Auger Ice Maker Bearing Layout to Reduce Wear and Debris
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Solution Overview
Problem
Auger-style ice makers face significant wear and debris contamination due to the large force applied to the mold body during rotation, leading to inefficiencies and ice contamination.
Innovation Solution
The use of a radial sleeve bearing at the bottom of the casing and a radial and thrust bearing at the extruder die to limit the force applied by the auger, reducing wear and debris generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the auger rotates and scrapes ice off the inner surface of the mold body, then ice nuggets are formed, but the auger applies large force onto the mold body wall causing bearing wear and debris contamination
Solution Approach 1:
A thrust bearing is introduced as an intermediary component between the auger and the mold body to absorb and manage the axial forces generated during auger rotation. This mediator prevents direct force transmission to the mold body wall, thereby reducing bearing wear and preventing debris contamination while maintaining ice nugget production functionality
2Device complexity
If a single radial sleeve bearing is used to support the auger, then the structure is simple, but it cannot adequately handle the axial forces generated during auger rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a radial sleeve bearing and a thrust bearing into a hybrid bearing system. The radial sleeve bearing handles radial loads and provides smooth rotation, while the thrust bearing component specifically manages axial forces. This merged structure provides comprehensive support capability without requiring completely separate bearing assemblies
Data Source
AI summary
An ice maker includes a casing that defines a chamber. The casing extends between a top portion and a bottom portion. An extruder die is mounted to the casing at the top portion of the casing. An auger is disposed within the chamber of the casing. A radial sleeve bearing engages the auger at the bottom portion of the casing. A radial and thrust bearing engages the auger at the extruder die. A related refrigerator appliance is also provided.