Patent ID: 6259065
Filing Date: 2001-07-10
Classification: A47F,A47J

Abstract:
A merchandiser for displaying food products and holding such food products at a controlled temperature, comprising:a well divided into a plurality of well sections, wherein each of said well sections receives a serving tray and wherein said serving trays collectively have a center line;a rear access door, a pair of side plates, and a transparent front plate, which together with said well define a food product cavity; anda pair of supporting brackets, which positions a merchandiser heating and control device above said well;wherein said merchandiser heating and control device comprises:a heating compartment, which positions at least one heating element substantially above said centerline of said serving trays, wherein said heating compartment includes at least one circulating fan for circulating heated air from said heating compartment into said cavity;a retaining bracket for receiving an upper edge of said rear access door, having an enclosed guide surface;a control compartment positioned above said retaining bracket and containing control elements for controlling said at least one heating element and having a rear control panel, wherein said control compartment includes at least one cooling fan for cooling said control elements and a plurality of vents formed in said control panel for drawing cooling air into said control compartment from outside said cavity and for exhausting heated air outside said cavity; anda securing bracket for mounting an upper edge of said transparent front plate.