US Patent:
20100018220, Jan 28, 2010
Inventors:
Allan A. Modad - Hayward CA, US
International Classification:
F25B 21/02
G01G 23/18
G05B 15/00
Abstract:
An apparatus selectively heats or cools a beverage in a beverage container and indicates an amount of beverage in the beverage container. The apparatus comprises a portable housing having a door opening into a thermal chamber that is well suited for heating or cooling a 16-ounce (370 milliliter) beverage container. A control module controls a thermoelectric cooler to alternatively heat or cool the beverage. A scale weighs the beverage container and beverage and outputs a value related to a weight of beverage in the container. A display module optionally displays time and weight data related to beverage consumption. The thermoelectric cooler may optionally be controlled to reduce audible noise or to reduce energy consumption. A flexible arm and tubing clip hold a drinking straw in a convenient position for drinking. Power for the apparatus may optionally by supplied by an AC-to-DC converter with a 12 VDC output or from a 12-volt battery.