U.S. patent application number 14/720343 was filed with the patent office on 2015-11-26 for heating system for transdermally delivered materials.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jacob Randy Hall. Invention is credited to Jacob Randy Hall.
Application Number | 20150335132 14/720343 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54555128 |
Filed Date | 2015-11-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150335132 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hall; Jacob Randy |
November 26, 2015 |
HEATING SYSTEM FOR TRANSDERMALLY DELIVERED MATERIALS
Abstract
In one example, a heating system is provided that is suitable
for use with materials for topical application and/or transdermal
delivery to a subject. The heating system includes a heating
element and a container. The container includes a container body
configured to enclose a portion of the heating element when the
heating element is engaged with the container body, and the
container further includes a removable lid configured to be
attached to the container body.
Inventors: |
Hall; Jacob Randy;
(Highland, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hall; Jacob Randy |
Highland |
UT |
US |
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|
Family ID: |
54555128 |
Appl. No.: |
14/720343 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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29493849 |
Jun 13, 2014 |
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14720343 |
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62002716 |
May 23, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
222/146.5 ;
219/438 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45D 40/0075 20130101;
A45D 2200/056 20130101; A45D 34/00 20130101; A45D 40/00 20130101;
A45D 2200/155 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45D 40/00 20060101
A45D040/00 |
Claims
1. A heating system suitable for use with materials for topical
application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject, the heating
system comprising: a heating element; and a container, comprising:
a container body defining an interior volume and configured to
enclose a portion of the heating element when the heating element
is received within the container body; and a removable lid
configured to be attached to the container body.
2. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container
body encloses a substantial portion of the heating element when the
heating element is engaged with the container body.
3. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container
body includes an outer wall within which a recess is defined that
is configured to receive a portion of the heating element.
4. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating
element is asymmetric about its vertical axis.
5. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating
element and container body fit together in a male-female
relation.
6. The heating system as recited in claim 5, wherein the heating
element has a male form and the container body has a corresponding
female form.
7. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container
is a consumable item.
8. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating
element is connected to the removable lid.
9. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container
is a dispensing container that includes a pump operable, when
material is present in the container body, to dispense the material
from the container.
10. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating
element is operable to be activated and/or deactivated in response
to exertion of a downward force on the lid.
11. A heating system suitable for use with materials for topical
application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject, the heating
system comprising: a heating element; a container, comprising: a
container body defining an interior volume and configured to
enclose a portion of the heating element when the heating element
is engaged with the container body; and a removable lid configured
to be attached to the container body; power circuitry connected to
the heating element; and control circuitry for operation of the
heating element, wherein the control circuitry is connected with
the power circuitry.
12. The heating system as recited in claim 11, wherein the control
circuitry is configured to include an activation switch that causes
the heating element to be energized when a user presses down on the
container.
13. The heating system as recited in claim 11, wherein the heating
element and container body fit together in a male-female
relation.
14. The heating system as recited in claim 11, wherein in
operation, the heating element is located outside of the container
body.
15. The heating system as recited in claim 14, wherein the
container body includes an outer wall defining a recess that is
configured to receive a portion of the heating element.
16. An apparatus, comprising: a heating system comprising: a
heating element; and a container, comprising: a container body
defining a volume and configured to enclose a portion of the
heating element when the heating element is engaged with the
container body, and the heating element and container body fit
together in a male-female relation; and a removable lid configured
to be attached to the container body; and a volume of material
suitable for topical application and/or transdermal delivery to a
subject, the volume being disposed in the container.
17. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein the container
body includes an outer wall defining a recess that is configured to
receive a portion of the heating element.
18. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein in operation, the
heating element is located outside of the container body.
19. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising a
volume of material disposed in the container body.
20. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein the volume of
material disposed in the container body comprises one or more of a
gel, lotion, cream, balm, ointment, or edible material.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application hereby claims priority to: U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. 62/002,716, entitled HEATING SYSTEM FOR
TRANSDERMALLY DELIVERED MATERIALS, and filed on May 23, 2014; and,
U.S. Design patent application, Ser. 29/493,849, entitled HEATING
SYSTEM FOR TRANSDERMALLY DELIVERED MATERIALS, and filed on Jun. 13,
2014. All of the aforementioned applications are incorporated
herein in their respective entireties by this reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Example embodiments disclosed herein generally concern a
heating system operable to heat materials intended for dermal
application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A variety of materials can be delivered dermally and/or
transdermally to a subject. These materials can be used in fields
such as medicine, therapy, nutrition, cosmetology, and diagnostics.
Such materials can include, for example, drugs, medicines,
nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and beauty products. In many
instances, these materials are in the form of, or carried by, a
gel, salve, cream, lotion, balm or ointment that can be readily
applied to the skin of a subject.
[0004] In order to improve the speed and efficiency with which such
materials are delivered, it can be useful to heat those materials
before application. For example, heat can aid in transdermal
absorption of drugs, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. As well, a
heated material, such as an ultrasound gel for example, may be more
comfortable and pleasant for the person or other subject to whom it
is applied.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME ASPECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein do
not constitute an exhaustive summary of all possible embodiments,
nor does this brief summary constitute an exhaustive list of all
aspects of any particular embodiment(s). Rather, this brief summary
simply presents selected aspects of some example embodiments. It
should be noted that nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an essential or indispensable element of any invention
or embodiment. Rather, various aspects of the disclosed embodiments
may be combined in a variety of ways so as to define yet further
embodiments. Such further embodiments are considered as being
within the scope of this disclosure. As well, none of the
embodiments embraced within the scope of this disclosure should be
construed as resolving, or being limited to the resolution of, any
particular problem(s). Nor should such embodiments be construed to
implement, or be limited to implementation of, any particular
technical effect(s) or solution(s).
[0006] Disclosed embodiments are generally concerned with a heating
system that can be used to heat materials intended for topical
application and/or transdermal delivery of various materials to a
subject such as a human or animal. Embodiments within the scope of
this disclosure may include any one or more of the following
elements, and features of elements, in any combination: a container
defining an interior recess configured to receive a portion of a
heating element; a heating element configured to be removably
received in an interior recess of a container; a heating element
generally in the shape of a cone or pyramid; a heating element and
associated container configured to mate with each other in such a
way that the heating element heats materials in the container from
the inside of the container; a heating element and associated
container that collectively define a male/female interface; a
heating element that has a concave side or surface configured to
interface with a corresponding concave side or surface of a
container; a heating element generally in the form of an annular
ring that can be removably received in an annular slot defined by a
corresponding container, the annular slot extending around an
interior space defined by the container; a heating element that can
be powered by A/C and/or D/C current; a heating element and
associated container configured so that when the heating element is
received in the container, the container is not rotatable relative
to the heating element; a heating element and associated container
configured so that when the heating element is received in the
container, the container is rotatable relative to the heating
element; a heating element and associated container, where the
container is configured to enclose a portion of the heating
element; a heating element that includes one or more extended
surfaces for heat transfer; a heating element removably, or
permanently, attached to a base; a heat sensitive element in
thermal communication with the heating element and/or container,
where the heat sensitive element changes color in relation to a
relative temperature of one or more of the container, heating
element, or material disposed in the container; a base that is
weighted; a heating element removably, or permanently, attached to
an associated container; a heating element and associated container
configured for threading engagement with each other; a heating
element that substantially comprises metal or ceramic; a heating
element that includes a rubber or plastic coating; a container
substantially made of metal, plastic, ceramic, or any combination
of these; a container that includes a lid; a container that is
disposable; a container that includes thermal insulation; a heating
element whose output can be adjusted so that the heating element
operates over a range of temperatures; a control system configured
to automatically adjust and/or maintain a temperature of a heating
element; and, a control system configured to automatically turn a
heating element on and/or off.
[0007] Following is a non-exclusive list of embodiments within the
scope of the invention. It should be understood that aspects of the
various embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in other ways
to define still further embodiments.
[0008] In a first example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where the heating element is received in an
interior portion of the container.
[0009] In a second example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where the heating element is configured to
be removably received in a recess defined by the container.
[0010] In a third example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where the heating element is generally cone
or pyramid shaped and is configured to be removably received in a
correspondingly shaped recess of the container.
[0011] In a fourth example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where the heating element is electrically
powered and is configured to be removably received in a
corresponding recess defined by the container.
[0012] In a fifth example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where when the heating element is received
in an interior portion of the container and is initially activated,
materials in an inner portion of the container are heated before
materials located at an outer portion of the container.
[0013] In a sixth example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where the container is configured to
enclose a portion of the heating element.
[0014] In a seventh example embodiment, a heating element and
container are provided, where the heating element is received in an
interior portion of the container, and the container includes a
volume of material that is heated by the heating element when the
heating element is activated.
[0015] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to
embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in
environments such as those described above. Rather, this background
is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where
some embodiments described herein may be practiced.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The appended drawings contain figures of some example
embodiments to further clarify various aspects of the present
disclosure. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only
some embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit
its scope in any way. The disclosure will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an example heating
system;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of another example heating
system;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of example heating systems of
different sizes;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of an example
configuration of a heating element;
[0021] FIG. 5 includes assembled and exploded views of an example
heating system;
[0022] FIG. 5a is another view of the example heating system
disclosed in FIG. 5;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a section view of an example heating system;
[0024] FIG. 6a is another view of the example heating system of
FIG. 6;
[0025] FIGS. 7a and 7b are section and perspective views,
respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;
[0026] FIGS. 8a and 8b are section and perspective views,
respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;
[0027] FIGS. 9a and 9b are section and perspective views,
respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;
[0028] FIGS. 10a and 10b are section and perspective views,
respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;
[0029] FIGS. 11a and 11b are section and perspective views,
respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system; and
[0030] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example heating system
and control system.
[0031] FIG. 13a is a front elevation view of a first additional
embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered
materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right
elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);
[0032] FIG. 13b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 13a;
[0033] FIG. 13c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 13a;
[0034] FIG. 14a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 13a;
[0035] FIG. 14b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 13a;
[0036] FIG. 15 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 13a;
[0037] FIG. 16a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a second
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views
for the second embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of
FIGS. 13a-15);
[0038] FIG. 16b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 16a;
[0039] FIG. 16c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 16a;
[0040] FIG. 17a is a front elevation view of a third additional
embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered
materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right
elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);
[0041] FIG. 17b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 17a;
[0042] FIG. 17c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 17a;
[0043] FIG. 18a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 17a;
[0044] FIG. 18b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 17a;
[0045] FIG. 19 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 17a;
[0046] FIG. 20a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a fourth
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views
for the fourth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of
FIGS. 17a-19);
[0047] FIG. 20b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 20a;
[0048] FIG. 20c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 20a;
[0049] FIG. 21a is a front elevation view of a fifth additional
embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered
materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right
elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);
[0050] FIG. 21b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 21a;
[0051] FIG. 21c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 21a;
[0052] FIG. 22a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 21a;
[0053] FIG. 22b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 21a;
[0054] FIG. 23 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 21a;
[0055] FIG. 24a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a sixth
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views
for the sixth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of
FIGS. 21a-23);
[0056] FIG. 24b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 24a;
[0057] FIG. 24c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 24a;
[0058] FIG. 25a is a front elevation view of a seventh additional
embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered
materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right
elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);
[0059] FIG. 25b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 25a;
[0060] FIG. 25c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 25a;
[0061] FIG. 26a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 25a;
[0062] FIG. 26b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 25a;
[0063] FIG. 27 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 25a;
[0064] FIG. 28a is an exploded bottom perspective view of an eighth
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views
for the eighth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of
FIGS. 25a-27);
[0065] FIG. 28b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 28a;
[0066] FIG. 28c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 28a;
[0067] FIG. 29a is a front elevation view of a ninth additional
embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered
materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right
elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);
[0068] FIG. 29b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 29a;
[0069] FIG. 29c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 29a;
[0070] FIG. 30a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 29a;
[0071] FIG. 30b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 29a;
[0072] FIG. 31 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 29a;
[0073] FIG. 32a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a tenth
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views
for the tenth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of
FIGS. 29a-31);
[0074] FIG. 32b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 32a;
[0075] FIG. 32c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 32a;
[0076] FIG. 33a is a front elevation view of an eleventh additional
embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered
materials (the rear elevation view is a mirror image of the front
elevation view);
[0077] FIG. 33b is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG.
33a (the left elevation view is a mirror image of the right
elevation view);
[0078] FIG. 33c is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 33a;
[0079] FIG. 33d is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 33a;
[0080] FIG. 34a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 33a;
[0081] FIG. 34b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 33a;
[0082] FIG. 35 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 33a;
[0083] FIG. 36a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a twelfth
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views
for the twelfth embodiment are the same, respectively, as for the
elevation views and top and bottom views of the embodiment of FIGS.
33a-35);
[0084] FIG. 36b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 36a;
[0085] FIG. 36c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 36a;
[0086] FIG. 37a is a front elevation view of a thirteenth
additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally
delivered materials (the rear elevation view and side elevation
views are each a mirror image of the front elevation view);
[0087] FIG. 37b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 37a;
[0088] FIG. 37c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 37a;
[0089] FIG. 38a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 37a;
[0090] FIG. 38b is an exploded top perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 37a; and
[0091] FIG. 38c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of
FIG. 37a.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0092] Some example embodiments of the present invention will be
explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. In general,
such embodiments can be used in a variety of applications, and it
should be noted that the following examples are not intended to
limit the scope of the invention in any way. For example,
embodiments of the invention can be used in applications such as
injury treatment and rehabilitation, physical therapy, massage,
diagnostic and other medical procedures, cosmetology, and
nutrition. The materials used in such applications can include any
materials suitable for topical application and/or transdermal
delivery, examples of which include drugs, medicines, nutrients,
vitamins, minerals, and beauty products. Other example materials
include edible materials, and materials with industrial
applications such as grease and other lubricants.
[0093] In many instances, such materials are in the form of, or
carried by, a gel, lotion, balm, salve, cream or ointment that can
be applied to the skin and/or other parts of a subject. When such
materials are heated using embodiments of the invention, these
materials may be applied to a subject and/or absorbed relatively
more quickly by the subject than would otherwise be the case.
Examples of such subjects include humans and animals, although
embodiments of the invention can have uses that do not involve
materials that can be applied to a human or animal.
[0094] Although various disclosed embodiments are contemplated for
use with materials that could be applied to, or otherwise used by,
humans and/or animals, it should be understood that the scope of
the invention is not so limited. In fact, at least some of the
disclosed embodiments can be used in connection with any
material(s) that require, for example, one or more of heating,
partial melting, or complete melting, for use. Thus, at least some
embodiments of the invention could be used in applications as
varied as food preparation and cooking applications, industrial
applications, veterinary applications, and laboratory applications,
to name a few examples. Still other applications will be apparent
to the person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of
this disclosure.
A. Aspects of Some Example Embodiments
[0095] With attention now to FIGS. 1-3, details are provided
concerning a heating system, example embodiments of which are
indicated at 100 in the Figures. In general, the heating system 100
may include a container 200 that includes a container body 202 and
a removable lid 204 attached to the container body. The removable
lid 204 can attached to the container body 202 in any suitable way.
For example, the removable lid 204 and container body 202 can each
have complementary threads, or the removable lid 204 can remain in
place on the container body 202 with a slip, friction or snap fit.
In other embodiments, the removable lid 204 and/or container body
202 can be magnetic, or include one or more magnets, so that a
magnetic force tends to retain the removable lid 204 on the
container body 202.
[0096] In some instances, the container 200 may be a single-use
disposable container that is pre-filled with one or more materials.
In this example, the container 200 thus constitutes a consumable
item that can be discarded and replaced with another container. In
yet other embodiments, the container 200 may be made of recyclable
materials. In still other embodiments, the container 200 may be
made for repeated use. As well, the container 200 is made of
biodegradable materials in some embodiments.
[0097] In terms of its construction, the container 200, including
one or both of the container body 202 and a removable lid 204, can
be made of any suitable materials, including any one or more of
rubber, plastic, metal, glass, composites, ceramic, paper, or
cardboard. Where permeable materials such as paper or cardboard are
used in the construction of the container 200, including one or
both of the container body 202 and a removable lid 204, those
materials may be coated with a moisture-proof or moisture-resistant
coating. The container 200, including one or both of the container
body 202 and a removable lid 204, may be rigid, or semi-rigid. In
some embodiments, part or all of the container 200 can include
thermal insulation to aid in heat retention.
[0098] As indicated in FIGS. 1-3, some example containers 200 may
have a generally cylindrical shape, although the scope of the
invention is not limited to any particular shape. For example,
other container shapes include square, rectangular, round,
pyramidal, or conical. Likewise, dimensions such as the height,
diameter and width of the container 200 can be selected as desired.
While not specifically illustrated, containers in accordance with
embodiments of the invention may be releasably lockable to the base
so as to prevent removal of the container when the heating element,
discussed below, is operating. Such locks can be configured to
release the container once the heating element temperature has
dropped to a defined temperature.
[0099] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the example heating
system 100 further includes a heating assembly 300 that includes a
heating element (see FIG. 4) arranged for substantial contact with
the container 200. In the example of FIGS. 1-3, the container 200
rests on top of the heating assembly 300. However, the positioning
of these elements can be reversed such that the heating assembly
300 rests on top of the container 200. In this latter
configuration, the heating assembly 300 can also serve as a
removable lid 204 for the container 200. As further indicated in
FIGS. 1-3, the container 200 and heating assembly 300 may be
configured such that they fit closely together with each other to
define a substantially continuous outer surface 102 of the heating
system 100.
[0100] With particular reference to FIG. 2, at least some
embodiments of the heating assembly 300 and/or the container 200
can include one or more heat sensitive elements 302 in thermal
communication with the heating assembly 300 and/or container 200.
In operation, the heat sensitive element 302 changes its color in
relation to a relative temperature of one or more of the container
200, heating assembly 300, or material disposed in the container
200. For example, the heat sensitive element 302 may turn a first
color when it is at a first temperature, or in a first range of
temperatures, and the heat sensitive element 302 may turn a second
color when it is at a second temperature, or in a second range of
temperatures. The heat sensitive element 302 thus enables a user to
verify whether or not the materials in the container 200 are at a
desired temperature. It should be noted that any other device(s)
having functionality comparable to that of the heat sensitive
element 302 may alternatively be employed. Moreover, the heat
sensitive element(s) 302 can be positioned in any location(s) on or
in the heating system 100 that enables the aforementioned
functionality.
B. Aspects of an Example Heating Assembly and Components
[0101] Turning now to FIG. 4, further details are provided
concerning an example heating assembly 300. As indicated there, the
heating assembly 300 may include a base 304 that supports a heating
element 306. The base 304 and heating element 306 may be integral
with each other, or can be separate parts that are removably, or
permanently, attached to each other. Where the base 304 and heating
element 306 are removably attached to each other, such attachment
can be effected, for example, by a threading engagement between the
two parts. The base 304 may, alternatively, define a recess in
which the heating element 306 can be removably placed. In this
configuration, the weight of the heating element 306 may serve to
retain it in the base 304.
[0102] The base 304 and/or heating element 306 can be made of, or
include, any suitable materials, examples of which include metal,
glass, or ceramic. As well, one or both of the base 304 and heating
element 306 can be coated with one or more of the aforementioned
materials, and/or with rubber, plastic, or paint for example. The
base 304 and/or heating element 306 may include thermal insulation
on their respective exterior portions. In some embodiments, the
base 304 is weighted to provide resistance to being tipped or
knocked over.
[0103] The heating element 306 can be electrically powered, such as
by A/C or D/C current and, in one example embodiment, takes the
form of a resistance heater that generates heat when power is
applied to it. Other suitable heater types can additionally, or
alternatively, be employed. For example, the heating element can be
an induction-based heating element that remains cool to the touch
and only generates heat when in contact with a metallic object,
such as some embodiments of the container. In some instances, the
heating element 306 comprises or includes a material with
relatively high heat retention qualities, such as ceramic for
example. Such configurations can be heated quickly, such as in a
microwave oven for example, and then placed in thermal
communication with the container 200, where the heating element 306
can transfer heat to the container for a relatively long period of
time. These configurations of the heating element 306 may, or may
not, also include an electrically powered heater.
[0104] With continued attention to FIG. 4, and directing attention
now as well to FIGS. 5 and 6, further details are provided
concerning aspects of example embodiments of the heating element
306. As indicated in those Figures, the heating element 306 and
container 200 are generally configured so that the container 200
encloses a portion, which may be a substantial portion, of the
heating element 306. As a result of this configuration and
arrangement of the heating element 306 and container 200, and as
best indicated in FIG. 6, the heating element 306 is operable to
heat material in the container 200 from a location within the outer
walls 206 of the container 200.
[0105] As further indicated in FIGS. 4-6, the heating element 306
may have a generally conical shape, although that is not required.
Other shapes for the heating element 306 include cylindrical and
pyramidal. As indicated in FIGS. 4-6, the outer surface of the
heating element 306 may have a generally concave shape while the
corresponding portion of the recess 208 that contacts the heating
element 306 may be generally convex. However, the scope of the
invention is not limited to any particular shape, or shapes, for
the heating element 306 and recess 208. In some instances at least,
the shape of the heating element 306 may be selected to achieve a
heat transfer area of a desired size. Moreover, the scope of the
invention is not limited to any particular dimensions or aspect
ratios (such as, e.g., width:height) for a heating element.
[0106] As well, although the example heating element 306 is
generally symmetric about its vertical axis A-A (FIG. 6), other
embodiments of the example heating element 306 are asymmetric about
their vertical axis. Further, although the example heating element
306 can be generally vertical in its orientation, that is not
required, and one or more other embodiments of the heating element
may have a non-vertical orientation. In all of the aforementioned
example embodiments, the container 200 is configured to include a
shape and orientation that are complementary to the shape and
orientation of the heating element.
[0107] More generally, any configuration of the heating element 306
which enables at least a portion, and a substantial portion in some
embodiments, of the heating element 306 to be enclosed by the
container 200 can be employed. One example of such a configuration
is the male (heating element 306)-female (recess 208) arrangement
indicated in FIGS. 4-6, although the scope of the invention is not
limited to this particular configuration.
[0108] While the Figures indicate a generally smooth outer surface
306a of the heating element 306, that configuration is not
required. Thus, in other embodiments, the outer surface of the
heating element can be textured and/or include other surface
treatments.
[0109] As best indicated in FIG. 6, embodiments of the container
200 are generally configured to define a recess 208 whose shape and
size are complementary with the shape and size of the corresponding
heating element 306. This complementary relationship may, for
example, facilitate relatively better heat transfer from the
heating element 306 to the container 200, and may also provide
stability to the heating system 100 by virtue of a relatively close
fit between the heating element 306 and the recess 208.
[0110] In some embodiments, the heating element 306 can include one
or more protruding elements, such as a substantially vertical fin
(not shown) for example that is received in a corresponding groove
of the recess 208. Such a protruding element can serve to prevent
rotation of the container 200 relative to the heating element 306,
and can also help to ensure that the container 200 is oriented in a
particular way relative to the heating element 306, should such
orientation be useful. One or more protruding elements can also
provide for enhanced heat transfer from the heating element 306,
inasmuch as the surface area of the heating element 306 is
increased, and conductive heat transfer is a function of surface
area.
[0111] Although a single centrally located heating element 306 is
indicated in FIG. 6, the scope of the invention is not so limited.
For example, some embodiments can include multiple heating
elements, at least one of which may be located off-center relative
to a vertical axis defined by the container 200. Yet other
embodiments can include a single off-center heating element. The
corresponding containers in these alternative embodiments are
configured with a shape, size and orientation that complementary
with the heating element(s).
[0112] With continued reference to FIG. 6, the container 200
includes, as noted above, outer walls 206 that cooperate with the
recess 208 to define an interior 210 of the container 200. Any
material(s) desired to be heated by the heating element(s) 306 can
be placed in the interior 210 of the container 200. Examples of
such materials are disclosed elsewhere herein. One useful aspect of
the particular shape of the interior 210 of FIG. 6 is that when a
user inserts one or more fingers into the interior 210, the outer
walls 206 and recess 208 may cooperate to direct materials in the
interior 210 upward where they are more readily accessed by the
user.
[0113] With reference now to FIG. 6a, details are provided
concerning a modified container 200a having a container body 202a
configured to receive a lid 204a. The container body 202a includes
an annular shoulder 203a upon which the lower edge 205a of the lid
204a can rest. This lid and shoulder configuration can be employed
in any of the disclosed embodiments, but is not required to be.
C. Aspects of Additional Example Embodiments
[0114] Directing attention now to FIGS. 7a to 11b, details are
provided concerning various alternative embodiments of a heating
system. It should be noted that still other example embodiments are
discussed herein in connection with FIGS. 13a-38c, discussed
below.
[0115] With attention first to FIGS. 7a and 7b, a heating system
400 is disclosed. The heating system 400 may be similar to, or the
same as, any of the other disclosed embodiments, except for the
respective shapes of the heating element 402, corresponding recess
404, base 406, container 408, and lid 410. With particular
reference to the container 408, the embodiment in FIGS. 7a and 7b
has a tapered shape that has a relatively smaller outside diameter
at the base and a relatively larger outside diameter at the top.
The lid 410 can be similarly tapered.
[0116] With attention now to FIGS. 8a and 8b, a heating system 500
is disclosed. The heating system 500 may be similar to, or the same
as, any of the other disclosed embodiments, except for the
substantially cylindrical shape of the heating element 502,
corresponding recess 504, base 506, container 508 and lid 510.
[0117] With attention now to FIGS. 9a and 9b, a heating system 600
is disclosed. The heating system 600 may be similar to, or the same
as, any of the other disclosed embodiments, except for the
respective shapes of the heating element 602, corresponding recess
604, base 606, and container 608. The lid 610 may have a shape
similar to the shape of other lids disclosed herein, such as lid
510 for example. Similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, the
heating system 600 can include a heating element 602 that is
electrically powered, and a power cord 612 can be provided for this
purpose.
[0118] Turning now to FIGS. 10a and 10b, a further embodiment of a
heating system 700 is disclosed. Similar to other embodiments
disclosed herein, the heating system 700 includes a heating element
702, recess 704, base 706, and container 708. However, the heating
system 700 differs somewhat from those embodiments in that the
container 708 is fitted with a pump system 710. As indicated in
FIGS. 10a and 10b, the pump system 710 can include a delivery tube
712 that may extend a substantial distance into the container 708,
possibly near, or at the bottom of the interior of the container
708. The delivery tube 712 can be rubber, plastic and/or any other
suitable material(s). A pump head 714, which can be spring loaded
or otherwise biased, is connected to the delivery tube 712 by way
of a pump head inlet 716. As the pump head 714 is depressed,
pressure is exerted on the interior 708a of the container 708,
causing the material in the container 708 to move upward in the
delivery tube 712, and out of the pump head by way of the pump head
outlet 714a. When the pump head 714 is released, a spring or
similar element (not shown) returns the pump head to its initial
position prior to depression.
[0119] As a result of the configuration of the heating system 700,
the user can easily dispense heated material from the container
708. It will be appreciated that the shape of the container 708,
recess 704, heating element 702 and base 706 can take the size
and/or shape of the corresponding elements of any of the other
disclosed embodiments.
[0120] With reference now to FIGS. 11a and 11b, a further example
embodiment of a heating system 800 is disclosed. Similar to other
embodiments disclosed herein, the example heating system 800
includes a heating element 802, recess 804, base 806, container 808
and lid 810. Any one or more of the aforementioned elements may be
shaped differently than the counterpart element in the other
embodiments.
D. Aspects of an Example Control System
[0121] Turning now to FIG. 12, details are provided concerning a
control system 900 that can be employed with any of the embodiments
of the heating system disclosed herein. Among other things, the
control system 900 can include a printed circuit board (PCB) 902
with circuitry to control a variety of functions relating to
operation of the heating system 1000. As in the case of other
embodiments disclosed herein, the example heating system 1000
includes a heating element 1002, recess 1004, base 1006, container
1008, and lid 1010. Among other things, the control system 900 can
operate to activate and deactivate the heating element 1002, as
described in FIG. 12. As well, embodiments of the control system
900 may include any one or more of: a thermostat and feedback loop
to maintain the heating element 1002 at a desired temperature; auto
shutoff circuitry for the heating element based on time and/or
temperature (for example--if the container 1008 is sufficiently
empty that there is not enough material to absorb heat generated by
the heating element 1002, such that an over temperature condition
could occur); a sound device that provides one or more audible
signals concerning the heating system 1000--such as when the
heating system 1000 is turned on or off; a timer, which can operate
in conjunction with auto shutoff circuitry; a heat output control
element to vary and control the output temperature of the heating
element 1002; circuitry to prevent activation of the heating
element 1002 if the container 1008 is not present and/or to shut
off the heating element 1002 when the container 1008 is removed;
and, container locking and release circuitry (as described earlier
herein).
E. Design and Other Aspects of Some Example Embodiments
[0122] With reference now to FIGS. 13a-38c, details are provided
concerning various aspects, including designs, of some additional
embodiments of the invention. Turning first to FIGS. 13a-15, an
embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1100. The
heating system 1100 may be similar, or identical, to other
disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and
operation. Thus, the heating system 1100 includes a container body
1102 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1104 that
includes a base 1104a and a heating element 1104b. The heating
element 1104b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the
base 1104a. A removable lid 1106 releasably engages the top of the
container body 1102.
[0123] Turning next to FIGS. 16a-16c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1200. The heating system
1200 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1200 includes a container body 1202 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1204 that includes a base 1204a and a
heating element 1204b. The heating element 1204b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1204a. A
removable lid 1206 releasably engages the top of the container body
1202.
[0124] Turning next to FIGS. 17a-19, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1300. The heating system
1300 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1300 includes a container body 1302 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1304 that includes a base 1304a and a
heating element 1304b. The heating element 1304b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1304a. A
removable lid 1306 releasably engages the top of the container body
1302.
[0125] Turning next to FIGS. 20a-20c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1400. The heating system
1400 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1400 includes a container body 1402 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1404 that includes a base 1404a and a
heating element 1404b. The heating element 1404b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1404a. A
removable lid 1406 releasably engages the top of the container body
1402.
[0126] Turning next to FIGS. 21a-23, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1500. The heating system
1500 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1500 includes a container body 1502 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1504 that includes a base 1504a and a
heating element 1504b. The heating element 1504b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1504a. A
removable lid 1506 releasably engages the top of the container body
1502.
[0127] Turning next to FIGS. 24a-24c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1600. The heating system
1600 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1600 includes a container body 1602 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1604 that includes a base 1604a and a
heating element 1604b. The heating element 1604b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1604a. A
removable lid 1606 releasably engages the top of the container body
1602.
[0128] Turning next to FIGS. 25a-27, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1700. The heating system
1700 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1700 includes a container body 1702 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1704 that includes a base 1704a and a
heating element 1704b. The heating element 1704b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1704a. A
removable lid 1706 releasably engages the top of the container body
1702.
[0129] Turning next to FIGS. 28a-28c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1800. The heating system
1800 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1800 includes a container body 1802 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1804 that includes a base 1804a and a
heating element 1804b. The heating element 1804b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1804a. A
removable lid 1806 releasably engages the top of the container body
1802.
[0130] Turning next to FIGS. 29a-31, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 1900. The heating system
1900 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 1900 includes a container body 1902 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 1904 that includes a base 1904a and a
heating element 1904b. The heating element 1904b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1904a. A
removable lid 1906 releasably engages the top of the container body
1902.
[0131] Turning next to FIGS. 32a-32c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 2000. The heating system
2000 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 2000 includes a container body 2002 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 2004 that includes a base 2004a and a
heating element 2004b. The heating element 2004b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 2004a. A
removable lid 2006 releasably engages the top of the container body
2002.
[0132] Turning next to FIGS. 33a-35, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 2100. The heating system
2100 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 2100 includes a container body 2102 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 2104 that includes a base 2104a and a
heating element 2104b. The heating element 2104b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 2104a. A
removable lid 2106 releasably engages the top of the container body
2102.
[0133] Turning next to FIGS. 36a-36c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 2200. The heating system
2200 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 2200 includes a container body 2202 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 2204 that includes a base 2204a and a
heating element 2204b. The heating element 2204b can be
permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 2204a. A
removable lid 2206 releasably engages the top of the container body
2202.
[0134] Turning finally to FIGS. 37a-38c, another embodiment of a
heating system is designated generally at 2300. The heating system
2300 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments
in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating
system 2300 includes a container body 2302 configured to releasably
engage a heating assembly 2304 that is integrated with a removable
lid 2306 and includes a heating element 2304a. The removable lid
2306 releasably engages the top of the container body 2302.
[0135] It will be appreciated that any one or more elements of any
one or more embodiments can be combined with any one or more
elements of any one or more other embodiments, so as to define
still further embodiments. By way of illustration, any of the
containers disclosed herein can be combined with any of the heating
elements to define still further embodiments within the scope of
the invention and, accordingly, the scope of the invention is not
limited to the embodiments specifically illustrated in the figures.
For More broadly, the scope of the invention includes what would be
apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art having the
benefit of this disclosure.
[0136] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *