AU2020294172B2

AU2020294172B2 - Ice maker

Info

Publication number: AU2020294172B2
Application number: AU2020294172A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Takashi Ito; Mariko Matsumoto; Daiji SAWADA; Maiko SHIBATA
Original assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corp
Current assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corp
Priority date: 2017-04-19
Filing date: 2020-12-21
Publication date: 2022-03-17
Anticipated expiration: 2037-04-19
Also published as: AU2017409899A1; WO2018193563A1; CN110494704A; AU2017409899B2; AU2020294172A1; CN110494704B; JPWO2018193563A1; TW201839335A; TWI651503B; JP6729799B2

Abstract

An ice maker includes an ice tray (19), a cooler configured to cool water in the ice tray (19), and a heater configured to heat ice in the ice tray (19). Afirsticemaking mode has a first cooling process by the cooler. In the first cooling process, water in the ice tray (19) is cooled ata first cooling rate. A second ice making mode has a second cooling process by the cooler and a heating process by the heater after the second cooling process. In the second cooling process, water in the ice tray (19) is cooled at a second cooling rate. The second cooling rate is higher than the first cooling rate. 7/14 Fig. 9 F2 S114 S115 S116 Ti t<-1 3°C? No Yes S117 S122 S118 S123 S119 S124 S120 NoYes --/ 125 Yes S121 S126 S127 S114 START SECOND ICE MAKING MODE S115 BLOWER ROTATIONAL SPEED f_Max es S117 BLOWER ROTATIONAL SPEED f_n S118 HEATER OUTPUT W_Max S119 START TO COUNT TIME th1 S120 SECOND SET TIME ELAPSED? S129 S121 STOP HEATER S122 REVERSE ROTATION OF ICE TRAY Yes S123 START TO COUNT TIME trl S124 FIRST SET TIME ELAPSED? No S125 NORMAL ROTATION OF ICE TRAY S126 START TO COUNT TIME tr2 Fl S127 FIRST SET TIME ELAPSED? S128 STOP ICE TRAY S129 FULL?

Description

7/14 Fig. 9 F2 S114

S115

S116

Ti t<-1 3°C? No

Yes S117 S122

S118 S123

S119 S124

S120 NoYes / 125 --

Yes S121 S126

S127

S114 START SECOND ICE MAKING MODE S115 BLOWER ROTATIONAL SPEED f_Max es S117 BLOWER ROTATIONAL SPEED f_n S118 HEATER OUTPUT W_Max S119 START TO COUNT TIME th1 S120 SECOND SET TIME ELAPSED? S129 S121 STOP HEATER S122 REVERSE ROTATION OF ICE TRAY Yes S123 START TO COUNT TIME trl S124 FIRST SET TIME ELAPSED? No S125 NORMAL ROTATION OF ICE TRAY S126 START TO COUNT TIME tr2 Fl S127 FIRST SET TIME ELAPSED? S128 STOP ICE TRAY S129 FULL?

DESCRIPTION TITLE: ICE MAKER FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an ice maker for making ice.

[0001A] CROSS-REFERENCE This application is a divisional application of Australian Patent Application No. 2017409899 which is a national phase application from International Application No. PCT/JP2017/015782 filed on 19 April 2017. The full disclosures of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] PTL 1 discloses an ice maker provided in a refrigerator. The ice maker disclosed in PTL 1 includes a first ice tray and a second ice tray, for example. Ice of a first shape can be made by using the first ice tray. Ice of a second shape which is different from the first shape can be made by using the second ice tray. Citation List Patent Literature

[0003]

[PTL 1] JP 3781767 B

[0004] In the ice maker disclosed in PTL 1, for example, ice of the second shape cannot be made by using the first ice tray. Likewise, ice of the first shape cannot be made by using the second ice tray. Accordingly, there has been a problem that, in the ice maker disclosed in PTL 1, two or more ice trays are needed to make ice having different shapes.

[0005] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each of the appended claims.

[0005A] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

Summary

[0006] An ice maker according to the present disclosure comprises an ice tray, a cooler configured to cool water in the ice tray, and a heater configured to heat ice in the ice tray. A first ice making mode has a first cooling process by the cooler. Water in the ice tray is cooled at a first cooling rate in thefirst cooling process. A second ice making mode has a second cooling process by the cooler and a heating process by the heater after the second cooling process. Water in the ice tray is cooled at a second cooling rate in the second cooling process. The second cooling rate is higher than the first cooling rate.

[0007] Also, an ice maker according to the present disclosure is capable of making ice in each of a first ice making mode and a second ice making mode, crushed ice being made in the second ice making mode. The ice maker comprises an ice tray, a cooler configured to cool water in the ice tray, a heater configured to heat ice in the ice tray, and a motor configured to generate a force to elastically deform the ice tray. The first ice making mode has a first cooling process by the cooler and a heating process by the heater after the first cooling process. Water in the ice tray is cooled at a first cooling rate in the first cooling process. The second ice making mode has a second cooling process by the cooler and a deforming process by the motor after the second cooling process. Water in the ice tray is cooled at a second cooling rate in the second cooling process. The second cooling rate is higher than the first cooling rate. Ice in the ice tray is crushed in the deforming process.

[0008] An ice maker according to an embodiment disclosed herein includes, for example, an ice tray, a cooler, and a heater. A first ice making mode has a first cooling process by the cooler. In the first cooling process, water in the ice tray is cooled at a first cooling rate. A second ice making mode has a second cooling process by the cooler and a heating process by the heater after the second cooling process. In the second cooling process, water in the ice tray is cooled at a second cooling rate. The second cooling rate is higher than the first cooling rate. With the ice maker according to this embodiment, ice having different shapes can be made using the same ice tray.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION of DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a refrigerator having an ice maker. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an electrical connection of devices included in the refrigerator. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an ice compartment. Figure 4 is a diagram showing a cross section taken along a line A-A of Fig. 3. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an example of an ice tray. Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a moving mechanism of the ice tray. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an example of a case. Figure 8 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the ice maker according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a diagram showing change in length to temperature of ice and change in length to temperature of air enclosed in the ice. Figure 11 is a diagram showing a ratio of change in length of the air to change in length of the ice. Figure 12 is a flow chart showing another operation example of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a flow chart showing another operation example of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 is a timing diagram when a second ice making mode shown in Fig. 13 and a first ice making mode shown in Fig. 12 are alternately executed. Figure 15 is a diagram showing shear adhesion strength between ice and stainless steel.

Figure 16 is a diagram showing shear adhesion strength between ice and polystyrene. Figure 17 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the ice maker according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the ice maker according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION of EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The present invention will be described with reference to attached drawings. Redundant descriptions will be appropriately simplified or omitted. In each drawing, the same reference numeral indicates the same or corresponding portion.

[0011] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a refrigerator 1 having an ice maker. The refrigerator 1 includes a main body 2, for example. The main body 2 has, for example, a main refrigerator compartment 3, an ice compartment 4, a freezer compartment 5 and a vegetable compartment 6. Frozen foods and the like are housed in the freezer compartment 5. Vegetables and plastic bottles etc. are housed in the vegetable compartment 6. The main body 2 may have a switching compartment. The switching compartment is a compartment which can change a set temperature. For example, the switching compartment is located adjacent to the ice compartment 4. Each compartment in the main body 2 is divided by insulation members. As the insulation members, for example, urethane foam or a vacuum insulator can be used.

[0012] The refrigerator 1 further includes a refrigeration cycle, for example. The refrigeration cycle includes, for example, a compressor 7, a condenser (not shown), an expander (not shown) and an evaporator 8. The refrigeration cycle further includes piping allowing passage of refrigerant.

[0013]

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an electrical connection of devices included in the refrigerator 1. The refrigerator 1 further includes, for example, temperature sensors 9a to 9e, an operation panel 10, a blower 11, a motor 12, a damper 13 and a controller 14.

[0014] A temperature of each compartment included in the main body 2 is detected by the temperature sensors 9a to 9e. For example, the temperature of the main refrigerator compartment 3 is detected by the temperature sensor 9a. The temperature of the ice compartment 4 is detected by the temperature sensor 9b. The temperature of the freezer compartment 5 is detected by the temperature sensor 9c. The temperature of the vegetable compartment 6 is detected by the temperature sensor 9d. The temperature of the switching compartment is detected by the temperature sensor 9e. Information of the temperatures detected by the temperature sensors 9a to 9e is input into the controller 14. Each of the temperature sensors 9a to 9e, for example, includes a thermistor for temperature detection.

[0015] The operation panel 10 is provided at a front surface of a door 2a of the main refrigerator compartment 3, for example. The door 2a is a part of the main body 2. The operation panel 10 may include a device for information input by a user. Auser inputs information for changing a set temperature of each compartment from the operation panel 10. Information that a user input from the operation panel 10 is input into the controller 14. The operation panel 10 may include a display. Astatusofeach compartment included in the main body 2 is displayed on the display. For example, the temperature of each compartment is displayed on the display. These functions of the operation panel 10 maybe included by an external device. For example, a smartphone of a user may include the input function and display function. In such a case, the controller 14 transmits and receives information with the smartphone of the user.

[0016] The blower 11 generates airflow for sending air cooled by the evaporator 8 to each compartment. An inlet leading to a feeding duct is formed at a wall surface of each compartment. Since the blower 11 is driven, the air cooled by the evaporator 8 passes through the feeding duct and is sent to each compartment. Also, an outlet leading to a return duct is formed at the wall surface of each compartment. Air in each compartment is flowed from the outlet to the return duct. The air which cooled stored items in each compartment passes through the return duct and returns to a space where the evaporator 8 is located. The air which returned to the space is cooled by passing through the evaporator 8.

[0017] The motor 12 drives the damper 13. The damper 13 is located various positions of a flow path. For example, the damper 13 opens and closes the feeding duct. When the feeding duct leading to the main refrigerator compartment 3 is closed by the damper 13, no cold air is supplied to the main refrigerator compartment 3 even when the blower 11 is driven. If the feeding duct leading to the main refrigerator compartment 3 is not closed by the damper 13, cold air is supplied to the main refrigerator compartment 3 since the blower 11 is driven. The same is applied to other compartments. For example, when the feeding duct leading to the ice compartment 4 is closed by the damper 13, no cold air is supplied to the ice compartment 4 even when the blower 11 is driven. If the feeding duct leading to the ice compartment 4 is not closed by the damper 13, cold air is supplied to the ice compartment 4 since the blower 11 is driven.

[0018] The controller 14 controls each device included in the refrigerator 1. For example, the controller 14 controls the compressor 7, the blower 11 and the motor 12. The controller 14 controls each device on the basis of the information of the temperature detected by the temperature sensors 9a to 9e and the information input from the operation panel 10 etc. When the operation panel 10 has the display, the control of the display is executed by the controller 14.

[0019] The refrigerator 1 includes a function of making ice, that is, a function of an ice maker. Hereinafter, with also reference to Figs. 3 to 11, the function of the ice maker included in the refrigerator 1 will be described in detail. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the ice compartment 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a cross section taken along a line A-A of Fig. 3. The refrigerator 1 further includes a tank 15, a pipe 16, a motor 17, a pump 18, an ice tray 19, a support shaft 20a, a support shaft 20b, a frame 21, a motor 22, a stopper 23, a temperature sensor 24, a heater 25, a case 26, and a sensor 27, for example.

[0020] In the tank 15, water for making ice is stored. The tank 15 is located at the main refrigerator compartment 3, for example. The pipe 16 is connected to the tank 15. The pipe 16 penetrates through a portion dividing the main refrigerator compartment 3 and the ice compartment 4 in the main body 2. A lower end of the pipe 16 is open downward in the ice compartment 4. The lower end of the pipe 16 is positioned just above the ice tray 19.

[0021] The motor 17 drives the pump 18. The motor 17 is provided in the main body 2. The motor 17 is controlled by the controller 14. The pump 18 is provided in an inner portion of the tank 15. Since the pump 18 is driven, water stored in the tank 15 passes through the pipe 16 to be supplied to the ice tray 19.

[0022] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of the ice tray 19. Fig. 5 shows an example in which twelve dents 19a for making ice are formed on the ice tray 19. For example, a notch 19b is formed at a partition for forming each dent 19a. By forming the notch 19b, water can be evenly supplied to each dent 19a. The ice tray 19 is positioned at an upper portion of the ice compartment 4. In the ice tray 19, at least a portion to which water is poured is preferably made of metal. For example, the ice tray 19 is a shaped article made of stainless-steel. The ice tray 19 may be made of copper or aluminum. The ice tray 19 may be made of resin.

[0023] The support shaft 20a and the support shaft 20b are provided at the lateral sides of the ice tray 19 to protrude from the ice tray 19. The lateral side from which the support shaft 20a protrudes and the lateral side from which the support shaft 20b protrudes face the other direction mutually. The support shaft 20a and the support shaft 20b are arranged in a straight line. The frame 21 is fixed to a wall surface of the ice compartment 4. The support shaft 20a and the support shaft 20b are supported by the frame 21. That is, the ice tray 19 is supported by the frame 21 rotatably around the support shaft 20a and the support shaft 20b.

[0024]

The motor 22 rotates the ice tray 19. That is, since the motor 22 is driven, the ice tray 19 rotates around the support shaft 20a and the support shaft 20b. The motor 22 is controlled by the controller 14. The motor 22 is provided at the frame 21, for example. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the support shaft 20a is connected to the motor 22. A reduction gear may be provided between the motor 22 and the support shaft 20a. The support shaft 20b is held by the frame 21 rotatably.

[0025] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a moving mechanism of the ice tray 19. The stopper 23 is positioned between the frame 21 and the wall surface of the ice compartment 4. The stopper 23 includes a disk member 23a and a rod member 23b, for example. A through hole 23c is formed at a center portion of the disk member 23a. The support shaft 20b penetrates through the through hole 23c. The stopper 23 is rotatable around the support shaft 20b. The rod member 23b is provided at the disk member 23a. The rod member 23b protrudes from the disk member 23a. The rod member 23b is arranged in parallel with the support shaft 20b.

[0026] The support shaft 20b penetrates through a through hole 21a formed on the frame 21. Also, on the frame 21, along hole 21b is formed. Fig. 6 shows an example in which the long hole 21b is formed to be arcuate around the support shaft 20b. The stopper 23 is positioned such that the rod member 23b penetrates through the long hole 21b. That is, the long hole 21b is formed corresponding to a position where the rod member 23b is positioned when the stopper 23 rotates. Rotation of the stopper 23 is stopped since the rod member 23b touches an edge of the long hole 21b. Asdescribed above, the ice tray 19 is supported by the frame 21 rotatably. When the ice tray 19 rotates, an edge of the ice tray 19 touches the rod member 23b. The stopper 23 rotates pushed by the ice tray 19 until the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b. Rotation of the stopper 23 is stopped when the rod member 23b touches the edge of the longhole21b. When the rotation of the stopper 23 is stopped, displacement of the ice tray 19 is inhibited by the rod member 23b.

[0027] The temperature sensor 24 is a sensor for detecting the temperature of water or ice in the ice tray 19. The temperature sensor 24 is provided at the ice tray 19, for example.

Fig. 4 shows an example in which the temperature sensor 24 is positioned in a valley at the rear of the ice tray 19. For example, the temperature sensor 24 includes a thermistor for temperature detection attached to the rear of the ice tray 19. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the temperature sensor 24 is covered by a heat insulator 28. Information of the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 24 is input into the controller 14.

[0028] The heater 25 is an example of a heater for heating ice in the ice tray 19. The heater 25 is provided to the ice tray 19 to cover a portion to which water is poured of the ice tray 19 from the rear side, for example. Although the details are described later, the ice tray 19 is elastically deformed. Consequently, the heater 25 is preferably deformed in accordance with the deformation of the ice tray 19. The heater 25 may be, for example, a sheet heating element in which a heating wire is included in silicon rubber.

[0029] In the case 26, pieces of ice made by the ice tray 19 are stored. The case 26 is located at a lower portion of the ice compartment 4. The case 26 is located below the ice tray 19. Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the case 26. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the case 26 includes a partition 26a. A space in the case 26 is divided into a first space 26b and a second space 26c by the partition 26a. As described above, the ice tray 19 rotates around the support shaft 20a and the support shaft 20b. The first space 26b is a space for receiving pieces of ice dropping from the ice tray 19 when the ice tray 19 is rotated in one direction. For example, when the ice tray 19 is rotated in the B direction shown in Fig. 4, pieces of ice in the ice tray 19 are dropped in the first space 26b. The second space 26c is a space for receiving pieces of ice dropping from the ice tray 19 when the ice tray 19 is rotated in a direction which is opposite from the one direction. For example, when the ice tray 19 is rotated in the C direction shown in Fig. 4, pieces of ice in the ice tray 19 are dropped in the second space 26c. The partition 26a may be slidable to change the volume of the first space 26b and the volume of the second space 26c. The partition 26a may be attachable to/detachable from a main body portion of the case 26.

[0030] The sensor 27 detects that the case 26 is filled with ice. For example, the sensor 27 includes a lever located at an upper portion of the case 26. When a certain amount of ice is stored in the case 26, the lever is pressed by the ice. Since the lever is pressed, it is detected that the case 26 is filled with ice. When the sensor 27 detects that the case 26 is filled with ice, the sensor 27 outputs detection information to the controller 14.

[0031] In an example shown in this embodiment, the refrigeration cycle, the blower 11, the motor 12 and the damper 13 are an example of a cooler for cooing water in the ice tray 19. As described above, since the blower 11 is driven, air cooled by the evaporator 8 passes through the feeding duct and is sent to the ice compartment 4. At the wall surface of the ice compartment 4, an inlet 4a and an outlet 4b are formed. To the ice compartment 4, cold air is flowed from the inlet 4a. Fig. 3 shows an example in which the inlet 4a is formed at a position higher than the ice tray 19 of the wall surface on the deeper side of the ice compartment 4.

[0032] In the ice compartment 4, when the blower 11 is driven, airflow for cooling water in the ice tray 19 is generated. For example, air entering the ice compartment 4 from the inlet 4a passes through a portion above the ice tray 19, and then passes through a portion below the ice tray 19. Fig. 3 shows an example in which the outlet 4b is formed at a position lower than the ice tray 19 of the wall surface on the deeper side of the ice compartment 4. Air passing through the portion below the ice tray 19 enters the return duct from the outlet 4b. In the example shown in Figs. 3 and 4, water in the ice tray 19 starts to be frozen from its upper side. Consequently, if the temperature sensor 24 is provided at the rear of the ice tray 19, from the information of the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 24, it can be determined more correctly that the water in the ice tray 19 is frozen. Further, if the temperature sensor 24 is covered by the heat insulator 28, even if the airflow is generated, it is prevented that the cold air directly blows against the temperature sensor 24.

[0033] The refrigerator 1 shown in this embodiment includes a function of making ice in at least two modes. For example, the refrigerator 1 can make ice in the first ice making mode. The refrigerator 1 can make ice in the second ice making mode. Hereinafter, an example in which ice cubes are made in the first ice making mode will be explained, and an example in which crushed ice is made in the second ice making mode will be explained. The size of pieces of ice made in the second ice making mode is smaller than the size of pieces of ice made in the first ice making mode. Hereinafter, with also reference to Figs. 8 and 9, operations of making ice in the refrigerator 1 will be explained in detail.

[0034] Figs. 8 and 9 are a flow chart showing an operation example of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 8 and 9 show a series of operations.

[0035] The controller 14 drives the blower 11 at a rotational speed f n [rpm] (S101). In the example shown in this embodiment, the index n shows any given value. For example, the controller 14 controls the blower 11 on the basis of, for example, the information of temperature detected by the temperature sensors 9a to 9e. Consequently, the rotational speed f_n of the blower 11 varies depending on the status at that time. In the example shown in this embodiment, the rotational speed f_n is a certain set value smaller than the maximum value, or 0.

[0036] Next, the controller 14 controls the motor 17 to drive the pump 18 for a predetermined period of time (S102). Due to this, water stored in the tank 15 is supplied to the ice tray 19. A predetermined amount of water is stored in the ice tray 19.

[0037] In this embodiment, an example in which a user can select the kind of ice from the operation panel 10 will be explained. For example, the operation panel 10 includes a first button and a second button. Each of the first button and the second button may be a mechanical button having a contact or a button to be displayed on a screen. When the first button is pressed, first information stating that a user selected ice cubes is input into the controller 14. When the second button is pressed, second information stating that a user selected crushed ice is input into the controller 14. A method for selecting the kind of ice is not limited to this example.

[0038] The controller 14 specifies the kind of ice selected by a user (S103). Inthe example shown in this embodiment, the controller 14 determines whether the first information is input or the second information is input from the operation panel 10. When the first information is input from the operation panel 10, the controller 14 starts the first ice making mode for making ice cubes (S104). When the second information is input from the operation panel 10, the controller 14 starts the second ice making mode for making crushed ice (S114).

[0039] The first ice making mode has a first cooling process by the cooler. In the first cooling process, water in the ice tray 19 is cooled at a first cooling rate. For example, in the first cooling process, cold air is supplied to the ice compartment 4 since the blower 11 is driven at the rotational speed f_n.

[0040] The controller 14 determines whether the temperature Tit [0C] detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than a first ice making temperature (S105). The first ice making temperature is a temperature for determining that water in the ice tray 19 is frozen. Figs. 8 and 9 show an example in which the first ice making temperature is 130C. The first ice making temperature is previously set.

[0041] The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature, determines that the water stored in the ice tray 19 in S102 is frozen. When the temperature Tit is lower than the first ice making temperature, the controller 14 drives the motor 22 and executes normal rotation of the ice tray 19 (S106). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the B direction shown in Fig. 4.

[0042] The controller 14, when rotation of the ice tray 19 is started in S106, starts to count time trl [sec] (S107). The controller 14 determines whether the time trl on which count is started in S107 reaches a first set time (S108). The first settime is atime for applying a certain amount of twist to the ice tray 19. The first set time is previously set.

[0043] As described above, rotation of the stopper 23 is stopped when the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b. The first settime is setto be longer thanthe time from the start of rotation of the ice tray 19 to the touch of the rod member 23b to the edge of the long hole 21b. Consequently, the motor 22 is continued to be driven even after the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b. When the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b, rotation of one end of the ice tray 19 is stopped. This one end is an end connected to the support shaft 20b. Ontheotherhand, even after the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b, the other end of the ice tray 19 continues to rotate. The other end is an end connected to the support shaft a. Due to this, a twist is applied to the ice tray 19, and the ice tray 19 is elastically deformed. Since the ice tray 19 is elastically deformed, pieces of ice are separated from the ice tray 19. The pieces of ice separated from the ice tray 19 are dropped to the case 26. At this time, from the ice tray 19, pieces of ice corresponding to the size of the dents 19a are dropped. That is, in S108, ice cubes are dropped from the ice tray 19. Ice cubes are stored in the first space of the case 26.

[0044] The controller 14, when the first set time elapsed after the ice tray 19 starts to rotate in S106, controls the motor 22 to execute reverse rotation of the ice tray 19 (S109). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the C direction shown in Fig. 4. The controller 14, when the ice tray 19 starts to rotate in S109, starts to count time tr2

[sec](Si10). The controller 14 determines whether the time tr2 on which count is started in S110 reaches the first set time (Sill). The controller 14, when the first set time elapsed after the ice tray 19 starts to rotate in S109, stops the motor 22. Due to this, the ice tray 19 is stopped in a state of being horizontally positioned (S112).

[0045] Next, the controller 14 determines whether the case 26 is filled with ice (S113). The controller 14, when the detection information is input from the sensor 27, determines that the case 26 is filled with ice. In such a case, the controller 14 stops the operation for making ice. The controller 14, if no detection information is input from the sensor 27, determines that the case 26 is not filled with ice. In such a case, the controller 14 continues the operation for making ice. The controller 14 drives the pump 18 for the predetermined period of time to supply water for making the next ice to the ice tray 19 (S102).

[0046]

The second ice making mode has a second cooling process by the cooler and a heating process by the heater. The heating process is executed after the second cooling process. In the second cooling process, water in the ice tray 19 is cooled at a second cooling rate. The second cooling rate is higher than the first cooling rate. That is, in the second cooling process, water is more rapidly cooled than in the first cooling process. This rapid cooling is executed to evenly disperse air bubbles in the ice as possible. The pieces of ice made in the second cooling process preferably become clouded as a whole due to air bubbles. In the second ice making mode, the ice is crushed by expanding air enclosed in the ice. The heating process after ice making is executed to expand the air enclosed in the ice.

[0047] When the second ice making mode is started in S114, the controller 14 drives the blower 11 at the rotational speed f_Max [rpm] (S115). In the example shown in this embodiment, the index Max shows the maximum value. In this embodiment, an example in which a rapid cooling is executed by increasing the rotational speed of the blower 11 is shown. In the second cooling process, the rapid cooling may be executed by other methods.

[0048] The controller 14 determines whether the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature (S116). The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature, determines that water stored in the ice tray 19 in S102isfrozen. The controller 14, when the temperature Tit is lower than the first ice making temperature, returns the rotational speed of the blower 11 to f n (S117).

[0049] Next, the controller 14 makes an output of the heater 25 W_Max (S118). The controller 14, when energization to the heater 25 is started in S118, starts to count time th I[sec] (S119). The controller 14 determines whether the time th Ion which count is started in S119 reaches a second set time (S120). Thesecondsettimeisatimefor expanding air enclosed in ice to crush the ice. The second set time is set previously. Since heating at the maximum output by the heater 25 is executed for the second set time, the ice is crushed on the ice tray 19. The temperature at this time is -10°C, for example.

[0050] The controller 14, when the second set time elapsed from the start of energization to the heater 25 in S118, stops the energization to the heater 25 (S121). Also,the controller 14, when the second set time elapsed, drives the motor 22 to execute reverse rotation of the ice tray 19 (S122). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the C direction shown in Fig. 4.

[0051] The controller 14, when rotation of the ice tray 19 is started in S122, starts to count the time trl (S123). The controller 14 determines whether the time trl on which count is started in S123 reaches the first set time (S124). As described above, the first set time is set to be longer than the time from the start of rotation of the ice tray 19 to the touch of the rod member23b to the edge of the long hole 21b. Since the motor22 is continued to be driven even after the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b, a twist is applied to the ice tray 19. Due to this, the ice tray 19 is elastically deformed, and crushed ice made in S120 is dropped from the ice tray 19. Thecrushed ice is stored in the second space of the case 26.

[0052] The controller 14, when the first set time elapsed from the start of rotation of the ice tray 19 in S122, controls the motor 22 to execute normal rotation of the ice tray 19 (S125). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the B direction shown in Fig. 4. The controller 14, when the rotation of the ice tray 19 is started in S125, starts to count the time tr2 (S126). The controller 14 determines whether the time tr2 on which count is started in S126 reaches the first set time (S127). The controller 14, when the first set time elapsed from the start of rotation of the ice tray 19 in S125, stops the motor 22. Due to this, the ice tray 19 is stopped in a state of being horizontally positioned (S128).

[0053] Next, the controller 14 determines whether the case 26 is filled with ice (S129). The controller 14, when the detection information is input from the sensor 27, determines that the case 26 is filled with ice. In such a case, the controller 14 stops the operation for making ice. The controller 14, if no detection information is input from the sensor 27, determines that the case 26 is not filled with ice. In such a case, the controller 14 continues the operation for making ice. The controller 14 drives the pump 18 for the predetermined period of time to supply water for making the next ice to the ice tray 19 (S102).

[0054] Next, with also reference to Figs. 10 and 11, a generation principle of crushed ice will be explained. A predetermined amount of air is dissolved in water. Ice is made by cooling water to be formed as a solid. When water is crystallized, air as impurities is discharged to the outside of a crystal. That is, as the water is frozen, the air is extruded to an ice growing interface. Then, the air extruded to the ice growing interface is accumulated and enclosed inside, and this is air bubbles seen in the ice.

[0055] A substance has the length which changes in accordance with change of the temperature. The ratio of change in length to temperature differs depending on the substance. This ratio of change is referred to as a linear expansion coefficient. The linear expansion coefficient of ice is 50.7x 10-6 [1/K]. Since the air is gas, the linear expansion coefficient of the air is an inverse of absolute temperature T.

[0056] For example, an initial temperature of ice is defined as -18°C which is the temperature of an ice compartment of a general refrigerator. Also, the size of the ice is defined as 20 millimeters cube. The change in length AL [mm] to the temperature of ice and the change in length AL [mm] to the temperature of the air enclosed in the ice are expressed in the following formula. AL=ax20x {Tn-(-18)}...(1) Wherein, a is a linear expansion coefficient. Formula 1 expresses the change in length AL when the temperature is raised from the initial temperature to a temperature Tn.

[0057] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the change in length to the temperature of ice and the change in length to the temperature of the air enclosed in the ice. In Fig. 10, AL obtained by Formula 1 is shown as an expansion distance. Fig. 10 shows a calculation result when the temperature of the ice is raised from -18°C to 0°C. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a ratio of change in length of the air to change in length of the ice. That is, Fig.

11 shows the change in length of the air assuming that change in length of the ice is 1 in each temperature.

[0058] As seen from Fig. 11, in this temperature range, the air expands to 70 to 80 times larger compared to the ice. Additionally, even when the air of -18C is turned into °C, an absolute value of its change in length is 0.2 [mm]. Even when the air of -18°C is turned into -5°C, an absolute value of its change in length is 1 [mm]. Accordingly, in order to make crushed ice in the second ice making mode, in the second cooling process, it is preferable to enclose a number of air bubbles in the ice to be close to each other as possible. To make such ice, it is necessary to generate a number of ice nuclei which are nuclei of ice crystals, and then incorporate the air bubbles into the ice crystals before the air bubbles become larger. That is, ice which is suitable for crushed ice can be made by cooling water as rapidly as possible.

[0059] Also, by quickly raising the temperature of a number of air bubbles enclosed in the ice, the ice can be crushed more finely. That is, finer crushed ice can be made. For that purpose, the ice tray 19 is preferably made of metal having excellent heat conductivity. Also, the heater 25 is preferably the sheet heating element which can heat a wide area simultaneously.

[0060] Fig. 12 is a flow chart showing another operation example of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figs. 12 and 9 show a series of operations.

[0061] In the example shown in Fig. 12, the first ice making mode has the first cooling process by the cooler and a first heating process by the heater. The first heating process is executed after the first cooling process. In the first heating process, ice in the ice tray 19 is heated at a first heating rate. On the other hand, in the heating process in the second ice making mode, the ice in the ice tray 19 is heated at a second heating rate. Hereinafter, the heating process shown in Fig. 9 is referred to as a second heating process. The second heating rate is higher than the first heating rate. If the ice tray 19 is made of metal, ice is difficult to be separated from the ice tray 19 compared with the case where the ice tray 19 is made of resin. The first heating process of the first ice making mode is executed to allow the ice to be easily separated from the ice tray 19.

[0062] A processing flow shown in Fig. 12 corresponds to addition of processing of S130 to S132 to a processing flow shown in Fig. 8. When the first ice making mode is started in S104, the controller 14 determines whether the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature (S105). The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature, determines that the water poured into the ice tray 19 in S102 is frozen. The controller 14, when the temperature Tit is lower than the first ice making temperature, makes an output of the heater 25 W-n (S130). TheoutputW-n is a certain set value which is smaller than the maximum output WMax.

[0063] The controller 14, when energization to the heater 25 is started in S130, determines whether the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is a second ice making temperature or more (S131). The second ice making temperature is a temperature for determining that ice can be easily separated from the ice tray 19. Fig. 12 is an example where the second ice making temperature is -1°C. The second ice making temperature is previously set.

[0064] The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is the second ice making temperature or more, stops energization to the heater 25 (S132). Also, the controller 14, when the temperature Tit is the second ice making temperature or more, drives the motor 22 to execute normal rotation of the ice tray 19 (S106). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the B direction shown in Fig. 4. Processing from S106 to S113 in Fig. 12 is the same as processing from S106 to S113 in Fig. 8.

[0065] Fig. 13 is a flow chart showing another operation example of the ice maker according to the first embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figs. 12 and 13 show a series of operations.

[0066]

In the example shown in Fig. 13, the second ice making mode has the second cooling process by the cooler and the second heating process and a third heating process by the heater. The second heating process is executed after the second cooling process. The third heating process is executed after the second heating process. In the second heating process, ice in the ice tray 19 is heated at the second heating rate. In the third heating process, the ice in the ice tray 19 is heated at a third heating rate. The second heating rate is higher than the third heating rate. The second heating rate is higher than the first heating rate. The third heating process is executed to allow ice to be easily separated from the ice tray 19.

[0067] A processing flow shown in Fig. 13 corresponds to addition of processing of S133 and S134 to a processing flow shown in Fig. 9. When the second ice making mode is started in S114, the controller 14 drives the blower 11 at the rotational speed fMax (SI15).

[0068] The controller 14 determines whether the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature (S116). The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature, determines that the water poured in the ice tray 19 inS102isfrozen. The controller 14, when the temperature Tit is lower than the first ice making temperature, returns the rotational speed of the blower 11 to f n (S117).

[0069] Next, the controller 14 makes an output of the heater 25 W_Max (S118). The controller 14, when energization to the heater 25 is started in S118, starts to count the time thI(S119). The controller 14 determines whether the time th Ion which count is started in S119 reaches the second set time (S120).

[0070] The controller 14, when the second set time elapsed from the start of energization to the heater 25 in S118, makes an output of the heater 25 W n (S133). The controller 14, when the output of the heater 25 is lowered in S133, determines whether the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is the second ice making temperature or more (S134). Fig. 13 is an example where the second ice making temperature is -1°C.

[0071] The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is the second ice making temperature or more, stops the energization to the heater 25 (S121). Also, the controller 14, when the temperature Tit is the second ice making temperature or more, drives the motor 22 to execute reverse rotation of the ice tray 19 (S122). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the C direction shown in Fig. 4. Processing from S121 to S129 in Fig. 13 is the same as processing from S121 to S129 in Fig. 9.

[0072] Fig. 14 is a timing diagram when the second ice making mode shown in Fig. 13 and the first ice making mode shown in Fig. 12 are alternately executed. A section I shown in Fig. 14 corresponds to processing from S101 to S103 in Fig. 12. A section II corresponds to processing from S115 to S117 in Fig. 13. The second cooling process is included in the section II. A section III corresponds to processing from S118 to S120 in Fig.13. The second heating process is included in the section III. AsectionIV corresponds to processing from S133 to S129 in Fig. 13. The third heating process is included in an initial portion of the section IV. A section V corresponds to processing of S105 in Fig. 12. The first cooling process is included in the section V. A section VI corresponds to processing from S130 to S113 in Fig. 12. The first heating process is included in an initial portion of the section VI.

[0073] As described above, the second cooling rate in the second cooling process is higher than the first cooling rate in the first cooling process. In this embodiment, it is defined that the cooling rate is higher as it takes a shorter time for a defined amount of water with a set temperature to become ice with a target temperature. Additionally, the ice made in the second cooling process preferably becomes clouded as a whole due to air bubbles. To make such ice, an ice growing rate needs to be 2 [mm/hour] or more. The ice growing rate is preferably 5 [nm/hour] or more.

[0074]

As described above, the second heating rate in the second heating process is higher than the first heating rate in the first heating process and the third heating rate in the third heating process. In this embodiment, it is defined that the heating rate is higher as it takes a shorter time for a defined amount of ice with a set temperature to become ice with a target temperature which is higher than the set temperature.

[0075] In the example shown in this embodiment, ice having different shapes can be made using the same ice tray 19. A plurality of ice trays is unnecessary to make ice having different shapes. Consequently, the ice maker can be downsized. When the ice maker is installed in a refrigerator, the refrigerator can be downsized. In other words, the volume of the other compartments formed in the refrigerator can be made larger. In this embodiment, the example for making ice cubes and crushed ice is explained. This is merely an example. Ice with other shapes may be made using the ice tray 19.

[0076] Additionally, although crushed ice may be made by shaving ice with a knife, when a knife is used, care should be taken when the tool is washed. In the example shown in the embodiment, no knife is used to make crushed ice. Accordingly, a tool can be washed easily.

[0077] In the example shown in the embodiment, the case 26 includes the partition 26a. Ice cubes are stored in the first space divided by the partition 26a. Crushed ice is stored in the second space divided by the partition 26a. The ice cubes and the crushed ice can be separately stored, which provides excellent usability.

[0078] The ice tray 19 may be made of metal only in a portion to which water is poured, and may be made of resin in the other portions. With such ice tray 19, compared with an ice tray 19 made of metal in all portions, a force required for elastic deformation can be reduced. Consequently, a small-sized and inexpensive motor can be used as the motor 22.

[0079] In this embodiment, the cooler including the evaporator 8 and the blower 11 is exemplified. This is merely an example. As the cooler, an apparatus for directly cooling the ice tray 19 may be used. For example, the cooler may include a cooling pipe provided at a rear surface of the ice tray 19. The cooler may include a Peltier device provided at the rear surface of the ice tray 19.

[0080] In this embodiment, the heater 25 provided at the rear surface of the ice tray 19 is exemplified as the heater. This is an example. For example, as the heater, an apparatus for blowing hot air to the ice in the ice tray 19 may be used.

[0081] In this embodiment, the example in which the case 26 is positioned in the ice compartment 4 is explained. This is merely an example. The case 26 may be positioned at another compartment than the ice compartment 4. Also, in this embodiment, the case 26 which is taken out by opening a door of the ice compartment 4 is exemplified. This is an example. It is acceptable to take out ice without opening the entire door of the ice compartment 4 by providing a dispenser function with the refrigerator 1.

[0082] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, the example in which rapidly cooled ice is crushed by heating is explained. In this embodiment, an example in which ice is crushed when a force is applied to the ice by twisting the ice tray 19 will be explained.

[0083] In the example shown in this embodiment, the motor 22 generates a force for elastic deformation of the ice tray 19. As described above, a great amount of air is enclosed in the rapidly cooled ice. Due to this, if the ice tray 19 is elastically deformed, ice in the ice tray 19 can be crushed. However, in the example shown in this embodiment, when the ice tray 19 is twisted, it should be prevented that the ice is separated from the ice tray 19 before the ice is crushed.

[0084] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing shear adhesion strength between ice and stainless steel. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing shear adhesion strength between ice and polystyrene. Figs. 15 and 16 are cited from the following.

"MAENO Norikazu, 'ADHESION AND FRICTION OF ICE,'The Japanese Society of Snow and Ice, Vol. 68, No. 5, p. 4 4 9 - 4 5 5 (2006)"

[0085] The larger the adhesion strength becomes, the more difficult the separation of the ice becomes. In the example shown in this embodiment, in the ice tray 19, at least a portion to which water is poured is preferably made of metal. For example, when the ice tray 19 is a shaped article made of stainless-steel, the portion to which water is poured is preferably not subjected to an abrasive operation after it is removed from a die. When the ice tray 19 is made of resin, for example, a surface of the portion to which water is poured is preferably coarser than a surface of the other portions. Such ice tray 19 may be applied to the example shown in the first embodiment.

[0086] Figs. 17 and 18 are a flow chart showing an operation example of the ice maker according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 17 and 18 show a series of operations. A processing flow shown in Fig. 17 is the same as the processing flow shown in Fig. 12.

[0087] The controller 14 drives the blower 11 at the rotational speed f n [rpm] (S201). Also, the controller 14 controls the motor 17 to drive the pump 18 for a predetermined period of time (S202). Due to this, water stored in the tank 15 is supplied to the ice tray 19. A predetermined amount of water is stored in the ice tray 19.

[0088] The controller 14 specifies the kind of ice selected by a user (S203). For example, the controller 14, when the first information is input from the operation panel , starts the first ice making mode for making ice cubes (S204). The controller 14, when the second information is input from the operation panel 10, starts the second ice making mode for making crushed ice (S214).

[0089] The first ice making mode has the first cooling process by the cooler and the first heating process by the heater. In the first cooling process, water in the ice tray 19 is cooled at the first cooling rate. For example, in the first cooling process, cold air is supplied to the ice compartment 4 since the blower 11 is driven at the rotational speed f n.

The first heating process is executed after the first cooling process. In the first heating process, ice in the ice tray 19 is heated at thefirst heating rate. The first heating process is executed to allow the ice to be easily separated from the ice tray 19.

[0090] The controller 14 determines whether the temperature Tit [°C] detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature (S205). Fig. 17 shows an example in which the first ice making temperature is -13°C. Thefirstice making temperature is previously set.

[0091] The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature, determines that the water stored in the ice tray 19 in S202 is frozen. The controller 14, when the temperature Tit is lower than the first ice making temperature, makes the output of the heater 25 W_n (S230).

[0092] The controller 14, when energization to the heater 25 is started in S230, determines whether the temperature Tit [0C] detected by the temperature sensor 24 is the second ice making temperature or more (S231). Fig. 17 is an example where the second ice making temperature is -1°C. The second ice making temperature is previously set.

[0093] The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is the second ice making temperature or more, stops energization to the heater 25 (S232). Also, the controller 14, when the temperature Tit is the second ice making temperature or more, drives the motor 22 to execute normal rotation of the ice tray 19 (S206). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the B direction shown in Fig. 4. Processing from S206 to S213 in Fig. 17 is the same as processing from S106 to S113 in Fig. 12.

[0094] On the other hand, the second ice making mode has the second cooling process by the cooler and a deforming process of the ice tray 19 by the motor 22. The deforming process is executed after the second cooling process. In the second cooling process, water in the ice tray 19 is cooled at the second cooling rate. The second cooling rate is higher than the first cooling rate.

[0095] When the second ice making mode is started in S214, the controller 14 drives the blower 11 at the rotational speed f_Max [rpm] (S215). Also in this embodiment, an example in which rapid cooling is executed by raising the rotational speed of the blower 11 is shown. In the second cooling process, rapid cooling may be executed by other methods.

[0096] The controller 14 determines whether the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature (S216). The controller 14, when the temperature Tit detected by the temperature sensor 24 is lower than the first ice making temperature, determines that water stored in the ice tray 19 in S202 is frozen. The controller 14, when the temperature Tit is lower than the first ice making temperature, returns the rotational speed of the blower 11 to f n (S217).

[0097] Next, the controller 14 drives the motor 22 to execute reverse rotation of the ice tray 19 (S222). For example, the controller 14 rotates the ice tray 19 in the C direction shown in Fig. 4. The controller 14, when rotation of the ice tray 19 is started in S222, starts to count the time trl [sec] (S223). The controller 14 determines whether the time trl on which count is started in S223 reaches the first set time (S224).

[0098] As described above, the first set time is set to be longer than the time from the start of rotation of the ice tray 19 to the touch of the rod member 23b to the edge of the longhole21b. Since the motor 22 is continued to be driven even after the rod member 23b touches the edge of the long hole 21b, a twist is applied to the ice tray 19. Due to this, the ice tray 19 is elastically deformed, and ice in the ice tray 19 is crushed. That is, in S224, crushed ice is dropped from the ice tray 19. The crushed ice is stored in the secondspace ofthe case26.

[0099] The controller 14, when the first set time elapsed from the start of rotation of the ice tray 19 in S222, controls the motor 22 to execute normal rotation of the ice tray 19 (S225). Processing from S225 to S229 in Fig. 18 is the same as processing from S125 to S129 in Fig. 9.

[0100] Also in the example shown in this embodiment, the same effect as provided by the example disclosed in the first embodiment can be provided. That is, in the examples shown in this embodiment, ice having different shapes can be made using the same ice tray 19. A plurality of ice trays is unnecessary to make ice having different shapes. Consequently, the ice maker can be downsized. When the ice maker is installed in a refrigerator, the refrigerator can be downsized. In other words, the volume of the other compartments formed in the refrigerator can be made larger. In this embodiment, the example for making ice cubes and crushed ice is explained. This is merely an example. Ice with other shapes may be made using the ice tray 19.

[0101] Additionally, although crushed ice may be made by shaving ice with a knife, when a knife is used, care should be taken when the tool is washed. In the example shown in the embodiment, no knife is used to make crushed ice. Accordingly, a tool can be washed easily.

[0102] The features not explained in this embodiment are the same as the features disclosed in the first embodiment.

[0103] As shown in Fig. 2, the controller 14, as hardware resources, has processing circuitry including a processor 29 and a memory 30, for example. The controller 14 achieves each function described above by executing a program stored in the memory 30 by the processor 29.

[0104] The processor 29 is also referred to as CPU (Central Processing Unit), a central processor, a processing device, an arithmetic device, a microprocessor, a microcomputer or a DSP. As the memory 30, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, a floppy disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, a mini disk or a DVD may be adopted. An applicable semiconductor memory includes a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory, an EPROM or an EEPROM etc.

[0105]

A part or all of each of the functions included in the controller 14 may be achieved by hardware. As the hardware to achieve the functions of the controller 14, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel-programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA or a combination thereof may be adopted.

Industrial Applicability

[0106] This invention can be applied to various devices for making ice from water. Reference Signs List

[0107] 1 refrigerator, 2 main body, 2a door, 3 main refrigerator compartment, 4 ice compartment, 4a inlet, 4b outlet, 5 freezer compartment, 6 vegetable compartment, 7 compressor, 8 evaporator, 9a-9e temperature sensor, 10 operation panel, 11 blower, 12 motor, 13 damper, 14 controller, 15 tank, 16 pipe, 17 motor, 18 pump, 19 ice tray, 19a dent, 19b notch, 20a support shaft, 20b support shaft, 21 frame, 21a throughhole, 21b long hole, 22 motor, 23 stopper, 23a disk member, 23b rod member, 23c through hole, 24 temperature sensor, 25 heater, 26 case, 26a partition, 26b first space, 26c second space, 27 sensor, 28 heat insulator, 29 processor, memory

Additional Clauses Also disclosed herein is: 1. An ice maker capable of making ice in each of a first ice making mode and a second ice making mode, the ice maker comprising: an ice tray; a cooler configured to cool water in the ice tray; and a heater configured to heat ice in the ice tray, the first ice making mode having a first cooling process by the cooler, water in the ice tray being cooled at a first cooling rate in the first cooling process, and the second ice making mode having a second cooling process by the cooler, water in the ice tray being cooled at a second cooling rate in the second cooling process, the second cooling rate being higher than the first cooling rate, and a heating process by the heater after the second cooling process. 2. The ice maker according to clause 1, wherein the first ice making mode further has a first heating process by the heater after the first cooling process, in the first heating process, ice in the ice tray is heated at afirst heating rate, in the heating process in the second ice making mode, the ice in the ice tray is heated at a second heating rate, and the second heating rate is higher than the first heating rate. 3. The ice maker according to clause 1, wherein the first ice making mode further has a first heating process by the heater after the first cooling process, in the first heating process, ice in the ice tray is heated at a first heating rate, the heating process in the second ice making mode has a second heating process after the second cooling process and a third heating process after the second heating process, in the second heating process, ice in the ice tray is heated at a second heating rate, in the third heating process, the ice in the ice tray is heated at a third heating rate, and the second heating rate is higher than the first heating rate and the third heating rate. 4 An ice maker capable of making ice in each of a first ice making mode and a second ice making mode, the ice maker comprising: an ice tray; a cooler configured to cool water in the ice tray; a heater configured to heat ice in the ice tray; and a motor configured to generate a force to elastically deform the ice tray, the first ice making mode having a first cooling process by the cooler, water in the ice tray being cooled at a first cooling rate in the first cooling process, and a heating process by the heater after the first cooling process, and the second ice making mode having a second cooling process by the cooler, water in the ice tray being cooled at a second cooling rate in the second cooling process, the second cooling rate being higher than the first cooling rate, and a deforming process by the motor after the second cooling process. 5. The ice maker according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein, in the ice tray, at least a portion to which water is poured is made of metal. 6. The ice maker according to any one of clauses I to 4, wherein the ice tray is made of resin, in which a surface of a portion to which water is poured is coarser than a surface of another portion. 7. The ice maker according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the heater is a sheet heating element configured to cover a portion to which water is poured of the ice tray from a rear side. 8. The ice maker according to any one of clauses I to 7, further comprising: a temperature sensor provided at the ice tray; and a heat insulator configured to cover the temperature sensor. 9 The ice maker according to any one of clauses 1 to 8, further comprising a case located below the ice tray, wherein the ice tray is rotatably supported around a shaft, the case has a partition configured to divide a first space and a second space, the first space is a space for receiving ice dropping from the ice tray when the ice tray is rotated in one direction around the shaft, the second space is a space for receiving ice dropping from the ice tray when the ice tray is rotated in a direction which is opposite from the one direction around the shaft.

Claims

[Claim 1] An ice maker capable of making ice in each of a first ice making mode and a second ice making mode, crushed ice being made in the second ice making mode, the ice maker comprising: an ice tray; a cooler configured to cool water in the ice tray; a heater configured to heat ice in the ice tray; and a motor configured to generate a force to elastically deform the ice tray, the first ice making mode having a first cooling process by the cooler, water in the ice tray being cooled at a first cooling rate in the first cooling process, and a heating process by the heater after the first cooling process, and the second ice making mode having a second cooling process by the cooler, water in the ice tray being cooled at a second cooling rate in the second cooling process, the second cooling rate being higher than the first cooling rate, and a deforming process by the motor after the second cooling process, ice in the ice tray being crushed in the deforming process.
[Claim 2] The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein, in the ice tray, at least a portion to which water is poured is made of metal.
[Claim 3] The ice maker according to claim 1, wherein the ice tray is made of resin, in which a surface of a portion to which water is poured is coarser than a surface of another portion.
[Claim 4] The ice maker according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the heater is a sheet heating element configured to cover a portion to which water is poured of the ice tray from a rear side.
[Claim 5] The ice maker according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a temperature sensor provided at the ice tray; and a heat insulator configured to cover the temperature sensor.
[Claim 6] The ice maker according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a case located below the ice tray, wherein the ice tray is rotatably supported around a shaft, the case has a partition configured to divide a first space and a second space, the first space is a space for receiving ice dropping from the ice tray when the ice tray is rotated in one direction around the shaft, the second space is a space for receiving ice dropping from the ice tray when the ice tray is rotated in a direction which is opposite from the one direction around the shaft.