Refrigeration appliance ice storage box with kick plate

Abstract

A refrigeration appliance includes a cabinet, a door body, and an ice storage box. The ice storage box is removably received in a refrigerating compartment, and the ice storage box includes a box body and a non-vertical screw feeder. The box body can define an ice storage space for receiving ice therein and a dispenser opening in fluid communication with the ice storage space. The non-vertical screw feeder can include a rotating shaft extending along a rotation axis and a cam disposed on the rotating shaft. The ice storage box can include a kick plate within the ice storage space. The cam on the non-vertical screw feeder can actuate the kick plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a component for storing and dispensing ice, and more particularly to an ice storage bin assembly for a refrigeration appliance. Background Art

[0002] Certain refrigeration appliances include an ice maker. To make ice, liquid water is directed to the ice maker and frozen. Depending on the particular ice maker used, various types of ice can be produced. For example, some ice makers include a mold body for receiving liquid water (e.g., which will be frozen and formed into ice cubes). A stirrer or auger within the mold body can rotate and scrape ice from the inner surface of the mold body to form ice cubes or cubed ice. Once the ice is scraped from the mold body, it can be stored in an ice storage bin or ice bucket within the refrigeration appliance. To maintain the ice in a frozen state, the ice storage bin is disposed in a refrigerated compartment of the refrigeration appliance or in a separate compartment behind a door. In some appliances, a dispenser is provided that communicates with the ice storage bin to automatically dispense a selected or desired amount of ice to a user (e.g., through the door of the user appliance). Typically, a rotating agitator or pusher is provided within the ice storage bin to assist in moving the ice from the ice storage bin to the dispenser.

[0003] While delivering ice through, for example, the door of a refrigeration appliance can be useful, existing systems have many problems. As an example, it can be difficult to see the ice within the ice storage bin. As another example, there may be situations where a user wishes to remove the ice storage bin from the refrigeration appliance. However, in many existing appliances, removing the ice storage bin can be difficult and cumbersome. If an agitator or pusher is provided, it can be difficult to remove or manage the rotating agitator or pusher within the ice storage bin. Ice may periodically melt and refreeze within the ice storage bin, which makes it particularly difficult to remove or rotate the pusher or agitator. The ice may melt and refreeze, forming into undesirable clumps. In some existing appliances, the top opening of the ice storage bin (e.g., through which ice falls from the ice maker into the ice storage bin) must remain relatively small so that the pusher or agitator can be supported at the top of the ice storage bin. Additionally, a motor can be provided to drive the pusher or agitator. However, it can be difficult to arrange the motor and agitator connection in such a way that it does not further limit access to the ice storage bin or the user's ability to remove the ice storage bin from the refrigeration appliance.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved refrigeration appliance or ice storage bin assembly. In particular, it would be advantageous to provide a refrigerator or ice storage bin assembly that addresses one or more of the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in the following description, or will be obvious from the description, or can be learned by practicing the present invention.

[0006] In an exemplary aspect of the present invention, a refrigeration appliance is provided. The refrigeration appliance may include a cabinet, a door, and an ice storage bin. The cabinet may define a refrigerating compartment. The door may rotate between an open position allowing access to the refrigerating compartment and a closed position restricting access to the refrigerating compartment. The ice storage bin may be removably received within the refrigerating compartment. The ice storage bin may include a bin body and a non-vertical auger. The bin body may define an ice storage space for receiving ice therein. The bin body may extend vertically between a top end and a bottom end. The bin body may further define a dispenser opening that is in fluid communication with the ice storage space at the bottom end to selectively allow ice to be discharged from the dispenser opening. The non-vertical auger may define a rotation axis within the ice storage space to guide the ice within the ice storage space to the dispenser opening. The non-vertical auger may include a rotating shaft extending along the rotation axis and a cam disposed on the rotating shaft. The ice storage bin may further include a kick plate hingedly mounted within the ice storage space. The cam of the non-vertical auger may actuate the kick plate.

[0007] In another exemplary aspect of the present invention, an ice storage bin for a refrigeration appliance is provided. The refrigeration appliance may include a cabinet, a door, and an ice storage bin. The cabinet may define a refrigerating compartment. The door may rotate between an open position allowing access to the refrigerating compartment and a closed position restricting access to the refrigerating compartment. The ice storage bin may be configured to be removably received within the refrigerating compartment. The ice storage bin may include a bin body, a non-vertical auger, and a kick plate. The bin body may define an ice storage space for receiving ice therein. The bin body may extend vertically between a top end and a bottom end. The bin body may further define a dispenser opening that is in fluid communication with the ice storage space at the bottom end to selectively allow ice to be discharged from the dispenser opening. The non-vertical auger may define a rotation axis within the ice storage space to guide the ice within the ice storage space to the dispenser opening. The non-vertical auger may include a rotating shaft extending along the rotation axis and a cam disposed on the rotating shaft. The kick plate may be hingedly mounted within the ice storage space such that the cam of the non-vertical auger actuates the kick plate.

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] With reference to the drawings, the complete disclosure of the present invention to one of ordinary skill in the art is set forth in the specification, which enables one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the present invention, including the best mode thereof.

[0010] Figure 1 A perspective view of a refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0011] Figure 2 Provides a Figure 1 perspective view of the door of an exemplary refrigeration appliance.

[0012] Figure 3 Provides a Figure 2 front elevation view of the door of an exemplary refrigeration appliance, wherein the access door of the door is shown in the open position.

[0013] Figure 4 Provides a perspective view of a cassette assembly of a refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 Provides a sectional side view of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0015] Figure 6 Provides a front sectional view of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0016] Figure 7 Provides a top sectional view of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0017] Figure 8 Provides an enlarged side sectional view of a part of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0018] Figure 9 Provides an enlarged view of a part of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0019] Figure 10 Provides a perspective view of a screw feeder of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0020] Figure 11 Provides a perspective view of a cassette body of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0021] Figure 12 Provides a side sectional view of an exemplary cassette body.

[0022] Figure 13 Provides a front sectional view of an exemplary cassette body.

[0023] Figure 14 Provides a perspective view of a base of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0024] Figure 15 Provides a side view of a screw feeder of an exemplary cassette assembly.

[0025] Figure 16 Provides an enlarged sectional view of a part of an exemplary cassette assembly in an unsealed position.

[0026] Figure 17 Provides an enlarged sectional view of a part of an exemplary cassette assembly in a sealed position.

[0027] Figure 18 A perspective view of a kick plate of an exemplary cartridge assembly is provided. Detailed Description

[0028] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is given by way of explanation of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its scope. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment to yield yet another embodiment. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0029] As used herein, the term "or" is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., "A or B" is intended to mean "A or B or both"). The terms "first," "second," and "third" can be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, and these terms are not intended to denote the position or importance of each component. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative direction with respect to the flow of fluid in a fluid passage. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction from which the fluid flows, and "downstream" refers to the direction towards which the fluid flows.

[0030] As used herein, approximate terms such as "substantially" or "about" include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "substantially vertical" includes directions within ten degrees in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) of a vertical line.

[0031] Turning now to the drawings, Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of a refrigeration appliance (e.g., refrigeration appliance 100) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided. Figure 3 An elevation view of the refrigerated door body 128 is provided, in which the access door 166 is shown in the open position.

[0032] As shown in the figure, the refrigeration appliance 100 includes a cabinet or housing 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along a vertical direction V, extends between a first side 108 and a second side 110 along a lateral direction, and extends between a front portion 112 and a rear portion 114 along a transverse direction T. The housing 102 defines one or more refrigeration compartments for receiving food for storage. In some embodiments, the housing 102 defines a fresh food compartment 122 disposed at or adjacent to the top 104 of the housing 102 and a freezer compartment 124 disposed at or adjacent to the bottom 106 of the housing 102. Thus, the refrigeration appliance 100 can generally be referred to as an under-counter refrigerator.

[0033] However, it is recognized that the benefits of the present invention apply to other types and styles of refrigeration appliances, such as, for example, over-counter refrigeration appliances, side-by-side refrigeration appliances, or standalone ice maker appliances. Accordingly, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit any particular refrigerator compartment configuration in any way.

[0034] A fresh food door 128 is rotatably hinged to an edge of the housing 102 to selectively access the fresh food compartment 122. Additionally, a freezer door 130 is disposed below the fresh food door 128 to selectively access the freezer compartment 124. The freezer door 130 is coupled to a freezer drawer (not shown) that is slidably mounted within the freezer compartment 124. The fresh food door 128 and the freezer door 130 are shown in Figure 1 a closed configuration.

[0035] In some embodiments, as can be understood in the art, various storage components are mounted within the fresh food compartment 122 to facilitate storage of food therein. In particular, the storage components include a storage box 182, a drawer 184, and a shelf 186 mounted within the fresh food compartment 122. The storage box 182, the drawer 184, and the shelf 186 are configured to receive food (e.g., beverages or solid food) and can assist in organizing such food. As an example, the drawer 184 can receive fresh food (e.g., vegetables, fruits, or cheese) and increase the shelf life of such fresh food.

[0036] In some embodiments, the refrigeration appliance 100 further includes a dispensing assembly 140 for dispensing liquid water or ice. The dispensing assembly 140 includes a dispenser 142, which is located or mounted, for example, outside the refrigeration appliance 100 (e.g., on one of the doors 128). The dispenser 142 includes a discharge port 144 for obtaining ice and liquid water. An actuating mechanism 146, shown as a paddle, is mounted below the discharge port 144 to operate the dispenser 142. In alternative exemplary embodiments, any suitable actuating mechanism can be used to operate the dispenser 142. For example, the dispenser 142 can include a sensor (such as an ultrasonic sensor) or a button instead of a paddle. A user interface panel 148 is provided to control the operation mode. For example, the user interface panel 148 includes a plurality of user inputs (not labeled), such as a water dispensing button and an ice dispensing button, which are used to select a desired operation mode, such as crushed ice or non-crushed ice.

[0037] The discharge port 144 and the actuating mechanism 146 are external parts of the dispenser 142 and are mounted in a dispenser recess 150. The dispenser recess 150 is set at a predetermined height that facilitates a user to obtain ice or water and enables the user to obtain ice without bending down and without opening the door body 128. In an exemplary embodiment, the dispenser recess 150 is set at a position close to the chest level of the user.

[0038] In some embodiments, the refrigeration appliance 100 includes a sub-compartment 162 defined in the refrigerated door 128. The sub-compartment 162 is commonly referred to as an "ice bin". When the refrigerated door 128 is in the closed position, the sub-compartment 162 extends into the food preservation chamber 122. Although the sub-compartment 162 is shown as being in the door 128, alternative or additional embodiments can include a sub-compartment 162 fixed within the food preservation chamber 122.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, an ice maker or ice-making assembly 160 and an ice storage bin 164 ( Figure 3 ) are provided or arranged within the sub-compartment 162. For example, the ice-making assembly 160 can be at least partially disposed above the ice storage bin 164, which can be selectively mounted on a support surface 192 (e.g., defined by the inner wall of the door 128). During use, ice is supplied from the ice-making assembly 160 or the ice storage bin 164 in the sub-compartment 162 on the rear side of the refrigerated door 128 to the dispenser recess 150 ( Figure 1 ).

[0040] In another or alternative embodiment, cold air from a sealing system (not shown) of the refrigeration appliance 100 can be directed to components (e.g., the ice making assembly 160 or the ice storage bin 164 assembly) within the sub-compartment 162. For example, the sub-compartment 162 can receive cooling air from a cold air supply duct 165 and a cold air return duct 167 disposed on a side of the cabinet 102 of the refrigeration appliance 100. In this way, the supply duct 165 and the return duct 167 can recirculate cold air from a suitable sealed cooling system through the ice bin compartment 160. An air handler such as a fan or a blower (e.g., fan 176 - Figure 3 ) can be provided to push and recirculate the air. As an example, the air handler can direct cold air from an evaporator of the sealing system through the duct to the sub-compartment 162.

[0041] The bin motor 202 can be in mechanical communication with a screw feeder (e.g., a non-vertical screw feeder 252 - Figure 4 ) of the ice storage bin 164. In some embodiments, the bin motor 202 is mounted to the door 128 (e.g., indirectly attached to the cabinet 102), as illustrated in the figures. In other embodiments, the bin motor 202 is mounted within the fresh food compartment 122 or the freezer compartment 124 (e.g., directly attached to the cabinet 102).

[0042] In an alternative embodiment, an access door 166 is hinged to the refrigeration door 128. The access door 166 can allow selective access to the sub-compartment 162. A suitable latch 168 of any type is constructed with the sub-compartment 162 to hold the access door 166 in a closed position. As an example, the latch 168 can be actuated by a user to open the access door 166 to provide access to the sub-compartment 162. The access door 166 can also assist in isolating the sub-compartment 162 (e.g., by thermally insulating or isolating the sub-compartment 162 from the fresh food compartment 122). It should be noted that although the access door 166 is illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, alternative embodiments can be without any separate access door. For example, when the door body 128 is opened, the ice storage bin 164 can be immediately visible.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ice making assembly 160 is disposed or arranged within the sub-compartment 162. As illustrated, the ice making assembly 160 may include a mold body or housing 170. In some such embodiments, the auger 172 is rotatably mounted within the mold body within the housing 170 (shown partially cut away to expose the auger 172). In particular, the motor 174 may be mounted to the housing 170 and in mechanical communication with the auger 172 (e.g., coupled to the auger). The motor 174 is used to selectively rotate the auger 172 within the mold body within the housing 170. During rotation of the auger 172 within the mold body, the auger 172 scrapes or removes ice from the inner surface of the mold body within the housing 170 and guides this ice to the extruder 175. At the extruder 175, ice cubes are formed from the ice within the housing 170. An ice bucket or ice storage bin assembly 164 may be disposed below the extruder 175 and receive ice cubes from the extruder 175. As discussed above, the ice cubes may enter the dispensing assembly 140 from the ice storage bin 164 and may be accessed by the user. Thus, the ice making assembly 160 can produce or generate ice cubes.

[0044] In additional or alternative embodiments, the ice making assembly 160 includes a fan 176. The fan 176 is used to direct a cold air flow towards the housing 170. As an example, the fan 176 may direct cold air from the evaporator of the sealing system through a duct to the housing 170. Thereby, the housing 170 can be cooled by the cold air from the fan 176 such that the ice making assembly 160 is air cooled to form ice therein.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the ice making assembly 160 includes a heater 180 mounted to the housing 170, such as a resistive heating element. The heater 180 is used to selectively heat the housing 170 (e.g., when ice prevents or impedes rotation of the auger 172 within the housing 170).

[0046] It should be noted that although the ice making assembly 160 is illustrated as an ice cube maker, the present invention is not limited to any particular style or configuration for making ice. As understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, other exemplary embodiments may include an ice making assembly that is configured to make ice flakes, solid ice cubes (e.g., cubes or crescents), or any other suitable form of frozen ice.

[0047] The operation of the refrigeration appliance 100 is typically controlled by a processing device or controller 190. The controller 190 can be operatively coupled, for example, to a control panel 148 for user manipulation to select features and operations of the refrigeration appliance 100, such as an ice storage bin 164 or an ice making assembly 160. The controller 190 can operate various components of the refrigeration appliance 100 to perform selected system cycles and features. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 190 is operatively in communication (e.g., electrically or wirelessly) with the ice storage bin 164, such as at a motor 202. In an additional or alternative embodiment, the controller 190 is operatively in communication with the ice making assembly 160 (e.g., at a motor 174, a fan 176, and a heater 180). Thereby, the controller 190 can selectively activate and operate the ice storage bin 164, the motor 174, the fan 176, or the heater 180.

[0048] The controller 190 can include a memory and a microprocessor, such as a general - purpose or special - purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro - control code associated with the operation of the ice making assembly 160. The memory can represent a random access memory such as DRAM or a read - only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes the programming instructions stored in the memory. The memory can be a separate component from the processor or can be on - board within the processor. Optionally, the controller 190 can be constructed to perform control functions without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuits; such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip - flops, AND gates, etc.) rather than relying on software. One or more portions of the ice storage bin 164, the bin motor 202, or the ice making assembly 160 can communicate with the controller 190 via one or more signal lines or a shared communication bus.

[0049] In an alternative embodiment, the ice making assembly 160 further includes a temperature sensor 178. The temperature sensor 178 is used to measure the temperature of the housing 170 or a liquid (such as liquid water) within the housing 170. The temperature sensor 178 can be any suitable device for measuring the temperature of the housing 170 or the liquid therein. For example, the temperature sensor 178 can be a thermistor or a thermocouple. The controller 190 can receive a signal, such as a voltage or a current, from the temperature sensor 190 that corresponds to the temperature of the housing 170 or the liquid therein. Thus, the temperature of the housing 170 or the liquid therein can be monitored or recorded with the controller 190.

[0050] Now turning generally to Figures 4 to 18 , various views of an ice storage bin assembly 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are provided. The ice storage bin assembly 200 can be used within and selectively attached to a cabinet 102 of the refrigeration appliance 100 ( Figure 2 ).

[0051] Upon attachment, the ice storage box assembly 200 can be received within a refrigerating compartment (e.g., the fresh food compartment 122 or the freezer compartment 124) of the corresponding refrigerating appliance 100. As an example, the ice storage box assembly 200 can be selectively attached to the cabinet 102 at a bracket or a support surface that is fixed within the refrigerating compartment of the refrigerating appliance 100. As another example, the ice storage box assembly 200 can be selectively attached to the cabinet 102 at the door 128 (e.g., the support surface 192) of the refrigerating appliance 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the ice storage box assembly 200 is provided as the ice storage box 164( Figure 3 ) or a part thereof.

[0052] As described herein, it can be understood that the vertical V, the lateral L, and the transverse T described within the context of Figures 4 to 18 generally independently correspond to the ice storage box assembly 200. However, when the ice storage box assembly 200 is attached to the cabinet 102 or mounted to the door 128( Figure 1 ) in the closed position, these directions can also be aligned (e.g., parallel) with the corresponding vertical V, lateral L, and transverse T defined by the refrigerating appliance 100( Figure 1 ).

[0053] The ice storage box assembly 200 generally includes a box body 210 that extends along the vertical V from a bottom end 212 to a top end 214. The box body 210 can generally be formed as a solid and impermeable structure having one or more side walls 220 that define an ice storage space 222 therein to receive ice (e.g., from the ice making assembly 160 - Figure 3 ).

[0054] In some embodiments, the side walls 220 include a front wall 216 and a rear wall 218. When the box body 210 is disposed or mounted within the sub - compartment 162( Figure 3 ), the front wall 216 can generally be disposed forward of the rear wall 218. Specifically, the rear wall 218 can be disposed close to the door body 128, while the front wall 216 is disposed close to the fresh food compartment 122 (e.g., along the transverse T defined when the corresponding door 128 is in the closed position). Optionally, a handle 230 can be provided on the front wall 216. For example, the handle 230 can be formed on the front wall 216 such that a user grip is defined at the front end of the box body 210. Additionally or alternatively, a suitable handle structure can be mounted to another part of the ice storage box assembly 200.

[0055] In another or alternative embodiment, a portion of the cartridge 210 may be formed of a transparent material, such as a suitable rigid polymer (e.g., acrylic, polycarbonate, etc.), through which a user may view the contents of the ice storage space 222. For example, the front wall 216 may be a transparent wall formed of a transparent material. Optionally, each side wall 220 may be a transparent wall formed of a transparent material. Additionally or alternatively, each wall (e.g., 220 and 228) may be integrally formed with the other walls (e.g., such that the cartridge 210 is provided as a single integral member).

[0056] At the top end 214, the cartridge 210 generally defines a cartridge opening 224 through which ice may enter the ice storage space 222. Below the top end 214 (e.g., at the bottom end 212), the cartridge 210 may define a dispenser opening 226 through which ice may be transferred from the ice storage space 222 and pass (e.g., to the dispensing assembly 140- Figure 1 ). For example, the cartridge 210 may include a bottom wall 228 (e.g., attached to or integral with the side walls 220) that defines the dispenser opening 226 in fluid communication with the ice storage space 222.

[0057] Optionally, the dispenser opening 226 may be defined as a vertical opening (e.g., parallel to the vertical V through the bottom wall 228). Thus, the dispenser opening 226 may define a horizontal boundary 232. A boundary wall 234 may extend vertically around the dispenser opening 226 (e.g., from the bottom wall 228) and the horizontal boundary 232. Additionally or alternatively, the boundary wall 234 may define at least a portion of the horizontal boundary 232.

[0058] Generally, the horizontal boundary 232 defines the horizontal extremities of the dispenser opening 226 (e.g., perpendicular to the vertical V). In some embodiments, at least two horizontal extremities are provided for the horizontal boundary 232 as a leading edge 236 and a trailing edge 238. Generally, the leading edge 236 is set to be forward from the trailing edge 238, and the trailing edge 238 is set to be backward from the leading edge 236 (e.g., along or relative to the transverse T). The leading edge 236 may be defined as being close to the front wall 216, and the trailing edge 238 may be defined as being close to the rear wall 218 (e.g., along the transverse T). Additionally or alternatively, the dispenser opening 226 may be defined as being closer to the rear wall 218 than to the front wall 216 (i.e., close to the rear wall 218 or away from the front wall 216). For example, the longitudinal distance (e.g., along the transverse T) between the leading edge 236 and the front wall 216 may be greater than the longitudinal distance between the trailing edge 238 and the rear wall 218.

[0059] In some embodiments, the top end 214 is entirely open and unobstructed. The top end 214 and the cartridge opening 224 may be without any lid or closure portion. Optionally, the cartridge opening 224 may define the radial or horizontal maximum (i.e., the maximum radial or horizontal width) of the ice storage space 222. Advantageously, the cartridge opening 224 may provide easy and direct access to the ice storage space 222 through which ice can pass. Thereby, a user can easily and directly scoop out or pour out a large amount of ice from the ice storage space 222 through the cartridge opening 224.

[0060] In certain embodiments, a drain hole 240 is defined through the cartridge body 210 (e.g., through the bottom wall 228) to allow water therein to flow to another downstream portion of the refrigeration appliance 100 ( Figure 2 ) (e.g., when attached to the refrigeration appliance 100). For example, the drain hole 240 may be defined by the bottom wall 228 at a position spaced apart (e.g., horizontally, such as along the lateral L) from the dispenser opening 226. In an alternative embodiment, the bottom wall 228 is non-horizontal or inclined towards the drain hole 240 (e.g., generally downward relative to the vertical V).

[0061] In additional or alternative embodiments, the ice storage cartridge assembly 200 includes a selective sealing system 242 that selectively allows or restricts the outflow of water from the cartridge body 210. In some embodiments, an elastic or biased sealing plug 244 is provided in pair with the drain hole orifice 240. For example, the biased sealing plug 244 may slide within the drain hole 240 along the vertical V.

[0062] In some embodiments, the sealing system 242 selectively fills or blocks the drain hole 240 according to the state of the ice storage cartridge assembly 200. For example, in a fully installed state (e.g., where the ice storage cartridge assembly 200 is fully attached to and supported on the refrigeration appliance 100 - Figure 2 ), the biased sealing plug 244 may be set away from the drain hole orifice 240, as Figure 14 illustrated. Water may be allowed to freely pass downstream through the drain hole orifice 240. In a non-fully installed state, the biased sealing plug 244 may extend into or through the drain hole 240 and directly engage a portion of the cartridge body 210 or the bottom wall 228, as Figure 17 illustrated. Water passing through the drain hole orifice 240 may be substantially prevented or restricted.

[0063] In some embodiments, spring 246 is attached to biasing plug 244 in a biased engagement manner. Spring 246 can generally push biasing plug 244 towards drain orifice 240. For example, spring 246 can be embodied as a compression spring. Spring 246 can be disposed between support tab 248 and biasing plug 244. In some such embodiments, support tab 248 is fixed within housing 210.

[0064] In some embodiments of seal system 242, a plug 250 can be provided. For example, plug 250 can be attached to housing 102 ( Figure 2 )(e.g., at support surface 192 of door 128). In some such embodiments, a vertical recess or groove is defined below bottom wall 228 to receive plug 250. When ice storage bin assembly 200 is in an installed state, plug 250 can extend through the vertical recess and contact the distal end of the biasing plug. Thus, plug 250 can engage biasing plug 244 through drain hole 240, which forces biasing plug 244 towards spring 246 and away from drain orifice 240. When ice storage bin assembly 200 is disposed away from plug 250, such as in a non-installed state, plug 250 can disengage from biasing plug 244. Spring 246 can force the plug towards drain orifice 240 to prevent undesired leakage.

[0065] In certain embodiments, a non-vertical auger 252 is provided or mounted (e.g., rotatably mounted) within ice storage space 222 to selectively direct ice within ice storage space 222 to dispenser opening 226. Optionally, non-vertical auger 252 is disposed above bottom wall 228 or dispenser opening 226.

[0066] As shown, an exemplary embodiment of non-vertical auger 252 includes a rotating shaft 254 that extends along a rotational axis X (e.g., perpendicular to vertical V). In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, rotating shaft 254 extends through side wall 220 (e.g., rear wall 218) and through at least a portion of ice storage space 222. Thus, during use, non-vertical auger 252 and rotating shaft 254 can selectively rotate within ice storage space 222 (e.g., relative to housing 210).

[0067] In certain embodiments, rotating shaft 254 selectively engages cartridge motor 202 ( Figure 3)。For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the adapter 256 is connected or attached to the rotating shaft 254. For example, a portion of the rotating shaft 254 may extend through the housing 210 and support the adapter 256 outside the ice storage space 222. In some such embodiments, the adapter 256 is fixed to the rotating shaft 254 and is rotatable about the rotation axis X. When the ice storage box assembly 200 is attached to the refrigeration appliance 100 (e.g., mounted to the door 128 - Figure 3 ), the adapter 256 may engage the cartridge motor 202 in a horizontal connection manner beside the housing 210. Thus, the adapter 256 can establish mechanical communication between the cartridge motor 202 and the non-vertical auger 252. During use, the cartridge motor 202 can drive the adapter 256 and the rotating shaft 254 to rotate about the rotation axis X.

[0068] In some embodiments, the horizontal connection between the cartridge motor 202 and the rotating shaft 254 allows the ice storage box assembly 200 to slide horizontally (i.e., perpendicular to the vertical V) to attach to the refrigeration appliance 100 ( Figure 3 ), without any vertical movement or motion of the ice storage box assembly 200. Advantageously, the user can attach the ice storage box assembly 200 to the refrigeration appliance 100 or detach it therefrom without lifting the ice storage box assembly 200 and raising it above the cartridge motor 202 or, for example, the support surface 192 ( Figure 3 ).

[0069] The helical blade 258 can be coiled around the rotating shaft 254, and thus, is substantially coiled around the rotation axis X. Specifically, the helical blade 258 extends radially outward from the rotating shaft 254 or relative to the rotating shaft 254. As shown, the helical blade 258 defines a blade radius R. The blade radius R can define the outer radius or width of the non-vertical auger 252 relative to the radial direction perpendicular to the rotation axis X.

[0070] Generally, the helical blade 258 extends along the rotation axis X (e.g., relative to the axis X) from a first blade end 260 to a second blade end 262. The first blade end 260 can define one axial limit of the helical blade 258, while the second blade end 262 defines the opposite axial limit. Optionally, the longitudinal length or axial length of the helical blade 258 can be less than the longitudinal length or axial length of the rotating shaft 254. Thus, the helical blade 258 can extend only on a sub-part of the rotating shaft 254, which is less than the entire rotating shaft 254 (e.g., the entire part of the rotating shaft 254 disposed within the ice storage space 222).

[0071] The helical blade 258 can be fixed to the rotating shaft 254 such that the helical blade 258 and the rotating shaft 254 rotate in series. For example, the helical blade 258 can be fixed to the rotating shaft 254 from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. Optionally, the helical blade 258 can be integrally formed with the rotating shaft 254 (e.g., a single integral component).

[0072] From the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262, the helical blade 258 can be wound or coiled in a set direction around the rotation axis X to form a helix. In other words, the helical blade 258 can be formed as a right-handed helix (as shown), or optionally formed as a left-handed helix from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. The winding direction of the helical blade 258 can generally correspond to the expected direction of movement of the ice within the ice storage volume 222 along the rotation axis X (e.g., from the second blade end 262 backward to the first blade end 260, or optionally from the first blade end 260 forward to the second blade end 262). In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the expected direction of movement of the ice is backward, and the helical blade 258 is formed as a right-handed helix from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first blade end 260 is generally disposed closer to the dispenser opening 226 than the second blade end 262 (e.g., along or relative to the transverse T). In other words, the first blade end 260 can be disposed close to the dispenser opening 226, while the second blade end 262 is disposed away from the dispenser opening 226. Thus, the rotation of the non-vertical screw feeder 252 can generally push the ice toward the first blade end 260 and toward the dispenser opening 226.

[0074] In additional or alternative embodiments, the helical blade 258 terminates above at least a portion of the dispenser opening 226 (e.g., directly or indirectly above it). For example, as measured along or relative to the rotation axis X, the first blade end 260 can be disposed between the leading edge 236 and the trailing edge 238 of the dispenser opening 226. Specifically, the first blade end 260 can be disposed forward from the trailing edge 238 and backward from the leading edge 236 relative to the rotation axis X. As the ice is pushed toward the dispenser opening 226 (e.g., by the rotation of the non-vertical screw feeder 252), the movement of the ice directly guided or pushed by the non-vertical screw feeder 252 can stop above the dispenser opening 226, allowing the ice to fall through the dispenser opening 226 from the ice storage space 222. Advantageously, it is possible to prevent the ice pushed by the non-vertical screw feeder 252 from being stuffed or compressed against the sidewall 220 or above the dispenser opening 226 (e.g., such that the dispenser opening 226 is blocked by ice clumps).

[0075] As described above, the helical blade 258 defines a blade radius R perpendicular to the axis of rotation X. In some embodiments, the blade radius R is set as an extended radius from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. Thus, the radial width or blade radius R can increase from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262 (e.g., as measured along the axis of rotation X). In some such embodiments, the blade radius R defines a frustoconical profile between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262. In additional or alternative embodiments, the shaft diameter D of the rotating shaft 254 (e.g., perpendicular to the axis of rotation X) does not increase from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. For example, the shaft diameter D can remain constant (as shown) or generally decrease along the axis of rotation X from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the increase in the blade radius R (e.g., the expansion angle relative to the axis of rotation X) is constant from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the increase in the blade radius R from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262 is variable.

[0077] As shown, the helical blade 258 defines a plurality of turns, and generally a blade pitch P is defined between these turns. In an alternative embodiment, the blade pitch P is variable between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262 (e.g., as measured along the axis of rotation X). In other words, the longitudinal or axial distance between adjacent turns of the helical blade 258 can be different between one (e.g., first) pair of adjacent turns and another (e.g., second) pair of adjacent turns. In an exemplary embodiment, the blade pitch P is a variable pitch that decreases from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. Thus, the variable pitch can increase along the axis of rotation X from the second blade end 262 to the first blade end 260. In some such embodiments, the increase in the blade pitch P is constant (i.e., the rate of increase is constant relative to the longitudinal distance from the second blade end 262).

[0078] In additional or alternative embodiments, the increase in the blade pitch P from the second blade end 262 to the first blade end 260 is proportional to the increase in the blade radius R from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262. Optionally, an equal or same volume can be defined between each pair of adjacent turns of the helical blade 258 from the first blade end 260 to the second blade end 262.

[0079] Advantageously, a set amount of ice can be pushed by the non-vertical helical feeder 252 and can be prevented from being jammed or compressed (e.g., before leaving the ice storage space 222 through the dispenser opening 226).

[0080] Some embodiments may include a cam 288 on a rotating shaft 254 of a non-vertical auger 252. The cam 288 may be fixed to the rotating shaft 254 such that the cam 288 and the rotating shaft 254 rotate in series. The cam 288 may be disposed on the rotating shaft 254 behind the first blade end 260. When the ice storage box assembly 200 is in the fully assembled position or configuration, for example, with the non-vertical auger 254 positioned or installed within the ice storage space 222, the cam 288 on the non-vertical auger 252 may be positioned to be proximate to or adjacent to the rear wall 218. The cam 288 may define a variable radius perpendicular to the axis of rotation X. For example, the cam 288 may include a long radius 290 and a short radius 292. The long radius 290 is generally greater than the short radius 292. The long radius 290 and the short radius 292 may be circumferentially spaced from each other by approximately ninety degrees. Thus, as the rotating shaft 254 rotates, the cam 288 will travel between a high position and a low position, where in the high position, for example as Figure 10 shown, the long radius 290 is generally oriented along the vertical V, and in the low position, the short radius 292 is generally oriented along the vertical V.

[0081] In certain embodiments, a base 264 is disposed within the ice storage space 222. For example, the base 264 may be mounted on the bottom wall 228 to direct at least a portion of the ice within the ice storage space 222. In some such embodiments, the base 264 includes a bottom plate 266 on which the ice may be supported within the ice storage space 222. At the time of assembly, the bottom plate 266 may be disposed below the rotating shaft 254 or the helical blade 258. Additionally or alternatively, support posts 268 may be provided to support the non-vertical auger 252 (e.g., at a location proximate to the second blade end 262).

[0082] In additional or alternative embodiments, at least a portion of the base 264 matches the extended blade radius R of the helical blade 258. For example, the vertical height of the bottom plate 266 may decrease between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262. In some such embodiments, the bottom plate 266 defines a shape that is complementary to the shape defined by the helical blade 258 (e.g., a negative profile). Apparently, as the non-vertical auger 252 within the ice storage space 222 pushes the ice, the base 264 may direct the ice (e.g., upward) toward the non-vertical auger 252.

[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the base 264 (e.g., at the bottom plate 266) defines one or more melting orifices 270 through which liquid from the melted ice can flow out (e.g., to separate liquid water from solid ice). Generally, the melting orifices 270 are defined to have a set cross-sectional area that is smaller than the ice (e.g., ice cubes) formed by the ice maker. Optionally, the melting orifices 270 are in fluid communication with the drain holes 240. Thus, as the ice melts, the liquid water can pass through the melting orifices 270 and generally flow to the drain holes 240. Conversely, the remaining ice can be retained above the drain holes 270 and on the base 264.

[0084] In an alternative embodiment, one or more internal boundary walls 272 are provided adjacent to the non-vertical auger 252. For example, a pair of internal boundary walls 272 can be provided on the base 264 within the ice storage space 222. As shown, in the exemplary embodiment, the pair of internal boundary walls 272 can be provided at opposite radial sides of a portion of the helical blade 258 (e.g., at a position between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262 along the rotational axis X).

[0085] It should be noted that while the internal boundary walls 272 are shown as extending on or directly from the base, alternative or additional embodiments can include one or more boundary walls 272 that extend from another part of the ice storage bin assembly 200. As an example, one or more boundary walls 272 can extend directly from one or more sidewalls 220 (e.g., attached to or integral with the sidewalls). As another example, one or more boundary walls 272 can extend directly from the kick plate 274 (e.g., attached to or integral with the kick plate).

[0086] In some embodiments, the pair of internal boundary walls 272 are provided forward from the first blade end 260 and backward from the second blade end 262. Optionally, the pair of internal boundary walls 272 can extend from the inner surface of the opposing sidewalls 220 (e.g., perpendicular to the rotational axis X). Additionally or alternatively, one or both of the boundary walls 272 can define a shape complementary to the shape defined by the helical blade 258 (e.g., a negative profile).

[0087] As the non-vertical auger 252 rotates within the ice storage space 222, the internal boundary walls 272 can prevent or stop the movement of peripheral ice (e.g., ice outward from the blade radius R), and in particular prevent ice from compressing at or near the dispenser opening 226.

[0088] In an additional or alternative embodiment, the kick plate 274 is mounted or retained within the ice storage space 222 above the pivot shaft 254 or the auger blade 258. As shown, the kick plate 274 is spaced from the axis of rotation X. In assembly, the kick plate 274 can extend from the wall end 276 to the free end 278 (e.g., along the transverse T or the axis of rotation X). Optionally, the kick plate 274 can extend inwardly from at least one side wall 220 (e.g., from the rear wall 218 at the wall end 276), and stop or terminate before spanning the entire ice storage space 222. For example, the free end 278 of the kick plate 274 can be spaced from the front wall 216 (e.g., along the transverse T or the axis of rotation X), such that a vertical gap is formed or defined between the front wall 216 and the kick plate 274.

[0089] In some embodiments, one or more upper boundary walls 280 extend generally along the vertical V (e.g., downward) from the bottom side of the kick plate 274. For example, a pair of upper boundary walls 280 can be provided at opposite radial sides of a portion of the auger blade 258 (e.g., at a position along the axis of rotation X between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262). Additionally or alternatively, the pair of upper boundary walls 280 can be provided at the free end 278 and extend further rearward therefrom (e.g., toward the wall end 276).

[0090] In an alternative embodiment, at least a portion of the kick plate 274 slopes downward. For example, the vertical height of the kick plate 274 can generally decrease from the wall end 276 to the free end 278. In some such embodiments, the vertical height can decrease between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262 (e.g., as measured along the axis of rotation X). In an additional or alternative embodiment, the free end 278 is located directly above a portion of the blade helix between the first blade end 260 and the second blade end 262. Another portion of the intermediate platform can also be provided directly above the dispenser opening 226. During use, the kick plate 274 can generally direct ice downward and away from the dispenser opening 226 to a portion of the non-vertical auger feeder 252. Advantageously, the kick plate 274 can prevent excessive ice accumulation within the dispenser opening 226.

[0091] In some embodiments, the kick plate 274 can be hingedly mounted within the ice storage space 222. For example, the kick plate 274 can include a pair of loops 284 at its free end 278, and the loops 284 of the kick plate 274 can each receive a pin 286 therein to form a hinge that defines a pivot axis about which the kick plate 274 can rotate. In some embodiments, the pins 286 can be formed on the base 264, such as on its inner boundary wall 272.

[0092] The kick plate 274 may further include a finger portion 282 that extends downward along the vertical direction V from the lower side of the kick plate 274 at the wall end 276 of the kick plate 274. The finger portion 282 of the kick plate 274 may contact the cam 288 of the non-vertical screw feeder 252, for example, rest thereon. For example, when the cam 288 is in Figure 9 the high position in Figure 8 (one of the intermediate positions between the high position and the low position is shown in

[0093] ), it can be seen that the finger portion 282 of the kick plate 274 rests on the cam 288. Thus, the cam 288 of the non-vertical screw feeder can actuate the kick plate 274. Thus, when the non-vertical screw feeder 252 rotates and the cam 288 thus moves from the high position to the low position (while also traveling through a series of intermediate positions between the high position and the low position), the kick plate 274 will descend and ascend with each rotation of the non-vertical screw feeder 252. For example, as described above, the long radius 290 and the short radius 292 may be circumferentially spaced 90 degrees apart. Further, the cam 288 may be symmetric, for example, the long radius 290 may be half of the long diameter of the cam 288, and the short radius 292 may be half of the short radius of the cam 288. Thus, for each complete 360-degree rotation of the non-vertical screw feeder 252, the kick plate 274 may descend and ascend four times (ascend twice and descend twice). This movement of the kick plate 274 can advantageously contribute to pushing the ice cubes (or cubelets, etc.) in the ice storage space 222 towards the non-vertical screw feeder 252. For example, the long radius 290 of the cam 288 may be sufficiently larger than the short radius 292, and / or the transition between the long radius 290 and the short radius 292 around the circumference of the cam 288 may be sufficiently steep such that the kick plate 274 can descend forcefully, i.e., with sufficient force to at least partially break up or loosen a mass of ice cubes, for example, ice cubes that may have partially melted and refrozen into a mass or other chunks. This written description discloses the present invention using examples (including the best mode), and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the present invention (including manufacturing and using any device or system and performing any method included). The patentable scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that those skilled in the art can conceive. If such other examples include structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if such other examples include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims, then it is intended that such other examples fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A refrigeration appliance defining a vertical direction, characterized in that, The refrigeration appliance includes: a cabinet that defines a refrigerating compartment; a door that rotates between an open position allowing access to the refrigerating compartment and a closed position restricting access to the refrigerating compartment; and an ice storage box removably accommodated in the refrigerating compartment, the ice storage box including: a box body that defines an ice storage space for receiving ice therein, the box body extending along the vertical direction between a top end and a bottom end, the box body further defining a dispenser opening that is in fluid communication with the ice storage space at the bottom end to selectively allow ice to be discharged from the dispenser opening; a non-vertical screw feeder that defines a rotation axis in the ice storage space to guide the ice in the ice storage space to the dispenser opening, the non-vertical screw feeder including a rotating shaft extending along the rotation axis and cams arranged on the rotating shaft; and a kick plate hingedly mounted in the ice storage space, wherein the cams of the non-vertical screw feeder actuate the kick plate; The non-vertical screw feeder of the ice storage box further includes a spiral blade coiled around the rotating shaft, the spiral blade extending along the rotation axis from a first blade end to a second blade end, the spiral blade defining a variable pitch that increases along the rotation axis from the second blade end to the first blade end, the cams defining a long radius and a short radius, when the cams rotate from a low position where the short radius is aligned with the vertical direction to a high position where the long radius is aligned with the vertical direction, the cams raise the kick plate along the vertical direction, when the cams rotate from the high position to the low position, the cams lower the kick plate along the vertical direction, and the long radius and the short radius are circumferentially spaced apart by ninety degrees.

2. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The kick plate includes fingers that contact the cams.

3. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The kick plate is mounted in the ice storage space above the non-vertical screw feeder and is supported by the cams.

4. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spiral blade defines an extended radius along the rotation axis from the first blade end to the second blade end, the first blade end being arranged close to the dispenser opening and the second blade end being arranged away from the dispenser opening.

5. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The box body includes a bottom wall at the bottom end, the bottom wall defining a drain hole spaced apart from the dispenser opening, and the bottom wall is inclined towards the drain hole opening.

6. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a base platform provided below the kick plate in the ice storage space to support the ice therein, the base platform defining a melting hole for the melted ice to pass through.

7. An ice storage box for a refrigeration appliance, characterized in that, The refrigeration appliance defines a vertical direction, and the refrigeration appliance includes: a cabinet that defines a refrigerating compartment; a door that rotates between an open position allowing access to the refrigerating compartment and a closed position restricting access to the refrigerating compartment; and an ice storage box that is configured to be removably accommodated in the refrigerating compartment, the ice storage box including: A box body that defines an ice storage space for receiving ice therein. The box body extends along the vertical direction between a top end and a bottom end. The box body further defines a dispenser opening that is in fluid communication with the ice storage space at the bottom end to selectively allow ice to be discharged from the dispenser opening; A non-vertical screw feeder that defines a rotation axis within the ice storage space to guide the ice within the ice storage space to the dispenser opening. The non-vertical screw feeder includes a rotating shaft extending along the rotation axis and cams arranged on the rotating shaft; and A kick plate that is hingedly mounted within the ice storage space, wherein the cams of the non-vertical screw feeder actuate the kick plate; The non-vertical screw feeder of the ice storage box further includes a spiral blade wound around the rotating shaft. The spiral blade extends along the rotation axis from a first blade end to a second blade end. The spiral blade defines a variable pitch that increases along the rotation axis from the second blade end to the first blade end. The cams define a long radius and a short radius. When the cams rotate from a low position where the short radius is aligned with the vertical direction to a high position where the long radius is aligned with the vertical direction, the cams raise the kick plate along the vertical direction. When the cams rotate from the high position to the low position, the cams lower the kick plate along the vertical direction. The long radius and the short radius are circumferentially spaced apart by ninety degrees.

8. The ice storage box for a refrigeration appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The kick plate includes fingers that contact the cams.

9. The ice storage box for a refrigeration appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The kick plate is mounted within the ice storage space above the non-vertical screw feeder and is supported by the cams.

10. The ice storage box for a refrigeration appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The spiral blade defines an extended radius along the rotation axis from the first blade end to the second blade end. The first blade end is arranged close to the dispenser opening, and the second blade end is arranged away from the dispenser opening.

11. The ice storage box for a refrigeration appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that, The box body includes a bottom wall at the bottom end. The bottom wall defines a drain hole spaced apart from the dispenser opening, and the bottom wall slopes towards the drain hole opening.

12. The ice storage box for a refrigeration appliance according to claim 7, characterized in that, It further includes a base platform that is arranged below the kick plate within the ice storage space to support the ice therein. The base platform defines melting holes for the melted ice to pass through.

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