Patent ID: 6474048
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: B65B,F25C

Abstract:
A machine that produces, dispenses and automatically bags ice comprising, in combination:at least one ice producing unit which produces ice; an auger mechanism coupled to the ice producing unit for collecting and moving the ice; a volumetric drum coupled to the auger mechanism which stores the ice moved by the auger mechanism and measures the amount of ice to be bagged by volume; a bagging mechanism coupled to the volumetric drum which provides, supports, and opens a bag to be loaded with the ice when the volumetric drum has been loaded with a predetermined amount of ice; a heat sealer coupled to the bagging mechanism which seals the bag once the bag has been loaded with ice; a freezer compartment which stores the bag when the bag has been loaded with ice and sealed; a monitoring and communication system which monitors operating conditions of the machine and sends information on the operation of the machine to the manufacturer; and a filtration system coupled to the at least one ice producing unit for removing contaminates which may be found in the water supply.