Abstract:
Temperature regulation devices for heating food are disclosed. The temperature regulation device is configured to heat food held in a food pan positioned in a well of food service equipment. The temperature regulation device includes a module or housing and heating element, and is configurable in a variety of positions, orientations, locations, or configurations relative to the well and the food pans to accommodate a variety of sizes and configurations of food pans.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    The present invention relates generally to the field of food service equipment and, in particular, to the field of temperature regulation devices for food service equipment. 
         [0002]    Conventional food service equipment supports one or more food pans. The food pans are placed within a well of the food service equipment to warm or maintain the temperature of the food within the food pans. A warming device is typically used in conjunction with the well to maintain the temperature of the food pans for serving purposes (e.g., using steam or radiant heat). 
         [0003]    Additionally, conventional food service equipment using induction for heating the food pan may only be able to configured to support one depth of food pan and a user may need to purchase an additional food service setup for a different depth of food pan. For example, the user may have a food pan with a depth of 2½ inches and a food pan with a depth of 4 inches. The user may not easily use both food pans with a single food service setup. Thus, there is a need for adjustable food service equipment to allow for use of food pans with varying depths. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    A temperature regulation device for positioning in a well of food service equipment, the temperature regulation device a housing including a top surface, a bottom surface, a first side, and a second side, wherein the first side includes a first support surface that supports the housing when the housing is positioned in a first position relative to the well, and wherein the second side includes a second support surface that supports the housing when the housing is positioned in a second position relative to the well, wherein the first support surface is spaced apart from the top surface by a first dimension, and the second support surface is spaced apart from the top surface by a second dimension, wherein the first dimension is larger than the second dimension. 
         [0005]    An apparatus for positioning in a well of food service equipment for heating a food pan positioned in the well, the apparatus including a housing including an upper portion including a top surface, a lower portion including a bottom surface, an adjustment mechanism coupling the upper portion and the lower portion, the adjustment mechanism including a guide, and a track, wherein the guide is configured to move along the track, thereby changing a distance between the top surface of the upper portion and the bottom surface of the lower portion. 
         [0006]    An apparatus for heating a food pan positioned in a well of food service equipment, the apparatus including a top portion including a top surface, a bottom portion including a bottom surface, a first side, a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side and the second side extend from the bottom surface, a height adjustment mechanism to adjust the spacing between the top surface and the bottom surface, the height adjustment mechanism including a first height catch disposed on the bottom portion, wherein the first height catch is a first distance from the top surface, and a second height catch disposed on the bottom portion, wherein the second height catch is a second distance from the top surface, a first inner member disposed on the top portion of the housing, the first inner member releasably and selectively engages the first height catch or the second height catch, wherein the first inner member is engaged with the first height catch in a first position, and wherein the first inner member is engaged with the second height catch in a second position. 
         [0007]    An apparatus for heating a food pan positioned in a well of food service equipment, the apparatus including a top portion having a top surface, a bottom portion having a bottom surface and movable relative to the top portion, a height adjustment mechanism configured to position the top portion in at least a first position and a second position relative to the bottom portion, wherein the first position defines a first dimension between the top surface and the bottom surface and the second position defines a second dimension between the top surface and the bottom surface different than the first dimension, the height adjustment mechanism including an inner member coupled to the top portion, a biasing member configured to bias the top portion relative to the bottom portion, a catch configured to engage with the inner member, and a release mechanism configured to disengage the inner member from the catch. 
         [0008]    An apparatus for heating a food pan positioned in a well of food service equipment, the apparatus including a top portion having a top surface, a bottom portion having a bottom surface, an adjustment mechanism, the adjustment mechanism including a first thread portion on the top portion, a second thread portion on the bottom portion engaged with the first thread portion, wherein rotation of the top portion relative to the bottom portion and engagement of the first thread portion with the second thread portion moves the top portion relative to the bottom portion between at least a first position and a second position, wherein the first position defines a first dimension between the top surface and the bottom surface and the second position defines a second dimension between the top surface and the bottom surface different than the first dimension. 
         [0009]    Alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be generally recited in the claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]    The invention will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0011]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device positioned within a well, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0012]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0013]      FIG. 3  is a bottom view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 2 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0014]      FIG. 4  is a first side view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 2 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is a top view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 2 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0016]      FIG. 6  is a second side view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 2 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0017]      FIG. 7  is a top view of the well in which the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 2  is positioned as shown in  FIG. 1 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0018]      FIG. 8  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 2  positioned within the well in two different positions, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0019]      FIG. 9  is a section view of the arrangement in  FIG. 8  with food pans inserted, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0020]      FIG. 10  is a perspective section view of a temperature regulation device positioned within the well in two different positions, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0021]      FIG. 11  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 10  in a first position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0022]      FIG. 12  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 10  in a second position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0023]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0024]      FIG. 14  is a top view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0025]      FIG. 15  is a side section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13  in an upper position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0026]      FIG. 15A  is a side section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13  in a lower position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0027]      FIG. 16  is a side section view of a temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13  positioned within the well in two different positions, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0028]      FIG. 17  is a perspective section view of a temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13  positioned within the well in two different positions, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0029]      FIG. 18  is a perspective section view of a temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13  positioned within the well in a lower position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0030]      FIG. 19  is a perspective section view of a temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13  positioned within the well in an upper position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0031]      FIG. 20  is an exploded view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 13 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0032]      FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 22  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 21  in an upper position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0034]      FIG. 22A  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 21  in a lower position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0035]      FIG. 23  is a section view of the height adjustment mechanism of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 22  in an upper position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0036]      FIG. 24  is a section view of the height adjustment mechanism of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 22A  in a lower position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0037]      FIG. 25  is a view of the height adjustment mechanism of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 21  under user manipulation, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0038]      FIG. 26  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 21  in a lower position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0039]      FIG. 27  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 21  in an upper position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0040]      FIG. 28  is a perspective section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 21  positioned within the well in two different positions, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0041]      FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0042]      FIG. 30  is a top view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0043]      FIG. 31  is a bottom view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0044]      FIG. 32  is a side view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0045]      FIG. 33  is a top view of a receptacle of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0046]      FIG. 34  is a section view of the receptacle of  FIG. 33 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0047]      FIG. 35  is a top view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29  positioned in the well, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0048]      FIG. 36  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29  in a lower position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0049]      FIG. 37  is a section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29  in an upper position, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0050]      FIG. 38  is a perspective section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 29  positioned in the well, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0051]      FIG. 39  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0052]      FIG. 40  is a top view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 39 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0053]      FIG. 41  is a side view of a height adjustment mechanism of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 39 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0054]      FIG. 42  is a side section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 39 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0055]      FIG. 43  is a top view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0056]      FIG. 44  is a section view of a center piece of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 43 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0057]      FIG. 45  is a side view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0058]      FIG. 46  is a top view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 45 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0059]      FIG. 47  is a section view of a center piece of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 45 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0060]      FIG. 48  is a section view of a center piece of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0061]      FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0062]      FIG. 50  is a side section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 49 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0063]      FIG. 51  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0064]      FIG. 52  is a side section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 51 , according to an exemplary embodiment; 
           [0065]      FIG. 53  is a perspective view of a temperature regulation device, according to an exemplary embodiment; and 
           [0066]      FIG. 54  is a side section view of the temperature regulation device of  FIG. 53 , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0067]    Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting. 
         [0068]    Referring to  FIGS. 1-12 , a temperature regulation device  10  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The temperature regulation device  10  is configured to increase, maintain, or regulate the temperature of a food pan containing a food item by heating the food pan to a specified temperature and then maintaining the food pan at that specified temperature (e.g. a warming temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit for soup). Different food items may need to be cooked or warmed to different warming temperatures and/or maintained at different temperatures. 
         [0069]    In  FIG. 1 , the temperature regulation device  10  is shown as a module or pod  15  positioned in a well  20 . In some embodiments, one or more pods  15  are positioned within the well  20 , allowing temperature maintenance of more than one food pan. As shown in  FIG. 7 , the well  20  defines an exterior or side wall  25  and a bottom wall  45 . The well  20  additionally includes a perimeter  30  shaped to receive the pod  15 . The perimeter  30  can be rectangular (as shown in  FIG. 7 ), circular, or other appropriate shapes. In some embodiments, the well  20  is sized to accept a particular size of food pan (e.g., 7-quart, 11-quart food pan, etc.). Additionally, in some embodiments, the well  20  accepts a particular depth of food pan (e.g., 2½-inch, 4-inch food pan, etc.). In these embodiments, the well  20 , with the pod  15  positioned in the well  20 , is equipped to accept more than one food pan with varying depths due to the pod  15  being adjustable in nature. 
         [0070]    The pod  15  is configured to regulate and/or maintain a temperature of a food pan  92  placed within the well  20  for food serving purposes. According to an exemplary embodiment, the pod  15  is an induction device including a thermistor  17  and one or more induction coils. In other embodiments, the pod  15  may be any other warming or temperature regulation device. 
         [0071]    Referring now to  FIGS. 2-6 , the pod  15  includes a housing (e.g., enclosure, etc.) having a bottom surface  50 , top surface  55 , a first pod side  60 , a second pod side  65 , and a drainage column  35 . The first and second pod sides  60  and  65  are positioned opposite from each other. As shown, the pod  15  additionally includes at least two recesses (e.g., grooves, contours, notches, etc.), shown as first recess  70  and second recess  75 . The first and second recesses  70 ,  75  extend from the bottom surface  50  of the pod  15  toward the top surface  55  and are positioned proximate the first and second pod sides  60 ,  65 , respectively. In some embodiments, the first recess  70  is positioned on a first pod side  60  of the pod  15  opposite from the second recess  75  (positioned on second pod side  65 ). For example, if the pod  15  is in a rectangular shape, the first recess  70  is positioned on first pod side  60  that is approximately parallel the second pod side  65  of the rectangular shape where the second recess  75  is positioned. In alternative embodiments, the pod  15  may contain more or less recesses than are illustrated in the current embodiment. 
         [0072]    The drainage column  35  is formed along a longitudinal axis  88  at the center of the pod  15  extending from the top surface  55  of the pod  15  to the bottom surface  50  of the pod  15 . The drainage column  35  allows drainage of liquid from the pod  15  by providing a passageway through the bottom of the pod  15 . In some embodiments, the drainage column  35  is cylindrical in shape. In other embodiments, the drainage column  35  is rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the drainage column  35  may be any another shape to allow drainage of liquid from the pod  15 . 
         [0073]    Referring to  FIGS. 4 and 6 , first and second pod sides  60 ,  65  of the pod  15  are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The first recess  70  includes first support surface  80 . The second recess  75  includes second support surface  85 . The distance between the first support surface  80  and the top surface  55  of the pod  15  and the distance between the second support surface  85  and the top surface  55  of the pod  15  are different. As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 6 , the distance between first support surface  80  and the top surface  55  is greater than the distance between the second support surface  85  and the top surface  55  of the pod  15 . 
         [0074]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , the well  20  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The well  20  includes an opening  78  (e.g., aperture, cutout, etc.) defining a ledge  90 . The ledge  90  is configured to support the pod  15  while positioned within the well  20 . In some embodiments, the ledge  90  includes two or more well flanges  95  that protrude into the opening  78  of the well  20 . The two or more well flanges  95  are configured to support the pod  15  at the first and second support surfaces  80 ,  85 . In one configuration, the two or more well flanges  95  support the pod  15  at the first support surface  80  included in the first recess  70 . In another configuration, the two or more well flanges  95  support the pod  15  at the second support surface  85  included in the second recess  75 . These configurations correspond to a variety of positions (e.g., orientations, configurations, etc.) shown as first position  72  and second position  82 , respectively, as described further herein. 
         [0075]    Referring now to  FIGS. 8-12 , as described above, the pod  15  may be positioned within the well  20  in at least two different positions. When the pod  15  is positioned such that the first support surface  80  of the first recess  70  contacts (e.g., engages, rests on, is supported by, etc.) the well flange  95 , the pod height within the well  20  is different than when the pod  15  is positioned such that the second support surface  85  of the second recess  75  contacts (e.g., engages, rests on, is supported by, etc.) the well flange  95 . In some embodiments, the pod  15  may be positioned in a first position  72  within the well  20 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , when in the first position  72 , the pod  15  is supported by the two or more flanges  95  at a first support surface  80  of the first recess  70 . In some embodiments, the pod  15  may be positioned in a second position  82  within the well  20 . As shown in  FIG. 12 , when in the second position  82 , the pod  15  is supported by the two or more flanges  95  at a second support surface  85  of the second recess  75 . Thus, the pod height and/or depth within the well  20  may be changed between two different positions. In particular, the distance between the top surface  55  of the pod  15  and the bottom wall  45  of the well  20  may be changed such that differing depths of food pan may be placed within the well  20 . 
         [0076]    In an alternative embodiment, if the pod  15  includes more than two recesses, the pod  15  may be positioned in more than two positions. For example, pod  15  may include a third recess (e.g., groove, contour, notch, etc.) extending from the bottom surface  50  of the pod  15  toward the top surface  55  and positioned on a third side of the pod  15 . The third recess may include a third support surface such that the third support surface of the third recess contacts (e.g., engages, rests on, is supported by, etc.) the well flange  95 . The distance between the third support surface and the top surface  55  of the pod  15  may be different from the same distance with regard to the first and second support surfaces  80 ,  85 . The third recess corresponds to a third position such that when the third recess is in contact with the well flange  95 , the pod  15  is in a third position. In other embodiments, the pod  15  includes a fourth recess, and so on. 
         [0077]    The pod  15  is configured such that when in the first position  72 , the pod  15  may be moved to a second position  82  by a user lifting the pod  15  out of the opening  78 , rotating the pod  15  about a vertical axis  88  of the pod  15 , and then inserting the pod  15  back into the opening  78 . As shown, the vertical axis  88  extends through the center of the pod  15  from the top surface  55  to the bottom surface  50 . In some embodiments, the pod  15  is rotated 180 degrees from the first position  72  to the second position  82 , or from the second position  82  to the first position  72 . In some embodiments, the first position  72  may be used in conjunction with a 2½-inch food pan and the second position  82  may be used in conjunction with a 4-inch food pan. 
         [0078]    As shown in  FIGS. 8-10 , in some embodiments, more than one pod  15  may be positioned within the well  20 . In one embodiment, two pods  15  may be placed in two different configurations where one pod  15  is positioned deeper within the well than the other pod  15  using the support surfaces  80 ,  85  as described above. As shown in  FIG. 9 , different depths of food pans  92  may be accommodated in the well  20  at the same time (e.g., a 2½-inch or 4-inch food pan). In other embodiments, the pods  15  may be placed in the same configuration within the well  20 . 
         [0079]    Referring now to  FIGS. 13-20 , another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated. In  FIGS. 13-20 , the temperature regulation device is shown as a module or pod  100 . The pod  100  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  100  includes a housing with a top portion  105  and a bottom portion  115 . The top portion  105  includes a top surface  110 . The bottom portion  115  includes a bottom surface  120 . The pod  100  further includes at least two sides  125  and  130 , a drainage column  135 , and one or more biasing members  140 . The pod  100  additionally includes a height adjustment device, as described further herein. As in the first two embodiments, the at least two sides  125  and  130  are positioned opposite from each other. The drainage column  135  is formed along a longitudinal axis  145  at the center  150  of the pod  100  extending from the top surface  110  of the pod  100  to the bottom surface  120  of the pod  100 . The drainage column  135  allows drainage of liquid from the pod  100  by providing a passageway through the bottom portion  115  of the pod  100 . In some embodiments, the drainage column  135  is cylindrical in shape. In other embodiments, the drainage column  135  is rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the drainage column  135  may be any another shape to allow drainage of liquid from the pod  100 . 
         [0080]    The biasing members  140  extend between the top surface  110  and the bottom surface  120  and are approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis  145  at the center  150  of the pod  100 . In some embodiments, if the pod  100  is rectangular or square in shape, the biasing members  140  are positioned in one or more corners  192  of the pod  100 . The biasing members  140  bias the top portion  105  relative (e.g., away from, upward, etc.) to the bottom portion  115 . In some embodiments, the biasing members  140  are springs. In other embodiments, the biasing members  140  are other resilient members configured to maintain tension between the top portion  105  and the bottom portion  115 . 
         [0081]    As shown in  FIGS. 15-20 , the height adjustment device includes the biasing members  140 , a track  160 , and a guide member (shown and referred to as guide  165 ). The track  160  is formed in a guide block  155  formed on the drainage column  135  and proximate the bottom surface  120  of the pod  100 . The track  160  further includes a top catch  170  and a notch  175 . In some embodiments, the guide  165  is a rigid elongated member (e.g., rod, wire, etc.) including one end fixed to the top portion  105  of the pod  100  and the other end (e.g., a pin end  178 ) extends into the track  160 , where the guide  165  is slidably engaged with the track  160 . As shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 , the pin end  178  may be a bent portion of the guide  165  that extends into the track  160  and rides along the walls of the track  160 . As such, the guide  165  moves along the track  160  thereby moving the top surface  110  to different heights relative to the bottom surface  120 . In different positions of the pod  100 , the guide  165  extends to a corresponding position within the track  160 . 
         [0082]    Referring to  FIGS. 15-19 , in an upper position  180 , the guide  165  is in contact with the top catch  170  of the track  160  (as shown in  FIG. 19 ). In a lower position  185 , the guide  165  is in contact with the notch  175  of the track  160  (shown in  FIG. 18 ). As the guide  165  is moved between the upper position  180  and the lower position  185 , and between the top catch  170  and the notch  175  of the track  160 , respectively, the top surface  110  of the pod  100  moves nearer the bottom surface  120  of the pod  100 . The notch  175  holds the guide  165  in the lower position  185 , such that the pod  100  maintains a lower position  185  until the top surface  110  of the pod  100  is pressed downward toward the bottom surface  120  and the guide  165  is released from the notch  175 . When the guide  165  is released from the notch  175 , the guide  165  follows the angled portion  190  of the track  160  back up to the top catch  170 , where the guide  165  is maintained in an upper position  180 . 
         [0083]    To move the pod  100  between the upper position  180  and the lower position  185 , a user presses on the top surface  110  of the pod  100 . When the top surface  110  of the pod  100  is pressed in a downward direction (e.g., from top surface  110  to bottom surface  120  of the pod  100 ), the guide  165  slides along track  160  and the pod  100  moves from an upper position  180  to a lower position  185 . As noted above, the pod  100  reaches a lower position  185  when the guide  165  is engaged with the notch  175 . 
         [0084]    Referencing the first embodiment as shown in  FIGS. 8-10 , the upper position  180  may be analogous to the first position  72  and additionally, the lower position  185  may be analogous to the second position  82 . In some embodiments, the upper position  180  may be used in conjunction with a 2½-inch food pan and the lower position  185  may be used in conjunction with a 4-inch food pan. 
         [0085]    Referring now to  FIGS. 21-28 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated. In  FIGS. 21-28 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  200 . The pod  200  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  200  includes a housing with a top portion  205  and a bottom portion  215 . The top portion  205  includes a top surface  210 . The bottom portion  215  includes a bottom surface  220 . The pod  200  further includes at least two sides  225  and  230 , a drainage column  235 , and one or more biasing members  240 . Similar to the first two embodiments, the two sides  225  and  230  are positioned opposite from each other. The drainage column  235  is formed along a longitudinal axis  245  at the center  250  of the pod  200  extending from the top surface  210  of the pod  200  to the bottom surface  220  of the pod  200 . The drainage column  235  allows drainage of liquid from the pod  200  by providing a passageway through the bottom portion  215  of the pod  200 . In some embodiments, the drainage column  235  is cylindrical in shape. In other embodiments, the drainage column  235  is rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the drainage column  235  may be any another shape to allow drainage of liquid from the pod  200 . 
         [0086]    As shown, the pod  200  additionally includes one or more outer members  255 , one or more inner members  260 , an upper catch  270 , and a lower catch  275 . The outer members  255  are coupled to the top portion  205  of the pod  200  on each side  225  and  230  of the pod  200 . The inner members  260  are additionally coupled to the top portion  205  of the pod  200  on each side  225  and  230  of the pod  200 . The inner members  260  are further coupled to the outer members  255  via a locking mechanism  258 . The locking mechanism  258  fixes the inner members  260  to the outer members  255 . In some embodiments, the locking mechanism  258  includes a hooking feature to engage the outer members  255 . The inner members  260  are positioned nearer the longitudinal axis  245  at the center  250  of the pod  200  than the outer members  255 . The upper catch  270  and lower catch  275  are disposed on the bottom portion  215  of the pod  200 . The upper catch  270  is positioned nearer the top surface  210  of the pod  200 . The lower catch  275  is positioned nearer the bottom surface  220  of the pod  200 . 
         [0087]    As shown in  FIGS. 22-22A , in an upper position  280 , the inner member  260  is in contact (e.g., engaged, locked, coupled, etc.) with the upper catch  270 . In a lower position  285 , the inner member  260  is in contact (e.g., engaged, locked, coupled, etc.) with the lower catch  275 . The inner members  260  include an overhang  290  coupling the inner member  260  to the upper catch  270  when the pod  200  is in an upper position  280  and to the lower catch  275  when the pod  200  is in a lower position  285 . 
         [0088]    The biasing members  240  extend between the top surface  210  and the bottom surface  220  and are approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis  245  at the center  250  of the pod  200 . In some embodiments, if the pod  200  is rectangular or square in shape, the biasing members  240  may be positioned in one or more corners  292  of the pod  200 . The biasing members  240  bias the top portion  205  relative (e.g., away from, upward) to the bottom portion  215 . In some embodiments, the biasing members  240  are springs. In other embodiments, the biasing members  240  are other resilient members configured to maintain tension between the top portion  205  and the bottom portion  215 . 
         [0089]    As shown in  FIG. 25 , in an upper position  280 , when the outer members  255  are pressed inward, the lateral biasing member  295  depresses the inner member  260  and moves the overhang  290  of the inner member  260  away from the upper catch  270 . Similarly, in a lower position  285 , when the outer members  255  are pressed inward, the lateral biasing member  295  depresses the inner member  260  and moves the overhang  290  of the inner member  260  away from the lower catch  275 . 
         [0090]    To move the pod  200  from the upper position  280  to the lower position  285 , a user presses (or depresses) on the top surface  210  of the pod  200 . When the top surface  210  of the pod  200  is pressed in a downward direction (e.g., from top surface  210  to bottom surface  220  of the pod  200 ), the overhang  290  of the inner member  260  engages the lower catch  275  and the pod  200  is then in a lower position  285 . Further as shown in  FIG. 25 , to move the pod  200  from the lower position  285  to the upper position  280 , a user presses (or depresses) on the outer members  255  to cause the lateral biasing member  295  to depress the inner members  260  and move the overhang  290  of the inner member  260  away from the lower catch  275 . 
         [0091]    Referencing the first embodiment shown in  FIGS. 8-10 , the upper position  280  may be analogous to the first position  72  and additionally, the lower position  285  may be analogous to the second position  82 . Additionally, the lower catch  275  may be analogous to the notch  175  from the previous embodiment such that when the pod  200  is in a lower position  285  the lower catch  275  is configured to maintain the pod  200  in a lower position  285 . Similarly, the upper catch  270  may be analogous to the top catch  170  from the previous embodiment such that when the pod  200  is in an upper position  280  the upper catch  270  is configured to maintain the pod  200  in an upper position  280 . In some embodiments, the upper position  280  may be used in conjunction with a 2½-inch food pan and the lower position  285  may be used in conjunction with a 4-inch food pan. 
         [0092]    Referring now to  FIGS. 29-38 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated. In  FIGS. 29-38 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  300 . The pod  300  includes an adjustment mechanism or feature so it can be selectively positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  300  includes a housing with a top surface  310  and a bottom surface  320 . The pod  300  further includes at least two sides  325  and  330  and a drainage column  335 . As shown, the pod  300  additionally includes at least two support surfaces, shown as a first support surface  370  and a second support surface  375 . The first and second support surfaces  370 ,  375  extend from the bottom surface  320  of the pod  300  toward the top surface  310 . In alternative embodiments, the pod  300  may contain more or less support surfaces than are illustrated in the current embodiment. 
         [0093]    Referring to  FIGS. 31-32 , bottom and side views of the pod  300  are shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, the distance between the first support surface  370  and the top surface  310  of the pod  300  and the distance between the second support surface  375  and the top surface  310  of the pod  300  are different. As shown in  FIG. 32 , the distance between first support surface  370  and the top surface  310  is greater than the distance between the second support surface  375  and the top surface  310  of the pod  300 . 
         [0094]    Referring now to  FIGS. 33-34 , the temperature regulation device additionally includes an insert  302  (e.g., inset, inset, tray, receiver, support, bracket, receptacle, etc.). The insert  302  is configured to fit within a well  20 , and be supported by the bottom wall and/or side wall of the well  20 . The receptacle  302  defines an exterior or side wall  306  and one or more inner perimeters  304  shaped to receive the pod  300  and position or orient the pods  300  within the well  20 . Each inner perimeter  304  can be circular (as shown in  FIG. 33 ), square, rectangular, or other appropriate shapes. The insert  302  further includes at least two receptacle supports, shown as a first receptacle support  380  and second receptacle support  385 . In different configurations, the receptacle supports are configured to support the pod  300  at the first and second support surfaces  370 ,  375 . In one configuration, the first receptacle support  380  supports the pod  300  at the first support surface  370 . In another configuration, the second receptacle support  385  supports the pod  300  at the second support surface  370 . These configurations correspond to a variety of positions (e.g., orientations, configurations, etc.) shown as first position  372  and second position  382 , respectively, as described further herein. 
         [0095]    The drainage column  335  is formed along a longitudinal axis  345  at the center  350  of the pod  300  extending from the top surface  310  of the pod  300  to the bottom surface  320  of the pod  300 . The drainage column  335  allows drainage of liquid from the pod  300  by providing a passageway through the bottom of the pod  300 . In some embodiments, the drainage column  335  is cylindrical in shape. In other embodiments, the drainage column  335  is rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the drainage column  335  may be any another shape to allow drainage of liquid from the pod  300 . In some embodiments, the insert  302  is configured to capture (e.g., gather, receive) the liquid that drains from the pod  300 . 
         [0096]    Referring now to  FIGS. 36-38 , as described above, the pod  300  includes an adjustment mechanism or feature so it can be positioned within the insert  302 , and within the well  20 , in at least two different positions. When the pod  300  is positioned such that the first support surface  370  contacts (e.g., engages, rests on, is supported by, etc.) the first receptacle support  380 , the pod height within the well  20  is different than when the pod  300  is positioned such that the second support surface  375  contacts (e.g., engages, rests on, is supported by, etc.) the second receptacle support  385 . In some embodiments, the pod  300  may be positioned in a first position  372  within the well  20 . As shown in  FIG. 37 , when in the first position  372 , the pod  300  is supported by the first receptacle support  380  at a first support surface  370 . In some embodiments, the pod  300  may be positioned in a second position  382  within the well  20 . As shown in  FIG. 36 , when in the second position  382 , the pod  300  is supported by the second receptacle support  385  at a second support surface  375 . Thus, the pod height and/or depth within the well  20  may be changed between two different positions. In particular, the distance between the top surface  310  of the pod  300  and the bottom wall  45  of the well  20  may be changed such that differing depths of food pan may be placed within the well  20 . 
         [0097]    The pod  300  is configured such that when in the first position  372 , the pod  300  may be moved to a second position  382  by a user lifting the pod  300  out of the insert  302 , rotating the pod  300  about a vertical axis  345  of the pod  300 , and then inserting the pod  300  back into the insert  302 . As shown, the vertical axis  345  extends through the center of the pod  300  from the top surface  310  to the bottom surface  320 . In some embodiments, the first position  372  may be used in conjunction with a 2½-inch food pan and the second position  382  may be used in conjunction with a 4-inch food pan. 
         [0098]    As shown in  FIG. 38 , in some embodiments, more than one pod  300  may be positioned within the well  20 . In one embodiment, two pods  300  may be placed in two different configurations where one pod  300  is positioned deeper within the well than the other pod  300  using the support surfaces  370 ,  375  as described above. In other embodiments, the pods  300  may be placed in the same configuration within the well  20 . 
         [0099]    Referring now to  FIGS. 39-41 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated. In  FIGS. 39-41 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  400 . The pod  400  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  400  includes a housing with a top portion  405 , a bottom portion  415 , and an adjustment mechanism or feature that allows the varying positioning of the top portion  405  relative to the bottom portion  415 . The top portion  405  includes a top surface  410 . The top portion  405  additionally includes a handle portion  455 . The bottom portion  415  includes a bottom surface  420 . The bottom portion  415  additionally includes a flexing portion  460  and a protrusion  458  formed on the flexing portion  460 . The pod  400  further includes at least two sides  425  and  430  and a drainage column. 
         [0100]    As shown, the pod  400  additionally includes at least two catches, shown as an upper catch  470  and lower catch  475 . The upper and lower catches  470 ,  475  are configured to accept the protrusion  458 . As shown, in one embodiment, the upper and lower catches  470 ,  475  are circular in shape. In other embodiments, the upper and lower catches  470 ,  475  are rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the upper and lower catches  470 ,  475  may be any another shape suitable to accept the protrusion  458 . In this regard, in some embodiments, the protrusion is circular in shape. In other embodiments, the protrusion  458  is rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the protrusion  458  may be any another shape suitable to fit into the upper and lower catches  470 ,  475 . 
         [0101]    The protrusion  458  is configured to couple to the upper and lower catches  470 ,  475  in different positions of the pod  400 . In an upper position of the pod  400 , the protrusion  458  is coupled (e.g., engaged, inserted, etc.) with the upper catch  470 . In a lower position of the pod  400 , the protrusion  458  is coupled (e.g., engaged, inserted, etc.) with the lower catch  475 . As the pod  400  is moved from the upper position to the lower position, the top surface  410  of the pod  400  moves nearer the bottom surface  420  of the pod  400 . 
         [0102]    To move the pod  400  between the upper position and the lower position, a user presses on the protrusion  458  so as to flex the flexing portion  460  of the pod  400  and move (e.g., decouple) the protrusion  458  away from either the upper catch  470  or the lower catch  475 . To facilitate moving the pod  400  between the upper position and the lower position, the user may use the handle portion  455  to grip the top portion  405  of the pod  400 . While using the handle portion  455  to grip the top portion  405  of the pod  400 , the user may adjust the pod to either a lower position or an upper position by moving the top surface  410  nearer or further, respectively, from the bottom surface  420 . 
         [0103]    Referring now to  FIGS. 42-44 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated. In  FIGS. 42-44 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  500 . The pod  500  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  500  includes a housing with a top portion  505 , a bottom portion  515 , and an adjustment mechanism or feature that allows the varying positioning of the top portion  505  relative to the bottom portion  515 . The pod  500  further includes a center piece  520 , a drainage column  535 , and one or more biasing members  595 . The drainage column  535  allows for drainage of liquid from the pod  500  by providing a passageway through the bottom portion  515  of the pod  500 . In some embodiments, the drainage column  535  is cylindrical in shape. In other embodiments, the drainage column  535  is rectangular in shape. In some other embodiments, the drainage column  535  may be any other shape to allow drainage of liquid from the pod  500 . 
         [0104]    The center piece  520  includes a protrusion  522  configured to engage with a track  508 . The track  508  allows the protrusion  522  to engage at different heights, an upper position and a lower position, similarly described above with regard to the other embodiments. To move between an upper position and a lower position, the center piece  520  may be rotated by 90 degrees to engage and disengage the protrusion  522  from the track  508 . In other embodiments, the center piece  520  may be rotated by 180 degrees to engage and disengage the protrusion  522 . In some other embodiments, the center piece  520  may be rotated by any suitable angle to facilitate the engagement or disengagement of the protrusion  522  with the track  508  and thus, facilitate the position of the pod  500  between the upper position and the lower position. 
         [0105]    The biasing members  595 , as shown in  FIG. 44 , extend within the center piece  520 . The biasing members  595  bias the top portion  505  relative (e.g., away from, upward) to the bottom portion  515 . In some embodiments, the biasing members  595  are springs. In other embodiments, the biasing members  595  are other resilient members configured to maintain tension between the top portion  505  and the bottom portion  515 . 
         [0106]    Referring now to  FIGS. 45-47 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated. In  FIGS. 45-47 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  600 . As with other embodiments, the pod  600  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  600  includes a housing with a top portion, a bottom portion, and an adjustment mechanism or feature that allows the varying positioning of the top portion relative to the bottom portion. The adjustment mechanism includes a center piece  620  (e.g., inner member, button, actuator, etc.), an outer column  624 , an inner column, one or more engagement members  612  (e.g., ball or detent bearings), and one or more biasing members  695 . A drainage column  635  and biasing members  695  may be configured and positioned similarly with respect to the embodiment described above in  FIGS. 42-44 . 
         [0107]    As shown, the outer column  624  includes an upper aperture  604  (e.g., hole, slot, catch) and a lower aperture  606  (e.g., hole, slot, catch). The apertures  604 ,  606  are configured to receive the engagement members  612  in different positions of the pod  600 . In an upper position, the engagement members  612  are engaged with the upper aperture  604 . In a lower position, the engagement members  612  are engaged with the lower aperture  606  (as shown in  FIG. 47 ). The outer column  624  includes an angled portion (e.g., flange) that engages or interacts with an angled stop surface on the top portion of the pod  600 . The angled stop surface limits the downward motion of the angled portion of the outer column  624 . The center piece  620  includes a recess or pocket  608  that receives the engagement members  612  when the pod  600  is moving between an upper position and a lower position. The recess or pocket  608  transfers the engagement members  612  between the upper aperture  604  and the lower aperture  606 . The center piece  620  is biased toward the top portion of the pod by the biasing member  695  such that the engagement members  612  are held in position while engaged with either the upper aperture  604  or the lower aperture  606 . 
         [0108]    To move the pod  600  between the upper position and the lower position, a user activates the push-push adjustment mechanism by pressing (e.g., depressing) the center piece  620  so as to engage and disengage the engagement members  612  from the upper aperture  604  and lower aperture  606 . For example, to move from a lower position to an upper position, the user presses (e.g., depresses) the center piece  620  until the recess or pocket  608  aligns with the lower aperture  606  and the engagement members  612  slide into the recess or pocket  608 . The center piece  620 , biased toward the top portion of the pod  600  by the biasing member  695 , moves upward until the engagement members  612  are transferred from the recess or pocket  608  to the upper aperture  604 . To move from the upper position to the lower position, the user presses (e.g., depresses) the center piece  620  until the recess or pocket  608  aligns with the upper aperture  604 , the engagement members  612  slide from the upper aperture  604  into the recess or pocket  608 , and the engagement members  612  are transferred from the recess or pocket  608  to the lower aperture  606 . 
         [0109]    Referring now to  FIG. 48 , a further embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated with an alternative (push-push) adjustment mechanism. Center piece  650  may be used as an alternative to center piece  620  in the embodiment described above. Center piece  650  includes an inner column  656  and an outer column  658 . In some embodiments, the outer column  658  is formed on the bottom portion of the pod  600 . 
         [0110]    The inner column  656  includes a rotating piece  652  and one or more engagement members  654 . The rotating piece  652  is configured to couple to (e.g., engage, mate) the engagement members  654  in different heights. In this regard, the rotating piece  652  has at least two different height detents configured to couple to the engagement members  654  at least two different heights. The rotating piece  652  further has various angles where the engagement members  654  contact the rotating piece  652 . To move from an upper position and a lower position, a user presses (e.g., depresses) the top surface of the pod toward the bottom surface of the pod. Similarly, to move from a lower position to an upper position, a user presses (e.g., depresses) the top surface of the pod toward the bottom surface of the pod. When the top of the pod is pressed down, the rotating piece  652  rotates and the angles incorporated within the rotating piece  652  engage (e.g., couple) the engagement members  654  at different height detents. 
         [0111]    Referring now to  FIGS. 49-50 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated with an adjustment mechanism includes a first thread portion and a second thread portion that threadably engage each other to provide adjustment of the top portion and the bottom portion. In  FIGS. 49-50 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  700 . As with other embodiments, the pod  700  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  700  includes a housing with a top portion  705 , a bottom portion  715 , and an adjustment mechanism or feature that allows the varying positioning of the top portion  705  relative to the bottom portion  715 . The top portion  705  includes a top surface  710 . The bottom portion  715  includes a bottom surface  720 . The pod further includes a center piece  728  and a threaded center column  755 . The center piece  728  is attached (e.g., coupled) to the top portion  705  of the pod  700  through connection  758  (e.g., snap, coupling). The center piece  728  is positioned approximately in the center  750  of the pod  700  and is rotatable about a vertical axis  745  of the pod  700 . The center column  755  is coupled to the bottom portion  715 . 
         [0112]    To move the pod between an upper position and a lower position, a user rotates the center piece  728  about axis  745 . As the user rotates the center piece  728 , depending on the direction of rotation (e.g., clockwise, counter-clockwise), the distance between the top surface  710  and the bottom surface  720  changes. In one embodiment, when the user rotates the center piece  728  clockwise, the distance between the top surface  710  and the bottom surface  720  decreases. In another embodiment, when the user rotates the center piece  728  clockwise, the distance between the top surface  710  and the bottom surface  720  increases. The center piece  728  engages the threaded center column  755  to move along the threaded column such that the pod  700  may be positioned at any height ranging from an upper position (as shown in  FIG. 50 ) to a lower position (e.g., infinite, indefinite, continuous, etc. adjustment). 
         [0113]    Referring now to  FIGS. 51-52 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated with an adjustment mechanism includes a first thread portion and a second thread portion that threadably engage each other to provide adjustment of the top portion and the bottom portion. In  FIGS. 51-52 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  800 . Pod  800  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  800  includes a housing with a top portion  805 , a bottom portion  815 , and an adjustment mechanism or feature that allows the varying positioning of the top portion  805  relative to the bottom portion  815 . The top portion  805  includes a top surface  910 . The bottom portion  815  includes a bottom surface  920 . The pod  800  further includes one or more internal threads  828  (e.g., mating, grooves, channels, projections, etc.) positioned on the bottom portion  815  of the pod  800 . The top portion  805  is configured to rotate between an upper position (as shown in  FIG. 52 ) and a lower position, including all pod heights in between the upper position and the lower position. In one embodiment, when the user rotates the top portion  805  clockwise, the distance between the top surface  810  and the bottom surface  820  decreases. In another embodiment, when the user rotates the top portion  805  clockwise, the distance between the top surface  810  and the bottom surface  820  increases. 
         [0114]    In some embodiments, and as shown, the pod  800  is circular in shape. In some other embodiments, the pod  800  is rectangular in shape. In further embodiments, the pod  800  is any other shape suitable to rotate between an upper and lower position. 
         [0115]    Referring now to  FIGS. 53-54 , yet another embodiment of the temperature regulation device is illustrated with an adjustment mechanism includes a first thread portion and a second thread portion that threadably engage each other to provide adjustment of the top portion and the bottom portion. In  FIGS. 53-54 , the temperature regulation device is shown as module or pod  900 . Pod  900  may be positioned within the well  20  as shown in  FIG. 1 . The pod  900  includes a housing with a top portion  905 , a bottom portion  915 , and an adjustment mechanism or feature that allows the varying positioning of the top portion  905  relative to the bottom portion  915 . The top portion  905  includes a top surface  910 . The bottom portion  915  includes a bottom surface  920 . The pod  900  further includes one or more threads  928  (e.g., mating, grooves, channels, projections, etc.). In some embodiments, the threads  928  include an external thread positioned on the top portion  905  and an internal thread positioned on the bottom portion  915  of the pod  900 . The top portion  905  is configured to rotate between an upper position and a lower position (as shown in  FIG. 54 ), including all pod heights in between the upper position and the lower position. In one embodiment, when the user rotates the top portion  905  clockwise, the distance between the top surface  910  and the bottom surface  920  decreases. In another embodiment, when the user rotates the top portion  905  clockwise, the distance between the top surface  910  and the bottom surface  920  increases. 
         [0116]    In some embodiments, and as shown, the pod  900  is circular in shape. In some other embodiments, the pod  900  is rectangular in shape. In further embodiments, the pod  900  is any other shape suitable to rotate between an upper and lower position. 
         [0117]    The construction and arrangement of the apparatus, systems, and methods as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0118]    As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims. 
         [0119]    It should be noted that the term “exemplary” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). 
         [0120]    References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements as illustrated in the Figures. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.