Patent ID: 6062426
Filing Date: 2000-05-16
Classification: A23G,F25C

Abstract:
An ice storage and dispensing apparatus, comprising:(a) a container defining an inlet aperture for receiving frozen product and an outlet aperture for dispensing frozen product, and first and second ends;(b) a platform movably mounted within the first end of the container;(c) a rake rotatably mounted within the second end of the container adjacent the outlet aperture;(d) an actuator mounted at least partially within the container and operatively connected to the platform to selectively move the platform toward or away from the rake;(e) a motor coupled to the rake for driving rotation of the rake;(f) a sensor for sensing the proximity and/or the degree of engagement of the frozen product within the container to the rake; and(g) a controller for controlling operation of the actuator in response to the sensor to automatically adjust the position of the platform relative to the rake.