JP5693517B2 - Structure with undulating heating surface usable in microwave oven and method using the structure - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to various materials, packages, structures, and systems for heating or cooking food in a microwave oven. In particular, the present invention relates to various materials, packages, structures, and systems for heating or cooking foods with irregular surfaces in a microwave oven.

[Description of related application]
This application is based on US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 800,383, filed May 15, 2006, and US Provisional Patent Application, filed May 15, 2007, _ "MICROWAVABLE CONSTRUCIT WITH CONTROL HEATING SURFACE (available in microwave ovens). (Structure with undulating heating surface) ”(Attorney Docket No. R029 13170.P2), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  Microwave ovens provide a convenient means for heating a variety of foods, including numerous dough-based and potato-based frozen instant foods. Unfortunately, in many cases, such foods tend to sag, swell, or warp during the freezing process without maintaining their original shape. As a result, a number of microwave energy interaction packages that are currently on the market are designed to provide a desirable balance between sufficient heating and a burnt and crisp outer surface. Can not provide sufficient contact. Thus, there is a need for improved materials and packages to provide the desired degree of heating, charred, and / or crispy finishing of foods with undulating or irregular surfaces.

  According to one aspect, the present invention is generally formed from various blanks to form microwave energy interactive trays, packages, systems, or other structures (collectively “structures”), and from these. Various structures, various methods for making such structures, and heating, scorching, and / or foods having a rough or irregular surface using a microwave oven It relates to various methods of finishing crunchy.

  The various structures can include one or more mechanisms that promote the heating, scorching, and / or crispy finish of the food product. The various structures can also include one or more features corresponding to the undulations of food having an irregular surface, such as, for example, a puffed or curved surface. For example, the various structures can include one or more raised or protruding portions that bring the microwave promoting mechanism closer to the surface of the food. In some cases, such protrusions can be shaped, sized, and / or configured to create a grilled appearance. In addition, various structures can include one or more mechanisms that can remove moisture generated during the heating process from the food, further promoting burnt and / or crunchy finishes. For example, in some embodiments, the structure can include one or more vent grooves that extend over at least a portion of the raised portion.

  The ridge pattern, the spacing between the ridges, the height of the ridges, and the width and depth of the spacing between them can be selected based on the type of food to be heated and the desired cooking effect. For example, the ridges can be, for example, irregularities in the surface of the food that is burnt and / or crisp, the moisture content of the food, the thickness of the food, the characteristics of the food (eg, the fat content), and the surface area occupied by the food. Depending on the size, it can be made larger or smaller.

  Furthermore, the structure can include one or more recesses (when viewed from one side of the structure) corresponding to the raised portions on the other side of the structure. If such a recess is at the bottom of the structure that contacts the bottom of the microwave oven during use, such a recess reduces heat loss from the microwave energy interactive element to the floor of the microwave oven. In addition, an adiabatic air gap can be provided that further facilitates heating, burnt and / or crispy finishing of the food.

  The raised portion can be formed using any suitable method, process, or technique. In one aspect, the relief can be formed using mechanical and / or thermoforming. In such molding, the blank is typically cut into the preferred size and shape and placed into male and female molds or dies. When the male and female dies of the die are combined, pressure is applied to the blank and the blank is deformed to create a preferred relief pattern.

Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings.
The present description refers to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the several views.

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary tray that is generally circular in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 1B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 1B taken along line 1C-1C. FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 1B taken along line 1D-1D. FIG. 1D is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIGS. 1A-1D including microwave energy interactive elements according to various aspects of the present invention. FIG. 1D is a schematic top plan view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention, similar to the tray of FIGS. 1A-1D, including microwave energy interactive elements having a pattern configuration. FIG. 2 is a schematic top plan view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention, similar to the tray of FIGS. 1A-1D, including microwave energy interactive elements having a pattern configuration. FIG. 2 is a schematic top plan view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention, similar to the tray of FIGS. 1A-1D, including microwave energy interactive elements having a pattern configuration. FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention, similar to the tray of FIGS. 1A-1E, including a plurality of elongated openings; FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention, including a plurality of grooves. FIG. 6B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 6B taken along line 6C-6C. FIG. 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 6B taken along line 6D-6D. FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 6A-6D in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, including a plurality of sidewalls. FIG. 7B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 7B taken along line 7C-7C. FIG. 7B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 7B taken along line 7D-7D. 6D is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 6A-6D in accordance with various aspects of the present invention, including additional grooves. FIG. FIG. 8B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 8B taken along line 8C-8C. It is the schematic sectional drawing which cut | disconnected the tray of FIG. 8B by the line of 8D-8D. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 8A-8D according to various aspects of the present invention, including obliquely oriented grooves. FIG. 9B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 9B taken along line 9C-9C. FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 9B taken along line 9D-9D. FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 9B taken along line 9E-9E. 9 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 8A-8D, according to various aspects of the present invention, including a substantially planar heating surface. FIG. FIG. 10B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 10B taken along line 10C-10C. FIG. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 10B taken along line 10D-10D. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention having a generally square shape. FIG. 11B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 11A. FIG. 11B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 11B taken along the line 11C-11C. FIG. 11B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 11B taken along the line 11D-11D. FIG. 11B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 11B taken along the line 11E-11E. FIG. 11H is a schematic perspective view of a variation of the tray of FIGS. 11A-11E according to various aspects of the invention, including a plurality of grooves. FIG. 12B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 12A. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 12B taken along the line 12C-12C. FIG. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 12B taken along line 12D-12D. FIG. FIG. 11B is a schematic perspective view of a variation of the tray of FIGS. 11A-11E, according to various aspects of the present invention, including a plurality of ridges that collectively function as a platform. FIG. 13B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 13A. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention having a generally triangular shape. FIG. 14B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 14A. FIG. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 14B taken along the line 14C-14C. FIG. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 14B taken along line 14D-14D. FIG. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 14B taken along line 14E-14E. FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 14A-14D, according to various aspects of the present invention, including a plurality of grooves. FIG. 15B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 15B taken along the line 15C-15C. FIG. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 15B taken along the line 15D-15D. FIG. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 15B taken along the line 15E-15E. FIG. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 15B taken along the line 15F-15F. 14 is a schematic perspective view of another exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 14A-14D, according to various aspects of the invention, including a plurality of grooves. FIG. FIG. 16B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 16A. FIG. 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 16B taken along the line 16C-16C. FIG. 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 16B taken along line 16D-16D. FIG. 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 16B taken along the line 16E-16E. FIG. 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 16B taken along the line 16F-16F. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of yet another exemplary tray according to various aspects of the present invention having a somewhat circular sector shape. FIG. 17B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 17A. FIG. 17B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 17B taken along the line 17C-17C. FIG. 17B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 17B taken along line 17D-17D. FIG. 17B is a schematic end view of the tray of FIG. 17B taken along line 17E-17E. FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 17A-17E according to various aspects of the invention, including additional grooves. FIG. 18B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 18A. FIG. 18B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 18B taken along line 18C-18C. FIG. 18B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 18B taken along line 18D-18D. FIG. 18B is a schematic end view of the tray of FIG. 18B viewed along line 18E-18E. FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary variation of the tray of FIGS. 17A-17E according to various aspects of the invention, including additional grooves. FIG. 19B is a schematic top plan view of the tray of FIG. 19A. 19B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 19B taken along the line 19C-19C. FIG. 19B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 19B taken along line 19D-19D. FIG. FIG. 19B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tray of FIG. 19B taken along the line 19E-19E. Various measurements on bread slices when the degree of charred is measured against a piece of bread heated using a commercial susceptor disc and a piece of bread heated using a tray according to the invention Indicates a point.

  Various aspects of the invention can be illustrated by reference to the drawings. For simplicity, similar mechanisms may be described using similar reference numerals. When multiple similar features are represented, it will be understood that not all of the similar features are necessarily indicated with a reference numeral in the respective drawings. Further, where a particular reference character is used to indicate a dimension in one or more figures or exemplary embodiments, the reference character may represent any numerical value, and that value may be represented in each exemplary embodiment. It will be appreciated that there may be differences. For example, “L1” can be used to indicate a particular length in multiple drawings, but each may have a different numeric value in a given embodiment. In addition, several different exemplary aspects, implementations, and examples of various inventions are shown, but numerous interrelationships between them, combinations thereof, and various inventions, aspects, implementations, Changes in the embodiments and are contemplated by this specification.

  1A-1D show an exemplary structure according to various aspects of the present invention, which in this example is a disk or tray 100. FIG. The shape of the tray 100 is substantially circular, and is substantially symmetric with respect to the vertical center line CL and the horizontal center line CT. However, many other shapes and configurations are considered here. For example, the tray can have a triangle, square, square, hexagon, or any other regular and irregular shape. Similarly, a tray may not include a symmetry line, may include a single symmetry line, or may include multiple symmetry lines.

  Tray 100 includes a generally planar perimeter rim or base 102 and a pair of opposing ridges or platforms 104 that serve as surfaces for receiving one or more food items (not shown) thereon. . The raised portion 104 is divided by a recess 106 that is substantially in the same plane as the rim 102. In the present embodiment, the recess 106 exists along the horizontal center line CT. However, the recess 106 can have any other suitable shape or position, depending on the needs or desires of a particular application.

  Still referring to FIGS. 1A-1D, each platform 104 is substantially semi-circular in shape, eg, suitable for receiving a panini half or other sandwich thereon. As best seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, each platform 104 has a top surface or surface 108 (also referred to as “top surface” and “heating surface”), a slightly upright inner surface 110, and a slightly upright. An outer surface 112 and a pair of opposing corner surfaces 114. In this and other aspects of the invention, the various surfaces 108, 110, 112 and 114 have been described as separate surfaces or surfaces, merely for ease and ease of explanation. It will be understood that the surfaces or surfaces are substantially continuous and do not have a clear boundary therebetween. It will further be appreciated that the platform can have any desired shape and that many other regular and irregular shapes are contemplated herein.

  In this embodiment, the inner side surface 110 and the outer side surface 112 of each platform 104 extend obliquely and incline outward and downward, respectively, in the height direction from the top surface 108 toward the recess 106 or the rim 102. Tapered. Similarly, the corner surface 114 is inclined outward and downward from the top surface 108 toward the recess 106 and / or the rim 102 so that the shape of the corner surface 114 has a generally round or convex shape. . However, in this and other aspects, the various surfaces defining the platform according to the present invention are substantially upright or inward and downward from the platform, as necessary or desired for a particular application. It is contemplated that it can be tapered to the side.

  If desired, one or both platforms 104 can have undulations that generally conform to the shape of the food product. In this embodiment, each platform 104 has a uniform height H1 when viewed along the longitudinal centerline CL of the tray 100, as shown in FIG. 1C, and is shown in FIG. 1D. Thus, when viewed along the inner surface 110 of the platform 104, the height of the platform 104, and thus the top surface 108, is angled from the longitudinal centerline CL, since it is a bulge or convex structure. It decreases toward each of the part surfaces 114. Such a tray 100 may be particularly suitable for the use of frozen bread dough-based foods and the like (sandwiches, pizzas, etc.) and foods having a slightly puffy shape.

  Tray 100 is characterized as having various, eg, H1 heights, eg, L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7 and L8 lengths, eg, R1, R2 and R3 radii of curvature. Each can be tailored to a specific application. The dimensions of each platform 104 can be substantially the same so that the tray 100 is substantially symmetrical on each side of the longitudinal centerline CL, or the tray 100 can be longitudinally centered. It can be different to be asymmetric with respect to each side of the line CL. Similarly, the dimensions of each platform 104 can be substantially the same such that the tray 100 is substantially symmetric with respect to each side of the lateral centerline CT, or the tray 100 Can be different so that they are asymmetric with respect to each side of the lateral centerline CT.

  If desired, any of the various trays of the present invention can include a mechanism that alters the effect of microwave energy during the heating or cooking of food. For example, to promote charred and / or crispy finishing of certain portions of food, to protect certain portions of food from microwave energy to prevent overheating of the food, or to or toward certain portions of food Any of the trays can be at least partially formed from one or more microwave energy interactive elements (sometimes referred to as “microwave interactive elements”) that transmit microwave energy away from . Specific configurations to absorb microwave energy, transmit microwave energy, reflect microwave energy, or direct microwave energy as required or desired for a particular microwave heating structure or food Each microwave interaction element comprises one or more microwave energy interactive materials or segments arranged in

  As will be described in detail below, the microwave interactive element is a microwave inert or permeable substrate for ease of handling and / or to prevent contact between the microwave interactive material and the food. Can be supported on top. For convenience, and not by way of limitation, it is understood that microwave interaction elements supported on a microwave transparent substrate include both microwave interaction elements or components and microwave inert elements or components. Will be done. Such a structure may also be referred to as a “microwave interaction web”.

  In one example, the microwave interactive element can comprise a thin film of microwave interactive material that tends to absorb microwave energy so that heat is generated at the point of contact with the food. Such elements are often used to promote scorching and / or crispy finishing of food surfaces. When supported on a film or other substrate, such elements together with the substrate may be collectively referred to as a “susceptor film” or simply “susceptor”.

  For example, as schematically illustrated in FIG. 1E by stippling, the microwave interaction element 116, eg, a susceptor, may have a top surface 108, a recess 106, an inner surface 110, and / or one or both platforms 104. Alternatively, all or part of each platform 104 can be covered, including all or part of the corner surface 114. A susceptor or other microwave energy interactive element can also cover all or part of the outer surface 112.

  If the susceptor is supported on a polymer film, it is placed between the substrate and the particular tray component at the desired location to heat, burn, and / or crispy the food. It will be appreciated that the polymer film substrate can cover the additional portion, or substantially the entire tray, by the made microwave energy interactive element (ie, susceptor). In this manner, the tray according to the present invention can be pressed or formed from a multilayer structure comprising a susceptor film bonded to the material used to form the tray.

  In order to use the tray, one or more food items F (schematically shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1E) are typically placed on each platform and placed in a microwave oven (not shown). The In one particular embodiment, the food product is a sandwich divided into two parts, each comprising a bread part and one or more toppings in an “open face” configuration. In another specific example, the food product is a pizza that is divided into or provided as two separate pieces, slices, or portions. In yet another embodiment, the food product is a single food product, such as a pizza, that is not divided into separate pieces, slices, or portions, for example. In such an example, the pizza may cover both the platform and the recess in between. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the tray may include a single platform having a generally circular shape to accommodate circular pizza dome formation. In this case, the platform may have a configuration that forms a dome as a whole such that its height decreases in any direction outward from the center of the platform toward the substrate of the tray. Alternatively, the tray can include a plurality of platforms, each considered to receive one or more of the plurality of foods to be heated, or one or more portions of the plurality of foods. The

  In any case, for example, food such as bread or pizza dough is placed on the heating surface 108 of each platform 104 adjacent to the tray 100 to burn and / or crispy the surface. The heated surface 108 with the undulations of the platform 104 generally corresponds to the undulating surface of food products that often tend to bend during the freezing process, so that the susceptor is on the surface of food products that are burnt / crisp. It will be closer.

  It should be noted that in any of the multiple trays considered here, the food is slightly larger than each platform, in this example platform 104, so that the food is heated on the heating surface, in this example. In some cases, it may protrude slightly from the “boundary” of the top surface 108. When the food is thawed, any such portion of the food that protrudes from the heating surface bends downwards in proximity to the various upstanding surfaces of the platform, e.g. surfaces 110, 112 and / or 114 and It may come into close contact. If a microwave interaction element, such as a susceptor, covers such a surface, this surface can serve as a heated surface that promotes the burnt and / or crispy finish of the corresponding portion of the food product.

  As the microwave heating cycle progresses, the susceptor converts microwave energy into thermal energy, which is transferred to the adjacent surface of the food. In this way it is possible to promote scorching and / or crispy finishing on the surface of the food. In addition, the platform 104 maintains food in a raised position from the microwave floor or turntable, reducing the amount of sensible heat transferred from the susceptor to the surrounding environment of the microwave, further promoting burnt and / or crunchy finishes. Is done.

  Ensure that any of the many microwave interactive elements described or contemplated herein are substantially continuous, i.e., without substantial breaks or interruptions. Or can be made discontinuous, for example, by including one or more breaks or openings that transmit microwave energy passing therethrough. The breaks or openings can be sized and arranged to selectively heat specific areas of the food. The type of tray or other structure that is formed, the food that is heated in or on it, the desired degree of shielding, burnt and / or crunchy finishes, and the microscopic so that the food is heated uniformly Depending on whether it is necessary or desirable to directly irradiate wave energy, the need to adjust food temperature changes by direct heating, and whether or how much ventilation is required The number, shape, size, and arrangement of such breaks or openings can be varied for a particular application.

  It will be appreciated that the openings can be physical openings or voids in the material used to form the structure, or can be non-physical “openings”. The non-physical aperture can be part of a tray that is deactivated or otherwise microwave energy inactive, or part of a tray that is transparent to microwave energy. Thus, for example, the opening can be part of a tray formed without the use of microwave energy active material, or alternatively using a deactivated microwave energy active material And can be part of the tray formed. Both physical and non-physical openings can heat food directly with microwave energy, but physical openings also provide a venting mechanism that allows steam or other vapors to be released from the food. provide.

  2-5 illustrate a number of embodiments of microwave interaction trays that include one or more discontinuities in the microwave energy interactive element according to the present invention. The various trays 200, 300, 400 and 500 include mechanisms similar to the tray 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, the reference numbers for similar mechanisms are “2” (FIG. 2), “3” (FIG. 3), “4” (FIG. 4) or “ 5 ”(FIG. 5).

  In the example shown in FIG. 2, the microwave energy interactive element 216 has a plurality of spaced susceptor bands or stripes (indicated by stippling) that extend diagonally beyond the lateral centerline CL of the tray 200. With a microwave inactive or transmissive region 218 in between. The band can have any desired width, orientation, and configuration. When used to heat food, the microwave energy interaction band can form a corresponding plurality of burnt areas on the outer surface of the food. Such a burn can be similar to a grille, such as when using a panini grill.

  In this and other aspects of the invention, the arrangement of microwave energy interaction and microwave energy transmission regions may be selected to provide various levels of heating, depending on the needs or desires of a particular application. It will be understood that For example, if high temperature heating is desired, the entire inactive area can be increased. Then more microwave energy is transferred to the food. Or, by reducing the entire inactive area, more microwave energy is absorbed by the microwave energy interaction area, converted to thermal energy, and transmitted to the surface of the food, promoting burnt and crunchy finishes To do.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3, the microwave energy interactive element 316 comprises a plurality of substantially evenly spaced susceptor squares (indicated by stippling) between which the microwave energy transmission region 318 is like a grid. Is arranged. It will be appreciated that the dimensions of the susceptor squares and the spacing between them can be varied for a particular application. Further, it will be appreciated that the susceptor element need not be square shaped. Other shapes are contemplated here. In this example, the pattern of burns on the outer surface of the food product can resemble a plurality of substantially evenly spaced squares.

  In the example shown in FIG. 4, the microwave energy interactive element 416 includes a plurality of concentric susceptor rings (shown by stippling) with a microwave energy transmission region or ring 418 therebetween. In this example, the pattern of burnt on the outer surface of the food (not shown) is similar to a plurality of semi-circles that are substantially evenly spaced, for example, if each food covers only one platform 404. Or, for example, if the food product covers both platforms 404 and exceeds the recess 406, it can resemble a plurality of partially concentric circles.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of physical openings 520 extend through the thickness of the tray 500 and block the microwave energy interactive element 516. In this embodiment, the opening 520 extends in an oblique slot shape beyond the platform 504 in the form of an elongated slot. However, the openings can have any suitable shape, such as, for example, a circle, square, triangle, ellipse, ellipse, or any other regular or irregular shape, for example, random, tiled, alternating It will be appreciated that any suitable configuration, such as concentric rings, etc., and any suitable arrangement, such as, for example, the center, periphery or all or part of the tray, can be provided. In this example, the burn pattern can include a plurality of diagonally oriented burnt areas on the outer surface of the food product. Such a burnt area can be similar to a burn.

  Any of the various trays of the present invention can include microwave energy interactive elements that provide the microwave energy interaction of the tray, such as, for example, a susceptor. In each embodiment, the microwave energy interactive element can be substantially continuous or have one or more interruptions or discontinuities. Such interruptions or discontinuities may include non-physical openings and / or physical (ventilated) openings, for example as shown in FIGS. 2-5, or any other optional It can have a pattern, arrangement or configuration. It will be appreciated that the exact combination of mechanisms can be selected as needed or desired to promote heating, burnt and / or crispy finishing of a particular food product. Such elements are discussed below in connection with some of the various trays of the present invention, but such elements are not shown in the remaining drawings.

  Alternatively or additionally, any of the various trays of the present invention can include one or more vents that can evaporate moisture from the food, so that the food can be heated, burnt, and / or crispy. Finishing is further promoted.

  For example, FIGS. 6A-6D schematically illustrate yet another exemplary disk or tray 600 according to various aspects of the present invention. The tray 600 includes features similar to the tray 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figure begin with “6” instead of “1”.

  In this example, a pair of substantially parallel grooves 616 (or “grooves” or “grooves”) are between the inner surface 610 and the outer surface 612 and optionally via one or both of these. Extending across the top surface 608 of each platform 604. In this embodiment, the grooves 616 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline CL, are substantially evenly spaced, and are substantially perpendicular to the lateral centerline CT. However, the grooves can have any orientation necessary or desired for a particular application. In this and other examples described herein, or in the examples considered herein, the grooves are optional, depending on the need to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating element. Can have a suitable depth. In one aspect, the groove has a depth less than the height of the top surface such that the bottom of the at least one groove is higher than the plane of the tray rim and / or recess.

  If desired, one or both platforms 604 can be generally contoured to the shape of the food product. In this example, the height H1 of each platform 604 is substantially uniform when viewed along the longitudinal centerline CL of the tray 600, as shown in FIG. 6C, as shown in FIG. 6D. As seen, the height changes when viewed along the inner surface 610 of the platform 604. In this example, the height of the platform 604, and thus the height of the top surface 608, tapers or decreases when viewed from the longitudinal centerline CL toward each of the corner surfaces 610. However, other shapes and undulations are considered.

  The tray 600 has various heights such as H1 and H2, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8 and L9, and curvatures such as R1, R2, R3 and R4. Can be characterized as having radii, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application. The dimensions of each platform 604 may be substantially the same or different, and various degrees of symmetry are considered.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may cover and join at least a portion of the tray 600. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a top surface 608, an inner surface 610, an outer surface 612, and / or a corner surface 614, all or a portion of the recess 606, and / or one or more grooves. All or part of one or both platforms 604, including all or part of 616, etc. can be covered.

  To use the tray 600, one or more food items (not shown) are typically placed on each platform and placed in a microwave oven (not shown). The undulating heated surface 608 of the platform 604 is generally the surface of the food that burns and / or crispy finishes the susceptor, corresponding to the undulating surface of the food that may deform as a result of the freezing process. Close to.

  As the microwave heating cycle progresses, the susceptor converts microwave energy into thermal energy, which is transferred to the adjacent surface of the food. In this way, it is possible to promote scorching and / or crispy finishing on the surface of the food. Since at least a portion of the vapor released from the food product can be removed from the food product along the grooves 616, the burnt and / or crispy finish is further facilitated. In addition, the platform 604 maintains the food in a high position, reduces the amount of heat that travels from the susceptor to the surrounding environment of the microwave, and further promotes the burnt and / or crispy finish of the food. The charred and / or crispy finish pattern may include an overall charred area with areas with slightly less charred corresponding to the areas covering the grooves 616.

  7A-7D schematically represent another exemplary tray 700 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. Tray 700 includes a mechanism similar to tray 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D and tray 600 shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figure begin with “7” instead of “1” and “6”, respectively.

  In this example, tray 700 includes a plurality of walls 718 that extend substantially upward from a rim or flange 702 that function as a base or lowest portion of tray 700. If desired, the wall 718 can be terminated with a lip 720. If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may cover and join at least a portion of the tray 700. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a top surface 708, an inner surface 710, an outer surface 712, and / or a corner surface 714, all or a portion of the recess 706, and / or one or more grooves. All or part of one or both platforms 704 can be covered, including all or part of 716. Such a tray 700 includes, for example, components that may fall without walls, food that is heated, charred and / or crunchy, or when the tray consumes food. It may be suitable for use when functioning as a container.

  The tray 700 has various heights such as H1 and H2, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, and L11, and, for example, R1, R2, and R3. , R4, R5, R6 and R7, etc., and can be characterized as having an angle of curvature, eg, A1, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application. The specifications of each platform 704 may be substantially the same or different, and various degrees of symmetry are considered.

  8A-8D schematically illustrate another exemplary disk or tray 800 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. Tray 800 includes a mechanism similar to tray 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D and tray 600 shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figure begin with “8” instead of “1” or “6”.

  In this example, tray 800 includes four substantially parallel grooves 816 or indentations that extend across the top surface 808 of each platform 804, and optionally one or both of inner surface 810 and outer surface 812. Pass through. Such an additional groove 816 may be desirable if additional aeration is required to obtain the desired degree of burnt and / or crispy finish of the food cooked thereon. The groove 816 can have any suitable depth as needed to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating application.

  The tray 800 has various heights such as H1 and H2, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, and L10, and, for example, R1, R2, R3, and R4. Can be characterized as having a radius of curvature, etc., each of which can be varied to suit a particular application. The dimensions of each platform 804 may be substantially the same or different, and various degrees of symmetry are considered.

  As with the various other exemplary trays of the present invention, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) can be bonded over at least a portion of tray 800. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a top surface 808, an inner surface 810, an outer surface 812, and / or a corner surface 814, all or a portion of the recess 806, and / or one or more grooves. All or part of one or both platforms 804 can be covered, including all or part of 816, etc. The resulting burnt and / or crispy finish pattern includes overall burnt and areas with slightly less burnt corresponding to the areas covering the grooves 816, generally similar to burns.

  9A-9E schematically represent another exemplary tray 900, according to various aspects of the present invention. Tray 900 is similar to tray 100 (FIGS. 1A-1D), tray 600 (FIGS. 6A-6D), and tray 800 (FIGS. 8A-8D), except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. Mechanism. For convenience, reference numbers for like features in the figures begin with “9” instead of “1”, “6” or “8”, respectively.

  In this example, tray 900 includes four substantially parallel grooves 916 or indentations that extend diagonally to the top surface 908 of each platform 904, and optionally one of the inner surface 910 and the outer surface 912. Or go through both. Such an additional groove 916 may be desirable if additional aeration is required to obtain the desired degree of char and / or crispy finish of the food cooked thereon.

  The tray 900 has various heights such as H1 and H2, for example, lengths such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7 and L8, and radii of curvature such as R1, R2, R3 and R4. Each of which can be characterized as having a specific application. The dimensions of each platform 904 may be substantially the same or different, and various degrees of symmetry are considered.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) can be bonded over at least a portion of the tray 900. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a top surface 908, an inner surface 910, an outer surface 912, and / or a corner surface 914, all or a portion of the recess 906, and / or one or more grooves. All or part of one or both platforms 904 can be covered, including all or part of 916, etc. The resulting burnt and / or crispy finish pattern includes overall burnt and areas with slightly less burnt corresponding to the areas covering the grooves 916, which are generally similar to burns.

  10A-10D schematically represent another exemplary tray 1000 according to various aspects of the present invention. Tray 1000 is similar to tray 100 (FIGS. 1A-1D), tray 600 (FIGS. 6A-6D), and tray 800 (FIGS. 8A-8D), except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. Mechanism. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figures begin with “10” instead of “1”, “6”, or “8”, respectively.

  In this example, platform 1004 has a substantially planar top surface 1008, as best shown in FIGS. 10C and 10D. Such a tray 1000 may be particularly well suited for use with food products having a substantially planar surface.

  The tray 1000 has various heights such as H1 and H2, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9 and L10, and R1, R2, R3 and R4, for example. Can be characterized as having a radius of curvature, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application.

  FIGS. 11A-11E schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1100 according to various aspects of the present invention. The tray 1100 is substantially symmetric with respect to the vertical center line CL and the horizontal center line CT. However, the tray may not include a symmetry line, may include a single symmetry line, or may include multiple symmetry lines, depending on the needs or desires of a particular application.

  In this embodiment, the tray 1100 has a substantially square shape and the corners 1102 are slightly rounded. The tray 1100 includes a generally planar peripheral rim or base 1104 that functions as the base or lowest portion of the tray 1100 and a plurality of walls 1106 that extend substantially upward from the rim 1104. If desired, the wall 1106 can terminate at a lip 1108. Such a tray 1100 includes, for example, food that heats, burns and / or crispy finishes components that may fall off the tray if there are no walls, or if the tray contains food. It may be suitable for use when it is desirable to function as a container for consumption.

  The tray 1100 includes a pair of opposed raised portions or platforms 1110 that serve as surfaces for receiving one or more food items (not shown) thereon. The platforms 1110 are separated by a recess 1112 that is substantially in the same plane as the rim 1104. In the present embodiment, the recess 1112 exists along the horizontal center line CT. However, the recess 1112 can have any other suitable location as required or desired for a particular application. The platform 1110 may optionally be further separated by a split 1114 extending upwardly along at least a portion of the length of the recess 1112. The divider 1114 can assist the user in properly placing the food on the tray 1100 to achieve the desired degree of heating, charred and / or crunchy finish, and during the heating cycle the food Maintaining the tray 1100 in an appropriate location can be supported.

  With continued reference to FIGS. 11A-11D, the platform 1110 is slightly elongated and has a rectangular shape with rounded corners 1116. Each platform 1110 includes a top surface or surface 1118 (also referred to as “top surface” and “heating surface”), a slightly upright inner surface 1120, a slightly upright outer surface 1122, and a pair of opposing corners. Part surface 1124 is included. In this and other aspects of the invention, the various surfaces 1118, 1120, 1122 and 1124 have been described as separate surfaces or surfaces merely for ease and ease of description. It will be understood that the surfaces or surfaces are substantially continuous and do not have a clear boundary therebetween.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, the shape of the outer surface 1122 in the top plan view generally corresponds to or “traces” the shape of the upstanding wall 1106. The inner surface 1120 and outer surface 1122 of each platform 1110 extend or beveled obliquely outward and downward from the respective platform 1110 toward the recess 1112 or rim 1104, respectively, as best seen in FIG. 11C. To do. However, in this and other aspects, the various surfaces forming the platform according to the present invention are substantially upright, or inward and downward from the platform, as needed or desired for a particular application. Can be tapered.

  If desired, one or both platforms 1110 can be generally contoured to the shape of the food product. In this example, the thickness of each platform 1110, and hence the height H1 of each top surface 1118, is substantially equal when viewed along the longitudinal centerline CL of the tray 1100, as shown in FIG. 11C. When viewed along the inner surface 1120 of the platform 1110, the height varies as shown in FIG. 11D. In this example, the thickness of the platform 1110, and thus the height of the top surface 1118, decreases or tapers from the longitudinal centerline CL toward each of the corner surfaces 1124.

  The tray 1100 has various heights such as H1, H2, H3 and H4, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8 and L9, and, for example, R1, R2, R3. , R4, R5, R6, R7, R8 and R9, etc., can be characterized as having radii of curvature, eg, angles such as A1, A2 and A3, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application. The dimensions of each platform 1110 can be substantially the same so that the tray 1100 is substantially symmetric on each side with respect to the longitudinal centerline CL and / or the transverse centerline CT. Or the tray 1100 can be different so that it is asymmetric on each side with respect to the longitudinal centerline CL and / or the transverse centerline CT.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may cover and join at least a portion of the tray 1100. For example, the susceptor (not shown) includes one or more of each top surface 1118, inner surface 1120, all or part of the outer surface 1122 and / or corner surface 1124, and / or all or part of the recess 1112, etc. Or all or part of both platforms 1110 can be covered.

  12A-12D schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1200 according to various aspects of the present invention. The tray 1200 includes a number of features similar to the tray 1100 shown in FIGS. 11A-11D, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figure begin with “12” instead of “11”.

  In this example, a pair of substantially parallel vent grooves 1226 extends across the top surface 1218 of each platform 1210 and optionally passes through one or both of the inner surface 1220 and the outer surface 1222. The groove 1226 can have any suitable depth as required to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating application. In this embodiment, the grooves 1226 are substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline CL, and are substantially evenly spaced and substantially perpendicular to the lateral centerline CT. However, the grooves 1226 can have any orientation necessary or desirable for a particular application. Further, note that the tray 1200 does not include a lateral dividing wall 1114 (FIGS. 11A-11E).

  The tray 1200 can be of various heights, for example H1 and H2, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9 and L10, for example, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, It can be characterized as having a radius of curvature of R6, R7, R8, R9 and R10, and for example an angle of A1, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application. The dimensions of each platform 1210 may be substantially the same or different, and various degrees of symmetry are considered.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may cover and join at least a portion of the tray 1200. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a top surface 1218, an inner surface 1220, an outer surface 1222, and / or a corner surface 1224, all or part of the recess 1212, and / or one or more grooves. All or part of one or both platforms 1210 can be covered, including all or part of 1226 and the like.

  13A and 13B schematically represent another exemplary tray 1300 according to various aspects of the present invention. The tray 1300 includes a number of features similar to the tray 1100 shown in FIGS. 11A-11D, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figure begin with “13” instead of “11”.

  In this example, the platform 1110 of FIGS. 11A-11D is replaced with a plurality of substantially rectangular raised portions 1328 arranged as a pair of opposing groups 1330 separated by a lateral divider 1314. Each group includes three raised portions 1328 that are oblique to the lateral wall 1314 and arranged in a substantially parallel configuration. However, other numbers, shapes and arrangements of raised portions are considered. The raised portions 1328 within each group 1330 generally serve as a platform for receiving food (not shown) thereon, and the space 1332 between adjacent raised portions 1328 is used during the heating cycle. Provide ventilation.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) can be bonded over at least a portion of the tray 1300. For example, a susceptor (not shown) can cover all or a portion of one or more raised portions 1328 to facilitate heating, charred and / or crispy finishing of food heated thereon.

  14A-14E schematically represent another exemplary tray 1400 according to various aspects of the present invention. The tray 1400 has a substantially triangular shape with rounded corners 1402 and is substantially symmetric with respect to the longitudinal centerline CL. However, many other shapes and configurations are contemplated. The tray 1400 also includes a lateral centerline CT, as shown in FIG. 14B.

  The tray 1400 includes a rim or base 1404 and a plurality of walls 1406 extending upward from the base 1404. Wall 1406 optionally terminates with a flange or lip 1408. The tray 1400 has a plurality of slightly triangular surfaces 1416 joined by a substantially arcuate ridge or platform 1410 that includes a top surface or surface 1412 intended to receive food thereon. Further comprising an upstanding side surface 1414. In this example, the top surface 1412 is substantially planar. However, it will be understood that undulating surfaces are considered here. Side surfaces 1414 and corner surfaces 1416 extend obliquely and outwardly from top surface 1412 toward base 1404 as best seen in FIGS. 14C-14E.

  In this and other aspects of the invention, the various surfaces 1412, 1414 and 1416 are described as separate surfaces or surfaces, merely for ease of explanation and ease of explanation, such surfaces or surfaces. It will be appreciated that the surfaces are substantially continuous and have no clear boundaries between them. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the platform can have any desired shape, and numerous other regular and irregular shapes are contemplated herein.

  The various elements and aspects of the tray 1400 can vary in various heights, such as H1 and H2, such as L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, L11, L12, L13 and L14. And a radius of curvature of, for example, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8, and an angle of, for example, A1, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) can be bonded over at least a portion of the tray 1400. For example, a susceptor (not shown) can cover all or part of the platform 1410, including all or part of the top surface 1412, the side surfaces 1414, and / or the corner surfaces 1416. Further, according to various other examples of structures provided herein or contemplated by it, the tray may have one or more physical openings so that the tray can be vented through the side walls and / or the bottom of the tray. (Not shown). The tray 1400 can be used as described above with respect to various other exemplary trays.

  15A-15F schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1500 in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. Tray 1500 includes mechanisms similar to tray 1400 shown in FIGS. 14A-14E, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figure begin with “15” instead of “14”.

  In this example, the tray 1500 has a plurality of grooves 1518 extending in a direction in the platform 1510 that is substantially parallel to the transverse centerline CT and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline CL. including. Other configurations are considered. In this example, the tray 1500 includes six grooves 1518 of various lengths, the grooves 1518 becoming shorter near the first narrower end 1520 of the tray 1500 and the grooves 1518 being the second of the tray 1500. It becomes longer as it approaches the wider end portion 1522. The groove 1518 can have any suitable depth depending on the need to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating application.

  The tray 1500 can be of various heights, eg, H1, H2, and H3, eg, L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14 and L15. For example, having a radius of curvature of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8, and an angle of, for example, A1, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may be bonded over at least a portion of the tray 1500. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a platform that includes all or part of the top surface 1512, side surface 1514, and / or corner surface 1516, and / or all or part of one or more grooves 1518. All or part of 1510 can be covered. The tray 1500 can be used as described above.

  FIGS. 16A-16F schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1600, according to various aspects of the present invention. Tray 1600 includes mechanisms similar to tray 1400 shown in FIGS. 14A-14E and tray 1500 shown in FIGS. 15A-15F, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figures begin with “16” instead of “14” or “15”, respectively.

  In this example, the tray 1600 has a plurality of grooves in the platform 1610 that extend in a lateral direction substantially parallel to the lateral centerline CT and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline CL. 1618 and a plurality of grooves or grooves 1624 extending in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline CL and substantially perpendicular to the lateral centerline CT. Such additional grooves may be desirable if additional ventilation is required.

  In this example, tray 1600 includes six lateral grooves 1618 of various lengths, and when approaching first narrower end 1620 of tray 1600, grooves 1618 become shorter and second tray 1600 second. As one approaches the wider end 1622, the groove 1618 becomes longer. The tray 1600 also includes three longitudinal grooves 1624a, 1624b of various lengths, where 1624a is the longest groove near the longitudinal centerline CL, and 1624b is the shortest groove near the wall 1606. is there. However, other configurations can be used as desired. The grooves 1618, 1624a, 1624b can have any suitable depth as needed to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating application.

  The tray 1600 can be of various heights, e.g. H1, H2 and H3, e.g. L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14 and L15. For example, having a radius of curvature of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8, and an angle of, for example, A1, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may be bonded over at least a portion of tray 1600. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include all or part of the top surface 1612, side surface 1614, and / or corner surface 1616, and / or all or one or more of the one or more grooves 1618, 1624a and / or 1624b. All or part of the platform 1610 can be covered, including the section. The tray 1600 can be used substantially as described above.

  FIGS. 17A-17E schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1700, according to various aspects of the present invention. The tray 1700 generally has a sector shape with a pair of radial sides 1702, arc sides 1704, and rounded corners 1706 that join the radius sides 1702 and arc sides 1704. The tray 1700 is substantially symmetric with respect to the longitudinal centerline CL. The tray 1700 also includes a lateral centerline CT.

  The tray 1700 includes a peripheral rim 1708 and a platform 1710 extending upward from the rim 1708. Platform 1710 has a substantially planar top surface or surface 1712 for receiving food (not shown) and a plurality of joined surfaces extending obliquely and outwardly from between top surface 1712 toward rim 1708. It includes a side surface 1714 and a corner surface 1716. Platform 1710 includes a plurality of grooves 1718 that extend generally laterally. In this example, the platform 1710 includes six grooves of various lengths, the groove near the first narrower end 1720 of the tray 1700 is shorter and the second wider end 1722 of the tray 1700 (ie, The groove 1718 near the arc side 1704 of the tray 1700 is longer. The groove 1718 can have any suitable depth as needed to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating application. Each groove 1718 can have a radius of curvature close to the radius of curvature of arc side 1704, in this example R4. However, many other configurations are contemplated here.

  The tray 1700 can have various heights, eg, H1, eg L1, L2, L3, and L4 lengths, eg R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 radii of curvature, and eg A1 angles. Each of which can be characterized as having a specific application.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may be bonded over at least a portion of tray 1700. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a platform including all or part of the top surface 1712, side surface 1714, and / or corner surface 1716, and / or all or part of one or more grooves 1718. All or part of 1710 can be covered.

  18A-18E schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1800, according to various aspects of the present invention. Tray 1800 includes features similar to tray 1700 shown in FIGS. 17A-17E, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figures begin with “18” instead of “17”.

  In this example, in addition to grooves 1818 that extend generally in the lateral direction, platform 1810 includes a plurality of grooves 1824a, 1824b that extend generally in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the tray 1800 includes three longitudinal grooves 1824a, 1824b of various lengths, with the groove 1824a closest to the longitudinal center line CL being the longest and the groove 1824b closest to the radial side 1802. Becomes shorter. The grooves 1824b are arranged obliquely with respect to the groove 1824a and the longitudinal center line CL so that each groove 1824b is substantially equidistant from the surface 1814 and the groove 1824a. Array. However, many other arrangements are contemplated by the present invention. The various grooves 1818, 1824a, 1824b can have any suitable depth as needed to provide the desired degree of ventilation for a particular heating application.

  The tray 1800 can be of various heights, eg H1, eg L1, L2, L3, and L4 lengths, eg R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 radii of curvature, and eg A1 and A2 Can be characterized as having an angle, each of which can be varied to suit a particular application.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) may be bonded over at least a portion of the tray 1800. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include all or part of the top surface 1812, side surface 1814, and / or corner surface 1816, and / or all or one or more of the one or more grooves 1818, 1824a and / or 1824b. All or part of the platform 1810 can be covered, including the section.

  19A-19E schematically represent yet another exemplary tray 1900 according to various aspects of the present invention. Tray 1900 includes features similar to tray 1700 shown in FIGS. 17A-17E, except for the variations shown and understood by those skilled in the art. For convenience, reference numbers for similar features in the figures begin with “19” instead of “17”.

  In this example, tray 1900 includes a plurality of joined side walls 1926 and corner walls 1928 that extend upwardly from rim 1908. Such trays, for example, use the tray as a container for transporting food before or during consumption when the food heated in the tray contains components that may fall from the food This may be preferred when it is desirable to do so. In many other embodiments, the wall may include one or more openings extending therethrough to provide additional ventilation during the heating cycle.

  If desired, a microwave energy interactive element (not shown) can be bonded over at least a portion of the tray 1900. For example, the susceptor (not shown) may include a platform 1910 that includes all or part of the top surface 1912, side surfaces 1914 and / or corner surfaces 1916, and / or all or part of one or more grooves 1918. Can be covered in whole or in part. The tray 1900 can be of various heights, e.g., H1 and H2, e.g., L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, L11, L12, L13 and L14, e.g. It can be characterized as having a radius of curvature of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9 and R10, and for example an angle of A1, each of which can vary depending on the particular application.

A number of materials may be suitable for use in forming the various structures of the present invention, but the materials may be, for example, from about 121 ° C ( about 250 ° F ) to about 218 ° C ( about 425 ° C ) . F ) a material that is resistant to softening, burning, burning, or deformation at typical microwave heating temperatures. The particular materials used can include microwave energy interactive materials and microwave energy transmissive or inert materials.

For example, all or a portion of each tray can be at least partially formed from a paperboard material that can be cut into blanks prior to use in the tray. For example, the tray is from about 97 to about 538 g / square meter (about 60 to about 330lbs / ream) (lbs / ream is lbs / 300 0 sq ft), for example, from about 130 to about 228 g / square meter (about 80 to about 140 lbs / ream ) at least in part. The paperboard is typically about 1.52 × 10 ⁻⁴ to about 7.62 × 10 ⁻⁴ meters ( about 6 to 30 mils ) thick, for example, about 3.05 × 10 ⁻⁴ to about 7.11. × can have a thickness of ^{10 -4} meters (about 12 to about 28mils). In one particular embodiment, the paperboard has a thickness of about 3.05 × 10 ⁻⁴ meters ( about 12 mils ) . Any suitable paperboard can be used, such as plain bleached or plain unbleached kraft paperboard, such as SUS® board commercially available from Graphic Packaging International. Alternatively, all or a portion of the tray can be at least partially formed from a polymer or polymeric material, such as coextruded polyethylene terephthalate or polypropylene. Other materials are also contemplated herein.

  The microwave energy interactive material may be, for example, a metal or alloy provided as a metal foil, a vacuum deposited metal or alloy, or a metal ink, organic ink, inorganic ink, metal paste, organic paste, inorganic paste, or their It can be an electrically conductive or semiconductive material, such as any combination. Examples of metals and alloys that may be suitable for use in the present invention include aluminum, chromium, copper, inconel alloys (alloys of niobium and nickel-chromium-molybdenum), iron, magnesium, nickel, stainless steel, tin, titanium , Tungsten, and any combination or alloy thereof.

  Alternatively, the microwave energy interactive material may include a metal oxide. Examples of metal oxides that can be suitable for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, oxides of aluminum, iron, and tin, as appropriate, with conductive materials. Another example of a metal oxide that may be suitable for use in the present invention is indium tin oxide (ITO). ITO can be used as a microwave energy interactive material to provide heating effects, shielding effects, charring effects and / or crispy finishing effects, or a combination thereof. For example, ITO can be sputtered onto a transparent polymer film to form a susceptor. The sputtering process is generally performed at a lower temperature than the evaporation deposition process used for metal deposition. Since ITO has a more uniform crystal structure, it is transparent at most coating thicknesses. In addition, ITO can be used for either heating or field management effects. Also, ITO has much fewer defects than metal, so ITO thick film coatings are more suitable for electromagnetic field management than metal thick film coatings such as aluminum.

  Alternatively, the microwave energy interactive material may comprise a suitable electrically conductive, semiconductive, or nonconductive artificial dielectric or ferroelectric. Artificial dielectrics include conductive, fragmented material in a polymer or other suitable matrix or binder, and may include flakes of an electrically conductive metal (eg, aluminum).

  The substrate typically comprises an electrical insulator, such as, for example, a polymer film or other polymer material. As used herein, the terms “polymer”, “polymer film” and “polymer material” include, for example, homopolymers, blocks, grafts, copolymers such as random and alternating copolymers, terpolymers, etc., and blends and modifications thereof. Including, but not limited to. Further, unless expressly limited otherwise, the term “polymer” includes all possible geometric shapes of the molecule. These shapes include, but are not limited to isotactic, syndiotactic and random symmetries.

The thickness of the film, typically, be from about 8.89 × ^{10 -6} meters (about 35Gauge) to about 2.54 × ^{10 -4} (about 10 mil). In some embodiments, the thickness of the film is from about 1.02 × 10 ⁻⁵ to about 2.03 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( about 40 to about 80 gauge ) . In another aspect, the thickness of the film is from about 1.14 × 10 ⁻⁵ to about 1.27 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( about 45 to about 50 gauge ) . In yet another aspect, the thickness of the film is about 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( about 48 gauge ) . Examples of polymer films that may be suitable include, but are not limited to, polyolefins, polyesters, polyamides, polyimides, polysulfones, polyether ketones, cellophanes, or any combination thereof. Other non-conductive substrate materials can be used, such as paper or paper laminate, metal oxides, silicates, cellulose derivatives, or any combination thereof.

  In some embodiments, the polymer film comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Polyethylene terephthalate film is used in commercially available susceptors such as QWIKWAVE (registered trademark) Focus susceptor and MICRORITE (registered trademark) susceptor sold by Graphic Packaging International (Marietta, Georgia). Examples of polyethylene terephthalate films that may be suitable for use as a substrate include MELINEX®, SKC, Inc., sold by Dupont Teijan Films (Hopewell, Virginia). SKYROL sold by (Covington, Georgia), BARRIALOX PET available from Toray Films (Front Royal, VA) and QUA50 High Barrier PET, available from TORAY Films (Front Royal, VA) It is not limited to these.

  The polymer film can be selected to impart various properties to the microwave interaction structure, such as, for example, printability, heat resistance, or any other property. As a specific example, the polymer film can be selected to provide a moisture barrier, an oxygen barrier, or a combination thereof. Such barrier film layers can be formed from polymers having barrier properties, or from any other barrier layer or coating, as desired. Suitable polymer films are ethylene vinyl alcohol, barrier nylon, polyvinylidene chloride, barrier fluoropolymer, nylon 6, nylon 6,6, coextruded nylon 6 / EVOH / nylon 6, silicon oxide coating film, barrier polyethylene terephthalate, or Including, but not limited to, any combination of these.

  An example of a barrier film that may be suitable for use in the present invention is CAPRAN® EMBLEM 1200M nylon 6, sold by Honeywell International (Pottsville, Pennsylvania). Another example of a barrier film that may be suitable is CAPRAN® OXYSHIELD OBS uniaxial co-extruded nylon 6 / ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) / nylon 6, also commercially available from Honeywell International. Another example of a barrier film that may be suitable for use in the present invention is DARTEK® N-201 nylon 6,6, commercially available from Enhancement Packaging Technologies (Webster, New York). Additional examples include BARRIALOX PET sold by Toray Films (Front Royal, VA) and QUA50 High Barrier Coated PET sold by Toray Films (Front Royal, VA) described above.

  Another barrier film is a silicon oxide coating film, such as that sold by Sheldahl Films (Northfield, Minnesota). Thus, in one example, the susceptor can include a film, such as polyethylene terephthalate, having a structure in which a layer of silicon oxide is coated on the film and ITO or other material is deposited on the silicon oxide. . If necessary or desired, additional layers or coatings can be provided to prevent breakage of each layer during the process.

The barrier film can have an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) (measured using ASTM D3985 ) of less than about 2.00 × 10 ⁻² liters / m ² / day ( about 20 cc / m ² / day ) . In some embodiments, the barrier film has an OTR of less than about 1.00 × 10 ⁻² liters / m ² / day ( about 10 cc / m ² / day ) . In another aspect, the barrier film has an OTR of less than about 1.00 × 10 ⁻³ liters / m ² / day ( about 1 cc / m ² / day ) . In yet another aspect, the barrier film has an OTR of less than about 5.00 × 10 ⁻⁴ liters / m ² / day ( about 0.5 cc / m ² / day ) . In yet another aspect, the barrier film has an OTR of less than about 1.00 × 10 ⁻⁴ liters / m ² / day ( about 0.1 cc / m ² / day ) .

The barrier film can have a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) (measured using ASTM F1249) of less than 100 g / m ² / day. In some embodiments, the barrier film has a WVTR of less than about 50 g / m ² / day. In another aspect, the barrier film has a WVTR of less than about 15 g / m ² / day. In another aspect, the barrier film has a WVTR of less than about 1 g / m ² / day. In yet another aspect, the barrier film has a WVTR of less than about 0.1 g / m ² / day. In yet another aspect, the barrier film has a WVTR of less than about 0.05 g / m ² / day.

  Other non-conductive substrate materials can also be used in accordance with the present invention, such as metal oxides, silicates, cellulose derivatives, or any combination thereof.

  The microwave energy interactive material can be applied to the substrate in any suitable manner, and in some cases, the microwave energy interactive material is printed, extruded, sputtered, vapor deposited, or laminated to the substrate. The The microwave energy interactive material can be applied to the substrate in any pattern and using any technique to achieve the desired heating effect of the food product. For example, the microwave energy interactive material can be provided as a continuous or discontinuous layer or coating, including circles, loops, polygons, islands, squares, rectangles, octagons, and the like. Examples of various patterns and methods that may be suitable for use in the present invention are described in US Pat. Nos. 6,765,182, 6,717,121, 6,677,563, 6,552,315, 6,455,827, 6,433,322, 6,410,290, 6,251,451, 6,204,492, 6, 150,646, 6,114,679, 5,800,724, 5,759,418, 5,672,407, 5,628,921, 5,519, 195, 5,420,517, 5,410,135, 5,354,973, 5,340,436, 5,266,386, 5,260,537 No. 5,221,419, No. 5,213,902, No. 5,117 No. 078, No. 5,039,364, No. 4,963,420, No. 4,936,935, No. 4,890,439, No. 4,775,771, No. 4,865,921 , And No. Re. 34,683, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Although specific examples of patterns of microwave energy interactive materials are shown and described herein, it should be understood that other patterns of microwave energy interactive materials are contemplated by the present invention.

  Although susceptor elements are described in detail herein, it should be understood that many other microwave energy interactive elements and combinations thereof are contemplated herein. For example, the microwave interactive element can comprise a foil (not shown) having a thickness sufficient to shield one or more selected portions of the food from microwave energy (referred to as a “blocking element”). Sometimes). Such a blocking element can be used when the food product is prone to scorch during heating or to dry.

The blocking element can be formed from various materials and can have various configurations, depending on the particular application for which the blocking element is used. Typically, the blocking element is formed from a conductive reflective metal or alloy, such as, for example, aluminum, copper or stainless steel. The blocking element can generally have a thickness from about 7.0028 × 10 ⁻⁶ meters ( about 0.000285 inches ) to about 1.27 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.05 inches ). . In some embodiments, the blocking element has a thickness from about 7.62 × ^{10 -6} meters (about 0.0003 inches) to about 7.62 × ^{10 -4} m (about 0.03 inches). In another aspect, the blocking element, up to about 8.89 × ^{10 -6} meters (about 0.00035 inches) to about 5.08 × ^{10 -4} m (about 0.020 inches), for example, 4.06 × having a thickness of 10 ^-4 meters (0.016 inches).

  As yet another example, the microwave interaction elements may be U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,204,492, 6,433,322, 6,552,315, and A segmented foil as described in US Pat. No. 6,677,563 can be provided, but is not limited to this. Although segmented foils are not continuous, appropriately spaced groups of such segments may serve as a transfer element that directs microwave energy to specific areas of the food product. Such a foil can be used in combination with other elements such as, for example, a susceptor.

  It should be understood that depending on the combination of elements and materials, the microwave interactive material or element may have a gray or silver color that is visually distinguishable from other components of the substrate or structure. However, in some cases it may be desirable to provide a structure with a uniform color and / or appearance. Such a structure may look to the consumer, for example, colorless or special patterns, especially if the consumer is accustomed to packages, containers, trays or other structures having certain visual attributes. Can be improved. Thus, for example, a silver or gray tone adhesive is used to bond the microwave interactive element to the substrate, and a silver or gray tone is used to hide the presence of the silver or gray tone microwave interactive element. Uses a substrate, hides the presence of silver or gray-tone microwave interactive elements, for example, uses a dark-tone substrate, such as a black-tone substrate, and makes a silver or gray-tone to make the color change less noticeable Print on the metallized side of the web with ink, structure in a suitable pattern with silver or gray ink or other inconspicuous color or as a colorless layer to hide or obscure the presence of microwave interactive elements Printing on non-metallic sides of the product or using any other suitable technique or combination of these It can be considered.

  The invention can be further understood by the following examples, which are not to be construed as limiting in any case.

Example 1
The structure according to FIGS. 1A-1D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.0 inches ) , and L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , L4 is about 2.39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , and L5 is about 4. 83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L7 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.4 inches). ) , L8 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.42 inch ) , R1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R2 is about 6.35 × 10 ^−3. meters (about 0.25 inches), and R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.25 It was inches). However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) was bonded to the structure, substantially as shown in FIG. 1E.

Example 2
The structure according to FIGS. 1A-1D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.0 inches ) , and L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , L4 is about 2.39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , and L5 is about 4. 83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L7 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.4 inches). ) , L8 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.42 inch ) , R1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R2 is about 6.35 × 10 ^−3. meters (about 0.25 inches), and R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.25 It was inches). However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) was bonded to the structure, substantially as shown in FIG.

Example 3
The structure according to FIGS. 1A-1D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.0 inches ) , and L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , L4 is about 2.39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , and L5 is about 4. 83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L7 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.4 inches). ) , L8 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.42 inch ) , R1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R2 is about 6.35 × 10 ^−3. meters (about 0.25 inches), and R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.25 It was inches). However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) was bonded to the structure, substantially as shown in FIG.

Example 4
The structure according to FIGS. 1A-1D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.0 inches ) , and L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , L4 is about 2.39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , and L5 is about 4. 83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L7 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.4 inches). ) , L8 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.42 inch ) , R1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R2 is about 6.35 × 10 ^−3. meters (about 0.25 inches), and R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.25 It was inches). However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) was bonded to the structure as substantially shown in FIG.

Example 5
The structure according to FIGS. 1A-1D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.0 inches ) , and L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , L4 is about 2.39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , and L5 is about 4. 83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L7 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.4 inches). ) , L8 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.42 inch ) , R1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R2 is about 6.35 × 10 ^−3. meters (about 0.25 inches), and R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.25 It was inches). However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) was bonded to the structure, substantially as shown in FIG.

Example 6
The structure according to FIGS. 6A to 6D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , H2 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.060 inches ) , and L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( About 6.0 inches ) , L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , and L4 is about 2. 39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , L5 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , and L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches). ) , L7 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 5.4 inches ) , L8 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.0 inch ) , and L9 is about 1.07 × 10 ^−2. meters (about 0.42 inches), R1 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (about 0.25 inches , About 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches) R2, R3 of about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), and R4 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} Meter ( about 0.25 inches ) . However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) with a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) is joined to a structure covering various components, including at least a portion of the top surface 608 of the platform 604. It was.

Example 7
The structure according to FIGS. 7A-7D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , H2 is about 9.40 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.37 inches ) , and L1 is about 1.98 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 7.8 inches ) , L2 is about 1.32 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.2 inches ) , L3 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , and L4 is about 5.times . 59 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 2.2 inches ) , L5 is about 2.39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , L6 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches) ) , L7 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.2 inches ) , L8 is about 1.63 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.4 inches ) , and L9 is about 1.75 × 10 ^−1. meters (about 6.9 inches), about 2.54 × ^{10 -2} meters L10 (about 1.0 inches), L 1 to about 4.83 × ^{10 -3} m (about 0.19 inches), R1 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), the R2 of about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} meters ( About 0.25 inches ) , R3 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R4 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , and R5 is about 6.times . 35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R6 is about 5.84 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 2.3 inches ) , R7 is about 4.57 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.8 inches) ) , And A1 was about 18 °. However, other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) is joined to a structure covering various components, including at least a portion of the top surface 708 of the platform 704. It was.

Example 8
The structure according to FIGS. 8A to 8D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inch ) , H2 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( 0.060 inch ) , L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( About 6.0 inches ) , L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , and L4 is about 2. 39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , L5 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , and L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches). ), L7 is about 1.37 × ^{10 -1} m (about 5.4 inches), about 1.07 × ^{10 -2} m (about 0.42 inches L8), L9 is about 3.81 × ^{10 -2} meters (about 1.5 inches), about 2.54 × ^{10 -2} m (about 1.0 inches L10 , R1 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), the R2 of about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m ( About 0.25 inches ) , and R4 was about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) . However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) is joined to a structure covering various components, including at least a portion of the top surface 808 of the platform 804. It was.

Example 9
The structure according to FIGS. 9A to 9E can have the following approximate dimensions: H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , H2 is about 1.02 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.040 inches ) , and L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 6.0 inches ) , L2 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.5 inches ) , L3 is about 7.11 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.28 inches ) , and L4 is about 2. 39 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.94 inches ) , L5 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L6 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.4 inches). ) , L7 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.42 inches ) , L8 is about 1.91 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.75 inches ) , and R1 is about 6.35 × 10 ^−3. meters (about 0.25 inches), the R2 of about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.25 Lee Ji), R3 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), and R4 was about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches). However, other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Example 10
The structure according to FIGS. 10A to 10D was formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 6.86 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.27 inches ) , H2 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.060 inches ) , and L1 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about About 6.0 inches ) , L2 about 1.45 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 5.7 inches ) , L3 about 4.32 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.17 inches ) , L4 about 2.times . 79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , L5 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.9 inches ) , and L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.2 inches). ) , L7 is about 1.40 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 5.5 inches ) , L8 is about 9.14 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.36 inch ) , and L9 is about 3.81 × 10 ^−2. meters (about 1.5 inches), about 2.54 × ^{10 -2} meters L10 (about 1.0 inches) R1 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), the R2 of about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), R3 is about about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m ( 0.25 inches ) , and R4 was about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) . However, other suitable dimensions are considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) is joined to a structure covering various components, including at least a portion of the top surface 1008 of the platform 1004. It was.

Example 11
The structures according to FIGS. 11A to 11E were formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , H2 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , and H3 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) . about 0.25 inches), is about 9.40 × ^{10 -3} meters H4 (about 0.37 inches), L1 is about 1.93 × ^{10 -1} m (about 7.6 inches), L2 is about 1. 37 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 5.4 inches ) , L3 is about 5.08 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 2.0 inches ) , L4 is about 5.59 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 2.2 inches) ) , L5 is about 1.68 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.6 inches ) , L6 is about 1.57 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.2 inches ) , and L7 is about 1.40 × 10 ^−1. meters (about 5.5 inches), about 1.52 × ^{10 -1} m L8 (about 6.0 inches), L About 4.83 × ^{10 -3} m (approximately 0.19 inches), R1 is about 5.59 × ^{10 -2} m (about 2.2 inches), R2 is about 4.32 × ^{10 -2} m (about 1.7 inches ) , R3 is about 1.27 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.50 inches ) , R4 is about 4.06 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.16 inches ) , and R5 is about 2.03. × 10 ^-3 meters ( about 0.080 inches ) , R6 is about 6.35 × 10 ^-3 meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R7 is about 4.83 × 10 ^-3 meters ( about 0.19 inches ) R8 is about 5.08 × 10 ⁻⁴ meter ( about 0.020 inch ) , R9 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meter ( about 0.25 inch ) , A1 is about 18 °, and A2 is about 30 °. And A3 was about 15 °. However, other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) is bonded to a structure covering various components, including at least a portion of the top surface 1118 of the platform 1110. It was.

Example 12
The structures according to FIGS. 12A-12D were formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , H2 is about 9.40 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.37 inches ) , and L1 is about 1.98 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about about 7.8 inches), L2 is about 1.40 × ^{10 -1} m (about 5.5 inches), L3 is about 5.08 × ^{10 -2} m (about 2.0 inches), the L4 about 5. 59 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 2.2 inches ) , L5 is about 2.79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , and L6 is about 1.75 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.9 inches). ) (Square), L7 is about 1.63 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.4 inches ) (square), L8 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.0 inch ) , and L9 is about 1 .57 × ^{10 -1} m (about 6.2 inches) (square), about 4.83 × ^{10 -3} main L10 Torr (about 0.19 inches), R1 is about 5.84 × ^{10 -2} m (about 2.3 inches), about 4.57 × ^{10 -2} m (about 1.8 inches) R2, R3 is about 1.27 × 10 ⁻² meters ( approximately 0.50 inches ) , R4 is approximately 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.25 inches ) , and R5 is approximately 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.30 inches ) . 25 inches ) , R6 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , R7 is about 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.19 inches ) , and R8 is about 6.35 × 10 ^-3 meters ( approximately 0.25 inches ) , R9 is approximately 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.25 inches ) , R10 is approximately 4.83 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.19 inches ) , and A1 was about 18 °. However, other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A metallized polyethylene terephthalate film (ie, susceptor film) having a thickness of 1.22 × 10 ⁻⁵ meters ( 48 gauge ) is joined to a structure covering various components, including at least a portion of the top surface 1218 of the platform 1210. It was.

Example 13
The structures according to FIGS. 14A to 14E can be formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , H2 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 1 inch ) , and L1 is about 2.34 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 9 inches ) . .2 inches ) , L2 is about 2.44 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.6 inches ) , L3 is about 2.34 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.2 inches ) , and L4 is about 1.78 ×. 10 ^-1 meter ( about 7.0 inches ) , L5 is about 2.16 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 8.5 inches ) , L6 is about 1.78 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 7.0 inches ) , L7 is about 1.68 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 6.6 inches ) , L8 is about 1.12 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 4.4 inches ) , and L9 is about 1.50 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about about 5.9 inches), about 4.83 × ^{10 -3} meters L10 (about 0.19 inches), the L11 1.70 × ^{10 -1} m (about 6.7 inches), about 1.63 × ^{10 -1} meters L12 (about 6.4 inches), about 1.07 × ^{10 -1} meters L13 (about 4. 2 inches ) , L14 is about 1.42 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 5.6 inches ) , R1 is about 3.30 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.3 inches ) , and R2 is about 2.79 × 10. ^-2 meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , R3 is about 2.79 x 10 ^-2 meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , R4 is about 1.98 x 10 ^-2 meters ( about 0.78 inches ) , R5 Is approximately 1.42 × 10 ⁻² meters ( approximately 0.56 inches ) , R6 is approximately 1.22 × 10 ⁻² meters ( approximately 0.48 inches ) , and R7 is approximately 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.25 inches), R8 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), Preliminary A1 may be approximately 21 °. Other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Example 14
The structure according to FIGS. 15A to 15E can be formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is approximately 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.25 inches ) , H2 is approximately 1.60 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.063 inches ) , and H3 is approximately 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( approximately About 1.0 inch ) , L1 about 2.34 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.2 inch ) , L2 about 2.44 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.6 inch ) , L3 about 2. 34 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 9.2 inches ) , L4 is about 1.78 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 7.0 inches ) , and L5 is about 2.16 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 8.5 inches). ) , L6 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.0 inch ) , L7 is about 1.78 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 7.0 inches ) , and L8 is about 1.68 × 10 ^−1. meters (about 6.6 inches), the L9 about 1.12 × ^{10 -1} m (about 4.4 inches), L1 About 1.50 × ^{10 -1} m (about 5.9 inches), about 5.08 × ^{10 -3} meters L11 (about 0.2 inches), L12 is about 1.70 × ^{10 -1} m (about 6.7 inches ) , L13 is about 1.63 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.4 inches ) , L14 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 4.2 inches ) , and L15 is about 1.42 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 5.6 inches ) , R1 is about 3.30 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.3 inches ) , R2 is about 2.79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) R3 is about 2.79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , R4 is about 1.98 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.78 inches ) , and R5 is about 1.42 × 10 ⁻² meters. ( About 0.56 inches ) , R6 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R7 can be about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R8 can be about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , and A1 can be about 21 °. . Other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Example 15
The structure according to FIGS. 16A to 16F can be formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is approximately 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.25 inches ) , H2 is approximately 1.60 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( approximately 0.063 inches ) , and H3 is approximately 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( approximately About 1.0 inch ) , L1 about 2.34 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.2 inch ) , L2 about 2.44 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.6 inch ) , L3 about 2. 34 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 9.2 inches ) , L4 is about 1.78 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 7.0 inches ) , and L5 is about 2.16 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 8.5 inches). ) , L6 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.0 inch ) , L7 is about 1.78 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 7.0 inches ) , and L8 is about 1.68 × 10 ^−1. meters (about 6.6 inches), the L9 about 1.12 × ^{10 -1} m (about 4.4 inches), L1 About 1.50 × ^{10 -1} m (about 5.9 inches), about 5.08 × ^{10 -3} meters L11 (about 0.2 inches), L12 is about 1.70 × ^{10 -1} m (about 6.7 inches ) , L13 is about 1.63 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.4 inches ) , L14 is about 1.07 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 4.2 inches ) , and L15 is about 1.42 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 5.6 inches ) , R1 is about 3.30 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.3 inches ) , R2 is about 2.79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) R3 is about 2.79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , R4 is about 1.98 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.78 inches ) , and R5 is about 1.42 × 10 ⁻² meters. ( About 0.56 inches ) , R6 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R7 can be about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R8 can be about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , and A1 can be about 21 °. . Other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Example 16
The structure according to FIGS. 17A to 17E can be formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , L1 is about 2.01 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 7.9 inches ) , and L2 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 7.9 inches ) . About 1.0 inch ) , L3 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.0 inch ) , L4 is about 1.63 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.4 inch ) , and R1 is about 1. 78 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.70 inches ) , R2 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.54 inches ) , R3 is about 9.14 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.36 inches) ) , R4 is about 2.29 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.0 inches ) , R5 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R6 is about 1.27 × 10 ^−2. meters (about 0.50 inches), R7 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (about 0.25 inches , And A1 may be about 45 °. Other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Example 17
18A-18E can be formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , L1 is about 2.01 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 7.9 inches ) , and L2 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 7.9 inches ) . About 1.0 inch ) , L3 is about 1.52 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.0 inch ) , L4 is about 1.63 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 6.4 inch ) , and R1 is about 1. 78 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.70 inches ) , R2 is about 1.37 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.54 inches ) , R3 is about 9.14 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.36 inches) ) , R4 is about 2.29 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 9.0 inches ) , R5 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and R6 is about 1.27 × 10 ^−2. meters (about 0.50 inches), R7 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (about 0.25 inches , A1 is about 45 ° and A2 may be about 18 °. Other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Example 18
The structure according to FIGS. 19A to 19E can be formed with the following approximate dimensions. H1 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.0 inch ) , H2 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inch ) , and L1 is about 2.54 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 2.5 inches ) . About 10 inches ) , L2 is about 2.18 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 8.6 inches ) , L3 is about 1.91 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( about 7.5 inches ) , and L4 is about 2.54 ×. ^10-2 meters (about 1.0 inches), about 3.05 × ^{10 -3} m L5 (about 0.12 inches), is about 2.01 × ^{10 -1} m L6 (about 7.9 inches), L7 is about 1.91 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 7.5 inches ) , L8 is about 1.35 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 5.3 inches ) , and L9 is about 1.70 × 10 ⁻¹ meter ( about 1.5 inches ) . about 6.7 inches), the L10 about 2.11 × ^{10 -1} m (about 8.3 inches), L11 About 2.01 × ^{10 -1} m (about 7.9 inches), about 1.45 × ^{10 -1} meters L12 (about 5.7 inches), about 1.83 × ^{10 -1} meters L13 (about 7 .2 inches ) , R1 is about 3.30 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.3 inches ) , R2 is about 2.79 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , and R3 is about 2.79 ×. 10 ⁻² meters ( about 1.1 inches ) , R4 is about 1.98 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.78 inches ) , R5 is about 1.42 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.56 inches ) , R6 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , R7 is about 6.35 × 10 ⁻³ meters ( about 0.25 inches ) , and R8 is about 1.27 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 0.25 inches ) . about 0.50 inches), R9 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches) R10 is about 6.35 × ^{10 -3} m (0.25 inches), and A1 may be about 20 °. Other suitable dimensions are also considered here. A susceptor film or other microwave energy interactive element can cover at least a portion of the structure.

Examples 19-30
A variety of trays and microwave ovens were used to evaluate commercially available frozen foods Lean Cuisine and Corner Bistro panini type sandwiches. Each sandwich was heated at maximum power for about 3 minutes and 20 seconds unless otherwise stated. The results of the evaluation are shown in Table 1. In the table,
Control disc = corrugated cardboard with six elongated openings with rounded, large ends extending through the thickness of the disc and a susceptor that covers one surface (provided with food)
LC = Lean Cuisine
CB = Corner Bistro
A = 1000W Amana, 2.55 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 0.9 cubic feet ) , about 3.18 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( 12.5 inches ) (diameter of turntable)
B = 1100 W made by Panasonic, 2.83 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 1.0 cubic feet ) , about 3.43 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( 13.5 inches ) (diameter of turntable)
C = 1200W Panasonic, 2.55 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 0.9 cubic feet ) , about 3.43 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( 13.5 inches ) (diameter of turntable)
D = 1000 W, Amana Radarrange, 3.11 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 1.1 cubic feet ) , no turntable E = 800 W, Panasonic, 1.98 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 0.7 cubic feet ) , About 2.41 × 10 ^-1 meter ( 9.5 inches ) (diameter of turntable)
F = 700 W made by Samsung, 1.98 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 0.7 cubic feet ) , about 2.79 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( 11 inches ) (diameter of turntable)
G = 1100W Panasonic, 3.11 × 10 ⁻² cubic meters ( 1.1 cubic feet ) , about 3.56 × 10 ⁻¹ meters ( 14 inches ) (rotary table diameter) (cooking time increased to 4 minutes )
further,
0 = no burnt and / or crispy finish 7 = optimal burnt and / or crispy finish 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 = 0 various intermediate degrees of burnt and / or crispy finish between 0 and 7

Example 31
The commercial frozen food Stouffer's Corner Bistro's grilled chicken Italian panini sandwich was heated using various trays to compare the degree of scorch on the surface of the food.

      The first sandwich was placed open on the susceptor disk provided with the sandwich (referred to as the “control disk” in Examples 19-30). The sandwich was heated in a 1100 W Panasonic microwave oven for 3 minutes according to the cooking method of the package.

      The second sandwich is the same 1100 W Panasonic microwave oven using a tray according to the present invention having the dimensions shown in Example 8 as substantially shown in FIGS. 8A-8D. And heated for 3 minutes.

Using a Konica Minolta BC-10 baking meter having a caliber size of about 1.11 × 10 ⁻² meters ( about 7/16 inches ) (0.4375 inches), it is schematically shown in FIG. As described above, the degree of scorching on the surface of each piece of bread was measured at a designated location. Measurements made at each location were averaged over two pieces of bread in each sandwich. The result is expressed in baking contrast units ("BCU"), but as BCU decreases, the color becomes darker (ie, the degree of charring is greater). The results of the evaluation are shown in Table 2.

  While certain embodiments of the invention have been described with certain specificity, those skilled in the art may make numerous changes to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Good. All direction references (eg, up, down, up, down, left, right, left, right, top, bottom, up, down, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.) Used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of the various embodiments of the invention, and does not create limitations, particularly with regard to the position, orientation, or use of the invention, unless otherwise stated in the claims. . References to junctions (eg, junctions, attachments, connections, connections, etc.) are to be interpreted broadly and can include intermediate members between the connections of the elements and relative movement between the elements. Thus, reference to a connection does not necessarily mean that the two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship with each other.

  It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the various elements described with respect to the various embodiments may be interchanged to create an entirely new embodiment provided by the scope of the present invention. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not restrictive. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The detailed description provided herein is not intended, is not intended to limit, or excludes other embodiments, applications, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements of the invention. not.

  In other words, those skilled in the art will readily understand in the above detailed description of the present invention that the present invention can permit wide utility and application. Numerous adaptations of the invention other than those described herein, as well as numerous variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and the above detailed description. Will be obvious or reasonably suggested.

  Although the invention has been described in detail herein with reference to specific embodiments, the detailed description of the invention is intended only to illustrate and illustrate the invention and is merely complete and possible to the invention. It should be understood that this is a disclosure. The detailed description provided herein is not intended, is not intended to limit, or excludes other embodiments, applications, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements of the invention. not.

Claims (18)

Base and
A heating surface positioned above the base, the heating surface comprising a microwave energy interactive material, and the heating surface being uniform in height relative to the base Surface,
A surface extending between an outer periphery of the heating surface and the base, the extending surface extending outwardly and downwardly from the heating surface to the base ; and
A groove extending downward from the heating surface;
Equipped with a,
The structure for microwave heating , wherein the groove extends between a first portion of the extending surface and a second portion of the extending surface .
The structure for microwave heating according to claim 1 , wherein the groove has a lowermost portion positioned above the base.
The structure for microwave heating according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the groove is opened upward.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the groove has an elongated shape.
The groove is a first groove;
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the structure for microwave heating includes a second groove.
The structure for microwave heating according to claim 5 , wherein the first groove and the second groove are parallel to each other.
The structure for microwave heating according to claim 5 , wherein the first groove and the second groove are perpendicular to each other.
The structure for microwave heating according to claim 5 , wherein the first groove and the second groove are inclined with respect to each other.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the heating surface has a circular shape.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the heating surface has a semicircular shape.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the heating surface has a triangular shape.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the heating surface has a rectangular shape.
The heating surface is a first heating surface;
The microwave heating structure is a second heating surface positioned above the base, the second heating surface comprising a microwave energy interactive material, and the second heating surface. the heating surface is uniform height with respect to said base, comprising a second heating surface, the microwave heating structure according to any one of claims 1 to 12.
The structure for microwave heating according to claim 13 , wherein the height of the first heating surface is equal to the height of the second heating surface.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 14 , further comprising a wall portion extending upward from an outer periphery of the base.
The structure for microwave heating according to any one of claims 1 to 15 , wherein the microwave energy interactive material functions to convert microwave energy into heat.
The microwave heating structure according to claim 16 , which is used in combination with food,
The food product has a surface that is at least one of burnt and crunchy;
The food product is placed on the heated surface such that the surface of the food product to be burnt and / or crispy finished is in a face-to-face relationship with the microwave energy interactive material. The structure for microwave heating according to claim 16 , wherein the structure is used in combination.
A method using the microwave heating structure according to claim 17 , wherein the method comprises:
Exposing the food on the heated surface to microwave energy;
Thereby, the microwave energy interactive material converts microwave energy into heat, performing at least one of browning and crisping to the surface of the food, for microwave heating according to claim 17 A method using a structure.

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