JP2015504151A - Method and apparatus for collecting ice - Google Patents

Abstract

A mold with a bottom surface and a side surface having an inner periphery defines a first volume of ice cubes. Each side has an inner periphery, a top edge and a bottom edge. The top edge of each side may be longer than the bottom edge. Each side may extend inward from the top edge to a low part. The mold may include a three-dimensional shape within the first volume and including a second volume. The second volume may be defined by a top outer periphery, a bottom outer periphery, and at least a protrusion of the three-dimensional shape. The protrusion may extend upward and taper between the bottom outer periphery and the top outer periphery. The mold may further define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, the mold being configured to receive water within the third volume.

Description

Explanation of related applications

  This application is a US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 588,954 filed Jan. 20, 2012 entitled "Method and Apparatus for Ice Making", the entire disclosure of which is fully incorporated for all purposes. And a non-provisional patent application of US Patent Application No. 13/618799, filed September 14, 2012, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Ice Collection”, which claims priority. is there.

  The present disclosure generally includes a variety of ice including beverage dispensers, for example, for cafeterias, restaurants (including fast food stores), theaters, convenience stores, gas stations, and other entertainment and / or food delivery facilities. The present invention relates to a method and an ice making apparatus for collecting ice, which can be used in various environments, with reduced overall device dimensions and reduced ice freezing time.

  Ice makers described in the prior art typically form transparent crystalline ice by freezing water flowing on a cooled surface.

  Existing ice makers have several drawbacks. For example, ice makers form ice cubes relatively slowly, which slows the ice making speed in a predetermined number of ice making cells. For example, the ice making cycle of a conventional ice making machine is typically about 10-15 minutes. Conventional ice makers are typically equipped with large hoppers to provide the required consumption of ice during peak periods. During ice storage, the ice in this hopper requires mechanical agitation to prevent the ice cubes from freezing together. This significantly increases the complexity and overall dimensions of the ice machine. Very often, a large hopper is needed for ice storage, which may require turning and placing the hopper away from the dispensing point. Due to the transport of ice from remote locations to distribution points, the complexity and operation of ice making will increase. In addition, ice stored over a considerable period of time may be contaminated. Conventional ice makers are not deployed to collect ice to meet an ice making cycle of less than about 10-15 minutes.

  Therefore, there is a need for a new ice maker that freezes ice cubes faster and can approach “ice-on-demand” production and harvesting speeds, which in turn can reduce the overall footprint of the device. It is said that.

  In an aspect of the disclosure, an ice cube mold is provided. This mold defines a first volume for ice cubes and includes a bottom surface and a side surface having an inner periphery. Each side of this mold has a corresponding inner perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge. The corresponding top edge of each side is longer than the corresponding bottom edge. Each side surface extends inwardly from a corresponding top edge to a corresponding bottom edge. The mold includes a three-dimensional shape that is located within the first volume and includes a second volume. This second volume is defined by a three-dimensional shape of the outer perimeter at the top, the outer perimeter at the bottom, and at least the bulge. This protrusion extends upwardly between the outer perimeter at the bottom and the outer perimeter at the top. The protrusions taper while extending upwardly between the outer perimeter of the bottom and the upper perimeter of the three-dimensional shape. The mold defines a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, and the mold is configured to receive water within the third volume.

  The foregoing and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description of illustrated embodiments, which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

A perspective view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A perspective view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A side view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A perspective view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A side view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A perspective view showing a ice cube profile according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure Sectional view of a mold piece according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a shaped ice cube with protrusions and fins that increase the area of the mold-water interface according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing protrusions and fin-shaped ice cubes that increase the area of the mold-water interface according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a protrusion and a fin shaped ice cube of another shape that increases the area of the mold-water interface according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Sectional view of a mold piece according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure Explanatory drawing showing a ice cube structure according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Sectional view of a mold piece according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure Sectional view of a mold piece according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure Graph showing volume percentage of ice cube 150 over time Graph showing the wall thickness of ice cubes in mm against time FIG. 3 illustrates a water ice cube and a ice ice cube after 30 seconds of freezing, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a water ice cube and a ice ice cube after 30 seconds of freezing, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a water ice cube and a ice ice cube after 30 seconds of freezing, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a water ice cube and a ice ice cube after 30 seconds of freezing, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a water ice cube and a ice ice cube after 30 seconds of freezing, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a water ice cube and a ice ice cube after 30 seconds of freezing, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 1 is a perspective view showing ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. A bottom view showing ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A perspective view of ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A side view showing ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A perspective view of another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view showing another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A perspective view of another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A side view of another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A perspective view showing additional ice cubes in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view showing additional ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A perspective view of additional ice cubes in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure A side view showing additional ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A perspective view of yet another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view showing yet another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A perspective view of yet another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A side view of yet another ice cube according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Graphs and diagrams illustrating the time to freeze 95% by volume of ice cubes and the time to achieve complete freezing of ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dispensing device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dispensing device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 1 is a partial perspective view illustrating a dispensing device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a dispensing device according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an assembled embodiment of a back-to-back ice mold according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 16A is an exploded view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16A. FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are perspective views of the mold shown in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. An exploded view of the mold shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view of a mold according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure The bottom view of the mold shown in FIG. 18A A bottom view of a cover according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A perspective view illustrating an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 1 is an exploded view illustrating an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. A top view illustrating an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A fully assembled cross-sectional view of an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure A top perspective view of an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Illustration showing various ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Illustration showing various ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Illustration showing various ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Illustration showing various ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. An illustration showing various additional ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. An illustration showing various additional ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. An illustration showing various additional ice collection procedures, including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Explanatory diagram showing another ice collection procedure including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Explanatory diagram illustrating yet another ice collection procedure including at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view of an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A bottom view of an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view of an embodiment according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view of a water injection system according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates an ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. A side view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view illustrating ice collection and apparatus in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. Front view illustrating ice collection and apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

  In aspects of the present disclosure, an ice maker will be provided that has reduced overall dimensions and reduced ice cube freezing time to provide “ice on demand” production.

  In certain embodiments, the heat flow from the water in the mold may be increased towards that mold. The heat flow will be improved by increasing the area of the mold-water interface.

  In certain embodiments, a predetermined ice cube shape may be used to reduce freezing time. The predetermined ice cube shape may have a truncated pyramid shape similar to a cubic ice cube.

  In some embodiments, a mold with multiple cells and multiple flow paths for coolant may be used. An evaporator may be used to freeze the water surface on the open side of the cell. The ice maker may include a coolant distribution system configured to provide a coolant path that provides substantially equal heat removal from a plurality of ice cube molds.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device will be provided. The ice making device may include a mold that defines a first volume for ice cubes and includes a bottom surface and a side surface having an inner periphery. Each side of the mold may have a corresponding inner perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge. The corresponding top edge of each side may be longer than the corresponding bottom edge. Each side surface may extend inwardly from a corresponding top edge to a corresponding bottom edge. The mold includes a three-dimensional shape that is located within the first volume and may include a second volume. This second volume may be defined by a three-dimensional shaped outer perimeter at the top, outer perimeter at the bottom, and at least a protrusion. The protrusion may extend upward between the bottom outer periphery and the top outer periphery. The protrusion may taper while extending upwardly between the outer perimeter of the bottom and the upper perimeter of the three-dimensional shape. The mold may further define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, the mold being configured to receive water within the third volume. The apparatus may include a cooling device configured to cool the water in the third volume and to fully freeze the water.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device including a mold will be provided. This mold may comprise an upper layer portion and a lower layer portion. Each of these portions may comprise a plurality of ice cube cells corresponding to the ice cube cells of the other mold portion. The mold may be configured such that the first mold cell in the lower part of the mold and the corresponding second cell in the upper part of the mold constitute a single enclosure. A single enclosure may define a single ice cube volume. The first flow path may be configured to inject water into the first mold cell and the corresponding second mold cell. The second flow path may be configured to allow air to escape from only one enclosure when the first mold cell and the second mold cell are filled with water. The plurality of passages may be configured to receive the coolant, provide sufficient heat transfer from the water in the mold cell to the mold cell, and freeze the water in the mold cell.

  In one embodiment, an ice making device with an evaporator will be provided. This evaporator may be separate from the mold. The evaporator and mold may be combined so that evaporation takes place within the mold. A double or two loop system may be used. In a two-loop system, evaporation is performed in an evaporator, for example, the heat medium is cooled in the evaporator. After cooling in the evaporator, the heat medium is placed in heat transfer contact with the mold, and the heat medium cools the mold. In some embodiments, the heat medium flows through a portion of the mold to cool the mold.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device comprising a mold and a plate will be provided. This mold may be placed on a plate. This mold may comprise a plurality of ice cube cells, each ice cube cell having an opening at the bottom of the cell and an air escape channel at the top of the cell so that when the plate is filled with water, Air may be allowed to escape from the ice cube cell. Each mold and plate may include a plurality of passages, each passage receiving a coolant, providing sufficient heat transfer from water in the ice cube cell to the ice cube cell, and in the ice cube cell. It is configured to freeze water. Each ice cube cell may have a corresponding flow path that allows air to escape from the ice cube cell when the plate is filled with water.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for producing a plurality of ice cubes will be provided. The method may include placing a mold on the plate. This type may comprise a plurality of cells. Each cell may include an opening at the bottom of the cell and an air escape channel at the top of the cell. The method may include filling each of the plurality of cells by filling the plate with water, transferring heat from the water in the plurality of cells to the mold cell, and freezing the water in the cells.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device including a mold that may comprise a plurality of cells will be provided. Each cell may have an opening at the top of each cell. The mold may comprise a plurality of passages for the coolant and an upper layer portion. This upper layer portion may be hermetically surrounded by a cover. This upper layer portion may comprise a vacuum chamber. A vacuum pump configured to pump moist air from the mold may be provided. A tube may be provided that extends from the mold vacuum chamber to the vacuum pump. As the pressure in the vacuum chamber begins to decrease, dissolved gas begins to be released from the entire water in each cell. The vacuum pump pumps moist air from the mold so that the pressure in the vacuum chamber drops below 610.5 Pa (32 ° F. (0 ° C.) (Hg 0.18 inch (4.572 mm))). It may be constituted as follows.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, ice cubes are provided. The ice cubes may include a top surface having an outer periphery, a bottom surface having an outer periphery, and a side surface. Each side may include a corresponding outer perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge, the corresponding top edge of each side being longer than the corresponding bottom edge, and each side corresponding to the corresponding top edge Extends inward to the bottom edge. The top surface, the bottom surface, and the side surface may define a first volume. In certain embodiments, a three-dimensional shape located within the first volume may be provided. This three-dimensional shape may include a second volume. This second volume may be defined by a top outer perimeter, a bottom outer perimeter, and at least a protrusion. The protrusion may extend upward between the outer periphery of the bottom and the upper periphery of the three-dimensional shape. The protrusion may taper while extending upwardly between the outer perimeter of the bottom and the upper perimeter of the three-dimensional shape. The ice cubes may define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, the third volume comprising ice, the second volume comprising unfrozen liquid or air, Or a combination of unfrozen liquid and air.

  In certain embodiments, a coolant dispensing device will be provided. The coolant dispensing device may include an inlet, an outlet, and a distributor. This inlet may be configured to receive a coolant. The distributor may be configured to receive a coolant from the inlet. The distributor may be configured to dispense the coolant in a manner that provides substantially equal or equal cooling to the plurality of molds that contain the liquid to be cooled by the coolant.

  In one aspect, an ice maker configured to produce ice faster than a conventional ice maker will be provided. Conventional ice making devices, such as ice making devices used to make ice for beverage dispensers, typically have an ice making cycle of about 10-15 minutes, ie, about 4-6 cycles per hour. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice maker will be provided that produces ice in less than a minute, ie, over 60 cycles per hour. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice maker will be provided that produces ice in about 30 seconds, ie, about 120 cycles per hour. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice maker will be provided that produces ice in about 17 seconds or less, ie, about 212 cycles or more per hour. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice maker will be provided that produces ice in about 15 seconds, ie, about 240 cycles per hour. The above 30 seconds and 17 seconds are freezing times. It takes time to fill the cell with water, freeze the water, remove the ice from the mold, and collect the ice. Thus, the ice making cycle is about 70-90 seconds with a 30 second freezing time, and the ice making cycle is about 60-80 seconds with a 17 second freezing time.

  In certain embodiments, an ice maker that includes an ice collector will be provided. The ice collection device may include a variety of structures to facilitate deicing ice cubes from the mold. The ice collection device may be configured to be incorporated into an ice machine and / or to cooperate with the ice machine disclosed herein.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device is provided that includes a mold. The apparatus includes an ice cube mold including an arm and a plurality of ice cube cells. The ice cube mold is configured to sufficiently cool the liquid in the ice cube cell so that ice cubes are formed in each ice cube cell. The device includes a water injection system configured to move along the arm. The water injection system includes a water injection dispenser. Each water dispenser is configured to dispense a liquid to be frozen into a corresponding ice cube cell. Each water injection dispenser is configured to keep the ice cubes formed in the corresponding ice cube type cells away from the corresponding ice cube type cells as the water injection system moves away from the ice cube type. In addition, the device is equipped with a ice cube extractor. The ice cube extractor may be configured to drop ice cubes from the water injection dispenser as the water injection system moves along the arm toward the ice cube extractor.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, the ice making device is configured to provide conditions for high speed (on demand) production. This is achieved by the increased strength of heat exchange between the water and the mold achieved by a specially designed cell that increases the surface area of the water-mold interface.

  FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 1A shows the shape of ice cube 100 with an increased area of the mold-water interface. The ice cube 100 may be formed using a corresponding ice cube mold 126. The ice cube 100 includes a top surface 102, a bottom surface 101, and four side surfaces 105, 106, 107 and 108. In an embodiment, the top surface 102, the bottom surface 101, and the four side surfaces 105, 106, 107, and 108 may be parallelograms. The top surface 102 may have an outer periphery 112 and the bottom surface 101 may have an outer periphery 111. The outer perimeter 114 of each side may have a top edge 116 and a bottom edge 118. In an embodiment, the upper edge 116 of each side surface 105, 106, 107 and 108 may be longer than the bottom edge 118 of each side surface 105, 106, 107 and 108. In an embodiment, each of the side surfaces 105, 106, 107 and 108 may extend or be inclined inwardly from the upper edge 116 of each side surface.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, a mold 126 is provided. The mold 126 may define a first volume of ice cubes, such as ice cube 100. The mold 126 may include a bottom surface having an inner periphery. The mold 126 may also include side surfaces. Each side of the mold may have a corresponding inner perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge. The corresponding top edge of each side may be longer than the corresponding bottom edge, and each side extends from the corresponding top edge to the corresponding bottom edge. The bottom surface and the side surface of the mold 126 may correspond to the bottom surface 101 and the side surfaces 105, 106, 107, and 108 of the ice cube 100, respectively. The mold 126 may include a top surface having an inner diameter. The upper surface of the mold 126 may correspond to the upper surface 102 of the ice cube 100.

  In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a three-dimensional shape 122 is provided. In an embodiment, the three-dimensional shape 122 may generally be a three-dimensional “U” shape 120. The U-shape 120 may have a top outer perimeter 103, a bottom outer perimeter 104, and side fins 124. In an embodiment, the upper outer periphery 103 may be smaller than the lower outer periphery 104. In embodiments, the side fins 124 may taper while extending upward from the bottom outer periphery 104 to the upper outer periphery 103.

  1B, 1C, 1D and 1E show various views of ice cube 100. FIG. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the ice cube 100 after removal from the mold 126 shown in FIG. 1A. The ice cube 100 may have the following dimensions: each top edge 116 may have a length L1 (see FIGS. 1C and 1E) and each bottom edge 118 may have a length L2 (see FIG. 1E). A length L3 between the surface of the upper surface 102 and the surface of the bottom surface 101 (see FIG. 1E). In an embodiment, the ice cube 100 may have an inclined outer wall, and the length L1 may be longer than the length L2. In an embodiment, the length L1 may be 21 mm, the length L2 may be 19 mm, and the length L3 may be 20 mm. As shown in FIG. 1C, the void 128 is defined by the ice cube 100 after the three-dimensional shape 122 is removed from the ice cube 100. The air gap 128 may include legs 130 and 132 facing each other, and a connecting portion 134 connected to each leg. In the embodiment, the distance D1 between the legs 130 and 132 may be larger on the upper surface 102 than on the distance D2 on the bottom surface 101. For example, the distance D1 may be 5 mm and the distance D2 may be 3 mm. Due to the taper of ice cube 100 between length L1 and length L2, the difference in length between length L1 and length L2 is shown as distance D3 at each end of length L2. ing. In an embodiment, D3 may be 1 mm.

  1F, 1G, 1H and 1I show various views of an embodiment of ice cube 100 '. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1F to 1I, the length L1 may be 23 mm, the length L2 may be 21 mm, the length L3 may be 22 mm, and the distance D1 is 5 mm. The distance D2 may be 3 mm. The ice cube 100 'may have a similar shape to the ice cube 100, although the dimensions of L1, L2, and / or L3 are different. Due to the taper of ice cube 100 'between length L1 and length L2, the difference in length between length L1 and length L2 is shown as distance D3 at each end of length L2. Has been. In an embodiment, D3 may be 1 mm.

  FIGS. 1J, 1K and 1J show ice cubes 150 with vertical walls. The ice cube 150 may have a gap 152. The ice cube 150 may have the following dimensions: each top edge 154 may have a length L1, each bottom edge 156 may have a length L2, and the top surface 158 and bottom surface 160 Length L3 between the surfaces. In an embodiment, the length L1 may be 20 mm, the length L2 may be 20 mm, and the length L3 may be 20 mm. As shown in FIG. 1K, the void 152 is defined by the ice cube 150 after a three-dimensional shape (not shown) corresponding to the void 152 has been removed from the ice cube 150. The three-dimensional shape corresponding to the air gap 152 may have a shape similar to the three-dimensional shape 122 discussed with respect to FIG. The gap 152 may include legs 162 and 164 facing each other and a connecting portion 166 connected to each leg. In an embodiment, the distance D1 between the legs 162 and 164 may be 4 mm. The leg 162 may have a width W1, the leg 164 may have a width W2, and the connecting portion 166 may have a width W3. In an embodiment, each of W1, W2 and W3 may be 4 mm.

  The ice cube 150 may be formed according to the following procedure. The empty mold is cooled to about −30 to about −35 degrees from the bottom of the mold. Fill the mold with room temperature water using a syringe. In about 30-35 seconds, ice cube 150 will freeze to about 95% by volume and will freeze 100% in about 45 seconds. FIG. 8A shows the volume percent of ice cube 150 over time.

  Ice cubes having the same dimensions as ice cubes 150 are formed according to the following procedure. The empty mold is cooled to about −30 to about −35 ° C. from the bottom of the mold. Fill the mold with room temperature water using a syringe. In about 17 seconds, unfrozen water may be drawn from the mold, leaving a layer of ice on the mold surface. After freezing for 17 seconds, the average wall thickness may be about 2 mm. When the freezing time was extended to 30 seconds, the average wall thickness was about 3 mm. FIG. 8B shows the ice cube wall thickness in mm versus time.

  FIG. 9A shows a portion of ice cube 150 made of water and a portion of ice cube 150 made of ice after 30 seconds freezing according to the above procedure. FIG. 9B shows the temperature of ice cube 150 (expressed in degrees Celsius) after 30 seconds freezing according to the procedure described above with respect to FIG. 8A.

  The ice cube 100 described with respect to FIGS. 1B through 1E may be formed according to the following procedure. Cool the empty mold to about -35 ° C. Fill the mold with room temperature water using a syringe. FIG. 9C shows a portion of ice cube 100 made of water and a portion of ice cube 100 made of ice after 30 seconds freezing according to the above procedure. FIG. 9D shows the temperature of ice cube 100 (expressed in degrees Celsius) after 30 seconds of freezing according to the procedure described above.

  The ice cube 100 'described with respect to FIGS. 1F through 1I may be formed according to the following procedure. Cool the empty mold to about -35 ° C. Fill the mold with room temperature water using a syringe. FIG. 9E shows a portion of ice cube 100 'made of water and a portion of ice cube 100' made of ice after 30 seconds freezing according to the above procedure. FIG. 9F shows the temperature of ice cubes 100 '(expressed in degrees Celsius) after 30 seconds of freezing according to the procedure described above.

  FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a mold 200 in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The mold 200 may be configured to correspond to the ice cubes shown in FIG. The mold body 201 may include a plurality of individual ice cube cells 202. Each mold cell may include a fin 203 connected to the mold body 201. In order to provide efficient heat transfer to freeze water in the mold cell 202, a coolant flow path 204 may be disposed proximate to the cell 202.

  In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the use of the ice cube shape shown in FIG. 1 will reduce ice cube freezing time by about a factor of 10 compared to the same outer size monolith ice cube.

  Other embodiments according to the present disclosure are shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C. As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, the protrusions and / or fins may have different shapes and may be configured to increase the area of the mold and surface interface.

  FIG. 3A illustrates the shape of ice cube 300 with an increased area of the mold-water interface according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, the ice cube 300 may include a top surface 302, a bottom surface 301, and side surfaces 305, 306, 307, and 308. In an embodiment, the top surface 302, the bottom surface 301, and the four side surfaces 305, 306, 307, and 308 may be parallelograms. The ice cube 300 may be formed using a corresponding ice cube mold, such as the mold 126 shown in FIG. The top surface 302 may have an outer periphery 312 and the bottom surface 301 may have an outer periphery 311. Each of the four side surfaces 305, 306, 307 and 308 may have an outer perimeter 314. The outer perimeter 314 of each side may have a top edge 316 and a bottom edge 318. In an embodiment, the upper edge 316 of each side 305, 306, 307 and 308 may be longer than the bottom edge 318 of each side 305, 306, 307 and 308. In an embodiment, each of the side surfaces 305, 306, 307 and 308 may extend or be inclined inwardly from the upper edge 316 of each side surface. In an embodiment, a mold 320 is provided. The mold 320 may include a three dimensional shape 322. In embodiments, the three-dimensional shape 322 may generally be a three-dimensional truncated “M” shape. The three-dimensional shape 322 may have a top outer perimeter 303, a bottom outer perimeter 304, and side fins 324. In an embodiment, the upper outer perimeter 303 may be smaller than the bottom outer perimeter 304. In embodiments, the side fins 324 may taper while extending upward from the bottom outer periphery 304 to the upper outer periphery 303.

  FIG. 3B illustrates the shape of ice cubes 340 with increased area of the mold-water interface, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3B, the ice cube 340 may include a top surface 342, a bottom surface 341, and side surfaces 345, 346, 347, and 348. In an embodiment, the top surface 342, the bottom surface 341, and the four side surfaces 345, 346, 347, and 348 may be parallelograms. The ice cube 340 may be formed using a corresponding ice cube mold. The top surface 342 may have an outer periphery 352 and the bottom surface 341 may have an outer periphery 351. Each of the four side surfaces 345, 346, 347 and 348 may have an outer perimeter 354. The outer perimeter 354 of each side may have a top edge 356 and a bottom edge 358. In embodiments, the upper edge 356 of each side 345, 346, 347 and 348 may be longer than the bottom edge 358 of each side 345, 346, 347 and 348. In embodiments, each of the side surfaces 345, 346, 347 and 348 may extend or be inclined inwardly from the upper edge 356 of each side surface. In an embodiment, a mold 360 is provided. The mold 360 may include a three dimensional shape 362. In embodiments, the three-dimensional shape 362 may generally be a series of three-dimensional “L” shapes, the two three-dimensional L shapes (363, 364) being mirror images of one another. A third three-dimensional shape 365 may be located between the three-dimensional L-shapes (363, 364) and joined together. The three-dimensional shape 362 may have a top outer perimeter 366, a bottom outer perimeter 367, and side fins 368. In an embodiment, the upper outer perimeter 366 may be smaller than the bottom outer perimeter 367. In embodiments, the side fins 368 may taper while extending upward from the bottom outer periphery 367 to the upper outer periphery 366.

  FIG. 3C illustrates the shape of ice cube 380 with an increased area of the mold-water interface according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3C, the ice cube 380 may include a top surface 382, a bottom surface 381, and side surfaces 385, 386, 387, and 388. In an embodiment, the top surface 382, the bottom surface 381, and the four side surfaces 385, 386, 387 and 388 may be parallelograms. The ice cube 380 may be formed using a corresponding ice cube mold. The top surface 382 may have an outer periphery 389 and the bottom surface 381 may have an outer periphery 390. Each of the four side surfaces 385, 386, 387 and 388 may have an outer periphery 391. The outer perimeter 391 of each side may have a top edge 392 and a bottom edge 393. In an embodiment, the upper edge 392 of each side 385, 386, 387 and 388 may be longer than the bottom edge 393 of each side 385, 386, 387 and 388. In an embodiment, each of the side surfaces 385, 386, 387 and 388 may extend or be inclined inwardly from the upper edge 392 of each side surface. In an embodiment, a mold 394 may be provided. The mold 394 may include a three dimensional shape 395. In embodiments, the three-dimensional shape 395 may generally require the same shape as the ice cube 380, but is smaller in size. In an embodiment, the three-dimensional shape 395 may be an inverted mirror image of the ice cube 380 with a reduced volume. The three-dimensional shape 395 may have a top outer perimeter 396 and a bottom outer perimeter 397. In embodiments, the upper outer periphery 396 may be smaller than the lower outer periphery 397. In an embodiment, the three-dimensional shape 395 may have side surfaces 398. Side 398 may taper while extending upwardly from bottom outer perimeter 397 to top outer perimeter 396.

  An embodiment of a mold 400 according to various aspects of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. The mold 400 may include a first portion 401 and a second portion 402. Each of these portions may have a plurality of ice cube cells 410. These cells may be arranged such that one cell of the first portion 401 and one cell of the second portion 402 form only one enclosure 403 to produce only one ice cube. The enclosure 403 may be filled with water 411 through the channel 405. The flow path 406 will allow air to escape from the enclosure 403 when the enclosure 403 is filled with water 411. Each portion 401 and 402 of this type may also include a plurality of passages 409 for the coolant 407. To seal the enclosure 403, the first portion 401 and / or the second portion 402 is coated with a sealing coating 408 at a surface area where the first portion 401 contacts the second portion 402. Also good.

  FIG. 5 illustrates the shape of ice cubes according to aspects of the present disclosure. Ice cubes 500 may be used to reduce the freezing time. In this shape, ice cube 500 may have a truncated pyramid shape similar to cubic ice cube. However, unlike cubic ice cubes, ice cubes 500 define an interior volume 502 that is not completely frozen, thus providing the structure of ice cube wall 501. This ice cube wall 501 surrounds an internal volume 502 filled with water.

  Since the volume of ice in the ice cube 500 is significantly smaller than the volume of the monolith ice cube of the same outer size, the ice cube freezing time for forming the ice cube 500 is the time for forming the monolith ice cube of the same outer size. It will be less than about 20 times less than the ice cube freezing time.

  FIG. 6 illustrates a mold design that would produce the ice cube 500 shown in FIG. The mold 600 may include a mold 601 and a plate 602. Each of the mold 601 and the plate 602 may have a plurality of passages 606 for coolant (not shown). The mold 601 may also include a plurality of ice cube cells 603. Each cell 603 may have a corresponding flow path 605 to allow air to escape from the cell when the plate 602 is filled with water 604.

  The freezing time may be selected such that the resulting ice cube wall thickness is sufficient to provide the required mechanical strength of ice cubes. Since the ice volume in the ice cube 500 is significantly smaller than that of the ice cube structure of the same outer size, the time required to freeze the ice cube structure of the ice cube 500, that is, the ice cube wall 501 is about 2 to 3 mm. Will be reduced by about 20 times.

  An alternative approach for the production of ice cubes according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. The ice making device 700 may include a mold 701. The mold 701 may include a plurality of channels 702 and a plurality of passages 710 for the coolant 703. Water evaporation may be used to freeze the water surface on the open side of cell 702. The upper layer portion 712 of the mold 701 may be hermetically surrounded by a cover 704. Upper layer portion 712 may be connected by tube 705 to vacuum pump 706, which may be configured to draw wet air from mold 701.

  When the pressure on the water surface (eg, vacuum chamber 707) begins to drop, dissolved gas begins to be released from the entire water. Water / ice begins to evaporate vigorously when the pressure drops below a certain point of water vapor partial pressure (610.5 Pa (32 ° F. (0 ° C.) (Hg 0.18 inch (4.572 mm))). . This removes significant thermal energy from the remaining liquid water.

  FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C and 10D show a ice cube 1000. FIG. As shown in these figures, ice cubes 1000 may be formed using a three-dimensional shape 1002. The three-dimensional shape 1002 may comprise a vertical wall 1004 and may have a top surface 1006 and a bottom surface 1008 that are square. Each outer wall 1010 of the ice cube 1000 may be square. Each outer wall 1010 may have a length L1. In an embodiment, L1 may be 20 mm. Each outer wall 1010 may have a width W4. In an embodiment, the width W4 may be 4 mm. The thickness or width of each outer wall 1010 may be 4 mm, and the void 1012 defined in the ice cube 1000 after the three-dimensional shape 1002 is removed is between the opposing inner surfaces 1014 and 1016 of the ice cube 1000. May have a distance of 12 mm.

  The ice cube 1000 may be formed according to the following procedure. An empty mold corresponding to the shape of ice cube 1000 may be cooled to about -35 ° C. Fill the mold with room temperature water using a syringe.

  11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D show the ice cube 380 shown in FIG. 3C. A three-dimensional shape 395 is shown in FIG. 11C. The ice cubes 380 may have the following dimensions: each top edge 392 may have a length L1, each bottom edge 393 may have a length L2, and the surface of the top surface 382 and the surface of the bottom surface 381. L3 between. In an embodiment, L1 may be 21 mm, L2 may be 19 mm, and L3 may be 20 mm. As shown in FIG. 11B, a void 399 is defined by the ice cube 380 after being removed from the ice cube 380 from the three-dimensional shape 395. As discussed with respect to FIG. 3C, in an embodiment, the three-dimensional shape 395 may be a reduced volume mirror image of ice cubes 380. The three-dimensional shape 395 may have a top outer perimeter 396 and a bottom outer perimeter 397. In embodiments, the upper outer periphery 396 may be smaller than the lower outer periphery 397. In an embodiment, the three-dimensional shape 395 may have side surfaces 398. Side 398 may taper while extending upwardly from bottom outer perimeter 397 to top outer perimeter 396. The width from the gap 399 to the upper edge 392 may be the width W5. In an embodiment, the width W5 may be 5 mm. The width from the gap 399 to the bottom edge 393 may be the width W6. In an embodiment, the width W6 may be 3 mm. The difference in length between length L1 and length L2 is shown as distance D3 at each end of length L2. In an embodiment, D3 may be 1 mm.

  12A, 12B, 12C and 12D show ice cubes 1200. FIG. The ice cube 1200 has a rounded outer corner 1202, but is otherwise similar to the ice cube 380 shown in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D.

  FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D show ice cubes 1300. FIG. The ice cube 1300 has a similar shape to the ice cube 1200 shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D, except that the ice cube 1300 has a different size than the ice cube 1200. For example, in FIGS. 13A to 13D, the length L1 may be 23 mm, the length L2 may be 21 mm, and the length L2 may be 22 mm. 13A to 13D, the width W5 may be 5 mm, the width W6 may be 3 mm, and the distance D3 may be 1 mm.

  FIG. 14 shows the time to freeze 95% by volume of ice cubes 150, 100, 100 ', 1000, 380, 1200 and 1300, respectively, and the time to achieve complete freezing of those ice cubes.

  15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D illustrate a coolant distribution device 1500 in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. The device 1500 may include an inlet 1502, an outlet 1504, and a distributor 1506. Inlet 1502 may be configured to receive a flow of coolant having a first temperature. The distributor 1506 may be configured to receive a coolant flow from the inlet 1502. Device 1500 may further comprise a saucer 1508. The distributor 1506 is configured to distribute the coolant in a manner such that the coolant substantially uniformly or uniformly cools the plurality of molds 1502 that may contain liquid to be cooled by the coolant. Good. The distributor 1506 may include a tray 1508 and a distribution body 1510. The body 1510 may be configured to receive a coolant flow from the inlet 1502. The pan 1508 may be configured to receive a flow of coolant from the body 1510 as the coolant flows from the body 1510 and cools the plurality of molds 1512 as the coolant flows from the tray 1508 to the outlet 1504. . The coolant may have a second temperature at the outlet 1504. The second temperature of the coolant at the outlet 1504 may be different than the first temperature of the coolant at the inlet 1502. For example, the second temperature of the coolant at outlet 1504 will be higher than the first temperature of the coolant at inlet 1502.

  The distributor 1506 can be any of a tray shape and a body shape for providing coolant to the tray 1508 to substantially uniformly or uniformly cool a plurality of molds 1512 that may contain liquid to be cooled by the coolant. Such an appropriate combination may be included. As shown in FIGS. 15B, 15C, and 15D, the distributor 1506 may include a body or the tube 1510 may be stretched. The main body 1510 may have a rod shape. The body 1510 may include a first area 1514, a second area 1516, and a third area 1518. The first area 1514 may be closer to the inlet 1502 than the second area 1516, and the second area 1516 may be closer to the inlet 1502 than the third area 1518. Second zone 1516 may be closer to outlet 1504 than first zone 1514. Third zone 1518 may be closer to outlet 1504 than first zone 1514 and second zone 1516. Therefore, the second area 1516 may be an intermediate area between the first area 1514 and the third area 1518. In embodiments, the body 1510 may be placed on the surface 1542 of the pan 1508. In another embodiment, the body 1510 extends over the surface 1542 of the pan 1508 but need not be placed thereon. As shown in FIGS. 15B, 15C, and 15D, the body 1510 may have a length, width, and height that are less than the corresponding length, width, and height of the pan 1508, respectively.

  In embodiments, the body 1510 may include a first end 1520, a second end 1522, a top surface 1524, and a bottom surface 1526, which is opposite the top surface 1524. The bottom surface 1526 of the main body 1510 may be placed on the surface 1542 of the saucer 1508. The body 1510 may include a first side 1528 and a second side 1530, where the second side 1530 is opposite the first side 1528. First end 1520 may be in fluid communication with inlet 1502. The second end 1522 may be at the end of the third area 1518.

  First zone 1514 may define a first set of holes 1532. The first set of holes 1532 may include two holes in the first side 1528 and two holes in the second side 1530, the two holes in the second side 1530 being two of the first side 1528. On the opposite of two holes.

  Second zone 1516 may define a second set of holes 1534. The second set of holes 1534 may include one hole on the top surface 1524, one hole on the first side 1528, and one hole on the second side 1530.

  Third zone 1518 may define a third set of holes 1536. The third set of holes 1536 may include two holes on the upper surface 1524, three holes on the first side 1528, and three holes on the second side 1530.

  FIG. 15D illustrates the arrows indicating the coolant flow from the first, second, and third sets of holes to the saucer 1508. The saucer 1508 may have an end 1538. End 1538 may define one or more holes 1540. The holes 1540 may be a plurality of holes, as shown in FIG. 15D. As shown in FIG. 15D, the coolant flow may pass from the saucer 1508 through the hole 1540 to the outlet 1504. Instead of or in addition to hole 1540, end 1538 includes a funnel or frustoconical shape configured to receive a coolant flow from tray 1508 and carry the coolant flow to outlet 1504. It's okay.

  To those skilled in the art, according to the present disclosure, the coolant flows from the body 1510 to the pan 1508 and then toward the outlet 1504 while the coolant will be disposed in the plurality of molds 1512. It will be appreciated that cooling by removing heat from the liquid. To those skilled in the art, according to the present disclosure, the arrangement, number, and size of each hole of the first set, the second set, and the third set of holes includes the liquid that the coolant should be cooled by the coolant. It will be appreciated that the plurality of molds 1512 may be varied to dispense coolant in a manner that cools substantially uniformly or uniformly. One skilled in the art will recognize that according to the present disclosure, even or uniform cooling of liquids in multiple molds will freeze the liquid in each mold at approximately the same rate, thereby substantially freeing ice cubes in each mold. It will be appreciated that they will form simultaneously.

  One skilled in the art will recognize, according to the present disclosure, the ice cubes disclosed herein, such as ice cube 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A through 1E), ice cube 100 ′ (shown in FIGS. 1F through 1I), Ice cube 150 (shown in FIGS. 1J to 1K), ice cube formed in ice cube cell 202 (FIG. 2), ice cube 300 (shown in FIG. 3A), ice cube 340 (shown in FIG. 3B) Ice cubes 380 (shown in FIG. 3C and FIGS. 11A to 11D), ice cubes formed in ice cube type cells (see FIG. 4), ice cubes 500 (see FIG. 5), ice cubes Ice cubes formed in ice cell 603 (see FIG. 6), ice cubes formed in ice cube cell 702 (see FIG. 7), ice cube 1000 (shown in FIGS. 10A to 10D), ice cubes Manufacture ice cubes such as ice 1200 (shown in FIGS. 12A-13D) and ice cube 1300 (shown in FIGS. 13A-13D) Because the, it will recognize that may be used coolant distribution device 1500 and / or distributor 1506.

  The device 1500 may also be used to facilitate removal of ice cubes from the mold 1512. For example, after the ice cubes have formed in the mold 1512, the coolant flow may be stopped and a warming agent flow, also called a high temperature coolant, is sent through the same path as the coolant. That is, the warming agent may be routed through inlet 1502, distributor 1506, pan 1508, and outlet 1504. The warming agent may have a first temperature at the inlet 1502 and a second temperature at the outlet 1504. The second temperature of the warming agent at the outlet 1504 may be different from the first temperature of the warming agent at the inlet 1502. For example, the second temperature of the warming agent at the outlet 1504 may be lower than the first temperature of the warming agent at the inlet 1502. As the warming agent flows to the pan 1508, the warming agent heats the ice-mould interface, thereby loosening the ice cubes from the mold 1512.

  The ice collecting device may comprise two types. Each type may comprise a plurality of type cells. The two molds may be anti-phase and rotational with respect to each other.

  FIGS. 16A and 16B show a mold apparatus 1600 that may include back-to-back ice cube molds 1602 and 1604. FIG. 16A is a perspective view of mold apparatus 1600 when assembled. FIG. 16B is an exploded view of the mold apparatus 1600 shown in FIG. 16A. The mold 1602 includes a first plurality of mold cells 1606, for example, 45 mold cells, on one side of the mold 1602, and a first heat transfer device 1610 on the opposite side of the first plurality of mold cells 1606. It's okay. The mold 1604 includes a second plurality of mold cells 1608, eg, 45 mold cells, on one side of the mold 1604, and a second heat transfer device 1612 on the opposite side of the second plurality of mold cells 1608. It's okay.

  The mold apparatus 1600 may comprise a first part assembly 1614. First component assembly 1614 may include a mold 1602, a first mold cover 1616, a first heat transfer device 1610, and a first heat transfer device cover 1618. The first mold cover 1616 may include a heat insulating cover and / or may be made of a heat insulating material. The first mold cover 1616 may define a first opening 1634. When the first mold cover 1616 is placed on the mold 1602, the first opening 1634 allows the plurality of mold cells 1606 to be filled with a liquid, eg, water, when the mold 1602 is in an upward position. It may be configured. The mold 1602 may be configured such that the first heat transfer device 1610 can be placed within the compartment 1636 of the first heat transfer device cover 1618.

  The mold apparatus 1600 may comprise a second part assembly 1620. The second component assembly 1620 may include a mold 1604, a second mold cover 1622, a second heat transfer device 1612, and a second heat transfer device cover 1624. Second mold cover 1622 may define a second opening 1640. The second mold cover 1624, when placed on the mold 1604, allows the plurality of mold cells 1608 to be filled with a liquid, eg, water, when the mold 1604 is in an upward position due to the second opening 1640. It may be configured. The mold 1604 may be configured such that the second heat transfer device 1612 can be disposed within the compartment 1642 of the second heat transfer device cover 1624.

  The mold apparatus 1600 may include a housing 1626. The housing 1626 may be insulated and / or made of a thermally insulating material. The mold apparatus 1600 may include an inlet coolant tube 1628, an outlet coolant tube 1628 ′, a shaft 1630 and a shaft support 1632. Inlet coolant tube 1628 and outlet coolant tube 1628 'may be flexible. The inlet coolant tube 1628 supplies coolant to at least the first heat transfer device 1610 when the first heat transfer device 1610 is in the upward position, or the second heat transfer device 1612 is in the upward position. At some point, the coolant may be configured to be supplied to at least the second heat transfer device 1612. The shaft 1630 may be supported by a shaft support 1632. Shaft 1630 may be configured to rotate about axis AA so that first component assembly 1614 and second component assembly 1620 can be repositioned. For example, the first part assembly 1614 may be rotated from the upward position shown in FIG. 16A to the downward position, and the second part assembly 1620 may be rotated from the downward position shown in FIG. 16B to the upward position. Also good.

  The first part assembly 1614 and the second part assembly 1620 may be back to back when placed in the housing 1626. In other words, the back surface 1644 of the first heat transfer device cover 1618 may face the back surface 1646 of the second heat transfer device cover 1624.

  To those skilled in the art, according to the present disclosure, the first heat transfer device 1610 and the second heat transfer device 1612 include, but are not limited to, heat transfer devices with cooling fins 1648. It will be appreciated that any suitable heat transfer device may be used.

  FIGS. 17A and 17B show a mold 1602 in communication with a first heat transfer device 1610 and a first heat transfer device cover 1618. FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the combination, and FIG. 17B is an exploded view of the combination. A divider plate 1650 may be used at each end of the first heat transfer device cover 1618. Partition plate 1650 provides a desired flow of coolant from inlet tube 1628 (see FIG. 16B) to first heat transfer device 1610 and from first heat transfer device 1610 to outlet tube 1628 ′ (see FIG. 16B). It may be configured to obtain As shown in FIG. 16B, the mold 1604, the second heat transfer device 1612, and the second heat transfer device cover 1624 are formed from the mold 1602, the first heat transfer device 1610, and the first heat transfer device, respectively. It may have a structure similar or the same as the structure of cover 1618.

  FIG. 18A shows a side view of the previously described mold 1602 and first heat transfer device 1610. FIG. 18B is a bottom view of first heat transfer device 1610. The mold 1604 and the second heat transfer device 1612 may have a similar or the same structure as the mold 1602 and the first heat transfer device 1610, respectively. The cooling fins 1648 may have a radius R1 as shown in FIG. 18A. As shown in FIG. 18A, the dimensions of the mold 1602 and the first heat transfer device 1610 are shown as distances A, B, C. The distance A is the height of the cooling fin 1648. The distance B is the height of the first heat transfer device 1610. The distance C is the height of the combination of the mold 1602 and the first heat transfer device 1610.

  FIG. 19 is a top view of the first heat transfer device cover 1618 as described above. The second heat transfer device cover 1624 may have a similar or the same structure.

  20A, 20B, and 20C show the first component assembly 1614 when placed in the housing 1626. FIG. 20A is a perspective view, FIG. 20B is an exploded view, and FIG. 20C is a top view. A clip 2002 may be used to maintain the position of the first part assembly within the housing 1626. The second component assembly 1620 may have a structure similar to or the same as the structure of the first component assembly 1614 when placed in the housing 1626.

  FIG. 21 shows the mold apparatus 1600 in a cross-sectional view of the complete assembly.

  FIG. 22A shows a top perspective view of the mold 1602. FIG. 22B shows a bottom perspective view of the mold 1602.

  Figures 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, 23E, 23F, 23G, and 23H illustrate various ice collection procedures that can be used to collect multiple ice cubes.

  FIG. 23A shows an ice collection procedure 2310. The following is a description of the procedure 2310. In step 2311 of the procedure 2310, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2311 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which the water in step 2311 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2312 of the procedure 2310, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the upper part 2317 of the ice cube 2315 faces downward, for example, 180 degrees. In step 2312, a warming agent 2314, also referred to as a high temperature coolant, may be used to heat the mold 2300 to loosen the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. The warming agent 2314 may be passed through the flow path 2304. The passage of the heating agent 2314 through the flow path 2304 may be performed while the mold 2300 is rotating or just after that. In step 2313 of procedure 2310, ice cubes 2315 may be deiced from mold 2300 by using gravity and collection assisting rod 2303. In step 2313, removal of ice cubes 2315 from mold 2300 may be facilitated by passing warming agent 2314 through channel 2304.

  FIG. 23B shows an ice collection procedure 2320. The following is a description of the procedure 2320. In step 2321 of the procedure 2320, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2321 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2321 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2322 of procedure 2320, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the upper portion 2317 of the ice cube 2315 faces downward, for example, 180 degrees. In step 2323 of procedure 2320, a thin electric heater 2306 may be used to heat the mold 2300 to loosen the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. A thin electric heater 2306 may surround each interface of ice and mold. Also, in step 2323 of procedure 2320, ice cubes 2315 may be deiced from mold 2300 by using gravity and collection assist rod 2303. Procedure 2320 will provide rapid heating of the ice-mould interface.

  FIG. 23C shows an ice collection procedure 2330. The following is a description of the procedure 2330. In step 2331 of the procedure 2330, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2331 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2331 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2332 of procedure 2330, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the upper portion 2317 of the ice cube 2315 faces downward, for example, 180 degrees. In step 2333 of procedure 2330, the light source 2335 is switched on and the light emitted from the light source 2335 is absorbed by the light absorbing coating 2334 on the mold 2300, thereby loosening the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. Heat. Also, in step 2333 of procedure 2330, ice cubes 2315 may be deiced from mold 2300 by using gravity and collection assist rod 2303. Procedure 2330 will provide rapid heating of the ice-mould interface.

  FIG. 23D shows an ice collection procedure 2340. The following is a description of procedure 2340. In step 2341 of the procedure 2340, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2341 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which the water in step 2341 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2342 of procedure 2340, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the top 2317 of the ice cube 2315 is facing downward, for example, 180 degrees. In step 2343 of procedure 2340, ice cubes 2315 can be loosened from the mold 2300 by the low adhesion coating 2344 on the mold 2300 combined with gravity. Also, in step 2343 of procedure 2340, ice cubes 2315 may be deiced from mold 2300 by using gravity and collection assisting rod 2303. By using a low adhesion coating 2344, the need for heating the ice and mold interface will be reduced or eliminated.

  FIG. 23E shows an ice collection procedure 2350. The following is a description of the procedure 2350. In step 2351 of the procedure 2350, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2351 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2351 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. Prior to freezing, an extractor 2355 may be placed in the water to be frozen to form ice cubes. In step 2352 of procedure 2350, mold 2300 may be heated using warming coolant 2314 that is passed through flow path 2304, thereby loosening ice cubes 2315 from mold 2300. In step 2353 of procedure 2350, ice cubes 2315 are lowered by lifting the puller 2355 and / or lowering the mold 2300 away from the puller 2355, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 23E (indicated by the arrow). May be removed from the mold 2300. The extraction tool 2355 may be on the extraction rod 2356. In step 2353, removal of ice cubes 2315 from mold 2300 may be facilitated by passing warming coolant 2314 through channel 2304. In step 2354 of procedure 2350, ice cubes 2315 may be released from the puller 2355 by heating the puller 2355.

  FIG. 23F shows an ice collection procedure 2360. The following is a description of the procedure 2360. In step 2361 of the procedure 2360, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2361 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which the water in step 2361 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. Prior to freezing, the extractor 2355 may be placed in water that is frozen to form ice cubes. In step 2362 of procedure 2360, a thin film heater 2306 may be used to rapidly heat the ice-mould interface, thereby loosening the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. The thin film electric heater 2306 may surround each interface between ice and the mold, or may be at each interface. In step 2363 of procedure 2360, ice cubes 2315 are lowered by raising the puller 2355 and / or lowering the mold 2300 away from the puller 2355, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. May be removed from the mold 2300. The extraction tool 2355 may be on the extraction rod 2356. In step 2364 of procedure 2360, ice cubes 2315 may be released from the puller 2355 by heating the puller 2355.

  FIG. 23G shows an ice collection procedure 2370. The following is a description of procedure 2370. In step 2371 of the procedure 2370, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2371 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2371 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. Prior to freezing, the extractor 2355 may be placed in water that is frozen to form ice cubes. In step 2372 of procedure 2370, the light source 2335 may be used to quickly heat the ice-mould interface. The light emitted from the light source 2335 is absorbed by the light absorbing coating 2334, thereby loosening the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. In step 2373 of procedure 2370, ice cubes 2315 are lowered by raising the puller 2355 and / or lowering the mold 2300 away from the puller 2355, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. May be removed from the mold 2300. The extraction tool 2355 may be on the extraction rod 2356. In step 2374 of procedure 2370, ice cubes 2315 may be released from the puller 2355 by heating the puller 2355.

  FIG. 23H illustrates an ice collection procedure 2380. The following is a description of the procedure 2380. In step 2381 of the procedure 2380, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2381 may be about 30 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2381 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. Prior to freezing, the extractor 2355 may be placed in water that is frozen to form ice cubes. In step 2382 of procedure 2380, ice cubes 2315 are lowered by raising the extractor 2355 and / or lowering the mold 2300 away from the extractor 2355, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. May be removed from the mold 2300. The extraction tool 2355 may be on the extraction rod 2356. Removal of the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300 may be aided by using a low adhesion coating 2344. The low adhesion coating 2344 on the mold 2300 as shown in FIG. 23H combined with the movement of the puller 2355 away from the mold 2300 allows the ice cubes 2315 to loosen from the mold 2300. By using a low adhesion coating 2344, the need for heating the ice and mold interface will be reduced or eliminated. In step 2383 of procedure 2380, ice cubes 2315 may be released from the puller 2355 by heating the puller 2355.

  Figures 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, and 24E illustrate various ice collection procedures that can be used to collect multiple ice cubes.

  FIG. 24A shows an ice collection procedure 2410. The following is a description of the procedure 2410. In step 2411 of the procedure 2410, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2411 may be about 17 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2411 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The mold 2300 may comprise a first set of channels 2408 of channels 2304 below the bottom of the ice cube to be formed. A second set of channels 2409 of channels 2304 may be provided on top of the ice cubes to be formed. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2412 of procedure 2410, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the top of the ice cube is facing down, for example, 180 degrees. Prior to or after the rotation of step 2412, the second set of channels 2409 may be removed away from the ice cubes 2315. As shown in step 2412, removal of the plate 2419 including the second set of channels 2409 from the ice cubes 2315 is facilitated by passing the warming agent 2314 through the channels 2304 of the second set of channels 2409. May be. In step 2412, a warming agent 2314, also referred to as a high temperature coolant, may be used to heat the mold 2300 to loosen the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. The warming agent may be passed through the flow path 2304 of the first set of flow paths 2408. The passage of the first set of channels 2408 of the warming agent may be performed while the mold 2300 is rotating or immediately thereafter. In step 2413 of procedure 2410, ice cubes 2315 may be deiced from mold 2300 by using gravity and collection assisting rod 2303. In step 2413, removal of the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300 may be facilitated by passing the warming agent 2314 through the channels 2304 of the first set of channels 2408.

  FIG. 24B shows an ice collection procedure 2420. The following is a description of the procedure 2420. In step 2421 of the procedure 2420, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2421 may be about 17 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2421 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The mold 2300 may comprise a first set of channels 2408 of channels 2304 below the bottom of the ice cube to be formed. A second set of channels 2409 of channels 2304 may be provided on top of the ice cubes to be formed. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2422 of procedure 2420, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the top of the ice cube is facing down, for example, 180 degrees. The second set of channels 2409 may be removed from the ice cubes 2315 before or after the rotation of step 2422. As shown in step 2422, removal of the second set of channels 2409 from the ice cubes 2315 may be facilitated using a portion 2307 of the thin electric heater 2306. In step 2422, a thin electric heater 2306 may be used to heat the mold 2300 to loosen the ice cubes 2315 from the mold 2300. A thin electric heater 2306 may surround each interface of ice and mold. Alternatively or in addition to heating in step 2422, heater 2306 may be used in step 2423 of procedure 2420 to loosen ice cubes 2315 from mold 2300. In step 2423, ice cubes 2315 may be deiced from mold 2300 by using gravity and collection assist rod 2303. Procedure 2420 will provide rapid heating of the ice-mould interface.

  FIG. 24C shows an ice collection procedure 2430. The following is a description of the procedure 2430. In step 2431 of the procedure 2430, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2431 may be about 17 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2431 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The mold 2300 may comprise a first set of channels 2408 of channels 2304 below the bottom of the ice cube to be formed. A second set of channels 2409 of channels 2304 may be provided on top of the ice cubes to be formed. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2432 of the procedure 2430, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the upper portion 2317 of the ice cube 2315 faces downward, for example, 180 degrees. The second set of channels 2409 may be removed from the ice cubes 2315 before or after the rotation of step 2432. In step 2432 of procedure 2430, the ice cubes can loosen from the mold 2300 due to the low adhesion coating 2344 on the mold 2300 combined with gravity. In step 2433 of procedure 2430, removal of ice cubes 2315 from mold 2300 may be facilitated by heating mold 2300, thereby reducing ice cube collection time. In step 2433, a warming agent 2314, also referred to as a high temperature coolant, may be used to heat the mold 2300 to loosen the ice cubes from the mold 2300. The warming agent 2314 may be passed through the flow path 2304 of the first set of flow paths 2408.

  FIG. 24D shows an ice collection procedure 2440. The following is a description of the procedure 2440. In step 2441 of the procedure 2440, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2441 may be about 17 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2441 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The mold 2300 may comprise a first set of channels 2408 of channels 2304 below the bottom of the ice cube to be formed. A second set of channels 2409 of channels 2304 may be provided on top of the ice cubes to be formed. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2442 of procedure 2440, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the upper portion 2317 of the ice cube 2315 faces downward, for example, 180 degrees. Before or after the rotation of step 2442, the second set of channels 2409 may be removed away from the ice cubes 2315. In step 2443 of procedure 2440, a thin electric heater 2306 may be used to heat the mold 2300 to loosen the ice cubes from the mold 2300. A thin electric heater 2306 may surround each interface of ice and mold. Also, in step 2443 of procedure 2440, ice cubes may be removed from mold 2300 by using gravity. Removal of ice cubes may be facilitated by using a harvesting support rod (not shown in FIG. 24D), such as the harvesting support rod 2303 discussed above. Procedure 2440 will provide rapid heating of the ice-mould interface.

  FIG. 24E shows an ice collection procedure 2450. The following is a description of the procedure 2450. In step 2451 of the procedure 2450, the water in the mold 2300 is frozen, and the upper part of the upper surface of the ice cube is formed upward. Freezing in step 2451 may be about 17 seconds. Freezing in which water in step 2451 forms ice cubes may be performed by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2304. The mold 2300 may comprise a first set of channels 2408 of channels 2304 below the bottom of the ice cube to be formed. A second set of channels 2409 of channels 2304 may be provided on top of the ice cubes to be formed. The flow path 2304 may be the same or similar to the flow path 204 described above with respect to FIG. 2 or the passage 409 previously described with respect to FIG. Mold 2300 may have a structure that is similar to or the same as that of mold 1602 described above. In step 2452 of procedure 2450, the mold 2300 is rotated such that the top 2317 of the ice cube 2315 is facing downward, for example, 180 degrees. The second set of channels 2409 may be removed away from the ice cubes 2315 before or after the rotation of step 2452. Removal of the second set of channels 2409 may be facilitated by using a low adhesion coating 2344 at the ice cube top 2317 and the ice-mould interface in the second set of channels 2409. In step 2452 of procedure 2450, ice cubes 2315 can loosen from the mold 2300 due to the low adhesion coating 2344 on the mold 2300 combined with gravity. Also in step 2453 of the procedure 2450, the ice cubes 2315 may be removed from the mold 2300 by using gravity and the collection support rod 2303. Using a low adhesion coating 2344 in procedure 2450 will reduce or eliminate the need for heating the ice-mould interface.

  FIG. 25 shows an ice collection procedure 2500. The following is a description of the procedure 2500. Two back-to-back molds 2502 and 2504 may be provided. Each of molds 2502 and 2504 may comprise 45 cube molds. Molds 2502 and 2504 may be the same or similar to molds 1602 and 1604 described above. The mold apparatus 1600 described above may include molds 2502 and 2504. Procedure 2500 may be performed using mold apparatus 1600. Each of molds 2502 and 2504 may be used to produce 45 ice cubes every 40 seconds, which corresponds to 1.4 pounds (635 g) ice cubes per minute. Molds 2502 and 2504 in combination provide an 80 second ice cube ice cycle, which includes a total of 90 ice cube freezes and harvests from molds 2502 and 2504.

  In step 2511 of procedure 2500, the cubic mold 2506 of mold 2502 is filled with water. During step 2511, the mold 2502 may be cooled by passing a coolant 2302 through the flow path 2304. During step 2511, mold 2504 begins to heat, and ice cubes previously frozen in cube mold 2508 of mold 2504 begin to loosen. The mold 2504 may be heated by passing a heating agent 2314 through the flow path 2305 of the mold 2504. Step 2511 will take about 10 seconds.

  After filling the cubic mold 2506 of the mold 2502 in step 2511 with water, step 2512 is subsequently performed. In step 2512, cooling of mold 2502 continues by continuing to pass coolant 2302 through channel 2304, thereby allowing water in cube mold 2506 to begin freezing. In step 2512, heating of mold 2504 may continue by continuing to pass warming agent 2314 through channel 2305 of mold 2504. In step 2512, ice cubes 2550 are picked from the mold 2504 by heating the mold 2504 in combination with the use of the pick support rod 2303 to push or drop the ice cubes from the cube mold 2506 and gravity. Step 2512 will take about 20 seconds.

  In step 2513, cooling of the mold 2502 may continue by continuing to pass the coolant 2302 through the flow path 2304, thereby continuing to freeze the water in the cubic mold 2506. In step 2513, cooling of mold 2504 may begin by passing coolant 2302 through channel 2305. Step 2513 will take about 10 seconds.

  In step 2514, molds 2502 and 2504 are rotated 180 degrees so that mold 2502 and corresponding flow path 2304 replace mold 2504 and corresponding flow path 2305. Begin by filling the mold 2504 cube mold 2508 with water instead of the mold mold 2502 cube mold 2506 according to step 2511 and heat the mold 2502 (freeze first in the cube mold 2506 of the mold 2502 in step 2513). The procedure 2500 may be repeated, starting with heating the mold 2502 by, for example, passing the warming agent 2314 through the flow path 2304.

  FIG. 26 shows an ice collection procedure 2600. The following is a description of the procedure 2600. Two molds 2602 and 2604 may be provided. Each of molds 2602 and 2604 may comprise 45 cube molds. Molds 2602 and 2604 may be the same or similar to molds 1602 and 1604 described above. The mold apparatus 1600 described above may include molds 2602 and 2604. The mold apparatus 1600 may be used to perform the procedure 2600. Each of molds 2602 and 2604 may be used to produce 45 ice cubes every 40 seconds, which corresponds to 1.4 pounds (635 g) ice cubes per minute. Molds 2602 and 2604, in combination, provide an 80 second ice cube ice cycle, which includes a total of 90 ice cube freezes and harvests from molds 2602 and 2604.

  In step 2611 of procedure 2600, cube 2606 of mold 2602 is filled with water. Water may be injected using a water injection needle 2620. Cooling of mold 2602 may also begin during step 2611. During step 2611, the mold 2602 may be cooled by passing a coolant 2302 through the flow path 2304. During step 2611, the mold 2604 may be heated to loosen the ice cubes 2640 previously formed in the mold 2604. For example, this heating can be done by passing a warming agent 2314 through the flow path 2304 of the mold 2604, as shown in step 2611 of FIG. 26, or with respect to a thin film electric heater, eg, FIGS. 23B, 24B, and 24D. This may be done by using a thin film heater 2306 as discussed, or by using a light absorbing coating 2334 and a light source 2335 as discussed with respect to FIGS. 23C and 23G.

  In step 2612, cooling of the mold 2602 is continued to freeze the water in the mold 2602. During step 2612, the draw bar 2656 may be moved away from the mold 2604, thereby moving the water injection needle 2630 and ice cube 2640 away from the mold 2604. The act of moving the ice cubes 2640 away from the mold 2604 may be facilitated by continuing to heat the mold 2604 and thereby heating the ice-mold interface.

  In step 2613, cooling of the mold 2602 is continued to freeze the water in the mold 2602. During step 2613, the pull bar 2656 may be moved toward the ice cube remover 2650. The ice cube remover 2650 may be a rod or a rod. When the ice cube 2640 comes into contact with the ice cube remover 2650, the ice cube remover 2650 pushes the ice cube 2640 out of the water injection needle 2630 or drops it off. During step 2613, coolant 2302 may begin to flow through channel 2304 of mold 2604 to begin cooling mold 2604.

  Step 2614 is a mirror image of Step 2611. During step 2614, the draw bar 2656 is returned to the mold 2604 and the mold 2604 begins to fill with water with the water injection needle 2630. During step 2614, the mold 2602 may be heated to loosen the ice cubes 2660 previously formed in the mold 2602. The heating of mold 2602 during step 2614 may be similar to the heating of mold 2604 as discussed above with respect to step 2611. As shown in FIG. 26, during step 2614, warming agent 2314 is passed through the flow path 2304 of the mold 2602 to loosen the ice cubes 2660 from the mold 2602. During step 2614, coolant 2302 may continue to pass through the flow path 2304 of the mold 2604 to begin cooling the mold 2604. Freezing of the water in mold 2604 may begin at step 2614.

  Step 2615 is a mirror image of step 2612. During step 2615, coolant 2302 continues to flow through channel 2304, thus continuing to cool mold 2604 and freeze water in mold 2604. During step 2615, the pull bar 2658 may be moved away from the mold 2602, thereby moving the pull bar 2658 and ice cubes 2660 away from the mold 2602. The act of moving the ice cubes 2660 away from the mold 2602 may be facilitated by continuing to heat the mold 2602 and thereby heating the ice-mould interface.

  In step 2616, the mold 2604 may begin to heat and the ice / mold interface may be heated. In step 2616, the pull bar 2658 may be moved toward the ice cube remover 2652. The ice cube remover 2652 may be a rod or a rod. When the ice cube 2660 comes into contact with the ice cube remover 2652, the ice cube remover 2652 pushes the ice cube 2660 out of the water injection needle 2620 or disposes it. During step 2616, coolant 2302 may begin to pass through the flow path 2304 of the mold 2602 to begin cooling the mold 2602.

  Each of molds 2602 and 2604 may have an 80 second ice cube ice cycle according to procedure 2600.

  27A, 27B and 27C illustrate a water injection system 2700 according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure. 27A is a side view of the water injection system 2700, FIG. 27B is a bottom view, and FIG. 27C is a front view. The water injection system 2700 includes a water supply needle 2702, a water port 2704, and a tank 2706. Water enters through the water port 2704 and flows into the tank 2706. Water exits tank 2706 through water supply needle 2702. Needle 2702 may be the same as needles 2620 and 2630 described above.

  28A, 28B, 28C, and 28D show an ice collection device 2800. FIG. The ice collection device may include a water injection system 2700 and a water injection needle 2702. As shown in FIG. 28A, water is filled into mold 2802 and frozen using a coolant (not shown). After the water has frozen, the irrigation system 2700 including the irrigation needle 2702 may be moved away from the mold 2802, as shown in FIG. 28B, thereby removing the ice cube 2830 attached to the needle 2702. This water injection system 2700 may be held by the arm 2804. The arm 2804 may be supported by the support 2820. The arm 2804 may be pivoted or tilted up away from the mold 2802, as shown in FIG. 28B, and the arm 2804 may carry ice cubes attached to the irrigation system 2700 and the needle 2702. Motor 2816 may provide power to tilt arm 2804. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, according to the present disclosure, the motor 2816 may be any suitable motor, including but not limited to a hydraulic motor. The arm 2804 may be pivoted about the pivot axis 2818 of the support 2820.

  The irrigation system 2700 may move along the arm 2804 toward the ice cube remover 2806 as shown in FIG. 28C. When the ice cube 2830 attached to the needle 2702 comes into contact with the remover 2806, the ice cube is removed or pushed out of the needle 2702 and dropped into the ice hopper 2808 as shown in FIGS. 28C and 28D. To do. The water injection system 2700 may comprise a draw bar, such as the draw bar 2656 or 2658 described above. Alternatively, the extraction rod 2656 or 2658 may comprise a water injection system, for example, a water injection system 2700. The ice cube remover 2806 may be the same or similar to the ice cube remover 2650 or 2652 described above.

  The water injection system 2700 may be connected to the extension arm 2810. The extension arm 2810 may be configured to extend and contract from the housing 2812. The motor 2814 may be configured to move the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 away from the housing 2812, thereby providing power to move the water injection system 2700 toward the square ice remover 2806. . After the ice cube 2830 is removed from the needle 2720 by the ice cube remover 2806, the motor 2814 moves the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 back toward the housing 2812, thereby causing the water injection system 2700 to mold. Power to move back to 2802 may be provided. After the water injection system 2700 has moved along the arm 2804 to the mold 2802, the arm 2804 is then pivoted or tilted down (actuated by the motor 2816) so that the arm 2804 is perpendicular to the floor 2824. In doing so, the water injection system 2700 may fill the mold 2802 with water and repeat the ice cube manufacturing and ice cube collection procedures. One skilled in the art will recognize that, according to the present disclosure, the motor 2814 may be any suitable motor, including but not limited to a hydraulic motor.

  Figures 29A through 29I further illustrate ice collection with the apparatus shown in Figures 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28D. 29A, 29D, and 29G are side views of the water injection system 2700, the arm 2804, and the ice cube remover 2806, FIGS. 29B, 29E, and 29H are bottom perspective views, and FIGS. 29C, 29F, and 29I are front views. For illustration purposes, these drawings show two rows of ice cubes 2830 for a total of 10 ice cubes 2830, but the water injection system uses 45 water injection needles in a 9 × 5 array. Have. The ice cube remover 2806 may include a groove 2912. Groove 2912 may be configured to allow needle 2702 to enter and move through the groove. The ice cube remover 2806 may be attached to the arms 2902 and 2904. The ice cube remover 2806 may have a post 2914 that extends downwardly from the loop 2908 of the arms 2902 and 2904. The ice cube remover 2806 may have a grid 2916 that slopes downward from the post 2914 at an angle. A grid 2916 may define the groove 2912.

  As shown in FIGS. 29A to 29I, the water injection system 2700 also includes a draw bar 2656 and a needle 2702. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm 2804 includes a first arm 2902 and a second arm 2904. Each arm 2902 and 2904 may define a mortise 2906 and an elongated loop 2908. Mortise 2906 may be configured to receive pivot axis 2818. The wheel 2910 may be configured to rotate and move along the elongated loop 2908 of each arm 2902 and 2904. The wheel 2910 may rotate when the water injection system 2700 is moved along the arm 2804, ie, the arms 2902 and 2904.

  As shown in FIGS. 29A to 29I, the ice cube 2830 may be moved relative to the ice cube remover 2806 until it is swung off or pushed out of the needle 2702 by the ice cube remover 2806.

  The devices shown and described in FIGS. 27A-27C, 28A-28D, and 29A-29I may be used in a 30 second sampling operation.

  The following is a description of an apparatus that may be used for sampling operations that may be less than 30 seconds. More particularly, the apparatus described below with respect to FIGS. 30-32L may be used for a sampling operation of about 17 seconds.

  FIG. 30 shows a side view of the water injection system 3000. The water injection system 3000 may include a water injection tank 3002, a cooling cover 3004, and an adiabatic water channel 3006. FIG. 30 also shows a ice cube mold 3008. The ice cube mold 3008 may be the same or similar to the mold 1602 or 2802 described above. The water flows from the water injection tank 2002 through the adiabatic water flow path 3006 that is cooled by the cooling cover 3004, thus cooling the water. This water may flow from the adiabatic water channel 3006 through the water injection nozzle 3014 and into the ice cube mold 3008. A coolant 3010 may flow through the cooling flow path 3012. The cooling channel 3012 may be perpendicular to the insulating water channel 3006. The water may be further cooled by the ice cube mold 3008 until the water turns into ice in the ice cube mold 3008.

  31A, 31B, 31C and 31D show an ice collection device 3100. FIG. The ice collection device 3100 may be similar to the ice collection device 2800 described above. The ice collection device 3100 may include a water injection system 3000, an articulated coolant supply line 3102, and an ice cube remover 3104. In other respects, the ice collection device 3100 may be similar to or the same as the ice collection device 2800. As previously described, mold 3008 may be the same or similar to mold 1602 or 2802 described above. For illustrative purposes, ice cube 3106 is shown only in FIGS. 31A and 31D.

  As shown in FIG. 30, the water may be filled in the mold 3008 and frozen in the mold 3008. After the water is frozen in the mold 3008, the ice-mold interface may be loosened by the heat applied to the mold 3008 according to the mold heating or heating discussed hereinabove, or the ice-mold interface. May loosen due to the low adhesion coating on the mold 3008. Once the ice-mould interface has relaxed sufficiently, the water injection system 3000 including the water injection nozzle 3014 is moved away from the mold 3008, as shown in FIG. Ice 3106 is removed. This water injection system 3000 may be held on an arm 2804. The arm 2804 may be supported by the support 2820. The arm 2804 may be pivoted or tilted up away from the mold 3008, as shown in FIG. 31A, and the arm 2804 may carry ice cubes attached to the water injection system 3000 and the water injection nozzle 3014. Motor 2816 may provide power to tilt arm 2804. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, according to the present disclosure, the motor 2816 may be any suitable motor, including but not limited to a hydraulic motor. The arm 2804 may be pivoted about the pivot axis 2818 of the support 2820.

  The water injection system 3000 may be moved along the arm 2804 toward the ice cube remover 3104 as shown in FIG. 31B. When the ice cubes 3106 adhering to the nozzle 3014 come into contact with the remover 3104, the ice cubes 3106 are swept away or pushed out of the nozzle 3014 as shown in FIGS. 28C and 28D, such as an ice hopper 2808 Fall into the ice hopper. The water injection system 3000 may comprise a draw bar, such as the draw bar 2656 or 2658 described above. Alternatively, the draw bar 2656 or 2658 may comprise a water injection system, for example, a water injection system 3000. The ice cube remover 3104 may be the same or similar to the ice cube remover 2650 or 2652 described above.

  The water injection system 3000 may be connected to the extension arm 2810. The extension arm 2810 may be configured to extend and contract from the housing 2812. The motor 2814 may be configured to move the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 away from the housing 2812, thereby providing power to move the water injection system 3000 toward the ice cube remover 3104. . After the ice cube 3106 is removed from the nozzle 3014 by the ice cube remover 3104, the motor 2814 moves the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 back toward the housing 2812, thereby causing the water injection system 3000 to mold. Power to move back to 3008 may be provided. After the water injection system 3000 has moved along the arm 2804 to the mold 3008, the arm 2804 is then pivoted or tilted down (actuated by the motor 2816) so that the arm 2804 is perpendicular to the floor 2824, In doing so, the water injection system 3000 may fill the mold 3008 with water and repeat the ice cube manufacturing and ice cube collection procedures. One skilled in the art will recognize that, according to the present disclosure, the motor 2814 may be any suitable motor, including but not limited to a hydraulic motor.

  FIGS. 32A-32L further illustrate ice collection by the apparatus shown in FIGS. 31A, 31B, 31C, and 31D. 32A, 32D, 32G, and 32J are side views of the water injection system 3000, arm 2804, and ice cube remover 3104, and FIGS. 32B, 32E, 32H, and 32K are bottom perspective views, and FIGS. 32C, 32F, 32I, and 32L. Is a front view. As shown in this embodiment, there are 9 ice cubes in each row, and 5 rows of ice cubes 3106 provide a total of 45 ice cubes (9 × 5 array) for collection. . The ice cube removal tool 3104 includes a ice cube removal rod 3200. The ice cube remover 3104 may be attached to the arms 2902 and 2904. The ice cube remover 3104 includes a bracket 3202 that may be configured to pivot about a pivot axis 3204, and the ice cube removal rod 3200 may be raised and lowered as desired.

  FIGS. 32A-32C show the position of the ice cube 3106 relative to the bracket 3202 before the ice cube 3106 is moved along the arms 2902 and 2904 toward the bracket 3202. FIGS. 32D to 32F show the position of the ice cube after it has been moved along the arms 2902 and 2904 so that it stays on the ice cube removal bar 3200. FIGS. FIGS. 32G to 32H show the position of the ice cube removal bar 3200 after the ice cube removal stick 3200 has swung into the space between the ice cubes 3106. FIGS. FIGS. 32J through 32K show that as ice cube removal bar 3200 is further pivoted about pivot axis 3204, bar 3200 causes ice cube 3106 to be swept away from nozzle 3014 or pushed out. At the same time, or in an alternative embodiment, after the bar 3200 has been swirled into the space between the ice cubes 3106, the water injection system 3000 is until the ice cubes are swept away from the nozzle or pushed out by the bar 3200. , May be further moved along the arm 2804.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device is provided. The ice making device may include a mold that defines a first volume of ice cubes and having a bottom surface and a side surface having an inner periphery. Each side of the mold may have a corresponding inner perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge. The corresponding top edge of each side may be longer than the corresponding bottom edge. Each side surface may extend inwardly from a corresponding top edge to a corresponding bottom edge. The mold may include a three-dimensional shape that is located within the first volume and includes a second volume. This second volume may be defined by a three-dimensional shaped outer perimeter at the top, outer perimeter at the bottom, and at least a protrusion. The protrusion may extend upward between the bottom outer periphery and the top outer periphery. The protrusion may taper while extending upwardly between the outer perimeter of the bottom and the upper perimeter of the three-dimensional shape. The mold may further define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, the mold being configured to receive water within the third volume. The apparatus may include a cooling device configured to cool the water in the third volume sufficiently to freeze the water. One skilled in the art will recognize that any suitable cooling device may be used to freeze the water in the mold in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, the cooling device may include one or more passages configured to receive a coolant having a sufficiently low temperature, and when the coolant has flowed through the one or more passages, Heat transfer takes place between the water in the mold and the mold so that the water freezes. A suitable cooling device may include an evaporator.

  In some embodiments, the bottom and sides of the mold include parallelograms. In certain embodiments, the ice making device may include an evaporator, the evaporator configured to provide a coolant to the cooling device, the coolant freezing water in the third volume. Have sufficient temperature. In some embodiments, the mold may include a mold body. The mold body may include a plurality of mold cells. In certain embodiments, each type cell may include a fin. Each fin may be connected to the mold body. In certain embodiments, the mold may include a plurality of passages. Each passage may be configured to receive a coolant, provide sufficient heat transfer from the water in the mold cell to the mold cell, and freeze the water in the mold cell.

  In one embodiment, the three-dimensional shape may include a substantially three-dimensional U-shape. In certain aspects, the three-dimensional shape may comprise a substantially three-dimensional truncated M-shape. In certain aspects, the three-dimensional shape may comprise a set of at least two three-dimensional L-shapes. In some embodiments, the at least two three-dimensional L-shapes may be mirror images of each other. In some embodiments, the three-dimensional shape may further include a third three-dimensional shape. The third three-dimensional shape may be arranged to connect them between at least two three-dimensional L-shapes. In one embodiment, the protrusion may include at least two fins. In certain embodiments, the protrusion may include four sides. In some embodiments, the four sides may be parallelograms.

  According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device including a mold is provided. This mold may include an upper layer portion and a lower layer portion. Each of these portions may comprise a plurality of ice cube cells corresponding to the ice cube cells of the other portion. The mold may be configured such that the first mold cell in the lower part of the mold and the corresponding second cell in the upper part of the mold constitute a single enclosure. A single enclosure may define a single ice cube volume. The first flow path may be configured to inject water into the first mold cell and the corresponding second mold cell. The second flow path may be configured to allow air to escape from only one enclosure when the first mold cell and the second mold cell are filled with water. The plurality of passages may be configured to receive the coolant, provide sufficient heat transfer from the water in the mold cell to the mold cell, and freeze the water in the mold cell.

  In certain embodiments, a sealing coating may be provided on the surface area where the upper layer portion and the lower layer portion meet.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device comprising a mold and a plate is provided. This mold may be placed on a plate. This mold may comprise a plurality of ice cube cells, each ice cube cell having an opening at the bottom of the cell and an air escape channel at the top of the cell so that when the plate is filled with water, Air may be allowed to escape from the ice cube cell. Each mold and plate may include a plurality of passages, each passage receiving a coolant, providing sufficient heat transfer from water in the ice cube cell to the ice cube cell, and in the ice cube cell. It is configured to freeze water. Each ice cube cell may have a corresponding flow path that allows air to escape from the ice cube cell when the plate is filled with water.

  In some embodiments, the ice cube cell may have a truncated pyramid shape.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, a method for producing a plurality of ice cubes is provided. The method may include placing a mold on the plate. This mold may comprise a plurality of cells, and each cell may comprise an opening at the bottom of the cell and an air escape channel at the top of the cell. The method may include filling each of the plurality of cells by filling the plate with water, transferring heat from the water in the plurality of cells to the mold cell, and freezing the water in the cells.

  In some embodiments, in the manner described above, the at least one ice cube may include a truncated pyramid shape.

  In one embodiment, each of the plurality of ice cubes may include a wall having a thickness sufficient to provide the mechanical strength of ice cubes and an interior volume that is not completely frozen.

  In one embodiment, the wall thickness of each of the plurality of ice cubes may be in the range of about 2-3 mm.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, an ice making device is provided that includes a mold that may include a plurality of cells. Each cell may have an opening at the top of each cell. The mold may comprise a plurality of passages for the coolant and an upper layer portion. This upper layer portion may be hermetically surrounded by a cover. This upper layer portion may comprise a vacuum chamber. A vacuum pump configured to pump moist air from the mold may be provided. A tube may be provided that extends from the mold vacuum chamber to the vacuum pump. As the pressure in the vacuum chamber begins to decrease, dissolved gas begins to be released from the entire water in each cell. The vacuum pump pumps moist air from the mold so that the pressure in the vacuum chamber drops below 610.5 Pa (32 ° F. (0 ° C.) (Hg 0.18 inch (4.572 mm))). It may be constituted as follows.

  In an aspect of the present disclosure, ice cubes are provided. The ice cubes may include a top surface having an outer periphery, a bottom surface having an outer periphery, and a side surface. Each side may include a corresponding outer perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge, the corresponding top edge of each side being longer than the corresponding bottom edge, and each side corresponding to the corresponding top edge Extends inward to the bottom edge. The top surface, the bottom surface, and the side surface may define a first volume. In certain embodiments, a three-dimensional shape located within the first volume may be provided. This three-dimensional shape may include a second volume. This second volume may be defined by a top outer perimeter, a bottom outer perimeter, and at least a protrusion. The protrusion may extend upward between the outer periphery of the bottom and the upper periphery of the three-dimensional shape. The protrusion may taper while extending upwardly between the outer perimeter of the bottom and the upper perimeter of the three-dimensional shape. The ice cubes may define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, the third volume comprising ice, the second volume comprising unfrozen liquid or air, Or a combination of unfrozen liquid and air.

  In embodiments of the present disclosure, an increase in ice making speed can be achieved. Increasing the ice making speed may be achieved by increasing the ice making surface area. For example, by increasing the ice-making surface area, a freezing time of about 40-50 seconds and a total ice-making cycle of about 90 seconds will be achieved versus a 10-15 minute ice-making cycle of conventional methods and equipment. .

  If the mold is expanded from 45 ice cubes per mold to 50 ice cubes per mold, a 90 second ice-making cycle is sufficient, for example, about 22 feet x 30 feet (about 6.7 m). × 9.1 m) can be converted to ice making on demand of about 1.4 pounds (635 g) / min within a footprint and power limit (eg, less than about 5.5 kW).

  The mold provides mechanical robustness and tightness under conditions where temperature changes of several degrees Fahrenheit (eg, hundreds of degrees Fahrenheit) may occur within seconds and on a wide scale of a few millimeters May be configured.

  In certain embodiments, ice collection may be provided in which the positioning of each ice cube can be controlled. In some embodiments, the ice harvesting device will provide improved ice delivery, where each ice cube or a predetermined number of ice cubes will be delivered individually to a predetermined location. In certain embodiments, an ice collection device will be provided that reduces or eliminates the need for ice hopper agitation.

  In certain embodiments, degassing apparatus and methods will be provided that allow for the production and collection of transparent or relatively transparent ice cubes.

  In an aspect, an apparatus is provided that includes a distributor with an inlet, an outlet, a pan, and a dispensing body. The inlet may be configured to receive a coolant having a predetermined first temperature. The distribution body may be configured to receive a coolant from the inlet. The distribution body is configured to distribute the coolant to the tray at a predetermined location on the tray, and to cool the molds in heat transfer communication with the coolant substantially equally while the coolant flows through the tray to the outlet. May be. The outlet may be configured to receive a coolant from the tray, the coolant having a second temperature as it exits the tray through the outlet, and the second temperature of the coolant at the outlet is the inlet. Different from the first temperature of the coolant at.

  In some embodiments, the first coolant temperature at the inlet is lower than the second coolant temperature at the outlet. In certain embodiments, the first temperature of the coolant at the inlet is sufficient to freeze water in the plurality of molds in contact with the coolant. In certain embodiments, the dispensing bodies each have a length, width and height that is less than the corresponding length, width and height of the saucer. The dispensing body may define a hole for dispensing the coolant to the saucer at a predetermined location on the saucer.

  In some embodiments, the dispensing body may comprise a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side. The second side is opposite the first side, the bottom is opposite the top, the first end is in fluid communication with the inlet, and the second end is more outlet than the first end. Close to. The dispensing body may comprise a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone, the first zone being between the inlet and the second zone, the second zone being the first zone and Between the third zones, the third zone has a second end. The first zone may define a first set of holes, wherein the first set of holes is at least one hole disposed on the first side and at least one hole disposed on the second side. It has. The second zone may define a second set of holes, wherein the second set of holes is at least one hole disposed on the first side and at least one hole disposed on the second side. It has. The third zone may define a third set of holes, wherein the third set of holes is at least one hole disposed on the first side and at least one hole disposed on the second side. It has.

  The first set of holes includes two holes on a first side and two holes on a second side opposite the two holes on the first side. The second set of holes may comprise one hole on the first side and one hole on the second side opposite the hole on the first side. The second set of holes may comprise one hole on the top surface of the dispensing body. The third set of holes may comprise three holes on the first side and three holes on the second side opposite to the three holes on the first side. The third set of holes may comprise two holes on the top surface of the distribution body.

  In certain embodiments, the tray may include an end in fluid communication with the outlet. The end of the tray may include a plurality of holes in fluid communication with the outlet. The end of the saucer may be provided with a funnel shape in fluid communication with the outlet.

  In certain embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a mold, the mold comprising a plurality of ice cube molds, configured to rest on the bottom surface of the saucer, between the dispensing body and the end of the saucer. It is arranged to transfer heat with the coolant.

  In one embodiment, the inlet is configured to receive a warming agent having a predetermined inlet temperature, and when the warming agent circulates through the receiving pan, the warming agent is first in a plurality of molds. Warm the ice and mold interface between the ice cubes formed in the. The warming agent may have an outlet temperature at the outlet, and the warming agent inlet temperature is higher than the warming agent outlet temperature.

  In certain embodiments, an apparatus will be provided that includes a distributor with an inlet, an outlet, a pan, and a dispensing body. The inlet may be configured to receive a warming agent having a predetermined inlet temperature. The dispensing body may be configured to receive a warming agent from an inlet, distribute the warming agent to the saucer at a predetermined position of the saucer, and the warming agent flows through the saucer to the outlet while the warming agent flows The plurality of molds in heat transfer communication with each other are heated substantially equally. The outlet may be configured to receive a warming agent from the pan, the warming agent having an outlet temperature as it exits the pan through the outlet, and the outlet temperature of the warming agent at the outlet is at the inlet. This is different from the inlet temperature of the warming agent.

  In certain embodiments, the inlet temperature of the warming agent at the inlet is higher than the outlet temperature of the warming agent at the outlet. In some embodiments, the inlet temperature of the warming agent at the inlet is sufficient to warm the ice-mold interface between the ice and the molds.

  In one aspect, an apparatus is provided that includes a first ice cube mold having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface of the first ice cube mold including a first plurality of mold cells. The apparatus may comprise a second ice cube mold having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface of the second ice cube mold comprising a second plurality of mold cells (1608). The apparatus may comprise a housing having an axis that is parallel to the bottom surface of the first ice cube mold and parallel to the bottom surface of the second ice cube mold. The first ice cube mold may be arranged in the casing with the upper surface of the first ice cube mold facing upward. The second ice cube mold may be disposed in the casing with the top surface of the second ice cube mold facing downward, and the bottom surface of the first ice cube mold is the bottom surface of the second ice cube mold. And in a back-to-back orientation. The housing rotates around the axis, rotates the first ice cube mold so that the upper surface of the first ice cube mold faces downward, and the upper surface of the second ice cube mold faces upward. The second ice cube mold may be configured to rotate.

  The device may comprise a shaft. The shaft may be configured to rotate the housing about the axis. The apparatus may comprise a first part assembly. The first component assembly may include a first ice cube mold, a first upper cover, and a first lower cover, the first ice cube mold having a first upper cover and a first lower cover. It is held between the cover. The apparatus may comprise a second part assembly. The second component assembly may include a second ice cube mold, a second upper cover, and a second lower cover, the second ice cube mold having a second upper cover and a second lower cover. It is held between the cover.

  The device is disposed between a first ice cube mold and a first lower cover, a first heat transfer device disposed between the first ice cube mold and the first lower cover, and between the second ice cube mold and the second lower cover. A second heat transfer device may be provided. The first heat transfer device may include a first set of cooling fins, and the second heat transfer device may include a second set of cooling fins. The first top cover may define a first top cover opening. The first upper cover opening is formed when the first upper ice cover is positioned upward when the first upper cover is disposed on the first ice cube mold. The plurality of first ice cube type cells may be configured to be filled with liquid. The first upper cover opening allows the plurality of ice cubes formed in the first ice cube type cell to be formed by the first upper cover opening when the first ice cube mold is in a downward position. , And may be configured to be dropped from the first ice cube type cell.

  The apparatus supplies a coolant in heat transfer communication with the first ice cube mold when the first ice cube mold is in an upward position and freezes the liquid in the first ice cube mold cell. A coolant pipe configured as described above may be provided. The apparatus supplies a warming agent in heat transfer communication with the first ice cube mold when the first ice cube mold is in the downward position, and between the ice and the first ice cube mold cell. A warming agent tube configured to heat the ice / mould interface may be provided.

  In one aspect, a method is provided that includes freezing liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube type cells to form ice cubes. The method may include rotating the ice cube mold so that the ice cube mold faces downward. The method may include the steps of warming the ice cube mold, loosening the ice-mould interface between the ice cube and the ice cube mold, and dropping the ice cube from the ice cube mold. The method may include the step of moving the collection support rod relative to the ice cube mold to assist in the removal of the ice cube from the ice cube mold. Cooling the liquid may include cooling the liquid with a coolant in heat transfer communication with the liquid. The method may include the step of sending the coolant through a plurality of channels, each corresponding to one of the mold cells. The warming of the ice cube mold may include a step of heating the ice cube mold with a heating agent in heat communication with the ice cube mold. The method may include the step of sending the warming agent through a plurality of channels, each corresponding to one of the mold cells. The warming of the ice cube mold may include a step of heating the ice cube mold with a thin film electric heater disposed around at least a part of each type cell. The ice cube type heating includes heating the ice cube type with a light source and a light absorbing coating disposed around at least a portion of each type cell to absorb light emitted from the light source. Good.

  The cooling of the liquid may include the step of cooling the liquid with a coolant in heat transfer communication with the liquid by sending the coolant through a plurality of flow paths. There is a second set of channels above the mold cells, and there are channels above and below each corresponding mold cell. The second set of flow paths may be disposed in the heat transfer plate. The method may include the step of heating the heat transfer plate after freezing of the liquid in the mold to loosen the ice-plate interface between the ice cube and the heat transfer plate in the mold. Heating the heat transfer plate may include a step of sending a warming agent through the second set of flow paths. Heating the heat transfer plate may include a step of heating the heat transfer plate with a thin film electric heater.

  In one aspect, a method is provided that includes freezing liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube type cells to form ice cubes. The method may include rotating the ice cube mold so that the ice cube mold faces downward. The method may include providing a low adhesion coating around at least a portion of the mold cell sufficient to cause the ice cube to fall at least in part from the ice cube mold after the rotating step. The method may include the step of moving the collection support rod relative to the ice cube mold to facilitate removal of the ice cube from the ice cube mold. The method may include the step of cooling the liquid with a coolant in heat transfer communication with the liquid by sending the coolant through a plurality of flow paths, and a first set of streams under the mold cell. There is a path, there is a second set of channels above the mold cells, and there are channels above and below each corresponding mold cell.

  In some embodiments, placing liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube mold cells, placing a puller in the liquid in each of the mold cells, freezing the liquid in each of the mold cells Thus, a method comprising the step of forming ice cubes is provided. The method may include heating the ice cube mold to loosen the ice-mould interface between the ice cube and the ice cube mold. The method may include moving each extractor away from the ice cube mold, thereby moving the ice cube corresponding to each extractor away from the ice cube mold. The method may include the step of warming each extractor to loosen the ice and mold interface between each ice cube and the corresponding extractor, and dropping each ice cube from the corresponding extractor. .

  The ice cube type heating may include a step of heating the ice cube type with a heating agent in heat transfer communication with the ice cube type. The method may include the step of sending the warming agent through a plurality of channels, each corresponding to one of the mold cells. The ice cube mold heating may include heating the ice cube mold with a thin film electric heater disposed around at least a portion of each mold cell. The ice cube mold warming may include heating the ice cube mold with a light source and a light absorbing coating disposed around at least a portion of each mold cell that absorbs light emitted from the light source. .

  In one aspect, placing the liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube mold cells, placing a puller in the liquid in each of the mold cells, freezing the liquid in each of the mold cells Forming ice cubes, and when the extractor is moved away from the ice cube mold, low enough around at least a portion of the mold cell to move the ice cube away from the ice cube mold. A method is provided comprising the step of providing an adhesive coating. The method may include moving each extractor away from the ice cube mold, thereby moving the ice cube corresponding to each extractor away from the ice cube mold. The method may include the step of warming each extractor to loosen the ice and mold interface between each ice cube and the corresponding extractor, and dropping each ice cube from the corresponding extractor. .

  Freezing liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube type cells to form ice cubes, wherein the step of freezing the liquid passes through a plurality of flow paths. Cooling the liquid with a coolant in heat transfer communication with the liquid, wherein there is a first set of flow paths below the mold cell and a second set of flow paths above the mold cell. There is provided a method wherein there are flow paths above and below each corresponding mold cell, and a second set of flow paths is disposed within the heat transfer plate. The method may include providing a low adhesion coating on the heat transfer plate sufficient to remove the heat transfer plate from the ice cube while leaving the ice cube in the mold cell. The method includes providing a low adhesion coating on at least a portion of the ice cube mold sufficient to move the ice cube at least some distance away from the ice cube mold when the ice cube mold is rotated and the ice cube mold is downward. May be included. The method may include the step of rotating the ice cube mold such that the ice cube mold is facing downward and the first set of flow paths are over the mold cells.

  The method is such that when the ice cube mold is rotated so that the ice cube mold is facing downward, the ice and mold between the ice cube and the ice cube mold are sufficient to drop the ice cube from the ice cube mold. The step of heating the interface may be included. This warming may include sending the warming agent through the first set of channels. This warming may include heating the ice cubes with a thin film electric heater disposed around at least a portion of each type cell.

  In certain aspects, an apparatus with an arm is provided. The apparatus comprises a ice cube mold comprising a plurality of ice cube cells configured to cool the liquid in the ice cube cell so that ice cubes are sufficiently formed in each ice cube cell. Good. This device may comprise a water injection system. The water injection system may be configured to move along the arm. The irrigation system may comprise a irrigation dispenser each configured to dispense the liquid to be frozen into a corresponding ice cube cell. Each irrigation dispenser is configured to move the ice cube formed in the corresponding ice cube cell away from the corresponding ice cube cell as the water injection system moves away from the ice cube type. Good. The device may comprise a ice cube remover. The ice cube remover may be configured to push the ice cube out of the water dispenser when the water injection system is moved along the arm toward the ice cube remover.

  The water injection dispenser may comprise a water injection needle and / or a needle. The water injection system may include a cooling cover. The cooling cover may be configured to surround each water injection needle and / or a portion of the needle. The cooling cover may be configured to cool the water before it is dispensed into the ice cube cell.

  The arm may be configured to tilt away from the ice cube mold to an inclined position from a horizontal position.

  As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the above-described embodiments will be configured to meet the requirements of the beverage sales system and include, but are not limited to, PepsiCo, such as Pepsi-Cola®. A wide variety of beverage sales can be accommodated, including beverages known under the brand name and specially ordered beverages. The embodiments described herein provide a service speed that is at least as high as or faster than conventional systems. Embodiments described herein may be configured to be monitored, including remote monitoring, with respect to operating levels and supply levels. The embodiments described herein can be constructed of off-the-shelf components that are economically feasible and will be improved according to the disclosure herein.

  One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any feature and / or option in one embodiment or example may be combined with any of the features and / or options in another embodiment or example according to this disclosure. Like.

  Although the disclosure herein has been described and illustrated with reference to embodiments of the drawings, the features of the disclosure have been improved, modified, changed or substituted without significantly departing from the spirit of the disclosure. It should be understood that For example, the dimensions, number, size and shape of the various components will be varied to suit a particular application. Accordingly, the specific embodiments illustrated and described herein are for illustrative purposes only and the present disclosure is limited only by the following claims and their equivalents.

100, 100 ′, 150, 300, 340, 380, 500, 1000, 1200, 1300, 2315, 2550, 2640, 2830, 3106 Ice cubes 122, 322, 362, 395, 1002 Three-dimensional shapes 126, 200, 320, 360, 394, 400, 600, 601, 701, 1512, 1602, 1604, 2300, 2502, 2504, 2602, 2604, 2802, 3008 type 128, 152, 399, 1012 gap 202, 410, 603, 702, 1606 1608 cell 204 flow path for coolant 602, 2419 plate 700 ice making device 707 vacuum tank 1500 coolant distribution device 1506 distributor 1600 type device 1610, 1612 heat transfer device 2306 electric heater 2310, 2320, 2330, 234 , 2350, 2360, 2370, 2380, 2410, 2420, 2430, 2440, 2450, 2500, 2600 Ice collection procedure 2334 Light absorbing coating 2335 Light source 2344 Low adhesion coating 2355 Extractor 2356 Extraction rod 2700, 3000 Water injection system 2800, 3100 Ice Collection device

Other embodiments according to the present disclosure are shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C. As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, the protrusions and / or fins may have different shapes and may be configured to increase the area of the mold- water interface.

FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D show ice cubes 1300. FIG. The ice cube 1300 has a similar shape to the ice cube 1200 shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D, except that the ice cube 1300 has a different size than the ice cube 1200. For example, in 13D from FIG. 13A, the length L1 may be 23 mm, the length L2 may be 21 mm, the length L 3 may be 22 mm. 13A to 13D, the width W5 may be 5 mm, the width W6 may be 3 mm, and the distance D3 may be 1 mm.

Figure 19 is a bottom view of a first heat transfer device cover 1618 as previously described. The second heat transfer device cover 1624 may have a similar or the same structure.

The water injection system 2700 may be connected to the extension arm 2810. The extension arm 2810 may be configured to extend and contract from the housing 2812. The motor 2814 may be configured to move the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 away from the housing 2812, thereby providing power to move the water injection system 2700 toward the square ice remover 2806. . After the ice cube 2830 is removed from the needle 2720 by the ice cube remover 2806, the motor 2814 moves the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 back toward the housing 2812, thereby causing the water injection system 2700 to mold. Power to move back to 2802 may be provided. After the water injection system 2700 has moved along the arm 2804 to the mold 2802, the arm 2804 is then pivoted or tilted down (actuated by the motor 2816) so that the arm 2804 is horizontal to the floor 2824, In doing so, the water injection system 2700 may fill the mold 2802 with water and repeat the ice cube manufacturing and ice cube collection procedures. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, according to the present disclosure, the motor 2814 may be any suitable motor, including but not limited to a hydraulic motor.

The water injection system 3000 may be connected to the extension arm 2810. The extension arm 2810 may be configured to extend and contract from the housing 2812. The motor 2814 may be configured to move the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 away from the housing 2812, thereby providing power to move the water injection system 3000 toward the ice cube remover 3104. . After the ice cube 3106 is removed from the nozzle 3014 by the ice cube remover 3104, the motor 2814 moves the distal end 2822 of the extension arm 2810 back toward the housing 2812, thereby causing the water injection system 3000 to mold. Power to move back to 3008 may be provided. After the water injection system 3000 has moved along the arm 2804 to the mold 3008, the arm 2804 is then pivoted or tilted down (actuated by the motor 2816) so that the arm 2804 is horizontal with respect to the floor 2824, In doing so, the water injection system 3000 may fill the mold 3008 with water and repeat the ice cube manufacturing and ice cube collection procedures. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, according to the present disclosure, the motor 2814 may be any suitable motor, including but not limited to a hydraulic motor.

In some embodiments, placing liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube mold cells, placing a puller in the liquid in each of the mold cells, freezing the liquid in each of the mold cells Thus, a method comprising the step of forming ice cubes is provided. The method may include heating the ice cube mold to loosen the ice-mould interface between the ice cube and the ice cube mold. This method moves the ice cubes type away each puller, by Re their may include the step of moving away the ice cubes for each puller from square ice mold. The method includes the steps of heating each extractor to loosen the ice- extractor interface between each ice cube and the corresponding extractor, and dropping each ice cube from the corresponding extractor. Good.

In one aspect, placing the liquid in a plurality of upward ice cube mold cells, placing a puller in the liquid in each of the mold cells, freezing the liquid in each of the mold cells Forming ice cubes, and when the extractor is moved away from the ice cube mold, low enough around at least a portion of the mold cell to move the ice cube away from the ice cube mold. A method is provided comprising the step of providing an adhesive coating. The method may include moving each extractor away from the ice cube mold, thereby moving the ice cube corresponding to each extractor away from the ice cube mold. The method includes the steps of heating each extractor to loosen the ice- extractor interface between each ice cube and the corresponding extractor, and dropping each ice cube from the corresponding extractor. Good.

Claims (24)

In ice making equipment,
A type of ice cube,
A first volume defined by the mold;
A bottom surface having an inner periphery,
Each side having a corresponding inner periphery, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge, the corresponding top edge of each side being longer than the corresponding bottom edge, and each side having the corresponding top edge A side surface extending inwardly from the corresponding bottom edge to a corresponding bottom edge, and a three-dimensional shape located within the first volume, wherein the three-dimensional shape has a top outer periphery, a bottom outer periphery and at least a protrusion. Wherein the protrusion extends upwardly between the outer perimeter of the bottom and the outer perimeter of the top, and the protrusion includes the outer perimeter of the bottom of the three-dimensional shape and A three-dimensional shape that tapers while extending upwardly between the upper outer perimeters,
A mold configured to define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume, and to receive water in the third volume;
A cooling device configured to sufficiently cool the water in the third volume and freeze the water;
Ice making equipment.   The ice making device according to claim 1, wherein the bottom surface and the side surface of the mold include a parallelogram.   The ice making device of claim 1, further comprising an evaporator configured to provide the cooling device with a coolant having a temperature that sufficiently freezes water in the third volume.   The ice making device according to claim 1, wherein the mold has a mold body including a plurality of mold cells.   The ice making device according to claim 4, wherein each of the mold cells has a fin connected to the mold body.   The mold includes a plurality of passages, each passage configured to receive a coolant, provide sufficient heat transfer from water in the mold cell to the mold cell, and freeze the water in the mold cell. The ice making device according to claim 5.   The ice making device of claim 1, wherein the three-dimensional shape includes a substantially three-dimensional U-shape.   The ice making device of claim 1, wherein the three-dimensional shape includes a substantially three-dimensional truncated M-shape.   The ice making device of claim 1, wherein the three-dimensional shape comprises a set of at least two three-dimensional L-shapes.   The ice making device of claim 9, wherein the at least two three-dimensional L-shapes are mirror images of each other.   The ice making device of claim 10, further comprising a third three-dimensional shape disposed between and connecting the at least two three-dimensional L-shapes.   The ice making device of claim 1, wherein the protrusion has at least two fins.   The ice making device according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion has four side surfaces.   The ice making device according to claim 13, wherein the four side surfaces are parallelograms. In ice making equipment,
A mold including an upper layer portion and a lower layer portion, each of the portions having a plurality of ice cube cells corresponding to the plurality of ice cube cells of the other portion, wherein the first of the lower layer portions of the mold A mold, wherein the mold cell and a corresponding second mold cell of the upper layer portion of the mold constitute a single enclosure defining a single ice cube volume;
A first flow path configured to inject water into the first mold cell and the corresponding second mold cell;
A second flow path configured to allow air to escape from the single enclosure when the first mold cell and the second mold cell are filled with water, and each receives a coolant. A plurality of passages configured to sufficiently transfer heat from the water in the mold cell to the mold cell and freeze the water in the mold cell;
Ice making equipment.   The ice making device according to claim 15, further comprising a sealing coating on a surface area where the upper layer portion meets the lower layer portion. In ice making equipment,
A plate, and a mold having a plurality of ice cube cells arranged on the plate, each ice cube cell having an opening at the bottom of the cell and an air escape channel at the top of the cell. Having a mold that escapes air from the ice cube cell when the plate is filled with water,
With
Each of the mold and the plate may comprise a plurality of passages, each passage receiving a coolant and providing sufficient heat transfer from water in the ice cube cell to the ice cube cell. It is configured to freeze the water in the ice cell,
Each ice cube cell is provided with a corresponding channel that allows air to escape from the ice cube cell when the plate is filled with water.   The ice making device according to claim 17, wherein the ice cube cell has a truncated pyramid shape. In a method for producing a plurality of ice cubes,
Arranging a plurality of cells on a plate, each comprising a plurality of cells each having an opening at the bottom of the cell and an air escape channel at the top of the cell;
Filling each of the plurality of cells by filling the plate with water; and transferring heat from the water in the plurality of cells to the mold cell to freeze the water in the cells;
A method comprising:   The method of claim 19, wherein the at least one ice cube comprises a truncated pyramid shape.   20. The method of claim 19, wherein each of the plurality of ice cubes includes a wall having a thickness sufficient to provide the mechanical strength of ice cubes and an interior volume that is not completely frozen.   The method of claim 21, wherein the wall thickness of each of the plurality of ice cubes is in the range of about 2-3 mm. In ice making equipment,
A mold comprising a plurality of cells, each cell comprising an opening at the top of each cell, the mold comprising a plurality of passages for coolant and an upper layer portion hermetically surrounded by a cover; Mold, upper layer part is equipped with a vacuum chamber,
A vacuum pump configured to pump wet air from the mold, and a tube extending from the vacuum chamber of the mold to the vacuum pump;
And when the pressure in the vacuum chamber begins to decrease, the dissolved gas begins to be released from the entire water in each cell, and the vacuum pump is configured to reduce the pressure in the vacuum chamber to 610.5 Pa (32 ° F.). An ice making device configured to pump moist air from the mold so as to drop below (Hg 0.18 inch (4.572 mm)) at (0 ° C.). A type of ice cube,
A first volume defined by the mold,
A bottom surface having an inner periphery,
Each side having a corresponding inner perimeter, a corresponding top edge, and a corresponding bottom edge, the corresponding top edge of each side being longer than the corresponding bottom edge, and each side corresponding to the corresponding side edge A side surface extending inwardly from a top edge to the corresponding bottom edge, and a three-dimensional shape located within the first volume, wherein the three-dimensional shape has a top outer periphery, a bottom outer periphery and at least A second volume defined by a protrusion, the protrusion extending upwardly between the outer periphery of the bottom and the outer periphery of the top, the protrusion being outside the bottom of the three-dimensional shape A three-dimensional shape that tapers while extending upwardly between the perimeter and the upper outer perimeter,
Including
A mold configured to define a third volume between the first volume and the second volume and to receive water within the third volume.

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