Cleaning discharge conduit for standalone ice maker

Abstract

An ice maker includes a cabinet forming an ice storage compartment, an ice maker disposed within the cabinet, a first storage container disposed below the ice maker, a second storage container disposed below the ice storage compartment, and a circulation system in fluid communication with the first and second storage containers. The circulation system includes a return line conduit, a first pump connected to the return line conduit to pump liquid from the second storage container to the first storage container, and a purge line conduit in fluid communication with the first pump, wherein the first pump selectively pumps liquid from the second storage container through the purge line conduit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to ice makers, and more particularly to self-contained ice makers without a drain. BACKGROUND

[0002] Ice makers typically include an ice maker configured to produce ice. The ice maker within the ice maker is plumbed to a water supply, and water from the water supply can flow to the ice maker within the ice maker. The ice maker is typically cooled by a containment system, and heat transfer between the liquid water in the ice maker and the refrigerant of the containment system produces ice.

[0003] In certain ice makers, ice stored within the ice maker melts over time and produces liquid melt water. Typically, the ice maker is plumbed to an external drain (e.g., connected to a municipal water system) to dispose of the liquid melt water. Also, after a cleaning operation is performed within the ice maker, the plumbed drain is used to dispose of the cleaning solution. While effective for managing the liquid melt water, the external drain has drawbacks. For example, installing the external drain can be difficult and expensive. Additionally, cleaning such ice makers can be burdensome and time consuming.

[0004] More recently, alternatives to the plumbed drain have been introduced. However, these alternatives have certain drawbacks. For example, the location of the manual drain is inconvenient for the user, resulting in an unpleasant experience when performing the manual drain. Also, collecting and disposing of the cleaning solution after performing the cleaning and drain operation is difficult and cumbersome.

[0005] Accordingly, an ice maker that eliminates one or more of the above- described drawbacks would be useful. In particular, an ice maker with a more efficient cleaning process would be beneficial. SUMMARY

[0006] Various aspects of the invention, as well as a potenti al lay of the invention, will be set forth in the description below. This description includes best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention, and includes specific examples. The goals of this description include: allowing those skilled in the art to embody at least some embodiments of the invention, and to understand how the same can be used, the state of the art to which this invention pertains, and to enable others skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and to determine the conditions of patentability.

[0007] In one example aspect of the disclosure, an ice maker is provided. The ice maker can include a cabinet forming an ice storage compartment, an ice maker disposed within the cabinet, a first storage container disposed below the ice maker and configured to collect liquid from the ice maker, a second storage container disposed below the ice storage compartment, and a circulation system in fluid communication with the first storage container and the second storage container. The circulation system can include a return line conduit, a first pump connected to the return line conduit to pump liquid from the second storage container to the first storage container, and a purge line conduit in fluid communication with the first pump, the purge line conduit disposed downstream of the first pump, wherein the first pump selectively pumps liquid from the second storage container through the purge line conduit.

[0008] In another example aspect of the disclosure, an ice maker is provided. The ice maker can include a cabinet forming an ice storage compartment, a first storage container disposed within the ice storage compartment, the first storage container configured to receive liquid, a removable grate within the ice storage compartment above the first storage container, an ice maker disposed within the ice storage compartment to make ice, and a circulation system in fluid communication with the first storage container. The circulation system can include a supply line conduit, a pump connected to the supply line conduit to pump liquid from the first storage container, and a purge line conduit in fluid communication with the pump, the purge line conduit disposed downstream of the pump, wherein the pump selectively pumps liquid from the first storage container through the purge line conduit.

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent with reference to the following description and accompanying claims. The description and accompanying drawings are included to provide a complete disclosure of the application and are not intended to limit the application thereto. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the principles of the present application are illustrated and described herein, which, by their nature, are not limited to the application disclosed herein. The drawings show, by way of example, the principles of the present application.

[0011] Figure 1 A front perspective view of an ice maker in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0012] Figure 2 A front perspective view of an example ice maker is provided, wherein a door of the example ice maker is shown in an open position. Figure 1 A front perspective view of an example ice maker is provided, wherein a door of the example ice maker is shown in an open position.

[0013] Figure 3A side view schematic of an exemplary ice maker according to a first embodiment is provided. Figure 1 A side view schematic of an exemplary ice maker according to a first embodiment is provided.

[0014] Figure 4 A side view schematic of an exemplary ice maker according to another embodiment is provided. Figure 1 A side view schematic of an exemplary ice maker according to another embodiment is provided.

[0015] Reference designators are reused in the figures when appropriate and intended to represent like or similar structures or elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the application, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is given solely for illustration of the application and is not intended for limitation of the application. As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, modifications can be made to the various implementations without departing from the scope of the application. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one implementation can be used in another implementation to yield still a further implementation. Thus, it is intended that the present application cover modifications and variations of this implementation provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0017] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A front perspective view of an ice maker 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is provided. As described in greater detail below, the ice maker 100 includes features for generating or producing clear ice. As such, a user of the ice maker 100 can consume the clear ice stored within the ice maker 100. As can be seen in Figure 1 A front perspective view of an exemplary ice maker 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is provided. As described in greater detail below, the ice maker 100 includes features for generating or producing clear ice. As such, a user of the ice maker 100 can consume the clear ice stored within the ice maker 100. As can be seen in

[0018] The ice maker 100 includes a cabinet 110. The cabinet 110 can be insulated so as to limit heat transfer between an interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110 and the surrounding atmosphere. The cabinet 110 extends between a top 112 and a bottom 114, e.g., along the vertical direction V. As such, the top 112 and the bottom 114 of the cabinet 110 are spaced apart from one another, e.g., along the vertical direction V. A door 119 is mounted to a front of the cabinet 110. The door 119 allows selective access to the interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110. For example, the door 119 is shown in Figure 2 as being in a closed position, and the door 119 is shown in Figure 1 as being in an open position. A user can rotate the door between the open and closed positions to access the interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110. Figure 2 As can be seen in

[0019] As can be seen in Figure 2As can be seen, various components of the ice maker 100 are disposed within the interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110. In particular, the ice maker 100 includes an ice maker 120 disposed within the interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110, e.g., at the top 112 of the cabinet 110. The ice maker 120 is used to produce clear ice. The ice maker 120 can be used to make any suitable type of clear ice. As will be appreciated, for example, the ice maker 120 can be a clear ice cube ice maker.

[0020] The ice maker 100 can also include an ice storage bin or ice storage compartment 102. The ice storage bin 102 can be disposed within the interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110. In particular, the ice storage bin 102 can be disposed along the vertical direction V directly below, e.g., the ice maker 120. As such, the ice storage bin 102 is disposed to receive clear ice from the ice maker 120 and is used to store the clear ice therein. As can be appreciated, the ice storage bin 102 can be maintained at a temperature above the freezing point of water. As such, the clear ice within the ice storage bin 102 can melt over time while stored within the ice storage bin 102. The ice maker 100 can include features for recirculating liquid melt water from the ice storage bin 102 to the ice maker 120.

[0021] Figure 3 A schematic view of certain components of the ice maker 100 is provided. As can be seen in Figure 3 The ice maker 120 can include an ice mold 124 and a nozzle 126. For example, the ice mold 124 can include a plurality of ice molds for forming a plurality of ice cubes at the same time. Liquid from the nozzle 126 can be dispensed toward the ice mold 124. For example, the nozzle 126 can be disposed below the ice mold 124 within a first storage container 128 and can dispense liquid water upward toward the ice mold 124. As described in greater detail below, the ice mold 124 is cooled by a refrigerant. As such, the liquid water from the nozzle 126 that flows through the ice mold 124 can freeze on the ice mold 124, e.g., to form a clear ice cube on the ice mold 124.

[0022] To cool the ice mold 124, the ice maker 100 includes a sealed system 170. The sealed system 170 includes components for performing a known vapor compression cycle for cooling the ice maker 120 and / or air. These components include a compressor 172, a condenser 174, an expansion device (not shown), and an evaporator 176 connected in series and filled with a refrigerant. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the sealed system 170 can include other components, e.g., at least one additional evaporator, compressor, expansion device, and / or condenser. Additionally or alternatively, the placement of the components (e.g., the compressor 172, the condenser 174, etc.) can be adjusted according to a particular implementation. As such, the sealed system 170 is provided by way of example only. Other configurations using a sealed system are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0023] Within the sealed system 170, the refrigerant flows into a compressor 172, which operates to increase the pressure of the refrigerant. This compression of the refrigerant raises its temperature, which is lowered by passing the refrigerant through a condenser 174. Within the condenser 174, heat exchange with the surrounding air occurs to cool the refrigerant. A fan 178 can operate to blow air across the condenser 174 to provide forced convection for faster and more efficient heat exchange between the refrigerant within the condenser 174 and the surrounding air.

[0024] An expansion device (e.g., a valve, a capillary tube, or other restriction device) receives the refrigerant from the condenser 174. The refrigerant passes from the expansion device into an evaporator 176. Upon exiting the expansion device and entering the evaporator 176, the pressure of the refrigerant drops. Due to the pressure drop and / or phase change of the refrigerant, the evaporator 176 is cold, e.g., relative to ambient air and / or liquid water. The evaporator 176 is disposed at and in thermal contact with the ice maker 120, e.g., at the ice molds 124 of the ice maker 120. Thus, the ice maker 120 can be directly cooled with refrigerant at the evaporator 176.

[0025] It should be appreciated that in alternative example embodiments, the ice maker 120 can be an air-cooled ice maker. Thus, for example, cooled air from the evaporator 176 can refrigerate various components of the ice maker 100, e.g., the ice molds 124 of the ice maker 120. In such example embodiments, the evaporator 176 is a heat exchanger that transfers heat from air passing through the evaporator 176 to refrigerant flowing through the evaporator 176, and a fan can circulate cool air from the evaporator 176 to the ice maker 120.

[0026] The ice maker 100 can also include a controller 190 that regulates or operates various components of the ice maker 100. The controller 190 can include a memory and one or more microprocessors, CPUs, or the like, such as a general or application specific microprocessor, for executing programming instructions or micro-control code associated with the operation of the ice maker 100. The memory can represent random access memory (such as DRAM), or read-only memory (such as ROM, or FLASH), for example. In one implementation, the processor executes programming instructions stored in the memory. The memory can be a separate component from the processor, or can be incorporated within the processor on-board. Alternatively, the controller 190 can be constructed without the use of a microprocessor, for example, using a combination of discrete analog or / and digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, etc.) to perform control functions rather than relying upon software. Input / output ("I / O") signals can be routed between the controller 190 and various operational components of the ice maker 100. As an example, various operational components of the ice maker 100 can communicate with the controller 190 via one or more signal lines or a shared communication bus.

[0027] The ice maker 100 can include a first storage container 128. The first storage container 128 can be disposed within the ice storage compartment 102. For example, the first storage container 128 can be located at or near the top 112 of the interior volume 111 of the ice storage compartment 102. The first storage container 128 can define a receiving space that holds a liquid (e.g., water) to be formed into ice. For example, the interior volume of the first storage container 128 can be less than the interior volume 111 of the ice storage compartment 102. In some implementations, the first storage container 128 can hold other liquids, such as a cleaning solution. As will be explained in greater detail below, the first storage container 128 can be removable (e.g., from the ice storage compartment 102). For example, the first storage container 128 can include features that are detachable relative to the cabinet 110, such as drawer slides, magnets, clips, etc. Thus, the first storage container 128 can be removed from the interior volume 111 of the cabinet 110.

[0028] The ice maker 120 can be disposed within the first storage container 128. In detail, the evaporator 176 and the ice mold 124 can be located within the first storage container 128. In some implementations, the ice maker 120 is disposed above (e.g., along the vertical direction V) the first storage container 128. The first storage container 128 can extend along the vertical direction V from the bottom end 202 to the top end. The ice maker 120 can be mounted at the top end of the first storage container 128. For example, the evaporator 176 can be mounted to the top end, and the ice mold 124 can be connected to the evaporator 176. In some implementations, the ice mold 124 can be defined by the evaporator 176. In other words, the evaporator 176 is integral with the ice mold 124 such that the transparent ice is formed directly on the evaporator 176.

[0029] The ice maker 100 can include a circulation system 139. The circulation system 139 can include a first pump 142, a supply conduit 140, and a nozzle 126. The first pump 142 can be disposed within the first storage container 128. The first pump 142 can pump water or liquid stored in the first storage container 128. The supply conduit 140 can be connected to the first pump 142 such that water or liquid pumped by the first pump 142 circulates through the supply conduit 140. The supply conduit 140 can include a series of pipes or tubes capable of directing water or liquid pumped by the first pump 142. The nozzle 126 can be disposed at a downstream end of the supply conduit 140. The nozzle 126 can distribute water or liquid stored in the first storage container 128 toward the ice maker 120 (i.e., the ice molds 124 and / or the evaporator 176).

[0030] In one embodiment, the nozzle 126 can be located near the bottom end 202 of the first storage container 128. As such, water or liquid can be ejected from the nozzle 126 in a generally upward direction toward the ice maker 120. Thus, as the ice maker 120 is cooled by the circulation of refrigerant through the seal system 170, transparent ice can be formed on the ice maker 120 as water is continuously ejected onto the ice maker 120. In detail, liquid distributed from the nozzle 126 can be directed toward the ice molds 124. In some embodiments, multiple nozzles 126 can be provided. Each of the multiple nozzles 126 can be independently connected to the first pump 142 (e.g., each nozzle 126 has a dedicated supply conduit 140). Additionally or alternatively, each of the multiple nozzles 126 can be connected to the first pump 142 via a common circulation conduit.

[0031] A first liquid level sensor 134 can be disposed in the first storage container 128. Generally, the first liquid level sensor 134 can sense a liquid level contained within the first storage container 128. In some embodiments, the first liquid level sensor 134 is in operable communication with the controller 190. For example, the first liquid level sensor 134 can communicate with the controller 190 via one or more signals. In certain embodiments, the first liquid level sensor 134 includes a predetermined threshold level (e.g., to indicate a need for additional liquid to the first storage container 128). In particular, the first liquid level sensor 134 can detect whether or when the liquid level of the first storage container 128 is below the predetermined threshold level. Alternatively, the first liquid level sensor 134 can be a two-position sensor. In other words, the first liquid level sensor 134 can be "on" or "off" depending on the liquid level.

[0032] For example, when the liquid level is below a predetermined threshold level, the first level sensor 134 is "off," meaning that it does not send a signal to the first pump 142 via the controller 190 to pump liquid from the first storage container 128 through the first supply conduit 140 toward the first nozzle 126. For another example, when the liquid level is above the predetermined threshold, the first level sensor 134 is "on," meaning that it sends a signal to the first pump 142 via the controller 190 to operate the first pump 142 to pump liquid through the first supply conduit 140 toward the first nozzle 126. It should be understood that the first level sensor 134 can be any suitable sensor capable of determining the liquid level within the first storage container 128, and the present disclosure is not limited to these examples provided herein.

[0033] The ice maker 100 can also be operated in a cleaning mode, or can perform a cleaning operation, to clean various pieces of the ice maker 100 that can become contaminated with foreign debris. For example, in some embodiments, a cleaning solution or acid can be pumped through the first supply conduit 140 and dispensed by the nozzle 126 toward the ice maker 120. Thus, the cleaning solution or acid can remove foreign contaminants or debris from, for example, the ice molds 124, the nozzle 126, the first storage container 128, and the supply conduit 140.

[0034] The ice maker 100 can also include a second storage container 138. The second storage container 138 can be in fluid communication with the ice storage bin 102. A drain conduit 150 can connect the ice storage bin 102 with the second storage container 138 such that liquid from the ice storage bin 102 flows into the second storage container 138. In some examples, the second storage container 138 is disposed below the ice storage bin 102. In other words, the second storage container 138 can be located vertically V below the ice storage bin 102. Thus, liquid from the ice storage bin 102 can easily flow into the second storage container 138 via the drain conduit 150. In one example, when ice stored within the ice storage bin 102 melts into water, at least a portion of the melted water can flow from the ice storage bin 102 through the drain conduit 150 into the second storage container 138. The second storage container 138 can also be in fluid communication with the first storage container 128. In other words, liquid from the second storage container 138 can flow to the first storage container 128. In one example, the second storage container 138 is connected to the first storage container 128 via a return line conduit 152. During use, at least a portion of the melted water from the second storage container 138 can be pumped to the first storage container to be recirculated and re-dispensed onto the ice maker 120 through the first supply conduit 140.

[0035] The second pump 144 can be disposed at or in the second storage container 138. During use, the second pump 144 can selectively pump at least a portion of the melt water from the second storage container 138 to the first storage container 128. Generally, the second pump 144 can be provided as any suitable fluid pump (e.g., a rotary pump, a reciprocating pump, a peristaltic pump, a velocity pump, etc.). Optionally, the second pump 144 can be a submersible pump and can be located within the second storage container 138. In detail, the second pump 144 can be submersible within the second storage container 138 (i.e., within a volume of liquid stored within the second storage container 138). Additionally or alternatively, the second pump 144 can be located external to the second storage container 138. In other words, the second pump 144 can be outside the bounds of the second storage container 138 such that the second pump 144 is not in direct contact with the liquid stored within the second storage container 138. Advantageously, the second pump 144 can assist in recirculating the liquid through the ice maker 100 to improve performance and reduce the need for cleaning or maintenance.

[0036] The second level sensor 136 can be disposed within the second storage container 138 to sense the level of liquid contained within the second storage container 138. Generally, the second level sensor 136 can sense the level of liquid contained within the second storage container 138. In some embodiments, the second level sensor 136 is in operable communication with the controller 190. For example, the second level sensor 136 can communicate with the controller 190 via one or more signals. In certain embodiments, the second level sensor 136 includes a predetermined threshold level (e.g., to indicate a need to drain liquid from the second storage container 138). In particular, the second level sensor 136 can detect whether or when the liquid in the second storage container 138 is below or above the predetermined threshold level. Optionally, the second level sensor 136 can be a two-position sensor. In other words, the second level sensor 136 can be "on" or "off" depending on the water level.

[0037] For example, when the water level is below the predetermined threshold level, the second level sensor 136 is "off," which means that it does not send a signal to the second pump 144 via the controller 190 to pump water from the second storage container 138. As another example, when the water level is above the predetermined threshold, the second level sensor 136 is "on," which means that it sends a signal to the second pump 144 via the controller 190 to operate the second pump 144. It should be appreciated that the second level sensor 136 can be any suitable sensor capable of determining the level of liquid within the second storage container 138.

[0038] The ice maker 100 can include an overflow line conduit 230. The overflow line conduit 230 can fluidly connect the first storage container 128 with the second storage container 138. For example, the overflow line conduit 230 can provide a passageway for fluid or liquid within the first storage container 128 to flow directly into the second storage container 138. A top portion 232 of the overflow line conduit 230 can be disposed above a normal liquid level line within the first storage container 128. In detail, as described above, a predetermined amount of liquid can be stored within the first storage container 128 to make ice. The top portion 232 of the overflow line conduit 230 can be positioned such that a volume of liquid above the predetermined volume can flow into the top portion 232 of the overflow line conduit 230, thereby flowing into the second storage container 138. In some embodiments, an outlet portion 234 of the overflow line conduit 230 is partially disposed within the drain conduit 150. As will be explained in greater detail below, a cleaning liquid or solution can flow from the first storage container 128 through the overflow line conduit 210 to the second storage container 138.

[0039] The ice maker 100 can also include a purge line conduit 210. The purge line conduit 210 can define a first end 212 and a second end 214. Each of the first end 212 and the second end 214 defines a point along a flow path through the purge line conduit 210. In one example, the first end 212 is connected to the return line conduit 152. For example, the first end 212 can define a branching point of the purge line conduit 210 from the return line conduit 152. As described above, the return line conduit 152 can be fluidly connected with the second storage container 138. Thus, liquid within the second storage container 138 can flow out of the second storage container and selectively through the purge line conduit 210. In some embodiments, fluid from the second storage container 138 is pushed through the return line conduit 152 via the second pump 144. Thus, the first end 212 of the purge line conduit 210 can be disposed downstream of the second pump 144. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to relative directions with respect to the flow of fluid in a fluid pathway. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction of fluid flow, while "downstream" refers to the direction of fluid flow. Thus, the second pump 144 can pump fluid toward the purge line conduit 210.

[0040] The second end 214 can be open to an external area. In other words, the second end 214 can be openly exposed (e.g., within or outside of the ice maker 100). Liquid flowing through the purge line conduit 210 can be released from the ice maker 100 via the second end 214. The second end 214 can be disposed within, for example, the ice storage compartment 102 (e.g., can be exposed within the interior volume 111). Advantageously, various components within the ice maker 100 can be easily cleaned by circulating a cleaning fluid therethrough and expelling the cleaning fluid through the purge line conduit 210. In this way, a more thorough cleaning can be performed, which results in cleaner ice, fewer maintenance issues, and an overall increase in operability.

[0041] The purge line conduit 210 can be in fluid communication with the return line conduit 152 via a three-way valve 216. As shown, the three-way valve 216 can fluidly connect the first pump 144 with the return line conduit 152 and the purge line conduit 210. The three-way valve 216 can be any suitable type of valve. In at least one example, the three-way valve 216 is an electro-mechanical valve. The three-way valve 216 can be in communication with the controller 190. For example, the controller 190 can control the operation (e.g., opening and closing) of the three-way valve 216. Also, the controller 190 can control the three-way valve 216 and the second pump 144 together, for example, during a cleaning operation or cycle (e.g., in accordance with user input). Figure 3

[0042] In detail, the three-way valve 216 can selectively allow liquid from the second storage container 138 to flow through one of the return line conduit 152 and the purge line conduit 210. The controller 190 can determine that the appliance 100 is in a first mode, such as an ice making mode. Accordingly, the controller 190 can control the three-way valve 216 to open the return line conduit 152 and close the purge line conduit 210. In this manner, when a pump (e.g., the second pump 144) is activated, liquid (e.g., melt water) within the second storage container 138 is pumped through the return line conduit 152 to the first storage container 128. Also, the controller 190 can determine that the appliance 100 is in a second mode, such as a cleaning mode or a purge mode. The controller 190 can thereby control the three-way valve 216 to open the purge line conduit 210 and close the return line conduit 152.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the controller 190 can control the appliance 100 to perform a purge operation or a cleaning operation. In accordance with the purge operation, cleaning liquid (e.g., cleaning acid) supplied to the first storage container 128 can be pumped through the supply conduit 140. Accordingly, the cleaning liquid can be supplied to, for example, the ice molds 124 via the nozzles 126. During the purge operation, the ice molds 124 can not be cooled (e.g., refrigerant is not supplied to the evaporators 176 via the seal system 170). The cleaning liquid can fall from the ice molds 124 into the first storage container 128 and / or the ice bin 102, for example, due to gravity. The cleaning liquid can then flow into the second storage container 138 (e.g., via the overflow tube or drain conduit 150 described below).

[0044] ​The cleaning operation can include recirculation. During recirculation, the controller 190 can control the three-way valve 216 to open the return line conduit 152 and close the cleaning line conduit 210. Thus, cleaning liquid can be circulated from the second storage container 138 through the return line conduit 152 and into the first storage container 128. In this way, various portions of the circulation system receive cleaning liquid. After performing one or more recirculations, the controller 190 can control the three-way valve 216 to close the return line conduit 152 and open the cleaning line conduit 210. In this way, the second pump 144 can pump cleaning liquid from the second storage container 138 through the cleaning line conduit 210.

[0045] The cleaning line conduit 210 can include a cleaning faucet 218. The cleaning faucet 218 can be disposed at the second end 214 of the cleaning line conduit 210. The cleaning faucet 218 can selectively release liquid (e.g., cleaning liquid) from the cleaning line conduit 210. For example, the cleaning faucet 218 can selectively open and close the second end 214. The cleaning faucet 218 can include a valve. The cleaning faucet 218 can be manually operated (e.g., by twisting, pulling, pushing, rotating, or otherwise manipulating the valve) to selectively open and close the second end 214. In this way, a user can release liquid (e.g., cleaning liquid) from the cleaning line conduit 210. However, it should be noted that some embodiments omit the faucet 218 entirely. In detail, the second end 214 can be an unobstructed opening of the cleaning line conduit 210. Thus, the release of liquid (e.g., cleaning liquid) from the cleaning line conduit 210 can be controlled solely by the three-way valve 216.

[0046] The cleaning line conduit 210 can be at least partially disposed within the ice storage compartment 102. In detail, the cleaning line conduit 210 can extend into the ice storage compartment 102 as it branches from the return line conduit 152 (e.g., via the three-way valve 216). As seen in Figure 3 In detail, a portion of the cleaning line conduit 210 can pass through a bottom of the ice storage compartment 102. Additionally or alternatively, the cleaning line conduit 210 can pass through a sidewall of the ice storage compartment 102. It should be noted that the precise placement of the cleaning line conduit 210 can vary depending on the particular implementation, and the present disclosure is not limited to the examples provided herein.

[0047] For example, the cleaning line conduit 210 can extend along the vertical direction V and the transverse direction T (e.g., toward the front of the appliance 100). In this way, the cleaning faucet 218 can be disposed proximate the door body 119. Advantageously, a user can easily access the cleaning faucet 216 to complete a cleaning cycle. Liquid (e.g., cleaning liquid) flowing through the cleaning line conduit 210 can then be disposed of after being released via the cleaning faucet 218 (or through the second end 214 when the cleaning faucet 216 is omitted).

[0048] In at least one embodiment, a removable container 220 can be selectively placed under the second end 214. For example, the removable container 220 can resemble a water pitcher. For example, the removable container 220 can be formed to be removably attached to the ice bin 102. As seen in Figure 3 In some embodiments, the removable container 220 includes a support arm 222. The support arm 222 can fit over a front lip of the ice bin 102. Thus, when liquid is supplied to the removable container 220, the removable container 220 can be stably held in place. However, in other embodiments, the removable container 220 can be freely disposed within the ice bin 102. For example, the second end 214 can be selectively disposed within the interior volume 111 (e.g., disposed on a swivel). Thus, a user can dispose the second end 214 in a desired location, thereby disposing the removable container 220 in a corresponding location. The removable container 220 can define a volume capable of holding a predetermined amount of cleaning liquid. In at least one example, the removable container 220 holds a volume of liquid necessary to perform a full cleaning operation. Advantageously, a user need only perform a single removal action to complete a cleaning cycle.

[0049] Generally, the controller 190 can determine that the removable container 220 is present (e.g., within the ice bin 102) prior to initiating a cleaning cycle. For example, upon receiving an input signal (e.g., from a user) to initiate a cleaning cycle or operation, the controller can perform one or more pre-cycle or pre-operation checks. According to some embodiments, a sensor or switch can be present within the ice bin 102 to sense or confirm the presence of the removable container 220. The sensor can send a response signal to the controller 190 confirming the presence of the removable container 220. The controller 190 can then determine that liquid (e.g., cleaning acid, cleaning solution, etc.) is present within the first storage container 128. For example, the controller 190 can receive a signal from the first level sensor 134 confirming that liquid is present within the first storage container 128. The controller 190 can then begin performing a cleaning cycle or operation (e.g., activate the three-way valve 216, direct the second pump 144, etc.)

[0050] According to some embodiments, the wash faucet 218 can be omitted or modified. For example, the wash faucet 216 can be modified to receive a hose or additional tubing to the faucet. The hose can be connected at a first end thereof to the wash faucet 216 (or the second end 214 of the wash line tubing 210) and disposed at, in, or near the drain at a second end thereof. Thus, the removable container 220 can also be omitted.

[0051] A perforated ramp or series of slats 104 can be disposed above the first storage container 128 (e.g., along the vertical V). The ramp 104 can be located below the ice maker 120 (e.g., below the ice molds 124 or the evaporator 176). In other words, the ramp 104 can be located below the ice maker 120 along the vertical V. The top surface of the ramp 104 (or the top edge of the series of slats) can be angled. In other words, a first end of the ramp 104 can be disposed higher on the vertical V than a second end of the ramp 104. As such, when ice is formed on the ice maker 120 and harvested, the ice can fall onto the ramp 104 and slide into the ice bin 102. In one example, as seen in FIG. 1, the ramp 104 is angled downward toward the front of the cabinet 110. Accordingly, a passageway or hole can be disposed on a side of the first storage container 128 through which ice cubes can exit after sliding down the ramp 104. Additionally or alternatively, a flap or swing door 122 can be pivotally connected with the cabinet 110. In detail, as the harvested ice cubes slide down the ramp 104, they can pass through the passageway of the first storage container 128 by pressing against and opening the flap 122. Figure 3

[0052] The ice maker 100 can include a water supply conduit 130 and a supply valve 132. The water supply conduit 130 can be connected to an external pressurized water supply system, such as a municipal water supply system or a well. The supply valve 132 can be coupled to the water supply conduit 130, and the supply valve 132 can be operable (e.g., openable and closable) to regulate the flow of liquid water into the ice maker 100 through the water supply conduit 130. In one embodiment, the water supply conduit 130 is connected to the first storage container 128. In detail, the water supply conduit 130 is in fluid communication with the first storage container 128 to allow external water to be supplied into the first storage container 128 via the water supply conduit 130. As such, for example, by opening the supply valve 132, the first storage container 128 can be filled with fresh liquid water from the external pressurized water supply system through the water supply conduit 130. The water supply conduit 130 can be connected at the bottom of the cabinet 110. In some embodiments, the water supply conduit 130 is connected at the top of the cabinet 110. According to this embodiment, water introduced through the top of the cabinet can be released above the top of the ice maker 120 and can assist in the harvesting operation of ice formed on the ice molds 124.

[0053] ​The ice maker 100 may include a filter 154. The filter 154 may be nested within a first storage container 128. For example, the filter 154 may rest within the first storage container 128. In some embodiments, the filter 154 is suspended within the first storage container 128. Specifically, a space may be provided between the lower side of the filter 154 and the bottom of the first storage container 128 for receiving liquid that has passed through the filter 154. Thus, the filter 154 may be located below the ice mold 124. For example, the filter 154 may be configured such that unfrozen liquid dispensed from the nozzle 126 onto the top of the filter 154. Therefore, the filter 154 may be a gravity filter. Specifically, the liquid may fall onto the top of the filter 154, permeate through the filter 154 (e.g., along a vertical V), and exit through the bottom of the filter 154.

[0054] Figure 4 A side view of an ice maker according to an alternative embodiment is provided. Figure 3 The same reference numerals as those in the illustrated embodiments are applicable. Figure 4 The same features are shown in the illustrated embodiments. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, repeated descriptions of the same features will be omitted. According to... Figure 4 The first storage container 128 may be located below the ice storage chamber 102. For example, the first storage container 128 may be located directly below the ice storage chamber 102. A grille 180 may be provided to separate the ice storage chamber 102 from the first storage container 128. The grille 180 may be a removable grille. For example, a user may pull the grille 180 out of the ice storage chamber 102 to access the first storage container 128. Thus, the user can easily remove the filter 154 from the first storage container 128. Alternatively or additionally, each of the second storage container 138 and the second pump 144 may be omitted. Advantageously, fewer parts can be incorporated, and an increase in ice storage space (e.g., a larger ice storage chamber 102) can be achieved. According to this embodiment, the cleaning line conduit 210 may be in fluid communication with the supply line 140. Specifically, the first end 212 of the cleaning line conduit 210 may be attached downstream of the pump 142 to the supply line 140. In some embodiments, a three-way valve 216 may be provided on the supply line 140. Therefore, the first end 212 of the cleaning pipeline 210 can be in fluid communication with the three-way valve 216.

[0055] Furthermore, according to Figure 4The icemaker 100 can include a collection tray 182. The collection tray 182 can be disposed below the ice molds 124. In detail, the collection tray 182 can collect liquid that drips from the ice molds 124 during and after an ice-making operation (e.g., when liquid is dispensed from the nozzles 126 toward the ice molds 124) or a cleaning operation or cycle (e.g., when a cleaning liquid is dispensed from the nozzles 126 toward the ice molds 124). Additionally or alternatively, a return conduit 184 can be provided. The return conduit 184 can be connected to the collection tray 182 (e.g., at a bottom of the collection tray 182). The return conduit can extend from the collection tray 182 toward the grate 180 along the vertical direction V. Thereby, liquid collected in the collection tray 182 can be returned to the first storage container 128 and re-supplied to the filter 154 (or pumped out of the appliance 100 via the purge line conduit 210).

[0056] According to embodiments described herein, an icemaker having a purge line is provided. The icemaker can not be plumbed directly to a household drain, thereby being more versatile in terms of placement and use. The icemaker described herein can include a first storage container that stores a liquid (such as water) to be formed into ice on an ice mold. The first storage container can also selectively store a cleaning liquid or solution, such as a cleaning acid. The liquid stored in the first storage container can be directed toward the ice mold. Excess liquid from the ice mold can be returned to the first storage container. In some cases, the excess liquid is delivered to a second storage container that is separate from the first storage container. The second storage container can re-supply collected liquid to the first storage container via a return line conduit. A three-way valve can be included on the return line conduit. Branching from the three-way valve can be a purge line conduit. The three-way valve can selectively supply liquid from the second storage container to the return line conduit or the purge line conduit, depending on the particular application. The purge line conduit can include a purge faucet at a downstream end thereof. Liquid can be selectively released from the purge faucet. A removable container can be placed beneath the purge faucet, for example within an ice storage compartment of the icemaker. The dispensed liquid (such as a cleaning solution) can then be easily disposed of via the removable container.

[0057] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. An ice maker that defines vertical, lateral, and horizontal dimensions, characterized in that, The ice maker includes: The container, which forms an ice storage chamber; An ice maker, which is housed within the enclosure; A first storage container is disposed below the ice maker and is used to collect liquid from the ice maker; A second storage container is disposed below the ice storage chamber; and A circulation system, which is in fluid communication with the first storage container and the second storage container, comprises: Return flow piping; A first pump, connected to the return line conduit, is used to pump the liquid from the second storage container to the first storage container; and A cleaning pipeline is provided, which is in fluid communication with the first pump and is located downstream of the first pump. The first pump selectively pumps the liquid from the second storage container through the cleaning pipeline. The ice maker includes: An ice mold, positioned above the first storage container; and A supply conduit disposed within the first storage container, the supply conduit including a nozzle through which liquid stored in the first storage container is selectively dispensed toward the ice mold; Furthermore, the first storage container is removable; During the cleaning operation, the cleaning liquid falls from the ice mold into the first storage container and / or ice storage box, and then the cleaning liquid flows into the second storage container; During recirculation, the cleaning fluid is circulated from the second storage container through the return line and into the first storage container.

2. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning pipeline is arranged in the ice storage chamber, and wherein the cleaning pipeline includes: A cleaning faucet is installed at the outlet of the cleaning pipeline.

3. The ice maker according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a three-way valve fluidly connected to the return line and the cleaning line, wherein the three-way valve selectively opens either the return line or the cleaning line.

4. The ice maker according to claim 3, characterized in that, The three-way valve is an electromechanical valve.

5. The ice maker according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A controller is disposed within the housing and is operably connected to the first pump and the three-way valve, wherein the controller selectively operates the first pump and the three-way valve based on user input.

6. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An overflow conduit fluidly connects the first storage container to the second storage container, wherein fluid stored in the first storage container is transferred from the first storage container to the second storage container via the overflow conduit.

7. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A removable container, selectively disposed within the ice storage chamber, is positioned below the outlet of the cleaning pipeline when in the installation position.

8. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice maker includes: A second pump, disposed within the first storage container and connected to the supply pipe, is configured to pump the liquid stored in the first storage container through the supply pipe.

9. The ice maker according to claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes a sealed cooling system having an evaporator disposed at the ice mold.

10. The ice maker according to claim 9, characterized in that, It extends vertically from the bottom to the top, and wherein the evaporator is mounted at the top.

11. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a water supply pipe and a supply valve, wherein the water supply pipe can be connected to an external water supply system, and the supply valve is connected to the water supply pipe to regulate the flow of liquid water entering the ice maker through the water supply pipe.

12. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a filter disposed within the first storage container.

13. The ice maker according to claim 12, characterized in that, The filter is a gravity deionization filter, through which the liquid is filtered from top to bottom along the vertical direction.

14. The ice maker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ice maker also includes: A removable grille is located in the ice storage chamber above the first storage container.

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