EP0798520A2 - Snow making method and device - Google Patents
Snow making method and device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0798520A2 EP0798520A2 EP97107403A EP97107403A EP0798520A2 EP 0798520 A2 EP0798520 A2 EP 0798520A2 EP 97107403 A EP97107403 A EP 97107403A EP 97107403 A EP97107403 A EP 97107403A EP 0798520 A2 EP0798520 A2 EP 0798520A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- snow
- production
- nozzle
- artificial environment
- environment
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
- F25C3/00—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow
- F25C3/04—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow for sledging or ski trails; Producing artificial snow
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
- F25C2303/00—Special arrangements or features for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Special arrangements or features for producing artificial snow
- F25C2303/044—Snow making using additional features, e.g. additives, liquid gas
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
- F25C2303/00—Special arrangements or features for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Special arrangements or features for producing artificial snow
- F25C2303/048—Snow making by using means for spraying water
- F25C2303/0481—Snow making by using means for spraying water with the use of compressed air
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for making snow, and in particular, to providing a snow-making environment wherein snow can be produced under controlled conditions.
- the present invention seeks to provide a controlled environment, such that the production of snow 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, is facilitated, by providing a snow-making environment, wherein the temperature, humidity and/or other environmental factors are controlled.
- the present invention provides a device for the production of artificial snow, said device comprising:
- the present invention provides a method for the production of artificial snow, comprising the steps of:
- the artificial snow-making environment 1 comprises a tent or dome-like structure 2, which separates a closed environment system 3 from the external natural environment 4.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 may be constructed in a variety of ways and utilising a variety of materials, however, obviously, the structure 2 preferably has some degree of thermal insulating characteristics, such that the energy required to achieve the desired parameters of the artificial environment 3 is minimised.
- Temperature, humidity and otherwise conditioned air is supplied into the controlled environment 3 by means of appropriate machinery, generally designated by the numeral 5.
- the machinery consists of a fan or air pump 6 which facilitates the recycling or intake of air from the external environment 4.
- the air is passed through a chiller 7 and dehumidifier 8 and is exhaled into the controlled environment 3 via a nozzle 9.
- the water and air pipes 11 also preferably passed through a chiller.
- the nozzle 9 is preferably able to be swivelled such that the chilled and dehumidified air may be supplied into the controlled environment 3 at any desired direction.
- both temperature and humidity are preferably as low as possible, however in an environment which is above 0°C at high humidity, it is still possible to produce snow.
- the optimum conditions would be at temperatures approaching -273°C and at humidity approaching zero levels.
- a snow gun 10 is also supplied within the closed controlled environment 3.
- the snow gun 10 is of any conventional type, requiring air and water hoses 11 for the production of snow.
- the snow-making apparatus is assembled as follows.
- the apparatus which is preferably on a ski like structure, for easy transportation, is dragged to the required position by means of a skidoo or the like.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 is then dragged over the snow gun 10 and the nozzle of the chilling and dehumidifying machinery 5.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 is preferably connected to the ground surface by a plurality of tent pegs or weights around the perimeter thereof.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 may be simply inflated by supplying air through the nozzle 9 of the machinery 5.
- FIG. 2 a preferred embodiment of the snow-making apparatus, illustrating the portability of the invention. That is, the snow-making apparatus, comprising the fan 6, the chiller 7 and the dehumidifier 8, together with a storage facility 13 for the tent or dome-like structure 2 are provided on a ski-like arrangement 14.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 may simply be withdrawn from the storage means 13 and dragged forwardly to cover the nozzle 9 of the machinery 5.
- the snow-making device and method of the present invention provides a closed environment system wherein the temperature, humidity and/or other environmental conditions are regulated as desired, to facilitate the production of snow, via a conventional snow gun. Due to the lightweight construction of the invention, the apparatus may be easily moved, such that upon completion of the snow-making operation at a particular place, the system may be easily moved to the next desired location. Obviously, in use, a large pile of snow may be produced at one point, and then a snow cat or the like may be utilised to spread the snow. The present invention therefore allows the production of snow in a controlled environment 24 hours a day, 365 days a year anywhere in the world.
- the present invention provides a snow-making method and apparatus which obviates the need for specific refrigeration machinery.
- gases in any cold form for instance nitrogen or carbon dioxide, which have characteristics of below zero temperatures in their normal gaseous state.
- This may be achieved by utilising gases which are cold in their normal state, or by providing the gases in compressed condition to induce a change of state and consequently provide low temperatures, such as, providing the gas in a compressed (liquid) condition, and allowing the mixture to change state to a gas.
- the snow gun supplied therein will then be provided at a low temperature environment suitable for snow production, without the necessity for the chiller 7.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 consequently forms a cold room, in which the snow may be produced, without the need for a mechanical chilling means.
- the gases may be produced from a normal pressure cylinder, or may be machinery made.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 will stop wind from blowing the snow away whilst it is being made, and it will also protect the snow from sun, rain and other natural environmental effects.
- a floor could be provided, either in solid form or in the form of a soft zip-on construction, such being particularly useful in the case where it is desirable to completely isolate the closed environment from the external environment.
- the tent or dome-like structure can also be optionally provided such that it is provided with a hole therein, such that the snow-making device is provided externally therethrough and directed through the wall of the tent or dome-like structure.
- advertising material may be provided on the external face of the tent or dome-like structure.
- means is provided on the tent like structure to recycle the gas, such as nitrogen, such that same can be re-utilised.
- the dome-like structure also preferably is provided with a humidity exit means to exit any humidity in the closed environment.
- FIG 3 is illustrated three alternative embodiments of nozzle arrangements which may be utilised in conjunction with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the nozzle of a snow gun is adapted to provide the conditions suitable to induce the production of snow, as the products are emitted from the nozzle.
- Figure 3a is shown a nozzle wherein cold liquid nitrogen or gaseous nitrogen is supplied by the inlet 15 of the nozzle 16. Air 17 and water 18 is supplied at the rear of the nozzle 16, and, due to the nozzle being effectively mixed with or chilled by the nitrogen or other similar gas means provided by inlet 15, the nozzle 16 is effectively chilled such that snow 17 is emitted therefrom.
- the nozzle is provided with an annular arrangement therearound to which the inlet providing the cold nitrogen gas 15 is provided.
- the annular arrangement 20 can for instance be provided with a plurality of orifices around the inside annular surface thereof, to emit nitrogen towards the nozzle output, effectively controlling the temperature at the output such that snow 19 is produced thereby.
- a third possible arrangement illustrated in Fig. 3c shows a horn-like structure 21 adapted to be fitted to the end of a nozzle 16.
- the nitrogen gas, or like gas is supplied by the inlet 15 into the horn-like arrangement 21, such that a mini controlled environment is provided around the extremity of the nozzle, such that snow 19 may be emitted from the output of the horn.
- suitable gases or liquids which may be supplied by the inlet 15 to or near the extremity of the nozzle 16 are gases such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and other gases with low temperature thermal characteristics in their normal state.
- Fig. 3(d) illustrates a more detailed example of the horn of Fig 3(c), showing the entry of the air and water into the nozzle and the provision of the liquid nitrogen around the periphery of the horn.
- the nozzle generally designated by the numeral 30 is connected to the horn 31.
- Liquid nitrogen, or other suitable gas 32 may be applied within the nozzle, generally designated by numeral 33, in the horn, at the plurality of outlets 34, or both.
- the liquid nitrogen may either be designed to cool the horn and/or nozzle but not mix with the snow 35, or alternatively, the liquid nitrogen 34 may mix with the snow 35, and be readmitted to the environment.
- FIG 4 is illustrated a silo-like arrangement in accordance with the present invention.
- the silo-like arrangement generally designated by the numeral 22, is built with a plurality of snow guns 23 provided within the silo body 24, the silo body 24 being provided on stuncheons 25 at an elevation such that a snow cat 26 or like device may be driven under the silo body 24, such that the snow 27 which accumulates under the silo may be spread over the ground surface as required.
- the silo-like arrangement preferably is provided with the necessary refrigerant machinery 28 on the top thereof or, alternatively underground, such that the ground surface 29 is not cluttered with unnecessary articles and machinery.
- machinery is provided to extract nitrogen from the surrounding air, and compress same.
- nitrogen, or other appropriate gas can be manufactured on site, rather than having to transport same to the location of the snow making machinery.
- tent-like, dome-like or silo-like arrangements materials are preferably chosen such that they have good thermal insulative properties, such that the energy required to provide the controlled environment is minimised.
- amount of thermal insulation will vary depending on the particular location, and the desired temperature difference which is required in comparison to the surrounding environment.
- a conveyor belt arrangement may be provided to move the snow from the location of production to the desired ground surface.
- the present invention may be preferably embodied such that the snow-making device is portable, for instance mounted on a snow cat, however, obviously, with embodiments such as the silo-like arrangement, it is more likely to be implemented as a fixed structure.
- an air flow direction system can be incorporated into the controlled environment. This would preferably take the format of having a plurality of baffles.
- the chillers and dehumidifiers can be supplied underground at a central location at the point where the air and water hoses originate.
- the tent or dome-like structure 2 may be portable or a permanent construction, and may incorporate a frame or have a frameless structure.
- An air supported frame is also envisaged, wherein an insulating air pocket is supplied between the closed environment and the external environment, for the dual purpose of insulating the two environments and also separating the structure 2.
- the present invention may therefore be utilised in a situation to supplement the natural snow falls in an environment, or provide snow in an environment where snow falls are not normally naturally occurring.
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- Buildings Adapted To Withstand Abnormal External Influences (AREA)
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- Heating, Cooling, Or Curing Plastics Or The Like In General (AREA)
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- Encapsulation Of And Coatings For Semiconductor Or Solid State Devices (AREA)
- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
- Diaphragms For Electromechanical Transducers (AREA)
- Ultra Sonic Daignosis Equipment (AREA)
- Medicines Containing Material From Animals Or Micro-Organisms (AREA)
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Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for making snow, and in particular, to providing a snow-making environment wherein snow can be produced under controlled conditions.
- At present, snow-making production is controlled by the natural environmental weather conditions. To produce man made snow, low temperatures and low humidity conditions are required. Unfortunately, in some parts of the world, for example, Australia, conditions are often such that the temperature and/or humidity may be low, but the other environmental factors are still unsuitable for the production of man made snow. This greatly restricts the suitable times when snow can be made.
- The present invention seeks to provide a controlled environment, such that the production of
snow 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, is facilitated, by providing a snow-making environment, wherein the temperature, humidity and/or other environmental factors are controlled. - In one broad form, the present invention provides a device for the production of artificial snow, said device comprising:
- an environment, wherein the temperature, humidity and/or other environmental conditions are adapted to be controlled;
- at least one snow gun having at least the nozzle thereof provided substantially within or adjacent to said environment.
- In a further broad form, the present invention provides a method for the production of artificial snow, comprising the steps of:
- providing an environment of controlled environmental conditions suitable for the production of artificial snow;
- a snow gun wherein at least the nozzle thereof is provided substantially within or adjacent to said environment.
- The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- Figure 1 shows an artificial snow-making environment, together with the required machinery and snow gun associated therewith;
- Figure 2 illustrates the preferred portability of the snow-making apparatus in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 3 illustrates three suitable nozzle arrangements in accordance with an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention; and
- Figure 4 shows a silo-like arrangement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
- In Figure 1, is illustrated an artificial snow-making environment, generally designated by the numeral 1. The artificial snow-making environment 1 comprises a tent or dome-
like structure 2, which separates a closedenvironment system 3 from the externalnatural environment 4. The tent or dome-like structure 2 may be constructed in a variety of ways and utilising a variety of materials, however, obviously, thestructure 2 preferably has some degree of thermal insulating characteristics, such that the energy required to achieve the desired parameters of theartificial environment 3 is minimised. - Temperature, humidity and otherwise conditioned air is supplied into the controlled
environment 3 by means of appropriate machinery, generally designated by thenumeral 5. In particular, the machinery consists of a fan orair pump 6 which facilitates the recycling or intake of air from theexternal environment 4. The air is passed through achiller 7 anddehumidifier 8 and is exhaled into the controlledenvironment 3 via anozzle 9. The water andair pipes 11 also preferably passed through a chiller. Thenozzle 9 is preferably able to be swivelled such that the chilled and dehumidified air may be supplied into the controlledenvironment 3 at any desired direction. It should be obvious to persons skilled in the art that both temperature and humidity are preferably as low as possible, however in an environment which is above 0°C at high humidity, it is still possible to produce snow. The optimum conditions would be at temperatures approaching -273°C and at humidity approaching zero levels. - A snow gun 10 is also supplied within the closed controlled
environment 3. The snow gun 10 is of any conventional type, requiring air andwater hoses 11 for the production of snow. - In use, the snow-making apparatus is assembled as follows. The apparatus, which is preferably on a ski like structure, for easy transportation, is dragged to the required position by means of a skidoo or the like. The tent or dome-
like structure 2 is then dragged over the snow gun 10 and the nozzle of the chilling anddehumidifying machinery 5. The tent or dome-like structure 2 is preferably connected to the ground surface by a plurality of tent pegs or weights around the perimeter thereof. The tent or dome-like structure 2 may be simply inflated by supplying air through thenozzle 9 of themachinery 5. Once the required parameters are achieved within the closedenvironment 3, the snow-making operation may be commenced. - In Figure 2 is shown a preferred embodiment of the snow-making apparatus, illustrating the portability of the invention. That is, the snow-making apparatus, comprising the
fan 6, thechiller 7 and thedehumidifier 8, together with astorage facility 13 for the tent or dome-like structure 2 are provided on a ski-like arrangement 14. The tent or dome-like structure 2 may simply be withdrawn from the storage means 13 and dragged forwardly to cover thenozzle 9 of themachinery 5. - Therefore, the snow-making device and method of the present invention provides a closed environment system wherein the temperature, humidity and/or other environmental conditions are regulated as desired, to facilitate the production of snow, via a conventional snow gun. Due to the lightweight construction of the invention, the apparatus may be easily moved, such that upon completion of the snow-making operation at a particular place, the system may be easily moved to the next desired location. Obviously, in use, a large pile of snow may be produced at one point, and then a snow cat or the like may be utilised to spread the snow. The present invention therefore allows the production of snow in a controlled
environment 24 hours a day, 365 days a year anywhere in the world. - In a further preferred embodiment the present invention provides a snow-making method and apparatus which obviates the need for specific refrigeration machinery. This is achieved by utilising gases in any cold form, for instance nitrogen or carbon dioxide, which have characteristics of below zero temperatures in their normal gaseous state. This may be achieved by utilising gases which are cold in their normal state, or by providing the gases in compressed condition to induce a change of state and consequently provide low temperatures, such as, providing the gas in a compressed (liquid) condition, and allowing the mixture to change state to a gas. By supplying such gases within the tent or dome-
like structure 2, or within an insulating wall layer between the closedenvironment system 3 and theexternal environment 4, the snow gun supplied therein will then be provided at a low temperature environment suitable for snow production, without the necessity for thechiller 7. The tent or dome-like structure 2 consequently forms a cold room, in which the snow may be produced, without the need for a mechanical chilling means. To provide such cold gases within the tent or dome-like structure 2, the gases may be produced from a normal pressure cylinder, or may be machinery made. - Other advantages are also provided by the dome-like structure of the present invention. In particular, the tent or dome-
like structure 2 will stop wind from blowing the snow away whilst it is being made, and it will also protect the snow from sun, rain and other natural environmental effects. Optionally, a floor could be provided, either in solid form or in the form of a soft zip-on construction, such being particularly useful in the case where it is desirable to completely isolate the closed environment from the external environment. The tent or dome-like structure can also be optionally provided such that it is provided with a hole therein, such that the snow-making device is provided externally therethrough and directed through the wall of the tent or dome-like structure. Another advantage also provided by the present invention is that advertising material may be provided on the external face of the tent or dome-like structure. Preferably, means is provided on the tent like structure to recycle the gas, such as nitrogen, such that same can be re-utilised. The dome-like structure also preferably is provided with a humidity exit means to exit any humidity in the closed environment. - In Figure 3 is illustrated three alternative embodiments of nozzle arrangements which may be utilised in conjunction with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Rather than providing a tent, dome-like or silo-like structure, as previously described, it may be preferable to provide an arrangement wherein the nozzle of a snow gun is adapted to provide the conditions suitable to induce the production of snow, as the products are emitted from the nozzle. In Figure 3a, is shown a nozzle wherein cold liquid nitrogen or gaseous nitrogen is supplied by the
inlet 15 of thenozzle 16.Air 17 andwater 18 is supplied at the rear of thenozzle 16, and, due to the nozzle being effectively mixed with or chilled by the nitrogen or other similar gas means provided byinlet 15, thenozzle 16 is effectively chilled such thatsnow 17 is emitted therefrom. In the arrangement illustrated in Fig. 3b, the nozzle is provided with an annular arrangement therearound to which the inlet providing thecold nitrogen gas 15 is provided. Theannular arrangement 20 can for instance be provided with a plurality of orifices around the inside annular surface thereof, to emit nitrogen towards the nozzle output, effectively controlling the temperature at the output such thatsnow 19 is produced thereby. A third possible arrangement illustrated in Fig. 3c shows a horn-like structure 21 adapted to be fitted to the end of anozzle 16. In this embodiment, the nitrogen gas, or like gas, is supplied by theinlet 15 into the horn-like arrangement 21, such that a mini controlled environment is provided around the extremity of the nozzle, such thatsnow 19 may be emitted from the output of the horn. It will be understood to persons skilled in the art that suitable gases or liquids which may be supplied by theinlet 15 to or near the extremity of thenozzle 16 are gases such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and other gases with low temperature thermal characteristics in their normal state. - In Fig. 3(d) illustrates a more detailed example of the horn of Fig 3(c), showing the entry of the air and water into the nozzle and the provision of the liquid nitrogen around the periphery of the horn. In Fig. 3(d) the nozzle, generally designated by the numeral 30 is connected to the
horn 31. Liquid nitrogen, or othersuitable gas 32 may be applied within the nozzle, generally designated bynumeral 33, in the horn, at the plurality ofoutlets 34, or both. The liquid nitrogen may either be designed to cool the horn and/or nozzle but not mix with thesnow 35, or alternatively, theliquid nitrogen 34 may mix with thesnow 35, and be readmitted to the environment. - In Figure 4 is illustrated a silo-like arrangement in accordance with the present invention. The silo-like arrangement, generally designated by the numeral 22, is built with a plurality of
snow guns 23 provided within thesilo body 24, thesilo body 24 being provided onstuncheons 25 at an elevation such that asnow cat 26 or like device may be driven under thesilo body 24, such that thesnow 27 which accumulates under the silo may be spread over the ground surface as required. The silo-like arrangement preferably is provided with the necessaryrefrigerant machinery 28 on the top thereof or, alternatively underground, such that theground surface 29 is not cluttered with unnecessary articles and machinery. - In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, machinery is provided to extract nitrogen from the surrounding air, and compress same. This means that the nitrogen, or other appropriate gas, can be manufactured on site, rather than having to transport same to the location of the snow making machinery. This would also mean that after utilisation of the gas at the desired location, the gas can be released into the atmosphere, if desired, after use thereof.
- Obviously, in the implementation of the tent-like, dome-like or silo-like arrangements, materials are preferably chosen such that they have good thermal insulative properties, such that the energy required to provide the controlled environment is minimised. Obviously the amount of thermal insulation will vary depending on the particular location, and the desired temperature difference which is required in comparison to the surrounding environment.
- It will be understood that numerous other modifications are envisaged to the present invention. For instance, if desired, a conveyor belt arrangement may be provided to move the snow from the location of production to the desired ground surface. The present invention may be preferably embodied such that the snow-making device is portable, for instance mounted on a snow cat, however, obviously, with embodiments such as the silo-like arrangement, it is more likely to be implemented as a fixed structure. Also, optionally, an air flow direction system can be incorporated into the controlled environment. This would preferably take the format of having a plurality of baffles.
- It will be understood by a person skilled in the art that numerous other variations or modifications are envisaged to the present invention. For example, instead of supplying the
machinery 5, totally separated to the snow gun 10, an integrated system may be envisaged, wherein the air andwater hoses 11 or the contents therein may be chilled or dehumidified. In such an embodiment, it would then only be necessary to supply the snow gun 10 within the tent or dome-like structure 2, further increasing the portability of the invention. Such an integrated system wherein the chilling-anddehumidifying machinery 5 is incorporated with the snow gun 10, would be particularly suitable in Australian conditions, wherein there is a high probability that the chillers and dehumidifiers are required most of the time. In such conditions the chillers and dehumidifiers can be supplied underground at a central location at the point where the air and water hoses originate. Obviously, the tent or dome-like structure 2 may be portable or a permanent construction, and may incorporate a frame or have a frameless structure. An air supported frame is also envisaged, wherein an insulating air pocket is supplied between the closed environment and the external environment, for the dual purpose of insulating the two environments and also separating thestructure 2. - The present invention may therefore be utilised in a situation to supplement the natural snow falls in an environment, or provide snow in an environment where snow falls are not normally naturally occurring.
- These and other variations should be considered to fall within the scope of the invention as hereinbefore described and as hereinafter claimed.
Claims (15)
- A device for the production of snow, said device comprising:a nozzle arrangement having an inlet adapted to supply water therethrough;an artificial environment created at or substantially about an output of said nozzle; and further comprising a catchment housing, wherein said snow emitted from said artificial environment is contained within said catchment housing to prevent same from being affected by adverse environmental conditions such as wind, sun, rain, etc.whereby, said water is emitted via an outlet of said nozzle and travels through said artificial environment, the temperature of said water being lowered such that snow is emitted from said artificial environment.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in claim 1, wherein said artificial environment is produced by the provision of a cryogenic gas at or about said output of said nozzle.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in claims 1 or 2, wherein said cryogenic gas is supplied via said inlet of said nozzle arrangement.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in claims 2 or 3, wherein said cryogenic gas is N2, CO2, compressed air, or any other gas having low thermal characteristics under normal or compressed conditions.
- A device for the production of snow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said water is supplied under pressure to said inlet of said nozzle.
- A device for the production of snow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein air is also provided to said inlet of said nozzle and adapted to mix with said water either before or after exit from said outlet of said nozzle.
- A device for the production of snow as claimed in claim 6, wherein said air and/or said cryogenic gas, provided to said inlet of said nozzle, is supplied under pressure.
- A device for the production of snow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said artificial environment is provided with a horn-like apparatus therearound.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in claim 1, wherein said catchment housing is configured as a double layered membrane, wherein a cryogenic gas is adapted to be provided between inner and outer layers thereof.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in claim 9, wherein when said cryogenic gas is provided between said layers of said double layered membrane, said catchment housing is structurally self-supporting.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said device is provided on a sled, skidoo, snow cat or like transportation means.
- A device for the production of snow, as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 11, further comprising extraction means to extract gases from a surrounding environment and compress same, such that said extracted gas can be utilised as said cryogenic gas.
- A device for the production of snow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a conveyor belt, to convey said snow to a desired position.
- A method for the production of snow, comprising the steps of:supplying water to an inlet of a nozzle;maintaining an artificial environment at or substantially about an outlet of said nozzle;causing said water to be emitted from said outlet through said artificial environment, whereby as said water travels through said artificial environment, said water is lowered in temperature, such that snow is emitted from said artificial environment, and further comprising a catchment housing, wherein said snow emitted from said artificial environment is contained within said catchment housing to prevent same from being affected by adverse environmental conditions such as wind, sun, rain, etc.
- A method as claimed in claim 14, wherein to maintain said artificial environment, cryogenic gas is provided at or about said outlet of said nozzle.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP00203328A EP1065456B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Portable snow-making apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (7)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AUPJ3019/89 | 1989-03-01 | ||
AUPJ301989 | 1989-03-01 | ||
AUPJ301989 | 1989-03-01 | ||
AUPJ3133/89 | 1989-03-09 | ||
AUPJ313389 | 1989-03-09 | ||
AUPJ313389 | 1989-03-09 | ||
EP90904191A EP0461160B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Snowmaking device |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP90904191A Division EP0461160B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Snowmaking device |
EP90904191.5 Division | 1990-09-13 |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP00203328A Division EP1065456B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Portable snow-making apparatus |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0798520A2 true EP0798520A2 (en) | 1997-10-01 |
EP0798520A3 EP0798520A3 (en) | 1998-10-14 |
EP0798520B1 EP0798520B1 (en) | 2004-07-28 |
Family
ID=25643640
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP00203328A Expired - Lifetime EP1065456B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Portable snow-making apparatus |
EP97107403A Expired - Lifetime EP0798520B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Snow making method and device |
EP90904191A Revoked EP0461160B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Snowmaking device |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP00203328A Expired - Lifetime EP1065456B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Portable snow-making apparatus |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP90904191A Revoked EP0461160B1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-03-01 | Snowmaking device |
Country Status (14)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (3) | EP1065456B1 (en) |
JP (2) | JP3176060B2 (en) |
KR (1) | KR100237971B1 (en) |
AT (3) | ATE331922T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU640129B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2050324C (en) |
DE (3) | DE69034154T2 (en) |
DK (2) | DK0461160T3 (en) |
ES (2) | ES2116980T3 (en) |
FI (1) | FI914055A0 (en) |
NO (1) | NO913438D0 (en) |
NZ (1) | NZ232751A (en) |
SG (1) | SG47828A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO1990010183A1 (en) |
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WO2000034722A1 (en) * | 1998-12-05 | 2000-06-15 | Acer Snowmec Limited | Snow making machine |
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WO1990010183A1 (en) | 1989-03-01 | 1990-09-07 | Andrew Boyd French | Snowmaking method and device |
WO1992008936A1 (en) * | 1990-11-07 | 1992-05-29 | Andrew Boyd French | Snowmaking method and device |
DE69224670D1 (en) * | 1991-04-11 | 1998-04-09 | Taikisha Kk | Process for the formation and maintenance of an artificial snow cover |
AU654756B2 (en) * | 1991-11-08 | 1994-11-17 | Taikisha, Ltd. | Method of maintaining snow surface |
EP0541867A1 (en) * | 1991-11-12 | 1993-05-19 | Taikisha, Ltd. | Method of forming artificial snow surface, ice crusher machine used in the method and method of maintaining snow surface |
CA2115359A1 (en) * | 1992-04-14 | 1993-10-28 | Alexandr Konstantinovich Malakeev | Method of gas generation and plant for effecting same |
FR2700835B1 (en) * | 1993-01-26 | 1995-04-21 | Technip Cie | Snow production process and installation. |
FR2742851B1 (en) * | 1995-12-26 | 1998-03-20 | Guillaume Gil | IMPROVEMENTS TO ARTIFICIAL SNOW MANUFACTURING PROCESSES, AND IMPLEMENTING DEVICES |
US6151913A (en) * | 1999-04-23 | 2000-11-28 | Praxair Technology, Inc. | Method and apparatus for agglomerating fine snow particles |
DE102004010093B3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2005-05-12 | Innovag AG Aktiengesellschaft für innovative Industrietechnik | Snow generation plant for indoor winter sports hall has snow chambers for generation and storage of artificial snow provided within housing having controlled climate |
DE102004021061B4 (en) * | 2004-04-29 | 2006-04-20 | GÖTZ, Werner | Artificial snow production, e.g. for production of chilled pre-mixed concrete, avoids lump-formation by using draught tube baffle crystallizer vessel, fed with water and liquid nitrogen |
JP2008522813A (en) * | 2004-12-13 | 2008-07-03 | クール クリーン テクノロジーズ, インコーポレイテッド | Carbon dioxide snow equipment |
AT508647B1 (en) | 2009-09-11 | 2015-03-15 | Tech Universität Wien | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PRODUCING ARTIFICIAL SNOW |
SE534323C2 (en) * | 2009-11-16 | 2011-07-12 | Icehotel Ab | Method and apparatus for the manufacture of construction elements of artificial snow |
BE1019114A3 (en) * | 2009-12-16 | 2012-03-06 | Atlas Copco Airpower Nv | DEVICE FOR MAKING ARTIFICIAL SNOW. |
CZ304511B6 (en) * | 2010-08-02 | 2014-06-11 | Adéla Voráčková | Method of production of artificial snow and apparatus for carrying out this method |
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- 1990-03-01 WO PCT/AU1990/000083 patent/WO1990010183A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1990-03-01 DE DE69034154T patent/DE69034154T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1990-03-01 DK DK90904191T patent/DK0461160T3/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1990-03-01 SG SG1996004595A patent/SG47828A1/en unknown
- 1990-03-01 EP EP00203328A patent/EP1065456B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-03-01 AT AT00203328T patent/ATE331922T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1990-03-01 AT AT97107403T patent/ATE272198T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1990-03-01 EP EP97107403A patent/EP0798520B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-03-01 KR KR1019910701030A patent/KR100237971B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1990-03-01 EP EP90904191A patent/EP0461160B1/en not_active Revoked
- 1990-03-01 DE DE69034228T patent/DE69034228T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1990-03-01 JP JP50449090A patent/JP3176060B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1990-03-01 NZ NZ232751A patent/NZ232751A/en unknown
- 1990-03-01 AU AU52679/90A patent/AU640129B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1990-03-01 ES ES90904191T patent/ES2116980T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-03-01 AT AT90904191T patent/ATE164442T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1990-03-01 DK DK97107403T patent/DK0798520T3/en active
- 1990-03-01 DE DE69032180T patent/DE69032180T2/en not_active Revoked
- 1990-03-01 ES ES97107403T patent/ES2225913T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-03-01 CA CA002050324A patent/CA2050324C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1991
- 1991-08-28 FI FI914055A patent/FI914055A0/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1991-09-02 NO NO913438A patent/NO913438D0/en unknown
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1999
- 1999-06-24 JP JP11178212A patent/JP2000035269A/en active Pending
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WO2000034722A1 (en) * | 1998-12-05 | 2000-06-15 | Acer Snowmec Limited | Snow making machine |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
SG47828A1 (en) | 1998-04-17 |
ATE272198T1 (en) | 2004-08-15 |
WO1990010183A1 (en) | 1990-09-07 |
EP0461160A4 (en) | 1992-01-15 |
DE69034228T2 (en) | 2007-06-14 |
NZ232751A (en) | 1992-03-26 |
JP2000035269A (en) | 2000-02-02 |
AU640129B2 (en) | 1993-08-19 |
EP1065456B1 (en) | 2006-06-28 |
ES2225913T3 (en) | 2005-03-16 |
DE69032180T2 (en) | 1998-10-15 |
EP0461160A1 (en) | 1991-12-18 |
DK0798520T3 (en) | 2004-12-06 |
EP1065456A1 (en) | 2001-01-03 |
CA2050324C (en) | 1996-07-30 |
EP0798520B1 (en) | 2004-07-28 |
FI914055A0 (en) | 1991-08-28 |
NO913438L (en) | 1991-09-02 |
DE69034228D1 (en) | 2006-08-10 |
ES2116980T3 (en) | 1998-08-01 |
DE69032180D1 (en) | 1998-04-30 |
ATE331922T1 (en) | 2006-07-15 |
JPH04503854A (en) | 1992-07-09 |
NO913438D0 (en) | 1991-09-02 |
AU5267990A (en) | 1990-09-26 |
KR920701768A (en) | 1992-08-12 |
JP3176060B2 (en) | 2001-06-11 |
DE69034154T2 (en) | 2005-07-21 |
EP0798520A3 (en) | 1998-10-14 |
ATE164442T1 (en) | 1998-04-15 |
DE69034154D1 (en) | 2004-09-02 |
DK0461160T3 (en) | 1999-01-11 |
EP0461160B1 (en) | 1998-03-25 |
KR100237971B1 (en) | 2000-01-15 |
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