GB2508180A

GB2508180A - An automatic de-icing apparatus with multiple containers and deflecting plates

Info

Publication number: GB2508180A
Application number: GB201221024A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Edward Roger Neal
Original assignee: INTEGEN Ltd
Current assignee: INTEGEN Ltd
Priority date: 2012-11-22
Filing date: 2012-11-22
Publication date: 2014-05-28
Anticipated expiration: 2032-11-22
Also published as: GB201221024D0; GB2508180B

Abstract

A de-icing material spreading device comprising a housing providing one or more apertures to allow distribution of deicing material, a storage container, a rotary spreader, a motor driven spreader wheel, a funnel 20 to provide a flow path from the storage container onto the spreader wheel, control means 18 comprising a motor controller, a temperature sensor, a memory means and an adjustable deflector means adapted to control the direction over which the de-icing material is spread in use. Alternatively multiple containers or capsules 16 may be used, they may be pre-filled and located on a carousel 15 inside the housing. The containers are openable via a removable tab located on their base. The carousel may rotate, alternately the opening tool 17 may move. The deflector plate (5 Fig 2) may vary the direction or angle of distribution, or the distance spread. The plate may move vertically or concentrically around the spreader wheel. The temperature sensor turns on the device when the chance of freezing occurs, a timer may also be used.

Description

tM:;: INTELLECTUAL !. .*. PROPERTY OFFICE Application No. GB1221tY24.1 RTM Date:25 May 2013 The following terms are registered trade marks and should be read as such wherever they occur in this document: Bluetooth Intellectual Properly Office is an operaling name of Ihe Patent Office www.ipo.gov.uk A stationary de-icing apparatus

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a de-icing apparatus, in particular to a stationary de-icing device adapted to spread de-icing materials in a localised area BackQround Apparatus for de-icing roads and footpaths are known that spread a de-icing material, which may be scUd, for example a salt/grit mixture, or a liquid de-icer, over a surface. Typically such machines are either large, vehicle mounted devices that spread over a large area, or hand-held machines intended for operation manually by an individual. Automatic de-icing apparatus is known, for example in de-icing roadways or runways, in several forms, Liquid de-icer may be spread by devices having nozzles directed at the surface. Apparatus is known for spreading solid de-icing material, and automatic apparatus is known that spreads de-icing material in response to sensors and instructions from a control means. However! this apparatus is not adapted to provide a controllable area of spread, and has further operational disadvantages around handling and storage of the de-icing material. A key disadvantage of the prior art devices is that they spread over an uncontrolled and imprecise area, and also that the de-icing material is typically moisture-sensitive, such that if opened to the atmosphere it becomes caked together and spreading then becomes less effective. In severe cases the material may become almost unhandlable. Apparatus that overcomes such difficulties with prior art devices would have practical and commercial value.

Prior Art 0 * * * . * .*

r": 30 Accordingly a number of patent applications have been filed in an attempt to resolve the problem or similar, including the following: * 6 US5603452 discloses a stationary spreader which is activated in response to a signal from a sensor indicating a condition of the adjacent ground surface, is described. The :.: 35 stationary spreader includes a bin, a spreader housing and a control box which are * removably mounted together. The bin holds the material to be spread and preferably has a stirrer and an auger which both act to move the material out of a dispensing opening in the side of the bin. The spreader housing is mounted over the dispensing opening and includes a spreader assembly. The spreader assembly has a Lifting motor, a pair of solenoids and a spreader bucket. The lifting motor is mounted above and connected to the spreader bucket and acts along with the solenoids to vertically raise or lower the bucket. A spreader compartment is located in the bottom of the bucket and houses the spreaders. The control box houses the control compartments which include motor controllers, a timer, and a microprocessor.

This is a large device adapted for permanent installation at the side of a roadway, for example, and includes an internal hopper in which the de-icer material is open to the atmosphere, an internal bucket means to move the de-icing material before -spreading. It is not adapted for localised area, automatic spreading over a controlled region and direction.

US5447272 discloses a device for spreading a de-icing agent onto any surface either autonomously, manually or by remote control. Upon detecting the onset of icing conditions, the device delivers either a granular or liquid de-icing agent unto the targeted surface, preventing ice build up. The key components of the device include the de-icing agent storage container, the freezing sensor, the moisture detection sensor, timing circuits, power supply, motor, pump or impeller and switching system circuitry. The device also possesses the capability to log and or transmit data to a central site and can activate various warning signals. The device is contained within a corrosion, weather and vandal resistant housing and is powered by either line current with a battery backup or by battery power alone. The system is designed to require low maintenance and of rugged construction to endure harsh environmental exposure.

This device is adapted for smaller scale spreading and is capable of stationary automatic operation. It has the disadvantages that area and direction of spreading is not controllable and it stores the de-icer material in an openable bin, so allowing it to **t a..

a contact moist atmosphere, with consequent problems with usable lifetime of the de-icing material and reliability of the device. 4. .

::.:i 35 DE10153982 provides a rotatably arranged distribution plate (1) [thatj has on its * surface (4) a concave or convex shape which can be adjusted to change the desired distribution area. Preferred Features: The distribution plate is designed so that a central region of the plate can be fixed in a position which is set back or protrudes from a peripheral edge region of the plate. The distribution plate has an elastically deformable surface. The distribution plate can be adjusted by a hydraulic, electric, or pneumatic drive; or manually adjusted.

This device provides an adjustable angle of throw for the spreading action - however, it is adapted for large area continuous spreading, for example on a vehicle-mounted road gritter, and is not adapted for small scale spreading as in the present aim of the invention.

US20070034710 discloses a portable, user shoulder supported spreader/blower unit includes an ergonomically Gonfigured housing which includes a section defining a storage bin for holding a quantity of salt or like chemical particulate material for spreading onto ground surfaces to prevent icing thereon in winter. A centrifugal distributor disk is located in a housing space section below the bin and, a bin discharge aperture aligns over a peripheral area of the distributor disk. A user controllable closure member selectively alters bin discharge aperture size and, hence, outflow quantity from the bin onto the distributor disk, the distributor disk rotating at high speed propelling particulate material out of the housing through a discharge nozzle thereon at a high speed. e.g., 60 m/sec when the unit is user in a spreader mode. To further enhance carry of the particulate material from the housing, a fan impeller mounted in the housing in the common space wherein the distributor disk operates, is rotated at high speed to produce air flow supplementing energy imparted to the particulate material. When the unit is used in a blower mode such as in a leaf collection operation, high pressure air from an outside source can be introduced into the unit so the airstream discharge from the unit is optimized to that required for leaf blowing. te a * t, * a.

*:-* 30 This device is an example of the directional spreader technology of the prior art, being hand-held or hand-directed and distributing de-icing material in one direction through a nozzle, so is not adapted to achieve coverage of an area automatically. a.... * a

0E202010006786 provides a portable electrical spreading equipment with a ::.:: 35 container for the grit anda lower opening and a spreading means, which of an * * electric motor with accumulator one propels, and with a handle, characterized in that to the control the grit quantity of the handle by means of a governor the number of revolutions of a star wheel is adjustable, which between the opening of the grit container and the throw wheel is arranged, that the star wheel the strewing means cut up, that to loading the accumulator that solar panel is inserted, that a lift-up lid with strewing central rope of the lower opening this makes possible to make free and that the standing feet to it help to turn the electrical spreading equipment off freely.

This device is a hand-movable floor-standing spreading device that spreads de-icer material in all directions, again not adapted for automatic and autonomous use.

Summary of the Invention

According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a de-icing device adapted for stationary automatic operation which comprises means to spread de- 1 5 icing material stored within the device in response to instructions from a control means and in response to temperature data. In preferred embodiments the device comprises means to control an angle over which the material is spread, and in some embodiments the de-icing material may be stored in containers within the device and the containers are openable by the device when needed. No apparatus exists in the prior art that is adapted to spread a de-icing agent in a controllable area.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a de-icing material spreading device comprising: a housing providing one or more apertures; a storage container arranged to receive de-icing material; a rotary spreader adapted to spread the de-icing material across a surface, in which the spreader comprises a motor driven spreader wheel arranged in use to be located adjacent to one or more apertures of the housing to allow passage of the de-icing material from the one or more apertures of the housing towards the surface; a funnel adapted to provide a flow path for the de-icing material from the storage * container onto the spreader wheel; a control means comprising a motor controller, a temperature sensor and a memory means; and an adjustable deflector means adapted to control the direction over which the de- 35 icing material is spread in use. S. . * S.

Preferably the storage container is housed within the housing. Preferably, the storage container is in communication with the housing such that in use the de-icing material may flow from the storage container through the at least one apertures of the housing.

In a preferred embodiment the deflector means is adjustable when the device is in-situ to change the direction and distance over which the de-icing material is spread.

In a preferred embodiment the deflector means is adjustable to change the distance over which the de-icing material is spread.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a de-icing material spreading device comprising: a housing providing one or more apertures; a storage container arranged to receive de-icing material, in which the container comprises an openable area at a first end of the container, and in which the container is arranged to be removably engaged with the housing; a container opening means arranged in use to open said openable area of the container; a rotary spreader adapted to spread the de-icing material across a surface, in which the spreader comprises a motor driven spreader wheel arranged in use to be located adjacent the one or more apertures of the housing to allow passage of the de-icing material from the one or more apertures of the housing towards the surface; a funnel adapted to provide a flow path for the de-icing material from the storage container onto the spreader wheel; and a control means adapted to control the spreader motor and the container opening means, a temperature sensor and a memory means.

It is envisaged that in some embodiments the apertures may include nozzles so as to control the direction in which the de-icing material is spread. In some embodiments the nozzles may oscillate so as to ensure optimal distribution of dc-icing materials.

**....

Said nozzles are ideally arranged to dispense material in a variety of directions, and may include facility to alter direction in use, or under user guidance.

S

*S.... * *

The housing may be arranged to receive at least a portion of the storage container, : 35 for example the whole of the storage container. The housing may be arranged to removably engage at least a portion of the storage container. At least a portion, for example all of the storage container may be insertable into the housing, for example into a chamber provided by the housing.

The device may act in use to detect and/or monitor the external temperature and to spread de-icing material automatically in response to chosen conditions, for example when the temperature falls below a pre-determined minimum temperature that may be chosen by a user. The spreader in response to detecting a temperature below a pre-determined minimum temperature may then spread de-icing material in a set of directions and in some embodiments, within a set distance from the device. The user may be able to set the direction of spread and in some embodiments the distance using the deflector means. The control means is preferably programmable by a user to set the de-icing temperature, for example the pre-determined minimum temperature below which the device is activated. Preferably the control means comprises a clock that may also function as a timer. In a preferred mode of action the control means may be programmable so as to operate the spreader for a certain time in order to spread the desired amount of de-icing material. In a preferred mode of action the device may be programmable so as to spread the de-icing material at pre-programmed times of day, for example when people are less likely to be close to the device, or when it is expected that ice may form, for example late at night and early in the morning. Preferably programme information is stored in memory means forming part of the control means.

In this way the device provides an automatic and autonomous de-icing action, over an area and at times programmable by a user. An example of the application is beside a walkway -the device may be arranged to be situated adjacent or near to one side of the walkway. A user may want the device only to spread to the side facing the walkway, and only over a distance such that the walkway would be covered to an acceptable length without too much of the de-icing material *". : overshooting the opposite side. *

*..... * *

In preferred embodiments the housing is a floor standing housing, adapted to contain and support the components of the device and a supply of de-icing material. * .

In preferred embodiments the deflector means comprises one or more deflector :. 35 plates adjustable by a user. Preferably the deflector means is usable to control the angle over which the de-icing material is spread. Preferably the user may select one or more sectors of a circle around the device within which the material is spread and material is not spread into other sectors. Preferably the deflector means is usable to control the height above the ground and/or the angle with respect to the ground at which the material is spread, so controlling the distance over which it is spread within those sectors. For example, material spread from the device at a greater height and/ar angle will be spread further.

In a preferred embodiment the deflector means comprises one or more deflector plates mounted on the housing. The deflector plates may be movable with respect to the housing so that the plates cover part of the one or more apertures provided by the housing through which the de-icing material is arranged in use to pass. In this way, certain portions of the one or more apertures of the housing are blocked and material cannot be spread in the corresponding direction. In a preferred embodiment the one or more deflector plates are slidably mounted on the housing. In a preferred embodiment the housing is substantially cylindrical and the deflector plate has a curved profile. In preferred embodiments a deflector plate is mounted concentrically on the housing and is adapted to rotate around the circumference of the housing in order to cover a portion of an aperture. In preferred embodiments the device is adapted such that the deflector plate can be moved vertically so as to cover or uncover a portion of the housing aperture. Preferably a number of deflector plates are provided, each being moveable to cover a portion of an aperture, so providing a pattern of open apertures to control the direction of spreading of the material.

In a preferred embodiment a deflector plate comprises an aperture that may be aligned with an aperture provided by the housing to provide a flow path for the de-icing material.

In a preferred embodiment a deflector plate comprises a deflection portion of the plate that is at an angle to a radius of the spreader wheel. De-icing material ejected : 30 in the direction of the deflection portion will be deflected and hence a sector of the area of coverage will be left free of material. * .

In a preferred embodiment a deflector plate may be positioned at an intermediate height between fully closing an aperture and fully opening it, so causing de-icing 35 material that is ejected from the spreader wheel at an angle above horizontal, which would otherwise travel a longer distance, to be blocked. In one embodiment a deflector plate comprises a deflection portion of the plate that is parallel to the plane of the spreader wheel or at an angle to the horizontal. Preferably the deflector plate is movable vertically in order to position the deflector portion at a chosen height relative to the spreader wheel. In this way material travelling at a higher angle will hit the deflector portion and be deflected towards the ground. Hence vertical positioning of the deflector means allows the distribution range of the material to b! controlled.

In a preferred embodiment the device comprises a cylindrical housing, the spreader wheel being located adjacent the base of the housing, with apertures in the housing around the circumference aligned with the spreader wheel. The deflector plates are curved to fit the circumference and are positionable circumferentially on the housing so as to open or close a portion of the apertures. In a preferred embodiment the deflector plates are also positionable vertically so as to move them partially or completely out of the path of the de-icing material. In particular, means is provided to locate the deflector plates at a position above the apertures in order to give 360 degree unimpeded spread.

In a preferred embodiment the device is adapted for use with de-icing material provided in a container insertable into the device and further comprises container opening means controllable by the control means.

In this way, a user may load the device with a closed container of de-icing material, and the container opening means of the device may in use open the container only when de-icing material is needed. This has the advantage that the user does not need to handle loose de-icing material, which may be moisture sensitive, abrasive and corrosive, and when loaded into the device, the de-icing material is sealed from atmospheric moisture by the container, so remaining loose and free-flowing, so the device does not suffer from problems with corrosion, clogging and need for

maintenance of devices of the prior art.

In a preferred embodiment the container opening means comprises a sharp or :" pointed opening tool and a tool actuator adapted to bring the tool into contact with the container and to rip open an openable portion of the container. In an altemative * . embodiment, the container opening means comprises a movable container holder,

S

: 35 movable within the housing to bring the container into contact with an stationary opener, so causing it to be opened. In an alternative embodiment, the container comprises an opening sealed by a pull-tab and the container opening means comprises means to pull the tab. A plurality of containers may be in use at the same time or be available or refillable from retail outlets with different grades or varieties of material, wherein material can be made available for specified circumstances.

In a preferred embodiment the device is adapted to hold a plurality of containers and the container opening means is adapted to open a particular container when the contents are needed. In a preferred embodiment the device comprises a container holder in the form of a carousel having a plurality of positions each adapted to hold a container, and movable to bring the container to be used into position to be opened and for the contents to fall into a funnel leading to the spreader. For example, in a preferred embodiment the carousel rotates and brings each container in turn into contact with a sharp tool that rips the base of the container. Container contents then fall into the funnel. In a further embodiment wherein the containers are openable with a pull tab, the carousel may move to bring a cartridge into range of the tab pulling means.

In a further preferred embodiment the container holder may comprise multiple positions but does not move, the container opening means comprising a movable tool that is adapted to open a container in the holder, such as an actuated sharp tool or tab-pulling means. In some embodiments the container opening means is adapted to open each container in a sequence in which they are stored in the container holder. In other embodiments the container opening means may be adapted to open a specific container within the holder. In some embodiments more than one type of material may be stored and spread, and the device may act to select a container having the appropriate type. For example, salt and grit may be provided in separate containers, the device selecting which type to open and spread.

*. The spreader means is preferably in use a horizontal spreader wheel with a vertical 30 axis of rotation in use, preferably with projections or blades on its upper surface to give an impulse to de-icing material falling onto the surface. The blades may be *:** radial or curved outwards. The spreader wheel may comprise a single horizontal wheel or a pair of wheels having blades between them, the upper wheel having an * * axially aligned aperture providing a flow path through which de-icing material may be 35 introduced between the wheels. ** . * 0

In some embodiments the device may further comprise a blower acting to reinforce the spreading action. In one embodiment the blower is positioned to cause air flow down the funnel and so, entraining the de-icing material onto the spreader wheel and assisting in projecting the material outwards from the wheel.

The spreader means is preferably driven by a motor controlled by the control means.

The motor may have a variable speed controllable by the control means to control the distance of spread, in response to a user setting for the distance.

The control means preferably comprises user control means to set the operation of the device, a memory to store user instructions and indicator means to show its status and settings. Preferably the indicator means comprise an empty indicator, to show when the device contains no more de-icing agent or in the case of multiple containers, that all containers have been used. The control means in some embodiments may comprise remote control means, for example by LAN an internet, by RF or infrared means, using a handheld controller, or using mobile phone communications from a smartphone app, for example.

The device is preferably powered by a power source comprising batteries allowing the device to operate autonomously without a mains power connection.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for de-icing an area comprising the use of a de-icing material spreading device substantially as described herein.

Additional steps of the method may include one or more of the following: The storage container of the device may be filled with de-icing material. The deflector means may be set to provide one or both of a chosen direction and distance of spread of the de-icing material. The control means may be activated to control the rotary spreader in response to a temperature sensor. *

The device may be adapted to receive a container containing de-icing material. The container may be placed within the device. The control means may be activated to open the container and to control the rotary spreader in response to a temperature * . * ** 35 sensor. ** * * * * *

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, fatling within the scope of the invention.

Brief DescriDtion of Figures Figure 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a device according to the invention Figure 2 shows a first side view of the embodiment in figure 1 Figure 3 shows a rear view of the embodiment in figure 1 Figure 4 shows a second side view of the embodiment in figure 1 Figure 5 shows a bottom view of the embodiment in figure 1 Figure 6 shows a top view of the embodiment in figure 1 Figure 7 shows an isometric external view of the embodiment in figure 1 Figure 8 shows an isometric view of the internal components of the embodiment in figure 1 : Figure 9 shows an isometric cut-away view of the components shown in figureS * *.,..: 30 Figure 10 shows a side view of the internal components of the embodiment in figure * * *.,.. *

Detailed Description of Figures *

35 With reference to Figure 1, the device comprises a substantially cylindrical housing.

The device stores de-icing agent in the upper part of the housing and the spreader wheel 11 is visible at the base of the device through apertures 1 in the housing. The apertures at the front of the housing are shown as open, so in use allowing de-icing material to be spread forwards from the device. The housing has a broad circular base 2. sloping outwards from the device to give stability. The height of the spreader wheel 11 above ground is chosen according to the embodiment to give optimum distance of spread. The housing comprises a lid 3 and is preferably water-resistant.

An empty' indicator 4 is shown at the top of the housing, below the lid 3.

With reference to Figure 2, at the base 2 of the device a deflector plate 5 is seen forming part of the deflector means, in position covering a portion of the aperture 1, in the configuration shown in figure 2 so as to prevent spreading to the rear of the device and limit it at the sides. It will be seen in Figure 2 that the deflector plate 5 may be slid around the circumference of the housing so as to vary the portion of the aperture 1 that is covered, and the embodiment preferably comprises sliding rail means to facilitate this. Visible in figure 2 is a slot 6 in the housing leading upwards from the upper side of the aperture 1 towards the front of the housing (the right-hand side in Figure 2). The device is adapted to allow the deflector plate 5 to be moved upwards and to be held in place in the upwards position, so allowing the device to spread substantially throughout 360 degrees. The slot 6 accommodates a handle 7 on the deflector plate 5.

With reference to Figure 3, the device preferably comprises more than one deflector plate 5, and in this embodiment at least two. The first (on the right hand side in figure 3) and second deflector plates 5 are seen side by side covering the aperture at the rear, so directing spreading only to the front.

With reference to Figure 4, the second deflector plate 5 is shown in place covering the aperture 1 to the side. Again a slot 6 to receive the deflector plate handle 7 is shown, and a lock means B to close the housing lid 3 is shown.

*... 30 * With reference to Figure 5, from the outside radially inwards are shown the outer base 9, angled support members 10 to support the structure of the device on the base, the spreader wheel 11 and axle 12 and de-icing medium 13 being thrown from -* the wheel in use. With reference to Figure 7, the apertures 1 in the housing are * 35 shown and support struts 14 are shown to be located between the apertures 1. It is apparent from figure 7 how the deflector plates 5 may be moved around the circumference to control the direction(s) of spreading.

With reference to Figure 8, this embodiment is adapted to hold a number of containers, here shown as eight, in a carousel 15 and to open them one by one as they are needed. The containers are substantially cylindrical and are openable at their base by pulling a tab, The container opening means comprises a carousel container holder adapted to hold the containers in cylindrical recesses 16 in a circular pattern and to rotate about an axis, driven by a motor under control of the control means. The recesses 16 open at both ends, allowing the bottom end of the container to be accessed by the opening tool 17 pulling a tab. The containers preferably comprise retaining means to hold them in the recesses 16. For example, containers might have a broad rim at their upper end to rest on the upper surface of the carousel 15. In an alternative embodiment the recesses 16 might comprise a narrowing to retain the container, the container being shaped so that its lower end protrudes through the narrowing.

Parts visible from the top down are: The control means 18, housed in a control box within the upper part of the housing The carousel 15 having eight recesses 16 A de-icing material container, here in the form of a cylindrical cartridge 19, is shown in place in the right hand recess and extended down from it, with the container opening tool 17 shown in place to open it.

The container opening tool 17 here comprises a tab pulling means actuated by a motor or solenoid that pulls the opening tab on the cartridge 19 when required. The contents of the cartridge 19 then empty into the funnel 20.

The carousel 15 is adapted to rotate on runners, not visible in figure 8.

The funnel 20 leads to the spreader wheel 11 visible at the base of the funnel 20.

The spreader wheel 11 here comprises an upper and a lower circular plate member, 30 the upper member having an axial aperture 21 through which the de-icing material enters the wheel 11 from the funnel 20. In this embodiment the funnel 20 has an annular lower cross-section 22, the motor that drives the spreader wheel being located axially within the annulus 22 as will be seen in later figures. In other embodiments the motor may be located outside the funnel 20. S. * * *. S * * * S.

Around the spreader wheel 11 is a set of apertures 1 through which the de-icing material passes, with the deflector plates 5 shown mounted on a frame and moveable to cover selected portions of the apertures 1 With reference to Figure 9, the housing is shown comprising an internal frame, for example from sheet metal, having a plastic covering outside it. The components are supported on the internal frame. A cut-away view is shown of the de-icing material container and recesses in the carousel 15, and the funnel 20 having an annular structure, and an annular feed aperture 23 into the spreader wheel 11. The motor driving the spreader wheel 11 is not shown. Behind the funnel 20 is a power supply 24 comprising a battery.

As visible in figure 9, the main body of the product is made from two skins. The interior is made of sheet metal which acts as the frame for the wires and components to feed through. The exterior is a plastic mould that slots over the unit and clips into place around the edges. The lid 3 of the unit is lockable and can be completely detached from the main body. As well as the lock the lid 3 could also be secured through lips slotting over one another around the neck of the product. The user could then unlock the lid 3, rotate and lift, making it a more secure process.

A gap 25 between the exterior casing and interior frame allows wires to fit through along with a channel running down the product, This channel levels out at 2 points allowing wires to run to the motors and battery. Once the lid 3 has been opened the carousel 15 and control box housing the control means 18 are exposed. The carousel 15 runs on a set of bearings located on the interior framework, supported through 7 brackets. The carousel 15 is powered by a motor that derives power from the main battery; the two motors will be operating at separate times. As the carousel turns each cartridge 19 will have a tab located concentrically above the sprung solenoid. The sprung solenoid has a disc shape at one end of the shaft ensuring it * *.**s * 30 catches' the tab. The tab is torn and the de-icing material falls down into the funnel 20.

The control box is underneath the lid of the unit, weatherproof, has an onloff switöh, an activate now switch and settings for adjusting time and temperature parameters.

*". 35 The temperature sensor is preferably located at the top of the product, protruding from the control box. In alternative embodiments, the temperature sensor may be located remotely from the device, and may communicate a temperature reading or an active' signal, for example by RF -Bluetooth (Trade Mark) or SMS, or by LAN connection. The out of grit indicator could be shown on the control box or on the exterior of the product. The control box should also have a turn now button, allowing the user to manually refill the carousel.

The battery is preferably an 18 volt battery and is located at the second level. This is fixed into place with brackets. The battery is preferably accessible for charging. This can be made accessible to the user via the side of the unit or have a charging point somewhere on the unit, e.g. the control box.

In an alternative embodiment the motor may be housed outside the funnel 20 and positioned offset from the axis, with its motion transferred through a mini belt or a cog and gear. In an alternative embodiment the motor is positioned concentrically aligned with the spreading disk 11 with the funnel 20 offset from concentric.

Figure 9 shows how the deflector plates 5 will slot up into the unit. Once the two plates 5 are located correctly, vertical channels allow them to move up into frame, then rotate to sit in their secondary position. The main body of each deflector plate slots up into the gap allowed between the interior framework and exterior casing.

Cut-aways in the exterior casing make space for the handles 7. Each deflector plate has 3 runners on the inside allowing them to run around cylindrical channels in the metal base. Each plate 5 can rotate independently from one another. The deflector plates 5 cannot be moved up unless the 3 vertical channels are vertically aligned with the 3 runners located on the inside of each deflector plate 5. Lips on the bottom of each plate 5 give the user a sufficient amount of purchase to move them up. The base 2 has a metal framework with a plastic casing fixed over the exterior similar to the main body.

In use, a user will fill the carousel 15 with cartridges 19 and set the control means.

Preferably the control means parameters to be set by the user include the set temperature to begin spreading -this may be a default setting of say, zero degrees C in some embodiments -and the times between which the device should begin spreading. The user may then set the deflector plates 5 to give the correct directions *". 35 of spreading. In some embodiments the deflector plates 5 may comprise a vertical * setting to control the distance of throw. In preferred embodiments the control means comprises means to control the spreader wheel 11 motor speed in order to control the distance of spreading and may comprise a user-settable distance input parameter. The operator then closes the lid 3, and the device (once batteries are charged) may be left to operate autonomously until all the cartridges 19 have been used. When the set time is reached and if the temperature drops below the set temperature, the control means activates the motor, spins the spreader wheel 11 up to speed and then opens the cartridge 19. This sequence of operation is preferable to prevent build-up of de-icing material in the funnel 20.

The control means may comprise communication means to allow remote control of the device, to report status, for example in operation, spreading' and the number of cartridges 19 remaining. S. S * S* *

S * * S * * S

S * S S. * S * S 55 S. S S * S * S'

Claims

Claims 1. A de-icing material spreading device comprising: a housing providing one or more apertures; a storage container arranged to receive de-icing material; a rotary spreader adapted to spread the de-icing material across a surface, in which the spreader comprises a motor driven spreader wheel arranged in use to be located adjacent the one or more apertures provided by the housing to allow passage of the de-icing material from the one or more apertures of the housing towards the surface; a funnel adapted to provide a flow path for the de-icing material from the storage container onto the spreader wheel; a control means comprising a motor controller, a temperature sensor and a memory means; and an adjustable deflector means adapted to control the direction over which the de-icing material is spread in use.
2. A tie-icing material spreading device comprising: a housing providing one or more apertures; a storage container arranged to receive de-icing material, in which the container comprises an openable area at a first end of the container, and in which the container is arranged to be removably engaged within the housing; a container opening means arranged in use to open said openable area of the container; a rotary spreader adapted to spread the de-icing material across a surface, in which the spreader comprises a motor driven spreader wheel arranged in use to be located adjacent the one or more apertures provided by the housing to allow passage of the de-icing material from the housing towards the surface; * 30 a funnel adapted to provide a flow path for the de-icing material from the * :.: storage container onto the spreader wheel; and a control means adapted to control the spreader motor and the container * opening means, a temperature sensor and a memory means. *. . * . * * *.
3. A device as claimed in claim I wherein the deflector means is adjustable to control the distance over which the de-icing material is spread.
4. A device as claimed in any claim above wherein the device is adapted to spread de-icing material automatically in response to temperature information and time of day.
5. A device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the deflector means comprises one or more deflector plates adjustable by a user to cover part of the housing aperture through which the material passes in use.
6. A device as claimed in claim 5 wherein a deflector plate can be moved vertically so as to cover or uncover a portion of the housing aperture.
7. A device as claimed in claim 5 wherein a deflector plate is mounted concentrically on the housing and is adapted to rotate around the circumference of the housing in order to cover a portion of an aperture.
8. A device as claimed in any claim above wherein the device is adapted to hold a plurality of containers and comprises a container opening means adapted to open a container when the contents are needed.
9. A device as claimed in claim 8 wherein the device comprises a container holder in the form of a carousel having a plurality of positions each adapted to hold a container and movable to bring the container to be used into position to be opened.
10. A method for de-icing an area comprising the steps of providing a de-icing material spreading device as claimed in any preceding claim.

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11. A method as claimed in claim 10, further comprising one or more of the following steps: Filling de-icing material into the storage container; Setting the deflector means to provide one or both of a chosen direction and : 35 distance of spread of the de-icing material; and/or Activating the control means to control the rotary spreader in response to a temperature sensor.
12. A method as claimed in either of claims 10 or 11, further comprising one or more of the following steps: Placing a container containing de-icing material within the device; and/or Activating the control means to open the container and to control the rotary spreader in response to a temperature sensor.
13.A container for a method according to claims 10, 11 or 12, or for use in a device according to any of claims ito 9. * . . * S. *S..... * . * . *S S. * . a* * * * . * .. ** S * * . *5Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows Claims 1. A de-icing material spreading device comprising: a storage container arranged to receive de-icing material wherein the device is adapted to hold a plurality of containers and comprises a container opening means adapted to open a container when the contents are needed; a housing providing one or more apertures through which de-icing material passes; a funnel provides a flow path for the de-icing material from the storage container onto a spreader wheel; the spreader wheel is driven by a motor and is located adjacent the one or more apertures so as to spread the de-icing material across a surface;C ****.the control means receives inputs from a temperature sensor and a memory.2. A de-icing material spreading device according to claim I having an adjustable cc: deflector means adapted to control the direction over which the de-icing material is *r": spread in use.3. A de-icing material spreading device according to claim 1 wherein the containers comprise an openable area at a first end of the container, and in which the container is arranged to be removably engaged within the housing.4. A de-icing material spreading device according to claim I or 2 wherein container opening means are provided to open said openable area of the container.5. A de-icing material spreading device according to claim 3 wherein the control means is adapted to control the spreader motor and the container opening means.; 6. A de-icing material spreading device according to any preceding claim wherein the deflector means is adjustable to control the distance over which the de-icing material * is spread.7. A de-icing material spreading device according to any preceding claim wherein the device is adapted to spread de-icing material automatically in response to temperature information and time of day.8. A de-icing material spreading device according to any preceding claim wherein the deflector means comprises one or more deflector plates adjustable by a user to cover at least part of the one or more apertures through which the material passes in use.9. A device as claimed in claim 7 wherein a deflector plate can be moved vertically so as to cover or uncover a portion of the one or more apertures.10. A device as claimed in claim 7 wherein a deflector plate is mounted concentrically on the housing and is adapted to rotate around the circumference of the housing in order to cover a portion of the one or more apertures.11. A device according to any preceding claim wherein the device comprises a container holder in the form of a carousel having a plurality of positions each adapted to hold a container and movable to bring the container to be used into position to be opened.12. A method for de-icing an area comprising the steps of providing a de-icing matérial spreading device as claimed in any preceding claim and operating the device to * : * spread de-icing material over an area.13. A method as claimed in claim 11, further comprising one or more of the following steps: Filling de-icing material into the storage container; Setting the deflector means to provide one or both of a chosen direction and distance of spread of the de-icing material; and/or Activating the control means to control the rotary spreader in response to a temperature sensor.
14. A method as claimed in either of claims 11 or 12, further comprising one or more of the following steps: Placing a container containing de-icing material within the device; and/or Activating the control means to open the container and to control the rotary spreader in response to a temperature sensor.
15. A de-icing material spreading device according to claims 1-10 as substantially herein described with reference to the figures. * * 4s.* * S * . * .* * . S * *5 *S..... S *