Remote control multifunctional snow making device

Abstract

A snow making apparatus includes: an ice particle generator that generates ice particles that can be used for making or as high-quality artificial snow; and a system for remotely discharging ice particles from the ice particle generator by sealing one or more of the pneumatic air delivery system using the fan impeller assembly and cold air. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further includes a water droplet or particle distributor positioned remote from the ice particle generator and preferably adjacent an outlet of the apparatus where the ice particles are discharged from the outlet conduit, whereby the water droplets mix with the ice particles to produce snow. The use of a combination of ice particles and water droplets allows snow to be efficiently and largely produced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a snowmaking device comprising: an ice pellet generator that generates ice pellets that can be used to make or serve as high-quality artificial snow; and a system for discharging the ice pellets from the ice pellet generator using one or more of a fan impeller assembly and a cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system. In a preferred embodiment, the device further comprises a water droplet or pellet dispenser located remotely from the ice pellet generator and preferably adjacent to an ice pellet outlet of the device, where the ice pellets are discharged from an outlet conduit, whereupon the water droplets mix with the ice pellets, thereby generating additional snow. The use of a combination of ice pellets and water droplets allows for efficient and high-volume snow production. Background Art

[0002] Many different apparatuses have been proposed in the art for producing artificial snow for use on ski slopes in theme parks, test and training facilities, or for general recreation. Some examples of the inventor's own snowmaking apparatus are found in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,742,958; 4,793,142; 5,297,731; 6,454,182; 6,938,830; 6,951,308; 8,403,242; 9,909,796; and 11,473,822.

[0003] Because natural snowfall is seasonal and sufficient natural snowfall is not guaranteed, there are two general types of snowmaking equipment in the field, namely heated snowmaking equipment and cooled snowmaking equipment. Cooling snowmaking equipment can generally be used when the temperature is below freezing and above freezing up to about 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Cooling snowmaking equipment generally operates below the freezing point of water and utilizes water droplets that are seeded into the air and freeze, turning into ice or snow-like particles before hitting the ground.

[0004] Devices providing a combination of both types of systems are described in US 9,909,796 and US 11,473,822.

[0005] In view of the foregoing, there remains a need in the art for a snowmaking device that can be used to distribute snow and ice pellets in many different locations without making it too difficult to move a relatively heavy and / or cumbersome device from one location to another.

[0006] To this end, various devices have been proposed in the art.

[0007] JPH 0788651 discloses a device for transporting and distributing a large amount of snow or ice pellets from a lowland area with a relatively large height difference to a highland area. More specifically, for example, an ice-making facility is provided in a depression at a ski resort to distribute a large amount of snow and ice pellets on the ski slopes of the ski resort and maintain the ski slopes, thereby making skiing possible or more comfortable.

[0008] US Pat. No. 11,092,373 discloses a snow conveyor assembly for use with a snowmaking machine. The assembly includes an impeller for receiving snow from the snowmaking machine and accelerating the snow; and an ejector pipe for receiving snow from the impeller, further accelerating the snow, and discharging the snow from the assembly. The ejector pipe includes a venturi throat. Snow from the impeller is conveyed via a snow inlet pipe into the ejector pipe immediately upstream of the venturi throat. Pressurized air is blown into the ejector pipe upstream of the venturi throat to further accelerate the snow.

[0009] WO 2020 / 084501 discloses a distribution terminal for a transport pipeline for ice and / or snow, which extends between an inlet and an outlet for ice and / or snow and includes at least one distribution element that rotates relative to the transport pipeline along a rotation axis (A) parallel to a distribution direction (D) of ice and / or snow at the outlet of the transport pipeline. The distribution element is configured to distribute the flow of ice and / or snow output from the transport pipeline radially along the distribution direction (D) relative to the rotation axis (A). The distribution element also has a recess (C) that at least partially faces the outlet of the transport pipeline and is configured to at least partially radially deflect the ice and / or snow relative to the distribution direction (D) to provide radial distribution.

[0010] While the aforementioned prior art discloses some solutions for providing snow or ice pellets, there remains a need in the art for a versatile snowmaking device capable of providing remotely controlled dispensing and generation of snow and ice pellets across a wide range of temperatures, including both below-freezing and above-freezing conditions. Furthermore, there is a need in the art for a cost-effective solution. Furthermore, the snowmaking device should not be considered an eyesore at the point of use. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the prior art and other problems are solved by the present invention's remote-controlled, multifunctional snowmaking device, which can be used over a wide temperature range, including temperatures below freezing as well as temperatures above freezing. The device can alternatively be used as: i) an ice pellet generator that discharges ice pellets that provide high-quality artificial snow at a remote location; ii) a negative temperature device in which water pellets are blown from a nozzle under subfreezing conditions, forming snow or ice pellets before reaching the ground; or iii) a mixing device that generates ice pellets that are discharged from the device and mixed with water droplets discharged from the device's nozzles, which are converted into snow. Thus, in the mixing embodiment, the formed ice pellets serve as nuclei to generate additional snow at low temperatures when mixed with water discharged at a pressure of, for example, about 150 psi to about 1,000 psi, thereby producing water pellets having a diameter of, for example, about 100 to about 1,500 microns. When the water pellets are blown in a path that intersects the path of the ice pellets and the pressurized delivery air (e.g., at an angle of 65° to about 85°), the water droplets and ice pellets collide with each other and interact to produce a larger volume of additional snow.

[0012] The apparatus of the present invention has the advantage of providing a carriage that can be used as a stand that can be used remotely from the ice pellet generator to disperse ice pellets at a remote location and / or to disperse water pellets that can be used to generate snow in subfreezing temperatures. The carriage is small, lightweight, mobile, and can be used with or without a power source, which provides the operator with numerous operational advantages.

[0013] Another advantage is the ability to conserve capital infrastructure by not having to provide power at the remote location where the snow is delivered to the ground.

[0014] Another advantage is the ease of moving the carriage and the ability to use the snowmaking device in remote locations where snow cannot be generated due to proximity or lack of infrastructure such as power supply.

[0015] Another advantage is that the device provides snow and / or ice pellets that are easily blown or vacuumed, as well as water that can be pumped long distances to create snow.

[0016] Another advantage of the apparatus is that the noise involved in the snowmaking process can be reduced by operating the fan impeller assembly, or blower for the air delivery system, in an acoustic housing remote from the area where snow is to be provided.

[0017] In the above-mentioned freezing environment, ice pellets or snow are blown directly to the ground to create a ski or sled slope and can be used as, for example, snowfall, sauna snow, events, cooling purposes, entertainment centers, indoor ski centers, restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, or anywhere customers need real snow.

[0018] When the device is used in temperatures above freezing, the snow can be used for any desired activity or otherwise stored for later use when the temperature is below about 40° F. When stored, the snow can be recirculated through the device and mixed with water to produce additional amounts of snow.

[0019] Thus, in one aspect, a remote controlled multifunctional snowmaking device is disclosed, the snowmaking device including an ice pellet generator, the ice pellet generator including: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces the ice generated by the freezer unit into ice pellets having a size smaller than the ice;

[0020] a fan impeller assembly that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and has a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of the ice particles;

[0021] an elongated delivery duct having a length of at least 2 meters disposed between the outlet duct of the device and the outlet of the fan impeller assembly;

[0022] wherein the outlet duct receiving the ice particles discharged from the fan impeller assembly guides the ice particles from an outlet of the outlet duct into the air; and

[0023] a water manifold disposed adjacent the outlet conduit, wherein a plurality of water nozzles are connected to the water manifold, the water nozzles discharging pressurized water in the form of water droplets therefrom, and

[0024] Here, ice particles discharged from the outlet pipe are mixed with water droplets discharged from the water nozzles, thereby producing snow.

[0025] In yet another aspect, a remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device is disclosed, comprising:

[0026] An ice particle generator, comprising:

[0027] a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and

[0028] b) a crushing device that reduces ice produced by the freezer unit into ice particles of a size smaller than ice;

[0029] a first fan impeller assembly that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and has a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of the ice particles;

[0030] an elongated delivery duct having an inlet connected to the outlet of the first fan impeller assembly and an outlet disposed at least 2 meters from the inlet;

[0031] a second fan impeller assembly located downstream of the outlet of the delivery duct, wherein the second fan impeller assembly has a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of ice particles received from the delivery duct; and

[0032] The outlet duct receives the ice particles discharged from the second fan impeller assembly and guides the ice particles into the air from an outlet of the outlet duct.

[0033] Another aspect discloses a remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device, comprising:

[0034] An ice particle generator, comprising:

[0035] a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and

[0036] b) a crushing device that reduces ice produced by the freezer unit into ice particles of a size smaller than ice;

[0037] an elongated delivery conduit having an inlet for receiving ice particles from an ice particle generator;

[0038] a fan impeller assembly located downstream of the conveying duct and having a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of the ice particles;

[0039] a sealed pneumatic air delivery system for cold air comprising an axial or centrifugal fan and an air cooler, wherein the air delivery system has an outlet located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly, wherein the air delivery system further comprises a sealed rotary valve that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly; and

[0040] The outlet duct receives ice particles discharged from the fan impeller assembly and guides the ice particles into the air from an outlet of the outlet duct. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The present invention will be better understood, and other features and advantages will become apparent, by reading the detailed description of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device of the present invention, the device being adapted to transport ice pellets formed by an ice pellet generator to a location remote from the machine and to mix the ice pellets with water droplets discharged from a nozzle of the device, the water droplets then being converted into snow;

[0043] Figure 2 is a close-up schematic diagram of the apparatus's ice particle and water droplet discharge system, including an ice particle outlet, a deflector plate, and a portion of the water droplet sprayer apparatus;

[0044] Figure 3 Schematically illustrates one embodiment of a remote-controlled carriage of one embodiment of an apparatus, the remote-controlled carriage including an ice particle discharge outlet, a water droplet sprayer device, and a fan impeller assembly connected to an outlet of a delivery line;

[0045] Figure 4 An embodiment of a remote-controlled carriage of the apparatus is schematically shown, the remote-controlled carriage including an ice pellet outlet, a discharge outlet, a water droplet sprayer device, and a fan impeller assembly connected to the outlet of the delivery line, and further including a vertical extension located between the fan impeller assembly and the water droplet sprayer device and an ice pellet discharge outlet for discharging ice pellets and water droplets at a greater height above the ground.

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device of the present invention, the device including an ice pellet generator and a cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system that delivers ice pellets to a remote-controlled carriage for dispersion into the air and optional mixing with water droplets;

[0047] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing another embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; and

[0048] FIG. 7 shows one embodiment of an exhaust system for an apparatus including an ice particle outlet, a deflector plate, and a water droplet atomizer device including a heater head and a heater element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] The description of the preferred embodiments is to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are part of the entire written description of the present invention. Throughout the specification, corresponding reference numerals are used to identify identical or functionally similar elements. Relative terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," "up," "above," "below," "top," and "bottom" and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally," "downwardly," "upwardly," etc.) should be interpreted as referring to orientations as described subsequently or as shown in the accompanying drawings in question. These relative terms are for convenience of description and are not intended to require a particular orientation unless specifically stated otherwise. Terms including "inwardly" and "outwardly," "longitudinal" and "lateral," etc. should be interpreted relative to each other or relative to an axis of elongation or an axis of rotation or center, as appropriate. Unless expressly stated otherwise, terms related to attachment, coupling, and the like (e.g., "connected" and "interconnected") refer to relationships in which structures are fixed or attached to each other, directly or indirectly through intermediate structures, as well as both removable and rigid attachments or relationships. The term "operably connected" refers to an attachment, connection, or connection that allows the related structures to operate as intended depending on the relationship.

[0050] Turning now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like or similar parts or structures throughout the specification, Figure 1A remote controlled multifunctional snowmaking device 100 is shown. The device (100) includes a base unit (1), which preferably includes a housing (2) that surrounds and houses the various components of the device. The base unit preferably includes a frame (4) to which the various components are mounted. In some embodiments, the base unit (1) includes wheels (8) that allow the base unit (1) to be transported from one location to another. Also shown is a control panel (6) for actuating the device (100) and its individual components that can be controlled by a computer, programmable logic controller, or the like.

[0051] The base unit (1) includes an ice particle generator (10) having an ice maker or freezer unit (12) that converts water into ice. The ice particle generator can take a variety of different forms, such as the freezer unit disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,473,822, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The ice particle generator can also be an ice maker. In any case, the ice maker or freezer unit (12) produces ice in one form or another, such as, but not limited to, cubes, flakes, and blocks. In some embodiments, the ice maker or freezer unit (12) includes a drum evaporator freezer having an inner wall that is cooled by a refrigerator condensing unit so that water flowing down the inner wall is frozen and converted into ice.

[0052] An ice particle generator (10) includes a crushing device (14) that reduces ice generated by an ice maker or freezer unit into smaller ice particles. In a preferred embodiment, the crushing device comprises a scraper assembly located in a drum evaporator freezer that scrapes ice from the interior wall and converts the ice into ice particles. In other embodiments, ice generated by the freezer unit or ice maker is supplied to the crushing device (14), which is a crusher that reduces the ice into ice particles.

[0053] The ice particles discharged from the crushing device (14) are conveyed to the conveying pipeline (40) through the conveying system (30). In some embodiments, the conveying system includes a screw conveyor (36) and a fan impeller assembly (32), such as Figure 1 As shown. Various fan impeller assemblies are known in the art and are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 9,909,796 and 11,473,822, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. The fan impeller assembly includes an electric motor that drives a fan impeller unit at various speeds, as controllable by a control panel having a programmable logic controller to control the direction and speed of rotation of the motor. The fan impeller includes one or more blades that strike ice particles to reduce the size of at least some of the particles. The fan impeller discharges the ice particles (90) directly or indirectly into a delivery line (40) through its outlet conduit (38).

[0054] In other embodiments, the delivery system (30) is, for example, Figure 5and 6 A cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system (33) is shown. In one embodiment, the delivery system (33) includes an axial or centrifugal fan (35) and an air cooler (37) that blows cold delivery air and transfers ice particles leaving the ice particle generator (10) into a delivery line (40).

[0055] The delivery pipeline (40) at least includes an ice particle delivery pipe (42).

[0056] In one embodiment, the delivery line (40) includes an integral ice particle delivery line (42), a water line (44), and a power line (46). In such an embodiment, only one structure is required, namely the delivery line (40) extending between the base unit (1) and the carriage (50) to facilitate connection to a remote location.

[0057] By providing a delivery line (40) with a water line (44) and a power line (46), ice particle delivery conduit (42) operably connected to the delivery line (40) helps prevent damage to the water line and power line, as compared to extending these lines separately to the carriage when needed or desired.

[0058] The ice particle delivery conduit (42) is preferably formed from a polymer tubing of a durable, flexible material or a polymer tubing reinforced with metal wire. The type of polymer used to form the ice particle delivery conduit (42) is selected to ensure smooth delivery of the ice particles therethrough. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene-based tubing, and thermoplastic elastomer materials. In other embodiments, metal conduits may be used if desired. The length of the delivery conduit (40), including at least the ice particle delivery conduit (42), is typically about 20 to about 100 meters, desirably about 30 to about 80 meters, and preferably about 30 to about 50 meters.

[0059] The inner diameter of the ice particle delivery conduit (42) can vary depending on factors such as the number of ice particle generators operatively connected thereto and the amount or volume of ice particles suitable for delivery through the conduit over any given period of time. That is, the inner diameter of the ice particle delivery conduit (42) is about 7 to about 30 centimeters, desirably about 10 to about 25 centimeters, and preferably about 10 to about 20 centimeters.

[0060] The device (100) preferably has a device operatively connected to, for example Figure 1 The discharge outlet (48) of the carriage (50) is shown, and the outlet of the ice particle delivery conduit (42) is operatively connected to the discharge outlet (48), such as by a cam lock fitting (58).

[0061] The carriage 50 includes a frame (52) and a bracket (54) that operably supports the discharge outlet (48). Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, the frame also supports a vertically extending conduit (56) that positions or extends the discharge outlet (48) at a desired height above the ground, such as from about 0.5 to about 15 meters, desirably from about 1 to about 10 meters, and preferably from about 2 to about 8 meters. In some embodiments, the carriage includes one or more wheels and skis or a trailer mounted thereon that facilitates the ability to relatively easily transport or otherwise move the carriage to a remote location.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, a deflector plate (70) is operably connected to the carriage 50 so that it is located near the discharge outlet (48). As some of the ice particles are discharged from the discharge outlet (48), they collide with the deflector plate (70) and may be further pulverized and thrown outward at a very high velocity. The deflector plate (70) is adjustable and can be used to fan the particles at any angle (e.g., sideways, upward, or downward) depending on the curvature and shape of the plate. The deflector plate 70 is connected to the carriage 50 by any suitable means.

[0063] The deflector (70) further reduces the size of the snow or ice particles (90) by impact with the plate, for example to a target micron size of 50 to 200 microns required for nucleation. The ability to rotate the deflector 360 degrees means that the snow or ice particles can be blown downwind, an important aspect of snowmaking, creating more hang time before the snow hits the ground. The deflector fanns the ice particles exiting the delivery pipe, allowing the water droplet sprayer apparatus to be manufactured in wide lengths to accommodate more nozzles and allow the water droplets to mix with the snow seeds or ice particles. The deflector can be rotated manually or automatically by an actuator connected to a wind vane, which automatically rotates as the wind changes direction.

[0064] A water droplet sprayer device (80) is also operatively connected to the carriage (50). A water line 44 is connected to the inlet of the water sprayer device 80, such as Figure 1 As shown. The water sprayer device (80) is effective for producing additional snow or ice particles in temperatures below freezing. The water spraying device includes a water nozzle (82) which is preferably connected to a manifold (84) that receives water from a water pipe (44). In a preferred embodiment, the manifold is heated by a heater (86) having a heating element (87) and a heating head (88) to prevent water from freezing therein during operation.

[0065] Figure 2A portion of a remote controlled snowmaking device (100) is shown, provided with a water manifold (84) and nozzles (82) and a heated water delivery line (85) with a drain (83) and a high pressure hose connection (89) to allow for additional snow production at temperatures below 40°F (4.440°C). Snow is produced below this temperature by mixing atomized water droplets with air and an ice pellet delivery stream with the aid of deflector plates (70) or by blowing directly into the ice pellet stream (90).

[0066] Figure 3 A fan impeller assembly (32) is shown connected to a remote snowmaking device carriage (50) to provide additional air intake and delivery pressure downstream of a delivery line (40) including an ice pellet delivery line (42). The flexible delivery line (42) is connected to the inlet pipe (31) of the fan impeller blower inlet cover (23) via a preferred cam lock fitting (58), whereby air and ice pellets collide with the blades (24) of the fan impeller (32) and are discharged from an ice pellet discharge outlet (48) onto a deflector plate (70) of the remote snowmaking device (100).

[0067] Figure 4 A remote control carriage (50) is shown including a tower mount (55) wherein an ice particle discharge outlet (48) is connected to a vertically extending pipe (56) that is connected to a deflector plate (70) and a water droplet sprayer device (80) at a height of up to 12 meters above the ground. In an embodiment, the carriage (50) includes a fan impeller assembly (32) having an inlet connected to an outlet of an ice particle delivery pipe (42) of a delivery line (40). A power line (46) supplies power to the fan impeller assembly (32). An outlet pipe (38) of the fan impeller assembly (32) is operatively connected to the vertically extending pipe (56).

[0068] Figure 5 A proprietary cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system (33) is shown comprising an axial or centrifugal fan (35) and an air cooler (37) that blows the cold delivery air below a rotary valve (39), for example at a distance of up to 300 meters from the location of the axial fan (35).

[0069] In an embodiment, the blower wheel assembly (60) and the ice pellet generator (10) and conveyor (36) of the multifunctional snowmaking device are separate, and the rotary valve pneumatic air delivery system (33) is located between these components.

[0070] A sealed rotary valve (39) is connected to the outlet of a screw conveyor (36) of a multifunctional snowmaking device, and when the rotary valve (39) rotates, ice particles (90) produced by an ice particle generator (10) are evenly distributed into a cold air flow duct. These ice particles are then vacuumed by a fan impeller assembly (32) of the snowmaking device and blown by an axial fan (35) to form snow.

[0071] Figure 6 Another embodiment of the present invention is shown, which includes a plurality of ice particle generators (10) arranged downstream of a delivery line (40), the delivery line (40) including a delivery pipe (42), a water pipe (44) and a power line (46). The delivery line (40) is operatively connected to a carriage (50) having the above-mentioned Figure 1 Components described herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. As a further option, the apparatus includes the use of one or more in-line vacuum air pump delivery systems (92) operated by compressed air to generate a vacuum using a Coanda effect such as the Air Amplifier™ sold by Exair. In an embodiment, a small tubular component is provided upstream of the ice making machine to generate a stronger vacuum effect to assist in the movement of the ice particles. In another embodiment, the snowmaking apparatus further includes one or more compressed air operated in-line vacuum pump delivery systems, wherein at least one delivery system (92) is located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly of the carriage and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly, e.g., see Figure 6 In other embodiments, when multiple compressor-operated inline vacuum pump conveying systems are used, they may be spaced apart, for example but not limited to, between about 20 and 35 meters. See https: / / www.exair.com / products / air-operated-conveVors / line-vac.html and https: / / www.exair.com / sal.html#wk3dimage.

[0072] FIG7 shows a detailed view of the outlet portion of the device (100) including the ice particle discharge outlet (48), to which the deflector plate (70) is operably connected. The view also includes a detailed illustration of the water droplet sprayer device (80), which includes a manifold (84), a nozzle (82), a heater (86) including a heating element (87), and a heating head (88). Also shown is a water connector (89) suitable for connecting to a water line (44), not shown in the figure. The solenoid valve and nozzle are connected to a control panel that is programmed to open the valve when the temperature drops below a set temperature.

[0073] For the avoidance of doubt, the apparatus and devices of the present invention encompass all possible combinations of the components disclosed herein, including various ranges of components. It should also be noted that the term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements. However, it should also be understood that a description of an apparatus comprising certain components also discloses a product comprised of those components. Similarly, it should also be understood that a description of a method comprising certain steps also discloses a method comprised of those steps.

[0074] In other aspects of the invention, the apparatus and method include the following.

[0075] 1. A remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device comprising: an ice pellet generator comprising: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces the ice generated by the freezer unit into ice pellets having a size smaller than ice; a fan impeller assembly that receives ice pellets from the ice pellet generator and has a fan having blades that generate an air flow and further reduce the size of the ice pellets; an elongated conveying duct having a length of at least 1 meter and arranged between an outlet duct of the device and an outlet of the fan impeller assembly; wherein the outlet duct that receives the ice pellets discharged from the fan impeller assembly guides the ice pellets from the outlet of the outlet duct into the air; and a water manifold that is arranged adjacent to the outlet duct, wherein a plurality of water nozzles are connected to the water manifold, the water nozzles discharge pressurized water therefrom in the form of water droplets, and wherein the ice pellets discharged from the outlet duct mix with the water droplets discharged from the water nozzles to generate snow.

[0076] 2. A remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device, the snowmaking device including an ice pellet generator, the ice pellet generator including: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces the ice generated by the freezer unit into ice pellets smaller in size than ice; a first fan impeller assembly that receives ice pellets from the ice pellet generator and has a fan having blades that generate an air flow and further reduce the size of the ice pellets; an elongated conveying duct having an inlet connected to the outlet of the first fan impeller assembly and an outlet arranged at least 1 meter from the inlet; a second fan impeller assembly that is located downstream of the outlet of the conveying duct, wherein the second fan impeller assembly has a fan having blades that generate an air flow and further reduce the size of the ice pellets received from the conveying duct; and an outlet duct that receives the ice pellets discharged from the second fan impeller assembly and guides the ice pellets from the outlet of the outlet duct into the air.

[0077] 3. A remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device, the snowmaking device including an ice particle generator, the ice particle generator including: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces the ice generated by the freezer unit into ice particles smaller than the ice; an elongated conveying conduit having an inlet for receiving ice particles from the ice particle generator; a fan impeller assembly located downstream of the conveying conduit and having a fan having blades that generate an air flow and further reduce the size of the ice particles; a cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system including an axial or centrifugal fan and an air cooler, wherein the air delivery system has an outlet located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly, wherein the air delivery system also includes a sealed rotary valve that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly; and an outlet conduit that receives ice particles discharged from the fan impeller assembly and directs the ice particles into the air from an outlet of the outlet conduit.

[0078] 4. The device according to any one of 1 to 3, wherein the length of the elongated conveying pipe is between 1 meter and 100 meters.

[0079] 5. The apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the device further comprises a deflector plate located downstream of the outlet of the outlet duct, at least some of the ice particles exiting the outlet impacting a surface of the deflector plate before mixing with the water droplets.

[0080] 6. The device according to 5, wherein the deflector plate is curved or straight and has a width of 2 to 8 times the width of the outlet duct, and when the deflector plate is curved, the curved deflector plate has an angle of approximately between 45° and 85°.

[0081] 7. The device according to any one of 1 to 6, wherein the outlet conduit is operably mounted in the bracket, wherein the delivery conduit is upstream of the outlet conduit and operably connected to the outlet conduit.

[0082] 8. The apparatus of 1-7, wherein a water manifold is operably connected to the rear side of the deflector plate, wherein the water manifold is connected to a heated water delivery pipe, wherein the water delivery pipe has a high pressure hose connection for providing pressurized water to the water manifold.

[0083] 9. The apparatus of 8, wherein the heating delivery conduit includes a drain for draining water from the heating delivery conduit and the water manifold when not in use.

[0084] 10. The apparatus of 1 and 3-9, wherein the apparatus further comprises a second fan impeller assembly located downstream of the delivery conduit, wherein the second fan impeller assembly has a fan having blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of ice particles received from the delivery conduit.

[0085] 11. The apparatus according to 1-10, wherein the length of the elongated conveying conduit is between 2 meters and 50 meters, and wherein the second conveying conduit is connected to the outlet conduit, whereby the outlet of the outlet conduit is located at a height greater than 5 meters above the ground below the second conveying conduit.

[0086] 12. The device according to 11, wherein the second delivery conduit is straight.

[0087] 13. The apparatus of 1, 2, and 4-12, wherein the apparatus further comprises a cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system comprising an axial or centrifugal fan and an air cooler, wherein the air delivery system is located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly, wherein the air delivery system further comprises a sealed rotary valve that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly.

[0088] 14. The apparatus of 1-13, wherein the freezer unit comprises a drum evaporator freezer having an inner wall or an outer wall, the inner wall or the outer wall being cooled by a refrigerator condensing unit so that water flowing down the inner wall or the outer wall is frozen and converted into ice, and wherein the crushing device comprises a scraper assembly located in the drum evaporator freezer, the scraper assembly scraping ice from the inner wall or the outer wall and converting the ice into ice particles.

[0089] 15. The apparatus of any one of 1 to 14, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of ice particle generators, each ice particle generator being operatively connected to the inlet of the elongated delivery conduit.

[0090] 16. The device according to any one of items 1-15, wherein the diameter of the elongated delivery conduit is from about 2 inches to about 36 inches.

[0091] 17. The apparatus of any one of items 1, 2, and 4-12, wherein the apparatus further comprises one or more compressed air operated inline vacuum pump conveying systems, such as exhaust product, spaced at intervals of 20 to 35 meters, wherein the conveying systems are located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly of the carriage and blow the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly.

[0092] In accordance with the patent statutes, the best mode and preferred embodiment have been set forth; the scope of the invention is not limited thereto, but rather by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device comprising: An ice particle generator, comprising: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces ice produced by the freezer unit into ice particles of a size smaller than the ice; a fan impeller assembly that receives the ice particles from the ice particle generator and has a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of the ice particles; an elongated delivery duct having a length of at least 1 meter disposed between the outlet duct of the device and the outlet of the fan impeller assembly; wherein the outlet duct receiving the ice particles discharged from the fan impeller assembly guides the ice particles from an outlet of the outlet duct into the air; and a water manifold disposed adjacent to the outlet conduit, wherein a plurality of water nozzles are connected to the water manifold, the water nozzles discharging pressurized water in the form of water droplets therefrom, and The ice particles discharged from the outlet pipe are mixed with the water droplets discharged from the water nozzles, thereby generating snow.

2. A remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device comprising: An ice particle generator, comprising: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces ice produced by the freezer unit into ice particles of a size smaller than the ice; a first fan impeller assembly receiving the ice particles from the ice particle generator and having a fan with blades for generating an air flow and further reducing the size of the ice particles; an elongated conveying duct having an inlet connected to the outlet of the first fan impeller assembly and an outlet disposed at least 1 meter from the inlet; a second fan impeller assembly located downstream of the outlet of the conveying duct, wherein the second fan impeller assembly has a fan having blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of ice particles received from the conveying duct; and An outlet duct receives the ice particles discharged from the second fan impeller assembly and guides the ice particles into the air from an outlet of the outlet duct.

3. A remote-controlled multifunctional snowmaking device comprising: An ice particle generator, comprising: a) a freezer unit that converts water into ice; and b) a crushing device that reduces ice produced by the freezer unit into ice particles of a size smaller than the ice; an elongated delivery conduit having an inlet for receiving ice particles from the ice particle generator; a fan impeller assembly located downstream of the delivery duct and having a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of the ice particles; a sealed pneumatic air delivery system for cold air comprising an axial or centrifugal fan and an air cooler, wherein the air delivery system has an outlet located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly, wherein the air delivery system further comprises a sealed rotary valve that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly; and An outlet duct receives the ice particles discharged from the fan impeller assembly and guides the ice particles into the air from an outlet of the outlet duct.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein The elongated conveying conduit has a length between 1 meter and 100 meters, the apparatus further comprising a deflector located downstream of an outlet of the outlet conduit, at least some of the ice particles exiting the outlet impacting a surface of the deflector before mixing with the water droplets, and the elongated conveying conduit has a diameter between about 2 inches and about 36 inches.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein The deflector plate is curved or straight and has a width of 2 to 8 times the width of the outlet duct, and when the deflector plate is curved, the curved deflector plate has an angle of approximately between 45° and 85°, and wherein the outlet duct is operably mounted in a bracket, and wherein the delivery duct is located upstream of the outlet duct and is operably connected to the outlet duct.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein The water manifold is operably connected to a rear side of the deflector plate, wherein the water manifold is connected to a heated water delivery pipe, wherein the water delivery pipe has a high-pressure hose connection for providing pressurized water to the water manifold, and wherein the heated delivery pipe includes a drain port for draining water from the heated delivery pipe and the water manifold when not in use.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein The apparatus also includes a second fan impeller assembly located downstream from the delivery conduit, wherein the second fan impeller assembly has a fan with blades that generate airflow and further reduce the size of ice particles received from the delivery conduit.

8. The device according to claim 4, wherein The elongated conveying duct has a length between 2 meters and 50 meters, and wherein a second conveying duct is connected to the outlet duct whereby an outlet of the outlet duct is located at a height greater than 5 meters above the ground below the second conveying duct, and wherein the second conveying duct is straight.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein The apparatus further comprises a cold air sealed pneumatic air delivery system comprising an axial or centrifugal fan and an air cooler, wherein the air delivery system is located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly, wherein the air delivery system further comprises a sealed rotary valve that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly.

10. The device according to claim 1, wherein The freezer unit comprises a drum evaporator freezer having an inner or outer wall, the inner or outer wall being cooled by a refrigerator condensing unit so that water flowing down the inner or outer wall is frozen and converted into ice, and wherein the crushing device comprises a scraper assembly located in the drum evaporator freezer, the scraper assembly scraping ice from the inner or outer wall and converting the ice into ice particles, and wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of ice particle generators, each of the plurality of ice particle generators being operably connected to an inlet of the elongated delivery conduit.

11. The device according to claim 1, wherein The apparatus further includes one or more compressed air operated inline vacuum pump delivery systems, wherein at least one of the delivery systems is positioned between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly of the carriage and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly.

12. The device according to claim 2, wherein The elongated conveying conduit has a length between 1 meter and 100 meters, the apparatus further comprising a deflector located downstream of an outlet of the outlet conduit, at least some of the ice particles exiting the outlet impacting a surface of the deflector before mixing with the water droplets, and the elongated conveying conduit has a diameter between about 2 inches and about 36 inches.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein The deflector plate is curved or straight and has a width of 2 to 8 times the width of the outlet duct, and when the deflector plate is curved, the curved deflector plate has an angle of approximately between 45° and 85°, and wherein the outlet duct is operably mounted in a bracket, and wherein the delivery duct is located upstream of the outlet duct and is operably connected to the outlet duct.

14. The device according to claim 2, wherein The water manifold is operably connected to a rear side of the deflector plate, wherein the water manifold is connected to a heated water delivery pipe, wherein the water delivery pipe has a high-pressure hose connection for providing pressurized water to the water manifold, and wherein the heated delivery pipe includes a drain port for draining water from the heated delivery pipe and the water manifold when not in use.

15. The device according to claim 2, wherein The length of the elongated conveying duct is between 2 meters and 50 meters, and wherein a second conveying duct is connected to the outlet duct, whereby an outlet of the outlet duct is located at a height greater than 5 meters above the ground below the second conveying duct, and wherein the second conveying duct is straight, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a cold air sealed pneumatic air conveying system comprising an axial or centrifugal fan and an air cooler, wherein the air conveying system is located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly, and wherein the air conveying system further comprises a sealed rotary valve that receives ice particles from the ice particle generator and blows the ice particles to the fan impeller assembly.

16. The device according to claim 2, wherein The freezer unit includes a drum evaporator freezer having an inner wall or an outer wall, the inner wall or the outer wall being cooled by a refrigerator condensing unit so that water flowing down the inner wall or the outer wall is frozen and converted into ice, and wherein the crushing device includes a scraper assembly located in the drum evaporator freezer, the scraper assembly scraping ice from the inner wall or the outer wall and converting the ice into ice particles, and wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of ice particle generators, each of the plurality of ice particle generators being operably connected to an inlet of the elongated conveying conduit, and wherein the apparatus further includes one or more compressed air-operated inline vacuum pump conveying systems, and wherein at least one of the conveying systems is located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly of the carriage and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly.

17. The device according to claim 3, wherein The elongated conveying conduit has a length between 1 meter and 100 meters, the apparatus further comprising a deflector located downstream of an outlet of the outlet conduit, at least some of the ice particles exiting the outlet impacting a surface of the deflector before mixing with the water droplets, and the elongated conveying conduit has a diameter between about 2 inches and about 36 inches.

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein The deflector plate is curved or straight and has a width of 2 to 8 times the width of the outlet duct, and when the deflector plate is curved, the curved deflector plate has an angle of approximately between 45° and 85°, and wherein the outlet duct is operably mounted in a bracket, wherein the delivery duct is located upstream of the outlet duct and is operably connected to the outlet duct, and wherein the water manifold is operably connected to the rear side of the deflector plate, wherein the water manifold is connected to a heated water delivery duct, wherein the water delivery duct has a high-pressure hose connection for providing pressurized water to the water manifold, and wherein the heated delivery duct includes a drain for draining water from the heated delivery duct and the water manifold when not in use.

19. The device according to claim 3, wherein The apparatus further includes a second fan impeller assembly located downstream of the delivery duct, wherein the second fan impeller assembly has a fan having blades that generate an airflow and further reduce the size of ice particles received from the delivery duct, and wherein the length of the elongated delivery duct is between 2 meters and 50 meters, and wherein the second delivery duct is connected to the outlet duct whereby an outlet of the outlet duct is located at a height greater than 5 meters above the ground below the second delivery duct, and wherein the second delivery duct is straight.

20. The device according to claim 3, wherein The freezer unit includes a drum evaporator freezer having an inner wall or an outer wall, the inner wall or the outer wall being cooled by a refrigerator condensing unit so that water flowing down the inner wall or the outer wall is frozen and converted into ice, and wherein the crushing device includes a scraper assembly located in the drum evaporator freezer, the scraper assembly scraping ice from the inner wall or the outer wall and converting the ice into ice particles, and wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of ice particle generators, each of the plurality of ice particle generators being operably connected to an inlet of the elongated conveying conduit, and wherein the apparatus further includes one or more compressed air-operated inline vacuum pump conveying systems, and wherein at least one of the conveying systems is located between the ice particle generator and the fan impeller assembly of the carriage and blows the ice particles toward the fan impeller assembly.

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