Abstract: A flexible temperature changing package for heating or cooling a contained item or product including a temperature changing element adjacent to the item and an offset activation point that prevents damage to item.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an Individual cooling system comprising: (a) a garment V; (b) a container containing a block of material liberating an amount of cooling energy by phase change; (c) a pump P. The invention characterized in that it comprises means enabling the continuous operation of the assembly without solidification of the heating medium, even if the solidification temperature of the heating medium is higher than the temperature of the block of material releasing the cooling energy by phase change.

Abstract: A disposable container which has the ability to independently cool or heat a liquid beverage or food product by way of an endothermic or exothermic reaction. The container is disposable and has a double-walled configuration to create a chamber therebetween. Within the chamber is a chemical compound which when activated provides the desired reaction upon the contents within the container. Thus, there is no requirement that this device must be subjected to external refrigeration or heat.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for making a hydrate slurry, which involves the preparation of an aqueous solution of a guest compound for forming a clathrate hydrate, cooling the aqueous solution, and contacting the aqueous solution with nuclear particles. A thermal storage method, a thermal storage apparatus, and a thermal storage medium using an aqueous solution of a clathrate hydrate, in a concentration which provides a congruent melting point or lower. A refrigerating apparatus and an air conditioner using the thermal storage apparatus and the thermal storage medium.

Abstract: A self-contained device for heating/dispensing or cooling/dispensing material is described. The device includes at least one heat- or cold-generating element and at least one container for containing material to be heated or cooled. The device can further be equipped with gussets or similar features to allow free-standing.

Abstract: A heat treatment method of steel is capable of enhancing wear resistance, mechanical properties and dimensional stability of the steel due to the reduction of the retained austenite amount to substantially zero. In the method, an article of the steel is subjected to a quenching and then subzero treatment including cooling it at a cooling rate of 1 to 10° C./min. to a cooling temperature and holding the cooling temperature for a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A self-heating container (10) has an internal cavity (22) for its contents and an external cavity (20) for a heating mechanism, for example, comprised of first and second chemically reactive materials which are arranged to be mixed when heating is required. A closure (30) closes the external cavity (20). When the heating mechanism is operated to mix the chemicals and cause an exothermic reaction, vapour, such as steam and hot air, is produced. The closure (30) carries an annular sealing flange (100) which engages with an annular shoulder (102) of the container. The sealing flange (100) seals the external cavity to atmosphere and preserves the reactivity of the chemicals therein. However, the sealing flange (100) is moved away from the shoulder (102) when the generation of the vapour increases the pressure in the external cavity (20) whereby the vapour is vented to atmosphere.

Abstract: A temperature modifying system for heating or cooling a product including a flexible outer container containing a product and a self-enclosed temperature-changing element is disclosed. The temperature-changing element includes a flexible pouch at least partially immersed in said product. The flexible film pouch may have two components separated by a rupturable barrier that is adapted to burst under an application of pressure allowing the two components to combine or react in an exothermic or endothermic event. The flexible film pouch may alternatively include a saturated salt solution that generates as it drops out of solution.

Abstract: Suggested is a throw-away container (1) for self-heating or self-cooling of liquids or solid matters, consisting of two spaces (16, 17) separated by an internal foil (7), a metal vessel (4) and a tear-off foil (5), said metal vessel (4) being wedged, glued or sealed to an upper component (3), which is via a thread (8) rotatably arranged in relation to a lower component (2) and the foil (7) is destructible by this rotational motion.

Abstract: A self-heating metal can (10) has an indented base (16) defining an external cavity (20) which is utilised to contain beating means. The heating means comprises quicklime (26) filled within a first chamber (28) and water within a second chamber (32) of the cavity (20). A breakable membrane (24) separates the two chambers (28, 32) and the second chamber (32) is closed by closure (30). Depression of a button (50) of the closure moves an elongate piercing member (42) to pierce the membrane (24) so that water from the chamber (32) flows over the quicklime (22) to cause the exothermic reaction.

Abstract: A self-heating container (10) has an internal cavity (22) for its contents and an external cavity (20) for a heating mechanism, for example, comprised of first and second chemically reactive materials which are arranged to be mixed when heating is required. A protective cover (52) is engaged on the can over the top end member (14) to prevent access to a ring-pull opener (50). The protective cover (52) has been shrunk onto the can such that it cannot be removed normally. However, when the can and its contents have been heated to the predetermined temperature by operation of the heating mechanism, the protective cover (52) expands in size relative to the can (10) and is removable. The ring-pull opener (50) may then be opened to enable the contents to be dispensed. After opening, the cover (52) may be reengaged on the can to provide an insulated drinking lip which protects the consumer against the heat of the can and provides a more pleasant surface to drink from than the edge of the can itself.

Abstract: A plastic cold pack comprises a water bag and a coolant consisting of ammonium, nitrate sodium carboxyl methyl cellulose, and sodium chloride. In use, press or knead the cold pack to break the water bag. Instantly, a chemical reaction occurs as the coolant mixes with water released from the water bag. Such chemical reaction is capable of cooling a contact object at about 26° C. instantly for serving as a soothing means in an emergency.

Abstract: An emergency stretcher kit is used in the treatment of certain bone and joint injuries. The kit includes a mat formed with an absorbent layer and an impermeable layer. A pocket attached to the absorbent layer contains a dual compartment packet having a thermal composition inside. The seal between the compartments is broken and the thermal composition is mixed to create an endothermic reaction to cool the pocket. The mat has Velcro straps and contact adhesive patches to secure the mat on a backboard and about the patient.

Abstract: A self cooling can has water on a pre-wetted wick (478), in a chamber and an adsorbent in another chamber communicable upon actuation of the can with the chamber. One or both of the chambers is at low pressure. Upon actuation the pressure of the wick drops, water vapour is absorbed by the adsorbent from the internal atmosphere and more water evaporates from the wick to replace it, thereby causing a cooling effect in heat generated in the adsorbent may be contained by but a take-up system, such as phase change material or microcapsules of high heat capacity material such as water.

Abstract: A meal trolley has an insulated casing and food dishes or plates supported therein for cooling and heating by thermochemical reactions. The reagents of the chemical reactions are stored in containers and reservoirs carried by the trolley and selectively connected to provide the self-contained cooling or heating.

Abstract: The invention relates to extended life thermal packs. In one embodiment, the thermal pack comprises a container having a first thermally reactive chemical solute therein, a rupturable solvent packet containing a solvent, and a rupturable solute packet containing a second thermally reactive chemical solute in the solute packet. The solutes are chemically separated until time of use and are different from one another. The chemical separation of solutes until time of use in combination with the structure of the thermal pack structure afford both extended duration of thermal effect by the pack and afford the user with increased control by permitting optional sequential combination of the reactants. The thermal reaction produced by the combination of solute and solvent can be either endothermic or exothermic and therefore can be used to apply cold or hot therapy, respectively.

Abstract: A plastic cold pack comprises a water bag and a coolant consisting of ammonium, sodium carboxyl methyl cellulose, and sodium chloride. In use, press or knead the cold pack to break the water bag. Instantly, a chemical reaction occurs as the coolant mixes with water released from the water bag. Such chemical reaction is capable of cooling a contact object at about 26° C. instantly for serving as a soothing means in an emergency.

Abstract: A container having a container body, a thermic module at one end of the body, and a closure at the other end of the body initiates an internal exothermic (or, alternatively, endothermic) chemical reaction to heat its contents when a user actuates the thermic module. A plastic thermic module body is spin-welded to a plastic container body by rotating one relative to and in contact with the other. The container body has multiple layers, including an inner layer such as a so-called oxygen barrier layer that inhibits oxidation and spoilage of the contents, and spin-welding the container body to the module body seals the otherwise-exposed oxygen barrier layer against air or moisture intrusion. The container includes a rotatable cover adhered to the container end over the closure with heat-sensitive adhesive that prevents a user from accessing the contents until a certain temperature is reached.

Abstract: A self cooling can has water on a pre-wetted wick (478), in a chamber and an adsorbent in another chamber communicable upon actuation of the can with the chamber. One or both of the chambers is at low pressure. Upon actuation the pressure of the wick drops, water vapour is absorbed by the adsorbent from the internal atmosphere and more water evaporates from the wick to replace it, thereby causing a cooling effect in heat generated in the adsorbent may be contained by but a take-up system, such as phase change material or microcapsules of high heat capacity material such as water.

Abstract: Single-use heat transfer container has an insulated product chamber containing a reaction vessel holding two separate reactants. The product chamber is partially defined by the reaction vessel which is integrally sealed thereto near a lower end of the container. The reaction vessel has a flexible bottom that is responsive to external pressure. An activation pin on the interior of the bottom is capable of piercing a barrier inside the reagent vessel when the container bottom is depressed. The resulting mixing of the separately stable reactants in the vessel initiates the desired heat transfer reaction. The container may have a cover including storage compartments for user dispensable additives. The method of making the inventive container is disclosed.

Abstract: A heat regenerative material including AMz, where A is at least one rare earth element selected from the group consisting of Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm and Yb; M is at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Ni and Co; and z is 0.001 to 9.0; the heat regenerative material being formed of particles with an average diameter of 1-2,000 &mgr;m or filaments with an average diameter of 1-2,000 &mgr;m.

Abstract: A closure (30) for a container is designed to facilitate the mixing of a first material within the container with a second material within the closure at the point of use. The first and second materials are generally chemically reactive. The plastics material closure (30) has a base (32) and a lid (34). The base (32), which is circular, has an annular peripheral rim (36) defining an annular recess (38) by which the closure (30) may be clipped onto a container (10). Radially inwardly of the rim (36) is an upstanding peripheral wall (40) defining a chamber (42) for containing the second material. A plunger (44) is affixed to the base (32) centrally of a convex button (50). When mixing of the first and second materials is required, the container (10) is positioned so that the base (32) of the closure is uppermost, and the button (50) is pressed to move the plunger (44) to push the lid (34) out of the opening of the chamber (42).

Abstract: Suggested is a throw-away container (1) for self-heating or self-cooling of liquids or solid matters, consisting of two spaces (16, 17) separated by an internal foil (7), a metal vessel (4) and a tear-off foil (5), said metal vessel (4) being wedged, glued or sealed to an upper component (3), which is via a thread (8) rotatably arranged in relation to a lower component (2) and the foil (7) is destructible by this rotational motion.

Abstract: The invention relates to extended life thermal packs. In one embodiment, the thermal pack comprises a container having a first thermally reactive chemical solute therein, a rupturable solvent packet containing a solvent, and a rupturable solute packet containing a second thermally reactive chemical solute in the solute packet. The solutes are chemically separated until time of use and are different from one another. The chemical separation of solutes until time of use in combination with the structure of the thermal pack structure afford both extended duration of thermal effect by the pack and afford the user with increased control by permitting optional sequential combination of the reactants. The thermal reaction produced by the combination of solute and solvent can be either endothermic or exothermic and therefore can be used to apply cold or hot therapy, respectively.

Abstract: A method for transporting cold latent-heat which comprises contacting a source of cold latent-heat with a liquid-liquid clathrate capable of crystallization when an onium salt having a C4H9 group and an iso-C5H11 group is included as a guest into basket-like inclusion clathrate lattices including water molecules.

Abstract: A cold pack 10 made in accordance with the principles of the present invention includes a container 18. Disposed within the container 18 is a first endotherm-producing chemical 15. Also disposed within the container 18 is a solvent packet 13 and a chemical packet 11. Second endotherm-producing chemical 43 is disposed in the chemical packet 11. First endotherm-producing chemical 15, the solvent packet 13 and the chemical packet 11 are collectively components of the cold pack. Preferably the container 18 is sealed so as to surround and encase the components of the cold pack 10. The first endotherm-producing chemical 15 and the second endotherm-producing chemical 43 are selected to be different. Both the first endotherm-producing chemical 15 and the second endotherm-producing chemical 43 may be selected from among those compounds with a positive enthalpy of solution (&Dgr;sol/H°, kJ/mol) and which produce a reduced temperature of solution that is greater than 10° F.

Abstract: A self-heating or self-cooling container has a container body, a closure at one end of the body through which the contents of the container can be consumed, and a thermic module at the other end of the body having an actuator portion and an elongated reaction chamber portion that extends distally into the container body and contains a liquid reactant relatively more distally from the actuator portion than a solid reactant separated from the liquid reactant by a breakable barrier. When a user actuates the thermic module, an elongated actuator member punctures the barrier. The user can then immediately invert the container, allowing the liquid reactant to drain through the puncture into the solid reactant in the reaction chamber. The reactants mix and produce a reaction that, depending upon the reactants, either heats or cools the container contents by conduction through the thermic module wall. An advantage is that the user does not need to wait to invert the container after actuating it.

Abstract: There is disclosed a self-cooling self-carbonating beverage container including a beverage container housing containing a liquid beverage, a coolant gas bottle inside said beverage container storing pressurized carbon dioxide, a tab located on an external portion of said beverage container housing and apparatus actuated by movement of said tab for opening said bottle to release said carbon dioxide into said liquid beverage.

Abstract: Methods of controlling crystallization of aqueous lithium halide refrigerant fluids utilizing an organic counter cation-containing salt material effective to depress the crystallization temperature of the refrigerant fluid and corresponding refrigerant fluids.

Abstract: A self cooling beverage container or can. In one embodiment water (26) is maintained at low pressure such that the boiling point is reduced. The water (26) is caused to boil and the vapour to be absorbed by a desiccant. The boiling of the water (26) causes heat to be absorbed from the beverage. The desiccant may be carbon (28). The water (26) or carbon (28) (or other chemicals) in one embodiment are maintained within a blind bore (30) within the container. The water and carbon are separated by a burstable membrane (42).

Abstract: An outer container constructed of a non-metallic material and an inner container constructed of metal permanently secured to said outer container. The inner container houses a material which when activated alters the temperature of food or beverage housed within the outer container and in contact with an outer surface of the inner container. Preferably, the outer container is constructed of food grade glass or plastic or paper products having a waterproof interior and the inner container is permanently affixed thereto by a threaded plug or a washer like member welded thereto respectively.

Abstract: A self cooling beverage container or can. Different embodiments of a self cooling can are shown including the use of an endothermic reaction perhaps between ammonium nitrate and water. In another embodiment a volatile liquid is evaporated. In another embodiment water is maintained in a low pressure environment and allowed to boil. The vapour which is produced from the boiling water is absorbed by a desiccant maintaining the boiling process. The cooling process may be initiated by the pressure release of a carbonated beverage can during opening of the can.

Abstract: A container for housing and producing a liquid comestible product and in situ heating thereof has an upper comestible chamber and a lower comestible chamber separated by a comestible diaphragm. One of the comestible chambers retains a dry powder and the other comestible chamber retains water. A moveable pierce rod assembly penetrates from outside the container to inside the upper comestible chamber and is attached to an arm disposed outside of the container. A removable protective collar is disposed between the arm and the container to retain the arm and pierce rod assembly in place. A flexible collar is disposed within the protective collar to seal the pierce rod assembly between the arm and the container. The lower chamber houses an upper heating/cooling chamber and a lower heating heating/cooling chamber separated by a heating heating/cooling diaphragm. One of the heating heating/cooling chambers retains a chemical reactant and the other heating heating/cooling chamber retains water.

Abstract: The invention relates to a self-heating, disposable heating pack utilizing an exothermic chemical reaction. Self-moderation of the heat pack is provided through the use of a preformed reversibly stiffenable gel that alters the rate of exothermic chemical reactions. A vaporizable solvent is used to adjust the gel stiffness. The heat pack can be used in heat transfer or ambient temperature conditions which differ from those anticipated as design conditions.

Abstract: A thermic module for heating or cooling a material in a container produces an exothermic or endothermic reaction when a user presses an actuator button that causes two reactants in the module to mix. The module is removably engageable in an opening of a container by, for example, screwing it into a threaded opening. The container may have a double-walled construction, with a vacuum space between the inner and outer walls to slow heat transfer after the contents have reached the intended temperature. The module may thus be used to heat or cool beverages or foods in a conventional THERMOS-type vacuum bottle by using the module in place of the normal screw cap.

Abstract: The invention offers relief for hot flash symptoms of menopause and body overheating by providing a wrist cooler. The cooler preferably includes chemical cooling pellets that remain in a solid state until broken. A woman experiencing symptoms such as menopausal hot flashes carries the cooler in her purse. When hot flashes occur, the cooler is removed from her purse, the pellets are broken and the cooler is slid onto her wrist. Once the flashes have subsided, the cooler is discarded. The invention is easily transportable and provides for immediate relief, as there are no reusable cooling elements to be frozen or chilled.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for effectively and safely using cryogenic liquid to cool a reactor vessel housing an exothermic reaction wherein the cryogenic liquid is subcooled, valved into the reactor in a downward direction, and shielded by annular coaxial shielding gas upon injection into the reactor.

Abstract: A container having a container body, a thermic module, and a closure heats or cools its contents by initiating a chemical reaction inside the thermic module when a user activates the container. The thermic module may include a module cap and a module body. Two reactants, such as calcium oxide and water, are retained in portions of the thermic module and separated by a barrier that is punctured when a user activates the container, thus allowing them to mix. The cap may have vent channels between surfaces of the module cap and the module body that allow gases to vent, yet prevent escape of unsightly solid particles. A filter ring may be included in the path of each vent channel to further prevent such escape.

Abstract: The present invention relates to disposable thermal back wraps having one or more thermal packs comprising a plurality of heat cells, wherein heat is applied to specific areas of the user's lower back, for pain relief. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposable elastic thermal back wraps having good conformity to user's back which provides consistent, convenient and comfortable heat application.

Abstract: A self-adhering cold pack has an envelope defining a sealed cold pack volume. A cooling agent is positioned in the cold pack volume. A bandage sheet is fixed to the envelope by a bandage adhesive. The bandage sheet defines mounting tabs linearly extending from the envelope outer perimeter. The mounting tabs support a bandage adhesive for temporary adhesion of the cold pack to the skin surface of a patient.

Abstract: A mixture designed to be heated by microwave energy and a container that can inwardly contain the mixture. The mixture is in a dry form and includes a quantity of salt that functions as a heat storage medium. The mixture further includes a quantity of starch material that functions to rapidly absorb microwave energy when it is subjected to microwaves in a conventional microwave oven. The starch material is in powder form and preferably coats the salt to thereby maximize the speed and efficiency of heat transfer between the two materials. The mixture may also include a powder lubricant that functions to improve the mixture's flowability. The container used to receive the microwaveable mixture is preferably flexible and may be manufactured from a fabric, plastic or rubber material. The container may be in the form of a pad or ball and includes a least one inner cavity that contains a quantity of the microwaveable mixture.

Abstract: A container having a container body, a thermic module at one end of the body, and a closure at the other end, heats or cools its contents by initiating a chemical reaction inside the thermic module when a user activates the container. The thermic module may include a module cap and a module body. Two reactants, such as calcium oxide and water, are retained in portions of the thermic module and separated by a barrier that is punctured when a user activates the container, thus allowing them to mix. The cap may have vent channels between surfaces of the module cap and the module body that allow gases to vent, yet prevent escape of unsightly solid particles. A filter ring may be included in the path of each vent channel to further prevent such escape. The solid reactant may be contained in a porous bag in the thermic module to still further minimize leakage of particles.

Abstract: A package for cooling containing a superabsorbent polymer, the package including a bag for receiving and containing a liquid, the bag having an opening therein for receiving liquid medium, the bag being constructed of a material which is water impermeable, the bag having an inside and an outside, a pouch for holding a superabsorbent polymer, the pouch being connected to the inside of the bag, the pouch having a water permeable portion for enabling water to enter the pouch, and a superabsorbent polymer located inside the pouch.

Abstract: A self-cooling container incorporating a heat exchange unit including a chamber for containing a quantity of a gas, the chamber including an external wall in contact with the beverage to be cooled, actuator means for actuating the heat exchange unit, a liner member disposed concentric and inside the wall of the chamber for facilitating flow of the gas throughout the heat exchange unit, and a means for exhausting the gas from the chamber. The actuator means includes a valve for controlling the release of the gas from the chamber having a valve stem which when reciprocated axially will open and close the valve to allow gas to discharge through the stem. The actuator means also includes a sealer having a plurality of tabs spaced around its outer periphery for preventing the heat exchange unit from coming out of the container. A support member is affixed to the base of the chamber for locking the heat exchange unit in position after it is inserted in the container.

Abstract: An container for holding a material, such as a food, beverage or medicine, includes a cap and a container body. The container body has a material cavity unitarily formed with a reactant cavity. The reactant cavity contains a solid reactant, and the cap contains a liquid reactant that, when mixed, produce an endothermic or exothermic reaction, depending upon the reactants selected. The cap has a tubular body section with an actuator disc closing one end and a breakable barrier closing the other end. With the exception of the barrier, the cap is of unitary construction. The cap has one or more prongs extending from the inner surface of the disc toward the barrier. When a user depresses the actuator disc, it flexes inwardly and moves the prongs toward the barrier. The reactants mix when the prongs puncture the barrier. Heat transferred between the two cavities heats or cools the material. The wall of the container that defines the reactant cavity may be pleated or corrugated to promote heat transfer.

Abstract: An instant reusable gel compress for applying cold or heat to a human or animal body part. The compress contains crystals of ammonium nitrate or calcium chloride, a water soluble acrylic polymer and an enclosed bag of water within a sealed, durable, flexible, plastic, bag-like container. When the interior water bag is broken, an immediate thermal reaction and simultaneous gel formation results. The resulting gel compress is then applied to the body part for cold or heat treatment. When the cold or heat is dissipated the gel compress itself may be chilled or heated again by an external source and then reused.

Abstract: An improved absorption cycle apparatus and system using aqueous solutions of metal salts selected from the group consisting of alkali metal hydroxides, nitrites, and alkaline earth and transition metal hydroxides, halides, thiocyanates, and mixtures thereof between about 14% and about 30%, by weight, of said metal salt, of an organic compound selected from the group consisting of alcohols, glycerol, glycols, polyglycols, alkaline glycol ethers, aliphatic amines and alkanol amines.

Abstract: An outer container for holding a material, such as a food, beverage or medicine with a sealed thermic module inside the container. The thermic module contains chemical reactants that mix upon actuation of the container by a user. Mixing of the reactants produces an exothermic or endothermic chemical reaction, depending upon the reactants selected. The contents of the outer container surround a portion of the outside surface of the thermic module, thereby facilitating conduction of heat. The thermic module has a hollow module body that is closed at one end and a module cap that seals the other end of the module body. The module body contains the solid reactant, and the module cap contains the liquid reactant. The module cap has a tubular section with a flexible member closing one end and a breakable barrier closing the other end. With the exception of the barrier, the cap is of unitary construction.

Abstract: Endothermic reaction (dissolution) of endothermic material to be packed in a cooling bag is retarded to avoid a large temperature gradient which results in a meaningless intake of ambient heat quantity and an excessively low temperature condition, so as to keep an adequately cooled condition for a long period of time. Column-like or tablet-like endothermic materials are prepared from granular starting materials to decrease their specific surface area and solution velocity in water. The products, either as they are alone, together with water absorbing resins and/or their granular starting endothermic materials, or as a stored state in a perforated inner bag, are packed in a bag made of synthetic resin film.

Abstract: A cooling agent which cools by an endothermic reaction resulting from the dissolving of crystals of inorganic salts water, the salts crystallizing at about room temperature by supplying heat. The cooling agent comprises a mixture of (i) a sodium phosphate salt, (ii) a sodium ammonium phosphate salt or an ammonium phosphate salt, and (iii) water. The cooling agent is produced in a manner which avoids the conglomeration of the crystals, which was a difficulty in the art. Moreover, the cooling agent of the present invention can be used repeatedly. When a nucleating agent, a highly water absorbent polymer or a thickener is added to the cooling agent, the precipitation of the crystals occurs in a still finer and stabler state. The cooling agent can be used in a cooling pillow having a desirable cooling property and a soft and agreeable touch, which offers comfort with safety and which is free from conglomeration of crystals, even after a long period of time.