Space saving ice and beverage dispenser with accessible auger drive
US11454438B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2020 |
| Grant date | Sep 27, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25C2400/12
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An ice dispensing system is provided. The system includes multiple sidewalls forming an ice bin cavity configured to store ice. The system further includes an auger drive assembly. The auger drive assembly includes a drive assembly that is coupled to one of the multiple sidewalls and has a motor configured to rotate a drive gear. The auger drive assembly further includes an auger assembly positioned within the ice bin cavity. The auger assembly includes a helical auger coupled to an auger gear. The drive gear is configured to mate with the auger gear to drive rotation of the helical auger and cause ice to be dispensed through an ice chute. The drive assembly is additionally configured to move relative to the auger assembly between a closed position and an opened position. The opened position permits removal of the auger assembly from the ice bin cavity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.