U.S. patent application number 15/373186 was filed with the patent office on 2018-06-14 for temperature-regulating containment system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Nova Laboratories. The applicant listed for this patent is Nova Laboratories. Invention is credited to Robert Banks.
Application Number | 20180164034 15/373186 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 62485746 |
Filed Date | 2018-06-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180164034 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Banks; Robert |
June 14, 2018 |
TEMPERATURE-REGULATING CONTAINMENT SYSTEM
Abstract
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a temperature-regulating
containment system for actively heating or cooling a liquid to a
desired liquid temperature, the temperature-regulating containment
system comprising: a container having an internal cavity defined by
a sidewall upwardly extending from a bottom wall; a heating element
disposed beneath the bottom wall; a chamber disposed beneath the
bottom wall, the chamber adjustable between an unfilled condition
and a filled condition in which the chamber is filled with a heat
transfer medium; and a cooling element disposed beneath the
chamber. When the liquid temperature is below the desired liquid
temperature: the chamber adjusts to the unfilled condition, and the
heating element provides heat to the bottom wall. When the liquid
temperature is above the desired liquid temperature: the chamber
adjusts to the filled condition, and the cooling element removes
heat from the bottom wall.
Inventors: |
Banks; Robert; (Firestone,
CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nova Laboratories |
Firestone |
CO |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Nova Laboratories
Firestone
CO
|
Family ID: |
62485746 |
Appl. No.: |
15/373186 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 2400/361 20130101;
F25D 2700/123 20130101; F25D 2700/16 20130101; F25D 31/005
20130101; F25D 31/008 20130101; F25D 2201/14 20130101; F25B 21/02
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F25D 31/00 20060101
F25D031/00; F25B 21/02 20060101 F25B021/02; F25D 29/00 20060101
F25D029/00 |
Claims
1. A temperature-regulating containment system for actively heating
or cooling a liquid to a desired liquid temperature, comprising: a
container having an internal cavity defined by a sidewall upwardly
extending from a bottom wall, said internal cavity configured to
contain said liquid which has a liquid temperature; a heating
element disposed beneath said bottom wall, said heating element
configured to provide heat to said bottom wall; a chamber disposed
beneath said bottom wall, said chamber adjustable between an
unfilled condition and a filled condition in which said chamber is
filled with a heat transfer medium; and a cooling element disposed
beneath said chamber, said cooling element configured to remove
heat from said bottom wall; wherein when said liquid temperature is
below said desired liquid temperature: said chamber adjusts to said
unfilled condition; and said heating element provides said heat to
said bottom wall to heat said liquid to said desired liquid
temperature; and wherein when said liquid temperature is above said
desired liquid temperature: said chamber adjusts to said filled
condition; and said cooling element removes said heat from said
bottom wall to cool said liquid to said desired liquid
temperature.
2-5. (canceled)
6. The containment system of claim 1, wherein said heating element
is coupled to a bottom wall outer surface of said bottom wall.
7. (canceled)
8. The containment system of claim 1, wherein said cooling element
comprises a thermoelectric cooler.
9. The containment system of claim 8, wherein said cooling element
comprises a Peltier device having a warmable face opposite a
coolable face.
10. The containment system of claim 9, wherein said coolable face
is proximate said bottom wall and said warmable face is distal from
said bottom wall.
11. The containment system of claim 9, further comprising a heat
sink coupled to said warmable face of said Peltier device, said
heat sink in thermal communication with said warmable face.
12-14. (canceled)
15. The containment system of claim 1, wherein said chamber is
disposed between said bottom wall and said cooling element.
16. The containment system of claim 15, wherein when said chamber
is in said filled condition, said heat transfer medium thermally
communicates with said bottom wall and said cooling element.
17. The containment system of claim 16, wherein when said chamber
is in said unfilled condition, said bottom wall is thermally
uncoupled from said cooling element.
18. The containment system of claim 17, wherein a vacuum exists in
said chamber when said chamber is in said unfilled condition.
19-20. (canceled)
21. The containment system of claim 1, further comprising a power
source operatively coupled to one or more powerable components of
said containment system.
22-27. (canceled)
28. The containment system of claim 1, further comprising one or
more sensors operatively coupled to said containment system.
29. The containment system of claim 28, wherein at least one said
sensor comprises a temperature sensor which provides sensed
temperature information.
30. The containment system of claim 29, further comprising a
plurality of said temperature sensors disposed in spaced apart
relation along a height of said container.
31. The containment system of claim 30, whereby said sensed
temperature information provides a sensed liquid level of said
liquid within said internal cavity.
32. The containment system of claim 29, further comprising control
circuitry which controls one or more controllable components of
said containment system based at least in part on said sensed
temperature information.
33. The containment system of claim 32, further comprising a
display surface operatively coupled to said control circuitry;
wherein said display surface displays said liquid temperature or
information related to said liquid temperature.
34. The containment system of claim 32, further comprising a user
interface operatively coupled to said control circuitry; wherein
said user interface comprises one or more user-actuatable controls
to provide operating instructions to said control circuity.
35. The containment system of claim 32, further comprising a
wireless transceiver operatively coupled to said control circuitry;
wherein said transceiver is configured to establish a communication
connection with a remote device.
36. The containment system of claim 35, wherein said remote device
comprises an application associated with said containment
system.
37-82. (canceled)
Description
I. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0001] A broad object of a particular embodiment of the invention
can be to provide a temperature-regulating containment system for
actively heating or cooling a liquid to a desired liquid
temperature, and methods of making and using such a
temperature-regulating containment system, whereby the
temperature-regulating containment system comprises: a container
having an internal cavity defined by a sidewall upwardly extending
from a bottom wall, the internal cavity configured to contain the
liquid which has a liquid temperature; a heating element disposed
beneath the bottom wall, the heating element configured to provide
heat to the bottom wall; a chamber disposed beneath the bottom
wall, the chamber adjustable between an unfilled condition and a
filled condition in which the chamber is filled with a heat
transfer medium; and a cooling element disposed beneath the
chamber, the cooling element configured to remove heat from the
bottom wall; wherein when the liquid temperature is below the
desired liquid temperature: the chamber adjusts to the unfilled
condition, and the heating element provides heat to the bottom wall
to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature; and wherein
when the liquid temperature is above the desired liquid
temperature: the chamber adjusts to the filled condition, and the
cooling element removes heat from the bottom wall to cool the
liquid to the desired liquid temperature.
[0002] Naturally, further objects of the invention are disclosed
throughout other areas of the specification, drawings, and
claims.
II. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
the instant temperature-regulating containment system.
[0004] FIG. 1B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
1A.
[0005] FIG. 1C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
1A.
[0006] FIG. 1D is a first side view of the particular embodiment of
the instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
1A.
[0007] FIG. 1E is a second side view of the particular embodiment
of the instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in
FIG. 1A.
[0008] FIG. 1F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
1A.
[0009] FIG. 1G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
1A.
[0010] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
the instant temperature-regulating containment system.
[0011] FIG. 2B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
2A.
[0012] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view 2C-2C of the particular
embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment system
shown in FIG. 2B, whereby the liquid temperature of the liquid
contained within the internal cavity of the container is below a
desired liquid temperature and accordingly, the chamber adjusts to
the unfilled condition and the heating element provides heat to the
bottom wall of the container to heat the liquid to the desired
liquid temperature.
[0013] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view 2D-2D of the particular
embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment system
shown in FIG. 2B, whereby the liquid temperature of the liquid
contained within the internal cavity of the container is above a
desired liquid temperature and accordingly, the chamber adjusts to
the filled condition and the cooling element removes heat from the
bottom wall of the container to cool the liquid to the desired
liquid temperature.
[0014] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a particular
embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment
system.
[0015] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a container and a sensor of the instant temperature-regulating
containment system.
[0016] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a container and a sensor of the instant temperature-regulating
containment system.
[0017] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
the instant temperature-regulating containment system with an
overlaying layer exploded upwardly from a heating element and a
chamber lid.
[0018] FIG. 5B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
5A.
[0019] FIG. 5C is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 5A
without the overlaying layer.
[0020] FIG. 5D is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
5A.
[0021] FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view 5E-5E of the particular
embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment system
shown in FIG. 5B.
[0022] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a heating element of the instant temperature-regulating containment
system.
[0023] FIG. 6B is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
heating element shown in FIG. 6A.
[0024] FIG. 6C is a side view of the particular embodiment of the
heating element shown in FIG. 6A.
[0025] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
an overlaying layer of the instant temperature-regulating
containment system.
[0026] FIG. 7B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the
overlaying layer shown in FIG. 7A.
[0027] FIG. 7C is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
overlaying layer shown in FIG. 7A.
[0028] FIG. 7D is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
overlaying layer shown in FIG. 7A.
[0029] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a chamber lid of the instant temperature-regulating containment
system.
[0030] FIG. 8B is a side view of the particular embodiment of the
chamber lid shown in FIG. 8A.
[0031] FIG. 8C is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
chamber lid shown in FIG. 8A.
[0032] FIG. 8D is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the
chamber lid shown in FIG. 8A.
[0033] FIG. 8E is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a chamber lid of the instant temperature-regulating containment
system as well as a conduit which fluidicly connects a reservoir
and a pump to a chamber partially defined by the chamber lid.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a perspective and exploded view of a particular
embodiment of an overlaying layer, a heating element, and a chamber
lid of the instant temperature-regulating containment system.
[0035] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a cooling element, a heat sink, and a fan of the instant
temperature-regulating containment system.
[0036] FIG. 10B is an exploded view of the particular embodiment of
the cooling element, the heat sink, and the fan shown in FIG.
10A.
[0037] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a heat sink of the instant temperature-regulating containment
system.
[0038] FIG. 11B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the
heat sink shown in FIG. 11A.
[0039] FIG. 11C is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
heat sink shown in FIG. 11A.
[0040] FIG. 11D is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of
the heat sink shown in FIG. 11A.
[0041] FIG. 11E is a cross-sectional view 11E-11E of the particular
embodiment of the heat sink shown in FIG. 11B.
[0042] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a power source, a housing, and a charger of the instant
temperature-regulating containment system.
[0043] FIG. 12B is a perspective and exploded view of the
particular embodiment of the power source, the housing, and the
charger shown in FIG. 12A.
[0044] FIG. 12C is a perspective and exploded view of the
particular embodiment of the power source, the housing, and the
charger shown in FIG. 12A.
[0045] FIG. 12D is a front and exploded view of the particular
embodiment of the power source, the housing, and the charger shown
in FIG. 12A.
[0046] FIG. 13A is a front view of a particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system whereby a heating
element disposes beneath a first chamber and a cooling element
disposes beneath a second chamber.
[0047] FIG. 13B is a side view of the particular embodiment of the
instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
13A.
[0048] FIG. 13C is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of
the instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG.
13A.
[0049] FIG. 13D is a cross-sectional view 13D-13D of the particular
embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment system
shown in FIG. 13A.
[0050] FIG. 13E is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 13D.
[0051] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of
a lid of the instant temperature-regulating containment system.
[0052] FIG. 14B is a top view of the particular embodiment of the
lid shown in FIG. 14A.
[0053] FIG. 14C is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of
the lid shown in FIG. 14A.
III. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0054] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 2B and FIG.
3, which illustrate a temperature-regulating containment system (1)
for actively heating or cooling a liquid (2), the containment
system (1) comprising (i) a container (3) having an internal cavity
(4) defined by a sidewall (5) upwardly extending from a bottom wall
(6), the internal cavity (4) configured to contain liquid (2) which
has a liquid temperature (7); (ii) a heating element (8) disposed
beneath the bottom wall (6), the heating element (8) configured to
provide heat (9) to the bottom wall (6); (iii) a chamber (10)
disposed beneath the bottom wall (6), the chamber (10) adjustable
between an unfilled condition (11) and a filled condition (12) in
which the chamber (10) is filled with a heat transfer medium (13);
and (iv) a cooling element (14) disposed beneath the chamber (10),
the cooling element (14) configured to remove heat (9) from the
bottom wall (6).
[0055] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2C, the instant containment
system (1) may be useful when the liquid temperature (7) is below a
desired liquid temperature (15). Following, the chamber (10) can be
adjusted to the unfilled condition (11), and the heating element
(8) can provide heat (9) to the bottom wall (6) to heat the liquid
(2) to the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0056] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2D, the instant containment
system (1) may also be useful when the liquid temperature (7) is
above a desired liquid temperature (15). Subsequently, the chamber
(10) can be adjusted to the filled condition (12), and the cooling
element (14) can remove heat (9) from the bottom wall (6) to cool
the liquid (2) to the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0057] As used herein, the term "heat" means energy, such as
thermal energy, which when transferred to matter, can cause the
matter to become warmer or hotter. Correspondingly, upon providing
heat (9) to matter, the matter can increase in temperature.
Conversely, upon removing heat (9) from matter, the matter can
decrease in temperature, thereby becoming cooler or colder.
[0058] As used herein, a "desired liquid temperature" is typically
a predetermined temperature, whereby "predetermined" means decided
in advance. Of note, when the desired liquid temperature (15) is
reached with use of the instant containment system (1), the
applicable heating or cooling element (8)(14) can also function to
maintain the desired liquid temperature (15) for a period of time,
such as minutes or hours.
[0059] As shown in the example of the Figures, the instant
containment system (1) or one or more components thereof can be
portable, meaning physically configured to be easily carried by an
individual during use.
[0060] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, FIG. 4A, and FIG. 4B, the
instant containment system (1) includes a container (3) having an
internal cavity (4) configured to contain liquid (2), whereby the
container (3) is formed from at least a sidewall (5) which upwardly
extends from a bottom wall (6). Following, a sidewall inner surface
(16) and a bottom wall inner surface (17) define the internal
cavity (4) having an open end (18) opposite the bottom wall inner
surface (17), which provides the internal cavity (4) with a closed
end (19). Liquid (2) can be passed through the open end (18) for
containment within the internal cavity (4).
[0061] Regarding configuration, as to particular embodiments, the
container (3) can be formed from a generally cylindrical sidewall
(5), thus having a generally circular cross section through a
horizontal plane. The diameter of the generally cylindrical
sidewall (5) can be the same or different along the height of the
generally cylindrical sidewall (5), depending upon the embodiment.
As but one illustrative example shown in the Figures, the diameter
of the generally cylindrical sidewall (5) can inwardly taper toward
the bottom wall (6).
[0062] Regarding material, at least the bottom wall (6) of the
container (3) can be formed from a thermally-conductive material,
such as metal. As but one non-limiting example, the bottom wall (6)
can be formed from copper or copper plated with tin. As to
particular embodiments, the sidewall (5), which can be (i) coupled,
directly coupled, connected, or adjacent to the bottom wall (6) at
a liquid-tight junction or (ii) integrated with the bottom wall
(6), can also be formed from a thermally-conductive material as
described above.
[0063] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G, and FIG.
3, the containment system (1) can further include an outer shell
(20) coupled to the container (3), whereby the outer shell (20)
surrounds at least the sidewall (5). As to particular embodiments,
an insulating element (21) can be disposed between the container
(3) and the outer shell (20) (as shown in the example of FIG. 3) to
thermally insulate the container (3) and reduce heat transfer
therebetween, consequently permitting the liquid (2) to remain at
the desired liquid temperature (15) for an increased period of time
relative to an embodiment of the containment system (1) without the
insulating element (21).
[0064] As but one non-limiting example, the insulating element (21)
can comprise a vacuum (22). For example, a vacuum (22) can exist in
an annular gap (23) between the container (3) and the outer shell
(20), the vacuum (22) functioning to thermally insulate the
container (3), consequently permitting the liquid (2) to remain at
the desired liquid temperature (15) for an increased period of time
relative to an embodiment of the containment system (1) without the
vacuum (22).
[0065] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 6C, the
containment system (1) further includes a heating element (8)
disposed beneath the bottom wall (6), whereby the heating element
(8) is configured to provide heat (9) to the bottom wall (6). Thus,
the heating element (8) is in thermal communication with the bottom
wall (6) and can correspondingly provide heat (9) to the bottom
wall (6) and subsequently, to the liquid (2) contained within the
internal cavity (4) via transfer through the bottom wall (6) to
heat the liquid (2) to the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0066] It is herein to be understood that when a component of the
containment system (1) is in thermal communication with the bottom
wall (6) of the container (3), the component is also in thermal
communication with the liquid (2) contained within the internal
cavity (4). Thus, when heat (9) is provided to the bottom wall (6),
for example by the heating element (8), heat (9) is provided to the
liquid (2) contained within the internal cavity (4). And, when heat
(9) is removed from the bottom wall (6), for example by the cooling
element (14), heat (9) is removed from the liquid (2) contained
within the internal cavity (4).
[0067] As to particular embodiments, the heating element (8) can
include an electrically-conductive path having a sufficient amount
of resistance to generate heat (9) upon travel of electricity,
whereby the electrically-conductive path can take the form of a
wire, ribbon, strip, etched path, or the like, depending upon the
embodiment.
[0068] As to particular embodiments, the heating element (8) and/or
the electrically-conductive path can be generally planar or flat,
as shown in the examples of the Figures.
[0069] As to particular embodiments, the heating element (8) can be
configured as a flexible heating element (8).
[0070] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, the heating element (8)
can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, or adjacent to a
bottom wall outer surface (24) disposed opposite the bottom wall
inner surface (17) which defines a portion of the internal cavity
(4).
[0071] As to particular embodiments, the heating element (8) can be
connected to the bottom wall outer surface (24) by adhesion, for
example via a thermally conductive adhesive, disposing the heating
element (8) adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (24) (not
shown).
[0072] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and
FIG. 5E, as to other particular embodiments, the heating element
(8) can be connected or adhered to a component which itself
disposes adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (24), thereby
positioning the heating element (8) proximate the bottom wall outer
surface (24). As but one illustrative example, the heating element
(8) can be connected or adhered to an overlaying layer (25) which
overlays or is directly adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface
(24). Specifically, the heating element (8) can be connected or
adhered to an overlaying layer outer surface (26), whereby the
opposing overlaying layer inner surface (27) can be directly
adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (24). As but one
illustrative example, the overlaying layer (25) can be formed from
a thermally-conductive material, such as steel, thus allowing heat
(9) to transfer therethrough from the heating element (8) to the
bottom wall (6).
[0073] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, as to particular
embodiments, the overlaying layer (25) can overlay the bottom wall
outer surface (24) and a sidewall outer surface (28) such that the
overlaying layer (25) is configured as an open-ended vessel (29)
which contains the above-described container (3).
[0074] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, FIG. 5A through FIG. 5E,
FIG. 10A, and FIG. 10B, the containment system (1) further includes
a cooling element (14) disposed beneath the bottom wall (6),
whereby the cooling element (14) is configured to remove heat (9)
from the bottom wall (6). Thus, the cooling element (14) is in
thermal communication with the bottom wall (6), and can
correspondingly remove heat (9) from the bottom wall (6) and
subsequently, from the liquid (2) contained within the internal
cavity (4) via transfer through the bottom wall (6) to cool the
liquid (2) to the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0075] As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (14) can
be a thermoelectric cooler, such as a Peltier device (30) which
operates according to the Peltier effect. Typically, a Peltier
device (30) includes a warmable face (31) opposite a coolable face
(32). When an electric current flows through the Peltier device
(30), heat transfers from the coolable face (32) to the warmable
face (31), thus decreasing the temperature of (or cooling) the
coolable face (32) and increasing the temperature of (or warming)
the warmable face (31).
[0076] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, the Peltier device (30)
can be disposed beneath the bottom wall (6) such that the coolable
face (32) is proximate the bottom wall (6) while the warmable face
(31) is distal from the bottom wall (6). Said another way, the
coolable face (32) can be oriented toward the bottom wall (6) or
closer to the bottom wall (6), and the warmable face (31) can be
oriented away from the bottom wall (6) or farther from the bottom
wall (6). Accordingly, during use of the containment system (1),
the coolable face (32) can be upwardly-directed while the warmable
face (31) can be downwardly directed. Following, the coolable face
(32) can be in thermal communication with the bottom wall (6), and
can correspondingly remove heat (9) from the bottom wall (6) and
subsequently, from the liquid (2) contained within the internal
cavity (4) via transfer through the bottom wall (6) to cool the
liquid (2) to the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0077] Now referring primarily to FIG. 3, FIG. 5A through FIG. 5E,
and FIG. 10A through FIG. 11E, the containment system (1) can
further include a heat sink (33) coupled, directly coupled,
connected, or adjacent to the Peltier device (30). Specifically,
the heat sink (33) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, or
adjacent to the warmable face (31) of the Peltier device (30) such
that the heat sink (33) is in thermal communication with the
warmable face (31). Correspondingly, the heat sink (33) can
function to dissipate heat (9) transferred to the warmable face
(31) from the coolable face (32), thus allowing the warmable face
(31) to draw additional heat (9) from the coolable face (32) to
further decrease the temperature of (or cool) the coolable face
(32). Consequently, the temperature of the bottom wall (6) can be
further decreased (or cooled) and subsequently, the liquid (2)
contained within the internal cavity (4) can be cooled to the
desired liquid temperature (15).
[0078] Now referring primarily to FIG. 11E, the heat sink (33) can
include one or more fluid flow paths (34) disposed within a heat
sink body (35) formed from a thermally-conductive material, such as
aluminum or copper. The fluid flow paths (34) can be configured to
allow a fluid medium (36), such as air, to flow therethrough,
whereby heat (9) from the relatively warmer heat sink body (35) can
be transferred to the relatively cooler fluid medium (36) which
upon flowing, can transfer the heat (9) away from the heat sink
(33) and the containment system (1). Preferably, the heat sink body
(35) and fluid flow paths (34) can be configured to maximize the
surface area of the heat sink body (35) which contacts the fluid
medium (36) to increase the amount of heat (9) which can be
transferred away from the heat sink (33) and the containment system
(1).
[0079] Again referring primarily to FIG. 11E, the fluid flow paths
(34) can be defined by fins (37) of the heat sink body (35),
whereby the fins (37) and correspondingly, the fluid flow paths
(34), radially outwardly and upwardly extend from an interior fluid
flow channel (38) in spaced apart relation. Correspondingly, from
proximate an interior fluid flow channel bottom portion (39), a
fluid medium (36) can flow upward and outward through the interior
fluid flow channel (38) and the fluid flow paths (34) toward the
ambient environment (40) to transfer heat (9) from the heat sink
body (35) to the ambient environment (40).
[0080] Additionally, a liquid fluid medium (36), such as water, can
flow through the fluid flow paths (34) and the interior fluid flow
channel (38), either upwardly or downwardly, which may be useful
for cleaning and/or washing the heat sink (33).
[0081] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 5E, FIG.
10A, and FIG. 10B, as to particular embodiments, the containment
system (1) can further include a fan (41) fluidicly coupled to the
interior fluid flow channel (38), the fan (41) functioning to
facilitate movement or flow of the fluid medium (36), such as air,
upward and outward through the interior fluid flow channel (38) and
the fluid flow paths (34) toward the ambient environment (40),
thereby transferring heat (9) from the heat sink body (35) to the
ambient environment (40).
[0082] As to particular embodiments, the fan (41) can be disposed
proximate the interior fluid flow channel bottom portion (39). As
but one non-limiting example, the fan (41) can be disposed, either
partially or entirely, within the interior fluid flow channel
bottom portion (39) such that a heat sink body internal wall (42)
which defines the interior fluid flow channel (38) surrounds the
fan (41). As but a second non-limiting example, the fan (41) can be
disposed beneath the interior fluid flow channel bottom portion
(39), as shown in the examples of the Figures.
[0083] Now referring primarily to FIG. 11E, as to particular
embodiments, the heat sink body internal wall (42) which defines
the interior fluid flow channel (38) can have a generally conical
shape such that the heat sink body internal wall (42) inwardly
tapers toward an interior fluid flow channel top portion (43) or
outwardly tapers toward the interior fluid flow channel bottom
portion (39).
[0084] Again referring primarily to FIG. 11E, as to particular
embodiments, the heat sink body (35) can further include a heat
storage element (44) disposed proximate a heat sink upper portion
(45), whereby the heat storage element (44) may be useful for
storing heat (9), for example heat (9) transferred from the
warmable face (31) of the Peltier device (30), and consequently,
may preclude the heat sink (33) from heating too rapidly.
[0085] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 3, FIG. 5A
through FIG. 5E, and FIG. 7A through FIG. 9, the containment system
(1) further includes a chamber (10) disposed beneath the bottom
wall (6) and above the cooling element (14) or between the bottom
wall (6) and the cooling element (14), whereby the chamber (10) can
be coupled, directly coupled, connected, or adjacent to the bottom
wall (6) and/or the cooling element (14), depending upon the
embodiment.
[0086] As to particular embodiments, the chamber (10) can be
disposed within or formed by a component which itself disposes
adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (24), thereby positioning
the chamber (10) proximate the bottom wall outer surface (24). As
but one illustrative example, the chamber (10) can be disposed
within or integrated with the overlaying layer (25) which overlays
or is directly adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (24).
Specifically, the chamber (10) can have a chamber upper portion
(46) which is defined by the overlaying layer outer surface (26).
Further, the overlaying layer outer surface (26) can define chamber
sidewalls (47) which extend between the chamber upper portion (46)
and a chamber lower portion (48), which can be closed by a
removable chamber lid (49).
[0087] As to particular embodiments having an overlaying layer (25)
configured as an open-ended vessel (29) which contains the
container (3), the chamber (10) can be disposed within or formed by
the open-ended vessel (29).
[0088] The chamber (10) is adjustable between an unfilled condition
(11) and a filled condition (12) in which the chamber (10) is
filled with a heat transfer medium (13) which can thermally
communicate with the bottom wall (6) and the cooling element (14).
Thus, when the chamber (10) is in the filled condition (12), the
heat transfer medium (13) functions to thermally couple the bottom
wall (6) and the cooling element (14), meaning that heat (9) can
transfer between the bottom wall (6) and the cooling element (14).
Conversely, when the chamber (10) is in the unfilled condition (11)
and void of the heat transfer medium (13), the bottom wall (6) is
thermally uncoupled from the cooling element (14), meaning that
heat (9) is precluded from transferring between the bottom wall (6)
and the cooling element (14).
[0089] As to particular embodiments, a vacuum (22) can be generated
within the chamber (10) when the chamber (10) is adjusted to the
unfilled condition (11). The vacuum (22) which exists within the
chamber (10) can function to thermally uncouple the bottom wall (6)
and the cooling element (14); thus, the vacuum (22) precludes heat
(9) from transferring between the bottom wall (6) and the cooling
element (14).
[0090] Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 5A
through FIG. 5E, as to particular embodiments, a reservoir (50) can
be fluidicly coupled to the chamber (10), for example via a conduit
(51), such that the heat transfer medium (13) can be transferred
between the chamber (10) and the reservoir (50) to provide the
unfilled and filled conditions (11)(12) of the chamber (10).
[0091] Following, to achieve the unfilled condition (11) of the
chamber (10), the heat transfer medium (13) can be transferred from
the chamber (10) to the reservoir (50) for storage within the
reservoir (50). In contrast, to achieve the filled condition (12)
of the chamber (10), the heat transfer medium (13) can be
transferred from the reservoir (50) to the chamber (10), whereby
the heat transfer medium (13) can displace air in the chamber (10),
the air egressing from the chamber (10) via a port (52) (as shown
in the examples of FIG. 8A, FIG. 8C, and FIG. 8D) which can include
a hydrophobic membrane to allow passage of air and preclude passage
of the heat transfer medium (13).
[0092] It is herein to be understood that the heat transfer medium
(13) is a flowable medium capable of flowing between the chamber
(10) and the reservoir (50). As but one non-limiting example, the
heat transfer medium (13) can comprise or consist of a liquid, such
as mineral oil or the like.
[0093] Again referring primarily to FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 5A
through FIG. 5E, as to particular embodiments, a pump (53) can be
operatively coupled to the chamber (10) and the reservoir (50),
whereby the pump (53) can facilitate transfer of the heat transfer
medium (13) between the chamber (10) and the reservoir (50).
[0094] Regarding spatial relationships, the cooling element (14)
disposes beneath the chamber (10) and, in this way, the chamber
(10) can function to thermally uncouple or thermally couple the
bottom wall (6) and the cooling element (14) when in the unfilled
and filled conditions (11)(12), respectively. However, the heating
element (8) can dispose either above the chamber (10) or beneath
the chamber (10), depending upon the embodiment.
[0095] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 6C, as to
particular embodiments wherein the heating element (8) disposes
above the chamber (10) or above a majority of the chamber (10),
such as in embodiments whereby the heating element is connected or
adhered to an overlaying layer outer surface (26) and the
overlaying layer outer surface (26) defines the chamber upper
portion (46), the heating element (8) can include a through-hole
(54), for example a centrally-located through-hole (54), permitting
the chamber upper portion (46) to extend through the through-hole
to directly contact the overlaying layer outer surface (26).
Following, when the chamber (10) is in the filled condition (12),
the heat transfer medium (13) can directly contact the overlaying
layer outer surface (26) for unimpeded thermal communication. Thus,
in this embodiment, both the heating element (8) and the chamber
(10) are in direct thermal communication with the overlaying layer
outer surface (26).
[0096] Now referring primarily to FIG. 13A through FIG. 13E, as to
other particular embodiments, the heating element (8) can dispose
beneath the chamber (10) or beneath a majority of the chamber (10).
As to these particular embodiments, the chamber (10) can be divided
into discrete first and second chambers (54)(55), whereby the
heating element (8) can dispose beneath the first chamber (54) and
the cooling element (14), for example the Peltier device (30), can
dispose beneath the second chamber (55). The first chamber (54) can
function to thermally uncouple or thermally couple the heating
element (8) and the bottom wall (6) when in the unfilled and filled
conditions (11)(12), respectively; and, the second chamber (55) can
function to thermally uncouple or thermally couple the cooling
element (14) and the bottom wall (6) when in the unfilled and
filled conditions (11)(12), respectively.
[0097] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G, and FIG.
12A through FIG. 12D, the containment system (1) can further
include a power source (56) operatively and/or electrically coupled
to one or more powerable components of the containment system (1),
whereby a powerable component can be any component requiring power
to perform its intended function, including but not limited to: the
heating element (8), the cooling element (14), the fan (41), and
the pump (53).
[0098] As to particular embodiments, the power source (56) can be
removable or configured to removably couple to the container (3),
which may be useful when cleaning and/or washing the containment
system (1).
[0099] As to particular embodiments, the power source (56) can be
rechargeable and for example, can be charged by a charger (57).
[0100] As to particular embodiments, the power source (56) can be
removable and rechargeable.
[0101] As to particular embodiments, the power source (56) can be
configured as a battery, such as a rechargeable battery.
[0102] As to particular embodiments, the power source (56) can be
disposed beneath the container (3). Further, as to particular
embodiments, the power source (56) can be disposed beneath the heat
sink (33).
[0103] As to particular embodiments, the power source (56) can be
housed in a housing (58).
[0104] As to particular embodiments, the housing (58) can be
removable or configured to removably couple to the container (3),
which may be useful when cleaning and/or washing the containment
system (1).
[0105] As to particular embodiments, the housing (58) can be
disposed beneath the container (3). Further, as to particular
embodiments, the housing (58) can be disposed beneath the heat sink
(33).
[0106] As to particular embodiments, the housing (58) can include
one or more vents (59), which may be useful for channeling air from
the ambient environment (40) to the fan (41) for directed upward
and outward flow through the interior fluid flow channel (38) and
the fluid flow paths (34) toward the ambient environment (40) to
transfer heat (9) from the heat sink body (35) to the ambient
environment (40).
[0107] Now referring primarily to FIG. 12C, as to particular
embodiments, the housing (58) can include one or more first
electrical connections (60) which function to electrically couple
the power source (56) to the charger (57) to recharge the power
source (56).
[0108] Now referring primarily to FIG. 12B, as to particular
embodiments, the housing (58) can include one or more second
electrical connections (61) which function to electrically couple
the power source (56) to one or more powerable components of the
containment system (1).
[0109] Now referring primarily to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the
containment system (1) can further include one or more sensors (62)
configured to sense a parameter of the liquid (2) and/or a
parameter of the containment system (1) and communicate sensed
parameter information to control circuitry which functions to
control one or more controllable components of the containment
system (1), whereby a controllable component may be a powerable
component as described above, based at least in part on the sensed
parameter information.
[0110] As to particular embodiments, the sensor (62) can be a
temperature sensor (62) configured to sense the liquid temperature
(7), whether directly or indirectly. Regarding the latter, the
temperature sensor (62) can be connected to an outer surface of a
container wall (5)(6), such as sidewall outer surface (28), whereby
the temperature sensor (62) senses the temperature of the sidewall
outer surface (28) which can serve as a surrogate for the liquid
temperature (7). Of note, in this embodiment, the temperature
sensor (62) does not contact the liquid (2) within the internal
cavity (4).
[0111] Following, the sensed temperature information can be
communicated to the control circuitry, which may result in
operation of the heating element (8) if the liquid temperature (7)
is determined to be below a desired liquid temperature (15) or
operation of the cooling element (14) if the liquid temperature (7)
is determined to be above a desired liquid temperature (15).
[0112] As to particular embodiments, the containment system (1) can
include a plurality of temperature sensors (62) disposed in spaced
apart relation along a height of the container (3). By determining
the difference between the sensed temperature information provided
by at least two sensors (62) in generally vertical spaced apart
relation, the level of the liquid (2) can be determined, such as
via use of a liquid volume algorithm.
[0113] For example, when liquid (2) is present in the internal
cavity (4), if there is substantially no difference between the
sensed temperature information provided by upper and lower
temperature sensors (63)(64), the level of the liquid (2) may
likely be above the upper temperature sensor (63). However, if the
sensed temperature information provided by the upper temperature
sensor (63) indicates a lesser temperature than that provided by
the lower temperature sensor (64), the level of the liquid (2) may
likely be below the upper temperature sensor (63) and above the
lower temperature sensor (64) or between the upper and lower
temperature sensors (63)(64).
[0114] Additionally, when no liquid (2) is detected via the
plurality of temperature sensors (62), the containment system (1)
can be configured to power off.
[0115] Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 5E, the
control circuitry which, stated again, functions to control one or
more controllable components of the containment system (1) based at
least in part on the sensed parameter information, can include at
least one controller or microcontroller (65) which can receive,
process, and transform a sensor signal generated by a sensor
(62).
[0116] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G, as to
particular embodiments, the containment system (1) can further
include a display surface (66) operatively coupled to the control
circuitry, whereby the display surface (66) can be configured to
display the liquid temperature (7) or information, such as a
message, notification, or visual indication, related to the liquid
temperature (7).
[0117] Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G, as to
particular embodiments, the display surface (66) can be located on
the containment system (1).
[0118] Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G, as to
particular embodiments, the containment system (1) can further
include a user interface (67) operatively coupled to the control
circuitry and having one or more user-actuatable controls (68) to
provide operating instructions to the control circuitry. For
example, a user-actuatable control (68) may be used to select a
desired liquid temperature (15) of the liquid (2) within the
internal cavity (4) and correspondingly, one or more controllable
components of the containment system (1) will operate to achieve
the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0119] Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G, as to
particular embodiments, the user interface (67) and
correspondingly, the one or more user-actuatable controls (68), can
be located on the containment system (1). Thus, the one or more
user-actuatable controls (68) can be actuated locally to control
one or more controllable components of the containment system
(1).
[0120] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A, as to particular
embodiments, the containment system (1) can further include a
wireless transceiver (69) operatively coupled to the control
circuitry, the transceiver (69) configured to establish a
communication connection with a remote device (70), such as a
mobile electronic device like a mobile phone or tablet
computer.
[0121] As to particular embodiments, the transceiver (69) can be
configured to transmit information, for example the liquid
temperature (7) or information related to the liquid temperature
(7), to the remote device (70), whereby the liquid temperature (7)
or information related to the liquid temperature (7) can
subsequently be displayed on the remote device (70). Thus, as to
this particular embodiment, the display surface (66) can be located
on the remote device (70).
[0122] As to particular embodiments, the transceiver (69) can also
be configured to receive operating instructions from the remote
device (70), for example instructions to operate one or more
controllable components of the containment system (1) to achieve
the desired liquid temperature (15). Accordingly, as to this
particular embodiments, the user interface (67) and
correspondingly, the one or more user-actuatable controls (68), can
be located on the remote device (70). Thus, the one or more
user-actuatable controls (68) can be actuated remotely to control
one or more controllable components of the containment system
(1).
[0123] As to particular embodiments, the remote device (70) can
comprise a program or application (71) associated with the
containment system (1), whereby the application (71) can include
information related to the liquid temperature (7), such as
recommended temperatures for specific liquid types. Additionally,
the application (71) can function to store temperature preferences
of a user, for example the user's temperature preferences for
specific liquid types.
[0124] Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 1G and FIG.
14A through FIG. 14C, the containment system (1) can further
include a lid (72) configured to sealably engage with the container
(3), whereby the lid (72) can include at least one opening (73)
through which liquid (2) can flow, allowing a user to drink the
liquid (2) contained within the internal cavity (4) without having
to disengage the lid (72) from the container (3).
[0125] Now regarding production, a method of making the instant
temperature-regulating containment system (1) can include providing
a container (3) having an internal cavity (4) defined by a sidewall
(5) upwardly extending from a bottom wall (6), the internal cavity
(4) configured to contain liquid (2) which has a liquid temperature
(7); disposing a heating element (8) beneath the bottom wall (6),
the heating element (8) configured to provide heat (9) to the
bottom wall (6); disposing a chamber (10) beneath the bottom wall
(6), the chamber (10) adjustable between an unfilled condition (11)
and a filled condition (12) in which the chamber (10) is filled
with a heat transfer medium (13); and disposing a cooling element
(14) beneath the chamber (10), the cooling element (14) configured
to remove heat (9) from the bottom wall (6). When the liquid
temperature (7) is below a desired liquid temperature (15), the
chamber (10) can be adjusted to the unfilled condition (11), and
the heating element (8) can provide heat (9) to the bottom wall (6)
to heat the liquid (2) to the desired liquid temperature (15).
Further, when the liquid temperature (7) is above a desired liquid
temperature (15), the chamber (10) can be adjusted to the filled
condition (12), and the cooling element (14) can remove heat (9)
from the bottom wall (6) to cool the liquid (2) to the desired
liquid temperature (15).
[0126] The method of making the containment system (1) can further
include providing additional components of the containment system
(1) as described above and in the claims.
[0127] Now regarding utilization, a method of using the instant
temperature-regulating containment system (1) to achieve a desired
liquid temperature (15) of a liquid (2) can include obtaining the
containment system (1) described above; containing liquid (2)
within the internal cavity (4); adjusting the chamber (10) to one
of (i) the unfilled condition (11) or (ii) the filled condition
(12); and operating one of (i) the heating element (8) to provide
heat (9) to the bottom wall (6) to heat the liquid (2) to the
desired liquid temperature (15) or (ii) the cooling element (14) to
remove heat (9) from the bottom wall (6) to cool the liquid (2) to
the desired liquid temperature (15).
[0128] The method of using the containment system (1) can further
include utilizing additional components of the containment system
(1) as described above and in the claims.
[0129] As to particular embodiments, the method of using the
containment system (1) to cool the liquid (2) contained within the
internal cavity (4) to the desired liquid temperature (15) can
include a first step of adjusting the chamber (10) to the filled
condition (12) and operating the cooling element (14) to remove
heat (9) from the bottom wall (6) to decrease the liquid
temperature (7). If the desired liquid temperature (15) is not
achieved because operation of the cooling element (14) cannot
provide further cooling of the liquid (2), a second step can ensue,
whereby the cooling element (14) can be powered off and the chamber
(10) can be adjusted to the unfilled condition (11) while the heat
sink (33) continues to dissipate heat (9). Following dissipation of
a desired amount if heat (9), for example when the heat sink (33)
equilibrates with ambient temperature, the first step can be
repeated, namely the chamber (10) can again be adjusted to the
filled condition (12) and the cooling element (14) can again be
operated to remove heat (9) from the bottom wall (6) to decrease
the liquid temperature (7). If the desired liquid temperature (15)
is still not achieved, the second step can be repeated,
particularly the cooling element (14) can again be powered off and
the chamber (10) can again be adjusted to the unfilled condition
(11) while the heat sink (33) continues to dissipate heat (9). The
first and second steps can continually repeat until the desired
liquid temperature (15) is achieved.
[0130] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic
concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of
ways. The invention involves numerous and varied embodiments of a
temperature-regulating containment system and methods for making
and using such a temperature-regulating containment system.
[0131] As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the
invention disclosed by the description or shown in the figures or
tables accompanying this application are not intended to be
limiting, but rather exemplary of the numerous and varied
embodiments generically encompassed by the invention or equivalents
encompassed with respect to any particular element thereof. In
addition, the specific description of a single embodiment or
element of the invention may not explicitly describe all
embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives are implicitly
disclosed by the description and figures.
[0132] It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or
each step of a method may be described by an apparatus term or
method term. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make
explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is
entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all
steps of a method may be disclosed as an action, a means for taking
that action, or as an element which causes that action. Similarly,
each element of an apparatus may be disclosed as the physical
element or the action which that physical element facilitates. As
but one example, the disclosure of "heat" should be understood to
encompass disclosure of the act of "heating"--whether explicitly
discussed or not--and, conversely, were there effectively
disclosure of the act of "heating", such a disclosure should be
understood to encompass disclosure of "heat" and even a "means for
heating". Such alternative terms for each element or step are to be
understood to be explicitly included in the description.
[0133] In addition, as to each term used it should be understood
that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent
with such interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be
understood to be included in the description for each term as
contained in the Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary,
second edition, each definition hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0134] All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the
term "about", whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes
of the present invention, ranges may be expressed as from "about"
one particular value to "about" another particular value. When such
a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one
particular value to the other particular value. The recitation of
numerical ranges by endpoints includes all the numeric values
subsumed within that range. A numerical range of one to five
includes for example the numeric values 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80,
4, 5, and so forth. It will be further understood that the
endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to
the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. When a
value is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent
"about," it will be understood that the particular value forms
another embodiment. The term "about" generally refers to a range of
numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider
equivalent to the recited numeric value or having the same function
or result. Similarly, the antecedent "substantially" means largely,
but not wholly, the same form, manner or degree and the particular
element will have a range of configurations as a person of ordinary
skill in the art would consider as having the same function or
result. When a particular element is expressed as an approximation
by use of the antecedent "substantially," it will be understood
that the particular element forms another embodiment.
[0135] Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the
term "a" or "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity unless
otherwise limited. As such, the terms "a" or "an", "one or more"
and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein.
[0136] Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at
least: i) each of the temperature-regulating containment systems
herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methods disclosed
and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit
variations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those
alternative embodiments which accomplish each of the functions
shown, disclosed, or described, v) those alternative designs and
methods which accomplish each of the functions shown as are
implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed and described, vi)
each feature, component, and step shown as separate and independent
inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by the various systems
or components disclosed, viii) the resulting products produced by
such systems or components, ix) methods and apparatuses
substantially as described hereinbefore and with reference to any
of the accompanying examples, x) the various combinations and
permutations of each of the previous elements disclosed.
[0137] The background section of this patent application, if any,
provides a statement of the field of endeavor to which the
invention pertains. This section may also incorporate or contain
paraphrasing of certain United States patents, patent applications,
publications, or subject matter of the claimed invention useful in
relating information, problems, or concerns about the state of
technology to which the invention is drawn toward. It is not
intended that any United States patent, patent application,
publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated
herein be interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior
art with respect to the invention.
[0138] The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are
hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the
invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use
all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as
additional description to support any of or all of the claims or
any element or component thereof, and the applicant further
expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the
incorporated content of such claims or any element or component
thereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as
necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by
this application or by any subsequent application or continuation,
division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain
any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with
the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty,
and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the
entire pendency of this application including any subsequent
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof
or any reissue or extension thereon.
[0139] Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if
any, are further intended to describe the metes and bounds of a
limited number of the preferred embodiments of the invention and
are not to be construed as the broadest embodiment of the invention
or a complete listing of embodiments of the invention that may be
claimed. The applicant does not waive any right to develop further
claims based upon the description set forth above as a part of any
continuation, division, or continuation-in-part, or similar
application.
* * * * *