Envelope Type Patents (Class 62/530)
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Patent number: 6336340Abstract: A storage container for storing temperature sensitive materials, particularly materials that are sensitive to temperatures below zero degrees Centigrade, includes a two layer structure. The outer layer of the container is made of a material including a volume of coolant capable of being frozen to temperatures substantially below zero degrees Centigrade, such as −26° C. An inner layer of the container includes a volume of water that is selected relative to the volume coolant in the outer layer such that, when the two layers are combined, material held within the inner layer is maintained above 0° C. Both inner and outer layers of the container may be structured, for example, as envelope products.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2001Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Inventor: Ralph Henry Laby
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Patent number: 6330808Abstract: A cooling device (1) for chilling a wine bottle (2) comprises a substantially cylindrical housing (3). A panel member (8) formed by a plurality of hingedly connected panel segments (9) is located in the housing (3) and forms a receiving compartment (12) for the wine bottle (2). The panel segments (9) each form a storing chamber (14) for storing a temperature conditionable liquid. An annular ring (7) is mounted on a carrier sleeve (16) which is rotatable and axially slideable within the housing (3) for varying the diameter of a receiving compartment (12) for accommodating bottles (2) of different diameter. A bearing rim (20) of the carrier sleeve (16) abuts wedge-shaped portions (21) of the panel member (8) so that as the carrier sleeve (16) is urged axially into the housing (3) the diameter of the receiving compartment (12) is reduced and vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1999Date of Patent: December 18, 2001Assignee: Tineke Charlotte KouwenbergInventors: Tineke C Kouwenberg, Robert J Kouwenberg, Soren Petersen, Michael T Wall, David L Morgan, Cathal Loughnane
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Patent number: 6324864Abstract: A chiller arrangement (10) for liquid beverages including a pitcher shaped serving receptacle member (20) having a receptacle base (22) provided with an internally threaded collar (27) adapted to engage the closed lower end (31) of a tubular insert member (30) containing a freezable gel (38). The upper end (31) of the tubular insert member (30) is sealingly engaged by a closure element (35) and covered by a cap member (40) bearing an advertising panel member (50) which can be employed to both advertise and identify the brand name of the liquid beverage contained within the serving receptacle member (20).Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2000Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Inventors: Thomas Stewart, Diana Stewart
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Patent number: 6318114Abstract: A container for rapidly cooling and holding foods at safe temperatures for extended periods of time which includes an upwardly opening inner container in which foods may be placed and another container surrounding the inner container. An enclosed chamber is formed between the bottoms and side walls of the inner and outer containers and is provided with a slow-to-freeze, slow-to-thaw gelatinous material which may be frozen by placing the container in a low temperature freezer. The container is further characterized in that the bottom and walls of the inner container provide insulating properties which control the rate of heat transfer between the gelatinous material, when frozen, and foods placed in the container and further characterized in that the bottom and walls of the outer container provide insulating properties which substantially retard heat transfer between the gelatinous material, when frozen, and the ambient air which surrounds the container.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventor: Marion W. Slaughter
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Patent number: 6308530Abstract: Ice-filled cold storage means for the repeated freezing and, accompanied by the cooling of air or a cooling fluid, melting of the ice, with an elastic sleeve (2) for an ice supply, which is kept by a substantially dimensionally stable jacket (3) under close heat transfer contact at the location of an air or fluid guide and which is set up for moving air to be cooled or dehumidified or a cooling fluid past the ice supply.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2000Date of Patent: October 30, 2001Assignee: Integral Energietechnik GmbHInventor: Joachim Paul
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Patent number: 6295831Abstract: The present invention relates to a molded, one-piece, chilling pitcher with a compartment for holding a beverage, and an integral dividing wall that forms a wedge-shaped cooling chamber for holding a cooling medium such as ice. The main body of the pitcher is formed by a conical exterior wall and an integral base. The cooling chamber is formed between the arcuate shaped exterior wall and the dividing wall to produce a wedged-shaped configuration that facilitates the filling and emptying of ice into and from the chamber. This wedge-shape and the relatively wide radius of the dividing wall allow ice cubes or chips to be poured into the cooling chamber in a relatively compact manner, and allow the surface of the ice to flushly engage the surface of the dividing wall to improve the cooling rate of the pitcher.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: 865 Investment Group LLCInventor: Chris A. Watson
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Patent number: 6295829Abstract: Provided are catering service trolleys for preserving and distributing meal service trays in aeroplanes. The trolley includes side walls with double shells defining vertical channels opening at their upper part into the housing containing the refrigerating agent and at their lower part in the proximity of the bottom of the section receiving the meal-trays, thus enabling the refrigerating gas to circulate by convection over the whole height of the trolley and a more homogeneous temperature distribution.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventor: Claude Gibot
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Publication number: 20010023595Abstract: A stay cool beverage container having a series of radially projecting vertical ribs spaced about the perimeter at the level of a perimeter cavity filled with a refrigerant gel, the ribs gripped by the person holding the drinking vessel, and reducing heat gain into the drink vessel as well as minimizing the sensation of cold felt in the user's fingers and insuring a more secure grip.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2001Publication date: September 27, 2001Inventor: Sascha Kaposi
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Patent number: 6276164Abstract: An accessory item that is used in combination with a pre-existing ice chest for providing increased insulation in a manner which reduces ice melt time, with the item being in the form of an adjustable wrap which is of a shape and size to fit various sized ice chests of user choice.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventors: Cathy D. Santa Cruz, Richard A. Corron, Sr.
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Patent number: 6276163Abstract: A beverage container having a beverage compartment and an ice compartment. Prior to beverage consumption, the container is placed in a dual-temperature environment that freezes the beverage in the ice compartment but doesn't freeze the beverage in the beverage compartment. A barrier inside the beverage container minimize the mixing of the beverage in one compartment with the beverage in the other compartment, allowing the beverage in the ice compartment to freeze while the beverage in the beverage compartment does not. Once removed from refrigeration, the frozen beverage in the ice compartment keeps the beverage in the beverage compartment cool for an extended period of time.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventor: John Allen Broadbent
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Patent number: 6269654Abstract: A hydratable packet pad (10) comprising a series of spaced, packet cells (17) made up of a backing sheet (11), preferably of an impervious plastic sheet material, e.g., polyester film, and an upper, porous, sheet (12) permeable to water, of, for example, non-woven polypropylene without any additive(s), with a tacky sealant (13), [e.g., 22.5% ethylene-methyl-acrylate (EMA)], used to affix and seal the two sheets together in a process forming the cells and to initially hold the polymer powder in the cell areas, which are initially deposited on the film in a squat cone, prior to the cells being formed. Within each cell of the packet is a superabsorbent polymeric material (14) of a multiply-cross-linked polymer, for example, a doubly cross-linked sodium polyacrylate polymer. The superabsorbent material also preferably includes no alcohol (OH) functional groups, and the sheeting materials preferably contain no cellulose materials.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1998Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Assignee: Thermal Products, Inc.Inventors: Joseph C. Murray, Lyman E. Don Gaude, Kimberly Lynn Gabel
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Patent number: 6266972Abstract: A modular freezer pallet having an interior perishable item storage area is provided. The modular freezer pallet includes a heat sink material for maintaining the interior perishable item storage area at a desired temperature for storage of perishable items. The heat sink material preferably maintains the interior perishable item storage area at a temperature of less than about 38° F. for 48 hours in an ambient environment of one atmosphere and 70° F. A method for storing perishable items is provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1998Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Vesture CorporationInventor: William M. Bostic
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Patent number: 6250104Abstract: A temperature control assembly is described including a covering with a top panel and side panels constructed and arranged to provide an open bottom side and an interior compartment for receiving an article whose temperature is to be adjusted. The temperature control assembly also includes at least one thermal unit sized for controlling the temperature of the article provided within the interior compartment and at least one pocket provided on one of the interior surfaces of the side panels for holding the thermal unit. In one embodiment, the top panel of the covering has an opening for accessing the interior compartment, that allows a user of the temperature control assembly to easily carry an article within the temperature control assembly. A method of providing temperature control is also described where a temperature control assembly is provided and the temperature of an article within the interior compartment of the temperature control assembly is adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2000Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: R. G. Barry CorporationInventor: William Bostic
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Patent number: 6244068Abstract: The present invention provides a low cost coolant container that is easy to produce without decreasing its ability to maintain a coolant. The coolant container 1 comprises an outer container 11 and an inner container 12 wherein the cylindrical members 111 and 121 and the plate members 112 and 122 of the outer container 11 and the inner container 12 are engaged at the peripheral end such that even if an external force acts on the flat surface of the plate members 112 and 122 the stopping means 111a and 121a of the engaging portions A and B prevent the plate members 112 and 122 from sinking toward the hollow portion 13 side by supporting the plate members 112 and 122 and resisting the external force and as a result the container has the required structural strength and its ability to maintain a coolant is preserved.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Tatsuoki Nagaishi
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Patent number: 6223551Abstract: An envelope for keeping susceptible materials such as drugs within an acceptable temperature for durations to allow for transport of the drugs to recipients the cold keeping envelope having an outer insulating envelope and an inner envelope or envelope like shape having liquid or liquid like material to be frozen held within a plurality of separate cells forming the inner envelope such that when the liquid or liquid like material is frozen solid, the inner envelope or envelope like shape can still be easily opened caused to open by relative rotation of separate cell to allow for insertion of articles therein. There are further described constructions including an outer envelope of bubble pack with a metallised reflective surface, joining of inner and outer envelope parts, double thicknesses of bubble pack material, use of frozen cells on one side only of the envelope shape, and shapes and relative location of cells to facilitate bending of the frozen materials.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: Instar Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Barry Trevor Mitchell
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Patent number: 6220051Abstract: A compact rapid chilling system comprises: a liquefied-gas cylinder (1) filled with a liquefied gas; a cylinder holder (2) for holding the liquefied-gas cylinder (1); and, a control box (3) mounted on the cylinder holder (2). The control box (3) is provided with a nozzle (23) for issuing a jet of the liquefied gas through an electromagnetic valve, which liquefied gas is supplied from the liquefied-gas cylinder (1). The control box (3) is further provided with a control switch (25) for controlling the jet of the liquefied gas.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2000Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Cool Pack System Corp.Inventor: Mitsuo Takasugi
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Patent number: 6216487Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the present invention incorporates an outer shell defining an interior and includes at least one opening for providing access to the interior. Preferably, a cap is provided for engaging the opening so that the cap and the outer shell can encase the interior. Within the interior, at least one storage chamber is formed which is adapted to receive at least one beverage container. Preferably, an insulating material is disposed within the interior between the storage chamber and the outer shell, and a re-freezable material is disposed within the interior between the storage chamber and the insulating material.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Inventor: John Henry Gano, III
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Patent number: 6217606Abstract: A sealed envelope or enclosure, shaped to fit a portion of the internal anatomy of the human mouth at a surgical site, said enclosure containing a non-toxic liquid or gel material capable of freezing to a semi-solid or solid state. The envelope may also contain a binder such as a sponge material or gauze impregnated with the liquid or gel material. The enclosure is placed in the mouth, to provide both pressure and cold, to reduce bleeding, swelling and pain after oral surgery or trauma.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Inventors: Leonard L. Portnoy, Alex A. Farnoosh
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Patent number: 6209343Abstract: An apparatus that utilizes the heat transfer ability of cryogenic materials to maintain its contents at low temperatures includes a container having inner and outer shells. The inner and outer shells have a chamber formed therebetween. An insulation layer is disposed within the chamber. The inner shell is disposed within the outer shell to form a chamber for receiving therein a material for storage and/or transport therebetween. A phase change material is disposed within the storage chamber and includes cut-outs for receiving therein a cryogenic material. Alternatively, a pre-charged phase change material insert is provided in the storage chamber and/or the storage chamber is packed with a filler material pre-chilled in a cryogenic material. A lid seals the container.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1998Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Life Science Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Donald R. Owen
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Patent number: 6185742Abstract: A cool garment includes an inner, flexible liner including at least one pocket, a pouch for holding a phase change material having a melting/freezing temperature between 50-60° F. held in the pocket, an outer metalized skin for reflecting heat away from the wearer of the cool garment and a non-glare coating on the metalized skin to reduce or prevent potentially dangerous reflection of high intensity light.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1999Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Inventor: Brian Doherty
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Patent number: 6182452Abstract: A sealed package (1, 7) containing the beverage placed in a frozen state (2, 8) capable of being easily opened to allow the frozen beverage (2, 8) to be inserted into a container (5) containing the same beverage in a liquid state. The package (1, 7) would preferably be a cylindrically shaped packet made of plastic with serrations (3, 9) for opening. The beverage in the packages, such as beer, could be in a concentrated form to further enhance the intensity of the beverage or even may be flavored to modify the beverage at the same time it is cooled. The packets (1, 7) could be sized to fit into an opening of a conventional beverage can (6), bottle or pitchers containing the beverage.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventors: Monique P. Wright, Christopher O. Wright
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Patent number: 6182466Abstract: A beverage cooling and carrying apparatus is described. The beverage cooling and carrying apparatus includes a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment includes an area constructed for receiving a beverage and a heat sink, a door for selective access to the first compartment, and insulation for decreasing the rate of heat transfer into the first compartment. The second compartment is provided for receiving drinking containers, and includes cushioning material. The apparatus includes a strap for carrying the apparatus. The beverage cooling and carrying apparatus preferably includes a bottle of wine in the first compartment, and a pair of wine glasses in the second compartment. A method for cooling and carrying beverage is provided by the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Vesture CorporationInventors: Wayne D. Baldwin, Morona D. Routh
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Patent number: 6176100Abstract: The present invention provides an insulated container for cooling hot beverages to an acceptable temperature and then maintaining the beverage temperature in an acceptable temperature range for consumption. This invention has an upper reservoir and a lower reservoir surrounding a beverage chamber, the upper and lower reservoirs communicating with one another through at least one passageway having a two-way valve. A liquid located in the lower reservoir is permitted to flow into the upper reservoir through the valve. The thermal liquid removes some of the heat from the hot beverage. After the hot beverage reaches a satisfactory drinking temperature, the liquid is then allowed to flow back through the valve into the lower reservoir. The air in the upper reservoir maintains the beverage at a proper temperature. A method of use is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Inventors: Garrick Kremesec, Paul Becke
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Patent number: 6173581Abstract: A liquid cooler comprising an elongate cylindrical container for holding a liquid to be cooled, and a buoyant cylindrical stainless steel cartridge containing a refrigerant, that is located in the container. The container is open-topped and is closeable via a dome-shaped moulded polyethylene lid having a spout. The container has a surrounding wall comprising an inner wall section of stainless steel having a relatively high thermal conductivity and an outer wall section. The outer wall section comprises a number of layers of material having relatively high thermal insulation properties. The cartridge has an air pocket trapped therein to provide buoyancy therefor which causes the cartridge to rise, in use, within the container. As such, the container and the cartridge define a space between them along which relative flow of liquid occurs when the cartridge rises within the container, thereby enhancing cooling of the liquid.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1999Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Inventor: Lance Ronald Wyatt
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Patent number: 6155071Abstract: A vending machine according to the invention is easily movable and can be used at a place at which a commercial power supply is not available. Then, it can be installed at a desired place, and can effectively sell articles by certainly catching a chance for sale. The articles contained in a main box of the vending machine are selectively refrigerated or heated by a thermal storage unit, which is previously refrigerated or heated and can be fitted to or removed from the main box. A storage battery is contained in the main box and supplies electric power necessary for driving mechanisms for sale of the vending machine.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1999Date of Patent: December 5, 2000Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takuya Koyanagi
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Patent number: 6152952Abstract: A therapeutic pad for heating or cooling has a liquid absorbent to prevent liquid leakage in the event the sealed envelope of the pad is ruptured. The method of forming the pad includes vacuuming the thermoplastic envelope prior to sealing. The pad can be used alone or with a comforter to provide warmth or to remove heat from the body of the user.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: Vesture CorporationInventor: Byron C. Owens
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Patent number: 6151910Abstract: A kit converts an empty container, such as a 5-gallon paint bucket, into a cooler through the installation of an insulated, pocketed liner with a stiff and flexible top border that is capable of folding over the lip of the container. One or more ice packs are placed in the container to keep it refrigerated.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Inventor: Steven R. Hazen
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Patent number: 6128915Abstract: A portable food and beverage cooling device is disclosed and includes a flexible cooling pouch having outer and inner faces. A cooling pack is provided in the cooling pouch. The cooling pack comprises a plurality of alternating cooling cavities and connecting portions. Each of the cooling cavities of the cooling pack has a cooling substance therein capable of is cooled. A flexible insulating panel is provided in the cooling pouch. The insulating panel has a central region interposed between the outer face of the cooling pouch and the cooling pack. The insulating panel also has a pair of opposite side regions overlapping the cooling pack such that each side region of the insulating panel has a side portion interposed between the cooling pack and the inner face of the cooling pouch. The side portions of the side regions of the insulating panel face one another and are spaced apart from one another to define an air gap therebetween positioned between the cooling pack and the inner face of the cooling pouch.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1999Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Inventor: Peter P. G. Wagner
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Patent number: 6119476Abstract: Apparatus for cooling and retarding temperature elevation of liquids in a vessel having a bottom, side walls and end walls forming an enclosure for receiving the liquids. The vessel is provided with at least one compartment having a bottom and sides forming a pocket in which one or more containers of slow-to-freeze, slow-to-thaw gelatinous material may be placed. Support members are attached to and support the compartment so that it does not contact the bottom or walls of the vessel, allowing liquid in the vessel to freely flow around the bottom and sides of the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Inventors: Marion W. Slaughter, Daniel P. Slaughter
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Patent number: 6116042Abstract: A heat transfer device for a container defining a cavity (134) therein, the device having a heat transfer solution for cooling the cavity and reservoir-defining element (143) with a channel (148) which is in communication with the cavity (134) and which is disposed substantially in the direction of the flow of air through the cavity. A container (110) for transporting a temperature-sensitive product, the container having a reclosable, insulated housing defining a cavity therein, a product carrying container having a plurality of corners (140) and capable of being disposed within the cavity, and a plurality of the devices as described elsewhere herein, the plurality of devices disposed within the cavity so as to engage the corresponding plurality of corners of the product carrying container.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1999Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Throwleigh Technologies, LLCInventor: Howard E. Purdum
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Patent number: 6112548Abstract: The present invention relates to a liquid container containing a plurality of enclosed cells formed between at least a first layer and a second layer of polymeric material. Each enclosed cell contains essentially less than about 2 fluid ounces of an aqueous-based solid or liquid. Preferably, each enclosed cell contains less than about 1 fluid ounce of an aqueous-based solid or liquid. In a further aspect, the first layer and second layer of polymeric materials are perforated to allow separation of an individual enclosed cell from the remainder of the plurality of enclosed cells.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Inventor: Peter Moenickheim
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Patent number: 6101838Abstract: A beverage retainer and method of use in which a beverage container has two chambers which are fluidly separate from each other and are positioned next to each other for thermal conductivity. One chamber has a resealable closing member adapted to contain a chilling material. The resealable closing member is removed and chilling material, such as ice, is dispensed therein. The closing member is then secured so that the deposited ice is thereafter retained within the second chamber until removed. Preferably, the releasable closing member is mated with threads to the second chamber. The beverage container may also include a lid adapted to contain liquid within the first chamber. Preferably, this lid contains an aperture from which fluid is withdrawn. Further, the lid may include an aperture in which a straw is insertable. A handle assembly is attached to the two chambers to permit a user to conveniently hold the beverage container.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Inventor: Linda Teague
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Patent number: 6094935Abstract: A drinking container having a removable, freezable member. The drinking container has a cylindrical inner receptacle and a surrounding cylindrical outer receptacle. An annular chamber is formed between the inner and outer receptacles. A refrigerant member comprising a plastic envelope containing a freezable gel is dimensioned to fit into the annular chamber, and is readily removable therefrom. A cap engages the drinking container to retain the refrigerant member once placed in the annular chamber. The refrigerant member is preferably an annular sleeve which slips between the inner and outer receptacles, and folds flat for storage and freezing. The inner receptacle projects above the outer receptacle so that the user is obliged to engage only one wall with the mouth and lips, thereby enjoying comfortable drinking, rather than being obliged to span the combined thickness of the inner and outer receptacle walls together with the refrigerant member when drinking.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1999Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Inventor: Hal Stein
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Patent number: 6085543Abstract: A cooling mug has an inner mug part, and an outer mug part joined together with a room in between. The room holds cooling substance and a straw therein; the straw is connected to a lower end of the inner part, and communicates with inside of the inner part provided for holding drinks. The straw further projects from upper end of the mug so that a user can suck drinks from the straw. The mug is previously kept in a refigerator to become cold. Drinks will also flow into the straw after it is poured into mug; thus, drinks sucked up from the straw can become cooler because of the contact between the straw and cooling substance.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1999Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignee: Wea Bor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chin-Cheng Su
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Patent number: 6083256Abstract: A flexible heat transfer device for heating or cooling a surface such as the skin has an envelope formed from two sheets. The envelope contains a high thermal capacity first material such as a freezing gel that is flexible when frozen for good surface contact, A pouch within the envelope contains a high thermal capacity second material that may have different physical properties than the first material. The pouch may be segmented, or there may be multiple pouches. The device is more versatile in its applications and provides for more prolonged heating and cooling, The pouch may be in two parts within a frangible partition that generates heat or cold when the partition is ruptured and the two parts mixed.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Inventor: Mary Der Ovanesian
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Patent number: 6074415Abstract: A flexible heat transfer device 1 for heating or cooling a surface such as the skin has an envelope 2 formed from two double walled sheets 3 and 4. Each sheet contains within the double wall a first high thermal capacity material 11 such as a freezing gel that is flexible when frozen for good surface contact. The space 13 between the double walls contains a second high thermal capacity material 12 that may have different physical properties than the first material. This may be in the form of a removable pouch insert 24 that may be heated or cooled separately. The device is more versatile in its applications and provides for more prolonged heating and cooling.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1998Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Inventor: Mary Der Ovanesian
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Patent number: 6067813Abstract: A portable modular cooler system for beverages which includes one or more bottles containing a freezable coolant refrigerant. The bottles define recesses for receiving the housed beverage containers. An insulated casing extends about the bottle to maintain and contain containers in a cooled condition for an extended period of time. The bottles and casing are inserted into a carrying case for convenience of the user. The case may have exterior pockets specially configured and located for specific sport and recreational activities. The carrying case, bottles and insulative casing may be configured so that the cooler may be comfortably carried by the user in a manner similar to a "fanny pack". In other embodiments, the bottles containing the refrigerant are identical one to the other and are positioned in face-to-face relationship to form a plurality of cooling chambers. The cooler may also be placed in another article for transportation such as within the large side pocket of a golf bag.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventor: Ronald W. Smith
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Patent number: 6062040Abstract: A lightweight, insulated chest and method are provided for transportation and storage of perishable and other items which require a temperature-controlled environment. The chest includes insulated side walls, bottom and a hinged cover which is pneumatically sealed to prevent tampering and for thermal security. The chest includes a fluid conduit within the cover for air evacuation and depressurization of the interior and also includes a conduit to provide a vacuum between the walls of the sides and bottom which contain a rigid polymeric foam insulation.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1999Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Vesture CorporationInventors: William M. Bostic, Stewart D. Glenn
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Patent number: 6058735Abstract: This invention concerns a multifunctional cold pack comprising: a plurality of nonpermeable, flexible heat-sealable film layers each having a perimeter and being located in a first plane. The plurality of nonpermeable, flexible heat-sealable film layers are heat sealed together at the perimeters to form an interior cavity concentrically enclosed thereby and the interior cavity is geometrically contoured to coexist between the first plane and a second plane located parallel to the first plane. The plurality of nonpermeable, flexible heat-sealable film layers are constructed of a transparent material. A clear gelatinous material is encapsulated without substantial air contamination within the interior cavity and has temperature regulation, flexibility, and load-bearing properties. At least one insert is moldably movable and semi-rigidly placed in the clear gelatinous material and is sized, shaped, and dimensioned to be interposed between the plurality of nonpermeable, flexible heat-sealable film layers.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Inventor: William F. Nathan
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Patent number: 6056152Abstract: A piece of apparatus for dispensing refrigerating elements enabling consumers to make sure that the cold chain is not broken when buying fresh and frozen food. The apparatus (101) for dispensing refrigerating elements (11) comprises a housing (102) in which is provided an outlet (104) in an upper zone (129) thereof making it possible to insert a refrigerating element (11) to be recycled and an outlet (105) provided in a lower zone (128) of the housing (102) making it possible to dispense a refrigerating element loaded with negative calories, and at least one refrigerated storage unit (107) provided with a helicoidal storage and guide rail (108) extending substantially between the two zones (128, 129) so that the refrigerating elements (11) move toward the lower zone during storage. A cleaning device (112) for cleaning the refrigerating elements (11) to be recycled is provided and comprises rotating brushes (113) which drive said elements from the inlet (104) to the storage unit (107).Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1997Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: Leonetti, PhillippeInventor: Alvaro Gonzalez
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Patent number: 6035659Abstract: A sanitary beverage cooler. This invention provides for a sanitary beverage cooler which is affixed to the open top of a beverage-holding container such as a can or bottle. The sanitary beverage cooler is filled with a cooling substance such as a plurality of ice cubes. As the beverage passes through the opening in the beverage-holding container, either by tilting or by use of a straw, and into the orifice defined by the cylindrical receptacle of the beverage cooler, the beverage becomes cooled by the cooling substance which is contained within the beverage cooler. The user is thereby able to affix the beverage cooler to a beverage-holding container containing a warm beverage, and drink the beverage contained therein after it has been cooled by cooling substance without the possibility of the beverage being diluted by continuous and prolonged contact with the cooling substance.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Inventor: Luis Fernandez
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Patent number: 6020013Abstract: This invention is a method of preventing freezer burn on frozen foods over an extended period of time. This is accomplished by providing a triple seal to prevent the ingress of ambient air through the seals into the interior of the storage bag which causes freezer burn. This is accomplished by providing an outer liquid impervious interlocking reclosable seal and a second liquid impervious interlocking reclosable inner seal adjacent and parallel to the outer seal. When food is placed in the storage bag, the inner seal is closed, water is put in the mouth of the storage bag above the sealed inner seal and below the open outer seal. The outer seal is then closed forming a triple seal closure that completely eliminates any possibility of ambient air entering into the interior of the storage bag.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1999Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Inventor: Saul A. Kozma
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Patent number: 6000237Abstract: A pastry rolling board, comprising an upper sheet, and a lower sheet with a space defined there between, and a freezable coolant material accommodated in the space to provide a chilled surface for rolling pastry dough.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1998Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Inventor: Bonnie K. Sjoberg
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Patent number: 5976400Abstract: A phase change material for maintaining a food product at a temperature of less than 0.degree. F. The phase change material includes a mixture of an organic alcohol, a salt, and water. The organic alcohol has a concentration of between about 2 and 25 percent by weight. The salt has a concentration of between about 15 and 25 percent by weight.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1997Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Thermo Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Dorothy J. Muffett, Stephen D. Prodoehl
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Patent number: 5966962Abstract: Apparatus for preparing packaging materials for use in shipment of heat sensitive materials, utilizes a hydration module, a freezing module, and a delivery module. Rolls of superabsorbent polymer based refrigerant media in the form of a continuous web of a selected length and width are maintained in dry storage. These may be cut to size along the web material which separates cells containing the super absorbent polymer or may be precut by the manufacturer into pads of desired sizes. The web or pad is advanced into the hydration module which comprises a dip tank or spray system to provide an adequate supply of hydrating fluid to the superabsorbent polymer. The absorbed fluid fills the cells of the web. The hydrated web is then conveyed into a freezing chamber having a temperature of -10 degrees Fahrenheit, or lower, where the fluid absorbed within the cells freezes. The frozen material then exits the freezing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1998Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Thermal Products, Inc.Inventors: Joseph C. Murray, Lyman Ernest Don Gaude
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Patent number: 5964102Abstract: A cool mug is provided with a closed chamber defined between an outer vessel and an inner vessel. The bottom is closed with a bottom cap to form the closed chamber. The bottom cap has a hole for filling the closed chamber with a thermal storage substance for low temperatures and then the hole is sealed to prevent the thermal storage substance from leaking out. Acrylate resin copolymer is mixed with water and used as the low-temperature thermal storage substance. Further, a substance may also be added in the acrylate resin copolymer mixture for imparting freeze resistant properties thereto, and acting as an antiseptic.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Inventor: Yao-Ming Tsai
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Patent number: 5956963Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1997Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Irene K. Lerner
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Patent number: 5934100Abstract: An adjustable beverage keg cooling apparatus for cooling various sized beverage kegs of a flexible jacket or wrap for encasing the beverage keg to be cooled. The jacket is adapted to retain refrigerateable gel packs in receptacles or pockets which are integrally embodied in the wrap and form two rows of parallel pockets positioned in substantially symmetrical aligned relationship about the longitudinal central axis of the wrap. The two symmetrical rows of paired parallel vertical pockets extend from the bottom and the top of the beverage keg. In one embodiment, the beverage keg cooling arrangement the wrap is secured about the side wall portion of a beverage keg by means of a hook and fiber fastening means.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1998Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Robert Hornick
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Patent number: 5931005Abstract: A chiller for chilling a quantity of fluid of the type comprising an adsorbent for receiving and adsorbing under pressure a quantity of gas, the desorption of gas from the adsorption causing a reduction in temperature of the adsorbent and adsorbate which acts to chill the fluid, wherein the chiller comprises one or more thin-walled vessels for placement in direct thermal contact with the fluid to be chilled, each vessel comprising two thin sheets of substantially similar size and shape, joined together around the peripheral edges thereof so as to form a cavity therebetween for containing the adsorbent. Preferably, heat transfer means are provided to ensure efficient transfer of heat between the surface of the body of adsorbent and the adsorbent therewithin.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 1998Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Assignee: The BOC Group plc (An English Company)Inventors: Michael E. Garrett, Evelyn A. Shervington
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Patent number: RE37213Abstract: A drinking mug or tumbler-like device self equipped to rapidly transform its contents into a congealed, or very low temperature liquid condition comprising an inner container enclosed within a larger outer container that is filled with a water based refrigerant in the space therebetween, and hermetically sealed with a special seal gasket arrangement. In preparation for use, the device in placed in a refrigerator freezer until the refrigerant is solidified. The contents are then poured into the container and cooled as heat is absorbed by the refrigerant through the walls of the inner container. The specially proportioned inner container aids transfer of heat energy to speed cooling of the contents, along with a fabric which aids in the distribution of thermal energy throughout the refrigerant, and also controls the degree of congealment within the beverage, and refrigerant.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1995Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Inventor: Jeff J. Staggs