Adjustable Float Clip Assembly for Ice Bridge Thickness Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical batch type ice machines require complex and costly repairs for ice thickness probe adjustments, lack user control over water volume, and suffer from inconsistent ice production due to reliance on ice thickness probes, leading to inefficiencies in energy and water usage.
Innovation Solution
The use of adjustable float clip assemblies allows users to control ice bridge thickness by setting the maximum and minimum water levels in the sump tank, eliminating the need for ice thickness probes and enabling simple, tool-free adjustments, thereby reducing repair costs and ensuring consistent water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an ice thickness probe is used to control ice bridge thickness, then the harvest timing can be detected, but the device complexity increases and repair costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the ice thickness probe from the system entirely and replaces it with a float clip mechanism that directly controls water level. This extraction eliminates the complex sensing system while maintaining harvest timing control through a simpler mechanical water level indication system.
Solution Approach 2:
The float clip assembly is designed as a simple, inexpensive mechanical component that can be easily replaced or adjusted by users without requiring specialized sensors or electronic components. This disposable-like simplicity reduces both device complexity and repair costs.
2Manufacturing precision
If the ice thickness probe is adjusted or repaired, then the ice bridge thickness control can be maintained, but the ease of operation decreases and technician servicing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The float clip assembly is designed to be easily adjusted and operated by the end-user without requiring certified technicians. The mechanical design allows users to directly control water levels and maintain ice bridge thickness precision through simple manual adjustments.
3Ease of repair
If partial disassembly of the ice machine is performed to reach the ice probe, then the probe can be accessed, but the ease of repair decreases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the ice thickness probe entirely and replacing it with the float clip water level control system, the patent eliminates the need for disassembly to access probe components. The float clip mechanism is designed to be accessible and adjustable without requiring partial disassembly of the ice machine.
4Ease of manufacture
If the water volume in the sump tank is fixed in the factory, then the ice making process is standardized, but the adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed water volume system into a dynamic, user-adjustable system through the float clip assembly. Users can modify the water level setting to adapt to different operating conditions while maintaining the standardized ice making process through controlled water volume variation.
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
This solution allows for precise control of ice bridge thickness without specialized technician servicing, reduces energy and water consumption, and ensures consistent ice production by allowing users to adjust water levels, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of the ice making process.
Implementation Method 1
The use of adjustable float clip assemblies allows users to control ice bridge thickness by setting the maximum and minimum water levels in the sump tank
Implementation Method 2
supply water fills a sump tank and the water is used to make batches of ice. Once the ice is formed, the ice is harvested
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for adjusting and controlling ice bridge slab thickness and/or initiation of ice harvest following a freeze cycle. This adjusting and controlling is performed through the use of adjustable float clip assemblies which set the amount of water available for ice making in a batch process. The adjustable float clip assemblies provide an ice machine user with the ability to easily adjust the ice slab bridge thickness to a single or plurality of settings, and allow for changes in ice bridge slab thickness at the site of installation.