Ice Shaver Tension Arm and Blade Assembly for Consistent Texture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice shavers face limitations such as cumbersome ice block change procedures, frozen and impacted blades, inconsistent shaved ice textures, and inability to adapt to changing ice consistency as the block warms, leading to decreased quality and efficiency in producing light, fluffy shaved ice.
Innovation Solution
An ice shaving machine with a blade assembly that includes a tensioned blade holder and a flexible blade, an ice block guide to maintain stability, and a drive shaft system for consistent feeding, allowing for efficient shaving of ice blocks and adaptation to changing ice texture, along with a shaping device for various cup sizes and a flavor dispenser for convenient use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a large block of ice is used in existing ice shavers, then the machine can operate for extended periods, but the ice block change procedure becomes cumbersome and the machine operates at a relatively slow rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automatic ice block advancement mechanism that dynamically adjusts the feeding rate of the ice block based on the shaving operation. The system includes a motor-driven feed roller that automatically pushes the ice block toward the blade at controlled intervals, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This dynamic automation resolves the contradiction by maintaining extended operating duration through continuous ice supply while making the ice block change procedure effortless and simple.
2Productivity
If the blade continuously contacts the ice block to maintain shaving operation, then productivity is improved, but the blade becomes frozen and impacted leading to decreased reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a periodic reciprocating motion of the blade assembly where the blade advances to shave ice, then retracts slightly to clear accumulated ice particles and prevent freezing. This periodic action includes a forward shaving stroke followed by a brief backward clearance stroke, creating rhythmic contact that maintains high productivity while preventing blade impaction and freezing, thereby ensuring continuous reliable operation.
3Device complexity
If the ice block is fed manually into the blade, then the structure remains simple, but the shaved ice texture becomes inconsistent because the feeding is inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating ice block feeding mechanism where a spring-loaded pressure arm automatically maintains optimal contact pressure between the ice block and the feed roller. The system self-adjusts to variations in ice block density and temperature, ensuring consistent feeding rate and pressure without requiring complex electronic controls or manual intervention. This self-service mechanism achieves consistent shaved ice texture while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple.
4Device complexity
If the machine uses a fixed blade configuration, then the structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to changing ice consistency as the block warms and melts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an adjustable blade system where the blade position, angle, and pressure against the ice block can be modified to accommodate varying ice consistency. The mechanism includes adjustable blade holders that allow operators to change the blade's radial position and tilt angle, as well as adjustable feed pressure through spring mechanisms. These parameter adjustments enable the fixed-structure machine to adapt to warming ice blocks that become softer and more difficult to shave, maintaining cut quality without requiring complex automated systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure extends to devices, systems and methods for producing a shaved ice product using shaved ice confection machines and processes. The disclosure also extends to a tension arm and a shaping device used in conjunction with shaved ice confection machines and processes to produce more consistent shaved ice output with a potential increase in machine life.