US7019271B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Insulating microwave interactive packaging
Assignee: Graphic Packaging International LLC
•
Filing: 2003-02-07
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Granted: 2006-03-28
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Expires: 2023-02-07
Abstract
Abstract The combination of insulating material with microwave interactive food packaging for enhanced cooking properties is disclosed. An insulating microwave packaging material ( 200 ) and a method of making the same are also disclosed. In one embodiment, the insulating microwave packaging material ( 200 ) is formed by bonding a microwave interactive material substrate ( 205 ) that creates sensible heat upon exposure to microwave energy to a second substrate ( 210 ) along bond lines ( 212 ) arranged in a pattern to form closed cells ( 214 ). Upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material ( 200 ) by microwave energy in a microwave oven, the closed cells ( 214 ) expand to form insulating pockets ( 216 ). One side of the insulating pocket ( 216 ) bulges and lofts above the opposite side. When a food product is situated on the insulating microwave packaging material ( 200 ), the insulating pockets ( 216 ) insulate the food product from the microwave oven environment.
Inventors
- 👤 Patrick H. Wnek
- 👤 Terrence P. Lafferty
- 👤 Richard G. Robison
- 👤 Lorin R. Cole
- 👤 Brian R. O'Hagan
- 👤 Scott W. Middleton
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-29 11:32
CPC Classifications
B; B65; B65D; B65D81/00; B65D81/34; B65D81/3446; B65D81/3453; B32; B32B; B32B27/00; B32B27/06; B32B27/10; B32B27/36; B32B29/00; B65D5/00; B65D5/42; B65D5/44; B65D5/52; B65D5/54; B65D5/545; B65D5/5455; B65D81/3461; B65D81/38; B65D81/3813; B65D81/3823; B65D81/3888; B65D81/3893; H; H05; H05B; H05B6/00; H05B6/64; H05B6/647; H05B6/6491; H05B6/6494; B65D2581/00; B65D2581/34; B65D2581/3437; B65D2581/3439; B65D2581/344; B65D2581/3447; B65D2581/3455; B65D2581/3456; B65D2581/3458; B65D2581/3459; B65D2581/3462; B65D2581/3463; B65D2581/3466; B65D2581/3467; B65D2581/3471; B65D2581/3472; B65D2581/3486; B65D2581/3489; B65D2581/3494; B65D2585/00; B65D2585/30; B65D2585/36; B65D2585/363; B65D2585/366; Y; Y10; Y10S; Y10S99/00; Y10S99/14; Y10T; Y10T428/00; Y10T428/249921
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 137
Claim 1
Independent Claim
190 words
An insulating microwave packaging material comprising: a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a layer of microwave interactive material supported by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a dimensionally stable substrate bonded to the layer of microwave interactive material; and a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate bonded to the dimensionally stable substrate, wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate are bonded along bond lines formed in a pattern; the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising; a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
190 words
An insulating microwave packaging material comprising: a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a layer of microwave interactive material supported by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a dimensionally stable substrate bonded to the layer of microwave interactive material; and a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate bonded to the dimensionally stable substrate, wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate are bonded along bond lines formed in a pattern; the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising; a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
89 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets insulates at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
61 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats and softens the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, decreasing resistance of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the formation of the insulating pocket.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
68 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate contracts in at least one of the X and Y directions, enhancing the loft of the bulging side.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
65 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, a distance between the second vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate in a center of each of the plurality of closed cells increases by at least an order of magnitude more than the distance before such impingement.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
63 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, a distance between the second vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate in a center of each of the plurality of closed cells increases by up to 30 times more than the distance before such impingement.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
46 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 , further comprising: a first edge; and a second edge opposite the first edge; wherein the first edge is bonded to the second edge; and the microwave packaging material forms a sleeve for surrounding the food product.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
38 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 7 , wherein the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises an interior surface of the sleeve; and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises an exterior surface of the sleeve.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
27 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 8 , wherein the bond between the first edge and the second edge is formed by a heat seal.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
26 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 7 , wherein the bond between the first edge and the second edge is formed by an adhesive.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
61 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 , wherein a portion of a first sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material is bonded to a portion of a second sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material; and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet faces the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
163 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 11 , wherein the first sheet is defined by a first perimeter; the second sheet is defined by a second perimeter; and the first sheet is bonded to the second sheet at a plurality of points spaced apart along the first perimeter and the second perimeter, wherein, the first sheet and the second sheet are substantially unrestricted from contraction in at least one of the X and Y directions, and wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet, and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet contracts in at least one of the X and Y directions, enhancing the loft of the bulging side of each of the insulating pockets.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
120 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 12 , wherein when the food product is situated over at least a portion of the first sheet, and the second sheet is situated against a surface of the microwave oven, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of the second sheet heats the surface of the microwave oven and the first sheet, counteracting the heat transfer between the food product and the surface of the microwave oven; augmenting the contraction of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet; and enhancing the expansion of each of the plurality of closed cells of the first sheet.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
61 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 11 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the first sheet deforms into a convex canopy with respect to a plane dividing the first sheet and the second sheet; wherein a space is created between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
61 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 11 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the second sheet deforms into a convex canopy with respect to a plane dividing the first sheet and the second sheet; wherein a space is created between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
100 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 , wherein a first sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material defined by a first perimeter is bonded to a second sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material defined by a second perimeter; at least a portion of the first perimeter is bonded to at least a portion of the second perimeter creating a cavity between the first sheet and the second sheet for receiving a food product; and the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet faces the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
27 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 16 , wherein an opening to the cavity between the first sheet and the second sheet is provided.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
28 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 17 , wherein the opening is large enough to accept the food product, and the cavity comprises a pouch.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
32 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 17 , wherein the opening is a vent to allow water vapor to escape from the cavity during cooking of the food product.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
43 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 16 , wherein all of the first perimeter is bonded to all of the second perimeter and the food product in the cavity is completely enclosed by the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
173 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 16 , wherein a third sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material defined by a third perimeter is bonded to the second sheet at a plurality of points spaced apart along the third perimeter and the second perimeter; and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet faces the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the third sheet; and wherein when the food product is situated within the cavity, and the third sheet is situated against a surface of the microwave oven, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of the third sheet heats the surface of the microwave oven and the second sheet, counteracting the heat transfer between the food product and the surface of the microwave oven; augmenting the contraction of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet; and enhancing the expansion of each of the plurality of closed cells of the second sheet.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
23 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 , wherein the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises a biaxially-oriented polyester film.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
23 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 , wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises a biaxially-oriented polyester film.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
128 words
A microwave packaging carton comprising: a top surface; a bottom surface; a first sheet of insulating microwave packaging material according to claim 1 ; and a second sheet of insulating microwave packaging material according to claim 1 ; wherein the first sheet of insulating microwave packaging material is affixed to the top surface in a manner allowing the first sheet to contract in at least on of the X and Y directions upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy; and the second sheet of insulating microwave packaging material is affixed to the bottom surface in a manner allowing the first sheet to contract in at least on of the X and Y directions upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
34 words
The microwave packaging carton of claim 24 , wherein at least one of the first sheet and the second sheet is affixed to the top surface or the bottom surface, respectively, by an adhesive.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
66 words
The microwave packaging carton of claim 24 , wherein at least one of the first sheet and the second sheet has at least one slit cut adjacent to a portion of a perimeter of the respective first sheet or the second sheet augmenting the ability of the respective first sheet or the second sheet to contract in at least on of the X and Y directions.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
190 words
An insulating microwave packaging material comprising: a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a layer of microwave interactive material supported by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a dimensionally stable substrate bonded to the layer of microwave interactive material; and a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate bonded to the dimensionally stable substrate, wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate are bonded along bond lines formed in a pattern; the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising; a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
190 words
An insulating microwave packaging material comprising: a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a layer of microwave interactive material supported by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a dimensionally stable substrate bonded to the layer of microwave interactive material; and a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate bonded to the dimensionally stable substrate, wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate are bonded along bond lines formed in a pattern; the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising; a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
90 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 27 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets insulates at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
102 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 27 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets insulates at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material from a consumer's skin to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the insulating microwave packaging material to the consumer's skin when the consumer removes the insulating microwave packaging material from the microwave oven after cooking.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
61 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 27 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats and softens the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, decreasing resistance of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the formation of the insulating pocket.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
23 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 27 , wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises an amorphous polyester film.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
48 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 or 27 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, moisture trapped in the dimensionally stable substrate heats and expands as a vapor, creating pressure, which forms the insulating pocket.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
59 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 or 27 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats moisture trapped in the dimensionally stable substrate, which moisture expands as a vapor, creating pressure, which forms the insulating pocket.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
34 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 or 27 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the opposing side remains substantially flat.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
56 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described claim 1 or 27 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer becomes insulated from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from the layer of microwave interactive material to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
52 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 or 27 , wherein the pattern comprises an array of shapes selected from a group comprising: a circle, an oval, a curvilinear shape, a symmetrical curvilinear shape, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a polygon, a right polygon, and an equilateral polygon.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
18 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 36 , wherein the equilateral polygon is a hexagon.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
32 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 36 , wherein each of the shapes in the array is nested with each adjacent shape in the array in a tile-like pattern.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
27 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 36 , wherein each of the shapes in the array is elongate and oriented parallel to adjacent shapes.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
21 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 or 27 , wherein the microwave interactive material layer comprises aluminum.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
28 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 or 27 , wherein the dimensionally stable substrate is selected from a group comprising: paper, paperboard, and plastic.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
20 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 or 27 , wherein the bond lines comprise an adhesive.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
35 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 42 , wherein the adhesive penetrates the dimensionally stable substrate to form a substantially vapor impermeable barrier in conjunction with the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
32 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 or 27 , wherein the wherein portions of the microwave interactive material are inactivated in the same pattern as the bond lines.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
21 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 1 or 27 , wherein the bond lines comprise a heat seal.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
62 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 45 , wherein the heat seal is formed by melting the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate along the bond lines, and wherein a melted portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate penetrates the dimensionally stable substrate to form a substantially vapor impermeable barrier in conjunction with the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate.
Claim 49
Independent Claim
185 words
A method of making an insulating microwave packaging material, the method comprising: providing a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; supporting a layer of microwave interactive material on the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; bonding a dimensionally stable substrate to the layer of microwave interactive material; and bonding a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the dimensionally stable substrate along bond lines formed in a pattern, wherein the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; and wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising: a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 50
Independent Claim
185 words
A method of making an insulating microwave packaging material, the method comprising: providing a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; supporting a layer of microwave interactive material on the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; bonding a dimensionally stable substrate to the layer of microwave interactive material; and bonding a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the dimensionally stable substrate along bond lines formed in a pattern, wherein the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; and wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising: a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
86 words
The method as described claim 47 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets insulates at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
58 words
The method as described claim 47 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats and softens the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate decreasing resistance of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the formation of the insulating pocket.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
65 words
The method as described claim 47 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate contracts in at least one of the X and Y directions, enhancing the loft of the bulging side.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
62 words
The method as described claim 47 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, a distance between the second vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate in a center of each of the plurality of closed cells increases by at least an order of magnitude more than the distance before such impingement.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
60 words
The method as described claim 47 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, a distance between the second vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate in a center of each of the plurality of closed cells increases by up to 30 times more than the distance before such impingement.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
53 words
The method as described claim 47 , wherein the insulating microwave packaging material further comprises: a first edge; and a second edge opposite the first edge; and wherein the method further comprises: bonding the first edge to the second edge; wherein the microwave packaging material forms a sleeve for surrounding the food product.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method as described claim 53 , wherein the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises an interior surface of the sleeve; and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises an exterior surface of the sleeve.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method as described claim 54 , wherein the step of bonding the first edge and the second edge further comprises heat sealing the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate along the first edge to the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate along the second edge.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method as described claim 53 , wherein the step of bonding the first edge to the second edge further comprises dispensing an adhesive between the first edge and the second edge.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
74 words
The method as described in claim 47 , further comprising: dividing the insulating microwave packaging material to form a first sheet and a second sheet; placing the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet facing the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet; and bonding a portion of the first sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material to a portion of the second sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
173 words
The method as described in claim 57 , wherein the first sheet is defined by a first perimeter; the second sheet is defined by a second perimeter; and wherein the step of bonding the first sheet to the second sheet further comprises: bonding the first sheet to the second sheet at a plurality of points spaced apart along the first perimeter and the second perimeter, wherein, the first sheet and the second sheet are substantially unrestricted from contraction in at least one of the X and Y directions, and wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet, and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet contracts in at least one of the X and Y directions, enhancing the loft of the bulging side of each of the insulating pockets.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
117 words
The method as described in claim 58 , wherein when the food product is situated over at least a portion of the first sheet, and the second sheet is situated against a surface of the microwave oven, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of the second sheet heats the surface of the microwave oven and the first sheet, counteracting the heat transfer between the food product and the surface of the microwave oven; augmenting the contraction of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet; and enhancing the expansion of each of the plurality of closed cells of the first sheet.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
58 words
The method as described in claim 57 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the first sheet deforms into a convex canopy with respect to a plane dividing the first sheet and the second sheet; and a space is created between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
58 words
The method as described in claim 57 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the second sheet deforms into a convex canopy with respect to a plane dividing the first sheet and the second sheet; wherein a space is created between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
102 words
The method as described in claim 47 , further comprising: dividing the insulating microwave packaging material to form a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein the first sheet is defined by a first perimeter, and the second sheet is defined by a second perimeter; placing the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet facing the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet; and bonding at least a portion of the first perimeter to at least a portion of the second perimeter creating a cavity between the first sheet and the second sheet for receiving a food product.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method as described in claim 62 further comprising forming an opening to the cavity between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method as described in claim 63 , wherein the opening is large enough to accept the food product, and the cavity comprises a pouch.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method as described in claim 63 , wherein the opening is a vent to allow water vapor to escape from the cavity during cooking of the food product.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
62 words
The method as described in claim 62 , wherein the step of bonding at least a portion of the first perimeter to at least a portion of the second perimeter further comprises bonding all of the first perimeter to all of the second perimeter, wherein the food product in the cavity is completely enclosed by the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
192 words
The method as described in claim 62 , wherein the step of dividing further comprises dividing the insulating microwave packaging material to form a third sheet, wherein the third sheet is defined by a third perimeter; and wherein the method further comprises: placing the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet facing the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the third sheet; and bonding the third sheet to the second sheet at a plurality of points spaced apart along the third perimeter and the second perimeter; and wherein when the food product is situated within the cavity, and the third sheet is situated against a surface of the microwave oven, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of the third sheet heats the surface of the microwave oven and the second sheet, counteracting the heat transfer between the food product and the surface of the microwave oven; augmenting the contraction of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet; and enhancing the expansion of each of the plurality of closed cells of the second sheet.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method as described in claim 47 , wherein the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises a biaxially-oriented polyester film.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method as described in claim 47 , wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises a biaxially-oriented polyester film.
Claim 73
Independent Claim
185 words
A method of making an insulating microwave packaging material, the method comprising: providing a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; supporting a layer of microwave interactive material on the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; bonding a dimensionally stable substrate to the layer of microwave interactive material; and bonding a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the dimensionally stable substrate along bond lines formed in a pattern, wherein the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; and wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising: a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 74
Independent Claim
185 words
A method of making an insulating microwave packaging material, the method comprising: providing a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; supporting a layer of microwave interactive material on the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; bonding a dimensionally stable substrate to the layer of microwave interactive material; and bonding a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the dimensionally stable substrate along bond lines formed in a pattern, wherein the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; and wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising: a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
90 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 70 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets insulates at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
102 words
The insulating microwave packaging material as described in claim 70 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets insulates at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material from a consumer's skin to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the insulating microwave packaging material to the consumer's skin when the consumer removes the insulating microwave packaging material from the microwave oven after cooking.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
58 words
The method as described claim 70 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats and softens the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate decreasing resistance of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the formation of the insulating pocket.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method as described in claim 70 , wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises an amorphous polyester film.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method as described claim 47 or 70 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, moisture trapped in the dimensionally stable substrate heats and expands as a vapor, creating pressure, which forms the insulating pocket.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
56 words
The method as described claim 47 or 70 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer creates sensible heat that further heats moisture trapped in the dimensionally stable substrate, which moisture expands as a vapor, creating pressure, which forms the insulating pocket.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method as described claim 47 or 70 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the opposing side remains substantially flat.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method as described claim 47 or 70 , wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer becomes insulated from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from the microwave interactive material layer to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
49 words
The method as described in claim 47 or 70 , wherein the pattern comprises an array of shapes selected from a group comprising: a circle, an oval, a curvilinear shape, a symmetrical curvilinear shape, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a polygon, a right polygon, and an equilateral polygon.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method as described in claim 79 , wherein the equilateral polygon is a hexagon.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method as described in claim 79 , wherein each of the shapes in the array is nested with each adjacent shape in the array in a tile-like pattern.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method as described in claim 79 , wherein each of the shapes in the array is elongate and oriented parallel to adjacent shapes.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
18 words
The method as described in claim 47 or 70 , wherein the microwave interactive material layer comprises aluminum.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method as described in claim 47 or 70 , wherein the dimensionally stable substrate is selected from a group comprising: paper, paperboard, and plastic.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method as described in claim 47 or 70 , wherein the step of bonding the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate further comprises dispensing an adhesive along the bond lines.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method as described in claim 85 , wherein the adhesive penetrates the dimensionally stable substrate to form a substantially vapor impermeable barrier in conjunction with the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method as described in claim 47 or 70 further comprising the step of inactivating portions of the microwave interactive material in the same pattern as the bond lines.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method as described in claim 47 or 70 , wherein the step of bonding the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate further comprises heat sealing the substantially vapor impermeable substrate to the dimensionally stable substrate along the bond lines.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
59 words
The method as described in claim 88 , wherein the step of heat sealing further comprises melting the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate along the bond lines, wherein a melted portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate penetrates the dimensionally stable substrate to form a substantially vapor impermeable barrier in conjunction with the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
240 words
A microwavable baking surface comprising: a baking substrate containing an aperture; a first sheet of an insulating microwave packaging material; and a second sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material; wherein the first sheet and the second sheet are arranged adjacent to each other and substantially cover the aperture; and the insulating microwave packaging material comprises: a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a layer of microwave interactive material supported by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a dimensionally stable substrate bonded to the layer of microwave interactive material; and a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate bonded to the dimensionally stable substrate, wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate are bonded along bond lines formed in a pattern; the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising: a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
240 words
A microwavable baking surface comprising: a baking substrate containing an aperture; a first sheet of an insulating microwave packaging material; and a second sheet of the insulating microwave packaging material; wherein the first sheet and the second sheet are arranged adjacent to each other and substantially cover the aperture; and the insulating microwave packaging material comprises: a first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a layer of microwave interactive material supported by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate; a dimensionally stable substrate bonded to the layer of microwave interactive material; and a second substantially vapor impermeable substrate bonded to the dimensionally stable substrate, wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate are bonded along bond lines formed in a pattern; the bond lines are substantially vapor impermeable; and the pattern defines a plurality of closed cells bounded by the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the dimensionally stable substrate, and the bond lines; wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in a microwave oven, each of the plurality of closed cells expands to form an insulating pocket comprising: a bulging side; and an opposing side; wherein the bulging side comprises a portion of each of the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate, the microwave interactive material layer, and the dimensionally stable substrate; the opposing side comprises a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate; and the bulging side lofts away from the opposing side.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
91 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein when a food product is situated adjacent to the first sheet, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, each of the insulating pockets of the second sheet insulates at least one of the food product and the first sheet from the microwave oven environment to reduce heat transfer from at least one of the food product and the layer of microwave interactive material of the first sheet to the microwave oven environment.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
32 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet faces the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
98 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 92 , wherein the baking substrate further comprises: a top side; and a bottom side; and wherein the first sheet is defined by a first perimeter; the second sheet is defined by a second perimeter; a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet along the first perimeter is bonded to the top side of the baking substrate; and a portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet along the second perimeter is bonded to the bottom side of the baking substrate.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
160 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 93 , wherein the bond between the portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet and the top side of the baking substrate and the bond between the portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the second sheet and the bottom side of the baking substrate comprise a temperature sensitive adhesive, and wherein upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of each of the first sheet and the second sheet creates sensible heat that further heats the temperature sensitive adhesive; the temperature sensitive adhesive decomposes at a certain temperature, releasing the bonds; and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet contracts in at least one of the X and Y directions, enhancing the loft of the bulging side of each of the insulating pockets.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
60 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 92 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the first sheet deforms into a convex canopy with respect to a plane dividing the first sheet and the second sheet; and a space is created between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
60 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 92 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the second sheet deforms into a convex canopy with respect to a plane dividing the first sheet and the second sheet; wherein a space is created between the first sheet and the second sheet.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
103 words
The microwavable baking surface as described claim 90 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of each of the first sheet and the second sheet creates sensible heat that further heats the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet; and the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of each of the first sheet and the second sheet contracts in at least one of the X and Y directions, enhancing the loft of the bulging side of each of the insulating pockets.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
119 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 97 , wherein when the food product is situated over at least a portion of the first sheet, and the second sheet is situated against a surface of the microwave oven, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the microwave interactive material layer of the second sheet heats the surface of the microwave oven and the first sheet, counteracting the heat transfer between the food product and the surface of the microwave oven; augmenting the contraction of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate of the first sheet; and enhancing the expansion of each of the plurality of closed cells of the first sheet.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
32 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, the opposing side remains substantially flat.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
76 words
The microwavable baking surface as described claim 90 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, a distance between the second vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate in a center of each of the plurality of closed cells of at least one of the first sheet and the second sheet increases by at least an order of magnitude more than the distance before such impingement.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
74 words
The microwavable baking surface as described claim 90 , wherein, upon impingement of the insulating microwave packaging material by microwave energy in the microwave oven, a distance between the second vapor impermeable substrate and the dimensionally stable substrate in a center of each of the plurality of closed cells of at least one of the first sheet and the second sheet increases by up to 30 times more than the distance before such impingement.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
49 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the pattern comprises an array of shapes selected from the group comprising: a circle, an oval, a curvilinear shape, a symmetrical curvilinear shape, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a polygon, a right polygon, and an equilateral polygon.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
17 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 102 , wherein the equilateral polygon is a hexagon.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
31 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 102 , wherein each of the shapes in the array is nested with each adjacent shape in the array in a tile-like pattern.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
16 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the baking substrate comprises paperboard.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
17 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the baking substrate comprises a susceptor.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
20 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the baking substrate comprises an abuse-tolerant microwave packaging material.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
16 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the baking substrate is disk-shaped.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
21 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 108 , wherein the aperture is circular and concentric with the baking surface.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
18 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the food product is a frozen pizza.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
22 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises a biaxially-oriented polyester film.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
22 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate comprises a biaxially-oriented polyester film.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
18 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the microwave interactive material layer comprises aluminum.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
25 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the dimensionally stable substrate is selected from a group comprising: paper, paperboard, and plastic.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
17 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the bond lines comprise an adhesive.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
34 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 115 , wherein the adhesive penetrates the dimensionally stable substrate to form a substantially vapor impermeable barrier in conjunction with the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
18 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 90 , wherein the bond lines comprise a heat seal.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
61 words
The microwavable baking surface as described in claim 117 , wherein the heat seal is formed by melting the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate along the bond lines, and wherein a melted portion of the second substantially vapor impermeable substrate penetrates the dimensionally stable substrate to form a substantially vapor impermeable barrier in conjunction with the first substantially vapor impermeable substrate.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
141 words
A microwave package comprising: a carton form comprising: a base with a central fold line; a first side wall hinged to the base along a first fold line; and a second side wall hinged to the base along a second fold line; and a pouch comprising microwave interactive material, the pouch supported by the carton form; wherein the pouch is positioned between the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall of the carton form; the carton form and the pouch may be alternately folded flat and erected to open the pouch; and wherein when the carton form is erected by opening the folded base into a V-form, the base may be inverted and the carton form is braced open by the base which is held open in tension between the first side wall and the second side wall.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
141 words
A microwave package comprising: a carton form comprising: a base with a central fold line; a first side wall hinged to the base along a first fold line; and a second side wall hinged to the base along a second fold line; and a pouch comprising microwave interactive material, the pouch supported by the carton form; wherein the pouch is positioned between the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall of the carton form; the carton form and the pouch may be alternately folded flat and erected to open the pouch; and wherein when the carton form is erected by opening the folded base into a V-form, the base may be inverted and the carton form is braced open by the base which is held open in tension between the first side wall and the second side wall.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
53 words
The microwave package of claim 119 , wherein the first fold line and the second fold line are convexly curved so that, upon inverting, the base of the carton form assumes a concavely curved form with the first side wall and the second side wall of the carton form bowed or convexly curved.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
30 words
The microwave package of claim 119 , wherein the pouch is affixed to at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall of the carton form.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
22 words
The microwave package of claim 119 , wherein the microwave interactive material comprises insulating microwave packaging material according to claim 1 .
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
128 words
A microwave cooking container comprising: a first end, wherein the first end contains a first aperture; a second end, wherein the second end contains a second aperture; and a body, wherein the body comprises a microwave interactive material; and wherein a food product is at least partially surrounded by the body; the first end provides a foundation for maintaining the container in an upright position when the first end is placed upon a surface; the first aperture in the first end is exposed to a source of air in a cooking environment when the first end is placed upon a surface; and a draft is created during a cooking cycle in a microwave oven wherein air is ported through the first aperture and vented through the second aperture.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
128 words
A microwave cooking container comprising: a first end, wherein the first end contains a first aperture; a second end, wherein the second end contains a second aperture; and a body, wherein the body comprises a microwave interactive material; and wherein a food product is at least partially surrounded by the body; the first end provides a foundation for maintaining the container in an upright position when the first end is placed upon a surface; the first aperture in the first end is exposed to a source of air in a cooking environment when the first end is placed upon a surface; and a draft is created during a cooking cycle in a microwave oven wherein air is ported through the first aperture and vented through the second aperture.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
24 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 123 , wherein the microwave interactive material comprises an insulating microwave interactive material according to claim 1 .
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
24 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 123 , wherein the microwave interactive material comprises an insulating microwave interactive material according to claim 27 .
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
38 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 123 , wherein the body further comprises an exterior surface; and the exterior surface further comprises an insulating material that reduces heat transfer from the container to a consumer touching the container.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
32 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 123 , wherein the body further comprises an interior surface; and at least a first portion of the interior surface further comprises the microwave interactive material.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
62 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 127 , wherein a second portion of the interior surface of the body does not comprise the microwave interactive material; and the body further comprises an exterior surface; wherein a portion of the exterior surface opposite the second portion of the interior surface reduces the heat transfer from the container to a consumer touching the container.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
27 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 128 , wherein the portion of the exterior surface opposite the second portion of the interior surface is frusto-conical in shape.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
62 words
The microwave cooking container of claim 123 , wherein the body further comprises an upper portion having the first end and a lower portion having the second end; the upper portion and the lower portion are each of separate construction; and the upper portion is attached to the lower portion at a common interface between the upper portion and the lower portion.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2009-03-27 | 2009-09-26 | 2010-03-28 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2013-03-27 | 2013-09-26 | 2014-03-28 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2017-03-27 | 2017-09-26 | 2018-03-28 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |