Portable temperature control container

Abstract

A portable temperature control container system comprises a vessel having an inner food container, an inner wall, a middle insulation and electronics layer, and an outer wall. A heating element is thermally coupled to the inner container to provide substantially uniform heat distribution. A rechargeable battery powers the system, and a charging circuit integrated on a printed circuit board provides charge-state information to a microcontroller-based control circuit. The control circuit drives power transistors coupled to respective heater zones using software-implemented modulation and executes temperature control to regulate the temperature of the contents. A user interface on the outer wall and wireless connectivity to a mobile application enable user selection of a target temperature and a scheduled ready time, and the control circuit determines a preheat start time based on the scheduled ready time and a current temperature of the contents.

Description

Docket: PT25-006 PCTPORTABLE TEMPERATURE CONTROL CONTAINERCROSS REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of a provisional application under 35 U.SC.§119(e), U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 773,370, filed March 17, 2025, which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] People don’t always have the time or ability to go to a microwave or get a warm meal. Conventional insulated containers, such as thermos bottles or other food containers, are designed to maintain the temperature of their contents for extended periods. However, they lack the ability to actively heat the contents when desired. This invention addresses this limitation by incorporating an electrical heating element into a portable double-walled vessel, allowing users to heat their food or beverages on demand.SUMMARY

[0003] The following summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] In various implementations, this invention relates to a self-heating portable double-walled vessel that combines the insulating properties of traditional thermos containers with an integrated electrical heating system. The device features a heating element powered by a battery source, enabling users to heat the contents to temperatures of 175°F or more, as desired.

[0005] These and other features and advantages will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description and a review of the appended drawings. It is to be understood that the foregoing summary, the following detailed description and the appended drawings are explanatory only and are not restrictive of various aspects as claimed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the portable temperature control container in accordance with the specification.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0007] FIG. 2 is an example of a portable temperature control container in accordance with the specification.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] The detailed description provided below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present examples can be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth functions of the examples and sequences of steps for constructing and operating the examples. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences can be accomplished by different examples.

[0009] References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “one implementation,” “an implementation,” “one example,” “an example” and the like, indicate that the described embodiment, implementation or example can include a particular feature, structure or characteristic, but every embodiment, implementation or example can not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, implementation or example. Further, when a particular feature, structure or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, implementation or example, it is to be appreciated that such feature, structure or characteristic can be implemented in connection with other embodiments, implementations or examples whether or not explicitly described.

[0010] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As example, “a” vent may include multiple vents, and the like.

[0011] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Likewise, as used herein, a term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances.

[0012] Words such as “then,” “next,” etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps; these words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the methods.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0013] The terms "‘comprises”, “comprising”, “including”, “having”, and “characterized by”, may be inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, elements, compositions, steps, integers, operations, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Although these open-ended terms may be to be understood as a non-restrictive term used to describe and claim various aspects set forth herein, in certain aspects, the term may alternatively be understood to instead be a more limiting and restrictive term, such as “consisting of’ or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps, described herein also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such recited compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps. In the case of “consisting of’, the alternative embodiment excludes any additional compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps, while in the case of “consisting essentially of’, any additional compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps that materially affect the basic and novel characteristics may be excluded from such an embodiment, but any compositions, materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and / or process steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics may be included in the embodiment.

[0014] Any method steps, processes, and operations described herein may not be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed, unless otherwise indicated.

[0015] In addition, features described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined in or with various other example embodiments in any permutational or combinatory manner. Different aspects or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, may be combined in a similar manner. The term “combination,” “combinatory,” or “combinations thereof’ as used herein refers to all permutations and combinations of the listed items preceding the term. For example, “A, B, C, or combinations thereof is intended to include at least one of: A. B, C, AB, AC, BC. or ABC, and if order is important in a particular context, also BA, CA, CB, CBA, BCA, ACB, BAC, or CAB. Continuing with this example, expressly included may be combinations that contain repeats of one or moreDocket: PT25-006 PCTitem or term, such as BB, AAA, AB, BBC, AAABCCCC, CBBAAA, CABABB, and so forth. The skilled artisan will understand that typically there is no limit on the number of items or terms in any combination, unless otherwise apparent from the context.

[0016] While specific aspects of the disclosure have been provided hereinabove, the disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily being limited to only the embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, these embodiments may be provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys various concepts of this disclosure to skilled artisans.

[0017] All numerical quantities stated herein may be approximate, unless stated otherwise. Accordingly, the term “abouf’ may be inferred when not expressly stated. The numerical quantities disclosed herein may be to be understood as not being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless stated otherwise, each numerical value stated herein is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical value should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding processes. Typical exemplary degrees of error may be within 20%, 10%, or 5% of a given value or range of values. Alternatively, the term “about” refers to values within an order of magnitude, potentially within 5-fold or 2-fold of a given value. Notwithstanding the approximations of numerical quantities stated herein, the numerical quantities described in specific examples of actual measured values may be reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical values, however, inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0018] All numerical ranges stated herein include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “1 to 10” or “1-10” is intended to include all sub-ranges between and including the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 10 because the disclosed numerical ranges may be continuous and include every value between the minimum and maximum values. Any maximum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all lower numerical limitations. Any minimum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all higher numerical limitations.

[0019] Features or functionality described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined and sub-combined in and / or with various other example embodiments. Also, different aspects and / or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, mayDocket: PT25-006 PCTbe combined and sub-combined in a similar manner as well. Further, some example embodiments, whether individually and / or collectively, may be components of a larger system, wherein other procedures may take precedence over and / or otherwise modify their application. Additionally, a number of steps may be required before, after, and / or concurrently with example embodiments, as disclosed herein. Note that any and / or all methods and / or processes, at least as disclosed herein, may be at least partially performed via at least one entity or actor in any manner.

[0020] While particular aspects have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific apparatuses and methods described herein, including alternatives, variants, additions, deletions, modifications and substitutions. This application including the appended claims is therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications that may be within the scope of this application.

[0021] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0022] Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments of the described subject matter. It is to be appreciated, however, that such embodiments can be practiced without these specific details.

[0023] The portable temperature control container may comprise a vessel for heating or keeping liquid or non-liquid foods and beverages warm including but not limited to soups, broths, stocks, stews, chowders, bisques, borscht, vichyssoise, gumbos, consomme, bouillon, pottage, puree, lasagna, rice, pasta, pizza. A person having ordinary skills in the art may adapt the portable temperature control container to manage any food suitable to be stored within a conventional vessel.

[0024] The portable temperature control container may be portable and self-heating by at least one heating element controlled by a microcontroller. The at least one heating element may be implemented as a resistive polyimide heater in an example. In alternative implementations, the heating element may be implemented as a thermoelectric cooler, a flexible film like heaters, or a plurality of polyimide heaters

[0025] The user may interact with the device via a mobile application that communicates with the microcontroller over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, or by using buttons or aDocket: PT25-006 PCTtouchscreen on the outside of the device. The portable temperature control container may comprise physical input components to enable direct interactions, in addition to wirelessly enabled control methodologies.

[0026] The portable temperature control container may comprise a microcontroller to facilitate interactions with the user. The microcontroller may comprise a timer, which may be programmed by the user, such that food will reach a user-specified temperature at a user-specified time. The portable temperature control container may comprise a "set and forget" function, wherein an automated temperature maintenance system that allows users to configure their desired settings once, after which the device operates autonomously without further intervention. Once the user inputs their desired temperature (and optionally a timer duration), the microcontroller enters a closed-loop control cycle. The MCU continuously reads the temperature sensor and compares the actual temperature to the target setpoint. If the temperature falls below the setpoint, the MCU activates the heating elements (often via a relay or MOSFET driver). Once the target temperature is reached or slightly exceeded, the MCU cuts power to the heaters. This cycle repeats indefinitely (or until a timer expires), maintaining the food at the desired temperature without any further user input.

[0027] The portable temperature control container may be designed as being powered by self-contained pow er source, such a battery contained within.

[0028] The portable temperature control container may comprise a plurality of thermometers configured to measure the temperature of the inside of the vessel. In various implementations, the plurality of thermometers may comprise several thermistors.

[0029] Temperature readings from the thermometers may be used by the microcontroller to control the heat output of the heating elements. In an example, the microcontroller may be implemented as a proportional-integral-derivative style (PID-style) controller. In other implementations, the microcontroller may comprise other fine-tuned and sophisticated controller components.

[0030] The portable temperature control container may comprise a safety feature to mechanically shut off all power to the heating elements once the lid of the vessel is opened. The safety' feature may be implemented in addition to the physical and wirelessly enabled control mechanisms to the portable temperature control container.

[0031] In various implementations, the portable temperature control container may be configured to enable calendar integration with a user’s computer device, smart phones, or tablet. The user may synchronize their third-party digital calendar with the device’s mobileDocket: PT25-006 PCTapplication to automate mealtimes. Additional features may include food safety temperature features, such as monitoring of food temperature. When heating is initiated, the portable temperature control container may bring the food to above the food safe temperature and then gradually reduce to desired consumption.

[0032] Various features of the subject disclosure are now descnbed in more detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like numerals generally refer to like or corresponding elements throughout. The drawings and detailed description are not intended to limit the claimed subject matter to the particular form described. Rather, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0033] Now referring to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, various features of the subject disclosure are now described in more detail. A portable temperature control container is illustrated to comprise a removable, insulated lid, an inner food container, an inner wall, a middle insulation and electronics layer, and an outer wall.

[0034] The removable insulated lid may comprise a retractable handle. The retractable handle may be flush with the removable insulated lid’s upper surface. The removable insulated lid may be a removable, insulated lid with a handle and a steam release valve. In various implementations, the portable temperature control container may comprise a handle on the body of the container, wherein the handle may be attached to the outer wall. The handle may either be retractable or configured with a set length.

[0035] The inner food container may be constructed with heat conducting materials. A plurality of secure lock hoods may be configured to assist in its positioning. The inner food container may be constructed of single-wall food-grade stainless steel.

[0036] An inner wall may be constructed of food-grade metal into which the heating elements are integrated and make direct contact with the food container. In an example, the inner wall may be constructed with stainless steel, but a person skilled in the art may adapt the portable temperature control container to utilize any suitable material for the inner wall.

[0037] The inner wall may be constructed with temperature insulating material, such that the embedded heating elements may not direct temperature changing functions to the inner wall. The embedded heating elements may be configured to directly contact the inner food container, wherein the embedded heating elements may effectively change or maintain temperature of and within the inner food container.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0038] The heating elements may comprise polyimide resistive heaters to apply heat directly and evenly to different parts of the inner food container, providing fast and even heating of liquid or non-liquid food contents. In various other implementations, the heating elements may comprise thermoelectric coolers.

[0039] The heating element may be constructed using a flexible polyimide film with embedded conductive traces. This design allows for efficient and uniform heat distribution across the inner container surface. The polyimide material may be selected for its excellent thermal stability , low outgassing, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation properties.

[0040] The embedded heating elements may be connected to a microcontroller, which may be housed within a battery and microcontroller casing within the middle insulation and electronics layer. The middle insulation layer may be a space between the inner wall and the outer wall, wherein separation of the two walls may be utilized as further insulation, in conjunction with any additional insulation elements.

[0041] The middle insulation layer may comprise supplying vacuum or foam with space for wiring and electronic components. In various implementations, the middle insulation and electronics layer may comprise insulation material. These materials may be plastic, rubber, ceramics, glass, textiles, or composite materials. In various implementations, the middle insulation later may comprise vacuum space. The vacuum space may be implemented as the primary insulation element or in combination with other insulation materials. The battery and microcontroller may connect to the heating elements on the inner wall through a plurality of wiring.

[0042] The space between the inner heat conducting layer and the external layer insulation layers may be filled with a high-performance insulating material, such as vacuum insulation, heat-resistant foams, or aerogel, to maintain the temperature of the contents for extended periods after heating.

[0043] The battery and microcontroller casing may comprise a battery’ compartment located in the base of the outer container. A microcontroller-based control circuit with temperature regulation capabilities and Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity may be implemented as the microcontroller element.

[0044] The battery casing may comprise Lithium-ion batteries at the bottom of the container. The battery casing may be configured to be at the bottom for stability. In various implementations, the battery may comprise LiPo or LiFePo batteries.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0045] The batery capacity may be optimized to provide sufficient power for multiple heating cycles while maintaining portability. In various implementations, the batery ay be rechargeable through USB-C or other wired modalities. In various other implementations, various wireless charging option and wired charging may be implemented.

[0046] The outer wall may be comprised of rigid material that is similar or the same to the removable insulated lid. The removable insulated lid may be configured to enclose the space within the outer wall, including all the contents, in an air tight configuration.

[0047] The outer wall may comprise a user interface screen, which may be connected to the batery and microcontroller casing. A user may access control and monitor temperature information relating to the food contents within the inner food container through the user interface screen. A variety of commands may be provided by the user through the user interface screen to the microcontroller, and subsequently the embedded heating elements. The user may accurately monitor and control the temperature conditions within the portable temperature control container via the user interface screen.

[0048] The user may utilize the user interface screen to access the microcontroller, which may comprise a microcontroller-based control circuit configured to regulate the heating process. Users can select their desired temperature (in one example, up to 150°F or higher) through a simple interface on the outer container. The system may include safety features such as automatic shut-off and overheating protection.

[0049] The microcontroller may comprise a fine-tuned PID-style heat controller with timer on an ESP-32 or similar microcontroller. The microcontroller may be configured with wireless capabilities, such as WiFi / Bluetooth capabilities.

[0050] In various implementations, alternative control modules utilizing sophisticated algorithm that enables control based on when food needs to be ready, current temperature, current time, and possibly food contents, given through a mobile app, may be provided for the microcontroller module.

[0051] In various implementations, the outer wall may be constructed as a colored outer layer made of stainless steel coated with ABS plastic and integrating a screen or butons for user interaction. The colored outer layer may be constructed with other suitable material to accommodate specific user needs.

[0052] In various implementations, the portable temperature control container may comprise a timer that allows user to set and forget the desired functions.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0053] In various implementations, the portable temperature control container may comprise additional safety features.

[0054] In various implementations, the user interface screen may comprise a calendar integration, which may be connected to the user personal computing devise.

[0055] An exemplary process of operation is described herein. The user may fill the inner container with food or beverage. The user may securely fasten the lid, ensuring the steam release valve is in the closed position. The desired temperature may be set using the user interface directly on the physical device or via the mobile application. At a dynamically calculated time before the user-defined mealtime, based on the current temperature and the target temperature, the heating element is activated by the microcontroller, warming the contents to the specified temperature. Once the target temperature is reached, the control circuit maintains the temperature or switches to an energy -saving mode. The user may open the steam release valve before consuming hot contents to release any built-up pressure.

[0056] The portable temperature control container may demonstrate a number of advantages over conventional food containers.

[0057] The portable temperature control container may be configured to heat food and beverages due to heating element and power source.

[0058] The portable temperature control container may be configured to heat anywhere with a power source like a battery. Additionally, the portable temperature control container may comprise an option to plug into an outlet if people happen to be in a setting wi th an outlet.

[0059] The portable temperature control container may be set to be ready at any desired time due to the timer.

[0060] The portable temperature control container may be constructed with a portable and self-contained design, perfect for busy people who are on the go.

[0061] The portable temperature control container may be energy-efficient due to excellent insulation properties

[0062] The portable temperature control container may be safe and easy-to-use.

[0063] The portable temperature control container may be versatile for various food and drink applications

[0064] Thus, the portable temperature control container may combine the benefits of traditional insulated containers with active heating capabilities, providing users with a convenient solution for enjoying hot meals and beverages anywhere, anytime.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0065] In an example, the portable temperature control container may comprise a surface-mount microcontroller module, consolidating heater interconnects, implementing a two-MOSFET dual-zone heater architecture controlled by software PWM, integrating a charging circuit with microcontroller awareness of charge state, and adding an IMU-based tilt safety function, w ith forward-looking integration of the DC / DC converter and battery management.

[0066] In an example, the portable temperature control container may comprise a 72 Wh battery' that delivers at least one full heating cycle with residual charge. In an alternative example, the container may decouple battery management from the main PCB.

[0067] In an example, the microcontroller unit may be implemented as a compact surface-mount device module identified. The move to an SMD module may reduce size and cost and enable a more compact form factor. The MCU can be characterized as a control subsystem configured to generate PWM drive signals, acquire sensor data including orientation, and interface with a charging circuit to ascertain charge state and potentially communicate that state to a user interface.

[0068] The heater subsystem may be implemented as either a single high-power MOSFET approach or a two-MOSFET configuration that enables dual-zone control. A single MOSFET solution would require a device rated for approximately 90 W. whereas dual MOSFETs achieve performance at lower cost and permit more granular control. The control signals are purely software PWM, thus placing timing and duty-cycle regulation under firmware control.

[0069] The interconnect strategy may simplified by consolidating up to five separate headers into one 10-pin connector for heater elements. This change reduces footprint, simplifies wiring during assembly and disassembly, and lowers complexity during manufacturing. In an example, the consolidated connector can be paired with the dual-zone architecture to claim a modular assembly that routes power, sense, and control signals through a single key ed interface.

[0070] The power and charging domain may be integrated by moving from a daughterboard charger to a charging circuit implemented directly on the PCB. This may result in a reduced component count and cost and enabling user communication on the unit’s charging information.

[0071] The safety’ system may comprise an inertial measurement unit (IMU) or tilt sensor used to detect container orientation and to shut off heating if the container is notDocket: PT25-006 PCTupright. This feature is positioned as a protective interlock. The IMU-based orientation gating of a heater control loop provides a strong method claim pathway, particularly if tied to specific logic thresholds, temporal filtering, and recovery behaviors.

[0072] The dual-zone heater architecture managed by two MOSFETs under software PWM control presents a cohesive apparatus with a controller configured to generate PWM control signals, along with first and second power transistors coupled to distinct heater zones, and a consolidated connector that routes necessary7power and sense lines.

[0073] The integration of the charging circuit with controller awareness of charging information introduces a system-level coordination between energy state and thermal operation. The charging subcircuit may be tied to the controller via sensing nodes that enable determination of charge level in real time. An application of this configuration may enable inhibiting a heating cycle or modifying PWM duty cycles based on a detected charging state and battery capacity to ensure a complete heating cycle without brownout.

[0074] The orientation-based interlock offers a discrete safety innovation in the context of a heater-controlled container. Apparatus elements may include an IMU or tilt sensor providing orientation data to the controller, and logic that disables power to the heater when an unsafe orientation is detected. The method may comprise sampling orientation, comparing to a threshold, debouncing the signal to avoid false positives, and executing a shutdown or ramp-down sequence followed by recovery criteria.

[0075] The configuration that uses software-only PWM to control multiple heater zones, integrates charging awareness, and enforces orientation safety may support an innovative system, wherein the configuration comprises firmware timing, prioritization between heater zones, and safety gating interact to achieve performance comparable to or better than a single high-power MOSFET architecture at lower cost.

[0076] The software PWM is described as enabling finer temperature control when approaching a target, which implies variable duty-cycle ramping and potentially zone balancing. In an example, the controller receives temperature feedback from sensors associated with one or both zones, computes an error relative to a setpoint, and modulates duty cycles to minimize overshoot, including optional proportional or integral terms if employed.

[0077] The IMU interlock can be described as a supervisory state machine. The controller periodically samples orientation, compares it to an allowable range aroundDocket: PT25-006 PCTupright, and when out of range, asserts a safety shutdow n that either immediately disables the MOSFET gates or initiates a controlled ramp-down to protect components.

[0078] Charge-state awareness can be integrated into the control loop as a pre-check before starting a heating cycle and as a dynamic constraint during operation. The controller can be described as preventing cycle initiation if the detected charge is below a threshold associated with completing a cycle, or as reducing PWM duty limits during low-charge conditions. During active charging, the controller may inhibit heating or coordinate to prevent overcurrent, depending on charger specifications.

[0079] In an example, the board of the present system may decouple battery management system (BMS) functionality from the main PCB but indicates an ideal scenario of tighter integration, potentially combining BMS and DC / DC converter modules to reduce footprint and cost.

[0080] In an example, battery capacity, as determined by the BMS or by charger telemetry, informs heating behavior. The BMS may be configured to determine whether a heating cycle can be completed given the current state of charge and, if not, adjusting the control strategy7or notifying the user. This linkage demonstrates a functional advantage that ties power management to end-user experience and safety.

[0081] For heater control, alternative embodiments may comprise three or more zones or a single zone implemented with multiple switches for current sharing, each still under software PWM control. Hardware PWM peripherals may substitute for software timing in some aspects.

[0082] The tilt safety feature may be implemented with a plurality of orientation or position sensors, such as mercury switches or accelerometers alone, while an IMU provides richer context.

[0083] The detailed description provided above in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present examples can be constructed or utilized.

[0084] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, comprising a vessel having an inner container configured to receive contents, an inner w all surrounding the inner container, a middle insulation and electronics layer, and an outer wall; a heating element thermally coupled to the inner container; a power source housed in the vessel; at least one temperature sensor positioned to measure a temperature of the contents; a user interface; an orientation sensor comprising a tilt sensor or an inertial measurementDocket: PT25-006 PCTunit configured to provide orientation data; a charging circuit configured to charge the power source and to provide a charge-state signal; and a microcontroller-based control circuit operatively coupled to the heating element, the at least one temperature sensor, the user interface, the orientation sensor, and the charging circuit, wherein the control circuit is configured to drive the heating element with control the temperature of the contents.

[0085] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the heating element comprises a flexible polyimide resistive film affixed to the inner wall to provide substantially uniform heat distribution to the inner container.

[0086]

[0087] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the control circuit comprises first and second power transistors coupled to first and second heater zones, respectively, and the control circuit is configured to independently modulate the first and second heater zones using software-implemented pulse-width modulation.

[0088] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, further comprising a consolidated multi-conductor connector coupling the first and second heater zones to the control circuit and routing power, sense, and control signals through a single keyed interface.

[0089] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, further comprising a lid configured to seal the vessel and a lid-open interlock that mechanically disconnects power to the heating element when the lid is opened.

[0090] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the middle insulation and electronics layer includes vacuum insulation or aerogel, and wherein the power source comprises a rechargeable lithium-ion battery housed in a base of the vessel.

[0091] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the user interface includes a display and wireless connectivity to a mobile application, the control circuit is configured to execute proportional-integral-derivative temperature control, the at least one temperature sensor comprises one or more thermistors, and the charging circuit is integrated on a printed circuit board and is accessible via a USB-C port.

[0092] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system comprising: an inner food container formed of a thermally conductive material; an innerDocket: PT25-006 PCTwall surrounding the inner food container; a middle insulation and electronics layer disposed between the inner wall and an outer wall; at least first and second resistive heating elements integrated with the inner wall and positioned to make direct thermal contact with the inner food container in respective first and second heater zones; a plurality of temperature sensors configured to sense a temperature of contents within the inner food container; a battery; a charging circuit configured to recharge the battery: a user interface disposed on the outer wall and configured to receive a user-selected temperature setpoint; an orientation sensor; a lid sensor; first and second power transistors respectively coupled to the first and second heating elements; and a microcontroller operatively coupled to the temperature sensors, the user interface, the orientation sensor, the lid sensor, and the first and second power transistors, the microcontroller being configured to generate signals to the first and second power transistors to control power delivered to the first and second heater zones.

[0093] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein each of the first and second heating elements comprises a flexible polyimide resistive heater laminated to the inner wall to provide uniform heat distribution to the inner food container.

[0094] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the microcontroller executes a proportional-integral-derivative control algorithm to modulate the software-based pulse width modulation and reduce overshoot when approaching the user-selected temperature setpoint.

[0095] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the orientation sensor comprises an inertial measurement unit and the microcontroller applies temporal filtering and orientation thresholding to determine the nonupright orientation.

[0096] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, wherein the charging circuit is integrated on a printed circuit board with the microcontroller and communicates charge state information to the microcontroller to prevent initiation of a heating cycle when the charge state is below a threshold associated with completion of the cycle.

[0097] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container system, further comprising a wireless communication interface configured to pair with a mobile application to receive the user-selected temperature setpoint and a scheduled ready time, theDocket: PT25-006 PCTmicrocontroller being further configured to determine a preheat start time based on the scheduled ready time and a current temperature of the contents.

[0098] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control container sy stem, further comprising a consolidated multi -conductor connector that routes power and sense lines for the first and second heater zones, the plurality of temperature sensors, and control signals between the microcontroller and the first and second power transistors.

[0099] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control system comprising a vessel having an inner container configured to receive contents, an inner wall, a middle insulation and electronics layer, and an outer wall; a heating element thermally coupled to the inner container; a rechargeable battery; at least one temperature sensor; a lid; a user interface comprising a display or input device; an orientation sensor; and at least one controller having a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the controller to receive a target temperature and optionally a target mealtime; estimate an energy requirement to complete a heating cycle; and generate signals to actuate the heating element to raise the temperature of the contents toward the target temperature.

[0100] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control system, wherein the heating element comprises first and second heater zones and the instructions further cause the controller to phase-stagger pulse- width-modulated signals to the first and second heater zones to reduce input ripple and to balance heat distribution when approaching the target temperature.

[0101] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control system, wherein the instructions implement a safety state machine that transitions among run, ramp-down, shutdown, and recovery states based on orientation out-of-range events, lid-open events, and measured over-temperature conditions.

[0102] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control system, wherein the controller receives battery capacity telemetry’ from a battery management system and dynamically limits a maximum pulse-width-modulation duty cycle based on a predicted energy' budget to avoid brownout during a heating cycle.

[0103] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control system, wherein the lid comprises a steam release valve and a retractable handle flush with an upper surface of the lid.Docket: PT25-006 PCT

[0104] Supported aspects include a portable temperature control system, wherein the heating element comprises a thermoelectric device operable in a heating mode and a cooling mode.

[0105] It is to be understood that the configurations and / or approaches described herein are exemplary in nature, and that the described embodiments, implementations and / or examples are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible.

[0106] The specific processes or methods described herein can represent one or more of any number of processing strategies. As such, various operations illustrated and / or described can be performed in the sequence illustrated and / or described, in other sequences, in parallel, or omitted. Likewise, the order of the above-described processes can be changed.

[0107] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are presented as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

Docket: PT25-006 PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A portable temperature control container system, comprising:a vessel having an inner container configured to receive contents, an inner wall surrounding the inner container, a middle insulation and electronics layer, and an outer wall;a heating element thermally coupled to the inner container;a power source housed in the vessel;at least one temperature sensor positioned to measure a temperature of the contents; a user interface;an orientation sensor comprising a tilt sensor or an inertial measurement unit configured to provide orientation data;a charging circuit configured to charge the power source and to provide a charge-state signal; and a microcontroller-based control circuit operatively coupled to the heating element, the at least one temperature sensor, the user interface, the orientation sensor, and the charging circuit,whereinthe control circuit is configured to drive the heating element with control the temperature of the contents.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises a flexible polyimide resistive film affixed to the inner wall to provide substantially uniform heat distribution to the inner container.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the control circuit comprises first and second power transistors coupled to first and second heater zones, respectively, and the control circuit is configured to independently modulate the first and second heater zones using software-implemented pulse-width modulation.Docket: PT25-006 PCT4. The system of claim 3, further comprising a consolidated multi-conductor connector coupling the first and second heater zones to the control circuit and routing power, sense, and control signals through a single keyed interface.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a lid configured to seal the vessel and a lid-open interlock that mechanically disconnects power to the heating element when the lid is opened.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the middle insulation and electronics layer includes vacuum insulation or aerogel, and wherein the power source comprises a rechargeable lithium-ion battery housed in a base of the vessel.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes a display and wireless connectivity to a mobile application, the control circuit is configured to execute proportional-integral-derivative temperature control, the at least one temperature sensor comprises one or more thermistors, and the charging circuit is integrated on a printed circuit board and is accessible via a USB-C port.

8. A portable temperature control container system comprising:an inner food container formed of a thermally conductive material; an inner wall surrounding the inner food container;a middle insulation and electronics layer disposed between the inner wall and an outer wall;at least first and second resistive heating elements integrated with the inner wall and positioned to make direct thermal contact with the inner food container in respective first and second heater zones;a plurality of temperature sensors configured to sense a temperature of contents within the inner food container;a battery';a charging circuit configured to recharge the battery';a user interface disposed on the outer wall and configured to receive a user-selected temperature setpoint; an orientation sensor;Docket: PT25-006 PCTa lid sensor; first and second power transistors respectively coupled to the first and second heating elements; anda microcontroller operatively coupled to the temperature sensors, the user interface, the orientation sensor, the lid sensor, and the first and second power transistors, the microcontroller being configured to generate signals to the first and second power transistors to control power delivered to the first and second heater zones.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein each of the first and second heating elements comprises a flexible polyimide resistive heater laminated to the inner wall to provide uniform heat distribution to the inner food container.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the microcontroller executes a proportional-integral-derivative control algorithm to modulate the software-based pulse width modulation and reduce overshoot when approaching the user-selected temperature setpoint.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein the orientation sensor comprises an inertial measurement unit and the microcontroller applies temporal filtering and orientation thresholding to determine the non-upright orientation.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the charging circuit is integrated on a printed circuit board with the microcontroller and communicates charge state information to the microcontroller to prevent initiation of a heating cycle when the charge state is below a threshold associated with completion of the cycle.

13. The system of claim 8, further comprising a wireless communication interface configured to pair with a mobile application to receive the user-selected temperature setpoint and a scheduled ready time, the microcontroller being further configured to determine a preheat start time based on the scheduled ready time and a current temperature of the contents.

14. The system of claim 8, further comprising a consolidated multi-conductor connector that routes power and sense lines for the first and second heater zones, theDocket: PT25-006 PCTplurality of temperature sensors, and control signals between the microcontroller and the first and second power transistors.

15. A portable temperature control system comprising:a vessel having an inner container configured to receive contents, an inner wall, a middle insulation and electronics layer, and an outer wall; a heating element thermally coupled to the inner container; a rechargeable battery'; at least one temperature sensor; a lid; a user interface comprising a display or input device; an orientation sensor; and at least one controller having a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the controller to:receive a target temperature and optionally a target mealtime;estimate an energy' requirement to complete a heating cycle; andgenerate signals to actuate the heating element to raise the temperature of the contents toward the target temperature.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the heating element comprises first and second heater zones and the instructions further cause the controller to phase-stagger pulse-width-modulated signals to the first and second heater zones to reduce input ripple and to balance heat distribution when approaching the target temperature.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the instructions implement a safety state machine that transitions among run, ramp-down, shutdown, and recovery states based on orientation out-of-range events, lid-open events, and measured over-temperature conditions.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the controller receives battery capacity telemetry from a battery' management system and dynamically limits a maximum pulsewidth-modulation duty cycle based on a predicted energy budget to avoid brownout during a heating cycle.

19. The system of claim 15. wherein the lid comprises a steam release valve and a retractable handle flush with an upper surface of the lid.Docket: PT25-006 PCT20. The system of claim 15, wherein the heating element comprises a thermoelectric device operable in a heating mode and a cooling mode.

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