An Automated Ice Processing Machine for Ice Cutting and Shaving Operations and Method Thereof

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Title: An Automated Ice Processing Machine for Ice Cutting and Shaving Operations and Method Thereof The present disclosure proposes an automated ice processing machine (100) that performs both ice cutting and shaving operations within a single unit. The automated ice processing machine 100 comprises a base (102), a platform (104), a first driving unit (110), a second driving unit (114), one or more cutting members (120A, 120B), a pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B), and a pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B). The proposed automated ice processing machine (100) consumes less space and reduces costs by eliminating the need for multiple machines. The proposed automated ice processing machine (100) comprises the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) with both sharp teeth for performing both cutting and shaving operations.

Specification

Description:DESCRIPTION:
Field of the invention:
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of ice processing machines, and in specific, relates to an automated ice processing machine that performs both ice cutting and shaving operations within a single unit.
Background of the invention:
[0002] Ice cutting and ice shaving machines are widely used devices designed to process ice for various applications, with a primary focus on food and beverage preparation. Ice cutting machines typically slice blocks of ice into specific shapes and sizes for industrial purposes such as fishing or transportation, where the ice is used to keep products cool. These machines employ sharp blades or saws to cut through ice blocks with precision. Conversely, ice shaving machines create finely textured ice by shaving or grating ice into a fluffy, snow-like consistency, commonly used for desserts like snow cones or beverages like cocktails.
[0003] These machines use spinning blades or grinding mechanisms to achieve the desired texture, making them indispensable in commercial kitchens and event settings where cold treats are served. Ice cutting machines are often used in industrial environments, such as fisheries, where large ice blocks are cut into manageable sizes for preserving seafood during transportation or storage. They are also utilized in cold-region construction, where managing ice on building sites is necessary, or in ice sculpting events. On the other hand, ice shaving machines are predominantly used in the food and beverage industry to create popular items like slushies, snow cones, and other shaved ice desserts.
[0004] These machines provide a fine, fluffy ice texture, which is essential for making cold, refreshing desserts, especially in warm climates. Restaurants, cafes, and outdoor festivals frequently employ these machines to meet the demand for cooling treats. The significance of ice cutting and ice shaving machines lies in their ability to address specific industrial and culinary needs. Ice cutting machines are essential in industries such as fishing, where cutting large ice blocks ensures perishable goods remain fresh during transport. In construction and other cold-region activities, these machines assist in managing ice to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
[0005] Ice shaving machines, on the other hand, fulfil the need in the food and beverage industry for consistent and finely shaved ice, which enhances the texture and presentation of desserts and drinks. These machines provide a quick and efficient way to meet consumer demand for cold, refreshing products, especially in warmer climates. The separate design of ice cutting and ice shaving machines reflects their distinct purposes. Ice shaving machines are designed to produce a fine, snow-like texture, which is critical for desserts and beverages.
[0006] They require a delicate shaving mechanism to ensure a consistent texture without crushing the ice. In contrast, ice breaking machines are built for heavy-duty tasks, such as breaking large blocks of ice into smaller pieces for industrial use in cooling or preservation. These tasks require more forceful mechanisms that would compromise the fine precision needed for shaving. Combining both functions in a single machine could lead to a decline in efficiency and quality for both processes, as the mechanisms for one task may interfere with the other. Hence, separate machines are used to ensure each function is performed optimally.
[0007] Therefore, there is a need for an automated ice processing machine that combines both ice shaving and cutting functions into one compact and user-friendly unit. There is also a need for an automated ice processing machine that allows users to switch between ice shaving and ice cutting modes seamlessly, streamlining ice processing and improving convenience. There is also a need for an automated ice processing machine that performs both tasks with precision and efficiency, without compromising the quality of the output. Further, there is also a need for an automated ice processing machine that consumes less space and reduces the need for multiple machines, making it an ideal solution for industries and culinary settings where both fine ice shavings and ice chunks are required.
Objectives of the invention:
[0008] The primary objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that performs both ice cutting and ice shaving operations within a single unit.
[0009] Another objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that consumes less space and reduces costs by eliminating the need for multiple machines.
[0010] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that comprises one or more cutting members with both sharp teeth for performing cutting and shaving operations.
[0011] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that utilizes a pair of extendable drive units and actuator to securely hold and push ice blocks toward the cutting saw for performing both ice cutting and ice shaving operations.
[0012] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that streamlines workflow, offering easy switching between ice cutting and ice shaving operations.
[0013] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that that incorporates one or more grooves and pathways to ensure accurate alignment and smooth operation of both the actuator and ice blocks.
[0014] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that reduces the risk of accidents and delivers high-quality output for various applications.
[0015] Further objective of the invention is to provide an automated ice processing machine that requires minimal training and accelerates ice processing to meet industry demands.
Summary of the invention:
[0016] The present disclosure proposes an automated ice processing machine for ice- cutting and shaving operations and method thereof. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[0017] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide an automated ice processing machine that performs both ice cutting and ice shaving operations within a single unit.
[0018] According to an aspect, the invention provides an automated ice processing machine for ice cutting and shaving operations. In one embodiment herein, the automated ice processing machine comprises a base, a platform, a first driving unit, a second driving unit, one or more cutting members, a pair of extendable drive units and a pair of collection chambers. In one embodiment herein, the platform having one or more grooves is mounted on the base through a plurality of support legs. The platform is configured to allow a user to support an ice block.
[0019] In one embodiment herein, the first driving unit is positioned on the base. The first driving unit is configured to be activated to rotate a motor shaft. In one embodiment herein, the second driving unit is positioned on the platform. The second driving unit is configured to be activated to rotate a screw shaft to move an actuator in a linear direction. In particular, the actuator is configured to hold the small ice pieces and move along the platform to push the ice block towards the one or more cutting members.
[0020] In one embodiment herein, the one or more cutting members having scrapers are rotatably connected to the first driving unit through a belt drive system via connecting shafts. The one or more cutting members are rotatably positioned within the one or more grooves, thereby exposing a portion of the one or more cutting members on the platform. The one or more cutting members are configured to be rotated to cut the ice block into small ice pieces. In one embodiment herein, the scrapers are positioned on the side faces of the pair of cutting members. The scrapers are configured to scrape the small ice pieces into granulated ice upon activating the first driving unit.
[0021] In one embodiment herein, the pair of extendable drive units is positioned on both ends of the platform. The pair of extendable drive units is configured to push the small ice pieces towards the one or more cutting members while performing the scraping operation. In one embodiment herein, the pair of collection chambers is positioned beneath the one or more cutting members. The pair of collection chambers is configured to receive the granulated ice while performing the scraping operation.
[0022] In one embodiment herein, the belt drive system comprises a first pair of pulleys and a second pair of pulleys. The first pair of pulleys is positioned on the motor shaft. The first pair of pulleys is configured to be rotated upon activating the first driving unit. The second pair of pulleys is rotatably connected to the first pair of pulleys through drive belts. The second pair of pulleys is rotatably connected to the one or more cutting members via the connecting shafts. The second pair of pulleys is configured to receive a rotational motion from the first pair of pulleys and allows the rotation of the one or more cutting members for performing a cutting operation.
[0023] In one embodiment herein, each extendable drive unit comprises a motor. In particular, the motor is configured to be activated to actuate a telescopic shaft for moving at least one of the small pieces towards at least one of the one or more cutting members to scrape the at least one of the small pieces during the scraping operation. In one embodiment herein, the automated ice processing machine comprises a resisting member that is positioned on the platform. The resisting member is configured to adjust between a flat position and a raised position relative to the platform through a knob for holding the ice block while performing both cutting and scraping operations.
[0024] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for operating the automated ice processing machine. At one step, the user places at least one ice block on the platform. At one step, the user activates the first driving unit to rotate the motor shaft, thereby rotating the one or more cutting members through the belt drive system for cutting the ice block into small ice pieces. At one step, the user activates the second driving unit to rotate the screw shaft to move the actuator in the linear direction for holding the small ice pieces and pushing them towards the one or more cutting members.
[0025] At one step, the user activates the pair of extendable drive units to push the small pieces toward the one or more cutting members for performing the scraping operation. At one step, the scrapers of the one or more cutting members scrape the small ice pieces into granulated ice. At one step, the pair of collection chambers collect the granulated ice upon performing the scraping operation.
[0026] Further, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.
Detailed description of drawings:
[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an automated ice processing machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 1B illustrates an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 1C illustrates a schematic view of the automated ice processing machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a cutting member in the automated ice processing machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of an extendable drive units in the automated ice processing machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0033] FIG. 4A illustrates an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine upon placing at least one ice block, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 4B illustrates an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine upon performing a cutting operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 4C illustrates an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine with an extendable drive unit in operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 4D illustrates an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine performing a scraping operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method of operating the automated ice processing machine, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Detailed invention disclosure:
[0038] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.
[0039] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an automated ice processing machine that performs both ice cutting and ice shaving operations within a single unit.
[0040] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 1A-1C refer to front, isometric and schematic views of an automated ice processing machine for ice cutting and shaving operations. In one embodiment herein, the automated ice processing machine 100 comprises a base 102, a platform 104, a first driving unit 110, a second driving unit 114, one or more cutting members (120A, 120B), a pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B), and a pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B).
[0041] In one embodiment herein, the base 102 is located at the bottom of the ice processing machine 100. In one embodiment herein, the platform 104 having one or more grooves 106 is mounted on the base 102 through a plurality of support legs 108. The platform 104 is configured to allow a user to support an ice block. The platform 104 is a hollow structure that protects the ice block, preventing the ice block from escaping. In particular, the plurality of support legs 108 are mounted on the top of the base 102. The plurality of support legs 108 assists in supporting the platform 104.
[0042] In one embodiment herein, the first driving unit 110 is positioned on the base 102. The first driving unit 110 is configured to be activated to rotate a motor shaft 112. In one embodiment herein, the second driving unit 114 is positioned on the platform 104. The second driving unit 114 is configured to be activated to rotate a screw shaft 116 to move an actuator 118 in a linear direction. In particular, the actuator 118 is configured to hold the small ice pieces and move along the platform 104 to push the ice block towards the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B). The screw shaft 116 enables the movement of the actuator 118 in the linear direction for pushing the ice block towards the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B).
[0043] In one embodiment herein, the actuator 118 is mounted on the screw shaft 116 and is responsible for holding the ice block securely. As the screw shaft 116 rotates, the actuator 118 moves in the linear direction, thereby advancing the ice block toward the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B). In one embodiment herein, the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) having scrapers 122 are rotatably connected to the first driving unit 110 through a belt drive system 124 via connecting shafts (126A, 126B).
[0044] The one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are rotatably positioned in the one or more grooves 106, thereby exposing a portion of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) on the platform 104. The one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are configured to be rotated to cut the ice block into small ice pieces. The one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are partially exposed and are connected to the connecting shafts (126A, 126B), which rotate upon activation of the first driving unit 110. The one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) comprise sharp teeth around their perimeter to effectively cut through the ice block.
[0045] In one embodiment herein, the scrapers 122 are positioned on the side faces of the pair of cutting members (120A, 120B) as depicted in FIG. 1B. The scrapers 122 are configured to scrape the small ice pieces into granulated ice upon activating the first driving unit 110. In one embodiment herein, the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) is positioned on both ends of the platform 104. The pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) is configured to push the small ice pieces toward the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) while performing the scraping operation.
[0046] In one embodiment herein, the pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B) is positioned beneath the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B). The pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B) is configured to receive and gather the granulated ice while performing the scraping operation as depicted in FIG. 1C. In one embodiment herein, the belt drive system 124 comprises a first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) and a second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B). The first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) is positioned on the motor shaft 112 as depicted in FIG. 1A.
[0047] The first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) is configured to be rotated upon activating the first driving unit 110. The second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is rotatably connected to the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) through drive belts (135A, 135B). In particular, the drive belts (135A, 135B) assist in transferring the rotational motion from the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) to the second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B). The second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is rotatably connected to the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) via the connecting shafts (126A, 126B).
[0048] The connecting shafts (126A, 126B) is positioned at the bottom of the platform 104 and connected to the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B). The second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is configured to receive a rotational motion from the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) and allows the rotation of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) for performing a cutting operation. The second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is positioned on the connecting shafts (126A, 126B), respectively. The connecting shafts (126A, 126B) assists in rotating the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) upon activating the first driving unit 110.
[0049] In one embodiment herein, each extendable drive unit (128A, 128B) comprises a motor 136. In particular, the motor 136 is configured to be activated to actuate a telescopic shaft 138 for moving at least one of the small pieces towards at least one of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) to scrape the at least one of the small pieces during the scraping operation. In one embodiment herein, the automated ice processing machine 100 comprises a resisting member 140 that is positioned on the platform 104. The resisting member 140 is configured to adjust between a flat position and a raised position relative to the platform 104 through a knob 142 for holding the ice block while performing both cutting and scraping operations.
[0050] In one embodiment herein, the automated ice processing machine 100 comprises a bearing 144 that is positioned on the base 102. The bearing 144 assists in supporting the motor shaft 112 as depicted in FIG. 1A. The bearing 144 is a pedestal bearing. In one embodiment herein, the automated ice processing machine 100 comprises a power source for providing an electrical power to the first driving unit 110, the second driving unit 114 and the motor 136 in the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B).
[0051] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 refers to a perspective view of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) in the automated ice processing machine 100. In one embodiment herein, the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are essential components responsible for cutting the ice block into smaller and manageable pieces. The one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are designed with sharp teeth around their perimeter, which facilitates effective cutting through the ice block. The first driving unit 110 is configured to be activated to rotate the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) through the motor shaft 112.
[0052] The first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) drives the second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) through the drive belts (135A, 135B). This rotational motion of the second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is transferred to the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) through the connecting shafts (126A, 126B), causing them to rotate. The rotational speed and sharp design of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) enable them to slice through the ice block efficiently, creating small ice pieces suitable for further processing or collection. The one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are partially exposed above the surface of the platform 104, allowing for optimal interaction with the ice block. Their positioning ensures that they can effectively cut the ice block as it is pushed forward by the actuator 118.
[0053] In one embodiment herein, the scrapers 122 are additional components integrated with the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) to enhance the efficiency of the ice processing operation. The scrapers are strategically positioned on the side faces of the cutting members (120A, 120B). This placement allows them to work in conjunction with the cutting action. The scrapers 122 are designed to be robust enough to handle the forces exerted during the scraping operation, ensuring durability and consistent performance.
[0054] The primary function of the scrapers 122 is to scrape the small ice pieces generated by the cutting members (120A, 120B) into the granulated ice. When the first driving unit 110 is activated, the scrapers 122 come into action immediately after the cutting process, effectively clearing the area around the cutting members (120A, 120B) and preventing ice build-up. This scraping action helps to facilitate a continuous flow of ice pieces, preventing jams and ensuring smooth operation.
[0055] The interaction between the cutting members (120A, 120B) and scrapers 122 is critical for maintaining the efficiency of the ice processing machine 100. As the cutting members (120A, 120B) slice the ice, the scrapers 122 simultaneously work to remove the small pieces and direct them toward the collection chambers (130A, 130B). This coordinated action maximizes output and minimizes downtime, contributing to a more effective ice processing cycle.
[0056] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3 refers to a side view of the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) in the automated ice processing machine 100. In one embodiment herein, the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) are strategically positioned on both ends of the platform 104 of the automated ice processing machine 100. This placement ensures that they can effectively manage the ice block during processing, providing support and facilitating movement.
[0057] The primary function of the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) is to activate and control the movement of the telescopic shaft 138. In particular, the telescopic shaft 138 extends and retracts to push the ice block toward the cutting members (120A, 120B). By pushing the ice block into the optimal position for cutting and scraping, the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) ensure efficient processing of the ice, allowing for precise control over the position of the ice block relative to the cutting mechanism.
[0058] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4A refers to an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine 100 with at least one ice block placed on the platform 104. Initially, the user places the at least one ice block on the platform 104 of the automated ice processing machine 100. The user needs to switch ON the power source for providing the electrical power to the first driving unit 110, the second driving unit 114 and the motor 136 in the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B). The resisting member 140 inside the platform 104 is in its original position, thereby allowing the at least one ice block to move freely.
[0059] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4B refers to an isometric view of the automated ice processing machine 100 upon performing the cutting operation. Here, the user needs to activate the first driving unit 110 to rotate the motor shaft 112. The first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) positioned on the motor shaft 112 also rotates upon activating the first driving unit 110. The second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is rotatably connected to the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) via the drive belts (135A, 135B).
[0060] The second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is rotatably connected to the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) via the connecting shafts (126A, 126B). The user needs to push the at least one ice block towards the cutting members (120A, 120B) for cutting it into small ice pieces. The cutting members (120A, 120B) is equipped with sharp-edged teeth, effectively cut the ice block into separate ice pieces. Once the ice block is fully sliced, the small ice pieces exit from opposite side of the platform 104.
[0061] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 4C-4D refer to isometric views of the automated ice processing machine 100 performing the shaving operation. The user needs to rotate the knob 142, which is located outwards the platform 104. The resisting member 140 turns in an upward position i.e., perpendicular to the platform 104 so as to prevent the small ice pieces from falling to the other side until the shaving operation is completed.
[0062] The user needs to activate the motors 136 of the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) to extend the telescopic shafts 138 for pushing the small ice pieces towards the cutting members (120A, 120B) as depicted in FIG. 4C. The user needs to activate the second driving unit 114 for rotating the screw shaft 116. The actuator 118 is slidably positioned on the screw shaft 116. The actuator 118 is configured to penetrate into the small ice piece, thereby providing the firm grip as depicted in FIG. 4D. The actuator 118 moves inside a pathway that restricts the rotational motion of the screw shaft 116, thereby converting it into linear motion. This pushes the ice piece towards the scrapers 122.
[0063] As the telescopic shafts 138 and actuator 118 push the ice piece, the scrapers 122 engraved on the side of the cutting members (120A, 120B) continuously rotate at high RPMs. The high rotational speed of the scrapers 122 shaves the ice to form the granulated ice, thereby depositing the granulated ice into the pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B) located at the bottom of the platform 104.The pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B) effectively gathers the granulated ice, thereby accumulating it at the bottom portion of the platform 104.
[0064] According to another embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5 refers to a flowchart 500 of a method of operating the automated ice processing machine 100. At step 502, the user places at least one ice block on the platform 104. At step 504, the user activates the first driving unit 110 to rotate the motor shaft 112, thereby rotating the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) through the belt drive system 124 for cutting the ice block into small ice pieces.
[0065] At step 506, the user activates the second driving unit 114 to rotate the screw shaft 116, moving the actuator 118 in a linear direction to hold the small ice pieces and push them toward the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B). At step 508, the user activates the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) to push the small pieces toward the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) for performing the scraping operation. At step 510, the scrapers 122 of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) scrape the small ice pieces into granulated ice. At step 512, the pair of collecting chambers (130A, 130B) collect the granulated ice upon completing the scraping operation.
[0066] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, an automated ice processing machine for ice cutting and shaving operations is disclosed. The proposed ice processing machine 100 performs both ice cutting and ice-shaving operations within a single unit. The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 consumes less space and reduces costs by eliminating the need for multiple machines.
[0067] The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 comprises the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) with both sharp teeth for performing both cutting and shaving operations. The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 utilizes the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) and actuator (118) to securely hold and push ice blocks toward the cutting members (120A, 120B) for performing both ice cutting and ice-shaving operations. The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 streamlines workflow, offering easy switching between ice cutting and shaving operations.
[0068] The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 incorporates the one or more grooves 106 and pathways to ensure accurate alignment and smooth operation of both the actuator 118 and ice blocks. The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 reduces the risk of accidents and delivers high-quality output for various applications. The proposed automated ice processing machine 100 requires minimal training and accelerates ice processing to meet industry demands.
[0069] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.

, Claims:CLAIMS:
I / We Claim:
1. An automated ice processing machine (100), comprising:
a base (102);
a platform (104) having one or more grooves (106) mounted on the base (102) through plurality of support legs (108), wherein the platform (104) is configured to allow a user to place an ice block;
a first driving unit (110) positioned on the base (102), wherein the first driving unit (110) is configured to be activated to rotate a motor shaft (112);
a second driving unit (114) positioned on the platform (104), wherein the second driving unit (114) is configured to be activated to rotate a screw shaft (116) so as to move an actuator (118) in a linear direction;
one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) having scrapers (122) rotatably connected to the first driving unit (110) through a belt drive system (124) via connecting shafts (126A, 126B), wherein the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) are configured to be rotated to cut the ice block into small ice pieces,
wherein the scrapers (122) are configured to scrape the small ice pieces into a granulated ice upon activating the first driving unit (110);
a pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) positioned on both ends of the platform (104), wherein the pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) is configured to push the small ice pieces towards the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) while performing the scraping operation; and
a pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B) positioned beneath the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B), wherein the pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B) is configured to receive the granulated ice while performing the scraping operation.
2. The automated ice processing machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) is rotatably positioned within the one or more grooves (106), thereby exposing a portion of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) on the platform (104).
3. The automated ice processing machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the belt drive system (124) comprises:
a first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) positioned on the motor shaft (112), wherein the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) is configured to be rotated upon activating the first driving unit (110); and
a second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) rotatably connected to the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) through drive belts (135A, 135B), wherein the second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is rotatably connected to the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) via the connecting shafts (126A, 126B), wherein the second pair of pulleys (134A, 134B) is configured to receive a rotational motion from the first pair of pulleys (132A, 132B) and allow to rotate the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) for performing a cutting operation.
4. The automated ice processing machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the extendable drive unit (128A, 128B) comprises:
a motor (136) configured to be activated to actuate a telescopic shaft (138) for moving the at least one of the small pieces towards at least one of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) so as to scrap the at least one of the small pieces during the scraping operation.
5. The automated ice processing machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the automated ice processing machine (100) comprises a resisting member (140) that is positioned on the platform (104), wherein the resisting member (140) is configured to adjust between a flat position and a raised position relative to the platform (104) through a knob (142) for holding the ice block while performing both cutting and scraping operations.
6. The automated ice processing machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scrapers (122) are positioned on the side faces of the pair of the cutting members (120A, 120B).
7. The automated ice processing machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuator (118) is configured to hold the small ice pieces and move along the platform (104) for pushing the ice block towards the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B).
8. A method for operating an automated ice processing machine (100), comprising:
placing, by a user, at least one ice block on a platform (104);
activating, by the user, a first driving unit (110) to rotate a motor shaft (112), thereby rotating one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) through a belt drive system (124) for cutting the ice block into small ice pieces;
activating, by the user, a second driving unit (114) to rotate a screw shaft (116) so as to move an actuator (118) in a linear direction for holding the small ice pieces and pushing it towards the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B);
activating, by the user, a pair of extendable drive units (128A, 128B) to push the small pieces towards the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B) for performing a scraping operation;
shaving, by scrapers (122) of the one or more cutting members (120A, 120B), the small ice pieces into a granulated ice; and
collecting, by a pair of collection chambers (130A, 130B), the granulated ice upon performing the shaving operation.

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