Automatic ice maker comprising a secondary water supply system for the outside of the ice moulds

Abstract

A refrigeration appliance (100) includes an ice maker (300) disposed within a cabinet (102) of the refrigeration appliance (100), the ice maker (300) including a plurality of walls (344) forming a receiving space (338), a conductive ice mold (340) disposed within the receiving space (338), the conductive ice mold (340) defining an inner cavity and an outer surface (319), a primary water supply system (314) disposed below the conductive ice mold (340) to direct an ice-making jet (346) of water to the conductive ice mold (340), a heat exchanger (348) arranged on the conductive ice mold (340) to draw heat therefrom, and a secondary water supply system (350) disposed adjacent the outer surface (319) of the conductive ice mold (340). The secondary water supply system (350) distributes melt ice water on the outer surface (319) of the conductive ice mold (340).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to refrigeration appliances, and more specifically to improving the harvesting of ice from ice molds in an ice maker within a refrigeration appliance. Background Technology

[0002] In household and commercial applications, ice is typically formed into solid cubes, such as crescent-shaped cubes or generally rectangular blocks. The shape of these cubes is usually determined by the container holding the water during the freezing process. For example, ice makers can receive liquid water, which can then be frozen inside the ice maker to form ice cubes. In particular, some ice makers include freezing molds that define multiple cavities. While typical solid cubes or blocks can be useful in a variety of situations, they have certain drawbacks. For example, such typical cubes or blocks are quite cloudy due to impurities found in the freezing mold or water. Therefore, some consumers consider clear ice superior to cloudy ice. In the process of forming clear ice, dissolved solids, typically found in water (such as tap water), are separated, and essentially pure water is frozen to form clear ice.

[0003] However, further improvements are needed to enhance the production and harvesting of clear ice. For example, in spray ice makers, excess water may freeze along the outer surface of the ice mold. This frozen outer surface can inhibit the harvesting of the formed ice, as the ice layer on the outer surface must be removed before the ice is discharged from the mold. Therefore, an ice maker that eliminates one or more of the aforementioned drawbacks would be beneficial. In particular, an ice maker that eliminates the formation of ice along the outer surface of the ice mold would be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0004] 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.

[0005] In one exemplary aspect of the invention, an ice maker is provided. The ice maker may include: a plurality of walls forming a receiving space; a conductive ice mold disposed within the receiving space, the conductive ice mold defining an inner cavity and an outer surface; a main water supply system disposed below the conductive ice mold to guide an ice-making jet of water into the inner cavity of the conductive ice mold; a heat exchanger arranged on the conductive ice mold to absorb heat therefrom; and a secondary water supply system disposed adjacent to the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the secondary water supply system distributes melted ice water onto the outer surface of the conductive ice mold.

[0006] In another exemplary aspect of the invention, a refrigeration appliance is disclosed. The refrigeration appliance may include: a housing defining one or more refrigeration compartments; a refrigeration system installed within the housing to selectively cool the one or more refrigeration compartments, the refrigeration system including a compressor and an evaporator in fluid communication with the compressor; and an ice maker installed within one of the one or more refrigeration compartments. The ice maker may include: a plurality of walls forming a receiving space; a conductive ice mold disposed within the receiving space, the conductive ice mold defining an inner cavity and an outer surface; a main water supply system disposed below the conductive ice mold to guide an ice-making jet of water to the conductive ice mold; a heat exchanger arranged on the conductive ice mold to absorb heat therefrom; and a secondary water supply system disposed adjacent to the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the secondary water supply system distributes melted ice water onto the outer surface of the conductive ice mold.

[0007] 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

[0008] 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.

[0009] Figure 1 A perspective view of a refrigeration appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0010] Figure 2 Provided Figure 1 A front view of an exemplary refrigeration appliance, wherein the refrigerator door and the freezer door are shown in the open position.

[0011] Figure 3 Provided Figure 1 A perspective view of the freezer compartment of an exemplary refrigeration appliance, wherein the freezer door and storage compartment are removed for clarity.

[0012] Figure 4 Provided Figure 3 Front elevation view of an exemplary freezer compartment.

[0013] Figure 5 Provided Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a sealed cooling system for an exemplary refrigeration appliance.

[0014] Figure 6 Provided Figure 2Front elevation view of the ice-making assembly in the ice box compartment of an exemplary refrigeration appliance.

[0015] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an ice-making assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0016] Figure 8 A perspective view of an ice mold including a secondary water supply system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0017] Figure 9 A perspective view of an ice maker including grooves according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0018] Figure 10 Provided Figure 9 A close-up cross-sectional view of an exemplary trench.

[0019] Figure 11 Provided separation from ice molds Figure 9 A three-dimensional view of an exemplary trench.

[0020] Figure 12 A perspective view of a perforated tube according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0021] Figure 13 A perspective view of a perforated tube according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0022] The repeated use of reference numerals in this specification and the accompanying drawings is intended to indicate the same or similar features or elements of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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 phrase "in one implementation" does not necessarily refer to the same implementation, but may refer to the same implementation.

[0025] 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 "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative direction of fluid flow within a fluid path. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction from which the fluid flows, while "downstream" refers to the direction from which the fluid flows.

[0026] Figure 1 A perspective view of a refrigeration appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided. The refrigeration appliance 100 includes a housing or casing 102 extending along a vertical direction V between a top 104 and a bottom 106, along a lateral direction L between a first side 108 and a second side 110, and along a transverse direction T between a front side 112 and a rear side 114. Each of the vertical direction V, the lateral direction L, and the transverse direction T is perpendicular to each other.

[0027] The housing 102 defines a refrigeration compartment for receiving and storing food. Specifically, the housing 102 defines a food preservation 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 is generally referred to as a bottom-mounted refrigerator. However, it is recognized that the benefits of the invention apply to other types and styles of refrigeration appliances, such as top-mounted or side-by-side refrigerators. Therefore, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit any particular refrigeration compartment configuration in any way.

[0028] The refrigerator door 128 is rotatably hinged to the edge of the housing 102 for selective access to the food preservation compartment 122. Similarly, the freezer door 130 is rotatably hinged to the edge of the housing 102 for selective access to the freezer compartment 124. To prevent cold air leakage, the refrigerator door 128, freezer door 130, or housing 102 may define one or more sealing mechanisms (e.g., rubber seals, not shown) at the interface where the door 128, 130 meets the housing 102. The refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 are... Figure 1 It is shown as being in a closed configuration, and in Figure 2 The door is shown in an open configuration. It should be understood that doors with different styles, positions, or configurations are possible and are within the scope of this invention.

[0029] The refrigeration appliance 100 also includes a dispensing assembly 132 for dispensing liquid water or ice. The dispensing assembly 132 includes a dispenser 134 disposed on or mounted to the exterior of the refrigeration appliance 100, for example, on one of the refrigerator door bodies 128. The dispenser 134 includes a drain outlet 136 for receiving ice and liquid water. An actuation mechanism 138, shown as a paddle, is mounted below the drain outlet 136 to operate the dispenser 134. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, any suitable actuation mechanism can be used to operate the dispenser 134. For example, the dispenser 134 may include a sensor (such as an ultrasonic sensor) or a button instead of a paddle. A control panel 140 is configured to control operating modes. For example, the control panel 140 includes multiple user inputs (unlabeled), such as a water dispensing button and an ice dispensing button, for selecting a desired operating mode, such as crushed ice or non-crushed ice.

[0030] The discharge port 136 and the actuation mechanism 138 are external parts of the dispenser 134 and are mounted in the dispenser recess 142. The dispenser recess 142 is positioned at a predetermined height that facilitates the user in retrieving ice or water and allows the user to retrieve ice without bending over or opening the refrigerator door 128. In an exemplary embodiment, the dispenser recess 142 is positioned near chest level with the user. According to an exemplary embodiment, the dispensing assembly 132 can receive ice from an ice maker or ice-making assembly 300 located in a sub-compartment (e.g., IB compartment 180) of the refrigeration appliance 100.

[0031] The refrigeration appliance 100 also includes a controller 144. The operation of the refrigeration appliance 100 is regulated by the controller 144, which is operatively coupled to or operatively communicates with the control panel 140. In one exemplary embodiment, the control panel 140 may represent a general-purpose I / O (“GPIO”) device or function block. In another exemplary embodiment, the control panel 140 may include input components, such as one or more of various electrical, mechanical, or electromechanical input devices including a rotary control panel, buttons, a touchpad, or a touchscreen. The control panel 140 may communicate with the controller 144 via one or more signal lines or a shared communication bus. The control panel 140 provides selection of operations for the user to control the operation of the refrigeration appliance 100. In response to user operations on the control panel 140, the controller 144 operates various components of the refrigeration appliance 100. For example, as discussed below, the controller 144 is operatively coupled to or communicates with various components of the sealing system. The controller 144 may also communicate with various sensors, such as room temperature sensors or ambient temperature sensors. The controller 144 may receive signals from these temperature sensors corresponding to the temperature of the atmosphere or air at the respective location of the sensors.

[0032] In some embodiments, controller 144 includes memory and one or more processing devices, such as a microprocessor, CPU, etc., such as a general-purpose or special-purpose microprocessor, operable to execute programming instructions or microcontroller code associated with the operation of the refrigeration appliance 100. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM or read-only memory such as ROM or FLASH. The processor executes programming instructions stored in the memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included on a board within the processor. Alternatively, controller 144 may be constructed 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., to perform control functions, rather than relying on software).

[0033] Figure 2 A front view of a refrigeration appliance 100 is provided, showing the refrigerator door 128 and freezer door 130 in the open position. According to the illustrated embodiment, as those skilled in the art will understand, various storage components are installed within the food preservation compartment 122 and the freezer compartment 124 to facilitate the storage of food therein. Specifically, the storage components include a box 146, a drawer 148, and a shelf 150 installed within the food preservation compartment 122 or the freezer compartment 124. The box 146, drawer 148, and shelf 150 are used to receive food (e.g., beverages or solid foods) and can help organize such food. As an example, drawer 148 can receive fresh food (e.g., vegetables, fruits, or cheese) and increase the shelf life of such fresh food.

[0034] See now Figure 3 and Figure 4 A freezer compartment 124 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described. As shown in the example figure, the housing or casing 102 includes an inner liner 160 defining the freezer compartment 124. For example, the inner liner 160 may be an injection-molded door liner attached to the interior of the casing 102. An insulating material such as expandable foam (not shown) may be present between the casing 102 and the inner liner 160 to assist in insulating the freezer compartment 124. For example, after assembling the casing 102 and the inner liner 160, sprayed polyurethane foam may be injected into the cavity defined between the casing 102 and the inner liner 160. The freezer door 130 may be constructed in a similar manner to assist in insulating the freezer compartment 124.

[0035] The freezer compartment 124 typically extends laterally L between the left wall 162 and the right wall 164, vertically V between the bottom wall 166 and the top wall 168, and transversely T between the compartment opening 170 and the rear wall 172. In some embodiments, the refrigeration appliance 100 also includes a central beam 176 disposed within the freezer compartment 124 to divide the freezer compartment 124 into a pair of separate sub-compartments, such as an ice box (IB) compartment 180 and a dedicated freezer (Fz) compartment 182. According to the illustrated embodiment, the central beam 176 typically extends transversely T between the compartment opening 170 and the rear wall 172, and vertically V between the bottom wall 166 and the top wall 168. Thus, the central beam 176 is typically vertically oriented and can divide the freezer compartment 124 into two equal-sized compartments 180, 182. However, it should be understood that the center beam 176 can be sized, positioned, and constructed in any suitable manner to form separate freezing sub-compartments within the freezing chamber 124. Furthermore, alternative implementations without any such center beam are also possible.

[0036] To limit heat transfer between IB compartment 180 and Fz compartment 182, the center beam 176 can typically be formed of an insulating material such as foam. Alternatively, a rigid injection-molded liner or metal frame can surround the insulating foam to provide structural support. According to another exemplary embodiment, the center beam 176 can be a vacuum insulation panel, or can include a vacuum insulation panel to minimize heat transfer between IB compartment 180 and Fz compartment 182. Optionally, the liner 160 and / or the center beam 176 can include features such as guides or sliders to ensure proper placement, installation, and sealing of the center beam 176 within the liner 160.

[0037] See now Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an exemplary sealing system 190 that can be used to cool the freezer compartment 124 will be described. The sealing system 190 is typically used to perform a vapor compression cycle for cooling air within the refrigeration appliance 100 (e.g., within the food preservation compartment 122 or the freezer compartment 124). The sealed cooling system 190 includes a compressor 192, a condenser 194, an expansion device 196, and an evaporator 198 that are fluidly connected (e.g., in series) and filled with refrigerant.

[0038] During operation of the sealing system 190, gaseous refrigerant flows into the compressor 192, which operates to increase the pressure of the refrigerant and force it through the sealing system 190. This compression of the refrigerant raises its temperature, which is lowered by passing the gaseous refrigerant through the condenser 194. Within the condenser 194, heat exchange occurs with the ambient air to cool the refrigerant and cause it to condense into a liquid state.

[0039] An expansion device (e.g., an expansion valve, capillary tube, or other limiting device) 196 receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser 194. The liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator 198 from the expansion device 196. As it leaves the expansion device 196 and enters the evaporator 198, the pressure of the liquid refrigerant decreases and it evaporates at least partially. Due to the phase change of the liquid refrigerant, the evaporator 198 is cool relative to the food preservation compartment 122 and the freezer compartment 124 of the refrigeration appliance 100. This generates cooling air and cools the food preservation compartment 122 and the freezer compartment 124 of the refrigeration appliance 100. Thus, the evaporator 198 is a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the air passing through the evaporator 198 to the refrigerant flowing through it.

[0040] It should be understood that the illustrated sealing system 190 is merely an exemplary configuration of the sealing system 190, which may include additional components (e.g., one or more additional evaporators, compressors, expanders, or condensers). As an example, the sealed cooling system 190 may include two evaporators. As another example, the sealing system 190 may also include a receiver 199. The receiver 199 may be located downstream of the evaporator 198 and may be configured to collect condensed refrigerant from the refrigerant stream before delivering it to the compressor 192.

[0041] See again Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the evaporator 198 is positioned adjacent to the rear wall 172 of the inner liner 160. The remaining components of the sealing system 190 may be located within the mechanical compartment 200 of the refrigeration appliance 100. Pipe 202 can transfer refrigerant through a liquid-tight inlet to the freezer compartment 124 and then to the evaporator 198, and can also transfer refrigerant from the evaporator 198 to the freezer compartment 124 through a liquid-tight outlet.

[0042] According to the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator 198 includes a first evaporator section 204 and a second evaporator section 206. The first evaporator section 204 and the second evaporator section 206 are connected in series such that the refrigerant passes through the first evaporator section 204 before passing through the second evaporator section 206. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, the first evaporator section 204 and the second evaporator section 206 are connected by a transition pipe 208. The transition pipe 208 may be a separate connecting pipe or part of the same pipe forming the evaporator 198. As illustrated in the example, the first evaporator section 204 is disposed in compartment IB 180, and the second evaporator section 206 is disposed in compartment FZ 182. In this respect, the transition pipe 208 may pass through an orifice in the center beam 176.

[0043] An evaporator cover can be positioned above the evaporator 198 to form an evaporation chamber with the inner liner 160. For example, as shown in the illustration, a first evaporator cover 220 is positioned within the IB compartment 180, above the evaporator 198, or more specifically, above the first evaporator portion 204. Thus, the inner liner 160, the center beam 176, and the first evaporator cover 220 define a first evaporation chamber 222 that houses the first evaporator portion 204. Similarly, a second evaporator cover 224 is positioned within the Fz compartment 182, above the evaporator 198, or more specifically, above the second evaporator portion 206. Thus, the inner liner 160, the center beam 176, and the second evaporator cover 224 define a second evaporation chamber 226 that houses the second evaporator portion 206.

[0044] Evaporator chambers 222 and 226 may include one or more return air ducts and supply air ducts to allow air to circulate to and from chambers 180 (IB) and 182 (Fz) (e.g., along one or more air paths). In an exemplary embodiment, a first evaporator cover 220 defines one or more first return air ducts 230 for allowing air into the first evaporator chamber 222 and one or more first supply air ducts 230 for discharging air from the first evaporator chamber 222 into chamber 180 (e.g., along a first air path 250). Additionally or alternatively, a second evaporator cover 224 may define one or more second return air ducts 234 for allowing air into the second evaporator chamber 226 and one or more second supply air ducts 236 for discharging air from the second evaporator chamber 226 into chamber 182 (e.g., along a second air path 252). According to the exemplified embodiment, the first return air duct 230 and the second return air duct 234 are positioned near the bottom of the freezer compartment 224 (e.g., near the bottom wall 166), and the first supply air duct 232 and the second supply air duct 236 are positioned near the top of the freezer compartment 224 (e.g., near the top wall 168). However, it should be understood that, according to alternative embodiments, any other suitable means for providing fluid communication between the evaporator compartment and the freezer compartment are possible and within the scope of the invention.

[0045] Refrigeration appliance 100 may include one or more fans to assist air circulation through evaporator 198 and cooling freezer compartments 180, 182. For example, according to the exemplary embodiment described, refrigeration appliance 100 includes a first fan 240 in fluid communication with a first evaporator 222 for propelling air through the first evaporator 222. Optionally, the first fan 240 may be an axial fan disposed within a first air supply duct 232 for propelling cold air from the first evaporator 222 through the first air supply duct 232 into the freezer compartment 180, while recirculating the air back into the first evaporator 222 through a first return air duct 230 for recooling. Additionally or optionally, refrigeration appliance 100 may include a second fan 242 in fluid communication with a second evaporator 226 for propelling air through the second evaporator 226. Optionally, the second fan 242 may be an axial fan disposed within a second air supply duct 236 for circulating air between the second evaporator 226 and the freezer compartment 182, as described above.

[0046] Special transfer Figures 6 to 9 An ice-making assembly (or ice maker) 300 may be installed within IB compartment 180. It should be noted that although the ice maker 300 is described herein as being installed within a refrigeration appliance, the invention and the appended description can be applied in certain cases to a stand-alone ice maker. Typically, the ice-making assembly 300 includes a mold assembly 310. The mold assembly 310 may include a conductive ice mold 340 defining a cavity 318 in which ice blanks 320 may be formed. Furthermore, the conductive ice mold 340 may define an outer surface or external surface 319 opposite the cavity 318. Moreover, in some embodiments, the external surface 319 may include or be defined by a plastic cap surrounding or defined by the ice mold 340. Thus, the external surface may be referred to as the plastic cap 319. Optionally, a plurality of cavities 318 may be defined by the mold assembly 310 (e.g., as separate or connected ice-making units 312) and spaced apart from each other (e.g., perpendicular to the vertical V, such as along the lateral L). Typically, the mold assembly 310 can be positioned between the supply air duct 232 and the return air duct 230 along the air path within the IB chamber 180. In some such embodiments, the mold assembly 310 is positioned vertically between the supply air duct 232 and the return air duct 230.

[0047] As will be described in further detail below, the mold assembly 310 may also include a heat exchanger 348 mounted thereon (e.g., in thermal communication with the respective individual ice-making units 312). For example, the heat exchanger 348 can be any suitable solid-state electrically driven heat exchanger, such as a thermoelectric device (e.g., a Peltier unit). The heat exchanger 348 may include a first heat exchange end or side and a second heat exchange end or side. When activated, heat can be selectively directed between the ends. In particular, the heat flux generated between the joints of the ends can draw heat from one end to the other (e.g., driven by an electric current). In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 348 is operatively coupled (e.g., electrically coupled) to a controller 144, which can thereby control the flow of current to the heat exchanger 348. During use, the heat exchanger 348 can selectively draw heat from the mold cavity 318, as will be described further below.

[0048] A water distributor 314 disposed below the mold assembly 310 is typically used to selectively direct water flow into the mold cavity 318. Typically, the water distributor 314 includes a water pump 322 and at least one nozzle 324 directed (e.g., vertically) towards the mold cavity 318. In embodiments where the mold assembly 310 defines a plurality of individual mold cavities 318, the water distributor 314 may include a plurality of nozzles 324 or fluid pumps vertically aligned with the plurality of mold cavities 318. For example, each mold cavity 318 may be vertically aligned with an individual nozzle 324.

[0049] In some embodiments, a water basin 316 is positioned below the ice mold 340 (e.g., directly below the mold cavity 318 along a vertical V). The water basin 316 comprises a solid, impermeable body and may define a vertical opening and an internal volume 328 in fluid communication with the mold cavity 318. During assembly, fluids, such as excess water falling from the mold cavity 318, can enter the internal volume 328 of the water basin 316 through the vertical opening. Optionally, a drain pipe may be connected to the water basin 316 to draw collected water from the water basin 316 and discharge it into the IB compartment.

[0050] In some embodiments, a guide ramp 330 is positioned along a vertical V between the mold assembly 310 and the water basin 316. For example, the guide ramp 330 may include a ramp surface extending at a negative angle (e.g., laterally, relative to the horizontal direction) from a location below the mold cavity 318 to another location spaced apart from the water basin 316 (e.g., horizontally). In some such embodiments, the guide ramp 330 extends to or terminates above the ice storage box 332 (e.g., within the IB compartment 180). Alternatively, the guide ramp 330 may define a perforated portion 152, which is vertically aligned, for example, between the mold cavity 318 and the nozzle 324 or between the mold cavity 318 and the internal volume 328 (described in further detail below). One or more orifices are typically defined at the perforated portion through the guide ramp 330. Thus, fluids such as water can generally pass through the perforated portion of the guide ramp 330 (e.g., along the vertical V between the mold cavity 318 and the internal volume 328).

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the ice storage box 332 typically defines a storage volume 336 and may be positioned below the mold assembly 310 and the mold cavity 318. Ice blanks 320 formed within the mold cavity 318 can be discharged from the mold assembly 310 and subsequently stored within the storage volume 336 of the ice storage box 332 (e.g., within the IB compartment 180). In some such embodiments, the ice storage box 332 is positioned within the IB compartment 180 and is horizontally spaced from the water dispenser 314 or the mold assembly 310. A guide ramp 330 may span a horizontal distance above or to the ice storage box 332 (e.g., from the mold assembly). Thus, as the ice blanks 320 descend or fall from the mold cavity 318, the ice blanks 138 may be pushed (e.g., by gravity) towards the ice storage box 150.

[0052] As shown, controller 144 can communicate (e.g., electrical communication) with one or more parts of ice-making assembly 300. In some embodiments, controller 144 communicates with one or more fluid pumps (e.g., water pump 322), heat exchanger 348, and fan 240. Controller 144 can be configured to initiate independent ice-making and ice-releasing operations. For example, controller 144 can alternate between fluid source injection and release or ice harvesting processes at mold cavity 318, which will be described in more detail below.

[0053] During ice-making operation, controller 144 can activate or direct water distributor 314 to propel an ice-making jet (e.g., as indicated by arrow 346) through nozzle 324 and into mold cavity 318 (e.g., through a mold opening at the bottom of mold cavity 318). Controller 144 can also direct fan 240 to propel a cooling airflow (e.g., along air path 250 from evaporator 190 or section 204) to convectively draw heat from within mold cavity 318 during ice-making jet 346. As water from ice-making jet 346 impacts mold assembly 310 within mold cavity 318, a portion of the water can freeze in a progressive layer from top to bottom of mold cavity 318. Excess water within ice-making jet 346 (e.g., water within mold cavity 318 that does not freeze upon contact with mold assembly 310 or the freezing volume herein) and impurities can fall from mold cavity 318 and, for example, into water basin 316. After the initial portion of ice has formed in the mold cavity 318, the controller 144 can activate the heat exchanger 348 to further extract heat from the ice mold cavity 318, thereby accelerating the freezing of the ice blank 320, especially without requiring significant power extraction.

[0054] Once an ice blank 320 is formed within the mold cavity 318, an ice release or harvesting process can be performed according to an embodiment of the invention. For example, the fan 240 can be restricted or stopped to slow down / stop the cooling airflow. Furthermore, the controller 144 can first stop or block the ice-making jet 346 by de-energizing the water pump 322. Alternatively or concurrently, the current to the heat exchanger 348 can be reversed, causing heat to be delivered from the heat exchanger 348 to the mold cavity 318. Thus, the controller 144 can slowly increase the temperature of the heat exchanger 348 and the ice mold 340, thereby promoting the partial melting or release of the ice blank 320 from the mold cavity 318.

[0055] See now for details. Figure 9 An exemplary main water distributor assembly (or main water supply system) 314, which can be used with an ice-making assembly 300 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, will be described, comprising a distributor base 342 and one or more removable spray caps 326. For example, the main water supply system 314 may be disposed within a receiving space 338 formed by a plurality of walls 344. Specifically, for example, the distributor base 342 and the spray caps 326 may serve as a guide ramp 330 and a nozzle 324 (or as part thereof), respectively. Thus, the water distributor may be disposed below (e.g., directly below) the ice mold 342 to guide the ice-making jet of water into the mold cavity 318. Although a single spray cap 326 is exemplified, any suitable number of spray caps (and thus corresponding ice-making units 312) may be provided, as will be understood according to the present invention.

[0056] See now for details. Figure 8 and Figure 9The auxiliary water supply system 350 will be described in detail below. Specifically, the auxiliary water supply system 350 may be configured adjacent to the conducting ice mold 340. For example, the auxiliary water supply system 350 may surround the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340. The auxiliary water supply system 350 may selectively distribute, supply, or otherwise distribute water to the outer surface (or plastic cover) 319 of the conducting ice mold 340. As will be described in more detail below, the auxiliary water supply system 350 may generate a curtain of water flowing downwards (e.g., along a vertical V) along the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340. Therefore, the auxiliary water supply system 350 may assist or aid in the formation of specific ice blocks 320 and reduce harvest time by preventing ice from accumulating along the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340.

[0057] The ice-making assembly 300 may include a cooling pouch-like portion 360 attached to a heat exchanger 348. As described above, the heat exchanger 348 may be a thermoelectric heat exchanger having a hot side and a cold side, with heat transferred across the hot and cold sides. The cold side of the heat exchanger 348 may be attached to the top surface of the conductive ice mold 340. The hot side of the heat exchanger 348 may be attached to the cooling pouch-like portion 360. Therefore, the cooling pouch-like portion 360 may be positioned above the heat exchanger 348 (e.g., along a vertical V). In at least some examples, the cooling pouch-like portion 360 is a computer processing unit (CPU) cooler. Therefore, water (such as cooling water) may flow through the cooling pouch-like portion 360 and absorb heat transferred from the hot side of the heat exchanger 348.

[0058] The cooling bag-shaped portion 360 may define an inlet 362 and an outlet 364. For example, water (e.g., auxiliary water) may be introduced into the cooling bag-shaped portion 360 via the inlet 362. The auxiliary water may be a different water flow from the ice-making water jet (e.g., from a different water source). Therefore, the auxiliary water may be referred to as melting ice water. When introduced into the cooling bag-shaped portion 360, the melting ice water may circulate through the cooling bag-shaped portion 360 and absorb heat from the heat exchanger 348. Flow paths may be formed within the cooling bag-shaped portion 360; however, the invention is not limited thereto. The melting ice water may then flow out of the cooling bag-shaped portion 360 via the outlet 364.

[0059] The auxiliary water supply system 350 may include a conduit 352. The conduit 352 may be fluidly connected to the outlet 364 of the cooling bag-shaped portion 360. Therefore, after heat has been absorbed within the cooling bag-shaped portion 360, meltwater may be introduced into the conduit 352. At this time, the meltwater may have a relatively higher temperature than, for example, the ice-making water (e.g., water sprayed into the mold cavity 318). For at least one example, the ice-making water may be between about 32° and about 34°, and the meltwater may be between about 34° and about 37°. In some embodiments, the meltwater may be pumped through the cooling bag-shaped portion 360 and the auxiliary water supply system 350. For example, a supply pump 370 (… Figure 7Water (e.g., municipal water) can be selectively supplied to each of the basin (or storage container) 316 and the cooling bag-shaped section 360. In at least some embodiments, the supply pump 370 pushes water from the storage container 316 to the cooling bag-shaped section 360. It should be noted that throughout the ice-making operation, melting water can be supplied to and distributed to the cooling bag-shaped section 360 via the auxiliary water supply system 350. Specifically, melting water can also be distributed on the outer surface 319 via the auxiliary water supply system 350 when ice-making water is sprayed onto the mold cavity 318.

[0060] The secondary water supply system 350 may include a perforated pipe 372. The perforated pipe 372 can be connected to the distal end of the conduit 352. Therefore, meltwater from the cooling bag-like section 360 can be supplied to the perforated pipe 372 via the conduit 352. Figure 12 As best shown, the perforated tube 372 may include an open end 374 connected to the conduit 352. The perforated tube 372 may also include a closed end 376 opposite the open end 374. Specifically, the melting water supplied to the perforated tube 372 may not leave or flow out of the perforated tube 372 via the closed end 374. Therefore, the perforated tube 372 may include a plurality of perforations 378 formed therein. Specifically, the plurality of perforations 378 may be formed through the circumferential surface of the perforated tube 372. The plurality of perforations 378 may be generally facing inward (e.g., towards the conductive ice mold 340). Moreover, the plurality of perforations 378 may be arranged sequentially from the open end 374 towards the closed end 376. Therefore, the melting water supplied to the perforated tube 372 can be evenly distributed onto the outer surface 319 of the conductive ice mold (or plastic cap) 340.

[0061] See brief Figure 13 Another embodiment of the perforated tube 372 is shown. Thus, according to this embodiment, the perforated tube 372 can be formed as an annular ring. According to this embodiment, the perforated tube 372 defines a 360° path through which the meltwater flows. The perforated tube 372 may thus include an inlet 379 to receive meltwater. The inlet 379 may be fluidly connected to a conduit 352 to receive meltwater therefrom. Similar to the embodiment described above, a plurality of perforations 378 may be formed through the surface of the annular ring (e.g., the perforated tube 372). Thus, meltwater supplied to the perforated tube 372 via the inlet 379 is distributed via the plurality of perforations 378.

[0062] The secondary water supply system 350 may include a channel 380. For this description, the channel 380 (and the ice-conducting mold 340) may define an axial direction A, a radial direction R, and a circumferential direction C. For example, the channel 380 may be circumferentially disposed around the ice-conducting mold 340 (e.g., around the outer surface 319). Figure 9As shown, the groove 380 can be disposed at or near the base or bottom of the conductive ice mold 340. However, the location and placement of the groove 380 may vary depending on the specific embodiment. The groove 380 may form a path for receiving water (e.g., melted ice water). For example, melted ice water may be supplied to the groove 380 via the top of the opening of the groove 380. In at least one embodiment (e.g., as shown) Figure 8 As shown), meltwater is supplied to trench 380 via perforated pipe 372 (e.g., along a vertical V). However, it should be understood that meltwater may be supplied to trench 380 by other means, such as from supply pump 370 through a separate pipe, directly from cooling bag 360, from municipal water supply, from food preservation compartment, etc. Alternatively or additionally, meltwater may be supplied to perforated pipe 372 by other means, such as from supply pump 370 through a separate pipe, directly from cooling bag 360, from municipal water supply, from food preservation compartment, etc. It should be understood that meltwater may be supplied to secondary water supply system 350 by any suitable means.

[0063] The groove 380 may include an inner radial wall 382 and an outer radial wall 384. The outer radial wall 384 may be higher than the inner radial wall 382 (e.g., along a vertical V). Therefore, the cross-section of the groove 380 may form a "J" shape. A basin wall 386 may connect the inner radial wall 382 and the outer radial wall 384, allowing water (e.g., melted ice water) to collect along the basin wall 386. Because the inner radial wall 382 is shorter than the outer radial wall 384, melted ice water may overflow from the inner radial wall 382 when a predetermined height (or predetermined volume) is reached. Thus, upon overflowing from the inner radial wall 382, ​​melted ice water may drip downwards along the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340.

[0064] As in Figure 10 and Figure 11 As seen in the image, the groove 380 may have a circumferential shape or cross-section similar to that of the conductive ice mold 340. For example, particularly in... Figure 11 As seen in the diagram, the groove 380 may have an octagonal shape. According to this embodiment, the groove 380 mates with the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340. The groove 380 may include one or more tabs 388 extending radially inward to contact the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340. For example, the tabs 388 may extend from the inner radial wall 382 (e.g., at its top) toward the conducting ice mold 340. The plurality of tabs 388 may be spaced apart from each other (e.g., circumferentially). Thus, a plurality of gaps 389 may be formed between each of the plurality of tabs 388. When meltwater overflows from the inner radial wall 382, ​​the water may fall along the outer surface 319 of the conducting ice mold 340 through each of the plurality of gaps.

[0065] In some embodiments, the ice-making assembly 300 includes both a groove 380 and a perforated tube 372. Melting water can then circulate through the cooling bag-like portion 360 to absorb heat from the heat exchanger 348. The melting water can then be pushed into the perforated tube 372, for example, via a conduit 352. The melting water can then flow, drip, or otherwise exit the perforated tube 372 through the perforations 378. At least a portion of the melting water from the perforations 378 can immediately contact the outer surface 319 of the conductive ice mold 340 and begin to flow downwards. At least another portion of the melting water from the perforations 378 can fall into the groove 380. Once a predetermined volume of melting water has been reached within the groove 380, the melting water seeps out from the inner radial wall 382 and reaches the outer surface 319 of the conductive ice mold 340.

[0066] For example, after passing the outer surface 319, the meltwater can fall onto the guide ramp 330. As described above, the guide ramp 330 may include one or more slots 354 or through holes defined along a vertical V-shape through the guide ramp 330. The meltwater can flow along the guide ramp 330 to the slots 354. The slots may be positioned above the water basin (storage container) 316. Thus, the meltwater can be collected within the internal volume 328 of the storage container 316. Consequently, the meltwater can be mixed with the ice-making water. As described above, the supply pump 370 can selectively pump some of the water stored in the storage container 316 back to the cooling bag-shaped portion 360, while the pump 322 can pump some of the water stored in the storage container 316 to the conduction ice mold 340.

[0067] According to the embodiments described herein, a secondary water supply system can be attached to an automatic ice maker, for example, within a refrigeration appliance. The secondary water supply system can selectively supply or distribute water (such as melting water) to the outer surface or outer surface of ice molds within the ice maker. The secondary water supply system may include a cooling pouch, such as a CPU cooler, attached to a heat exchanger to absorb heat from the heat exchanger into the water supplied to the pouch. The relatively heated water can be circulated through pipes to a distribution point. The distribution point may include, for example, a perforated pipe, a groove, both, or a modification of one or both. The water can then be distributed to the outer surface of the ice molds. Thus, the water (melting water) from the secondary water supply system can assist in the formation of ice blocks within the cavity of the ice molds and reduce harvesting time by preventing ice from accumulating along the outer surface of the ice molds.

[0068] 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 maker, characterized in that, include: Multiple walls that form a receiving space; A conductive ice mold disposed within the receiving space, the conductive ice mold defining an inner cavity and an outer surface; A main water supply system is provided below the conducting ice mold to guide the ice-making jet of water into the inner cavity of the conducting ice mold; A heat exchanger is arranged on the conductive ice mold to absorb heat from it; as well as A secondary water supply system is disposed adjacent to the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the secondary water supply system distributes melt water to the outer surface of the conductive ice mold.

2. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary water supply system includes: A perforated tube that circumferentially surrounds the outer surface of the conductive ice mold.

3. The ice maker according to claim 2, characterized in that, The perforated tube includes: an open end configured to receive the meltwater; and a closed end opposite the open end, such that the meltwater is dispensed from the perforated tube via a plurality of perforations defined in the perforated tube.

4. The ice maker according to claim 2, characterized in that, The perforated tube is an annular ring, which includes an inlet for receiving the melted ice water and a plurality of outlets defined by a surface extending through the annular ring.

5. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The secondary water supply system includes: A groove is provided circumferentially around the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, the groove including a plurality of protrusions extending radially inward to contact the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the groove is configured to receive the melted ice water.

6. The ice maker according to claim 5, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of protrusions is circumferentially spaced such that a plurality of gaps are formed between the plurality of protrusions between the groove and the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, and wherein the meltwater flows from the groove through the plurality of gaps.

7. The ice maker according to claim 6, characterized in that, The secondary water supply system also includes: A perforated tube circumferentially surrounds the outer surface of the conductive ice mold and is vertically positioned above the groove.

8. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchanger is a thermoelectric heat exchanger attached to the top of the conductive ice mold.

9. The ice maker according to claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: A cooling bag-shaped portion is attached to the top surface of the thermoelectric heat exchanger, and the cooling bag-shaped portion is configured to allow water to circulate through the cooling bag-shaped portion via an inlet and an outlet; as well as A pipe is attached to the outlet of the cooling bag-shaped portion and is connected to the secondary water supply system.

10. The ice maker according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A storage container located below the main water supply system and configured to store water therein; as well as A pump is disposed within the receiving space and configured to pump water into each of the cooling bag-shaped portion and the storage container.

11. The ice maker according to claim 10, characterized in that, The melting water distributed from the secondary water supply system is collected in the storage container after passing through the conduction ice mold.

12. A refrigeration appliance, characterized in that, include: A housing that defines one or more refrigeration compartments; A refrigeration system installed within the enclosure to selectively cool the one or more refrigeration compartments, the refrigeration system including a compressor and an evaporator in fluid communication with the compressor; as well as An ice maker, installed in one of the one or more refrigeration chambers, the ice maker comprising: Multiple walls that form a receiving space; A conductive ice mold disposed within the receiving space, the conductive ice mold defining an inner cavity and an outer surface; A main water supply system is provided below the ice-conducting mold to guide the ice-making jet of water to the ice-conducting mold. A heat exchanger, arranged on the conductive ice mold to absorb heat from it; and A secondary water supply system is disposed adjacent to the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the secondary water supply system distributes melt water to the outer surface of the conductive ice mold.

13. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that, The ice maker also includes: A perforated tube that circumferentially surrounds the outer surface of the conductive ice mold.

14. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 13, characterized in that, The perforated tube includes: an open end configured to receive the meltwater; and a closed end opposite the open end, such that the meltwater is dispensed from the perforated tube via a plurality of perforations defined in the perforated tube.

15. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 13, characterized in that, The perforated tube is an annular ring, which includes an inlet for receiving the melted ice water and a plurality of outlets defined by a surface extending through the annular ring.

16. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that, The ice maker also includes: A groove is provided circumferentially around the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, the groove including a plurality of protrusions extending radially inward to contact the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the groove is configured to receive the melted ice water.

17. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 16, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of tabs is circumferentially spaced such that a plurality of gaps are formed between the plurality of tabs between the groove and the outer surface of the conductive ice mold, wherein the meltwater flows from the groove through the plurality of gaps.

18. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 17, characterized in that, The secondary water supply system also includes: A perforated tube circumferentially surrounds the outer surface of the conductive ice mold and is vertically positioned above the groove.

19. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 12, characterized in that, The heat exchanger is a thermoelectric heat exchanger attached to the top of the conductive ice mold.

20. The refrigeration appliance according to claim 19, characterized in that, Also includes: A cooling bag-shaped portion is attached to the top surface of the thermoelectric heat exchanger, and the cooling bag-shaped portion is configured to allow water to circulate through the cooling bag-shaped portion via an inlet and an outlet; as well as A pipe is attached to the outlet of the cooling bag-shaped portion and is connected to the secondary water supply system.

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