Ice agitator

An ice agitation system includes an adaptor and an ice agitator. The adaptor includes a disk portion and an auger mounting channel. The auger mounting channel is configured to mount to a shaft of an auger such that the adaptor rotates with the shaft of the auger. The auger mounting channel extends in a direction parallel to and offset from a center axis of a disk formed by the disk portion. The ice agitator includes a hook and an arm that extends from the hook away from the center axis of the disk. The hook is mounted to the disk.

BACKGROUND

An ice maker is a device that makes ice cubes and deposits the ice cubes into an ice receptacle from which the ice cubes can be dispensed to a recipient container for use by a consumer. The ice maker may be a stand-alone device or may be included in a freezer that includes a freezer space that may or may not be connected to a refrigerator that includes a refrigerated space. Ice dispensers are known to include an auger to move the ice out of the ice receptacle and into a chute for delivery on demand to the consumer. The ice in the ice receptacle, however, may stick together making it difficult to dispense ice cubes consistently or even preventing the dispensation of ice cubes altogether.

SUMMARY

In an example embodiment, an ice agitation system is provided. The ice agitation system may include an adaptor and an ice agitator. The adaptor includes a disk portion and an auger mounting channel. The auger mounting channel is configured to mount to a shaft of an auger such that the adaptor rotates with the shaft of the auger. The auger mounting channel extends in a direction parallel to and offset from a center axis of a disk formed by the disk portion. The ice agitator includes a hook and an arm that extends from the hook away from the center axis of the disk. The hook is mounted to the disk.

In another example embodiment, an ice dispenser is provided. The ice dispenser may include an ice receptacle, an auger, an actuator, an adaptor, and an ice agitator. The ice receptacle includes a plurality of walls and an ice dispensing aperture formed through a wall of the plurality of walls. The auger includes a spherical flight and a shaft extending from the spherical flight in a direction of an axis of rotation of the spherical flight. The auger is mounted between two walls of the plurality of walls and is configured to push ice toward the ice dispensing aperture based on the rotation of the spherical flight. The actuator is mounted to rotate the auger about the axis of rotation. The adaptor includes a disk portion and an auger mounting channel. The shaft of the auger is mounted within the auger mounting channel such that the adaptor rotates with the shaft of the auger. A center axis of a disk formed by the disk portion extends in a direction parallel to and offset from a center of the shaft of the auger. The ice agitator includes a hook and an arm that extends from the hook away from the shaft of the auger. The hook is mounted to the disk.

In another example embodiment, a device is provided. The device may include a body, a door, a hinge pivotally mounting the door to the body, an ice receptacle, an ice maker, an auger, an actuator, an adaptor, and an ice agitator. The body defines a freezer space. The ice receptacle includes a plurality of walls and an ice dispensing aperture formed through a wall of the plurality of walls. The ice maker is mounted within the body and is configured to discharge ice into the ice receptacle. The auger includes a spherical flight and a shaft extending from the spherical flight in a direction of an axis of rotation of the spherical flight. The auger is mounted between two walls of the plurality of walls and is configured to push ice toward the ice dispensing aperture based on the rotation of the spherical flight. The actuator is mounted to rotate the auger about the axis of rotation. The adaptor includes a disk portion and an auger mounting channel. The shaft of the auger is mounted within the auger mounting channel such that the adaptor rotates with the shaft of the auger. A center axis of a disk formed by the disk portion extends in a direction parallel to and offset from a center of the shaft of the auger. The ice agitator includes a hook and an arm that extends from the hook away from the shaft of the auger. The hook is mounted to the disk.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference toFIG. 1, a device100is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Device100may include a door102, a first hinge104, a second hinge106, a top wall108, a first side wall110, a bottom wall112, a back wall114, and a second side wall116. In the illustrative embodiment, door102is rotably mounted to top wall108and bottom wall112using first hinge104and second hinge106, respectively. In alternative embodiments, door102may be rotably mounted to different walls of device100using a fewer or a greater number of hinges. Door102provides access to a freezer space defined by top wall108, first side wall110, bottom wall112, back wall114, second side wall116, and door102when door102is in a closed position. Though shown in the illustrative embodiment as forming a generally rectangular shaped enclosure, device100may form any shaped enclosure including other polygons as well as circular or elliptical enclosures. As a result, door102and the walls forming device100may have any shape including other polygons as well as circular or elliptical shapes.

One or more shelves, drawers, or other receptacles may be mounted within the freezer space defined by the walls of device100. For example, a shelf118is positioned to mount between first side wall110and second side wall116. One or more shelves, drawers, or other receptacles may be mounted to an inside surface of door102. For example, a door shelf120is configured to mount to the inside surface of door102. An ice maker/dispenser122may be mounted within the freezer space. In an alternative embodiment, ice maker/dispenser122may be mounted to the inside surface of door102to dispense ice exterior to the freezer space as understood by a person of skill in the art. For example, ice maker/dispenser122may be positioned on door shelf120to dispense ice when door102is either in the opened or the closed positions. Ice maker/dispenser122further may be mounted directly to a wall of device100. As understood by a person of skill in the art, the dispensing of ice by the ice dispenser may be controlled using a switch activated by a consumer. For illustration, the switch may be similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,814,762 titled INTEGRATED ICE DISPENSER SWITCH and issued Oct. 19, 2010.

As used in this disclosure, the term “mount” includes join, unite, connect, couple, associate, insert, hang, hold, affix, attach, fasten, bind, paste, secure, bolt, screw, rivet, solder, weld, glue, form over, layer, and other like terms. The phrases “mounted on” and “mounted to” include any interior or exterior portion of the element referenced. These phrases also encompass direct mounting (in which the referenced elements are in direct contact) and indirect mounting (in which the referenced elements are not in direct contact). Elements referenced as mounted to each other herein may further be integrally formed together, for example, using a molding process as understood by a person of skill in the art. As a result, elements described herein as being mounted to each other need not be two discrete structural elements.

Device100may be a stand-alone device having various shapes and sizes. Device100further may be mounted or positioned adjacent to a refrigerated space that is either above, below, to the left, or to the right of device100without limitation. Use of directional terms, such as top, bottom, right, left, front, back, etc. are merely intended to facilitate reference to the various surfaces of the described structures relative to the orientations shown in the drawings and are not intended to be limiting in any manner. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 1, the freezer space defined by top wall108, first side wall110, bottom wall112, back wall114, second side wall116, and door102is mounted to the left of a refrigerated space124. First side wall110forms a wall that adjoins the freezer space and refrigerated space124. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 1, an ice dispenser housing126of ice maker/dispenser122is positioned on first side wall110in refrigerated space124on a side of first side wall110and configured to dispense ice when requested by a consumer from ice made and stored by ice maker/dispenser122.

With reference toFIG. 2, a right, side, perspective view of an ice dispenser200of ice maker/dispenser122is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 3, a front view of ice dispenser200is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 4, a back view of ice dispenser200is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 5, a right side view of ice dispenser200is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The components of ice dispenser200described herein may be formed of one or more materials, such as metals and/or plastics, having a sufficient strength and rigidity based on the amount of material used to support the described application. Ice dispenser200includes an ice receptacle201into which ice from an ice maker (not shown) of ice maker/dispenser122is discharged. The ice maker may have a variety of forms as understood by a person of skill in the art. Ice pieces, or cubes, may be formed by the ice maker and delivered to ice receptacle201as understood by a person of skill in the art. The term ice cube is not intended to be indicative of the shape of the ice piece as the ice piece may be formed to have a variety of shapes including spheres, cylinders, multi-sided polygons, etc. all of which may be referenced generally as an ice cube. The size of the ice cube is further not intended to be limiting though in general the ice cubes are sized for consumer use in drinks and to keep products cold and are generally larger than ice shavings.

With reference toFIG. 6, a top, back perspective view of ice receptacle201is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 7, a front view of ice receptacle201is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With continuing reference toFIG. 2and in the illustrative embodiment, ice receptacle201includes a front wall202, a left side wall204, a back wall206, a right side wall208, and a bottom wall210, which form a generally rectangular collection area for the ice cubes though ice receptacle201may have other polygonal and spherical shapes in alternative embodiments. A top edge212of left side wall204, a top edge214of back wall206, a top edge216of right side wall208, and front wall202form an ice receiving aperture. In the illustrative embodiment, the ice maker (not shown) is positioned above the ice receiving aperture to discharge ice into ice receptacle201. In alternative embodiments, the ice maker need not be positioned above the ice receiving aperture. For example, the ice maker may be positioned adjacent a side wall of ice receptacle201.

Ice receptacle201may be slideably mounted within the freezer space on rails mounted to one or more of the walls of device100such that ice receptacle201is removable from device100. In the illustrative embodiment, front wall202includes a left side edge218, a right side edge219, and a top edge220. Top edge220of front wall202extends between left side edge218and right side edge219. Left side edge218and right side edge219of front wall202extend above top edge212of left side wall204and top edge216of right side wall208forming a front face that may be positioned to abut the ice maker to ensure that ice receptacle201is properly positioned in relation to an ice discharge area of the ice maker. A handle222may extend from top edge220of front wall202to facilitate removal of ice receptacle201from device100. A first protrusion224and a second protrusion226extend from front wall202in a direction towards back wall206of ice receptacle201. First protrusion224and second protrusion226may further facilitate the proper positioning and mounting of ice receptacle201in relation to the ice discharge area of the ice maker.

With continuing reference toFIGS. 2-5, ice dispenser200further may include an auger230having a first end232, a shaft235, and one or more flights233between first end232and shaft235. The one or more flights233may be spiral or helical in shape and define at least one complete 360 degree flight. In an illustrative embodiment, auger230is formed of a single piece of material such as stainless steel. Shaft235extends from the one or more flights233in a direction of an axis of rotation of the one or more flights233. First end232fixedly mounts auger230to an auger cap234by extending through a hole1502(shown with reference toFIG. 15) in auger cap234though other mounting methods may be used in alternative embodiments. Auger cap234is mounted in an auger cap aperture600(shown with reference toFIG. 6) formed in back wall206. Shaft235extends through a shaft aperture300in front wall202of ice receptacle201. Rotation of auger230by an actuator (not shown) mounted to rotate auger cap234conveys ice on demand through a wheel236, which is mounted to shaft235. In an alternative embodiment, first end232may be directly mounted to a rotational shaft of the actuator. When rotationally driven by the actuator, the one or more flights233of auger230engage ice cubes received into ice receptacle201and push the engaged ice cubes toward wheel236. In the illustrative embodiment, bottom wall210is sloped downwards toward a collection area602(shown with reference toFIG. 6) of ice receptacle201and auger230.

Wheel236is mounted to auger230to rotate with shaft235. Wheel236includes a plurality of curved vanes800(shown with reference toFIG. 8), which facilitate movement of the ice cubes through a receptacle aperture302and onto a chute228. Receptacle aperture302is formed in front wall202of ice receptacle201. Chute228is mounted to extend from front wall202exterior to collection area602of ice receptacle201. In the illustrative embodiment, chute228slopes downward toward a lower right corner of front wall202to allow gravity to assist in the delivery of the ice cubes. Of course, chute228may slope downwards toward a lower left corner of front wall202in an alternative embodiment. From chute228, the ice cubes may be dispensed into a container for consumption in a variety of manners. For illustration, chute228may provide the ice cubes to a dispensing mechanism such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,211,462 titled DOUBLE DOOR REFRIGERATOR WITH ICE SERVICE THROUGH THE REFRIGERATOR DOOR and issued May 18, 1993 and/or in U.S. Pat. No. 7,814,762 titled INTEGRATED ICE DISPENSER SWITCH and issued Oct. 19, 2010.

Ice dispenser200further may include an adapter238and an ice agitator240. Adapter238mounts ice agitator240to shaft235of auger230such that rotation of auger230causes translational motion of ice agitator240in a plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of shaft235. Adapter238rotates with shaft235of auger230, which rotates through 360 degrees. A center of rotation of adapter238rotates about shaft235. Ice agitator240is not mounted to rotate with adapter238. As a result, in an illustrative embodiment, rotation of ice agitator240with adapter238is incidental to the translational motion of ice agitator240relative to shaft235, which results from the rotation of the center of rotation of adapter238about shaft235.

With reference toFIG. 8, a top, front perspective view of an auger system810of ice dispenser200is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 9, a right side perspective view of auger system810of ice dispenser200is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 10, a top view of auger system810of ice dispenser200is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 13, a back perspective view of wheel236is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

With continuing reference toFIG. 8, wheel236includes the plurality of curved vanes800, a vane core802, a vane disk804, a wheel core806, and a mounting aperture1300(shown with reference toFIG. 13). Vane core802, vane disk804, and wheel core806form tubes. Vane core802has a smaller radius than vane disk804, and wheel core806has a smaller radius than vane core802such that wheel core806fits within vane core802, which fits within vane disk804. Vane core802, vane disk804, and wheel core806have a common center through which shaft235is inserted. The plurality of curved vanes800are mounted between vane core802and vane disk804.

With continuing reference toFIGS. 9 and 10, a bracket900mounts shaft235to wheel236using a screw902inserted in mounting aperture1300though other mounting methods may be used. With reference toFIG. 14, a perspective view of bracket900is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In the illustrative embodiment, bracket900may include a core1400, a first arm1402, a second arm1404, a third arm1406, a screw aperture1408, and a shaft aperture1410. Core1400is sized and shaped to cover an end of vane core802. First arm1402, second arm1404, and third arm1406radiate from core1400and align with a respective end of each of the plurality of vanes800when screw aperture1408is aligned with mounting aperture1300of wheel236for insertion of screw902. The ends of first arm1402, second arm1404, and third arm1406opposite core1400mount to vane disk804. Shaft aperture1410is sized and shaped to accept shaft235so that wheel236and bracket900rotate with shaft235under control of the actuator.

With reference toFIGS. 11 and 12, perspective views of auger230are shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Shaft235includes a first section1100, a second section1102, and a shaft transition section1104. A transition section1106extends between shaft235and the one or more flights233. Transition section1106is a curved section connecting an endpoint of the one or more flights233and shaft235. First section1100has a circular cross section that has a similar cross sectional dimension to transition section1106and the one or more flights233though this is not required. Second section1102has a non-circular shape so that bracket900, and thereby wheel236, rotates with auger230. For example, in the illustrative embodiment, second section1102of shaft235has an oblong cross section with two parallel straight edges and curved edges between the two parallel straight edges. Shaft transition section1104mounts first section1100to second section1102. Of course, auger230may be formed of a single piece of material, for example, by molding.

Shaft235extends in a direction1108that is parallel to and may coincide with an axis of rotation of the one or more flights233. Shaft235and wheel236rotate about the axis defined by direction1108. As shown with reference toFIGS. 11 and 12, direction1108defines a center of shaft235and the axis of rotation of shaft235.

With reference toFIG. 15, a perspective view of auger cap234is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Auger cap234may include a disk body1500, hole1502, a first engagement protrusion1504, a second engagement protrusion1506, and an outer disk1510. Disk body1500has a generally circular shape that is sized to fit within auger cap aperture600. First end232of auger230is positioned within hole1502to mount auger230to auger cap234. A flight of the one or more flights233may also be positioned to at least partially encircle disk body1500. First engagement protrusion1504and second engagement protrusion1506protrude from an interior surface of disk body1500and provide engagement points for rotating auger cap234under control of the actuator and thereby rotating auger230, bracket900, and wheel236. Outer disk1510extends from an exterior surface of disk body1500to maintain auger cap234in position and to keep auger cap234from passing through auger cap aperture600and into the interior of ice receptacle201.

With reference toFIG. 16, a top, front perspective view of ice agitator240, adaptor238, and auger230is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 17, a front view of ice agitator240, adaptor238, and auger230is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 18, a back view of ice agitator240, adaptor238, and auger230is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 19, a bottom view of ice agitator240, adaptor238, and auger230is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Ice agitator240is mounted to adaptor238, and adaptor238is mounted to shaft235of auger230.

Ice agitator240includes a hook1600and an arm1602that extends from hook1600away from direction1108, the axis of rotation of shaft235. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 16-19, hook1600forms a partially closed loop that extends partially around a disk portion1610of adaptor238to mount hook1600to adaptor238. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 16-19, ice agitator240further includes a first finger1604and a second finger1606that extend from arm1602at an end of arm1602opposite hook1600. First finger1604and second finger1606are distributed along arm1602to extend up from arm1602at different radial distances from shaft235of auger230. Arm1602is curved upward from hook1600when hook1600is mounted to disk portion1610.

Adaptor238may include disk portion1610and an auger mounting channel1608. A portion of shaft235is positioned to fit within auger mounting channel1608such that adaptor238rotates with shaft235of auger230. Auger mounting channel1608may be formed in or through disk portion1610. Thus, adaptor238may be a molded piece of material. First section1100and/or a portion of shaft transition section1104may fit within auger mounting channel1608. Auger mounting channel1608extends in a direction parallel to direction1108. Auger mounting channel1608is further offset from an axis of rotation defined through a center axis2100(shown with reference toFIG. 21) of a mounting disk2000(shown with reference toFIG. 20) formed by disk portion1610. Hook1600is mounted to disk2000such that hook1600primarily translates when adaptor238rotates with shaft235of auger230.

With reference toFIG. 20, a top perspective view of adaptor238is shown in accordance with a first illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 21, a front perspective view of adaptor238is shown in accordance with the first illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 22, a side view of adaptor238is shown in accordance with the first illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 23, a front view of adaptor238is shown in accordance with the first illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 23, adaptor238is viewed with direction1108coming out of the page along a longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608.

With reference toFIGS. 20-23, disk portion1610includes mounting disk2000, a first disk2002, a second disk2004, and a second mounting channel2006. Hook1600is mounted to mounting disk2000. A first radius of mounting disk2000is less than a second radius of first disk2002, and the first radius of mounting disk2000is less than a third radius of second disk2004. A groove is formed when mounting disk2000is mounted between first disk2002and second disk2004. Hook1600is configured to fit in the groove formed in a periphery of disk portion1610between first disk2002and second disk2004. Direction1108defines a longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608. Second mounting channel2006extends at an angle from auger mounting channel1608. The angle generally corresponds to the angle defined between first section1100of shaft235and transition section1106of auger230so that adaptor238can be positioned to abut transition section1106of auger230though this is not required.

Center axis2100of mounting disk2000, of first disk2002, and of second disk2004of disk portion1610extends in a direction parallel to and offset from direction1108defined through the center of shaft235of auger230when shaft235is positioned within auger mounting channel1608. Center axis2100of disk portion1610is a center of a circle2300circumscribed about a peripheral edge of first disk2002which is also a center of a second circle (not shown) circumscribed about a peripheral edge of mounting disk2000. Of course, adaptor238may be formed of a single piece of material, for example, by molding.

In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 20-23, auger mounting channel1608is a trough formed in a circumferential edge of mounting disk2000, first disk2002, and second disk2004of disk portion1610such that disk portion1610forms a c-shape when adaptor238is viewed along the longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608as shown with reference toFIG. 23. When shaft235of auger230rotates, center axis2100rotates about shaft235of auger230positioned in auger mounting channel1608. As a result, hook1600, which is mounted to mounting disk2000, translates in a translation direction perpendicular to direction1108to break up any ice that has become stuck together in ice receptacle201. Though there may be incidental rotation of hook1600with adaptor238, the primary motion is in the translation direction when adaptor238rotates with shaft235of auger230.

With reference toFIG. 24, a top perspective view of a second adaptor238ais shown in accordance with a second illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 25, a front perspective view of second adaptor238ais shown in accordance with the second illustrative embodiment. Similar to adaptor238, second adaptor238aincludes auger mounting channel1608and a second disk portion1610a. Similar to disk portion1610, second disk portion1610aincludes mounting disk2000, first disk2002, second disk2004, and second mounting channel2006. Unlike disk portion1610, a body portion2400of second disk portion1610adoes not extend flush with second disk2004. As a result, less material may be used in forming second adaptor238athan in forming adaptor238.

Again, hook1600is mounted to mounting disk2000. The first radius of mounting disk2000is less than the second radius of first disk2002, and the first radius of mounting disk2000is less than the third radius of second disk2004. The groove is formed when mounting disk2000is mounted between first disk2002and second disk2004. Hook1600is configured to fit in the groove formed between first disk200and second disk2004. Direction1108defines the longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608. Second mounting channel2006extends at the angle from auger mounting channel1608that generally corresponds to the angle defined between first section1100of shaft235and transition section1106of auger230so that adaptor238can be positioned to abut transition section1106of auger230though this is not required. Center axis2100of mounting disk2000, first disk2002, and second disk2004of second disk portion1610aextends in the direction parallel to and offset from direction1108defined through the center of shaft235of auger230when shaft235is positioned within auger mounting channel1608. Of course, second adaptor238amay be formed of a single piece of material, for example, by molding.

In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 24 and 25, auger mounting channel1608is a trough formed in the circumferential edge of mounting disk2000, first disk2002, and second disk2004of second disk portion1610asuch that second disk portion1610aforms a c-shape when second adaptor238ais viewed along the longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608. When shaft235of auger230rotates, center axis2100rotates about shaft235of auger230positioned in auger mounting channel1608. As a result, hook1600, which is mounted to mounting disk2000, translates in a translation direction perpendicular to direction1108to break up any ice that has become stuck together in ice receptacle201. Though there may be incidental rotation of hook1600with second adaptor238a, the primary motion is in the translation direction when second adaptor238arotates with shaft235of auger230.

With reference toFIG. 26, a front perspective view of ice agitator240is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Hook1600forms a semicircle that fits within the groove formed between first disk2002and second disk2004. Hook1600further at least partially surrounds mounting disk2000. The semicircle of hook1600is sized and shaped to surround mounting disk2000sufficiently such that hook1600remains mounted in the groove formed in disk portion1610or in second disk portion1610aas auger230rotates even when arm1602encounters ice that exerts a counter force on arm1602. Arm1602is formed from a material such that arm1602has sufficient rigidity to withstand the counter force on arm1602. A length of arm1602is selected such that arm1602extends along bottom wall210of ice receptacle201to within approximately an ice cube width of left side wall204as shown with reference to the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 3 and 4.

With reference toFIG. 27, a front perspective view of a second ice agitator240ais shown in accordance with a second illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 28, a front view of second ice agitator240ais shown in accordance with the second illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 29, a side view of second ice agitator240ais shown in accordance with the second illustrative embodiment. Second ice agitator240aincludes hook1600, arm1602, a first finger2700, a second finger2702, and a third finger2704. First finger2700, second finger2702, and third finger2704extend from arm1602at an end of arm1602opposite hook1600. First finger2700, second finger2702, and third finger2704are distributed along arm1602to extend up from arm1602at the same radial distance from shaft235of auger230. Arm1602is curved upward from hook1600when hook1600is mounted to disk portion1610or second disk portion1610a.

With reference toFIG. 30, a top, front perspective view of a third adaptor238b, a third ice agitator240b, and auger230is shown in accordance with a third illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 31, a front view of third ice agitator240bofFIG. 30is shown in accordance with a third illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 32, a front perspective view of third adaptor238bofFIG. 30is shown in accordance with a third illustrative embodiment.

Third ice agitator240bincludes a second hook1600aand a second arm1602athat extends from second hook1600aaway from direction1108, the axis of rotation of shaft235. Second hook1600aforms a partially closed loop that extends partially around a third disk portion1610bof third adaptor238bto mount second hook1600ato third adaptor238b. In alternative embodiments, hook1600, second hook1600a, and/or third hook1600bmay form a closed loop. Third ice agitator240bfurther includes a finger1604athat extends from second arm1602aat an end of second arm1602aopposite second hook1600a. Second arm1602aextends from below second hook1600awhen second hook1600ais mounted to third adaptor238b.

As shown with reference toFIG. 31, finger1604amay include a first corner3100, a first branch3102, a second corner3104, a second branch3106, a third corner3108, a third branch3110, and a fourth corner3112. First corner3100mounts second arm1602ato first branch3102such that first branch3102generally parallels a sloped portion of bottom wall210of ice receptacle201. Second corner3104mounts first branch3102to second branch3106. Third corner3108mounts second branch3106to third branch3110. Fourth corner3112extends finger1604aback towards first branch3102to form a generally triangular shape.

Finger1604ahas a generally triangular shape defined by first branch3102, second corner3104, second branch3106, third corner3108, third branch3110, and fourth corner3112, where first branch3102, second branch3106, and third branch3110form the sides of the triangle. The generally triangular shape may vary with different angles defined by second corner3104, third corner3108, and fourth corner3112. For example, finger1604amay form a right triangle with second corner3104forming an approximately 90 degree transition between first branch3102and second branch3106. In another alternative embodiment, finger1604amay form an isosceles triangle with second corner3104forming a first transition angle between first branch3102and second branch3106that is approximately equal to a second transition angle formed by fourth corner3112. In still another alternative embodiment, finger1604amay form a right triangle with fourth corner3112forming an approximately 90 degree transition between first branch3102and third branch3110.

With reference toFIG. 32, third adaptor238bmay include third disk portion1610band a second auger mounting channel1608a. Third disk portion1610bincludes a first disk3200, a second disk3202, and a third disk3204. A first radius of second disk3202is less than a second radius of first disk3200. The first radius of second disk3202is less than a third radius of third disk3204. A groove is formed when second disk3202is mounted between first disk3200and third disk3204. For example, second disk3202may be molded to or otherwise mounted to third disk3204. A first portion3208of second auger mounting channel1608aextends through second disk3202and third disk3204. A first portion3210of a disk mounting orifice also extends through second disk3202and third disk3204. A second portion3212of second auger mounting channel1608aextends through first disk3200. A second portion3214of the disk mounting orifice also extends through first disk3200. The disk mounting orifice is sized and shaped to accept a fastener. Second disk3202may be mounted between first disk3200and third disk3204by mounting between first disk3200to second disk3202. First disk3200is positioned adjacent second disk3202with both first portion3208and second portion3212of second auger mounting channel1608ain alignment and first portion3210and second portion3214of the disk mounting orifice in alignment. The fastener is inserted into the disk mounting orifice.

A portion of shaft235is positioned to fit within second auger mounting channel1608asuch that third adaptor238brotates with shaft235of auger230. For example, first section1100, second section1102, and/or a portion of shaft transition section1104may fit within second auger mounting channel1608a. Second auger mounting channel1608ais an orifice that extends through third disk portion1610bin a direction that is parallel to direction1108. Second auger mounting channel1608ais further offset from an axis of rotation defined through a center axis3000(shown with reference toFIGS. 30 and 32) of third disk portion1610b. Center axis3000extends through first disk3200, second disk3202, and third disk3204of third disk portion1610bin a direction parallel to and offset from direction1108defined through the center of shaft235of auger230when shaft235is positioned within second auger mounting channel1608a. For example, center axis3000is a center of a circle circumscribed about a peripheral edge of second disk3202.

When shaft235of auger230rotates, center axis3000rotates about shaft235of auger230positioned in second auger mounting channel1608a. As a result, second hook1600a, which is mounted to second disk3202, translates in a translation direction perpendicular to direction1108to break up any ice that has become stuck together in ice receptacle201. Though there may be incidental rotation of second hook1600awith third adaptor238b, the primary motion is in the translation direction when third adaptor238brotates with shaft235of auger230.

Second hook1600ais mounted to at least partially encircle second disk3202. As a result, second hook1600afits within the groove formed between first disk3200and third disk3204of third disk portion1610b. The semicircle of second hook1600ais sized and shaped to sufficiently surround second disk3202such that second hook1600aremains mounted in the groove as auger230rotates even when second arm1602aencounters ice that exerts a counter force on second arm1602a. Second arm1602ais formed from a material having sufficient rigidity to withstand the counter force on second arm1602a.

With reference toFIG. 33, a front perspective view of a fourth ice agitator240cis shown in accordance with a fourth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 34, a side view of fourth ice agitator240cis shown in accordance with the fourth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 35, a front view of fourth ice agitator240cis shown in accordance with the fourth illustrative embodiment. Fourth ice agitator240cincludes hook1600, arm1602, a first finger3300, and a head3302. First finger3300extends from arm1602at an end of arm1602opposite hook1600. First finger3300extends up from arm1602at approximately 90 degrees. Arm1602is curved upward from hook1600when hook1600is mounted to disk portion1610or second disk portion1610a. Head3302is mounted to an end of first finger3300opposite arm1602to form a “T” shape that extends from arm1602. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 33-35, head3302has a cylindrical shaped body though other shaped bodies may be used including square, rectangular, elliptical, triangular, and other polygonal shapes. Though in the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 33-35, head3302form the “T” shape, head3302further may form an inverted a “L” shape that extends from arm1602.

With reference toFIG. 36, a front perspective view of a fifth ice agitator240dis shown in accordance with a fifth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 37, a front view of fifth ice agitator240dis shown in accordance with the fifth illustrative embodiment. Fifth ice agitator240dincludes hook1600, arm1602, first finger3300, head3302, a second finger3600, and a second head3602. Similar to first finger3300, second finger3600extends from arm1602at an end of arm1602opposite hook1600. Second finger3600extends up from arm1602at approximately 90 degrees. Arm1602is curved upward from hook1600when hook1600is mounted to disk portion1610or second disk portion1610a. Second head3602is mounted to an end of second finger3600opposite arm1602to form a “T” shape that extends from arm1602. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 36-37, second head3602has a cylindrical shaped body though other shaped bodies may be used including square, rectangular, elliptical, triangular, and other polygonal shapes. Though in the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 36-37, second head3602forms the “T” shape, second head3602further may form an inverted a “L” shape that extends from arm1602. Second head3602and head3302may have the same or different shapes and sizes.

With reference toFIG. 38, a top perspective view of a fourth adaptor238cis shown in accordance with a fourth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 39, a front view of fourth adaptor238cis shown in accordance with the fourth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 39, fourth adaptor238cis viewed with direction1108coming out of the page along a longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608. With reference toFIG. 40, a top view of fourth adaptor238cis shown in accordance with the fourth illustrative embodiment. Similar to adaptor238, fourth adaptor238cincludes auger mounting channel1608and a fourth disk portion1610c. Fourth disk portion1610cincludes mounting disk2000, a ring2002a, second disk2004, second mounting channel2006, and body portion2400. Of course, ring2002amay also be referenced generally as a disk. Unlike first disk2002, ring2002aof fourth disk portion1610cencircles auger mounting channel1608. As a result, ring2002aof fourth disk portion1610cprovides additional structure to hold shaft235within auger mounting channel1608. Thus, fourth adaptor238cis mounted to shaft235with more than the pressure or frictional fit provided by the shape of auger mounting channel1608.

Again, hook1600is mounted to mounting disk2000. The first radius of mounting disk2000is less than a second radius of ring2002a, and the first radius of mounting disk2000is less than the third radius of second disk2004. The groove is formed when mounting disk2000is mounted between ring2002aand second disk2004. Hook1600is configured to fit in the groove formed between ring2002aand second disk2004. Direction1108defines the longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608. Second mounting channel2006extends at the angle from auger mounting channel1608that generally corresponds to the angle defined between first section1100of shaft235and transition section1106of auger230so that adaptor238can be positioned to abut transition section1106of auger230though this is not required. Center axis2100of mounting disk2000, ring2002a, and second disk2004of fourth disk portion1610cextends in the direction parallel to and offset from direction1108defined through the center of shaft235of auger230when shaft235is positioned within auger mounting channel1608. Center axis2100of fourth disk portion1610cis a center of circle2300circumscribed about a peripheral edge of ring2002a, which is also a center of a second circle (not shown) circumscribed about a peripheral edge of mounting disk2000. Of course, fourth adaptor238cmay be formed of a single piece of material, for example, by molding.

In the illustrative embodiment ofFIGS. 38-40, auger mounting channel1608is a trough formed in the circumferential edge of mounting disk2000, ring2002a, and second disk2004of fourth disk portion1610cas discussed previously with reference to adaptor238and second adaptor238a. However, because ring2002aencircles auger mounting channel1608, fourth disk portion1610cforms an o-shape when viewed along the longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608as shown with reference toFIG. 39. When shaft235of auger230rotates, center axis2100rotates about shaft235of auger230positioned in auger mounting channel1608. As a result, hook1600, which is mounted to mounting disk2000, translates in a translation direction perpendicular to direction1108to break up any ice that has become stuck together in ice receptacle201. Though there may be incidental rotation of hook1600with fourth adaptor238c, the primary motion is in the translation direction when fourth adaptor238crotates with shaft235of auger230.

FIG. 41depicts a right perspective view of fourth adaptor238cofFIG. 38, wheel236ofFIG. 13, and auger230ofFIG. 11in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 42, a back perspective view of fourth adaptor238cofFIG. 38, wheel236ofFIG. 13, and auger230ofFIG. 11is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Second mounting channel2006extends at an angle from auger mounting channel1608such that transition section1106of auger230can be positioned to abut second mounting channel2006while first section1100of auger230is positioned to abut auger mounting channel1608. Thus, the angle between auger mounting channel1608and second mounting channel2006is approximately equal to that between transition section1106and first section1100of auger230so that adaptor238, second adaptor238a, and fourth adaptor238crotate with shaft235of auger230.

With reference toFIG. 43, a top, right side perspective view of a sixth ice agitator240e, a fifth adaptor238d, and auger230is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 44, a back view of sixth ice agitator240e, a fifth adaptor238d, and auger230is shown in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Sixth ice agitator240eis mounted to fifth adaptor238d, and fifth adaptor238dis mounted to shaft235of auger230. With reference toFIG. 45, a front perspective view of sixth ice agitator240eis shown in accordance with the sixth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 46, a front view of sixth ice agitator240eis shown in accordance with the sixth illustrative embodiment. With reference toFIG. 47, a top perspective view of fifth adaptor238dis shown in accordance with the fifth illustrative embodiment. Fifth adaptor238dincludes auger mounting channel1608and a fifth disk portion1610d.

Sixth ice agitator240eincludes a fourth hook1600cand arm1602that extends from fourth hook1600caway from direction1108, the axis of rotation of shaft235. Fourth hook1600cforms a closed loop that extends around a fifth disk portion1610dof fifth adaptor238dto mount fourth hook1600cto fifth adaptor238d. Similar to fifth ice agitator240d, ice agitator240efurther includes first finger3300, head3302, second finger3600, and second head3602. Arm1602is curved upward from fourth hook1600cwhen fourth hook1600cis mounted to fifth disk portion1610d. A first ring4300and a second ring4500(shown with reference toFIG. 45) extend from opposite faces of arm1602within the circumference of fourth hook1600c. An inner surface of first ring4300, of second ring4500, and of fourth hook1600cform a cylinder4502, which encircles a portion of fifth disk portion1610dof fifth adaptor238dwhen sixth ice agitator240eis mounted to fifth adaptor238d. Thus, the radius of cylinder4502is greater than the radius of fifth disk portion1610d.

Fifth disk portion1610dincludes ring2002aand a body portion4302. In the illustrative embodiment ofFIG. 47, auger mounting channel1608is a trough formed in the circumferential edge of ring2002aand of body portion4302. A portion of shaft235is positioned to fit within auger mounting channel1608such that fifth adaptor238drotates with shaft235of auger230. First section1100and/or a portion of shaft transition section1104may fit within auger mounting channel1608. Auger mounting channel1608extends in a direction parallel to direction1108, which defines the longitudinal axis of auger mounting channel1608. Second mounting channel2006extends at the angle from auger mounting channel1608that generally corresponds to the angle defined between first section1100of shaft235and transition section1106of auger230so that transition section1106of auger230abuts second mounting channel2006so that fifth adaptor238dremains mounted to auger230as fifth adaptor238drotates with shaft235of auger230.

Center axis2100(not shown inFIG. 47) of ring2002aof fifth disk portion1610dextends in the direction parallel to and offset from direction1108defined through the center of shaft235of auger230when shaft235is positioned within auger mounting channel1608and transition section1106of auger230is positioned within second mounting channel2006. As shown and discussed previously with reference toFIG. 21, center axis2100of fifth disk portion1610dis a center of circle circumscribed about the peripheral edge of ring2002a. When shaft235of auger230rotates, center axis2100rotates about shaft235of auger230positioned in auger mounting channel1608. As a result, fourth hook1600c, which is mounted to fifth disk portion1610d, translates in a translation direction perpendicular to direction1108to break up any ice that has become stuck together in ice receptacle201. Though there may be incidental rotation of fourth hook1600cwith fifth adaptor238d, the primary motion is in the translation direction as fifth adaptor238drotates with shaft235of auger230.

In alternative embodiments, various combinations of arms, hooks, fingers, and heads may be used to form an ice agitator. The dimensions may be selected based on the dimensions of ice receptacle201as understood by a person of skill in the art. Additional ice agitators may be mounted to shaft235to provide additional agitation of the ice cubes in the longitudinal direction along shaft235to further prevent the ice cubes from sticking together. Additional or fewer fingers may extend from arm1602and/or second arm1602ato provide additional agitation of the ice cubes in the axial direction relative to shaft235to further prevent the ice cubes from sticking together. Additional or fewer heads may extend from the fingers of arm1602and/or second arm1602ato provide additional agitation of the ice cubes. The components of the adaptors and ice agitators described herein may be formed of one or more discrete parts or may be formed of one or more molded parts.

The word “illustrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Further, for the purposes of this disclosure and unless otherwise specified, “a” or “an” means “one or more”. Still further, the use of “and” or “or” is intended to include “and/or” unless specifically indicated otherwise.