Modular Ice Bucket Architecture for Cubed, Crushed, and Shaved Ice
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing appliances face limitations in delivering three forms of ice (cubed, crushed, and shaved) from a single well due to spatial constraints, restricting their ability to provide multiple ice forms effectively.
Innovation Solution
An ice manipulation module with a base having two levels, featuring a motor-connected impeller that operates in two directions to drive ice modification components, including crushing and shaving blades, allowing for the conversion of ice into cubed, crushed, and shaved forms within a single module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ice wells are provided to deliver three forms of ice, then the appliance can provide various forms of ice, but the spatial restraints of the appliance limit this capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single ice well to perform multiple ice dispensing functions through an ice manipulation module that can transform ice into different forms (cubed, crushed, shaved) using a single motor with bidirectional impeller operation, eliminating the need for multiple separate ice wells
2Area of stationary object
If a single ice well is used to deliver three forms of ice, then spatial constraints are overcome, but the device complexity increases with multiple ice modification members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple ice modification functions into a single integrated module where crushing members and shaving members are combined within one ice manipulation reservoir, sharing common components such as the motor, impeller, and control system, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multiple ice form capabilities
3Adaptability or versatility
If an impeller operates in two directional rotations to control ice modification, then three ice forms can be delivered from a single well, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a bidirectional impeller that can rotate in two opposite directions to dynamically switch between different ice modification modes (crushing vs. shaving), allowing a single static component to perform multiple functions through dynamic operational changes, thereby reducing the need for multiple separate mechanisms
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
Enables the efficient dispensing of three ice forms from a single source, overcoming spatial limitations and enhancing user flexibility in selecting preferred ice types.
Implementation Method 1
An impeller is connected with the output shaft proximate to the plurality of ice modification members, with the impeller being operable between a first directional rotation, and a second directional rotation
Data Source
AI summary
An appliance including an ice manipulation reservoir capable of receiving ice having a base, wherein the base includes a first level and a second level, with the first level descending gradually to the second level. A first ice modification member is disposed inside the ice manipulation reservoir adjacent the first level of the base, and a second ice modification member is disposed inside the ice manipulation reservoir adjacent the second level of the base. A motor is operably connected with the ice manipulation reservoir and includes an output shaft. An impeller is connected with the output shaft proximate to the plurality of ice modification members, with the impeller being operable between a first directional rotation, and a second directional rotation.