Method and apparatus for the distribution of ice
Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000
United States of America Patent
Stats
-
May 13, 2003
Grant Date -
N/A
app pub date -
Apr 7, 2000
filing date -
Apr 7, 2000
priority date (Note) -
Expired
status (Latency Note)
Importance
Abstract
An ice delivery system includes an ice bin with an ice maker thereon. An auger dispenses ice from the bin and agitators within the bin prevent blockage. The agitation may follow a pattern depending on the location of the agitators with some about the periphery less employed than those adjacent the auger. An ice gate receives ice and flowing air to direct the ice pneumatically to a multistation diverter. The flow through the diverter is vertically downwardly. Tubes from the diverter convey ice to remote dispensing stations. The dispensing stations have prechambers with drains and lockable gates to advantageously receive ice for delivery into the remote station bins or block the ice storage area to allow cleaning. Conduit couplings are configured to connect tubing without creating an area of ice blockage or allowing the buildup of contamination. Germicidal lights or ozone may be used in the ice bin to avoid contamination. Further, active agents for cleaning, de-scaling or sanitizing may be introduced through the ice gate on an automatic is cycled basis.
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