ICE PACKAGING SYSTEM IN BAGS INCLUDING AUXILIARY SOURCE OF BAGS

Abstract

A system and method for packaging ice in bags, according to which ice is automatically deposited into the respective bags supplied from a first source of bags, and ice is automatically deposited into the respective bags supplied from a second source of bags. Figure 1 is the most representative figure of the invention.

Description

ICE PACKAGING SYSTEM IN BAGS THAT INCLUDES ICE SOURCE BAGS ASSISTANT Background of the Invention This description refers in general to ice and in particular to a system for bagging or packaging ice; the ice bagging system includes primary and auxiliary sources of the bags. Brief Description of the Figures Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ice-bagging apparatus, according to one example embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of a system according to one example embodiment; the system includes the ice-bagging apparatus of Figure 1, a central server, and a plurality of remote devices. For the user, the ice bagging apparatus in Figure 1 includes ice producers, a hopper, a measuring system, a bagging system, a distribution system, an automatic vending apparatus, and an automatic control system. Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of the control system in Figure 2, according to an example modality. Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a portion of the bagging system of Figure 2, according to an example modality. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the ice-bagting apparatus of Figures 1-4, according to one example modality. I OH I Figure 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the bagging system shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5, according to one example configuration. Figure 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the bagging system portion of Figure 6, according to an example modality. Figure 8 is a flowchart illustration of an operating method of the ice-bagting apparatus of Figures 1-7, according to an example modality. Figure 9 is a flowchart illustration of one stage of the method in Figure 8, according to an example modality. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustration of one stage of the stage in Figure 9, according to an example modality. Figures 11A and 11B are schematic illustrations of portions of the bagging system of Figures 2 and 4-7 during the execution of the stage in Figure 4. Figure 12 is a flowchart illustration of another stage of the method in Figure 8, according to an example modality. Figure 13 is a flowchart illustration of one stage of the stage in Figure 12, according to an example modality. Figures 14A and 14B are schematic illustrations of portions of the bagging system of Figures 2 and 4-7 during the execution of a stage of the stage in Figure 13, according to an example modality. Figures 15A and 15B are schematic illustrations of portions of the bagging system of Figures 2 and 4-7 during the execution of another stage of the stage in Figure 13, according to an example modality. Figures 16A and 16B are schematic illustrations of portions of the bagging system of Figures 2 and 4-7 during the execution of yet another stage of the stage in Figure 13, according to an example modality. Figure 17 is a schematic illustration of a node for the implementation of one or more example modalities of the present description, according to an example modality. Detailed Description In one example, as illustrated in the Figure 1, an ice bagging or stuffing apparatus is generally referred to by the reference number 10 e It includes ice makers 12a and 12b, which are located above an enclosure 14 having a panel 16. A control panel 18 is coupled with the enclosure 14. An automatic vending device 20 is located by beneath the enclosure 14, and is adapted to store bags filled with ice in a temperature-controlled environment, according to the conditions that will be described later. The vending machine 20 includes doors 22a and 22b, which allow access to the bags filled with ice that are stored in the vending machine 20. In several example embodiments, the vending machine 20 is, includes, or is part of any type of freezer or other type of temperature-controlled storage unit. In one example embodiment, each of the ice makers 12a and 12b is a stackable cube former available from Hoshizaki America, Inc.In several example embodiments, Ice Bagging Apparatus 10 is an automatic in-store ice bagging apparatus, which is installed at a retail or other desired location, and is configured to automatically manufacture ice, automatically bag the manufactured ice (i.e., pack the manufactured ice into bags), and store the bagged (or packaged) ice at the installation location. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 2 with continued reference to Figure 1, a system is generally referred to by reference number 24 and includes the ice bagging apparatus 10 and a central server 26 that is operationally coupled to the ice bagging apparatus 10 by means of a network 28. Remote user devices 30a and 30b are operationally coupled to, and adapted to communicate with, the central server 26 by means of the network 28. In several example embodiments, the network 28 includes the Internet, any type of local area network, any type of wide area network, any type of wireless network, and / or any combination thereof.In several example configurations, each of the remote user devices 30a and 30b includes a personal computer, a personal digital assistant, a cell phone, a smartphone, other types of computing devices, and / or any combination thereof. In several example configurations, the central server 26 includes a processor and a computer-readable medium or operatively coupled memory for storing instructions accessible and executable by the processor. As shown in Figure 2, the ice bagging apparatus 10 further includes a hopper 32, which is operationally coupled to each of the ice producers 12a and 12b. A measuring system 34 is operationally coupled to the hopper 32, and a bagging system 36 is operationally coupled to the measuring system 34. A distribution system 37 is operationally coupled to the bagging system 36. The vending machine 20 is operationally coupled to I OH I The distribution system 37. An automatic control system 38 is operationally coupled with the ice producers 12a and 12b, the hopper 32, the measuring system 34, the bagging system 36, the distribution system 37, and the automatic vending device 20. In one example embodiment, the measuring system It is configured to receive ice from hopper 32 and supplies measured quantities of ice to bagging system 36. In one example embodiment, measuring system 34 defines a volume in which a quantity of ice is received from hopper 32, whereby the quantity of ice is measured volumetrically. Measuring system 34 then supplies the measured quantity of ice volumetrically to bagging system 36. In one example embodiment, measuring system 34 is, or at least includes in whole or in part, one or more of the embodiments of the measuring systems described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 701,984 filed November 6, 2003, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.In one example embodiment, measuring system 34 is, or at least includes in whole or in part, one or more of the embodiments of the measuring systems described in United States Patent Application No. 11 / 371,300, filed on March 9, 2006, now United States Patent No. 7,426,812, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, such as, for example, the extraction section described in United States Patent Application No. 11 / 371,300. In one example embodiment, measuring system 34 is, or at least includes in whole or in part, one or more of the embodiments of the measuring systems described in United States Patent Application No. 11 / 837,320, filed on August 10, 2007, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference, such as, for example, the compartment assembly described in United States Patent Application No. 11 / 837,320.In one example embodiment, the measuring system 34 is, or at least includes in whole or in part, one or more of the embodiments of the measuring systems described in the following United States Patent applications: United States Patent Application No. 60 / 659,600, filed March 7, 2005; United States Patent Application No. 60 / 837,374, filed August 11, 2006; United States Patent Application No. 60 / 941,191, filed May 31, 2007; and United States Patent Application No. 11 / 931,324, filed October 31, 2007, now United States Patent No. 7,497,062, the full descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference. In one example embodiment, the distribution system 37 is configured to distribute bags filled with ice into the vending machine 20. In one example embodiment, the distribution system 37 includes one or more sliding guides (not shown) located within the vending machine 20, and one or more sensors. The distribution system 37 is configured to search for available spaces within the vending machine 20 into which it deposits bags filled with ice, and to deposit the bags filled with ice into the available spaces. In one example embodiment, the distribution system is, or at least includes in whole or in part, one or more of the embodiments described in U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 130,946, filed May 30, 2008; and U.S. Patent Application No.61 / 300,612, submitted on February 2, 2010, the full descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference. > M K c « co -P In one example modality, as illustrated in the — Figure 3, with continuous reference to Figures 1 and 2, shows the automatic control system 38, which includes a computer 40 that in turn includes a processor 42 and a computer-readable medium or memory 44 operationally coupled to it. In one example, the instructions accessible and executable by the processor 42 are stored in memory 44. In one example, memory 44 includes one or more databases and / or one or more data structures stored therein. A communication module 46 is operationally coupled to the computer 40 and is adapted for two-way communication with the central server 26 via network 28. Sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d are operationally coupled to the computer 40. The control panel 18 is operationally coupled to the computer 40. In one example configuration, each of sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d includes one or more sensors. In one example configuration, one or more of sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d includes the respective photocells. In one example configuration, sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d are distributed throughout the device 10. In one example embodiment, one or more of sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, or one or more other sensors, are located on and / or attached to, and / or coupled with, the vending machine 20 or its doors 22a and / or 22b, and are configured to determine whether the doors 22a and / or 22b are open or closed. In another example embodiment, sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d are located in one or more different locations on one or more of the ice makers 12a and 12b, the hopper 32, the measuring system 34, the bagging system 36, the distribution system 37, the vending machine 20, and the control system 38. IVIA / a / ¿UI3 / UII OH- I In several example modalities, the computer 40 includes, and / or functions as, a data acquisition unit that is adapted to convert, condition and / or process the signals transmitted by sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, 48d, and one or more other sensors operatively coupled with the computer 40. In one example mode, the control panel 18 is a touch screen, a multi-touch screen, and / or any combination thereof. In several example modes, the control panel 18 includes one or more input devices such as, for example, one or more keyboards, one or more voice recognition systems, one or more touch display screens, and / or any combination thereof. In several example modes, the control panel 18 includes one or more output devices such as, for example, one or more digital displays, one or more liquid crystal displays, and / or any combination thereof, one or more printers, and / or any combination thereof.In several example configurations, control panel 18 includes one or more card readers, one or more graphical user interfaces and / or other types of user interfaces, one or more digital ports, one or more analog ports, one or more signal ports, one or more alarms, and / or any combination thereof. In several example configurations, computer 40 and / or processor 42 include, for example, one or more of the following: a general-purpose programmable controller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), other controller devices, and / or any combination thereof. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 4 with continued reference to Figures 1-3, the bagging system 36 includes a primary bag source 50 and an auxiliary bag source 52. A bag feeding system 54 is operatively coupled with each of the bag sources 50 and 52. The bag feeding system 54 includes a main bag feed assembly 56 having an upper roller 58 and a lower roller 60, and an auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 located to the right of the main bag feed assembly 56 (as shown in Figure 4). The auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 has an upper roller 64 and a lower roller 66. Tension rollers 68, 70, 72, and 74 are located between the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 and the sources 50 and 52. A support frame 75 is located between the auxiliary bag feed assembly and the auxiliary bag feed assembly 52. bag advance 62 and tension rollers 68, 70, 72 and 74.A duct 76 is positioned above a bag basket 78 and includes a retaining plate 80 rotatably coupled to an end portion of the duct 76. A blower fan 82 is operatively coupled to the duct 76 and is configured to blow air into the duct 76 according to the conditions described later. The bagging system 36 further includes a bag sealing and separation system 84, which includes a static heat-sealing bar 86 and a movable arm 88. The arm 88 includes a bag cutter 90 and a stop strip 92. In one example embodiment, the movable arm 88 is operatively coupled to a motor (not shown) by at least one or more rods 94.In addition to being part of the bagging system 36, the bag basket 78 is part of the distribution system 37, which also includes a rotation motor 96 operatively coupled to the bag basket 78, and the sensor 48c, which is operatively coupled to the rotation motor 96. In one example embodiment, instead of, or in addition to, rollers 58 and 60, the main bag feed assembly 56 includes one or more arms configured to engage and move each of the bags from sources 50 and / or 52. In one example embodiment, instead of, or in addition to, rollers 64 and 66, the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 includes one or more arms configured to engage and move each of the bags from source 52. In one example embodiment, sensor 48b is positioned below and slightly to the left of the main bag feed assembly 56, as shown in Figure 4. In one example embodiment, sensor 48b includes a laser photocell. The photocell is positioned below and slightly to the left of the main bag feed assembly 56, as shown in Figure 4, so that the photocell is adapted to be positioned below a bag from source 50 or 52 that is fed by the main bag feed assembly 56 during operation of device 10. In one example embodiment, sensor 48b is positioned below duct 76 and above bag basket 78. In one example embodiment, sensor 48b is positioned below duct 76 and above bag basket 78, and below the main bag feed assembly 56.In one example mode, the sensor 48d, one or more safety switches and / or one or more micro-switches are coupled, in an operational manner, with both the computer 40 and the motor which is coupled, in an operational manner, with the movable arm 88, and the switches are adapted to control the motor sequence of the motor. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 5 with continued reference to Figures 1-4, the primary source for bags 50 is a primary roller 98 for bags 98a, and the auxiliary source for bags 52 is a auxiliary roller 100 of the 100a bags. Rollers 98 and 100, tension rollers 68, 70, 72, and 74, and support frame 75 are located within enclosure 14. The auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 and the primary bag feed assembly 56 are also located within enclosure 14. The bagging system 36 further includes a bag guide frame 102, a solenoid actuator 104, a solenoid support clamp 106, springs 108 and 110, a feed motor 112, a sub-motor 114, and a spring retainer 116, all of which are also located within enclosure 14. As shown in Figure 5, the bagging system 36 is accessible by removing panel 16 from enclosure 14. In one example embodiment, instead of, or in addition to, the primary roller 98, the primary feed 50 includes a plurality of bags hanging side by side, and / or a stack of bags.In one example, instead of, or in addition to, the auxiliary roller. 100, auxiliary source 52 includes a plurality of bags hanging side by side, and / or a stack of the bags. A shaft assembly 118 having a longitudinal axis is coupled with the auxiliary roller 100 of the 100a bags so that the auxiliary roller 100 is permitted to rotate in place about the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly 118. A roller support 120 is coupled with the housing 14 and the shaft assembly 118, thereby supporting the shaft assembly 118 at one end portion thereof. In one example embodiment, another roller support similar to the roller support 120 could support the shaft assembly 118 at its other end portion, and / or the shaft assembly 118 could be otherwise coupled with the housing 14. The primary roller 98 of the 98a bags is located below the auxiliary roller 100 of the 100a bags. A shaft assembly 122 having a longitudinal shaft is coupled with the primary roller 98 of the 98a bags so that the primary roller 98 is allowed to rotate in place about the longitudinal shaft assembly 122.The shaft assembly 122 is supported by the bag guide frame 102, and extends into a notch 102a formed in a side wall 102b of the bag guide frame 102. Bags 98a are wound around the primary roller 98, and bags 100a are wound around the auxiliary roller 100. Bags 98a are connected end-to-end to form a substantially continuous roll and are pre-punched to a predetermined measurement. Similarly, bags 100a are connected end-to-end to form a substantially continuous roll and are pre-punched to a predetermined measurement. In one example embodiment, each of the bags 98a and 100a includes digitally encoded information adapted to be read by one or more sensors distributed within the apparatus 10, and / or by one or more of the sensors 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d; the digitally encoded information includes, for example, the bag number, bag type, bag name, and / or any combination thereof.In several example embodiments, each of the bags 98a and / or 100a is a single layer of material, portions of which are initially sealed together and / or otherwise manipulated (such as two or more edges of the single layer of material being joined or grouped together) so that the material is also capable of receiving and retaining or containing ice, or will be sealed together and / or otherwise manipulated during the operation of apparatus 10 so that the material is capable of receiving and retaining or containing ice.In several example embodiments, each of bags 98a and / or 100a includes two or more layers of material, and at least the respective portions of the two or more layers are initially sealed together and / or otherwise manipulated so that the material is capable of receiving and retaining or containing ice, or will be sealed together and / or otherwise manipulated during operation of apparatus 10 so that the material is capable of receiving and retaining or containing ice. Tension rollers 68, 70, 72, and 74 are supported by the bag guide frame 102 and are configured to guide bags 98a and / or 100a from each of rollers 98 and 100 and from one or more of the main bag feed assembly 56 and the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62. Tension rollers 68, 70, 72, and 74 are stretchable and provide at least some degree of resistance to the travel of bags 98a and / or 100a. In one example embodiment, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, tension rollers 68, 72, and 74 are configured to guide bags 98a from the primary roller 98, and tension roller 70 is configured to guide bags 100a from the auxiliary roller 100. Hopper 32 and measuring system 34 are also shown in Figure 5. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 5, measuring system 34 includes an extractor 124 that is configured to measure a quantity of ice received from hopper 32 and subsequently moves, relative to hopper 32, the measured quantity of ice to conduit 76. In another example embodiment, instead of extractor 124, measuring system 34 includes the upper and lower movable doors (not shown), which at least partially define a compartment (not shown) that is configured to measure a quantity of ice received from hopper 32 and subsequently supply the measured quantity of ice to conduit 76.In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 7 with continued reference to Figures 1-5, the guide bag frame 102 further includes a side wall 102c, which is parallel to and parallel to the side wall 102b. The support frame 75 extends between the parallel-separated side walls 102b and 102c of the guide bag frame 102. The support frame 75 includes the parallel-separated side portions 75a and 75b through which the axially aligned holes 75c and 75d are formed, respectively. An intermediate portion 75e extends between the side portions 75a and 75b and includes an upper pair portion 75f that is generally perpendicular to the side portions 75a and 75b. A region 75g (also shown in Figure 4) within the middle portion 75e is defined at least in part by the upper wall portion 75f and the side portions 75a and 75b.A bracket support angle 75h extends from the upper corner of the side portion 75a. A hole 75i is formed through the wall extending in a generally vertical direction from the bracket support angle 75h. IVIA / a / ZU l» / UII The pivot arms 126a and 126b are coupled with the respective inner surfaces extending vertically from the side portions 75a and 75b. The upper roller 64 extends between, and is coupled with, the pivot arms 126a and 126b. A support plate 128a is engaged with an inner surface extending vertically from the solenoid support clamp 106, such that the support plate 128a is positioned between the solenoid support clamp 106 and the side portion 75a of the support frame 75. A support plate 128b is engaged with a vertically extending side clamp 130, which in turn is engaged with the side wall 102c of the bag guide bar frame 102. The support plate 128b is positioned between the side clamp 130 and the side portion 75b of the support frame 75.A pivot element, such as a pivot rod 132, extends between and is coupled with the support plates 128a and 128b. The pivot rod 132 extends through hole 75c of the support frame 75, a hole (not shown) formed through the pivot arm 126a that is coaxial with hole 75c, region 75g within the middle portion 75e of the support frame 75, a hole (not shown) formed through the pivot arm 126b that is coaxial with hole 75d of the support frame 75, and hole 75d. The support frame 75, the pivot arms. 126a and 126b, and the upper roller 64, are configured to rotate around the pivot rod 132, according to the conditions that will be described later. As shown in Figure 7, the solenoid support clamp 106 includes a clamping tab 106a through which a hole 106b is formed, a solenoid support tab 106c through which a hole 106d is formed, and a motor support portion 106e. The solenoid support clamp 106 further includes a vertically extending portion 106f, from which the motor support portion 106e and tabs 106a and 106c extend. The vertically extending portion 106f is mated to the side wall 102b of the bag guide frame 102. The vertically extending portion 106f defines the vertically extending inner surface with which the support plate 128a is mated, as previously described.A horizontally extending portion 106g of the solenoid support clamp 106 extends from the vertically extending portion 106f. Holes 106h and 106i are formed through the horizontally extending portion 106g. As shown in Figure 6, the solenoid actuator 104 is mounted on the solenoid support clamp 106 and is coupled with the solenoid support tab 106c such that a drive rod 104a of the solenoid actuator 104 extends angularly through the hole 106d. The secondary motor 114 is coupled with the motor support portion 106e of the solenoid support clamp 106. The secondary motor 114 is operationally coupled and adapted to drive the lower roller 66 of the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62. In one example embodiment, the secondary motor 114 is operationally coupled to the computer 40 of the control system 38. The feed motor 112 is operationally coupled and adapted to drive the lower roller 60 of the main bag feed assembly 56.In one example configuration, the feed motor 112 is operationally coupled to the computer 40 of the control system 38. In one example configuration, the feed motor 112 includes a progressive motor that is operationally coupled to the computer 40 of the control system 38. In one example configuration, the feed motor 112 includes a programmable digital motor. As shown in Figure 7, the spring fastener 116 includes a vertically extending plate 116a, a hole 116b formed through the lower end portion of the plate 116a, a plurality IVIA / a / ZU l» / UII of grooves (or teeth) 116c formed on the upper edge of plate 116a, and a tongue 116d extending from plate 116a and adjacent to the upper edge of plate 116a, the tongue 116d being generally perpendicular to plate 116a and extending outwards from the side wall 102b. A hole 116e is formed through the tongue 116d. The spring retainer 116 is engaged with the retaining tab 106a of the solenoid support clamp 106 by means of a fastener (not shown in Figure 7) that extends through the axially aligned holes 116b and 106c. The spring retainer 116 is adapted to rotate relative to the retaining tab 106a about an axis that is coaxial with the holes. aligned in axial position 116b and 106b, according to the conditions that will be described later. The lower edge of the fastener support angle 75h is adapted to extend into one or more of or within one of the grooves in the plurality of grooves 116c. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the spring 108 It includes an end portion extending through hole 106h of the solenoid support clamp 106, thereby engaging the spring 108 with the solenoid support clamp 106. The other end portion of the spring 108 extends through hole 75i of the support frame 75, thereby engaging the spring 108 with the support frame 75. The spring 108, hole 106h, and hole 75i are positioned and / or otherwise configured such that the spring 108 is adapted to push or deflect the lower edge of the support bracket angle 75h into one of the grooves in the plurality of grooves 116c, and / or against the spring retainer 116, according to the conditions that will be described later. Spring 110 includes an end portion that extends through hole 106i of solenoid support clamp 106, thereby coupling spring 110 to solenoid support clamp 106.The other end portion of spring 110 extends through hole 116e of spring holder 116, thereby coupling spring 110 with spring holder 116. Spring 110, hole 106i, and hole 116e are positioned and / or otherwise configured so that spring 110 is adapted to push or deflect the spring holder 116 rotating about an axis that is coaxial with the axially aligned holes 116b and 106b, and in a clockwise direction of rotation, as seen, for example, in Figure 4. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 8 with continued reference to Figures 1-7, a method 134 of operating the apparatus 10 includes determining in step 136 whether the vending machine 20 is full of bags filled with ice. If not, then an initial bag from the primary source is automatically filled with ice in step 138, and the initial bag from the primary source is dispensed into the vending machine 20 in step 140. In step 142, it is again determined whether the vending machine 20 is full of bags filled with ice. If not, then in step 143 it is determined whether an event has occurred, such as whether all the bags from the primary source have been used. If the event has not occurred, then another bag from the primary source is automatically filled with ice in step 144, and the other bag from the primary source is dispensed into the vending machine 20 in step 146.Steps 142, 143, 144 and 146 are repeated until it is determined in step 142 that the vending machine 20 is. filled with bags filled with ice, or it is determined in step 143 that the event has occurred. If it is determined in step 142 that the vending machine 20 is filled with bags of ice, then in step 148 the machine 10 enters a full vending machine mode in which the machine It automatically ceases bagging or stuffing more ice, and / or at least ceases introducing more of the filled ice bags into the vending machine 20. In one example embodiment, a sensor (not shown) is mounted on an interior wall of the vending machine 20 and is used to determine whether the vending machine is being filled with ice bags. In one example embodiment, during or after step 148, step 142, and the additional steps of method 134 that follow step 142, are repeated when a predetermined condition is met; examples of this predetermined condition include, but are not limited to, the passage of a predetermined amount of time, the detection of the opening of door 22a or 22b of the vending machine 20 using control system 38, and / or any combination thereof.Similarly, if it is determined in step 136 that the vending machine 20 is filled with bags of ice, then in step 150 the machine enters full vending machine mode. In one example mode, during or after step 150, step 136, and the additional steps of method 134 that follow step 136, are repeated when a predetermined condition is met; examples of this predetermined condition include, but are not limited to, the passage of a predetermined amount of time, the detection of the opening of door 22a or 22b of the vending machine 20 using control system 38, and / or any combination thereof. If it is determined in stage 143 that the event has If IVIA / a / ¿UI3 / UII OH- I occurs, then, in step 152, an initial bag from the auxiliary source is automatically filled with ice in response to the determination, and the initial bag from the auxiliary source is distributed to the vending machine 20 in step 154. In step 156, it is determined once again whether the vending machine 20 is full of bags filled with ice. If not, then another bag from the auxiliary source is filled with ice in step 158, and the other bag from the auxiliary source is distributed to the vending machine 20 in step 160. Steps 156, 158, and 160 are repeated until it is determined in step 156 that the vending machine 20 is full of bags filled with ice; at this point, the machine enters full vending machine mode in step 162.In one example mode, during or after step 162, step 156, and the additional steps of method 134 that are subsequent to step 156, are repeated when a predetermined condition is satisfied; examples of this predetermined condition include, but are not limited to, the passage of a predetermined amount of time, the detection of the opening of door 22a or 22b of the automatic vending apparatus 20 using the control system 38, and / or any combination thereof. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 9 with continued reference to Figures 1-8, to automatically fill the initial bag from the primary source with ice in step 138, the ice is produced in step 138a. In one example embodiment, the ice is produced in step 138a before, during, or after one or more of the steps of method 134. In one example embodiment, the ice is produced in step 138a using ice maker 12a and / or ice maker 12b. Once the ice is produced in step 138a, an initial quantity of ice is measured in step 138b, and the measured initial quantity of ice is automatically deposited into the initial bag from the primary source in step 138c.In one example, the initial quantity of ice is automatically measured and deposited into the bag in steps 138b and 138c using hopper 32, measuring system 34, and bagging system 36. Hopper 32 receives ice from ice producer 12a and / or 12b, measuring system 34 automatically measures and supplies a quantity of ice to the bag, and bagging system 36 automatically provides the bag. After step 138c, it is determined whether the bag is filled with ice in step 138d. If not, then another quantity of ice is automatically measured in stage 138e, and the other measured quantity of ice is automatically deposited into the bag in stage 138f using hopper 32 and measuring system 34. Stages 138d, 138e and 138f are repeated until the bag is filled with ice. In one example mode, as illustrated in Figure 10 with continued reference to Figures 1-9, to automatically deposit the initial amount of ice into the initial bag from the primary source at stage 138c, the bagging system 36 is placed in its primary configuration at stage 138ca, a bag 98a from the primary roller 98 of the bags 98a is fed at stage 138cb, and the initial amount of ice is automatically deposited into bag 98a at stage 138cc. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 11A and 11B with continued reference to Figures 1-10, to place the bagging system 36 into its primary configuration at stage 138ca, the bags 98a are pulled and advanced from the primary bag roller 98, which, when necessary, pivots in place about the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly 122. The bags 98a engage with the tension rollers 68, 72, and 74, which stretch and provide at least some degree of resistance to the travel of the bags 98a. The bags 98a extend from the tension roller 68 and through the support frame 75, extending below the middle portion 75e of the support frame 75. At least one of the bags 98a is engaged between the upper roller 58 and the lower roller 60 of the main bag feed assembly 56, thereby operatively coupling the main bag feed assembly 56 with the primary roller 98 of the bags 98a.For the purpose of clarity, at least one of the 98a bags will be referred to hereafter as the initial primary bag 98a. In several example modalities, step 138ca is executed before, during, or after one or more of steps 136, 150, and 138a. The 100a bags are pulled and advanced from the 100a bag auxiliary roller 100, which, as required, pivots in place about the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly 118. The 100a bags engage with the tension roller 70, which stretches and provides at least some resistance to the travel of the 100a bags. The 100a bags extend from the tension roller 70 and through or over the middle portion 75e of the support frame 75. At least one of the 100a bags is engaged between the upper roller 64 and the lower roller 66 of the bag advance auxiliary assembly 62, thereby operatively coupling the bag advance auxiliary assembly 62 with the 100a bag auxiliary roller 100. For the purpose of clarity, at least one of the 100a bags will be referred to hereafter as the initial auxiliary bag 100a.The far end of the initial auxiliary bag 100a is located either at the main bag feed assembly 56 or between the main bag feed assembly 56 and the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62. In one example embodiment, one or more guide plates and / or supports (not shown) are located between the main bag feed assembly 56 and the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 and are configured to guide and / or support the initial auxiliary bag 100a as it is fed into the main bag feed assembly 56, as will be described in further detail later. In one example embodiment, the far end of the initial auxiliary bag 100a is near the main bag feed assembly 56.In one example embodiment, the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62 is close to the main bag feed assembly 56 to such a degree (as shown in Figure 6) that guide plates and / or supports are not required in order for the initial auxiliary bag 100a to be fed to the main bag feed assembly 56. As shown in Figure 11B, the solenoid actuator 104 is de-energized and the drive rod 104a does not make contact with the clamp support angle 75h. Spring 108 pushes or deflects the lower edge of the fastener support angle 75h against the grooves 116c of the spring fastener 116. As a result of the pushing or deflection of the fastener support angle 75h against the spring fastener 116, the support frame 75 and the pivot arms 126a and 126b are positioned at a pivot location relative to the pivot rod 132, so that the upper roller 64 is pushed or deflected downward, thereby retaining the initial auxiliary bag 100a in place by crushing it between the upper roller 64 and the lower roller 66. In other words, the spring fastener 116 pushes or deflects the fastener support angle 75h upward.As a result, and because the support frame 75 is coupled to the upper roller 64 by means of the pivot arms 126a and 126b, the upper roller 64 is pushed or deflected downwards, thereby crushing and retaining in place the initial auxiliary bag 100a, which is engaged and held between the upper roller 64 and the lower roller 66 of the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62. The slots 116c facilitate engagement between the clamp support angle 75h and the spring clamp 116, resisting relative movement between them. To feed the initial primary bag 98a into stage 138cb, the feed motor 112 drives and thereby rotates the lower roller 60 of the main bag feed assembly 56. As a result, the bags 98a are pulled and advanced from the primary roller 98, and at least the respective portions of one or more of the bags 98a are dropped from the primary roller 98, and travel through the tension rollers 68, 72 and 74, which are stretched and provide at least a degree of resistance to the travel of the bags 98a. The initial primary bag 98a travels between the upper roller 58 and the lower roller 60 of the main bag feed assembly 56 at least until the initial primary bag 98a is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket 78. In one example embodiment, the initial primary bag 98a travels about 50.8 centimeters (20 inches).The position of the initial primary bag 98a is detected by sensor 48b, and one or more signals corresponding to the position of the initial primary bag 98a are transmitted to the computer 40 of the control system 38 before, during, and / or after the previous movement of the bags 98a within the apparatus 10. The control system 38 controls the movement of the bags 98a within the apparatus 10, and thus the arrangement of the initial primary bag 98a in the bag basket 78, at least by means of the feed motor 112, which is operatively coupled with the main bag feed assembly 56 and sensor 48b. In one example embodiment, the control system 38 controls the bagging system 36 so that the bags 98a are fed in a predetermined length.In one example mode, the initial primary bag 98a includes a rectangular bar on its right side (as seen in Figure 11A) and when sensor 48b reads the rectangular bar, the movement of the bags 98a, which includes the movement of the initial primary bag 98a, is stopped at the correct location within the apparatus 10. As noted previously, once the initial primary bag 98a is fed in stage 138cb, the initial quantity of ice is automatically deposited into the initial primary bag 98a in stage 138cc. In one example, the blower fan 82 blows air into the conduit 76 and causes the retaining plate 80 to rotate clockwise (as shown in Figure 11A), thereby opening and keeping open the inlet or mouth of the initial primary bag 98a, facilitating the dispensing of the measured quantity of ice from the measuring system 34 into the initial primary bag 98a, at least through conduit 76. As noted above, after step 138c, it is determined whether the initial primary bag 98a is filled with ice in step 138d. If not, then another quantity of ice is measured in step 138e, and is deposited into the initial primary bag 98a in step 138f, using hopper 32 and measuring system 34. Steps 138d, 138e, and 138f are repeated until the initial primary bag 98a is filled with ice while remaining deposited in the basket 78, after which the ice-filled initial primary bag 98a is distributed into the vending machine 20 in step 140 of method 134. In one example embodiment, the initial primary bag 98a is distributed into the vending machine 20 in step 140 using the distribution system 37, which moves the bag basket 78, and thereby the ice-filled initial primary bag 98a, along one or more slide guides (not shown) of the distribution system 37, and / or uses one or more sensors, such as sensor 48c, to search for an available space within the vending machine 20.When an available space is found, the rotation motor 96 is activated to cause the bag basket 78 to rotate; as a result, the initial primary bag filled with ice 98a falls and is deposited into the available space in the vending machine 20. In one example embodiment, before or during the dispensing of the initial primary bag 98a into the vending machine 20 in step 140 of method 134, the initial primary bag 98a is sealed and separated from the rest (if any) of the bags 98a by activating the motor (not shown) which is operatively coupled with the movable arm 88 so that one or more of the rods 94, and thus the movable arm 88, the bag cutter 90, and the stop strip 92, move toward the static heat-sealing bar 86. As a result, the upper portion of the initial primary bag 98a is pressed between the stop strip 92 and the static heat-sealing bar 86, and so that the bag cutter 90 engages with the initial primary bag 98a and / or the bag 98a adjacent to it in the vicinity of the perforated line between adjacent bags. 98a. In response, the initial primary bag 98a is heat sealed and cut and separated from the rest of the 98a bags.In one example mode, the control system 38 controls the heat heating and separation of the initial primary bag 98a by means of the sensor 48d, the motor which is coupled, in an operational manner, with the movable arm 88, one or more of the thermostats, and / or any combination thereof. As noted above, if it is determined in step 142 that the vending machine 20 is not full of bags filled with ice and in step 143 that the event has not occurred (e.g., not all the bags 98a on the primary roller 98 have been used), then another bag 98a on the primary roller 98 is automatically filled with ice in step 144, and is dispensed into the vending machine in step 146. In step 144, the other bag 98a is fed by means of the main bag feed assembly 56, which travels between the upper roller 58 and the lower roller 60 at least until the other bag 98a is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket 78.Step 144 is substantially identical to step 138, except that step 138ca (i.e., placing bagging system 36 in its primary configuration) is omitted because bagging system 36 is already in its primary configuration; therefore, step 144 will not be described in further detail. Step 146 is substantially identical to step 140 and, therefore, will not be described in detail. In one example, to determine in step 143 whether the event has occurred (for example, to determine whether all the bags 98a on the roller 98 have been used), it is determined whether sensor 48b is blocked; that is, it is determined using sensor 48b whether one of the remaining bags 98a, which follows the initial primary bag 98a on the roller 98, is above sensor 48b once at least a portion of the initial primary bag 98a has been fed by means of the main bag feed assembly 56 and the initial primary bag 98a is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket 78. If sensor 48b is blocked in this way, then it is determined in step 143 that the event has not occurred; that is, not all the bags 98a on the primary roller 98 have been used. If sensor 48 is not blocked in this way, then it is determined in stage 143 that the event has occurred, i.e., all bags 98a of theIVIA / a / ZUI^ / UII OH I primary roller 98 have been used and thus no more bags 98a are available for ice bagging. In several example modalities, instead of, or in addition to, determining whether all the bags 98a on primary roller 98 have been used, it is determined in step 143 whether a different event has occurred, such as whether a predetermined number (more than all) of the bags 98a on primary roller 98 have been used, and / or whether an alarm has been triggered by control system 38.In one example, this alarm could indicate the inability of the apparatus 10 to also automatically deposit measured quantities of ice into the respective bags 98a supplied from the primary roller 98 due, for example, to an operating problem with the primary roller 98 and / or the feeding of the bags 98a from it, such as the primary roller 98 becoming clogged or jammed and / or one or more of the bags 98a. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 12 with continued reference to Figures 1-11B, to automatically fill the initial auxiliary bag 100a of auxiliary roller 100 with ice in step 152, the ice is produced in step 152a. In one example embodiment, the ice is produced in step 152a before, during, or after one or more of the steps of method 134. In one example embodiment, the ice is produced in step 152a using ice maker 12a and / or ice maker 12b. Once the ice is produced in step 152a, an initial quantity of ice is metered in step 152b, and the metered initial quantity of ice is automatically deposited into the initial auxiliary bag 100a of auxiliary roller 100 in step 152c.In one example, the initial quantity of ice is automatically measured and deposited into the initial auxiliary bag 100a in steps 152b and 152c using hopper 32, measuring system 34, and bagging system 36. Hopper 32 receives ice from ice producer 12a and / or 12b, measuring system 34 measures and supplies a quantity of ice to the bag, and bagging system 36 provides the bag. After step 152c, it is determined whether the initial auxiliary bag 100a is filled with ice in step 152d. If not, then another quantity of ice is measured in stage 152e, and the other measured quantity of ice is automatically deposited into the bag in stage 138f using hopper 32 and measuring system 34. Stages 152d, 152e and 152f are repeated until the initial auxiliary bag 100a is filled with ice.In one example mode, as illustrated in Figure 13 with continuous reference to Figures 1-12, to deposit the initial amount of ice into the initial auxiliary bag 100a of the auxiliary roller 100 at stage 152c, the bagging system 36 is placed in its initial auxiliary configuration at stage 152ca, the initial auxiliary bag 100a of the auxiliary roller 100 is fed at stage 152cb, the initial amount of ice is automatically deposited into the initial auxiliary bag 100a at stage 152cc, and the bagging system 36 is placed in its continuous auxiliary configuration at stage 152cd. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 14A and 14B with continued reference to Figures 1-13, to place the bagging system 36 into its initial auxiliary configuration in stage 152ca, the solenoid actuator 104 is energized, thereby moving the drive rod 104a in an upward angular direction and making contact with the clamp support angle 75h, overcoming the downward thrust of spring 108 and pushing the lower edge of the clamp support angle 75h out of the spring clamp 116. As a result, the upper roller 64 is further pushed or deflected downward, further crushing and thereby holding in place the initial auxiliary bag 100a, which continues to be engaged and held between the upper roller 64 and the lower roller 66 of the auxiliary bag feed assembly 62.In one example mode, the lower edge of the 75h bracket support angle is only slightly raised from the 116 spring bracket in response to energizing the. IVIA / a / ¿UI3 / UII OH- I solenoid actuator 104, sufficient to allow the spring retainer 116 to rotate in a clockwise direction as seen in Figure 14B, and the pivot position of the upper roller 64 in the primary configuration of bagging system 36 is maintained in the auxiliary initial configuration of bagging system 36, or the upper roller 64 is only slightly pushed or deflected downwards. In one example, as illustrated in Figures 15A and 15B with continuous reference to Figures 114B, to feed the initial auxiliary bag 100a from the auxiliary roller 100 in stage 152cb, the sub-motor 114 drives and thereby rotates the lower roller 66, which advances the initial auxiliary bag 100a toward the main bag feed assembly 56. This operatively couples the main bag feed assembly 56 with the auxiliary roller 100 of the 100a bags rather than with the primary roller 98. The feed motor 112 drives and rotates the lower roller 60 of the main bag feed assembly 56. As the initial auxiliary bag 100a is advanced between the upper roller 58 and the lower roller 60 of the main bag feed assembly 56, the rotation of the lower roller 60 further feeds bag 100a, causing the bag 100a travel between rollers 58 and 60 at least until bag 100a is deposited, toIVIA / a / ZU l» / UII less partially, in the bag basket 78. The position of the initial auxiliary bag 100a is detected by the sensor 48b, and one or more signals corresponding to the position of the initial auxiliary bag 100a are transmitted to the computer 40 of the control system 38 before, during and / or after the previous movement of the bags 100a within the apparatus 10. The control system 38 controls the movement of the bags 100a within the apparatus 10, and in this way the arrangement of the initial auxiliary bag 100a in the bag basket 78, at least by means of the feed motor 112 coupled, in an operational manner, with the main bag feed assembly 56 and the sensor 48b. In one example embodiment, the control system 38 controls the bagging system 36, so that the bags 100a are fed in a predetermined length.In one example mode, the initial auxiliary bag 100a includes a rectangular bar on its right side (as shown in Figure 15A) and when sensor 48b reads the rectangular bar, the movement of the 100a bags, which includes the movement of the initial auxiliary bag 100a, is stopped at the correct location within the apparatus 10. As observed previously, once the initial auxiliary bag 100a is fed into stage 152cb, the initial measured amount of ice is automatically deposited into the initial auxiliary bag 100a in stage 152cc. In one example mode, the blower fan 82 blows air into the duct 76 and causes the retaining plate 80 to rotate clockwise (as shown in Figure 15A), thereby opening and keeping open the inlet or mouth of the initial auxiliary bag 100a to facilitate the supply of the quantity of ice from the measuring system 34 to the initial auxiliary bag 100a at least by means of the duct 76. In one example mode, as illustrated in Figures 16A and 16B, before, during, or after steps 152cb and / or 152cc, the bagging system 36 is placed in its continuous auxiliary configuration in step 152cd. To place the bagging system 36 in this mode, the solenoid actuator 104 is de-energized, causing the drive rod 104a to retract and move downward in an angular direction so that the drive rod 104a no longer makes contact with the clamp support angle 75h. As a result, and because the spring clamp 116 has been previously rotated out of the path, the spring 108 pushes or deflects the clamp support angle 75h downwards, causing the support frame 75, pivot arms 126a and 126b, and upper roller 64 to rotate about the pivot rod 132 in a clockwise direction, as shown in Figure 16B.As a result, the upper roller 64 is separated from the lower roller 66, disengaging from any of the bags 100a. subsequently. In one example mode, when the bagging system 36 is in its continuous auxiliary configuration, the lower roller 66 is not moved or driven by the secondary motor 114 and instead remains stationary or functions as a tension roller. As noted above, after step 152c, it is determined whether the initial auxiliary bag 100a is filled with ice in step 152d. If not, then another quantity of ice is measured in step 152e, and is automatically deposited into the initial auxiliary bag 100a in step 152f, using hopper 32 and measuring system 34. Steps 152d, 152e, and 152f are repeated until the initial auxiliary bag 100a is filled with ice while remaining deposited in the basket 78, after which the ice-filled initial auxiliary bag 100a is distributed into the vending machine 20 in step 154 ​​of method 134. In one example embodiment, the initial auxiliary bag 100a is distributed into the vending machine 20 in step 154 ​​using the distribution system 37, which moves the bag basket 78, and thereby the ice-filled initial auxiliary bag 100a, along one or more slide guides (not shown) of the distribution system 37, and / or uses one or more sensors such as sensor 48c, to search for an available space within the vending machine 20.When an available space is found, the rotation motor 96 is activated to cause the bag basket 78 to rotate; as a result, the initial auxiliary bag filled with ice 100a falls and is deposited into the available space in the vending machine 20. In one example embodiment, before or during the distribution of the initial auxiliary bag 100a in the vending machine 20 in step 154 ​​of method 134, the initial auxiliary bag 100a is sealed and separated from the rest of the 100a bags in a manner substantially identical to the manner described above by which the initial primary bag 98a is sealed and separated. As noted above, if it is determined in step 156 that the vending machine 20 is not full of bags filled with ice, then another bag 100a from the auxiliary roller 100 is automatically filled with ice in step 158 and dispensed into the vending machine 20 in step 160. In step 158, the other bag 100a is fed by means of the main bag feed assembly 56, traveling between the upper roller 58 and the lower roller 60 at least until the other bag 100a is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket. 78. Step 158 is substantially identical to step 152, except that steps 152ca and 152cd (i.e., placing the bagging system in its initial auxiliary configuration and its continuous auxiliary configuration, respectively) are omitted because the bagging system is already in its continuous auxiliary configuration; therefore, step 158 will not be described in further detail. Step 160 is substantially identical to steps 140 and 146 and, therefore, will not be described in detail. If it is determined in step 156 that the vending machine 20 is filled with bags of ice, then in step 162 the machine 10 enters full vending machine mode. In one example mode, during or after step 162, step 156, and the additional steps of method 134 that follow step 156, are repeated when a predetermined condition is satisfied; examples of this predetermined condition include, but are not limited to, the passage of a predetermined amount of time, the detection of the opening of door 22a or 22b of the vending machine 20 using control system 38, and / or any combination thereof. In one example embodiment, at least one other device substantially similar to device 10 and located in the same or a different location could be operationally coupled to server 26 via network 28. In one example embodiment, a plurality of devices substantially similar to device 10 and located in the same and / or different locations could be operationally coupled to server 26 via network 28. In several example embodiments, the computer-readable medium of server 26, and the contents stored thereon, could be distributed throughout the entire system 24. In one example embodiment, the computer-readable medium of server 26 and the contents stored thereon could be distributed through a plurality of devices, such as device 10 and / or one or more other devices substantially similar to device 10.In one example mode, server 26 could include one or more host computers, computer 40 of apparatus 10, and / or one or more computers in one or more other apparatuses that are substantially similar to apparatus 10. In one example embodiment, device 10 could be characterized as a thick client. In another example embodiment, device 10 could be characterized as a thin client, and therefore the functions and / or uses of computer 40 that include processor 42 and / or memory 44 could instead be functions and / or uses of server 26. In several example embodiments, device 10 could function as both a thin client and a thick client, with the degree to which device 10 functions as a thin client and / or a thick client depending on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the instructions stored in memory 44 for execution by processor 42. In one example embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 17 with continuous reference to Figures 1-16B, an illustrative node 164 is represented for the implementation of one or more embodiments of one or more of the networks, elements, methods, and / or stages described above, and / or any combination thereof. Node 164 includes a microprocessor 164a, an input device 164b, a storage device 164c, a video controller 164d, system memory 164e, a display 164f, and a communication device 164g, all interconnected by means of one or more buses 164h. In several example embodiments, the storage device 164c could include a floppy disk drive, a hard disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, an optical disk drive, any other form of storage device, and / or any combination thereof.In several example configurations, the storage device 164c could include and / or be capable of receiving a floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or any other form of computer-readable media that could contain executable instructions. In several example configurations, the communication device 164g could include a modem, a network card, or any other device that enables the node to communicate with other nodes. In several example configurations, any node represents a plurality of interconnected computer systems (either via an intranet or the Internet), including, but not limited to, personal computers, mainframes, PDAs, and cell phones. In several example modalities, one or more of the central server 26, the network 28, the remote user devices 30a and 30b, the control system 38, the computer 40, the control panel 18, the communication module 46, the sensors 48a, 48b, 48c and 48d, any other of the sensors described above, and / or any of the motors described above is or at least includes, node 164 and / or components thereof, and / or one or more nodes that are substantially similar to node 164 and / or components thereof. In several example modalities, a computer system typically includes at least the hardware capable of executing machine-readable instructions, as well as the software for executing the steps (typically, machine-readable instructions) that produce the desired result. In several example modalities, a computer system could include hardware and software hybrids, as well as computer subsystems. In several example modalities, hardware generally includes at least processor-capable platforms, such as client machines (also known as personal computers or servers), and handheld processing devices (such as smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), or personal computing devices (PCDs)). In several example modalities, hardware could include any physical device capable of storing machine-readable instructions, such as memory or other data storage devices. In several example modalities, other forms of hardware include hardware subsystems, which in turn include transfer devices such as modems, modem cards, ports, and port cards. In several example scenarios, software includes any machine code stored on any memory medium, such as RAM or ROM, and machine code stored on other devices (such as floppy disks, flash memory, or CD-ROMs). In several example scenarios, software could include source or object code. In several example scenarios, software includes any set of instructions capable of being executed on a node, such as a client or server machine. In several example modalities, combinations of software and hardware could also be used to provide enhanced functionality and performance for certain modalities described herein. In one example modality, software functions could be directly manufactured on a silicon chip. Consequently, it should be understood that combinations of hardware and software are also included within the definition of a computer system and are thus considered by this description as possible equivalent structures and methods. In several example modalities, computer-readable media include, for example, passive data storage, such as random-access memory (RAM), as well as semi-permanent data storage, such as a compact disc (CD-ROM) read-only memory. One or more of the example modalities described here could be included in a computer's RAM to transform a standard computer into a new, specialized computing machine. In several example modalities, data structures are defined organizations of data that could enable a modality described here. In one example modality, a data structure could provide a data organization or an executable code organization.In several example modalities, data signals could be carried through transmission media and could store and transport various data structures, and, in this way, could be used to transport a modality of the present description. In several example configurations, Network 28, and / or one or more portions thereof, could be designated to operate on any specific architecture. In one example configuration, one or more portions of Network 28 could be implemented on a single computer, on local area networks, on client-server networks, on wide area networks, on internal networks, on handheld devices and networks, and other portable and wireless devices. In several example scenarios, a database could be any standard or proprietary database software, such as Oracle, Microsoft Access, Sybase, or dBase II. In several example scenarios, the database could have fields, records, data, and other database elements that could be associated through the specific database software. In several example scenarios, the data could be mapped. In several example scenarios, mapping is the process of associating one data entry with another data entry. In one example scenario, data contained in a character file location could be mapped to a field in a second table. In several example scenarios, the physical location of the database is not limiting, and the database could be distributed. In one example scenario, the database could exist remotely from the server and could run on a separate platform.In one example, the database could be accessible via the Internet. In several example configurations, more than one database could be implemented. In several example modalities, while different stages, processes, and procedures are described as distinct stages, one or more of the stages, one or more of the processes, and / or one or more of the procedures could also be performed in different orders, simultaneously and / or sequentially. In several example modalities, the stages, processes, and / or procedures could be combined into one or more stages, processes, and / or procedures. A method has been described that includes automatically depositing measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from a first bag source; determining whether an event has occurred; and if the event has occurred, then automatically depositing measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from a second bag source in response to the determination of the event's occurrence. In one example embodiment, the event is selected from the group consisting of: all bags from the first bag source that have been used; a predetermined number of bags from the first bag source that have been used; and the inability to automatically deposit additional measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the first bag source.In one example embodiment, the automatic deposition of measured quantities of ice into respective bags supplied from the first bag source comprises engaging a first roller with a bag from the first bag source; driving the first roller to feed the bag from the first bag source; and depositing a measured quantity of ice into the bag from the first bag source. In one example embodiment, the automatic deposition of measured quantities of ice into respective bags supplied from the second bag source comprises engaging a second roller with an initial bag from the second bag source. driving the second roller to feed the initial bag from the second bag source; driving the first roller to further feed the initial bag from the second bag source; and depositing a measured quantity of ice into the initial bag from the second bag source. In one example embodiment, the automatic deposition of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the second bag source further comprises, prior to driving the second roller to feed the initial bag from the second bag source, engaging a third roller with the initial bag from the second bag source, so that the initial bag from the second bag source is held in place between the second and third rollers;and during or after the drive of the second roller to feed the initial bag from the second bag source, disengaging the third roller from either the initial bag from the second bag source or a remaining bag from the second bag source. In one example embodiment, the event is all the bags from the first bag source that have been used; wherein the determination of whether the event has occurred comprises detecting the presence or absence of one or more remaining bags from the first bag source after the drive of the first roller to feed the bag from the first bag source; and wherein the occurrence of the event is determined when, after the drive of the first roller to feed the bag from the first bag source, the absence of one or more remaining bags from the first bag source is detected. In one example embodiment, the first bag source is a first roll of bags;wherein the second bag source is a second roll of bags; wherein the automatic disposition of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the first bag source comprises engaging a bag from the first bag source between a first pair of rollers; driving at least one roller in the first pair of rollers whereby the bag from the first bag source is fed into a bag basket; and when the bag from the first bag source is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket, a measured quantity of ice is deposited into the bag from the first bag source;and wherein the automatic disposition of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the first bag source comprises engaging an initial bag from the second bag source between a second pair of rollers, thereby retaining the initial bag from the second bag source in place; driving one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers, thereby feeding the initial bag from the second bag source to the first pair of rollers; driving at least one roller in the first pair of rollers, thereby feeding the initial bag from the second bag source into the bag basket; when the initial bag from the second bag source is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket, a measured quantity of ice is deposited into the initial bag from the second bag source;and separating one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers from one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers during or after driving one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers. In one example embodiment, the method includes making the ice; measuring the respective quantities of ice; and storing in a temperature-controlled storage unit the bags in which the respective measured quantities of ice are placed. In one example embodiment, the method includes distributing within the temperature-controlled storage unit the bags in which the respective measured quantities of ice are placed. An apparatus has been described that includes a first bag source. Each bag in the first bag source is adapted to be filled with ice. A second bag source is also described, with each bag in the second bag source adapted to be filled with ice. A first bag feed assembly is configured to be operatively coupled with either the first bag source or the second bag source. A second bag feed assembly is also configured to be operatively coupled with the second bag source. In one example embodiment, the first bag feed assembly comprises a first roller and a first motor adapted to drive the first roller. The second bag feed assembly comprises the second and third rollers.and a second motor adapted to drive the second roller. In one example embodiment, the apparatus includes a first configuration in which the first roller of the first bag feed assembly is engaged with a bag from the first bag source so that, when the first motor drives the first roller, the first bag feed assembly feeds the bag from the first bag source; and an initial bag from the second bag source is engaged with, and held in place between, the second and third rollers. In one example embodiment, the apparatus includes a second configuration in which the first roller of the first bag feed assembly is not engaged with any bag from the first bag source;The initial bag from the second bag source is engaged with the second and third rollers so that, when the second motor drives the second roller, the second bag feed assembly feeds the initial bag from the second bag source to the first bag feed assembly. In one example embodiment, the apparatus includes a third configuration in which the first roller of the first bag assembly is engaged with the initial bag from the second bag source so that, when the first motor drives the first roller, the first bag feed assembly feeds the initial bag from the second bag source. In one example embodiment, the apparatus includes a support frame to which the third roller is attached; a pivot element around which the support frame, and thus the third roller, are adapted to rotate; and a solenoid actuator comprising an actuating rod.wherein the actuating rod engages with the support frame when the solenoid actuator is energized. In one example embodiment, the apparatus includes a first spring coupled with the support frame and configured to push the support frame to rotate in a first direction; a spring retainer adapted to engage with the support frame, thereby resisting rotation of the support frame in the first direction; and a second spring coupled with the spring retainer and configured to push the spring retainer rotating relative to the support frame. In one example embodiment, when the solenoid actuator has not yet been energized: the actuating rod does not engage with the support frame;and the spring retainer engages with the support frame and thereby resists rotation of the support frame in the first direction. In one example embodiment, when the solenoid actuator is energized: the drive rod engages with the support frame and thereby pushes the support frame, which rotates in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction; and the spring retainer does not engage with the support frame; and the spring retainer is allowed to rotate relative to the support frame in response to the push of the second spring. In one example embodiment, when the solenoid actuator is de-energized: the drive rod does not engage with the support frame; the spring retainer does not engage with the support frame;and the support frame is permitted to rotate in the first direction in response to the push of the first spring. In one example embodiment, the first bag feed assembly comprises a first roller and a first motor adapted to drive the first roller; wherein the second bag feed assembly comprises the second and third rollers and a second motor adapted to drive the second roller; and wherein the apparatus further comprises a support frame to which the third roller is coupled; a pivot element about which the support frame, and thus the third roller, are adapted to rotate; a solenoid actuator comprising an actuating rod wherein the actuating rod engages with the support frame when the solenoid actuator is energized; a first spring coupled with the support frame and configured to push the support frame to rotate in a first direction;a spring retainer adapted to engage with a support frame whereby it resists rotation of the support frame in the first direction; and a second spring coupled with the spring retainer and configured to push the spring retainer rotating relative to the support frame; a first configuration in which: the solenoid actuator is not energized; the drive rod does not engage with the support frame; the first roller of the first bag feed assembly is engaged with a bag from the first bag source so that, when the first motor drives the first roller, the first bag feed assembly feeds the bag from the first bag source; an initial bag from the second bag source is engaged with, and held in place between the second and third rollers;and the spring retainer engages with the support frame and thereby resists rotation of the support frame in the first direction, thereby maintaining the engagement of the initial bag of the second bag source with the second and third rollers; a second configuration in which: the first roller of the first bag feed assembly is not engaged with any; IVIA / a / ¿UI3 / UII OH- I bag from the first bag source; the solenoid actuator is energized and in this way, the drive rod engages with the support frame and thereby pushes the support frame which rotates in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction; the initial bag from the second bag source is engaged with the second and third rollers so that, when the second motor drives the second roller, the second bag feed assembly feeds the initial bag from the second bag source to the first bag feed assembly; and the spring retainer does not engage with the support frame and in this way, the spring retainer is allowed to rotate relative to the support frame, in response to the push of the second spring; and a third configuration in which the solenoid actuator is not energized; the drive rod does not engage with the support frame;The spring retainer does not engage with the support frame; and the first roller of the first bag assembly is engaged with the initial bag of the second bag source so that, when the first motor drives the first roller, the first bag feed assembly feeds the initial bag of the second bag source. In one example embodiment, the apparatus includes at least one ice maker; a hopper in which ice produced by at least one ice maker is adapted to be deposited, wherein the respective bags are configured to be filled with ice previously deposited in the hopper; and a temperature-controlled storage unit configured to store the respective bags filled with ice. It is understood that variations on the above may be made without departing from the scope of the description. Furthermore, the elements and lessons of the various illustrative examples may be combined, in whole or in part, in some or all of the illustrative examples. In addition, one or more of the elements and lessons of the various illustrative examples may be omitted, at least in part, and / or combined, at least in part, with one or more of the other elements and lessons of the various illustrative examples. Some spatial references such as, for example, higher, lower, above, below, between, vertical, horizontal, angular, upwards, downwards, side by side, left to right, right and left, top to bottom, bottom to top, superior, inferior, lower to top, superior to bottom, front to back, etc., are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the orientation or specific location of the structure described above. In several example modalities, one or more of the operational steps in each modality may be omitted. Furthermore, in some instances, some features of this description may be employed without the corresponding use of other features. Additionally, one or more of the modalities and / or variations described above may be combined, in whole or in part, with any one or more of the other modalities and / or variations described above. Although several example embodiments have been described in detail above, the embodiments described are merely illustrative and not limiting. Persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many other modifications, changes, and / or substitutions are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from the new teachings and advantages of the present description. Accordingly, it is intended that all such modifications, changes, and / or substitutions be included within the scope of this description as defined in the following claims. In the claims, the "average-plus-function" clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein that perform the stated function, and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.

Claims

1. CLAIMS I OH I 1. A method, characterized in that it comprises: automatically depositing measured quantities of ice into respective bags provided from a first source of bags; determining whether an event has occurred; and if the event has occurred, then automatically depositing measured quantities of ice into respective bags provided from a second source of bags in response to the determination of the occurrence of the event.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the event is selected from the group of: all bags from the first bag source that have been used; a predetermined number of bags from the first bag source that have been used; and the inability to additionally, automatically, deposit measured quantities of ice into the respective bags provided from the first bag source.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the automatic dispensing of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the first bag source comprises: engaging a first roller with a bag from the first bag source; driving the first roller to feed the bag from the first bag source; and depositing a measured quantity of ice into the bag from the first bag source.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that the automatic dispensing of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the second bag source comprises: engaging a second roller with an initial bag from the second bag source; driving the second roller to feed the initial bag from the second bag source; driving the first roller to further feed the initial bag from the second bag source; and depositing a measured quantity of ice into the initial bag from the second bag source.

5. The method according to claim IVIA / a / ZUI^ / UI IOH I 4, characterized in that the automatic dispensing of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the second bag source further comprises: before driving the second roller to feed the initial bag from the second bag source, engaging a third roller with the initial bag from the second bag source so that the initial bag from the second bag source is held in place between the second and third rollers; and during or after driving the second roller to feed the initial bag from the second bag source, disengaging the third roller from either the initial bag from the second bag source or a remaining bag from the second bag source.

6. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that the event is all the bags from the first bag source that have been used; wherein the determination of whether the event has occurred comprises detecting the presence or absence of one or more remaining bags from the first bag source after driving the first roller to feed the bag from the first bag source; and wherein the occurrence of the event is determined when, after driving the first roller to feed the bag from the first bag source, the absence of one or more remaining bags from the first bag source is detected.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the first bag source is a first roll of bags; wherein the second bag source is a second roll of bags; wherein the automatic dispensing of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the first bag source comprises: engaging a bag from the first bag source between a first pair of rollers; driving at least one roller in the first pair of rollers whereby the bag from the first bag source is fed into a bag basket; and when the bag from the first bag source is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket, a measured quantity of ice is deposited into the bag from the first bag source;and wherein the automatic disposition of measured quantities of ice into the respective bags supplied from the first bag source comprises: engaging an initial bag from the second bag source between a second pair of rollers, thereby retaining the initial bag from the second bag source in place; driving one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers, thereby feeding the initial bag from the second bag source to the first pair of rollers; driving at least one roller in the first pair of rollers, thereby feeding the initial bag from the second bag source into the bag basket; when the initial bag from the second bag source is deposited, at least partially, into the bag basket, a measured quantity of ice is deposited into the initial bag from the second bag source;and separate the other of the rollers in the second pair of rollers from one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers during or after driving one of the rollers in the second pair of rollers.; 8. The method according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises making the ice; measuring the respective quantities of ice; and storing in a temperature-controlled storage unit the bags in which the respective measured quantities of ice are deposited.

9. The method according to claim 8, further characterized in that it comprises distributing within the temperature-controlled storage unit the bags in which the respective measured quantities of ice are deposited.

Images