Ice thickness control system and sensor probe
US6581391B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jun 24, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 3, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25D21/02
- WIPO fieldBiotechnology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention provides an improved system and method for sensing the presence of ice, particularly applicable in the control of ice thickness in machines employing an ice bank such as a commercial beverage chiller. The chiller may be of the conventional type having a water bath with a cold element at least partially submerged therein. The cold element is cooled by a refrigerant such as freon to the point where ice forms and grows on the element, thereby forming an ice bank in the water bath. A temperature sensor, which preferably is a thermistor-type sensor comprising a bead disposed in a metal housing, is mounted on a carrier to allow the position of the sensor to be adjustable relative to the cold element. Circuitry is provided which is operative to detect the presence of ice by sensing a temperature signal from the temperature sensor and to control the thickness of the ice bank. A method of controlling the thickness of an ice bank is also disclosed. The invention has broad applicability to all types of machines wherein an ice bank is used.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.