Abstract: Systems and methods for making ice utilize self-demolding ice molds. Responsive to freezing of water in the mold into ice, an ejection apparatus is compressed. Via a force arising from the compression, the ejection apparatus ejects the ice from the mold. Ice machines may utilize multiple molds, and water filling a first mold may be utilized to at least partially melt ice in a second mold to facilitate ejection of the ice from the second mold.

Abstract: Various systems, methods and apparatuses for a rotary valve are disclosed. A rotary valve apparatus may have a case, a fluid conducting apparatus inside the case, and an electromagnetic actuator. The electromagnetic actuator may align the fluid conducting apparatus with various ports in the case. In this manner, fluid may be conducted through the ports. The electromagnetic actuator may rotate the fluid conducting apparatus to align with different ports in the case. Thus, the apparatus may operate as a valve, connecting and disconnecting various ports in response to the electromagnetic actuator.

Abstract: Systems and methods for thermal energy storage are disclosed. A thermal energy storage unit and an evaporator coil may form a thermosyphon. In an energy consumption mode, refrigerant may be directed from a compressor, through a condenser coil, to an evaporator coil via a first 3-way valve, and back to the compressor via a second 3-way valve. In an energy storage mode, refrigerant may be directed from the compressor, through the condenser coil, to a thermal energy storage unit via the first 3-way valve, and back to the compressor via the second 3-way valve. In an energy discharge mode, refrigerant may be directed from the thermal energy storage unit to the evaporator coil via the second 3-way valve, and back to the thermal energy storage unit via a vapor line.

Abstract: Systems and methods for making ice utilize self-demolding ice molds. Responsive to freezing of water in the mold into ice, an ejection apparatus is compressed. Via a force arising from the compression, the ejection apparatus ejects the ice from the mold. Ice machines may utilize multiple molds, and water filling a first mold may be utilized to at least partially melt ice in a second mold to facilitate ejection of the ice from the second mold.

Abstract: A fluid cooled cold plate can comprise a fluid output port connected near a thermally conductive base plate having a coupled heat source device, a fluid input port connected to a top surface of the cold plate, and multiple extended surface areas connected to the base plate and extending normal to the base plate. The cold plate can be configured for generally uniform fluid flow across the multiple extended surface areas. Furthermore, the multiple extended surface areas can create more resistance near a top surface of the multiple extended surface areas and less resistance near the base plate. For example, the plurality of extended surface areas can be wires that are wound near the base plate and fanned out near the top surface. An advantage of the disclosed cold plate design is the increase in heat transfer area and efficiency.

Abstract: Various systems, methods and apparatuses for a rotary valve are disclosed. A rotary valve apparatus may have a case, a fluid conducting apparatus inside the case, and an electromagnetic actuator. The electromagnetic actuator may align the fluid conducting apparatus with various ports in the case. In this manner, fluid may be conducted through the ports. The electromagnetic actuator may rotate the fluid conducting apparatus to align with different ports in the case. Thus, the apparatus may operate as a valve, connecting and disconnecting various ports in response to the electromagnetic actuator.

Abstract: A low-cost atomizing nozzle suitable for use with viscous fuels and other liquids in high and low temperature environments. The nozzle structure comprises a cylindrical hollow tube forming a venturi having inlet and outlet ends, a cylindrical hollow barrel and a fuel catheter. The nozzle provides maximum surface contact between the liquid fuel and atomizing air streams.