(57) An ice maker, including sensors (444) to measure usage parameters and transmit the
same to a controller (440). The controller is operably connected to a plurality of
ice forming systems, and directs the systems to operate in a high energy mode or a
low energy mode, based on the usage parameter. The usage parameters may include an
ice level (98), a change in the ice level over time, the amount of time that a dispenser
is actuated, the time of day, or historical usage patterns. The ice forming systems
(52) may include one or more of a thermoelectric device coupled to a bottom surface
of an ice forming plate, a forced air system to circulate cold air, a forced air system
to circulate warm air, and a temperature control system to maintain a temperature
gradient between a first chamber above the ice forming plate and a second chamber
below the ice forming plate.
|
|
