a planar electrical element (5), such as a thick film printed circuit, to a vessel (1) whereby the element (5) is integrated in the body of the vessel (1) to form a heating apparatus such as an electric kettle. The vessel (1) defines an aperture (4) at a position where the element (5) is to be secured thereto and the element (5) includes a plate capable of covering the aperture (4). The element (5) is retained in position covering the aperture (4) by subsequent deformation of the body of the vessel. In the method, a sealing member (7, 11, 12, 13) is located between the periphery of the aperture (4) and the element (5) and a securing member (6) is positioned on the element (5) on the opposite side to the sealing member (7, 11, 12, 13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Pifco Limited
    Inventor: James Henry Sharples