Mechanical Ice Gate and Agitator for In-Flight Ice Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice dispensers for beverage systems are complex and costly, particularly due to the use of electrical components like solenoids and pneumatic cylinders, which can result in 'in flight' ice flow issues.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a downwardly opening ice gate mechanism operated by a pivoting lever system and a hydraulic piston-driven ice agitator, reducing costs and improving ice dispensing efficiency by minimizing 'in flight' ice flow through a gravity-assisted ice chute system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If solenoids or pneumatic cylinders are used to operate the ice gate, then the ice dispensing system can handle large volumes of ice, but the overall costs become prohibitive and the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical/pneumatic actuation systems with a purely mechanical lever-based ice gate mechanism. The lever system uses mechanical advantage to control the ice gate opening, eliminating the need for solenoids or pneumatic cylinders while maintaining reliable ice flow control for the intended dispensing volume
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs simpler, less expensive mechanical components (levers, hinges, springs) instead of costly electrical actuators. These mechanical parts are more economical to manufacture and replace, reducing overall system cost while achieving the required functionality
2Productivity
If solenoid or pneumatically operated ice gates are used, then large volume ice dispensing is achieved, but 'in flight' ice flow past the gate occurs during closing
Solution Approach 1:
The lever mechanism is designed to close the ice gate more rapidly and decisively than solenoid or pneumatic systems. The mechanical leverage provides sufficient force to seal the gate quickly before ice can flow past it during the closing transition, preventing 'in flight' ice flow
Solution Approach 2:
The ice gate mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as springs and lever arms that optimize the closing motion. The spring-loaded lever system ensures the gate closes with adequate force and speed to prevent ice from passing during the transition, improving flow control reliability
3Productivity
If complex motor-driven rotary ice agitation systems are used, then ice bridges are broken and ice is fed towards the gate, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex motor-driven rotary agitation system, replacing it with a simpler ice pusher mechanism. This pusher uses basic mechanical components to perform the essential function of breaking ice bridges and moving ice toward the gate without the complexity of motors and rotary mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified agitation system is designed to utilize the natural properties of ice and gravity-assisted mechanical pushing. The ice pusher mechanism relies on straightforward mechanical force applied to ice bridges, allowing the system to self-regulate ice flow without complex control systems
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 solution provides a simplified, cost-effective ice dispensing system that efficiently delivers ice while preventing 'in flight' ice flow, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of ice dispensing in beverage dispensers.
Implementation Method 1
an ice agitator operated by a hydraulic piston positioned within the ice hopper
Implementation Method 2
The ice gate mechanism may include a downwardly opening ice gate operated by a pivoting lever system
Implementation Method 3
a gravity-assisted ice chute system
Data Source
AI summary
An ice dispenser is disclosed herein. The ice dispenser may include an ice chute and an ice gate mechanism positioned about the ice chute. The ice gate mechanism may include a downwardly opening ice gate operated by a pivoting lever system.