Patent ID: 9017485
Filing Date: 2015-04-28
Classification: A61L,B08B,B67D,F25C,G05B

Abstract:
1. A method of cleaning an ice dispensing system, the method comprising: providing a water source connected to an ice maker structure; providing an ice hopper structure connected to the ice maker structure, the ice hopper structure including a plurality of walls having inner surfaces that define an inner volume storing ice therein, the ice hopper including a drain; providing an automated cleaning structure coupled to the ice maker and ice hopper structures, the automated cleaning structure having a computer controller and a user interface, the automated cleaning structure including a pump linked to a spray mechanism positioned within the inner volume of the ice hopper, removing ice from the ice hopper; running a cleaning and descaling cycle wherein a descaling and cleaning solution is introduced into the ice hopper and ice maker; running a sanitizing cycle wherein a sanitizing solution is introduced into the ice hopper and ice maker; running a rinsing cycle wherein potable water is introduced into the ice hopper and ice maker; wherein the spray mechanism disperses the descaling and cleaning solution, sanitizing solution and potable water on an inner surface of the ice hopper structure; wherein running a cleaning and descaling cycle comprises: preparing a cleaning and descaling solution in an exterior vessel; positioning a sanitary tube into the vessel, said sanitary tube connected to said pump; starting the cleaning and descaling cycle; draining water from the ice maker; introducing the cleaning and descaling solution into the ice maker and maintaining the cleaning and descaling solution in position for a predetermined time; spraying the cleaning and descaling solution on the inner surfaces of the ice hopper; forming ice from the cleaning and descaling solution in the ice maker; discarding the ice from the ice maker; and draining the cleaning and descaling solution from the ice maker and ice hopper.