Douglas J Horton

Title: Douglas J. Horton: Innovator in Cooking Technology

Introduction

Douglas J. Horton, an inventive mind from Lombard, IL, has made significant contributions to cooking technology through his innovative patents. With a total of two patents to his name, he has developed solutions that enhance cooking efficiency and precision, particularly in commercial kitchen environments.

Latest Patents

Horton’s latest inventions include the "Laminated Griddle Top" and "Apparatus for Two-Sided Cooking."

The Laminated Griddle Top is designed to provide an even distribution of heat across its cooking surface. It consists of a thick iron or steel upper plate paired with lower plates made from a different material with high thermal conductivity. This design features a thermal break between plates and channels for temperature sensors, along with grooves on the bottom surface to improve heat transfer and cooking efficiency.

The Apparatus for Two-Sided Cooking is geared towards enhancing the efficiency of food preparation, especially for items like frozen hamburger patties. This apparatus features a horizontal lower platen assembly, with upper platens that pivot between inactive and active positions. It incorporates mechanisms that maintain appropriate spacing to prevent undue compaction of food products while providing automatic controls for precise cooking.

Career Highlights

Douglas J. Horton has worked with notable companies such as Restaurant Technology Inc. and Keating of Chicago, Inc., where he leveraged his expertise to shape innovative cooking solutions. His experience in these organizations has been instrumental in the development of his patents.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Horton has collaborated with talented individuals such as Craig L. Bergling and Henry Thomas Ewald. These professional relationships have likely contributed to his inventive process and success in developing new technologies.

Conclusion

Douglas J. Horton stands out as an inventor whose work continues to influence the culinary equipment industry. His patents reflect a commitment to innovation and a desire to improve the efficiency of cooking methods. As the culinary landscape evolves, inventors like Horton will play a crucial role in shaping the future of food preparation.