Method and apparatus for providing ice
US6216471A · kind A · utility
12Cited by
12References
3Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 19, 1998 |
| Grant date | Apr 17, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 19, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25C2600/04
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An icemaking assembly ("icemaker") is provided which includes an improved construction including an ice mold separate but attached to a structural base. The structural base includes integral elements such as a water fill cup, stripper, and mounting configuration. The integral nature of the stripper, combined with its "living hinge" feature, allows for an improved method and apparatus for fixing the ice tray in place. The combination provides an icemaker having improved thermal properties, as well as improved manufacturing efficiencies. Other improvements include an improved control system, as well as other cost-saving features.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.