Modular heating unit

Abstract

A modular heating unit comprising modular heating bins is disclosed. The modular heating bins may be arranged into different configurations to accommodate different food preparation layouts.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A modular heating unit comprising:
 a first base unit, the first base unit including a substantially enclosed housing formed by a top wall, a bottom wall, and a plurality of side walls;   power and control circuitry disposed within the first base unit;   at least a first modular heating bin and a second modular heating bin, each of the first modular heating bin and the second modular heating bin including a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, and two side walls, the first modular heating bin and the second modular heating bin being configured to be arranged in either side by side or stacked positions to accommodate different cooking space dimensions, the first modular heating bin being releasably and operatively connected to the first base unit by a locking mechanism, the first modular heating bin and the second modular heating bin each including at least one heating element,   wherein the power and control circuitry within the first base unit is operatively connected to the at least one heating element of the first modular heating bin, the power and control circuitry providing power and communication signals from the first base unit to the first modular heating bin, and   wherein the first base unit includes the top wall, the bottom wall, and the plurality of side walls, when the first base unit and the first modular heating bin are separated from one another.