Abstract: An ice maker in which a non-metallic shroud surrounds the metal evaporator plate and has a continuous bulbous edge that engulfs the edges of the plate. The shroud further includes a roof disposed above the plate and slopes toward the front of the plate. The water distributor of the ice maker is mounted on the roof of the shroud.

Abstract: An ice maker in which a non-metallic shroud surronds the metal evaporator plate and has a continuous bulbous edge that engulfs the edges of the plate. The shroud further includes a roof disposed above the plate and slopes toward the front of the plate. The water distributor of the ice maker is mounted on the roof of the shroud.

Abstract: A refrigerant evaporator has a first heat exchange portion with an uninterrupted surface formed from sheets of conductive material joined together to form passages therebetween. A second heat exchange portion is connected to and adjacent the first portion. The second portion is formed from hollow, serpentine tubes with spine fins. Condensed refrigerant passes through the first portion, which accummulates frost and ice, and then through the second portion. The first portion also includes a labyrinth of passages that define an accumulator for refrigerant that has passed through the second heat exchange portion.

Abstract: A refrigeration system including a compressor, condenser, capillary tube and evaporator includes a hot gas bypass defrosting capability provided by a bypass means around the capillary tube. Defrosting is achieved by the use of hot, uncondensed refrigerant, without requiring a reversal of the flow of refrigerant through the system. An exemplary bypass means includes a solenoid valve and associated tubing to form an alternate, low restriction path for the refrigerant to bypass the capillary tube. When the solenoid valve is closed, refrigerant is forced through the capillary tube for normal refrigeration. However, when the solenoid valve is open, condensation of refrigerant in the condenser is inhibited, and hot refrigerant gas is delivered directly to the evaporator for defrosting. The solenoid valve is controlled in response to the total accumulated running time of the compressor for improved control of the defrosting cycles.

Abstract: An ice maker includes an interior volume containing a freezer compartment and a fresh food compartment. The freezer compartment houses an automatic ice making unit, including an ice mold, a water solenoid valve for admitting water into the ice mold, and a first thermistor attached to the ice mold. A second thermistor is disposed in the fresh food compartment. A microprocessor based control unit monitors the first and second thermistors to determine when to initiate ice harvest cycles. Ice harvest cycles are delayed, if necessary, to maintain the fresh food compartment below a setpoint temperature. The control unit also includes sensing means for determining if the water solenoid valve is energized. The solenoid is monitored, and if it remains energized for a prolonged period, then power to the automatic ice making unit is removed to prevent excessive water spillage.