Abstract: A new and improved combination evaporator and ice-forming device preferably includes an interlocking grid-type ice-forming plate arrangement with water-receiving and ice-forming recesses being defined by the interlocking grid members. The preferred embodiments include a pair of such plate subassemblies interconnected in a back-to-back relationship with an evaporator tube disposed therebetween. Novel water distribution and frame and housing arrangements are also disclosed.

Abstract: The plumbing module is a self-contained fully operational unit which provides the capabililty of supplying both hot or room temperature and refrigerated water or other beverages. The module may be adapted without significant modification to a wide range of products and uses, including bottled water coolers, drinking fountains and beverage dispensers. A dual parallel condenser coil in the refrigeration system takes approximately one-half the space of conventional coils and provides adequate heat dissipation without requiring forced air cooling fans.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device for the delivery of a fluid to be frozen in equipment for the formation of ice cubes, which includes a rod spraying the fluid on an evaporator and drive means for rotating the rod which are activated by the same fluid to be frozen.

Abstract: An insect guard is provided for guarding against the entrance of insects into the venturi tubes of gas grills which may result in clogging of the fuel flow to the burners of a gas grill. The insect guard includes using a plurality of small openings to define the primary air opening in the venturi tube, and also providing for a close tolerance fit at the connection between the venturi tube and the outlet orifice of the valve such that insects are substantially prevented from entrance into the venturi tube.

Abstract: An insect guard is provided for guarding against the entrance of insects into the venturi tubes of gas grills which may result in clogging of the fuel flow of the burners of a gas grill. The insect guard includes using a plurality of small openings to define the primary air opening in the venturi tube, and also providing for a close tolerance fit at the connection between the venturi tube and the outlet orifice of the valve such that insects are substantially prevented from entrance into the venturi tube.

Abstract: An improved heat exchanger assembly is disclosed and has a wall composed of a heat transmissive material and a plurality of sections of spaced-apart elongated fluid conduits also composed of a heat transmissive material disposed on one side of the wall for conveying a heat transfer fluid therethrough. The assembly includes an elongated filler member, which either has a solid outer surface or is a wire mesh structure, and which extends longitudinally through the space between at least one adjacent pair of the spaced-apart elongated fluid conduits or conduit sections. The elongated filler member is also composed of a heat transmissive material and at least in part spaced from the fluid conduit or conduit sections, thus defining at least one opening providing communication into the space between the adjacent pair of fluid conduits.

Abstract: Two embodiments of automatic drip coffee makers particularly adapted to be mounted other than on a counter top. In each embodiment, the coffee maker brews coffee into an associated container that is supported by other than its base. The container is preferably of the thermally insulated type and in one embodiment it is supported by means of a bayonet connection to the exterior of its neck and in the other embodiment it is supported by a screw threaded connection between the filter compartment of the coffee maker and the internally threaded neck of the container.

Abstract: A new and improved auger-type ice-making apparatus preferably includes at least a pair of removable and interchangeable head assemblies adapted for preselectively producing either relatively dry flake or chip ice, cube ice or smaller nugget-sized ice pieces. A new and improved auger assembly preferably formed from a synthetic plastic material and a new and improved evaporator element are also disclosed, either or both of which can be incorporated into an ice-making apparatus, with or without the interchangeable head assemblies. One preferred embodiment is adapted to preselectively alter the size of the cube or nugget ice pieces in order to preselectively produce a number of different sizes of ice pieces.

Abstract: An improved portable cooler construction having a pair of recesses formed in opposing side wlls that define with pivotally supported closure members additional cavities that will be maintained at a different temperature than the main cavity formed in the main body portion of the cooler and in which non-food articles may be stored and/or carried.

Abstract: A drainless water cooler or fountain having a gooseneck water dispensing faucet and a waste water receptacle cup mounted on top of the multiply tiered top member. A cup is removably carried within a downwardly depending well which can be retrofitted for readily and economically converting the drainless-type water fountain or cooler into a more permanent drain connected installation. A dual action valve featuring reduced diameter valve seat and valve construction is capable of regulating and dispensing either hot or cold water through the common gooseneck faucet. Placement of the faucet and waste water receptacle cup on the top of the cabinet eliminates the need to bend or stoop when dispensing water or emptying the receptacle cup. The receptacle cup is disposed within the interior of the cabinet and is thus protected against accidental bumping or spilling.

Abstract: A barrier-free water cooler construction as disclosed comprising an enclosure having a forwardly projecting cabinet section having a single basin on the upper side thereof and providing for access by handicapped persons. The invention includes a water dispensing system including a control valve mechanism which is operated by any one of three actuating push bars located on the front and laterally opposite sides of the enclosure. The water system includes a unique water precooling arrangement to reduce cooling energy requirements and may be provided with a glass or similar receptable filler option which, like the aforesaid moveable actuating push bars, is adapted for motion-impaired or otherwise handicapped users.

Abstract: A portable cooler assembly embodying a reversible lid with a handle actuated latch mechanism for latching the lid in either of its two possible positions. The body portion of the cooler is formed with an upstanding flange around the lid so that the top of the lid is substantially flush with the body of the cooler regardless of how it is placed on the cooler body. The handle is nested between this upstanding flange and the lid when the handle is in a storage position so as to provide an uncluttered appearance and to protect the handle from accidental damage.

Abstract: A new and improved auger-type ice-making apparatus preferably includes at least a pair of removable and interchangeable head assemblies adapted for preselectively producing either relatively dry flake or chip ice, cube ice or smaller nugget-sized ice pieces. A new and improved auger assembly preferably formed from a synthetic plastic material and a new and improved evaporator element are also disclosed, either or both of which can be incorporated into an ice-making apparatus, with or without the interchangeable head assemblies.

Abstract: A new and improved auger-type ice-making apparatus preferably includes at least a pair of removable and interchangeable head assemblies adapted for preselectively producing either relatively dry flake or chip ice, cube ice or smaller nugget-sized ice pieces. A new and improved auger assembly preferably formed from a synthetic plastic material and a new and improved evaporator element are also disclosed, either or both of which can be incorporated into an ice-making apparatus, with or without the interchangeable head assemblies. One preferred embodiment is adapted to preselectively alter the size of the cube or nugget ice pieces in order to preselectively produce a number of different sizes of ice pieces.

Abstract: An insulated dispensing container that includes an air pump for generating pressure above the liquid in the container for selective discharge through the discharge nozzle. A valve arrangement is incorporated for preventing the accidental discharge or leakage of the container contents when the pump is not being operated. The discharge valve is provided with a venting arrangement to vent any built up pressure over the liquid in the container upon opening of the valve so as to prevent drippage.

Abstract: An ice making apparatus including a machine for producing and harvesting a flake ice product and transferring said product to an ice extruding chamber in which the product is compressed into a hard column of ice that can be broken into ice chunks or "cubes" of predetermined length and be transported to a remotely located ice storage bin, dispenser or the like.