Ice-making assembly for making transparent ice

Abstract

An ice-making assembly may include a thermally conductive ice mold, a thermally insulated ice mold, and an external thermal insulation sleeve. The thermally conductive ice mold may extend vertically between a top end and a bottom end of the thermally conductive mold. The thermally conductive ice mold may define a cavity having a vertical opening at the top end of the thermally conductive mold. The thermally insulated ice mold may optionally be received on the thermally conductive ice mold and cover the vertical opening. The thermally insulated ice mold may define an internal water channel extending above the cavity and in fluid communication with the cavity. The external thermal insulation sleeve may optionally be received on the thermally insulated ice mold and cover the internal water channel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to ice-making components and methods, and more specifically to components and methods for producing generally transparent ice. Background Technology

[0002] In household and commercial applications, ice is typically formed into solid cubes, such as crescent-shaped cubes or generally rectangular cubes. The shape of these cubes is usually determined by the environment during the freezing process. For example, ice makers can receive liquid water, which can then be frozen within the ice maker to form ice cubes. In particular, some ice makers include a freezing mold defining multiple cavities. These cavities can be filled with liquid water, which can then be frozen within each cavity to form solid ice cubes.

[0003] In a typical ice-making appliance, the water in the cavity first freezes and solidifies from its sides and outer surfaces (including the top water surface which may be directly exposed to freezing air), and then freezes and solidifies in the remaining volume of water occupying the cavity and throughout it. In other words, the top and sides of the ice block freeze first. However, during the freezing process, impurities and gases contained in the water to be frozen may be trapped in the solidified ice block. For example, because impurities and gases cannot escape and due to the phase change from liquid to solid at the surface of the ice block, impurities and gases may be trapped near the center or bottom of the ice block. Separating from or excluding the trapped impurities and gases, a dull or cloudy finish may form on the outer surface of the ice block (e.g., during rapid freezing). Typically, cloudy or opaque ice blocks are a product of typical ice-making appliances.

[0004] While typical ice cubes are suitable for many uses, such as temporary chilling and rapid cooling of liquids of various sizes, they can have several drawbacks. For example, as ice melts, impurities and gases trapped within it can impart undesirable flavors to the beverage being cooled (i.e., the beverage on which the ice is placed). These impurities and gases can also cause the ice to melt unevenly or more quickly (e.g., by increasing the exposed surface area of ​​the ice). In some spirits or cocktails, a uniform distribution of ice or slow melting may be particularly desirable. Additionally or alternatively, it has been found that generally clear ice cubes (e.g., free of any visible impurities or matte finish) can provide a distinctive or upscale impression to the consumer. Past attempts to address these issues have often been undesirably slow, complex, or resulted in excessive unfrozen water, complicating the retrieval of finished cubes.

[0005] Therefore, further improvements to the ice-making field are expected. In particular, it may be desirable to provide an appliance or method for the rapid and reliable production of substantially clear ice (e.g., without undesirably complicating the process or leaving behind large amounts of unfrozen water with the clear ice). Summary of the Invention

[0006] Various aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in the description which follows, or will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practicing the invention.

[0007] In one exemplary aspect of the invention, an ice-making assembly is provided. The ice-making assembly may include a thermally conductive ice mold, a thermally insulated ice mold, and an external thermal insulation sleeve. The thermally conductive ice mold may extend vertically between a top end and a bottom end of the thermally conductive mold. The thermally conductive ice mold may define a cavity having a vertical opening at the top end of the thermally conductive mold. The thermally insulated ice mold may be selectively received on the thermally conductive ice mold and cover the vertical opening. The thermally insulated ice mold may define an internal water channel extending above the cavity and in fluid communication with the cavity. The external thermal insulation sleeve may be selectively received on the thermally insulated ice mold and cover the internal water channel.

[0008] In another exemplary aspect of the invention, an ice-making assembly is provided. The ice-making assembly may include a metal thermally conductive ice mold, a non-metallic thermally insulated ice mold, and an outer thermal insulation sleeve. The metal thermally conductive ice mold may extend vertically between a top end and a bottom end of the thermally conductive mold. The metal thermally conductive ice mold may define a cavity having a vertical opening at the top end of the thermally conductive mold. The metal thermally conductive ice mold may also define an exposed surface extending along the bottom end of the thermally conductive mold opposite to the vertical opening. The non-metallic thermally insulated ice mold may be selectively received radially outward from the exposed surface onto the metal thermally conductive ice mold and covers the vertical opening. The non-metallic thermally insulated ice mold may define an internal water channel extending above the cavity and in fluid communication with the cavity. The outer thermal insulation sleeve may be selectively received radially outward from the exposed surface onto the non-metallic thermally insulated ice mold. The outer thermal insulation sleeve may cover the internal water channel.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become more readily understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims. Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the specification sets forth a complete disclosure of the invention for those skilled in the art, which enables them to implement the invention, including the preferred embodiments thereof.

[0011] Figure 1 A side plan view of an ice-making appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0012] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an ice-making appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0013] Figure 3 An elevation view of a portion of an ice-making assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0014] Figure 4 Provided Figure 3 A cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary ice-making component.

[0015] Figure 5 Provided before receiving water Figure 3 A cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of an exemplary ice-making component.

[0016] Figure 6 Provided for receiving water in Figure 3 A cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of an exemplary ice-making component.

[0017] Figure 7 Provided during the freezing process in which ice blanks are formed Figure 3 A cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary ice-making component.

[0018] Figure 8 Provided after the ice blank is frozen in it Figure 3 A cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of an exemplary ice-making component. Detailed Implementation

[0019] Referring now to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is given by way of explanation and does not constitute a limitation thereof. Indeed, 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, thereby producing yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is desired that the invention cover such modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, and these terms are not intended to indicate the location or importance of individual components. The terms “includes” and “including” are intended to be included in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be included (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). Furthermore, scope limitations may be combined or interchanged herein and throughout the specification and claims. Such scopes are identified and include all subscopes contained herein unless the context or language otherwise indicates. For example, all scopes disclosed herein include endpoints, and endpoints may be independently combined with each other. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context expressly specifies otherwise.

[0021] As used herein throughout the specification and claims, approximate language can be applied to modify any quantitative representation that allows for variation without altering its associated essential function. Therefore, values ​​modified by terms such as “generally,” “approximately,” “approximately,” and “roughly” are not limited to the specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value, or the precision of the method or machine used to construct or manufacture a component or system. For example, approximate language may refer to a value within a 10% margin (i.e., including values ​​within ten percent larger or smaller than the stated value). In this respect, for example, when used in the context of angles or directions, such terms include angles within ten degrees larger or smaller than the stated angle or direction (e.g., “generally vertical” includes angles of up to ten degrees with respect to the vertical V in any direction such as clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0022] The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Furthermore, references to "implementation" or "one implementation" do not necessarily refer to the same implementation, but may include the same implementation. Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" or "implementation" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Moreover, each example is given in an interpretative manner and does not constitute a limitation on the invention. Indeed, 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 implementation can be used in another implementation, resulting in yet another implementation. Therefore, it is desired that the invention cover these modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0023] Now turn to the attached diagram. Figure 1A side plan view of an ice-making appliance 100, including an ice-making assembly 102, is provided. Figure 2 An elevation view of the ice-making component 102 is provided. Figure 3 A sectional elevation view of a portion of the ice-making assembly 102 is provided. Figures 5 to 8 Various views of the ice-making component 102 (or a portion thereof) are provided before, during, and after the ice-making process.

[0024] Typically, an ice-making appliance 100 includes a housing 104 (e.g., an insulated shell) and defines mutually orthogonal vertical, lateral, and transverse directions. Lateral and transverse directions are generally understood to refer to the horizontal direction H. As shown, the housing 104 defines one or more refrigeration compartments, such as a freezer compartment 106. In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiments, the ice-making appliance 100 is understood to be formed as a separate refrigeration appliance or as part of a separate refrigeration appliance. However, it is recognized that additional or optional embodiments may be provided in the context of other refrigeration appliances. For example, the benefits of the invention can be applied to refrigeration appliances of any type or style including a freezer compartment (e.g., top-mounted refrigeration appliances, bottom-mounted refrigeration appliances, side-by-side refrigeration appliances, etc.). Therefore, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limited in any way to any particular chamber or electrical configuration.

[0025] Ice maker 100 typically includes an ice-making assembly 102 located on or within a freezer compartment 106. In some embodiments, ice maker 100 includes a door 105 rotatably attached to a housing 104 (e.g., on top of housing 104). As will be understood, door 105 can selectively cover an opening defined by housing 104. For example, door 105 can be in an open position (not shown) on housing 104 that allows access to the freezer compartment 106 and a closed position that restricts access to the freezer compartment 106. Figure 1 Rotate between ).

[0026] The user interface panel 108 can be configured to control operating modes. For example, the user interface panel 108 may include multiple user inputs (unlabeled), such as a touchscreen or button interface, for selecting the desired operating mode. The operation of the ice maker 100 can be regulated by a controller 110 operatively coupled to or wirelessly communicating with the user interface panel 108 or various other components, as described below. The user interface panel 108 provides the user with options for manipulating the operation of the ice maker 100 (e.g., selection of chamber temperature, ice-making speed, or various other options). In response to user manipulation of the user interface panel 108 or one or more sensor signals, the controller 110 can operate various components of the ice maker 100 or the ice-making assembly 102.

[0027] The controller 110 may include memory (e.g., a non-deliverable medium) and one or more microprocessors, CPUs, etc., such as general-purpose or special-purpose microprocessors, which can operate to execute programming instructions or microcontroller code associated with the operation of the ice-making appliance 100. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM or read-only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in the memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be contained on a board within the processor. Alternatively, the controller 110 may 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.

[0028] The controller 110 can be located in various positions throughout the ice-making appliance 100. In an alternative embodiment, the controller 110 is located within the user interface panel 108. In other embodiments, the controller 110 can be located in any suitable location within the ice-making appliance 100, such as within the housing 104. Input / output (“I / O”) signals can be routed between the controller 110 and various operating components of the ice-making appliance 100. For example, the user interface panel 108 can be operatively communicated with the controller 110 via one or more signal lines or a shared communication bus.

[0029] As shown in the figure, the controller 110 can communicate with various components of the electrical appliance 100 and control the operation of these components. For example, various valves, switches, sealing cooling systems, etc., can be actuated based on commands from the controller 110 (e.g., based on one or more temperature signals received from temperature sensors within the electrical appliance 100, as will be understood). As discussed, the user interface panel 108 can also communicate with the controller 110. Thus, various operations can occur automatically based on user input or by means of instructions from the controller 110.

[0030] In some embodiments, the ice-making appliance 100 includes a hermetically sealed cooling system 112 for performing a vapor compression cycle to cool air within the ice-making assembly 102 or within the ice-making appliance 100 (e.g., within the freezer compartment 106). The hermetically sealed cooling system 112 includes a compressor 114, a condenser 116, an expansion device 118, and an evaporator 120, which are fluidly connected in series and filled with refrigerant. As those skilled in the art will understand, the hermetically sealed cooling system 112 may include additional components (e.g., at least one additional evaporator, compressor, expansion device, or condenser). Furthermore, at least one component (e.g., the evaporator 120) is configured to be in thermal communication with the freezer compartment 106 to cool the air or environment within the freezer compartment 106. Optionally, as is generally understood in… Figure 1In the example shown, evaporator 120 is mounted within freezer compartment 106. It should be noted that although evaporator 120 is shown spaced apart from ice-making assembly 102, alternative embodiments may include ice-making assembly 102 located on or in contact with evaporator 120. For example, as will be understood according to the invention, ice-making assembly 102 may be placed on top of evaporator 120.

[0031] Within the sealed cooling system 112, gaseous refrigerant flows into the compressor 114, which operates to increase the pressure of the refrigerant. This compression of the refrigerant raises its temperature, which is then lowered by passing the gaseous refrigerant through the condenser 116. Within the condenser 116, heat exchange occurs, for example, with the surrounding air, to cool the refrigerant and cause it to condense into a liquid state.

[0032] An expansion device 118 (e.g., a mechanical valve, capillary tube, electronic expansion valve, or other limiting device) receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser 116. The liquid refrigerant flows from the expansion device 118 into the evaporator 120. As it leaves the expansion device 118 and enters the evaporator 120, the pressure of the liquid refrigerant decreases and it evaporates. Due to the pressure drop and phase change of the refrigerant, the evaporator 120 is cool relative to the freezer compartment 106. This generates cooling air and refrigerates the freezer compartment 106. Thus, the evaporator 120 acts as a heat exchanger, transferring heat (e.g., from the air passing through the evaporator 120 to the refrigerant flowing through it).

[0033] Optionally, the ice-making appliance 100 may include a valve 122 for regulating the flow of liquid water from a suitable water source (e.g., a vehicle water tank or municipal water supply) to the ice-making assembly 102. In this embodiment, the valve 122 can be selectively adjusted between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the valve 122 may allow liquid water to flow to the ice-making assembly 102. Conversely, in the closed configuration, the valve 122 may block the flow to the ice-making assembly 102.

[0034] In some embodiments, the ice-making appliance 100 also includes an air processor 124 installed within (or otherwise in fluid communication with) the freezer compartment 106. The air processor 124 can be operated to drive a flow of cold air (i.e., an active airflow) within the freezer compartment 106. Furthermore, the air processor 124 can be any suitable device for moving air. For example, the air processor 124 can be an axial fan or a centrifugal fan. In some embodiments, the air processor 124 is operatively (e.g., electrically or wirelessly) communicated with (e.g., controlled by) a controller 110.

[0035] Typically, the ice-making assembly 102 includes a separable mold body 130 that defines one or more cavities 134 in which water can be received and ice blocks or ice blanks (e.g., solid ice blocks) can be formed. It should be noted that although a single exemplary cavity 134 is described below, multiple independent (e.g., horizontally spaced) cavities 134 may be provided, as shown in the figure.

[0036] During use, the ice-making assembly 102 can be selectively placed or received within the freezer compartment 106. For example, the ice-making assembly 102 (e.g., the entire ice-making assembly 102, or optionally, its sub-sections) can be removably disposed within the freezer compartment 106, allowing the user to selectively place the ice-making assembly 102 within the freezer compartment 106 as desired (e.g., during ice-making operation) and remove the ice-making assembly 102 from the freezer compartment 106 (e.g., remove frozen ice cubes or ice blocks from the ice-making assembly 102).

[0037] As shown, the separable mold body 130 includes a thermally conductive ice mold 136 and a thermally insulating ice mold 138 selectively or removably disposed on the thermally conductive ice mold 136. The thermally conductive ice mold 136 extends along a vertical V between a top end 140 and a bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold. Between these ends, the thermally conductive ice mold 136 defines at least a portion of a mold cavity 134 (e.g., a lower mold cavity 134A) and has a vertical opening 144 leading to the mold cavity 134. For example, a thermally conductive sidewall 146 may extend (e.g., vertically) between the top end 140 and the bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold. The vertical opening 144 may be defined radially inward from the thermally conductive sidewall 146. The thermally conductive sidewall 146 may, in turn, radially close the vertical opening 144 or the lower mold cavity 134A. In some embodiments, the vertical opening 144 is defined at the top end 140 of the thermally conductive mold. The lower mold cavity 134A may extend downward from the top 140 of the heat-conducting mold and terminate above the bottom 142 of the heat-conducting mold. Alternatively, the heat-conducting ice mold 136 may define the lower mold cavity 134A as a concave (e.g., hemispherical) recess that opens upward along a vertical V to retain or receive water (e.g., flowing vertically from above the vertical opening 144).

[0038] A thermally conductive bottom wall 148 may extend below or beneath the mold cavity 134 (e.g., lower mold cavity 134A) (e.g., horizontally). For example, the thermally conductive bottom wall 148 may extend along the bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold. In some embodiments, the thermally conductive bottom wall 148 (or the bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold, generally) defines an exposed surface 150 facing away from the mold cavity 134. The exposed surface 150 may thus extend along the bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold (e.g., horizontally). Alternatively or additionally, the exposed surface 150 may be defined opposite a vertical opening 144. In some embodiments, the vertical opening 144 defines a single opening leading to the lower mold cavity 134A (e.g., for water). Alternatively or additionally, the bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold may be sealed to generally prevent water from entering or escaping the thermally conductive mold body 130 through the thermally conductive bottom wall 148 or the bottom end 142 of the thermally conductive mold.

[0039] On or around the thermally conductive ice mold 136, an insulating ice mold 138 may be selectively received (e.g., to cover or close the cavity 134 at the vertical opening 144). As shown, the insulating ice mold 138 extends (e.g., vertically) between the top end 152 and the bottom end 154 of the insulating mold. For example, the insulating ice mold 138 may include an insulating sidewall 156 extending (e.g., vertically) between the top end 152 and the bottom end 154 of the insulating mold. The insulating top wall 158 may extend (e.g., horizontally) across the insulating sidewall 156. Between the top end 152 and the bottom end 154 of the insulating mold, the insulating ice mold 138 may define an internal water channel 160. Specifically, the internal water channel 160 extends above the cavity 134 (e.g., through the insulating top wall 158) and is in fluid communication with it. An internal water channel 160 may extend from the mold cavity 134 and extend into or through the upper surface 162 of the insulated ice mold 138, which faces away from the mold cavity 134. Typically, the mold cavity 134 extends from and is wider than the internal water channel 160. In such an embodiment, the mold cavity 134 (e.g., at the vertical opening 144) defines a maximum horizontal width D1, which is greater than the maximum horizontal width D2 defined by the internal water channel 160. During use, water can thus be allowed to flow into / out of the mold cavity 134 through the internal water channel 160 (e.g., when the insulated ice mold 138 is received on a heat-conducting ice mold 136).

[0040] In some embodiments, the insulated ice mold 138 also defines at least a portion of the mold cavity 134. For example, the insulated ice mold 138 may define an upper mold cavity 134B. Optionally, the upper mold cavity 134B may be defined within the insulated top wall 158 or otherwise arranged radially inward from the insulated side wall 156. The upper mold cavity 134B may be arranged directly below the internal water channel 160. Moreover, the upper mold cavity 134B may terminate at the cavity opening 164. The upper mold cavity 134B may also extend downward from the internal water channel 160 and terminate above the bottom end 154 of the lower insulated mold. As shown, the upper mold cavity 134B may selectively mate with the lower mold cavity 134A to form a single ice blank therein. Optionally, the insulated ice mold 138 may define the upper mold cavity 134B as a concave (e.g., hemispherical) recess that opens downward along a vertical V to retain or receive water (e.g., flowing vertically through the internal water channel 160) using the lower mold cavity 134A. In some such embodiments, the ice blank formed within the mold cavity may appear as a solid (e.g., transparent) sphere.

[0041] Typically, the heat-insulating ice mold 138 can selectively cover at least a portion of the heat-conducting ice mold 136 (e.g., at the vertical opening 144). In some embodiments, the heat-insulating ice mold 138 can also receive or close at least a portion of the heat-conducting ice mold 136. A heat-insulating sidewall 156 can be arranged radially outward from the heat-conducting ice mold 136. Specifically, the heat-insulating sidewall 156 can be arranged radially outward from either the heat-conducting sidewall 146 or the exposed surface 150. In some such embodiments, the heat-insulating sidewall 156 defines a mating opening 165 leading to a heat-insulating cavity 166. The heat-insulating cavity 166 can be defined below the heat-insulating top wall 158 or the upper mold cavity 134B. At least a portion of the heat-conducting ice mold 136 can be received within the heat-insulating cavity 166. Optionally, the heat-conducting ice mold 136 is nested within the heat-insulating cavity 166 such that the heat-insulating sidewall 156 covers the heat-conducting sidewall 146. The heat-insulating cavity 166 can extend from the top 140 of the heat-conducting mold to the bottom 142 of the heat-conducting mold (e.g., below the upper cavity 134B). During assembly, the heat-insulating sidewall 156 can extend from the top 140 of the heat-conducting mold (e.g., completely or continuously) to the bottom 142 of the heat-conducting mold, thereby selectively covering the heat-conducting sidewall 146. Additionally or optionally, the exposed surface 150 can remain uncovered both within and through the mating opening 165.

[0042] In addition to the separable mold body 130, the ice-making assembly 102 also includes an outer heat insulation sleeve 168. Specifically, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 is selectively received on the insulated ice mold 138. When assembled, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 may cover the internal water channels 160 (e.g., to substantially prevent the internal water channels 160 from being seen by the user or to isolate them from the surrounding environment). As shown, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 extends (e.g., vertically) between the top end 170 and the bottom end 172. For example, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 may include a sleeve sidewall 174 extending (e.g., vertically) between the top end 170 and the bottom end 172. An upper sleeve wall 176 may extend (e.g., horizontally) across the heat insulation sidewall 156. The inner surface 178 of the upper sleeve wall 176 may point (e.g., downward) towards the insulated ice mold 138.

[0043] Typically, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 can selectively cover at least a portion of the heat-insulating ice mold 138 (e.g., at the internal water channel 160). In some embodiments, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 can also receive or surround at least a portion of the heat-insulating ice mold 138. At least a portion of the sleeve sidewall 174 can be arranged radially outward from the heat-insulating ice mold 138. Specifically, the sleeve sidewall 174 can be arranged radially outward from the heat-insulating sidewall 156. Alternatively or additionally, the sleeve sidewall 174 can be arranged radially outward from the exposed surface 150 of the heat-conducting ice mold 136. In some such embodiments, the sleeve sidewall 174 defines a sleeve opening 180 for a closed cavity 182, which is also defined by the outer heat insulation sleeve 168. Specifically, the closed cavity 182 can be defined below the upper sleeve wall 176. At least a portion of the heat-insulating ice mold 138 can be received within the closed cavity 182. Optionally, the heat-insulating ice mold 138 is nested within the closed cavity 182, such that the sleeve sidewall 174 covers the heat-insulating sidewall 156. The closed cavity 182 can extend from the top end 152 of the heat-insulating mold to the bottom end 154 of the heat-insulating mold. During assembly, the sleeve sidewall 174 can extend from the top end 170 of the sleeve (e.g., completely or continuously) to the bottom end 172 of the sleeve, thereby selectively covering the heat-insulating sidewall 156. Alternatively or additionally, the exposed surface 150 can remain uncovered within the sleeve opening 180.

[0044] In some embodiments, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168, together with the heat insulation ice mold 138, defines an excess water chamber 184. For example, a vertical gap or distance may be maintained between the upper surface 162 of the heat insulation ice mold 138 and the inner surface 178 of the outer heat insulation sleeve 168. Specifically, the excess water chamber 184 may be defined within this vertical gap between the upper surface 162 of the heat insulation ice mold 138 and the inner surface 178 of the outer heat insulation sleeve 168. As shown, an internal water channel 160 may extend into the excess water chamber 184, thereby providing fluid communication between the excess water chamber 184 and the mold cavity 134.

[0045] Typically, the individual components of the ice-making assembly 102 can be formed from any suitable material. However, the materials used to form the individual components can be different. Specifically, the thermally conductive ice mold 136 is formed from a different material than the insulated ice mold 138. Furthermore, the thermal conductivity (e.g., a first) of the thermally conductive ice mold 136 can be greater than the thermal conductivity (e.g., a second) of the insulated ice mold 138. For example, the thermally conductive ice mold 136 can be a metallic thermally conductive ice mold, while the insulated ice mold 138 can be a non-metallic insulated ice mold. Thus, the thermally conductive ice mold 136 can be formed from a suitable thermally conductive metal that facilitates heat removal from the mold cavity 134, such as aluminum or stainless steel (e.g., combinations or alloys thereof). Additionally or optionally, the insulated ice mold 138 can be formed from a suitable thermally insulating polymer for limiting heat transfer to one or more portions of the mold cavity 134, such as silicone, polycarbonate, or polyethylene (e.g., combinations or variations thereof).

[0046] In some embodiments, the thermally conductive ice mold 136 is also formed of a different material than the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168. Specifically, the first thermal coefficient of the thermally conductive ice mold 136 may be greater than the (e.g., third) thermal coefficient of the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168. For example, the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168 may be formed of a suitable insulating polymer for limiting heat transfer to one or more portions of the mold cavity 134, such as silicone, polycarbonate, or polyethylene (e.g., combinations or variations thereof). The material of the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168 may be the same as that of the thermally insulated ice mold 138. Alternatively, the material of the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168 may be the same as that of the thermally insulated ice mold 138. The third thermal coefficient and the second thermal coefficient may be substantially equal, or optionally may be different (e.g., such that the third thermal coefficient is less than the second thermal coefficient).

[0047] Optionally, the thermally conductive ice mold 136, the thermally insulating ice mold 138, or the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168 can each be formed as an independent, single, or integral component. As an example, the thermally conductive ice mold 136 can be a solid, single component made of a first material. As an additional or optional example, the thermally insulating ice mold 138 can be a solid, single component made of a second material. As another additional or optional example, the outer thermal insulation sleeve 168 can be a solid, single component made of a third material.

[0048] Special steering Figures 5 to 8 The example illustrates exemplary steps for using the ice-making component 102 (e.g., by showing the ice-making component at various stages). Figure 5 As shown, before water is supplied to the mold cavity 134, the heat-insulating ice mold 138 can be selectively fitted onto the heat-conducting ice mold 136, such that the heat-conducting ice mold 136 is received within the heat-insulating ice mold 138, thereby assembling the separable mold body 130. Figure 6As shown, once the separable mold body 130 is assembled, water can be supplied to the mold cavity 134 (e.g., through internal water channels 160). After the mold cavity 134 is filled with water, an outer heat insulation sleeve 168 is fitted onto the heat-insulating ice mold 138, such that the heat-insulating ice mold 138 and the heat-conducting ice mold 136 are received within the outer heat insulation sleeve 168. Furthermore, heat can be released from the mold cavity 134 (e.g., within the freezer compartment 106). Figure 1 Conducted through the heat-conducting ice mold 136 and the exposed surface 150, such as Figure 7 Example. When water freezes from the bottom of mold cavity 134, heat conduction from mold cavity 134 can cause ice to form within mold cavity 134, and significantly force impurities upwards away from the mold (e.g., along with unfrozen water, through internal water channels 160 to excess water chamber 184). Specifically, impurities and excess water can be carried away from mold cavity 134 to prevent the formation of cloudy ice within mold cavity 134. Figure 8 As shown, after the ice blank is formed, the outer heat insulation sleeve 168 and the heat insulation ice mold 138 can be removed from the heat-conducting ice mold 136, thereby allowing the user to access and remove one or more frozen ice blanks.

[0049] This written description discloses the invention using examples (including preferred embodiments) and enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention (including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any of the included methods). The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that may be conceived by those skilled in the art. Such other examples are expected to fall within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that are not distinct from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially distinct from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. An ice-making component, characterized in that, include: A thermally conductive ice mold extends vertically between a top end and a bottom end of a thermally conductive mold, the thermally conductive ice mold defining a cavity having a vertical opening at the top end of the thermally conductive mold, the thermally conductive ice mold including thermally conductive sidewalls extending from the top end of the thermally conductive mold to the bottom end of the thermally conductive mold; A heat-insulating ice mold is selectively received on a heat-conducting ice mold and covers a vertical opening. The heat-insulating ice mold includes a heat-insulating sidewall extending from the top end of the heat-insulating mold to the bottom end of the heat-insulating mold. The heat-insulating ice mold selectively covers the heat-conducting sidewall from the top end of the heat-conducting mold to the bottom end of the heat-conducting mold. The heat-insulating ice mold defines an internal water channel extending above the mold cavity and in fluid communication with the mold cavity. The heat-insulating ice mold defines an upper surface opposite to the mold cavity. as well as An external heat insulation sleeve is selectively received on an insulated ice mold and covers an internal water channel. The external heat insulation sleeve selectively covers an insulated sidewall from the top to the bottom of the insulated mold. The external heat insulation sleeve includes an upper sleeve wall having an inner surface facing the insulated ice mold. An excess water chamber is defined between the upper surface of the insulated ice mold and the inner surface of the external heat insulation sleeve. The internal water channel extends through the upper surface and is in fluid communication with the excess water chamber.

2. The ice-making assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermally conductive ice mold has a first thermal coefficient, the thermally insulating ice mold has a second thermal coefficient, and the external thermal insulation sleeve has a third thermal coefficient. The first thermal coefficient is greater than the second thermal coefficient and the third thermal coefficient.

3. The ice-making assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermally conductive ice mold defines an exposed surface extending along the bottom end of the thermally conductive mold, and the thermally insulating ice mold defines a mating opening, within which the exposed surface remains uncovered.

4. The ice-making assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermally conductive ice mold defines an exposed surface extending along the bottom end of the thermally conductive mold, and the outer heat insulation sleeve defines a sleeve opening, within which the exposed surface remains uncovered.

5. The ice-making assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vertical opening has a maximum horizontal width, the internal water channel has a maximum horizontal width, and the maximum horizontal width of the vertical opening is greater than the maximum horizontal width of the internal water channel.

6. The ice-making assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mold cavity is a lower mold cavity, and the heat-insulating ice mold defines an upper mold cavity, which selectively mates with the lower mold cavity to form a single ice blank therein, the upper mold cavity being directly arranged below the internal water channel.

7. The ice-making assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat-insulating ice mold is defined in a heat-insulating cavity extending from the top of the heat-conducting mold to the bottom of the heat-conducting mold below the upper mold cavity.

8. An ice-making component, characterized in that, include: A metal thermally conductive ice mold extends vertically between a top end and a bottom end of a thermally conductive mold, the metal thermally conductive ice mold defining a cavity having a vertical opening at the top end of the thermally conductive mold, the metal thermally conductive ice mold further defining an exposed surface extending along the bottom end of the thermally conductive mold opposite to the vertical opening, the metal thermally conductive ice mold including a thermally conductive sidewall extending from the top end of the thermally conductive mold to the bottom end of the thermally conductive mold; A non-metallic insulated ice mold is selectively received radially outward from an exposed surface onto a metallic thermally conductive ice mold and covers a vertical opening. The non-metallic insulated ice mold includes an insulated sidewall extending from the top to the bottom of the insulated mold. The non-metallic insulated ice mold selectively covers the thermally conductive sidewall from the top to the bottom of the thermally conductive mold. The non-metallic insulated ice mold defines an internal water channel extending above and in fluid communication with the mold cavity. The non-metallic insulated ice mold defines an upper surface opposite to the mold cavity. as well as An external heat insulation sleeve is selectively received radially outward from the exposed surface of the non-metallic heat insulation ice mold on the non-metallic heat insulation ice mold. The external heat insulation sleeve covers an internal water channel and selectively covers an insulating sidewall from the top to the bottom of the heat insulation mold. The external heat insulation sleeve includes an upper sleeve wall having an inner surface facing the non-metallic heat insulation ice mold. An excess water chamber is defined between the upper surface of the non-metallic heat insulation ice mold and the inner surface of the external heat insulation sleeve. The internal water channel extends through the upper surface and is in fluid communication with the excess water chamber.

9. The ice-making assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The metal thermally conductive ice mold has a first thermal coefficient, the non-metallic thermally insulated ice mold has a second thermal coefficient, and the external thermal insulation sleeve has a third thermal coefficient. The first thermal coefficient is greater than the second thermal coefficient and the third thermal coefficient.

10. The ice-making assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The non-metallic heat-insulating ice mold defines a mating opening, and the exposed surface remains uncovered within the mating opening.

11. The ice-making assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The external insulation sleeve defines an opening, and the exposed surface remains uncovered within the opening.

12. The ice-making assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The vertical opening has a maximum horizontal width, the internal water channel has a maximum horizontal width, and the maximum horizontal width of the vertical opening is greater than the maximum horizontal width of the internal water channel.

13. The ice-making assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, The mold cavity is a lower mold cavity, and the non-metallic heat-insulating ice mold defines an upper mold cavity that selectively mates with the lower mold cavity to form a single ice blank therein. The upper mold cavity is directly arranged below the internal water channel.

14. The ice-making assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that, The non-metallic heat-insulating ice mold is defined in a heat-insulating cavity extending from the top of the heat-conducting mold to the bottom of the heat-conducting mold below the upper mold cavity.

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