Bimetal Ice Maker Mold for Low-Energy Cube Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice making systems in refrigeration appliances are inefficient in removing ice cubes from mold compartments, as they require significant energy to melt ice and can lead to refreezing issues, causing clogs and energy inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating bimetallic elements within the ice maker mold compartments that deform upon energization to assist in removing ice cubes, reducing the need for extensive melting and minimizing refreezing by providing a mechanical means to dislodge ice cubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If heating devices are used to melt ice cubes for removal, then ice cubes can be removed from mold compartments, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal field (heating devices that melt ice) with a mechanical field (bimetallic elements that physically push ice cubes). The bimetallic elements are actuated by a motor to mechanically dislodge and push ice cubes out of the mold compartments, eliminating the need for energy-intensive heating processes while achieving the same ice removal function.
2Ease of operation
If heating is applied to melt ice cubes, then ice cubes can be removed, but melted ice may refreeze and cause clogs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the melting-refreezing problem by substituting mechanical action for thermal processing. The bimetallic elements physically push intact ice cubes out of the mold compartments without melting them, preventing the refreezing issue that causes clogs in the dispensing system. This mechanical approach maintains ice cube integrity throughout the removal process.
3Productivity
If heating devices are used to remove ice cubes, then ice can be harvested, but the process becomes inherently inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the inefficient thermal cycle (freezing then melting) with a direct mechanical harvesting system. The bimetallic elements, actuated by a motor, directly push ice cubes out of the mold compartments into the harvest bin in a single action, eliminating the energy-wasting melt-refreeze cycle and significantly improving overall system efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The bimetallic elements enhance the efficiency of ice cube removal by reducing energy consumption and preventing undesirable refreezing, thus improving the operational efficiency and reliability of the ice making process.
Implementation Method 1
one or more bimetallic elements. Each bimetallic element is configured with a respective one of the compartments so that when energized the bimetallic element deforms with a portion moving in a direction so as to assist in removing an ice cube from the compartment
Data Source
AI summary
An ice making assembly includes an ice maker including a mold body defining a one or more compartments for forming ice cubes therein, a harvesting assembly removes an ice cube from the compartment, and one or more bimetallic elements. Each bimetallic element is configured with a respective one of the compartments so that when energized the bimetallic element deforms with a portion moving in a direction so as to assist in removing an ice cube from the compartment. Related refrigeration appliances are also disclosed.