Electronically Controlled Warmer Drawer
First Claim
1. A warmer drawer comprising:
- a housing having a cavity;
an extendable portion slidably connected to the housing, wherein the extendable portion is sized to fit within the cavity;
a door connected to the extendable portion;
a heating element located in the cavity;
a fan for moving heated air within the cavity;
electronic controls for operating the fan and the heating element; and
a sensor in communication with the electronic controls for controlling a humidity in the cavity and a current supplied to the heating element.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An electronically controlled warmer drawer for food or non-food items having a housing including a heating element based on several heat-producing technologies, temperature and/or humidity sensor(s), and a fan to effectively warm items placed therein. The system is controlled by way of the user interface that interacts with an electronic control system to operate the heating element and fan. The user interface provides user programmable controls and automatic overrides, can be placed in a variety of locations, and can be concealed by a variety of elements. The interface can also utilize a variety of touch sensitive technologies. As well, the device may have a receptacle for adding fragrance or flavor to the objects within.
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Citations
18 Claims
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1. A warmer drawer comprising:
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a housing having a cavity; an extendable portion slidably connected to the housing, wherein the extendable portion is sized to fit within the cavity; a door connected to the extendable portion; a heating element located in the cavity; a fan for moving heated air within the cavity; electronic controls for operating the fan and the heating element; and a sensor in communication with the electronic controls for controlling a humidity in the cavity and a current supplied to the heating element. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 18)
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11. A method of manufacturing a warmer drawer, comprising steps of:
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defining an enclosure with a chamber and having an opening; configuring a movable portion to be moved with respect to the chamber; providing a heating element to heat the chamber; configuring a user interface to receive input from a user for controlling operation of the warmer drawer; providing a sensor to sense a signal representative of a temperature of the chamber; configuring an electronic control system for interfacing with the heating element, the user interface, and the sensor to control a supply of electrical power in a continuous and regulated manner to the heating element during operation of the warmer drawer; and controlling the humidity in the chamber. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14)
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Specification